bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacteriological Profile of Heart Valves Resected from Infective Endocarditis Patients
Authors: Manandhar S , Basnyat S , Sharma J , Pokhrel BM , Koirala B
Published: April 2010

Background: Early prosthetic valve endocarditis is a serious life threatening infection of newly implanted prosthetic heart valve. A positive post-surgery heart valve culture is a significant risk factor for development of early prosthetic valve endocarditis. Methods: A prospective bacteriological investigation was done in intraoperatively suspected and preoperatively diagnosed infective endocarditis patients undergoing heart valve replacement surgery. The valve samples were cultured after prior homogenization by sterile scalpel method. The bacterial isolates were identified by standard microbiological techniques and their antibiotic susceptibility profile was determined in vitro by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. Results: Of 31 heart valve samples cultured, 3 (9.67%) were culture positive which constituted 2 (13.33%) from preoperatively diagnosed infective endocarditis patients from which Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis were isolated and 1 (6.25%) from intraoperatively suspected infective endocarditis patient from which Staphylococcus aureus was isolated. All three isolates were sensitive to antibiotics Vancomycin and Ciprofloxacin and resistant to Penicillin and Amoxycillin. The isolates obtained from preoperatively diagnosed patients were more resistant to antibiotics tested than that from suspected patients. Conclusions: The bacteriological examination of heart valves resected from preoperatively diagnosed and intraoperatively suspected infective endocarditis patients revealed higher degree of culture positivity. Hence routine microbiological examination of all heart valves from diagnosed and suspected IE patients is required to rule out active endocardial infection to reduce the chance of early prosthetic valve endocarditis. Key words: bacteriology; heart valves; infective endocarditis DOI: 10.3126/jnhrc.v7i2.3017 Journal of Nepal Health Research Council Vol.7(2) Apr 2009 108-111
Anaesthesia for Cesarean Section in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Shrestha CK
Published: April 2010

Background: Cesarean section is in rising trend both in developed and developing countries. The role of appropriate choice of safest anaesthetic technique for individual patients depends upon number of factors. The study aims to find the pattern of anaesthesia used in tertiary care setting. Methods: A retrospective study using secondary data from the hospital was analyzed among total of 2044 cases from April 2005 to April 2006. Demographic profile and use of different types of anaesthetic technique were studied. Descriptive analysis was used to calculate the frequency and percentage and their relations. Results: Most patients fell on the age groups, 848 (41.48%) in 21-25 followed by 602 (25.08%) in 26-30 and 321 (15.65%) in 14-20. Out of the total 2044 cases, 1983 (97.01%).were emergency cesarean and 61 (2.98%) were elective cesarean. The top three indications for cesarean section were previous cesarean section, fetal distress and cephalopelvic disproportion. Previous cesarean section was found to be in 520 (25.4%), and Fetal distress in 434 (21.5%), and cephalopelvic disproportion in 207 (10.6%). The choice of anaesthesia among this group showed spinal 1632 (79.84%) being the preferred choice followed by general anaesthesia 402 (19.66%) and local epidural anaesthesia 10 (0.48%). Conclusions: Majority of the cesarean section are emergency. The preferred choice of anaesthesia is spinal. Previous cesarean section is the commonest indication followed by fetal distress and cephalopelvic disproportion. Key words: cesarean section; general anaesthesia; previous cesarean section; spinal anesthesia DOI: 10.3126/jnhrc.v7i2.3018 Journal of Nepal Health Research Council Vol.7(2) Apr 2009 112-115
Influence of Tympanosclerosis on Graft Uptake and Hearing Status in Patients Undergoing Underlay Myringoplasty
Authors: Prasad PL , Bhattarai H
Published: April 2010

Background: To assess the influence of tympanosclerosis on graft uptake and hearing status in patients undergoing underlay myringoplasty. Methods: Patients ≥12 years of age with the diagnosis of chronic suppurative otitis media tubo-tympanic type were included in this study. All patients participated in the study had undergone pre and postoperative pure tone audiometric evaluation and were divided into two groups, a study and a control, depending on the presence or absence of tympanosclerotic plaques. All patients underwent underlay myringoplasty and follow up was done after 10 weeks to note graft uptake and postoperative hearing evaluation. Results: Graft uptake was noted to be 96.1% in study group and 94.9% in control group. Similarly, graft uptake was noted in 96.36% where tympanosclerotic plaques were completely removed and in 95.23% where tympanosclerotic plaques were either partially removed or left as such. Post 0perative average hearing gain in study and control group was 12.1dB and 15.9dB respectively. While comparing postoperative hearing gain in cases where tympanosclerotic plaques were completely removed to those in whom tympanosclerotic plaques were either completely removed or left as such, it was 12.31dB in former and 13.67dB in later group, which was statistically non significant with P value of 0.83. Conclusions: Tympanosclerotic plaques, if removed as far as practicable, has no effect on either graft uptake and post operative hearing results in patient under going underlay myringoplasty. Key words: chronic suppurative otitis media tubo tympani type; puretone; audiogram; tympanosclerosis. DOI: 10.3126/jnhrc.v7i2.3019 Journal of Nepal Health Research Council Vol.7(2) Apr 2009 116-119
Mifepristone and Oral Misoprostol for Early Medical Abortion
Authors: Shrivastava V , Shrivastava A
Published: April 2010

Background: Combined mifepristone and misoprostol is the best method of medical termination of pregnancy. The study is undertaken to find out the success rate, acceptability, efficacy and patient satisfaction of medical abortion in pregnant women with 49 days of gestation. Methods: The pregnant women with amenorrhea of 49 days or less seeking termination of pregnancy received were studied. The 200 mg of oral mifepristone and followed 48 hours later with 600 microgram of oral misoprostol were given. Results: The success rate with the regime was 47 (94%) and 49 (98%) were satisfied. Weakness 24 (48%), Nausea 10 (20%), diarrhea 12 (25%), needing analgesic 4 (8%) were the side effects of the combined regime. Conclusions: Medical termination of pregnancy with combination of mifepristone and oral misoprostol has a good success rate. The side effect of the regimen in our setup is less and well accepted. Majority of the patient are satisfied with medical termination of pregnancy. Key words: medical abortion; misoprostol; mifepristone DOI: 10.3126/jnhrc.v7i2.3021 Journal of Nepal Health Research Council Vol.7(2) Apr 2009 127-130
Hemireplacement Arthroplasty with Unipolar vs Bipolar Prosthesis for Displaced Hip Fractures in Elderly
Authors: Dutta D , Bajracharya AR
Published: April 2010

Background: Hip fractures are common occurrence in elderly with various methods of treatment practiced for its management. Hemireplacement with different types of prosthesis is most widely practiced, and cemented bipolar prosthesis being the current trend. The aim of this study is to compare the outcome of unipolar prosthesis which is the current practice at our hospital, with the bipolar prosthesis. Methods: This was a prospective study patients aged over 65 years with displaced femoral neck or trochanteric fracture underwent hemireplacement arthroplasty, cemented unipolar prosthesis was used in 18 patients and in 16 bipolar prosthesis was used. Functional outcome using Harris Hip Score and mobility score was compared between two groups. Results: The two groups of patients did not differ in their pre-injury characteristics (age, sex,fracture pattern, ASA grading, co-morbidity, mode of injury and pre-injury ambulatory status) and peri-operative parameters such as duration of operation, blood loss, hospital stay. One year after operation, there was no statistical difference in the functional parameters such as Harris Hip Score, mobility score and rate of complication in both the groups. Conclusions: Early results suggest that Cemented unipolar prosthesis are equally effective as compared to bipolar for the treatment of displaced hip fractures in elderly patients, in Nepalese context. Key words: hip fracture; hemiarthroplasty; harris hip score. DOI: 10.3126/jnhrc.v7i2.3022 Journal of Nepal Health Research Council Vol.7(2) Apr 2009 131-134
Empty Nest Syndrome - An Obstacle for Alcohol Abstinence
Authors: Shakya DR
Published: April 2010

Empty nest syndrome is a general feeling of loneliness, sadness, and/ or grief that parents/ other guardian relatives may feel when their children leave home. This condition, more prevalent in women, is more common in modern times probably because extended family is becoming uncommon and the elderly are more left living by themselves. Current day Nepal is no more exception. We report a case of 'alcohol dependence' with 'empty nest syndrome' of a 49-year-old lady presented with 4-year history of episodic depression and increased drinking. She had been drinking for 10 years and more for last 4 years. This case report highlights importance of family support and of addressing co-morbid psychiatric disorder for effective management of alcohol problem. Key words: alcohol; alcohol dependence; depression; empty nest syndrome; psychiatric co-morbidity.   DOI: 10.3126/jnhrc.v7i2.3023 Journal of Nepal Health Research Council Vol.7(2) Apr 2009 135-137
Attempted Dispersal of the Twospotted Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae, on Greenhouse-grown Peanut Leaves in Response to Pesticides and Irrigation1,2,3
Authors: Boykin L. S. , Campbell W. V. , Nelson L. A.
Published: April 2010

The relationship of the factors irrigation (both overhead and seep) and pesticide residues (and their interaction) on attempted dispersal of spider mite on greenhouse-grown peanuts was determined. Pesticide residue had no measurable effect on mite movement; however, irrigation method had a marked influence on mite attempted dispersal. Mites moved more on leaves of plants receiving seep irrigation than those receiving overhead irrigation.
Analysis of Normal and Mutant Peanut Chloroplast Pigments By Liquid Chromatography1
Authors: Banks Donald J. , Eskins Kenneth
Published: April 2010

Chloroplast pigments from young and old leaves of three chlorophyll-deficient peanut mutants (lutescens, auredus, and virescent) and two “normal” peanut genotypes (‘Chico’ and ‘Guanajuato’) were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography. All genotypes showed chlorophylls a and b, carotene, lutein, neoxanthin, and violaxanthin in young and old leaves. Generally, there were decreases in most pigments as the leaves aged for Guanajuato, Chico, and aureus, whereas the reverse was true for virescent and lutescens except for violaxanthin, for which the latter two mutants showed decreases. Guanajuato and Chico consistently showed larger quantities of all pigments than the mutants at the young age. Guanajuato showed the largest quantities of all pigments at the old age. Aureus contrasted sharply with the other genotypes for carotenoid to chlorophyll ratio in the old leaves, probably accounting for its conspicuous yellow color.
Resistance to Peanut Mottle Virus in Arachis spp.1
Authors: Demski J. W. , Sowell Grover
Published: April 2010

Seven wild rhizomatous peanut introductions [PI 262794, PI 262818, AM 3867, ‘Florigraze’ (PI 421707), PI 172223, ‘Arbrook’ (PI 262817), and ‘Arblick’ (PI 262839)] from the Plant Materials Center, Americus, Ga. were not infected with peanut mottle virus (PMV) by mechanical inoculation, aphid inoculation, or by natural infection when field planted near infected Arachis hypogaea L. These accessions are the only known sources of resistance to PMV in Arachis.
A Quick Technique for Determining the Wettability of Leaves of Arachis hypogaea and Certain Other Species1
Authors: Cook Marion
Published: April 2010

A rapid and accurate technique for assessing the wettability of leaves of Arachis hypogaea L. and certain other species was developed. The method quantifies the retention of water on the surface when water is drained from around vertically immersed leaves at a constant rate. Although the relationship between mean contact angle measurements and water retained was not strictly linear, the correlation between the two variables was extrememly high, r = 0.997 (P = 0.001). This constant drainage technique can be used in the greenhouse and field and with some species does not require leaf detachment from the plant.
Effect of Cyhexatin (Plictran) on Growth, Conidial Germination And Sporulation of Cercospora arachidicola1
Authors: Melouk H. A.
Published: April 2010

Growth of Cercospora arachidicola Hori, the causal agent of early leaf spot disease on peanuts, was completely inhibited on Czapek-Dox broth medium amended with the acaricide cyhexatin (Plictran) at ≤ 73.5 μg/ml; however, at 14.7 μg/ml traces of growth occurred after 6 weeks of incubation at 27±2C and continuous fluorescent light (800 lux). Aqueous preparations of cyhexation at ≤ 147.0 μg/ml completely inhibited the germination of conidia of C. arachidicola. At a concentration of cyhexatin ≤ 73.5 and 14.7 μg/ml, less than two percent of the conidia germinated as compared with more than 95 percent germination in distilled water. Misting of aqueous preparations of cyhexatin at ≤ 147.0 μg/ml on the adaxial or both surfaces of peanut leaflets with mature leafspot lesions was very effective in reducing the sporulating potential of C. arachidicola.
Lipid Oxidative Stability of Reconstituted Partially Defatted Peanuts1
Authors: Adnan M. , Argoudelis C. J. , Rodda E. , Tobias J.
Published: April 2010

Changes in tocopherol content, peroxide value and fatty acid composition were measured during storage of reconstituted partially defatted peanuts. These values were compared with those of unreconstituted partially defatted peanuts, whole peanuts and the corresponding oils. Reconstitution effectively inactivated the enzyme lipoxygenase and was destructive on tocopherols, particularly α- tocopherol. The stability of the oil during storage, as measured by the peroxide value, is much greater within the peanuts than in the corresponding extracted oil. No changes in fatty acid composition could be observed in reconstituted partially defatted peanuts. A need for immediate reconstitution following mechanical oil extraction could not be demonstrated as both products had equal oxidative stability.
Agronomic Aspects of Normal and Abnormal Root Formation in Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Ablett G. R. , Roy R. C. , Tanner J. W.
Published: April 2010

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) research in Ontario, Canada has focused on the problems inherent in growing a crop in an area where it had previously not been grown. It had been observed that a significant percentage of germinating seeds developed abnormal root systems. Many of these abnormal seedlings did not emerge; others emerged but failed to produce vigorous plants.

Four peanut cultivars, each from two distinct sources, commercial and hand-harvested seeds were compared on the basis of pod yield, plant stand, and percentage of plants with normal root systems. A normal root system was designated as one which had a long straight tap root with many laterals. Among all cultivars, pod yield, and plant stand from hand-harvested seed exceeded that of commercial seed. In addition, the percentage of plants with normal root systems was greater for hand-harvested seed than for commercial seed with two of the cultivars.

Field grown plants of three peanut genotypes were examined to determine the relative percentages of plants with normal or abnormal root systems. An abnormal root system was classified as having a curvature of the hypocotyl or the hypocotyl and tap root or no main tap root. High percentages (50–60%) of plants with abnormal root systems were found for two genotypes and for each of the three genotypes it was determined that an abnormal plant was capable of producing approximately 50% as many pods as a normal plant.

Four sources of seeds were collected for each of the three genotypes: (a) normal-rooted plants, (b) abnormally-rooted plants, (c) a random selection of plants, and (d) a random selection of plants, combine-harvested. The seeds were grown in a growth cabinet study and in two field trials. In all cases, the data were consistent in that selection for normal-rooted plants did not increase the percentage of normal-rooted plants over the random selection or the abnormal selection in the following generation. Combine-harvesting caused a dramatic reduction in the percentage of plants with normal roots. In two genotypes this reduction led to a significant yield reduction when compared to the hand-harvested selections. Seed from a commercial seed lot for one of the genotypes produced a very low percentage of plants with normal roots, which also resulted in a yield reduction.

The overall results demonstrated that the use of high quality seed was an extremely important facet of peanut production in this environment and that additional research in the area of seed quality is justified.
Quality of Cooked Ground Beef Extended with Defatted Peanut Meal1
Authors: Ahmed Esam M. , West Roger L.
Published: April 2010

Beef chuck and plate cuts obtained from U.S.D.A. utility grade carcass were mixed and ground through a 0.318 cm plate. The ground meat was extended with extruded and non-extruded defatted peanut meal. Hydrated defatted peanut meal was added at the rate of 20 and 30 parts to 80 and 70 parts of the ground meat, respectively. All treatments were formulated to contain 20% fat in the final patty and loaf products. Extruded and non-extruded meat products were stored at −18 C for periods up to 6 weeks. All quality evaluations were conducted on cooked meat products.

Ground meat patties and loaves extended with non-extruded peanut meal exhibited similar cooking losses to those either extended with extruded peanut meal or 100% beef products. Control meat products stored for 4 weeks or longer required larger forces to shear than the non-stored patties. Freezing storage of the extended meat products did not result in a change of shearing forces. These forces were similar to the shearing force exhibited by freshly prepared products. Trained sensory panelists indicated that extended meat patties were more tender and less cohesive than non-extended patties. However, sensory acceptability tests indicated similar acceptability ratings for the extended and non-extended meat patties and loaves.
Polypeptide Composition of Arachin and Non-arachin Proteins From Early Bunch Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Seed1
Authors: Basha Shaik-M. M. , Pancholy Sunil K.
Published: April 2010

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seed proteins were resolved into arachin and non-arachin fractions, and composite two-dimensional polypeptide maps were prepared. Seed proteins were extracted with a buffer containing 2 M NaCl, 10 mM Tris-HCl (pH 8.2), 0.2 mM phenylmethyl sulfonyl fluoride and 0.002% NaN3 and resolved into ten peaks by gel filtration on a Sephacryl S-300 column. Gel filtration of total protein extract yielded three molecular weight variants (490,000., 400,000, and 365,000) of arachin. Gel electrophoresis showed quantitative and qualitative differences in the protein and polypeptide composition of the three arachin variants. Nonarachin proteins obtained by this method were heterogeneous and distinct from the arachin. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis revealed several differences in the polypeptide composition between arachin fraction IV and fractions II and III. Composite two-dimensional polypeptide maps of arachin and non-arachin revealed the presence of several polypeptides with similar isoelectric points and molecular weights between them. Arachin contained six molecular weight (between 15,500 and 68,000) classes of polypeptides with isoelectric points between 4.7 and 8.4 while nonarachin contained nine molecular weight (between 16,000 and 170,000) classes of polypeptides having isoelectric points between 4.7 and 7.9.
Peanut Quality Changes Associated with Deficient Warehouse Storage
Authors: Sanders Timothy H. , Smith John S. , Lansden John A. , Davidson James I.
Published: April 2010

Studies on peanuts from five deficient warehouses revealed that excess moisture, high temperature, and mechanical damage resulted in peanut quality deterioration as evidenced by low grade factors, increased free fatty acids, and increased carbonyl content. Levels of deterioration were related to kernel condition and length of storage. Loose shelled kernels were highly susceptible to deterioration. The research emphasizes the need for reduced mechanical damage, improved ventilation, elimination of moisture concentrations, and minimizing length of storage of peanuts of marginal initial quality.
Suppression of Peanut Stem Rot with the Insecticide Chlorpyrifos1,2,4
Authors: Backman P. A. , Hammond J. M.
Published: April 2010

The insecticide chlorpyrifos is registered for use in peanuts for control of stem and foliage feeding insects. Field research showed that insecticidal use rates also reduced stem rot in peanuts caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. as effectively as registered fungicides. Laboratory studies indicated a synergism between the active and the inert ingredients of the emulsifiable concentrate formulation (LorsbanR4EC) in suppression of S. rolfsii.
Effect of Growing Seasons, Locations and Planting Dates on Total Amino Acid Composition of Two Valencia Peanut Varieties Grown in New Mexico1
Authors: Hsi David C. H. , Young Clyde T. , Ortiz Melchor
Published: April 2010

Two Valencia peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivars, New Mexico Valencia A and New Mexico Valencia C, were grown at Arch and Los Lunas, N. M. All peanuts were grown under either sprinkler or furrow irrigation. Samples were obtained following harvest, hydrolyzed and analyzed in Raleigh, N. C. for amino acid content. With samples from Arch, no variety by planting date effects were noted for amino acid composition. With samples from Los Lunas, however, significant variety by planting date effects were noted for glutamic acid, glycine, methionine, isoleucine, and leucine. Planting date effects were found only for glycine at the Los Lunas location and phenylalanine at both locations. Significant variety differences were found for methionine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, and lysine at the Arch location and for glycine, methionine, phenylalanine, and lysine at the Los Lunas location. A significant year effect, although small, was noted for about half of the amino acids (aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid, proline, glycine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, arginine, and the sum of all amino acids) studied at the Arch location. Data at Los Lunas were observed only during the second year. The amino acid content agrees closely with that previously reported for other types of peanuts except for a 100% higher level of cystine found in this study.
A Non-Destructive Method for Determining Peanut Pod Maturity
Authors: Williams E. Jay , Drexler J. Stanley
Published: April 2010

A method of classification based on color and morphological differences of the mesocarp is described for determining the developmental stages of fresh peanut [Arachis hypogaea (L) ‘Flo-runner’] pods. Developmental stages are designated as Classes 1-7, with each subsequently numbered class representing progressively greater degrees of maturity. For illustration each class is subdivided into one-quarter increments which are represented pictorially by beginning points. Because various combinations of classes and/or subclasses can be used, the system has inherent flexibility to accomodate the degree of refinement dictated by classification needs.

Maturity determination by this method requires removal of a portion of the exocarp or epidermis to expose the pod mesocarp. The exocarp can be removed by sand blasting, gentle abrasion, or lightly scraping with a knife. Because removal of the exocarp is non-destructive to the remaining pod structure and enclosed seeds, the method has inherent advantages for use in commercial culture and in biological investigations requiring intact pods and/or seed.
Errors in Aflatoxin Analyses of Raw Peanuts By Thin Layer Chromatography1
Authors: Whitaker T. B. , Dickens J. W.
Published: April 2010

Estimates were made of the errors associated with the extraction, cleanup, drying, and quantification steps of the analytical procedure used by the Food Safety and Quality Service to test peanuts for aflatoxin. An analysis of variance indicated that the error associated with the extraction, cleanup, and drying steps were each negligible and that the quantification step was the major source of the analytical error. The error associated with the quantification step (coefficient of variation average 18.6%) probably comes from three sources((1) differences in fluorescence among replicated spots on a TLC plate (spot to spot error), (2) differences in fluorescence among spots on different TLC plates (spot to spot plus plate to plate error), and (3) errors in measuring the fluorescence of the spots (reading error). The fluorescence spots on the TLC plates were read densitometrically.
Response of Labidura Riparia (Pallas) to Residues of Pesticides Used on Peanuts
Authors: de Rivero Nancy A. , Poe Sidney L.
Published: April 2010

The effect of agricultural chemicals used in peanut production on the predaceous earwig Labidura riparia (Pallas) was demonstrated by exposure of adult males and females to residues on glass, on foliage, and in soil. In addition, food chain toxicity was evaluated by feeding predators on Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) larvae treated with chemicals. Toxicity to chemicals decreased with less direct routes of exposure and with time after exposure and varied with product tested. Residues of carbaryl, methomyl, monocrotophos, toxaphene and dinoseb + alachlor resulted in 100% earwig mortality in 48 h when exposed on glass. In general herbicides were more toxic than the fungicides benomyl + maneb or chlorothanlonil, but were less toxic than insecticides. The mortality level was reduced by 50–90% when the pesticide residues were on foliage compared to glass. Phorate in soil resulted in more than 85% mortality, and the herbicide vernolate in soil caused more than 50% mortality. When fed chemically treated larvae, 30–100% of earwigs were killed. The most toxic pesticide when in the food chain was monocrotophos, the least toxic ones were toxaphene and methomyl.
Resistance of Arachis Species to the Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda1
Authors: Lynch R. E. , Branch W. D. , Garner J. W.
Published: April 2010

Fourteen species of Arachis were evaluated for survival, leaf consumption, development rate, and preference by the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith). Using a host-suitability index, A. monticola, A. hypogaea, cv. ‘Florunner,’ A. stenosperma, and A. batizogaea were the most suitable hosts and were classified susceptible to the fall armyworm. A. burkartii and A. villosa were the least suitable hosts and were classified resistant. These classifications were also supported, in general, by preference of the insect for the species of Arachis.
Free Amino Acids in Peanuts as Affected by Seed Size and Storage Time1
Authors: Pattee Harold E. , Young Clyde T. , Giesbrecht Francis G.
Published: April 2010

Peanuts from a commercial source were segregated into specific seed sizes and placed in storage conditions approximating commercial conditions to determine the amino acid changes taking place during storage within various size seeds. Concentrations of the isolated free amino acid fractions significantly decreased with seed size except for phenylalanine which significantly increased with seed size. Significant changes also occurred in the free amino acid fractions across storage periods up to nine months in duration. These results are the first to document a change in amino acids during the storage of peanuts.
Growth Stages of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)1
Authors: Boote K. J.
Published: April 2010

Uniform growth stage descriptions were developed for peanut based on visually observable vegetative (V) and reproductive (R) events. The V stage was determined by counting the number of developed nodes on the main stem, beginning with the cotyledonary node as zero. The last node counted must have its tetrafoliolate leaf sufficiently expanded so the leaflets are unfolded and flat in appearance. The R stages proposed are R1 (beginning bloom), R2 (beginning peg), R3 (beginning pod), R4 (full pod), R5 (beginning seed), R6 (full seed), R7 (beginning maturity), R8 (harvest maturity), and R9 (over mature pod). The V and R stages can be measured separately and concurrently and apply to populations or single plants. For populations, a given stage is reached when 50% of the plants sampled have achieved the specified node number or have one or more flowers, pegs, pods, or seeds exhibiting the specified trait. The stages apply to both Spanish and Virginia type cultivars.

The proposed standard descriptions of peanut plant development should aid in peanut research planning and communication and should assist extension recommendation of timing of cultural practices.
Variation in Total Amino Acid Percentage in Different Portions of Peanut Cotyledons1
Authors: Hovis Allan R. , Young Clyde T. , Tai Peter Y. P.
Published: April 2010

Six peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties were analyzed for amino acid concentration among four consecutive sections across the two cotyledons. Significant differences were found among varieties (average 60% of total variation), among seeds (average 15% of total variation), and for some amino acids between sections (average 2.7% of total variation). With the exception of glutamic acid, proline, and histidine, varietal differences accounted for most of the variability found. Therefore, it appears that partial seed analysis for amino acids may be useful in genetic studies and for breeding selections.
Peanut and Cowpea Meals as a Replacement for Wheat Flour in Cake-type Doughnuts
Authors: McWatters Kay H.
Published: April 2010

Meals processed from partially defatted peanuts, untoasted and toasted, and from dry cowpeas were used to replace wheat flour at 10, 20, and 30% levels in cake-type buttermilk doughnuts. The legume meals were darker and larger in particle size than wheat flour and produced batters with a “grainy” appearance. With the exception of untoasted peanut meal at the 30% level which produced a sticky batter that was difficult to cut, the legume and 100% wheat flour control batters were well suited to mechanical cutting, dispensing, and frying. Legume meal batters produced fewer doughnuts per batch, of higher average weight, than control batters. Gardner color values of doughnuts were influenced more by the addition of toasted peanut meal than by the other test meals. Sensory quality scores for appearance, color, aroma, texture, and flavor were acceptable for control and test doughnuts, indicating that peanut and cowpea meals are compatible ingredients for use in this type of bakery product. Techniques to restrict excessive fat absorption during doughnut frying are needed, however.
Photosynthetic Traits of Selected Peanut Genotypes1,2
Authors: Pallas James E.
Published: April 2010

These studies were undertaken to identify photosynthetic traits of the cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) that might be used in breeding programs designed to increase yield. Net photosynthesis (Pn), CO2 compensation point (Γ), stomatal diffusion resistance to water vapor and stomatal frequency were measured on 32 diverse genotypes. Pn was measured on 3 and 4 week old plants in a semi-closed compensating system, Γ by initial introduction of CO2-free air and equilibration thereof, and stomatal resistance with a diffusion porometer; photorespiration and mesophyll diffusion resistance to CO2 were calculated. At high light (1400 μE m−2s−1PAR) eight genotypes had Pn rates of 20 to 30, seventeen 31 to 40 and seven 41 to 43 mg CO2 dm−2h−1. At any given light level tested Pn rates of a given genotype were significantly different from other genotypes. Only three genotypes showed any tendency toward photosaturation at 1400 μE m−2s−1PAR. Photosynthetic rate and photorespiration were positively correlated (r = 0.92, P<.001). Stomatal density for the 32 genotypes averaged 168 and 154 mm−2on adaxial and abaxial surfaces. Neither stomatal density nor stomatal resistance to water vapor diffusion was correlated with Pn. In all instances, resistance to water vapor diffusion of the adaxial surface was less than that of the abaxial surface. Pn was negatively correlated (r = −0.98, P<.001) with mesophyll resistance which suggests that somewhere within the residual resistance system lies the reason(s) for differences in Pn amongst the genotypes tested.
Oil Characteristics of Peanut Fruit Separated by a Nondestructive Maturity Classification Method
Authors: Sanders Timothy H. , Lansden John A. , Greene R. Larry , Drexler J. Stanley , Williams E. Jay
Published: April 2010

A nondestructive peanut pod maturity classification method, Pod Maturity Profile (PMP), based on visual examination of the color and structural characteristics of pod mesocarp after partial removal of pod exocarp, was used to separate freshly harvested peanut pods into maturity classes. The separations made nondestructively were compared with those made by a method involving the examination of internal pericarp and testa characteristics. The groups separated by the two methods were closely related. In oil from the PMP classes, color decreased, free fatty acid content decreased, iodine value remained approximately constant, and oven stability of the extracted oil increased with increasing maturity. Total oil contents and fatty acid profiles had consistent but more complex relationships with maturity. The data indicate that the PMP method allows consistent and reproducible classification of peanut fruit maturity.
Genotype X Environment Interaction Among Peanut Lines in Oklahoma1
Authors: Dashiell K. E. , Kirby J. S. , McNew R. W.
Published: April 2010

Data from Oklahoma peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) performance tests from 1969 through 1978 were used to estimate genotype X environment interaction variance components for pod yield, %TSMK, % SS, % OK, and gross return per unit area. The objectives of this study were to determine if it would be advantageous to select cultivars for specific regions, and to determine the most efficient combination of years, locations, and replications to use when evaluating peanut lines.

Evidence was obtained that genotypes perform consistently between irrigated and nonirrigated locations for the traits studied. The variance of the difference between two cultivars or lines was calculated for % TSMK, pod yield, and gross return using various combinations of years, locations, and replications. Results indicate that, when testing for gross return, the time presently allotted for testing could be reduced without sacrificing accuracy.
The Seed Hull Maturity Index as an Estimator of Yield and Value of Virginia-type Peanuts1
Authors: Pattee Harold E. , Giesbrecht Francis G. , Dickens James W. , Wynne Johnny C. , Young James H. , Mozingo R. Walton
Published: April 2010

The Seed Hull Maturity Index (SHMI) is a low cost maturity estimation method which has been shown to be correlated to yield and value per hectare using short term studies. To test the relationship of SHMI to yield and value on a long term basis, an equation was developed for deriving SHMI from 9 years of market grade information. Comparison of observed and derived SHMI values produced an R of 0.93. Among the cultivars used only Florigiant, NC6, and NC7 are either major commercial cultivars or cultivars being evaulated commercially. The data from this study confirmed that SHMI optimum values must be determined for each cultivar of interest. SHMI was shown to best estimate value per hectare. The value estimation equations for Florigiant and NC6 are given. The SHMI at which maximum value occurs is 3.0 for Florigiant and 3.1 for NC6. The SHMI at which maximum yield occurs is 2.7 for both cultivars.
Control of Peanut Leafspot with a Combination of Resistance and Fungicide Treatment1
Authors: Gorbet D. W. , Shokes F. M. , Jackson L. F.
Published: April 2010

Three peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) plant introductions (PI), eight breeding lines (BL), and the cultivar ‘Florunner’ were grown as subplot treatments in a randomized complete block with a split plot arrangement to evaluate their reaction to Cercospora arachidicola Hori and Cercosporidium personatum (Berk. and Curt.) Deighton in 1979 and 1980. Main plot treatments consisted of (1) no fungicide applications, (2) applications of chlorothalonil (500 g/l) on 10-day intervals and (3) 20-day intervals. Disease assessments as lesion counts were made at 20-day intervals beginning 50 days after planting. From leaf samples taken at the fourth leaf from a stem apex, C. personatum (CP) was the most prevalent pathogen both years. Differences among lines in susceptibility to CP were highly significant (P = 0.001) at 90, 110, and 130 days after planting. In unsprayed plots at 110 days, Florunner had the highest average CP lesion count at 51 lesions/leaflet compared to 21 for PI 261893. Fungicide treatment application significantly reduced CP at 110 and 130 days in both years. Also, defoliation and yield differences among lines were highly significant in both years. Five breeding lines produced pod yields exceeding 3400 kg/ha with no fungicide applied, compared to 2267 kg/ha for unsprayed Florunner. All breeding lines and Florunner showed at least some response to chlorothalonil. Pod yields had highly significant negative correlations with CP lesion counts and percent defoliation, ranging from −0.31 to −0.48.
Pedigreed Natural Crossing to Identify Peanut Testa Genotypes1
Authors: Hammons Ray O. , Branch W. D.
Published: April 2010

Pedigreed natural crossing to produce marker-identified hybrids for specific uses has been exploited in USDA-ARS/Georgia cooperative peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) germplasm enhancement projects since the discovery in 1959 of suitable genetic markers. The principal advantages of natural hybridization using dominant alternative alleles to identify the outcrosses are that (1) the production of F1 hybrid plants is not dependent upon conventional manual emasculation, (2) the identification and harvest of plants exhibiting the markers can be performed by semiskilled workers, and (3) the procedure is more economical than the standard crossing method.

We utilized pedigreed natural crosses to screen an extensive sample of white-testa peanut phenotypes from the world gene pool for the five-loci recessive genotype, r1 r1 f1 f1 f2 f2 d1 d1 d2 d2. Four accessions, ‘Spanwhite”, P. I. 299468, P. I. 408730, and P. I. 306228, were found to be recessive at all five of the loci which condition testa color. F2 populations from marker-identified natural crosses of each of these lines to a tester genotype which was homozygously dominant at four of the testa-color loci fit the ratio of 225 tan:31 white expected from the cross of these genotypes.
Storage and Moisture Effects on Peanut Composition and Roasted Flavor1
Authors: Pattee H. E. , Young C. T. , Pearson J. L. , Singleton J. A. , Giesbrecht F. G.
Published: April 2010

Shelled, raw peanuts were placed in storage approximating commercial conditions at 6.2–6.3% and 8.7–9.2% moisture contents during a two year period. The 1978 storage period was from December, 1978 through August, 1979. The 1979 period was from October, 1979 through March, 1980. The moisture condition 8.7% for 1978 and 9.2% for 1979 showed significant differences in free amino acids and free sugars when compared to the 6% treatment. This suggests that 9% moisture content allows increased hydrolysis of complex constituents and significant deterioration of quality to occur. Peanuts with 9% moisture contents produced darker peanut butter with reduced flavor quality than those with 6%. Hunter reflectance values indicated that the skins of raw peanuts with higher moisture content were also darker. Evaluation of the lipid fractions suggested that only the phospholipid fraction from the 9% moisture treatment was significantly changed. Since phospholipids are primarily associated with the membrance portions of plant cells this change suggests that a breakdown in cellular compartmentation may be occurring. Iodine values and oxidative stability values were not significantly affected and approximated values already published in the literature for stored peanuts.
Genetic Variability in Root and Shoot Growth Characteristics of Peanut1,2
Authors: Ketring D. L. , Jordan W. R. , Smith O. D. , Simpson C. E.
Published: April 2010

The shape and extent of root systems influence the rate and pattern of nutrient and water uptake from the soil. In dicotyledons such as peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), the primary root and its laterals constitute the main root system. Rooting trait differences in some crops have been associated with drought tolerance. Our objective in this study was to determine if variation in root length and number occurs among peanut genotypes. In one test, shoot and root growth of 23 genotypes (12 spanish and 11 virginia types) were compared in the greenhouse at 55 days after planting using clear acrylic tubes 7.5 cm in diameter and 2.2 m in length. Shoot dry weight, leaf area, tap root length, and root number at 1 m depth ranged for spanish-type entries from 1.23 to 2.65 g, 214 to 409 cm2, 95.0 to 186.8 cm, and 1.0 to 3.1, respectively. Similarly, ranges for virginia-type entries were 1.35 to 3.23 g, 135 to 460 cm2, 122.4 to 192.6 cm, and 1.0 to 7.1. Correlations between shoot and root parameters indicated strong positive association between aerial and subterranean growth. However, the relationship of leaf area to root length was stronger for virginia- than for spanish-type entries. Root length and numbers were highly correlated for spanish, but not for virginia entries. In other tests that included two each of virginia-, spanish-, and valencia-type entries, similar results were found for plants at 34 and 47 days after planting. Significant differences in both root (length and numbers) and shoot growth (dry weight and leaf area) were found among the genotypes tested. Inherent differences in root growth rate were evident at early stages of seedling growth. The results from this sample of peanut germplasm indicate that there is considerable diversity in root growth and there is high shoot/root growth association.
A Microprocessor Control System for Peanut Drying1
Authors: Steele James L.
Published: April 2010

A microprocessor based peanut dryer control system to minimize energy consumption was developed and tested over a 3 year period. Hardware and software needs were described. First year tests were conducted to verify hardware performance. Energy control techniques were proposed and compared with conventional peanut dryer control procedures. In simultaneous comparative tests, the first energy control technique implemented reduced liquified petroleum gas (LPG) consumption 49 percent, electric energy 39 percent and increased time on the dryer 65 percent. Modification of the energy control technique reduced the unacceptable increase in time on the dryer to 10–20 percent while similar reductions in LPG and electric energy were maintained. The improved control technique produced similar results in tests the following year. No losses in peanut quality during drying were observed and the net saving was $5.61 per tonne or a 25 percent reduction in peanut drying costs for Virginia conditions.
Oxidative Stress Induced Mechanisms in the Progression of Periodontal Diseases and Cancer: A Common Approach to Redox Homeostasis?
Authors: Soory Mena
Published: April 2010

There is documented evidence of significant associations between cancer of the lung, kidney, pancreas, hematological and oral cancers and periodontal diseases of the supporting structures of the teeth. Enhanced lipid peroxidation, raised levels of TBARS and the oxidative stress marker malondealdehyde have been detected in breast cancer with reduced antioxidant capacity, also characteristic of periodontal diseases. Antioxidants could overcome this deficit and attenuate disease progression by down regulating glutathione detoxification/redox buffering system and inhibiting key transcription factors. Periodontal disease may be a critical marker of a susceptible immune system, or initiate cancer risk with a pro-oxidant inflammatory profile.
Role of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Mediators in Gliomas
Authors: Conti Alfredo , Gulì Carlo , La Torre Domenico , Tomasello Chiara , Angileri Filippo F. , Aguennouz M’Hammed
Published: April 2010

Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors of the central nervous system. Despite relevant progress in conventional treatments, the prognosis of such tumors remains almost invariably dismal. The genesis of gliomas is a complex, multistep process that includes cellular neoplastic transformation, resistance to apoptosis, loss of control of the cell cycle, angiogenesis, and the acquisition of invasive properties. Among a number of different biomolecular events, the existence of molecular connections between inflammation and oxidative stress pathways and the development of this cancer has been demonstrated. In particular, the tumor microenvironment, which is largely orchestrated by inflammatory molecules, is an indispensable participant in the neoplastic process, promoting proliferation, survival and migration of such tumors. Proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1beta, and interferon-gamma, as well as chemokines and prostaglandins, are synthesized by resident brain cells and lymphocytes invading the affected brain tissue. Key mediators of cancer progression include nuclear factor-kappaB, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and specific microRNAs. The collective activity of these mediators is largely responsible for a pro-tumorigenic response through changes in cell proliferation, cell death, cellular senescence, DNA mutation rates, DNA methylation and angiogenesis. We provide a general overview of the connection between specific inflammation and oxidative stress pathway molecules and gliomas. The elucidation of specific effects and interactions of these factors may provide the opportunity for the identification of new target molecules leading to improved diagnosis and treatment.
Porphyrinic Molecular Devices: Towards Nanoscaled Processes
Authors: Latter Melissa J. , Langford Steven J.
Published: April 2010

The structural, coordinative, photochemical and electrochemical properties of the porphyrin macrocycle that make them the functional element of choice in ubiquitous biological systems, e.g., chlorophyll, cytochrome P450 and hemoglobin, also contribute to making porphyrins and metalloporphyrins desirable in a “bottom-up” approach to the construction of nanosized devices. This paper highlights some recent advances in the construction of supramolecular assemblies based on the porphyrin macrocycle that display optically readable functions as a result of photonic or chemical stimuli.