bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of feed-borne Fusarium mycotoxins on performance, plasma chemistry and hepatic fractional protein synthesis rates of turkeys
Authors: Chowdhuryand S. R. , Smith T. K.
Published: April 2011

In the first experiment, 225 day-old male turkey poults (5 pens/diet and 15 birds/pen) were fed corn, wheat and soybean meal based starter, grower, developer and finisher diets formulated with uncontaminated grains or contaminated grains or contaminated grains + 0.2% glucomannan polymer (GMP). In the second experiment, the same starter diet was also fed over a 4-wk period to 48 male turkey poults (2 pens/diet and 8 poults/pen) to determine hepatic fractional protein synthesis rates (FSR). Consumption of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins significantly decreased body weight gain throughout the experiment compared with controls. Supplementation of diets containing contaminated grains with GMP prevented the reduction in body weight gain in the starter, developer and finisher periods. Efficiency of feed utilization decreased in grower and developer periods when birds were fed contaminated diets. Plasma total protein, albumin, globulin and uric acid concentrations were decreased after 4 wk of feeding compared with controls (P < 0.05). It was concluded that performance and plasma chemistry of turkeys were sensitive to the feeding of a diet containing a combination of mycotoxins arising from naturally contaminated grains and the feeding of GMP can prevent some of these adverse effects. Key words: Fusarium mycotoxins, turkey performance, hepatic FSR
A rapid, sensitive method for testing the activity of Escherichia coli 0157:H7 secreted cytotoxins against epithelial cells from the jejunum and descending colon of cattle
Authors: Baines Danica , Masson Luke , McAllister Tim
Published: April 2011

Current methods for assessing Escherichia coli O157:H7 secreted cytotoxin activity are based on exposing human cell lines for 12 to 72 h and monitoring changes in cell morphology, adherence or enzyme release. These methods, although sensitive, use non-ruminant cell lines that may not represent cattle responses to E. coli O157:H7 secreted cytotoxins. The modified lawn assay used in this study was found to be a simple, fast and sensitive method for assessing cattle epithelial cell susceptibility to E. coli O157:H 7 secreted cytotoxins within 4 to 6 h. Key words: Escherichia coli O157:H7, cattle, intestine, cytotoxins, cytotoxicity
Effect of whole wheat, enzyme supplementation and grain texture on the production performance of laying hens
Authors: MacIsaacand Janice L. , Anderson Derek M.
Published: April 2011

To determine the effects of a modified laying hen diet/whole wheat combination, grain texture and enzyme (arabinoxylanase preparation) supplementation on production performance, 384 White Leghorn hens were fed either a nutritionally balanced diet or a modified diet/whole wheat (80%/20%) combination from 20 to 64 wk of age. The modified diets were formulated to ensure the calcium and available phosphorus requirements were met. Primary grains corn and wheat were ground through either 5- or 7-mm screens. Except for weeks 44–48, there was no effect (P > 0.05) of feeding the modified diet/whole wheat combination on egg production to 56 wk. Egg production was reduced during the 44–48 and 56–60 wk periods when the modified diet/whole wheat combination (90.1% and 84.3%; 44–48 and 56–60 wk) was supplemented with the commercial enzyme (84.8% and 76.2%; 44–48 and 56–60 wk). For hens fed the modified diet/whole wheat combination, 7 mm ground grains in the modified diet reduced (P ≤ 0.05) egg production (83.2% and 76.5%; 5 mm and 7 mm grains) during the 60–64 wk period. Egg specific gravity was not affected (P > 0.05) by treatment. Layer diets mixed with whole wheat or containing coarsely ground grains could result in decreased feed costs and increased returns for producers. Key words: Whole wheat, enzyme, grain texture, layer
Genetic variation of PRLR gene and association with milk performance traits in dairy cattle
Authors: Zhang Jialan , Zan Linsen , Fang Ping , Zhang Fei , Shen Guanglei , Tian Wanqiang
Published: April 2011

Prolactin plays an important regulatory function in mammary gland development, milk secretion, and expression of milk protein genes. Prolactin exerts diverse functions in its several target tissues through specific membrane receptors. Hence, prolactin receptor (PRLR) gene is a potential quantitative trait locus and genetic marker of milk performance traits in dairy cattle. In this study, the genetic polymorphisms of part of the PRLR gene were detected in a population of 385 cows of Chinese Holstein dairy cattle to determine the association between PRLR gene and milk performance traits. Using polymerase chain reaction-single-strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) and sequencing, two alleles in exon 3 and three alleles in exon 7 of PRLR gene were identified. Four of the detected SNPs lead to the amino acid substitution. Statistical results indicated that PRLRE3 and PRLRE7 loci were significantly associated with milk yield (P < 0.01), and fat percentage (P < 0.05). The cows with genotypes AB had significantly higher milk yield (P < 0.05), and cows with genotypes AA had significantly higher fat percentage (P < 0.05) in locus PRLRE3. The cows with genotypes BB had significantly higher milk yield (P < 0.05), and fat percentage (P < 0.05) in locus PRLRE7. In addition, based on the nine genotypes constructed from 13 combined genotypes, the association analysis between combined genotypes and milk performance traits was carried out. Results show that the cows with combined genotypes ABBB had significantly higher milk yield and fat percentage. Our finding implies that PRLRE3 and PRLRE7 loci of the PRLR gene would be useful genetic markers in selection program on milk performance traits in Holsteindairy cattle. Key words: Holstein dairy cattle, prolactin receptor, milk performance traits
Economics of backgrounding calves on Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) pastures in the Aspen Parkland
Authors: McCartney D. H. , Lardner H. A. , Stevenson F. C.
Published: April 2011

Annual ryegrass or Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) can be used to improve pasture productivity through extension of the grazing season in the Aspen parkland of western Canada. A study conducted at Agriculture and Agri Food Canada Melfort, SK. and Lacombe, AB, showed that weaned calves could successfully graze Italian ryegrass late into the fall as part of the overall backgrounding system. Spring-seeded annual Italian ryegrass produced between 4300 and 6700 kg total dry matter per hectare across all sites and had an average crude protein content of 184 g kg-1 and in vitro DM digestibility of 640 g kg-1. Spring calves were early weaned in late August or conventionally weaned in October and backgrounded on Italian ryegrass pasture or a silage-based ration in drylot pens. The cost of growing Italian ryegrass was $339 ha-1 resulting in a grazing cost per day of $0.31–$0.68 depending upon the number of grazing days per ha. There were no differences in performance of animals backgrounded on Italian ryegrass pasture compared with those backgrounded in the feedlot. The total cost per head for backgrounding early-weaned calves on Italian ryegrass and finished in a feedlot was $398 compared with $429 for early-weaned calves backgrounded and finished in a feedlot, while conventionally weaned calves backgrounded and finished in a feedlot cost $418. Backgrounding calves on Italian ryegrass pasture reduced the number of days in the feedlot along with the associated cost of yardage and stored feed. Backgrounding calves in a feedlot had a yardage charge of $0.40 or higher, which added a cost in addition to stored feed costs of the ration. Backgrounding calves on extended season grazing of Italian ryegrass reduced health problems due to elimination of mixing animals in feedlot pens, less need for stored feed including storage and feeding losses and less labour to feed the cattle and haul manure in the spring. Backgrounding calves on high-quality fall pasture was more economical than backgrounding in a feedlot system. Key words: Background, steer, pasture, economics
The effect of feeding hay before fresh alfalfa on the occurrence of frothy bloat in cattle
Authors: Majak W. , Garland G. J. , Lysyk T. J.
Published: April 2011

Alfalfa or orchardgrass hay was fed to cattle before feeding fresh alfalfa herbage at the vegetative to early bud stage of growth to observe the subsequent impact on bloat. Alfalfa hay supplements reduced the incidence of bloat by a third in one trial, but no effect was seen in a second trial. In contrast, supplements of orchardgrass hay reduced the occurrence of bloat by > 90% in 2 yr of trials. Supplemental orchardgrass hay can be effective in the control of pasture bloat. Key words: Steers, frothy bloat, Medicago sativa L., Dactylis glomerata L., hay supplements
The effect of management strategies and parity on the behaviour and physiology of gestating sows housed in an electronic sow feeding system
Authors: Strawford M. L. , Li Y. Z. , Gonyou H. W.
Published: April 2011

How group housed sows are managed can have an impact on their welfare during gestation. The present study examined the effects of housing management (static vs. dynamic), stage of gestation at introduction, familiarity within the group, and age of sow on some aspects of the behaviour and physiology of sows in an electronic sow feeding system. Eight groups were introduced into either a static or dynamic management system. Within an introduction group, 21 to 23 focal sows were selected based upon their stage of gestation (pre vs. post-implantation), familiarity with groupmates (familiar vs. unfamiliar) and parity [young (1st parity) vs. intermediate (2nd and 3rd parity) vs. old (4th parity and higher)]. The aggression at mixing, aggression at the feeder, injuries, feeder entry order, lying patterns, and salivary cortisol concentrations were recorded. There were no differences in the behaviour or physiology of sows housed in either housing management system, or based upon familiarity. Sows mixed post-implantation were less aggressive (P = 0.01), entered the feeding station later (P = 0.03) and were observed lying in the least preferred areas of the pen (P = 0.001), than sows grouped within a few days of breeding. Older sows were involved in more aggressive encounters (P = 0.04), spent more time fighting at mixing (P = 0.02), and lay against the wall more (P < 0.001) than did young sows, which tended to sustain more scratches (P = 0.07), and ate later in the feed cycle (P < 0.001). A dynamic management system is just as effective as a static management system when certain management criteria are met. Familiarity does not have an impact on the sows during gestation. Stage of gestation and parity should be considered along with the group dynamic as it can impact aggression and access to resources. Key words: Sows, gestation, electronic sow feeding system, behaviour
Effects of replacing corn dry distillers’ grains with triticale dry distillers’ grains on lactation performance and plasma metabolites of dairy cows.
Authors: Greter A. M. , Penner G. B. , Davis E. C. , Oba M.
Published: April 2011

Thirty Holstein cows were fed diets containing either triticale dry distillers' grains plus solubles (TDDGS) or corn dry distillers' grains plus solubles (CDDGS) at 21% of dietary dry matter in a crossover design with 14-d periods. Although plasma concentration of some essential amino acids and milk urea nitrogen concentration were higher for cows fed CDDGS, dry matter intake and milk yield were not affected by treatment. Multiparous cows fed TDDGS had higher milk fat concentration, milk fat yield, and 4% fat-corrected milk yield compared with primiparous cows fed TDDGS. In conclusion, TDDGS can replace CDDGS without negative impacts on lactation performance. Key words: Triticale distillers' grain, corn distillers' grain, milk production, dairy cow
Cloning of porcine proglucagon and effect of commensal bacteria on relative gene expression in the intestine of gnotobiotic pigs
Authors: Siggers R. H. , Shirkey T. W. , Drew M. D. , Laarveld B. , Van Kessel A. G.
Published: April 2011

Porcine proglucagon mRNA sequence was determined by designing primers based on homologous regions in bovine and human genes. The porcine sequence shared 90% nucleotide identity with human proglucagon; however, predicted Ser159Arg and Leu160Lys substitutions were observed. This newly identified sequence suggests that the intestinal trophic peptide, glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2), is actually 35 amino acids in the pig rather than 33 amino acids, as previously reported. To determine the effect of different bacteria on intestinal proglucagon gene expression, 16 piglets were reared in gnotobiotic isolators maintained germ-free (GF), monoassociated with Lactobacillus fermentum (LF) or Escherichia coli (EC), or conventionalized (CV) in two separate experiments for 13 d. Cultured cecal contents confirmed microbial status with the exception of GF pigs in exp. 2, which were contaminated with Staphylococcus epidermidis (SE). Mean fold differences in ileal proglucagon expression (CV set to 1) were 1.0ab, 1.6a, 0.7b, 1.0ab for GF, LF, EC and CV in exp. 1 and 4.0a, 2.0b, 0.6c, 1.0c for SE, LF, EC and CV groups in exp. 2, respectively. This study, for the first time, accurately describes the full nucleotide sequence for porcine proglucagon, and shows that proglucagon expression is differentially regulated by bacteria colonizing intestine of neonatal piglets. Key words: Proglucagon, gnotobiotic, pig, gene expression, intestine
Seasonal change of daily motor activity rhythms in Capra hircus
Authors: Piccione Giuseppe , Giannetto Claudia , Casella Stefania , Caola Giovanni
Published: April 2011

To evaluate if seasonal changes in photoperiod and temperature were associated with changes in total daily motor activity we recorded the total daily motor activity of five clinically healthy goats at four different times of the year (vernal equinox, summer solstice, autumn equinox and winter solstice). Goats were housed under natural photoperiod and natural ambient temperature in a 12-m2 sound-proof box equipped with 50 × 100 cm opening window, which allowed natural ventilation. Total motor activity of each goat was recorded by Actiwatch-Mini®, actigraphy-based data loggers that record a digitally integrated measure of motor activity. Our results show the existence of clear seasonal variations in daily activity rhythms in goats, with the highest daily amount of activity during the vernal equinox (769.21 ± 82.56 movements h-1) and the lowest during the winter solstice (401.65 ± 61.82 movements h-1) (P < 0.0001). There was also a change in the amount of motor activity observed during photophase and scotophase through the year (P < 0.0001). The cosine peak (times of the daily peaks), always occurred in the middle of the photoperiods and varied from season to season (P < 0.0001). Our data indicate that daily motor activity of goats varies with season. Key words: Daily rhythm, environmental condition, total activity, goat
Investigation of genetic variability and inbreeding characteristics in a population of Zandi sheep
Authors: Ghafouri-Kesbi Farhad , Eskandarinasab Moradpasha , Hassanabadi Ahmad
Published: April 2011

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the genetic parameters and genetics trends for birth and weaning weights, and to quantify the inbreeding characteristics for a population of Zandi sheep. Genetic parameters from both single- and two-trait analyses were estimated using restricted maximum likelihood (REML) with animal models. Genetic trends were estimated by averaging estimated breeding values on year of birth. Full pedigree was analyzed for estimation of inbreeding characteristics. The results obtained confirmed relatively low additive genetic variation in the population, especially for weaning weight. Estimates of direct and maternal heritability were 0.12 and 0.20 for birth weight and 0.08 and 0.02 for weaning weight, respectively. Estimates of breeding value averaged by year of birth for birth weight and weaning weight increased over time. However, there was little genetic progress for birth weight (0.002 kg yr-1), whereas the tendency for weaning weight was 0.020 kg yr-1. Inbred animals consisted of 25% of the population. The effective population size (Ne) was 66 individuals. The inbreeding rate per generation (ΔF) was 0.76%. The average value of inbreeding (F) in the Zandi population was 1.05% and the average relatedness (AR) coefficient reached 1.64% in the whole pedigree. A range of 2.84 to 4.01 yr was obtained for the average generation interval in different pathways. Selection of rams with the lowest AR was recommended for better management of inbreeding and avoidance of relative mating. Key words: Sheep, genetic trends, heritability, inbreeding, average relatedness
Review: The regulation of meiotic maturation in bovine oocytes
Authors: Bilodeau-Goeseels S.
Published: April 2011

Meiotic maturation in mammalian oocytes is initiated during fetal development, arrested for several years in some cases, then completed at the time of ovulation. Although the mechanisms involved in oocyte meiotic arrest and meiotic resumption are not fully understood, new players and roles have recently been identified. This paper reviews the role of follicle cells, as well as the role of the cyclic adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate (cAMP) pathway, in the maintenance of meiotic arrest. Potential mechanisms by which luteinizing hormone (LH) signals meiotic resumption are also reviewed. New findings on the role of adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase (PRKA), as well as the effects of culture medium composition on meiosis in vitro, are also discussed. From a practical perspective, improved understanding of the mechanisms involved in the control of meiosis will facilitate better control of the process in vitro resulting in increased developmental competence and increased efficiency of in vitro embryo production procedures. Key words: Bovine, oocyte, meiosis, cAMP
Feeding strategies for improving productivity of growing steers fed grass silage
Authors: Ouellet D. R. , Faucitano L. , Pellerin D. , D’Amours M. , Berthiaume R.
Published: April 2011

Two experiments were conducted to determine the relationship between corn particle size and soybean meal treatment on growth, diet digestibility, and nitrogen balance of growing steers. In the first experiment, 40 medium-frame beef steers (250 ± 11 kg) were fed individually for 140 d a diet based on grass silage offered for ad libitum consumption and supplemented with either 3.5 kg of DM d-1 of cracked corn (CC) or ground corn (GC) and with 450 g of DM d-1 of solvent extracted (SS) or lignosulfonate-treated soybean meal (Soypass™ SP). Dry matter intake was not affected by treatments and averaged 8.6 ± 0.3 kg d-1 (P > 0.10). Average daily gain was higher for animals receiving the ground corn than those fed cracked corn. Feed to gain ratio was not affected by treatments. There was an interaction between treatments for plasma urea-N concentration, with source of soybean meal having no effect with CC. When compared with SS, SP supplement reduced plasma urea-N when fed with GC. No effect of soybean meal and its interaction with corn processing was observed on growth performance. In the second experiment four additional steers were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design to evaluate diet digestibility and nitrogen balance. There was an interaction between treatments for starch apparent digestibility and N retained, the values being respectively, 90, 86, 93, and 92% (SEM = 1.2; P < 0.01) and 36, 42, 44 and 41 g d-1 (SEM = 2.8; P < 0.03) for CCSS, CCSP, GCSS and GCSP, respectively. Altogether, the results indicate a slight advantage to reduce particle size of corn in growing steers fed grass silage. However, soybean meal treatment resulted in limited effects on growth and digestion. Key words: Rumen carbohydrate, undegradable protein, performance, steers
Efficiency of a prebiotic and a plant extract alone or in combination on broiler performance and intestinal physiology
Authors: Catalá-Gregori Pablo , Mallet Serge , Travel Angélique , Orengo Juan , Lessire Michel
Published: April 2011

A 36-d trial was conducted to evaluate two potential alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters in broilers. The products tested were a prebiotic (PROFEED®) and a plant extract (XTRACT™). Ross male broiler performance and digestive tract function responses were studied. To evaluate the effect of these potential alternatives alone or in combination, seven diets were tested: positive control avilamycin 10 ppm (PC); negative control antibiotic-free (NC); NC + PROFEED® 600 ppm (P); NC + XTRACT™ 100 ppm (X); NC + PROFEED®/XTRACT™ 600/100 ppm (XPH); NC + PROFEED® /XTRACT™ 450/75 ppm (XPM); NC + PROFEED®/XTRACT™ 300/50 ppm (XPL). From 22 to 36 d of age, body weight gain (BWG) was improved by P, X, and XPM compared with NC (P < 0.05). Throughout the trial, broilers fed PC, P, X and XPL had a better feed conversion ratio (FCR) than those fed NC (P < 0.1). No relevant negative effect was observed for the parameters relative to the digestive tract function: ileal histomorphometry, anaerobic sulphite-reducing bacteria count (ASR), intestinal and caecal pH, caecal volatile fatty acids production (VFA) and litter score (LS). With the higher mixture dose (XPH), no improvement in broiler performance was observed, suggesting no synergistic effect of the two additives. Key words: Broiler, antibiotic growth promoter, plant extract, prebiotic
Annual cool season crops for grazing by beef cattle. A Canadian Review
Authors: McCartney D. , Fraser J. , Ohama A.
Published: April 2011

With the current high feed grain costs and other economic uncertainties in the Canadian beef cattle industry, producers are trying to lower their unit costs of production. Costs can be lowered through extension of the grazing season using perennial pastures and annual crops for grazing. Oat (Avena sativa L.) and fall rye (Secale cereale L.) have traditionally been used to a nominal extent for extending the grazing season. However, there is limited information including a small number of animal grazing trials on the use of other annual cereals and annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) for low cost grazing systems relative to feeding traditional harvested and stored forages. This review discusses annual cool season crops that show promise for supplementary grazing systems. Systems such as swath grazing of a cereal crop, grazing the regrowth from silage mixtures of spring and winter cereals, or fall grazing annual Italian ryegrass can be used to extend the grazing season. Economic considerations will ultimately determine if there will be an increased role in the future for grazing annual crops on cropping land as a means of extending the grazing season to reduce year-round costs for the beef cow calf operator. Key words: Small grain cereals, annual ryegrass, extended grazing, forage quality
Pancreatic mass, cellularity, and α-amylase and trypsin activity in feedlot steers fed diets with increasing corn silage inclusion
Authors: Swanson K. C. , Kelly N. , Wang Y. J. , Fan M. Z. , McBride B. W.
Published: April 2011

Twenty-four yearling beef steers (initial BW = 535 ± 5.0 kg), predominately of Angus breeding, were used in a randomized complete block design to determine the effect of dietary inclusion of corn silage on pancreatic cellularity, mass, and α-amylase and trypsin activity. Using calan gates, steers were individually fed diets containing 20, 40, 60, or 80% corn silage (DM basis) with the rest of the diet made up of concentrate. Diets were formulated to maintain a constant CP:ME (g Mcal-1) and were fed at 2.1 × NEm requirement. After 28 d on treatment, the two heaviest steers from each treatment were slaughtered per week and pancreata collected. Pancreatic weight (g and g kg-1 BW) and content (kU and U kg-1 BW) of α-amylase activity did not differ among dietary treatments. Concentration (U g-1) of pancreatic α-amylase decreased (P = 0.03) with increasing corn silage inclusion. Pancreatic DNA and RNA content (g and mg kg-1 BW) increased linearly (P ≤ 0.04) with increasing corn silage inclusion. The content of pancreatic trypsin activity responded cubically (P = 0.03). These data indicate that increasing corn silage inclusion does not influence total pancreatic α-amylase activity and that cell number may influence pancreatic α-amylase concentration. Key words: Beef cattle, pancreas, α-amylase, trypsin, forage, concentrate
Toki soybean
Authors: Cober Elroy R , Guillemette Ronald J. D. , Voldeng Harvey D
Published: April 2011

Toki is a 2700 crop heat unit tofu-type soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivar. Key words: Soybean, cultivar description
Efficacy of high seeding rates to increase grain yield of winter wheat and winter triticale in southern Alberta
Authors: McKenzie Ross H , Bremer Eric , Middleton Allan B , Pfiffner Pat G , Dunn Robert F , Beres Brian L
Published: April 2011

Field trials were conducted for 3 yr (2002/2003 to 2004/2005) at three locations in southern Alberta to determine the impact of seeding rate and opener type on plant stand and grain yield of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and winter triticale (× Triticosecale Wittmack). Responses were determined for an optimum date of seeding in early to mid-September and for a late seeding in early to mid-October. Conditions were generally favourable for crop establishment, winter survival and growth, and average site yields ranged from 4.5 to 8.9 Mg ha-1. The disc opener increased spring plant density by 12.5% compared with the hoe opener, but did not affect grain yield. Spring plant density was 23% lower for winter triticale than winter wheat and 20% lower for October-seeded cereals than September-seeded cereals. Late seeding reduced grain yields of winter wheat and winter triticale by an average of 18 and 11%, respectively. Increases in target seeding rates from 150 to 350 plants m-2 (approximately 70 to 160 kg ha-1) did not affect grain yield and quality of September-seeded cereals, but increased grain yield of late-seeded crops by an average of 5 kg per kg increase in seeding rate. High seeding rates did not fully compensate for yield losses caused by late seeding. Key words: Triticum aestivum, × Triticosecale, plant stand density, yield
Leggett Oat
Authors: Mitchell Fetch J. W. , Duguid S. D. , Brown P. D. , Chong J. , Fetch T. G. , Haber S. M. , Menzies J. G. , Ames N. , Noll J. , Aung T. , Stadnyk K. D.
Published: April 2011

Leggett is the first oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivar released in western Canada carrying the crown rust resistance gene Pc94. Leggett carries the crown rust resistance combination Pc68 and Pc94, which provides good resistance to the crown rust populations currently present on the eastern Canadian Prairies. As a result of the presence of Pc94 providing resistance to oat crown rust, this line should exhibit excellent yield stability in the rust-prone regions of the prairies. Leggett has very good resistance to loose and covered smut, resistance to the prevalent races of oat stem rust other than NA67, but poor tolerance to barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV). Leggett has kernel characteristics suited to milling end uses, with high test weight and 1000-kernel weight and high percent plump kernels. The beta-glucan content of Leggett is equal to or higher than that of the checks, making it a desirable milling quality cultivar. Key words: Oat, Avena sativa L., cultivar description, crown rust resistance, milling oat, Pc94
AC Splendor hard red spring wheat
Authors: Fox S. L. , Townley-Smith T. F. , Kolmer J. , Harder D. , Gaudet D. A. , Thomas P. L. , Gilbert J. , Noll J. S.
Published: April 2011

AC Splendor is a hard red spring wheat that meets the end-use quality and kernel visual distinguishability specifications of the Canada Western Red Spring class. AC Splendor was evaluated in the Central Bread Wheat Cooperative Registration Test in 1993, 1994 and 1995 and was found to be adapted to the wheat-growing regions of the Canadian prairies. In comparison to the check cultivars Neepawa, Katepwa, Columbus, Roblin and AC Majestic, AC Splendor grain yield was similar to Katepwa, Columbus and Roblin; however, AC Splendor exhibited earlier maturity by 2.8, 7.5 and 1.6 d, respectively. AC Splendor is resistant to Puccinia graminis Pers.:Pers. f. sp. tritici Eriks. E. Henn. that causes the disease stem rust and P. triticina Eriks. that causes leaf rust and has intermediate resistance to Tilletia tritici (Bjerk.) R. Wolff and T. laevis Kuhn in Rabenh. that causes common bunt. Resistance to Fusarium graminearum Schwabe [teleomorph Gibberella zeae (Schwein.) Petch] that causes fusarium head blight is poor. End-use quality tests identified that AC Splendor had high protein concentration and was in the range of the checks for the other quality traits. Key words: Triticum aestivum L., cultivar description, red spring wheat, early maturity
Snowhite476 hard white spring wheat
Authors: Knox R. E. , DePauw R. M. , Clarke J. M. , Clarke F. R. , McCaig T. N. , Fernandez M. R.
Published: April 2011

Snowhite476 hard white spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the first Canadian wheat cultivar to deploy the gene Bt8, which confers resistance to prevalent races of common bunt [Tilletia laevis Kuhn in Rabenh. and T. caries (DC.) Tul. & C. Tul.]. The productivity traits of Snowhite476 were intermediate to the check cultivars. Snowhite476 had intermediate kernel hardness combined with yellow alkaline and white salted noodle colour and textural attributes comparable to AC Vista. Key words: Triticum aestivum L., cultivar description, grain yield, disease resistance, Bt8
Response of wheat root pathogens to crop management in eastern Saskatchewan
Authors: Fernandez M. R. , Basnyat P. , Zentner R. P.
Published: April 2011

A survey of common root rot in spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and durum wheat (T. turgidum L. var. durum) crops was conducted in eastern Saskatchewan from 1999 to 2001 to investigate the association of agronomic practices with disease and fungal populations, in particular Fusarium species associated with Fusarium head blight (FHB), which is a disease of increasing importance in this region. Spring wheat preceded by summerfallow, or grown after a sequence that included summerfallow and a cereal crop, had increased levels of Cochliobolus sativus and lower levels of most Fusarium spp. in discoloured subcrown internodes. Cropping sequences that included at least one noncereal crop in the previous 2 yr resulted in higher percentage isolations of F. avenaceum and F. graminearum than sequences which did not include noncereal crops. Highest levels of F. avenaceum, the most common FHB pathogen in the province, were observed when the previous crop was a pulse. Tillage system effects depended on the previous crop. When wheat was preceded by an oilseed crop, C. sativus decreased as the number of tillage operations decreased, whereas F. avenaceum and M icrodochium bolleyi increased with a reduction in tillage. Associations of fungal isolations with previous glyphosate use were negative for C. sativus and positive for F. avenaceum and M. bolleyi, although these effects varied depending on tillage system. Increased levels of important Fusarium pathogens were thus associated with current trends in production practices, namely continuously cropped diversified rotations and less reliance on mechanical soil tillage. Further investigation into the relative role of tillage intensity and glyphosate use versus cropping sequence on Fusarium populations in underground wheat tissue is needed. Key words: Common root rot, wheat, Cochliobolus sativus, Fusarium, tillage, glyphosate, crop rotation, nitrogen
Functional analysis of a class I patatin gene SK24-1 in microtuber formation of transgenic potatoes
Authors: Si Huaijun , Liu Jun , Huang Jian , Xie Conghua
Published: April 2011

Expression of a class I patatin cDNA clone, SK24-1, in Escherichia coli revealed that the cDNA clone possessed lipid acyl hydrolase (LAH) activity. Transformed potato plants were obtained via Agrobacterium-mediated transformation using the chimeric constructs containing the sense and antisense cDNA under the control cauliflower mosaic virus 35S (CaMV 35S) promoter. In some sense transformed plants, both sense patatin RNA and LAH activity were increased and further resulted in a significant increase of percentage of plantlets that formed microtubers and numbers of microtubers per plantlet in vitro. All antisense plants displayed a reduction in LAH activity. Both sense and antisense RNA could be detected in antisense plants, but transcripts of antisense RNA resulted in a reduction of endogenous sense RNA. Moreover, expression of antisense cDNA in some antisense transformed plants led to a significant decrease in the number of microtubers formed. These results suggest that SK24-1 was involved in regulating microtuber formation. Key words: Patatin, potato, Escherichia coli, sense RNA, antisense RNA
Development of an effective protoplast fusion system for production of new potatoes with disease and insect resistance using Mexican wild potato species as gene pools
Authors: Chen Qin , Li H. Y. , Shi Y. Z. , Beasley D. , Bizimungu B. , Goettel M. S.
Published: April 2011

Somatic hybridization through protoplast fusion is an important alternative approach for overcoming sexual incompatibility between diploid Solanum species and cultivated potatoes. However, compared with other potato species, methods for protoplast isolation and plant generation for several Mexican wild diploid potato species are not well established. In this study, a systematic procedure was designed for the isolation of a large number of high-quality protoplasts from various Mexican wild species that carry high levels of disease (late blight) and insect [Colorado potato beetle (CPB)] resistance. Using this procedure, an effective potato protoplast fusion system was developed to produce new somatic hybrids between two Mexican, one Argentina wild species, and cultivated potato clones. Regenerated plants and somatic hybrids were obtained at a high frequency from the protoplasts of the diploid wild species and their fused cells with S. tuberosum. Morphological, cytological and molecular marker analyses demonstrated that somatic hybrids were successfully obtained from the cell fusion of S. tuberosum and the diploid species S. pinnatisectum, S. cardiophyllum, and S. chacoense. Assessment of disease and insect reactions demonstrated that several of the protoplast-derived clones and somatic hybrids showed a higher level of resistance to both late blight and CPB than was found in S. tuberosum, confirming that the protoplast system is a powerful tool in potato breeding programs for the development of disease and insect resistance. This new fusion system provides breeders with opportunities to transfer disease and insect resistance genes from Mexican wild species into cultivated potato. Key words: Somatic hybrid, protoplast, fusion, potato, Solanum, late blight, disease resistance, Colorado potato beetle insect resistance
Functional genomic resources for potato
Authors: Li Xiu-Qing , Griffiths Rebecca , De Koeyer David , Rothwell Charlotte , Gustafson Vicki , Regan Sharon , Flinn Barry
Published: April 2011

Considerable functional genomic resources have been developed by the potato research community in the past decade, including expressed sequence tag (EST) libraries, SAGE libraries, microarrays, molecular-function maps, and mutant populations. This article reviews the types, characteristics, strengths, limitations, and appropriate applications of these resources for genomic research and discusses perspectives on future directions. This wide selection of resources available to potato researchers complements efforts to sequence the entire genome and advances made in the development of saturated genetic maps. Key words: Solanum, potato, genomics, expressed sequence tag, microarray, longSAGE, data mining
Molecular characterization and biotechnological improvement of the processing quality of potatoes
Authors: Li Xiu-Qing
Published: April 2011

Fries, chips, starches, flakes, and frozen pre-cooked potatoes, such as hash browns, are currently the main products made from processed potatoes. The processing quality of potatoes is largely determined by the carbohydrates, such as starch and glucose, in their tubers. The quantitative inheritance, heritability variation, transgene pleiotropic effects, and storage condition requirement of the processing quality are partly due to the carbohydrate metabolic network plasticity in potatoes. Pathway partition of sugars influences the processing quality such as chip color. This presentation attempts to review traditionally separate but related aspects (i.e., genetics, breeding, genomics, metabolism, marker-assisted selection, and transgenic engineering) of the potato processing quality and to discuss the integrated approach to its genetic improvement. Key words: Solanum tuberosum L., French fries, chips, carbohydrate metabolism, dry matter content, cold sweetening tuber morphology, metabolic network, partition of sugars, gene expression profile, transgenic regulation
Developing a scale-up system for the in vitro multiplication of thidiazuron-induced strawberry shoots using a bioreactor
Authors: Debnath Samir C
Published: April 2011

The use of large-scale liquid cultures in a bioreactor system has the potential to resolve the manual handling of the various stages of micropropagation and increases shoot multiplication in vitro significantly compared with those cultured on semi-solid gelled medium. In an attempt to improve the micropropagation protocol for strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.), a procedure for the mass propagation of adventitious shoots regenerated from leaf, sepal and petiole explants of cultivar Bounty using a liquid medium-containing bioreactor system combined with gelled medium is described. Leaf disks, sepals and petiole halves produced multiple buds and shoots without an intermediary callus phase on 2-4 µM thidiazuron (TDZ)-containing shoot induction medium within 5-6 wk of culture initiation. TDZ supported rapid shoot proliferation at low concentrations (0.1 µM), but induced hyperhydricity in a bioreactor system. Bioreactor-multiplied hyperhydric shoots were transferred to gelled medium containing 2-4 µM zeatin, and produced normal shoots and root within 4 wk of culture. In vitro derived plantlets were acclimatized and eventually established in the greenhouse and in the field. Present results suggested the possibility of large-scale multiplication of strawberry shoots in bioreactors. Key words: Fragaria × ananassa, growth regulator, shoot regeneration, RITA® bioreactor
Invasive species issues in Canada - How can ecology help?
Authors: Clements D. R. , Catling P. M.
Published: April 2011

The field of invasive species biology has been growing rapidly in the past decade, spurred on by the US Executive Order on invasive species in 1999. Despite calls to deal with invasive alien species under the International Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992, Canada has been slow to act. Part of the difficulty in managing alien invasive species effectively lies in the lack of ecological knowledge. The Canadian strategy on invasive alien terrestrial plants developed recently by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency sees research as a critical component of the strategy, including study of the biology and ecology of invasive plants. A symposium on ecology and invasive plant species at the Plant Canada meeting in 2007 in Saskatoon served to explore some emerging research in Canada, particularly focusing on Canada’s prairie region. Papers derived from five of the presentations are presented here and illustrate well the continuing challenge of applying ecological principles to the complex issues surrounding invasive plants. Canadian ecologists have made a significant contribution, but much remains to be done along the lines of the simple studies provided in this symposium. Key words: Invasive alien species, prairie region, biodiversity, ecological research
Response of irrigated corn silage to seeding rate and row spacing in southern Alberta
Authors: Beres B. L. , Bremer E. , Van Dasselaar C.
Published: April 2011

A field study was conducted to determine if high seeding rates were economically beneficial for irrigated corn silage production in southern Alberta. On average, 84% of seeds produced a plant, with 12% higher plant establishment in narrow (38 cm) than wide (76 cm) rows. Row spacing did not significantly affect yield, but maximum profitability was attained with a lower seeding rate for narrow rows. Whole-plant dry matter yields and net income were increased by 13% when seeding rates were increased from 64 000 to 74 000 seeds ha-1, but were not significantly affected by seeding rates from 74 000 to 114 000 seeds ha-1. The ideal seeding rate within this range may vary due to site specific conditions. Forage quality was unaffected by seeding rate. Key words: Corn, Zea mays L., irrigated silage production, quality, plant population, row spacing
THE EFFECTS OF GLAUCOUSNESS, EPICUTICULAR WAX, LEAF AGE, PLANT HEIGHT, AND GROWTH ENVIRONMENT ON WATER LOSS RATES OF EXCISED WHEAT LEAVES
Authors: CLARKE J. M. , RICHARDS R. A.
Published: April 2011

Water loss at minimum stomatal aperture (residual transpiration) from plant surfaces accounts for a substantial proportion of total transpiration during periods of water stress and at night. Its reduction by genetic selection has been suggested as a desirable objective in water-limited environments. To identify genetic and environmental sources of variation in residual transpiration of wheat (Triticum spp.), the effects of glaucousness, epicuticular wax, leaf age, plant height, and growth environment were determined using excised leaves. Glaucousness reduced residual transpiration by an average of 10%. Differing quantities of epicuticular wax and glaucousness in an isogenic pair of genotypes affected residual transpiration as well, the rate being 33% greater in the low wax, nonglaucous than in the high wax, glaucous line. Residual transpiration rate of flag leaves of field-grown plants increased with leaf age, particularly during the 7 d following ligule appearance. The rate of residual transpiration was greater in tall than in dwarf near-isogenic lines. Residual transpiration of leaves from plants grown in glasshouses was 44–66% lower than that of plants grown outdoors, which had a mean rate of 2.68 × 10−5 g H2O cm−2 min−1. Method of water application to glasshouse plants influenced residual transpiration rate. The rate for leaves of plants watered by spraying water onto the plant and soil surface was 20% greater than that of leaves of plants watered on the soil surface only. It was concluded that the increase in residual transpiration rate with leaf age was due to duration of exposure to the rigors of the exterior environment; the absence of this in controlled environments results in lower rates of residual transpiration than in the field.Key words: Cuticular transpiration, Triticum aestivum L., Triticum turgidum L. var. durum, wheat
EFFECTS OF SELECTION FOR FOLIAGE COLOR ON THE SEED AND FORAGE YIELD OF ALTAI WILD RYEGRASS
Authors: LAWRENCE T. , RATZLAFF C.D.
Published: April 2011

Selection for green, blue and bluegreen foliage color in Altai wild ryegrass [Leymus angustus (Trin.) Pilger], an autoalloploid species with 2n = 84, through six cycles of selection resulted in three divergent populations. The blue and green foliage populations were breeding true for foliage color by the fourth cycle of selection. Results from a seeded progeny test indicated a significant positive relationship between blue foliage color and increased seed yield and between blue foliage color and increased dry matter yield in years of relatively good moisture. Conversely, the green foliage color was negatively associated with both seed yield and dry matter yield. It is suggested that selection for blue foliage color would be useful in breeding higher seed and dry matter yielding strains and that ignoring foliage color would be preferable to selection for green foliage color.Key words: Foliage color, Leymus angustus, selection, seed yield, dry matter yield, ryegrass (wild)
THE BIOLOGY OF CANADIAN WEEDS.: 88. Elodea canadensis Michx.
Authors: SPICER K. W. , CATLING P. M.
Published: April 2011

A review is provided of information on the biology of elodea (Elodea canadensis Michx.). This submersed aquatic develops dense beds that impede water traffic and restrict water-based recreation in the southern portions of Quebec, Ontario, in British Columbia and Alberta. In some regions the dense beds decrease the efficiency of irrigated agriculture. Native to North America, elodea has recently spread to other parts of the world including Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Elodea is beneficial in providing food and cover for insects and other small aquatic organisms, and consequently it increases food availability for fish and ducks. It also has some potential as a source of food and forage because of its relatively high nutritional content. Elodea is most frequent in clear, nutrient-rich, alkaline water. Phosphorus levels in the plant have been utilized as an indication of trends in the nutrient enrichment of water bodies. Limiting nutrients include bicarbonate and iron. Although seed formation is rare, dispersal of overwintering dormant apices and stem fragments by water and by waterfowl can result in rapid spread. Mechanical controls, including boats equipped with cutters, are the preferred methods of managing elodea, but adequate harvesting of cut material is necessary because every fragment with an axillary or terminal bud may develop into a new plant. Biological control using nonreproductive plant-eating fish is a promising area of research.Key words: Elodea canadensis, weed biology, aquatic, Canada, distribution
THE BIOLOGY OF CANADIAN WEEDS.: 89. Carduus nutans L. and Carduus acanthoides L.
Authors: DESROCHERS A. M. , BAIN J. F. , WARWICK S. I.
Published: April 2011

Carduus nutans L. and C. acanthoides L. are introduced weeds, primarily of roadsides, fields and pasturelands. Both species occur in eastern and western Canada with C. nutans more common than C. acanthoides in western Canada. High seed production and germination rate on open soil contribute to the success of the species as weeds, as do the spiny leaves and stems which deter grazing by animals. Mowing or the application of hormone-like herbicides are both effective means of control. Biological control methods have also been used for both species, but have been most successful in the control of C. nutans.Key words: Musk thistle, nodding thistle, plumeless thistle, Carduus spp.
FIELD PEA CULTTVAR IDENTIFICATION BY ELECTROPHORETIC PATTERNS OF COTYLEDON PROTEINS
Authors: HUSSAIN A. , BUSHUK W. , ALI-KHAN S. T.
Published: April 2011

A procedure was developed for discrimination and identification of cultivars of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) on the basis of the electrophoretic patterns of the acetic acid soluble seed proteins. The electrophoresis is done on 7% polyacrylamide gels at pH 3.1 in aluminum lactate buffer.Key words: Pea, Pisum sativum L., cultivar identification, lactate PAGE, electrophoresis