Iowa State University scientists restored the function of heart muscles in aging fruit flies, according to a newly published study. The genetic complex identified in the research could lead to new treatments for heart disease in humans.
Tag: Iowa State University
Sorghum study illuminates relationship between humans, crops and the environment in domestication
A new study illustrates the concept of a domestication triangle, in which human genetics interact with sorghum genetics and the environment to influence the traits farmers select in their crops. The concept gives a more complete systemic picture of domestication.
Regional trends in overdose deaths reveal multiple opioid epidemics, according to new study
A recently published study shows the United States in the grip of several simultaneously occurring opioid epidemics, rather than just a single crisis. The epidemics came to light after the researchers analyzed county-level data on drug overdose deaths. The study highlights the importance of different policy responses to the epidemics rather than a single set of policies.
Six books and counting: Iowa State student gets jump-start on writing career
Ryan Byrnes, an Iowa State University senior in technical communication, is an entrepreneurial author. After years of writing, self-publishing and marketing his novels, Byrnes’ most recent work, a historical fiction novel set in World War I, was picked up by a publishing company.
Software competition advances understanding of genetic function
Sequencing a genome doesn’t necessarily reveal the functions of individual genes. An Iowa State University scientist helps to organize a competition to evaluate the accuracy of software programs that predict gene function. The recently published results of the latest competition included 144 entries from 68 teams.
Shelter animals receive care at ISU College of Veterinary Medicine on their way to adoption
A surgery, anesthesia and community outreach course for third-year veterinary students at Iowa State University prepares students for clinical practice while helping dogs and cats in animal shelters and rescues get adopted. The program treats all common problems presented in shelter pets, including eye, ear and skin problems and gastrointestinal parasites.
Ambitious strategies to combat pests and disease in organic agriculture
Iowa State University researchers have received a grant to look at innovative ways that allow organic fruit and vegetable growers to combat pests, weeds and disease. Much of the research centers on mestotunnels, or material used to create a physical barrier to protect plants from certain pests. The practices to be analyzed could help organic growers with management challenges without the use of conventional or organic pesticides.
Corn and soybean rotation could pose long-term tradeoffs for soil health
A new study examines the mechanisms that drive the decomposition of organic matter in soils that undergo long-term corn and soybean crop rotations. The study shows how corn and soybean rotations can provide important environmental and management benefits for farmers, but the practice also comes with tradeoffs that some farmers may wish to address by adjusting their management practices.
Machine learning in agriculture: scientists are teaching computers to diagnose soybean stress
Machine learning could lead to automated processes that would allow soybean producers to diagnose crop stresses more efficiently. A multi-disciplinary team at Iowa State University recently received a grant to develop the technology, which could lead to unmanned aerial vehicles surveying fields and automatically analyzing crop images.
Maturity becomes a concern as corn harvest approaches
Iowans may notice combines harvesting corn deep into November due to the late start to planting last spring, according to Iowa State University agronomists. Much of the Iowa corn crop remains weeks behind schedule, and farmers will be paying close attention to temperature as their crop nears maturity and dries down.
Comparing your house to your neighbors’ can lead to dissatisfaction
Satisfaction with your home can depend on its size compared to your neighbors’ homes, according to new Iowa State University research. Daniel Kuhlmann, assistant professor of community and regional planning, found that people are more likely to be dissatisfied with their house if it is smaller than their neighbors’.
Pitching competition will highlight Iowa State innovation, entrepreneurship at Iowa State Fair
More than 150 Iowa State University entrepreneurs will pitch their ideas to visitors at the ISU exhibit during this month’s Iowa State Fair. The exhibit, “The Great Iowa State Pitch Off: STANDING InnOVATION!,” will be in the Varied Industries building at the Iowa State Fair, held Aug. 8-18.
Researchers develop novel process to study how trees affect building temperatures, air flow in extreme heat
Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a model to test how shading and air flow can improve indoor temperatures during the sweltering heat of Midwest summers.
Designing better products for off-grid, backcountry situations
AMES, Iowa — Two weeks spent “off grid” with no running water, electricity or cell phone service has sparked a slew of new product ideas from an Iowa State University class. Their adventure was part of a new summer course…