Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2016

Agricultural Sciences Bachelor Information
Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2010)
3. Semester
Basic Courses II: Examination Block 1
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0063-00LPhysics IIO5 credits3V + 1UA. Vaterlaus
AbstractIntroduction to the "way of thinking" and the methodology in Physics, with the help of demonstration experiments. The Chapters treated are Electromagnetism, Refraction and Diffraction of Waves, Elements of Quantum Mechanics with applications to Spectroscopy, Thermodynamics, Phase Transitions, Transport Phenomena. Whenever possible, examples relevant to the students' main field of study are given.
ObjectiveIntroduction to the scientific methodology. The student should develop his/her capability to turn physical observations into mathematical models, and to solve the latter.
ContentElektromagnetismus, Elektromagnetische Wellen, Wellenoptik, Strahlenoptik, Quantenoptik, Quantenmechanik, Thermische Eigenschaften, Transportphänomene, Wärmestrahlung
Lecture notesSkript wird verteilt.
LiteratureFriedhelm Kuypers
Physik für Ingenieure und Naturwissenschaftler
Band 2 Elektrizität, Optik, Wellen
Wiley-VCH, 2012
ISBN 3527411445, 9783527411443

Douglas C. Giancoli
Physik
3. erweiterte Auflage
Pearson Studium

Hans J. Paus
Physik in Experimenten und Beispielen
Carl Hanser Verlag, München, 2002, 1068 S.

Paul A. Tipler
Physik
Spektrum Akademischer Verlag, 1998, 1522 S., ca Fr. 120.-

David Halliday Robert Resnick Jearl Walker
Physik
Wiley-VCH, 2003, 1388 S., Fr. 87.- (bis 31.12.03)

dazu gratis Online Ressourcen (z.B. Simulationen): Link
701-0071-00LMathematics III: Systems AnalysisO4 credits2V + 1UN. Gruber, D. Byrne
AbstractThe objective of the systems analysis course is to deepen and illustrate the mathematical concepts on the basis of a series of very concrete examples. Topics covered include: linear box models with one or several variables, non-linear box models with one or several variables, time-discrete models, and continuous models in time and space.
ObjectiveLearning and applying of concepts (models) and quantitative methods to address concrete problems of environmental relevance. Understanding and applying the systems-analytic approach, i.e., Recognizing the core of the problem - simplification - quantitative approach - prediction.
ContentLink
Lecture notesOverhead slides will be made available through Ilias.
LiteratureImboden, D.S. and S. Pfenninger (2013) Introduction to Systems Analysis: Mathematically Modeling Natural Systems. Berlin Heidelberg: Springer Verlag.

Link
752-4001-00LMicrobiology Information O2 credits2VM. Schuppler, S. Schlegel, J. Vorholt-Zambelli
AbstractTeaching of basic knowledge in microbiology with main focus on Microbial Cell Structure and Function, Molecular Genetics, Microbial Growth, Metabolic Diversity, Phylogeny and Taxonomy, Prokaryotic Diversity, Human-Microbe Interactions, Biotechnology.
ObjectiveTeaching of basic knowledge in microbiology.
ContentDer Schwerpunkt liegt auf den Themen: Bakterielle Zellbiologie, Molekulare Genetik, Wachstumsphysiologie, Biochemische Diversität, Phylogenie und Taxonomie, Prokaryotische Vielfalt, Interaktion zwischen Menschen und Mikroorganismen sowie Biotechnologie.
Lecture notesWird von den jeweiligen Dozenten ausgegeben.
LiteratureDie Behandlung der Themen erfolgt auf der Basis des Lehrbuchs Brock, Biology of Microorganisms
701-0255-00LBiochemistryO2 credits2VH.‑P. Kohler
AbstractBuilding on the biology courses in the 1st and 2nd semesters, this course covers basic biochemical knowledge in the areas of enzymology and metabolism. Those completing the course are able to describe and understand fundamental cellular metabolic processes.
ObjectiveStudents are able to understand
- the structure and function of biological macromolecules
- the kinetic bases of enzyme reactions
- thermodynamic and mechanistic basics of relevant metabolic processes
Students are able to describe the relevant metabolic reactions in detail
ContentProgram

Introduction, basics, composition of cells, biochemical units, repetition of relevant organic chemistry
Structure and function of proteins
Carbohydrates
Lipids an biological membranes
Enzymes and enzyme kinetics
Catalytic strategies
Metabolism: Basic concepts and design. Repetition of basic thermodynamics
Glycolysis, fermentation
The citric acid cycle
Oxidative phosphorylation
Fatty acid metabolism
Lecture notesHorton et al. (Pearson) serves as lecture notes.
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic knowledge in biology and chemistry is a precondition.
701-0501-00LPedosphere Information O3 credits2VR. Kretzschmar
AbstractIntroduction to the formation and properties of soils as a function of parent rock, landscape position, climate, and soil organisms. Complex relationships between soil forming processes, physical and chemical soil properties, soil biota, and ecological soil properties are explained and illustrated by numerous examples.
ObjectiveIntroduction to the formation and properties of soils as a function of parent rock, landscape position, climate, and soil organisms. Complex relationships between soil forming processes, physical and chemical soil properties, soil biota, and ecological soil properties are explained and illustrated by numerous examples.
ContentDefinition of the pedosphere, soil functions, rocks as parent materials, minerals and weathering, soil organisms, soil organic matter, physical soil properties and functions, chemical soil properties and functions, soil formation, principles of soil classification, global soil regions, soil fertility, land use and soil degradation.
Lecture notesLecture notes can be purchased during the first lecture (15.- SFr)
Literature- Scheffer/Schachtschabel - Soil Science, Springer, Heidelberg, 2016.

- Brady N.C. and Weil, R.R. The Nature and Properties of Soils. 14th ed. Prentice Hall, 2007.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: Basic knowledge in chemistry, biology and geology.
752-6003-00LIntroduction to Nutritional Science Restricted registration - show details
Only for Agricultural Science BSc.
O2 credits1.5VM. B. Zimmermann, C. Wolfrum
AbstractThis course introduces basic concepts of micro- and macronutrient nutrition. Micronutrients studied include fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Macronutrients include proteins, fat and carbohydrates.
ObjectiveTo introduce the students to the both the macro- and the micronutrients.
ContentThe lectutres on micronutrients are given by Prof. Zimmermann and the lectures on macronutrients are given by Prof. Wolfrum. Prof. Zimmermann discusses the micronutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Prof. Wolfrum introduces basic nutritional aspects of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and energy metabolism.
Lecture notesThere is no script. Powerpoint presentations will be made available.
LiteratureElmadfa I & Leitzmann C: Ernährung des Menschen
UTB Ulmer, Stuttgart, 4. überarb. Ausgabe 2004
ISBN-10: 3825280365; ISBN-13: 978-3825280369

Garrow JS and James WPT: Human Nutrition and Dietetics
Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh, 11th rev. ed. 2005
ISBN-10: 0443056277; ISBN-13: 978-0443056277
751-1101-00LFinances and Accounting SystemO2 credits2GM. Dumondel
AbstractTo understand accounting as a component of the complex system of the enterprise
ObjectiveTo understand accounting not as an isolated discipline, but as a part of the complex system of the enterprise
ContentAccounting system as a part of management economics.
The different steps for scheduling and evaluation of the accountancy will be studied. The main part of the lecture is dedicated to the financial accounting – nevertheless the fundamentals of the internal cost-accounting will also be presented. The lecture will also include the clarification of concrete cases and the calculation of practical exercises.
Lecture notesCourse documentation and specified educational books
LiteratureIn the lecture one indicates
Basic Courses II: Examination Block 2
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-1551-00LRessourcen- und Umweltökonomie Information O3 credits2VL. Bretschger, A. Müller
AbstractRelationship between economy and environment, market failure, external effects and public goods, contingent valuation, internalisation of externalities; economics of non-renewable resources, economics of renewable resources, cost-benefit analysis, sustainability, and international aspects of resource and environmental economics.
ObjectiveUnderstanding of the basic issues and methods in resource and environmental economics; ability to solve typical problems in the field using the appropriate tools, which are concise verbal explanations, diagrams or mathematical expressions.

Topics are:
Introduction to resource and environmental economics
Importance of resource and environmental economics
Main issues of resource and environmental economics
Normative basis
Utilitarianism
Fairness according to Rawls
Economic growth and environment
Externalities in the environmental sphere
Governmental internalisation of externalities
Private internalisation of externalities: the Coase theorem
Free rider problem and public goods
Types of public policy
Efficient level of pollution
Tax vs. permits
Command and Control Instruments
Empirical data on non-renewable natural resources
Optimal price development: the Hotelling-rule
Effects of exploration and Backstop-technology
Effects of different types of markets.
Biological growth function
Optimal depletion of renewable resources
Social inefficiency as result of over-use of open-access resources
Cost-benefit analysis and the environment
Measuring environmental benefit
Measuring costs
Concept of sustainability
Technological feasibility
Conflicts sustainability / optimality
Indicators of sustainability
Problem of climate change
Cost and benefit of climate change
Climate change as international ecological externality
International climate policy: Kyoto protocol
Implementation of the Kyoto protocol in Switzerland
ContentEconomy and natural environment, welfare concepts and market failure, external effects and public goods, measuring externalities and contingent valuation, internalising external effects and environmental policy, economics of non-renewable resources, renewable resources, cost-benefit-analysis, sustainability issues, international aspects of resource and environmental problems, selected examples and case studies.
Lecture notesThe script and lecture material are provided at:
Link
LiteraturePerman, R., Ma, Y., McGilvray, J, Common, M.: "Natural Resource & Environmental Economics", 3d edition, Longman, Essex 2003.
751-6101-00LAnatomy and Physiology of Man and Animals IO2 credits2VM. C. Härdi-Landerer, S. E. Ulbrich
AbstractImparts a basic understanding of physiology an anatomy in man and domestic animals, focusing on the interrelations between morphology and function of the organism, in particular of domestic animals. This is fostered by discussing all subjects from a functional point of view. The lecture consists of two consecutive parts.
Objective.
Agricultural Natural Sciences
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-3401-00LPlant Nutrition IW2 credits2VE. Frossard
AbstractThe aim of these lecture is to present the processes controlling the uptake and transport of nutrients and water by the plant, the assimilation of nutrients in the plant, the effect of nutrients on crop yield and quality, the role of the soil as a source of nutrients for crops, and the basic principles of fertilization of different crop types using mineral and organic fertilizers.
ObjectiveAt the end of the lecture, students know how mineral nutrients and water are taken up through roots and circulate in the plants and what their roles in plants are. They understand the importance of nutrients for yield formation and for crop product quality. They are able to propose fertilization plans adapted for field crops growing under Swiss conditions.
ContentA general introduction explains the needs of appropriately managing nutrients in plant production. Afterwards, we will study the physiology of plant nutrition (nutrient uptake by roots; water and nutrient transports in the plant; physiological roles of nutrients in the plant). Then the role of nutrients for yield formation and their effects on crop quality is dealt with. Finally, the bases of crop fertilization are taught (availability of nutrient in soil; N, P and K fertilization; different types of fertilizers).
Lecture notesWe will distribute a script for the part dealing with the physiology of plant nutrition. For the part on fertilization we will use the booklet of ACW and ART presenting the recommendations for the fertilization of crops and grassland in Switzerland (GRUDAF/DBF).
LiteraturePhysiology of plant nutrition:
Epstein and Bloom 2004. Mineral nutrition of plants: Principles and perspectives
Taiz and Zeiger 2002. Plant physiology.
Marschner 1995. Mineral Nutrition of higher plants.
Schilling 2000. Pflanzenernährung und Düngung.
Schubert S 2006 Pflanzenernährung Grundwissen Bachelor Ulmer UTB
Pictures of nutrients deficiency symptoms:
Bergmann, W. 1988. Ernährungsstörungen bei Kulturpflanzen.
Link
Water balance:
Kramer, P.J., Boyer, J.S. 1995. Water relations of plants and soils.
Lösch, R. 2001. Wasserhaushalt der Pflanzen.
Ehlers, W. 1996. Wasser in Boden und Pflanze.
751-4501-00LPhytomedicine: Entomology
Does not take place this semester.
W1 credit1VC. De Moraes
AbstractApplied Entomology: key insect pests and their antagonists in crops, arthropods in storage and public health systems, insect ecology, and pest control strategies
ObjectiveAt the end of this course in Applied Entomology, students will have (1) an overview on herbivore insects (pests) and their natural antagonists in agroecosystems, combined with an insight into ongoing research, and (2) an in-depth understanding of population dynamics and damage development based on selected examples from the areas of plant, animal and public health.
751-4501-01LPhytomedicine: Plant PathologyW1 credit1VU. Merz
AbstractPlant Pathology topics: plant diseases in agroecosystems, categories of pathogens, pathogen life histories, pathogen attack and plant defense, gene-for-gene systems, and disease control strategies.
ObjectiveGain an understanding of the causes and consequences of plant diseases in agroecosystems.
ContentPlant pathology and human affairs, A short history of plant pathology. Koch’s Postulates. Abiotic diseases. Categories of infectious agents. Pathogen life cycles and disease cycles. Disease development. Plant resistance mechanisms. Genetics of plant resistance. Epidemiology and disease forecasting. Control strategies: exclusion and quarantines, sanitation, crop rotation, biocontrol, genetic resistance. Fungicides and risk assessment. Genetic engineering of resistance. Integrated management strategies.
Lecture notesLecture notes will be available for purchase at the cost of reproduction.
LiteratureAgrios, G.N. 2005. Plant Pathology, 5. Edition, Academic Press, Inc.

Lucas, J.A. 1998. Plant Pathology and Plant Pathogens. 3. Edition, Blackwell Science. pp. 274
751-6301-00LAnimal BreedingW2 credits2VS. Neuenschwander
AbstractIntroduction to basics of animal breeding. Importance of animal production. Species of livestock and their products, performance recording, functional traits, genetic diversity, breeding goals. Qualitative and quantitative traits. Basic knowledge of breeding methods: genetic and environmental variation, heritability, genetic correlation, estimation of breeding values, selection, mating systems.
ObjectiveShow the importance of animal production for Swiss and international agriculture. Name the livestock species, their products, systematic classification and breeding and production goals. Describe methods to measure animal performance (performance recording) and functional traits. Define the most important parameters and methods in animal breeding.
ContentEvolution, domestication, history of animal breeding.
Definition, models of animal production, species of livestock, numbers, distribution.
Genetic polymorphisms and their applications in animal breeding.
Genetic diversity, breeds, production and breeding goals.
Traits: performance, fucntional.
Performance recording. herd replacement.
Qualitative (monogenic) and quantitative (polygenic) traits, Mendelian genetics, quantitative genetics.
Genetic and environmantal variation, heritability, genetic correlation, selection, selection response.
Lecture notesTransparencies and single chapters of textbook are made available on homepage.
LiteratureTierzucht (Willam/Simianer) UTB 3526 (2011)
Additional literature to be announced in the lecture.
Agricultural and Resource Economics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-2001-00LArea Planning and Regional DevelopmentW2 credits2VC. Lüscher, B. Buser
AbstractIntroduction into Area Planning in Switzerland, basics, legal aspects and instruments. Overview and state of the art.
Practical regional development based on concrete experience and projects; basics, legal aspects and state of the art.
ObjectiveGoals:
The student gets an overview over Area Planning in Switzerland with legal aspects, instruments and the actual state of the art.
Awareness rising for complex regional planning and developing questions. Introduction in regional development and politics, based on existing and future regulations and their effects on different political levels.
ContentArea Planning:
- Basics of area planning
- Overview over existing regulations in Switzerland
- State of the art in Switzerland
- links between area planning and environmental protection

regional development:
- Basics for a successful regional development based on personal field experience
- discussion of the different instruments
- stake holders and their role in regional politics
- case studies for developing strategies (in small study groups)
Lecture notesno script will be delivered, mainly for technical reasons; all necessary stuff will be delivered as papers or via internet.
Literatureno literature
Prerequisites / Noticegerman spoken (with translation of french and italian technical terms)
751-1311-00LIntroduction to Agricultural ManagementW+2 credits2VR. Finger
AbstractVermittlung von betriebswirtschaftlichen Grundlagenwissen und Analyse- und Planungsinstrumenten mit Anwendung auf Unternehmen der Agrar- und Ernährungswirtschaft
ObjectiveTeilnehmer des Kurses sollen am Ende der Vorlesung i) grundlegende Unternehmensentscheide strukturieren und analysieren können, ii) verschiedene Analyse- und Planungsinstrumente auf Fragestellungen der Produktionsplanung, Investition und Finanzierung an Beispielen anwenden zu können, iii) verschiedene Werkzeuge zur unternehmerischen Entscheidungsunterstützung anwenden können und iv) die Spezifika von Unternehmen in der Agrar- und Ernährungswirtschaft kennen.
ContentDie Vorlesung geht auf folgende Inhalte, mit spezifischen Anwendungen im Agrar- und Ernährungssektors ein:

Grundlagen und Ziele unternehmerischen Entscheidens
Kosten und Leistungsrechnung
Produktionstheorie
Produktionsprogrammplanung
Investitionsplanung und Finanzierung
Entscheidungen unter Unsicherheit und Risikomanagement
Lecture notesVorlesungsunterlagen werden im Laufe des Semesters zur Verfügung gestellt
LiteratureOliver Musshoff und Norbert Hirschauer (2013). Modernes Agrarmanagement: Betriebswirtschaftliche Analyse- und Planungsverfahren. 3. Auflage. Vahlen, ISBN-10: 3800647435
5. Semester
Focus Agricultural Natural Sciences
Focus Agricultural Natural Sciences
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-4001-00LForage Cropping Information W+2 credits2GN. Buchmann, A. Lüscher
AbstractThis course is an introduction into forage cropping and grassland sciences. Topics include: extensive/intensive use, grassland evaluation, grassland maintenance, management using fertilization, cutting, etc. Relationships between site, vegetation composition and management will be explored.
ObjectiveDie Studierenden werden wichtige Mischungen und Pflanzengemeinschaften mitteleuropäischer Graslandökosysteme kennen, klassische und aktuelle Arbeiten der Bestandesökophysiologie kennen, in der Lage sein, den Einfluss von Umweltfaktoren und Bewirtschaftung nicht nur auf Einzelpflanzen, sondern auf Pflanzenbestände und ihre Erträge abzuschätzen, und üben, ein wissenschaftliches Thema schriftlich prägnant zusammenzufassen.
ContentIn diesem Kurs werden die verschiedenen Typen des Futterbaus und die wichtigsten Mischungen, aber auch natürliche Pflanzengemeinschaften in Mitteleuropa vorgestellt (Bestandesbeurteilung). Basierend auf der Ökophysiologie von Einzelpflanzen wird die Ökophysiologie von Pflanzenbeständen erarbeitet. Es werden verschiedene Arten der Bewirtschaftung vorgestellt (z. B. Bestandeslenkung durch Düngung, Beweidung, Schnitttermine, etc.) und ihre Auswirkungen auf die Bestandeszusammensetzung und auf die Erträge diskutiert. Feedback-Mechanismen zwischen Umwelt und Futterbausystemen werden angesprochen.
Lecture notesHandouts werden auf dem Netz zur Verfügung gestellt.
LiteratureWird in der Veranstaltung angesprochen.
Prerequisites / NoticeCourse will be given in German. Course builds on the Ertrags- und Ökophysiologie lecture and provides the basics for the Graslandsysteme.
751-4101-00LCropsW+2 credits2GA. Walter, F. Liebisch, W. Richner
AbstractPresentation of the central crops of our regions (cereals, oil and fibre plants, legumes, root and tuber plants) with respect to their biology, site requirements, reaction to environmental conditions and farming practice. A few crops of other regions will be discussed for these aspects as well.
ObjectiveDuring this course, students acquire essential knowledge on agriculturally relevant aspects of crop biology. Via lectures and 'hands-on' teaching elements, differences between species as well as common aspects of different species will be experienced. Thereby, the foundation will be laid for a more intense examination of alternative crops, cropping systems and of procedures to characterize geno- and phenotype.
751-4201-00LHorticulture IW2 credits2VL. Bertschinger, A. Bühlmann, J.‑L. Spring
AbstractOverview on horticulture (international and national), insights into principles of practical fruit production (pre- and post-harvest), viticulture (incl. some hints on wine making), berry production and vegetable production in Switzerland.
ObjectiveInsights into fruit production (world and Switzerland), particularly ...
- Main production areas (international & national)
- Relevance (international & national)
- Key aspects of production (Switzerland), i.e. selected aspects referring to varieties, production techniques incl. physiology and plant protection, economics
- Key challenges (Switzerland)
- Selected, interesting research and development projects
ContentThe relevance of horticulture at the international level will be treated in the first block.
During the semester in autumn (Horticultural Crops I), post harvest aspects in fruit production are discussed in 2 blocks of 4h. Following on this, viticulture (incl. some aspects of wine making) will be looked at in 3 blocks of 4h. During the spring semester (Horticultural Crops II), 3 blocks of 4h deal with vegetable production, and 2 blocks of 4h are addressing berry production.
Lecture notesDelivered during the lectures by the different teachers, ELBA upload.
LiteratureNot needed, maybe specific literature is specified by the different teachers.
Prerequisites / NoticeLanguage and script: German or French, maybe selected parts in English.
751-4701-00LHerbologyW+2 credits2GB. Streit, N. Delabays, U. J. Haas
AbstractThe focus will be on the basic principles of biology and ecology of weeds,
crop-weed interactions and basic knowledge of chemical, physical and
biological weed controll with their respective (dis-) advantages.
Furthermore students will get an introduction on the mechanisms of weed
management in different farming systems and crops.
Objective
751-4801-00LSystem-Oriented Management of Herbivore Insects IW+2 credits2GD. Mazzi
AbstractThe focus is on the potential to assess strategies and tactics of pest management, taking into account the demands from the economy, the environment and the society. Significant agricultural approaches will be explained using practical examples, including prevention using natural resources, surveillance and forecasting, resistance management, as well as product registration, incl. ecotoxicology.
ObjectiveThe students gain a good understanding of fundamental aspects of pest management in agroecosystems. They will have the ability to assess options for action in view of requirements from the economy, the ecology and the society. Further, they will learn to perform searches on relevant issues in pest management, and to critically evaluate case studies.
751-7101-00LApplied Animal NutritionW2 credits2GM. Kreuzer, G. Bee, F. Leiber, R. Messikommer, F. Sutter
AbstractThe basics of planning of feeding and formulation of diets incl. the implications on nutrient cycles and balances are teached. In the part dealing with ruminants, forage-based diets and the application of feed formulation programs are central and exercised on-farm. With pigs and poultry, the basics of energy and nutrient requirements are deepened through practical examples.
ObjectiveThe students are able, based on the knowledge they obtain in this course, to deal with problems in the nutrition of ruminants, pigs and poultry on farm.
Content- Programmteil Wiederkäuer: Einführung in die Winterfütterungsplanung für Milchkühe, Betriebsbesuch (Erfassung aller notwendigen Daten inkl. Futterprobenentnahme für eine konkrete Planung auf einem Praxisbetrieb), Besonderheiten der Milchviehfütterung (Laktationsverlauf, Jahreszeit, etc.); Einführung in den LBL-Fütterungsplan, Möglichkeiten der Futterbeurteilung und - bewertung mit praktischer Beurteilung der gesammelten Proben, Berechnungen und Besprechung Fütterungsplan, Aufstellung der Mineralstoffbilanz, Vorführung von PC-Software zur Fütterungsplanung Vorstellen und diskutieren des Fütterungsplanes auf dem Praxisbetrieb durch die Gruppe.

- Programmteil Nicht-Wiederkäuer: Der Energie- und spezifische Nährstoffbedarf beim Schwein und Geflügel; Besonderheiten der Fütterung in den verschiedenen Produktionsphasen; Fütterungsempfehlungen und – hinweise. Rationengestaltung und Rezeptoptimierung für Mischfuttermittel anhand verschiedener Beispiele; Einsatzgrenzen von Futtermittel; technologische Futterbearbeitung.
Lecture notesHandouts in German language will be provided by each lecturer when starting his part of the lecture.
LiteratureDie Dozierenden geben in der Lehrveranstaltung die relevante Literatur bekannt.
Prerequisites / NoticeBlockkurs in Halbtagesform; eingeschlossen sind Betriebsbesuche. Fach mit benoteter Semesterleistung.
751-7103-00LAnimal Feed and Feeding of RuminantW+2 credits2VM. A. Boessinger
AbstractThe knowledge of the nutrition of ruminants and of the feeds used is deepened. Particular emphasis is put on the vairety of home-grown feeds, their production and conservation and their application in the nutrition of dairy cows, cattle and small ruminants. Finally, information on specific problems of animal nutrition is communicated.
ObjectivePurchase of basic skills in agricultural livestock nutrition.
ContentSummer and winter feeding of dairy cows - formulation of rations - fattening - rearing feeding - vitamin & mineral supplementation - feeding of calfs, sheep, goats - farm produced feed - green forage - roughage - dried roughage - silage - silage systems - root crops.
Lecture notesScript is available in German language and will be provided by each lecturer when starting his part the lecture.
LiteratureEine Literaturliste ist im Skript enthalten.
Prerequisites / NoticeFach mit benoteter Semesterendprüfung
751-6121-00LRegulatory Physiology Information W+2 credits2VS. E. Ulbrich, M. C. Härdi-Landerer
AbstractHormone und Zytokine spielen als Signalmediatoren eine besondere Rolle bei der Regulation der Homöostase von Körperfunktionen (Flüssigkeits-, Temperatur-, Energie-Homöostase, Immunität). Insbesondere im Zusammenhang mit pathologischen Konstellationen (Fieber, Stress, metabolische Imbalance, Schmerzen) wird diese komplexe Funktion verständlich. Vermittlung von Methoden zur Hormonanalytik.
ObjectiveDie Grundlagen zu aktuellen Problemen der Tiergesundheit und Tierhaltung werden vor diesem Hintergrund verstanden. Die Studierenden sind fähig, mit fundierten Kenntnissen aktuelle Themen zu diskutieren.
751-4504-00LPlant Pathology IW2 credits2GB. McDonald
AbstractPlant Pathology I will focus on pathogen-plant interactions, epidemiology, disease assessment, and disease development in agroecosystems. Themes will include: 1) how pathogens attack plants and; 2) how plants defend themselves against pathogens; 3) factors driving the development of epidemics in agroecosystems.
ObjectiveStudents will understand: 1) how pathogens attack plants and; 2) how plants defend themselves against pathogens; 3) factors driving the development of epidemics in agroecosystems as a basis for implementing disease management strategies in agroecosystems.
ContentCourse description: Plant Pathology I will focus on pathogen-plant interactions, epidemiology, disease assessment, and disease development in agroecosystems. Themes will include: 1) how pathogens attack plants and; 2) how plants defend themselves against pathogens; 3) factors driving the development of epidemics in agroecosystems. Topics under the first theme will include pathogen life cycles, disease cycles, and an overview of plant pathogenic nematodes, viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Topics under the second theme will include plant defense strategies, host range, passive and active defenses, and chemical and structural defenses. Topics under the third theme will include the disease triangle and cultural control strategies.

Lecture Topics and Tentative Schedule

Week 1 No Lecture: First day of autumn semester

Week 2 The nature of plant diseases, symbiosis, parasites, mutualism, biotrophs and necrotrophs, disease cycles and pathogen life cycles. Nematode attack strategies and types of damage.

Week 3 Viral pathogens, classification, reproduction and transmission, attack strategies and types of damage. Examples TMV, BYDV, plum pox virus. Bacterial pathogens and phytoplasmas, classification, reproduction and transmission. Bacterial attack strategies and symptoms. Example bacterial diseases: fire blight, Agrobacterium crown gall, soft rots.

Week 4 Fungal pathogens, classification, growth and reproduction, sexual and asexual spores, transmission. Fungal life cycles, disease cycles, infection processes, colonization, phytotoxins and mycotoxins. Attack strategies of fungal necrotrophs and biotrophs.

Week 5 Symptoms and signs of fungal infection. Example fungal diseases: potato late blight, wheat stem rust, grape powdery mildew, wheat Septoria leaf blotch.

Week 6 Plant defense mechanisms, host range and non-host resistance. Passive structural and chemical defenses, preformed chemical defenses. Active structural defense, papillae, active chemical defense, hypersensitive response, pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, phytoalexins and disease resistance.

Week 7 Pisatin and pisatin demethylase. Local and systemic acquired resistance, signal molecules.

Week 8 Pathogen effects on food quality and safety.

Week 9 Epidemiology: historical epidemics, disease pyramid, environmental effects on epidemic development. Plant effects on development of epidemics, including resistance, physiology, density, uniformity.

Week 10 Disease assessment: incidence and severity measures, keys, diagrams, scales, measurement errors. Correlations between incidence and severity.

Week 11 Molecular detection and diagnosis of pathogens. Host indexing, serology, monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. ELISA, PCR, rDNA and rep-PCR.

Week 12 Strategies for minimizing disease risks: principles of disease control and management.

Week 13 Disease control strategies: economic thresholds, physical control methods.

Week 14 Cultural control methods: avoidance, tillage practices, crop sanitation, fertilizers, crop rotation.
Lecture notesDetailed lecture notes (~160 pages) will be available for purchase at the cost of reproduction at the start of the semester.
751-5003-00LSustainable Agroecosystems IIW+2 credits2VJ. Six, A. Hofmann
AbstractThis class is intended to convey methods of agroecological research through selected case studies from current research projects and hands-on exercises. Students will gain an overview on actors in the field of sustainable agricultural development.
Objective(1) Get to know methods for field and laboratory investigations in agroecology, (2) Analyze case studies from current agroecological research, (3) Place institutions and related projects into the context of sustainable agricultural development
LiteratureGliessman, S.R. (2014) Agroecology: the ecology of sustainable food systems. 3rd edition, CRC Press. 405 p.
Prerequisites / NoticePrior participation in the lecture Nachhaltige Agrarökosysteme I (Sustainable Agroecosystems I) 751-5000-00G (in spring semester) recommended; classes taught mostly in English
Complementary Courses in Agricultural Natural Sciences
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-1307-00LManagerial Economics Agri-Food Chain: Strategic Concepts Information W2 credits2GM. Weber, B. Höltschi
AbstractLearn and exercise strategic concepts in the Agri-Food chain, i.e. theories of economics based decision making combined with entrepreneurial practice.
ObjectiveThe main objectiv is to understand strategic decisions along the value chain in the Agri-Food Chain.
Content- Basics of strategy & strategic concepts
- Classic process of strategy process
- Selected alternative processes
- Case studies
Lecture notesDokuments will be distributed per lecture.
LiteratureLombriser Roman & Aplanalp Peter: Strategisches Management
752-2120-00LConsumer Behaviour IW2 credits2VM. Siegrist, C. Keller, B. S. Sütterlin
AbstractIntroduction in consumer research. The following aspects will be emphasized in the course: Consumer decision making, indiviudal determinants of consumer behavior, environmental influences on consumer behavior, influencing consumer behavior
ObjectiveIntroduction in consumer research. The following aspects will be emphasized in the course: Consumer decision making, indiviudal determinants of consumer behavior, environmental influences on consumer behavior, influencing consumer behavior
751-8001-00LAgricultural Engineering IW2 credits2VM. Schick, M. Sax
AbstractPresentation of basics in planning of agricultural buildings, work economics. This lecture forms the basis for the ‘Agrartechnik II’ course (indoor and outdoor work processes).
ObjectiveMain objectives: The students acquire comprehensive functional knowledge about agricultural engineering systems (including construction) enabling them to plan and assess the use of those systems in practice.

Subobjectives:

Basics in agricultural construction will show that a professional implementation of functional, animal-friendly, environmentally sound (and economically advantageous) construction of buildings is feasible.

Profound knowledge of planning tools based on work economics will help the students to correctly plan the substitution of agricultural work by efficient technical solutions.
ContentPart 1: Agricultural building
- Basics of structural engineering. Dimensioning of simple supported and cantilevered beams and roof structures. Tension, compression, bending.
- Evaluation of typical roof structures in agricultural buildings.
- Loads: snow, wind, dead and live loads
- Physical properties of building materials: timber, steel, concrete.
- Reinforcement of concrete
- Heat and vapour transfer in building materials. Calculation of insulation, heat transfer in simple building parts.
- Laws, regulations and recommendations for rural buildings. Animal and environmental protection. Landscape.
- Housing systems for cattle, pigs, poultry, horses
- Storage plants for slurry, manure, feed.
- Planning. Space and functioning programme, building concepts, financing, permit of building, detailed plans, contractors
- Planning and designing exercice.


P.S.: Indoor work processes: 'Agrartechnik II' spring term 2009

Part 2: Work economics
- work-economics-related guiding figures (time measurements, statistical processing, data recording using a work diary, sources of work-economics-related planning data, application for 'Agroscope FAT' machine costs lists, 'LBL' planning basics, etc.)
- working time models (work and production process level, process comparisons, process optimisation through growth and/or specialising of farm, cooperation with others, work productivity) including PROOF model to calculate time consumption off different procedures
- 'Agroscope FAT' (agricultural research station in Tänikon) work budget (integration of modules in entire farm, available field work days and weather risk, farm management-related work and special tasks, use of a detailed or global work budget, comparison of target and actual situation in terms of work economics



P.S.: Outdoor mechanisation: 'Agrartechnik II' spring term 2009
Focus Agricultural and Resource Economics
Focus Agricultural and Resource Economics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-0401-00LOptimization of Agricultural Production SystemsW+2 credits2GR. Huber
AbstractIntroduction in to optimization of agricultural production systems with linear and non-linear programming models.
ObjectiveStudents will be able to a) solve linear and non-linear optimization problems in the context of agricultural production; b) properly interpret the results; and c) critically discuss the economic implications.
ContentThe course is an application of Operations Research (OR). First, the theory and application of linear programming (LP) is presented. Students will learn the underlying principles (Optimization, Duality, Simplex) and solve exercises in the context of agricultural production. In the second part of the course, the foundation of non-linear programming (NLP) is introduced (Lagrange, Kuhn-Tucker) and illustrated with various examples.
Lecture notesHanded out during lecture
LiteratureKaiser, H. M., and K. D. Messer. Mathematical programming for agricultural, environmental and resource economics. John Wiley and Sons, Inc, 2011.
751-1307-00LManagerial Economics Agri-Food Chain: Strategic Concepts Information W+2 credits2GM. Weber, B. Höltschi
AbstractLearn and exercise strategic concepts in the Agri-Food chain, i.e. theories of economics based decision making combined with entrepreneurial practice.
ObjectiveThe main objectiv is to understand strategic decisions along the value chain in the Agri-Food Chain.
Content- Basics of strategy & strategic concepts
- Classic process of strategy process
- Selected alternative processes
- Case studies
Lecture notesDokuments will be distributed per lecture.
LiteratureLombriser Roman & Aplanalp Peter: Strategisches Management
752-2120-00LConsumer Behaviour IW2 credits2VM. Siegrist, C. Keller, B. S. Sütterlin
AbstractIntroduction in consumer research. The following aspects will be emphasized in the course: Consumer decision making, indiviudal determinants of consumer behavior, environmental influences on consumer behavior, influencing consumer behavior
ObjectiveIntroduction in consumer research. The following aspects will be emphasized in the course: Consumer decision making, indiviudal determinants of consumer behavior, environmental influences on consumer behavior, influencing consumer behavior
751-8001-00LAgricultural Engineering IW2 credits2VM. Schick, M. Sax
AbstractPresentation of basics in planning of agricultural buildings, work economics. This lecture forms the basis for the ‘Agrartechnik II’ course (indoor and outdoor work processes).
ObjectiveMain objectives: The students acquire comprehensive functional knowledge about agricultural engineering systems (including construction) enabling them to plan and assess the use of those systems in practice.

Subobjectives:

Basics in agricultural construction will show that a professional implementation of functional, animal-friendly, environmentally sound (and economically advantageous) construction of buildings is feasible.

Profound knowledge of planning tools based on work economics will help the students to correctly plan the substitution of agricultural work by efficient technical solutions.
ContentPart 1: Agricultural building
- Basics of structural engineering. Dimensioning of simple supported and cantilevered beams and roof structures. Tension, compression, bending.
- Evaluation of typical roof structures in agricultural buildings.
- Loads: snow, wind, dead and live loads
- Physical properties of building materials: timber, steel, concrete.
- Reinforcement of concrete
- Heat and vapour transfer in building materials. Calculation of insulation, heat transfer in simple building parts.
- Laws, regulations and recommendations for rural buildings. Animal and environmental protection. Landscape.
- Housing systems for cattle, pigs, poultry, horses
- Storage plants for slurry, manure, feed.
- Planning. Space and functioning programme, building concepts, financing, permit of building, detailed plans, contractors
- Planning and designing exercice.


P.S.: Indoor work processes: 'Agrartechnik II' spring term 2009

Part 2: Work economics
- work-economics-related guiding figures (time measurements, statistical processing, data recording using a work diary, sources of work-economics-related planning data, application for 'Agroscope FAT' machine costs lists, 'LBL' planning basics, etc.)
- working time models (work and production process level, process comparisons, process optimisation through growth and/or specialising of farm, cooperation with others, work productivity) including PROOF model to calculate time consumption off different procedures
- 'Agroscope FAT' (agricultural research station in Tänikon) work budget (integration of modules in entire farm, available field work days and weather risk, farm management-related work and special tasks, use of a detailed or global work budget, comparison of target and actual situation in terms of work economics



P.S.: Outdoor mechanisation: 'Agrartechnik II' spring term 2009
751-0903-00LMicroeconomics of the Agriculture and Food SectorW+2 credits2VS. Hirsch
AbstractIn dieser Vorlesung sollen Mikroökonomische Zusammenhänge am Fallbeispiel des Agrar- und Ernährungssektors vermittelt werden. Ziel ist das Verständnis theoretischer mikroökonomischer Methoden und deren Anwendbarkeit auf den Ernährungssektor
ObjectiveZunächst sollen ökonomische Charakteristika des Lebensmittelsektors herausgearbeitet und gegenüber anderen Industriesektoren differenziert werden. Daraufhin sollen theoretische mikroökonomische Modelle und Indikatoren erlernt werden. Insbesondere soll deren Anwendung auf reale Fälle der Schweizer und EU Lebensmittelindustrie vermittelt werden.
Content- Der EU Lebensmittelsektor
- Preiselastizitäten von Angebot und Nachfrage im Ernährungssektor
(Marktmacht, Lancaster Modell)
- Gewinnmaximierung
- Wettbewerbsangebot
- Monopol/ Monopolistischer Wettbewerb/ Monopson
- Oligopol (Stackelberg, Cournot, Bertrand)
- Preisbildung/ Preisdiskriminierung
- Kartelle
- Dominante Firma
- Technischer Fortschritt
Literature- Pindyck und Rubinfeld. Mikroökonomie, 7. Aufl., Pearson Studium.
- Carlton and Perloff: Modern Industrial Organization 4th ed., Pearson Addison Wesley.
Prerequisites / NoticeEmpfohlene Vorkenntnisse:
- Grundkenntnisse der Ökonomie/Agrarökonomie
- Vorlesung Einführung in die Mikroökonomie
Complementary Courses in Agricultural and Resource Economics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-4001-00LForage Cropping Information W2 credits2GN. Buchmann, A. Lüscher
AbstractThis course is an introduction into forage cropping and grassland sciences. Topics include: extensive/intensive use, grassland evaluation, grassland maintenance, management using fertilization, cutting, etc. Relationships between site, vegetation composition and management will be explored.
ObjectiveDie Studierenden werden wichtige Mischungen und Pflanzengemeinschaften mitteleuropäischer Graslandökosysteme kennen, klassische und aktuelle Arbeiten der Bestandesökophysiologie kennen, in der Lage sein, den Einfluss von Umweltfaktoren und Bewirtschaftung nicht nur auf Einzelpflanzen, sondern auf Pflanzenbestände und ihre Erträge abzuschätzen, und üben, ein wissenschaftliches Thema schriftlich prägnant zusammenzufassen.
ContentIn diesem Kurs werden die verschiedenen Typen des Futterbaus und die wichtigsten Mischungen, aber auch natürliche Pflanzengemeinschaften in Mitteleuropa vorgestellt (Bestandesbeurteilung). Basierend auf der Ökophysiologie von Einzelpflanzen wird die Ökophysiologie von Pflanzenbeständen erarbeitet. Es werden verschiedene Arten der Bewirtschaftung vorgestellt (z. B. Bestandeslenkung durch Düngung, Beweidung, Schnitttermine, etc.) und ihre Auswirkungen auf die Bestandeszusammensetzung und auf die Erträge diskutiert. Feedback-Mechanismen zwischen Umwelt und Futterbausystemen werden angesprochen.
Lecture notesHandouts werden auf dem Netz zur Verfügung gestellt.
LiteratureWird in der Veranstaltung angesprochen.
Prerequisites / NoticeCourse will be given in German. Course builds on the Ertrags- und Ökophysiologie lecture and provides the basics for the Graslandsysteme.
751-4101-00LCropsW2 credits2GA. Walter, F. Liebisch, W. Richner
AbstractPresentation of the central crops of our regions (cereals, oil and fibre plants, legumes, root and tuber plants) with respect to their biology, site requirements, reaction to environmental conditions and farming practice. A few crops of other regions will be discussed for these aspects as well.
ObjectiveDuring this course, students acquire essential knowledge on agriculturally relevant aspects of crop biology. Via lectures and 'hands-on' teaching elements, differences between species as well as common aspects of different species will be experienced. Thereby, the foundation will be laid for a more intense examination of alternative crops, cropping systems and of procedures to characterize geno- and phenotype.
751-4201-00LHorticulture IW2 credits2VL. Bertschinger, A. Bühlmann, J.‑L. Spring
AbstractOverview on horticulture (international and national), insights into principles of practical fruit production (pre- and post-harvest), viticulture (incl. some hints on wine making), berry production and vegetable production in Switzerland.
ObjectiveInsights into fruit production (world and Switzerland), particularly ...
- Main production areas (international & national)
- Relevance (international & national)
- Key aspects of production (Switzerland), i.e. selected aspects referring to varieties, production techniques incl. physiology and plant protection, economics
- Key challenges (Switzerland)
- Selected, interesting research and development projects
ContentThe relevance of horticulture at the international level will be treated in the first block.
During the semester in autumn (Horticultural Crops I), post harvest aspects in fruit production are discussed in 2 blocks of 4h. Following on this, viticulture (incl. some aspects of wine making) will be looked at in 3 blocks of 4h. During the spring semester (Horticultural Crops II), 3 blocks of 4h deal with vegetable production, and 2 blocks of 4h are addressing berry production.
Lecture notesDelivered during the lectures by the different teachers, ELBA upload.
LiteratureNot needed, maybe specific literature is specified by the different teachers.
Prerequisites / NoticeLanguage and script: German or French, maybe selected parts in English.
751-4801-00LSystem-Oriented Management of Herbivore Insects IW2 credits2GD. Mazzi
AbstractThe focus is on the potential to assess strategies and tactics of pest management, taking into account the demands from the economy, the environment and the society. Significant agricultural approaches will be explained using practical examples, including prevention using natural resources, surveillance and forecasting, resistance management, as well as product registration, incl. ecotoxicology.
ObjectiveThe students gain a good understanding of fundamental aspects of pest management in agroecosystems. They will have the ability to assess options for action in view of requirements from the economy, the ecology and the society. Further, they will learn to perform searches on relevant issues in pest management, and to critically evaluate case studies.
751-7101-00LApplied Animal NutritionW2 credits2GM. Kreuzer, G. Bee, F. Leiber, R. Messikommer, F. Sutter
AbstractThe basics of planning of feeding and formulation of diets incl. the implications on nutrient cycles and balances are teached. In the part dealing with ruminants, forage-based diets and the application of feed formulation programs are central and exercised on-farm. With pigs and poultry, the basics of energy and nutrient requirements are deepened through practical examples.
ObjectiveThe students are able, based on the knowledge they obtain in this course, to deal with problems in the nutrition of ruminants, pigs and poultry on farm.
Content- Programmteil Wiederkäuer: Einführung in die Winterfütterungsplanung für Milchkühe, Betriebsbesuch (Erfassung aller notwendigen Daten inkl. Futterprobenentnahme für eine konkrete Planung auf einem Praxisbetrieb), Besonderheiten der Milchviehfütterung (Laktationsverlauf, Jahreszeit, etc.); Einführung in den LBL-Fütterungsplan, Möglichkeiten der Futterbeurteilung und - bewertung mit praktischer Beurteilung der gesammelten Proben, Berechnungen und Besprechung Fütterungsplan, Aufstellung der Mineralstoffbilanz, Vorführung von PC-Software zur Fütterungsplanung Vorstellen und diskutieren des Fütterungsplanes auf dem Praxisbetrieb durch die Gruppe.

- Programmteil Nicht-Wiederkäuer: Der Energie- und spezifische Nährstoffbedarf beim Schwein und Geflügel; Besonderheiten der Fütterung in den verschiedenen Produktionsphasen; Fütterungsempfehlungen und – hinweise. Rationengestaltung und Rezeptoptimierung für Mischfuttermittel anhand verschiedener Beispiele; Einsatzgrenzen von Futtermittel; technologische Futterbearbeitung.
Lecture notesHandouts in German language will be provided by each lecturer when starting his part of the lecture.
LiteratureDie Dozierenden geben in der Lehrveranstaltung die relevante Literatur bekannt.
Prerequisites / NoticeBlockkurs in Halbtagesform; eingeschlossen sind Betriebsbesuche. Fach mit benoteter Semesterleistung.
751-5003-00LSustainable Agroecosystems IIW2 credits2VJ. Six, A. Hofmann
AbstractThis class is intended to convey methods of agroecological research through selected case studies from current research projects and hands-on exercises. Students will gain an overview on actors in the field of sustainable agricultural development.
Objective(1) Get to know methods for field and laboratory investigations in agroecology, (2) Analyze case studies from current agroecological research, (3) Place institutions and related projects into the context of sustainable agricultural development
LiteratureGliessman, S.R. (2014) Agroecology: the ecology of sustainable food systems. 3rd edition, CRC Press. 405 p.
Prerequisites / NoticePrior participation in the lecture Nachhaltige Agrarökosysteme I (Sustainable Agroecosystems I) 751-5000-00G (in spring semester) recommended; classes taught mostly in English
751-4504-00LPlant Pathology IW2 credits2GB. McDonald
AbstractPlant Pathology I will focus on pathogen-plant interactions, epidemiology, disease assessment, and disease development in agroecosystems. Themes will include: 1) how pathogens attack plants and; 2) how plants defend themselves against pathogens; 3) factors driving the development of epidemics in agroecosystems.
ObjectiveStudents will understand: 1) how pathogens attack plants and; 2) how plants defend themselves against pathogens; 3) factors driving the development of epidemics in agroecosystems as a basis for implementing disease management strategies in agroecosystems.
ContentCourse description: Plant Pathology I will focus on pathogen-plant interactions, epidemiology, disease assessment, and disease development in agroecosystems. Themes will include: 1) how pathogens attack plants and; 2) how plants defend themselves against pathogens; 3) factors driving the development of epidemics in agroecosystems. Topics under the first theme will include pathogen life cycles, disease cycles, and an overview of plant pathogenic nematodes, viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Topics under the second theme will include plant defense strategies, host range, passive and active defenses, and chemical and structural defenses. Topics under the third theme will include the disease triangle and cultural control strategies.

Lecture Topics and Tentative Schedule

Week 1 No Lecture: First day of autumn semester

Week 2 The nature of plant diseases, symbiosis, parasites, mutualism, biotrophs and necrotrophs, disease cycles and pathogen life cycles. Nematode attack strategies and types of damage.

Week 3 Viral pathogens, classification, reproduction and transmission, attack strategies and types of damage. Examples TMV, BYDV, plum pox virus. Bacterial pathogens and phytoplasmas, classification, reproduction and transmission. Bacterial attack strategies and symptoms. Example bacterial diseases: fire blight, Agrobacterium crown gall, soft rots.

Week 4 Fungal pathogens, classification, growth and reproduction, sexual and asexual spores, transmission. Fungal life cycles, disease cycles, infection processes, colonization, phytotoxins and mycotoxins. Attack strategies of fungal necrotrophs and biotrophs.

Week 5 Symptoms and signs of fungal infection. Example fungal diseases: potato late blight, wheat stem rust, grape powdery mildew, wheat Septoria leaf blotch.

Week 6 Plant defense mechanisms, host range and non-host resistance. Passive structural and chemical defenses, preformed chemical defenses. Active structural defense, papillae, active chemical defense, hypersensitive response, pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, phytoalexins and disease resistance.

Week 7 Pisatin and pisatin demethylase. Local and systemic acquired resistance, signal molecules.

Week 8 Pathogen effects on food quality and safety.

Week 9 Epidemiology: historical epidemics, disease pyramid, environmental effects on epidemic development. Plant effects on development of epidemics, including resistance, physiology, density, uniformity.

Week 10 Disease assessment: incidence and severity measures, keys, diagrams, scales, measurement errors. Correlations between incidence and severity.

Week 11 Molecular detection and diagnosis of pathogens. Host indexing, serology, monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. ELISA, PCR, rDNA and rep-PCR.

Week 12 Strategies for minimizing disease risks: principles of disease control and management.

Week 13 Disease control strategies: economic thresholds, physical control methods.

Week 14 Cultural control methods: avoidance, tillage practices, crop sanitation, fertilizers, crop rotation.
Lecture notesDetailed lecture notes (~160 pages) will be available for purchase at the cost of reproduction at the start of the semester.
Methodical Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-1010-00LIntroduction to Scientific Writing in Agricultural Sciences Restricted registration - show details
Prerequisite: successful participation in "Farm Placement" (751-0201-00L).
O2 credits4GB. Dorn, M. Barthel, N. Buchmann, A. K. Gilgen, M. C. Härdi-Landerer, S. Hirsch, A. Hofmann, S. Marquardt, A. Oberson Dräyer, J. Pfeifer, M. Wiggenhauser
AbstractDie Studierenden kennen die Grundlagen und die Konventionen des wissenschaftlichen Schreibens in den Naturwissenschaften, können wissenschaftliche Literatur suchen und verwalten sowie wissenschaftliche Publikationen analysieren. Sie setzen das Gelernte beim Schreiben eines eigenen Textes um.
ObjectiveDie Studierenden kennen die Grundlagen und die Konventionen des wissenschaftlichen Schreibens in den Naturwissenschaften. Sie setzen das Gelernte beim Schreiben eines kritischen Literaturberichtes in deutscher Sprache zu einem agrarwissenschaftlichen Thema ihrer Wahl um. Die Lehrveranstaltung bereitet die Studierenden auf weitere schriftliche Arbeiten im Studium der Agrarwissenschaften vor, beispielsweise auf die Bachelor-Arbeit.
Lecture notesEs wird ein Skript abgegeben.
751-0441-00LScientific Analysis and Presentation of DataO2 credits2GW. Eugster
AbstractThis lecture gives an introduction to the scientific work with data covering all steps from data entry via statistical analyses to producing correct scientific graphical output. Exercises with the data analysis software R (via RStudio) will provide hands-on opportunities to get acquainted with data analysis and presentation. Field data gathered with Prof. E. Frossard will be used.
ObjectiveThis lecture with exercises gives an introduction to the scientific work with data, starting with data acquisition and ending with statistical analyses as they are often required for a bachelor thesis (descriptive statistics, linear regression etc.). Getting data organized with a spreadsheet program (LibreOffice, Excel) and then transfering them to the open-source R package will be the primary focus. An imporant aspect will be to learn which graphical representation of data are best suited for the task (how can data be presented clearly and still scientifically correct?)
ContentTentative Programme:
1. Introduction
2. Data acquisition, data organization, data storage, working with data
3. Graphical presentations I - Spreadsheets
4. Preparation of own data from field course with Prof. E. Frossard / 4. Sem.
5. Correct and problematic graphical data displays
6. Introduction to 'R'
7. Data import and graphical presentation
8. Statistical distribution and confidence intervals
9. Statistical tests - Repetition and hands-on applications
10. Linear regressions
11./12. Analysis of Variance
13. ANOVA - Discussion of results with Prof. E. Frossard

Last week of semester: examination (Leistungskontrolle)
Lecture notesMainly German (with some English passages from text books)
Prerequisites / NoticeTheoretical background in ensemble statistics from the mandatory course in the 4th semester; students should have cleared the examination of that fundamental course to be able to follow
Agricultural Science Practical
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-0200-00LFarm Placement Information Restricted registration - show details
Only for Agricultural Sciences BSc, Programme Regulations 2010.
O14 creditsB. Dorn
AbstractDas agrarwissenschaftliche Praktikum besteht aus dem Betriebsaufenthalt, der Betriebsaufnahme (Betriebsheft) und der agronomischen Fachaufgabe. Die Leistungskontrolle erfolgt über die Rückmeldung zu den einzelnen Bestandteilen des Praktikums.
ObjectiveThe farm placement aims to motivate students towards a system oriented approach to agricultural science, connecting science and practice.
Lecture notesDas Betriebsheft zur Betriebsaufnahme und weitere Dokumente werden vom Praktikantendienst nach Anfrage zur Verfügung gestellt.
LiteratureMerkblätter, Lehrbücher und Software stehen den Studierenden beim Praktikantendienst Agarwissenschaft zur Verfügung.
Prerequisites / NoticeFür die Jahrgänge mit Eintritt HS 13, HS14 und HS15 ind Bachelor-Studium gilt ein Übergangsreglement zum Agrarwissenschaftlichen Praktikum.
Bachelor's Thesis
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
751-1020-00LBachelor's Thesis Restricted registration - show details
Only for Agricultural Sciences BSc, Programme Regulations 2010.
O14 credits30DLecturers
AbstractIt completes the Bachelor program and consists of a scientific project carried out independently under the tutorship of a lecturer at the study program in Agricultural Science.
ObjectiveThe independent writing of a scientific paper/thesis
ContentIt consists of a scientific project carried out independently under the tutorship of a lecturer at the study program in Agricultural Science.