bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NRPD1a and NRPD1b are required to maintain post‐transcriptional RNA silencing and RNA‐directed DNA methylation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Eamens Andrew , Vaistij Fabián E. , Jones Louise
Published: April 2008

In plants, both transcriptional (TGS) and post‐transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) can be self‐reinforcing, and this allows maintenance of silencing once the initiator has been removed or suppressed. For TGS, this can be accomplished by the generation of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) from methylated DNA templates by RNA polymerase IV (PolIV), RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase 2 (RDR2), DICER‐LIKE 3 (DCL3), and the RNA‐directed DNA methylation (RdDM) machinery. Maintenance of PTGS requires RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase 6 (RDR6), and may be associated with DNA methylation and transitive production of secondary siRNAs. In this work, mutants defective for the NRPD1a and NRPD1b alternative largest subunits of PolIV were tested for their ability to undergo RdDM, transitive RNA silencing and maintenance of PTGS. PTGS could be initiated in both nrpd1a and nrpd1b mutants, and this was associated with production of secondary siRNAs; silencing was not maintained however. nrpd1a mutants could support RdDM although this was lost upon reversal of silencing, as was methylation in rdr6 mutants. We conclude that components of the machinery that maintain TGS are required for maintenance of PTGS, and that RDR6 uses distinct templates in the initiation and maintenance phases of RNA silencing.
Wheat FT protein regulates VRN1 transcription through interactions with FDL2
Authors: Li Chengxia , Dubcovsky Jorge
Published: April 2008

A precise regulation of flowering time is central to plant species survival. Therefore, mechanisms have evolved in plants to integrate various environmental cues to optimize flowering time. In this study, we show that the product of the wheat gene TaFT, which integrates photoperiod and vernalization signals promoting flowering, interacts with bZIP proteins TaFDL2 and TaFDL6. We also show that TaFDL2 can interact in vitro with five ACGT elements in the promoter of the meristem identity gene VRN1, suggesting that TaFDL2 is a functional homologue of Arabidopsis FD. No direct interactions between the TaFT protein and the VRN1 promoter were detected. Transgenic wheat plants over‐expressing TaFT showed parallel increases in VRN1 transcripts, suggesting that TaFT provides transcriptional activation of VRN1, possibly through interactions with the TaFDL2 protein. The same transgenic plants also showed increased transcript levels of TaFT2 (a TaFT paralogue), indicating that TaFT2 acts downstream of TaFT. The fact that TaFT2 interacts with another bZIP protein TaFDL13, which lacks the ability to interact with the VRN1 promoter, suggests that TaFT and TaFT2 have different gene targets. This observation agrees with the functional divergence observed for the TaFT and TaFT2 orthologous genes in rice. The temperate cereals analyzed so far show VRN1 transcripts in the leaves, a characteristic not observed in Arabidopsis or rice. The high levels of TaFDL2 transcripts observed in wheat leaves provide a simple explanation for this difference. We present a hypothesis to explain the conservation of VRN1 expression in the leaves of temperate cereals.
CUL1 regulates TOC1 protein stability in the Arabidopsis circadian clock
Authors: Harmon Frank , Imaizumi Takato , Gray William M.
Published: April 2008

The circadian clock is the endogenous timer that coordinates physiological processes with daily and seasonal environmental changes. In Arabidopsis thaliana, establishment of the circadian period relies on targeted degradation of TIMING OF CAB EXPRESSION 1 (TOC1) by the 26S proteasome. ZEITLUPE (ZTL) is the F‐box protein that associates with the SCF (Skp/Cullin/F‐box) E3 ubiquitin ligase that is responsible for marking TOC1 for turnover. CULLIN1 (CUL1) is a core component of SCF complexes and is involved in multiple signaling pathways. To assess the contribution of CUL1‐containing SCF complexes to signaling within the plant oscillator, circadian rhythms were examined in the recessive, temperature‐sensitive CUL1 allele axr6‐3. The activity of CUL1 in this mutant declines progressively with increasing ambient temperature, resulting in more severe defects in CUL1‐dependent activities at elevated temperature. Examination of circadian rhythms in axr6‐3 revealed circadian phenotypes comparable to those observed in ztl null mutants; namely, lengthened circadian period, altered expression of core oscillator genes, and limited degradation of TOC1. In addition, treatment of seedlings with exogenous auxin did not alter TOC1 stability. These results demonstrate that CUL1 is required for TOC1 degradation and further suggest that this protein is the functional cullin for the SCFZTL complex.
Increase in chronic or recurrent rhinitis, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema among schoolchildren in Greece: Three surveys during 1991–2003
Authors: Anthracopoulos Michael B. , Antonogeorgos George , Liolios Evangelos , Triga Maria , Panagiotopoulou Eugenia , Priftis Kostas N.
Published: April 2008

The prevalence of allergic rhinitis, hay fever and eczema has risen worldwide during the last four decades but may have reached a plateau in some westernized societies. We examined time trends in the prevalence of childhood chronic or recurrent rhinitis, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in urban Greece. Using identical methodology, three population‐based cross‐sectional parental questionnaire surveys on current (last two years) and lifetime allergic symptoms of the nose, eyes and skin were performed among 8–10‐yr‐old children in 1991, 1998 and 2003 in Patras, Greece. Exactly 2417, 3006 and 2725 questionnaires were completed in 1991, 1998 and 2003, respectively. Prevalence rates of current (lifetime) symptoms of chronic or recurrent rhinitis were 5.1% (6.0%) for 1991, 6.5% (8.0%) for 1998 and 8.0% (9.8%) for 2003. Respective values for rhinoconjunctivitis were 1.8% (2.1%), 2.7% (3.4%) and 3.6% (4.6%) and for eczema 2.5% (4.5%), 3.4% (6.3%) and 5.0% (9.5%) (p for trend <0.001). Among current asthmatics there was an increase in lifetime rhinitis (p = 0.038), current (p = 0.025) and lifetime rhinoconjunctivitis (p = 0.007) and current (p = 0.001) and lifetime eczema (p < 0.001); male predominance increased throughout the study. The proportion of atopic asthma (current asthma with chronic or recurrent rhinitis and/or rhinoconjunctivitis and/or eczema) increased during the same period (p < 0.001). In conclusion, there is a continuous increase in the prevalence of allergic manifestations among preadolescent children in Patras, Greece during the period 1991–2003. In our population, boys have contributed to this increase more than girls and the increase of atopy is, at least partially, responsible for the increase of asthma.
Severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia in a liver transplanted child
Authors: Schäppi Michela G. , Ozsahin Hulya , Peyrard Thierry , Gumy‐Pause Fabienne , Posfay‐Barbe Klara M. , Chardot Christophe , Belli Dominique C. , Siegenthaler Michèle A.
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  AIHA can complicate solid organ and bone marrow transplantation early after transplant. We describe the first case report of a 16‐month‐old boy with mixed type warm‐acting IgM and warm IgG autoantibodies AIHA, occurring eight months after liver transplantation. This case describes the complexity of this very rare form of AIHA. It also illustrates the efficacy of rituximab in this indication, as well as the transfusion support with extremely rare blood, along with the importance of international collaboration to provide it. In this report, the etiologies of HA occurring in post‐transplant pediatric patients are reviewed and the different treatment strategies are discussed.
Successful deceased donor renal transplant in a sensitized pediatric recipient with the use of plasmapheresis
Authors: Pradhan Madhura , Raffaelli Ryan M. , Lind Curt , Meyers Kevin E. C. , Kaplan Bernard S. , Baluarte Hobart J. , Monos Dimitri
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Sensitization following renal transplant is a significant barrier to repeat transplantation in children. We report a successful DD renal transplant, with the use of PP, in an 11‐yr‐old girl who became highly sensitized following a prior failed transplant. She received PP treatments after failure of high‐dose IVIg (Gamimune®). We established the effectiveness of PP by attaining a 0% PRA and negative cross‐matches after five PP treatments. Subsequently, our patient underwent a second round of scheduled PP. When the PRA was 0%, unacceptable antigens were removed from the UNOS wait list, PP was continued, and a kidney became available within 10 days. The final flow cytometry cross‐match with the eventual donor was negative. This success demonstrates that coordination of desensitization by PP and advanced laboratory monitoring techniques with recent policies regarding allocation of organs to pediatric patients provides new opportunities for children awaiting transplantation. Since the transplant, our patient sustained a low‐titer increase of anti‐HLA antibodies. However, she has had no episodes of acute rejection and has maintained excellent graft function more than 17 months later.
Parent and patient perspectives on barriers to medication adherence in adolescent transplant recipients
Authors: Simons Laura E. , McCormick Megan L. , Mee Laura L. , Blount Ronald L.
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to identify barriers to medication adherence in adolescent transplant recipients. Eighty adolescent transplant recipient families reported in an open‐ended manner about barriers to medication adherence. These responses were then coded to reflect potentially important themes associated with medication adherence. The themes derived included: forgot/distracted, poor planning/scheduling issues, physical barriers/medication issues, and voluntary resistance/attempts to be normal. Inter‐rater reliability for barrier coding was very high (k = 0.91). Patients who were classified as non‐adherent reported significantly more overall barriers, more forgot/distracted barriers, and more voluntary resistance/attempts to be normal barriers than those classified as adherent. Non‐adherence was also found to be more likely when adolescents, as opposed to parents, were responsible for administering the medication. Further, non‐adherence was more likely when taking morning rather than evening doses. These findings are explained with an emphasis on potential remedies that directly address the stated barriers.
Dense B cell infiltrates in paediatric renal transplant biopsies are predictive of allograft loss
Authors: Muorah Mordi R. , Brogan Paul A. , Sebire Neil J. , Trompeter Richard S. , Marks Stephen D.
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Recent studies have suggested adverse outcome for renal allograft rejection associated with dense CD20 lymphocytic infiltrates in transplant renal biopsies. We investigated further the relationship between renal allograft survival and CD20+ lymphocytic infiltrates in renal transplant biopsies from children with graft dysfunction. Fifty consecutive unselected renal transplant biopsies were performed for investigation of acute, chronic or acute on chronic renal allograft dysfunction in 48 children aged 1–17 (median 13.1) years, at 0–155 (median 22) months post‐transplantation with median follow up of 24 months post‐biopsy. Seventeen (35%) graft losses occurred at 1–163 (median 49) months post‐transplantation. There was increased graft loss in those with dense (>300 cells/hpf) CD20+ lymphocytic infiltrates present on biopsy (p = 0.043). Dense B‐cell infiltrates were also associated with increased glucocorticoid requirement in those with acute cellular rejection (p = 0.0015). There were no significant differences in age, sex, HLA‐mismatch, type of transplantation, EBV or CMV serology or baseline immunosuppressive regimens between those with or without dense CD20+ infiltrates. Dense CD20+ lymphocytic infiltrates in renal transplant biopsies are associated with adverse clinical outcome, including increased graft loss. This observation raises the possibility of future studies examining the efficacy of B cell depletion therapy in this clinical context.
Related donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for Fanconi anemia without radiation: A single center experience in Turkey
Authors: Ertem Mehmet , Ileri Talia , Azik Fatih , Uysal Zumrut , Gozdasoglu Sevgi
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Eight children with FA underwent allogeneic HSCT without using irradiation for the conditioning regimen. Patients received two different conditioning regimens: first two patients received BU 1.5 mg/kg/day for four days and CY 10 mg/kg/day for four days and the other regimen was: Flu 30 mg/m2/day for five days, CY 10 mg/kg/day for two days, and ATG‐Fresenius 9–10 mg/kg/day for four days. GVHD prophylaxis consisted of CsA + MTX for the first two patients and only CsA for the others. All patients received HLA‐identical stem cells from related donors. Primary engraftment was demonstrated in all patients. No patient developed acute GVHD and one patient had chronic GVHD. Only one patient who received BU based regimen died because of VOD. Overall, seven patients (87.5%) are alive with stable full donor chimerism at a median follow‐up time of 2.5 yr (range: 1.7–8.9 yr). None of the patients developed secondary malignancy. Based on our data, we conclude that Flu‐based, non‐irradiation conditioning regimen was safe with low organ toxicity and stable engraftment in FA patients undergoing HSCT from matched related donors.
PnMADS1, encoding an StMADS11‐clade protein, acts as a repressor of flowering in Pharbitis nil
Authors: Kikuchi Rie , Sage‐Ono Kimiyo , Kamada Hiroshi , Handa Hirokazu , Ono Michiyuki
Published: April 2008

We previously isolated PnMADS1, a MADS‐box transcription factor and member of the functionally diverse StMADS11 clade of the MADS‐box family, from Pharbitis nil, which is a typical SD plant. However, its precise function remained unclear. To investigate the biological role of PnMADS1, and especially its involvement in flowering, we constructed transgenic P. nil plants that overexpresses or underexpresses PnMADS1. PnMADS1‐RNAi transformants had an increased number of flower buds, whereas overexpression of PnMADS1 led to a decrease in the number of flower buds, although both transgenic plants maintained the photoperiodic responses of flowering. These results suggest that PnMADS1 negatively regulates floral evocation from the vegetative phase to the reproductive phase but it has no essential role in floral induction by photoperiodic signals. Results of yeast two‐hybrid experiments revealed that PnMADS1 can interact with itself, suggesting that this protein functions in floral evocation as a homodimer. PnMADS1 also interacts with PnSAH3, an AP1‐clade protein, suggesting that PnMADS1 has a functional role in flower formation as a heterodimer with other MADS‐box protein(s).
Effect of Compaction and Tillage on the Yield and Percolation Loss of Rice in Lateritic Sandy Loam Soil
Authors: Bhadoria P. B. S.
Published: April 2008

There is a large area of acid lateritic soils (Acrorthox) around Kharagpur in the state of West Bengal, India, where the top thin layer of soil mostly of detrital material, is underlain by a deep and highly porous lateritic crust (burried). Management of these soils poses a problem for their exceedingly high permeable nature. With the objective of increasing the production of rice in lateritic tract by way of reducing deep percolation, artificially compaction with the help of roller (800 kg) at the surface and subsurface levels were introduced under field conditions. Results indicate that the 6 passes of roller reduced the percolation by more than 3 folds over control. The increase in percolation rate with tillage depth was associated with the change in pore geometry obtained by tillage. The percentage increase in grain yield over the control was about 37 per cent at 4 passes of compaction, the increase was attributed to the reduction of deep percolation losses. The decrease in yield at high level (6 passes) compaction may be attributed to increased mechanical impedence and reduced condition (low Eh) in the compacted soil. Yield of rice has increased significantly with tillage depths at high level (6 passes) compaction probably due to increased root penetration.
A Multivariate Analysis of Soybean Genotypes Grown Under Different Cropping Systems
Authors: Sharma S. K. , Mehta H. , Rana N. D.
Published: April 2008

Nature and magnitude of genetic diversity was assessed using Mahalanobis's D2 statistics and canonical analysis in 50 genotypes of soybean grown in monoculture and in association with maize. All the genotypes were grouped in 10 clusters in case of monoculture, while 8 clusters were formed for intercropping. Monoculture was more suitable environment for expressing the genetic diversity than intercrop. Some genotypes had consistently the similar clustering pattern in both the cropping systems, while others were affected by the cropping system in expressing the genetic diversity. This was confirmed by the canonical analysis. Days to flowering and maturity, seed yield/plant, plant height and 100‐seed weight were mainly responsible for genetic diversity in monoculture. Besides phenological traits, pod length and width, and seed yield/plant exerted marked influence on the genetic diversity of soybean genotypes grown in association with maize. Geographical distribution was not necessarily reflected by the genetic divergence, though some degree of relationship between geographic diversity and genetic diversity was evident under both the cropping systems. The performance of some genotypes varied from cropping system to another, while that of others remained unaffected. Breeding programmes to develop varieties suitable for sole crop, intercrop and both the cropping systems have been suggested.
Drought Tolerance Aspects in Pearl Millet
Authors: Ibrahim Y. M. , Marcarian V. , Dobrenz A. K.
Published: April 2008

Different indices for selection of lines grown under low and high water levels were examined from both theoretical and practical standpoints. Pearl millet (Pennisetum americanum (L.) K. Schum) was planted under a sprinkler irrigation gradient in 1983 and 1984. Equations were developed for drought tolerance for both yield and forage production. Correlation coefficients were developed for yield and yield components.

The equations showed that drought will generally result in decreased productivity of both grain and forage. Grain yield was found to be positively correlated with seed weight and with the number of seeds in the main head, and negatively correlated with plant height under low water level. Dry matter was positively correlated with tiller number.
Comparative Study for the Relative Importance of Characters Contributing to Seed‐Cotton Yield in American and Egyptian Cottons
Authors: Ismail F. M. , Al‐Enani F. A.
Published: April 2008

The path coefficient analysis was employed to determine the contribution of boll number per plant, boll weight and seed index characters to the variation in seed‐cotton yield per plant, in the American and Egyptian cotton varieties; McNair 220 and Giza 75 respectively. Data obtained from yield trials carried out at Fayoum Experimental Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, in two growing seasons, 1982 and 1983, were used in this analysis.

It was found that boll number per plant had the greatest contribution to seed cotton yield in both American and Egyptian cotton varieties. Selection for number of bolls/plant and boll weight in American Upland cotton accounts for about 75% of the yield. While in Egyptian cotton, number of bolls/plant and boll weight account for about 60% only of yield.

The arrangement of the components contributing to plant yield, according to their relative importance in McNair 220 variety was:

(1) The direct effect of bolls/plant. (2) The direct effect of boll weight. (3) The joint effect of number of bolls with boll weight. While in Giza 75 variety the arrangement was as follows:

(1) The direct effect of number of bolls per plant. (2) The joint effect of number of bolls with boll weight. (3) The direct effect of boll weight.
Studies on some Drought Resistant Traits of Pearl Millet Cultivars and their Association with Grain Production under Natural Drought
Authors: Ali Masood , Patil B. D. , Sinha N. C. , Rawat C. R.
Published: April 2008

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of hybrid (BJ 104, MBH 110, CM 46 and GHB 27) and composites (PSB 3, PSB 8, WCC 75 and Local) of pearl‐millet on the soils (pH 7.1, Organic carbon 0.5 %, P2O5 9.6 kg/ha, K2O 80 kg/ha, soil depth 65 cm and profile moisture 8.6 cm) of Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi under extreme drought condition (340 mm total precipitation during the crop season). It was observed that hybrids, by and large, gave higher production than composites and local variety even failed to bloom. Further the highest yield from hybrid MBH 110 was due to its drought escaping character (earliness), drought enduring capacity (CSI‐12), efficient translocation and better sink strength. BJ 104 and CM 46, though were also drought escaping and possessed capacity to endure drought but inferior to MBH 110 in sink strength which was ultimately reflected in production.

An appraisal of the various agro‐physiological traits revealed that earliness, high harvest index, low CSI value (chlorophyll stability index) and high sink strength were directly correlated with productivity of cultivars under drought condition which could be used as a guide lines for breeding drought resistant cultivars of pearl millet.
Anbau schnellwachsender Baumarten im Kurzumtrieb – Voraussetzungen, Leistungen, Perspektiven*)
Authors: Weisgerber H.
Published: April 2008

Cultivation of fast growing tree species in short rotations — requirements, results, prospects

Since 1976 tests have been carried out to examine the growing behaviour of different tree species in short rotation periods. The object is to achieve the greatest possible biomass production in a period of 2 to roughly 12 years by using fully mechanized work methods and the regenerative ability of the plants (coppice, suckers) for the subsequent rotations. In view of overproduction of foodstuffs and serious agricultural marketing problems the new form of land use might be regarded by the landowner as an attractive supplement or alternative to classical agriculture for any chosen length of time.

All aspects which are important for the practical use of the biomass production method are discussed and results so far available are given: site and clone specific suitability, planting, tending and harvesting measures, use of the raw material created and management calculations. First analysis of Yield and costs show promising results. Particularly in the field of energy economy the biomass production seems to be profitable and could be of high benefit for agriculture.
Effects of Limited Border and Harvest Rows and Interplanting Cultivars on Yields of Field‐Grown Soybeans*
Authors: Evans L. S. , Lewin K. F.
Published: April 2008

Under some experimental conditions it may be necessary to limit the area of field experimentation but still provide a large number of treatment replicates. This situation is germane when relatively expensive facilities for treatment application are necessary. Under such conditions researchers may want to (1) restrict the number of border and treatment rows and (2) combine several cultivars of one crop within the same treatment plot. Results of experiments conducted to test the effect of these actions on seed yields of commercial soybean cultivars indicate that with narrow row spacing at least two border rows are necessary to reduce border effects on yield to less than 10%. Also, it is shown that when rows of different varieties are placed adjacent to each other in the same plot, yield interactions may occur. These results suggest that there are practical limits to how small an individual plot may be and that preliminary studies to determine cultivar interactions should be performed prior to implementation of experimental designs which incorporate cultivar interplanting procedures. Nevertheless, the use of small plots and interplanting may be effective methods of experimentation when space is limited.
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Production under Mulch and Trickle Irrigation in the Jordan Valley
Authors: Ghawi I. , Battikhi A. M.
Published: April 2008

Watermelon (Citrullus Lanatus) is one of the major irrigated vegetables in the Jordan Valley. Watermelon production has increased in the last few years with the introduction of trickle irrigation and plastic mulching, especially in the highlands.

In this experiment it is intended to study the effects of different plastic mulching on crop water use and on yields of watermelon. Soil temperature data was also collected in an attempt to study its fluctuation and degree of change under different mulching. Also studied were the root density and distribution.

Results indicate significant differences in water applied and in yields between treatments. Highest yield (average = 55.3 MT/HA) was obtained under transparent mulch and with average total water supply of 44.3 cm. Whereas under black mulch an average yield of 13.3 MT/HA was obtained although 40.1 cm total water was applied. Under no mulch, only 10.4 MT/HA was obtained with a highest total water supply of 51.2 cm. Root distribution and density did not show any significant differences.

Soil temperature under mulched treatments were higher than those non‐mulched. Heat units determined showed no big difference between transparent and black mulched treatments.
Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorus Fertilization and Growth Regulators on Cotton Yield and Fiber Properties
Authors: Sawan Z. M.
Published: April 2008

Two experiments were carried out at Giza Agric. Res. St., Agric. Res. Centre, Mins. of Agric., Egypt, during 1981 and 1982 seasons on cotton cultivar Giza 75 (Gossypium barbadense L.), to investigate the influence of nitrogen rates (72, 144 or 216 kg N/ha), phosphorus rates (36 or 72 kg P2O5/ha) and three growth regulators, i.e. indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA), indole‐3‐butyric acid (IBA) or 1 naphthalen acetic acid (NAA), each was sprayed with 10 ppm at three times 70, 85 and 100 days after sowing, on yield components, cotton yield and fiber properties. The design of the experiment was randomized complete blocks with four replications.

The data obtained showed that, the number of bolls/plant, boll weight, seed index, seed cotton yield/plant and seed cotton and lint yield/ha increased by increasing N rates and under the application of IAA, IBA or NAA. Lint index increased by applying the growth regulators, while it was not affected by N rates. Lint percentage decreased by raising N level, whereas it was not affected by the growth regulators. The number of bolls and seed cotton yield/plant, seed cotton and lint yield/ha increased, while the other yield components were not affected with the increase in the added P. In general, all the fiber properties tended to improve slightly by applying the three growth regulators.
Der Einfluß des Nutzungszeitpunktes auf die Effizienz von Mähweidenachsaaten
Authors: von Boberfeld W. Opitz
Published: April 2008

Efficiency of pasture overseedings as influenced by the date of utilization

Lolieten have a wide range of distribution. High intensity of fertilization lowers the persistence of Lolium perenne. Therefore in intensive pasture management the overseeding of Lolium perenne has gained importance. Many of the aspects with overseeding have been experimentally treated. However, up to now the influence of the date utilization overseeding on the efficiency has not been investigated thoroughly polyfactorial approach. For this reason experiments related to this subject were initiated. They demonstrated that the date of utilization of overseeded Lolieten are of profound importance for the success of overseeding. The alteration within the species‐specific yield fractions anticipated by overseeding will require a period of more than one season.
Yield Variation of Soybeans in Hawaii
Authors: Beard B. H. , Geng Shu , Hartmann R.
Published: April 2008

In Hawaii, soybeans planted in November through January will produce yields of 25 to 50 percent compared with those planted through June. Yield components were studied for several soybean cultivars to determine which one was the most sensitive to planting dates and if there were differences between cultivars.

Soybean cultivars, Amsoy 71, Davis, Forrest, Kahala, P.I. 297,550, and Williams were planted each month for two years. One November planting was lost, so there were 23 tests representing different environments. Each test consisted of 24 plots, six cultivars in four replications in a randomized block.

Analysis of variance of combined tests indicated significant differences between number of plants, pods per plant, seeds per pod, seed weight, yield of seed, plant height, and oil content of the seed that were due to data of planting, cultivar, and date × cultivar interaction.

Regression analysis indicated a closer relationship between pods per plant and yield during stress conditions (November through January plantings), whereas number of seeds per pod was more closely associated with yield during non‐stress environments (April through June plantings).
Competition between Grasses during Establishment and Early Growth II. Effects of Early Germination in Determining Competition Relationships
Authors: Sangakkara U. R. , Roberts E.
Published: April 2008

The effect of early germination in determining the competitive relationships between Grasslands Nui perennial ryegrass, Grasslands Matua prairie grass and Grasslands Apanui cocksfoot was determined by making up micro swards with seedlings obtained from seeds sown at the same time transplanted according to the replacement series principle. The results illustrated that early emergence had no apparent effect in determining the competitive hierarchy established between these species. The competitive relationships seem to be determined by initial seedling size and the capacity to accumulate greater quantities of dry matter. The species were also seen to compete for similar growth resources during the establishment phase.
Chlorophyll Content, Hill Reaction and PEPcase Activity in Relation to Hybrid Vigour in Pearl Millet during Early Seedling Growth
Authors: Joshi A. K. , Chanda S. V. , Krishnan P. N. , Vaishnav P. P. , Singh Y. D.
Published: April 2008

Three hybrids of Pennisetum americanum L. Leeke were analyzed for growth and photosynthetic components during early growth and compared with their respective parents. Growth in terms of shoot length, fresh weight and dry weight along with the chlorophylls, and Hill activity revealed better parental and/or mid parental heterosis in all the hybrids over their respective parents. However, PEPcase activity displayed heterosis only in BJ‐104. In other two hybrids no heterosis over the parents could be observed indicating thereby that the activity of this enzyme may not be rate limiting in parental lines.

Nevertheless, it appears that in pearl millet hybrids improved photosynthetic apparatus as observed in chlorophyll contents and Hill reaction may be one of the early expressions of hybrid vigour.
Effect of Sources and Levels of Zinc on the Yield and Composition of Rice (Oryza sativa) on Alfisol under Field Condition
Authors: Bansal K. N. , Patel K. C.
Published: April 2008

Significant increase in yield of rice and straw was obtained with zinc application during two years of experimentation. Among different sources tried, zinc sulphate proved better. An increase in the concentration and uptake of zinc and nitrogen was found with the application of zinc, whereas there was a reverse trend in the concentration and uptake of phosphorus and potassium.
Sensitivity of Corn, Oats, Peanuts, Rice, Rye, Sorghum, Soybean and Tobacco to UV‐B Radiation under Growth Chamber Conditions
Authors: Basiouny Fouad M.
Published: April 2008

Sensitivity of different agronomic crops to UV‐B radiation was studied under environmentally controlled conditions. UV‐B radiation reduced plant height, fresh weight, dry weight and ash contents. The reduction varied among the different species tested. Narrow‐leaved plants (mainly C4) were less sensitive to UV‐B than broad‐leaved plants (mainly C3).
Effects of Population on Physiological Growth Parameters of Pigeonpea Genotypes in Sole and Intercropped Stand with Sorghum CO 22
Authors: Madhavan M. , Shanmugasundaram V. S. , Palaniappan Sp.
Published: April 2008

A field experiment was conducted during khariff 1984 in sandy clay loam soil under irrigated condition at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, with a view (i) to find out the possibility of introducing short duration dwarf variety of sorghum CO 22 as an intercrop with pigeonpea genotypes, (ii) to study the effect of different plant population levels and intercropping of sorghum CO 22 on pigeonpea genotypes, and (iii) to find out compatible pigeonpea genotypes and plant population level for pigeonpea based intercropping system with sorghum CO 22.

It was observed that increased plant density significantly increased the dry matter production, leaf area index (LAI) and crop growth rate (CGR) during early stages and reduced the net assimilation rate (NAR), relative growth rate (RGR) and CCR during later part of the growth. Intercropping of sorghum CO 22 significantly reduced the dry matter production LAI, CGR, NAR and RGR. Plants in the intercropped stands recorded higher CGR, NAR and RGR during later part of the growth. Among pigeonpea genotypes CO 5 was much affected due to intercropping with sorghum CO 22.
Multivariate Extension of Griffing's Diallel Analysis
Authors: Lin Deguang , Geng Shu
Published: April 2008

Diallel‐cross designs have been used extensively in plant and animal breeding programs. In most cases, multiple traits are measured in the study, but the analyses are performed on each trait separately. The objective of this paper is to provide an alternative multivariate procedure so that the combining abilities among traits can be evaluated simultaneously and the interaction of combining ability and traits can be tested statistically.

Numerical example is provided from data of a rice study. Three characters, panicles per plant, percent sterility, and 100 kernel weight were used in the analysis. Results showed that some parental lines with greater combining abilities in one trait may not be so good in another trait. Also certain crosses may be better for one trait but not necessarily as good for other traits.
Morphogenetic Effects of Different Mineral N‐compounds on Roots of Maize (Zea mays L.), Spring Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and Broad Bean (Vicia faba L.)
Authors: Geisler G.
Published: April 2008

Plants of maize (Zea mays L.), spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and broad bean (Vicia faba L.) were raised in tubes filled with a soil‐sand mixture and supplied with nutrient solution. The nutrient supply was varied with regard to concentration and typ of compound of “N”. Due to the relatively high concentrations of “N”, dry matter of shoots and roots was reduced in comparison to the control; root morphology was affected in terms of root length and root thickness. The N‐compounds, used in the experiment, exerted quantitatively different influences on dry matter production and root morphology, NH4NO3 being the N‐form which had the weakest detrimental effects. There was no specific response to NH+4 or NO−3 but a strong influence could be shown for NH4Cl and NaNO3. Probably not only the concentration of “N” and the form of “N” have a specific influence, but also the cations and anions associated with the N‐containing ion are effective.
Effect of Foliar Fertilizers on the Growth of Soybean Cultivars1
Authors: Woon C. K. , Porter O. A.
Published: April 2008

Foliar fertilizers (FF) applied at the reproductive growth stage was reported to increase soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) yield in field trials. But yield increases have not been consistent. Field experiments were conducted on Calloway silt loam soil in 1981—1982 to determine the effect of two foliar fertilizer (FF) formulations, 16N + 4P + 4K + 1 S (Hanway) and 12 N + 4 P + 4 K + 0.5 S (Folian), and time of application, 0800‐ and 1900‐h, on the growth of seven soybean cultivars from maturity groups V, VI, and VII. Foliar fertilizers were applied at a rate of 187 L/ha−1 in water by a backpack CO2 pressure sprayer at R5 to R6 growth stages. Foliar fertilizers caused no crop injury (leaf burn) when applied at 1900‐h but caused moderate injury at 0800‐h, which caused a yield reduction. The most significant crop injury was caused by Hanway formulation when applied at 0800‐h. Yields were significantly reduced by FF in 1981 but not in 1982. Generally, Folian formulation treatments had higher yields than Hanway formulation treatments, but neither formulation increased yield above that of the untreated plants. The Bragg cultivar exhibited the least amount of crop injury and the most positive yield response to FF. Plant height, 100‐seed weight and lodging rates were not adversely affected by the foliar applications. Due to the general lack of consistent yield increases or in some instances yield reduction from FF applications, the formulations used cannot be recommended for use by soybean producers.
Studies on Blended Urea for Nitrogen Economy in Grain Sorghum
Authors: More S. D. , Birajdar K. B.
Published: April 2008

A field experiment was conducted with sorghum variety CSH‐9 in kharif season of 1983 and 1984 to find out the efficiency of coated urea fertilizers over urea alone. The coated urea fertilizers used were neem cake coated urea, neem extract coated urea, coaltar coated urea, 10% didin coated urea along with ordinary urea. Four rates of urea application viz 50, 100, 125 kg N/ha were used along with control in single and split application.

The dry matter yield was recorded to be higher with ordinary urea at initial growth stage of sorghum. However the coated urea fertilizers recorded more dry matter at advancing growth stages. The dry matter accumulation increased with increasing N rates. Split application of N registered higher dry matter. The grain yield was increased due to coating of fertilizers. The neem cake coated urea and 10 % didin coated urea produced highest grain yield which was about 1.5 times more over urea alone. The grain and fodder yields were increased with increasing N rates, the highest yields being with 120 kg N/ha application. N concentration in plant was decreased with advancing growth stage. The concentration, uptake and N recovery were highest with 10% didin coated urea in 1984 and with neem cake urea in 1983. Coated urea fertilizers and split application of N resulted in increasing the N use efficiency over single application.
Futterqualität und Leistung von Napier‐und Paragras (Pennisetum purpureum bzw. Brachiaria mutica) unter Schnittnutzung und Beweidung mit Sahiwal‐und Kreuzungsrindern auf “upland” im District Dacca/Bangladesh
Authors: Krischke H. , Voigtländer G.
Published: April 2008

Forage quality and performance of Napier and Para grass (Pennisetum purpureum and Brachiaria mutica, resp.) cut or grazed with Sahiwal and crossed cattle on upland in the Dacca district, Bangladesh

Napier and Para grass were compared with respect to important quality parameters for two years and in a rotational grazing experiment using 30 two‐years‐old heifers.

Napier grass had a higher in‐vitro‐digestibility of organic matter (IVDOM) than Para grass. 77% of IVDOM variance was explained by the lignin contents, 88 % by lignin and ash contents. Accordingly a high correlation existed between lignin contents and IVDOM (r =−0.86; p 0,001).

The estimation of starch units resulted in higher precision by including the lignin contents in the regression equations compared with crude fibre contents alone.

Crude protein, crude fibre and magnesium contents were similar, while Napier grass contained substantially more P, K and Ca, but far less Na.

In the grazing experiment on average of both years Napier grass produced 64 % of the plant yield of Para grass, but reached 80 % of the animal production. Of the forage offered by Napier grass and Para grass 85 and 67,5 %, respectively, was converted into animal production. Therefore the weight increase (kg/ha) produced by Napier grass amounted to 90 % of the groups grazing Para grass. Daily gain averaged over both grass species and experimental years reached 440 g/heifer in the Holstein‐Friesian group, 410 g with Sahiwal and 370 g with Jersey cattle.
Effect of Boll Age and Harvesting Period on Fiber Properties of Egyptian and Upland Cotton Cultivars
Authors: Ismail F. M. , Hegab A. A. T. , Mahgoub M. A.
Published: April 2008

The physical properties of cotton fibers for the successive age of development were studied in three different periods. Three cultivars of Egyptian and Upland cottons; Giza 75, McNair 220 and Tamcot H. 37, were planted at Fayoum Experiment Farm, Faculty of Agriculture in 1984 season. Fiber properties were studied on samples obtained from five successive stages of boll development in three different periods. Data obtained revealed that fibers from both Egyptian and Upland cultivars showed substantial increment in micronaire reading up to 42 days after flowering. Micronaire reading showed a trend similar to fiber maturity percentage in studied cultivars.

Within each period, fibers tended to be stronger, more extensible, tougher and have higher stiffness with the increase in boll age. The rate of increment in the successive boll ages for fiber strength and elongation characters were markedly higher in the Egyptian cultivar than the American upland cultivars, especially in the younger boll ages. Fiber length was slightly affected by the environment growth conditions. However, the increase in fiber length was progressive from the age of 21 days up to the age of 35 days.
Seedling Peroxidase and IAA Oxidase Activities in Relation to Hybrid Vigour in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum americanum L. Leeke)
Authors: Joshi A. K. , Chanda S. V. , Krishnan P. N. , Vaishnav P. P. , Singh Y. D.
Published: April 2008

Seedlings of three hybrids and their parental lines were analyzed for growth, and peroxidase as well as IAA oxidase activities in cytoplasmic and salt‐extracted ionically bound fractions with a view to evaluate heterosis in pearl millet. The hybrid vigour was manifested in roots and shoots of all the three hybrids clearly for growth and activities of peroxidase and IAA oxidase except the wall‐bound IAA oxidase. Either better parental or mid‐parental heterosis was discernible. The role of peroxidase and IAA oxidase systems in meristematic activity and removal of excessive auxin levels to bring about maximal growth response in the hybrids is discussed.
Wirkungen meliorativer Gaben von Gesteinsmehlen und Gesteinssanden auf das Wachstum verschiedener landwirtschaftlicher Kulturpflanzen sowie auf physikalische Kennwerte eines Sandbodens und eines Tonbodens
Authors: Kahnt G. , Pfleiderer H. , Hijazi L. A.
Published: April 2008

Effect of amelioration doses of rock powder and rock sand on growth of agricultural plants and on physical characteristics of sandy and clay soil

The effect of rock powder to increase the water holding capacity and adsorption degree of sandy soil and the influence of rock sand to augment the aeration and improve the workability of clay soil were tested in pot experiments.

Additions of different rock powders (Basalt, Grauwacke, Kuselit, Muschelkalk and Porphyr) from 5 to 20 weight percent to sandy soil increased the field capacity; the increase in values ranged from 12 to 23% as compared to control. An 11% increase in coarse pore volume (< pF 1.8) of clay soil was noticed when 10 weight percent rock sand was mixed in it. The shear strength of clay soil was hardly decreased. In short time tests five different plants reacted mostly positive to rock powders in sandy soil, the degree of reaction being different depending on rock type and amount used whereas in clay soil the reaction was slightly negative. Ten percent weight additions were better than 20 percent.

Up to 67% increase in spring barley grain yield was registered in sandy soil with addition of 10 weight percent of different rock powders both at about 40 and 80% field capacity water levels. High N‐application i.e., 1600 mg N/7 kg soil caused a depression in yield at control whereas it increased the dry matter yield in treated pots. In clay soil at 80% field capacity an increase in grain yield was registered only in Grauwacke and Basalt treatments, which was off set at high N‐level. Porphyr and Kuselit treatments produced yield depressions.

Addition of 10 weight percent of rock powders in sandy soil in the first year of experiment reduced the amount of leachate and nitrate leached between 8 to 29% in fallow treatments, but in planted treatments these were dependant on plant type and rock type even showing an increase in one case.
Selective Postemergence Herbicides for Grass Control in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Woon C. K.
Published: April 2008

Selective postemergence herbicides to control grass weeds in broadleaf crops have become available in recent years. However, the efficacy of these new herbicides in controlling grasses in sunflower has not been extensively evaluated. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate five selective herbicides for their efficacy on crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis L. Scop) and barnyard grass (Echinochloa crusgalli L. Beav.) control in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in 1983 and 1984. Commercial sunflower varieties, Interstate 7775 and Stauffer 3101 were planted on Calloway silt loam and Portland clay in 1983 and 1984, respectively. Herbicides were applied when sunflower was 10 cm tall, at 4‐ to 5‐leaf stage, and target grass weeds at the 3‐ to 4‐leaf stage. All herbicides, sethoxydim, xylofop‐ethyl, haloxyfop, fluazifop butyl, and CGA 82725, gave good to excellent control of the target weeds. Herbicide injury to sunflower ranged from very minor to none. None of the herbicides greatly affected yield, test weight, seed weight, head diameter or plant height of sunflower. Difference in soil types tended to influence the effectiveness of herbicides.
Phosphorus Redistribution in Maize Plants, Zea mays L., in Relation to the Nitrogen Supply
Authors: Venekamp J. H. , de Vries Penning F. W. T. , Koot J. T. M.
Published: April 2008

The influence of different nutrition regimes on phosphorus (P) redistribution in maize plants, cv. LG 11, was studied. Nutrient solutions in four combinations of high and low nitrate concentrations and high and low phosphate concentrations were used to grow four different groups of plants. During the development of the plants dry weights and total P contents were measured. It was concluded that P redistribution into reproductive organs was dependent on N supply and was a consequence of N redistribution. The ratio of N and P concentrations was not equal in several parts of the plant, and was not constant during the development. In different parts of a young plant the ratio increased. As soon as redistribution of N and P started the N/P ratio decreased. The minimum N/P ratio of a mature maize plant was about 3 for leaves and 1 or 2 for roots and stems.