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.

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) disproportionately affects the elderly and is expected to be the most frequent cranial surgical indication by 2030. Yet, no globally accepted evidence-based practice guidelines currently exist, and significant controversy continues over key treatment approaches, including middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE), perioperative supportive pharmacotherapy, and the handling of anticoagulant therapy.

Litchi fruit harbors beneficial surface microbes that change predictably during storage. A 9‑day study of litchi peel microbiota identified multiple key bacterial genera linked to storage progression. A random forest model based on these biomarkers accurately predicted fruit freshness. Among the isolates, Gluconobacter sp. Lc45 strongly inhibited two major postharvest pathogens (Peronophythora litchii and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides), offering the potential of native microbiota for freshness monitoring and eco‑friendly disease control.