Determining crop-water production functions using yield–irrigation gradient algorithms

Crop-water production functions (CWPFs) are a useful tool for irrigation planning, but derivation of CWPFs by field experimentation is expensive, and traditional analytical techniques are not well suited to derivation of CWPFs. Physiologically based crop models provide a useful tool for simulation of agricultural experiments, but they have not been extensively applied to the task of CWPF determination. A new algorithm type based upon differential crop yield response to irrigation (“yield–irrigation gradients” [YIG]) is presented that uses these crop models to determine planning-level irrigation schedules and CWPFs. Three specific algorithms are developed within this type, varying in complexity, performance, and computational costs. Performance of the YIG methods is compared against a standard reference evapotranspiration method. In particular, the randomized iterative YIG (RIYIG) algorithm provides near-optimal results but at the highest computational costs of all the methods specified. All of the techniques presented have general applicability and are not limited to any one crop or location.     

Use of the SDS-sedimentation test and SDS-polyacrylamidegel electrophoresis for screening breeder's samples of wheat for bread-making quality

Summary Gelprotein or SDS-insoluble gel-forming glutenin was isolated from wheat flour by extraction with an aqueous 1.5% SDS solution. Remarkable intervarietal differences were observed both in amount and subunit composition of these proteins.The amount of gelprotein and the SDS-sedimentation volume both proved to be good parameters for the bread-making quality of wheat cultivars. A high correlation was observed between amount of gelprotein and SDS-sedimentation volume. The amount of gelprotein was therefore tentatively assumed to be the essential basis of the SDS-sedimentation test.The subunit composition of the gelprotein was studied by SDS-PAGE after reduction of SS bonds by mercaptoethanol. It was found that the average bread-making quality of wheat cultivars and progeny of the cross Atlas 66 x Atys which possessed subunits 3 and 10, coded for by chromosome 1D, was significantly higher than that of wheat samples possessing subunit 2 and 11, their allelic counterparts.     

New lignans from the perisperm of Sesamum indicum

A procedure, based on XAD-4 adsorption resin, which permits the obtainment of enriched polyphenolic extracts from Sesamum indicum perisperm (coat) has been developed. Chemical analysis of the obtained extracts led to the identification of 16 lignans. Among them, two new lignans, (+)-saminol and (+)-episesaminone-9-O-beta-D-sophoroside, have been isolated. Additionally, the relative stereochemistry of (-)-sesamolactol, previously reported as todolactol A epimer, has been unequivocally defined using X-ray crystallography. The structures of all new compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods, mainly by the concerted application of 1D and 2D NMR techniques (HMQC, HMBC, and NOESY) and mass spectroscopy.     

Livestock-associated MRSA prevalence in veal calf production is associated with farm hygiene, use of antimicrobials, and age of the calves

Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) is highly prevalent in pork and veal production chains. In this study, we used data from a cross-sectional survey on 2151 calves from 102 veal calf farms to identify potential risk factors, with the goal of reducing MRSA prevalence by developing intervention strategies. Overall, calves from rose veal farms had a lower risk of LA-MRSA carriage than calves from white veal farms. Data were analysed separately for white and rose veal calves, because management systems of the two production chains were largely different. Group treatment with antimicrobials appeared to be a risk factor for MRSA carriage in white veal calves in univariate analyses, but was not included in the final multiple regression model that included age of the calves and rodent control. Number of start treatment days was positively associated with LA-MRSA carriage in rose veal calves, and was the only risk factor selected for the final multiple regression model for this group. Interpretation of the results from this cross-sectional study is complicated by the strong correlation between antimicrobial use, LA-MRSA carriage and age of the calves. Other age-related factors may be more influential. However, taken together these findings emphasize the need for prudent use of antimicrobials, and point to improvement of farm hygiene as a control measure.     

Notomelia in a piglet (Sus scrofa): Case report and review of the literature

This report describes a case of notomelia in a female piglet. The extra limb was attached at the interscapular region and was significantly undergrown. Its appendage was bifurcated with a unilateral keratinized tip. This is probably the first report of notomelia in a pig. The observations were compared with the bovine and ovine cases of notomelia reported so far.     

A review of morphological characteristics relating to the production and reproduction of fat-tailed sheep breeds

The purpose of this study is to survey the literature pertinent to some morphological traits which are related with the production and reproduction of fat-tailed sheep breeds. The fat-tailed breeds were identified according to Food and Agriculture Organization databases. Articles referring to all these sheep breeds were evaluated. The morphology of udders and their measurable variables were collected and described. The particularities of pelt and fleece features which are important from an economic point of view were summarized. Linear, planar, and spatial parameters of body, slaughter, and carcass factors were compared at various ages of breeding. Testicular dimensions and semen characteristics were recorded. Their relationships with productive and reproductive performance were discussed. The pattern of ovarian follicle development and the involution of the genital tract were assessed from the anatomical point of view in normal and untreated animals. The data presented here provide useful baseline information on the normal morphological aspects which are important in the animal production of these breeds.