The acidified vanillin method of tannin analysis, widely used for forage crops, was modified to permit rapid estimation of relative tannin content of grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. The method involves overnight extraction of ground grain with methanol at room temperature. An aliquot of the extract is added to a solution of vanillin and hydrochloric acid and the resultant color is read on a colorimeter at 500‐525 mµ The reagent is specific for astringent compounds in plants and the results were highly correlated with digestibility.

No abstract

Secondary cultural practices, such as core aeration, vertical mowing, and topdressing, are being used on homelawn turf to a greater extent, even though specific problems may not warrant their application. In a field study {clayey, kaolinitic, thermic Typic Hapludult soil), we applied secondary cultural practices on 'Tifway' bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon {L.) Pers. X C. transvllllknsis {Burtt-Davis)] in conjunction with annual N rates of 98, 196, and 296 kg ha -• and Kat 49, 98, and 196 kg ha-•. Neither N nor K influenced thatch accumulation, but a minimum of 196 kg N ha-• was necessary for adequate shoot density and color. The 49 kg K ha-• resulted in as good or better shoot density and color than did higher K rates. Three to four times more dollar spot (Moellerodiscus spp. and Lllnzia spp.) occurred at the lowest N rate, while K had much less influence on disease incidence. Core aeration applied once or twice per year caused a loss of stand density and did not reduce thatch accumulation regardless of whether cores were removed or returned. Vertical mowing twice per year decreased thatch by 8% but shoot density was adversely affected. At the end of 4 yr, topdressing with sand reduced thatch by 44 to 62% for one or two applications, respectively, while maintaining adequate shoot density and color. Increasing Nor K did not offset the adverse effects of core aeration or vertical mowing. Thus, under homelawn conditions, core aeration and vertical mowing should only be used if a specific problem exists and not as routine practices to prevent thatch accumulation.

Black walnut (Juglans nigra L) is a large tree, native to the eastern United States, that is prized for its high-quality timber and edible nut. Thirty (GA/CT)n nuclear microsatellite markers were identified from black walnut for use in population genetic studies, genome mapping, DNA genotyping of important clones, studies of gene flow, and tree breeding. The markers were polymorphic based on a diversity panel of 10 black walnut individuals from eight Midwestern U.S. states.

Canine dermal haemangiosarcoma (HSA) is believed to have a better prognosis compared to HSA in other organs, but outcome has only been reported in a small number of dogs. The purpose of this study was to assess outcome and prognostic factors in a larger cohort of dogs with dermal HSA. Clinical data was collected retrospectively for 94 dogs and histopathology was reviewed in 53 dogs. Median overall survival time was 987 days. Dogs of predisposed breed with ventral location and histologic solar changes had longer survivals. Loco-regional recurrence occurred in 72/94 (77%) dogs. Predisposed breeds with ventral location and multiple masses were more likely to develop recurrence. Non-predisposed breeds with invasive tumours were more likely to develop metastasis. Results suggest that dogs with solar-induced dermal HSA may have high recurrence rates, but prolonged survivals. Dogs with non-solar tumours may be at increased risk for metastasis and shorter survival.