Pineapple genome sequences hint at plant domestication in a single step
An international team published their analysis of the genome of the red pineapple, a plant grown for fiber production and as an ornamental.
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Gel-like fluid designed to prevent wildfires
Scientists and engineers worked with state and local agencies to develop and test a long-lasting, environmentally benign fire-retarding material. If used on high-risk areas, the simple, affordable treatment could dramatically cut the number of fires that occur each year.
Read moreDo Celiac families really need 2 toasters?
Parents using multiple kitchen appliances and utensils to prevent their child with celiac disease from being exposed to gluten may be able to eliminate some cumbersome steps. A new preliminary study found no significant gluten transfer when tools like the same toaster or knives are used for both gluten-free and gluten-containing foods.
Read moreYou don't have to go cold turkey on red meat to see health benefits
A new study has found that halving the amount red and processed (RPM) meat in the diet can have a significant impact on health, reducing the amount of LDL 'bad' cholesterol in the blood which cuts the risk of developing heart disease.
Read moreHow a protein connecting calcium and plant hormone regulates plant growth
A new study finds that a unique mechanism involving calcium, the plant hormone auxin and a calcium-binding protein is responsible for regulating plant growth.
Read moreFarmed oysters able to protect themselves from acidification
Oysters bred for fast growth and disease resistance are able to adapt their shell growth to protect themselves from environmental acidification, according to new research.
Read moreClimate change could cause drought in wheat-growing areas
Wheat supplies about 20 percent of all calories consumed by humans. In a new study, researchers found that up to 60 percent of current wheat-growing areas worldwide could see simultaneous, severe and prolonged droughts by the end of the century.
Read moreSoil microbes play a key role in plant disease resistance
Scientists have discovered that soil microbes can make plants more resistant to an aggressive disease — opening new possibilities for sustainable food production.
Read moreFaster than ever — neutron tomography detects water uptake by roots
New high-speed neutron tomography generates a complete 3D image every 1.5 seconds and is thus seven times faster than before. The method facilitates a better understanding of water and nutrient uptake of crop plants. The method can also be applied to investigate transport processes in various porous material systems.
Read moreScientists find ways to improve cassava, a 'crop of inequality' featured at Goalkeepers
New research has highlighted a crop of inequality called cassava, which has starchy, tuberous roots that sustain more than 500 million people in sub-Saharan Africa, yet cassava has been largely neglected by research and development compared to the staple crops of wealthier regions. Researchers have identified opportunities to improve cassava yields — which have not increased for more than fifty years in Africa.
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