bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The performance and carcase quality of pigs fed liver meal as a protein supplement from weaning to bacon weight
Authors: Todd ACW , Daniels LJ
Published: March 2005

In two group feeding trials a total of 45 Large White pigs were fed rations containing either fish meal, liver meal, or a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal, as protein supplements in rations based on sorghum grain. Performance was compared over two periods, from approximately 42 to 100 lb liveweight, and subsequently from 100 to 190 lb liveweight. Cold dressed carcases were appraised. Pigs fed fish meal grew faster and converted food more efficiently than those fed either liver meal or a mixture 408 of liver and meat and bone meal. Differences were significant during the initial period (P<0.01) and overall (P<0.05). During the initial period pigs fed liver meal grew faster (P<0.05) than those fed a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal. Pigs fed fish meal developed less backfat and a greater area index of 'eye' muscle than those fed either liver meal (P < 0.01) or a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal (IJ<0.05). They also had the highest carcase appraisal score (P<0.05). Those fed a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal developed less backfat and had a higher appraisal score than those fed liver meal as the only protein supplement (P<0.05).
The association between face cover and the productivity of Merino ewes in twelve NSW flocks
Authors: Drinan JP , Dun RB
Published: March 2005

The association between the face cover and productivity of more than 3000 Merino ewes has been examined in 12 flocks located in the major sheep producing areas of New South Wales. Each flock was divided into Open (scores 1 and 2), Moderate (scores 3 and 4), and Muffled (scores 5 and 6) groups. A significant negative association between face cover and reproductive performance was apparent in two flocks that contained appreciable numbers of muffled-faced ewes. A similar trend was apparent in another Muffled flock, but in one other Muffled flock and four Open flocks, there was no evidence of such an association. The results from the remaining four flocks were not considered, due to the possibility that the results were confounded by face cover scoring after joining. In one Muffled flock, the body weights of weaner lambs were negatively correlated with their dams' face cover. A relationship between face cover score and total greasy fleece weight, corrected for previous reproductive performance, was absent from most flocks and negative in two, despite evidence of a positive correlation with belly weight. There was a trend to inferior fleeces of finer trade count in Moderate and Muffled groups of several flocks. Excess face cover was found to be an undesirable attribute in Merino flocks. Its importance was greatest in flocks containing appreciable numbers of muffled-faced ewes
Selcection of diet by sheep grazing semi-arid pastures on the Riverine Plain. 3. A bladder saltbush (Atriplex vesicaria) - pigface (Disphyma australe) community
Authors: Leigh JH , Mulham WE
Published: March 2005

The diet selected by sheep grazing a pasture community dominated by bladder saltbush (Atriplex vesicaria Hew, ex Benth.) and pig-face (Disphyma australe (Sol.) N.E. Br.) was determined by botanically analysing the extrusa from Merino wethers fitted with oesophageal fistulas. Quality of the pasture and of the forage consumed was assessed from the nitrogen analysis of samples of material hand-plucked in the field, and of extrusa from the fistulated sheep. Results showed that in spring almost half of the forage consumed consisted of minor species which represented only 4 per cent of the pasture. In summer, when very little other material was available, Atriplex vesicaria made up 90 per cent of the diet. Disphyma australe contributed little to the diet at any time. At no time did the level of crude protein in the diet fall below that necessary for maintenance of sheep although the sodium content of the plants available in summer was high.
Nitrogen fertilizer and wheat in a semi-arid environment. 1. Effect on yield
Authors: Russell JS
Published: March 2005

Response experiments with Gabo wheat at four rates of ammonium sulphate (0, 11.5, 23, and 46 lb N an acre) were carried out at a number of widely-spread locations in the cereal growing areas of South Australia during six seasons in the period 1956-61. Considerable variability in grain and grain + straw yield and in the observed response to nitrogen fertilizer was found. Season and site effects were marked and season-site interactions were also observed. The mean grain yield response was 8.7, 7.2, and 5.1 lb grain for each lb of nitrogen applied as fertilizer at the rates of 11.5, 23, and 46 lb N an acre. These mean values are lower than those reported for other more humid wheat growing areas, but there are conditions where response is at a comparable level. The main difficulty lies in predicting these situations. Several aspects of the use of nitrogen fertilizer in a semi-arid environment are discussed.
Flowering in Townsville lucerne (Stylosanthes humilis). 1. Studies in controlled environments
Authors: Cameron DF
Published: March 2005

The flowering of seven selections of Townsville lucerne (Stylosanthes humilis HBK) representing a range of maturity types has been studied in the Canberra phytotron. Daylength is the main factor controlling flowering in these selections, all of which showed a strong short day response. At normal temperatures the maximum daylengths at which all plants flowered (the critical daylengths) were 13 hours for the early, 12 hours for the midseason and late-midseason, and 11 1/2 hours for the late selections. However, the midseason selections did flower in a 12 1/2-hour daylength if the light intensity of the supplementary illumination was 20 or 5 ft.c. instead of the normal 50 ft.c. The response of the other selections was not altered at the lower light intensities. Both high night temperature and low day temperature delayed or inhibited flower initiation in the early and midseason selections and these effects were greater at a critical daylength.
Flowering in Townsville lucerne (Stylosanthes humilis). 2. The effect of latitude and time of sowing on the flowering time of single plants
Authors: Cameron DF
Published: March 2005

The flowering times of seventeen selections of Townsville lucerne (Stylosanthes humilis HBK) have been studied at three localities and six sowing dates. The selections were grown as spaced plants and the full range of maturity types (Cameron 1965) was represented. The repeatability of flowering time between years was high, with no differences in the order of flowering of the different maturity groups. There was a range of 56 days in flowering time between the early and late groups for a December sowing, but this was reduced to 8 days for a March sowing. The maturity type groups were not clearly differentiated at the March sowing. Most selections flowered progressively later the more southerly the location and this effect was greatest for the early maturity types. Most of the flowering time responses were closely related to changes in daylength and very similar to results previously obtained in controlled conditions (Cameron 1967a). However, low temperatures, shading and moisture stress also delayed the flowering of some selections.
Flowering time and the natural distribution and dry matter production of Townsville lucerne (Stylosanthes humilis) populations
Authors: Cameron DF
Published: March 2005

The flowering times of 58 collections of Townsville lucerne from typical sites in northern Australia have been recorded in three spaced plant experiments near Townsville. Thirty-six collections were grown in 1963-64, 15 in 1964-65, and 17 in 1965-66. All the late flowering collections came from sites receiving at least 45 inches annual rainfall. The five collections from south of Rockhampton were all of the early or midseason type and all collections from the far northern areas were late flowering. Partial regression analysis was used to relate the flowering time of a collection to the rainfall (for the five months interval from January to May) and latitude of the collection site. In the first two experiments rainfall, latitude and (latitude)2 all contributed significantly to the regressions, but in the third experiment only rainfall was significant. Correlation coefficients for 1963-64, 1964-65, and 1965-66 were +0.83, +0.97, and +0.93 respectively. A selection was derived from a collection by bulking seed from single spaced plants selected for uniform flowering time and growth habit. The dry matter yields of some collections and selections were compared in two sward experiments near Townsville in 1964-65 and 1965-66. In 1964-65 there were significant yield differences between collections (experiment A, P<0.01) and between selections (experiment B, P<0.001). There were differences in the rates of vegetative growth and differences in the length of growing season, with late flowering types being able to make better growth late in the season when early types were flowering and seeding. Types with erect growth habit had the highest yields and seemed to compete better with sown grasses than the prostrate types. There were no significant yield differences in 1965-66, a very dry year, and the late flowering types failed to set seed.
Depth of ploughing in relation to depth of suckering and soil type in the control of root suckers of brigalow (Acacia harpophylla)
Authors: Coaldrake JE
Published: March 2005

Measurement of 2400 clumps of root suckers of Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla F. vM.) showed that in over 90 per cent of clumps the depth from the soil surface to the centre of the parent root was less than 4 inches. Suckering was significantly shallower on non-gilgai than on gilgai soils. An experiment on gilgai soil compared the effectiveness of ploughing to depths of 4 inches and 8 inches for the elimination of suckers. After four ploughings in two pears both treatments gave an identical kill of 80 per cent. A final overall ploughing at 4 inches increased the kill to 91 per cent. Apart from reducing costs, shallow ploughing should also reduce other deleterious effects associated with the high salinity and low pH that are common in many subsoils of the brigalow region.
The voluntary intake and digestibility of diets containing different proportions of legume and mature Pangola grass (Digitaria decumbens)
Authors: Minson DJ , Milford R
Published: March 2005

Three experiments were conducted with sheep fed ad lib. Digitaria decumbens Stent. (Pangola grass) containing 4.4 per cent crude protein (C.P.) (experiment I), and 3.7 per cent C.P. (experiments 2, 3) and supplemented with 0, 100, 200, 400 g/day lucerne (experiments 1 and 2) and white clover (experiment 3). Both legumes were also fed ad lib. with no grass. 546 The voluntary intake of the grass in experiment 1 decreased at all levels of legume feeding. In experiment 2 the voluntary intake of the grass was increased from 607 to 844 when 200 g of legume was fed, and in experiment 3 from 653 to 843 when 100 g of legume was fed, When the voluntary intake of the grass was not limited by a crude protein deficiency, the legume had a direct replacement effect causing a depression in the voluntary intake of the Pangola grass. The dry matter digestibility increased in direct proportion to the legume percentage of the ration.
Root knot tolerance in some grape vine rootstocks
Authors: Sauer MR
Published: March 2005

Sultana vines grafted on rootstocks with slight to moderate resistance to root knot nematode, Meloidogyne javanica (Treub) Chitwood, were planted in root knot infested sandy loam soil in an established vineyard that had been fumigated with DD at 20 gallons an acre immediately after old vines were removed. Over a seven-year period vigorous high yielding vines were produced on the rootstocks 101-14 and Rupestris du Lot. An off type 101-14 and 420A were less successful. Ungrafted sultana vines in the same soil matched grafted vines in growth for three or four years, then failed to keep pace. Total yields from vines on 101-14 and du Lot in the fifth to seventh seasons were twice the yields of the ungrafted, and differences in growth appear to be increasing. Because of better growth habit and higher nematode resistance 101-14 is preferred to du Lot.
The effect of pruning time on the incidence of Eutypa armeniacae infection in apricot trees
Authors: Carter MV , Moller WJ
Published: March 2005

In a field experiment during 1964-66, we compared large and small pruning wounds on apricot for infection by Eutypa armeniacae following three different times of pruning. April pruning resulted in significantly more wounds, both large and small, becoming infected than did June or August pruning. The difference between the infection levels following June and August pruning was significant for large wounds but not for small wounds. At each pruning time, significantly more large than small wounds became infected. Air sampling close to an ascospore source in five consecutive years has confirmed the existence of a regular seasonal cycle of ascospore output from stromata of E. armeniacae under South Australian conditions.
Effect of skin coatings on the development of black spot in stored Valencia oranges
Authors: Seberry JA , Leggom D , Kiely TB
Published: March 2005

The development of black spot (Guignardia citricarpa Kiely) lesions on Valencia oranges stored at 80�F was reduced by various post-harvest skin coatings. Effective treatments included waxing, which is already in commercial use. The effects of the skin coatings on weight loss and fruit respiration were also studied. The results suggest that the effectiveness of the treatments in inhibiting black spot may have been due to their reducing the rate of respiration of the fruit. It is suggested that post-harvest treatments are complementary to orchard control methods, and that both are necessary for best control of black spot.
The occurrence of oestrus in ewes and the duration and detection of pregnancy in artificially inseminated ewes
Authors: Jones RC
Published: March 2005

In a flock of 256 Corriedale ewes at Mittagong, New South Wales, the mean length of the oestrous cycle in two successive years was 16.9 � 1.14 days, and the length of gestation was 150.7 � 2.28 days (mean � S.D.). The proportion of ewes observed in oestrus during two periods of the day is also reported. In these trials and in subsequent insemination trials (two with Corriedale ewes at Mittagong and one with Merino ewes at Mudgee) more ewes commenced oestrus per hour between 7.30 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. than during the remainder of the 24 hours. Returns to oestrus within 24 days of insemination, or scores of udder development 160 days after the last day of insemination, provided as good an index of the pregnancy rate as mothering lambs at birth.
The protein requirements of Australian white turkeys from hatching to twelve weeks
Authors: Smith L
Published: March 2005

One experiment from hatching to six weeks and two from six to twelve weeks were carried out to determine the protein requirement for maximum growth and feed efficiency of Australian white poults. The results were compared with the present recommended levels. Male, female, and unsexed poults that were fed a protein level of 32 per cent were significantly heavier at six weeks old than those fed either 24 or 28 per cent protein (males P<0.01 ; females and unsexed poults P<0.001). Efficiency of feed conversion was not significantly affected by any of these protein levels. From six to twelve weeks, 21 per cent protein was necessary for maximum growth of unsexed and male poults, but 19 per cent protein was adequate for female poults. Efficiency of feed conversion at 21 per cent was greater than at 17 or 19 per cent and equal to that at 25 or 27 per cent.
The performance of beef cattle on different sequences of Townsville lucerne and native pasture at Katherine, N.T
Authors: Norman MJT
Published: March 2005

From August 1963 to May 1965, six groups of Shorthorn weaner steers were maintained on different sequences of native pasture and Townsville lucerne sown pasture at Katherine, N.T. The group maintained on Townsville lucerne continuously from weaning reached slaughter weight at 30 months of age, in May 1965. After this date, the remaining groups were maintained continuously on Townsville lucerne until they also reached slaughter weight. There was an approximately inverse linear relation between the period on Townsville lucerne for the first two years after weaning and the total period from weaning to slaughter. Groups that had spent half of the period to May 1965 on Townsville lucerne reached slaughter weight in the 1966 dry season (average age 43 months), and those that had spent a quarter of this period on Townsville lucerne did not reach slaughter weight until the 1967 dry season (average age 53 months).
The effect of Septoria diseases on wheat
Authors: Shipton WA
Published: March 2005

The effect of natural infection of Septoria diseases, caused by Septoria tritici Rob. ex Desm. and Septoria nodoram Berk., on Gamenya wheat was investigated. In some experimental plots the diseases were partially controlled by spraying the plants with either manganous ethylene bisdithiocarbamate (Maneb) or zinc-1,2-bisdithiocarbamate (zineb) at weekly intervals, in other plots the diseases spread unchecked. Grain ripened sooner on the unsprayed plants. Yield increases of 26.3 and 29 per cent (6.4 bushels and 6 bushels an acre respectively) were obtained at two sites when spraying was commenced at the three- to five-leaf stage. When spraying was commenced at anthesis yields were not significantly increased. Bushel and kernel weights were reduced by infection and the proportion of small grains was increased. Plant height and straw yield were all greater on the sprayed plants, but the differences were not significant except for two treatments in the case of straw yield.
Selective chemical control of Amsinckia species in wheat
Authors: Lumb JM
Published: March 2005

The results of nine experiments in north-western Victoria investigating the chemical control of Amsinckia spp. growing in wheat are reported. The chemicals prometryne, linuron, bromoxynil, diuron, dicamba, and picloram were applied to seedling Amsinckia at an early stage of wheat growth. For comparison, treatments with 2,4-D applied at two stages of crop growth were included. Prometryne, linuron, and bromoxynil controlled Amsinckia in all trials, and wheat yields were increased. The early 2,4-D sprays controlled Amsinckia but reduced wheat yields. Later 2,4-D sprays, applied when wheat was fully tillered, caused some reduction in the density and dry weight of Amsinckia, but wheat yields were not increased.
Skin folds and Merino breeding. 5. Variations in scrotal, testis, and rectal temperatures as affected by site of measurement, acclimatization to heat and degree of skin fold
Authors: Fowler DG
Published: March 2005

In Merino rams, subcutaneous temperature in the scrotum declined from the inguinal border to the distal tip and from posterior to anterior. Testicular temperature was similar at several sites in both testes. Of the total increase in scrotal and testicular temperatures that occurred when rams were heated, the proportional hourly increases were similar at each air temperature above 30�C irrespective of the air temperature regime (stepwise increasing or stepwise decreasing air temperatures) or fold type of the ram. The response of rams depended markedly on the air temperature regime. When air temperatures were decreasing, rams were less able to withstand high temperatures and more able to withstand low temperatures. When air temperatures were increasing the reverse was true. The differences between Folds Plus and Folds Minus rams also depended markedly on the ail temperature regime. In general Folds Minus rams had lower rectal temperatures than Folds Plus rams, but could express their ability to maintain lower subcutaneous scrotal temperatures than Folds Plus rams only after they had gained a degree of acclimatization to heat. Folds Plus rams had higher food intakes than Folds Minus rams which may be a factor in their reduced heat tolerance.
Skin folds and Merino breeding. 6. The effects of varying heat exposures and degree of skin fold on rectal, scrotal, and testis temperatures
Authors: Fowler DG , Kennedy JP
Published: March 2005

During exposures of up to 12i hours duration at air temperatures of 30�C, 35�C, 40�C, and 45�C, Folds Minus rams maintained lower subcutaneous scrotal and intra-testicular temperatures than Folds Plus rams. This was observed with rams from two separately established skin fold selection experiments (Trangie and Cunnamulla). It therefore seems unlikely that the association between skin fold and the ability of rams to withstand heat is due to chance genetic sampling variation that might occur in small closed flocks of sheep. Cunnamulla Folds Plus and Folds Minus rams had similar rectal temperatures. Trangie Folds Plus rams had higher rectal temperatures than, those of Trangie Folds Minus rams but only at air temperatures of 30�C and 35�C. The differences in testicular temperature between the two types of rams are probably more dependant on differences in scrotal thermoregulatory function than on differences in body temperature. It has also been shown that the difference in scrotal thermoregulatory function for rams from the Trangie skin fold selection flocks is genetic in origin.
Diet selection in relation to onion grass and a sheep breeding problem in Victoria
Authors: McDonald JW , Eckel J
Published: March 2005

These studies were made in the Inverleigh district of Victoria where a sheep breeding problem has occurred among summer-mated ewes in some years since 1947. The possibility of onion grass (Romulea rosea L.) poisoning being responsible for this problem was investigated. The botanical composition of the diet selected by four sheep, fitted with oesophageal fistulas and grazing an onion grass dominant pasture on a problem property, was determined approximately every two weeks during the late summer and autumn of two years. One year (1965) was a problem year and the other year (1966) was a non-problem year for sheep reproduction on this property and in this district. The experimental sheep ate appreciable amounts of both dry and green onion grass, especially in the late summer and immediately after the autumn rains. The mean percentage of dry onion grass in the diet before the autumn break was 20 in 1965 and 31 in 1966 ; and after the autumn break the mean per cent of green onion grass was 16 in 1965 and 28 in 1966. Overall, the sheep did not show a dietary preference for onion grass as twice these levels were present in the dry or green pasture species. The major difference in onion grass intake between the two years was that, because of the late autumn break in 1965, the fistulated animals ate dry onion grass (and onion grass seed) for six weeks longer than in 1966.
Performance and carcase characteristics of pigs grown along three growth curves to bacon weight
Authors: Wilson BR
Published: March 2005

Using low, medium, and high feeding levels, three growth patterns were designed to produce pigs of 160 lb liveweight at about the same age. Daily liveweight gains closely followed level of feeding. Pigs on the low feeding level required more feed per pound of liveweight gain than those fed at higher levels. The overall feed efficiency of pigs fed a high-low pattern was less than that of pigs fed medium-medium or low-high patterns. Although the low-high pigs had significantly more (P<0.05) fat than pigs on the other treatments, mean carcase characteristics on all treatments generally fulfilled the requirements of a local premium grade. There were no treatment effects on the weights of shoulders, middles, and hams, nor was there any evidence that treatments had affected the distribution of muscle and fat within the side. When carcases were adjusted for weight of bone plus muscle in the side, there were no treatment effects on weights of tissues nor on the distribution of bone plus muscle in the shoulder, middle, and ham. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to feeding standards and theories on pig growth and development.
Some effects of cutting for hay on production of irrigated annual pastures in the following year
Authors: Myers LF , Squires VR
Published: March 2005

The effects of mowing irrigated annual pastures (Wimmera ryegrass, Lolium rigidum Gaud., and subterranean clover, Trifolium subterraneum L.) in spring for hay and of the removal of dry residues in summer were assessed by combining the operations factorially on two sites, one grass dominant, the other clover dominant. For the grass dominant sward winter yields of grass and clover in the season following mid-October mowing were respectively reduced to 43 per cent and 71 per cent of the uncut controls. In the same experiment, yields of surface seed were reduced to 24 per cent of the uncut controls. Winter yields of the clover dominant pastures were not significantly depressed except by mowing late in October. Spring yields of all treatments were similar. The tolerance of subterranean clover to cutting is discussed in relation to seed yield and the germination of above- and below-surface seed.
Mineral content of a variety of sorghum grain
Authors: Gartner RJW , Twist JO
Published: March 2005

The mean mineral content (p.p.m. in D.M.) of 26 samples of sorghum grain (Sorghum vulgare Pers. cv. Alpha) was : potassium 3,392 � 350, phosphorus 3,072 � 491, magnesium 1,503 � 104, chlorine 510 � 85, zinc 25 � 3, sodium 19 � 4, manganese 15 � 2, and copper 5 � 1.
The effect of drainage on physiological disorders of rice grown on the sub-coastal plains of the Adelaide River, N.T
Authors: Strickland RW
Published: March 2005

Rice grown on the heavy clay soils of the subcoastal plains of the Adelaide River, N.T., under continuous flooding suffers from leaf chlorosis, premature leaf senescence, root rot, lodging, and low yields. The effect of drainage on the observed symptoms, plant nitrogen, and carbohydrate fractions, iron, manganese, and phosphorus, and on soil Eh, pH, iron, manganese, and nitrogen was investigated for two varieties under two drainage regimes, and compared with continually flooded rice. Draining the rice twice between the start of flooding and ear initiation prevented severe soil reduction and the onset of the symptoms. Yellowing and premature leaf senescence, which started four weeks after flooding, were associated with ferrous iron toxicity in the plants, and it is highly probable that sulphide toxicity from about the time of ear initiation onwards also contributed to root rot, lodging and low yields.
Influence of pre- and post-harvest treatments on bitter pit of Granny Smith apples in the Goulburn Valley
Authors: Taylor BK , van den Ende B
Published: March 2005

Methods of controlling storage pit of Granny Smith apples were studied in the Goulburn Valley from 1960 to 1966. Foliar sprays of calcium nitrate reduced pit but boron sprays did not. Most efficient control was achieved with three or more sprays applied between December and March. Residual effects from such sprays were not observed the next season. Foliar sprays of calcium nitrate increased the concentration of calcium in spur leaves but not in fruit tissues. Dipping unsprayed fruit after harvest in solutions of calcium chloride or calcium nitrate, or wrapping fruit in paper sheets impregnated with calcium salts, gave negative or inconsistent results. Such treatments did not usually alter the concentrations or amounts of calcium, magnesium, or potassium in fruit tissues. The concentration of calcium in all fruit parts declined as fruit size (dry weight) increased. Since pit severity also increased with increasing fruit size, the calcium status of the fruit, fruit size, and pit incidence were closely related. The concentration of calcium in mesocarp + endocarp showed the highest negative correlation with pit severity of any of the fruit parts, and this tissue was therefore the best indicator of the calcium status and pit susceptibility of the fruit. It is concluded that pit is not due to an inbalance between calcium, magnesium, and potassium in the fruit but that it is merely the syndrome of calcium deficiency in the apple fruit. No differences were found in flavour characteristics between pitted and sound fruit.
Inheritance of flowering time, yield and stolon development in Glycine javanica
Authors: Wutoh JG , Hutton EM , Pritchard AJ
Published: March 2005

Seven traits were studied in seven hybrids of G. javanica, and their progeny. No hybrid vigour was found in the F, for flowering time, stolon number, or per cent stolons rooted, but hybrid vigour was found for all other traits, and was followed by inbreeding depression in the F2. All traits were polygenically controlled and heritability estimates ranged from 39 to 77 per cent. Genotypic correlations indicated that early flowering, high yield and good stolon development could be combined into one variety by means of a suitable breeding program. A delay in planting date caused a delay in flowering, but mainly in those families which were normally early flowering.
Nitrogen fertilizer and wheat in a semi-arid environment. 3. Soil and cultural factors affecting response
Authors: Russell JS
Published: March 2005

The response of Gabo wheat to applied nitrogen at 52 sites in the wheat growing areas of South Australia during 1956-61 was examined in relation to soil and cultural factors, as separate groups and together with climatic factors, by a stepwise multiple regression analysis using a computer. The 10 dependent variables were the linear and quadratic coefficients obtained by fitting orthogonal polynomials to response curves of various parameters (grain yield, grain + straw yield, harvest index, grain nitrogen percentage, and grain nitrogen yield) to applied nitrogen at each of 52 sites. The independent variables were 14 soil properties, such as total nitrogen content and initial nitrate status, and 6 cultural characteristics, including date of sowing and period of cultivation. In addition, 23 climatic variables were also included in analysis considering all independent variables. Of the soil variables the most potent was initial nitrate content of the 0-6 inch horizon. Date of sowing was the most potent cultural variable. The proportion of variance explained in the final analysis by the variables examined was greatest for grain nitrogen yield (73.0 per cent) and grain + straw yield (72.1 per cent). The value for grain yield was 48.9 per cent. Differences between nitrogen and phosphorus response in a semi-arid environment and the theoretical and practical implications of these differences are discussed in relation to the predictive value of soil analyses.
The recovery of Gibberella zeae from wheat straws
Authors: Burgess LW , Griffin DM
Published: March 2005

Attempts were made to recover Gibberella zeae (Schw.) Petch, a soil fungus which attacks wheat, from wheat straws colonized by the fungus and subsequently exposed in contact with soil at different temperatures and soil moistures. In certain treatments, the fungus could still be recovered after two years. In general, however, recovery declined with time and was adversely affected when the straws were exposed to conditions favouring increased microbial activity (moist soil at relatively high temperatures).
The effects of soil management and fungicides on the development of grey mould (Botrytis cinerea) of strawberries
Authors: Jenkins PT
Published: March 2005

The incidence of grey mould (Botrytis cinerea Fr.) in Red Gauntlet strawberries growing under a clean cultivation system of soil management was reduced by the use of fungicides captan 0.1 per cent and dichloran 0.2 per cent. Dichloran was phytotoxic, and when applied as a soil drench, reduced yields. With straw mulch and black polyethylene mulch systems of management, there was no reduction in incidence of grey mould through the use of fungicides, but the level of grey mould was lower than with the clean cultivation system. The lower incidence of grey mould under the mulch systems is attributed to the absence of direct contact of the fruit with soil vegetation debris invaded with Botrytis. Polyethylene mulch resulted in earlier cropping than the other management systems. Total yields were the same with polyethylene mulch and clean cultivation, and were lower with straw mulch.
The value of a poultry litter and wheat mixture in the drought feeding of weaner sheep
Authors: McInnes P , Austin PJ , Jenkins DL
Published: March 2005

At the end of 23 weeks the mean daily dry matter intake of Merino weaners was 190 g of poultry litter and 235 g of wheat. The mean weekly body weight gain, 210 g per sheep, was not significantly different to weaners that consumed a mean daily dry matter intake of 365 g of wheat grain and gained 180 g weekly. The mean digestible organic matter content of wheat and poultry litter were calculated to be 88 and 31 per cent respectively. Weaners fed wheat only were not supplemented with limestone (1.5 per cent) for 13 weeks by which time two of the eight weaners had serum calcium levels below 8 mg per 100 ml. One of these weaners had gained weight, the other had lost weight and died three weeks after limestone supplementation. The addition of limestone did not increase the mean serum calcium levels significantly, but at the end of the trial all weaners had levels above 8 mg per 100 ml. ' Serum glutamate oxalacetate transaminase and bilirubin concentrations were higher for weaners fed wheat-litter mixture, but below levels normally associated with liver dysfunction. Reasons for caution in the use of poultry litter in the manufacture of commercial feedstuffs for ruminants are discussed.
Thiabendazole and 2-aminobutane as post-harvest fungicides for citrus
Authors: Seberry JA , Baldwin Robyn A
Published: March 2005

Thiabendazole, 2-aminobutane (phosphated), and sodium ortho-phenylphenate were compared as dip treatments for the control of Penicillium digitatum Sacc. in oranges. Fruit from three orchards was surface inoculated with spores of the green mould fungus 48 hours before fungicide treatment. Thiabendazole, dried on the fruit at a concentration of 0.01 per cent, significantly reduced mould. At concentrations of 0.025 per cent and higher, thiabendazole dried-on gave more effective mould control than 0.5 per cent 2-aminobutane dried-on and reduced wastage to the very low levels achieved with double sodium orthophenylphenate and double 2-aminobutane treatments.
The effect of Alar on vegetative growth and fruiting behaviour of three varieties of apples in the Central Tablelands of New South Wales
Authors: Oldham Margaret A , Greenhalgh WJ
Published: March 2005

Trials were conducted in three successive years to test the response of Granny Smith, Jonathan, and Delicious apple varieties to Alar (succinic acid 2, 2-dimethyl hydrazide) applied at various times and concentrations. The results confirmed overseas reports of reduced shoot growth, increased fruit set, reduced fruit size, reduced pre-harvest drop, and, in some cases, increased blossoming the following spring. The Jonathan variety was less responsive to the growth retardant than Delicious, which was, in turn, less responsive than Granny Smith.
The growth of barley grass (Hordeum leporinum) in annual pasture. 1. Germination and establishment in comparison with other annual pasture species
Authors: Smith DF
Published: March 2005

Several experiments were carried out to examine aspects of the germination and establishment of seeds of barley grass (Hordeum leprinum), and several of its companions in annual pastures. These indicated that freshly-matured seed of barley grass had considerable dormancy the first summer. While day temperatures remained high it did not germinate readily, but had no marked advantage over its companions. Compared with Wimmera ryegrass (Lolium rigidum), the seeds and seedlings were much larger and it geminated and established mere successfully cr. compact surfaces. Plants arising from surface-sown seeds were compared with those from buried seeds : with barley grass they were much larger, but with Wimmera ryegrass they were not.
The use of saline water for irrigating rice in northern Australia
Authors: Strickland RW
Published: March 2005

A pot trial to assess the effect of salt water on growth and yield of rice in the Northern Territory of Australia was conducted in 1962-63. Two varieties were irrigated with three levels of salinity for varied durations in either the establishment or reproductive phases. Plant emergence was significantly depressed by soil conductivities in excess of 4 m-mhos/cm at 25�C. The restricted use of up to 3000 p.p.m. total soluble salts from 10 days after emergence and of up to 6000 p.p.m. from 20 days after emergence, followed by fresh water, had no effect on flowering time, vegetative or grain yields. The application of 3000 and 6000 p.p.m. total soluble salts in the reproductive phase reduced mean panicle number and grain yield of both varieties and straw yield of one variety. Use of saline water in the establishment phase followed by fresh water and drainage, reduced soil conductivity. In the reproductive phase it nullified the effect of previous fresh water flushing and tended to increase soil conductivity above original levels.
An investigation of early prenatal loss in a commercial sheep flock
Authors: Lino BF , Braden AWH
Published: March 2005

The extent of prenatal losses of ova was studied in one hundred 5�-year-old Peppin Merino ewes mated with two rams for five weeks in November-December. Of a potential of 157 ova, the minimum losses due to ewes mating but losing all ova, and to ewes losing one ovum out of two or three shed, were 9.5 and 12.7%, respectively.There was a significant effect of pre-joining liveweight on ovulation rate, and evidence of a difference between sires in the proportion of ova lost by ewes with multiple ovulations.
The effects of temperature on the vegetative growth of six tropical legume species
Authors: Whiteman PC
Published: March 2005

Six tropical legume species, viz. Phaseolus lathyroides, P. atropurpureus, Desmodium uncinatum, D. intortum, D. sandwicense, and Glycine javanica, were grown in controlled environments. At the first harvest (14 days) dry weight of seedling tops was linearly related to initial seed dry weight. Subsequent growth at the lowest temperatures, 15/10�C and 18/13�C (day/night) was severely curtailed, and plants developed abnormally. The optimum temperature for growth of all the species was in the range of 30/25 � 3�C, which is generally lower than values reported for the tropical grasses, and higher than those for the temperate legumes and grasses.
The effects of photoperiod and temperature on flowering in Glycine javanica
Authors: Wutoh JG , Hutton EM , Pritchard AJ
Published: March 2005

Flowering in Glycine javanica is affected by both photoperiod and temperature. All accessions studied were short day plants, and in the sensitive ones there was little effect of temperature. In others, a lowering of day and/or night temperatures caused flowering to occur in long (16 hr) days and may prevent flowering in short days. Seed formation did not occur in day temperatures above 27�C.
Nutrient status of sugar cane in relation to leaf nutrient concentration
Authors: Holford ICR
Published: March 2005

The nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium requirements of sugar cane were studied in relation to the concentration of these elements in the leaf tissue of three varieties of sugar cane grown commercially in Fiji. Percentage yields of sugar cane in fertilizer field experiments were highly correlated with leaf nutrient levels in the control plots, provided leaf sampling was carried out during the maximum growth period of mid- January to mid-May. For each nutrient there was a marginal zone of leaf concentration below which crops always gave significant yield responses to applied nutrients and above which crops failed to respond. Marginal zones for crops sampled during mid-March to mid-May were 1.4-2.0 per cent for nitrogen, 0.13-0.21 per cent for phosphorus, and 0.9-1.5 per cent oven dry leaf for potassium. Within the deficient range of leaf nutrient concentrations there was little relationship between optimum rates of fertilizer required to correct the deficiency and leaf nutrient levels of unfertilized cane. Because of the lateness of sampling, any indication of fertilizer requirement would only be applicable to a subsequent ratoon crop.
Some effects of gamma radiation on Washington Navel and Valencia oranges
Authors: Macfarlane JJ , Roberts EA
Published: March 2005

Washington Navel and Valencia oranges were irradiated using gamma radiation from Co-60 at doses up to 200 kilorads. Doses below 100 kilorads had only slight effects on the taste of the oranges, ascorbic acid and soluble solids content, and acidity. However, the rinds were frequently damaged by radiation. The effects on the severity of the damage of variety, picking date, dose, temperature of the fruit at irradiation, storage temperature, and period between harvest and irradiation were studied. The conclusions were that radiation is satisfactory for disinfestation of fruit fly where the dose is expected to be about five kilorads, but is unsatisfactory for mould control because of the risk of injury from the higher dose required. Washington Navels picked and irradiated at the start of the harvesting season were found to be particularly susceptible to injury.
Intensive production of beef from sorghum grain and sorghum stubble: Yard feeding versus free grazing on stubble
Authors: Morris JG , Dalby Jane M
Published: March 2005

Hereford steers of a mean body weight of 227 � 3 kg were either fed in yards on a ration of 90 per cent sorghum grain, 10 per cent sorghum stubble, or were fed sorghum grain ad lib. while grazing sorghum stubble. The mean rate of daily body weight gain of steers fed in yards was 1.30 kg which was significantly greater than that of the grazing steers, 1.0 kg. The efficiency of conversion of sorghum grain to body weight and carcase weight gain was similar for both methods of feeding, but this value may have been influenced by the unknown quantity of stubble consumed by the grazing group. Grazing steers had significantly greater concentrations of vitamin A in their livers at slaughter than yard fed steers.
Grazing trials on the Wallum of south-eastern Queensland. 2. Complex mixtures under common grazing
Authors: Bryan WW
Published: March 2005

Eight legumes and eight grasses in complex mixtures were grazed in common on a welldrained soil at Beerwah, south-east Queensland, for eight years. The aim was to study persistence and productivity and also to follow live weight changes in the cattle. Of the legumes, Trifolium repens, Desmodiam uncinatum, and Lotononis bainesii persisted and spread into other plots ; Centrosema pubescens, Medicago sativa, Phaseolus laithyroides, Trifolium incarnatum, and Desmodium sandwicense were not persistent. Among the grasses Paspalum notatum, P. dilatatum, Digitaria decumbens, and Chloris gaylana all persisted and spread ; P. plicatulum persisted but spread little, Panicum maximum var. trichoglme was reduced to trace proportions, while Paspalam conzmersonii and Brachiaria mutica finally disappeared. Legume content of the pastures was 25 to 30% and weed content about 20%. Annual and seasonal amounts of dry matter on offer are presented. Cattle gained weight for 38 weeks but made no gains for 14 weeks in winter. Once the pastures were well developed, the annual live weight gain was approximately 300 lb an acre. Nitrogen content of the pasture was satisfactory from spring to autumn.
Thiabendazole as a postharvest treatment against Sclerotinia fructicola in dessert peaches
Authors: Fripp YJ , Dettmann EB
Published: March 2005

Thiabendazole, 2-(4'-thiazoly1)-benzimidazole, was tested as a postharvest dip against artificially produced infections of Sclerotinia fmttcola (Wint.) Rehm. For each of the six dessert peach varieties used, the percentage infection decreased as the thiabendazole concentration was increased, over the range 37.5 to 2400 p.p.m. Concentrations of 1200 p.p.m. and 2400 p.p.m. gave very good control of this fungus, but concentrations of 600 p.p.m. and below did not give consistent control.
Ecological aspects of weed control in cotton in the Ord River valley, W.A. 2. The effect of soil depth on emergence of weed seedlings
Authors: van Rijn PJ
Published: March 2005

A study was made of the emergence from various soil depths of cotton, six grasses and six broad-leaved weeds commonly occurring in the irrigated area of the Ord River valley, W.A. The experiments were conducted in a glasshouse under temperatures fluctuating between 20� and 35�C, under conditions of adequate aeration and soil water in Cununurra clay, the main soil type of the Ord irrigation area. Seedling emergence was inversely related to seed depth, and, in general, the ability of seeds to emerge from various soil depths was positively associated with the average seed weight of the species. Of the grasses, only Echinochloa colonum and Iseilema vaginiflorum emerged from depths exceeding 3 inches. The maximum depths from which broad-leaved species emerged varied from 3 to 7 inches, depending on the species. The emergence pattern of cotton was almost identical with that of Hibiscus ficulneus and Operculina turpethum, but cotton and Operculina were the only species to emerge from a depth of 7 inches and then only in small numbers. The practical implications of these findings on depth of cultivation and herbicide placement are discussed.
Effect of seed harvesting ants on the persistence of Wimmera ryegrass in pastures in north-eastern Victoria
Authors: McGowan AA
Published: March 2005

In experiments at the Rutherglen Research Station in north-eastern Victoria, seed harvesting ants collected seeds of Wimmera ryegrass in preference to seeds of other pasture species. After spraying pasture with dieldrin to limit the activity of ants, it appeared that ants were responsible for the loss of appreciable amounts of ryegrass seed, and a consequent reduction in its natural regeneration. (The use of dieldrin on pastures is not recommended because of its subsequent accumulation in animal products.) It is suggested that ants may be responsible in part for the failure of Wimmera ryegrass to persist in pastures.
Zinc toxicity associated with galvanized wire netting
Authors: Collis-George N , Davey BG
Published: March 2005

Retarded growth of wheat in galvanized wire netting cages at Sydney and Narrabri has been associated with toxic action of zinc derived from the wire netting. At Sydney the amount of zinc added to the top two feet of soil (139 g/sq. yd. over a 14-year period) was equivalent to that originally on the galvanized wire. It is shown that an industrial or urban atmosphere is not the sole agent for rapid solution of the zinc.
Intensive finishing of steers on rations containing high levels of either wheat, barley, or sorghum grain. Effect of level of roughage and sodium chloride
Authors: Morris JG , Pepper Patricia M , Gartner RJW
Published: March 2005

The effects of type of grain (wheat, barley, or sorghum), level of roughage (0, 1, and 2 kg of oaten chaff/head/day) and sodium chloride free choice on the performance of steers of a mean (� S.E.) body weight of 241 � 2 kg fed in yards for a mean period of 133 � 4 days were examined in a factorial experiment. The type of grain, the level of chaff offered to the steers, or the provision of sodium chloride had no significant effect on daily body weight gain (1.08 � 0.03 kg) or efficiency of conversion of feed dry matter (D.M.) to body weight or carcase weight gain (6.5 and 9.7 kg feed D.M./kg gain respectively). Steers fed wheat had a significantly (P<0.01) lower daily D.M. intake than those fed either barley or sorghum grain. The incidence of persistent laminitis, the death of a steer fed barley and the greater number of steers fed wheat not attaining slaughter weight of 385 kg by 180 days indicated that sorghum was probably a 'safer' grain to feed in high-grain rations than either wheat or barley. The level of oaten chaff offered to the steers did not appear to affect the incidence of digestive disturbances. Carcase weight gain represented a mean of 66.8 � 0.7 per cent of the body weight gain during finishing.