Plot Planting Automation Enables Seed Research Efficiencies
PowerPlant Automated Plot Planting System, Exclusively from ALMACO
NEVADA, IOWA / ACCESS Newswire / March 19, 2025 / In the seed research industry, technological advancements are revolutionizing the approach to plot planting and cultivation. Seed research professionals face numerous challenges, including labor shortages, increasing efficiency requirements, the push for faster advancement decisions, and more. Each year, it becomes clearer that planting automation is essential in removing human error and closing gaps in seed research needs. Operators do not need to unload seed packets for each plot, which supports seed research professionals in many ways.PowerPlant Automated Planting System from ALMACO PowerPlant Automated Planting System on an ALMACO SeedPro 360 Research Planter
Planting automation embodies the transformative potential of new technology in seed research. At the forefront of this shift in automated planting technology is the ALMACO PowerPlant Automated Planting System. The first of its kind in the seed research industry, it has far exceeded the reliability standards of traditional plot planting methods.
Seed cartridges are packaged, labeled, and verified ahead of time, providing ultimate peace of mind. Seed researchers can go into the field knowing exactly where their seeds will be planted, with no secondary operator required to ride on the planter. The elimination of manual seed packet unloads reduces the risk of human error, resulting in more accurate data during harvest. Automation mitigates the labor-intensive nature of manual plot planting, allowing researchers to allocate their time and resources more effectively. The increased efficiency not only removes human error but also accelerates the pace of research and development.
Planting automation ensures that each seed is planted with consistent precision, reducing variability in research plots. This precise control of seed placement leads to more consistent field conditions, better data collection, and faster advancement decisions. By minimizing discrepancies, researchers can rely on the integrity of their data, which is crucial for making informed decisions about seed development and improvement.
With an expanded capacity, seed scientists can explore a wide variety of seed offerings to ensure the best seeds end up in farmers' hands. The ability to test and analyze more seeds in a shorter period significantly speeds up the innovation process, leading to the development of superior seed varieties that can meet the demands of a growing global population.
The integration of planting automation eliminates the need for operators to physically ride on the planter during plot planting operations. This enhancement in operator safety significantly reduces the risk of accidents, physical strain injuries, exposure to chemicals, heat stress, sunburn, and other potential hazards associated with manual operation. Ensuring the well-being of operators is a critical component of modernizing the seed research industry, making it a more attractive field for skilled professionals.
Embracing automation is not just a trend but a necessary step toward meeting the global challenges of food security and agricultural sustainability. The ALMACO PowerPlant Automated Planting System is at the forefront of this transformation, setting a new standard for excellence in seed research and development.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indianapolis Star
2 days ago
- Indianapolis Star
Moderna Announces Update on Investigational Pandemic Influenza Program
Phase 1/2 H5 avian flu vaccine study shows positive interim results Company has been notified that HHS will terminate Moderna's award for late-stage development of pre-pandemic influenza vaccines CAMBRIDGE, MA / ACCESS Newswire Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:MRNA) today announced positive interim data from a Phase 1/2 clinical study (NCT05972174) evaluating the safety and immunogenicity of its investigational pandemic influenza vaccine, mRNA-1018, in approximately 300 healthy adults aged 18 years and older. The interim results focus on a vaccine candidate targeting the H5 avian influenza virus subtype. The Company had previously expected to advance the program to late-stage development with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); however, today Moderna received notice that HHS will terminate the award for the late-stage development and right to purchase pre-pandemic influenza vaccines. 'While the termination of funding from HHS adds uncertainty, we are pleased by the robust immune response and safety profile observed in this interim analysis of the Phase 1/2 study of our H5 avian flu vaccine and we will explore alternative paths forward for the program,' said Stéphane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of Moderna. 'These clinical data in pandemic influenza underscore the critical role mRNA technology has played as a countermeasure to emerging health threats.' The Phase 1/2 study evaluated a two-dose regimen of Moderna's investigational avian influenza vaccine. mRNA-1018 demonstrated a rapid, potent and durable immune response. At baseline, pre-existing immunity was minimal, with only 2.1% of participants showing hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) antibody titers ≥1:40, an HAI titer considered to correlate with protection. At Day 43, three weeks after the second vaccination, 97.8% of participants achieved titers ≥1:40 with a 44.5-fold increase of titers from baseline. The investigational vaccine was generally well-tolerated, with no dose-limiting tolerability concerns observed. Most solicited adverse reactions were Grade 1 or 2 and did not increase significantly with number of doses or between first and second doses. Further data is expected to be submitted for presentation at an upcoming scientific meeting. Moderna will explore alternatives for late-stage development and manufacturing of the H5 program consistent with the Company's strategic commitment to pandemic preparedness. About Moderna Moderna is a leader in the creation of the field of mRNA medicine. Through the advancement of mRNA technology, Moderna is reimagining how medicines are made and transforming how we treat and prevent disease for everyone. By working at the intersection of science, technology and health for more than a decade, the company has developed medicines at unprecedented speed and efficiency, including one of the earliest and most effective COVID-19 vaccines. Moderna's mRNA platform has enabled the development of therapeutics and vaccines for infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, rare diseases and autoimmune diseases. With a unique culture and a global team driven by the Moderna values and mindsets to responsibly change the future of human health, Moderna strives to deliver the greatest possible impact to people through mRNA medicines. For more information about Moderna, please visit and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including statements regarding: the clinical development of mRNA-1018, the safety and immunogenicity data from the Phase 1/2 study; the cancellation of the development contract for Moderna's pandemic flu program by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; and the exploration of alternative paths for development of the vaccine program. The forward-looking statements in this press release are neither promises nor guarantees, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond Moderna's control and which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and other factors include, among others, those risks and uncertainties described under the heading 'Risk Factors' in Moderna's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and in subsequent filings made by Moderna with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available on the SEC's website at Except as required by law, Moderna disclaims any intention or responsibility for updating or revising any forward-looking statements contained in this press release in the event of new information, future developments or otherwise. These forward-looking statements are based on Moderna's current expectations and speak only as of the date of this press release. Moderna Contacts Investors: Lavina Talukdar Senior Vice President & Head of Investor Relations +1 617-209-5834 SOURCE: Moderna, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Business Wire
2 days ago
- Business Wire
Anax Power, Magellan Scientific, and Enbridge to Deploy Turboexpanders in Ontario & Pennsylvania
WHARTON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Anax Power ( whose proprietary technology generates clean power from natural gas, without combustion, has signed Operating Agreements with Enbridge ( to install its Anax Turboexpander System ('ATE') at locations in Pennsylvania and Ontario, Canada. The projects will add up to 1.5 megawatts (MW) of clean energy capacity to Enbridge's system at Hamilton, Ontario and up to 2MW in Pennsylvania. This emissions-free power will be consumed in Magellan Scientific's ( co-located, modular, off-grid data centers. 'This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through innovative, sustainable solutions' said Steven Greenley, Senior Vice President of Commercial, Enbridge Gas Share The ATE uses the pressure and flow of natural gas within Enbridge's pipeline to drive a turbine and generate zero-emissions electricity, without burning natural gas or releasing greenhouse gases. The Pennsylvania project marks Anax and Magellan's second installation in the state, and the Hamilton project will be the first ATE installation in Canada. Keeping with its sustainability pledge, Enbridge is the first major pipeline in North America to adopt the ATE, which could scale to hundreds of locations across Enbridge's system in the coming years. Anax will install up to three (3) ATEs at an Enbridge facility in Ontario and up to four (4) ATEs in Pennsylvania. Both projects will be integrated with Magellan's co-located, modular, off-grid data center. The resulting turboexpander-data center system self-generates clean, base load power, and uses excess cooling to improve server efficiency and thermal management. 'These projects represent monumental milestones for Anax, and we believe this will be the start of a long partnership with Enbridge and Magellan as we scale across North America,' said Michael Longo, CEO of Anax Power. 'By turning waste energy into clean electricity, this installation demonstrates how Anax makes existing energy infrastructure more sustainable—right now, with proven technology.' The Enbridge projects expand Anax and Magellan's portfolio of clean power projects and validate using turboexpanders to meet climate goals in a profitable way. 'Data center demands for electricity are exponentially increasing,' said Christopher Halvorson, President of Magellan Scientific. 'Pairing our off-grid immersion data centers with the ATEs provides a source of 24/7, emission-free electricity. The turboexpander also helps to manage excessive heat from the data center by providing cooling at zero incremental cost.' 'This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through innovative, sustainable solutions,' said Steven Greenley, Senior Vice President of Commercial, Enbridge Gas. 'We take pride in utilizing our natural gas systems to champion environmental initiatives to enhance the well-being of the communities we operate in.'
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Scientists uncover exciting new method to remove dangerous chemicals from the body: 'Feasible, accessible and economical'
In a hopeful breakthrough for public health, researchers found that dietary fiber may help reduce PFAS — toxic "forever chemicals" — from the human body. As reported by The Guardian, the pilot study showed that increased fiber intake can lower levels of two of the most widespread and harmful PFAS: PFOA and PFOS. These pollutants are commonly found in water, food packaging, and household products, and they have been linked to serious health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and kidney disease. PFAS, short for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are called forever chemicals because they don't naturally break down and can remain in the body for decades. The study's authors believe dietary fiber forms a gel in the digestive system that blocks PFAS from being absorbed, allowing them to exit when you go to the bathroom — similar to how fiber helps remove bile acids. Importantly, the study found that both soluble and insoluble fibers were needed, and oat beta-glucan, a common supplement, was mentioned as a helpful source. Timing is also important, as fiber works best when taken with meals, when bile production is highest. While fiber didn't work as well for "short-chain" PFAS (which are excreted more easily through urine), it was highly effective at reducing levels of long-chain types such as PFOA and PFOS — the types most commonly found in people's blood. This method also appears to be a gentler alternative to treatments such as cholestyramine, a cholesterol drug sometimes used to treat PFAS exposure but known to cause uncomfortable digestive issues. By contrast, fiber has a wide range of health benefits and is easy to integrate into your daily routine. This promising discovery joins other innovative solutions such as an LED method used to break down PFAS and ultraviolet purification used to break down PFAS in water. "The key is that this is feasible, accessible and economical," said Boston University's Jennifer Schlezinger, a co-author of the study. She added that early results are "very promising," and a larger study is underway. People online were impressed with the findings. "Wild how something as simple as fiber could help flush out toxic forever chemicals," one person said on Instagram. "The link between fiber intake and reducing 'forever chemicals' is such an important topic. More research like this could shape our understanding of diet and health. Thanks for sharing!" added another. Do you worry about having toxic forever chemicals in your home? Majorly Sometimes Not really I don't know enough about them Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
