bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Yields and On‐Farm Ethanol Production Cost of Corn, Sweet Sorghum, Fodderbeet, and Sugarbeet
Authors: Geng S. , Hills F. J. , Johnson S. S. , Sah R. N.
Published: April 2008

Field experiments were conducted during 1980‐82 at the Agronomy Farm of the University of California, Davis, to compare fermentable carbohydrate production and cost of potential ethanol from fodderbeet, sweet sorghum, sugarbeet, and corn in relation to the requirements of these crops for fertilizer nitrogen and irrigation. The response of hexose yields of these crops to fertilizer N varied in the two experiments. When all crops responded, sweet sorghum and sugarbeet required 36 % and fodderbeet 68 % of the fertilizer N needed for corn. Twelve weeks following a mid‐season irrigation cut off, hexose yield of sugarbeet was decreased by 18 % as compared to an adequately watered crop. Water stressed sweet sorghum extracted higher amounts of soil moisture, increased in hexose concentration and produced 29 % higher hexose yield than when adequately watered. Stressed sugarbeet, however, had a higher hexose yield due to its higher sugar concentration.

When fertilized and irrigated adequately, fodderbeet produced 13.4, sugarbeet 11.9, sweet sorghum 10.0, and corn 8.15 Mg hexose ha−1. Comparative on‐farm ethanol production costs of these four crops were very close ($0.38 to 0.40 L−1). Thus, growing established crops like corn and sugarbeet for which processing facilities and alternative markets already exist would be preferred.
Effect of Intercropping on the Yield Components of Rice, Mungbean, Soybean, Peanut and Blackgram
Authors: Mandal B. K. , Dhara M. C. , Mandal B. B. , Das S. K. , Nandy R.
Published: April 2008

An experiment with sixteen cropping systems (pure and intercroppings) was conducted during the kharif season of 1985 and 1986. The sixteen cropping systems were: sole rice, sole mungbean, sole soybean, sole peanut, sole blackgram, rice + mungbean (2:1), rice + mungbean (4:1), rice + mungbean deferred (2:1), rice + soybean (2:1), rice + soybean (4 : 1), rice + soybean deferred (2 : 1), rice + peanut (2:1), rice + peanut (4 : 1), rice + blackgram (2:1), rice + blackgram (4:1) and rice + blackgram deferred (2:1). Sole crop of rice always recorded higher number of effective tillers/m2, however, it was observed that legumes had an influence on the number of filled grains per panicle and thousand grain weight of rice in rice + legume combinations. Among legumes, pure crops of soybean and peanut always gave rise to increased number of yield components than the other crops grown in association with rice. In case of mungbean, number of pods per plant and thousand seed weight was higher in pure crops though number of seeds per pod was more with rice + mungbean combination. Deferred sown blackgram in association with rice yielded greater number of seeds per pod and thousand seed weight though sole crop of blackgram significantly produced higher number of pods per plant.
Siebsortierung von Getreide mit Hilfe der quantitativen Bildanalyse
Authors: Kühbauch W. , Bestajovsky J.
Published: April 2008

Sieve grading of cereal kernels by means of quantitative image analysis

In former investigations several possibilities to apply computerized quantitative image analysis (CQJA) in the field of crop science have been reported. In the present studies applicability of this technique have been tested to accurately determine sieve grading of barley kernels. Accordingly, CQJA seems to be appropriate for measuring and processing digitalized image information of the respective length and thickness of grain kernels both, at high velocity and precision, and it can be done at any classification of kernel sizes. Contamination of the cereals by broken grain and/or other non‐grain material can be discriminated by integrating threshold levels of minimum and maximum diameters respectively. It is argued that major advantages of the proposed automated CQJA‐equipment could be (1) control of sieve grading and calibration processes of seeds and (2) sieve grading of the kernels of individual ears for breeding purposes.
Messung und Dokumentation mikromorphologischer Veränderungen in Pflanzen am Beispiel CCC‐behandelten Sommerweizens mit Hilfe der quantitativen Bildanalyse
Authors: Petry W. , Rademacher I. , Kühbauch W.
Published: April 2008

Measurement and documentation of micromorphological changes in plant tissue by means of quantitative image analysis as illustrated with CCC treated spring wheat

Growth regulators are used in crop production to influence extension growth of plants and stability of tissues. Knowledge about the mode of action and efficiency of these compounds are based on physiological and morphological studies with the respective plant tissues. Technical deficiencies in both fields quite often hinder the appropriate insight into tissue reaction. In the present study a computer assisted quantitative image analysis system was applied to support precise and fast measurement and documentation of micromorphological effects in plant tissue.

Spring wheat (cv. Arkas and Sappo) were treated with 0.75 and 1 I ha−1 CCC at EC 30. For morphological studies plants were harvested at EC 61. Tissue microcuts out of the 1st and 2nd internodium of wheat stem were stained with alcoholic safranin solution and measured with the interactive image analysis system “IBAS I” (Zeiss and Kontron).

Stem diameter and stem wall thickness did not change after CCC treatment, while thickness of the selerenchyma ring of the stem was increased significantly. After CCC application average length of cells in the respective tissue decreased up to 15 %, length of internodium up to 27 %. Thickness of cell walls were reduced in the stem tissue of CCC‐treated plants and the number of parenchyma cells increased.

According to this investigation stem stabilizing effects of CCC treated wheat stem are based on the increased size of the lignified selerenchyma ring and on increased number but smaller cells in the parenchyma tissue. With the image analysis system used all measurements could be performed at high precision and quickly so that each given parameter is based on at least several hundred single data.
Influence of NaCl Salinity on Growth and Metabolic Status of Protein and Amino Acids in Rice Seedlings
Authors: Dubey R. S. , Rani Manju
Published: April 2008

Seeds of four rice cultivars differing in salt tolerance when grown under increasing level of NaCl salinity and seedling vigour as well as metabolic status of total and soluble proteins, amino acids were evaluated in seedlings at increasing days of growth it was observed that increasing level of salinity caused loss in dry wt. of seedlings as well as reduction in lengths of root and shoot. In both sets of cultivars salt stressed seedlings showed higher levels of total as well as soluble proteins, total amino acids compared to non salinized seedlings. In roots of salt susceptible cvs. Ratna and Jaya increased salinity up to 14 mmhos/cm remarkably increased total as well as soluble protein level whereas in shoots moderate level of salinity increased protein level compared to controls and higher salinity level caused suppression in such increase. Tolerant cultivars always maintained higher levels of total as well as soluble proteins and total amino acids in salt stressed seedlings compared to susceptibles. Amino acids which accumulated greatly in salinized seedlings were arginine, phenylalanine, alanine, leucine, proline, valine and glutamine. Results suggest possible role of proteins and amino acids in confering salt tolerance in rice.
Response of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) Growth, Yield, Oil Content and Its Fatty Acids to Nitrogen Rates and Application Times
Authors: Ibrahim A. F. , Abusteit E. O. , El‐Metwally El‐M. A.
Published: April 2008

A steady and progressive increase in rapeseed yield was observed with each increment in applied nitrogen rates up to 213 kg/ha in both seasons. As for nitrogen application times, the analyzed data showed that adding a split dose (either 1/2 or 1/3) before the third irrigation was a common part between high yielding treatments in 1985/86 season. Nitrogen rates X application times interaction affected rapeseed yield significantly during the first winter season. The highest seed yield of 2.5 t/ha was obtained by adding 213 kg N/ha in two split doses at sowing and just before the third irrigation. The second yield value of 2.47 t/ha was produced under the same N rate when applied in two split doses before second and third irrigation. However, in the second season (1986/87), rapeseed plants did not exhibit significant responses to nitrogen rates X application times interaction.

Chemical analyses showed that rapeseed oil content and its fatty acids (Palmetic, Stearic, Oleic, Linoleic, Linolenic, Arachidic and Erucic) percentages were not significantly affected by either nitrogen rates or application times in both seasons. A very low content of Erucic acid (0.1–0.9 %) in all tested sample was noticed.
Effect of Planting Geometry on the Growth and Yield Performance of Maize Intercropped with Rice
Authors: Nesa Ashratun , Hamid A. , Mondal M. H. , Maniruzzaman A. F. M.
Published: April 2008

A field experiment with maize and rice planted under four planting configurations in an intercropping system was conducted to evaluate the plant competition effects on the performance of component crops. Intercropping substantially reduced grain yields of both rice and maize. Rice yield was generally low giving monocrop yield of 1,084 kg/ha. Intercropped rice ranged between 179 kg/ha and 615 kg/ha depending on maize planting arrangement. Monocrop maize yielded highest in square planting (3,617 kg/ha) and lowest in skip‐row (2,600 kg/ha) planting, but planting geometry did not influence intercropped maize yield. Monocrop maize outyielded the combined yield of component crops suggesting no yield advantage through rice‐maize intercropping.
Sorten‐Mischungseffekte in Wintergerstenbestanden in Abhängigkeit von Standort und Produktionsintensität
Authors: Aufhammer W. , Stützel H.
Published: April 2008

Cultivar mixture effects in winter barley as dependent on location and production intensity

Grain yields of high‐yielding six‐rowed winter barley cultivar mixtures were compared with those of pure stands under different production intensities in field trials over two years and two locations. Generally, mixing effects tended to be positive with low and negative with high intensities. Significantly negative mixing effects could be observed each year at both locations with highest production intensity. Significantly positive mixing effects could be observed in one year at one location only‐ Mixing effects could not be explained by the observed levels of diseases and lodging. There were, however, relatively close correlations between mixing effects on grain yields and on grain numbers/m2
Influence of Different Soil Moistures during the Vegetative Phase of Development of Field Bean (Vicia faba L. var. minor) on Leaf Water Status, Photosynthesis Rate and Plant Growth
Authors: Grzesiak S. , Filek W. , Koscielniak J.
Published: April 2008

The effects of exposure in the vegetative phase of growth to 10‐day spells of mild (30 % of field water capacity – fwc) and severe (20 % fwc) drought on leaf water status, photosynthesis rate, plant growth and distribution of dry matter were studied in field bean. Either drought level caused similar changes of leaf water status and reduced photosynthesis rates. In older leaves these drought effects were greater. Plants exposed to mild drought quickly recovered their full photosynthetic activity and growth rate when optimum water supply was restored, but after severe drought the slower rate of these processes persisted much longer. Reduced growth caused by drought was proportionally the same in stems, leaves and roots, so that the share of dry weights of these organs in total dry matter of whole plants was similar as in control.
Einfluß eines variierten N‐Angebots auf α‐Amylase‐Aktivität, primäre Dormanz und Auswuchsresistenz von Weichweizen (Triticum aestivum L.), Roggen (Secale cereale L.) und Triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack)
Authors: Detje H. , Geisler G.
Published: April 2008

Influence of Varying N‐Fertilization Rates on α‐Amylase Activity, Primary Dormancy and Resistance to Pre‐Harvest Sprouting in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), Rye (Secale cereale L.) and Triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack)

Pre‐harvest sprouting, induced by unfavourable ecological conditions, can affect the grain growers success considerably. Positive correlations are reported between resistance to pre‐harvest sprouting and primary dormancy. Genotypes with a short dormancy period have a high pre‐harvest sprouting risk. In the case of a premature germination of caryopses in the head of grain a hydrolysis of intact starch granules caused by the endoenzyme α‐amylase takes place in the endosperm.

Negative correlations between falling number and protein content are reported, however, it is unknown, if a varying N‐application influences pre‐harvest sprouting rates, dormancy periods and amylase activity. For this reason, both greenhouse and field trials were conducted with different N‐fertilization rates and (additional in the greenhouse) a rain simulation treatment.

High amounts of α‐amylase a few days post anthesis are opposed to small enzyme activities in mature kernels. Stratificating temperatures and germination inducing precipitations at the same time are inducing pre‐harvest sprouting and a high α‐amylase activity especially in rye and triticale. It seems as if N‐deficiency reduces the possibility of pre‐harvest sprouting, on the other hand high N‐rates increase the enzymes' activity and promote germination processes in the kernel. Effects of N‐fertilization on dormancy are not known.

In the discussion of reasons for an increase of α‐amylase activity in sprouted grain caryopses, changes in the relation of the phytohormones gibberellic acid (promoter of enzyme activities) and abscisine acid are mainly presumed.
Veränderungen von Tonböden bei alternativ‐ökologischen und konventionellen Anbauverfahren
Authors: Niederbudde E. A. , Kaubrügger Henrike , Flessa H.
Published: April 2008

Changes of clay soils under organic and conventional farming

Chemical, mineralogical and soil‐physical measurements were performed on clay soils, which were cultivated under conventional and organical production system for the last 14 years. Soils in the organic system [TNL soils] were loosened from 10–35 cm and organic residues and manure were incorporated into the 0–10 cm layer by a rotowator. Soils in the conventional system [TKL soils] were plowed to a depth of 22 cm. Humus and nitrogen reserve and the amount of mobile phosphate in the top soils of the TNL soils were higher than in those of the TKL soils. The exchangeable potassium in the top soil was higher in TKL soils than in TNL soils, whereas the organic system (TNL) showed a more equal distribution within top and subsoil. This observation was confirmed by measurements of the mobile potassium (ARo‐values).

The contents of 2:1 layer silicates with expanded layers was lower in the top soil of TKL soils than in TNL soils. This can be explained by the reduced application of liquid manure (Gülle) and the missing application of potassium fertilizer on TNL soils. The layer charge of the expanded minerals ranged from ‐0.80 to ‐0.68 for the vermiculites, and from ‐0.45 to ‐0.35 for the smectites, per formula unit respectively.

No influence on the percentage of the fine and mid pores was found. The amount of slow draining large pores (Ø 50‐10 μm) was higher in TNL soils than in TKL soils, only in a neighbouring pasture soil the proportion of these pore exceeded those of TNL soils. Measurements of pore continuity did not show such a clear difference between TKL and TNL soils, but was higher for TNL soils.
Effects of Soil Drought in the Generative Phase of Development of Field Bean (Vicia faba L. var. minor) on Leaf Water Status, Photosynthesis Rate and Biomass Growth
Authors: Grzesiak S. , Koscielniak J. , Filek W. , Augustyniak G.
Published: April 2008

The effects of 10‐day periods of soil drought during flowering (DI) or pod growth (DII) and during both these phases (DI + DII) on leaf water status, photosynthesis rate, plant growth and production of biomass was studied in pot experiments with field bean. Soil water content during drought spells were kept at 30% of field water capacity. Soil water deficiency DI and DII depressed the leaf water potential relatively to control by about 100 % and 140 % respectively, increased the water deficit by 100 % and 120 % and reduced photosynthesis rate by 80 % and 90 %. Rehydration of tissues completely abolished any decline of photosynthesis rate caused by drought DI, but after drought DII photosynthesis rate remained depressed by about 30 % even after rehydration. Drought periods DI and DII caused more rapid withering of leaves, a decline in the total leaf area and a temporary increase of root weight.

Drought occuring at flowering (DI) also activated the mechanism of plant adaptation to water deficiency during the pod formation phase (DII). Single or double periods of drought had not any significant influence on the number of pods and seeds, but decreased their weight.
Seasonal Factors of Correlation Between Climatic Factors, Photosynthetic and Agronomic Traits in Maize
Authors: Stamp P.
Published: April 2008

The dry matter accumulation and photosynthetic traits of upper leaves were studied twice weekly in 1983, under field conditions, for two early maturing maize cultivars. Analysis of correlation between climatic data and those traits were based on four week periods. Seasonal patterns of correlation coefficients were drawn by shifting the beginning of these four week periods from one sampling data to the next until four weeks before the end of the sampling period. Most traits were significantly correlated with climatic factors at one time or another; only those correlations which were of longer duration will be mentioned here. Net assimilation rate was positively correlated with maximum temperature during intensive leaf growth. The relative growth rate was closely correlated with photosynthetic photon irradiance (PPI) during the second half of June and with phosphofructokinase activity during the second part of July. The chlorophyll content showed a close and positive relationship with minimum temperature until the end of June and with PPI during most of August. The content of carotenoids was, for the most part, negatively correlated with climatic factors, the closest relationship existing with the PPI at the previous sampling date until the beginning of July. The activity of photosynthetic enzymes such as RuBP carboxylase, NADP malate dehydrogenase and PEP carboxylase was generally less closely correlated with climatic factors over longer periods. Patterns of correlation were remarkably similar for the two cultivars.
Effect of Method of Inoculation and Nitrogen Fertilizer on Nodulation and Yield of Selected Tropical Legumes
Authors: Sangakkara U. R. , Marambe B.
Published: April 2008

Many factors affect nodulation of legumes of which, nitrogen fertilizer and method of inoculation play a vital role. Thus, a study evaluated the effects of the above factors on nodulation and yields of two common tropical food legumes, namely Mungbean and Bushbeans which are considered extensive and poor nodulatingo species respectively.

Inoculation increased nodulation of bushbeans and to a lesser extent in mungbeans. This effect was more evident with time. Nodulation was reduced in the presence of nitrogen fertilizer, and the effect was more pronounced in the extensively nodulating species, mungbean. Nitrogen and nodulation increased yields of both species. The results indicate the inability of bushbeans and to a lesser extent mungbean, to meet all nitrogen requirements by nodulation and nitrogen fixation alone. This suggests the need for some fertilizer nitrogen for tropical legumes in addition to inoculation to obtain optimal yields.
Effects of Long‐term Application of Slurry on Soil Nitrogen Mineralization
Authors: Maidl F. X. , Fischbeck G.
Published: April 2008

Field trials were conducted for two years on two farms which differed in long‐term application of slurry in order to study the long‐term effect of slurry and the effect of application time (no slurry, slurry autumn, slurry spring) on the dynamics of nitrogen in the soil.

The results can be summarized as follows:

On the farm with long‐term application of slurry, (“livestock farm”), nitrate‐content in the soil was markedly higher than on the farm without slurry application (“arable farm”). This is due to a more intensive N‐mineralization during autumn and spring. On the livestock farm a remarkably high mineralization of nitrogen was observed at soil temperatures near 0°C, while on the “arable farm” N‐mineralization started only at temperatures above +4°C.

The high N‐mineralization during autumn on the “livestock farm” implies the risk of N leaching into deeper soil layers during winter.

Slurry application caused a large increase of mineralized nitrogen in soil. No site‐differences in decomposition of actual slurry applications have been observed.

High N infiltration‐rates may occur when slurry is applied in autumn, depending on the amount of autumn and winter rainfall. Thes risk of nitrogen leaching also persists, when slurry is applied in spring and crops with late N‐uptake are cultivated (e.g. sugar beet).

The intensive leaching of nitrogen after application of slurry is caused by the fast nitrification of slurry‐NH4, which may happen even at low temperatures.
Effects of Nitrogen Application Time on Ear Components of Maize
Authors: Vig J. C.
Published: April 2008

Pot and field experiments were conducted with two varieties of maize to study the effects of nitrogen applied in different doses. The total amount of N applied was same in all variants of one experiment. The development of maize plants varied due to variety and N‐doses. In pot experiment no N application before sowing or in the begin of the ear differentiation reduced total number of spikelets, spikelet rows/ear, length of ear, kernel yield as well as plant height. In field experiments an amount of 30 kg N/ha in the begin of ear formation was sufficient for maximum increase in almost all yield characteristics. Higher doses than that were not effective to promote these parameters further.
Struktur, mikrobieller Stoffwechsel und potentiell mineralisierbare Stickstoffvorräte in ökologisch und konventionell bewirtschafteten Tonböden
Authors: Niederbudde E. A. , Flessa H.
Published: April 2008

Structure, microbial metabolism and potentially mineralizable nitrogen pools in organically and conventionally farmed clay soils

Soil physical, soil chemical and biological studies were carried out on two differently cultivated clay soils. One soil, under organic farming system (TNL), was not ploughed for the last 14 years, the 0–10 cm layer was tilled by a rotowator system. The other soil was tilled conventionally and was ploughed down to 22 cm (TKL). For comparison the topsoil of a pasture was investigated.

The saturated hydraulic conductivity (depicted as frequency distribution from kt values) was very high in the TNL soil and in the pasture soil. The TKL soil showed a lower conductivity and pore continuity than the other soils, especially in the layer of 0–10 cm (Aprhonzon). Aggregate stability (measured as total settlement) was highest in the pasture soil, followed by the 10–20 cm layer of TKL soil. The small fragments of TNL soil resulted in a decline of the aggregate stability.

Dehydrogenase activity was similar in the TNL soil and the pasture, and lower in the TKL soil. Potentially mineralizable nitrogen showed the same trend as dehydrogenase activity. Soil respiration was higher in the TKL soil than in the TNL soil. This was attributed to higher amounts of microbial available carbon probably because of the presence of undecomposed crop residues in the TKL soil.
Monocarpk Senescence in Relation to Yield of Sesamum indicum During Source‐Sink Alteration
Authors: Biswas A. K. , Ghosh A. K.
Published: April 2008

Defoliation hastens senescence of the capsule wall, increased seed weight/capsule and harvest index, promotes seed filling and decreased the post‐flowering contribution and yield/plant. Defruiting delayed senescence of the subtending leaf. Treatment of kinetin on the capsule wall increased its chlorophyll, sugar and dry weight and also increased yield by increasing harvest index, seed weight/capsule compared to seed treatment as well as control, although post‐flowering contribution reduced significantly. When treated on the capsule wall ABA defers senescence of both leaf and capsule wall and also increased the yield parameters but seed treatment although defers senescence of both the source organs, decreased the yield parameters. Treatment of urea defers senescence of the source organs and also increased yield and capsule number though harvest index was reduced.

It is concluded that contribution from the capsule wall and deferment of senescence of this organ at the post capsule development period determines yield and in normal condition contribution of source is limited by the sink size.
Effect of Source Manipulations on the Dynamics of Pod Set and Flower Abscission in Mungbean
Authors: Hamid A.
Published: April 2008

Flower abscission and pod set behaviour of mungbean in relation to the degree of defoliation at the reproductive stage was studied under field conditions. In the undefoliated and partially defoliated plants flowering occurred in two successive flushes, although the second flush of flowering was less distinct in partially defoliated plants. Most of the pods a plant attained came from the second flush of flowering. Undefoliated and partially defoliated plant had 23 and 8 pods, respectively. Magnitude of flower abscission and pod set in undefoliated plants was much higher than it was in partially defoliated plants. In the completely defoliated plants none of the pods survived to mature and death of plants occurred within a week following defoliation.
Problems of Breeding for Improved Standing Ability in Dried Peas, Pisum sativum L.
Authors: Stelling D.
Published: April 2008

Standing ability is a major component of combining ability and yield stability in dried peas. In performance trials during 1986–1988 commercial varieties and new breeding lines were evaluated for standing ability at one location. Standing ability was measured by visual scores, crop height and standardized crop height (crop height in percent of plant length) at several observation dates during the generative phase. Visual scoring proved to be the most suitable method for the measurement of standing ability as far as time requirement and precision are concerned.

Considerable differences between years and varieties were found for both the course of lodging during the generative phase and the standing ability shortly before harvest. Several, at least three or four measurements of standing ability should be done during the generative phase. Also highly significant variety x year interactions were observed. Heritability values estimated for different parameters of standing ability were medium to high as compared to plant length and maturity date (high) or grain yield (low).

In general, standing ability of the semi‐leafless varieties proved to be much better than standing ability of the conventional ones. However, the semi‐leafless plant type was not always associated with an improved standing ability.

Problems relating to the methods of measurement of standing ability, its phenotypic expression and variability are discussed.
Erhaltung der Ertragsfähigkeit des Bodens auf lange Sicht unter dem Einfluß von Fruchtfolgegestaltung, Düngung und Herbizideinsatz
Authors: Weisskopf P. , Sturny W. G. , Keller E. R. , Schwendimann F.
Published: April 2008

Impact of crop rotation, fertilizer treatments, and herbicidal applications on the long term maintenance of soil fertility

VI. Examination of progressive differences regarding chemical and physical factors of the yield potential of a soil conducted over the period 1973 through to 1983

In order to investigate the influence of different crop management practices such as crop rotation, fertilizer treatments, and herbicide applications on the yield potential of a soil, the Crop Science Department of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zürich) conducted a long term field experiment commencing 1973. The experimental location was at the Swiss Federal Research Station for Farm Management and Agricultural Engineering at Tänikon/TG (northeastern Switzerland).

Over ten years of research it was found that chemical and physical soil properties had, in general, been only marginally affected by the different experimental treatments. However, consistent studies have shown that certain trends regarding specific factors of greater importance have emerged, which were not observed during the first five year period. Should they persist, the yield potential of the soil could be substantially affected in the long run.

Soil reaction, organic carbon content, cation exchange capacity, and aggregate stability have proven to be relatively stable values. Changes of greater significance were evidenced regarding the character of the air‐water regime, a factor of particular importance for this site. Obviously, crop rotation had a marked impact on soil compaction. Therefore under local research conditions, the yield potential of the soil will, in the short term, be most likely endangered by structural soil changes.
Relationship between Seed Characters, Plant Growth and Yield Parameters of Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Sangakkara U. R.
Published: April 2008

Legumes are an important component of the dietary pattern of the developing world. Thus optimal yields are a vital factor in agricultural production in these countries. Seed characters affect plant growth and yields of grain legumes. Due to the lack of similar studies in Phaseolus vulgaris (Frenchbeans), a study was carried out to determine the effect of seed characters on the growth cycle of frenchbean plants. Seed size was primarily determined by the size and weight of cotyledons and seed coat, as embryo size was similar in all seed classes. Seed size had no effect on seed viability, although larger seeds germinated earlier. There was a positive relationship between seed size and plant growth characters. Larger seeds developed plants with better growth and yield component parameters, resulting in higher yields. The importance of determining seed size in frenchbeans is presented.
Physiological Evaluation of Drought Resistance in Oats
Authors: Yadava R. B. R. , Bhatt R. K.
Published: April 2008

Twelve varieties of Oat (Avena sativa L.) were screened for relative drought tolerance based on the magnitude of chlorophyll stability index (CSI), relative water content (RWC) and free proline accumulation. IGFR1‐2670, IGFRI‐3021, IGFRI‐2688 and IGO‐8 showed a lower magnitude of CSI under stress condition in comparison to other tested varieties whereas the values of RWC and tree proline accumulation were higher. Based on the observations of this study it is concluded that, of the varieties tested, IGFRI‐2670, 3021 2688 and IGO‐8 are relatively more drought tolerant than the other genotypes tested. A close agreement was also noticed amongst the trends of CSI and proline accumulation, and per cent reduction in yield in rainfed over irrigated conditions.
Growth and Metabolic Changes of Cowpea Plants as Affected by Water Deficiency and Indole‐3‐Yl‐Acetic Acid
Authors: Khalil Sohair , Mandurah Hanan M.
Published: April 2008

Cowpea plants (Vigna sinensis Savi.) were grown in pots for two successive years. These plants were daily maintained water holding capacities (15, 25, 45, 65 %).

The foliage of plants grown at every level of soil moisture was sprayed till dripping with IAA solutions (0, 10, 50, 100 mg/l) three times after 3, 6 and 9 weeks from sowing. Samples were taken at the two physiological stages before flowering and during flowering for growth measurements and determinations of nitrogen fractions.

Water shortage led to retardation of stem length, number of internodes, number of leaves and dry weight shoots. IAA increasing the same parameters only when applied at concentrations of 10 and 50mg/1 at moisture level 65 %, 45 % and 25 % of W.H.C.

Water stress decreased total‐N and protein‐N contents of cowpea shoots. On the other hand total soluble‐ N content was increased under the same conditions. IAA increased total‐N and protein‐N content of cowpea shoots. Meanwhile, the same growth regulator decreased total soluble‐N when applied at 45% 25 % and 15 % W.H.C. levels.
Influence of Accumulated Heat Units and Sunshine Hours on the Growth and Yield of Sorghum (var. Co 25)
Authors: Mathan K. K.
Published: April 2008

The relationship between the aerial temperature, distribution pattern during the crop growth period, accumulated heat units and sunshine hours at different growth phases of sorghum (Co 25), and the growth parameters of the crop, sown on weekly intervals from January 29, 1986 to March, 1986 was studied at Coimbatore, India. Number of days for completion of germination, height of plant, leaf area index, grain, straw and total dry matter yield were found to be related to the sunshine hours. Grain and straw yield were negatively related with the heat units accumulated at the seeding stage. Grain yield alone was positively related to accumulated heat untis at flowering stage, while grain and straw yield were not related with heat units at growth, bootleg and maturity stage. Total accumulated heat units during the entire growth period of the crop was positively related to the grain and straw yield. Treatmental variations were significant for grain, straw, total dry matter production and other growth parameters except tiller numbers. An early cooler temperature followed by a warmer temperature during flowering, maturity phases are crucial for higher grain, straw and dry matter production.
N2‐Fixierung und Ertragsstruktur der Weißen Lupine (Lupinus albus L.) im Vergleich zu Vicia faba L. und Glycine max (L.) Merr. auf verschiedenen Standorten
Authors: Hartmann C. , Aldag R.
Published: April 2008

N2‐Fixation and Yield Structure of White Lupin (Lupinus albus L.) in Comparison to Vicia faba L. and Glycine max (L.) Merr. on Different Sites

In field studies white lupin (Lupinus albus L., Eldo) was compared with faba bean (Vicia faba L., Herz Freya) in 1986 and soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr., Gambit) in 1988 on five sites respectively. Total N2‐fixation, which was determined by the extended difference method, and yield components were correlated to weather and soil conditions:

1. While faba bean responded to low pH with delayed nodulation, white lupin showed no decrease in N2‐fixation at pH less than 5.5 as far as soil was not calcareous.

2. The white lupin developed its root system most quickly into further soil depths and produced a root dry weight six times as large as that of faba bean in the soil layer 60‐90 cm until the end of July (Bayreuth).

3. Despite on the calcareous sites the white lupin showed the highest total‐N2‐fixation (max. 36 g N/m2) throughout, the N‐gain for the succeeding crop was up to 8 g N/m2 for white lupin and faba bean as well. In contrast the N‐balance of soybean was mostly negative.

4. Seed yields of white lupin (48‐450 g/m2) ranged between those of faba bean (145‐549 g/m2) and of soybean (89‐290 g/m2); its raw protein yields were the highest found (max. 158 g/m2) though.
Stärke‐ und Amylosesynthese in Samen von Mark‐ und Futtererbsen
Authors: Haeder H. E.
Published: April 2008

Starch and amylose synthesis in seeds of garden and field peas

In seeds of garden and field peas (Pisum sativum, ssp. medullare and ssp. sativum) the synthesis of starch, amylose, amylopectin and sugar was investigated during seed development in plants differing in potassium nutrition. Seed growth started about 2 weeks after flowering and was terminated 5 weeks later.

At the beginning of seed growth synthesis of amylose and amylopectin was very low in both pea species with a small surplus of amylopectin. After the first third of seed development, however, synthesis of amylose and mainly of amylopectin was improved at different rates. While both species exhibited an almost analogous increase in amylose synthesis, synthesis of amylopectin differed widely in garden and field peas. In garden peas it fell behind amylose production, yielding an amylose/amylopectin ratio of 2: 1 in mature seeds. In field peas amylopectin synthesis greatly exceeded amylose production resulting in an amylose/amylopectin ratio of 1:2.

The 50 % higher starch content in seeds of field peas was mainly due to the more intensive rate of amylopectin synthesis. This shows that starch production via amylopectin synthesis is probably the more effective metabolic pathway.

Sugar contents were highest in the middle of the generative phase. Until maturity they rapidly declined to one quarter of the maximum level. At each stage of seed development sugar content in garden peas was twice as high as in field peas. Potassium nutrition had only a very small influence on the carbohydrates examined.
Salinity Induced Accumulation of Free Amino Acids in Germinating Rice Seeds Differing in Salt Tolerance
Authors: Dubey R. S. , Rani Manju
Published: April 2008

Metabolic status of total and individual free amino acids were studied in endosperms and embryoaxes of four rice cultivars differing in salt tolerance, growing under increasing levels of saline stress. At all saline treatment levels and in controls salt tolerant cultivars had higher levels of total free amino acids in germinating seed parts than sensitives. Individual free amino acids which always maintained higher levels in germinating tolerant seeds over sensitives were aspartic acid, arginine, glycine and leucine. Salinity caused accumulation of free amino acids in germinating seed parts in all cultivars. Maximum accumulation was of arginine followed by leucine, alanine, valine, glutamine and proline. Individual amino acids accumulated greatly in tolerant cultivars than sensitives. Increased salinity caused decrease in the levels of aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid, glycine, lysine and histidine in growing embryoaxes. Results suggest possible relationship between levels of free amino acids arginine, leucine, alanine, valine, glutamine and proline and degree of salt tolerance in rice. These all amino acids should be considered in combination as indices for salt tolerance in rice.
Analyse von Konkurrenzbeziehungen bei der Vegetationsentwicklung eines Grünlandbestandes mit Hilfe eines populationsdynamischen Modells
Authors: Benz J. , Spatz G.
Published: April 2008

Analysis of Competitive Interactions in Grassland Stands by a Population Dynamical Model

The potential yield of permanent grassland is highly influenced by dynamical interactions within its plant species. The possibility to recognize and to quantify these interactions opens a wide field of applications in grassland management. A mathematical simulation model was chosen to meet this aim. The base of the model is a simple population dynamic arrangement. The competition between the species or species groups is described by a linear function. A long time trial is used as a data base. The productivity and the floristic changes in this trial were recorded for 12 years. By reason of the limited data base the species were aggregated into 5 groups consisting of species with similar behaviour. The model proofed to be useful, to simulate the important interactions between the species groups and to quantify their significance with regard to the dynamic development of the grassland. Because of the small data set used in the sample, the model is limited in its validity. The model can be improved by incorporation of a larger data base.
A Simple Model for Predicting Daily Mean Soil Temperatures
Authors: Langholz H.
Published: April 2008

Based on measurements in 3 different types of soil (clay, sand, peat) linear regression equations between daily air temperature (2 m) and soil temperature (2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cm depth) are calculated for all months of the growing season. The equations show a significant seasonal dependence and the best correlations in the upper 10 cm of soil. Differences depending on the type of soil are relatively small. Correction terms involving cloudiness and thermal inertia of the soil during a sudden warming or cooling period complete the prediction model. Standard deviations between predicted and measured values have been found within 1.5 K in most cases. Lastly a generally applicable method for calculating regression equations at any station is introduced. The application of this method to different sites and types of soil in Bavaria and other regions of Germany shows a good agreement with measured values.
Effekte der Sorten‐ (Weizen)und der Arten‐ (Weizen, Roggen) Mischung auf die Ertragsleistung krankheitsfreier Bestände
Authors: Aufhammer W. , Kempf H. , E. Kubler  , Stützel H.
Published: April 2008

Effects of cultivar (wheat) and species (wheat, rye) mixtures on grain yield of desease‐free stands

Cultivar mixtures (winter wheat) and species mixtures (winter wheat/winter rye) grown free from pests and diseases in different environments are compared to pure stands and analyzed with respect to inter‐component relationships relevant for yield. All mixtures consisted from two components which were planted 1:1. Mixing effects (i.e. deviations from arithmetic mean of respective components grown in pure stands) on grain yield/ha and yield structure were dependent on components and growing conditions, particularly nitrogen availability. Under conditions suboptimal for one component, ontogenetic differences between components resulted in positive mixing effects on grain yield since the yield proportion of the accompanying partner increased more than proportionally. In several instances, yield proportions shitted without leading to mixing effects. In some experiments and/or mixtures mixing effects could not be observed at all.
Influence of Soil Drought on Plant Growth, Assimilation and Dissimilation of CO2 and Accumulation of Photosynthates in Field Bean (Vicia faba L. minor) During Pod Formation and Rapid Pod Growth
Authors: Kocielniak J. , Filek W. , Grzesiak S.
Published: April 2008

Field bean planes cultivar Nadwiślański were submitted to soil drought (30 % of field soil water capacity) for 5 days at the stage of pod formation (A) and of rapid pod growth (B) and then exposed for 20 minutes to 14CO2. Radioactivity of leaves, stems, roots, and pods or pod shells and seeds was measured 1, 5, 24 and 48 hours after exposition.

In both stages soil drought reduced by about five times total CO2 assimilation, mainly owing to lower activity of the photosynthetic apparatus and also, though less so, to reduced leaf growth. Photosynthetic activity referred to the dry weight of the leaves dropped to 22‐35% of controls. Accumulation of photosynthetates in generative organs was much less depressed than 14CO2 assimilation. 48 hours after exposition to 14CO2 of drought treated plants, the contents of 14C of pods in phase A, and seeds in phase B, amounted to respectively 24% and 36% of assimilated 14C and equalled 91.5% and 74% of the corresponding values for controls.

The progressive decline of radioactivity in leaves and stems after 14CO2 exposition was distinctly correlated to the rise of radioactivity of generative organs both in soil drought treated plants and in controls. Slightly lower values of correlation coefficients in drought treated plants may indicate impairment under drought conditions of synchronization in processes of unloading and accumulation of assimilates.

In plants drought treated in phase A the ability to dissimilate 14C was reduced to about 59% of that in controls, but when drought was applied in phase B, dissimilation rate was about three times as high.
Effects of NaCl and KC1 Salinity on Growth and Ionic Relations of Red Kidney Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Salim M.
Published: April 2008

Growth and ionic relations of red kidney bean plants were compared when grown in 25, 50 and 75 mM concentrations of either NaCl or KCl salts. Similar growth reductions of plants at 25 mM concentration of the two solutions were observed as compared with control solution grown plants. Whereas relatively higher growth reductions indicated by reduced relative growth rates in 50 and 75 mM KC1 solution as compared with isosmotic NaCl solutions were associated with higher Cl and K uptake and accumulation in leaves. This was confirmed by higher short‐term 36Cl uptake/transport in plant leaves from the labelled solution of 50 mM KCl as compared with that from 50 mM NaCl solution.
The Effects of Prolonged Drought and Nitrogen Fertilizer on Root and Shoot Growth and Water Uptake by Winter Wheat
Authors: Barraclough P. B. , Kuhlmann H. , Weir A. H.
Published: April 2008

Winter wheat growing on a silty clay loam soil was protected from rainfall by a mobile shelter for 100 days from tillering to maturity. During this time the crop was either irrigated according to demand or grew on stored soil water. The effects of this high and low water supply, in combination with a high and low N supply, on root and shoot growth and water uptake were studied.

The crop given both N and water yielded 9.7 t/ha of grain (85 % DM), drought reduced this to 7.9 t/ha, low N to 4.3 t/ha and drought and low N to 3.8 t/ha. Yield reductions were mainly due to fewer grains being produced.

Little root growth occurred in the topsoil during the drought but there was compensatory growth in the subsoil provided that N fertilizer was given. The droughted crops rooted to 160 cm, about 20 cm deeper than the irrigated crops, but the amount of root in the deep subsoil was very small, less than 0.1 cm/cm3 ai 140–160 cm, compared with 5–9 cm/cm3 in the topsoil.

The crop demand for water at any given time was partitioned throughout the root system but atmospheric demand was only met whilst the topsoil was wet. The fertilized, droughted crop extracted all of the potentially available water to a depth of 80 cm and a mean rooting density of 1 cm/cm3 was necessary to achieve this. Uptake from below this depth was limited by root growth.

The limiting value of the potential soil water deficit was 170 mm, and weather records showed that this would be exceeded one year in ten, on average. The likelihood of yield reduction due to drought could be reduced on this soil by improving root growth below 80 cm depth, although the chances of achieving this are low as root growth was probably limited by poor soil structure.