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Cornell receives $24 million to combat threats to global wheat crop

The Cornell University-led project will develop heat-tolerant wheat strains using modern tools of comparative genomics and big data. The four-year grant aims to improve wheat resistance to stem and yellow rust, increasing global yields for smallholder farmers in vulnerable regions.

Reduce, reuse, recycle: Safe for water?

A study by Alison Franklin and her team at Pennsylvania State University found that treated wastewater from pharmaceutical and personal care products shows scant presence in wheat crops irrigated with the effluent. The researchers discovered that most compounds were present on the outer surfaces of plants, but only trace amounts were d...

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New wheat genetic advancements aimed at yield enhancement

The study confirms 13,000 previously mapped SNPs and newly maps 2,190 unique SNPs to improve drought tolerance, greenbug and wheat curl mite resistance. The research aims to develop high-yielding wheat varieties with improved resilience to stressors across different climates.

Enzymes with the potential to increase wheat yields

A team of plant scientists has identified two superior forms of a naturally occurring enzyme known as Rubisco, which could improve photosynthesis and increase wheat yields by up to 20%. The researchers found variation in the enzyme's catalytic properties among closely related genotypes, including wild relatives of bread wheat.

Ancient going on nouveau

Researchers have evaluated the potential of ancient grains in modern agriculture, finding that they require reduced fertilization to prevent lodging. While they contain high amounts of protein, the quality is lower than in modern crops. However, these grains can enrich biodiversity and offer premium products through traditional methods.

Fungus attacks new type of grain thanks to an evolutionary trick

A recent study reveals that a fungus has developed a way to infect triticale by combining DNA from wheat and rye mildew variants, compromising its natural resistance. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding evolutionary mechanisms in plant diseases.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists create first map of the wheat epigenome

Researchers have mapped the wheat epigenome, identifying patterns of DNA methylation that regulate gene activity. This discovery could lead to improved crop breeding technologies and a better understanding of genetic variation in wheat.

Researchers develop method for higher purity in wheat flour

Kansas State University researchers developed a method to test endosperm purity in flour, enabling millers to optimize equipment settings and meet baker specifications. The test helps exclude inferior flour streams from final products, improving the yield of high-quality wheat flour.

A new resource for managing crop-damaging greenbugs

A new paper in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management provides a comprehensive overview of greenbug control methods for wheat and sorghum. Growers can use the Glance n' Go system to monitor fields and determine when pesticides are necessary, reducing unnecessary treatments and costs.

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.

$2 million to improve wheat yields for farmers across the world

The project aims to enhance wheat crop yields by understanding the genetic basis of more efficient photosynthesis. By combining diverse expertise and next-generation DNA sequencing, researchers will identify key genes responsible for improved crop performance.

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.

Africa could be the answer to delaying 'peak grain'

Researchers estimate that farmers in sub-Saharan Africa can obtain 20-30% of their potential yields with optimized management and resources. The Global Yield Gap and Water Productivity Atlas provides detailed information for major crops in countries such as Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, and others.

Fourth wheat gene is key to flowering and climate adaptation

The discovery of the VRN-D4 gene and its three counterpart genes is crucial for understanding vernalization and developing wheat varieties adapted to different regions or changing environments. The study also shows how ancient wheat from Pakistan and India influenced the spring growth habit in some wheat varieties.

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.

Manipulation of food structure could lead the way to a healthier diet

A new study led by King's College London found that preserving the natural structure of dietary fibre during food production can help slow blood sugar levels after a meal. This could lead to the development of 'diabetic-friendly' foods with slower energy release and prolonged fullness.

New fungi behind emerging wheat disease

Scientists at Australian National University discovered three previously undiscovered fungi causing the disease, which affects Southern Queensland and South Australia's wheat crops. The finding provides growers with confidence in managing the disease, crucial for a $6 billion industry.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Improving rice flour to aid food poverty

Researchers at Yamagata University have developed a high-quality rice flour that can overcome issues associated with previous rice flours. The new flour's improved properties enable better dough formation, increased elasticity, and more consistent texture, making it suitable for those with wheat intolerance.

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.

Commodity market volatility more perception than reality

Researchers found that commodity price bubbles were short-lived and not as frequent as thought. Bubbles in the grain markets occurred more often during periods of production problems rather than speculative activity. The study's findings suggest that the commodity market is doing a good job of accessing prices, with only minor hiccups.

Wheat fires outside of Huaibei, China

In June, nearly three-quarters of all fires in the North China Plain occur, fueled by wheat residue burning. The practice, though prohibited, remains common due to its cost-effectiveness in clearing fields and fertilizing soil.

Closing the case on an ancient archeological mystery

Climate change led to the collapse of an ancient civilization on the Tibetan Plateau, researchers found. The shift from millet to wheat and barley agriculture was crucial for survival in the region's high altitudes.

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.

First report of a new crop virus in North America

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a new mastrevirus, SgMaV-1, infecting switchgrass in North America. The virus is closely related to known pathogens in Australia and may be transmitted by leafhoppers, posing risks to staple food crops like corn and wheat.

Researchers develop detailed genetic map of world wheat varieties

Scientists at Kansas State University have developed a haplotype map of wheat that provides a detailed description of genetic differences in worldwide wheat lines. This study enables the precise mapping of genes and increases the selection of best lines for breeding, leading to faster release times for new varieties.

Scientists transfer pathogen-sensing 'antenna' gene to wheat

A team of scientists successfully transferred a receptor gene from Arabidopsis to wheat, demonstrating that the signalling pathways are conserved between monocots and dicots. The resulting gene confers durable resistance to bacterial diseases, with potential applications in breeding wheat for improved disease resistance.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Genome reveals how Hessian fly causes galls in wheat

Researchers sequenced Hessian fly genome, discovering rapidly evolving genes that hijack plant biochemistry. The study sheds light on the insect's ability to create growth-stunting galls in wheat by mimicking normal proteins in plant cells.

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.

Aggressive plant fungus threatens wheat production

A new surveillance technique has revealed a diverse population of wheat rust fungus in the UK, with some strains being more aggressive and virulent than others. The findings highlight the threat posed to global food security due to climate change and increased globalization.

Study finds climate change may dramatically reduce wheat production

A recent study finds that climate change will lead to a significant decrease in wheat production, with yields projected to drop by 6% for each degree Celsius temperature rise. The resulting loss of nearly one-quarter of current wheat production could severely impact global food supplies.

Scientists find potential way of controlling leaf blotch disease in wheat

Researchers at Durham University have found a genetic mechanism that could stop the spread of Septoria leaf blotch (STB) disease, caused by a fungus threatening wheat yields. By manipulating TaR1 protein levels in wheat, they demonstrated earlier activation of plant defenses, potentially allowing for more effective control of the disease.

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.

New hope for fighting major fungal disease in durum wheat

Researchers have identified specialized cell walls in disease-resistant wheat varieties that could help produce stronger durum wheat for improved pasta production. The study found a new gene, WheatPME1, that can change the chemical structure of pectin, a key component of plant cell walls.

UF/IFAS study: Wheat yield to decline as temperatures increase

A new UF/IFAS study reveals that warming temperatures could lead to a decline in wheat production, with crop losses estimated at one fourth of the annual global wheat trade. The research used computer models to predict the impact of temperature increases on wheat yield and found that warmer temperatures are already slowing yield gains.

Crops can do their own weed control

Weed control in conventional farming methods has a negative impact on the environment. Research from the University of Copenhagen reveals that crops like corn, grains, and beans can suppress weed growth when sown in tighter grid patterns. This results in up to 72% reduction in weed biomass and a 45% increase in grain yields.

Grain market mystery solved

Researchers found a storage rate discrepancy that caused the cash and futures prices to diverge. The storage rate was set too low, resulting in a $2 difference between the two prices.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study finds way to conserve soil and water in world's driest wheat region

Researchers at Washington State University identified summer fallow management practices that can help farmers conserve soil, prevent sky-darkening dust storms, and improve air quality. Undercutter-tillage or no-till fallow systems were found to be the most effective options for reducing wind erosion in the Horse Heaven Hills region.

Two Kansas State University researchers named AAAS fellows

Kansas State University professors C. Michael Smith and Christopher Sorensen were selected as AAAS fellows for their pioneering contributions to entomology and soft matter physics, respectively. Their research has been recognized for advancing science, education, and outreach.

Arab countries take a new direction for national food security

The Arab Food Security Project aims to improve domestic productivity by investing in agricultural research, resulting in a 28% increase in wheat yield across 10 countries. The initiative will work towards reducing dependence on food imports and promoting better rural livelihoods through knowledge sharing and improved technologies.

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.

Blight-resistant American chestnut trees take root at SUNY-ESF

Scientists at SUNY-ESF have successfully created blight-resistant American chestnut trees through genetic engineering, powered by a single gene from wheat. The trees, which can co-exist with the invasive fungus that devastated the species, are being prepared for potential reforestation efforts.

Using wheat as an energy source for beef cattle

A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that wheat can be used as an alternative energy source for beef cattle, with optimal feeding levels determined to be above 50%, and increasing monensin supplementation improving feed efficiency, while proper grain processing is necessary.

Could non-gluten proteins play a role in celiac disease?

Scientists discover that people with celiac disease also react to non-gluten wheat proteins, which could lead to improved understanding and treatments of the disease. The study identifies five groups of non-gluten proteins causing immune reactions in patients, suggesting a broader range of potential triggers.

WSU researchers find 'most famous wheat gene'

Researchers at Washington State University have found a key gene in wheat that can be used to transfer valuable traits from other plants, reducing crop losses and pesticide use. The discovery enables breeders to develop disease- and pest-resistant wheat varieties without the need for genetically modified organisms.

AGU: Ozone pollution in India kills enough crops to feed 94 million in poverty

A new study finds that India's ground-level ozone pollution damages millions of tons of major crops, including wheat and rice, each year, with losses estimated at over $1 billion. The damage is enough to feed tens of millions of people living in poverty, highlighting the need for policy changes to address ozone pollution.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Rising temperatures hinder Indian wheat production

Researchers at University of Southampton found a link between increasing temperatures and reduced wheat yield in India. Warmer nighttime temperatures had the most significant impact on crop yield, highlighting the vulnerability of Indian wheat production to climate change.

Our daily bread

Scientists at Helmholtz Munich have gained new insights into the complex gene-regulatory interactions in bread wheat, enabling them to better understand how a polyploid genome is regulated. The study's findings hold promise for improving breeding, agricultural cultivation and industrial properties of bread wheat.

Scientists complete chromosome-based draft of the wheat genome

A team of researchers from Kansas State University has completed a chromosome-based draft of the wheat genome, providing a valuable resource for plant science researchers and breeders. The genetic blueprint will enable the rapid location of specific genes controlling complex traits such as yield, grain quality, and disease resistance.

Genetic blueprint of bread wheat genome unveiled

The International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium has released a genetic blueprint for bread wheat, enabling researchers to rapidly locate specific genes on individual chromosomes. This milestone brings the organization closer to its goal of obtaining a complete reference sequence of the hexaploid bread wheat genome within three years.

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.

Boron tolerance discovery for higher wheat yields

Researchers from the University of Adelaide have identified specific genes in wheat that enable tolerance to boron toxicity, a significant yield-limiting soil condition. This discovery will help plant breeders develop new varieties with increased yields to feed the growing world population.

Growing camelina and safflower in the Pacific Northwest

Adding camelina or safflower to crop rotations with winter wheat and summer fallow increases wind erosion risk in the Pacific Northwest. No-till fallow or planting another crop without a fallow year can help control blowing dust.