ISSN:1052-5378

Compiled By:
Karl R. Schneider
Reference and User Services Branch
National Agricultural Library, Agricultural Research Service, U. S. Department of Agriculture
Beltsville, Maryland 20705-2351

Compiled For:
The Alternative Farming Systems Information Center, Information Centers Branch
National Agricultural Library
10301 Baltimore Ave., Room 132
Beltsville, Maryland 20705-2351

National Agricultural Library Cataloging Record:

Schneider, Karl, 1946-

Computers and information technologies in agricultural production and management: Part I.

(Quick bibliography series ; 97-09)
1. Agriculture--Computer programs--Bibliography. 2. Agriculture-- Automation-- Bibliography. 3. Agriculture--Data processing-- Bibliography. 4. Precision farming-- Bibliography. 5. Robotics-- Bibliography. 6. Tissue culture--Bibliography. 7. Plant micropropagation--Bibliography. 8. Forest management-- Bibliography. 9. Soil management--Bibliography. 10. Natural resources--Management--Bibliography. 11. Animals--Diseases--Bibliography. 12. Plant diseases--Bibliography. 13. Animal breeding--Bibliography. 14. Plant breeding--Bibliography. 15. Animal genetics--Bibliography. 16. Plant genetics--Bibliography.
aZ5071.N3 no.97-09

Compiler's Notes

A great number of subject records were retrieved in searches for this update, because of the long time-span covered. To accommodate print document size limits, the 1997 update has two Parts with the same title. Part I, QB 97-09, contains records for items added to AGRICOLA from June 1991 through December 1993. Part II, QB 97-10, includes AGRICOLA records added from January 1994 through June 1997.

The extensive search utilized to locate all relevant technology applications records retrieved many items not suitable for this publication. Several hundred inappropriate records were removed to leave only those focused on practical use of the various technologies in production related areas. Broad classes of items omitted include records treating laboratory applications of sensors and other information technologies, broad scale water-resource management, food products and forest products industries' technology applications, biotechnology and biochemistry reports, and documents produced by the "Conservation Technology Information Center," covering BMP's (Best Management Practices) not directly employing specific information technology resources.

Included publications cover subjects ranging from precision farming to robotics to automated tissue culture and micro- propagation operations. Plant and animal disease management, forest, soil and natural resources management (including controlled burning and forest fires) are among subjects covered by records cited here. Various types of sensors, ranging from ion-selective electrodes to ultrasound to various satellite based systems are used in works listed. Several items treating computer use in plant and animal breeding and applied genetics and embryo transfer are included. The tendency to err toward inclusion of many documents describing research applications of production related technologies is admitted. The author was hoping to provide awareness for the reader of options and possibilities at hand. Computerized training systems in production and management are also present in this list, to show the availability of such management training tools. The included Search Strategy gives the details of terms and concepts utilized in the original search.

Your comments and suggestions are welcome, to aid in improving and refining any updates or supplements to this publication. Send comments to me, Karl Schneider. Mail to: Reference Section, Room 100, NAL-ARS-USDA, 10301 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705. Electronic mail may be addressed to: kschneid@nal.usda.gov.

Thank you for your time and interest!

Go to: Author Index | Subject Index | Top of Document
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Alternative Farming Systems Information Center (AFSIC)

This publication is available in hardcopy, or electronically on computer diskette, or via AFSIC's Internet Web Site: http://afsic.nal.usda.gov. Please send comments and corrections regarding this publication to the author. Send requests for additional copies to:

Go to: Author Index | Subject Index | Top of Document
Citation no.: 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 340, 350, 360, 370, 380, 390, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, 450, 460, 470, 480, 490, 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550

Computers and Information Technologies in Agricultural Production and Management, Part I.

2.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
Accurate binary representation of singulated geranium-cutting images.
Wallace, L.; Simonton, W. Comput-Electron-Agric v.6(4): p.319-332. (1992 Jan.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: geranium; image-processors; mechanical-harvesting; robots; threshold-models

3.
NAL Call No.: 49-J82
Adjusting weight for body condition score in Angus cows.
Northcutt, S. L.; Wilson, D. E.; Willham, R. L. J-Anim-Sci v.70(5): p.1342-1345. (1992 May)
Includes references.
Descriptors: beef-cows; body-weight; body-condition; height; age

Abstract: Weight, height, and body condition score data supplied by the American Angus Association were used to determine the effect of body condition score on cow weight and to compute condition score adjustment factors. Single records on 11,301 cows for weight and 7,769 cows for height were collected at or near weaning, at which time a subjective condition score (9- point scale) was taken. Limited information on extreme scores 1 and 9 allowed only scores 2 through 8 to be included in the analysis. Cows were grouped into age classes corresponding to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 to 10, and 11+ yr of age. The mathematical model for a weight record included effects of fixed herd, year- month the record was collected, cow age, body condition score, and a random residual error term. The model for height excluded the condition score effect. Effects of herd, year-month, and cow age were highly significant (P < .0001) for weight and height. Body condition score was a significant source of variation in weight (P < .0001) and accounted for 16% of the total variation. Adjustment factors for weight (kilograms) by condition score were +116(score 2), +91(score 3), +69(score 4), +39(score 5), 0(score 6), -40(score 7), and -86(score 8).

4.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1990
Agricultral integrated management systems AIMS: building better tools for making farm decisions.
Brook, R. C.; Fick, R. J.; Harmon, R. J.; Harsh, S. B. Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs / Fedro S. Zazueta, editor. ; January 31- February 1, 1990, Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, FL. Gainesville, FL : Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, [1990]. p. 167- 172.
Descriptors: agriculture; decision-making; farm-management; computer-software

5.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1990
The Agricultural Integrated Management Software (AIMS) crop record database.
Harmon, R. J.; Harsh, S. B. Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs / Fedro S. Zazueta, editor. ; January 31- February 1, 1990, Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, FL. Gainesville, FL : Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, [1990]. p. 383-388.
Includes references.
Descriptors: farm-management; crops; record-keeping; computer-software

6.
NAL Call No.: FU S49.S7-226
Agricultural needs for computers : available software.
Strain, J. R. Gainesville, Fla. : Food and Resource Economics Dept., Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, [1982] i, 7 leaves, "December 1982." December 1, 1982"--P. 1.
Descriptors: Agriculture-Data-processing; Farm-management-Data- processing

7.
NAL Call No.: QA76.76.E95A5
Agriculture software support and maintenance: the current problem.
Berry, J. AI-Appl v.7(2/3): p.41. (1993)
Paper presented at a Symposium of the 1992 Annual Meeting of the Entomological Society of America, December 8, 1992, Baltimore, Maryland.
Descriptors: insect-pests; crop-production; insect-pests; computer- software; computer-programming; usa

8.
NAL Call No.: Z672.I53
Agro informatics and decision support systems in France.
Waksman, G. Quar-Bull-Int-Assoc-Agric-Inf-Spec v.37(1/2): p.112-119. (1992)
IAALD Symposium on "Advances in Information Technology," September 16-20, 1991, Beltsville, Maryland.
Descriptors: expert-systems; decision-making; agriculture; france

9.
NAL Call No.: HD1421.A47-1991
AGROSTAT-PC. [Version 1.1]. AGROSTAT PC.
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Rome : Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 1991- computer disks
Title from disk label. v. 1. User manual -- v. 2. Population -- v. 3. Land use -- v. 4. Production -- v. 5. Trade -- v. 6. Food balance sheets -- v. 7. Forest products.
Descriptors: Agriculture-Statistics-Software

10.
NAL Call No.: S612.2.N38-1990
AGWATER--irrigation management and planning expert system.
Hawkins, T.; Burt, C. M. Visions of the future proceedings of the Third National Irrigation Symposium held in conjunction with the 11th Annual International Irrigation Exposition, October 28-November 1, 1990, Phoenix Civic Plaza, Phoenix, Arizona. St. Joseph, Mich. : American Society of Agricultural Engineers, c1990.. p. 64-68.
Descriptors: irrigation; computer-software; water-use-efficiency; california

11.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32P
AIMS: agricultural integrated management software electronic data collection for making farm decisions.
Brook, R. C.; Fick, R. J.; Fehr, B.; Harsh, S. B. PAP-AMER-SOC-AGRIC-ENG. St. Joseph, Mich. : The Society. Summer 1990. (90-3022) 9 p. ill.
Paper presented at the 1990 International Summer Meeting sponsored by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers, June 24-27, Columbus, Ohio.
Descriptors: dairy-farming; data-collection; electronics; farm- management

12.
NAL Call No.: 60.18-J82
Airborne laser measurements of rangeland canopy cover and distribution.
Ritchie, J. C.; Everitt, J. H.; Escobar, D. E.; Jackson, T. J.; Davis, M. R. J-Range-Manage v.45(2): p.189-193. (1992 Mar.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: rangelands; vegetation; measurement; lasers; remote- sensing; shrubs; spatial-distribution; evapotranspiration; texas

Abstract: Studies were made at 2 rangeland areas in south Texas to measure canopy cover and distribution with an airborne laser profiler. In a comparison of laser and ground measurements of canopy cover on the same eighteen 30.5-m segments at the Yturria area, laser measurements of canopy cover ranged from 1 to 89% and were correlated significantly (r2 = 0.89) with ground measurements (1 to 88%) on the same eighteen 30.5- m segments. Comparisons of laser measurements of canopy cover for 500- and 940-m segments with an average of three 30.5-m ground measurements of canopy cover made within these segments were also significantly correlated (r2 = 0.95). Topography, vegetation height,and spatial distribution of canopy cover for 6- to 7-km flightlines were also measured with the laser profiler. Airborne laser measurements of land surface features can provide quick and accurate measurements of canopy cover and distribution for large areas of rangeland. Accurate and timely data on the amount and distribution of plant cover are valuable for understanding vegetation characteristics, improving estimates of infiltration, erosion, and evapotranspiration for rangeland areas, and making decisions for managing rangeland vegetation.

13.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32T
Algorithms for microcomputer control of the environment of a production broiler house.
Allison, J. M.; White, J. M.; Worley, J. W.; Kay, F. W. Trans-A-S-A-E v.34(1): p.313-320. (1991 Jan.-1991 Feb.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: poultry-housing; environmental-control; algorithms; computer-software; mathematical-models; relative-humidity; temperature

Abstract: A microcomputer-based system to control the environment of a commercial broiler house was developed and tested. The system was installed in an existing, totally enclosed, commercial production broiler house. Environmental control was provided by a microcomputer for the 51 day grow- out period. This article describes the algorithms used to control the environment. The environmental conditions produced are compared to those in an adjacent house with conventional controls.

14.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1988
Alternative management options (AMO) software.
Gibson, J. M.; Hackett, E. I.; Burkhardt, J. W.; Champney, W. O.; Garrett, J. R. Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs Fedro S Zazueta, AB Del Bottcher, eds p.83-88. (of Florida, [1988?].)
Conference held February 10-11, 1988 at the Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, Orlando, Florida.
Descriptors: animal-husbandry; planning; production-costs; computer- techniques

15.
NAL Call No.: Q184.R4
Analysis of the POLDER (POLarization and Directionality of Earth's Reflectances) airborne instrument observations over land surfaces.
Deuze, J. L.; Breon, F. M.; Deschamps, P. Y.; Devaux, C.; Herman, M.; Podaire, A.; Roujean, J. L. Remote-Sensing-Environ v.45(2): p.137-154. (1993 Aug.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: field-crops; orchards; land; surfaces; reflectance; optical-instruments; measurement; aircraft; france

16.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32T
Analyzing conjuctive use reservoir performance for soybean irrigation. II. Model application.
Edwards, D. R.; Fryar, E. O.; Ferguson, J. A. Trans-A-S-A-E v.35(1): p.137-142. (1992 Jan.-1992 Feb.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: glycine-max; cost-benefit-analysis; groundwater; irrigation; reservoirs; simulation-models; water-management; arkansas

Abstract: A previous article described the Arkansas Offstream Reservoir Analysis (ARORA) model, which simulates operational characteristics of farm reservoirs used with groundwater to provide irrigation to soybean. Since the model is also structured to compute costs and incomes for specified situations, it may be used as a tool in comparing the relative benefits of various reservoir capacities and thus in identifying the best capacity for a particular scenario. This article describes how ARORA was applied to assess performance of reservoirs in situations with differing groundwater status, soil, and economic parameters. An analysis of the results shows that each of these variables can influence the performance of reservoirs as assessed on the basis of present worth of net incomes. The results also indicate that based on thesame criterion, reservoirs are currently feasible under certain conditions, particularly when groundwater availability is limited.

17.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32T
Analyzing conjunctive use reservoir performance for soybean irrigation. I. Development of a simulation model.
Edwards, D. R.; Ferguson, J. A.; Fryar, E. O. Trans-A-S-A-E v.35(1): p.129-135. (1992 Jan.-1992 Feb.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: glycine-max; groundwater; irrigation; reservoirs; simulation-models; water-management; computer-software; arkansas; fortran

Abstract: A mathematical model was developed to simulate the operational characteristics of farm reservoirs used with groundwater for irrigation of soybean in Arkansas. The model, referred to as the Arkansas Offstream Reservoir Analysis (ARORA) model, simulates reservoir and soil water balances, aquifer response to pumping, and soybean yield. Computations of incomes and expenses are performed to enable objective assessment of reservoir performance under various circumstances. The model also contains an optimization subroutine which can help the user identify the reservoir capacity which is best, on the basis of present worth of simulated net incomes, under the specified conditions.

18.
NAL Call No.: 99.9-F7662J
Analyzing timber harvesting systems using STALs-3.
Koger, J. For-Prod-J v.42(4): p.25-30. (1992 Apr.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: timbers; harvesting; computer-software; computer- simulation; skidding,-trucking,-and-landing-simulation-stals

Abstract: STALS-3 is a simplified computerized timber harvesting program that utilizes production by function, queuing theory, and simulation techniques to analyze skidding, loading, and trucking interactions at a "hot" landing. Production by function estimates hourly production rates, unit costs of production, and equipment hourly cost ratios for skidding, loading, and trucking. Queuing theory is used to determine the probability of a truck being available for loading, hourly production, and the optimum number of trucks. The simulation portion of the model determines equipment delays and harvesting costs. The program is written in Microsoft QuickBASIC and is designed to run on personal computers (IBM and compatible).

19.
NAL Call No.: 410.9-P94
Anesthetic requirement of isoflurane is reduced in spontaneously hypertensive and Wistar-Kyoto rats.
Cole, D. J.; Marcantonio, S.; Drummond, J. C. Lab-Anim-Sci v.40(5): p.506-509. (1990 Sept.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: rats; anesthetics; anesthesia; hypertension

Abstract: The isoflurane requirement to keep 50% of rats (Rattus norvegicus) unresponsive to noxious stimuli (MAC) was determined in age matched Sprague-Dawley (SD, n = 8), Spontaneously Hypertensive (SHR, n = 8) and Wistar- Kyoto (WKY, n = 8) strains. Following induction and orotracheal intubation, each rat received isoflurane (1.65% end-tidal) for 120 minutes. Physiologic parameters were similar except for expected differences in mean arterial pressure (148 +/- 13mmHg-SHR group, 101 +/- 10mmHg-SD group and 94 +/- 12mmHg- WKY group [mean +/- standard deviation]). Anesthetic equilibration was verified by infrared analysis of end-tidal gases. MAC was then determined in each rat by the tail clamp method and a group MAC calculated.

20.
NAL Call No.: 280.8-J822
An animated instructional module for teaching production economics with 3-D graphics.
Debertin, D. L. Am-J-Agric-Econ v.75(2): p.485-491. (1993 May)
Includes references.
Descriptors: production-economics; microcomputers; teaching-methods; graphic-arts; computer-software

Abstract: An animated instructional module is described for illustrating key production economics concepts. The module uses three- dimensional production surface, and two-dimensional contour maps. Two graphics programs are used together to construct diagrams that two dimensional neither program could produce alone. Module sequences are based on the "classical" two- factor, one-output model, using a production function consistent with textbook diagrams. Although primarily for upper-division undergraduate or beginning graduate production economics courses, the instructional module provides a useful instructional supplement for advanced students. A free disk copy of the module for use on a personal computer is available from the author.

21.
NAL Call No.: GE5.A66-1993
Application of advanced information technologies : effective management of natural resources : proceedings of the 18-19 June 1993 Conference, Spokane, Washington.
Heatwole, C. D.; American Society of Agricultural Engineers. Information and Technologies Division. St. Joseph, Mich. : American Society of Agricultural Engineers, c1993. xi, 500 p. : ill., maps, Includes bibliographical references.
Descriptors: Natural-resources-Management-Congresses; Information- technology-Congresses

22.
NAL Call No.: 280.8-J822
Application of computer graphics to undergraduate instruction in agricultural economics.
Debertin, D. L.; Jones, L. D. Am-J-Agric-Econ v.73(1): p.25-35. ill. (1991 Feb.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: agricultural-economics; college-curriculum; computer- assisted-instruction; computer-graphics; microcomputers; teaching-methods; innovation-adoption; evaluation; university-research; kentucky; university-of- kentucky

Abstract: This article outlines are experience in building a freshman- level course in agricultural economics employing computer graphics imaging. Lecture material is displayed with a computer connected to a large-screen projector producing high-resolution graphics. The complete course consists of approximately 1,200 computer-generated text, chart, or graphics images. An evaluation of the new method was conducted. Results indicate that most students prefer lectures that employ computer graphics to those that use a chalkboard or an overhead projector. Evidence supports the hypothesis that students perform better on exams when the innovations described in this paper are adopted.

23.
NAL Call No.: 80-AC82
Application of computervision systems in horticulture.
Hack, G. R. Acta-Hortic (304): p.49-54. (1992 Mar.)
Paper presented at the "First International Workshop on Sensors in Horticulture", January 29-31, 1991, Noordwijkerhout, The Netherlands.
Descriptors: crop-production; computer-techniques; computer-hardware; computer-software

24.
NAL Call No.: 292.9-AM34
Application of crop yield functions in reservoir operation.
Dariane, A. B.; Hughes, T. C. Water-Resour-Bull v.27(4): p.649-656. (1991 July-1991 Aug.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: irrigation-water; water-reservoirs; crop-yield; evapotranspiration; water-management; mathematical-models; utah; irrigation- reservoirs

Abstract: A model is developed for real-time operation of an irrigation reservoir with the objective of maximizing the value of multiple crop yields during a growing season. The model employs monthly additive and product forms or crop yield functions for dry matter and grain crops, respectively. The resulting nonlinear optimization model uses a log transform to reduce nonlinearities in the model. An application of the proposed model is compared to a common operating rule used in simulation models. The proposed model results were better in terms of net benefits from crop yields. The model uses GAMS (General Algebraic Modeling System) language. It requires an IBM-compatible microcomputer and is suitable for use by a reservoir manager.

25.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1988
Application of hand-held microcomputer for work studies in milking parlours.
Ordolff, D. W. Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs Fedro S Zazueta, AB Del Bottcher, eds p.133-138. (of Florida, [1988?].)
Conference held February 10-11, 1988 at the Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, Orlando, Florida.
Descriptors: microcomputers; data-collection; milking-parlors

26.
NAL Call No.: SD143.S64
Application of RM-FORPLAN in a corporate environment.
Morrow, R.; Kuhn, J. Proc-Soc-Am-For-Natl-Conv p.350-355. (1991)
Meeting held Aug 4-7, 1991, San Francisco, California.
Descriptors: forest-management; simulation-models; companies; computers; computer-software; planning; data-collection; usa

27.
NAL Call No.: HD1.A3
The application of SIMOPT2: RICE to evaluate profit and yield-risk in upland-rice production.
Alcoilja, E. C.; Ritchie, J. T. Agric-Syst v.33(4): p.315-326. (1990)
Includes references.
Descriptors: upland-rice; crop-production; crop-yield; risk; profits; computer-software; flow-charts; farmers'-attitudes; innovation-adoption; optimization- methods; philippines; simulation-dualcriteria-optimization- technique-for-upland-rice-production-computer-software

28.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32P
Application of the creams hydrology component for runoff predication in Quebec.
Enright, P.; Madramootoo, C. A. PAP-AMER-SOC-AGRIC-ENG. St. Joseph, Mich. : The Society. Winter 1990. (90-2514) 18 p.
Paper presented at the "1990 International Winter Meeting," December 18-21, 1990, Chicago, Illinois.
Descriptors: runoff; surface-water; hydrology; computer-software; quebec; chemicals,-runoff-and-erosion-from-agricultural-management

29.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C68-1992
Application of thematic mapping in an agricultural information management program.
Meij, H. K.; Lanyon, L. E.; McNall, A. D. Computers in agricultural extension programs proceedings of the 4th international conference, 28-31 January 1992, Orlando, Florida / sponspored by the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida. St. Joseph, Mich. : American Society of Agricultural Engineers, c1992.. p. 7-12.
Includes references.
Descriptors: farm-management; thematic-mapper; computer-software; pennsylvania

30.
NAL Call No.: 49-J82
Application of ultrasound for feeding and finishing animals: a review.
Houghton, P. L.; Turlington, L. M. J-Anim-Sci v.70(3): p.930-941. (1992 Mar.)
Literature review.
Descriptors: pigs; cattle; sheep; ultrasound; ultrasonic-fat-meters; carcass-composition; fat-thickness; accuracy; backfat; longissimus-dorsi; age- differences; literature-reviews

Abstract: The ability to evaluate carcass traits in live animals is of value to research, educational, and industry personnel. Ultrasonic technology has been tested since the early 1950s and continues to be under investigation as a means of accomplishing this task. The accuracy of ultrasound in predicting carcass traits is variable and is dependent on species, ultrasonic instrumentation, and(or) the skill of the technician. Based on this review, the ranges of correlation coefficients (r) for carcass traits as predicted by ultrasound to the respective carcass measurement are as follows: swine (fat .20 to .94; longissimus muscle .27 to .93), sheep (fat .42 to .95; longissimus muscle .36 to .79) and beef (fat .45 to .96; longissimus muscle .20 to .94; marbling .20 to .9 1). Although these correlation coefficients give an indication of the accuracy of ultrasound, it should be noted that these statistics do not reflect population variation or bias. Applications of ultrasound in swine finishing programs include the successful prediction of market weight carcass characteristics and the prediction of percentage of lean cuts before slaughter. In contrast, the application of ultrasound in lamb finishing programs has met with limited success. Most data indicate that weight and(or) visual estimations of fat are at least as accurate as ultrasound predictions of carcass composition. In beef finishing programs, ultrasound has, at times, been used successfully to predict fat and muscle traits before slaughter and beef carcass chemical composition. The ability to predict marbling, however, remains unclear and requires further investigation. Ultrasound has also been used in beef finishing programs to predict days on feed to a constant body compositional end point. When summarized, these data indicate that a single ultrasonic measurement of fat can be helpful in predicting days on feed in yearling cattle. When used alone, however, a single backfat measurement does not provide adequate accuracy. Therefore, factors such as age, sex, breed type, weight, and hip height are needed to help predict days on feed more accurate.

31.
NAL Call No.: QA76.76.E95A5
Approaches and tools to ease the maintenance of knowledge-based systems.
Foster, M. A. AI-Appl v.7(2/3): p.49-53. (1993)
Paper presented at a Symposium of the 1992 Annual Meeting of the Entomological Society of America, December 8, 1992, Baltimore, Maryland.
Descriptors: insect-pests; crop-production; computer-software; knowledge; systems; machinery; learning; techniques; usa

32.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1988
AQUADEC: Aquacultural decision support software package and an application.
Adams, C. M.; Zimet, D. J. Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs Fedro S Zazueta p.560-565. (of Florida, [1988?].)
Meeting held February 10-11, 1988 at Lake Buenavista, Orlando, Florida.
Descriptors: computer-software; aquaculture

33.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
An artificial-intelligence-based software for designing crop management plans.
Rellier, J. P.; Chedru, S. Comput-Electron-Agric v.6(4): p.273-294. (1992 Jan.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: winter-wheat; crop-management; computer-software; farm- planning; knowledge; flow-charts

34.
NAL Call No.: 421-J822
Assessing needs for computer pest management software in Nebraska agriculture.
Wright, R. J. J-Econ-Entomol v.85(4): p.1218-1221. (1992 Aug.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: insect-control; pest-management; plant-pests; surveys; computer-software; nebraska

Abstract: A mail survey was conducted to assess current computer hardware use and perceived needs of potential users for software related to crop pest management in Nebraska. Surveys were sent to University of Nebraska-Lincoln agricultural extension agents, agribusiness personnel (including independent crop consultants), and crop producers identified by extension agents as computer users. There were no differences between the groups in several aspects of computer hardware use (percentage computer use, percentage IBM-compatible computer, amount of RAM memory, percentage with hard drive, hard drive size, or monitor graphics capability). Responses were similar among the three groups in several areas that are important to crop pest management (pest identification, pest biology, treatment decision making, control options, and pesticide selection), and a majority of each group expressed the need for additional sources of such information about insects, diseases, and weeds. However, agents mentioned vertebrate pest management information as a need more often than the other two groups. Also, majorities of each group expressed an interest in using computer software, if available, to obtain information in these areas. Appropriate software to address these needs should find an audience among all three groups.

35.
NAL Call No.: S481.R4
Assessing pest impact on crop yields at the micro and macro- levels.
Teng, P. S. Res-Ext-Ser-Coll-Trop-Agric-Hum-Resour-Univ-Hawaii-Coop-Ext- Serv (134): p.87-90. (1991 Dec.)
Proceedings of the 1989 ADAP Crop Protection Conference, held May 18-19, 1989, Honolulu, Hawaii.
Descriptors: pest-management; economic-impact; statistical-analysis; computer-software; crop-yield; crop-losses; hawaii

36.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
An autocalibrating model for simulating and measuring net canopy photosynthesis using a standard greenhouse climate computer.
Ehler, N. Comput-Electron-Agric v.6(1): p.1-20. (1991 July)
Includes references.
Descriptors: dendranthema; computer-analysis; canopy; photosynthesis; carbon-dioxide; measurement; algorithms; mathematical-models; calibration; calculation; environmental-control; microclimate; computers; greenhouses; simulation-models; climatic-factors; computer-software; mass-balance-models; dendranthema-grandiflora

37.
NAL Call No.: HD62.5.A98-1991
Automate your business plan. Version 4.0. Anatomy of a business plan.
Koelsch, J.; Pinson, L.; Jinnett, J.; Analytical Software Partners. Tustin, CA : Analytical Software Partners : Out of Your Mind... and into the Marketplace, c1991. 2 computer disks user's manual.
Title from disk label.
Descriptors: New-business-enterprises-Planning-Software; Small- business-Planning-Software; Home-based-businesses-Planning-Software

Abstract: Productivity software for small business.

38.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-P972
Automated construction data management system.
McCullouch, B. Eng-Ext-Ser-Purdue-Univ (162): p.54-57. (1991)
Proceedings of the 77th Annual Road School, March 12-14, 1991, West Lafayette, Indiana.
Descriptors: road-construction; computer-software; computer-hardware; computer-analysis; management; cost-benefit-analysis; research-projects

39.
NAL Call No.: 80-AC82
Automated inspection of plants.
Hirvonen, J.; Hamalainen, J.; Murmann, K. Acta-Hortic (304): p.137-142. (1992 Mar.)
Paper presented at the "First International Workshop on Sensors in Horticulture", January 29-31, 1991, Noordwijkerhout, The Netherlands.
Descriptors: crop-production; greenhouse-culture; automatic-control; computer-techniques; computer-hardware; computer-vision

40.
NAL Call No.: SB121.I57-1992
Automated micropropagation and the application of a laser beam for cutting.
Holdgate, D. P.; Zandvoort, E. A. Transplant production systems proceedings of the International Symposium on Transplant Production Systems, Yokokama, Japan, 21-26 July 1992 / edited by K Kurata and T Kozai. Dordrecht : Kluwer Academic Publishers, 1992.. p. 297-311.
Includes references.
Descriptors: micropropagation; automation; computer-techniques; robots

41.
NAL Call No.: S671.A33
An automated wool harvesting system.
McInnes, M. B. Agric-Eng-Aust v.19(2): p.21-25. (1990)
Descriptors: sheep; shearing; automation; robots; australia

42.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32T
Automatic geranium stock processing in a robotic workcell.
Simonton, W. Trans-A-S-A-E v.33(6): p.2075-2080. ill. (1990 Nov.-1990 Dec.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: geranium; cuttings; computer-techniques; mechanization; propagation; robots

Abstract: A robotic workcell has been developed for processing geranium cuttings used for vegetative propagation. Six unit operations including retrieving the cuttings from a conveyor, trimming to size, removing select leaves,grading, and inserting the finished product into a plug tray cell were incorporated into the workcell configuration. Machine vision was used to characterize the branching structure of each individual cutting and determine appropriate processing and grading strategies. Fixtures placed in the workcell assisted in the processing while the robotic arm handled the cutting and yielded an average cycle time of 6.5 s. Evaluation of the workcell on two varieties demonstrated good overall performance and results corresponded favorably to cuttings manually processed.

43.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32T
Automatic plant feature identification on geranium cuttings using machine vision.
Simonton, W.; Pease, J. Trans-A-S-A-E v.33(6): p.2067-2073. ill. (1990 Nov.-1990 Dec.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: geranium; cuttings; grading; identification; mechanization; propagation; robots

Abstract: A machine vision technique was developed which analyzes a two-dimensional binary image of a singulated geranium cutting and identifies the branching stem structure, including main stem and petioles. The analysis technique was based on creation of a directed graph data structure which contains information required to rapidly perform plant part identification. Size, shape, and location data were utilized to classify objects as particular plant features. Evaluation of the image analysis technique indicated good characterization of the binary structure of geranium cuttings in a timely manner as required for use in a robotic workcell. Identification of the main stem, petioles, growth tip, and geometry of the interconnections of the plant parts was successfully performed. Overlapping sections (e.g., petiole crossings) and occlusions (e.g., leaves over stem segments) contributed to identification errors.

44.
NAL Call No.: TP248.25.A96T68-1990
Automation of plant tissue culture process.
Miwa, Y. Automation in biotechnology a collection of contributions presented at the Fourth Toyota Conference, Aichi, Japan, 21-24 October 1990 / edited by Isao Karube. Amsterdam : Elsevier c1991.. p. 217-233.
Includes references.
Descriptors: plants; tissue-culture; micropropagation; transplanting; seedlings; lilium; bulbs; automation; robots

Abstract: The present authors have developed a position detector and a growth state discriminator for a seedling during the previously conducted fundamental research on an automatizing plant tissue culture process. Furthermore, we have developed a micro robot for transplanting young seedling into culture medium. In this study, we will discuss a fully automated lily's bulb tissue culturing system that was developed as a trial of automation of biotechnology performed in a flower production. This system was built with integrating subsystems which are developed to perform automatically in each process of supplying a bulb, cutting its root, separating the bulbscales, transplanting bulbscales one by one, recognizing the shape of each bulbscale, and planting the bulbscale into culture medium. Individual subsystem was designed to cope with irregularity in size and shape of a bulb or bulbscale. At present, neither a virus contamination nor a detrimental effect to a genetic trait by the mechanical stressing due to the system was recognized in a trial test. It is also found that a completion of the present system was within one minute. It is, therefore, thought that the system can be used in a practical stage. Meanwhile, the culture robot of a miniature capsule enclosed structure for the home and/or personal purposes was made for a trial performance, extending our techniques towards a developing the aforementioned system. Furthermore, a protoplast positioning system using a dielectrophoresis effect in medium chamber having electrodes will be described. This system was designed to be applicable to a cell fusion and gene injection.

45.
NAL Call No.: TC401.W27
Automation of the design of agricultural water management projects.
Feyen, J.; Liu, F. Water-Resour-Manag v.5(2): p.95-119. (1991)
Includes references.
Descriptors: drainage-systems; irrigation-systems; design; automation; computer-software

46.
NAL Call No.: HD1401.C2
B.E.A.R. Plus: a computerized farm management and extension tool for financial planning and risk analysis.
Brown, J.; Turvey, C. G.; Lowry, C. Can-Farm-Econ v.23(1): p.35-40. (1991)
Includes references.
Descriptors: farm-management; computer-software; financial-planning; risk; projections; innovation-adoption; flow-charts; microcomputers; extension; budgeting-enterprises-and-analyzing-risk-plus-financial-statements

47.
NAL Call No.: 44.8-J822
Bases and experiences of expressing the protein content of milk-- France.
Grappin, R. J-Dairy-Sci v.75(11): p.3221-3227. (1992 Nov.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: milk; milk-protein-percentage; protein-content; nonprotein-nitrogen; milk-protein; milk-payments; analytical-methods; urea; nitrogen- content; accuracy; seasonal-fluctuations; crude-protein; france

Abstract: In the early 1960s, France started to analyze routinely protein for the DHIA program using the amido black method, and, since 1969, milk producers have been paid on the basis of fat and protein. Progressively, infrared analyzers have replaced the dye binding method. Because of the rather large variability of NPN content and its role on the accuracy of both amido black and infrared methods, analysis in 1974 was changed from CP to true protein for both economical (NPN has little value) and analytical reasons (better accuracy and centralized calibration). Examples are given to illustrate the seasonal and between-herd variability of the proportion of NPN in total N for which urea is the most important and variable NPN compound. Since 1976, the fat:protein price ratio of additional grams to the basic price changed from 74:26 to 34:66. Several studies have shown that the calibration of infrared instruments in true protein instead of CP provides better accuracy in protein testing with a high correlation (r = -.80) between errors and the percentage of NPN in total N. However, a recent study has shown than urea interferes significantly with the infrared signal. Because protein now has a much higher value than fat, a better definition of protein is extremely important for the dairy industry. After 15 yr of experience, both dairy industry and farmers are quite satisfied, however, using a different reference, yet the problem of the comparison of protein results between France and the other countries remains, especially for breeding programs.

48.
NAL Call No.: SF601.B6
Beef cattle economics decision-aid software.
McGrann, J. M.; Rupp, G. P. Agri-Practice v.13(9): p.15-19, 22. (1992 Oct.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: beef-cattle; decision-making; computer-software; farm- management; beef-production; farm-budgeting; marketing; texas

49.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1988
BEEFpro: an integrated Cow/Calf program for microcomputers.
Simms, D. D. Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs Fedro S Zazueta, AB Del Bottcher, eds p.95- 100. (of Florida, [1988?].)
Conference held February 10-11, 1988 at the Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, Orlando, Florida.
Descriptors: animal-husbandry; computer-software; computer-techniques; kansas

50.
NAL Call No.: 49-J82
Bioeconomic evaluation of embryo transfer in beef production systems. I. Description of a biological model for steer production.
Ruvuna, F.; Taylor, J. F.; Walter, J. P.; Turner, J. W.; Thallman, R. M. J- Anim-Sci v.70(4): p.1077-1083. (1992 Apr.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: beef-cattle; embryo-transfer; steers; genotypes; equations; growth-rate; dystocia; computer-software; simulation-models

Abstract: Concepts used to derive a deterministic model for evaluating embryo transfer for commercial steer production taking into consideration genetic merit for growth and mature size, herd feed supply, and recipient maternal environment are discussed. Genetic potential of an embryo is used to derive optimal growth rates that can be sustained by available herd feed per animal per day. Equations are provided for various measures of performance as functions of the feed, genotype of the embryo, and recipient maternal contribution. To assess the value of a particular line of embryos, interactions between genotype and nutrient environment are quantified, so that the benefits of embryos of high genetic merit are evaluated objectively. Product quality, and weight are predicted from the model to provide a framework that will allow commercial beef producers to determine marketing strategies likely to result in optimal return.

51.
NAL Call No.: 4-AM34P
Botanical composition of tropical grass-legume pastures estimated with near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy.
Pitman, W. D.; Piacitelli, C. K.; Aiken, G. E.; Barton, F. E. I. Agron- J v.83(1): p.103-107. (1991 Jan.-1991 Feb.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: paspalum-notatum; aeschynomene-americana; macroptilium- lathyroides; mixed-pastures; botanical-composition; measurement; sampling; infrared-spectroscopy; equations; estimation; computer-software; cal; best; reg70

Abstract: Quantifying pasture composition requires either laborious or subjective approaches. Evaluations of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) to determine botanical composition of mixed pasture swards have shown potential. In this study, characterization of botanical composition of pastures comprised primarily of bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge), aeschynomene (Aeschymomene americana L.) and phasey bean [Macroptilium lathyriodes (L.) Urb.] by NIRS was evaluated. Three approaches (hand-composited samples, single- component samples, and actual pasture samples) were compared for equation development. Theoretical potential of NIRS is illustrated by high coefficients of determination (0.98- 0.99) and low standard errors (1.4-2.9%) of equations for the above species from hand-composited samples. Equations developed from the three approaches were evaluated for estimation of the botanical composition of a separate group of pasture samples. Equations developed from hand- composited samples from a single source of each component were not acceptable for estimating composition of pasture samples despite the excellent calibration statistics. Single-component samples approached adequate results only for composite total grass and total legume groups, even though the pasture sample composition appeared to be well represented in the calibration sample set. Equations from pasture samples provided useful estimates of sample means, although some individual samples were poorly estimated. Thus, botanical composition of these pastures may be estimated using equations from actual pasture samples, and estimates of total grass and total legume may be obtained from use of single-component samples, which provides further labor reductions. A comparison of original software and updated software packages CAL, BEST, REG70, and partial least squares principal component regression showed none to be consistently superior.

52.
NAL Call No.: S79.S73
Budget generator user's manual.
Cameron, D. M.; Parvin, D. W. Jr. Staff-Pap-Ser-Miss-State-Univ-Dep-Agric- Econ-Miss-Agric-For-Exp-Stn. Mississippi State, Miss. : The Station. [1979?]. (43) 42 p.
Descriptors: farm-budgeting; computer-software; farm-management; mississippi

53.
NAL Call No.: 1.962-C5T71
Calculating filled and empty cells based on number of seeds sown per call: a microcomputer application.
Wenny, D. L. Tree-plant-notes. Washington, D.C. : U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. Spring 1993. v. 44 (2) p. 49-52.
Includes references.
Descriptors: forest-nurseries; seeds; sowing; computer-software; microcomputers

54.
NAL Call No.: 100-Or3M-no.874
CALFWNTR. CALFWNTR computer software.
Riggs, W. W.; Griffith, D.; Oregon State University. Extension Service. Corvallis, Or. : Oregon State University Extension Service, [1991] 11 p. : ill., "CALFWNTR is a microcompuiter [sic] program designed to help producers compare the economics of alternative production and marketing strategies ..."
Descriptors: Calves-Computer-programs; Calves-Marketing-Computer- programs

55.
NAL Call No.: QP33.J681
Calorimetric investigations of the different castes of honey bees, Apis mellifera carnica.
Fahrenholz, L.; Lamprecht, I.; Schricker, B. J-Comp-Physiol-B-Biochem-Syst- Environ-Physiol v.162(2): p.119-130. (1992)
Includes references.
Descriptors: apis-mellifera-carnica; caste; energy-metabolism; heat- production; age-differences; environmental-temperature; calorimetry

Abstract: Honey bees of different age and castes were investigated calorimetrically at 20, 25 and 30 degrees C. Experiments were completed by endoscopic observation of the insects in the visible and the near infrared range and by acoustical monitoring and subsequent frequency analysis of various locomotor activities. Direct calorimetric results of this paper are compared with data of indirect calorimetry from the literature using a respiratory quotient of 1.00 and 21.13 J consumed. Agreements between both methods are generally good. The results show that weight-specific heat production rates increase with age of worker bees by a factor of 5.6 at 30 degrees C, 3.7 at 25 degrees C and 40.0 at 20 degrees C. In groups of foragers the heat production decreases with growing group size to around 6% of the value for an isolated bee. The presence of a fertile queen or of brood reduces the heat output of a small worker group significantly. Adult drones exhibit a much higher metabolic rate (up to 19.7-fold at 20 degrees C) than juveniles with strong fluctuations in the power-time curves. Fertile queens show a less pronounced heat production rate than virgin queens (54% at 30 degrees C, 87% at 25 degrees C and 77% at 20 degrees C). Calorimetric unrest is much higher for young than for adult queens. Heat production is very low in both uncapped and capped brood and less than 30% of that of a newly emerged worker. In most cases temperature showed a significant influence on the metabolic level, although its sign was not homogeneous between the castes or even within them. Locomotor activities are easily recorded by the acoustic frequency spectrum (0-7.5 khz) and in good agreement with endoscopic observations and calorimetric traces.

56.
NAL Call No.: Q184.R4
Candidate high spectral resolution infrared indices for crop cover.
Malthus, T. J.; Andrieu, B.; Danson, F. M.; Jaggard, K. W.; Steven, M. D. Remote-sens-environ v.46(2): p.204-212. (1993 Nov.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: beta-vulgaris; sugarbeet; crops; canopy; sowing-date; plant-density; beet-yellows-closterovirus; stand-characteristics; color; reflectance; soil; surfaces; spectral-data; radiometers; landsat; thematic- mapper; uk; soil-brightness

57.
NAL Call No.: 80-AC82
The cash system of on-farm decision tools for horticultural enterprises.
Hall, F. R.; Lemon, J. R. Acta-Hortic (276): p.323-346. (1990 July)
Paper presented at the "Second International Symposium on Computer Modelling in Fruit Research and Orchard Management," September 5- 8, 1989, Logan, Utah.
Descriptors: farm-management; horticulture; support-systems; computer- software; computer-advisory-service-for-horticulture

Abstract: The Computer Advisory Service for Horticulture (CASH) project was initiated in 1985 at The Ohio State University upon receipt of a grant from the Kellogg Foundation. The DSS component of the CASH project seeks to identify and target generic decision making tasks inherent in farm and pest management which apply to various agricultural commodities. Such tasks often can be implemented via sophisticated application of spread-sheet software. The CASH/DSS software attempts to organize and present the decision making process per generic task in a manner that facilitates grower implementation and analysis of the end result. Simply stated, the CASH system of decision tools is designed to present an alternative view of how information may be better utilized at the farm level. Specifically, the initial tools allow an identification of the key factors which influence net economic return and the extent to which they influence the "bottom line." Initial thrusts are for simple but robust management tools, "what if" programs, which as grower expertise grows, new ideas and expanded "what if" programs are incorporated. An important point is that growers already have more information available to them than they are currently utilizing for crop management decisions. The greatest potential for helping growers improve decision making appears to be through payoff matrix and decision tree concepts. Growers can be taught to utilize risk management concepts for decision making in uncertain environments. This will require (1) identification of key factors influencing net return, (2) learning how to manipulate return, and (3) learning how to assess the "objective" probability of key variables of insects and disease and their impact on cash return. The array of CASH DSS tools now available provides a beginning for accomplishing these decision tasks. This paper provides an overview of the DSS tools produced by the CASH project.

58.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1988
Cashblu: cost and return analysis for blueberries.
Mizelle, W. O. Jr.; Westberry, G. O.; Krewer, G. W.; Stanaland, R. D. Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs Fedro S Zazueta, AB Del Bottcher, eds p.384-387. (of Florida, [1988?].)
Conference held February 10-11, 1988 at the Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, Orlando, Florida.
Descriptors: computer-software; cost-analysis; blueberries; georgia

59.
NAL Call No.: SB387.R4F67-1990
Changes in infrared use for fire management.
Warren, J. R. Protecting natural resources with remote sensing the Third Forest Service Remote Sensing Applications Conference held at the University of Arizona and the Doubletree Inn, Tucson, Arizona, April 9-13, 1990. Bethesda, Md. : American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, c1990.. p. 259- 274.
Includes references.
Descriptors: fire-detection; fire-control; infrared-photography

60.
NAL Call No.: SF207.S68
CHAPS summary for South Dakota, 1990.
Boggs, D. L. S-D-Beef-Rep-Anim-Range-Sci-Dep-Agric-Exp-Stn-Coop-Ext-Serv-S- D-State-Univ (91-17): p.68-70. (1991 Sept.)
Descriptors: beef-cows; herds; performance-appraisals; computer- software; south-dakota; cow-herd-appraisal-of-performance-software

61.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32P
Characterizing corn growth and development using computer vision.
Tarbell, K.; Reid, J. F. PAP-AMER-SOC-AGRIC-ENG (89-7509): p.1-20. (1989 Winter)
Paper presented at the 1989 International Winter Meeting sponsored by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers, December 12-15, 1989, New Orleans.
Descriptors: zea-mays; growth; computer-analysis

62.
NAL Call No.: aSD11.A48
Classification and prediction of successional plant communities using a pathway model.
Keane, R. E. Gen-Tech-Rep-INT-U-S-Dep-Agric-For-Serv-Intermt-Res-Stn. Ogden, Utah : The Station. Feb. 1989. (257) p. 56-62.
Paper presented at the Symposium on "Land Classifications Based on Vegetation: Applications for Resource Management," November 17-19, 1987, Moscow, Idaho.
Descriptors: plant-succession; plant-communities; classification; computer-software; land-management; models; montana; forsum-computer-software

63.
NAL Call No.: 59.8-C33
Classification of hard red wheat by near-infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy.
Delwiche, S. R.; Norris, K. H. Cereal-Chem v.70(1): p.29-35. (1993 Jan.-1993 Feb.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: winter-wheat; wheat; classification; infrared- spectroscopy; red-spring-wheat

Abstract: Various forms of discriminant analysis models have been developed and tested for distinguishing two classes of wheat - hard red winter and hard red spring. Near-infrared diffuse reflectance (NIR) spectroscopy was used to measure the intrinsic properties of ground samples of hard red winter and spring wheats grown during the 1987, 1988, 1989, and 1990 crop years, of which 100 samples from each of the first three years formed the calibration set for each model. Discriminant functions were developed by using the following parameters: NIR-predicted protein content (adjusted to 12% moisture), NIR- predicted hardness, NIR protein and NIR hardness, and the scores from principal component analysis (PCA) of full-range (1,100-2,498 nm) NIR spectra. Each function was tested on 1,325 samples (excluded from training of the models) from the 1987-1989 crop years and on 678 samples from the 1990 crop year, all of known class. Model performance, expressed as the percent of misclassified samples for each year and class, was poorest for the one-parameter models, which often had misclassification rates in excess of 25%. A five-factor PCA model was the most accurate, with an average misclassification rate of 5% for 1987, 1988, and 1989 samples. However, the misclassification rate of the PCA model rose to 8% for the 1990 samples, suggesting that model accuracy is reduced when samples grown during years excluded from calibration, such as from a new year's crop, are classified. Examination of the principal component factors indicates that hardness, protein level, and the interaction of water with protein and other constituents within wheat are responsible for correct NIR-based classification.

64.
NAL Call No.: SB193.F59
Clips knowledge engineering software for detecting and managing alfalfa weevils.
Rhykerd, L. M.; Engel, B. A.; Wilson, M. C.; Rhykerd, R. L.; Rhykerd, C. L. Proc-Forage-Grassl-Conf p.124-127. (1991)
Meeting held April 1-4, 1991, Columbia, Missouri.
Descriptors: medicago-sativa; hypera-postica; computer-software; decision-making; pest-management

65.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
Colour segmentation based on a light reflection model to locate citrus fruits for robotic harvesting.
Pla, F.; Juste, F.; Ferri, F.; Vicens, M. Comput-Electron-Agric v.9(1): p.53-70. (1993 Aug.)
In the special issue: Computer vision / edited by J.A. Marchant and F.E. Sistler.
Descriptors: citrus; robots; mechanical-harvesting; color; light; reflection; mathematical-models

66.
NAL Call No.: 41.8-M69
Combining your clients' herd performance and business records.
Hughes, H. Vet-Med v.87(9): p.941, 944, 948-950. (1992 Sept.)
Descriptors: beef-herds; beef-production; performance; profitability; information-systems; computer-software; records; cow-herd-appraisal-and- performance-system; integrated-resource-management-beef-cow; calf-herd-analyzer

67.
NAL Call No.: HC79.E5E5
Comments on selecting a geographic information system for environmental management.
Woodcock, C. E.; Sham, C. H.; Shaw, B. Environ-Manage v.14(3): p.307- 315. (1990 May-1990 June)
Includes references.
Descriptors: national-parks; environmental-management; government- organizations; evaluation; selection-criteria; computer-software; innovation- adoption; u; s; -department-of-interior,-national-park-service

68.
NAL Call No.: 49-J82
Commercial adaptation of ultrasonography to predict pork carcass composition from live animal and carcass measurements.
Gresham, J. D.; McPeake, S. R.; Bernard, J. K.; Henderson, H. H. J-Anim- Sci v.70(3): p.631-639. (1992 Mar.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: pigs; carcass-composition; carcass-weight; sex- differences; ultrasonic-fat-meters; fat-thickness; prediction; equations

Abstract: Live animal and carcass data were collected from market barrows and gilts (n = 120) slaughtered at a regional commercial slaughter facility to develop and test prediction equations to estimate carcass composition from live animal and carcass ultrasonic measurements. Data from 60 animals were used to develop these equations. Best results were obtained in predicting weight and percentage of boneless cuts (ham, loin, and shoulder) and less accuracy was obtained for predicting weight and ratio of trimmed, bone-in cuts. Independent variables analyzed for the live models were live weight, sex, ultrasonic fat at first rib, last rib, and last lumbar vertebra, and muscle depth at last rib. Independent variables for the carcass models included hot carcass weight, sex of carcass, and carcass ultrasonic measurements for fat at the first rib, last rib, last lumbar vertebra, and muscle depth at last rib. Equations were tested against an independent set of experimental animals (n = 60). Equations for predicting weight of lean cuts, boneless lean cuts, fat- standardized lean, and percentage of fat-standardized lean were most accurate from both live animal and carcass measurements with R2 values between .75 and .88. The results from this study, under commercial conditions, suggest that although live animal or carcass weight and sex were the greatest contributors to variation in carcass composition, ultrasonography can be a noninvasive means of differentiating value, especially for fat-standardized lean and weight of boneless cuts.

69.
NAL Call No.: S561.6.I8I57
Company leaves mark in software field.
Integrated-Farm-Manage-Notes. Ames, Iowa : Integrated Farm Management Demonstration Prog., Ext. Communications, IA State Univ. Winter 1990. (6) p. 4- 5.
Descriptors: farm-management; computer-software; educational-programs; iowa

70.
NAL Call No.: 44.8-J822
Comparative responses of lactating cows to total mixed rations or computerized individual concentrates feeding.
Maltz, E.; Devir, S.; Kroll, O.; Zur, B.; Spahr, S. L.; Shanks, R. D. J- Dairy-Sci v.75(6): p.1588-1603. (1992 June)
Includes references.
Descriptors: dairy-cows; lactation-number; cattle-feeding; individual- feeding; milk-yield; body-weight; concentrates; feed-supplements; self-feeding; computer-software; computers; feed-intake; dry-matter; costs; israel

Abstract: A trial was conducted in a commercial dairy herd in which the concentrate part of the ration was fed individually to a group of cows through computerized self-feeders. Performance results were compared with those of a group fed TMR of 65 to 67% concentrates. Rationing of individual concentrates was according to parity, milk yield, milk yield potential, BW changes, and bunk feedstuffs. Mean intake of concentrates per cow was about 1 kg/d lower in the individually supplemented cows. This was partly compensated for by a higher intake of bunk feedstuffs. Overall daily milk yield per cow was similar to those receiving a TMR in first parity cows, higher in second parity cows, and lower in third and greater parity cows. The higher performance of the second parity cows was achieved in all milk yield potential classes, and the lower yield in subsequent lactations was due to lower performance in low and high potential classes. The individually supplemented cows gained less BW than those in the TMR group. Milk yield per unit of BW was better than yield as a variable to refine individual cow supplementation strategy for allocation of concentrates. Results also suggest that the same criteria used for supplementation of concentrates can be beneficial to cows' assignments and movements among different TMR groups. Computerized dispensing of concentrates, when applied properly, can economize on consumption of concentrates when grouping and feeding different TMR are impossible.

71.
NAL Call No.: 44.8-J822
Compares: a computerized milking parlor evaluation system.
Chang, W.; Barry, M. C.; Jones, L. R.; Merrill, W. G. J-Dairy-Sci v.75(9): p.2578-2586. (1992 Sept.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: milking-parlors; work-study; microcomputers; computer- analysis; computer-software

Abstract: A microcomputer-based system, Compares (Computerized Milking Parlor Evaluation System), was developed by the authors to evaluate the efficiency of milking parlor operations. The system utilizes a hand-held microcomputer to collect on-site milking parlor operation information, which is down-loaded to an IBM-compatible microcomputer to generate an analysis and summary report. The Compares system is capable of monitoring the activities of multiple operators in a milking parlor using a single hand-held microcomputer. Reports can be generated within minutes after the information is recorded, thus providing an immediate analysis of the milking system being examined. The Compares system excludes the human error that is possible in other manual recording procedures that can occur from transferring or calculating data, thereby reducing time and effort required to collect parlor operation information and enabling extensive data collection. Thus, this system provides a convenient tool for studying milking parlor operations.

72.
NAL Call No.: A99.9-F7625U
Comparison of a degree-day computer and a recording thermograph in a forest environment.
Wickman, B. E. PNW-Res-Note-U-S-Dep-Agric-For-Serv-Pac-Northwest-For-Range- Exp-Stn. Portland, Or. : The Station. Oct 1985. (427) 6 p.
Includes references.
Descriptors: phenology; plant-ecology; insect-control; temperatures; recording-instruments; computers; forests

73.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32T
Comparison of machine vision with human measurement of seed dimensions.
Churchill, D. B.; Bilsland, D. M.; Cooper, T. M. Trans-A-S-A-E v.35(1): p.61-64. ill. (1992 Jan.-1992 Feb.)
Literature review.
Descriptors: dactylis-glomerata; festuca-arundinacea; lolium-perenne; seeds; dimensions; measurement; machinery; microcomputers; vision; imagery; literature-reviews

Abstract: Length, width, and thickness of tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea), orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata), and perennial ryegrass seeds (Lolium perenne) were measured by a machine vision system and by four human operators using a microscope with a reticle. Statistical analysis showed that the consistency of machine vision measurements was greater than that of the human measurements and required about one-third of the time. Overall accuracy of machine vision system measurements appears to be sufficient to be the basis for selection of screen opening and indent pocket sizes used in seed conditioning operations.

74.
NAL Call No.: SD112.F67
Comparison of production thinning with waste thinning using STANDPAK.
West, G. G. FRI-Bull-For-Res-Inst-N-Z-For-Serv (151): p.156-170. (1990)
Paper presented at the "Symposium on New Approaches to Spacing and Thinning in Plantation Forestry, " held April 10-14, 1989, Rotorua, New Zealand.
Descriptors: pinus-radiata; models; computer-software; thinning; thinning-regimes

75.
NAL Call No.: 49-J82
Comparison of real-time ultrasound and other live measures to carcass measures as predictors of beef cow energy stores.
Bullock, K. D.; Bertrand, J. K.; Benyshek, L. L.; Williams, S. E.; Lust, D. G. J-Anim-Sci v.69(10): p.3908-3916. (1991 Oct.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: beef-cows; fat-thickness; plane-of-nutrition; body- weight; ultrasonic-fat-meters; body-condition; body-measurements; equations; prediction; carcass-composition; body-fat; body-protein

Abstract: Thirty-nine mature cows were divided into three condition groups on the basis of their subcutaneous fat thickness as determined by real- time ultrasound. A representative animal from each group was measured and slaughtered. The remaining cows with each group were stratified evenly into two groups with one group fed to gain weight and the other to lose weight. Several ultrasound and other live measures were taken every 4 wk and two animals per subgroup were randomly slaughtered. Carcass data were collected and one side of each carcass was boned, ground, mixed, and subsampled for fat and protein determination. Four regression equations were generated to predict percentage of fat (FAT), percentage of protein (PROT), total fat (TOTFAT), total protein (TOTPROT), total calories (CAL), CAL per live weight (CAL/WT), yield grade (YG), and marbling (MARB). The first equation used all live measures (SUB), the second equation used only objective live measures (OBJ), the third equation incorporated traditional live measures (EAS), and the fourth equation used only carcass data (CAR). Adjusted R-squares of the most appropriate equation using the SUB, OBJ, EAS, and CAR measurements were 82,.73,.82, and .82 for FAT; 82,.57,.6 1, and .66 for PROT; 89,.87,.86, and .85 for TOTFAT; .95,.95,.93, and .74 for TOTPROT; 93,.92,.91, and .90 for CAL; .83,.78,.83, and .82 for CAL/WT; .86, .86, .78, and .93 for YG; and 75,.70,.74, and .74 for MARB, respectively. It seems that condition score or ultrasound with other objective live measures is as accurate in predicting cow composition as carcass measures.

76.
NAL Call No.: 325.28-P56
Comparison of spatial variability in visible and near-infrared spectral images.
Chavez, P. S. Jr. Photogramm-Eng-Remote-Sensing v.58(7): p.957-964. (1992 July)
Includes references.
Descriptors: mapping; vegetation; crops; forests; swamps; rivers; deforestation; landsat; spatial-variation; satellite-imagery; spectral-data; thematic- mapper; paraguay; kenya; france; thailand; arizona; california; satellite-positioning-and-tracking

77.
NAL Call No.: SB319.2.F6F56
Comparisons between densitometric measurements, image analysis, and photointerpretation readings of aerial color infrared photogrophs of citrus trees.
Blazquez, C. H. Proc-Annu-Meet-Fla-State-Hortic-Soc. [S.l.] : The Society. 1988 (pub. May 1989). v. 101 p. 66-69. ill.
Includes references.
Descriptors: citrus-jambhiri; crop-management; aerial-photography; color; imagery; spectral-data; stress; vigor; florida

78.
NAL Call No.: 280.8-J822
Computer adoption decisions--implications for research and extension: the case of Texas rice producers.
Jarvis, A. M. Am-J-Agric-Econ v.72(5): p.1388-1394. (1990 Dec.)
Paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Agricultural Economics Association held August 5-8, 1990, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Descriptors: rice; farm-management; decision-making; microcomputers; innovation-adoption; probabilistic-models; case-studies; texas; logit-model

Abstract: This study identifies the characteristics of Texas rice producers who have adopted computers relative to nonadopters. Primary survey data obtained in the spring of 1990 was examined using logit analysis to identify how each characteristic influences the probability of computer adoption. Thirty-seven percent of the respondents use computers in their business. The results indicate that as farm size and business complexity increase so does the probability of computer adoption. Some evidence that the adoption of computer technology differs from production technology surfaced. Producers' decisions to adopt a computer are associated with the actions of their peers and family. Encouraging computer user groups and computer training courses for producers could encourage the adoption of computer technology.

79.
NAL Call No.: 80-AC82
A computer aid for decision-making in apple pest management.
Haley, S.; Currans, K. G.; Croft, B. A. Acta-Hortic (276): p.27-34. (1990 July)
Paper presented at the "Second International Symposium on Computer Modelling in Fruit Research and Orchard Management," September 5- 8, 1989, Logan, Utah.
Descriptors: apples; pest-management; expert-systems; north-america

Abstract: Our computer program is designed to help tree fruit pest managers make decisions on management of three major apple pests in western North America, codling moth, San Jose scale and phytophagous mites. The program operates on an IBM-compatible microcomputer and uses commercial expert system, database management and spreadsheet software. The system has three major components: DIAGNOSE, IDENTIFY and MANAGE. DIAGNOSE identifies pests from the injury they cause on buds, fruit, leaves or bark. IDENTIFY determines names of arthropod pests and their common natural enemies found on trees or fruit or in pheromone traps. MANAGE, the largest module, calculates the net benefit of a pesticide application. Submodels predict crop value, pest damage, control efficacy and control costs. Pest damage predictions are based on empirical models for codling moth and mites and on an expert estimate for scale. Efficacies of pesticides are estimated by experienced researchers. The program predicts the combined value at harvest of damage from accumulated populations of those pests selected by the user. Then a list of appropriate pesticides is presented. Next, the net benefit of an application of the user's choice of pesticide is calculated. Finally, the user may graphically compare side effects of the pesticide selected with those of alternative pesticides. Side effects include toxicities to other pests, applicator hazard, bee toxicity, toxicity to western predator mite and risk of resistance development.

80.
NAL Call No.: HC59.7.A1W6
Computer-aided management advice for loan programs run by Indonesian village women.
Nystuen, J. D.; Zinn, F. D.; Sulistyo, D.; Darmasetiawan, R. World-Dev v.19(12): p.1753-1766. (1991 Dec.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: rural-women; loans; information-systems; microcomputers; resource-management; family-planning; villages; development-projects; indonesia

81.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
Computer-aided management of plant tissue culture production.
Humphries, S.; Simonton, W.; Thai, C. N. Comput-Electron-Agric v.6(1): p.33-49. (1991 July)
Includes references.
Descriptors: plant-tissues; micropropagation; industry; agricultural- production; tissue-culture; enterprises; supply-response; fluctuations; demand; agricultural-adjustment; computer-software; mathematical-models; algorithms; management; processing; harvesting; contamination; labor- intensity; space- utilization; labor-allocation; lumped-parameter-discrete-time-models

82.
NAL Call No.: SD421.37.C6-1991
Computer applications for prescribed fire and air quality management in the Pacific Northwest.
Peterson, J. L.; Ottmar, R. D. Proceedings of the 11th Conference on Fire and Forest Meteorology, April 16-19, 1991, Missoula, Montana / sponsored by the Society of American Foresters and American Meteorological Soc ; editors, PL Andrews and DF Potts. Bethesda, Md. : Society of American Foresters, c1991.. p. 455-459.
This record corrects IND 92025717 which was entered incorrectly under call number SD143.S64.
Descriptors: prescribed-burning; emission; air-quality; computer- techniques; computer-software

83.
NAL Call No.: 80-AC82
Computer assisted selection of locations in South-East Asia for the continous cropping of apples and peaches.
Edwards, G. R.; Sinclair, E. R.; Chapman, K. R. Acta-Hortic. Wageningen : International Society for Horticultural Science. Dec 1990. v. 279 p. 61- 66.
Paper presented at the "Third International Workshop on Temperate Zone Fruits in the Tropics and Subtropics," December 12-16, 1988, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Descriptors: malus; prunus-persica; crop-production; temperate-tree- fruits; computer-software; tropics; site-selection; south-east-asia

84.
NAL Call No.: SB476.G7
Computer-based tree inventories.
Jaenson, R. Grounds-maint v.28(6): p.44, 46, 70-71. (1993 June)
Descriptors: forest-inventories; computer-software; landscaping; forest-management; databases; usa

85.
NAL Call No.: 80-AC82
A computer model for peach orchard replacement.
Bauer, L. L.; Bishop, G. D.; Rathwell, P. J. Acta-Hortic (276): p.295- 299. (1990 July)
Paper presented at the "Second International Symposium on Computer Modelling in Fruit Research and Orchard Management," September 5- 8, 1989, Logan, Utah.
Descriptors: peaches; orchards; replacement; computer-software; computer-techniques

Abstract: A computer program is illustrated that aids in the decision of determining the economically optimum time to replace a peach orchard. The decision maker inputs expected yields, annual costs, prices, and harvest cost for the replacement orchard along with the expected current annual income for the existing orchard and a discount rate. The model uses the information for the replacement orchard to calculate the expected net income for each year and the discount rate is used to determine the net present value each year. These annual estimates are accumulated through a particular year to determine total net present value of income up to and including that year. This is done for each year in the expected life of the replacement orchard. Since these are estimates of total income, they cannot be compared to an annual income. To accomplish this, the accumulated net present value estimate for each year is amortized to determine the necessary annual income that will equal the accumulated net present value for that year. The largest amortized value is selected to represent the expected average, or annual, income from the replacement orchard. If this is larger than the income expected from the existing orchard, the decision should be to replace.

86.
NAL Call No.: 99.9-F7662J
Computer optimization of hardwood parts yield using gang-rip-first procedures.
Hoff, K. G.; Adams, E. L.; Walker, E. S. For-Prod-J v.42(3): p.57-59. (1992 Mar.)
Descriptors: hardwoods; lumber; rip-sawing; computer-software; microcomputers

Abstract: A microcomputer program, GR-1ST (gang-rip-first), is available for determining optimum gang-rip-first procedures in processing hardwood lumber. GR-1ST 1ST provides 1) parts yield information per board, 2) plots of each board plus the resulting saw cuts and parts produced; and 3) summary information for all parts produced during program execution.

87.
NAL Call No.: 41.8-M69
A computer program for appraising and increasing productivity in beef cattle.
Ringwall, K. A.; Berg, P. M.; Boggs, D. L. Vet-Med v.87(7): p.706, 708- 709, 712-714, 716-717. (1992 July)
Descriptors: beef-cattle; beef-production; productivity; computer- software; beef-herds; growth; reproductive-performance; cow-herd-appraisal-and- performance-system-ii; chaps-ii

88.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1988
Computer program helps to manage small resorts for a profit.
Eix, J. R. Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs Fedro S Zazueta, AB Del Bottcher, eds p.422-427. (of Florida, [1988?].)
Conference held February 10-11, 1988 at the Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, Orlando, Florida.
Descriptors: resorts; management; computer-software; minnesota

89.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C68-1992
Computer software development for greenhouse design and management.
Fang, W.; Ting, K. C.; Giacomelli, G. A. Computers in agricultural extension programs proceedings of the 4th international conference, 28-31 January 1992, Orlando, Florida / sponspored by the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida. St. Joseph, Mich. : American Society of Agricultural Engineers, c1992.. p. 274-279.
Includes references.
Descriptors: greenhouses; design; management; computer-software

90.
NAL Call No.: aSD11.A42
Computer vision: a nursery management tool.
Rigney, M. P.; Kranzler, G. A. Gen-Tech-Rep-RM-Rocky-Mt-For-Range-Exp-Stn-U- S-Dep-Agric-For-Serv (200): p.189-194. (1990 Dec.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: forest-nurseries; computers; image-processors

91.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
A computer-vision algorithm for automatic guidance of microplant harvesting.
McFarlane, N. J. B. Comput-Electron-Agric v.6(2): p.95-106. (1991 Oct.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: chrysanthemum; mechanical-harvesting; imagery; algorithms; stems; computer-techniques; robots

92.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32T
Computer vision sensing of stress cracks in corn kernels.
Reid, J. F.; Kim, C.; Paulsen, M. R. Trans-A-S-A-E v.34(5): p.2236- 2244. (1991 Sept.-1991 Oct.)
Literature review.
Descriptors: zea-mays; maize; kernels; cracking; crop-damage; computer-analysis; optical-properties; stress-grading; detection; literature- reviews

Abstract: Maintaining high quality of corn is important to both corn producers and buyers. Stress crack detection remains one of the most important tasks in corn quality inspection. Such a measure of quality would be helpful in assessing not only the end-use values of the corn, but also the drying method used and the amount of expected breakage due to subsequent handling procedures. A computer vision system was developed for automatic detection of corn stress cracks which simulates the processes that the human visual system uses to perceive the stress cracks from the corn kernel in the conventional candling method. The stress crack detection system consisted of four consecutive stages, windowing, edge detection, feature representation, and classification. A set of performance criteria was developed to evaluate the stress crack detection system and used to compare the performance of different configurations on several corn varieties. Evaluation results showed that the system configured with the circular band operator, the Duda road operator, and the Hough transform performed best, with success rates of 78.2% and failure rates of 8.2% of the classification made by one human expert. The performance measures of the system with this configuration were equal or superior to that of other human inspectors. The accuracy of the system was 91.8% when the system was used to distinguish only stress cracked-kernels from sound kernels.

93.
NAL Call No.: S75.F87
A computer with a green thumb.
DePolo, J. Futures-Mich-State-Univ-Agric-Exp-Stn v.8(4): p.11-12. (1991 Winter)
Descriptors: flowers; greenhouse-culture; computer-software; michigan

94.
NAL Call No.: aSD11.U56
Computerized algorithms for partial cuts.
Ernst, R. L.; Stout, S. L. Gen-Tech-Rep-NE-U-S-Dep-Agric-For-Serv-Northeast- For-Exp-Stn (148): p.132-147. (1991 Mar.)
Paper present at the 8th Central Hardwood Forest Conference, March 4-6, 1991, University Park, Pennsylvania.
Descriptors: forest-management; thinning; computer-simulation; algorithms; computer-software; fiber-computer-software; ne-twigs-computer- software; oaksim-computer-software; silvah-computer-software; yields-ms- computer-software

95.
NAL Call No.: 280.8-J822
Computerized analysis of individual sow-herd performance.
Huirne, R. B. M.; Dijkhuizen, A. A.; Renkema, J. A.; Beek, P. v. Am-J-Agric- Econ v.74(2): p.388-399. (1992 May)
Includes references.
Descriptors: pig-farming; farm-management; expert-systems; simulation- models; validity; decision-making; comparisons; weighting; computerized-herd- evaluation-system-for-sows-chess-computer-software

Abstract: A computer model, CHESS, was developed to allow systematic and objective analysis of individual swine breeding farms. The model works by identifying deviations from standards, weighting the deviations, analyzing the weighted deviations, and finally, evaluating individual farm performance based on the results. CHESS consists of one decision support system and three expert systems. A field test to validate the CHESS model resulted in a test disagreement between CHESS and human experts of about 4% only.

96.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
A computerized data management and decision support system for gypsy moth management in suburban parks.
Thorpe, K. W.; Ridgeway, R. L.; Webb, R. E. Comput-Electron-Agric v.6(4): p.333-345. (1992 Jan.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: lymantria-dispar; pest-management; decision-making; computer-software; urban-parks; district-of-columbia; maryland; gypsy-moth- management-decision-support-system-gymsys-expert-system; montgomery-county,- maryland

97.
NAL Call No.: SB1.H6
Computerized data management for almond breeding programs.
Dicenta, F.; Garcia, J. E. HortScience v.27(3): p.270. (1992 Mar.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: prunus-dulcis; plant-breeding; computer-software; microcomputers; databases

98.
NAL Call No.: QH540.N3
Computers in consulting engineering.
Howard, C. D. D. NATO-ASI-Ser-Ser-G-Ecol-Sci. Berlin, W. Ger. : Springer- Verlag. 1991. v. 26 p. 267-282.
In the series analytic: Decision support systems: Water resources planning / edited by D.P. Loucks and J.R. da Costa. Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Research Workshop on Computer-Aided Support Systems for Water Resources, Research and Management, September 24-28, 1990, Ericeira, Portugal.
Descriptors: water-resources; water-management; decision-making; computer-simulation; simulation-models; computer-software; computer-hardware; engineering; consultants

99.
NAL Call No.: HD2346.U5R8
Computers save time, improve efficiency.
Tinsley, W. A. Rural-Enterp v.6(4): p.34-35. (1992 Summer)
Descriptors: microcomputers; time; efficiency; farm-management

100.
NAL Call No.: aS622.S6
Computers to be core of conservation assistance.
Shaw, R. R. Soil-Water-Conserv-U-S-Dep-Agric-Soil-Conserv-Serv v.13(2): p.4-6. (1992 July-1992 Aug.)
Descriptors: soil-conservation; land-management; computer-techniques; computer-software; databases; automation; usda

101.
NAL Call No.: HD1401.A47
Concept and implementation of an integrated decision support system (IDSS) for capital-intensive farming.
Wagner, P.; Kuhlmann, F. Agric-Econ-J-Int-Assoc-Agric-Econ v.5(3): p.287-310. (1991 July)
In the special issue : Multidisciplinary problem-solving and subject-matter work / edited by G.L. Johnson.
Descriptors: intensive-farming; capital; computer-software; models; decision-making; information; farm-management

Abstract: During the evolutionary process of developing software for management tasks, the need for integration became more and more obvious. This paper discusses how integrated information processing can be accomplished to support the managerial functions. Based on the concepts of control theory principal schemes of comparison possibilities and deviation analysis are shown. The philosophy behind the design of an integrated decision support system (IDSS), the on-farm implementation, and the integration problems of hardware and software are discussed. The applied IDSS consists of several planning and controlling models. These models and the linkages between them are described in detail.

102.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
Constant velocity air inlet controller.
Gates, R. S.; Overhults, D. G.; Walcott, B. L.; Shearer, S. A. Comput- Electron-Agric v.6(2): p.175-190. (1991 Oct.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: air-flow; velocity; animal-housing; ventilation; temperature; controllers; sensors; computer-software; algorithms; flow-charts

103.
NAL Call No.: SD143.N6
Construction of variable-density empirical yield equations from forest management inventory data.
Walters, D. K.; Ek, A. R.; Czysz, D. North-J-Appl-For v.7(3): p.110- 113. (1990 Sept.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: forest-inventories; yields; equations; mathematical- models

Abstract: Using simple concepts, forest management inventory data, and microcomputers for analysis, methodology is described whereby a forest owner or manager can construct yield equations quickly and economically. Models such as these should adequately explain the average yield trends in the data and can be adjusted, through the use of ratios, to specific stand information. Steps and cautions in choice of model form, data aggregation, and fitting procedure are discussed and illustrated. Assumptions and procedures for model implementation are also described.

104.
NAL Call No.: aSD11.A46-no.304
CONSUME. Version 1.01.
Ottmar, R. D.; Pacific Northwest Research Station (Portland, Or. Seattle, WA : PNW Research Station, [1993] 2 computer disks 1 user's guide.
Title from disk label.
Descriptors: Prescribed-burning-Software

Abstract: CONSUME is a computer program that calculates woody fuel and duff consumption for resource managers who prescribe fire for management of forest resources.

105.
NAL Call No.: QA76.76.E95A5
Continuous improvement of software support processes.
Lambert, J. R. AI-Appl v.7(2/3): p.45-48. (1993)
Paper presented at a Symposium of the 1992 Annual Meeting of the Entomological Society of America, December 8, 1992, Baltimore, Maryland.
Descriptors: insect-pests; gossypium; crop-production; computer- software; systems; expert-systems; improvement; decision-making; usa

106.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32P
Cost and return estimator (CARE) a tool for alternative agriculture.
Christensen, D. A.; Langemeier, D. L. PAP-AMER-SOC-AGRIC-ENG. St. Joseph, Mich. : The Society. Winter 1990. (90-1565) 10 p.
Paper presented at the "1990 International Winter Meeting sponsored by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers," December 18-21, Chicago, Illinois.
Descriptors: alternative-farming; budgets; cost-benefit-analysis; crop-management; computer-software; nebraska; care-software

107.
NAL Call No.: HD1751.C45
Cost effective software encourages financial management.
Stokes, K. W. Choices-Mag-Food-Farm-Resour-Issues v.7(1): p.27. (1992)
Includes references.
Descriptors: computer-software; microcomputers; record-keeping; farm- management; extension

108.
NAL Call No.: QA76.76.E95A5
Costs involved in the support and maintenance of the Penn State Apple Orchard Consultants.
McClure, J. AI-Appl v.7(2/3): p.54-55. (1993)
Paper presented at a Symposium of the 1992 Annual Meeting of the Entomological Society of America, December 8, 1992, Baltimore, Maryland.
Descriptors: malus-pumila; orchards; crop-management; support-systems; technical-training; computer-software; expert-systems; costs; pennsylvania

109.
NAL Call No.: SB249.N6
Cotton fruiting patterns as affected by nitrogen rate and Pix-- preliminary evaluation with COTMAP.
Welch, R. A.; Ebelhar, M. W. Proc-Beltwide-Cotton-Conf. Memphis, Tenn. : National Cotton Council of America. 1991. v. 2 p. 905.
Paper presented at the "Cotton Soil Management and Plant Nutrition Conference," 1991, San Antonio, Texas.
Descriptors: gossypium-hirsutum; crop-production; crop-yield; crop- quality; fertilizers; computer-software; mississippi

110.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1990
COWBASE: a beef cow-calf records program.
Kunkle, W. E.; Sand, R. S.; Buhl, F. Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs / Fedro S. Zazueta, editor. ; January 31- February 1, 1990, Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, FL. Gainesville, FL : Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, [1990]. p. 459-465.
Descriptors: beef-herds; record-keeping; computer-software

111.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1990
COWBOSS: a microcomputer record keeping system for cow/calf herds.
Berry, S. L.; Ahmadi, A.; Johnson, H. A.; Riet, W. J. v.; Farley, J. L. Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs / Fedro S. Zazueta, editor. ; January 31- February 1, 1990, Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, FL. Gainesville, FL : Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, [1990]. p. 423-429. ill.
Includes references.
Descriptors: animal-husbandry; cows; record-keeping; computers; systems

112.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C68-1992
COWREC--a simplified beef cow-calf record keeping system.
Sutton, R. W.; Bishop, G. D. Computers in agricultural extension programs proceedings of the 4th international conference, 28-31 January 1992, Orlando, Florida / sponspored by the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida. St. Joseph, Mich. : American Society of Agricultural Engineers, c1992.. p. 86-90.
Includes references.
Descriptors: calf-production; record-keeping; computer-software

113.
NAL Call No.: S671.A66
Crop water stress index of ornamental plants.
Sammis, T. W.; Jernigan, D. Appl-Eng-Agric v.8(2): p.191-195. (1992 Mar.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: ornamental-plants; species; water-requirements; evapotranspiration; canopy; water-stress; mexico

Abstract: Water requirements were determined for eighteen species of ornamental plants produced under non-limiting water conditions at Las Cruces, New Mexico. Baseline equations were determined from regression analysis of canopy-air temperature differential versus air vapor pressure deficit. Canopy temperature was measured using an infrared thermometer. Air temperature and air vapor pressure deficit were measured using an Assmann psychrometer. Regressions for Salt Cedar, Sycamore, Ash, and Aleppo Pine had statistically equivalent slopes and intercepts (P < 0.05); all others were unique in their responses. Canopy and aerodynamic resistance were calculated from the baseline equations and the noontime and daily transpiration rates were calculated. Daily transpiration ranged from 12.5 mm d-1 (0.49 in. d-1) (alfalfa) to 3 mm d-1 (0.12 in. d-1) (Barberry). Relative transpiration was calculated using alfalfa as a standard. Redbud exhibited a relative transpiration of 0.78 and Mulberry showed a relative transpiration of 0.42.

114.
NAL Call No.: HD1.A3
CROPLOT--an expert system for determining the suitability of crops to plots.
Nevo, A.; Amir, I. Agric-Syst v.37(3): p.225-241. (1991)
Includes references.
Descriptors: farm-planning; land-use-planning; expert-systems; decision-making; crop-management; crop-production; microcomputers; validity

115.
NAL Call No.: 44.8-J822
The current state of human-computer interface technologies for use in dairy herd management.
Jones, L. R. J-Dairy-Sci v.75(11): p.3246-3256. (1992 Nov.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: information-systems; data-banks; microcomputers; graphs; computer-software; dairy-farming

Abstract: The current state of three human-computer interface areas was reviewed, and potential dairy herd management applications were proposed. Alternative input devices (e.g., touch-sensitive screens and speech recognition) can provide more intuitive communication with computers. Several user interface designs have been developed that narrow the dichotomy between ease of use and ease of learning. Information technologies can provide dairy herd managers with more complete and immediate access to management information for decision making: 1) natural language interfaces, which allow users to query a structured database to retrieve information; 2) full text retrieval systems, which retrieve pertinent passages from a collection of documents; and 3) hypertext, which is a means of linking related passages of text so that they can be browsed in a logical, nonlinear fashion. The third area of human-computer interface concerns methods of integrating decision support systems into a management workstation that could contain independent systems, systems integrated through a user interface manager, or systems integrated through an intelligent dialogue manager. Advances in human-computer interfaces, if incorporated into dairy management software, should significantly increase the use of computers for dairy management and improve the decisions made by dairy herd managers.

116.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32P
Customized design and layout of swine nursery facilities.
Helmink, K. J.; Riskowski, G. L.; Christianson, L. L. PAP-AMER-SOC-AGRIC- ENG. St. Joseph, Mich. : The Society. Winter 1989. (89-4552) 15 p.
Paper presented at the "1989 International Winter Meeting sponsored by The American Society of Agricultural Engineers," December 12-15, 1989, New Orleans, Louisiana.
Descriptors: piglets; pig-housing; structural-design; computer- software

117.
NAL Call No.: 1.98-AG84
Cutting energy costs for irrigation.
Senft, D. Agric-Res-U-S-Dep-Agric-Res-Serv v.39(5): p.14-15. (1991 May)
Descriptors: irrigation; computer-software; computer-techniques; irrigation-systems; energy-conservation; energy-cost-of-production

118.
NAL Call No.: SF601.C66
Dairy herd reproductive health management: evaluating dairy herd reproductive performance. II.
Etherington, W. G.; Marsh, W. E.; Fetrow, J.; Weaver, L. D.; Seguin, B. E.; Rawson, C. L. Compend-Contin-Educ-Pract-Vet v.13(9): p.1491-1503. (1991 Sept.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: dairy-cows; heifers; calving-rate; growth; liveweight; age-at-first-calving; culling; conception-rate; dairy-herds; information- services; computer-software

119.
NAL Call No.: 44.8-J822
Dairybase: an electronic individual animal inventory and herd management system.
Spahr, S. L.; Dill, D. E.; Leverich, J. B.; McCoy, G. C.; Sagi, R. J-dairy- sci v.76(7): p.1914-1927. (1993 July)
Includes references.
Descriptors: dairy-cows; record-keeping; farm-management; computer- software; databases; algorithms

Abstract: A microcomputer application program developed with database management system technology is described for management of animal inventory, reproduction, genetic improvement, feeding, milk production, and health records of dairy cattle. An inventory of cattle, frozen semen, frozen embryos, and nutrient content of feeds is maintained in integrated databases using a relational database management system. Knowledge- based management information is encoded into the application program to enhance management. The program utilizes electronic transfer of milk production data from electronic milk meters and has the capability to minimize manual entry of other data by electronic updating of the database. Use of the program in a 300-cow herd enhanced the detail of data available for management of individual cows and provided an improved method for planning herd management events, monitoring the current status of individual cows, and custom interfacing herd records with new or emerging electronic communication and animal sensor technology.

120.
NAL Call No.: 58.9-IN7
Data logging for agriculture processing in Malawi.
Temple, S. Agric-Eng v.46(4): p.105-107, 130. (1991 Winter)
Descriptors: tea; processing; tobacco; production; data-collection; monitoring; temperature; environment; computer-software; malawi

121.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3C652
Database management system for monitoring and warning of codling moth (Cydia pomonella) and carrot fly (Psila rosae).
Murali, N. S.; Percy Smith, A. Comput-Electron-Agric v.6(3): p.267-272. (1991 Dec.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: cydia-pomonella; psila-rosae; databases; monitoring; microcomputers; pest-control; computer-software

122.
NAL Call No.: TD420.A1P7
DBAPE--a database and model parameter analysis system for agricultural soils to support water quality management.
Imhoff, J. C.; Carsel, R. F.; Kittle, J. L. Jr.; Hummel, P. R. Water-Sci- Technol-J-Int-Assoc-Water-Pollut-Res-Control v.24(6): p.331-337. (1991)
In the series analytic: Watermatex '91 / edited by T.O. Barnwell, P.J. Ossenbruggen and M.B. Beck. Proceedings of the "Second International Conference on Systems Analysis in Water Quality Management," June 3-6, 1991, Durham, New Hampshire.
Descriptors: soil-properties; water-quality; management; agricultural- soils; computer-software; subsurface-runoff; models; databases

123.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.B563C87
Decision support for integrated greenhouse production systems.
Ting, K. C.; Fang, W.; Giacomelli, G. A. Curr-Plant-Sci-Biotechnol- Agric (12): p.293-298. (1991)
In the series analytic: Horticulture -- New Technologies and Applications / edited by J. Prakash and R. L. M. Pierik. Proceedings of an International Seminar on New Frontiers in Horticulture, November 25-28, 1990, Bangalore, India.
Descriptors: horticultural-crops; greenhouse-culture; crop-production; decision-making; computer-software

124.
NAL Call No.: SB599.J69
Decision support software for implementation of Russian wheat aphid economic injury levels and thresholds.
Legg, D. E.; Wangberg, J. K.; Kumar, R. J-agric-entomol v.10(3): p.205- 213. (1993 July)
Includes references.
Descriptors: diuraphis-noxia; insect-pests; economic-thresholds; crop- damage; yield-losses; computer-software; models

125.
NAL Call No.: S494.5.D3I5-1990
Decision support software to elicit risk aversion preferences.
Alderfer, R. D.; Harsh, S. B. Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Computers in Agricultural Extension Programs / Fedro S. Zazueta, editor. ; January 31- February 1, 1990, Grosvenor Resort Hotel, Disney World Village, Lake Buenavista, FL. Gainesville, FL : Florida Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, [1990]. p. 242-246.
Includes references.
Descriptors: expert-systems; risk; attitudes

126.
NAL Call No.: SB1.H6
A decision support system for apple thinning in Colorado.
Rogoyski, M. K.; Renquist, A. R. HortScience v.27(8): p.915-917. (1992 Aug.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: malus-pumila; thinning; fruit; decision-making; computer- software; chemical-pruning; colorado; defruiting

Abstract: A decision support system has been developed to help Colorado fruit growers with apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) thinning. This system can also be used as a teaching aid and as a tool for generating research hypotheses. The system determines if fruit thinning is needed by identifying catastrophic events that would eliminate the need for thinning. The major function of this decision support system is determination of tree responsiveness to chemical thinning agents. This is accomplished through analysis of the user's answers to questions related to the physiological status of the trees, environmental data, bearing history, and the apple variety in question. On the basis of the above analysis, two sets of recommendations are presented: general recommendations based on the variety selected, and specific ones for that variety based on growth stage and tree responsiveness to thinners. The user also is provided with the rationale for the recommendations.

127.
NAL Call No.: 275.29-OK41C
A decision support system for eastern redcedar control.
Engle, D. M.; Bernardo, D. J.; Hunter, T. D.; Stritzke, J. F.; Bidwell, T. G. Circ-E-Okla-State-Univ-Coop-Ext-Serv (905): p.16. (1992 Feb.)
In the series analytic: Range research highlights, 1983-1991 / edited by T.G. Bidwell, D. Titus and D. Cassels.
Descriptors: juniperus-virginiana; brush-control; range-management; computer-software; cost-benefit-analysis; oklahoma

128.
NAL Call No.: SB599.C8
Decision support system for economic analysis of grasshopper treatment operations in the African Sahel.
Coop, L. B.; Croft, B. A.; Murphy, C. F.; Miller, S. F. Crop-Prot v.10(6): p.485-495. (1991 Dec.)
Includes references.
Descriptors: oedaleus-senegalensis; insect-control; decision-making; cost-benefit-analysis; chemical-control; computer-software; computer-simulation; simulation-models; prediction; economic-thresholds; crop-growth-stage; crop- yield; crop-losses; timing; insecticides; loss-prevention; millets; ghlsim

129.
NAL Call No.: QA76.76.E95A5
A decision support system for management of Russian wheat aphid in the western United States.
Berry, J.; Lanier, W.; Belote, D. AI-Appl v.7(1): p.49-52. (1993)
Descriptors: aphidoidea; computer-software; support-systems; management; identification; western-states-of-usa; diuraphis-noxia; management- modules; identification-modules

130.
NAL Call No.: 290.9-AM32P
A decision support system for planning agroforestry systems.
Garcia Ceca, J. L.; Gebremedhin, K. G.; Lassoie, J. P. PAP-AMER-SOC-AGRIC- ENG. St. Joseph, Mich. : The Society. Summer 1989. (89-7073) 16 p.
Paper presented at the 1989 International Summer meeting, June 25-28, 1989, Quebec, PQ, Canada.
Descriptors: agroforestry-systems; planning; computer-software

131.
NAL Call No.: HD1773.A2N6
A decision support system for sustainable farming.
Ikerd, J. E. Northeast-J-Agric-Resour-Econ v. 20(1): p.109-113. (1991 Apr.)
Paper submitted in response to call for papers on the theme "The Effects of Agricultural Production on Environmental Quality."
Descriptors: farm-management; sustainability; farm-planning; computer- software; resource-management; microcomputers; decision-making; sustaining-and- managing-resources-for-tomorrow-farm-resource-management-system-smart-frms- computer-software

132.
NAL Call No.: T174.3.J68
A decision support system model for technology transfer.
Roland, R. J. J-Technol-Transfer v.7(1): p.73-93. (1982 Fall)
Includes references.
Descriptors: technology-transfer; decision-making; computer-software; information-systems; models

Abstract: Technology transfer is the process by which technology originating at one institutional setting is adapted for use in another. A major impediment to the implementation of new technologies to assist with mangerial decision-making problems is a lack of communication between the technology and management communities. Development of a tool designed to bridge the technology transfer gap was the goal of this research. The result is a prototype software package which may be used on an i