bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diallel Analysis of Fiber Quality Traits with an Emphasis on Elongation in Upland Cotton
Authors: Ng E.‐H. , Smith C.W. , Hequet E. , Hague S. , Dever J.
Published: February 2014

The upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) industry in the United States has shifted from a domestic market to an export‐based market that mandates simultaneous improvements of yield and various fiber traits to maintain competitiveness. Fiber elongation (ability to stretch before breaking) is one of the key fiber parameters in determining yarn quality. It is a trait that is largely understudied due to an absence of monetary incentives for growers to produce high‐elongation cotton fibers. Five upland genotypes were selected as representatives of major upland cotton germplasm pools in the United States. These genotypes and their 10 F1 progenies were grown in College Station, TX, in 2010 and 2011, and fiber properties were tested in a diallel analysis. Overall, general combining ability was greater than specific combining ability for fiber elongation, suggesting the predominance of additive gene action. Two parental lines, cultivar PSC 355 and germplasm line Dever Line 8, were identified as good combiners for fiber elongation when fibers were measured with the High Volume Instrument (HVI) and the Stelometer. A highly significant negative correlation was observed between fiber upper‐half mean length and elongation, whereas a slight negative correlation was observed for elongation and strength. Stelometer and HVI readings for elongation were correlated with r value of 0.69.
Physiological and Phenological Responses of Historical Soybean Cultivar Releases to Earlier Planting
Authors: Rowntree Scott C. , Suhre Justin J. , Weidenbenner Nicholas H. , Wilson Eric W. , Davis Vince M. , Naeve Seth L. , Casteel Shaun N. , Diers Brian W. , Esker Paul D. , Conley Shawn P.
Published: February 2014

The trend toward earlier soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] planting in the midwestern United States has interacted synergistically with genetic yield gain to provide improvement in on‐farm yields. However, the impacts of earlier planting dates and their interaction with genetic gain in physiological and phenological traits remain unclear. The objectives of this study were to determine if a 30‐d difference in planting date affected measured rates of genetic improvement in (i) total dry matter (TDM) production, (ii) harvest index (HI), and (iii) growth‐stage duration in the north‐central United States. Research was conducted at Arlington, WI, Urbana, IL, and Lafayette, IN during 2010 and 2011 using 59 Maturity Group (MG) II cultivars (released 1928–2008) at Wisconsin, and 57 MG III cultivars (released 1923–2007) at Illinois and Indiana, with targeted planting dates of 1 May and 1 June. A mixed‐effect regression analysis was used to model genetic change in TDM, HI, and growth stage duration as impacted by planting date. Breeding efforts have increased TDM(R7), HI, seed‐fill duration (SFD), and reproductive growth duration over time, as vegetative growth duration has been reduced. Early planting provided increased TDM(R7) and longer reproductive growth duration, but had no effect on HI or SFD. A synergistic planting date × year of release interaction existed for TDM(R7) in both maturity groups, but not for HI or SFD, suggesting that the higher yields in newer, early‐planted cultivars resulted from greater TDM production, not improved HI or SFD.
Characterization of Drought‐Tolerant Maize MON 87460 for Use in Environmental Risk Assessment
Authors: Sammons* Bernard , Whitsel Joy , Stork LeAnna G. , Reeves William , Horak Michael
Published: February 2014

MON 87460 is a maize (Zea mays L.) product that expresses cold shock protein B to impart drought tolerance. Here we describe our evaluation of MON 87460 for agronomic and phenotypic parameters, ecological interactions, reactions to abiotic stressors, ability to persist in uncultivated areas, root growth, and across‐season water use compared with those of a conventional control hybrid with a similar genetic background. These data were used for the environmental risk assessment of MON 87460, a process required for commercialization of any new genetically modified crop. Any statistically significant differences were considered in the context of the genetic variation known to occur in maize and were assessed for their potential impact on plant pest (weed) potential and their potential environmental impact. The environmental risk assessment included several product‐specific studies to assess the trait for unintended effects such as tolerance to stresses other than drought. The results of these studies revealed no effects of the genetic modification that would result in increased pest potential or adverse environmental impact of MON 87460 compared with a conventional control and no evidence for pleiotropic effects. The results of the plant characterization studies and the subsequent environmental risk assessment support the conclusion that the environmental risks associated with cultivation or import of MON 87460 are no different from the risks associated with conventional maize.
Effect of an Introgressed Nicotiana tomentosa Leaf Number QTL on Yield and Quality Characteristics in Flue‐Cured Tobacco
Authors: Eickholt David P. , Lewis Ramsey S.
Published: February 2014

Increased cured leaf yield is an important breeding target for flue‐cured tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.), but genetic improvement for this trait has slowed in the last thirty years. Yield is positively correlated with days to flowering and leaf number in this species. Use of novel allelic diversity influencing these traits might contribute to further yield improvement. In this study, an introgressed quantitative trait locus (QTL) affecting flowering time and leaf number, designated as Many Leaves (Ml), was backcrossed into three genetic backgrounds of flue‐cured tobacco. Field evaluation of nearly isogenic MlMl lines and Mlml hybrids indicated that the QTL acted in an additive to partially dominant fashion to delay flowering and increase leaf number. This resulted in significant increases in yield and cash return per hectare. As the zygosity of Ml increased, corresponding decreases in percentage total alkaloids and increases in percentage reducing sugars were observed, however. Incorporation of Ml into flue‐cured tobacco breeding programs may be useful for increasing cured leaf yields in certain environments. Concurrent modification of the genetic potential to accumulate alkaloids would be also important under current industry requirements, however.
Structural Equation Modeling Facilitates Transdisciplinary Research on Agriculture and Climate Change
Authors: Smith Richard. G. , Davis Adam S. , Jordan Nicholas R. , Atwood Lesley W. , Daly Amanda B. , Grandy A. Stuart , Hunter Mitchell C. , Koide Roger T. , Mortensen David A. , Ewing Patrick , Kane Daniel , Li Meng , Lou Yi , Snapp Sieglinde S. , Spokas Kurt A. , Yannarell Anthony C.
Published: February 2014

Increasingly, funding agencies are investing in integrated and transdisciplinary research to tackle “grand challenge” priority areas, critical for sustaining agriculture and protecting the environment. Coordinating multidisciplinary research teams capable of addressing these priority areas, however, presents its own unique set of challenges, ranging from bridging across multiple disciplinary perspectives to achieve common questions and methods to facilitating engagement in holistic and integrative thinking that promotes linkages from scholarship to societal needs. We propose that structural equation modeling (SEM) can provide a powerful framework for synergizing multidisciplinary research teams around grand challenge issues. Structural equation modeling can integrate both visual and statistical expression of complex hypotheses at all stages of the research process, from planning to analysis. Three elements of the SEM framework are particularly beneficial to multidisciplinary research teams; these include (i) a common graphical language that transcends disciplinary boundaries, (ii) iterative, critical evaluation of complex hypotheses involving manifest and latent variables and direct and indirect interactions, and (iii) enhanced opportunities to discover unanticipated interactions or causal pathways as empirical data are tested statistically against the model. Using our ongoing multidisciplinary, multisite field investigation of climate change adaptation and mitigation in annual row crop agroecosystems as a case study, we demonstrate the value of the SEM framework for project design, coordination, and implementation and provide recommendations for its broader application as a means to more effectively engage and address issues of critical societal concern.
Surface enlargement of a new arterialised venous flap by the surgical delay method
Authors: Lalkovic Mikica , Kozarski Jefta , Panajotovic Ljubomir , Visnjic Milan , Djurdjevic Dragan , Djordjevic Boban , Sijan Goran , Gacevic Milomir , Milicevic Sasa , Stojiljkovic Vladimir , Maljkovic Igor
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. The delay method is a surgical, pharmacological and combined
method that includes two or more time separated phases, which gives bigger
flap surface. In our research we explored the possibility of flap surface
enlargement in a new arterialised venous flap (AVF) on an experimental
rabbit ear model by the delay surgical method. The aim of this research was
to establish vitality surface of our AVF and to maintain the difference in
flap vital surface between AVF flaps, with or without performing the delay
surgery method. Methods. We used both ears of ?Big Chinchilla? rabbits in 10
experimental male animals, divided into two groups, average weight 3-3.5 kg,
and average age 8-10 months. In the first (experimental) group, a venous
flap was arterialised by our method. In the second (control) group, the
venous flap was arterialised 14 days after the delay surgical method. AVF
surface was measured on the 1 and 14 days by the method of trapezoid rule.
Results. Vital surface on our AVF experimental model was bigger than 87% of
elevated flap surface after the delay surgical method. Vital surface on AVF
without delay on our experimental model was bigger than 30% of elevated flap
surface (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Analysis of previous experimental models on
the rabbit ear, non-delayed and delayed (to enlarge flap surface) led us to
conclusion that previously created experimental models of non-delayed AVF
are hemodynamically negative. Our experimental non-delay AVF model is
hemodynamically more positive than previously created models of non-delay
AVF and provides better conditions for AVF survival and enlargement of vital
flap surface of elevated flap. On the other hand, surgical delay method
significantly enlarges vital surface of AFF.
A preliminary study of local administration of dexamethasone after tooth extraction: Better preservation of residual alveolar ridge?
Authors: Postic Srdjan , Todorovic Ljubomir
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. It is important that the height of the edentulous alveolar
ridge after tooth extraction remains at a reasonable acceptable level for as
long as possible. The aim of this study was to report preliminary results of
the clinical effect of local oral submucous administration of dexamethasone
after tooth extractions in order to prepare alveolar supporting tissues for
acceptance of removable dentures. Methods. In a total of 15 patients (11
partially and 4 completely edentulous) the quantity of 0.25 mL to 0.5 mL of
dexamethasone was injected bucally and orally in the region of the tooth
socket after complicated extractions. Results. Healing of extraction wounds
was uneventful in all the patients, without pain or local inflammation.
Conclusion. Dexamethasone can be locally applied to oral tissues to prevent
post-extraction inflammation and extensive resorption of the residual
alveolar ridge. The obtained results are promising for patients undergoing
classic prosthodontic rehabilitation soon after tooth extraction,
demonstrating that there are no adverse effects after local oral
corticosteroids administration.
Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea patients using oral appliances: Our experiences
Authors: Miljus Dusan , Tihacek-Sojic Ljiljana , Milic-Lemic Aleksandra , Andjelkovic Marko
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most prevalent
sleep disorders. It is recognized as a serious risk factor for car and
workplace accidents due to daytime sleepiness, and factor for coronary heart
diseases and stroke. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness
of oral appliances for mandibular advance in treating mild to moderate OSA.
Methods. A total of 15 patients were included in this study, all diagnosed
with mild or moderate OSA. Oral appliances were custom made for each patient
in protrusive position at 50% of maximum mandibular advancement. The patients
were given instructions not to sleep on their backs and avoid alcohol
consumption during the study as these are the factors that can contribute to
symptoms progression. Results. Complete and partial treatment success was
achieve in 14 of the patients. Apnea-hypopnea index values were significantly
lower (p < 0.05) at the end of a 6-month observation period compared to those
at the treatment beginning. A great improvement in symptoms was observed,
with daytime sleepiness index values significantly reduced already within the
first month of the treatment. Conclusion. Treatment of obstructive sleep
apnea with oral appliances has proven successful. Patients were comfortable
using oral appliances and were ready to wear them for prolonged period of
time. Use of oral appliances is very common in the world and should not be
discarded. They are also very comfortable, practical and affordable comparing
to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) apparatus, not to mention
surgery. Use of oral appliances is safe and very well tolerated, and ought to
be offered to patients with OSA.
Quantitative and qualitative gait assessments in Parkinson’s disease patients
Authors: Djuric-Jovicic Milica , Jovicic Nenad , Radovanovic Sasa , Kresojevic Nikola , Kostic Vladimir , Popovic Mirjana
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. Postural impairments and gait disorders in Parkinson's
disease (PD) affect limits of stability, impaire postural adjustment, and
evoke poor responses to perturbation. In the later stage of the disease, some
patients can suffer from episodic features such as freezing of gait (FOG).
Objective gait assessment and monitoring progress of the disease can give
clinicians and therapist important information about changes in gait pattern
and potential gait deviations, in order to prevent concomitant falls. The aim
of this study was to propose a method for identification of freezing episodes
and gait disturbances in patients with PD. A wireless inertial sensor system
can be used to provide follow-up of the treatment effects or progress of the
disease. Methods. The system is simple for mounting a subject, comfortable,
simple for installing and recording, reliable and provides high-quality
sensor data. A total of 12 patients were recorded and tested. Software
calculates various gait parameters that could be estimated. User friendly
visual tool provides information about changes in gait characteristics,
either in a form of spectrogram or by observing spatiotemporal parameters.
Based on these parameters, the algorithm performs classification of strides
and identification of FOG types. Results. The described stride classification
was merged with an algorithm for stride reconstruction resulting in a useful
graphical tool that allows clinicians to inspect and analyze subject?s
movements. Conclusion. The described gait assessment system can be used for
detection and categorization of gait disturbances by applying rule-based
classification based on stride length, stride time, and frequency of the
shank segment movements. The method provides an valuable graphical interface
which is easy to interpret and provides clinicians and therapists with
valuable information regarding the temporal changes in gait.
MODIFICATION OF ECDIS INTERFACE FOR THE PURPOSES OF GEOINFORMATIC SYSTEM FOR PORT SECURITY
Authors: Kazimierski Witold , Wawrzyniak Natalia
Published: February 2014

The paper presents a functional concept of an interface for one of the users in Geoinformatic System for Port Security. The system goal is to support port security by providing a selected groups of information and displaying them on precise charts. The complex system assumes simultaneous employing of various users including port management and port authorities. One of the planned users is patrol boat crew, which role is to be a mobile tool for waterways monitoring and should perform as on-scene sensor. The interface concept presented in the paper is based on ECDIS, as it was assumed, that the user on patrol boat is usually familiar with thus system. The goal of the research was to create interface project with the principles of UCD (User Centered Design) based on CHI (Computer-Human Interaction) approach. In the article the short functional analysis of standard ECDIS interface is presented. It is followed by comparison between its common users and the future users of GEO system with the emphasis on their requirements, expectations and demands. As a result a group of dedicated, user-orientated functions were agreed. A modification of ECDIS user interface is proposed in order to implement mentioned features.
PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF DOPPLER AIDED GPS/QZSS PRECISE POSITIONING FOR LAND VEHICLES
Authors: Lee Byung-Hyun , Jee Gyu-In
Published: February 2014

For ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems), especially for land vehicles, precise position is the prime information. GNSS is the most popular navigation system. Generally, ITS demands lane distinguishable positioning accuracy. However urban area is most environments of land vehicles and the signal blocks of satellite with low elevation angle, multipath error and etc. make unreliable positioning results. Especially, lack of number of visible satellites (fewer than 4 satellites) cannot provide positioning results. QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System) which operated by Japan has high interoperability. In addition, its elevation angle is very high in long time in Korea. It means QZSS signal can be received in urban area and it can be great advantage for land vehicles. The most positioning errors are occurred by multipath, cycle slip, and etc. For example, multipath error is unexpected momentary error. In order to reduce position error, smoothing technique in position domain is needed. In this paper, precise positioning for land vehicles was evaluated. First, by using QZSS, probability of navigation solution was enhanced. Second, the reliability is improved by smoothing positioning result using Doppler measurement. The analysis was performed by trajectory analysis using precise map data.
LOW-COST NAVIGATION AND GUIDANCE SYSTEMS FOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES — PART 2: ATTITUDE DETERMINATION AND CONTROL
Authors: Sabatini Roberto , Rodríguez Leopoldo , Kaharkar Anish , Bartel Celia , Shaid Tesheen , Zammit-Mangion David
Published: February 2014

This paper presents the second part of the research activity performed by Cranfield University to assess the potential of low-cost navigation sensors for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This part focuses on carrier-phase Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) for attitude determination and control of small to medium size UAVs. Recursive optimal estimation algorithms were developed for combining multiple attitude measurements obtained from different observation points (i.e., antenna locations), and their efficiencies were tested in various dynamic conditions. The proposed algorithms converged rapidly and produced the required output even during high dynamics manoeuvres. Results of theoretical performance analysis and simulation activities are presented in this paper, with emphasis on the advantages of the GNSS interferometric approach in UAV applications (i.e., low cost, high data-rate, low volume/weight, low signal processing requirements, etc.). The simulation activities focussed on the AEROSONDE UAV platform and considered the possible augmentation provided by interferometric GNSS techniques to a low-cost and low-weight/volume integrated navigation system (presented in the first part of this series) which employed a Vision-Based Navigation (VBN) system, a Micro-Electro-Mechanical Sensor (MEMS) based Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and code-range GNSS (i.e., GPS and GALILEO) for position and velocity computations. The integrated VBN-IMU-GNSS (VIG) system was augmented using the inteferometric GNSS Attitude Determination (GAD) sensor data and a comparison of the performance achieved with the VIG and VIG/GAD integrated Navigation and Guidance Systems (NGS) is presented in this paper. Finally, the data provided by these NGS are used to optimise the design of a hybrid controller employing Fuzzy Logic and Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) techniques for the AEROSONDE UAV.
The Effect of Herb Layer on Nocturnal Macrolepidoptera (Lepidoptera: Macroheterocera) Communities
Authors: Horváth Bálint , Tóth Viktória , Kovács Gyula
Published: February 2014

Vegetation beneath the canopy might be an important factor for macromoth community composition in forest ecosystems, strongly determined by forest management practices. Herein, we compared nocturnal macrolepidoptera communities and herb layers in young and old sessile oak (Quercus petraea) dominated forest stands in the Sopron Mountains (Western Hungary). The investigation of Lepidoptera species was performed 15 times from the end of March to the end of October in 2011. Portable light traps were used, and a total of 257 species and 5503 individuals were identified. The Geometridae family was the most abundant, followed by Noctuidae and Notodontidae. To investigate vascular plant species in the herb layer, circular plots with a 10-m radius around the moth traps were used. In each plot, we estimated the abundance of plant species in 20 sub-plots with a 1-m radius from May to July of 2011. The abundance of macromoth species was higher in the old forest stand, which might be influenced by the trees’ higher foliar biomass. However, the mean abundance of herbs was lower in the old forest. Diversity of both the herb layer and the moth community were significantly higher in the young forest. However we found higher species richness of moths in the old forest. For additional analyses, moths feeding on plants in the herb layer were selected, but neither the difference in species number, neither mean abundance between the young and old forest were significant. Our results suggest that the herb layer is not a key factor for macrolepidoptera communities in Hungarian sessile oak forest stands.
Occurrence and Diversity of Soilborne Phytophthoras in a Declining Black Walnut Stand in Hungary
Authors: Kovács Judit , Lakatos Ferenc , Szabó Ilona
Published: February 2014

The paper reports on the occurrence and impact of Phytophthora species in a declining eastern black walnut (Juglans nigra) stand in West Hungary. The health condition of the trees was investigated and soil samples were taken from the rhizosphere of the trees two times per year in 2011 and 2012 in order to isolate Phytophthora species. Altogether 20 trees were selected for investigations. The species identity of the isolates was determined by morphological and molecular methods. Phytophthora cactorum and Phytophthora plurivora were found as supposedly responsible for the decline of the trees. The abundance of the two species was changing at the different sampling times, presumably due to the different weather conditions. The intraspecific diversity of both species was estimated based on the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 sequences of the isolates.
Assessment of Quality-related Risks by the Use of Complex Networks
Authors: Csiszér Tamás
Published: February 2014

This study introduces the NTS network as a new way of analysing, verifying and improving quality-related risk assessment. NTS is based on a network science approach that models complex systems by graphs. By using N, T and S-Graphs as the elements of NTS, risk events that play special role in the risk management system can be identified. Based on their characteristics, the strength of their potential causal connections can be recalculated, providing more precise predictions of the occurrence frequencies of events.
“Morals and ethics and law, oh my!” – an historical perspective on the aba model rules of professional conduct
Authors: Rendleman Dennis A.
Published: February 2014

This paper discusses the tensions between moral obligations, ethical rules and legal requirements contained within the American Bar Association Model Rules of Professional Conducts by reviewing the history and evolution of the Model Rules and the conflicting societal purposes served by the Rules regarding client protection, attorney regulation, jurisprudential philosophy and social justice. Equally important is a discussion of the parallel development of attorney discipline.
The State of Rural Sociology as Presented in Four Periodicals – Rural Sociology, Sociologia Ruralis, Journal of Rural Studies, Eastern European Countryside
Authors: Zabłocki Grzegorz
Published: February 2014

This article is an analysis of differences and similarities between four Englishlanguage journals on rural sociology. The comparison covered topics discussed in about 600 articles published in the journals in the years 1995-2010 and the regional affiliation of their authors. In the comparison, all articles and texts on empirical research published in this period in Eastern European Countryside were considered. In total, 141 texts were published in this annual journal. Out of the three other journals (Rural Sociology, Sociologia Ruralis, Journal of Rural Studies) 50 articles for each of three periods: 1995-1996, 2002-2003, 2008-2009, were selected.

Results of the comparison show that the journals have strictly regional profiles, and that present rural sociology does not seem to be the science on social phenomena in world-wide rural areas. Rural sociology used in the four studied journals does not develop the knowledge that would be useful in solving problems of the rural population. In the three journals under study (Rural Sociology, Sociologia Ruralis, Journal of Rural Studies) almost exclusively sociology of rural areas in Western Europe and Northern America was developed, and their contributors were almost always authors from the two regions. The fourth journal - Eastern European Countryside - was concerned, adequately to its title, with rural phenomena in Central and Eastern Europe
Looking for a Specificity of Rural Youth. The Polish Case
Authors: Szafraniec Krystyna
Published: February 2014

In social consciousness a view is embedded that our rural and agrarian areas are our weakness which limits our development potential and social change. Whatever the reasons (mostly historical) for this view, the divide into rural and urban areas, Poland A and Poland B, is frequently referred to and just as frequently exaggerated, supporting thus various stereotypes and prejudices.1 Do they also concern the young generation?

Rural areas in Poland are subject to dynamic transformation. The image of rural areas and its reception across society is changing positively. The favourable balance between migration and a growing interest among young people in the countryside as a future place of residence can be used as an example. However, this does not mean that the problem of rural areas and regional differences in Poland has been resolved. Neither do the changes happen as rapidly as could have been expected, nor do they happen in parallel in terms of geography and social structure. Not all of them are positive. The large number of small farms (although land concentration was expected in agriculture) is disturbing. The succession to economically weak farmsteads (which shows that in the face of no employment and non-agricultural life prospects an economically non-viable farm seems - from an individual perspective - the best possible solution). This phenomenon gives rise to many questions. Here, we only want to discuss the questions concerning the young generation - whether their aspirations and life goals, educational decisions, places of residence can be conducive to change (inside and outside rural areas) or rather impede them?
Local Initiatives for Rural Vitality and Social Inclusion: Some Experiences from Serbia
Authors: Vujicic Milica , Ristic Lela , Ciric Nata
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this paper is to identify the main problems related to the sustainable development of rural communities, as well as the possible solutions to overcome them. This paper uses an analytical and synthetic approach, method of comparison and analogy, and descriptive analysis. The starting point of the research is actually a brief overview of the current situation in rural Serbia, while the central part of the paper presents an analysis concerning the development of the rural economy in the representative villages of Grabovica and Ribare in the Republic of Serbia. Research results are given in the form of specific guidelines for a new approach to local rural development and strengthening the role and responsibilities of local government in the development process. The main conclusion that follows from the results of the research is that continued and constant work is needed in order to empower local communities to take responsibility for their own development, as well as to support local initiatives to this end.
Is Small Beautiful? The Debate on the Future of Small Individual Farms in Poland
Authors: Szumelda Anna
Published: February 2014

The main concern of this article is to collect and discuss cases that are advanced for and against small agricultural farms at the international level in the EU and the national level in Poland and to make an assessment of these cases in the context of sustainable rural development. Cases concerning small farms and put forward by different actors reflect their visions of agriculture and rural development. Taking a closer look at those cases is interesting in the context of sustainability considerations, as there is a widespread programmatic demand for sustainable rural development, but at the same time visions for rural development may differ widely, and the question what exactly is meant to be sustainable often remains unanswered. Before the various arguments raised for and against small farms are discussed, some evidence from two Polish rural regions is presented. The empirical research was conducted in April and May 2012 in Eastern and Southern Poland in the context of my PhD-thesis. After presenting statements made by Polish smallholders, an assessment of the initially collected cases is made in the context of sustainable rural development. A.comparison of cases made for and against small farms and findings from empirical research shows that small farms do in fact have the potential to contribute to sustainable rural development.
Propagation in vitro of alstroemeria ligtu hybrid through direct organogenesis from leaf base
Authors: Nasri Fardin , Mortazavi Seyed Najmedin , Ghaderi Nasser , Javadi Taimoor
Published: February 2014

In the present study, multiplication efficiency of Alstroemeria ligtu hybrid was investigated. Bases of the first seedling leaves grown in vitro were used as initial explants. The explants were cultured in the MS media containing 3% sucrose, 0.7% agar at pH 5.8, five N6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 mg·1-1) and three indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentrations (0, 0.1 and 0.2 mg·1-1). The cultures were incubated at 21 ± 2 °C under photoperiod 16/8. After three subculturings (3 weeks-long each) the number of rhizome, shoots, buds, leaves, and roots, length of shoots and roots were recorded. Adventitious shoots formed directly on the leaf bases without callus intervention. Their number was affected by BAP concentrations. The highest shoots number, six per explants, was obtained at 1 mg·1-1 BAP and 0.1 mg·1-1 IBA. The shoot length decreased with the increasing concentration of BAP. The highest root number (2.7) was formed on shoots cultured on the MS medium containing 0.5 mg·1-1 α- naphthalene acetic acid, and the highest rhizome number (2.2) was formed on the medium with 0.5 mg·1-1 BAP. In vitro rooted plantlets were able to survive and acclimatize in the greenhouse.
Effect of foliar application of sida compound fertilizer on growth, yield, and fruit chemical composition of ‘early superior’ grapevine
Authors: Mohamed Abdel-Rahman M.A. , Abdel-Aziz Faruk H. , Mohamed Moawd A. , Gobara Ali
Published: February 2014

This experiment aimed at studying the effect of Sida Compound fertilizer containing seaweed extract, natural fertilizers, growth promoters and micronutrients in chelated form on growth, yield and berry quality of table grape ‘Early Superior’. Foliar application of Sida Compound at concentration 0.05 to 0.20%, three times in a season increased shoot length, leaf area and content of N, P and K in the leaves as well as total soluble solids and total sugar contents in fruits. Yield of fruits increased by 29 and 14%, depending on the season.
Profitability and constraints of pineapple production in Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Baruwa Olayinka Isiaka
Published: February 2014

Pineapple is a delicious tropical fruit with a fine flavour and high nutritive value. It is one of the most important commercial fruit crops in the world. Despite its popularity, no proper data on the costs of its production in Nigeria are available. The study determines profitability and constraints of pineapple production in Osun State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to obtain information from 50 respondents using purposive and random selection. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and budgetary technique. Results indicated that majority of the farmers were males, aged 53.7 years on average and engaged full time in pineapple production. The modal level of farmer’s education was primary. The average period of experience in pineapple farming was 13.5 years. The gross margin and net profits in Naira (Nigerian currency) were N182 725 and N162 045, respectively. The questionnaire in the study contained the most serious problems confronting pineapple farmers: limited availability of high quality planting materials, high fruit perishability, low fruit prices, low access to credits and plant diseases. Availability of high yielding pineapple varieties, establishment of cold storages to reduce fruit perishability, agricultural price support programmes, easier access to credit from formal sources and farmers’ education were considered essential to improve productivity and profitability of pineapple production in Nigeria.
Evaluation of methods for erwinia amylovora detection
Authors: Kałużna Monika , Puławska Joanna , Mikiciński Artur
Published: February 2014

Phytosanitary measures to control diseases require sensitive and reliable detection methods. In case of Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight, there are several methods developed. We tested six of them: (1) a conventional method; (2) standard PCR; (3) BIO-PCR; (4) Real-time PCR with SYBR Green; (5) Real-time PCR with TaqMan probe; and (6) Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) in terms of their specificity, sensitivity and repeatability. Of the methods tested, only Real-time PCR with SYBR Green amplified non-specific fragments, which could be however identified by melting curve analysis. Real-time PCRs (both with SYBR Green and TaqMan probe) and LAMP were most sensitive and allowed to detect E. amylovora even in the samples where the concentration of cells was lower than 2 x 101 cfu/reaction. The highest repeatability was obtained using conventional method and Real-time PCRs. Of the methods used, only the LAMP technique was very insensitive to plant impurities.
Foliar treatment with proline and tyrosine affect the growth and yield of beetroot and some pigments in beetroot leaves
Authors: El-Sherbeny M. Rashad , Teixeira Da Silva Jaime A.
Published: February 2014

There is interest in increasing the yield and pigment content of beetroot and red beet since conventional agronomic practices or breeding efforts have not produced satisfactory results. Using a local cultivar of red beet (Beta vulgaris L. subsp. cicla) as the model plant, pot experiments were established to determine the effects of proline and tyrosine (used as plant growth regulators and for synthesis of beetroot pigments) on growth and yield and pigment (carotenoids and chlorophyll) levels in leaves. Proline or tyrosine at 100 and 200 mg·L-1 increased plant height, number of leaves, fresh and dry weight of leaves and roots, root/shoot ratio, and root diameter and length while a higher concentration (400 mg·L-1) increased some parameters but decreased others. Any proline concentration resulted in more leaf carotenoids and chlorophyll and higher carbohydrate content in leaves and roots than the controls, and tyrosine was more effective than proline. Tyrosine and proline proved to be successful agents in improving growth and yield characters of beet plants, especially at 100 mg·L-1 and 200 mg·L-1. Beetroot growers can effectively use these two amino acids as a foliar application to increase yield for edible purposes and to increase pigments for extraction for use in coloring and medicinal industries.
The initial analysis of the ability for the generative propagation and the level of self-incompatibility of inbred lines of chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. Pekinensis)
Authors: Kamiński Piotr
Published: February 2014

In the years of 2011 and 2013, seventeen inbred lines of Chinese cabbage were evaluated according to the ability for the generative propagation and the expression of self-incompatibility. Most of the lines pollinated in the greenhouse at the open flower stage were characterized by an intermediate level of selfincompatibility and formed less than one seed/silique; the other lines were highly self-incompatible or selfcompatible. The lines pollinated at the green bud stage were highly diversified according to the ability for seed development in both years of propagation; however, most of the lines formed sufficient amount of seeds for use as parental components. The average effectiveness of generative propagation after pollination at the open flower and green bud stages was higher in 2011 than in 2013, probably due to different weather conditions in these years influencing the seed development or inbreeding depression.
Contrast-phase Imaging of Fixed-Cells through Micro-Cavity Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Di Donato Andrea , Pietrangelo T. , Da Ros T. , Monti Tamara , Farina Marco
Published: February 2014

Contrast phase imaging at infrared wavelengths is achieved through an extrinsic Fabry-Perot cavity in optical fiber. The micro-cavity is realized by approaching a cleaved fiber to a distance of about few tens of microns from the surface under test. The probe is a single mode fiber and is fed by a low-coherence source. The information is extracted from the reflected spectrum, that starts to be modulated by the interference when the fiber begins to interact with the sample. The measurement of the reflected optical intensity provides a map of the sample reflectivity, whereas from the analysis of the spectrum in the time/spatial domain, it is possible to extract topography and refractive index variations. This information is entangled in the contrast phase image obtained. In this work we review the system proposed in [19] in order to extract topography and local surface permittivity of biological samples. The system displays tridimensional images with a transverse resolution that is not limited by the numerical aperture NA of the scanning probe (as suggested by the Rayleigh limit), but it is related to the transverse field behavior of the electromagnetic field inside the micro-cavity. Differently, the source bandwidth, demodulation algorithm and optical spectrum analyzer resolution affect the resolution in the normal direction.
On the interpretation of seismic cone penetration test (SCPT) results
Authors: Bagińska Irena , Janecki Wojciech , Sobótka Maciej
Published: February 2014

The paper deals with the methodology of performing and interpretation of seismic cone penetration test (SCPT). This type of test is used to determine velocity of the seismic wave in the soil medium. This study is focused on shear wave. The wave is triggered on the ground surface by hitting an anvil with a sledgehammer. Then, vibrations induced at different depths are measured. Based on recorded measurements wave velocity (Vs) and thus also small strain shear modulus Gmax may be calculated. An interpretation of exemplary seismic test results is presented. Crossover and cross-correlation methods are discussed and another, more adequate one is featured and then applied in the interpretation example. Conditions for correct test performance and interpretation are discussed.
Frictional characteristics of geosynthetic–geosynthetic and geosynthetic–soil interfaces determined by the inclined plane apparatus
Authors: Rzepecki Damian , Gourc Jean-Pierre , Dembicki Eugeniusz
Published: February 2014

The problem of managing the unneeded and unusable materials is a serious challenge for modern societies. The progress of civilization is accompanied by an increase of the human population. This results in a constant increase of waste production. An average EU citizen generates over 500 kg of municipal waste per year, of which less than one third is recycled. The rest is either disposed of in the landfills or incinerated. Every landfill needs to be properly protected by an impermeable barrier - a liner. Its use is necessary to prevent soil and ground water contamination. The protection barrier needs to be implemented both at the bottom and at the top of a landfill. Various geosynthetic materials are utilized for a liner design. Waste disposed of in a landfill creates high embankments with steep slopes. In these conditions, the problem of liner stability arises. The tests, the results of which are presented in this paper, were conducted to analyze the behaviour of several different combinations of geosynthetic materials used for liner design and to calculate the friction angle of the interface between them. A set of combinations, crucial for the stability of a landfill capping system was tested: geomembrane-geospacer, geospacer-geotextile and geotextile-soil. All of the tests were conducted at the LTHE Laboratory at Joseph Fourier University in Grenoble, France
Hydromagnetic thermal instability of compressible Walters’ (Model B′) rotating fluid permeated with suspended particles in porous medium
Authors: Rana G.C. , Jamwal H.S.
Published: February 2014

In this paper, the thermal instability of compressible Walters’ (Model B′) rotating fluid permeated with suspended particles (fine dust) in porous medium in hydromagnetics is considered. By applying normal mode analysis method, the dispersion relation has been derived and solved analytically. It is observed that the rotation, magnetic field, suspended particles and viscoelasticity introduce oscillatory modes. For stationary convection, Walters’ (Model B′) elastico-viscous fluid behaves like an ordinary Newtonian fluid and it is observed that rotation has stabilizing effect, suspended particles are found to have destabilizing effect on the system, whereas the medium permeability has stabilizing or destabilizing effect on the system under certain conditions. The magnetic field has destabilizing effect in the absence of rotation, whereas in the presence of rotation, magnetic field has stabilizing or destabilizing effect under certain conditions
Automation of selected brazes' dynamic properties in high-temperatures' measurement process
Authors: Sankowski Dominik , Bakala Marcin , Wojciechowski Rafał
Published: February 2014

The good quality of several manufactured components frequently depends on solidliquid interactions existing during processing. Nowadays, the research in material engineering focuses also on modern, automatic measurement methods of joining process properties, i.a. wetting force and surface tension, which allows for quantitative determination of above mentioned parameters. In the paper, the brazes’ dynamic properties in high-temperatures’ measurement methodology and the stand for automatic determination of braze’s properties, constructed and implmented within the research grant nr KBN N N519 441 839 - An integrated platform for automatic measurement of wettability and surface tension of solders at high temperatures, are widely described
Preprocessing of GPR data
Authors: Szymczyk Magdalena , Szymczyk Piotr
Published: February 2014

In this article a set of procedures for data preprocessing of GPR radargrams are presented. Raw data taken from GPR are affected by different noises and instability of equipment. The data in this form, are not suitable for the further analysis. They must undergo a set of transformations in order to obtain indispensable information.
Object detection and tracking for low-cost video surveillance system
Authors: Przybylo Jaromir
Published: February 2014

Automated and intelligent video surveillance systems play important role in the modern world. Since the amount of various video streams that must be analyzed grows, such artificial intelligence systems can assist humans in performing tiresome tasks. As a result, the effectiveness of response to a dangerous situations is increasing (detect unexpected movement or unusual behavior that may pose a threat to people, property and infrastructure). Video surveillance systems have to meet several requirements: must be accurate and not produce too many false alarms, moreover it must be able to process the received video stream in real-time to provide a sufficient response time. The work presented here focuses on the selected challenges of scene analysis in video surveillance systems (object detection/tracking, effectiveness of the whole system). The aim of the research is to design a low-budget surveillance system, that can be used for example in a home security monitoring. Such solution can be use not only to surveillance but also to monitor elderly person at home or provide new ways of interacting in human-computer interaction systems.
The results of the inventory of common hamster (Cricetus cricetus l.) sites conducted in małopolska voivodeship
Authors: Strejczek Paulina , Hędrzak Magdalena
Published: February 2014

The aim of this paper is to show the results of a common hamster inventory conducted in 13 counties of Małopolska voivodeship in 2010-2013. First, we verified the data collected in a previous inventory conducted within the area of Małopolska in 2006-2007. Moreover, we searched some areas not included in the previous inventory. Active hamster sites were confirmed or newly discovered in seven counties. In some localities where hamster used to occur in the past, its presence has not been recently confirmed. The main causes of hamster population decline in the Małopolska voivodeship are discussed.