As first steps, researchers mapped field plots using a global positioning system and determined base levels of soil nutrients and pH. Due to severe soil compaction, most of the plots were tilled to a depth of 35 centimeters in the fall of 1995. Looking at diseases, researchers observed a reduction in infection by Pythium sp. Data show a strong correlation between the presence of plant debris, especially of corn, and high populations of Fusarium graminearum, causal agent of wheat scab. A specific DNA probe for Ustilago hordei, causal agent of covered smut of barley, was sequenced and evaluated. It is possible to determine infection with this pathogen in seven days, important for barley screening programs.
Transgenic sows produce more milk on the same amount of feed, and their pigs grow faster.
The transgene was inherited through normal Mendelian genetics and the transgene appears to be stably integrated. The growth rate of the transgenic offspring as compared to the non-transgenic litter mates is statistically similar. This data suggest the transgene did not insert in a region of DNA that is necessary for normal growth and development. The transgenic females from this line will start to be inseminated in August 1996. Farrowing should start in early December 1996.