bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An optimized low-frequency three-axis search coil magnetometer for space research
Authors: Séran H. C. , Fergeau P.
Published: March 2005

The design of a three-axis search coil magnetometer in the 1 Hz–20 kHz range developed for the scientific satellite DEMETER is described. The sensitivity is a critical parameter as the search coil must be able to detect very weak signals in the Earth’s magnetosphere. The sensitivity is mainly constrained by the size and the mass allocated onboard the spacecraft. Significant improvements are made in terms of mass and sensitivity over previous space-borne search coils. We achieve a noise level of 4fTHz−1∕2 at 6 kHz and a mass of 430g for the three search coils and the bracket. A good agreement is observed on the estimation by finite element analysis of the sensor impedance and the measurements. The gain and noise model of the search coil and its preamplifier also agree quite well with measurements.
X-ray transparent gasket for diamond anvil cell high pressure experiments
Authors: Merkel Sébastien , Yagi Takehiko
Published: March 2005

The diamond anvil cell is a fundamental tool for investigating properties under extreme conditions. However, our knowledge of material behavior under high pressure has been limited by a lack of measurement capability in radial directions. In this study we introduce a gasketing technique based on a combination of Kapton, amorphous boron, and epoxy, that reliably solves this issue. We demonstrate how these gaskets allow precise imaging of stress, strain, and microscopic properties such as texture and lattice preferred orientations within the sample, in situ, up to pressures in the range of 65GPa.
Modal liquid crystal lens driven by low voltage produced from a wireless controlling and driving system
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Loktev Mikhail , Vdovin Gleb
Published: March 2005

A wireless driving and controlling setup constructed by a coil system and a simple power metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor switch circuit for modal liquid crystal lens has been designed, fabricated and characterized. Electrical and structural modeling and analysis have been applied to the design of the wireless power transforming and controlling system. Some key electrical characteristics of coils with different diameter and winding, such as resistance, impedance, capacitance, inductance, and Q factor, which determine the driving and controlling behaviors of the coil system constructed, are given. The liquid crystal lens can be operated under relatively low driving voltage ranging from about 1.5to12Vrms. Under dynamic operation, the prototype system has shown a stable driving and controlling performance to liquid crystal lens under the condition of switching mode of a few KHz. The possibility of integrating very small coils connected in series onto a small-size silicon chip as an integrated receiver in biomedicine application has been shown experimentally.
Design, development, and testing of a hybridin situtesting device for building joint sealant
Authors: White C. , Embree N. , Buch C. , Williams R. S.
Published: March 2005

The testing of sealant samples has been restricted to devices that either focus on fatiguing multiple samples or quantifying the mechanical properties of a single sample. This manuscript describes a device that combines these two instrumental designs: the ability to both fatigue and characterize multiple sealant samples at the same time. This device employs precise movement capability combined with a stiff loading frame and accurate force measurement for the characterization of five ASTM C719 sealant samples. The performance of this device is demonstrated by monitoring the changes in mechanical properties of silicone sealant during the first 90h of cure. A complete description of the apparatus, results from the study of curing and analysis is included.
Measurement method for finding gas adsorption equilibrium isotherms by employing a gas chromatograph and using its integrator in a new way
Authors: Eriksson Tore , Sylwan Christopher
Published: March 2005

A method for measuring the adsorption ability of zeolites has been developed. The adsorption can be accurately measured over a wide range of pressures and temperatures. The range usually covered is partial pressures ranging from 0.2 to 20 bar (a) and temperatures from 10 to 50 °C. However, it may be extended to 0.1–25 bar (a) and −40–80°C. When a partial pressure below 2 bar (a) is to be used, the gas is diluted with helium. The method is built around a gas chromatograph (GC) equipped with a thermal conductivity detector (TCD) and having a programming and peak integrating unit. It also has an option using liquid nitrogen to allow work below ambient temperature. The GC has been modified with two special columns to be used alternately for purging with helium and as test chamber for the measurements. It is also equipped with a separate external flow and pressure-handling unit. The GC is used, not as a chromatograph, but instead to integrate suitably interrupted breakthrough curves. The primary measured data are evaluated using a program written in BASIC, which separates the part of the primary measured results that originates from the adsorption from the part that is induced by the measuring equipment. Using a calibration file that can easily be updated from within the program, this separation has achieved a high degree of accuracy. Using the adsorption data from these measurements, Langmuir-type isotherm equations are fitted, which accurately represent the adsorption of the tested gas both with respect to pressure and to temperature. It has been found that adsorption data measured in this way can achieve a standard deviation between measured and calculated data that typically varies around 1% over the whole measured range. In order to do this, however, in the case of nitrogen adsorption the sum of two Langmuir isotherms has to be used. This is not needed with oxygen or argon adsorption.
Nanoscale fabrication of a single multiwalled carbon nanotube attached atomic force microscope tip using an electric field
Authors: Lee Hyung Woo , Kim Soo Hyun , Kwak Yoon Keun , Han Chang Soo
Published: March 2005

We report a simple, repeatable, reliable method and influential conditions for assembling a single multiwalled nanotube (MWNT) to the end of a metal coated atomic force microscope (AFM) tip. The influential conditions consist of the frequency and magnitude of the induced voltage, the concentration of carbon nanotube (CNT) solution and the shape of the tip’s apex. The optimal experimental factors needed for a single MWNT deposition using the dielectrophoretic force were obtained through repeated experiments. Applying an electric field of 0.6 to 0.7Vpp∕μm at 5 MHz, dropping a droplet of the transparent MWNT solution dispersed in the ethanol in a range of 0.5 to 1μℓ, we obtained a CNT AFM tip with just a single MWNT attached. Furthermore, we found that the curvature of the tip’s apex is a great influential factor in a single MWNT-attached tip. We expect that the appropriate size of curvature can improve the yield of single MWNT attachment. The effectiveness of the MWNT-attached AFM tip is demonstrated by direct comparison with AFM images of a bare AFM tip for a standard sample.
Small prototype of Anger camera with submillimeter position resolution
Authors: Fiorini Carlo , Perotti Francesco
Published: March 2005

In this work we present a small prototype of Anger camera based on a monolithic array of silicon drift detectors (SDDs) used as photodetectors for a single CsI(Tl) scintillator crystal. This prototype, having a total sensitive area of about 1cm2, has been realized in order to evaluate the performances attainable in γ-ray imaging by using a SDD array instead of the more conventionally employed photomultiplier tubes. An intrinsic resolution better than 200μm has been measured with this camera. This result was achieved thanks to the extremely low electronics noise presented by the SDD units, fully exploited by the integration of the front-end junction field effect transistor directly on the detector chip. The main features of the detector as well as the results of its extended experimental characterization with 60 and 122 keV gamma rays are presented and discussed in the article. The present device has many potential applications in the field of medical imaging, in which outstanding position resolutions are essential.
Dynamic leakage current compensation in ferroelectric thin-film capacitor structures
Authors: Meyer René , Waser Rainer , Prume Klaus , Schmitz Torsten , Tiedke Stephan
Published: March 2005

We report on a measurement procedure to separate ferroelectric switching current and dielectric displacement current from the leakage current in leaky ferroelectric thin-film capacitor structures. The ac current response is determined for two adjacent frequencies. Taking advantage of the different frequency dependencies of the ferroelectric switching current, dielectric displacement current and ohmic current, the hysteresis loop is calculated without performing a static leakage current measurement, which causes a high dc field stress to the sample. The applicability of the proposed measurement procedure is demonstrated on a Pt∕Pb(Zr,Ti)O3∕IrO2 ferroelectric capacitor revealing a high leakage current.
Free-standing silica film containing Si nanocrystals: Photoluminescence, Raman scattering, optical waveguiding, and laser-induced thermal effects
Authors: Khriachtchev Leonid , Räsänen Markku , Novikov Sergei
Published: March 2005

A Raman and photoluminescence study of a thermally annealed free-standing film of silica containing Si nanocrystals is reported. The laser-induced thermal effects are observed, including the increase of the absorption coefficient and the strongly nonlinear rise of the light emission. The light emission measured at high excitation powers is probably blackbody radiation, and the Raman measurements confirm high laser-induced temperatures. The Ar+ laser annealing strongly increases the crystalline Raman peak showing that thermal annealing at 1150 °C does not finish structural reorganization of the SiOx material. In the waveguiding detection geometry, the spectral narrowing of the photoluminescence is observed.
The effect of fertilizers on the crude protein content and palatability of serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma (Nees.) Hack.)
Authors: Campbell MH , Barkus B
Published: March 2005

The effect of sulphate of ammonia a d superphosphate on the crude protein and moisture content of burnt, cut, and unburnt serrated tussock, (Nassella trichotoma (Nees.) Hack.), has been noted. Superphosphate, either alone or with sulphate of ammonia, had no effect. Sulphate of ammonia, significantly increased the moisture content and crude protein content of the weed, and cattle selectively grazed areas treated with higher rates.
Cobalt supplements for cattle - the use of heavy pellets in fattening steers.
Authors: Fearn JT
Published: March 2005

Retention tests of cobalt heavy pellets for cattle are reported. Pellets of 30 grams, with a specific gravity of 4.5, were retained for six months and appear adequate for fattening steers. Weight gains in supplemented cattle were above normal expectations.
Pasture burning and its effect on the aestivation eggs of Halotydeus destructor (Tuck.)
Authors: Wallace MMH
Published: March 2005

Burning of dry pasture late in the summer can cause high mortalities of the oversummering eggs of Halotydeus destructor. Good kills may be obtained in small, local situations but over large areas results are liable to be erratic.
A cincturing experiment on the sultana.
Authors: Antcliff AJ
Published: March 2005

An experiment is described on sultana vines in which single or double cut cincturing every year for seven years, and double cut cincturing in years of low fruitfulness only, were compared with no treatment. The yield of vines cinctured every year did not decrease progressively after an initial increase, as was previously supposed, but appeared to reach equilibrium at a lower level than for untreated vines. An initial increase in berry size due for treatment gradually disappeared in later seasons as the treatment was continued. An increase in yield on vines cinctured in one season only was more than offset by a decrease in the following year. It is concluded that even occasional cincturing is not likely to be useful for dried fruit production, and that for fresh fruit production the desired increase in berry sire will be obtained only if different vines are cinctured in successive seasons.
Milling damage and quality evaluation of wheat.
Authors: Moss HJ
Published: March 2005

The relationships between the diastatic activity, Farinograph water absorption, protein content, and proportion of ruptured starch granules in some samples of experimentally milled flour are discussed. A very strong relationship is established connecting crumb softness and crust colour of bread with the protein content and diastatic activity of the pour from which the bread was baked. Some typical figures for the proportion of damaged starch in four varieties of wheat are shown. In addition the effect of the milling procedure on the degree of starch damage and on the baking quality of some flours is described, while over-milling is shown to lead to false manifestations of strength in physical ksting instruments, and to gluten-bound loaves, due to damage to the protein.
Sorghum — peanut crop sequences at Katherine, N.T.
Authors: Phillips LJ , Norman MJT
Published: March 2005

Between 1957-58 and 1960-61, a crop sequence experiment with grain sorghum and peanuts with and without nitrogen fertilizer was carried out on Tippera clay loam at Katherine, N.T. Neither crop was influenced by the crop grown two years before it. Peanuts showed no response to preceding crop or to nitrogen fertilizer. Sorghum grain yields were 77 per cent higher after peanuts than after sorghum, and sorghum stubble yields 56 per cent higher. Nitrogen fertilizer increased sorghum grain and stubble yield when the crop followed sorghum, but not when the crop followed peanuts. Nitrogen content of sorghum grain was higher after peanuts than after sorghum, and was also increased slightly by nitrogen fertilizer. Nitrogen yield of sorghum grain was almost twice as high in crops following peanuts than in crops following sorghum. Nitrogen fertilizer increased nitrogen yield of sorghum grain when the crop followed sorghum, but not when the crop followed peanuts.
Root weight profiles of eight species of Trifolium grown in swards.
Authors: Humphries AW , Bailey ET
Published: March 2005

Weight distribution and depth of the root systems of a number of Trifolium species and varieties were measured at full flowering. In general the root systems increased both in weight and depth with increasingly later flowering, but root depth appeared to be also a specific character.
Effect of shading during growth on the soluble sugar contents of short rotation ryegrass.
Authors: Melvin JF , Sutherland MA
Published: March 2005

The effect of shading for 64 hours before cutting on the soluble sugar contents of short rotation ryegrass has been determined at weekly intervals during growth. From grass with five to six leaves emergent to the stage of growth usually accepted for hay-making, the average reduction in the total sugar content of the shaded plants was about 30 per cent, made up of decreases in sucrose (12 per cent), oligosaccharides (5 per cent) and fructosans (13 per cent).
Properties of roughage feedstuffs collected from oesophageal fistulas.
Authors: McManus WR
Published: March 2005

Observations on the nature of two roughage diets collected from nine oesophageal fistulated, pen-fed sheep on twenty-three occasions are reported. The diets were lucerne chaff and a wheaten grain-chaff mixture. The fistulas were of three types. Six were latex plug stoppered fistulas with relaxed orifice diameter of 1.5 to 3.0 cm ; two were fitted with rigid screw-capped acrylic cannulas of diameter 2.5 cm ; and one was an early Torell type fistula with a 6.0 cm by 1.0 cm orifice. Over 35 per cent of the diet can be recovered from these fistulas, which is satisfactory. Mean recoveries (pooled with respect to diet) were 36 per cent for acrylic cannuluted fistulas, 46 per cent for latex plug stoppered fistulas, and 82 per cent for the Torell type fistula. For all fistulas recovery values varied widely. On the lucerne chaff diet the nitrogen content of the extruded material did not differ significantly from the feed eaten. However, the ash content was significantly increased (P<0.05). On the diet of wheaten chaff and wheaten grain there was a slight, but not significant tenden9 for the extruded material to contain a higher ratio of chaff to grain. In vitro treatment of succulent grass and dry oaten straw with saliva confirmed that the increase in ash content was of salivary origin. There was no evidence that saliva either leached nitrogen from or added it to these feedstuffs
Determination of the number of root nodule bacteria in the presence of other organisms
Authors: Date RA , Vincent JM
Published: March 2005

Use of the plant-dilution method for the determination of the number of root-nodule bacteria in nonsterile carrier materials has been described for both small and large-seeded legume hosts. Calculation of the most probable number of rhizobia is described using values based on the appropriate tables of Fisher and Yates, and approximate factors of error for 95 per cent fiducial limits are stated. It was found that the plant-dilution method was likely to underestimate the number of rhizobia by a factor not greater than 2, when comparisons were made with pure cultures. However for non-sterile peat the tendency was for the plate count to give the lower estimate. This latter effect was no doubt due to the presence of other organisms and therefore the plant-dilution method is to be preferred in such cases.
Distribution of plant parasitic nematodes in irrigated vineyards at Merbein and Robinvale
Authors: Sauer MR
Published: March 2005

Surveys made through the irrigation districts of Merbein and Robinvale, settlements established at different times on similar soils, showed that several genera of plant parasitic nematodes were widely associated with growing of grape vines. These genera included Meloidogyne, Tylenchulus, Pratylenchus, Paratylenchus and Criconemoides. Meloidogyne was more widely distributed in the newer area of Robinvale (37 per cent of samples infested) than in the older area of Merbein (22 per cent infested). This is most likely due to increasing infestation of vine numerics. In one com- paratively new section of Merbein where vegetable growing among vines has been common practice, half the samples contained Meloidogyne larvae. Root knot nematodes were most common in light textured soils. Over 90 per cent of samples from Merbein contained Tylenchulus, probably became citrus is grown or has been grown on very many properties. At Robinvale a little over 20 per cent of samples contained citrus nematode. Plant parasitic nematodes are sufficiently common at the present time in the irrigation areas to constitute an important problem in grape production.
The levels of copper, molybdenum and inorganic sulphate in some Western Australian pastures. A contribution to the study of copper deficiency diseases in ruminants
Authors: Beck AB
Published: March 2005

Levels of copper, molybdenum, and inorganic sulphate are reported for samples of Western Australian pastures from areas where copper deficiency diseases in ruminants have occurred and from unaffected areas. The copper contents of the pastures were determined previously. It was found that the copper deficiency diseases commonly occurred where pastures contained less than 3 p.p.m. Cu in the dty matter during the growing period, while such diseases were absent where the pastures contained more than 6 p.p.m. Cu. Values between 3 and 6 p.p.m Cu were classified as marginal. The molybdenum and inorganic sulphate contents of the original pasture samples have now been determined. The molybdenum contents of the three classes of pasture were found to lie within the same range (0.1 to 4 p.p.m. Mo in the dry matter, with the majority less than 1 p.p.m.). These values are similar to those recorded by overseas workers for normal pastures. Inorganic sulphate contents of the three classes of pasture also lay within the same range (0.1 to 0.9 per cent SO4, with the majorio between 0.2 and 0.4 per cent). The results for the pastures examined suggest that in Western Australia the low copper level is the constant and the most significant factor associated with enzootic ataxia in sheep and falling disease in cattle.
The influence of inter-row spacing and plant population on the yield of peanuts at Katherine, N.T
Authors: Phillips LJ , Norman MJT
Published: March 2005

In 1957-58 and 1958-59, Virginia Bunch and Natal Common peanuts were sown on Tippers clay loam at Katherine, N.T., in a multifactorial experiment at two inter-row spacings (2 ft and 3 ft), four plant populations (10, 20, 40 and 80 thousand per acre) and two dates. In 1960-61, Natal Common only was sown at the same inter-row spacings, at two dates, and at populations of 10, 20, 30 and 40 thousand per acre. Over two seasons, the yield of Virginia Bunch kernels was not significantly influenced by variation in population, though the yield of hay was 42 per cent higher at 80,000 plants per acre than at 10,000 plants per acre. Kernel yields from 2 f t rows were 14 per cent higher than from 3 f t rows. In the first two seasons, the yield of Natal Common kernels was lower at 80,000 plants per acre than at 40,000 plants per acre. Over three seasons, maximum kernel and h g yields were achieved at 40,000 plants per acre ; the kernel yield at this population was 35 per cent greater than at 10,000 plants per acre. With early-planted Natal Common, 2.ft rows gave an 11 per cent higher yield of kernels than 3 f t rows, but with later planting there was no significant effect of inter-row spacing. The optimum economic seeding rates were estimated approximately as 30 lb an acre for Virginia Bunch and 45 lb an acre for Natal Common.
Induction of ovulation in anoestrous ewes
Authors: Braden AWH , Moule GR
Published: March 2005

Satisfactory control of the time of ovulation was achieved in anoestrous Border Leicester X Merino ewes primed with progesterone, and injected with pregnant mare serum (PMS), followed by chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG), but fertility was very low. Most of the ovulations occurred between 22 and 29 hours after HCG injection.Anoestrous virgin Dorset Horn ewes, 12-18 months old, were given progesterone injections for 8 days followed by PMS, or PMS and then HCG injection. Seventeen per cent lambed following insemination at the time of induced ovulation. Many ewes that did not conceive returned to heat, and some conceived as the result of mating up to 85 days after the induced ovulation, with the result that 45 per cent of all ewes eventually lambed.
Bitter pit in the apple variety Sturmer in a pot experiment using low levels of major elements
Authors: Martin D , Wade GC , Stackhouse K
Published: March 2005

The results of a pot experiment showing the influence of low calcium, low magnesium, and complete fertilizer on the pit incidence and mineral content of Sturmer apples are reported. Low calcium treatment resulted in high incidence of pit, low levels of calcium and high levels of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and nitrogen in the fruit compared to complete fertilizer and low magnesium treatments. In the ash, though the proportion of calcium was significantly lower, the proportions of potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus did not change. The difference in the characteristics examined between pitted and sound fruit in the three treatments were in the same direction as those between fruit from low calcium and complete fertilizer treatments, and the differences in calcium level were significant. The response to low calcium treatment was a much greater relative molar increase in nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus than the molar decrease in calcium. The evidence supports an hypothesis that the primary cause of pit is low calcium status which under water stress in the leaves and fruit induces an increase in nitrogen, respiration rate, and mineral content but gives no indication which of these causes the lesions.
The relation between kernel development and time of harvesting of peanuts at Katherine, N.T
Authors: Barrs HD
Published: March 2005

In an experiment involving two times of planting of Natal Common peanuts at Katherine, N.T., the development of kernels was followed by weekly harvests. The accumulation of kernel yield per acre was found to proceed to completion at a high rate, with no gradual decline in rate as the final level was approached. In spite of widely different conditions of growth and final yield per acre, the final mean weight of individual kernels was almost the same (0.35 grams) for both plantings. Yield differences were therefore almost who14 due to differences in kernel numbers. The increase in mean individual kernel weight (MIKW) was found to follow closely the increase in total kernel weight (TKW), reaching a constant value at almost the same time as did total kernel weight. The coefficient of variation for MIKW was only about one-tenth of the coefficient for TKW.It is therefore suggested that MIKW can be used satisfactorily to estimate maturity. In Natal Common maturity seems to be reached when MIKW reaches 0.35 grams. A satisfactory estimate of MIKW is obtained from five typical plants the kernels being oven-dried at 80�C for 24 hours before weighing and counting. Supporting evidence for the constancy of MIKW despite differing kernel yield per acre is quoted. It is suggested that MIKW may differ between varieties at maturity.
Quality of diphenylamine treated Granny Smith apples in relation to the composisiton of the storage atmosphere
Authors: Scott KJ , Hall EG , Riley TJ , Finlay DE
Published: March 2005

New South Wales grown Granny Smith apples were stored for seven months in three seasons. The effects of four controlled atmospheres and two air storage temperatures on final fruit quality and on development of senescent disorders were studied. To minimise superficial scald, to which the variety is very susceptible, the fruit was wrapped in diphenylamine wraps prior to storage. Assessment of quality after storage was made by panel judgments of appearance and edibility. The effects of the storage conditions on the development of disorders were assessed by scoring methods. In general, controlled atmosphere storage reduced the development of senescent disorders and proved superior to air storage in the maintenance of fruit qualify. Atmospheres containing carbon dioxide best preserved external appearance but an atmosphere of low oxygen with carbon dioxide removed resulted in superior internal quality. Of the treatments studied 5 per cent carbon dioxide with 2.5 per cent oxygen gave best overall fruit quality.
Hot water seed treatment for Leucaena glauca (L.) Benth
Authors: Gray SG
Published: March 2005

Seed of Leucaena glauca (L.) Benth. germinates slowly, and irregularly unless treated before sowing to render the testa permeable to water. Treatment with sulphuric acid is effective but inconvenient to use. Experiments with hot water over a range of temperature and time are described. An effective treatment was to immerse the seed in water at 80�Cfor two minutes. After this treatment seed can be dried rapidly and stored before sowing. Seed treated in this way has retained full viability for 15 months.
The effect of storage in polythene on the development on hard seed in the West Australian blue lupin
Authors: Quinlivan BJ
Published: March 2005

Hard-seededness in the West Australian blue lupin (Lupinus varius L.) is closed related to moisture content. Freshly harvested seed has a high moisture content (18 per cent or more), the seeds are soft and capable of immediate germination. The moisture content of stored seedfalls rapidly during the summer months reaching 10 to 11 per cent by mid-summer. At this stage the seeds become hard and impermeable to water. Scarification is not a satisfactory technique for improving the germination of these seeds. An alternative technique-storing in polythene lined cornsacks soon after harvest, when the moisture content is 13 to 14 per cent-is described. This technique controlled the moisture loss and prevented the development of hard-seededness. Viability of the seed was not reduced but subsequent field germination was increased by approximately 100 per cent.
Responses of pasture legumes to zinc on calcareous soils in the Riverina, New South Wales
Authors: Kleinig CR , Loveday J
Published: March 2005

The low availability of zinc on a number of calcareous grey and brown soils of heavy texture with pH>8, in the Coleambally Irrigation and Balranald areas of New South Wales, resulted in marked deficient symptoms in, and responses to zinc by, Bacchus Marsh subterranean clover (Trifolium subterranean L.), grown on these soils. An interaction between zinc and manganese occurred but there was no yield advantage in applying manganese in place of, or together with, zinc. Healthy subterranean clover grew on the surface soil (0-4 in.) of Yooroobla clay, a gilgai puff, but plants on the subsoil, which is exposed when the soil is leveled for irrigation, were extremely, zinc deficient. The pH of the subsoil is generally about 0.5 units higher than that of the surface soil. Legume species and strains differed in their response to zinc. Ladino white clover (Trifolium repens L.) and Clare subterranean clover responded less to applied zinc than Bacchus Marsh subterranean clover, and barrel medic 173 (Medicago tribuloides Desr.) responded less than Ladino white clover. When no zinc was applied barrel medic 173 yielded better than Ladino white clover, and Ladino white clover and Clare subterranean clover better than Bacchus Marsh subterranean clover.
A screening technique to predict field behaviour of medics on saline soil
Authors: Greenway H , Andrew WD
Published: March 2005

A rapid test for the salt tolerance of plants, based on health ratings of intact plants subjected to a brief salinity stress, is proposed. For sixteen Medicago species, it was shown that such health ratings taken in the glasshouse were highly correlated with field behaviour on a saline soil.
Modifications to a salinity meter for irrigation requirements
Authors: Shea PF
Published: March 2005

A compact battery operated meter for measuring the salinity of water supplies on pastoral properties, has been modified for use on irrigation and drainage waters. The instrument operates between 0-12,000 micrombos/cm (0-8,500 parts per million) using two ranges. The low range operates between 0-2,000 micrombos/cm (0-1,400 p.p.m.) to permit accurate measurement of irrigation supplies which are generally below 1,500 micrombos/cm (1,000 p.p.m.).
Relations between input resources and output on a group of dairy farms in the Moreton district, Queensland
Authors: Rayner IH , Young JG
Published: March 2005

An estimated production function is presented relating herd size and feed supply to dairy products output for a group of Moreton dairy .farms. The implications of the estimated production function are discussed and it is concluded that, considering the farms as a group, current levels of use of cows and hand-feeding are near economic optimum, whereas low quality forage areas are used to an excessive and unprofitable extent.
Nodule bacteria for two species of serradella - Ornithopus sativus and Orithopus compressus
Authors: Parker CA , Oakley AE
Published: March 2005

The effectiveness of several isolates of nodule bacteria was tested on two species of serradella Ornithopus sativus Brot. and O. compressus L. analysis based on green top weights showed isolate S3 to be superior to the other isolates tested and also to the lupin strain W72, which is the only commercially available strain suitable for inoculation of serradella.
The effect of insecticide treatment on the yield and botanical composition of sown pastures in Western Australia
Authors: Wallace MMH , Mahon JA
Published: March 2005

The yield and botanical composition of established, sown pastures were measured after applying insecticides to control the red-legged earth mite. Halotydeus destructor (Tuck.), the lucerne Flea, Sminthurus viridis (L.) and the webworm, Talis spp. The response to treatment depended upon the pest involved, the numbers present, and the vigour of the pasture. Control of H. destructor resulted in an average response of 3.9. cwt an acre of extra dry matter in the spring. To consume this, it is sugested that stocking rate should be increased by about 1/4 sheep per acre. This could be raised to 1/3 sheep per acre by careful selection of treatment areas. Slightly greater responses, up to perhaps 1/4 sheep per acre, can be expected when S. viridis is plentiful. Heavy webworm attack reduced carping capacity on average about one sheep per acre. The economics of insecticide treatment are examined in the light of these results. A formula is given whereby the farmer can calculate the likely return from treatment on his own property. It is concluded that in a large number of cases treatment is near the borderline of profitability. Farmers should make certain that insecticide treatment is the best way of spending their money. Having decided to use insecticides they should (a) treat only those areas where obvious damage is being done and avoid any blanket spraying programme and (b) ensure that some positive use is made of the increased herbage following treatment.
A preliminary report on regulation of oestrus and fertility in cyclic ewes by an oral administration of 6-methyl-17-acetoxyprogesterone
Authors: Roberts EM , Bindon BM , Houlahan PM
Published: March 2005

A preliminary investigation has been carried out to test the value of 6-metbl-17-acetoxjprogesteron (MAP) as a suppressor of ovarian activity. The progesterone derivative (MAP) was given to Merino ewes for 16 days during the breeding season. It was fed at s rate of 50 mg a day in 1/2 lb crushed wheat (group 1) or administered in capsule form at the rate of 50 mg a day (group 2a), 100 mg every two days (group 2b) or 200 mg every four days (group 2c). Suppression and synchronization of oestrus and conception were satisfactory in group 1, 2a and 2b, but not in 2c. In groups 1, 2a and 2b, 37 ewes were treated, 30 (eighty one per cent) muted in a space of three days and 25 (sixty eight per cent) of these. were found pregnant at slaughter. These results suggest that administration of MAP at a rate of 100 mg every two days will be followed by satisfactory synchronization of oestrus and normal conception rates.
Reclamation of saline soils at Kerang, Victoria, by ponding and pumping from an aquifer
Authors: Garland KR , Jones GO
Published: March 2005

Large areas of saline soils occur in the irrigation districts near Kerang in north-west Victoria. In the past, reclamation of these soils by leaching from intermittent irrigations has taken several years. The present work demonstrates- 1. The rapid reclamation of 2 1/2 acres of badly salted land by simultaneously ponding (fresh water) on the soil surface andpumping from a sand layer at 24feet. Thus, ten days of ponding and 56 hours of pumping from the aquifer reduced salinity in the top six inches of soil (0-6 in.) from 1.60 per cent NaCl to 0.05 per cent NaCl. Changes in soil p H and exchangeable cations, brought about by leaching and/or the we of gypsum, are reported. 2. The rapid leaching of salt from the surface soil of 2 acres of highly saline country by ponding alone.
F1 tomato hybrids for Murray Valley glasshouses
Authors: Giles JE , Brock RD
Published: March 2005

A series of trials extending over three seasons has shown a number of F1 combinations to be superior in production, quality and earliness to the standard tomato variety used in commercial glasshouses in the Murray Valley irrigation area. An assessment of varieties for their potential as parents, points to other F1 hybrid combinations which would warrant testing.
Glasshouse and field experiments on the control of tobacco blue mould
Authors: Janes BS , Kuiper J
Published: March 2005

A simple procedure is described for the testing of chemicals against blue mould (Peronospora tabacina Adam) on tobacco seedlings in the glasshouse. Of approximate/y 500 chemicals tested, 17 gave mould control comparable to that of the standard (0.1 per cent w/v zineb), but a number of these were phytotoxic. In two field trials, zineb and ethylenethiuram monosulphide as dispersible powders or suspensions in white spraying oil base and N-p-tolyl dichloromaleimide as a dispersible powder, gave highly effective control early in the season, but later in the season, only zineb at 0.1 and 0.2per cent w/v gave effective control. Maneb, which was not tested in the field, later proved consistently superior to zineb in extensive glasshouse trials, and appeared to be the most promising compound for further investigation.
A comparison of the productive performance of single and twin born Merino ewes
Authors: Dun RB , Grewal RS
Published: March 2005

A comparison has been made of the productive performance of448 single and 466 twin born ewes. The data was obtained over eight years from five autumn mated, single character selection flocks maintained at Trangie Agricultural Research Station. The following highly significant, mean percentage differences were recorded in favour of singles :-fold score, 16.5 ; weaning weight, 12.8 ; 18 month body weight, 3.9 ; greasy fleece weight, 2.9. A 4.3 per cent difference in classing score and a 2.2 per cent difference in clean fleece weight approached the 5 per cent level of significance (P<0.1). Weaning weight analysis revealed a significant interaction between year and type of birth caused by the relatively improved performance of twins in years which favoured lamb growth. An analysis of the components of clean fleece weight showed that the lowered wool production of twins was associated with a decrease in the total number of wool fibres per sheep, caused by reductions in skin area and in the proportion of secondary fibres. Twins and singles did not differ in fibre density, diameter or length. The analysis of fertility (total number of lambs mothered at the first two matings) showed a significant interaction between type of birth and jock. Single born Weight Minus ewes were more fertile, whereas in the other four flocks the difference favoured twins. Without the Weaning Weight Minus flock, twins showed a highly significant advantage of 16.9 per cent in percentage lambs mothered. This difference could be wholly accounted for by higher incidence of multiple births.
The influence of the poll gene and of castration on production characters of male Merino sheep
Authors: Dun RB
Published: March 2005

Two drops of lambs were produced in spring 1959 and 1961 by mating poll rams (Pp) to knobbed ewes (pp). At marking time (1-4 wk), a random half of ram lambs of the Pp group and of the pp group were castrated. The rams and wethers were grown together and the following measurements were made-greasy fleece weight, clean scoured yield, clean fleece weight, staple length, crimps per inch, fold score, body weights at weaning and 17 months, and mortality to 17 months. The analyses showed no evidence of significant poll-genotype x sex interactions caused by superiority of Pp rams and pp wethers. It was concluded that segregation of the poll gene had no influence on any of the production characters studied. Rams cut six per cent more clean wool than wethers, but due to the large difference in size, clean wool production per lb body weight favoured wethers by 19 per cent. The ram's wool showed six per cent finer crimping than the wethers' fleece.
Further observations on plant selenium levels in Western Australia
Authors: Gardiner MR , Gorman RC
Published: March 2005

A survey of plant selenium was carried out in the agricultural district of Western Australia in the spring of 1962. Pasture samples were collected from mid-August to mid-November during, or shortly after, the spring flush of growth in the different districts. Pastures were collected from both 'light' and 'heavy' country in each of the districts, and whenever possible, fertilizer history was recorded and botanical composition determined. Pasture samples from the 10-15 inch rainfall belt averaged 0.26 p.p.m. selenium ; from the 15-20 inch rainfall belt, 0.08 p.p.m., from the 21-30 inch rainfall belt, 0.056 3.p.m ; and from the higher than 30 inch belt, 0.036 p.p.m. If the critical level for selenium deficiency syndromes is placed at 0.05 p.p.m., then deficiency levels mg appear in all rainfall belts, the lower limit of which is the 15 inch isobyet. Regression analyses showed that there was a significant difference between the selenium contents of pastures from heavy and light soils in each rainfall area. The indicator condition of selenium levels of 0.05 p.p.m or less (white muscle disease) has not been seen in the northern range of the higher rainfall districts, although here, as elsewhere, plant selenium levels appear to be predicated on mean annual rainfall figures and on type of county. Grasses and cereals tended to dominate the pastures in the areas with less than 15 inches of rainfall a-year, while subterranean clover with admixtures of capeweed and grasses were chiefly found in the higher rainfall districts.
Nitrogen content of wheat grain as as indication of potential yield response to nitrogen fertilizer
Authors: Russell JS
Published: March 2005

Examination of results from a large number of experiments in the wheat growing areas of South Australia has shown a relation between grain yield response to nitrogen fertilizer and both grain nitrogen percentage and the ratio. (Yield of grain)/(Amount of nitrogen in grain and straw) of corresponding unfertilized wheat plants. With Gabo, large yield responses to nitrogen fertilizer were associated with grain nitrogen percentages of less than 2.0 per cent N (9.9 per cent protein). Above 2.3 per cent N (11.3 per cent protein) positive responses to nitrogen were small and some negative responses were found. Similar overall trend were shorn by Insignia 49, Sabre and Quadrat. Exponential regression equations were calculated for Gabo allowing prediction of grain yield response at rates up to 46 lb fertilizer N an acre under conditions which result in grain protein contents of 7.5 to 16 per cent. Most profitable rates of nitrogen fertilizer application were also calculated for several different fertilizer-grain price levels. Possible value of the nitrogen content of wheat grain in the selection of regions, soil types, and cultural practices where nitrogen fertilizer may be used is discussed.
The use of the chisel plough and improved pastures for controlling serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma)
Authors: Campbell MH
Published: March 2005

The efficiency of five chisel plough treatments in killing mature serrated tussock (Nasseila trichotoma (Nees.) Hack.) was measured. Treatments with three ploughings were most successful but did not remove all tussocks. Reinfestation of seedling tussocks was highest in the most thoroughly prepared seedbeds and lowest in the least prepared. Improved species, when spelled during spring and summer, smothered some mature tussock and a high proportion of seedling tussock. Of five improved species sown, the establishment of two, Trifolium repens L. and Phalaris tuberosa L. was affected by the thoroughness of seedbed preparation.
Comparative trails with Sorghum almum and other forage sorghums in south-east Queensland
Authors: Pritchard AJ
Published: March 2005

Results from trials with 46 different forage sorghums indicate that the Crooble variety of Sorghum almum and Krish (a selection from a hybrid between S. halepense and S. roxburghii) are superior to all the others in yielding ability and persistence in south-eastern Queensland. All characters investigated in S. almum showed considerable variability, and improvement of some by further breeding and selection should be possible. Palatability and ease of seed identification may be improved by selection following hybridization with perennial sweet sudan grass.No source of resistance to leaf diseases was found in S. almum.
Cyanide formation in Sorghum almum in relation to nitrogen and phosphorus nutrition
Authors: Kriedeman PE
Published: March 2005

The effects of nitrogen and phosphorus on the cyanide content of Sorghum almum Parodi, grown in the glasshouse on a phosphorus deficient soil, were investigated. Both nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers increased the total cyanide content of plant tops; however, phosphorus dressings equivalent to 40 cwt superphosphate an acre depressed the percentage cyanide level. The effects of fertilization on cyanide production are discussed in terms of nitrogen and phosphorus uptake and plant yield.
The use of some African clovers as pasture legumes in Queensland
Authors: 't Mannetje L
Published: March 2005

Twenty-seven introductions of African species of Trifolium were grown in nurseries and in a sward trial to test their possible use for Queensland pastures. T. semipilosum and T . burchellianum were the only species to persist for more than three years in a pasture under grazing. These two species may be useful constituents of irrigated and dryland pastures in south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales. Observations on growth habit, nematode infestation, and virus infection are given.
Phosphate responses in some central Australian soils by seedlings of exotic perennial grasses
Authors: Winkworth RE
Published: March 2005

Five species of perennial grasses from western Rajasthan, India, were grown in pots. Growth was extremely poor in soils obtained from spinifex and mulga communities which cover 54,000 square miles in Central Australia alone. Additions of superphosphate gave large increases in growth. No response to phosphate was obtained in the flood-plain soil tested. The establishment of exotic pastures on the spinifex and mulga soils would be severely hampered without the addition of fertilizers. It is suggested that the pockets of flood-plain amounting to some 2000-3000 square miles, are the most favourable for pasture establishment and potentially the most productive.
Binapacryl : a new fungicide for the control of apple powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha)
Authors: Ward JR
Published: March 2005

Binapacryl, a new fungicide for the control of apple powdery mildew, (Podosphaera leucotricha (Ell. and Ev.) Salm.) was field tested in Tasmania in the seasons 1961-62 and 1962-63 and found to give better control of secondary mildew infections than dinocap and wettable sulphur. Binapacryl 25 per cent wettable powder (W.P.) was used at rates of 1, 1.5 and 2 lb to 100 gallons, dinocap 22.5 per cent W.P. at 12 oz to 100 gallons, and 80 per cent and 89 per cent micronized sulphur formulations at 3 lb to 100 gallons.