1.   In future, gene transfer could greatly increase the possibilities for improved crop performance, not simply by increasing yield, but also by modifying other characteristics.

2.   And for qualified researchers in the underdeveloped world, the data can be used to develop improved crops free of fees or royalties.

3.   As more pharmaceutical companies raced to develop genetically improved crops, many European consumers were becoming increasingly concerned about crops with altered DNA.

4.   Bananas, by comparison, only began improving about a decade ago after researchers developed the first improved crop.

5.   Chicago corn and soybean futures fell on an improved crop outlook.

6.   Forecasts for an improved crop in Argentina, a key competitor of the United States, also dragged down corn futures prices.

7.   In CHICAGO, wheat fell after a government report of improved crop conditions bolstered expectations that the harvest in June and July could exceed forecasts.

8.   Kansas City and Chicago wheat futures prices closed higher Tuesday, while improved crop ratings and favorable growing weather sent corn and soybean futures lower.

9.   Seed companies say the higher profits they might gain from engineering sterility would spur even more investment in improved crops.

10.   Soybeans also were pressured by reports of improved crop weather in South America.