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Rust stemmed for wheat

A team of experts has identified a gene that triggers resistance in wheat to the devastating fungal pathogen Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt). The breakthrough allows for DNA testing to identify whether a rust strain can overcome a resistance gene, enabling targeted treatment and reducing crop devastation.

SourceRothamsted Research·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
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.

Towards better fates for wheat crops: Gene-level insights into a deadly pathogen

Researchers have gained crucial gene-level insights into an age-old evolutionary arms race between wheat and stem rust disease, a devastating fungal pathogen. The studies identified key peptides released by the fungus that can evade plant immune systems, potentially allowing for more effective DNA testing to identify resistant crops.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017

Wheat disease breakthrough to help feed the world

Researchers have isolated the first rust pathogen gene that wheat plants detect to 'switch on' resistance, allowing for faster DNA testing and prioritizing resistance genes. The breakthrough could save crops from being destroyed by devastating diseases, threatening food security globally.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017

Major award recognizes UK and global impact of wheat scientist

Cristobal Uauy, a world-leading wheat scientist, has been awarded the prestigious Research Medal by The Royal Agricultural Society of England. His work in developing genomic techniques and sharing them with the international community has led to significant benefits for wheat breeders and researchers.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·DateDec 12, 2017
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.

Researchers conduct novel wheat microbiome analysis under four management strategies

Researchers analyzed wheat microbiome under conventional, no-till, organic, and reduced chemical inputs management strategies, finding strong effects on microbial communities by wheat plant organ and age. The study provides foundational data for generating synthetic microbiomes to improve crop yields and disease resistance.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateNov 27, 2017

Ancient barley took high road to China

New research from Washington University in St. Louis suggests ancient barley took a southern route to China, adapting to seasonal challenges along the way. The study, published in PLOS One, analyzed radiocarbon data and DNA evidence from ancient grains in China, India, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 2017

Gene discovery may halt worldwide wheat epidemic

Researchers at UC Davis identified a gene that enables resistance to Ug99, a devastating strain of stem rust threatening global food security. Breeders can use molecular markers to select for the genes and develop varieties with multiple resistance levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2017

Genome of wheat ancestor sequenced

The genome of a wild ancestor of bread wheat, Aegilops tauschii, has been sequenced by an international team of scientists. The findings will enable researchers to discover new genes improving wheat quality and resistance to diseases. This breakthrough technology can be applied to other plant genomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genetic discovery another tool in battle against wheat pests

Researchers have identified genetic markers for greenbug and Hessian fly resistance in wheat, providing a new tool for breeders to combat these pests. The discovery enables the efficient transfer of resistant genes into new wheat lines using marker-assisted selection.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateNov 8, 2017

Swapping where crops are grown could feed an extra 825 million people

A new study proposes swapping crop distributions on existing farmland to meet growing food demand and reduce water stress, resulting in a 10% increase in calorie production and 19% more protein. The proposed changes would generate substantial water savings for 42 countries, including Australia, India, and South Africa.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 6, 2017

Flour power to boost food security

Researchers at the University of Queensland have identified genes that control a cell protein holding wheat grain layers together, leading to improved milling efficiency and nutritional profiles. This breakthrough could increase flour yield by up to 10% and unlock new high-yielding field wheats.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 2017

Researchers identify gene to help hybrid wheat breeding

Australian researchers have identified a gene that allows for cross-pollination in wheat, enabling the production of high-yielding hybrid wheats. This breakthrough could help meet the increased food demand predicted by 2050 and improve yield stability in challenging growing regions.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 11, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study identifies likely scenarios for global spread of devastating crop disease

A team of scientists has developed a modelling system to predict the spread of devastating wheat rust disease, identifying Yemen as a potential hub for long-distance dispersal to India and Pakistan. The research highlights the risk of global economic loss from wheat stem rust, currently estimated at $1 billion annually.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Plants·DateSep 25, 2017

Ray of hope for more abundant wheat crops

Researchers at Lancaster University discovered that wheat crops experience a delay in photosynthesis when transitioning from shade to sunlight, resulting in a loss of up to 21% productivity. The study suggests that breeding varieties with faster adjustment times could lead to increased yields without requiring more water or nutrients.

SourceLancaster University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateAug 17, 2017

The key to drought-tolerant crops may be in the leaves

Researchers found that plants growing in dry climates have higher concentrations of leaf wax, a natural protective barrier. The team bred winter wheat cultivars with increased wax production, which enabled them to tolerate drought and produce high yields.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalOrganic Geochemistry·DateAug 15, 2017

Millions may face protein deficiency as a result of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health finds that rising CO2 levels may lead to a decline in the nutritional value of staple crops, increasing the risk of dietary deficiencies among vulnerable populations. The study estimates that up to 150 million people may be at risk of protein deficiency due to elevated CO2 levels.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateAug 2, 2017
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.

Heritage and ancient grain project feeds a growing demand

A Cornell-led project has identified modern, ancient, and heritage wheat varieties best suited for organic growing in the Northeastern and north-central climates. The results show that these varieties are in high demand, with consumers willing to pay more for bread, pasta, and baked goods made from them.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Cereal Science·DateJul 20, 2017

Evolution of the fungus that is devastating wheat crops

A global study has identified the evolutionary steps leading to the spread of the wheat blast fungus, a pathogen causing significant yield losses in Asia and South America. The fungus emerged through host jumps from a weed pathogen and its distribution was initially restricted to South America before re-emerging on the Eurasian continent.

SourceKobe University·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 2017

Granular media friction explained: Da Vinci would be proud

Researchers have solved the equation describing solid friction on granular materials for an arbitrary number of dimensions. Their results are in excellent agreement with numerical solutions in 2 and 3 dimensions, making the model applicable to various industries such as construction and pharmaceuticals.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJul 12, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

UK's Farman is co-author of important wheat disease study

A UK plant pathologist has uncovered an important genetic link to the devastating wheat blast fungus. The research found that a mutation in a key gene allows the fungus to escape wheat resistance, compromising crop yields and sparking global efforts to breed blast-resistant wheat.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalScience·DateJul 6, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

How humans transformed wild wheat into its modern counterpart

Researchers used 3-D genetic sequencing data to study the evolution of wheat from wild tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum) to domesticated wheat. They found two gene clusters that lost their function, leading to changes in spike morphology and grain development.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 6, 2017

Extreme weather conditions and climate change account for 40 percent of global wheat production variability

A new study reveals that heat stress concurrent with drought or water excess can explain about 40% of the changes in wheat yields from one year to another. Water excess affects wheat production more than drought in several countries, contributing to reduced yields due to increased pests and diseases.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 4, 2017

Concurrent hot and dry summers more common in future

Researchers calculate that compound climate extremes, such as heatwaves and droughts, are more frequent than expected. This can lead to increased health risks, agricultural losses, and economic threats due to the interconnectedness of modern societies.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 28, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Wheat coproducts vary in protein digestibility when fed to pigs

Researchers have found that wheat middlings and red dog, two coproducts of the wheat milling process, have varying levels of protein digestibility when fed to pigs. The study suggests that red dog contains more easily digested amino acids due to its lower fiber content.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJun 19, 2017

Is white or whole wheat bread 'healthier?' Depends on the person

A recent study found that different people react differently to white and whole wheat bread, with half responding better to processed flour and the other half to sourdough. The researchers developed an algorithm to predict individual responses, pointing towards a new paradigm in nutrition based on personal microbiomes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 6, 2017

Developing climate-resilient wheat varieties

A recent study suggests that fructans in wheat plants hold the key to developing climate-resilient varieties with increased nutritional value. The authors propose using fructans as a breeding target to create healthier and more resilient wheat varieties.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateMay 1, 2017
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.

Sat nav for bread wheat uncovers hidden genes

Scientists have created the most accurate navigation system for the bread wheat genome, allowing researchers to analyze its genes more easily than ever before. The system includes detailed annotation of over 100,000 wheat genes, revealing previously hidden genes and improving crop yields.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalGenome Research·DateApr 18, 2017

Deciphering plant immunity against parasites

A team of researchers identified a protein called NILR1 in thale cress that helps plants sense and defend against parasitic worms. The discovery could lead to the development of crop plants with enhanced protection against nematodes.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 13, 2017

Unique wheat passes the test

Scientists developed a unique type of wheat that can increase the digestibility of phosphorus and other minerals, improving health for undernourished populations. The new wheat, HIGHPHY, was tested in broilers and demonstrated improved digestion coefficients for calcium and phosphorus.

SourceAarhus University·Journalanimal·DateMar 27, 2017
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.

Wheat virus crosses over, harms native grasses

A common wheat virus can spread and harm perennial native grasses like switchgrass, reducing its vitality by 30%. This finding highlights the need for farmers and scientists to consider protecting native plants from diseases emanating from crops.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateJan 17, 2017

New tools will drive greater understanding of wheat genes

A vast collection of genetically modified wheat seeds with over 10 million sequenced mutations has been developed to aid in the study and improvement of wheat plants. This new resource is freely available to researchers and breeders worldwide, enabling them to develop crops with enhanced nutritional value, yields, and climate resilience.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

Scientists develop new wheat-wheatgrass hybrid

Researchers at Washington State University have created a perennial grain species, Salish Blue, which combines wheat and wheatgrass. This new crop has the potential to improve soil health, reduce waste, and provide sustainable food options for the Pacific Northwest.

SourceWashington State University·JournalGenetic Resources and Crop Evolution·DateJan 13, 2017

Public wheat breeder consortium to be developed by USDA grant

A multi-state project will establish a nationally coordinated consortium to increase wheat yields through genetic advancements and breeding programs. Wheat geneticist Dr. Shuyu Liu and breeders Dr. Amir Ibrahim and Dr. Jackie Rudd will contribute to the major effort to improve wheat yields dramatically over the next decade.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateDec 19, 2016
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.

Hybrid wheat breeding gets almost $1 million USDA investment

The project aims to increase hybrid wheat yield potential by 15-20 percent, making it climate resilient and attractive to producers. The team will develop tools and germplasm for efficient hybrid seed production and create hybrids to establish and confirm heterotic pools in wheat.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateDec 19, 2016

USDA awards $3.4 million for research to increase wheat yields

The USDA has awarded $3.4 million to seven research projects aimed at developing new wheat varieties with improved yield and adaptability to different regions. These grants will support international collaboration on wheat research and help meet growing demand for wheat worldwide.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateDec 15, 2016

New wheat crops as an alternative to a gluten-free diet

A new study analysing toxic components of various wheat varieties reveals that even ancient types can be toxic through specific epitopes. The research identifies potential breeding techniques to develop non-toxic wheat-based products suitable for coeliac patients, aiming to improve their quality of life.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalFood Chemistry·DateDec 13, 2016
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.

Neolithic Syrians were first to domesticate cereals

Researchers discovered evidence of cereal domestication at Tell Qarassa North archaeological site, revealing advanced farming communities and varying domestication rates across regions. The study provides crucial insights into the origins of agriculture and its impact on human societies.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2016

Climate model predictions are telling a consistent story

A study by Aarhus University scientists uses three independent climate modeling methods to demonstrate that wheat yield will decline with global temperature increases. The models project a 5.7% decline in global wheat production for each 1°C temperature rise, with warmer regions expected to suffer the most.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 23, 2016

Enhanced wheat curl mite control found in genes

A recent study published in Crop Science journal has found enhanced wheat curl mite control in genes, leading to the development of a new screening protocol. The research team identified the genetic markers responsible for resistance to the wheat curl mite and its associated diseases, such as wheat streak mosaic virus.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalCrop Science·DateNov 9, 2016

The golden drool: Study finds treasure trove of info in saliva of foraging bears

Researchers at Oregon State University found that collecting DNA from residual saliva on partially consumed salmon provides a more effective and efficient way to study brown bears. This method allows for accurate individual identification and can be adapted for other species, improving wildlife population monitoring.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 2016
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New MutChromSeq technique makes valuable genes easier to find

Scientists at the John Innes Centre have developed a new MutChromSeq technique that reduces the complexity of searching for specific genes in wheat and barley genomes. This method uses chromosome flow sorting to narrow down the search area, making it faster and cheaper to sequence just one chromosome.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalGenome Biology·DateOct 30, 2016

John Innes Centre scientists solve 60-year-old Septoria mystery

Plant breeders have struggled to combine high yield and resistance to Septoria in wheat varieties, but John Innes Centre researchers have found a genetic connection between the two traits. The study reveals that nearly 60 years ago, breeding decisions inadvertently linked increased susceptibility to Septoria with higher yields.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalMolecular Plant Pathology·DateOct 21, 2016
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.

Researchers discover a special power in wheat

A team of researchers has discovered that wheat seeds also undergo photosynthesis, contrary to long-held assumptions. This finding could lead to the development of new, more efficient crop varieties better adapted to hotter, drier climates.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 17, 2016

Columbia researchers find biological explanation for wheat sensitivity

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found a biological explanation for wheat sensitivity, which is not related to celiac disease. People with non-celiac gluten or wheat sensitivity have a weakened intestinal barrier that leads to a body-wide inflammatory immune response.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalGut·DateJul 26, 2016

Unfertilized cover crop may reduce nutrient losses from Tennessee fields

Researchers found that incorporating an unfertilized winter wheat cover crop into annual crop rotations can significantly reduce nitrogen and phosphorus lost from row crops, enhancing downstream water quality. The strategy may also help alleviate the Mississippi River's nutrient load contributing to the Gulf Dead Zone.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJul 8, 2016