Articles tagged with Crops
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Engineers at Iowa State University have developed a new type of wearable sensor for plants, using graphene technology to measure water use in crops. The sensors are made by patterning and transferring graphene-based nanomaterials onto tape, allowing for precise measurements of transpiration from leaves.
Researchers identified annual ryegrass as the most economically viable option to provide early season forage after alfalfa winterkill. This forage crop offers high yields and nutrient content, making it an effective way for farmers to offset losses.
The University of Tennessee is studying hops production in others states and developing educational materials to aid in the evaluation of hops production in Tennessee. The goal is to help Tennessee farmers capitalize on a new market opportunity for locally-grown specialty crops like hops.
Researchers have developed a new crop imaging system that detects chlorophyll fluorescence to monitor plant health and growth. The system can image larger areas than existing technology, providing more accurate assessments of crop health and potential applications for precision agriculture and high-throughput phenotyping.
A new study proposes a generic methodological framework to accurately quantify the greenhouse gas footprints of crop cultivation systems. The framework takes into account direct and indirect contributors, providing example values of emission factors and emphasizing the combination of measurements and model simulations.
Researchers found that high temperatures weaken plant defenses while strengthening bacterial attacks, making plants more vulnerable to infection. However, treatment with a chemical that mimics salicylic acid can effectively protect plants from infection at elevated temperatures.
Researchers found that a multi-spectral camera mounted on a quad-copter provided more accurate results than a digital camera, with over 93% accuracy in estimating plant populations. The study aims to improve crop monitoring efficiency and profitability for farmers.
Scientists at the University of Liverpool have discovered the molecular processes behind crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis in succulents. They found that the PPCK enzyme is essential for optimizing CO2 capture and storage, and that alterations in the circadian clock can affect CAM function.
MIT researchers have developed sensors that can be printed onto plant leaves to reveal when they are experiencing a water shortage. These sensors take advantage of plants' stomata and can detect even slight changes in water pressure, allowing for early warnings in agricultural settings.
The University of California, Santa Cruz, has developed solar greenhouses that can generate electricity while promoting plant growth. Eighty percent of plants showed no impact, while 20% grew better under the magenta windows.
A UC-led genomic study suggests that humans gathered wild grapes for centuries before cultivating them as a crop. The research found evidence of human consumption of grapes dating back approximately 22,000 years, prior to the traditional domestication period of around 7,000-10,000 years ago.
Scientists at the University of Georgia developed an efficient living mulch system that benefits both corn production and soil health. By removing portions of clover after each harvest, farmers can reap cost savings from reduced herbicide and nitrogen fertilizer usage.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a promising approach called synthetic incompatibility to prevent interbreeding between genetically engineered and unaltered organisms. This technology effectively makes engineered organisms a separate species unable to produce viable offspring.
A team of Rutgers scientists has discovered a way to increase the nutritional value of corn by inserting a bacterial gene that produces methionine, a key amino acid. This breakthrough could benefit millions in developing countries who rely on corn as a staple food, and significantly reduce worldwide animal feed costs.
New technologies like Scintillometer and Eddy Covariance can estimate water requirements for crops with higher accuracy. A new system called Cosmic-ray Soil Moisture Observation System also determines optimal water application amounts.
A team of researchers is using genomic breeding approaches to develop disease-resistant, nutrient-rich banana varieties for smallholder farmers in East Africa. The goal is to boost yields by 30% and create high-yielding hybrids by 2019.
Agricultural insurance can have a range of unintended ecological and social consequences, including declining biodiversity and soil quality. Insured farmers may adopt riskier cultivation strategies, leading to further environmental problems.
Exceptionally preserved trilobite fossils reveal that at least two species evolved a stomach structure 20 million years earlier than thought. This discovery contradicts previous assumptions about trilobite digestive systems and evolution, suggesting a more complex evolutionary history.
Researchers made significant strides in transferring disease- and stress-resistance traits from wild relatives of several legumes to their domesticated varieties. This research improves the resilience of domestic legume varieties and sustains agriculture in semi-arid regions.
Researchers found that preemergence weed control in fall or early February is crucial to address kochia emergence and seed production. Effective methods include cover crops, tillage, and stale seedbed techniques.
Researchers propose switchgrass as a solution to China's poor air quality by reducing particulate emissions from soil erosion. The crop's ability to hold soil and produce biomass makes it an attractive alternative to coal, with potential for widespread adoption in the Loess Plateau region.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are using satellite data to estimate crop yield in the US Corn Belt. By integrating various spectral bands and analyzing them together, they've uncovered valuable information on crop biomass and environmental stresses related to drought and heat.
Satellite data can optimize fertilizer use, protect groundwater, and monitor agricultural areas more efficiently. The DEMMIN soil measurement and validation site is a key player in this initiative.
Researchers are developing crops that use RNA interference to block protein translation in target pests, providing a subtle yet effective method of pest control. The technology has the potential to reduce or eliminate the need for chemical pesticides and address environmental and human toxicity concerns.
Researchers discovered that plant parasitic nematodes activate plant stem cells to form galls on the roots of agricultural crops. This finding holds promise for developing resistant crop varieties and improving crop yields.
The study reveals that ancient Rapa Nui people consumed a balanced diet of seafood and terrestrial resources, with evidence suggesting deliberate management of agricultural crops. This challenges the ecocide hypothesis, which attributes societal collapse to environmental destruction.
A new web application provides historical climate data to farmers, allowing them to compare current year's conditions with past ten years. The app covers the Texas region and offers information on soil temperature, growing degree days, and precipitation.
Two large-scale field studies reveal that neonicotinoids harm bees by reducing reproductive success and survival, with effects varying by environment. Neonicotinoid exposure also impairs worker bee life expectancy and queen colony stability.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that cellulosic biofuels can provide a climate benefit, but only if certain conditions are met, including using native perennial species on marginal lands and minimizing nitrogen fertilizer use.
Research reveals Palmer amaranth life history traits influence its growth and reproduction in various cropping systems. Crop rotation and canopy better explain trait differences.
Researchers at the University of Lincoln are exploring innovative approaches to stop Drosophila suzukii, a major agricultural pest affecting soft and stone fruit crops worldwide. The team will investigate using yeasts as bait and developing intelligent 'bio-inspired' robotics systems to mimic insect vision.
Scientists have identified a large chromosomal swap in banana crops, which may help explain their reduced fertility and increased susceptibility to diseases like Panama disease. The study found that this chromosomal rearrangement was preferentially transmitted to progeny, highlighting its significance for breeding programs.
A new study found that camelina seed yields were 54% lower at Hays than at Moccasin due to environmental conditions. However, seed protein content was significantly higher at Hays, and oil composition differed between the two test sites.
A study by UCLA and University of Houston researchers reveals significant groundwater loss in the Central Valley during two droughts, with losses totaling 16.5 cubic kilometers and 40 cubic kilometers, respectively. The increase in groundwater loss was attributed to reduced precipitation, snowmelt, and changes in crop cultivation, high...
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a gene that is turned on when plants compete for resources, including nitrogen fixing bacteria. This finding has potential implications for reducing manmade fertilizer use in agriculture.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University are developing sustainable clean-tech solutions for global potable water and clean food production. The project aims to improve energy and water consumption, as well as environmental and carbon footprint in closed greenhouses.
A new study by University of Delaware researchers explores the history of sika deer in Dorchester County, Maryland, revealing a complex relationship with native white-tailed deer. The study suggests that sika deer may be outcompeting white-tails for resources, causing ecological concerns and challenging management strategies.
A new study by UC Santa Barbara scientists has found that landscape characteristics, such as crop diversity and field size, affect insecticide use. Crop diversity was shown to reduce insecticide use by 8kg per hectare in table grapes, while larger fields use more insecticide.
A study by Cornell University found that pesticides pose a significant risk to honeybees, with over 60% of found pesticides attributed to non-sprayed orchards and surrounding farmland. The research analyzed the bees' food stores and revealed high levels of pesticide exposure in 17% of colonies.
A recent study found that cover crops can mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing soil carbon sequestration. The research suggests that cover cropping can be an effective adaptive management tool to maintain yields and minimize nitrogen losses as the climate warms.
Ants cultivated and maintained vast subterranean farms producing fungi, dating back to 30 million years ago. These ancient agricultural ants have evolved complex societies, with crops dependent on ant farmers for survival.
African forests, which feed and provide subsistence means to at least 100 million people, are being cleared at a rate of over 10% by 2025 due to expanding agricultural production. The study recommends policies that prioritize forest conservation and local control of land to mitigate deforestation.
Researchers at Cornell University discovered that strawberries produce higher yields when blooming directly after an apple bloom. This method allows growers to manipulate the timing of crop blooms without relying on natural habitats, providing a more sustainable solution for boosting crop yields.
Researchers found that timing strawberry blooms directly after neighboring apple blossoms results in higher yields due to increased pollinator activity. This strategy allows growers to capitalize on the services of pollinators without relying on external inputs like fertilizers and pesticides.
Scientists have developed a new oilseed crop that is more resistant to heat, drought, and diseases than oilseed rape. The breakthrough technology keeps bitter defense compounds out of the seeds while maintaining them in the rest of the plant, enabling cultivation in areas previously unsuitable for oilseed crops.
Researchers are using wild relatives to breed more resilient sunflower varieties, reducing the impact of diseases, weeds, and insects. The study highlights the importance of annotating genetic information in wild relative collections to preserve traits for future use.
Researchers found that energy crops can be grown on CRP land without increasing nitrous oxide emissions in a small portion of the landscape. The study suggests that once established, large emissions from the footslope can be suppressed.
A new study examines neonicotinoid pesticides' effect on wood frog development, finding slight delays that may not be detrimental. Additional studies are needed to investigate the indirect effects of these pesticides on amphibian populations.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has announced funding for fundamental and applied research on canola to increase productivity and profitability in various growing environments. This $766,000 grant program aims to develop new commercial products from canola and improve production systems.
A new risk model developed by researchers at the University of Delaware allows lima bean growers to assess their fields' risk of downy mildew, a fungal-like disease. The tool provides a numeric scale from 1 to 10 and takes into account individual tolerance levels.
A team of scientists at the John Innes Centre has created a fast-growing broccoli line with the potential to deliver two full crops a season, reducing reliance on seasonal weather conditions. The new line can be grown in protected conditions or in urban farms, enabling continuous production and supply of fresh local produce.
A recent study suggests that almost 20% of food produced is lost due to over-consumption and waste. This represents a significant amount of resources wasted globally, which could be redirected to improve global food security and prevent environmental harm.
A new mobile app developed by University of Vermont researchers aims to help farmers protect endangered bees by calculating crop productivity and pollination benefits. The app allows users to explore land management scenarios and virtually test how bee-friendly decisions would improve their business.
The £4.4 million BBSRC BRAVO project will support the training of young scientists and raise industry stakeholder awareness through workshops in Brassica genetics, genomics, phenotyping and modelling. This knowledge will help develop new, more resilient varieties of Brassica crops.
A study published in Conservation Letters found that the EU's Ecological Focus Areas (EFA) initiative has little benefit for biodiversity and farmers, despite being implemented since 2015. Fallow land was the only EFA option considered worthwhile by both ecologists and farmers.
A study by University of Michigan researchers found that growing multiple algal species helps stabilize biocrude production and makes the system more reliable. However, competition among species often causes mixtures to produce less biocrude than individual species.
Researchers found that strip tillage systems with rowcovers had lower yields than plasticulture systems, mainly due to specialized equipment needs and weed pressure. Rowcovers reduced insecticide applications but had no significant impact on yield in both systems.
Researchers found that pairing cool-season cash crops like onion, broccoli, and lettuce with warm-season cover crops can alleviate challenges in midscale organic production. The study suggests that these rotations can produce high-value certified organic vegetables while maintaining soil organic carbon.
Researchers discovered the DNA sequence responsible for determining leaf shapes in upland cotton, leading to potential improvements in crop yields and farmer costs. The study found that plants with leaves having five deep lobes, like okra, are less susceptible to boll rot and offer better dispersal for pesticides.
Researchers used computer technology to learn how past societies responded to climate change, identifying crops and strategies that can be useful today. The studies found that drought-tolerant crops like Hopi corn and foxtail millet could become crucial for human survival in areas impacted by climate change.