bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OAC HALTON WINTER BARLEY
Authors: REINBERGS E.
Published: March 2010

OAC Halton is a new six-rowed winter barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) with good lodging resistance, higher yield, larger kernels and better disease resistance than Huron, the presently recommended winter barley cultivar for Ontario. It was licensed on 31 July 1979. Breeder seed of OAC Halton is maintained by the Crop Science Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario.
EFFECT OF WEATHER DAMAGE ON THE GRADE AND QUALITY OF FLAXSEED
Authors: DORRELL D. GORDON , DAUN J. K.
Published: March 2010

The 1977 flaxseed crop was subjected to prolonged periods of wet and humid weather during the last stages of ripening and during harvest. Consequently, a large proportion of the seed appeared scabby due to the moistened mucilage sticking the seed to the inner surface of the capsule. Since this type of scabbing could be considered as damaged seed in grading, a number of samples were evaluated for quality characteristics. Four Preliminary Grade Standards and 37 samples from the New Crop Survey selected from Manitoba and Saskatchewan were analyzed for a variety of physical and chemical characteristics. In the crop survey samples, the percentage of scabbed seeds increased from an average of 9% in 1 C.W. to 70% in 4 C.W. However, 1000-seed weight, oil content, oil color, iodine number and protein content of the meal were not affected by grade or extent of scabbing. The ability of the meal to remain in a meal-water suspension declined significantly from 93% in 1 C.W. to 57% in 4 C.W., and the mucilage concentration of the seed declined significantly from 7.2% in 1 C.W. to 5.7% in 4 C.W. Seed color, as expressed by color purity from reflectance measurements, also declined as the percentage of scabbed seeds increased. It was concluded that since the main criteria for flaxseed and oil quality were not affected by scabbing, this form of damage should not be considered as a degrading factor.
INHERITANCE AND ASSOCIATION OF SEEDS PER HEAD, YIELD PER HEAD, BLOTCH, AND FLOWER COLOR IN SAFFLOWER SPECIES
Authors: KOTECHA ASHOK
Published: March 2010

Mode of inheritance and association of seeds per head, yield per head, blotch and flower color were studied in two crosses of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Data were taken on individual plants. Mather and Jinks’ three-parameter model indicated that gene action for seeds per head and yield per head showed additive and dominance gene action. The broad-sense heritability for seeds per head and yield per head ranged from 50.75 to 56.02%, and 50 to 57.14%, respectively. Maternal effects were absent for seeds per head and yield per head. In all F2, continuous distributions were observed, suggesting multiple factor inheritance for seeds per head and yield per head. Two loci may be involved in the inheritance of blotch (a new trait) and flower color. Flower color and blotch were inherited independently. Also, flower color and striped hull were inherited independently. A 18 ± 5.6 map distance was found between anthocyanin pigmentation and blotch. Seeds per head and yield per head were not associated with anthocyanin pigmentation, striped hull, flower color and blotch. A significant-positive correlation coefficient ranging from 0.86 to 0.88 was found between seeds per head and yield per head.
ROOTSTOCK STUDIES ON SASKATOONS (AMELANCHIER ALNIFOLIA NUTT.)
Authors: NELSON S. H. , BISHOP B. H.
Published: March 2010

Bud take on saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt.) was significantly lower on Malus pumila Mill, and Sorbus aucuparia L. than on Cotoneaster acutifolia Jurcz. and Crataegus arnoldiana Sarg. when budded on 5 Aug., but only Malus had a lower take when budded on 14 Aug. At the end of the season greatest growth had occurred on the Cotoneaster rootstock, followed by plants on Sorbus and Crataegus. The later budding date tended to give the strongest plants. After 3 yr in a fruiting plantation, only one-third of the plants on Malus remained and these were showing severe symptoms of delayed incompatibility. Greatest yields, as well as greatest growth, were on Crataegus and Sorbus. Plants on Cotoneaster were significantly smaller and did not show the precocity normally associated with dwarfing. Satisfactory nursery performance plus early fruiting history suggests that C. arnoldiana should be considered as a rootstock for saskatoons.
PROPAGATION AND TRANSPLANTING OF SASKATOON (AMELANCHIER ALNIFOLIA NUTT1) SOFTWOOD CUTTINGS
Authors: BISHOP B. H. , NELSON S. H.
Published: March 2010

Rooting of Saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt.) cuttings was not affected by 0.1, 0.3 and 0.8% IBA in talc or by cutting size (9 and 13 cm). Semi-hardwood nodal cuttings were superior to non-nodal cuttings, but rooting was generally low. Wounding increased the root score on semi-hardwood cuttings, but not the rooting percentages. Softwood cuttings taken in late June rooted better than cuttings taken 2 wk earlier and also semi-hardwood cuttings taken on the later date. Cuttings rooted in the mist bed with bottom heat were generally intermediate between rooting in the plastic-enclosed structure with no bottom heat and the inferior rooting in the open structure with no bottom heat. A minimum root score of 3 was necessary to expect any degree of survival. An unshaded transplant frame with bottom heat at 3 °C proved best for overwintering summer transplanted cuttings, followed by cuttings mulched and overwintered in the mist beds. In general, shading increased leaf drop, decreased maturity, increased stem splitting and decreased survival.
EVALUATION OF BABY CARROT CULTIVARS AND THEIR GROWTH PATTERNS IN SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO
Authors: LIPTAY A. , MUEHMER J. K.
Published: March 2010

In the assessment of baby carrot cultivars for various agronomic characters, three patterns of growth were observed in various carrot cultivars. Carrots of the first growth pattern had a rapid longitudinal rate of extension relative to their radial growth rate. These roots outgrew the baby carrot length earlier than other cultivars. In the second type of growth, radial extension was rapid relative to longitudinal growth and consequently these carrots became too thick before achieving sufficient length. Carrots from cultivars with the third pattern of growth had a desirable longitudinal rate of extension relative to radial growth. It was furthermore observed that under very wet soil conditions longitudinal growth was inhibited more than radial growth.
EFFECT OF WEED COMPETITION AND WEED CONTROL PROGRAMS ON RUTABAGA YIELD
Authors: IVANY J. A.
Published: March 2010

The effects of different periods of weed competition and of trifluralin (α,α,α-trifluro-2,6-dinitro-N,N-dipropyl-p-toluidine), niclofen (2,4-dichloro-phenyl-p-nitrophenyl ether), and cultivations were studied for effects on yield of rutabaga (Brassica napobrassica Mill. ’York’). Delaying weed removal for 4 wk after crop emergence significantly reduced yields of marketable and total roots compared with plots kept weed-free all season. Delayed weeding beyond 4 wk resulted in progressively greater reductions in yield. Rutabagas kept weed-free for 2, 4, 6, and 8 wk from crop emergence by once-weekly weeding gave yields comparable to those kept weed-free all season. Herbicide treatments without hand-weeding gave significantly lower yields than those with one hand-weeding. The use of three hand-weedings with herbicides was not significantly better than herbicides with one hand-weeding. Level of weed control was dependent on weed species present in the test area; however, a combination of trifluralin and niclofen gave a broader spectrum of control and better crop yields than either used alone.
THE BIOLOGY OF CANADIAN WEEDS.: 41. Lotus corniculatus L.
Authors: TURKINGTON ROY , FRANKO GAIL D.
Published: March 2010

This summary of biological data is for bird’s-foot trefoil, Lotus corniculatus L., which is weedy in Canada, particularly in eastern Canada and the Fraser valley of British Columbia. Bird’s-foot trefoil is an agricultural escapee and is often continuous over large areas of roadside and waste places. It can be controlled by the use of several common herbicides.
THE BIOLOGY OF CANADIAN WEEDS.: 43. Acroptilon (Centaurea) repens (L.) DC.
Authors: WATSON A. K.
Published: March 2010

Russian knapweed (Acroptilon repens (L.) DC.) is an introduced persistent perennial weed species which is commonly found in cultivated land in western Canada and infrequently in southern Ontario. The weed is characterized by its extensive root system, relatively low seed production, and persistence. Cultural, chemical and biological control strategies of the species are reviewed. This summary of the biological information of Russian knapweed is presented as part of a series on the biology of Canadian weeds.
INHERITANCE OF MAIZE SEEDLING TOLERANCE TO ALACHLOR
Authors: FRANCIS T. R. , HAMILL A. S.
Published: March 2010

The inheritance of seedling tolerance to the herbicide alachlor [2-chloro-2′6′-diethyl-N-(methoxymethyl)] was studied in a greenhouse using inbreds and hybrids of maize. Only non-additive gene effects were significant. Thus, reliable prediction of hybrid tolerance from knowledge of inbred response is not possible
JOHN FRANKLIN ROSE
Authors: SVEJDA FELICITAS
Published: March 2010

John Franklin is a hardy, everblooming and very free-flowering rose with attractive double red flowers borne in large clusters.
FORSYTHIA NORTHERN GOLD
Authors: SVEJDA F. J. , RONALD W.
Published: March 2010

Northern Gold is a new Forsythia with improved flower bud hardiness and excellent flowering qualities.
AN EFFECT OF NITROGEN FERTILIZATION ON THEAGRONOMIC TRAITS AND DOUGH MIXING STRENGTH OF FIVE CANADIAN HARD RED SPRING WHEAT CULTIVARS
Authors: KOSMOLAK F. G. , CROWLE W. L.
Published: March 2010

Five Canadian hard red spring wheat cultivars were grown at three levels of nitrogen fertility achieved by application of N fertilizer (ammonium nitrate 34–0–0) at 0, 56, and 224 kg/ha. The application of 56 kg/ha of N increased yield substantially for each cultivar, but the 224 kg/ha application did not result in further increase. Nitrogen application did not affect average heights of the cultivars but appeared to cause a reduction in test weight and 1000-kemel weight. Grain nitrogen for each cultivar increased at each level of N application. Flour yields of all cultivars were not affected by protein content. Mixograph development time decreased and flour-water absorption increased for all cultivars as protein content increased. Neepawa demonstrated a definite trend towards lowere extensigraph area with increasing protein content. Park exhibited no trend, while the other three cultivars (Pembina, Marquis, and Glenlea) all exhibited an increase in extensigraph with increased protein content. The mixograph indicated dough weakness in four cultivars in which dough strength was indicated by the extensigraph test. Remix loaf volumes and blend loaf volumes increased with increasing protein content for each cultivar.
A TECHNIQUE FOR SCREENING MAIZE (ZEA MAYS L.) FOR RESISTANCE TO EAR MOLD INCITED BY GIBBERELLA ZEAE (SCHW.) PETCH
Authors: ENERSON P.M. , HUNTER R.B.
Published: March 2010

We have developed a technique for incubating Gibberella zeae ear mold on ears of maize. This technique can be used in a program of screening maize genotypes for resistance to this disease. A polyethylene bag, which serves as an incubation chamber, is placed over the ear after inoculation; this is done 7–10 days after 50% of the plants of a genotype have extended silks. The bag is removed 5–6 wk after inoculation, and the ears are visually rated for ear mold symptoms at normal harvest time. Using this technique, we have been able to distinguish degrees of resistance among hybrid genotypes.
SEEDLING PUBESCENCE AS A GENETIC MARKER IN SMOOTH BROMEGRASS (BROMUS INERMIS LEYSS.)
Authors: KNOWLES R. P.
Published: March 2010

Seedlings of a group of North American cultivars of smooth bromegrass were examined at the three-leaf stage for pubescence under greenhouse conditions. Southern strains showed 90–98% strongly pubescent seedlings while northern strains had 60–70% strongly pubescent seedlings. Saratoga, although considered southern in type, was less pubescent than all other cultivars except Polar. The degree of pubescence was greater in spring and early fall plantings than in winter plantings, indicating that pubescence depends on good light and temperature conditions. Strains nearly pure for strong pubescence were formed by repeated cycles of mass selection. Few inbred lines showed uniformity for pubescent or smooth seedlings. Pure-breeding smooth stocks were more difficult to produce than highly pubescent strains. Controlled crosses showed partial dominace for pubescence and little difference between reciprocals. Adjacent plantings of pubescent and smooth seedling stocks showed as much as 45% off-type seedlings from seed produced at the interface of plots. Contamination declined to 10% or less at 10 m from the border.
UNE METHODE ENZYMOLOGIQUE A APPLIQUER POUR LA SELECTION DE PLANTES RESISTANTES AU FROID
Authors: BOLDUC R.
Published: March 2010

Freezing induced denaturation of cell membranes, as measured by the acid phosphatase method, was studied in cold-hardy Kharkov and non-hardy Champlein wheats. Denaturation occurs at an exponential rate and is irreversible under treatments that cause lethal damage to cells. Plotting the logarithmic values of enzyme units released per unit fresh weight against the reciprocal of the absolute value of temperature (°C) shows a linear segment of the curve (Z1 – Z2) with maximum slope. The TD-50, or mean denaturation temperature, corresponds to the inflection point on the curve and lies within this linear segment. The slope of this segment, expressed as log units per °C, was 0.246 and 0.346 for non-hardened winter wheat Kharkov and Champlein, respectively, while their TD-50 were equal at −3.7 °C. The slope of hardened Kharkov was 0.059, a fourfold decrease from its non-hardened value and one half the slope of hardened Champlein, with TD-50 of −10.7 and −6.4 °C, respectively. With cultivars grown in non-hardening conditions, the slope of the maximum rate of irreversible membrane denaturation is a very sensitive measure of the genetic capacity of plants to adapt themselves to cold stress. It is suggested that this method can be put to practical use in selecting plant cultivars for frost hardiness.
SURVIVAL OF COMMON SPRING WHEAT CULTIVARS GROWN IN MIXTURES IN THREE ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: McKENZIE HUGH , GRANT M. N.
Published: March 2010

Population shifts occurred in mixtures of six cultivars of common spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown for 6 or 7 yr in three different environments, nonirrigated, irrigated, and infested with the wheat stem sawfly (Cephus cinctus Nort.). On the nonirrigated site, ranking of cultivars was the same for percent survival in the mixture as for yield in pure stand. Rankings, with one exception, for average number of kernels per spike were similar to those for average yield and survival on the nonirrigated site. On the irrigated site, rankings for percent survival in the mixture and for yield in pure stand were similar except that one cultivar was at a disadvantage due to shorter height. Rankings for average kernel weight, again with one exception, were similar to rankings for survival on the irrigated site. On the sawfly-infested site, rankings for survival in the mixture were similar to those for yield in pure stand. On all three sites, the data support the contention that natural selection will increase the frequency of high-yielding plants in mixed population of spring wheat in southern Alberta.
EFFECTS OF GREEN FOXTAIL AND LAMB’S-QUARTERS INTERFERENCE IN FIELD CORN
Authors: SIBUGA K. P. , BANDEEN J. D.
Published: March 2010

Field experiments were conducted to study the effects of full season interference of various densities of green foxtail (Setaria viridis (L) Beauv.) and lamb’s-quarters (Chenopodium album L.) on the yield of field corn. Green foxtail interference was studied at densities of 0, 29, 56, 89 and 129 plants/m2 in 1976 and 0, 20, 40, 62, 84 and 119 plants/m2 in 1977. Non-significant (P = 0.05) corn yield reductions were obtained at densities of 56 and 20 plants/m2 in 1976 and 1977, respectively. Increased green foxtail density reduced corn yields by 5.8–17.6% in 1976 and 5.6–16% in 1977. Lamb’s-quarters interference was tested at densities of 0, 46, 83, 112, 167 and 221 plants/m2 in 1976 and 0, 54, 109, 172, 208 and 277 plants/m2 in 1977. Corn yields were not reduced significantly at lamb’s-quarters densities of 46 and 109 plants/m2 in 1976 and 1977, respectively, compared to weed-free treatments. Yield reductions\ranged from 12.3–37.9% in 1976 and 6–58% in 1977. The competitive effects of green foxtail and lamb’s-quarters on corn yield differed mainly on the ability of the latter to reduce ear and seed size.
JOHNSTON BARLEY
Authors: WOLFE ROBERT I.
Published: March 2010

Johnston, a six-rowed feed spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was developed at the Agriculture Canada Research Station, Brandon, Manitoba from a cross involving Klondike, Bonanza and Nord. It has high yield potential across the Canadian prairies, particularly in parts of Alberta, resistance to scald (Rhynchosporium secalis), and excellent field leaf disease ratings.
THE NATURE OF HAIL INJURY TO RAPESEED
Authors: McGREGOR D. I.
Published: March 2010

Injuries inflicted by hail to rapeseed crops were observed to vary in their essential characteristics due to changes in the spectrum and composition of plant parts disposed to hail as the plants developed. Contributions to losses in harvestable seed also seemed to vary. Prior to the end of flowering, rapeseed crops appear to have considerable ability to recover from injuries.
DEVELOPPEMENT FOLIAIRE ET BESOINS ENERGETIQUES CHEZ LE MAIS
Authors: GIRARDIN PHILIPPE
Published: March 2010

not available
Contribution of Régis R. Simard to phosphorus research in agroecosystems and future prospects
Authors: Parent Léon-Étienne , Bolinder Martin Anders , Gallichand Jacques
Published: March 2010

In this paper we present the soil test P saturation, budget, and fractionation procedures used in R. R. Simard’s laboratory. We expand that work to: (1) Mehlich-III P saturation index using a weighting factor for Fe accumulation in soils; (2) P budget including below-ground biomass; and (3) compositional data analysis of P fractions to describe changing patterns of soil P fractions that differ in their availability to plants and risk to the environment. The Mehlich III P and Al two-way classification applied to forage crops by Simard and co-workers was replaced by the P/Al ratio test for P fertilizer recommendation in Quebec. The concept was further expanded to (P/[Al + γFe), where γ is 0 or 1 in mineral soils and 5 in organic soils. To provide a more complete picture of the P budget and risk index in agroecosystems, it would be advantageous to consider root P, despite limited data. Using compositional analysis for a closed information space or simplex, a perturbation vector describing relative increase or decrease in P pools in response to a driving variable as well as the simplicial distance between control and modified soil P simplexes showed that added P primarily influenced the most labile inorganic P fractions (resin-Pi and NaHCO3-Pi) in five Quebec gleysolic soils. Changes in P patterns were more prominent in coarse- than in fine-textured soils. Soil P saturation, the P budget and proximate P analysis used by R.R. Simard support current progress on P issues. Future research should address γ as a function of soil Fe forms (hydroxide or bound to organic matter), below-ground P in the P budget, and soil P compositional patterns in response to driving variables. Key words: Compositional analysis, phosphorus fractionation, phosphorus budget, soil test phosphorus
Effets des techniques culturales sans labour sur le stockage de carbone dans le sol en contexte climatique tempéré
Authors: Metay A , Mary B , Arrouays D , Labreuche J , Martin M , Nicolardot B , Germon J -C
Published: March 2010

En régions de climat tempéré, les terres cultivées ont un potentiel de stockage de carbone que l’on peut tenter d’utiliser pour réduire d’autant les émissions de CO2 atmosphérique par des pratiques culturales adaptées et notamment par les techniques culturales sans labour (TCSL). Cette capacité de stockage de carbone dans le sol a été évaluée sur l’essai de longue durée de Boigneville (Bassin de Paris, France) et a été comparée aux données de la littérature internationale. Le suivi du stock de carbone du sol sous une rotation maïs-blé indique une tendance à un stockage modéré tant en système labouré (0,10 t C ha-1 an-1 sur 28 ans) qu’en TCSL (respectivement 0,21 t et 0,19 t C ha-1 an-1 pour le travail superficiel et le semis direct sur cette même période). Avec une absence de différence significative entre le semis direct et le travail superficiel, l’effet spécifique moyen des TCSL évalué à 0,10 t C ha-1 an-1 sur 28 ans apparait sensiblement plus faible que celui mesuré sur les 20 premières années et évalué à 0,20 t C ha-1 an-1. Ces valeurs, inférieures à d’autres valeurs largement diffusées par ailleurs, et cette variation décroissante de la capacité de stockage avec la durée de TCSL sont cohérentes avec la tendance moyenne observée à partir d’un large échantillonnage de données de la littérature internationale. L’évolution de ce stockage de carbone est discutée en lien avec les indications sur l’évolution du stock de carbone des sols de cette même région, les indicateurs de stockage potentiel, et les implications liées à l’évolution du climat.Mots clés: Techniques de culture sans labour, travail superficiel, semis direct, stockage de carbone, séquestration, mitigation, gaz à effet de serre, essai de longue durée, climat tempéré
Solubility and transport of phosphate and the accompanying ions as influenced by sulphate salts in a model calcareous soil system
Authors: Olatuyi S O , Akinremi O O , Flaten D N , Crow G H
Published: March 2010

Plant availability of phosphorus (P) in calcareous soil can be improved by modifying the chemical environment of the soil-P fertilizer reaction zone through the banding of non-phosphate fertilizer with P. We investigated the solubility and diffusive transport of P as influenced by addition of two sulphate salts [(NH4)2SO4 and K2SO4] to NH4H2PO4 and KH2PO4. The salts were applied to a series of wax columns packed with approximately 223 g of Ca2+-saturated cation exchange resin-sand mixture buffered with CaCO3. The background pH of the mixture was 8.8. Each treatment contained approximately 204.5 mg P kg-1 soil, while 632.3 mg SO42- kg-1 soil was added to each P source for treatments containing the dual bands to provide a molar concentration of P and SO42- of 6.6 mmol kg-1 soil. After 2 wk of incubation, column segmentation and extraction showed that H+ moved deeper into the columns on addition of the sulphate salts compared with adding NH4H2PO4 or KH2PO4 alone. The maximum depth of P penetration in the columns containing NH4H2PO4 was 4.2 cm, while P transport in the columns treated with KH2PO4 was restricted to the top 4.0 cm depth. Addition of (NH4)2SO4 or K2SO4 to NH4H2PO4 increased the concentration of water-extractable P by 43 and 21%, respectively, above that in NH4H2PO4 alone. Similarly, addition of (NH4)2SO4 or K2SO4 increased the concentration of water-soluble P by 48 and 41%, respectively, above the amount in KH2PO4 alone. The increased water solubility of P on addition of the sulphate salts was attributed to anion competition between HPO42- and SO42- for precipitation with Ca2+. We also observed ionic competition between NH4+ and K+ when both cations were added together, causing K+ to travel farther into the column and with increased solubility than when applied alone. Our results showed that anion and cation competition can be used to modify the transport and solution concentration of ions through dual banding. These results also suggested that the combination of anion competition by SO42- and pH reduction due to salt effect could have a positive influence on the availability of P in calcareous soils. Key words: Phosphate, sulphate, columns, solubility, diffusive transport, resin
Sheep camping influences soil properties and pasture production in an acidic soil of New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Niu Yining , Li Guangdi , Li Lingling , Chan K Yin , Oates Albert
Published: March 2010

This paper reports sheep camping influences on soil chemical and physical properties, and pasture dry matter (DM) production of an acidic soil on the southwest slopes of New South Wales, Australia. The experiment was conducted in the spring (October-November) of 2005 on a long-term field experimental site after 13 yr of rotational grazing. The factors considered were sheep camping (distance from the camping site), pasture type (perennial vs. annual pastures) and lime application (limed vs. unlimed treatments). Over 13 yr of rotational grazing, significant amounts of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) were deposited near the sheep camping site via the deposition of animal excreta. Total C increased from 32.8 g kg-1 20 m away from the camping site to 41.9 g kg-1 at the camping site in 0-5 cm soil depth. The Colwell P increased from 44.0 to 125.9 mg kg-1 from the non-camping area to the camping site in 0-5 cm soil depth. The most interesting result from the current study is that soil bulk density decreased as the intensity of camping increased. On the perennial pastures, soil bulk density was 0.96 and 1.34 g cm-3 at the camping site in the 0-5 and 5-10 cm soil depths, respectively, whereas soil bulk density was 1.14 and 1.39 g cm-3 at 20 m away from the camping site at the corresponding soil depths. Across pasture types, mean pasture DM was highest at the camping site (7.3 and 6.6 t ha-1 for the limed and unlimed pastures, respectively), and lowest 20 m away from the camping site (5.4 and 4.5 t ha-1 for the limed and unlimed pastures, respectively). The vigorous pasture growth and high organic matter at the camping site may have had a "cushioning effect", thereby reducing soil compaction. However, this camping effect was confined to within 5 m of the camping site. It is concluded that sheep camping can create spatial heterogeneity in soil chemical and physical properties. The non-uniform influence on pasture productivity and composition could be minimised by altering the grazing management strategies, such as periodic relocation of the site of shelter, or further subdivision of the grazing paddock, if necessary. Key words: Soil carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, bulk density, grazing management
Harvesting and slash piling affects soil respiration, soil temperature, and soil moisture regimes in Newfoundland boreal forests
Authors: Moroni M. T. , Carter P. Q. , Ryan D. A.J.
Published: March 2010

The effect of harvesting and slash piling on soil respiration, temperature and moisture was examined in a balsam fir (Abies balsamea) and a black spruce (Picea marinara) forest located in western Newfoundland, Canada, 2 mo to 2.5 yr following harvesting. Within 4 mo of harvesting, soil temperature, moisture, and soil respiration rates were affected by harvesting and slash piling. Clearcut areas without slash (CC-S) had significantly lower soil respiration rates than uncut forests (F). However, clearcut areas with slash cover (CC+S) had significantly higher soil respiration rates than CC-S. When harvested areas with and without slash were combined, harvesting decreased soil respiration in the black spruce forest but had no effect on soil respiration in the balsam fir forest. Harvesting increased soil temperatures at 10 cm, however CC+S temperatures were cooler than CC-S temperatures. Harvested areas tended to dry faster than F, although soil moisture levels at >3.5 cm were not significantly depleted. However, there was evidence of soil drying at <3.5 cm. Soil temperature (at 10 cm) at the time of measurement was most strongly correlated to rates of soil respiration. Temporal variability and treatment effects (harvesting and slash piling) played a minor role in explaining soil respiration rates when variations in soil respiration were adjusted for 10-cm soil temperature,. Soil moisture levels (3.5-9.5 cm depth), which did not vary widely, also played a minor role in explaining soil respiration rates.Key words: Clearcut, Abies balsamea, Picea marinara, carbon dioxide, greenhouse gas
Theta probe calibration for forest floor duff
Authors: Raaflaub L. D. , Valeo C.
Published: March 2010

The Theta Probe is calibrated for duff (forest floor organic matter) water content using samples collected from six boreal forest stands. Values of a0 = 1.0, a1 = 5.8 and uncertainty in duff water content of ± 0.09 m3 m-3 were determined. Results were consistent regardless of tree type or duff depth.Key words: Porous media moisture, duff, calibration, Theta Probe, boreal forest
Changes in soil extractable sulphate under field fallow conditions after application of three contrasting sulphur fertilizers
Authors: Kowalenko C G
Published: March 2010

A field fallow soil monitoring method was used to evaluate the time of appearance of inorganic sulphate-S from two types of fertilizer S, elemental and sulphate, under the humid weather conditions of coastal British Columbia. In addition to both these types being applied as commercially produced granules, elemental S was applied as a powder. All three S-fertilizers were surface applied, but not incorporated as would likely occur when applied to forages. Soil analyses on a control (no S added) showed that there was limited evidence of leaching of sulphate beyond 30 cm. This meant sampling the soil to 30 cm depth was sufficient to examine the effect of a single spring application of the fertilizer over a full year. Differences in appearance of sulphate in the soil from the three fertilizer sources were distinguished by soil analyses, but the relatively large variability of the measurements limited the precision of time differentiation. The recovery calculations showed that inorganic sulphate from the fertilizers changed to another form (assumed to be organic S) as the season progressed. Maximum recovery of the granulated gypsum fertilizer (62–80%) was greater than for powdered elemental S (36–65%), which was slightly greater than for the SulFer 95 granulated elemental S fertilizer (33–48%).Key words: Elemental S, granulated S, gypsum, S fertilizers, extractable inorganic sulphate
Application of the steady-state principle of constant-head well permeameter to indirect subsurface drip irrigation
Authors: Weixia Z , Huanjie C , Zhenhua Z , Zhijie S
Published: March 2010

Indirect subsurface drip irrigation (ISDI) is a method of increasing the irrigation water use efficiency of drip irrigation without the need to bury irrigation tubes and wet the soil surface. A major problem of ISDI is the mismatch between emitter discharge rate and water-conducting device dimension, which will result in over-filling of application water. In this paper, we propose to use the steady-state principle of constant-head well permeameter (CHWP) to quantify the relationship between emitter discharge rate and water-conducting device dimension for ISDI. CHWP tests and ISDI tests were carried out in a 300 m2 winter wheat fallow to verify its feasibility. The steady-state characteristic of these two methods was also studied using long-term infiltration. Results indicate that the equilibration time (110 min) in the ISDI tests was greater than that in the CHWP tests (30 min). The steady ponded depth in ISDI had a smaller variation than the steady water discharge rate in the CHWP. When using the steady-state principle of CHWP to design ISDI systems, there was significant linear correlation between predicted and measured ponded depth values (R2 = 0.8379). The soil field-saturated hydraulic conductivity calculated by these two tests was approximately equal. These results demonstrate that the steady-state principle of CHWP could be used to select appropriate irrigation systems for ISDI, and ISDI provides another technique to obtain the field-saturated hydraulic conductivity. Key words: Constant-head well permeameter, field-saturated hydraulic conductivity, indirect subsurface drip irrigation, steady-state
Effects of winter storage conditions and subsequent agitation on gaseous emissions from liquid dairy manure
Authors: VanderZaag A C , Gordon R J , Jamieson R C , Burton D L , Stratton G W
Published: March 2010

An understanding of emissions from liquid manure facilities during winter, spring thaw and agitation is needed to improve national emissions inventories in Canada. In this study, liquid dairy manure was stored in six pilot-scale tanks (1.8 m deep × 6.6 m2 surface area) covered by steady-state chambers that enabled greenhouse gas (GHG) and ammonia (NH3) flux measurement. After 158 d of undisturbed storage, three tanks were agitated for 5 d (8 h per day) consecutively. During storage, methane (CH4) flux was correlated with manure temperature at 30 cm depth (P < 0.05). Nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes occurred only during spring thaw - at rates comparable with agricultural soil during spring thaw. On a carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent basis, however, cumulative N2O fluxes were negligible compared with CH4 fluxes. Flux of NH3 was correlated positively with manure temperature near the surface and negatively with the presence of ice or a surface crust (P < 0.01). Agitation did not affect N2O and NH3 fluxes, whereas CO2 and CH4 fluxes increased significantly (P < 0.01) as dissolved gas and bubbles were released. Trapped CH4 released during agitation was estimated to be 6.3 g CH4 m-3 manure, and was depleted in 2 d. Considering the entire storage period, agitated tanks (158 d + 5 d agitation) had 6% higher GHG fluxes due to higher CH4 losses than undisturbed tanks (163 d). This CH4 release is small in context of annual fluxes, but may partially explain discrepancies between predicted and measured winter fluxes.Key words: Manure storage, agitation, greenhouse gas emission, ammonia emission, dissolved gas
The use of combined physiological parameters in the early recognition of the deteriorating acute medical patient
Authors: Cuthbertson BH , Boroujerdi  , Prescott G
Published: March 2010

Background: Early warning scores (EWS) are widely used to allow early recognition of the deteriorating patient. We aimed to test their ability to predict major deterioration in medical patients.

Methods: Two cohorts were prospectively identified who were admitted to an acute medical admissions unit and to the respiratory unit but not admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU): medical-non ICU and respiratory-non ICU groups. Two further cohorts were retrospectively identified that required ICU admission from these units (medical-ICU and respiratory-ICU groups). Discriminant analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to discriminate between groups, and time relationships were analysed.

Results: Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR) and oxygen saturation (SaO2) were significantly higher in the medical-ICU group than the medical-non ICU group and significantly higher in the respiratory-ICU group than in the respiratorynon ICU group. Discriminant functions incorporating HR, RR and SaO2 performed at least as well as existing EWS systems in predicting ICU admission.

Conclusions: Commonly used physiological parameters and existing EWS systems are useful at identifying sick patients. The discriminant functions described here appear to have a role in this setting but require validation in future studies.
Necrotising otitis externa: an unusual cause of cranial nerve palsy in a diabetic haemodialysis patient
Authors: Thompson ACM , Zammit-Maempel I , Stafford F , Narayanan M , Kanagasundaram NS
Published: March 2010

We present an unusual case of necrotising otitis externa (NOE) causing a lower motor neurone facial nerve palsy in a patient with diabetes mellitus and receiving maintenance haemodialysis for end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most common pathogen isolated in NOE, although our case involved the non-typical pathogens Aspergillus flavus and Proteus mirabilis. We discuss the need for diagnostic rigour and the importance of considering atypical infective pathology in patients with ESRD or diabetes mellitus. We review NOE with reference to causative agents, imaging strategies, prognostic indicators and treatment.
The history of ergot of rye (Claviceps purpurea) III: 1940–80
Authors: Lee MR
Published: March 2010

The period 1940–80 in the history of ergot was dominated by two investigators, Arthur Stoll and Albert Hofmann. There was great excitement when their group isolated from ergot preparations the powerful psychotropic agent lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). It was thought that this substance would help to find the cause of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, but it would prove to be a great disappointment and Hofmann would say later, in private, that he regretted having spent so much time on the compound. By contrast, bromocriptine, derived from ergocriptine, would prove a pivotal substance in our knowledge of dopamine receptors in the central nervous system. It is widely used for the suppression of lactation, the treatment of prolactinomas and the management of Parkinson’s disease.
The blindness, deafness and madness of King George III: psychiatric interactions
Authors: Peters TJ , Beveridge A
Published: March 2010

Recent research has thrown considerable doubt on the claim that King George III suffered from variegate porphyria, but indicates that he suffered recurrent attacks of mania as part of his bipolar disorder. George III’s last episode of ill health occurred during the final decade of his life (1810–20). This has been diagnosed as chronic mania with an element of dementia. During this period the king was blind and possibly deaf, which may have contributed to his psychiatric condition. His blindness was due to bilateral cataracts; serious consideration was given at the time to surgery, but this was not carried out. The possible contribution of the king’s blindness to his illness is discussed with respect to the roles of his medical attendants. It was also claimed that George III showed progressive deafness and this claim has been re-examined. However, the medical reports by the attending physicians and psychiatrists (mad doctors) do not support this claim.
The Sodium PotassiumATPase
Authors: Nyblom Maria , Morth Jens Preben , Nissen Poul
Published: March 2010

At the expense of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the P‐type ATPase family of membrane proteins actively transports different cations or lipids, in a reaction cycle that includes the phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of a conserved aspartate residue. These proteins share a common structural and mechanistic core, but Na+, K+‐ATPase is the first multisubunit P‐type ATPase to be structurally determined. The Na+, K+‐ATPase exports three Na+‐ ions per ATP molecule from the cytoplasm, while at the same time transporting two K+‐ ions in the opposite direction. This electrogenic pump is critical for human and animal cells where the gradients of these ions are important for maintaining the resting potential and for electrical excitability of e.g. muscle and nerve cells, and for energization of secondary transporters and osmotic control. This article reviews the currently available structural knowledge of the Na+, K+‐ATPase. Hitherto, there are only structures of one of the catalytic forms reported representing the potassium‐occluded state ([K2]E2·Pi). The overall architecture of the αβγ‐complex is presented and the differences compared to the previously characterized structures of the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) are pinpointed. Furthermore, the properties of the K+‐ion binding sites are described and the functional relevance of the C‐terminus is addressed.
Structure, Spectroscopy, and Function of Tyrosinase; Comparison with Hemocyanin and Catechol Oxidase
Authors: Tepper Armand W J W , Lonardi Emanuela , Bubacco Luigi , Canters Gerard W
Published: March 2010

This article deals with tyrosinase, an enzyme that converts monophenols into diphenols and subsequently into orthoquinones with concomitant use of molecular oxygen as the source of oxygen atoms and oxidizing equivalents. The enzyme occurs widespread in nature. Its active center consists of a dinuclear copper site. The occurrence of tyrosinases and their biological function is reviewed. Information about primary (aa sequence, genetic organization), secondary, and tertiary structures is reviewed and, where appropriate, compared with similar information about related proteins with a dinuclear Cu site (hemocyanins, catechol oxidase). Methods to produce and purify tyrosinase are reviewed. Spectroscopic studies (optical; EPR, NMR, EXAFS) are reviewed in relation to the enzyme mechanism, which is discussed at the end of the article.
The Cytochromeb6Complex of Oxygenic Photosynthesis
Authors: Cramer William A. , Yamashita Eiki , Baniulis Danas , Saif Hasan S.
Published: March 2010

The cytochromeb6fcomplex is the central complex in the electron transport chain of oxygenic photosynthesis. It provides the electronic connection between the two photosynthetic reaction centers and generates most of the transmembrane electrochemical proton gradient that is used for ATP synthesis. It is a hetero‐oligomeric 220‐kDa homo‐dimeric complex consisting of 8 polypeptide subunits, 13 transmembrane helical segments, and 7 tightly bound prosthetic groups per monomer. It is one of relatively few hetero‐oligomeric membrane proteins whose crystal structure has been solved to a resolution ≤3.0 Å. Among the seven prosthetic groups per monomer, five have a redox function: twob‐type hemes,bpandbn, on the electrochemically positive and negative sides of the complex, the p‐side heme of cytochromef, a uniquec‐type cytochrome, and a p‐side [2Fe–2S] center, and a unique hemecncovalently bound to the cytochromebsubunit, which interacts electronically with hembn. These groups are arranged to accomplish the oxidation and reduction of plastoquinol/plastoquinone (PQH2/PQ) on the p‐ and n‐sides of the membrane, and thereby accomplish a net transfer of as many as two protons across the membrane per electron transferred through the complex, thus providing the major input to the transmembrane proton electrochemical gradient. The redox reactions of PQ/PQH2occur within the two quinone‐exchange cavities formed by the two monomers of the complex. The p‐side redox reactions are similar to those of the cytochromebc1complex. However, redox reactions on the n‐side are different, partly because of the presence of hemecn.
Geospatial Information in Hydrogeological Studies
Authors: Wojda Piotr , Brouyère Serge , Dassargues Alain
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this article is to make a review of hydrogeological information modeling objectives, techniques, and problems, and finally to propose a solution for data integration and transfer. Hydrogeological data and information management is crucial for efficient integrated water resources administration, protection, and exploitation. To assure an effective management of groundwater resources, a close cooperation and information exchange between different actors at different levels is necessary. The information flux must be optimized between local producers and potential users of hydrogeological data: regional and national institutions, as well as international and transboundary analysts and managers. The paper format of representation and exchange of hydrogeological information has already been replaced by different digital forms. However, an enormous diversity in applied formats and representations makes hydrogeological information extremely difficult to transfer in an automatic way. If this transition is not effective, misinterpretations of hydrogeological data may appear. The proposed solution consists in creating a domain‐specific standard for the hydrogeological information exchange, using recent geomatics advances, taking into consideration appropriate ISO/TC211 and Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) geographic information standards. Such a new electronic carrier of hydrogeological information facilitates a dialogue between interested parties using web services and inbuilt exchange mechanisms, interdisciplinary collaboration, and international harmonization of environmental sciences.
Mass Spectrometry in Inorganic and Bioinorganic Chemistry
Authors: Becker Johanna Sabine , Becker Julia Susanne
Published: March 2010

Mass spectrometry (MS) in inorganic and bioinorganic chemistry has been established using sensitive analytical techniques in quite different application fields: the determination of major, minor, and trace element concentrations; for the characterization of surfaces; for precise and accurate isotope ratio measurements; and for the structural analysis of organic and bioorganic compounds. The review gives an overview on different mass spectrometric techniques and their applications
Acid–Base Catalysis by Enzymes
Authors: Kirby Anthony John
Published: March 2010

Proton transfer is the commonest reaction that enzymes perform. Most enzyme reactions go by ionic mechanisms, involving the creation or disappearance of charge. Such reactions are typically acid or base catalysed, but acid and base concentrations are minimal under physiological conditions near pH 7. Enzymes have evolved subtle and highly effective solutions to this problem, involving general acid and general base catalysis by the functional groups available on the side‐chains of amino acids strategically placed in their active sites. General acid and general base catalysis by the same functional groups can be observed, and the relevant mechanisms elucidated, by studying simple systems. But this work typically involves the use of properly designed activated substrates. The extraordinary efficiency of such catalysis in enzyme active sites has not so far been reproduced in model systems, and this remains an active area of investigation.

Key Concepts:

The enzyme active site provides a highly sophisticated reaction vessel, tailored to the needs of the specific reaction and the specific substrate.

General acid and general base catalysis are first‐line support services for the making and breaking of covalent bonds that define the chemistry of metabolic processes.

The unexceptional functional groups available on the side‐chains of amino acids acquire exceptional catalytic proficiency when strategically placed in enzyme active sites.