bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trichomonas vaginalis‐induced neutrophil apoptosis causes anti‐inflammatory cytokine production by human monocyte‐derived macrophages
Authors: AHN M. H. , SONG H. O. , RYU J. S.
Published: April 2008

Neutrophils are the predominant inflammatory cells found in the vaginal discharge of patients with a Trichomonas vaginalis infection. Neutrophils have a shorter life span than other leucocytes. Our previous study indicated that live T. vaginalis alters Mcl‐1 expression and caspase‐3 activation, thereby inducing apoptosis of human neutrophils. However, it was previously unknown that the apoptotic neutrophils brought about by T. vaginalis can influence vaginal inflammation. Thus, human monocyte‐derived macrophages (HMDM) were incubated with T. vaginalis‐induced apoptotic neutrophils. Cytokine production and phagocytosis by HMDM were evaluated by ELISA and myeloperoxidase stain, respectively. HMDM showed increased anti‐inflammatory cytokine production (IL‐10) and decreased levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF‐α and IL‐6, compared with macrophages alone.

Therefore, these results suggest that apoptotic neutrophils caused by T. vaginalis may lead to the resolution of vaginal inflammation by anti‐inflammatory cytokine production in the human macrophages.
Toxocara canis larval excretory/secretory proteins impair eosinophil‐dependent resistance of mice to Nippostrongylus brasiliensis
Authors: GIACOMIN P. R. , CAVA M. , TUMES D. J. , GAULD A. D. , IDDAWELA D. R. , MCCOLL S. R. , PARSONS J. C. , GORDON D. L. , DENT L. A.
Published: April 2008

Survival of parasitic helminths within a host requires immune evasion and excretory/secretory (ES) proteins may contribute to this process. Eosinophils are important effector cells in immunity of mice to the nematode Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and eosinophilic interleukin‐5 transgenic (IL‐5 Tg) mice are highly resistant to the earliest stages of primary infections. In contrast, Toxocara canis is largely resistant to eosinophils, with viable larvae encysted in tissues often surrounded by these and other leucocytes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether T. canis ES (TES) proteins inhibit eosinophil‐dependent resistance to N. brasiliensis. Mouse serum pre‐treated with TES had reduced capacity to mediate the adherence of leucocytes to N. brasiliensis infective‐stage larvae (L3) and this correlated with reduced complement C3 deposition on the parasite. TES did not inhibit eosinophil survival or eotaxin‐dependent eosinophil migration in vitro. Cellular inflammation and eosinophil degranulation in the skin in response to injection of L3 was also not impaired by TES. However, when TES was included with L3 in an inoculum given to IL‐5 Tg mice, a greatly increased number of parasites migrated to the lung. This suggests that the early eosinophil‐dependent resistance in these mice was suppressed, by mechanisms yet to be determined.
Liposome‐Encapsulated Antigens Induce a Protective CTL Response against Listeria monocytogenes Independent of CD4+ T Cell Help
Authors: Grenningloh R. , Darj A. , Bauer H. , Zur Lage S. , Chakraborty T. , Jacobs T. , Weiss S.
Published: April 2008

Protection against intracellular pathogens is usually mediated by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). Induction of a protective CTL response for vaccination purposes has proven difficult because of the limited access of protein antigens or attenuated pathogens to the MHC class I presentation pathway. We show here that pH‐sensitive PE/CHEMS liposomes can be used as a vehicle to efficiently deliver intact proteins for presentation by MHC class I. Mice immunized with listerial proteins encapsulated in such liposomes launched a strong CTL response and were protected against a subsequent challenge with L. monocytogenes. Remarkably, the CTL response was induced independently of detectable CD4+ T cell help.
Oestrogen‐dependent hereditary angio‐oedema with normal C1 inhibitor: description of six new cases and review of pathogenic mechanisms and treatment
Authors: Serrano C. , Guilarte M. , Tella R. , Dalmau G. , Bartra J. , Gaig P. , Cerdà M. , Cardona V. , Valero A.
Published: April 2008

Background:  Hereditary angio‐oedema (HAE) is a rare condition in which there is a deficiency in the quantity or activity of C1 inhibitor (C1INH). Recently, an additional type of HAE with no alterations in the levels or the function of C1INH has been reported. It is defined as HAE with normal C1INH, and named type III HAE or oestrogen‐dependent HAE. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical and laboratory findings of six new cases of type III HAE and to review the literature about this disease.

Methods:  A short description of six women with recurrent angio‐oedema is provided. The characteristics of the patients are compared with the previously reported case series in a literature‐based review.

Results:  The mean age of the patients at onset was 22 years (range 16–30). All of them had angio‐oedema attacks during oestrogen‐based contraceptive treatment and four reported episodes during pregnancy. Four patients reported a positive past family history. Two of them had experienced episodes of laryngeal oedema. None of the patients responded to corticoids or antihistamines during the attacks. Levels and functional activity of C1INH were within the normal range in all cases.

Conclusions:  Clinical and laboratory findings mirror the observations of previous reports of oestrogen‐dependent angio‐oedema with normal C1INH. This is the first published series of type III HAE in Spain.
Preliminary quantitative investigation of predictors of treatment non‐adherence in pediatric transplantation: A brief report
Authors: Kahana Shoshana Y. , Frazier Thomas W. , Drotar Dennis
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  The examination of predictors of non‐adherence in transplantation populations offers the potential to identify high‐risk individuals and concomitantly generate effective adherence‐promoting interventions. The present paper aggregated quantitative estimates of various correlates of treatment adherence in studies of pediatric transplantation. Seventeen studies and three classes of predictors of non‐adherence, including demographic, psychosocial, and treatment‐related predictors, were included in the current analyses. The weighted means effect sizes for the demographic factors were in the small to medium range (female gender mean d = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.32–0.38, n = 8; mean age d = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.52–0.58, n = 7), suggesting that older youth and males tended to display more non‐adherence behaviors than younger youth and females, respectively. Several psychosocial factors exhibited large to very large relationships with non‐adherence, in particular comorbid psychiatric conditions (mean d = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.66–1.42, n = 3) and child self‐responsibility for medication (mean d = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.53–1.23, n = 3). Finally, prior treatment/grafts (mean d = 0.17, 95% CI = −0.15–0.49, n = 3) and donor source (mean d = 0.33, 95% CI = −0.10–0.76, n = 4) exhibited small, non‐significant relationships with non‐adherence. Limitations of the study are discussed as are future directions for research.
May–Thurner syndrome in a pediatric renal transplant recipient — Case report and literature review
Authors: Vyas S. , Roberti I. , McCarthy C.
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Vascular complications post‐renal transplantation are not very common and can be associated with increased risk of graft loss. We report an unusual case of a young, female teenager with asymmetrical leg swelling. After one month of transplantation, the patient developed a rise in serum creatinine with right leg swelling (ipsilateral to transplant) from compression of the iliac vein by a right renal transplant lymphocele, which resolved after lymphocele drainage. Subsequently, left leg swelling (contralateral to transplant) was noticed and the diagnosis of May–Thurner syndrome was made by MRV. The patient was successfully managed with oral Plavix, stockings and leg elevation. The allograft function remained stable at 18 months post‐transplant.
Long‐lasting extracorporeal albumin dialysis in a child with end‐stage renal disease and severe cholestasis
Authors: Javouhey Etienne , Ranchin Bruno , Lachaux Alain , Boillot Olivier , Martin Xavier , Floret Daniel , Cochat Pierre
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  We report a case of long‐lasting MARS therapy as a bridge to liver–kidney transplantation. A 26‐month‐old girl with congenital tubulointerstitial nephritis and severe liver fibrosis was placed on MARS for an acute‐on‐chronic liver failure due to sepsis. She underwent two sessions with good tolerance and recovered her previous neurological status. On the basis of pruritus, sleep, and vomiting improvement, repeated MARS sessions were performed to bridge her to combined liver–kidney transplantation. During eight months, 40 sessions were performed with the MARSmini® kit and the MARS monitor® (Gambro, Lyon, France). The treatment significantly decreased mean pruritus score from 2.2 ± 0.9 to 0.8 ± 0.6 night‐time awakening and vomiting episodes. Body weight, height, and HC were −3.2, −3.5 and −2.2 SDS before and −1.7, −4.2, −2.0 SDS after eight months on MARS therapy, respectively. The arm circumference/HC ratio increased from 0.28 to 0.31. Mean total bilirubin serum levels were 303 ± 72 μmol/L before and 214 ± 42 μmol/L after MARS cycles. Long‐lasting MARS dialysis is feasible in children, decreases adverse effects of severe chronic cholestasis, and may help to preserve nutritional status prior to combined liver–kidney transplantation.
The dynamic thiol–disulphide redox proteome of the Arabidopsis thaliana chloroplast as revealed by differential electrophoretic mobility
Authors: Ströher Elke , Dietz Karl‐Josef
Published: April 2008

The dynamics of the thiol–disulphide redox proteome is central to cell function and its regulation. Altered mobility of proteins in the oxidized and reduced state allows the MS‐based identification of those thiol–disulphide proteins that undergo major conformational changes. A proteomic approach was taken with thylakoid‐bound, luminal and ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco)‐less stromal subproteome fractions of the chloroplast from Arabidopsis thaliana. Among the 49 verified polypeptides were 22 novel redox proteins, previously not reported as being part of the redox proteome. Among the redox‐affected proteins were PsbA (D1), PsaA1 and PsaF, chloroplast monodehydroascorbate reductase and also the Deg1 protease. Recombinant Deg1 and Deg2 revealed redox dependence of their proteolytic activity. The data provide new insights into the redox network of the chloroplast.
Cloning and expression analyses of sucrose non‐fermenting‐1‐related kinase 1 (SnRK1b) gene during development of sorghum and maize endosperm and its implicated role in sugar‐to‐starch metabolic transition
Authors: Jain Mukesh , Li Qin‐Bao , Chourey Prem S.
Published: April 2008

A full‐length cDNA clone, SbSnRK1b (1530 bp, GenBank accession no. EF544393), encoding a putative serine/threonine protein kinase homologue of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) SNF1, was isolated from developing endosperm of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Multiple sequence alignment data showed a phylogenetic affiliation of the sorghum clone with the SnRK1b group of protein kinases that are highly expressed in cereal seed endosperm. The DNA gel blot analyses indicated that SbSnRK1b gene is present as a single‐ or low copy number gene in sorghum. The RNA and protein gel blot analyses confirmed the expression of SbSnRK1b in developing sorghum caryopses, overlapping with the starch biosynthesis phase, 12–24 days after fertilization. In situ hybridization and immunolocalization data resolved the spatial specificity of SbSnRK1b expression in the basal endosperm transfer cell layer, the unique port of assimilate unloading in the growing sorghum seed. Expression of SbSnRK1b was also evident in the developing sorghum microspores, coincident with the onset of starch deposition phase. As in sorghum, similar spatiotemporal specificity of SnRK1b expression was observed during maize (Zea mays L.) seed development. However, discordant in situ hybridization and immunolocalization data indicated that the expression of SbSnRK1b homologue in maize is under posttranscriptional control during endosperm development.
Positive role of a wheat HvABI5 ortholog in abiotic stress response of seedlings
Authors: Kobayashi Fuminori , Maeta Eri , Terashima Akihiro , Takumi Shigeo
Published: April 2008

ABA‐responsive element binding protein (AREB) and ABA‐responsive element binding factor (ABF), members of the basic region/leucine zipper (bZIP)‐type protein family, act as major transcription factors in ABA‐responsive gene expression under abiotic stress conditions in Arabidopsis. Barley HvABI5 and rice transcription factor responsible for ABA regulation 1 (TRAB1) are homologues of AREB/ABF and are expressed in drought‐ and ABA‐treated seedlings. However, no direct evidence has shown an association of an AREB/ABF‐type transcription factor with stress tolerance in cereals. To understand the molecular basis of abiotic stress tolerance through a cereal AREB/ABF‐type transcription factor, a wheat HvABI5 ortholog, Wabi5, was isolated and characterized. Wabi5 expression was activated by low temperature, drought and exogenous ABA treatment, and its expression pattern differed between two wheat accessions with distinct levels of stress tolerance and ABA sensitivity. Wabi5‐expressing transgenic tobacco plants showed a significant increase in tolerance to abiotic stresses such as freezing, osmotic and salt stresses and a hypersensitivity to exogenous ABA in the seedling stage compared with wild‐type plants. Expression of a GUS reporter gene under the control of promoters of three wheat cold‐responsive/late embryogenesis abundant (Cor/Lea) genes, Wdhn13, Wrab18 and Wrab19, was enhanced by ectopic Wabi5 expression in wheat callus and tobacco plants. These results clearly indicated that WABI5 functions as a transcriptional regulator of the Cor/Lea genes in multiple abiotic stress responses in common wheat.
Veränderungen des bodenbürtigen Mineralstickstoffs im Frühjahr und seine Bedeutung für die Bemessung der N‐Düngung von Zuckerrüben
Authors: Maidl F. X. , Fischbeck G.
Published: April 2008

Dynamics of inorganic soil nitrogen during spring and its importance for N‐fertilizer management in cultivation of sugar beets

High sugar yield depends very much upon application of the correct dose of nitrogen fertilizer. To determine fertilizer needs in sugar beet cultivation two methods – Nmin and EUF – are discussed at present. Both methods are criticized not to be able to take into account the amount of soil nitrogen which becomes available between the early date of soil analysis and actual nutrient uptake in the sugar beet stands.

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of varying N‐mineralisation rates on growth and yield of sugar beets and corresponding changes in N‐fertilizer requirements.

The differences in soil nitrate content in February showed no relation to the amount on N available during the early vegetation period. Therefore very low correlation coefficients were observed between soil nitrate content in early spring (February/March) and sugar yield (R2 > 0.2). However highly significant correlation coefficients were obtained for NO3‐N‐content in April/May in the 0—60 cm soil layer and sugar yield (R2= 0.62—0.78). Maximum sugar yield was obtained with 220 kg N/ha soil nitrat content in April/May in 0—‐60 cm. A wide N‐optimum range for maximal sugar yield was observed. Deviations less than 50 kg N/ha from the optimal N amount caused no significant changes in sugar yield.

Higher amounts of late available nitrogen deposited at greater soil depths caused a decrease in sugar content and an increase in alpha‐amino‐N and sodium. Early applications of nitrogen fertilizer (before sowing) are endangered to be leached to lower depths with heavy rain falls and therefore may cause detrimental effects on juice purity and sugar content. For obtaining maximal sugar yield it is recommended to apply N‐fertilizer 1 or 2 weeks after and not before seeding.

Related to the wide optimum of N‐requirement ist seems possible to determine the use of Nitrogen fertilizer according to local experience. In special cases (slurry, tillage of wet soils, preceeding vegetables or legumes) it is suggested to determine NO3‐N‐content in April (0—60 cm) and to apply nitrogen fertilizer supplementary to 220 kg N/ha.
Seasonal Changes in Nitrate Reductase Activity and Nitrogen Contents of Upland Rice at Low and Optimum N Fertility
Authors: Pal S. K. , Pal U. R.
Published: April 2008

A field experiment was conducted at the Livestock Research Centre of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, India during the wet season (June—October) of 1980 with the objectives of characterizing the seasonal changes in in vivo nitrate reductase activity (NRA) and N contents of upland rice cultivars grown under rainfed condition at low (0 kg N/ha) and optimum (80 kg N/ha) N fertility.

In vivo NRA increased initially up to panicle initiation stage (50 days after sowing) and declined, thereafter, until 90 days. Leaf NO3‐N content paralleled with in vivo NRA throughout crop season. Total N content of leaves and stem declined with advance in crop age, whereas panicle N content increased with the crop development. Optimum N fertility (80 kg N/ha) always resulted in higher NRA, NO−3 and total N contents of rice plants.
Combining Ability for Grain Yield and other Agronomic Characters in Rice
Authors: Sasmal B. , Banerjee S. P.
Published: April 2008

A diallel analysis to identify parental lines and specific crosses through combining ability estimation was undertaken in a set of seven rice varieties. Griffing's Method I, Model I was employed for this purpose. The seven parents and 42 F1s (including reciprocals) were grown in a randomized block design with four replications. Data were collected on 16 characters including a few root characters for which requisite number of plants were grown (in RBD design) in pot culture.

GCA and SCA variances were significant for all the characters. Reciprocal effects were also significant except for rachilla/panicle and grain length. An early flowering NC 1281 Mutant and Taichung Native 1: bold grain mutant were good general combiners for majority of characters. The crosses with high specific combining ability generally involved high × low general combiners. The cross Nira × T‐N‐1: bold grain mutant recorded best SCA effects for grain yield as well as all the important yield attributes and also for major root characters. In fact, in most of the high SCA registering crosses for various characters, Taichung Native 1: bold grain mutant or Nira was one of the parents commonly involved.
Das Kompensationsvermögen der Weizenähre in Abhängigkeit vom Temperaturniveau während der Kornausbildungsperiode
Authors: Aufhammer W. , Hannappel U.
Published: April 2008

Compensation capacity of wheat ears depending on temperature level during grain‐filling period

In order to investigate the compensation capacity, effects of sterilization treatments on dry matter storage within spikelets and florets of wheat ears, growing in different temperatures during grain‐filling period were tested. Alternatively proximal or distal florets from 6 spikelets in the central region were removed at different stages. — Grain weight/ear remained 40% smaller in the high compared with the low temperature level. With high temperature sterilization of proximal florets allowed more additional florets in distal positions to develop grains than with low temperature. Beyond of this in both levels single grain weights in the basal and the apical region of the ear increased. Compensation effects, especially by additional grains decreased as later the treatments were done. Relatively the grain weight loss by sterilization was compensated to a higher degree in high than in low temperatures.
Observations of Effects of Partial Vernalization in Winter Rape Plants Grafted Onto Generative Stock
Authors: Filek W. , Pienkowski S. , Dubert F.
Published: April 2008

Winter rape plants vernalized under natural conditions were used as stock for grafting apical and subapical parts of rape seedlings vernalized at 5 °C in light during different periods ranging from 0 to 10 weeks. Acceleration of generative development in both kinds of grafts occurred already after 3 weeks of their vernalization, i.e. after cold treatment of insufficient length to induce flowering in plants developing independently. Effectiveness of vernalization — measured by acceleration of flowering in grafts was highest from 3rd to 5th week of cold treatment and then it declined. Processes occurring during an early stage of vernalization, though insufficient to allow independent generative development, become manifest in grafts made on vernalized stock. This allows investigations of very early stages of vernalization processes inaccessible to observation by other methods.
Effect of Field Bean and Soybean Cultivation on Soil Compaction Amelioration and its Influence on Wheat and Barley as subsequent Crops
Authors: Kahnt G. , Hijazi L. A. , Rao M.
Published: April 2008

Effect of field bean and soybean cultivation on soil compaction amelioration and its influence on wheat and barley as subsequent crops

Amelioration effect of field bean and soybean growth on compacted soil and its influence on the following crops of wheat and barley was tested. The performance of both field bean and soybean was affected by compaction. A reduction of 5–16 % in total dry matter, 10–22 % in seed yield, 5–12 % in no. of pods per plant, 4–14 % in plant height, 8–19 % in total accumulated N in plant and 11–22 % in accumulated N in seed of the both crops was registered. The crops were grown at 30 and 60 plants/m2 densities. The negative effects of compaction were compensated to some extent by high plant density. Both crops loosened the compacted field, the effect increased with an increase in plant density. Field beans decreased the soil bulk density up to 8 %, increased total porosity up to 8 % and air filled pores up to 19 % till 30 cm soil depth, the effects being higher than produced by soybeans.

The increases in yields of wheat and barley and in their accumulated N were 9–57 % and 11–56 %, respectively after field bean and soybean as preceeding crops than after barley.
Inhaltsstoffe von Ackerbohnen und ihre Beeinflussung durch Genotyp und Umwelt
Authors: Keydel F. , Wünsch A. , Scheller H.
Published: April 2008

Using grain‐material of 12 field bean (Vicia faba) varieties from three quite different locations 10 different constituents and their range were examined and the following results obtained:

In the case of N‐, P‐, and K‐contents significant differences between the varieties and genotypes can be noticed. The average values obtained are 4.97, 0.63 and 1.33 % respectively.

Field beans have a relatively high Fe‐ and Zn‐content with an average of 61.1 respectively 40.1 ppm, whereas the average value of Mn and Cu was only 16.0 respectively 12.6 ppm.

As far as starch, crude fat and crude protein are concerned, great differences can be observed. The average values were 42.97, 1.83 and 31.06 %. However, significant differences were noticed between the varieties and the locations.
Assimilation and Partitioning of Photosynthate and Nitrogen in Isogenic Tall, Semidwarf, and Doubledwarf Winter Wheats
Authors: Kim N. I. , Paulsen G. M.
Published: April 2008

Patterns of assimilation and partitioning of photosynthate and nitrogen in isogenic tall, semidwarf, and doubledwarf (Norin 10/5/Pawnee) ‘Pawnee’ hard red winter wheats (Triticum aestivum L.) were studied under controlled environmental conditions and field conditions. The objective of the investigations was to determine reasons for the advantageous harvest index associated with dwarf genes. Plants were sampled at four growth stages and separated into plant parts as they developed. Ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase (RuBPC) and nitrate reductase (NR) activities in leaves differed among growth stages but not among isogenic lines. Fructosan in sheaths, stems, and roots increased from the soft dough stage to maturity, but differed little among the lines. Nitrogen concentrations decreased in leaf blades, stems, and roots as plants developed to the soft dough stage and then stayed nearly constant until maturity. Nitrogen in all plant parts frequently varied directly with the complement of dwarfing genes, being lowest in the tall line and highest in the doubledwarf line. The tall and semidwarf lines had significantly higher grain yield, test weight, total dry matter, spike number, and 1000‐kernel weight than the doubledwarf line under either or both experimental conditions. The dwarf lines, however, had significantly higher kernel number per spike than the tall line. Harvest index was higher for the doubledwarf line (0.58) than for the two other lines (0.54).
Einfluß von P‐Mangel im split‐root‐System auf lipoide Eigenschaften der Rapswurzel (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Diepenbrock W. , Geisler G.
Published: April 2008

Effect of P‐deficiency in the split‐root‐system on lipoid root characteristics of rape‐seed (Brassica napus L.)

The effect of partial P‐deficiency on characteristics of parts of the root system from rape‐seed (Brassica napus L.) was investigated by means of the split‐root‐technique. At 1 cm length of the seventh leaf treatments started lasting 21 days. Pots were designed with two separated chambers filled up with nutrient solutions. Both halfs of the root system lacked of P (‐/‐) or were fully fed (+/+). Additionally, one part of the root system was fully supplied while the other part was kept without P (+/‐). The root system grown at partial P‐supply revealed compensatory reactions which became evident by increased uptake of K and Ca and by higher contents and amounts of lipid‐P as compared to the P‐deficient root portion. The fatty acid composition of the major phospholipids from root tissue, phosphatidyl choline (PC) and phosphatidyl ethanolamine (PE), varied in dependence of P‐nutrition. At P‐deficiency the linoleic acid content (% 18:2) declined while the linolenic acid content (% 18:3) increased. Consequently, no change in saturation occurred. However, in PE the degree of saturation was affected distinctly. P‐deficiency caused an increase of saturation whereas full supply led to higher desaturation. The results point to relations between the intensity of nutrient uptake modulated by P‐nutrition and the amounts and characteristics of membrane lipids in root tissue.
Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression Estimation of Root and Shoot Characters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Sasmal B. , Banerjee J.
Published: April 2008

The nature and extent of hybrid vigour and inbreeding depression were estimated from a diallel set of rice varieties. The seven parents and their 21 F1s and 21 F2s were grown in pots with four replications. Data were collected on four root and two shoot characters.

Maximum heterosis was recorded for root weight followed by roots/plant and root length. The inbreeding depression did not significantly affect the dry root weight in majority of the crosses. Heterosis for shoot weight was found to be associated with the heterosis for roots/plant and root weight.
Salt Tolerance of Some Oats (Avena sativa L.) Varieties at Germination and Seedling Stage
Authors: Verma O. P. S. , Yadava R. B. R.
Published: April 2008

Soil salinity is the serious problem of the arid and semi‐arid tracts of the world. It causes great losses to agriculture by lowering the yields of various crops. However, such soil may be utilized either after reclaimation or by growing tolerant plant species. The degree of salt tolerance varies not only with plant species but the different varieties of the same species show variation in salt tolerance. Germination and seedling stages have a bearing on plant development at later stages of growth and ultimately crop yield. Therefore, in the present investigation, twelve varieties of oats viz., Colabagh, Kent, JHO‐801, JHO‐802, JHO‐810, JHO‐815, JHO‐816, S‐3021, S‐2688, Chauripatti, UPO‐201 and Sierra were tested for their relative salt tolerance to increasing levels of salinity in those combination of salts which nearly exist in the natural salt affected soils. Seeds were sown in petri dishes and were exposed to five salinity (40, 80, 120, 160 and 200 me/L. of salts) levels. The germination percentage, root and shoot length and dry weight of the seedlings decreased with increase in salinity. In general, varieties JHO‐815, JHO‐802, JHO‐816 and UPO‐201 were found to be more tolerant at germination and seedling stages.
Soil Properties, Micrometeorological Parameters, Forage Yield and Phosphorus‐Uptake of Berseem as Influenced by Phosphate Application under Agroforestry System of Production
Authors: Hazra C. R. , Tripathi S. B.
Published: April 2008

The field study of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) in association with trees indicated that forage production was highest under Hardwickia binata allowing 80 per cent PAR of open as compared to Acacia tortilis and Leucaena leucocephala with 65 and 48 per cent PAR respectively. The forage yields of berseem were 78, 57 and 36 per cent under Hardwicka, Acacia and Leucaena respectively to that under non‐tree association (open canopy). The tree associations helped in improving soil productivity. Organic carbon, available nitrogen and phosphorus, field capacity and soil porosity increased, whereas EC and bulk density decreased under plots with tree associations in the order of Leucaena followed by Acacia and Hardwickia. The phosphate application improved the forage yield and P uptake and utilization. It has also helped in higher organic carbon and available N and P content of soil and also improved the water retention properties of soil by increasing field capacity and pore space and lowering the bulk density, P application to crops at increased rates also reduced the ill effects of radiation curtailment under tree canopy to some degree. The forage yields of berseem were greatly influenced by P application under both the canopy systems (tree and non‐tree).
Untersuchungen zur Ertragsbildung kurz‐ und langstrohiger Winterweizensorten
Authors: Pommer E. , Oppitz K.
Published: April 2008

Investigations about the yield formation of Winter Wheat Cultivars with Short and Long Straw.

The yield formation of winter wheat cvs with semi‐dwarf, short straw and long straw growth habit was investigated over three years in field and glasshouse trials.

The cv with semi‐dwarf growth habit had less earbearing tillers and spikelets per ear, an essential lower reduction rate of spikelets and more kernels per spikelet. This cv ranged medium in thousand kernel weight (tkw). Cvs with short straw differed from cvs with long straw through a lower reduction rate of tillers and a lower tkw.

No differences were found in the time of development of generative organs in specific growth phases. Cvs with short straw had advantages in assimilation by means of higher leaf area indices from tiller formation till anthesis and a better light penetration in the canopy due to a more erect leaf orientation. These characters may have been decisive for the higher survival of tillers. The cvs with a long straw however had a higher tkw, properly due to a less compact ear and a higher assimilate gain during kernel filling. Only small differences were found in root growth in favour of the cvs with short straw. The semi‐dwarf cv had the shortest roots. The cv “Kanzler” with a long straw had the best drought resistance.
Effect of Gypsum Application on Long Term Changes in Soil Properties and Crop Growth in Sodic Soils under Field Conditions
Authors: Sharma D. P.
Published: April 2008

In a field study, conducted on farmer's waste sodic soils, Aquic Natrustalf, 12.5 t/ha gypsum was surface mixed. Effect of gypsum application on soil properties and crop yields of rice and wheat grown in succession was evaluated after one to five years of gypsum application. The results showed that soil pH, electrical conductivity, calcium carbonate and soil dispersion decreased, whereas organic carbon, hydraulic conductivity, water infiltration and storage increased considerably after five years of gypsum application. In the initial years the improvement in soil properties was more in the surface layers and extended to lower layers slowly in the following years. Average grain yields of rice and wheat in the first year were 4.2 and 1.8 t/ha, respectively. The yields further increased to 6.1 and 2.5 t/ha in the 5th year, but the yields were lower than the yields obtained in research experiment. Relationships between wheat grain yield and pH of 0–15 and 15–30 cm layers were established. Wheat yield reduced by 45 percent when pH of 0–15 cm layer increased from 9.0 to 9.5. The sodicity of sub soil was still too high to permit the cultivation of deep rooted crops even after five years of gypsum application. Normal crop production is possible in these sodic soils, given sufficient time to reduce the sub soil sodicity.
Relationship Between Early Field Growth of Maize Genotypes and Seedling Traits under Controlled Conditions
Authors: Stamp P. , Thiraporn R. , Geisler G.
Published: April 2008

Investigations were done on six maize inbred lines of different origin and their diallel set of crosses. Seedlings grown at 14°, 22°, 30° and 38°C until three leaves stage were studied for morphological, anatomical and photosynthetic traits of leaves. These traits were screened for correlation with shoot dry weight at the six leaves stage under field conditions i) in 1981 and 1982 in North Germany, cool climate (CS); ii) 1981 in Thailand (WS). Some few seedling traits correlated well enough, dependent on temperature and location. CS shoot weights were closely correlated with dry weight of third leaves (14°) or NADP malate dehydrogenase activity (30°) (r = 0.66—0.85), whereas WS shoot weight correlated best with the depth of stomata below the epidermal surface (30°C) (r = ‐0.77). This shows that it is possible to predict early growth performance in the field within a group of genotypes adapted to different latitudes.
Physical Properties Affecting Water Entry in some Humid Tropical Soil
Authors: Bhadoria P. B. S. , Gupta C. P.
Published: April 2008

Field and laboratory experiments were conducted to study the effect of physical properties on water entry in three soils, differing appreciably in texture. The results indicate that the saturated hydraulic conductivity (K) of lateritic soil was manifold higher than the alluvial soil. In lateritic soil the value of K was 10−1 cm/hr and it ranged from 10−2 to 10−3 cm/hr in alluvial soil. In general, the conductivity decreases in the sub surface layers and may be attributed high bulk density resulting from compact blocky structure of the soil. The infiltration rate of lateritic soil was found to be 4 times more as compared to the alluvial soils.
Physiological Basis of Irrigation Scheduling for Seed Production in Egyptian Clover Syn. Berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) Crop
Authors: Sinha N. C. , Singh R. P.
Published: April 2008

A field experiment was conducted to find out the critical physiological stages of irrigation schedules inducing better growth, physiological efficiency and seed yield potential of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L., Var. S‐99‐1). For this purpose eight irrigation treatments were made comprised of four treatments of three irrigation (W1, W2, W3 and W4), three treatments of four irrigation (W5, W7 and W8) and one treatment of five irrigation (W6) at various physiological stages i. e. regeneration, flower initiation, full bloom, seed initiation and advance seed development stage.

Thus based on the experimental results the physiological role of watering in berseem seed production could be discussed as:

With‐holding of irrigation either at regeneration or at full bloom stage developed potential water stress in plants as indicated by high proline content of irrigation treatments — W4, W1 and W7; and further brought out disturbance on the formation of carotene, synthesis of water soluble sugar and translocation of sugar towards reproductive organs during grain development stage. These stresses adversely affected the plant growth and flowering behaviour. The irrigation at seed initiation stage increased the seed yield. Continuous irrigation did not appear to be useful. Thus it can be concluded that irrigation at three critical physiological stages i. e. regeneration, full bloom and seed initiation was found to be essential for obtaining potential seed yield of berseem.
The Effect of Alternate Flooding and Drying on the pH and Redox of Submerged Rice Soil
Authors: Hanif M. , DeMooy C. J. , Lindsay W. L.
Published: April 2008

The pH and redox relationships of a rice soil subjected to alternate flooding and drying were measured during the growth of three successive rice crops in the greenhouse. The objective was to explain why greater nitrogen losses occur under alternating flooding and drying than under continual submergence.

At 2 cm below the soil‐water interface the pH dropped from 8.3 to approximately 7.0 in 40 days and remained there through 120 days. The redox (pe + pH) dropped from 16 to 4 under the same conditions. When alternate flooding and drying were imposed, the pH fluctuated from 8.0 during drying to near 7.6 during submergence while pe + pH shifted from 16 during drying to approximately 8 during flooding. Both pH and pe + pH dropped slightly with depth into the sediment reflecting greater accumulation of CO2 and depletion of O2.

The findings in this study support the hypothesis that alternate flooding and drying causes the redox of rice soils to pass through the pe + pH range of 13 to 15 where theoretical considerations show that NO(g) is most stable and can function as a viable intermediate reaction product of denitrification in soils.
Studies on Plant Type of Certain Forage Crops
Authors: Sinha N. C.
Published: April 2008

A field experiment was conducted at Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi to study the plant type of certain forage crops (Guar— GL 7, GL‐8, HFG‐119, IGFRI‐212 and Guar‐80; Dinanath grass — P1 and P2; Pigeonpea — 3029, 6986, 7086; Bajra — rajko; Sunhemp‐1; M. P. Chari; Sesbania egyptica; Sesbania annuals) on the basis of their growth behaviour, plant canopy, bare length in monoculture at two stages of crop growth, so that these results may be critically assessed and incorporated while formulating the forage system sysnthesis for reaping high biomass produce per unit area. It was noted that growth rate and bare length were initially lower which markedly increased at second stage of crop growth except guar. Growth rate und bare length were in the order of M. P. Chari > Sunhemp > Sesbania annuals > Dinanath grass — P1; while this order was reverse for growth rate. Among legume crops the plant type sunhemp was superior over pigeon pea and guar. Pigeon pea had highest growth rate and low bare length as compared to guar except the variety Guar‐80. In view of achieving potential biomass production these data may be computed in formulation of various system where C4 plants — bajra‐rajko/M. P. Chari (characterised with maximum bare length and poor canopy) and dinanath grass (minimum bare length and thick canopy) is essential; and legumes which showing associative effects find its place in between the crops.
Drought and Tropical Pasture Management
Authors: Ugherughe P. O.
Published: April 2008

Droughts are an ever‐present threat to tropical crops and pastures. One of the most difficult features of managing pastures in arid and semi‐arid regions has therefore been the variability in production from year to year. An understanding of the survival mechanisms of tropical pasture plants and the factors controlling grass/legume interrelations is a prerequisite to the establishment of secure bases for management recommendations. These aspects and management strategies were discussed.

For increased agricultural productivity in order to avert famine, and efficient resource use in drought‐prone regions, pasture agronomists should pay attention to the characters most needing improvement in the suite of available tropical grasses and legumes that were discussed.
Influence of Soil Water Regimes on VA Mycorrhiza IV. Effect on Root Growth and Water Relations of Sorghum bicolor
Authors: Sieverding E.
Published: April 2008

In a greenhouse trial, non‐mycorrhizal and mycorrhizal plants of Sorghum bicolor were grown at three water regimes. The root length and root morphology of Sorghum bicolor was monitored in two soils during 34 days. From 29 days on, total root length of mycorrhizal sorghum was greater than of non‐mycorrhizal sorghum in moderate and high water stress conditions. In soil A, at all water regimes a lower percentage of coarse roots and smaller root length per leaf area were found with mycorrhizal plants; in soil B, this was only the case in well watered conditions. In general, all root and water relation parameters were less affected by water stress when plants were mycorrhizal; this less sensitivity of mycorrhizal sorghum may increase the tolerance of the plant to drought. However, water relations of plants were indirectly enhanced by mycorrhiza via increased P uptake.
Soybean Allelopathy and Subsequent Cropping
Authors: Huber D. M. , Abney T. S.
Published: April 2008

The observed delayed emergence and seedling development in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) planted into soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) residues in the field were reproduced in the greenhouse. Severity of the effects were increased as the rate of residue increased. Residues, and leachates from residues, inhibited wheat growth and reduced yields 19–29 % in the field. Shallow incorporation of residues into soil resulted in delayed emergence, thinner stands, and greatly shortened coleoptile length. Emergence was reduced more under “moderately dry” soil conditions while stunting was more pronounced under “wet” soil conditions. Residues appeared to have no direct effect on Rhizoctonia winter‐kill. Based on this research, even distribution of soybean residues across the field at harvest and deep placement of the residue should reduce these allelopathic effects on a subsequent wheat crop.
Relationship Between Biomass Yield of Field Grown Maize Genotypes and Seedling Traits under Controlled Conditions
Authors: Stamp P. , Thiraporn R. , Geisler G.
Published: April 2008

Investigations were done on six maize inbred lines of different origin and their diallel set of crosses. Seedlings grown at 14°, 22°, 30° and 38°C until three leaves stage were studied for morphological, anatomical and photosynthetic traits of leaves. These traits were screened for correlation with shoot dry weight at harvest under field conditions i) in 1981 and 1982 in North Germany, cool climate (CS); ii) 1981 in Thailand (WS). The correlation between seedling traits under controlled conditions and shoot dry weight under field conditions markedly changed after anthesis. Some few seedling traits closely correlated with biomass yield, favourably at 14° and 38°C. They mostly belonged to the morphology and anatomy of the leaves (area first leaf at 38°C, r = 0.6—0.7, all locations; depth of stomata below the epidermal surface at 38°C, r =—0.5 at CS and —0.7 at WS). In spite of significant correlations between single seedling traits and biomass yield a relyable prediction of biomass yield should best be based on a carefully chosen set of seedling traits.
Energy Input and Output Analysis of four Field Crops in California1
Authors: Reed W. , Geng Shu , Hills F. J.
Published: April 2008

Four crops, corn (Zea mays L.), sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.), fodder beet (Beta vulgaris L.) and sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.) were grown in irrigated plots at the experimental farm of the University of California, Davis, in 1980 and 1981. Six fertilizer N levels ranging from 0 to 280 kg ha−1 were used to estimate the most efficient N input for each of the tested crop in terms of energy input and output analysis.

Calculations of cultural energy input costs in relation to potential ethanol yield showed production requirements of: corn 30.9 GJ ha−1, sweet sorghum 30.4 GJ ha−1, fodder beet 49.4 GJ ha−1 and sugarbeet 41.0 GJ ha−1. Highest average energy inputs were for liquid fuels for operations 35%, irrigation 23% and fertilizer nitrogen 19%. Fodder beet had the highest fermentable carbohydrate yield at 13.05 Mg ha−1 followed by sugarbeet at 11.5 Mg ha−1. Sweet sorghum and corn yields were lower at 9.71 and 8.09 Mg ha−1, respectively. Crop production inputs of energy per liter of potential ethanol were: corn 6.42 MJL−1 sweet sorghum 5.25 MJL−1, fodder beet 6.35 MJL−1 and sugarbeet 5.95 MJL−1.
Effect of Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Soil Compaction on Shoot and Root Growth of Field Bean and Soybean
Authors: Kahnt G. , Hijazi L. A. , Rao M.
Published: April 2008

The study was done to observe the effects of soil compaction on field bean and soybean growth in greenhouse. Plastic cylindrical tubes of 58 cm height and 12 cm diameter were filled with silty loam soil with three bulk densities i.e., low (1.25 g/cm3), medium (1.45 g/cm3) and high (1.65 g/cm3) either separately or in combination of low/medium (level 1), low/high (level 2) and medium/high (level 3) as top and sub‐soil densities.

General effect of compaction was a reduction in shoot and root growth and in yield of both the legumes; probable reason seemed to be mechanical impedance. At homogeneous compaction throughout the soil profile high bulk density decreased the root dry matter from 6 to 32 % and total root length from 30 to 57% but total root volume was not much affected due to thickening of the roots. From 4 to 31% reductions were also observed in shoot dry matter. Increase in only subsoil density from medium to high (level 2) decreased shoot and root dry matters (8 to 36% and 16 to 39%, respectively) but not the total root length. Plant growth was more hampered when both top and subsoil densities were increased (level 3) but the total root length was not highly affected in the upper (0 to 20 cm) and middle (20 to 40 cm) layer.
Effect of Neem Leaf (Azadirachta indica L.) on Growth and Yield of Low Land Rice
Authors: Santhi S. R. , Palaniappan Sp.
Published: April 2008

The farmers of tropical Asia are applying neem leaves to rice fields as green manure traditionally. Neem cake blending of urea is recommended for inhibition of nitrification and increasing nitrogen use efficiency. Field experiment conducted at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India, during kharif and rabi seasons in 1984–85 with a short duration (105 days) rice cv. IR 50 showed that application of fresh neem leaf at 5 t/ha or dry neem leaf 1.25 t/ha with urea resulted in higher N recovery per cent and N response ratio and gave increased grain yield compared to the yield obtained due to the application of urea alone. Besides increasing the grain yield, neem leaf application could save about 50 per cent N application and give greater net returns to the farmer.