bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soybean Genetic Improvement in Yield and the Effect of Late‐Season Shading and Nitrogen Source and Supply
Authors: Kumudini S. , Omielan J. , Hume D. J.
Published: September 2017

Genetic improvement in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield has been associated with both assimilate and N accumulation [especially from dinitrogen (N2) fixation] during the seed‐filling period (SFP). Therefore, the physiological factors associated with genetic improvement may be dependent on abundant assimilate and N supply. The objectives of this study were to quantify genetic improvement in yield under: (i) assimilate limiting conditions, (ii) under low N fertility, and (iii) when either inorganic N fertilizer or N2 fixation is the main source of N. A randomized complete block experiment was conducted at two locations in 1998 and one in 1999. The main plot factor included no shade or a 63% shade treatment imposed after the R4/R5 developmental stage. The split plot factors were three N treatments: (i) inoculated, (ii) uninoculated with no additional fertilizer, and (iii) uninoculated plus fertilizer N. The split‐split plots were four cultivars, representing a pair of older and a pair of newer cultivars. Shading reduced dry matter (DM) accumulation, and both shading and N limitation reduced N accumulation and seed yield. However, the newer cultivars consistently maintained their yield advantage over the older cultivars under both shading and N limiting conditions as well as when the source of N was soil available N or N2 fixation. The results of the study suggest that the physiological factors that contribute to genetic improvement in yield are not dependent on the level of incident radiation during the SFP, or the source or availability of N during the SFP.
Tillage Effects on Water Use and Grain Yield of Winter Wheat and Green Pea in Rotation
Authors: Machado Stephen , Petrie Steve , Rhinhart Karl , Ramig Robert E.
Published: September 2017

Under water‐limited conditions, increasing water use efficiency (WUE) is essential for successful crop production. A 7‐yr study (1977–1982, and 1985) to evaluate tillage and tillage timing effects on soil water storage, crop water use, and grain yield of winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) and spring green pea (Pisum sativumL.) in rotation, was conducted near Pendleton, OR. Treatments included (i) fall plow (FP)–fall moldboard plow after wheat and after pea, (ii) maximum tillage (MT)–fall roto‐till after wheat and fall sweep after pea, (iii) spring plow (SP)–spring moldboard plow after wheat and fall moldboard plow after pea, and (iv) minimum tillage (MinT)–no‐till (NT) after wheat and fall sweep after pea. During the wheat phase, water storage efficiency was 44, 40, 38, and 34%, for FP, MT, SP, and MinT, respectively. Corresponding values during the pea phase were 50, 53, 59, and 57%, for FP, MT, SP, and MinT, respectively. Wheat used all of the stored water and an additional 31, 41, 43, and 61% more water than water stored under FP, MT, SP and MinT, respectively. Pea used 71, 67, 67, and 60% of stored water under FP, MT, SP and MinT, respectively. Wheat and pea yields under MT, FP, and SP were not different. Lowest yield was obtained under MinT during both wheat and pea phases. WUE was highly correlated with yield and was lowest under MinT. Improving weed control, retaining stubble for soil erosion control, and reducing sweep operations in MinT should improve yields in this treatment.
Economic Comparison of Transgenic and Nontransgenic Cotton Production Systems in Georgia
Authors: Jost P. , Shurley D. , Culpepper S. , Roberts P. , Nichols R. , Reeves J. , Anthony S.
Published: September 2017

Transgenic cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars produce lint and seed and their propriety traits provide part of the crop's insect management and/or enable use of broad‐spectrum herbicides for weed management. The standard procedures for conducting official cultivar trials utilize common pest management across all cultivars; whereas the pest management options and their associated potential for cost reductions are principal features of current transgenic cultivars. Field experiments were conducted to compare production systems utilizing cotton cultivars possessing different transgenic technologies managed in accordance with their respective genetic capabilities. In 2001 and 2002, selection of the Roundup Ready (RR) technology system resulted in reduced returns to the producer, while higher returns were attained from nontransgenic, Bollgard (B), and Bollgard/Roundup Ready (BR) technologies. In 2003, selection of the RR technology system or the Bollgard II/Roundup Ready (B2R) system reduced returns, while similar, higher returns were attained from nontransgenic, B, and BR technologies. In 2004, a nontransgenic system was superior to the BR, B2R, and Liberty Link (LL) systems in Tifton, but similar returns were achieved from nontransgenic, BR, and B2R technologies in Midville. Cultivar selection was important among the technology systems. Collectively these results indicate that profitability was most closely associated with yields and not the transgenic technologies.
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index and Soil Color‐Based Management Zones in Irrigated Maize
Authors: Inman D. , Khosla R. , Reich R. , Westfall D. G.
Published: September 2017

Spectral vegetation indices such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) have been shown to be useful for indirectly obtaining crop information such as photosynthetic efficiency, productivity potential, and potential yield. The objectives of this study were (i) to examine the relationships among NDVI determined early in the growing season, soil color‐based management zones (SCMZ), and relative maize (Zea mays L.) grain yield and (ii) to determine if coupling soil color‐based management zones with NDVI improves the accuracy of soil color‐based management zone precision crop management strategy. Remotely sensed imagery was acquired by aircraft at approximately the eight‐leaf crop growth stage (V8). Kappa statistics and percent areal agreement suggested a slight to substantial areal association among NDVI and relative grain yield (K = 0.10 to 0.63; % areal agreement = 13–67). Regression models were variable and explained among 25 to 82% of the variability in relative grain yield. Inclusion of soil color‐based management zones in the regression models resulted in marginal improvements. When the affects of soil color‐based management zones were removed, NDVI accounted for among 10 to 47% of the variability. The NDVI determined early does have potential to be useful in irrigated maize cropping systems. Coupling NDVI and SCMZs did not bring additional benefits to our soil color‐based management zone strategy.
Hybrid Rice Response to Nitrogen Fertilization for Midsouthern United States Rice Production
Authors: Walker Timothy W. , Bond Jason A. , Ottis Brian V. , Gerard Patrick D. , Harrell Dustin L.
Published: September 2017

Limited data representing the southern U.S. production area exists for N nutrition in hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of N fertilizer rates and application timings on grain and whole milled rice yield for ‘XL723’ (RiceTec, Inc., Alvin, TX) as compared with widely grown inbred rice cv. Cocodrie on clay soils and Cheniere on silt loam soils. A factorial arrangement of cultivar, preflood (PF), panicle differentiation (PD), and panicle emergence (PE) N rates were established in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Missouri for a total of three site‐years each for clay and silt loam soils. On clay soils, XL723 grain yield increased with increasing PF‐N rate reaching 12,332 kg ha−1 at a PF‐N rate of 202 kg N ha−1 ‘Cocodrie’ grain yield did not substantially increase with PF‐N >151 kg N ha−1 Averaged across cultivars, a PD‐N rate of 50 kg N ha−1 increased grain yields by 729 kg ha−1 when 101 kg N ha−1 was applied; however, as PF‐N rate increased, the effects of PD‐N were not significant. On silt loam soils, grain yields were 327 kg ha−1greater when 151 kg N ha−1 was applied PF compared with 101 kg N ha−1 Furthermore, a PE‐N rate of 50 kg N ha−1 increased grain yield by 333 kg ha−1 On clay soils, maximum whole milled rice was obtained when a minimum of 151 kg N ha−1 was applied PF and 50 kg N ha−1 was applied at PE. On silt loam soils, the 101 kg N ha−1 PF rate produced 625 mg g−1 whole milled rice for Cheniere, whereas, the greatest concentration (613 mg g−1) of whole milled rice for XL723 was produced with 202 kg N ha−1. Finally, yield potential was 17 to 20% greater for XL723 compared with the inbred cultivars; however, at equal N rates, whole milled rice was higher with conventional inbred cultivars compared with XL723. Hybrid rice can be used in the southern U.S. rice‐growing region to increase rice yield per unit of land area. Preflood N rates on hybrid rice should be equal to or greater than inbred cultivars. For practical implications, N management for hybrid rice should include a PE application to increase yield, whole milled rice, and also decrease the potential for lodging. As straw‐strength increases with new rice hybrids, PF‐N management should be reevaluated for increased yield potential.
Measuring Grain Protein Concentration with In‐line Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Long D. S. , Engel R. E. , Siemens M. C.
Published: September 2017

The advent of near infrared (NIR) on‐combine sensors gives growers the opportunity to measure the grain protein concentration of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) during harvest. A study consisting of three sequential experiments (laboratory bench, combine test stand, and field) was conducted to evaluate the performance of an in‐line, NIR reflectance spectrometer, referred to as the ProSpectra Grain Analyzer, possessing a factory calibration model. In the laboratory bench experiment, the instrument was mounted to a circulating impeller apparatus designed to simulate a moving stream of grain. The ProSpectra performed well on a validation set of 231 grain samples of soft white winter wheat and explained a high level of protein variability (R2 = 0.91, SEP = 3.1 g kg−1) with a slope near unity. In the second experiment, the sensor was installed on a combine test stand constructed from the cross and exit augers, and clean grain elevator of a combine, to create the grain flow conditions found on a combine. Predicted protein was highly correlated (R2 = 0.93, SEP = 4.5 g kg−1) with reference protein of nine large (14‐kg) wheat samples. During the third experiment, the instrument was placed on the exit auger of a Case IH 1470 combine for the harvest of a 17‐ha winter wheat field. Prospectra protein predictions correlated well with reference protein measurements (R2 = 0.94, SEP = 3.1 g kg−1). This study demonstrated the feasibility of using in‐line NIR reflectance spectroscopy to rapidly (0.5 Hz measurement rate) and accurately (SEP < 5.0 g g−1) measure wheat protein in a moving grain stream.
Effect of Nitrogen Application on Yield and Quality of Silage Corn after Forage Legume‐Grass
Authors: Lawrence J. R. , Ketterings Q. M. , Cherney J. H.
Published: September 2017

Decomposition of forage legume‐grass (FLG) sods after turnover will supply N to the next corn (Zea mays L.) crop. For optimum economic grain production typically a starter N application is sufficient. However, the impact of eliminating sidedress N on yield and quality of silage corn in the year after sod turnover (FYC) is not well documented and little is known about the effects of timing of sod turnover (fall or spring) or sod composition (percentage legume) on N fertilizer needs of FYC. In 2005 and 2006, 13 on‐farm and three research station N trials were conducted throughout New York (NY) to determine (i) N needs for optimum yield and quality of FYC and (ii) the impact of FLG composition and timing of sod kill on the likeliness of an economic N fertilizer response. On‐farm trials included four sidedress N rates (0, 56, 112, and 168 kg N ha−1) with a small, banded starter application (34 kg N ha−1 maximum). The three research sites also contained a no starter control. Eliminating the starter resulted in significantly lower yields while sidedress N did not increase yield at any of the 16 sites. Nitrogen application increased crude protein (CP) levels but did not affect other silage quality parameters or estimated milk production. The increase in CP came at great economic (fertilizer) and environmental (low apparent N recovery) costs. We conclude a small starter application is sufficient for optimum yield and quality of FYC regardless of timing of sod turnover or its composition.
Breeding Effects on Grain Filling, Biomass Partitioning, and Remobilization in Mediterranean Durum Wheat
Authors: Álvaro Fanny , Isidro Julio , Villegas Dolors , García del Moral Luís F. , Royo Conxita
Published: September 2017

This work assesses the changes resulting from durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) breeding in Italy and Spain during the 20th century on grain filling, biomass production, and allocation at anthesis, and the remobilization of preanthesis photosynthates to the grain of main stems. Field experiments, involving 12 Italian and 12 Spanish cultivars released at different periods, were conducted at two Spanish sites during three growing seasons. Breeding activities did not modify final grain weight (WG), the maximum rate of grain filling (R), nor grain filling duration (D) of central grains of main spikes. Genetic variability existed for WG and R within countries and periods. Cycle length (expressed as days from sowing to anthesis [DSA]) was reduced by 2 and 8 d in Italian and Spanish cultivars, respectively. Crop dry weight (CDW) decreased by 21% (0.51% yr−1) and green area index (GAI) by 28% (–0.33% yr−1) in Spanish cultivars. Green area index at anthesis did not differ between old and modern Italian cultivars, while CDW decreased by 9%. Leaf area index (LAI) remained unchanged in cultivars from both countries, while the spike:stem ratio increased by 8 and 10% in Italian and Spanish cultivars, respectively. Changes over time in DSA were positively associated with changes in CDW and GAI. Dry matter translocation (DMT) efficiency switched from 9% in old cultivars to 20% in modern ones. The contribution of preanthesis assimilates to grain yield (CPA) increased to values of 31 and 27% in Italian and Spanish modern cultivars, respectively. Opportunities for further increases in genetic yield potential in Mediterranean‐type environments are discussed.
Relationship between Phosphorus and Nitrogen Concentrations in Spring Wheat
Authors: Ziadi Noura , Bélanger Gilles , Cambouris Athyna N. , Tremblay Nicolas , Nolin Michel C. , Claessens Annie
Published: September 2017

Efficient management of P in crop production requires the development of tools to quantify the P status of plants. Our objectives were to establish the relationship between P and N concentrations of spring milling wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) during the growing season and, in particular, to determine the critical P concentration required to diagnose P deficiency. Shoot biomass and P and N concentrations were determined weekly and grain yield was measured at harvest in an experiment with four to six N rates conducted over 2 yr (2004 and 2005) at three sites with adequate soil P for growth each year. Both shoot P and N concentrations decreased with time as shoot biomass increased during the growing season. They also increased with N fertilization, suggesting that they are closely related. The relationship between shoot P and N concentrations under nonlimiting N conditions is described by a linear function (P = 0.94 + 0.107N, R2 = 0.59, P < 0.001; n = 76) in which concentrations are expressed in g kg−1 dry matter (DM). Under limiting N conditions (relative grain yield <0.80), the relationship was different (P = 1.70 + 0.092N (R2 = 0.48; P < 0.001; n = 19) with greater P concentrations for a given N concentration. These relationships approximate the critical P concentration under both nonlimiting and severely limiting N conditions. This critical P concentration can then be used to quantify the degree of P deficiency during the current growing season.
Estimates of Yield and Economic Losses Associated with White Mold of Rain‐Fed Dry Bean in North Dakota
Authors: Ramasubramaniam Harikrishnan , del Río Mendoza Luis E. , Bradley Carl A.
Published: September 2017

White mold [caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary] of dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most important disease affecting rain‐fed dry bean yields in North Dakota. The economic impact of this disease in North Dakota was assessed through a survey of 250 fields during 2003 to 2005. Profitability of a single fungicide application for managing white mold also was examined. Yield loss was estimated by regressing the mean of white mold incidence per county and year with their respective estimated yields. The slope of the resulting equation was divided by its intercept and multiplied by 100 to express yield loss as percentage of potential yield. Results of these analyses indicated a loss of 14 kg/ha (R2 0.50; P = 0.03) for every unit of white mold incidence, which represents a loss of 0.8% of the potential yield. The economic impact of the disease was assessed using estimated hectarage with ≥20% white mold incidence in conjunction with yield and dry bean prices as reported by National Agricultural Statistics Service for North Dakota. Over the 3‐yr period, economic losses were highest in 2004 and least in 2005; yield loss averaged 524 kg/ha (range 424–722 kg/ha) while production loss averaged 6433 t (range 1,789–10,438 t). These represent an average economic loss of U.S. $2.95 million (range U.S. $.63–5.74 million) per year. Profitability of a fungicide application to manage white mold was heavily influenced by disease pressure and varied widely between years. In years with high disease pressure, like 2004, a fungicide application would have produced a positive return in 72% of the fields; but under moderate to low disease‐pressure, applying fungicides would have been a profitable practice in <20% of fields.
White Wheat Grain Quality Changes with Genotype, Nitrogen Fertilization, and Water Stress
Authors: Saint Pierre Carolina , Peterson C. James , Ross Andrew S. , Ohm Jae‐Bom , Verhoeven Mary C. , Larson Mark , Hoefer Bruce
Published: September 2017

The production of hard white winter (HWW) wheats (Triticum aestivum L.) with acceptable protein content and quality over different environments requires the correct combination of genotypes and management practices. The objectives of this study were to evaluate moisture deficit and N management on grain protein and quality of seven HWW and two soft white winter (SWW) genotypes, and to identify genotypes and traits that minimize grain quality variability. Plots were irrigated during grain fill to replace from 100 to <30% of estimated evapotranspiration (ET). Biomass of three genotypes across the irrigation levels was used as an integrated estimation of plant water stress at late grain fill. Biomass reductions under water stress tended to be higher if plots received high N fertilization. Water stress reduced grain yield, test weight, and kernel weight and diameter. Reducing irrigation increased average grain protein content from 116.4 to 128.3 g kg−1. Nitrogen treatment did not affect grain yield. Additional N increased grain protein content and hardness for all genotypes. Reductions in test weight, and grain weight and diameter were observed under high N fertilization. High N fertilization would increase the numbers of kernels and extend the grain‐fill period, which result in greater water and heat stress. The SWW genotypes had greater reductions in test weight than HWW genotypes with increasing water stress. Among HWW genotypes, late maturing genotypes had larger reductions in test weight than early genotypes. In regions where late season water stress is common, early maturing genotypes are more likely to produce consistent grain quality.
Modeling Pesticide Volatilization from Turf
Authors: Haith Douglas A. , Lee Po‐Ching , Clark J. Marshall , Roy Gerald R. , Imboden Margaret J. , Walden Rebecca R.
Published: September 2017

Pesticide volatilization models are typically based on equilibrium partitioning of the chemical into solid, liquid, and gaseous phases in the soil environment. In turf systems direct vaporization from vegetation surfaces is a more likely source, and it is difficult to apply equilibrium methods to plant material due to the uncertainties of solid–liquid–gas partitioning. An alternative approach is to assume that pesticide volatilization is governed by the same processes that affect water evaporation. A model was developed in which evapotranspiration values, as determined by the Penman equation, were adjusted to chemical vaporization using ratios of water and chemical saturated vapor pressures and latent heats of vaporization. The model also assumes first‐order degradation of pesticide on turf vegetation over time. The model was tested by comparisons of predictions with measurements of volatilization for eight pesticides measured during 3 to 7 d in 11 field experiments. Measured volatilization fluxes ranged from 0.1 to 22% of applied chemical. Pesticides were divided into two groups based on saturated vapor pressures and organic C partition coefficients. One pesticide was selected from each group to calibrate the model's volatilization constant for the group, and the remaining pesticides were used for model testing. Testing results indicated that the model provides relatively conservative estimates of pesticide volatilization. Predicted mean losses exceeded observations by 20%, and the model explained 67% of the observed variation in volatilization fluxes. The model was most accurate for those chemicals that exhibited the largest volatilization losses.
Coupled Abiotic–Biotic Mineralization of 2,4,6‐Trinitrotoluene (TNT)
Authors: Hess Thomas F. , Schrader Paul S.
Published: September 2017

Munitions wastes such as TNT are widespread contaminants in soils and ground waters. We investigated a coupled abiotic–biotic treatment scheme for remediation of aqueous solutions of TNT. Mineralization of aqueous TNT (0.22 mM) was initially optimized with minimum reactant use (Fe3+ and H2O2) in light‐assisted and dark, modified Fenton reactions at acidic and neutral pH. Complete TNT degradation occurred under all reaction conditions within 24 h. Using the optimum reactant concentrations, coupled abiotic–biotic reactions showed an increase in TNT mineralization, from 47 to 80%, after biomass addition to the acidic, dark Fenton‐like reaction. Comparable increases of TNT mineralization were observed under neutral pH with similar reaction conditions. In light‐assisted Fenton‐like reactions at neutral pH, no increase in cumulative TNT mineralization (66%) was seen in coupled abiotic–biotic reactions. Abiotic photo‐Fenton‐like reactions alone, at acidic pH, produced complete TNT mineralization and required no biotic assistance. While light‐enhanced Fenton reactions alone can provide high levels of TNT mineralization, the dark abiotic–biotic reaction scheme has perhaps a wider use due to a similar extent of TNT mineralization in the absence of light, leading to possible applications in soil slurry and in situ processes in the subsurface.
Effects of Soil Variability and Weather Conditions on Pesticide Leaching— A Farm‐Level Evaluation
Authors: van Alphen B. J. , Stoorvogel J. J.
Published: September 2017

In line with European regulations, Dutch law imposes an environmental threshold of 0.1 μg L−1 on pesticide concentrations in ground water. During registration, the risk of exceeding this threshold is assessed through simulations for one or a few standard scenarios that do not reflect spatial variability under field conditions. The introduction of precision agriculture, where soil variability is actively managed, can increase control over pesticide leaching. This study presents a step‐wise evaluation of the effects of soil variability and weather conditions on pesticide leaching. The evaluation was conducted on a 100‐ha arable farm and aimed at identifying opportunities for precision management. As a first step, a relative risk assessment identified pesticides presenting a relatively high risk to the environment. Second, the effect of weather conditions was analyzed through 20 years of simulations for three distinct soil profiles. Results were summarized in cumulative probability plots to provide a probabilistic characterization of historical weather data. The year matching 90% probability (1981) served as a reference to simulate pesticide leaching from 612 soil profiles. After interpolation, areas where concentrations exceeded the environmental threshold were identified. Out of a total of 19 pesticides, isoproturon [N‐dimethyl‐N′‐(4‐(1‐methylethyl)phenyl)urea], metribuzin [4‐amino‐6‐tert‐butyl‐3‐(methylthio)‐as‐triazin‐5(4H)‐one], and bentazon [2,1,3‐benzothiadiazin‐4(3H)‐one, 3‐isopropyl‐, 2,2‐dioxide] showed the highest risk for leaching. Leaching was strongly affected by soil variability at the within‐field, field, and farm levels. Opportunities for precision management were apparent, but depended on the scale level at which environmental thresholds were implemented. When legislation is formulated in this issue, the presented step‐wise evaluation can serve as a basis for identification and precision management of high‐risk pesticides.
Migration of Trace Elements from Pyrite Tailings in Carbonate Soils
Authors: Dorronsoro C. , Martin F. , Ortiz I. , García I. , Simón M. , Fernández E. , Aguilar J. , Fernández J.
Published: September 2017

In the carbonate soils contaminated by a toxic spill from a pyrite mine (Aznalcóllar, southern Spain), a study was made of a thin layer (thickness = 4 mm) of polluted soil located between the pyrite tailings and the underlying soil. This layer, reddish‐yellow in color due to a high Fe content, formed when sulfates (from the oxidation of sulfides) infiltrated the soil, causing acidification (to pH 5.6 as opposed to 8.0 of unaffected soil) and pollution (in Zn, Cu, As, Pb, Co, Cd, Sb, Bi, Tl, and In). The less mobile elements (As, Bi, In, Pb, Sb, and Tl) concentrated in the uppermost part of the reddish‐yellow layer, with concentration decreasing downward. The more mobile elements (Co, Cd, Zn, and Cu) tended to precipitate where the pH was basic, toward the bottom of the layer or in the upper part of the underlying soil. The greatest accumulations occurred within the first 6 mm in overall soil depth, and were negligible below 15 mm. In addition, the acidity of the solution from the tailings degraded the minerals of the clay fraction of the soils, both the phyllosilicates as well as the carbonates. Also, within the reddish‐yellow layer, gypsum formed autigenically, together with complex salts of sulfates of Fe, Al, Zn, Ca, and Mn, jarosite, and oxihydroxides of Fe.
Phosphorus and Nitrogen Runoff from a Forested Watershed Fertilized with Biosolids
Authors: Grey Mark , Henry Chuck
Published: September 2017

Municipal biosolids are typically not used on the steepest of forested slopes in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. The primary concern in using biosolids on steep slopes is movement of biosolids particles and soluble nutrients to surface waters during runoff events. We examined the pattern and extent of P and N runoff from a perennial stream draining a small, forested 21.4‐ha watershed in western Washington before and after biosolids application. In this study, we applied biosolids at a rate of 13.5 Mg ha−1 (700 kg N ha−1 and 500 kg P ha−1) to 40% of the watershed following nearly 1.5 years of pre‐application water sampling and 1.5 years thereafter. There was no evidence of direct runoff of P or N from biosolids into surface water. Elevated surface water discharge did not change the concentration of PO4–P, biologically available phosphorus (BAP), bioavailable particulate phosphorus (BPP), or total P nor did it affect the concentration–discharge relationship. Some instances of total P concentrations exceeding the USEPA surface water standard of 0.1 mg L−1 were observed following biosolids application. However, total P in 27 Creek was predominately in particulate form and not labile, suggesting that detritus moving into the main creek channel and ephemeral drainage courses may be the principal P source. Ammonium N concentrations in runoff water were consistent before and after biosolids application, ranging from below detection limits (0.01 mg L−1) to 0.1 mg L−1; no concentration–discharge relationship existed. Biosolids application changed the 27 Creek concentration–discharge relationship for NO−3–N. Before application, no relationship existed. Beginning nine months after biosolids application, increases in discharge were positively related to increases in NO−3–N concentrations. Nitrate concentrations in runoff following biosolids application were approximately 10 times less than the USEPA drinking water standard of 10 mg L−1
A Decision Support System for Phosphorus Management at a Watershed Scale
Authors: Djodjic Faruk , Montas Hubert , Shirmohammadi Adel , Bergström Lars , Ulén Barbro
Published: September 2017

Phosphorus (P) is one of the main nutrients controlling algal production in aquatic systems. Proper management of P in agricultural production systems can greatly enhance our ability to combat pollution of aquatic environments. To address this issue, a decision support system (DSS) consisting of the Maryland Phosphorus Index (PI), diagnosis expert system (ES), prescription ES, and a nonpoint‐source pollution model, Ground Water Loading Effects of Agricultural Management Systems (GLEAMS), was developed and applied to an agricultural watershed in southern Sweden. This system can identify critical source areas (CSAs) regarding phosphorus losses within the watershed, make a diagnosis of probable causes, prescribe the most appropriate best management practices (BMPs), and test the environmental effects of the applied BMPs. The PI calculations identified small parts of the watershed as CSAs. Only 10.4% of the total watershed area in 1995 and 5.2% of the total watershed area in 1996 were classed as “high potential P movement.” Four probable causes (high P level in soil, excessive P fertilization, stream proximity, and subsurface drainage) and three BMPs (riparian buffer strips, reduced P fertilizer application, and P fertilizer incorporation) were identified by a diagnosis and prescription expert system. The GLEAMS simulations conducted for one selected CSA field for a 24‐yr period showed that the recommended BMP reduced runoff P losses by 55% and sediment P losses by 71%, if applied from the first year. Results showed that using DSS may enable us to select a proper BMP implementation strategy and to realize the beneficial effect of BMPs on a long‐term basis.
Metolachlor Dechlorination by Zerovalent Iron during Unsaturated Transport
Authors: Gaber H.M. , Comfort S.D. , Shea P.J. , Machacek T.A.
Published: September 2017

Permeable zerovalent iron (Fe0) barriers have become an established technology for remediating contaminated ground water. This same technology may be applicable for treating pesticides amenable to dehalogenation as they move downward in the vadose zone. By conducting miscible displacement experiments in the laboratory with metolachlor [2‐chloro‐N‐(2‐ethyl‐6‐methylphenyl)‐N‐(2‐methoxy‐1‐methylethyl)acetamide; a chloroacetanilide herbicide] under unsaturated flow, we provide proof‐of‐concept for such an approach. Transport experiments were conducted in repacked, unsaturated soil columns attached to vacuum chambers and run under constant matrix potential (−30 kPa) and Darcy flux (approximately 2 cm d−1). Treatments included soil columns equipped with and without a permeable reactive barrier (PRB) consisting of a Fe0–sand (50:50) mixture supplemented with Al2(SO4)3 A continuous pulse of 14C‐labeled metolachlor (1.45 mM) and tritiated water (3H2O) was applied to top of the columns for 10 d. Results indicated complete (100%) metolachlor destruction, with the dehalogenated product observed as the primary degradate in the leachate. Similar results were obtained with a 25:75 Fe0–sand barrier but metolachlor destruction was not as efficient when unannealed iron was used or Al2(SO4)3 was omitted from the barrier. A second set of transport experiments used metolachlor‐contaminated soil in lieu of a 14C‐metolachlor pulse. Under these conditions, the iron barrier decreased metolachlor concentration in the leachate by approximately 50%. These results provide initial evidence that permeable iron barriers can effectively reduce metolachlor leaching under unsaturated flow.
A dynamic analysis of six-bar mechanical press
Authors: Mukasheva Assel , Japayev Saduakhas , Abdraimova Gulnara , Kyrykbaev Batyrkhan , Kozhamberdiyev Kuatbek , Uskembayeva Bagdat , Zhauyt Algazy
Published: September 2017

This paper analyzes the dynamical behavior of a six-bar linkage used in mechanical presses for metal forming such as deep drawing. Raising the technical level of machines requires an expansion of technological capabilities of the equipment and devices of the existing structures, as well as their equipping with fundamentally new mechanisms. In this regard, the task of developing methods for the dynamic of complex flat lever mechanisms with the desired laws of motion of the input and output elements allowing automatizing the implementation of all design phases with the use of computer is quite relevant. The simulation results obtained with a Maple program are validated by comparing the theoretical values of the input moment with the ones obtained from the conservation of energy law. Content of the article is distinguished by serious problem statement, interesting theoretical study and its practical test. This article provides new scientific results that have theoretical and applied significance.
Low cost diagnostics system dedicated to rolling bearings
Authors: Kostek Robert , Musiał Janusz , Kałaczyński Tomasz , Łukasiewicz Marcin
Published: September 2017

This article presents low cost diagnostic system, dedicated to rolling bearings. This system can be widely used in existing machines, to improve their reliability and reduce the costs of maintenance. Low cost electronics sensors, a few microchips, a multi-meter and a programmable micro-controller, which can send data to a computer, were selected. A computer is not necessary in this system, because data can be directly presented on LCD displays; moreover, alarm levers can be signaled with flashing lights and buzzers. This shows that an operational system can be produced with low cost, which is not obvious for managers and mechanical engineers.
Assessment of the vehicle supercharging system operational functionality on the turbocharger example
Authors: Kałaczyński Tomasz , Łukasiewicz Marcin , Musiał Janusz , Szczutkowski Marek , Polasik Robert , Wojciechowski Hubert
Published: September 2017

This article is devoted to the issues of assessing the operational functionalities of the vehicle supercharging system on the turbocharge. The article presents assessment of turbocharger technical state verification procedure includes supercharging parameters, damage analysis, turbine blade strength analysis for chosen vehicles, and turbocharger impeller stand tests. The most frequently occurring failures and defects of supercharging devices are presented included their reasons. The main part of the work includes the strength analysis of the impeller blades, the verification of their deviations, and the stand tests by using specialized equipment.
Algorithmic approach of destabilizing factors of improving the technical systems efficiency
Authors: Zhilenkov Anton , Chernyi Sergei , Sokolov Sergei , Nyrkov Anatoliy
Published: September 2017

In work, the questions of stabilization of factors of reliability of operation of the ship equipment are considered. According to the Navy Register rules, ship electrical power system voltage fluctuations within ±10 % of the nominal voltage are admissible if not lasting longer than 5 seconds; longer fluctuations are admissible if they are within ±5 % of the nominal voltage. The work of the engine with loads is presented. The algorithm for parameter optimization was applied. The calculation is performed on real parameters.
Near-optimal pitch of a moiré grating for image hiding applications in dynamic visual cryptography
Authors: Saunoriene Loreta , Aleksiene Sandra , Ragulskiene Jurate
Published: September 2017

Dynamic visual cryptography is based on hiding of a dichotomous secret image in the regular moiré grating. One pitch of the moiré grating is used to represent the secret image and a slightly different pitch of another moiré grating is used to form the background. The secret is decoded in the form of a pattern of a time-averaged moiré fringe when the cover image is oscillated according to a predefined law of motion. The security of the encoding and the sharpness of the decoded secret are mostly influenced by the selection of the pitches of moiré grating. This paper proposes scheme for the determination of near-optimal pitches of the moiré grating for image hiding in dynamic visual cryptography.
Prediction of fatigue damage with the use of dissipation energy
Authors: Drożyner Przemysław , Szczyglak Piotr
Published: September 2017

The paper refers to development of relationship between fatigue life and energy dissipated during process of fatigue. A theory about treating technical object as operational system, with limited potential for destruction was utilized. On the base of experiments, it was stated, that dissipated energy, which is stored in the object as a result of various kinds of wear processes, including fatigue can be such parameter. Amount of this energy was determined experimentally. It was found, that “consumption” of this energy depends on the value of the damping coefficient of the test object and the parameters of the oscillatory motion. Knowing the amount of this energy and accepting it as a "destruction capacity”, it is possible to predict the fatigue life of an object under a given load.
Results of the experimental research of dynamic vibration processes of the rail for rolling stocks fault diagnostics
Authors: Nozhenko Olena , Cherniak Ganna , Pistek Vaclav , Suslov Evgeniy , Nozhenko Volodymyr , Kravchenko Kostiantyn , Kučera Pavel
Published: September 2017

The paper discusses the preconditions of the methodology development of diagnosis system for assessing dynamic impact of the rolling stock on the basis of processing and analysis of data obtained in operation on the results of measurement of parameters that characterize dynamic vibration processes of the mechanical system of “rolling stock-track”. On the basis of usage of the processing methods of time series and stochastic processes there has been established the relationship between these dynamic processes and wheel defects, and designed experimental data processing algorithms, which in the future will be an integral part of the intellectual systems of decision making when assessing the impact level of the rolling stock on the track.
Using spectral analysis for flat wheel detections
Authors: Suslov Evgeniy , Nozhenko Olena , Anatolii Mostovych , Píštěk Václav , Kučera Pavel
Published: September 2017

The following article describes measurement data processing for detecting flat spots on wheels of railway cars. This type of defect usually causes significant impact wear of railway infrastructure that can lead to different safety problems. So, development and improvement of methods used for early detection and recognition of such defects can decrease costs of infrastructure maintenance and prevent safety accident. The proposed method is based on Fourier analysis and aimed at processing measurements received from strain gauges.
Fault detection in different types of noise environments
Authors: Zak Grzegorz
Published: September 2017

Local damage detection is one of the most investigated problems in the field of condition monitoring. Raw signals often possess different components that make it difficult for one to directly detect damage. By such components one can mean high energy of the noise, deterministic part or even artifacts (singular impulses that are not connected to the fault). In this paper author covers problem of the fault detection in different noise environments by means of statistical analysis. Author has applied α-stable distribution as a tool for the impulsivity detection instead of commonly used spectral kurtosis and fractional lower-order covariance as a mean of cyclicity and impulsivity detection in the presence of non-Gaussian noise.
Binomial multifractal features of worldwide harmonized light duty vehicles test cycle
Authors: Puchalski Andrzej , Komorska Iwona
Published: September 2017

Driving tests that have been performed for many years are not representative of actual vehicle operating conditions in terms of emissions and fuel consumption. This paper presents the research results of a new Worldwide harmonized Light duty Test Cycle (WLTC), that takes into account situations occurring in traffic inside and outside the city and on highways in Europe, India, Japan, Korea and USA. Conducted analysis demonstrated a multifractal nature of vehicle speed time signal, typical for he processes of asymmetric generalized multiplicative cascade.
Noise and vibration exposure of hybrid PEM power supply users during its operation
Authors: Kłaczyński Maciej , Grzeczka Grzegorz
Published: September 2017

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells characterized the highest available current density of electricity, but their construction uses elements, which generate noise, vibration and requires the dissipation of heat. Emitting these physical fields into the environment from this type of power sources is a disadvantage due to the low detection requirements of military installations as well as operator safety. The paper presents the study of noise and vibration exposure users of 20 Watt PEM fuel cell users.
Analysis of critical states of composite drive shafts with two reduced masses – selection of the right model
Authors: Dąbrowski Zbigniew , Deuszkiewicz Piotr
Published: September 2017

Carbon fiber drive shafts are nonlinear structures of complex character, difficult to establish “a’priori”. The only way of modeling is to make identification based on the results of measurements of real objects. In previous works, Authors describe the process of building a mathematical model of such a system and its identification on the basis of experimental results but for only one reduced mass. On this basis, however, it is not possible to write a two-mass model because the identified function describing the resilience characteristics also ‘covers’ errors of other model parameters. So, Authors in this paper showed the process of selection of right model which can show the effects of passing shaft’s critical speeds by system with two reduced masses. In conclusion, future model identification procedure for nonlinear phenomena was announced.
The study of transport impact on the environment with regard to sustainable development
Authors: Marianna Jacyna , Mariusz Wasiak
Published: September 2017

The paper presents the problem of transport impact on the environment in terms of sustainable development. Technical and technological conditions of environmental impact assessment of transport was presented. In order to assess road transport in the context of environmental impact, the indicator of harmful exhaust gas emission levels was developed. Mathematical formulas describing criteria for the environmental impact assessment of transport were presented. In order to assess the impact of transport on the environment an/the EMITRANSYS model was developed.
Informative frequency band identification for automatic extraction of impulsive components in vibration data from rotating machinery
Authors: Wodecki Jacek , Zimroz Radosław , Barszcz Tomasz
Published: September 2017

In this paper authors address the issue of local damage detection in rolling element bearings in the presence of non-Gaussian noise. Typically damage detection problems concern the techniques of filtration, decomposition, separation, extraction etc. In such real-life cases, main difficulty lies in non-Gausianity of the noise present in the operational environment, hence popular denoising techniques cannot be used. In presented article, a real-life industrial scenario will be discussed and a new approach to cyclic component extraction will be presented. Classical detection methods are often not sufficient for the task because of high energy of impulsive noise in comparison to spectral structure of the damage. Proposed method utilizes Cyclic Spectral Coherence map as two-dimensional data representation, and Nonnegative Matrix Factorization as analytical tool to extract individual components.
A proposition of application of the complex functions in the design of the machine shaft based on the stiffness criterion
Authors: Chiliński Bogumił , Żurawski Mateusz
Published: September 2017

This article presents an algorithm for determining the theoretical outline of the shaft using the differential equations of a static shaft deflection in the form of a complex-valued function. The method which has been proposed is based on the Euler-Bernoulli formula and enables to obtain a universal relation to determine the shape of the shaft on the basis of the expected deflection. This approach greatly simplifies the design of the machine shafts, eliminating the iterative step of choosing diameters that fulfilled the design criteria. Furthermore, based on the proposed model, it is possible to determine the stiffness of the shaft, which is necessary to determine the critical speed of the rotor.
Partitioning daily evapotranspiration from a marsh wetland using stable isotopes in a semiarid region
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Shichun , Zhang Wenguang , Liu Bo , Gong Chao , Jiang Ming , Lv Xianguo , Sheng Lianxi
Published: September 2017

The hydrological process of evapotranspiration (ET) plays an important role in water circulation in wetlands, and understanding the contributions of wetland ET to local and regional water cycles can help in designing effective wetland management strategies. In this paper, a numerical model, vegetation indexes, and stable isotopes were integrated to partition ET in the Momoge Wetland to understand hydrological processes and calculate the contribution of wetland ET to local hydrological cycling. The results of the non-steady state (NSS) model indicated clear deviation of leaf water enrichment (δLb) from an isotopic steady state (ISS) for Phragmites australis, and the model accuracy improved particularly in the early morning and evening when air moisture was highest during the day. The isotopic mass balance showed that E and T contributed approximately 62% and 38% to ET, respectively. Using the estimated proportion of T to ET, in combination for the measured leaf transpiration, total ET was estimated at approximately 8.76 mm d−1. Additionally, the amount of ET clearly changed on an hourly scale, with most primarily occurring at approximately noon. Based on comparison among internationally important wetlands distributed in northeast China, the results in this study are reasonable and will provide theoretical data for wetland water resources management.