bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standorterhebungen zur Stickstoffdynamik nach Anbau von Körnerleguminosen
Authors: Maidl F. X. , Suckert J. , Und R. Funk , Fischbeck G.
Published: April 2008

Field studies on nitrogen dynamics after cultivation of grain legumes Field trials were conducted in order to study the nitrogen dynamics in soil after cultivation of grain legumes and to investigate the possibility of reduction of nitrate leaching due to catch crops or suitable following crops. Accordingly, in 1989/90 soil samples were taken on 12 farms at depths of 0–80 cm in 4 week intervals and analysed for NO3‐N. Furthermore, Brassica napus and Sinapis alba were sown after grain legumes on two farms, and at the experimental station Roggenstein field trials were carried out with different catch crops (Sinapis alba, Raphanus sativus, Lolium multiflorum and Pisum sativum) after grain peas.

Considerable amounts of nitrogen (100–150 kg N/ha) in the form of crop residues (straw and grains) were left on the fields cultivated with grain legumes. After harvesting, nitrate content in the soil layer 0–80 cm was on grain legume fields almost twice as high as on fields cultivated with winter wheat. During autumn, the soil nitrate contents increased remarkably. In the soil layer 0–80 cm the maximum values rose to 140 kg N/ha after peas, to 120 kg N/ha after faba beans and only to 65 kg N/ha after winter wheat. The more intensive N‐mineralization after peas compared to faba beans is due to a lower C/N‐ratio of crop residues and an earlier harvest time of 2‐3 weeks of peas.

In winter extremely high N‐leaching was measured on fallow land after cultivation of grain legumes. Cultivation of catch crops makes it possible to retain up to 110 kg N/ha in plant material. Raphanus sativus and Sinapis alba are most suitable for this purpose due to their high N‐uptake even when they are sown late. Ploughing up catch crops in autumn results in a fast mineralization of their immobilized nitrogen. This implies the risk of N‐leaching into deeper soil layers during winter, depending on the amount of rainfall and water capacity of the soil. Particularly on soils with low water capacity, early N‐mineralization needs to be prevented by cultivating catch crops which freeze off or survive in winter. Cultivation of Brassica napus (winter form) after grain legumes leads to an extensive uptake of soil nitrate before the beginning of the seepage period, and therefore almost excludes enhanced N‐leaching.
Differential Response to Al‐Toxicity of Two Populations of Avena sterilis L.
Authors: Zavas T. , Symeonidis L. , Karataglis S.
Published: April 2008

Negative correlation between Al concentrations and root and shoot growth was detected in two populations of Avena sterilis L. investigated [one from a bauxite area (1) and the other (2) from a pasture area]. Al solubility and Al content of plant tissue depend on pH levels of nutrient solution. Population‐1 although in all treatments contained greater amounts of Al in its roots, was grown better than population‐2, suggesting that population‐1 is more tolerant than population‐2. Al content of shoot and root of both populations was greater at pH 10.0 than at pH 4.5, a fact that may indicate that Al ions in alkaline medium are preferentially absorbed than Al ions in acid medium. The better growth of both populations observed in all Al concentrations at pH 10.0, where Al content of plant tissues was greater, may indicate that Al forms predominant in acid nutrient medium are more harmful than Al forms in alkaline nutrient medium.
Untersuchungen zum Einfluß von Standort, Saatstärke, N‐Düngung, Sorte und Erntezeitpunkt auf den Ertrag und die Inhaltsstoffe von Zuckerhirse
Authors: Leible L. , Kahnt G.
Published: April 2008

Investigations into the effect of location, planting density, N‐fertilization, variety and harvest date on yield and contents of sweet sorghum

Looking for high yielding plant species as renewable resources, sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) seems to be an interesting crop.

In field trials at three locations in the south‐west of Germany in 1983 and 1984 should be investigated the effect of N‐fertilization, planting density, variety and harvest date on yield, different morphological characteristics and contents of sweet sorghum.

The results indicate that yields of 15‐20 t DM/ha are only feasible when the given temperature sum is higher than 2000 °C (> 5°C). The maximum yield of 22.7 t DM/ha resp. 6.5 t/ha “Free Fermentable Sugar” (FFZ) was realized when a sufficient water supply and N‐fertilization had been guaranteed.

The different possibilities of utilization of sweet sorghum e.g. as sugar crop, agricultural raw material for combustion or as forage crop urge the plant breeder to intensify the breeding efforts adapting this crop at the climatic conditions of Germany.
Relationships between Leaf Water Potential, Canopy Temperature and Transpiration in Irrigated and Nonirrigated Wheat
Authors: Kumar Alok , Tripathi R. P.
Published: April 2008

Research is needed to characterize the crop response to soil water deficit through plant parameters. Leaf water potential (LWP), canopy temperature (CT) and transpiration rate (TR) served as indicators of stress and were measured using a pressure chamber, infrared thermometer and porometer, respectively, in irrigated and nonirrigated wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown on Haldi loam soil. Nonirrigated wheat had consistently higher CT and, lower LWP and TR during the day. As drought intensified, differences between irrigated and nonirrigated wheat became large and the maximum differences in CT, LWP and TR occurred at 14.00 h where they equalled 3.8 °C, 9 bar and 7.6 μg cm−2: sec−1, respectively, on 109 days after sowing (DAS). In nonirrigated wheat LWP declined at a faster rate until the peak stress period (14.00 h) approached and recovered slowly in the later afternoon and TR increased slowly in the forenoon and declined rapidly in the afternoon as compared with irrigated wheat. Canopy temperature (CT) of nonirrigated plants increased earlier during forenoon and remained higher later in the afternoon than CT of irrigated plants. At a same TR, lower values of LWP and higher values of CT were observed in the afternoon than in the forenoon due to which the phenomenon of hysteresis exhibited. The degree of hysteresis increased with increasing plant water deficit and crop age.
Germplasm Evaluation of Annual Sown Forage Legumes under Environmental Conditions Marginal for Crop Growth in the Highlands of West Asia
Authors: Keatinge J. D. H. , Ali Asghar , Roidar Khan B. , Abd El Moneim A. M. , Ahmad S.
Published: April 2008

In the very large areas of arid highlands in West Asia, of which land over 1000 m in Balochistan is typical, as a result of rapidly increasing numbers of small ruminants and subsequent overgrazing of natural rangelands, severe shortages in animal feed are being experienced. To address this problem the And Zone Research Institute (AZRI) have been evaluating annual forage legume germplasm for adaptability to the harsh climatic conditions of highland Balochistan. Due to the marginality of the environment for sustained crop production an unconventional germplasm evaluation strategy has been adopted which emphasizes the introduction of landraces, particularly of the genus Vicia. The substantial risk of crop failure from either cold or drought, in any year, makes continuity of seed supply of selected lines a major problem. Support from ICARDA in Syria for re‐supply of seed is a major advantage to the AZRI program.

In the last three years some tangible progress has been made in selection. V. villosa ssp. dasycarpa Ace. 683 has with autumn sowing shown sufficient cold tolerance and is highly productive in wet years. V. ervilia Ace. 2542 has shown some potential for drought tolerance which could be exploited for spring sowing.
Effect of Water Stress on Yield Components in Guar
Authors: Stafford R. E. , McMichael B. L.
Published: April 2008

This study was undertaken to measure the effect of water stress on yield and yield components in guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba [L.] Taub.) grown under water‐stressed and water‐optimal field conditions. Fifteen guar germplasms were grown in irrigated and dryland tests at Lubbock, TX on an Amarillo loam (fine‐loamy, mixed thermic Aridic Paleustoll). Plants in each germplasm were hand harvested at maturity and data recorded for number of racemes/plant, pods/plant, seeds/pod, weight/100 seeds and g/seed/plant. We found differences among germplasms for yield components under both dryland and irrigated conditions. Germ‐plasms responded statistically the same in both moisture levels. Among three pre‐selected cultivars, water use efficiency did not differ statistically. Our analyses indicated that the component of yield most affected by water stress was number of pods/plant. Seed weight, seeds/pod, and racemes/plant each had progressively smaller effects on seed yield.
Plant Leaf Area Measurements by Personal Computers
Authors: Fladung M. , Ritter E.
Published: April 2008

We introduce a method to measure leaf area from plant leaves using a personal computer, and a handy scanner with corresponding software. Measurement of standard areas revealed a very high correlation (r = 0.999) between the number of measured pixel (1540 pixel/cm2) and the tested areas. Comparisons of scanner derived measurements with those from a standard area meter instrument revealed a high correlation (r = 0.998). Our method is a cheap and efficient alternative to the conventional area meters and can also replace more laborious ‘home‐made’ methods of measuring plant leaf areas.
Korrelation zwischen Lysin‐, Tryptophan‐ und Prolamingehalt während der Reifung des Maiskornes
Authors: Horvatic M. , Balint L.
Published: April 2008

Correlation between lysine, tryptophan and prolamine contents during maturation of the maize kernel

Changes in the contents of total nitrogen, prolamine, tryptophan and protein bound lysine, and the relative nutritive quality of proteins were studied during the maturation of three normal maize varieties, grown under the same topographical and agrotechnical conditions, in two successive crop years.

Total nitrogen was determined according to Kjeldahl's method, prolamine by the turbidity test, lysine by Carpenter's method and tryptophan was assessed fluorometrically.

A significant decrease (p = 0.01) in total nitrogen, tryptophan and bound lysine content in the dry grain matter was found in the late milk and early dough ripeness stages of the maize kernel. Parallel with the decrease in these components, the relative nutritive quality of proteins also decreased during maturation. Prolamine, which was present in the early milk stage in low quantities, increased significantly (p = 0.01) with kernel maturity, reaching the highest level in the early dough ripeness stage. During further kernel maturation no significant changes in the components studied were observed. The correlation coefficients between the contents of prolamine and total nitrogen, lysine and tryptophan, during the ripening of maize kernel were highly significant (p = 0.001): ‐0.891, ‐0.938, ‐0.856, respectively in the first crop year and –0.844, ‐0.833, ‐0.867, respectively in the second crop year.
High Phytomass Producing Oats for Cultivation in Northern Growing Conditions
Authors: Peltonen‐Sainjo P.
Published: April 2008

It has been argued that the breeding of cultivars with higher weight per panicle but constant phytomass (i.e., improved harvest index) is unlikely to improve grain yield of cereals in the future. To examine this question in oats, this study observed relationships between above‐ground phytomass production and grain yield as well as 18 morphological and physiological traits representing maturity class and architecture of oat stand. The study was conducted in two dissimilar growing seasons. Material consisted of 29 Finnish and Scandinavian oat cultivars and breeding lines. Correlations between phytomass and other traits were evaluated by linear regression analysis. The study revealed that there has already been a trend toward improving the above‐ground phytomass production in cereal breeding in Finland. The phytomass elevation can be attributed to both higher panicle weight as well as increased above‐ground vegetative phytomass. Thus, improved grain yield of oats is not merely a consequence of increased harvest index, as is often mentioned, but is also a result of higher phytomass as such. The weight of the above‐ground phytomass did not correlate with undesirable traits such as plant height or susceptibility to lodging, but it did have a positive relationship with days to yellow ripening. The applicability of phytomass weight in indirect yield breeding of oats in the northern growing conditions is discussed.
Conversion of SO2−4‐S and Changes in Glucosinolate Content in Leaves of Rape Seedlings Transplanted
Authors: Qinzheng Zhang , Xiafua Lan , Haifu Xi , Xuequn Zhu , Yinhua Liu
Published: April 2008

The conversion of SO2‐4 ‐S and changes in content of S in various constituents in leaves of rape seedlings transplanted were investigated by using (NH4)235SO4 as a tracer to exploit formation and accumulation of glucosinolates in oilseed rape. Seedlings grown under sandy culture absorbed 35SO2‐4 which was added to the cultural solution and incorporated into amino acids, glucosinolates and proteins rapidly. Distribution of extractable 35S with 70 % methanol in glucosinolates in leaves declined with time from labelling, while those in amino acids rised correspondingly. Per cents of 35S incorporated into bound form in total 35S increased linearly and those of 35S into glucosinolates and amino acids decreased with time within five days from labelling. After that the relative amounts of 3SS in three constituents was basically constant. Content on dry weight basis of labelled glucosinolates and amino acids expressed as μmol S/g.d.w. increased linearly with time from labelling with absorption of 35SO2‐4from soil by the seedlings under soil culture. Compared with seedlings grown under sandy culture, more 35S was incorporated into glucosinolates in leaves of seedlings grown under soil culture.
Effect of Application of Coir Compost, Enriched Farm Yard Manure and an Hydrophilic Polymer on Soil Moisture Content, Growth and Yield of Rainfed Sorghum in Association with Azospirillum
Authors: Anabayan K. , Palaniappan Sp.
Published: April 2008

Field experiment was conducted to study the effect of application of new organic manures and an hydrophilic polymer in combination with fertilizer application and Azospirillum inoculation on soil moisture content, growth and yield of rainfed sorghum. Application of enriched farm yard manure with urea mixed either 24 hours before sowing or at the time of sowing produced the highest LAI, DMP and grain yield. High soil moisture content was noticed due to incorporation of coir compost. Split application of nitrogen and Azospirillum inoculation besides increasing the LAI and DMP gave 15.2 per cent and 14.5 per cent increase in yield respectively.
Ertragsleistung, Standorteignung und Qualitatseigenschaften von Sareptasenf (Brassica juncea L. Czern.)
Authors: Beese G.
Published: April 2008

Yield and Qualitative Characteristics of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern.)

Indian mustard is required as raw material for the production of mustard. In field trials, farm trials and processing tests during several years evidence could be furnished, that the cultivation of the up to now foreign crop is possible on suitable sites in central Germany. On loess soils (soil value number more than 50) in regions with milder climatic conditions the grain yields attained in using of intensive specific cultivation methods on an average of about 30 dt/hectare. The results of the field trials confirmed by average yields of 14 16 dt/hectare in agricultural practice. The best farms attained grain yields up to 25 dt/hectare. With regard to raw material with a content of allyl mustard oil of more than 1.00 % also the demands of the food processing industry could be fulfilled by all lots produced on farms (the attained content of allyl mustard oil amounted to 1.00 1.40 %).

Climatic factors but also the observance of correct cultivation methods influence first of all the processing quality.
Nitratentwicklung nach Kleegrasumbruch im Frühjahr unter der Folgefrucht Silomais
Authors: Raupp J. , Letalik C. , Haunz F.
Published: April 2008

Nitrate release under the following crop maize after ploughing a clover‐grass crop in spring

After ploughing a clover‐grass crop in spring, the formation of nitrate under the following crop maize, its nitrogen uptake and yield were investigated as well as the N‐mineralization in the fallow plots. As ploughing processes the variants “rotary cultivator” and “plough” were compared.

Three days before ploughing 14 kg nitrate‐N/ha were found in the soil from 0 to 90 cm depth. At all sampling dates after ploughing significant higher nitrate‐N contents were analysed in the soil of the plough variant than in the rotary cultivator variant. Under maize the highest observed nitrate contents were reached at the end of July, that is 117 kg N/ha in the plough and 65 kg N/ha in the rotary cultivator variant. In the soil without plant growth the highest nitrate values were not noticed before the end of August, namely 213 and 102 kg N/ha in the plough and in the rotary cultivator variant, respectively. During the time after these maximum values the nitrate contents in the fallow plots lessened dramatically, probably implying considerable nitrogen losses.

In the maize plots, however, the continual nitrogen release could obviously be used well by the plants. Under maize there was another period of intensive N‐mineralization between end of August and the beginning of October, so that the N‐contents in both soil and maize plants approximately doubled during the last 5 weeks before harvest: from 70 to 148 (“rotary cultivator”) and from 140 to 269 kg N/ha (“plough”), respectively. This is equivalent to a mineralization rate of 1.9 and 3.1 kg nitrate‐N/ha d, respectively, in the time between the end of August and the beginning of October. This nitrogen release was only expressed by the increasing N‐uptake of the maize plants, but not by a changed nitrate store in the soil.

Because of the better nitrogen supply the plough variant led to a dry matter yield which was 73 % higher than in the rotary cultivator variant (176 and 102 dt/ha, respectively).
Differential Nitrogen Uptake, Utilization and Biomass Accumulation by Some Sorghum Cultivars
Authors: Gill Maqsood A. , Rahmatullah  , Zia M. S.
Published: April 2008

Five cultivars of sorghum viz: PU‐7, Sarokartuho, Bagdar, Redjanpur and Potobar 4–8 were studied for their growth, N uptake and utilization efficiency at 5 mM N in solution culture. These cultivars differed significantly in their dry matter accumulation and relative growth rate of shoot. Differences in shoot/root of the cultivars were also notable. Markedly different mean N intake rate among the sorghum cultivars was 108 μmol g−1 root dry wt. hr−1 in Bagdar and 53 μmol g−1 root dry wt. hr−1 in PU‐7 and Redjanpur. Both relative accumulation rate of N and efficiency of biomass accumulation per unit N absorbed also differed appreciably among the cultivars.
Comparative Growth Responses and Ionic Relations of Four Cereals during Salt Stress
Authors: Salim M.
Published: April 2008

Four varieties, one each of triticale, wheat, rye and barley were grown in nutrient solution without and with the addition of 75 and 150 mM NaCl. Plants were exposed to salinity for two weeks and growth and ionic relations of plants were measured. Growth of four cereals varieties was affected to different degrees with salinity and shoot fresh weight/dry weight ratios decreased with increase in salt concentration in root medium. Shoots of barley variety accumulated high content of Na and Cl which were primarily due to higher rates of net ion transport from root to shoot. Higher accumulation of Na and Cl in barley variety shoot accompanied by better relative growth rates indicated plant's ability to compartmentalize ions in vacuoles.
Beschattungseffekte auf das Speichervermögen unterschiedlich aufgebauter Weizenähren*
Authors: Aufhammer W. , Hannappel U.
Published: April 2008

Effects of shading treatments on the storage potential of differently structured wheat ears

Effects of shading treatments on hierarchically differently structured wheat ears were investigated. Commencing with stem‐elongation or two weeks later during a 14‐day period radiation intensity was reduced by 50%. The spring wheat cultivars Kolibri (small number of seeds per ear, high 1000‐seed weight), Sokrates (higher number of seeds per ear, medium 1000‐seed weight) and Highbury (high seed number per ear, small 1000‐seed weight) were used. Growing conditions were varied by two years and two sowing dates each year. Main ears were investigated and analyzed spikelet by spikelet. – In interaction with growing conditions and cultivars shading treatments reduced seed numbers per ear quantitatively and qualitatively. In one experimental year, respectively in consequence of the later sowing date, numbers of seeds per ear of Sokrates and Highbury as compared to Kolibri were more reduced mainly at distal spikelet positions. Under these conditions ears of Kolibri demonstrated better seed yield stability.
Change in Water Conducting Properties of Plant Roots by Nutrition and Salt Stress
Authors: Salim M.
Published: April 2008

Mung bean plants were grown in half strength Hoagland nutrient solution and with only 2 mM N and no P. One set of these plants was exposed to 25 mM NaCl salinity. Plant growth was depressed to different degrees with the nutrition and salt stress. Measurements on the volume flow (Jv) and hydraulic conductivity (Lp) of the detopped 23 day old plants were made under applied pressure of 0.207 MPa. The transpirational water flow (Jt) and the values of Jv were similar for most of the treatments. Values of Jt, Jv and Lp of plants decreased when both the nutrition and the salinity stress were imposed. Simultaneous stress of nutrients and salinity appeared to damage the cell membranes.
Ermittlung geeigneter Selektionskriterien zur Verbesserung der Persistenz beim Deutschen Weidelgras
Authors: Bugge Gisela
Published: April 2008

Screening for persistence inLolium perenneL.

The assessment of persistence, as well as yield potential, is fundamentally important for cultivar evaluation of perennial grasses. But it is difficult to estimate the persistence because of limited time available for testing new varieties. The aim of this study was to find out conditions for effective and quick selection for persistence inLolium perenne.Four strains ofLolium perennewere investigated for three years in the following split pot design with 3 replications: 180–220 kg N/ha or 360–440 kg N/ha and year, 3 or 6 cuts/year and 3–4 cm or 7–8 cm cutting height.

Yield, regrowth (score 0–9, 7 days after each cut) and persistence (number of non‐surviving ramets) were determined for each ramet of all clones and for each plot of the strains. The dry matter yield was reduced to about 50 % between the first and the third year of the investigation. The differences in the dry matter yield between the four strains have been more evident in the six than in the three cutting treatment.

Already at the end of the first year of the investigation the strains differed significantly in the regeneration in the six cut treatment. The regrowth of strain III showed a significant reduction compared with the other three strains.

A significant reduction of the surviving ramets was first observed at the end of the second year of the investigation in the six cut treatment only, but between the strains were no significant differences.

These results demonstrate, that an investigation on single plants over a period of three years cannot give an exactly prediction about the persistence ofLolium perennestrains.
Amyloplastenentwicklung und Stärkesynthese in Samen von Futter‐ und Markerbsen
Authors: Haeder H. E.
Published: April 2008

Development of amyloplasts and starch synthesis in seeds of field and garden peas

Amyloplast development and changes in starch and amylose content in seeds of field and garden peas (Pisum sativum ssp. sativum and ssp. medullare) was studied from flowering to maturity in view of a possible relationship between amyloplast form and starch composition.

Starch and amylose contents increased at different rates in both subspecies. In field peas starch content had reached the maximum (44 % in DM) 26 days after flowering with 45 % amylose in total starch. In garden peas, 25 days after flowering, starch content had only reached half of its maximum (32 % in DM) with an extremely high amylose proportion (88 %). At that growth stage form and size of amyloplasts were similar in both subspecies. There seems to be no tight relationship between form of amyloplasts and proportion of amylose in total starch.

But then, when amyloplasts abruptly increased in size those of garden peas disrupted suddenly. This disruption is not due to a high amylose content. Because in a cross‐breeding of field and garden peas, which was also investigated, the amyloplasts had remained intact irrespective of a high amylose proportion (63 %). The disruption may be due to differences in arrangement of starch molecule and in structure of plastid envelope.
Temperature, Mg and Al Interaction Effects on Grass Tetany Potential of Ryegrass Forage1
Authors: Rengel Z. , Robinson D. L.
Published: April 2008

Two annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) cultivars differing in Al sensitivity were grown in nutrient solution at pH 4.2 to assess the effects of temperature (10/6 and 22/18 °C day/night), Mg (0.1 and 1 mM) and Al solution concentrations (0, 3.7 and 74 μ M) on several factors influencing grass tetany potential of forage. Added Al depressed Mg and Ca shoot concentrations and increased shoot K/(Ca + Mg) equivalent ratio especially after prolonged treatment at higher temperature and lower Mg solution concentrations. These effects were more pronounced in the relatively Al‐sensitive cultivar Wilo which appeared to be less Mg‐efficient as well. Grass tetany potential will therefore be higher following a temperature rise if Al‐sensitive ryegrass is grown in a medium containing low Mg and high Al levels.
Genotypic Variability in Biomass Protein and Nucleic Acids in Four Linum Species to Sodicity Stress
Authors: Singh A. K. , Singh B. B.
Published: April 2008

Genotypic variability among linseed cvs. Neelum, Garima, Subhra and Local was studied by subjecting the plants, throughout the growing season to salt stress (10 to 25 ESP) treatments induced by NaHCO3. General reduction in growth, leaf growth and biomass production (mg plant−1) was observed in all cultivars with increasing sodicity levels. Cultivars interaction responses varied significantly at 25 ESP level. Stress decreased total nitrogen, protein, RNA, DNA and chlorophyll contents in leaves however, proline accumulated in all cultivars. It was further observed that overall effect of salt stress was more pronounced at 60 DAS and beyond 20 ESP level. In general, variety Neelum was found to be more tolerant to sodicity than other cultivars at different stages of plant growth.

It is therefore, concluded that at milder sodicity (up to 15 ESP) any variety of linseed may be grown but beyond 15 ESP only Neelum should be recommended for general cultivation.
Assimilation, Dissimilation and Accumulation of 14C in Two Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids of Different Drought Tolerance
Authors: Grzesiak S. , de Barbaro A. , Filek W.
Published: April 2008

The effects of exposure in the vegetative phase of growth to 5‐ or 10‐day spells of soil drought (30% field water capacity) on assimilation, dissimilation and accumulation of 14C and on dry matter growth were studied in two maize hybrids, nos. 8344 and 8388 (Garst Seed Co.) of high and low drought tolerance. Under control water regime in soil there was no difference in 14CO2 uptake and dry matter growth between hybrids. After five days of drought 14CO2 assimilation dropped by about 75% referred to unit weight of dry matter in hybrid 8344 and by 56% in hybrid 8388. After 10 days of drought 14CO2 assimilation rate was reduced by 75% in both hybrids. Soil drought increased the 14C dissimilation. There were no significant differences between hybrids in all treatments, with the exception of 5 days drought; after this treatment the dissimilation rate of hybrid 8344 was higher than that of 8388. Changes of translocation of 14C and its accumulation in particular organs occurred in drought treated plants; the amount of 14C accumulated in roots of plants of hybrid 8344 increased, while that of hybrid 8388 decreased. Changes of 14C accumulation in roots were positively correlated to changes of dry matter of those organs. One day after 10 days of drought assimilation and dissimilation rates in both hybrids were about 60% of controls.
The Effect of Improved Management on the Yield and Nitrogen Content of Legume Hay/Barley Crop Rotations in West Asia
Authors: Keatinge J. D. H. , Chapanian N.
Published: April 2008

In the light of growing governmental support in west Asia and north Africa for policies which either discourage cereal monoculture or encourage fallow replacement by farmers, two experiments were conducted in northern Syria. These were designed to evaluate and quantify the effect of agronomic interventions on the productivity and nitrogen content of legume hays, and the subsequent residual effects of these interventions on the yield and nitrogen content of a following barley crop. Quantitative estimates of the residual effects of legume hays, when grown under rainfed conditions, on the N uptake of barley are rarely available for the region at large.

The major management effects on the productivity of legume hays were the addition of phosphate fertilizer and a reduction in row spacing. Positive residual effects on the yields of following barley crops were shown to be small but not insignificant. They could be considered to be important influences in the sustained production of barley in legume hay‐barley crop rotations.

It is suggested that the results give further positive evidence that farmers in west Asia will not resist the introduction of improved crop rotations including legumes in place of their current fallow‐barley or continuous barley crop sequences.
The Effects of Intercrop Spacing Patterns on the Silage Yield of Maize and Soybean
Authors: Martin R. C. , Voldeng H. D. , Smith D. L.
Published: April 2008

The effects of intercrop spacing patterns on the silage yields of both maize (lea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) were examined from 1985 to 1987. Dwarf maize was intercropped with nonnodulatmg or nodulating soybean in the spacing patterns, S40same (two crops in the same row, 40 cm row width) and S20ait or S40ak (two crops in alternate rows, 20 cm or 40 cm row width, respectively). Tall maize was intercropped with nodulating soybean in S40sames S40alt and S40pair (maize in 40 cm paired rows, soybean rows 20 cm outside each maize row and 80 cm from the next set of four rows) at 0 or 60 kg N ha−1 and at population densities of 67% maize: 67% soybean or 50 % maize: 50% soybean. Maize and soybean were also intercropped and stripcropped on a farm‐scale. The only difference between intercrops arranged in the same rows versus those in alternate rows was that the average soybean protein yields were higher in S40same than in S40alt. In 1986, the S40alt maize‐soybean intercrops produced higher maize yields, total biomass yields and Land Equivalent Ratios (LERs) than in S40pirs, and in 1987, these responses were higher in intercrops than in stripcrops. In 1986, at 0 kg N ha−1, the soybean biomass and protein yields were lower in S40alt, than in S40pairs and in 1987, these responses were lower in intercrops than in stripcrops.
Importance of Some Biochemical Parameters in the Quality and Yield of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Iori R. , Leoni O. , Lazzeri L. , Mosca G. , Palmieri S.
Published: April 2008

Samples of rapeseed from three Italian growing environments (Bologna, Perugia and Palermo) were analysed for glucose content and dry weight of 1000 seeds every three or four days starting from the end of flowering until complete ripening. In addition, the content of oil, soluble and total proteins, glucosinolates and myrosinase activity was determined in samples of mature seeds. The cultivars used were jet Neuf and Lingot (type 0) and Tandem, Jade and Santana (type 00). From the results it emerged that the point of intersection of the two branches of the linear regression plots for different glucose‐consumption kinetics found during seed filling, in addition to being strongly affected by the climate of the test environment, is correlated with quantitative and qualitative production, independently of the genotype.
Genetic Variability for Rubisco Protein and Polyphenol Content in Fifteen Tobacco (N. tabacum) Cultivars
Authors: Hassiotou E. , Tsaftaris A. S.
Published: April 2008

A recently developed rocket immunoelectrophoretic method was used in order to estimate the variation of Rubisco protein content in fifteen (15) tobacco cultivars. The optimum time of harvest for the highest Rubisco concentration was also determined. Since polyphenols (PP) present a problem in Rubisco extraction, the polyphenol content of the same 15 tobacco genotypes was also measured, in order to identify tobacco cultivars with high Rubisco and low polyphenol content. Rubisco concentration reached its maximum value in 2‐month‐old plants and declined thereafter. At this stage significant genetic variation was recorded for Rubisco and Polyphenol content in crude leaf extracts. Four of the genotypes (KII‐S2, TA21, N34/4, and MA/ 13β) were found to be promising in respect to high Rubisco and low PP concentration. No relationship between total protein content and Rubisco concentration was recorded. Crude extract was satisfactorily preserved at the temperature of ‐70°C.
Growth and Distribution of Dry Matter in a Drought Tolerant and a Susceptible Potato Cultivar under Normal and Water Deficit Condition
Authors: Nagarajan Shantha , Bansal K. C.
Published: April 2008

The growth behaviour of Dekama (drought tolerant) and Kufri Jyoti (drought susceptible) was studied using potted plants maintained at well watered condition and water deficit condition respectively. Periodic harvestings were done starting from 50 days after planting till maturity. Recordings of plant height, leaf area, dry weights of different plant parts, the proportion of thinner and thicker roots, stomatal conductance and water saturation deficit were obtained. The plant height, leaf area and dry weight of shoot decreased to nearly the same extent in both the cultivars under stress. The stomatal conductance decreased by 61.7 % in Dekama and by 64 % in Kufri Jyoti due to water stress. Water saturation deficit increased by about 80 % in both the cultivars. The ratios of root to shoot and that of thinner to thicker root increased due to stress in both cultivars and this increase was 85 % and 71 % in Dekama and 64 % and 19 % in Kufri Jyoti respectively. The distribution of dry matter to leaf, stem, root were more at the expense of tuber under stress conditions in both cultivars. However, the tolerant cultivar Dekama got adjusted to the stress condition, with more dry matter partitioned to tubers in the last two samplings. The study points out the factors responsible for better drought tolerance of Dekama compared to Kufri Jyoti and the possible physiological traits useful for selecting drought tolerant cultivars.
Veränderte Ährenfertilität bei einhalmiger Sommergerste durch Einsatz von Bioregulatoren
Authors: Natt C. , Heilfgenthal R.
Published: April 2008

Changes in fertility of ears in monoculm summer barley after application of plant growth regulators

The effect of plant growth regulators (PGR) upon the structure of the ears in the monoculm summer barley Kindred Uniculm was tested during four years in pot experiments.

The influence of CCC + Ancymidol and RSW on yield structure of the whole plant and the ear which was divided in three parts (basal = 1.–5. spike internode, medial = 6.–10. spike internode, apical = off 11. spike internode) was measured. The application of PGR's in EC 32 increased kernel yield every year in a range from 11–21 %. Number of kernels were strongly improved while the thousand kernels weight remained unchanged. The increase in number of kernels in the apical zone was higher (26–64 %) than in the basal zone (0–10 %). Obviously “medial dominance” was reduced as the single kernel weight was the same in untreated plants.

The decrease of GA1‐content was evident after application of PGR's. A correlation between GA1‐content and plant height was found.
Aufnahme und Verwertung von Phosphor und Kalium durch CCM‐Mais bei differenzierter PK‐Düngung
Authors: Müller S. , Weigert I.
Published: April 2008

Uptake and utilization of phosphorus and potassium by CCM‐maize in relation to different PK‐fertilization

The influence of different PK‐fertilizer‐application (0/500/1000 mg P pot−1 with 6 kg soil before seeding and as fluid or granuled fertilizer to 15 cm plant height in combination with 0/1500 (3000 mg K ‐ pot−1) on PK‐uptake and dry matter production of CCM‐maize for six different stages of development was investigated.

For all six times a distinct connection between quantity of P‐fertilizer and P‐content resp. ‐uptake is described. For potassium is these not so clear, although the uptake is quicker than phosphorus. In combination of PK‐proportions and PK‐content resp. ‐uptake draw a conclusions on the yield, but not in consideration PK‐proportions resp. ‐uptake only. Limitation values are discussed. P‐applications to 15 cm plant height is little effective.
Dynamics of the Biosynthesis of Niacin During Development to Maturity of Soybean Seed
Authors: Vedrina‐Dragojević Irena
Published: April 2008

Dynamics of the biosynthesis of niacin was followed in developing seed of four soybean genotypes under the defined climatic conditions in the course of three years. Tests were carried out at weekly intervals from the moment the seed was suitable for analysis up to its full maturity with the moisture content of about 14 %. Observation of the content of niacin determined more intensive synthesis of this vitamin in the third and fourth development stages, at the time of the highest cumulation of dry matter and metabolic activity. Maximal concentrations of niacin were noticed in the year in which along moderate temperatures considerably ampler precipitation was recorded. A comparison of the fluctuation of proteins and fatty acids with the fluctuation of niacin content confirm its role in the biosynthesis of these most important components of soybean seed.
Effect of Solar Radiation Deficit on Rice Productivity
Authors: Vijayalakshmi C. , Radhakrishnan R. , Nagarajan M. , Rajendran C.
Published: April 2008

A field study was undertaken to understand the effect of low light in Rice involving the cultures and four cultivars. Light stress was found to decrease total biomass, yield and yield components. The reduction in the ultimate grain yield was found to be affected due to the increased number of ill‐filled spikelets. Low light tolerant varieties viz., IET 10436, IET 11058, Ponni and Bhavani were found to withstand the light stress and recorded nominal yield by maintaining minimal reduction in all the desired parameters.
Tomato Production and Soil Salt Distribution under Line‐Source Trickle Irrigation1
Authors: Abu‐Awwad A. M. , Hill R. W.
Published: April 2008

Yield of red cherry tomatoes and soil salt distribution as affected by different amounts and salinities of irrigation water was studied in a field plot experiment during the summer of 1988 at Utah State University. Four different amounts of fresh water and two amounts of saline water were imposed with line source trickle irrigation on a sandy loam soil in lysimeters.

Tomato yield and seasonal evapotranspiration increased in a linear fashion with increasing irrigation water. Tomato yields with fresh water (EC = 0.33 dS/m) were significantly higher than with saline (EC = 4.0 dS/m) water. There were no significant differences in seasonal evapotranspiration between the two salinity levels with two levels of deficit irrigation. Soil water depletion and availability decreased as the soil water salinity increased. Soil water salinities increased with both vertical and horizontal distance from trickle lines and reached a maximum at the bottom of the wetted area and between trickle lines.
Characterization and Quantification of Water Stress in Wheat by Soil‐Induced Plant Components
Authors: Kumar A. , Tripathi R. P.
Published: April 2008

Measurements of transpiration rate (TR), leaf diffusive resistance (LDR), leaf water potential (LWP), and canopy minus air temperature (Tc‐Ta) were made over four differentially irrigated plots of wheat grown at Pantnagar. The data were analysed to workout functional relationships between these plant parameters. Correlation studies yielded low values of correlation coefficients ‘r’. The plotting of the data also showed wide scattering around the lines. For removing the variability of shoot environment the whole data were normalized by subtracting the values of well irrigated (unstressed) plants from the values of the stressed plants. The plotting of normalized data showed close linear relationships. The regression analysis of normalized data provides highly significant correlationships of TR Vs LDR, TR Vs LWP, TR Vs Tc, TR Vs Tc‐Ta and Tc‐Ta Vs LDR. It indicates that normalization of plant parameters for environmental variability is required in order to better quantify crop responses to soil water deficit.
Temporal‐Spectral Profile Characteristics of Certain Rice Cultivars
Authors: Mohandass S. , Natarajaratnam N. , Moosa Sheriff M.
Published: April 2008

The spectral variables have been found to be useful in distinguishing high and low yielding rice cultivars under different growing seasons. Transverse shift in the spectral profile served as a tool for identification of these cultivars.
On Harvest Indices of Winter Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Hühn M. , Grosse F. , Léon J.
Published: April 2008

Ten quite different European winter rapeseed cultivars were grown in a 3‐year field trial at one location. The traits grain yield and biomass were measured based on single plant measurements (first year) or on plot basis (second and third year). Individual harvest indices were calculated.

Besides a general discussion of the experimental results for this collection of winter rapeseed cultivars the main aim of the present investigations was an examination whether these experimental results are in agreement with the theoretical conclusions on harvest indices which have been published in this journal in three preceding publications.

Hence the investigations of this paper are divided into the three chapters: 1) Calculation of mean harvest indices, 2) Variability of harvest indices and 3) Correlations among harvest index, grain yield and biomass. In all three chapters the agreement between the empirically obtained and the theoretically expected values is quite good.
Bestimmung der Nettorhizodeposition von Winterweizen mit Hilfe eines respirometrischen Verfahrens
Authors: Knof G.
Published: April 2008

Determination of net rhizodeposition of winter wheat by means of a respirometrical technique

Net rhizodeposition (root carbon, which is deposited into soil at a chosen harvesting term) may be estimated respirometrically by a laboratory experiment with a root contained soil probe, if microbial decomposition of it is compared to microbial decomposition of a standard root probe of the same origin. Net rhizodeposition therefore is given by
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This technique was applied to three treatments of a N fertilizer trial with winter wheat. Calculated net rhizodeposition was compared to above ground crop. On an average it amounted to 20 per cent of shoot carbon. Mass and nitrogen content of it increased with increasing quantity of N fertilizer.
Intercropping Studies in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Sankaran V. M. , Kuppuswamy G.
Published: April 2008

With a view to study the effect of intercropping and plant geometries in peanut cv. VRI‐1, a held experiment was conducted at Area Agronomic Centre, Tamil Nadu Co‐operative Oilseeds Growers' Federation Limited, Neyveli, India during winter season 1989, (November 89–April 90) under irrigated condition. Three intercrops viz., pigeonpea, sunflower and finger millet were tested at two plant geometries viz., paired rows of 40/20 cm and 45/15 cm. The study indicated that pigeonpea was compatible with peanut and their combination resulted in higher peanut kernel equivalent yield and higher profit. Sunflower and finger millet depressed the base crop yield and found to be unsuitable for intercropping in peanut. Base crop yield was not influenced by the plant geometries.
Crops and Pasture Rotations at Coonalpyn, South Australia: Effects on Nutrients in Wheat and Barley
Authors: King P. M. , McCloud P. I. , Jacka J. , Graham R. D.
Published: April 2008

A crop rotation experiment was conducted at Coonalpyn, South Australia from 1976–1979 on a deep red duplex soil. The experiment studied the effects of grain legumes, pasture or cereal in the previous season on the yield and nutrient content of wheat and barley. Yields, disease assessments, soil nitrogen and water conditions were reported previously. Cereals following grain legumes generally absorbed more of all the nutrients studied, N, P, K, S, Cu, Zn, Mn, than did cereals after pasture; cereal following cereal was generally intermediate. Effects on barley were similar to those on wheat except that wheat took up much more Cu and Mn. Uptake of all nutrients was increased by rainfall, which was greatest in 1979 and least in 1977, but concentrations were often decreased by rainfall. The effects on nutrient concentrations were variable and smaller than on uptake, except for N, Cu and Mn which were much enhanced by grain legumes as the previous crop. Concentrations of trace elements were generally low, being lowest for Cu in 1977, for Zn in 1978 and for Mn in 1979, particularly in barley. Uptake was lowest in 1977, the driest year, especially for Cu. An attempt was made to relate the seasonal effects on levels of trace elements to the pattern of disease incidence.
Attempts at Avoiding the Yield Constraints of Bread Wheat (T. aestivum) in Mediterranean Environments
Authors: Borghi B. , Guiducci M. , Corbellini M. , Monotti M.
Published: April 2008

In bread wheat, in spite of the upward trend of grain yield, the Italian average production remains far below that of Central or Northern Europe. Recognized constraints are water availability to plants and the increase of air temperature during the grain filling period. To quantify these aspects, three varieties remarkably different in several morphophysiological traits were grown for three years under different water regimes in two locations of North and Central Italy.

The grain yield potential of the two locations was similar although if in the Southern location the plants were taller, with a denser canopy and a greater number of smaller seeds. Irrigation after flowering increased yield and yield stability; however, at high air temperatures, dry matter accumulation ceased even though water in the soil was abundantly available. These results suggest the possibility of applying irrigation during grain filling, but a more realistic approach seems to be selection of new varieties characterized by moderate carliness and capacity to sustain kernel growth for a longer period even in the presence of high air temperatures.