bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation and Calibration of Soil Potassium Availability with Soybean Yield and Trifoliolate Potassium
Authors: Slaton Nathan A. , Golden Bobby R. , DeLong Russell E. , Mozaffari Morteza
Published: August 2010

The ability of soil tests to identify nutrient‐deficient soils and recommend fertilizer rates that optimize agronomic yield is essential for profitable soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production. Our objectives were to correlate relative soybean yield to Mehlich‐3 and 1 mol L−1 HNO3–extractable soil K and trifoliolate‐leaf K concentration at the R1 to R2 development stage and calibrate the K rates for Mehlich‐3‐extractable soil K. Experiments were established on silt loams at 34 site‐years planted with a Maturity Group IV or V cultivar and fertilized at five K rates (0–148 kg K ha−1). Mehlich‐3‐extractable soil K ranged from 46 to 167 mg K kg−1 and produced relative soybean yields of 59 to 100% when no K was applied. Eleven sites had Mehlich‐3‐extractable K < 91 mg K kg−1 and all responded positively to K fertilization. Soybean grown in soil having 91 to 130 mg K kg−1 responded positively at nine of 15 sites. Mehlich‐3 soil K explained 76 to 79% of the variability in relative yields and had critical concentrations of 108 to 114 mg K kg−1, depending on the model. The linear‐plateau model predicted the critical HNO3–extractable soil K to be 480 mg K kg−1 Trifoliolate‐leaf K concentration increased significantly, positively, and linearly as Mehlich‐3‐ and HNO3–extractable soil K increased, but Mehlich‐3 soil K explained only 49 to 53% of the variation in trifoliolate‐leaf K. Mehlich‐3‐extractable K is an excellent predictor of soil K availability for soybean grown on silt loams in eastern Arkansas.
Prediction of Soil Fertility Properties from a Globally Distributed Soil Mid‐Infrared Spectral Library
Authors: Terhoeven-Urselmans Thomas , Vagen Tor-Gunnar , Spaargaren Otto , Shepherd Keith D.
Published: August 2010

Globally applicable calibrations to predict standard soil properties based on infrared spectra may increase the use of this reliable technique. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of mid‐infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (4000–602 cm−1) to predict chemical and textural properties for a globally distributed soil spectral library. We scanned 971 soil samples selected from the International Soil Reference and Information Centre database. A high‐throughput diffuse reflectance accessory was used with optics that exclude specular reflectance as a potential source of error. Archived data on soil chemical and physical properties were calibrated to first derivative spectra using partial least‐squares regression. Good predictions for the spatially independent validation set were achieved for pH value, organic C content, and cation exchange capacity (CEC) (n = 291, r2of linear regression of predicted against measured values ≥0.75 and ratio of standard deviation of measured values to root mean square error of prediction (RPD) ≥2.0). The root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEP) were 0.75 pH units, 9.1 g organic C kg−1and 5.5 cmolcCEC kg−1Satisfactory predictions (r2= 0.65–0.75, RPD = 1.4–2.0) were obtained for exchangeable Mg concentration and clay content. The respective RMSEPs were 4.3 cmolckg−1and 126 g kg−1Poorer predictions (r2= 0.61 and 0.64) were achieved for sand and exchangeable Ca contents. Although RMSEP values are large relative to laboratory analytical errors, our results suggest a marked potential for the global spectral library as a tool for advice on land management, such as the classification of new samples into basic soil fertility classes based on organic C and clay contents, CEC, and pH. Further research is needed to test the stability of this global calibration on new data sets.
Raindrop Impact: A Neglected but Potentially Major Contributor to Particle Mobilization in Soils
Authors: Bielders C. L. , Grymonprez B.
Published: August 2010

Drop impact, a key process of particle mobilization in interrill erosion, has been largely neglected as a mobilization mechanism in the realm of colloid‐facilitated transfer (CFT) research. We investigated the contribution of drop impact to the eluviation of silt and clay particles from repacked samples of 6‐mm‐thick, fine earth (<2 mm) or 2‐ to 4‐mm aggregates under simulated rainfall conditions. Samples were initially moist or dry, and protected or not from drop impact. The results indicated a complex, three‐way interaction between the aggregation status, initial water content, and drop impact. Drop impact was a major contributor to particle mobilization on moist samples, increasing by a factor of three to four the mobilization that was observed without drop impact. The initial status of aggregation and the initial water content of the soil interacted to govern the rate of surface seal development and surface ponding, which are believed to interfere with the particle release process. Initially dry samples were most susceptible to sealing and released fewer particles than initially moist samples. In some cases, a first‐order equation to predict particle eluviation as a function of cumulative rainfall energy appeared to be a reasonable approximation, at least up to about 400 J m−2of cumulative rainfall kinetic energy. Current modeling efforts that do not take drop impact into account are clearly limited in their predictive capacity when applied to bare soils. Greater interactions between the CFT and interrill erosion research communities may help advance the understanding and modeling of particle release in the topsoil by drop impact.
Temporal Changes in Soil Surface Elevation under Different Tillage Systems
Authors: Fraser Patricia M. , Curtin Denis , Beare Michael H. , Meenken Esther D. , Gillespie Richard N.
Published: August 2010

Conventional, fixed‐depth sampling may lead to errors in quantifying temporal changes in C stocks if soil bulk density (BD) changes. When surface elevation is altered due to a change in BD, sampling depth should be adjusted so that the sampled soil mass remains constant. We evaluated the ability of a topographic survey method (precise level) to quantify temporal changes (2000–2007) in surface elevation following conversion of long‐term pasture to arable cropping using conventional tillage (plowing to 20 cm), minimum tillage, or no‐till. Measured elevations were compared with values estimated from BD determined for fixed‐depth increments (0–7.5, 7.5–15, 15–25, and 25–30 cm). In the first season, soil mass to 25 cm decreased by ?270 Mg/ha under conventional cultivation (relative to precultivation mass of 3345 Mg/ha) as BD decreased in the 7.5‐ to 15‐ and 15‐ to 25‐cm layers. This represented an upward movement of the soil surface by an estimated 22 mm. Minimum tillage and no‐till treatments moved 9 and 2 mm upward, respectively. Subsequently, the soil consolidated and surface elevation declined by an estimated 8 mm in all cultivated treatments. Elevation changes measured by the precise level were very similar to these BD‐based estimates. Changes in elevation in conventional, minimum tillage, and no‐till treatments averaged 13, 1.5, and −6 mm, respectively (positive values indicate upward movement, negative values subsidence). Corresponding BD‐estimated values were 17, 1.1, and −3 mm. Using topographic survey information, sampling depth can be adjusted so that a constant mass is sampled from soils where BD has been changed by tillage or natural processes.
Relative Water Uptake Rate as a Criterion for Trickle Irrigation System Design: II. Surface Trickle Irrigation
Authors: Communar Gregory , Friedman Shmulik P.
Published: August 2010

We previously developed a new, coupled‐source–sink modeling approach for evaluating an upper bound to the relative water uptake rate (water use efficiency) for two‐ and three‐dimensional geometries. Because the formulated water‐flow problem is linear, the relative water uptake rate for any given collection of point (or line) sources and point (or line) sinks is determined by superposing the appropriate solutions while assuming maximum suction at the soil–sink interfaces. In this study, analytical expressions for the maximum possible water uptake rates were determined for various two‐ and three‐dimensional configurations of surface water sources (emitters) and subsurface point (or line) sinks that represent plant roots. Relative water uptake rates were computed for cases of interacting source–sink couples and also for cases of unequal numbers of sources (emitters) and sinks (plants). The water uptake rate can be determined by using as few as three system parameters: the depth and radius of the conceived rooting zone, the soil sorptive number, and design parameters that represent the distances between sources and sinks within rows or between drip lines. Sample computations demonstrate and elucidate the effects of these parameters on the relative water uptake rate of plant roots beneath various configurations of on‐surface water sources. For all scenarios, the water uptake rates increased monotonically with increasing radius of the conceived rooting zone or with decreasing separation between emitters or drip lines. We suggest that the calculated relative water uptake rate be used as a design criterion for trickle irrigation systems.
Relative Water Uptake Rate as a Criterion for Trickle Irrigation System Design: III. Subsurface Trickle Irrigation
Authors: Communar Gregory , Friedman Shmulik P.
Published: August 2010

The objective of this study was to apply a coupled source–sink modeling approach to subsurface trickle irrigation design, to determine the maximum possible relative water uptake rate and to evaluate its dependence on soil type, emitter depths, atmospheric evaporative demand, and rooting zone size. The early stage of plant growth (sink‐above‐source scenario) was modeled by placing a point sink of unknown strength between the soil surface (evaporating or nonevaporating) and a subsurface point source of given strength; for the subsequent stage of plant growth, i.e., most of the irrigation season, a point sink was located below the subsurface source. The principal approach involved determination of the relative water uptake by applying the maximum suction pressure (zero matric flux potential) at an isobar that bounds a conceived rooting zone domain. A major motivation for using subsurface drip irrigation is to reduce evaporation. This study shows that evaporation affects mainly the ratio of water loss by deep percolation to water loss by evaporation and that it has negligible influence on the water uptake rate. In the early‐stage scenario, water uptake competes with gravitational forces. Therefore water uptake is generally small and decreases significantly with increasing root‐system radius. In the late‐stage scenario, the relative water uptake rate still decreases as the root system radius increases, but it remains larger than in the early‐stage scenario. Some features of the flow field, with and without evaporation, are illustrated by plotting streamlines and contours of constant water saturation degree for these two scenarios.
Accumulation of Organic Matter Components in Soil under Conditions Imposed by Wastewater Infiltration
Authors: McKinley James W. , Siegrist Robert L.
Published: August 2010

Onsite wastewater systems that use subsurface infiltration of septic tank effluent are used widely in the United States and abroad; however, the processes that govern effluent flow and pollutant transport during treatment in the subsurface have only recently begun to be elucidated. The conditions that often occur during intermittent wastewater application can lead to the formation and deposition of organic molecules, which can cause reduced permeability and soil pore clogging. To enhance the fundamental understanding of organic matter accumulation as affected by effluent infiltration, field research was performed at the Mines Park Test Site located at the Colorado School of Mines. Four pilot‐scale infiltration cells established in a sandy loam soil profile and used for infiltration of domestic septic tank effluent were dismantled to study the nature and extent of organic matter accumulation. Macro‐ and micromorphological observations were made, and soil samples were taken at and below the infiltrative surface and analyzed for total organic C, polysaccharides, and humic substances. Additionally, dissolved O2 concentrations were measured with time in the septic tank effluent within a cell as it infiltrated into the soil. Compared with background controls, soil samples collected at the soil infiltrative surface were characterized by high water contents and high concentrations of organic matter. The high values measured at the infiltrative surface declined sharply, however, from 1 to 2 cm of soil depth. An infiltrative surface exposed to microaerophilic concentrations (∼2 mg/L) of dissolved O2 accumulated 400 to 800% (w/w) more organic material than the mass accumulated under more continuously anaerobic conditions. The microaerophilic conditions also appeared to favor the growth of polyphosphate‐accumulating microorganisms.
Simultaneous Monitoring of Water Saturation and Fluid Conductivity in Unconsolidated Sand Columns
Authors: Redwan Mostafa , Rammlmair Dieter
Published: August 2010

Electrical conductivity can easily be measured, but interpretation is ambiguous since saturation, fluid conductivity, and material properties are interacting parameters. This study aims to indirectly obtain fluid conductivity evolution in time and space in column experiments by repetitively applying two independent non‐destructive multi‐level methods. Water saturation, is derived from the difference in x‐ray attenuation by dry, partially and fully saturated sand filled columns. Also, it is used to calculate fluid conductivity from the electrical conductivity in time intervals for each depth level in the column. The investigated columns show distinct patterns for water saturation, electrical conductivity, and calculated fluid conductivity for individual imbibition and drainage steps at distinct grain‐size distributions. During imbibition, the unsaturated capillary fringe head shows a very unusual increase in electrical conductivity gaining with each step of capillary rise. During the drainage cycle, the electrical conductivity peak broadens and moves downward. The calculated fluid conductivities are much higher than expected, but correspond well to conductivity and ion strength of the extracted fluids. The strong increase in electrical conductivity was attributed to the fast rising capillary head fluids, which quickly accumulated all available ions around the particles and moved upward. The slow water was depleted, and showed even a different ion distribution pattern due to slowly reacting minerals. Monitoring of fluid conductivity in time and space by non‐destructive methods provides access to enrichment–depletion processes in the critical zone, in the laboratory and in the field. This is essential for understanding the development of hardpans in natural and anthropogenic environments, causing eventually supergene economic enrichment of metals.
Potential Availability of Fertilizer Selenium in Field Capacity and Submerged Soils
Authors: Premarathna H. Lakmalie , McLaughlin Mike J. , Kirby Jason K. , Hettiarachchi Ganga M. , Beak Doug , Stacey Samuel , Chittleborough David J.
Published: August 2010

The potential availability (E) and partitioning (Kd) of Se added to three soils as elemental Se (Se0), sodium selenite (SeO32−), and sodium selenate (SeO42−) were measured by isotopic dilution using either 75SeO32− or 75SeO42− The soils were kept either submerged or at 80% water‐holding capacity for either 15 or 60 d. Both Kd and E values were controlled by the type of Se, soil moisture content, and time after application. The Kd values for SeO32− were largely controlled by soil type, with the soil having the lowest pH and highest concentrations of oxalate‐extractable Al and Fe having the highest Kd values. The Kd values for SeO42−, on the other hand, were largely influenced by the incubation period, and to a lesser extent soil type and moisture conditions. Selenate Kd values decreased with incubation and were higher under submerged conditions. The availability of Se0 as measured by concentrations of labile Se species was low due to limited oxidation to SeO32− or SeO42− Elemental Se is therefore not suitable for preplant Se fertilization of lowland rice (Oryza sativa L.) because it is not readily oxidized. In the submerged soils, concentrations of labile SeO32− and SeO42− were also low, with >80% of the Se added as either SeO32− or SeO42− being fixed into nonlabile pools, probably through reduction to Se0 Rates of oxidation of Se0 will play a critical role in determining whether reduced Se0 formed in submerged soils after fertilization will contribute to plant Se uptake through oxidation either during field drainage before harvest or in the rice rhizosphere.
Phosphorus Species Composition of Poultry Manure‐Amended Soil Using High‐Throughput Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Johnson Nicholas R. , Hill Jane E.
Published: August 2010

Nutrient management planning tools including P indices would have enhanced diagnostic and predictive abilities if forms of organic P transformable to inorganic phosphate by soil microbes (enzyme‐labile P) can be assessed. Enzyme‐labile P species were tracked in a time series of manure‐amended soil samples by modifying an enzymatic P assessment tool first developed by Zhongqi He for manures. By adapting this method to a microplate reader format, up to 96 samples were processed simultaneously. Enzyme measures were compared with those made on the same samples using solution31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Enzymatic tracking of P species in manure‐amended soil extracts is robust; 25 to 36% of P extracted by NaOH–ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid was liberated as orthophosphate after incubating samples with enzymes. These increases in molybdate‐reactive P (MRP) due to enzymatic hydrolysis exceeded MRP detected in bicarbonate extracts, suggesting the true bioavailable fraction of soil P is underestimated using traditional, static tools such as Olsen P or Mehlich‐3 P. This efficient assessment tool should enhance our ability to assess P classes and enzyme‐labile P in manure‐amended soil.
Soil Temperature Regimes from Different Latitudes on a Subtropical Island (Tenerife, Spain)
Authors: Rodríguez M. , Neris J. , Tejedor M. , Jiménez C.
Published: August 2010

We studied the soil temperature regimes of the volcanic island of Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain), which is situated in the Atlantic Ocean between 27 and 28° N. The island is 2034 km2 in size and its highest point is 3718 m above sea level. Direct temperature measurements were taken during a 4‐yr period at 103 sites, at a depth of 50 cm, in altitudinal sequences from the north and south slopes of the island. In contrast to continental situations, soil temperature regimes from all latitudes are found within a small area of the island. Seven of the nine regimes considered by Soil Taxonomy have been identified—hyperthermic, thermic, mesic, isohyperthermic, isothermic, isomesic, and cryic—and are widely distributed according to elevation and orientation. In the mid‐altitude zone on the north face, which is influenced by the trade winds, regimes typical of tropical regions were found, while above 3000‐m elevation, a high‐latitude regime was also described. The wide diversity of soil temperatures in such a small area is explained by the variability of a range of factors, including elevation, the orientation of the mountain systems, and the influence of the trade winds. In addition to recording the presence of temperature regimes from different latitudes in a subtropical island, we documented a cryic regime at this latitude for the first time.
Land Use and Management Practices Impact on Plant Biomass Carbon and Soil Carbon Dioxide Emission
Authors: Sainju Upendra M. , Stevens William B. , Caesar-TonThat Thecan , Jabro Jalal D.
Published: August 2010

Land use and management practices may influence plant C inputs and soil CO2 emission. We evaluated the effect of a combination of irrigation, tillage, cropping system, and N fertilization on plant biomass C, soil temperature and water content at the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth, and CO2 emission in a sandy loam soil from April to October, 2006 to 2008, in western North Dakota. Treatments were two irrigation practices (irrigated and unirrigated) and six cropping systems (conventional‐tilled malt barley [Hordeum vulgare L.] with N fertilizer [CTBFN], conventional‐tilled malt barley with no N fertilizer [CTBON], no‐tilled malt barley–pea [Pisum sativum L.] with N fertilizer [NTB‐PN], no‐tilled malt barley with N fertilizer [NTBFN], no‐tilled malt barley with no N fertilizer [NTBON], and no‐tilled Conservation Reserve Program [NTCRP]). Plant biomass C was greater in NTBFN than in NTBON in 2006 and 2007 but was greater in NTB‐PN than in CTBON, NTBON, or NTCRP in 2008. Soil temperature was greater but water content was lower in NTCRP than in CTBFN and NTBFN. Soil CO2 flux peaked immediately following heavy rain or irrigation (>15 mm). Total CO2 flux from April to October was greater in the irrigated than in the unirrigated practice and greater in NTCRP than in annual cropping systems. Soil CO2 emission was probably related more to soil temperature and water content or tillage than to aboveground plant C input. Because of reduced CO2 flux compared with CTBON and NTCRP but similar biomass yield as NTBFN and CTBFN, NTB‐PN may be used to reduce CO2 emission from croplands in the northern Great Plains.
Buffer Index Effects on Hydraulic Conductivity Measurements Using Numerical Simulations of Double‐Ring Infiltration
Authors: Lai Jianbin , Luo Yi , Ren Li
Published: August 2010

The double‐ring infiltrometer is widely used to measure soil saturated hydraulic conductivity in the field. Both the inner ring size and outer ring size (two factors in the buffer index) of an infiltrometer affect the measurements of saturated hydraulic conductivity. Few systematic studies have been conducted to investigate the combined effects of the inner and outer ring sizes of a double‐ring infiltrometer on the measurements of field saturated hydraulic conductivity. A total of 7224 numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the optimum combination of inner and outer ring sizes for reliable saturated hydraulic conductivity measurements by using 24 infiltrometers with six inner ring diameters (10, 20, 40, 80, 120, and 200 cm) and, for each ring diameter, four buffer indices (b = 0.2, 0.33, 0.5, and 0.71). Results demonstrated that the inner ring size is a more important factor to be considered than the buffer index itself (or the outer ring size) in practice, and a larger inner ring diameter assembled with an outer ring (in most cases, with diameter ≥80 cm and b ≥ 0.33) is recommended to obtain reliable in situ measurement of soil field saturated hydraulic conductivity.
Effects of Isopropanol/Ammonia Extraction on Soil Water Repellency as Determined by Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Cheng Shuying , Doerr Stefan H. , Bryant Robert , Wright Christopher J.
Published: August 2010

Extraction of soil with solvents is commonly used to isolate fractions of soil organic matter (SOM) thought to cause soil water repellency. Previous studies have assessed the efficiency of extraction procedures by determining sample water repellency and SOM content, before and after extraction, and the ability of extracts to render wettable materials repellent. Here we use atomic force microscopy (AFM) for the direct, high‐resolution examination of the effects of the most commonly used solvent (isopropanol/ammonia) on physicochemical properties of soil particle surfaces. Particles, from three pairs of wettable and water repellent sandy soils, were examined before and after Soxhlet extraction and following extract application to extracted soil material. Complementary evidence was provided by comparison with the effects of exposing clean sand to organic compounds of known composition. The extraction rendered all soils wettable and resulted in a reduction in particle surface area covered by SOM. Subsequent exposure of these wettable particles to extracts (i) re‐introduced some level of water repellency despite achieving only a minimal increase in SOM; (ii) led to a more uniform scatter of soft regions, indicative of SOM; but (iii) did not consistently recreate original surface features. The outcomes suggest that (i) although isopropanol/ammonia extraction may be able to isolate key compounds involved in causing water repellency, these compounds appear to be obtained in a form with little affinity for clean mineral surfaces; (ii) the extent and distribution of SOM on soil particle surfaces appears to be a critical factor in the expression of water repellency.
Factors Regulating Denitrification in a Riparian Wetland
Authors: Burgin Amy J. , Groffman Peter M. , Lewis David N.
Published: August 2010

Soil O2is an important regulator of microbial processes but is rarely measured. Consequently, our understanding of temporal and spatial variation in soil O2is limited. This, in turn, limits our understanding of a key regulator of N loss through microbial denitrification. In this study, we explored: (i) how soil O2varied seasonally in wet and dry riparian areas, (ii) how this variation in O2exposure translated into spatially heterogeneous areas of denitrification and denitrification potential, and (iii) how O2, NO3−, and moisture interacted to affect denitrification rates. We collected continuous measurements of soil O2in “wet” and “dry” riparian soils and measured denitrification by removing the background N2headspace from intact soil cores, replacing it with a He–O2mixture, and measuring N2production with time. We found that soil O2varied considerably in the wet site, ranging from anoxic conditions when the water table was high in late spring to completely oxic conditions (20% O2) during summer when the water table dropped. In contrast, the dry site remained at 20% nearly year round. Bulk soil O2strongly controlled denitrification rates in the wet site but not in the dry site, which only denitrified when NO3−was added. Denitrification enzyme activity was approximately twice as high in the wet site compared with the dry site, both of which responded predictably to O2exposure. Experimental manipulation of O2, NO3−, and C may help to identify real hot and cold spots for denitrification in landscapes.
Repeated Electromagnetic Induction Surveys for Determining Subsurface Hydrologic Dynamics in an Agricultural Landscape
Authors: Zhu Qing , Lin Henry , Doolittle James
Published: August 2010

Repeated electromagnetic induction (EMI) surveys have merits of revealing temporal changes in heterogeneous soilscapes such as subsurface hydrologic dynamics. We conducted eight repeated EMI surveys from 1997 to 2009 over a 19.5‐ha agricultural field that revealed soil and water patterns. The first two surveys were done in 1997 and 2006 and compared different EMI meters (EM38, EM31, and Dualem‐2), dipole orientations, and geometries. Another six surveys were conducted in different seasons in 2008 to 2009 using the EM38 operated in vertical dipole orientation. Soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) collected during the wetter periods (>10‐mm antecedent precipitation during the previous 7 d) showed greater spatial variability (greater sills and shorter spatial correlation lengths), indicating the influence of soil water distribution on soil ECa. During a relatively short time period, most soil properties controlling ECa (e.g., texture, organic matter, and depth to bedrock) remain unchanged. Thus, repeated EMI surveys can capture the dynamics of soil moisture change and related subsurface flow paths in the landscape. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher ECa was detected in areas close to simulated subsurface flow paths, especially during the wetter periods; however, such flow paths could not be pinpointed directly from the ECa maps because of the limitation in ECa spatial resolution. In wetter areas, significant correlation between the relative difference in ECa and that in measured soil moisture was observed (r2 = 0.59–0.77), but not in drier areas. During drier periods or at drier locations, the influences of soil moisture and flow path on ECa were masked by terrain and other soil properties. Thus, the optimal use of EMI for detecting subsurface hydrologic dynamics would be during wet periods or in wet areas across the landscape in this study.
Soil Phosphorus Release and Storage Capacity from an Impacted Subtropical Wetland
Authors: Bhadha Jehangir H. , Harris Willie G. , Jawitz James W.
Published: August 2010

Cattle‐based agriculture on sandy soils has generated concern over P leaching within the basin of Lake Okeechobee, Florida. Elevated P concentrations in surface and groundwater relate to P retention capacity of soils. To evaluate P release and storage capacity of impacted soils with fluctuating water tables, four intact soil cores were analyzed (one upland and three wetland) to determine their maximum sorption capacity (Smax), equilibrium P concentration (EPC0), and soil P storage capacity (SPSC) up to 160‐cm depth. Sorption isotherms were measured for samples at 10‐cm depth increments and data fitted to a Langmuir model (r2 ≥ 0.88). Both EPC0 and water‐soluble P were higher at the surface and decreased with depth. Oxalate‐extractable Fe and Al correlated with (i) oxalate‐extractable P (r2 = 0.83), and (ii) Smax (r2 = 0.71). In situ pore water concentrations collected using multisamplers were consistently higher than EPC0 values. This discrepancy was much greater for near‐surface horizons for which the difference may partially be due to redox‐induced release of P previously scavenged by Fe under anaerobic (flooded) conditions. The SPSC values were positive, however, even when discounting Fe (i.e., assuming in situ chemical reduction) for samples from deeper horizons, suggesting that the small discrepancies for these horizons are not attributable to Fe oxidation. All cores had negative SPSC at the surface and high EPC0, suggesting that neither wetland nor upland soils safely sequester additional P. High pore water P values in the surface horizons are consistent with the inference of the surface soils potentially being a source for P.
Calcium Silicate Suppresses Powdery Mildew and Increases Yield of Field Grown Wheat
Authors: Provance-Bowley Mary C. , Heckman Joseph R. , Durner Edward F.
Published: August 2010

During three consecutive years of field trials conducted in northwestern New Jersey on a Quakertown silt loam soil (fine–loamy, mixed, active, mesic Typic Hapludult), a calcium silicate, steel slag by‐product (CSS), was added as an effective liming agent to long winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and evaluated for its suppressive effects on powdery mildew disease (Erysiphe graminis DC. f. sp. tritici Em. Marchal Blumeria graminis (DC.) E.O. Speer = E. graminis DC. Oidium monilioides (Nees) Link [anamorph]). Limestone was used as the control in a completely random design, consistent for treatment during all trial years. Plots were split for one fungicide, propiconazole (1‐[[2(2,4‐Dichlorophenyl)‐4‐propyl‐1,3‐dioxolan‐2‐yl]methyl]1‐H‐1,2,4‐triazole), application per year. The field was allowed to become naturally inoculated. In 2006 disease symptoms did not appear until late in the season. Although no significant grain yield response was exhibited in 2006, powdery mildew lesions were reduced by 29% on the flag leaves of wheat plants in the CSS treated plots. In 2007, powdery mildew was not diagnosed, but non‐pathogenic Alternaria spp. leaf blotch was observed late season. Leaf blotch lesions were reduced 25% on flag leaves in the CSS‐treated plots. During 2008, powdery mildew lesions on flag leaves were 44% less and yields were 10% greater in plots treated with CSS. Our results suggest that the use of CSS as an effective neutralizer of soil acidity may have the added benefit of suppressing powdery mildew in field grown winter wheat.
An iPhone Application for On‐Demand Access to Digital Soil Survey Information
Authors: Beaudette D. E. , O'Geen A. T.
Published: August 2010

The mission statement of the National Cooperative Soil Survey (NCSS) emphasizes the importance of information delivery in widely accessible and relevant formats. This aspect of the mission is especially relevant now as the NCSS explores new ways to circulate large and complex geospatial data sets to the public in digital formats. Web‐based delivery mechanisms that can simplify the interpretation and delivery of these data are evolving at a rapid pace. The disadvantage of web‐based soil survey formats is that user access is limited to a computer terminal with an internet connection. We have developed an iPhone application to support on‐demand access to soil survey information from any location (with cell phone coverage) in the lower 48 states. This application interfaces with our web‐based soil survey application (casoilresource.lawr.ucdavis.edu/map; verified 20 July 2010) to extend soils information in a user‐friendly format.
Use of a Shared Medical Record With Secure Messaging by Older Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Weppner William G. , Ralston James D. , Koepsell Thomas D. , Grothaus Lou C. , Reid Robert J. , Jordan Luesa , Larson Eric B.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate use of a web-based shared medical record (SMR) between older patients with diabetes and providers.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study. Health records and SMR use patterns of 6,185 enrollees aged ≥65 years with diabetes were analyzed from implementation of a SMR in August 2003 through December 2007. We analyzed baseline predictors of age, sex, distance from clinic, socioeconomic status, insulin use, morbidity, and associated primary care provider's (PCP) secure messaging use on patients' initial and subsequent use of the SMR. Changes in morbidity, PCP, or diabetes treatment were evaluated for impact on outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 32.2% of enrollees used the SMR; median rate was 1.02 user-days/month. Numbers of users and rate of use continued to increase. In adjusted analyses, likelihood of SMR use was associated with younger age, male sex, and higher socioeconomic status neighborhood, as well as clinical characteristics of overall morbidity and assigned PCP's use of secure messaging. Initial SMR use was more likely within 3 months of an increase in morbidity (hazard ratio 1.61, 95% CI 1.28–2.01) and within 1 month of changing to a PCP with higher use (3.02, 1.66–5.51).

CONCLUSIONS

Four years after implementation, one-third of older individuals with diabetes had used the web-based SMR. Higher morbidity predicted initial and continued use of SMR services. Providers' use of the communication feature was associated with higher likelihood of SMR engagement by their patients. Web-based SMRs may be an effective form of non–visit-based health care for older individuals with diabetes.
Impact of Chronic Kidney Disease on Survival After Amputation in Individuals With Diabetes
Authors: Lavery Lawrence A. , Hunt Nathan A. , Ndip Agbor , Lavery David C. , Van Houtum William , Boulton Andrew J.M.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors that influence survival after diabetes-related amputations.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We abstracted medical records of 1,043 hospitalized subjects with diabetes and a lower-extremity amputation from 1 January to 31 December 1993 in six metropolitan statistical areas in south Texas. We identified mortality in the 10-year period after amputation from death certificate data. Diabetes was verified using World Health Organization criteria. Amputations were identified by ICD-9-CM codes 84.11–84.18 and categorized as foot, below-knee amputation, and above-knee amputation and verified by reviewing medical records. We evaluated three levels of renal function: chronic kidney disease (CKD), hemodialysis, and no renal disease. We defined CKD based on a glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min and hemodialysis from Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes (90921, 90925, 90935, and 90937). We used χ2 for trend and Cox regression analysis to evaluate risk factors for survival after amputation.

RESULTS

Patients with CKD and dialysis had more below-knee amputations and above-knee amputations than patients with no renal disease (P < 0.01). Survival was significantly higher in patients with no renal impairment (P < 0.01). The Cox regression indicated a 290% increase in hazard for death for dialysis treatment (hazard ratio [HR] 3.9, 95% CI 3.07–5.0) and a 46% increase for CKD (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.21–1.77). Subjects with an above-knee amputation had a 167% increase in hazard (HR 2.67, 95% CI 2.14–3.34), and below-knee amputation patients had a 67% increase in hazard for death.

CONCLUSIONS

Survival after amputation is lower in diabetic patients with CKD, dialysis, and high-level amputations.
De Novo Duplication of Chromosome 7 (q21.1-q32); Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nasiri F , Mahjoubi F , Babamohammadi G
Published: August 2010

De Novo Duplication of Chromosome 7 (q21.1-q32); Case Report and Review of the Literature

Cytogenetic analysis of a 1-year-old boy with multiple congenital anomalies revealed partial duplication of the chromosome 7q21.2-q32 band region. His main features included: frontal bossing, small jaw, low-set ears, deep-set eyes, strabismus, drooping left upper eyelid, widely-spaced eyes, short nose, long philtrum, down-curved upper lip, camptodactyly and hypotonia.
Two Infants with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome
Authors: Ratbi I , Elalaoui S , Sefiani A
Published: August 2010

Two Infants with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS; OMIM 130650) is an overgrowth disorder characterized by macrosomia, macroglossia, organomegaly and developmental abnormalities (in particular abdominal wall defects with exomphalos) and a multi genetic disorder caused by dysregulation of genes expressed in the imprinted 11p15 chromosomal region. We report two unrelated male Moroccan firstborn infants who were hospitalized for macroglossia with breathing difficulties associated with other malformations indicative of BWS.
A Synthetic Method for Examination of Potential Reliability and Safety Level Demonstrated by Technical Facilities During Their Lifetime
Authors: Lindstedt Paweł , Grądzki Rafał
Published: August 2010

A Synthetic Method for Examination of Potential Reliability and Safety Level Demonstrated by Technical Facilities During Their Lifetime

The paper presents fundamentals for an innovative method that takes advantage of diagnostic information defined with participation of an expert. (presented as a score of points). Defined number of points is assigned to each signal change, depending on the signal value and the moment when the change occurs, whilst the number of points is preliminary defined by an expert. The proposed innovative method consists in the use of signals represented by the scores to determine combined status equations [3, 5] for parameters of the adjustment control state and technical state (equations 3 and 4) and then parameters of reliability and safety (equations 5 and 6). Such an approach enables continuous monitoring of the reliability and safety states of facilities during their lifetime. The presented approach may prove to be extremely useful as it unambiguously presents wear and tear of the facilities and enables to predict when the facilities should be repaired (overhauled).
Tyreoliberin (Trh) – The Regulatory Neuropeptide of Cns Homeostasis
Authors: Jantas Danuta
Published: August 2010

The physiological role of thyreoliberin (TRH) is the preservation of homeostasis within four systems (i) the hypothalamic-hypophsysiotropic neuroendocrine system, (ii) the brain stem/midbrain/spinal cord system, (iii) the limbic/cortical system, and (iv) the chronobiological system. Thus TRH, via various cellular mechanisms, regulates a wide range of biological processes (arousal, sleep, learning, locomotive activity, mood) and possesses the potential for unique and widespread applications for treatment of human illnesses. Since the therapeutic potential of TRH is limited by its pharmacological profile (enzymatic instability, short half-life, undesirable effects), several synthetic analogues of TRH were constructed and studied in mono- or adjunct therapy of central nervous system (CNS) disturbances. The present article summarizes the current state of understanding of the physiological role of TRH and describes its putative role in clinical indications in CNS maladies with a focus on the action of TRH analogues.
Ecological Spectrums of Heterotrophic Flagellates (Protista) in Water Bodies of Ukrainian Polissya Area
Authors: Shevchuk S. , Dovgal I.
Published: August 2010

Ecological Spectrums of Heterotrophic Flagellates (Protista) in Water Bodies of Ukrainian Polissya Area

Dependence of 26 heterotrophic flagellate species development in central part of Ukrainian Polissya area from operating pH and concentrations of dissolved organic matter and oxygen in the waters is considered. Narrowing of existence spectrums in certain types of water body characteristic for some species of heterotrophic flagellates is stated; this peculiarity is strongly expressed in the bogs where specific complex of hydrochemical conditions to have a place.
Cercaria of the Trematode Plagiorchis Mutationis (Trematoda, Plagiorchiidae) from the Pond Snails, Lymnaea Stagnalis, in Ukraine
Authors: Zhytova O.
Published: August 2010

Cercaria of the Trematode Plagiorchis Mutationis (Trematoda, Plagiorchiidae) from the Pond Snails, Lymnaea Stagnalis, in Ukraine

Morphological characteristics and measurements of Plagiorchis mutationis Panova, 1927 cercaria found for the first time in the intermediate host, pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis in Ukraine are given.
New Information on the Hosts and Distribution of the Marine Fish Leeches Trachelobdella Lubrica and Pontobdella Muricata (Clitellata, Hirudinida)
Authors: Öktener A. , Utevsky S.
Published: August 2010

New Information on the Hosts and Distribution of the Marine Fish LeechesTrachelobdella LubricaandPontobdella Muricata(Clitellata, Hirudinida)

Fish leeches collected in the Aegean Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea were examined.Trachelobdella lubrica(Grube, 1840) was recorded for the first time from the ballan wrasseLabrus bergylta(Osteichthyes, Labridae), marine breamDiplodus vulgaris(Osteichthyes, Sparidae) and the grouperEpinephelus aeneus(Osteichthyes, Serranidae) from aquiculture. The leeches of this species were found in the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara on the body surface, in the mouth and gill cavities of their hosts. Leeches identified asPontobdella muricata(Linnaeus, 1758) were collected from the thornback rayRaja clavata(Chondrichthyes, Rajidae) in the Black Sea.
The First Nest Records of the Wasp Eumenes Punctaticlypeus Kostylevi (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae) and Notes on its Distribution in Crimea
Authors: Fateryga A. , Matushkina N.
Published: August 2010

The First Nest Records of the WaspEumenes Punctaticlypeus Kostylevi(Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae) and Notes on its Distribution in Crimea

Two nest records of the rare solitary waspEumenes punctaticlypeus kostyleviKurzenko, 1976 are described for the first time. One non-completed nest was built in a stone surface and another one was attached to a bush stem; the latter one consisted of six cells. Nest cells are arranged in a cluster and have common internal walls. All cells are spirally disposed around the stem and theirs collars look at different directions. A male was reared in the first cell and three females in the second to fourth cells. Examination of the collection materials revealed that the distribution area of the species in Crimea embraces zones of Foothills and South Coast.
Post-magmatic hydrothermal mineralization associated with Cretaceous picrite (Outer Western Carpathians, Czech Republic): interaction between host rock and externally derived fluid
Authors: Dolníček Zdeněk , Urubek Tomáš , Kropáč Kamil
Published: August 2010

Post-magmatic hydrothermal mineralization associated with Cretaceous picrite (Outer Western Carpathians, Czech Republic): interaction between host rock and externally derived fluid

Mineralogy, fluid inclusions, C, O, S, Sr isotopes and trace elements have been studied in amygdule and vein mineralization hosted by the Lower Cretaceous effusive picrite at Hončova hůrka (Silesian Unit, Flysch Belt of the Outer Western Carpathians). Besides dominating dolomite, magnesite, siderite, quartz, calcite, chlorite, glauconite, fluorite, barite, pyrite and millerite were also identified. The parent fluids are characterized by low temperatures (<50-170°C), low salinities (0.4 to 3.7 wt. % NaCl eq.), low content of strong REE-complexing ligands, δ18O, δ13C and δ34S ranges of 0/+ 14 ‰ SMOW, 0/-9 ‰ PDB and ~0 ‰ CDT, respectively, and initial87Sr/86Sr ratios much more radiogenic (0.7060 to 0.7068) than those of host picrite (0.7042 and 0.7046). The fluids are interpreted to be predominantly of external origin, derived from mixing of seawater with diagenetic waters produced by dewatering of clay minerals in the associated flysch sediments. The isotope and REE signatures indicate interaction of at least a part of fluids with sedimentary carbonates. The interaction of fluids with host picrite led to strong alteration of rock-forming minerals and leaching of some elements (Mg, Ni, S, partly also REE) that widely participated during precipitation of vein- and amygdule-hosted mineral phases.
Characterization and Cytotoxic Assessment of Ballistic Aerosol Particulates for Tungsten Alloy Penetrators into Steel Target Plates
Authors: Machado Brenda I. , Murr Lawrence E. , Suro Raquel M. , Gaytan Sara M. , Ramirez Diana A. , Garza Kristine M. , Schuster Brian E.
Published: August 2010

The nature and constituents of ballistic aerosol created by kinetic energy penetrator rods of tungsten heavy alloys (W-Fe-Ni and W-Fe-Co) perforating steel target plates was characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. These aerosol regimes, which can occur in closed, armored military vehicle penetration, are of concern for potential health effects, especially as a consequence of being inhaled. In a controlled volume containing 10 equispaced steel target plates, particulates were systematically collected onto special filters. Filter collections were examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) which included energy-dispersive (X-ray) spectrometry (EDS). Dark-field TEM identified a significant nanoparticle concentration while EDS in the SEM identified the propensity of mass fraction particulates to consist of Fe and FeO, representing target erosion and formation of an accumulating debris field. Direct exposure of human epithelial cells (A549), a model for lung tissue, to particulates (especially nanoparticulates) collected on individual filters demonstrated induction of rapid and global cell death to the extent that production of inflammatory cytokines was entirely inhibited. These observations along with comparisons of a wide range of other nanoparticulate species exhibiting cell death in A549 culture may suggest severe human toxicity potential for inhaled ballistic aerosol, but the complexity of the aerosol (particulate) mix has not yet allowed any particular chemical composition to be identified.