Researchers from Jiangsu University have identified Pm72, a new powdery mildew resistance gene from the Iraqi wild einkorn wheat accession PI 427741. Genetic analysis showed that the accession carries two dominant resistance genes, including PmNCA6 previously identified on chromosome arm 7AL. Pm72, located on chromosome arm 6AL, provided resistance against all ten powdery mildew isolates tested and remained effective after being transferred into hexaploid wheat through interspecific hybridization. The findings establish Pm72 as a promising resource for breeding wheat varieties with broad and effective resistance to powdery mildew.

Researchers proposed an integrated method that combines remote sensing and meteorological factors to monitor the winter wheat leaf age at the start of the overwintering stage, and developed two models for comparative analysis across Shandong province, China. Using MODIS remote sensing data and ERA5-Land reanalysis temperature data from 458 field sites, they compared a growing degree day (GDD) model with a Random Forest model incorporating emergence date, accumulated heat and vegetation growth. The integrated model estimated leaf age more accurately, achieving an R² of 0.67 and an error of 0.56 leaves. Results identified sowing date and heat accumulation as major drivers, while extreme rainfall in 2021 delayed sowing and weakened seedlings, supporting more precise crop management.

Hybrid nanomaterials are attracting growing attention for their ability to improve the functional performance of polymer-based systems, making them strong contenders for advanced applications in the electronics and biomedical fields. In this study, novel hybrid nanocomposites were developed based on a polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) K30 matrix blended with the conductive polymer polypyrrole (PPy) and reinforced with graphene oxide (GO) and indium tin oxide (ITO) nanoparticles. The nanocomposites were fabricated using a solution-casting technique, with improved dispersion achieved through mechanical stirring and ultrasonication. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) images revealed a smooth surface morphology and an homogeneous distribution of nanomaterials within the polymer matrix. Meanwhile, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated strong physical interactions between the composite components, with X-ray diffraction confirming the semicrystalline behavior of PVP, which was strongly impacted by the contribution of the nanomaterials. UV–Vis spectroscopy showed significantly enhanced optical behavior, with a notable reduction in the optical band gap from ∼3.43 to 1.63 eV, indicating improved electronic transition efficiency. Furthermore, the well-dried solid films exhibited superior antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones increasing by 53.8% against Staphylococcus aureus and 46.1% against Escherichia coli. These findings highlight the novelty and multifunctionality of the developed nanocomposites, demonstrating their strong potential for use in flexible optical-electronics devices, antibacterial coatings, tissue engineering, and sensor applications and addressing current societal needs in the health, environmental, and medical sectors.

A localized study in Tiaty, Kenya, shows how climate variability and land-use change are reshaping pastoral and agro-pastoral livelihoods. Using satellite imagery, climate records, agroecological information, and socioeconomic data, researchers found shifts in vegetation, rainfall seasonality, livestock choices, and settlement patterns. The findings highlight the need for locally tailored adaptation strategies that support resilient livestock systems, sustainable rangeland management, and climate-smart farming.

Researchers have developed a green separation process combining a tailor-made ionic liquid with heat pump technology that slashes energy consumption by 48.68% for separating dimethyl carbonate from methanol—a critical bottleneck in sustainable chemical production. Using a multi-scale strategy spanning molecular screening, experimental validation, and process optimization, the team identified an eco-friendly ionic liquid entrainer that breaks the stubborn azeotrope between these industrially important chemicals, paving the way for more sustainable and cost-effective manufacturing.

This perspective article proposes a paradigm shift from single-discipline pathogen control to an integrated, cross-disciplinary approach that combines earth science and environmental engineering. Led by Zheng-Yang Huo from Renmin University of China, an research team outlines how geochemical insights and advanced disinfection technologies can work together to achieve full-chain assessment and control of waterborne pathogens, addressing a persistent threat that causes over 10 million deaths annually worldwide.

This study explores an ethanol/ammonium sulfate aqueous two-phase system as a greener extraction strategy for a four-herb mixture designed for acne-prone skin. The ATPS method effectively enriched phenolic and flavonoid compounds and enhanced antioxidant activity, with the N12 fraction showing the strongest chemical performance. However, zebrafish assays indicated that the crude extract had a better safety profile and stronger biological suitability. Based on these findings, the crude extract was incorporated into prototype cleanser and spot gel serum formulations, among which the cleanser showed promising antibacterial and antibiofilm effects against acne-related microorganisms.

Spikelet production efficiency (SPE) – the number of spikelets produced per unit of vegetative organ dry weight at the spikelet differentiation stage – can boost rice grain yield and harvest index without compromising grain filling or grain weight, particularly under high-yielding population conditions.