This paper, by researchers at the University of Georgia, was published in the journal Crop Science back in 2009.

FORBES: The Four-Leaf Clover Gene?

One of a small group of journalists, I was allowed through the fencing into the plot itself - this is crop science conducted inside a fortress.

BBC: Fortress security for GM wheat trial

To pay for the planned purchase of Aventis' crop-science business, he must curtail drug development, borrow more or sell something.

FORBES: Beyond the bad at Bayer

Aventis (nyse: AVE - news - people), Pharmacia (nyse: PHA - news - people), Novartis (nyse: NVS - news - people) and AstraZeneca have all rid themselves of their crop-science divisions.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Lastly, a new crop of life science VCs have emerged.

FORBES: Early Stage Biotech Showing Positive Signs of Scaling Its Wall of Worry

He thinks genetic modification of this humble crop, so far from the world of advanced science, will provide the most comprehensive defence and be the best way to boost yields.

ECONOMIST: A crucial crop in new trouble

Ultimately, the race will hinge on get-out-the-vote efforts and whether the new crop of young professionals come out to the polls, said Brigid Harrison, a professor of political science and law at Montclair State University.

WSJ: Jersey City Election Highlights Obama's Local Effect