Triggering parasitic plant ‘suicide’ to help farmers
Scientists at UC Riverside discovered a way to exploit parasitic plant hormones to induce
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Illinois researchers develop next-generation organic nanozymes and point-of-use system for food and agricultural uses
The University of Illinois researchers have developed organic-material-based nanozymes that can detect histamine in food products with an affordable analytic performance profile. An integrated point-of-use platform allows for rapid detection of agricultural and biological molecules without laboratory equipment.
New technology tracks dairy cows for improved health and productivity
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science develop a location-based method to track dairy cows in entire barns using multi-camera systems, improving accuracy and detecting health issues. The system achieves around 90% accuracy in tracking cows and 80% Identification F1 score for individual cow identification.
Turning farm waste into sustainable roads
Researchers led by Xianming Shi are exploring the use of agricultural waste to build roadways, aiming to reduce carbon emissions from asphalt production. Biochar, a CO2-negative material produced through pyrolysis, can sequester carbon in asphalt pavement and potentially extend its lifespan.
Discovery of a unique drainage and irrigation system that gave way to the “Neolithic Revolution” in the Amazon
A recent discovery in the Amazon reveals a unique drainage and irrigation system that enabled the Casarabe society to produce maize throughout the year. This innovation allowed for at least two harvests of maize per year, ensuring a stable food supply.
Chemical looping turns environmental waste into fuel
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a low-carbon system that transforms materials like plastics and agricultural waste into syngas, producing high-quality chemicals and fuels. The technology achieves a purity of around 90% in a process that takes only a few minutes.
Scientists at UMass Amherst engineer plant-based method of 'precious' mineral mining
Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a plant-based method to extract nickel from contaminated soil, providing a potential solution for the US's growing demand for this critical mineral. By manipulating the superplant Camelina sativa, scientists can absorb nickel, produce biofuel oil, and clean polluted soil.
From root to shoot: How silicon powers plant resilience
Researchers at Okayama University have identified the Shoot-Silicon-Signal protein as a crucial regulator of silicon uptake and accumulation in rice and other grasses. The study highlights the importance of silicon in enhancing plant resilience and productivity, particularly under climate change conditions.
Rooting for resistance: How soybeans tackle nematode invaders is no secret anymore
Researchers have uncovered how soybean varieties respond to different types of nematode infections, revealing new insights into plant defense mechanisms. The study found that resistant plants activate genes involved in immune responses, while susceptible plants fail to do so, making them vulnerable to attack.
From lab to field: CABBI pipeline delivers oil-rich sorghum
Researchers have developed a new sorghum variant that can outperform soybeans in oil production, with great potential as a clean source of renewable fuel. The 'push-pull-protect' strategy successfully engineered sorghum lines to accumulate up to 5.5% TAG in their leaves and 3.5% dry weight in their stems under field conditions.
Biochar reduces the risks of DDT-contaminated soil
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
Simon Fraser University awarded $22.9 million to lead National Invention to Innovation (I2I) network expansion
Simon Fraser University has received a $23 million grant to expand its Invention to Innovation (i2I) programs, providing bilingual innovation and entrepreneurship training for graduate students, researchers, and faculty. The program aims to bridge the gap between invention and innovation, equipping researchers with skills to thrive as ...
UTIA researchers receive grant to improve pest management in grain storage
Researchers at UTIA and the USDA-ARS are developing advanced automated sensors, insect traps, and robotic technologies to identify pest species and determine contaminated areas. The new systems will reduce post-harvest losses and contamination in the global food market and supply chain.
Smart food drying techniques with AI enhance product quality and efficiency
Researchers develop precision techniques using optical sensors and AI to facilitate efficient and accurate food drying. The study discusses three emerging smart drying techniques, providing practical information for the food industry.
These bacteria perform a trick that could keep plants healthy
Researchers at Princeton University discovered that certain bacteria can reduce a plant's immune activity, allowing its roots to grow longer. The study identified an enzyme produced by one of these bacteria as the key factor in this process, which could have implications for understanding microbiome interactions with host immune systems.
Rubisco's role in food and energy security
Increasing Rubisco, the plant enzyme responsible for capturing atmospheric CO2, can complement existing efforts to enhance yields while research on complex innovations progresses. This approach may offer benefits sooner than other strategies, particularly in conditions with decreased CO2 concentration, such as drought or heat stress.
How the dirt under our feet could affect human health
Researchers found that soil contains antibiotic resistance genes that can be transmitted to humans, making it a pressing public health threat. The study reveals how these genes spread through the environment and highlights the importance of understanding soil ecosystems to control antibiotic resistance.
Dual-unloading mode revolutionizes rice harvesting and transportation
Researchers develop a cotransporter system that combines autonomous harvesting, unloading, and transportation operations for fully efficient rice harvesting. The proposed dual-unloading mode significantly enhances operational efficiency by minimizing downtime and optimizing resource use.
UTIA team wins grant to advance AI education and career preparation
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has won a four-year grant to create hands-on curriculum about AI-related technologies for future farmers and leaders. Selected students will test the curriculum in drones, robotics, and other smart agriculture technologies, gaining skills in coding, drone-work, and robotics.
Neem seed extract improves effectiveness of pesticide
Researchers at Texas A&M University developed a non-toxic pesticide using neem seed extract and nanotechnology. The new formulation shows improved targeting ability and reduces environmental pollution by up to 80-90% of sprayed pesticides missing their target entirely.
Climate-ready crop
A team from the University of Illinois has engineered a potato crop that can thrive in elevated temperatures, resulting in a 30% increase in tuber mass under heatwave conditions. This adaptation aims to improve food security for families dependent on potatoes, which are often affected by changing climate conditions.
Bye-bye microplastics: new plastic is recyclable and fully ocean-degradable
Researchers developed a new durable plastic that breaks down in seawater, reducing microplastic pollution. The material is strong, non-toxic, and customizable for various applications.
Wayne State University to lead USDA grant to support program training students in ‘smart agriculture’
A new program supported by a four-year grant from the USDA will train Michigan youth in 'smart agriculture' using data science. The project aims to equip the workforce with knowledge in both smart farming tools and data science to address global food production challenges.
More energy and more oil: photovoltaic plants and hedgerow olive groves are more productive on the same land
Researchers from the University of Cordoba developed a model to test agrivoltaic integration, finding that joint activities can lead to greater combined productivity. The study shows that photovoltaic plants and hedgerow olive groves can coexist and even benefit each other, with solar collectors generating more energy while shading cro...
Scientists tackle farm nutrient pollution with sustainable, affordable designer biochar pellets
A new type of biochar pellet has been developed to remove phosphorus from farm drainage water, reducing pollution and costs. The pellets have a significantly higher phosphorus-binding capacity than traditional materials, making them an efficient solution for farmers seeking to reduce nutrient losses.
New imaging technique brings us closer to simplified, low-cost agricultural quality assessment
Researchers developed a method to reconstruct hyperspectral images from standard RGB images using deep machine learning. The technique achieved over 70% accuracy in predicting soluble solid content and 88% accuracy in dry matter content in sweet potatoes, with potential applications for the agricultural industry.
Making soybeans smarter
Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.
Stopping plants from passing viruses to their progeny
A new study reveals that two specific genes in the RNA interference pathway play a crucial role in preventing virus transmission from parent to progeny in plants. This discovery could lead to healthier crops and potentially reduce the transmission of diseases like Zika from mothers to human children.
Century-old experiment secures beer and whiskey’s future
A century-old experiment has pinpointed the genes behind barley's adaptability, enabling its continued survival in rapidly changing environments. Researchers identified key genes that enable flowering at optimal times, allowing crops to thrive despite increased temperatures and droughts.
Texas A&M joins $26 million initiative to revolutionize carbon utilization
Researchers from Texas A&M are leading a $26 million decarbonization effort to convert CO2 into valuable products, driving a circular carbon economy. The initiative aims to develop cost-effective and sustainable solutions for manufacturing systems.
AI can slash indoor farming energy use
Researchers at Cornell University found that integrating AI into environmental control systems can reduce energy consumption in indoor agriculture by up to 25%. By optimizing lighting and climate regulation, AI helps create an energy-efficient solution for optimal plant growth, carbon dioxide levels, and ventilation requirements.
Shape-shifting WVU robot inspired by insect swarms and tree roots is teaching itself to mark contamination zones
The WVU team, led by Yu Gu, is testing Loopy's ability to 'co-design' itself and learn to mark contaminated areas. Inspired by natural phenomena like ant swarms and tree roots, Loopy changes form in response to its environment.
Organic nanozymes have broad applications from food and agriculture to biomedicine
Research from the University of Illinois highlights the potential of organic nanozymes for broader applications beyond traditional uses of inorganic nanozymes. The development of sustainable, environmentally friendly materials offers a promising solution for various industries.
Bold moves needed for California agriculture to adapt to climate change
The University of California report highlights the need for more efficient water use in California agriculture as water availability declines due to climate change. The report suggests capturing runoff and groundwater to store water for a more resilient agricultural sector.
Researchers predict fewer, pricier strawberries as temperatures warm
Climate change is predicted to decrease strawberry yields by as much as 40% due to increased temperatures. Sustainable farming practices can help mitigate this effect, ensuring a stable food supply for everyone.
Wild plants and crops don’t make great neighbors
Research reveals native plants and non-native crops attract pests that spread diseases, causing harm to both plant populations. The studies also found viruses transmitted from crops to wild plants, which can have devastating effects on native ecosystems.
Human activity: A double-edged sword in the face of drought
A new study suggests that human activities may actually reduce the severity of droughts in certain regions. Climate model simulations indicate that aerosols and greenhouse gases produced by human activities have opposite effects on atmospheric chemical composition and precipitation mechanisms. This research challenges previous conclusi...
Reduction of esters by a novel photocatalyst
Researchers developed a novel photocatalyst called N-BAP to reduce esters using sustainable light energy. The catalyst initiates a quadruple electron transfer process, enabling the reduction of esters to form alcohols without using metal reductants.
Webb named Fellow of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers
Erin Webb, lead at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, elected Fellow of ASABE for significant contributions to sustainable agricultural and forest resource use. Her research focuses on biomass supply chain and logistics, circular agriculture, and renewable energy.
How medical models can transform agriculture
Researchers use nanomedicine and digital twin technologies to develop Plant Nanobiotechnology, addressing agricultural challenges and increasing crop yield. Digital twins of plants enable the design of nanocarriers that target nutrient delivery to specific plant organs.
Better farming through nanotechnology
Researchers highlight strategies for improving agriculture with nanotechnology, including targeted delivery of pesticides and herbicides, and digital twin simulations. These approaches aim to reduce environmental pollution and increase crop resilience.
Altered carbon points toward sustainable manufacturing
Researchers have developed a two-step process to convert carbon dioxide into acetate and ethylene, which can be used in food production and plastics. The tandem CO2 electrolysis produces high concentration and purity, addressing engineering challenges and making the system resilient against industrial impurities.
Every drop counts: New algorithm tracks Texas daily reservoir evaporation rates
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a more accurate method for tracking reservoir evaporation rates, accounting for factors not considered by current methods. The new algorithm reveals a clear geographic distribution and strong seasonality of evaporation throughout Texas.
New method makes hydrogen from solar power and agricultural waste
University of Illinois Chicago engineers have designed a new method to make hydrogen gas from water using only solar power and agricultural waste, reducing the energy needed to extract hydrogen from water by 600%. This process creates new opportunities for sustainable, climate-friendly chemical production.
Rapid urbanization in Africa transforms local food systems and threatens biodiversity
A new study reveals that urbanization in Africa affects food security through dietary shifts, particularly rice consumption, leading to increased methane emissions and biodiversity loss. The research highlights the need for policymakers to adopt holistic approaches to address future sustainability challenges.
A drying Salton Sea pollutes neighboring communities
A new research paper finds higher particulate pollution in areas near the Salton Sea after water was diverted to San Diego. The study, led by University of California - Davis professor Eric Edwards, models lakebed exposure and tracks dust movement over time, showing increased pollution in disadvantaged communities.
Research to uncover the impact of water use in the Colorado River Basin
A new study by Virginia Tech researchers reveals that agricultural demand for water is significantly higher than cities, with crops used for feeding cattle being the largest consumers. The researchers also found that reservoir levels are dropping due to overuse and climate change, highlighting the need for efficient water use strategies.
Escaped GMO canola plants persist long-term, but may be losing their extra genes
A new study found that genetically engineered canola plants with pesticide resistance are persisting in roadside populations, but may be losing their engineered genes. Almost a quarter of the feral plants were found to not contain transgenes.
Unraveling the drought dilemma: can reservoirs be a carbon source?
Research found that during severe droughts, agricultural reservoirs in Korea's southern region experienced increased total organic carbon concentrations. The study suggests that these reservoirs may shift from carbon storage to carbon sources, emitting carbon into the atmosphere. This finding highlights the need for integrated environm...
Bioengineered enzyme creates natural vanillin from plants in one step
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed an enzyme that converts ferulic acid from plant waste into vanillin, a classic flavor compound. The engineered enzyme exhibits high conversion activity and affinities, making it suitable for large-scale commercial production.
WPI researcher receives $1.2 million award to determine how environment impacts gene expression in bacteria
Farny will investigate the impact of methylation on gene expression of Pseudomonas putida in soil and laboratory conditions, building gene circuits to test engineered bacteria. The project aims to advance the use of bacteria for environmental cleanups and create educational resources for undergraduate students.
Paper Power: Origami Technology Makes its Way into Quadcopters
A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a self-folding origami gripper that can be mounted onto drones, enabling them to grasp and hold objects. The gripper weighs only 5 grams but demonstrates grasping force equivalent to holding a 130-gram object.
New favorite—smart electric wheel drive tractor: realizes efficient drive with ingenious structure and intelligent control
This study proposes a new configuration for an electric tractor with a wheel-side motor independent drive system, battery ballast system, and direct-drive electro-hydraulic suspension system. The proposed active control method reduces tractor slip by 14.83% and increases traction efficiency by 10.28%.
Sweet potato quality analysis is enhanced with hyperspectral imaging and AI
A new study from the University of Illinois explores the use of hyperspectral imaging and explainable artificial intelligence to assess sweet potato attributes, leading to more informed decision-making and higher-quality products. The results can help industry professionals understand the significance of different features in predictin...
Breakthrough rice bran nanoparticles show promise as affordable and targeted anticancer agent
Researchers have discovered that rice bran-derived nanoparticles exhibit strong anticancer effects, selectively targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. The nanoparticles reduced tumor growth and inhibited metastatic cell growth in mice models.
Solving antibiotic and pesticide resistance with infectious worms
A researcher will study how plants defend themselves against nematode infections, which could lead to novel drugs or antibiotics for humans and livestock. The project aims to increase food security in Africa and Asia by understanding the molecular mechanisms behind plant resistance.
Breakthrough in benzofuran synthesis: New method enables complex molecule creation
A team of scientists at Tokyo University of Science has discovered a novel substituent migration reaction that enables the creation of complex benzofurans. This breakthrough synthesis method uses alkynyl sulfoxide and trifluoroacetic anhydride to produce highly functionalized benzofurans with high yields.
KAIST introduces microbial food as a strategy food production of the future
Researchers propose a direction of research on 'microbial food production from sustainable raw materials' to produce nutritious and eco-friendly foods. Microbial biomass is rich in protein, emits minimal carbon dioxide, and requires less water and space.
Taking on the global challenge of hidden hunger
Kiruba Krishnaswamy's project aims to tackle hidden hunger by developing a circular, culturally appropriate food system model. The research focuses on micronutrients and community-based solutions to address malnutrition and obesity, with the ultimate goal of reducing chronic hunger.
WVU study shows treating work like a game drives results
A WVU study found that treating work like a game improves workers' productivity and engagement, but also increases stress levels. Gamification can boost completion times for repetitive tasks, but may push employees past their tolerance threshold, leading to frustration and physical demands.