Soybean

Combustion of coal for production of electricity in the United States often requires the removal of SO 2 produced in the flue gas in order to meet clean air regulations. Some scrubbing technologies lead to the production of large amounts of flue gas desulfurization (FGD)-gypsum. Gypsum is a soluble source of the plant nutrients Ca and S and can also improve the physical and chemical properties of soils. However, there are few reports on the use of FGD-gypsum for enhancement of crop growth or soil quality in agriculture. FGD products, used as S fertilizers, were applied at a rate of 30 lbs S/acre to an agricultural soil (Wooster silt loam, Typic Fragiudalf). Corn (Zea mays) grain yield was statistically (P ≤ 0.05) increased by 18.3% in 2002 and 6.6% in 2003 as compared to a no-treatment control. Based upon measurements of soil chemical properties, the quality of a Blount soil (Aeric Epiaqualf) in Ohio was improved by application of 1,500 to 3,000 lbs of FGD-gypsum/acre. Water-soluble Ca and S were increased to a depth of 80 cm and exchangeable Al was decreased between 10 and 40 cm depth. Preliminary results of an economic analysis suggested that a gypsum/no-tillage crop production system had economic advantages compared to a no gypsum/conventional tillage system for soybean production.

The crude methanolic extract of Zuccagnia punctata was active toward the fungal pathogens of soybean Phomopsis longicolla and Colletotrichum truncatum. Assay guided fractionation led to the isolation of two chalcones, one flavanone and a new caffeoyl ester derivative as the compounds responsible for the antifungal activity. Another new caffeoyl ester derivative was isolated from the antifungal chloroform extract but proved to be inactive against the soybean infecting fungi up to 50 µg/mL

Current debates about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture reveal substantial differences in perception of the associated risks and benefits. Genetically modified crop varieties promise benefits to both farmers and consumers, and can lower damage to the natural environment, for example by reducing pesticide use. But some other environmental issues, together with food safety and ethical concerns with the production and use of GMOs, are being raised as potential negative aspects of GMOs. Hence the recent Biosafety Protocol with its endorsement of the use of the precautionary principle. However, if that Protocol were to encourage discriminatory trade barriers or import bans, or even just long delays in approving the use of imported GM seeds, it may be at odds with countries' obligations under the World Trade Organization. The first part of this paper provides a brief overview of the trade policy issues at stake here. The distributional consequences of adopting GMO technology in agriculture within and between countries, and of proposed trade-related policy responses, cannot be determined a priori. Hence the need for empirical modelling of the economic effects of GMO adoption. The second part of the paper illustrates how such policy or consumer responses can alter significantly the potential size of the global GMO dividend and its distribution. This is done using a wellreceived empirical model of the global economy (GTAP) to quantify the effects on production, prices, trade patterns and national economic welfare of certain countries' farmers adopting GM maize and soybean crops without and with trade policy or consumer responses in Western Europe (where opposition to GMOs is most vocal).

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are environmental carcinogenic compounds that may contaminate vegetable oils and their levels can be reduced by refining. In order to understand the influence of the refining steps, the content of 15 PAHs was assessed throughout alkaline refining in soybean, sunflower and olive oil samples. Eight commercial brands of these oils were also analysed. The analytical method involved a liquid–liquid extraction, a solid-phase clean up (C18 and Florisil) followed by RP-HPLC with fluorimetric detection. The total PAHs content in the studied samples can be considered generally low. The light PAHs (2–4 rings) were predominant. Virgin olive oils showed the highest values (max. 26 μg/kg). An evident decrease of PAHs contents during alkaline refining was observed (71%, 88% and 85% in sunflower, soybean and olive oils, respectively) being more pronounced in light PAHs. Neutralization and, particularly, deodorization were the more effective steps contributing...

With thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) it is possible to have an estimation of vegetable oil resistance to oxidation, having a measure of weight gain percent (Δ%) due to oxygen caption of oil sample during the oxidation, and of initial and final oxidation temperatures (Ti and Tf). The following samples were examined: extra-virgin olive oil, olive oil, sunflower seed oil, soybean oil, maize oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, grape seed oil, hazelnut oil, rice oil and four different kinds of oils for frying. An assessment of data obtained so far makes it possible to point out some interesting outcomes. With regard to weight gain percent, the peanut, rice and extra-virgin olive oils showed the lowest values, whereas the highest one has been detected for one of the oils for frying. As concerns the initial oxidation temperature the rice oil has displayed the maximum value, whereas the same oil for frying above said the minimum. The experimental approach and analytical method developed in this...

The earliest signs of the lymphatic vascular system are the lymph sacs, which develop adjacent to specific embryonic veins. It has been suggested that sprouts from the lymph sacs form the complete lymphatic vascular system. We have studied the origin of the jugular lymph sacs (JLS), the dermal lymphatics and the lymph hearts of avian embryos. In day 6.5 embryos, the JLS is an endothelial-lined sinusoidal structure. The lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) stain (in the quail) positive for QH1 antibody and soybean agglutinin. As early as day 4, the anlagen of the JLS can be recognized by their Prox1 expression. Prox1 is found in the jugular section of the cardinal veins, and in scattered cells located in the dermatomes along the cranio-caudal axis and in the splanchnopleura. In the quail, such cells are positive for Prox1 and QH1. In the jugular region, the veins co-express the angiopoietin receptor Tie2. Quail-chick-chimera studies show that the peripheral parts of the JLS form by integration of cells from the paraxial mesoderm. Intravenous application of DiI-conjugated acetylated low-density lipoprotein into day 4 embryos suggests a venous origin of the deep parts of the JLS. Superficial lymphatics are directly derived from the dermatomes, as shown by dermatome grafting. The lymph hearts in the lumbo-sacral region develop from a plexus of Prox1-positive lymphatic capillaries. Both LECs and muscle cells of the lymph hearts are of somitic origin. In sum, avian lymphatics are of dual origin. The deep parts of the lymph sacs are derived from adjacent veins, the superficial parts of the JLS and the dermal lymphatics from local lymphangioblasts.

The energy input and output of three energy crop chains in Europe has been reviewed. The three chains are: bio-oil production from rape, soybean, or sun ower; ethanol production from cereal and sugar beet; and the use of herbaceous lignocellulosics as raw ÿber biomass. The energy input measurements are taken from the literature in terms of the average, minimum, and maximum for current agricultural practice. The bio-oil and ethanol chains are well deÿned and use e cient and mature technology, while the herbaceous lignocellulosic chains is still under development. The yield of bioenergy is limited by land and it is not directly correlated with inputs level; for maximum gain the inputs must be minimized. There is considerable margin for improvement in many areas with low yields. While the study does not address social and economic issues, it is clear that many of the species considered are multifunctional, and the maximizing of the economic opportunity will depend also on the exploitation of co-and by-products. ?

The effects on performance, digestibility, N utilization and plasma amino acid concentrations of dietary chickpea (Cicer arietinum, var. Kabuli) seed meal, globulin proteins or buffer-insoluble residue (starch / non-starch polysaccharides (NSP)/ lignin) were studied in growing rats. Chickpea meal, defatted soybean meal, chickpea globulins and lactalbumin were each incorporated into diets as the sole source of dietary protein (100 g/kg).

Plant lectins have been implicated as playing an important role in mediating recognition and specificity in the Rhizobium -legume nitrogen-fixing symbiosis. To test this hypothesis, we introduced the soybean lectin gene Le1 either behind its own promoter or behind the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter into Lotus corniculatus , which is nodulated by R. loti. We found that nodulelike outgrowths developed on transgenic L. corniculatus plant roots in response to Bradyrhizobium japonicum , which nodulates soybean and not Lotus spp. Soybean lectin was properly targeted to L. corniculatus root hairs, and although infection threads formed, they aborted in epidermal or hypodermal cells. Mutation of the lectin sugar binding site abolished infection thread formation and nodulation. Incubation of bradyrhizobia in the nodulation ( nod ) gene-inducing flavonoid genistein increased the number of nodulelike outgrowths on transgenic L. corniculatus roots. Studies of bacterial mutants, however, suggest that a component of the exopolysaccharide surface of B. japonicum , rather than Nod factor, is required for extension of host range to the transgenic L. corniculatus plants.

The biochemical basis of heat/drought tolerance was investigated by comparing the response of antisense and sense transgenic soybean plants (containing the L-D 1pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase gene) with non-transgenic wild-type plants. The plants were subjected to a simultaneous drought and heat stress of 2 days, whereafter they were rewatered at 251C. During this time the sense plants only showed mild symptoms of stress compared to the antisense plants which were severely stressed. Upon stress, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP þ) levels decreased in antisense while it increased in sense plants. Recovery with respect to NADP þ levels was best in sense plants. Sense plants had the highest ability to accumulate proline

In line with the social objectives of the PNPB (Brazilian Program of Production and Use of Biodiesel) and its “Social Seal” Framework, PETROBRAS has set up a 57 million liter/year biodiesel plant in the semi‐arid region of North of Minas Gerais State, where the socioeconomics indicators are very unfavorable. Despite the potential to boost the agricultural and agro‐industrial sector, the

Evaluation of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] seeds vigor and its relation with field seedling emergence can provide secure indicatives of seed physiological potential. The present research studied the relationship between the electrical conductivity test and the seedling emergence of soybean in field and laboratory. The field experiment was sown in November 26th, December 3td and 10th, 2000. Laboratory tests were performed using levels of water potential in the substrate (soil) -0.03; -0.2; -0.4; and -0.6 MPa. Fourteen seed lots, seven of 'Embrapa 48' and seven of 'BRS 133' soybean cultivars were used. Laboratory tests comprised seed water content determination, before and after the accelerated aging; germination and vigor tests (accelerated aging and electrical conductivity). Germination and seedling emergence decreased as the substrate water potential was reduced, indicating a relationship among the germination, water potential and seed vigor. For the 'Embr...

Soils of many potential soybean fields in Africa are characterized by low levels of biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) activities and often cannot support high soybean yields without addition of inorganic N fertilizers or external application of soybean rhizobia. The most probable number (MPN) technique was used to determine the bradyrhizobial populations that nodulate TGx soybean genotypes (a cross between nonpromiscuous North American soybean genotypes and promiscuous Asian soybean genotypes), cowpea or North American soybean cv. Clark IV, in soils from 65 sites in 9 African countries. The symbiotic effectiveness of isolates from these soils was compared to that of Bradyrhizobium japonicum strain USDA110. The bradyrhizobial population sizes ranged from 0 to 10 4 cells g À1 soil. Bradyrhizobium sp. (TGx) populations were detected in 72% and B. japonicum (Clark) in 37% of the soil samples. Bradyrhizobium sp. (TGx) populations were generally low, and significantly less than that of the cowpea bradyrhizobial populations in 57% of the samples. Population sizes of less than 10 cells g À1 soil were common as these were detected in at least 43% of the soil samples. B. japonicum (Clark) occurred in higher population densities in research sites compared to farmers' fields. Bradyrhizobium sp. (TGx) populations were highly correlated with biotic but not abiotic factors. The frequent incidence of low Bradyrhizobium sp. (TGx) populations is unlikely to support optimum BNF enough for high soybean yields while the presence of B. japonicum (Clark) in research fields has the potential to compromise the selection pressure anticipated from the indigenous Bradyrhizobium spp. (Vigna) populations. Bradyrhizobium isolates could be placed in four symbiotic phenotype groups based on their effectiveness on a TGx soybean genotype and the North American cultivar Clark IV. Symbiotic phenotype group II isolates were as effective as B. japonicum strain USDA110 on both soybean genotypes while isolates of group IV were effective on the TGx soybean genotype but not on the Clark IV. The group IV isolates represent a unique subgroup of indigenous bradyrhizobia that can sustain high soybean yields when available in sufficient population densities.

This work was focused on the assessment of changes occurring in crop production and climate during the 20th century in Argentina. The study was carried out for nine sites located in the Pampas region that are representative of contrasting environments. We have considered the four main crops cultivated in this area (wheat, maize, sunflower and soybean). Historical climatic data and crop production related variables (yield, planted area, harvested area) were analyzed and, by means of crop simulation models, we quantified the impact of climate on crop yields. Changes occurring in climate during the three last decades of the 20th century were characterized by important increases in precipitation especially between October and March, decreases in maximum temperature and solar radiation in particular during spring and summer and increases in minimum temperature during almost all of the year. These changes contributed to increases in yields, especially in summer crops and in the semiarid zone, mostly due to increases in precipitation, although changes in temperature and radiation also affected crop yields but to a lesser extent. Comparing the period 1950-1970 with 1971-1999, yields increases attributable to changes in climate were 38% in soybean, 18% in maize, 13% in wheat, and 12% in sunflower while mean observed yield increases were 110% for maize, 56% for wheat and 102% for sunflower.

The efficiency of raw wheat and soybean straws, corn stalks and corn cobs in removing different heavy metal ions from simulated contaminated water was studied. The investigated adsorbents have shown different adsorption capacities for copper, nickel, cadmium and lead ions. All of them, except for corn cobs, adsorbed copper ions well. Corn cob and wheat straw adsorbed cadmium and nickel ions well. As for lead ions soybean straw and corn stalks showed good adsorption capacity. In order to increase the adsorption capacities and decrease the leaching of extractive matters from all investigated biomasses, they were modified with (1) formaldehyde in acidic medium, (2) sodium hydroxide both with and without previous modification with formaldehyde, (3) acid solution or (4) only were water-washed. The effects of these treatments were evaluated in copper adsorption experiments. Treatments with formaldehyde, sulphuric acid and 5% NaOH were not advisable for investigated adsorbents. Adsorbents modification with 1% NaOH or water washing adsorbents gave good results, but the native (raw) materials were still quite efficient. In order to prevent organic matters leaching from biomasses during adsorption the washing of lignocellulosic materials is applied as it is the cheapest and the most suitable process.

Based on community surveys of the elderly of their nutritional habits in big cities throughout Indonesia and in urban and rural areas, the following observations are reported: (i) the elderly tend to reduce their food intake by themselves, in calories, carbohydrate, fat, protein content (15−30% less); (ii) they even reduce their traditional fatty food by themselves in spite of their already low fat intake daily (30−40% less); (iii) they very seldom eat snacks between meals (6.7−25.5%) of the respondents only; (iv) they tend to eat (very seldom − never) new ‘trendy foods’ (78−95%) such as hamburger, pizza, fried chicken etc., which are available in big cities; (v) the elderly usually eat just enough before satiety (84.3%); (vi) the majority of the elderly usually eat rice or other local staple foods, with mostly vegetables every day (50−80%), especially the traditional témpé (soybean cake) and tahu (soybean curd) and green vegetables (80%); fruits are consumed less than vegetables (40%); (vii) milk consumption still needs to be improved; (viii) fish consumption, the best healthy animal protein source, still needs to be promoted to the whole country, especially to the elderly on Java island; and (ix) an urban−rural difference was noted, the urban elderly having a higher intake of calories, fat and protein. Gender differences were practically not observed, except the higher calorie intake in men. The following findings support the aforementioned observations. The elderly have a lower mean body mass index (BMI); only 15.9% are overweight and only 4.5% are obese, although it is admitted that there are many elderly people who are underweight and malnourished. They also have lower mean cholesterol, triglyceride and haemoglobin values, but a higher prevalence of glucose intolerance, hypertension, coronary heart disease etc. is reported in many studies. In conclusion, the elderly in general have good eating habits, and they adjust their food intake to the reduced daily physical activities they perform. However, the consumption of eggs and fish (as low-cost protein sources) needs to be improved. Hence overeating and obesity are not a problem for the Indonesian elderly people, although it is admitted that undernutrition will be a problem unless properly anticipated. They usually prefer to eat the already healthy traditional food, especially the still popular vegetable source of protein and anti-oxidants. They eat the traditional food, témpé and tahu, making them a stronghold against diet ‘westernization’, and they should be used as a good example for the younger generation. Reduced calorie intake among the elderly is also observed in Japan, but not yet in most European elderly populations.

Understanding the interaction mechanisms between plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), leguminous crops, and rhizobia is necessary to effectively use PGPR in increasing the biological nitrogen fixation of legumes. We determined the coinoculation effects of Bradyrhizobium japonicum A1017 and a gusA-marked strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens 2137, P. fluorescens WCS365, Azomonas agilis 125, and Azospirillum lipoferum 137 on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr] cv. Enrei grown under axenic conditions. The gusA-marked rhizobacteria effectively colonized the root tips and surfaces near the roots tips with a colonization rate ranging from 7.50 to 8.62 log colony forming units (cfu) gfw -1 . P. fluorescens 2137 had the highest colonization activity on soybean roots whether inoculated alone or coinoculated with B. japonicum A1017. Coinoculation of P. fluorescens 2137 and B. japonicum A1017 increased the colonization of B. japonicum A1017 on soybean roots, nodule number, and acetylene reduction activity (ARA) at 10 and 20 days after inoculation. Moreover, the addition of sterile spent medium of P. fluorescens 2137 increased the growth of B. japonicum A1017 in yeast mannitol broth (YMB), indicating that P. fluorescens 2137 may have released substances that increased the rhizobial population. The results of this study suggest that the enhanced nodulation and ARA of soybean due to the high colonization of P. fluorescens on soybean roots could depend on the production of growth-promoting substances that stimulate the growth of B. japonicum. However, coinoculation with P. fluorescens WCS365 decreased the nodule number and ARA, despite its slight stimulation of the growth of B. japonicum on the roots, indicating that coinoculation effects are strain dependent.

The atmospheric CO 2 concentration is increasing, due primarily to fossil-fuel combustion and deforestation. Sequestering atmospheric C in agricultural soils is being advocated as a possibility to partially offset fossil-fuel emissions. Sequestering C in agriculture requires a change in management practices, i.e. efficient use of pesticides, irrigation, and farm machinery. The C emissions associated with a change in practices have not traditionally been incorporated comprehensively into C sequestration analyses. A full C cycle analysis has been completed for agricultural inputs, resulting in estimates of net C flux for three crop types across three tillage intensities. The full C cycle analysis includes estimates of energy use and C emissions for primary fuels, electricity, fertilizers, lime, pesticides, irrigation, seed production, and farm machinery. Total C emissions values were used in conjunction with C sequestration estimates to model net C flux to the atmosphere over time. Based on US average crop inputs, no-till emitted less CO 2 from agricultural operations than did conventional tillage, with 137 and 168 kg C ha −1 per year, respectively. Changing from conventional tillage to no-till is therefore estimated to both enhance C sequestration and decrease CO 2 emissions. While the enhanced C sequestration will continue for a finite time, the reduction in net CO 2 flux to the atmosphere, caused by the reduced fossil-fuel use, can continue indefinitely, as long as the alternative practice is continued. Estimates of net C flux, which are based on US average inputs, will vary across crop type and different climate regimes. The C coefficients calculated for agricultural inputs can be used to estimate C emissions and net C flux on a site-specific basis. Published by Elsevier Science B.V.

A granulovirus (GV) isolated from Epinotia aporema (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)—a major soybean pest—was studied in terms of its main morphological, biochemical, and biological properties. The ovoidal occlusion bodies were 466 by 296 nm in size, and their most prominent protein had an apparent molecular mass of 29 kDa. Its amino-terminal sequence was remarkably homologous to that of the granulins of other GVs. The DNA genome size was estimated to be 120 kbp. The high specificity and pathogenicity of this newly described granulovirus (EpapGV) indicate that it is indeed a good candidate for the biological control of this pest.

Effect of texturized defatted meal of sunflower, soybean and flaxseed on quality characteristics of chapatti was investigated. Texturized defatted meal of sunflower, soybean and flaxseed was blended at 10%. 20%, 30 % and 40 % levels with wheat flour (atta) for making chapatti making. Chapattis were evaluated for physical, textural, sensory and functional properties. Proximate analysis of defatted sunflower meal had 2.56 % moisture, 2.53% fat, 43.38 % protein, 13.07 % fiber and 32.54 % protein digestibility. The defatted soybean meal had 2.70%

In this work, a method for the determination of phosphorus in biodiesel (B100) using flow injection analysis with spectrophotometric detection (FIA-SD) is described. Samples were digested using an acid mixture in a heating block. The phosphorus concentrations obtained by the (FIA-SD) method were similar to those obtained by the official method. Recovery tests show results between 98.6% and 101.0% for biodiesel produced from sunflower and between 102.1% and 113.5% for biodiesel produced from castor and soybeans. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) obtained using the FIA system were 0.14 mg L À1 and 0.46 mg L À1 , respectively.

The purpose of this study was to observe the influence of regional aspects such as climate, management and occupancy of the soybean crops neighborhood, on the temporal evolution of the NDVI/NOAA images. The study was performed during 1999/2000, in the northwest region of Rio Grande do Sul - Brazil, and LANDSAT images were used to determine soybeans areas, and images

Objective: To examine the socio-economic and lifestyle determinants of cooking oil choice in Costa Rica during the last decade (1994)(1995)(1996)(1997)(1998)(1999)(2000)(2001)(2002)(2003)(2004). Design: Cross-sectional study. Subjects (total n ¼ 2274) belonged to the control population of a large case-control study; they were recruited yearly. Data about type of oil used for cooking, dietary intake, socio-economic and demographic characteristics were collected. Setting: A dietitian visited all subjects and conducted the interviews at their homes; all subjects lived in the Costa Rican central valley region. Subjects: Adult, free-living, rural and urban Costa Ricans with no history of myocardial infarction and physical or mental disability. Results: The odds of choosing soybean over palm oil increased significantly each year (P , 0.05) and was determined by high socio-economic status (SES) and variables that suggest health awareness (self-reported history of hypertension, high cholesterol, multivitamin use and intake of green leafy vegetables). The odds of choosing other unsaturated oils, namely corn and sunflower, over soybean oil also increased yearly (P , 0.05) and was associated with the same two factors (high SES and health awareness). Palm oil users remained in the lowest SES tertile and were more likely to live in rural areas. Across all SES tertiles, high health awareness determined the odds of choosing other unsaturated oils over palm oil, and soybean oil (P , 0.05). Conclusion: These data show that, in addition to SES, health awareness is associated with selection of unsaturated oils over palm oil in a developing country undergoing transition. These data should be considered when targeting nutrition messages and policies that promote better dietary choices.

A Wetland Reservoir Subirrigation System (WRSIS) allows for capture, treatment, storage, and reuse of runoff and subsurface drainage waters from cropland, in turn providing both environmental and agricultural production benefits. The three WRSIS sites presently in operation are all located within the northwest Ohio portion of the Maumee River Basin and have been in use for five to six complete growing seasons. WRSIS components include an underground drainage pipe network tied to both a constructed wetland and a water storage reservoir. With this type of system, the drain pipes can be used at different times to either add water (subirrigation) or remove water (subsurface drainage) from the root zone, thereby enhancing crop yields, especially in dry years. Obtaining these crop yield benefits requires a proper water table management approach that includes practicing suggested operational guidelines and initiating as needed system modification improvements. By incorporating a proper water table management approach, and in comparison to control plots, WRSIS subirrigated field crop yield increases for corn and soybeans, respectively, were 34.5 and 38.1% during drier growing seasons, 14.4 and 9.7% during near average to wetter growing seasons, and 19.6 and 17.4% overall.

Background and Aims Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation effect on reproductive parts of the plants has received little attention. We studied the influence of UV-B radiation on flower and pollen morphology, pollen production and in vitro pollen germination and tube growth of six genotypes of soybean (Glycine max). Methods Soybean genotypes were investigated by growing them under four levels of biologically effective UV-B radiation of 0 (control), 5, 10 and 15 kJ m À2 d À1 in sunlit controlled-environment chambers. Key Results Reductions in lengths of flower, standard petal, and staminal column along with reduced pollen production, germination and tube growth were observed in all genotypes with increasing UV-B radiation. Combined response index (CRI), the sum of percentage relative responses in flower size, pollen production, pollen germination and tube growth due to UV-B radiation varied with UV-B dosage: À67 to À152 with 5 kJ m À2 d À1 , À90 to À212 with 10 kJ m À2 d À1 , and À118 to À248 with 15 kJ m À2 d À1 of UV-B compared to controls. Genotypes were classified based on the UV-B sensitivity index (USI) calculated as CRI per unit UV-B, where D 90-9216, DG 5630RR and D 88-5320 were classified as tolerant (USI > À7Á43), and DP 4933RR, Stalwart III and PI 471938 were sensitive (USI < À7Á43) in their response to UV-B radiation. Pollen grains produced in plants grown at 15 kJ m À2 d À1 UV-B radiation were shrivelled and lacked apertures compared to control and other UV-B treatments in both sensitive and tolerant genotypes, and the differences were more conspicuous in the sensitive genotype (PI 471938) than in the tolerant genotype (D 90-9216). The number of columellae heads of the exine was reduced with increasing UV-B radiation. Conclusions Soybean genotypes varied in their reproductive response to UV-B radiation. The identified UV-B tolerant genotypes could be used in future breeding programmes.

We have developed an efficient protocol for callus induction and plant regeneration in three elite soybean cultivars (Williams 82, Loda and Newton). The technique is most novel in that the shoot buds developed from the nodal callus. Callus induction and subsequent shoot bud differentiation were achieved from the proximal end of cotyledonary explants on modified Murashige and Skoog (MS) media containing 2.26 M 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 8.8 M benzyladenine (BAP), respectively. Varying the carbon source optimized the regeneration system further. Among the various carbon sources tested, sorbitol was found to be the best for callus induction and maltose for plant regeneration.

Cotyledonary node transformation efficiency was evaluated using a sonication assisted Agrobacteriummediated transformation (SAAT) protocol, three dissimilar A. tumefaciens strains, and explants derived from 28 diverse cultivars and/or genotypes of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The explants were evaluated at 10 and 45 days after co-cultivation for transformation with a binary vector containing both a GUS-intron gene and an NPTII selectable marker. The best overall strain of A. tumefaciens was determined to be KYRT1 based on stable GUS transformation of soybean cotyledonary node explants measured at the terminal 45 day evaluation point. SAAT did not increase stable transformation at 45 days post co-cultivation. SAAT was determined to significantly decrease shoot proliferation of some genotypes, but it is unclear what effect this may have on the recovery of transformed shoots. Significant differences were also detected between genotypes for transformation and shoot proliferation frequency.

The grey field slug Deroceras reticulatum has become a pest in no tillage sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) crops in the southeast of Buenos Aires province, Argentina. Ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) are an important component of the arthropod community in agricultural systems and have the potential to reduce pest populations. We tested the predation capacity of the carabid beetle Scarites anthracinus on Deroceras reticulatum individuals of different body mass (10, 20 and 30 mg) and on their eggs, in a controlled laboratory no-choice assay. We also tested its preference for juvenile slugs and the similarly-sized pillbugs (Armadillidium vulgare), under choice conditions. This beetle preyed upon both eggs and juvenile slugs, with the highest consumption rate on 20 mg body mass individuals. While preferring the pillbug during the first 24 h of the choice test, our results suggest that in field conditions, S. anthracinus might be a natural enemy of D. ...

Most of the earlier work on clustering has mainly been focused on numerical data whose inherent geometric properties can be exploited to naturally define distance functions between data points. Recently, the problem of clustering categorical data has started drawing interest. However, the computational cost makes most of the previous algorithms unacceptable for clustering very large databases. The k-means algorithm is well known for its efficiency in this respect. At the same time, working only on numerical data prohibits them from being used for clustering categorical data. The main contribution of this paper is to show how to apply the notion of "cluster centers" on a dataset of categorical objects and how to use this notion for formulating the clustering problem of categorical objects as a partitioning problem. Finally, a k-means-like algorithm for clustering categorical data is introduced. The clustering performance of the algorithm is demonstrated with two well-known data sets, namely, soybean disease and nursery databases.

The influence of soy protein subunit composition on the particle size distribution and solid content of soymilk and various supernatant fractions was investigated. A well-established seed variety (Harovinton), containing all protein subunits, and eleven null soybean genotypes lacking specific glycinin and b-conglycinin subunits were investigated, to determine the effect of protein composition on the physicochemical characteristic of soymilk. Soymilk made from Harovinton and soybean lines null in glycinin showed significantly higher total solid yields than the other genotypes evaluated. Soymilks prepared from soybeans null for glycinin or lacking glycinin's group I (A 1 , A 2 ) showed a smaller particle size distribution compared to soybean lines containing glycinin. In general, unheated soymilk made from lines having glycinin showed a bimodal size distribution with large particles, with a decrease in the particle size distribution after heating and heating with homogenization. The results of this work will help in the evaluation of breeding lines with a specific protein composition tailored to a specific processing functionality.

Buffer strips are an efficient and economical way to reduce agricultural nonpoint source pollution. Local researches are necessary to gain information on buffer performance, with particular emphasis on narrow buffers. The effect of a 6 m buffer strip (BS) in reducing runoff, suspended solids and nutrients from a field growing maize, winter wheat and soybean was assessed in a field experiment conducted in North-East Italy during 1998-2001. The BS was composed of two rows of regularly alternating trees (Platanus hybrida Brot.) and shrubs (Viburnum opulus L.), with grass (Festuca arundinacea L.) in the inter-rows.

In the present work, the influence of pH on stability of oil in water O/W (25:75 w/w) emulsions prepared with soy isolates and lecithin (Lec) was studied. Emulsions were prepared using native (NSI) and denatured (DSI) soybean isolates, Lec and sunflower oil, with a protein-Lec ratio of 10:1. Dispersions of soybean proteins were adjusted to pH 2.0-6.2. Emulsions were optically characterized by droplet size distribution and using a vertical scan analyzer (Quick Scan) to determine the creaming destabilization and the corresponding kinetics involved. At pH 2, a negative effect was observed on droplet size distribution and stability of Lec emulsion. Changes in droplet size and creaming rate as a function of pH value were observed for NSI-Lec and DSI-Lec emulsions in comparison with their corresponding control systems (Lec, NSI, DSI). NSI-Lec emulsions at pH 2.0 presented an important initial emulsifying activity, but the creaming rate recorded was faster than that corresponding to pH 5.5-6.2. For DSI-Lec systems, the stability increased at pH 2.0 and 6.2, values away from the isoelectric point. The presence of Lec enhanced both the initial characteristics reflected in BS 0 and droplet size, and the stability against the creaming process.

The soybean binding protein (BiP) gene family consists of at least four members designated soyBiPA, soyBiPB, soyBiPC and soyBiPD. We have performed immunoblotting of two-dimensional (2D) gels and RT-PCR assays with gene-specific primers to analyze the differential expression of this gene family in various soybean organs. The 2D gel profiles of the BiP forms from different organs were distinct and suggested that the BiP genes are under organ-specific regulation. In fact, while all four BiP transcripts were detected in leaves by gene-specific reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays, different subsets were detected in the other organs. The soyBiPD was expressed in all organs, whereas the expression of the soyBiPB was restricted to leaves. The soyBiPA transcripts were detected in leaves, roots and seeds and soyBiPC RNA was confined to leaves, seeds and pods. Our data are consistent with organ-specific expression of the soybean BiP gene family.

Eight multiparous Holstein cows averaging 503 kg of body weight and 61 days in milk were used in a double 4 × 4 Latin square design with 20-day experimental periods to determine effects of feeding extruded versus non-extruded soybeans treated, or not, with 30 g/kg lignosulfonate on apparent whole tract digestibility, feed intake, milk production, milk composition, and milk fatty acid profile. Milk yield (20.8 kg/day) was similar among treatments, but cows fed extruded soybeans tended to have lower digestibilities of dry matter (DM), neutral detergent fiber (aNDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) than those fed non-extruded soybeans. Lignosulfonate had no effect on digestibilities of DM, ether extract, CP, and aNDF. Feeding extruded versus non-extruded soybeans decreased (P<0.05) milk Abbreviations: ADF, acid detergent fiber; CLA, conjugated linoleic acid; CP, crude protein; DM, dry matter; aNDF, neutral detergent fiber; SCC, somatic cell count; TTAD, total tract apparent digestibility ଝ Contribution Number 890 from the Dairy and Swine Research and Development Centre.

RESUMO -O fornecimento de diferentes teores de cálcio para poedeiras semipesadas durante a fase de pré-postura e seus efeitos nas quatro semanas subseqüentes foram avaliados neste experimento. Foram utilizadas 288 aves da linhagem Isabrown com 16 semanas de idade, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos, oito repetições e nove aves por unidade experimental. As rações, à base de milho e farelo de soja, foram formuladas para atender às exigências nutricionais das aves, à exceção dos níveis de cálcio. O experimento teve duração de seis semanas, nas quais as aves receberam quatro rações pré-postura contendo diferentes teores de cálcio (0,6; 1,2; 1,8; e 2,4%) no período de 16 a 17 semanas de idade. Nas quatro semanas subseqüentes, foi fornecida uma ração de postura contendo 3,8% de cálcio para todas as aves. Não foi observado efeito dos tratamentos sobre o ganho de peso, a idade ao primeiro ovo e o teor de matéria mineral nas cascas dos primeiros ovos. Contudo, verificou-se efeito linear sobre a quantidade de cálcio depositado na casca. Nas quatro semanas subseqüentes, os diferentes teores de cálcio fornecidos na fase pré-postura não afetaram o consumo de ração, a produção de ovos, a conversão alimentar, os pesos dos ovos e da casca, a espessura da casca e a concentração de cálcio na casca, mas influenciaram linearmente o peso da casca em relação ao peso do ovo, o peso da casca por unidade de superfície de área e a quantidade de cinzas na casca. Os níveis nutricionais de cálcio nas rações pré-postura não afetaram a qualidade interna e externa dos ovos no início da postura. O nível nutricional de 0,6% de cálcio nas rações foi adequado para frangas semipesadas na fase pré-postura.

Abstract— The spontaneous light emission of soybean seeds is enhanced 4–8 times during the first minute after water imbibition. Other solvents are also effective. The temperature dependence of soybean chemiluminescence identifies two reactions with activation energies of 20 and 68 kJ/mol corresponding to the lipoxygenase reaction and to the autoxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, respectively. Free radical scavengers and lipoxygenase inhibitors decrease soybean photoemission. The singlet oxygen probe 1,4-diazabicyclo-[2,2,2]-octane (DABCO) increases soybean photoemission. The emission spectra of soybean seeds under a variety of conditions show bands between 450 and 720 nm with 50–70% of the emission over 600 nm. The experimental evidence is consistent with singlet oxygen being one of the emitting species, however, due to the complexity of the system it is likely that other chemiluminescent species are also formed.

A contribution for a better nutritional knowledge of lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L. var. zapaton) and soybean (Glycine max L. var. merit and var. jutro) sprouts about free protein amino acids (FPAA), free non-protein amino acids (FNPAA such as β-N-oxalyl-l-α,β-diaminopropionic acid (β-ODAP), α-aminoadipic acid, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and β-alanine) and trigonelline content has been carried out. Seeds were germinated at 20 • C and darkness during several days in order to obtain good appearance sprouts. The content of FPAA and FNPAA varied among species and varieties. FPAA increased dramatically during germination and the lowest concentrations were found for G. max L. var. jutro. Cys was not detected as FPAA in seeds and seedlings of both legumes. Asn was present in the highest amounts in soybean and lupin seedlings. The α-aminoadipic acid gliotoxin, which was not present in raw soybean seeds, appeared in low amounts during germination. Later stages of germination caused significant increases of β-alanine and GABA, amino acids with beneficial properties. Germination also affected the content of the multifunctional plant hormone trigonelline and slight changes were observed. Highest levels of FPAA, beneficial FNPAA and trigonelline were found at 4, 6 and 9 days of germination for G. max L. var. jutro, G. max L. var. merit and L. angustifolius L. var. zapaton, respectively. Furthermore, these selected germination conditions showed low levels of the gliotoxic α-aminoadipic acid ensuring nutritional safety of the studied seedlings.

A precision scale landscape model designed for agricultural applications is described in this paper. The Precision Agricultural Landscape Modeling System (PALMS) is a combination of two process-based models: a diffusive wave runoff model with ponding (described in detail) and a biosphere model with a crops module (briefly reviewed). Several innovations, including numerical formulations for the hydrologic properties of the soil surface with crusting, slope/tillage angle interactions, and change of roughness and detention storage with cumulative precipitation have been included. The model is compared to observations on one 1.8 ha field planted with maize and soybeans during four growing seasons, and one 24 ha field planted with maize during one growing season. Daily average soil moisture is simulated well (within 5 percent volumetric), except in extended runoff/ponding episodes. Physical processes not simulated in the model suggest possible explanations for model errors. Planned improvements for PALMS are also presented. (KEY TERMS: plant growth modeling; precision agriculture; PALMS; runoff; soil moisture; ground water recharge.)