Most life on Earth is based on polymers of 20 amino acids that have evolved into hundreds of thousands of different, highly specialized proteins.
Genome research: Origin and evolution of vine
Cultivation and growth of grapevines have strongly influenced European civilizations, but where the grapevine comes from and how it has spread across the globe has been highly disputed so far. In an extensive genome project, researchers have determined its origin and evolution from the wild vine to today's cultivar by...
Jellyfish size might influence their nutritional value
Researchers confirmed what was already known: jellyfish eat bigger prey as they grow, which means they also occupy a higher position in the food web as they grow. They also found that some of the concentrations of 'healthy fats,' increase as jellyfish grow. These changes might be influenced by their...
Recycling: Researchers separate cotton from polyester in blended fabric
Researchers found they could separate blended cotton and polyester fabric using enzymes -- nature's tools for speeding chemical reactions. Ultimately, they hope their findings will lead to a more efficient way to recycle the fabric's component materials, thereby reducing textile waste.
Unraveling whale entanglement risk factors off Oregon Coast
New research is beginning to unravel the times of year and locations where whales are at greatest danger of entanglement in fishing gear on the Oregon Coast.
Stressed out: Mapping the human footprint on coastal areas globally
A global mapping project has revealed the major stressors placed upon global coastlines by human activity.
Muscle health depends on lipid synthesis
Muscle degeneration, the most prevalent cause of frailty in hereditary diseases and aging, could be caused by a deficiency in one key enzyme in a lipid biosynthesis pathway. Researchers now characterize how the enzyme PCYT2 affects muscle health in disease and aging in laboratory mouse models.
Soil Microbes Contribute to Climate Change, New U of G Research Finds
Here’s a tip for landowners looking to limit emissions of the potent greenhouse gas methane: consider the moisture in your soil.
How Do We Make Farming Better for the Planet? Ask Women
BU-led study used video games to test ways of balancing agriculture and conservation—and found getting more women involved in decision-making may boost productivity and the planet’s health.
NASA Engages U.S. Farmers: Bringing Satellite Data Down to Earth
Since the launch of the first Landsat satellite in 1972, NASA and its partners have mapped agriculture worldwide and provided key input into global supply outlooks that bolster the economy and food security.