bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Alternative to Multiple Protoporphyrinogen Oxidase Inhibitor Applications in No-Till Cotton
Authors: Cahoon Charles W. , York Alan C. , Jordan David L. , Everman Wesley J. , Seagroves Richard W.
Published: February 2014

Glyphosate-resistant (GR) Palmer amaranth is a widespread problem in southeastern cotton production areas. Herbicide programs to control this weed in no-till cotton commonly include flumioxazin applied with preplant burndown herbicides approximately 3 wk before planting followed by fomesafen applied PRE and then glufosinate or glyphosate applied POST. Flumioxazin and fomesafen are both protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitors. Multiple yearly applications of PPO inhibitors in cotton, along with widespread use of PPO inhibitors in rotational crops, raise concerns over possible selection for PPO resistance in Palmer amaranth. An experiment was conducted to determine the potential to substitute diuron for one of the PPO inhibitors in no-till cotton. Palmer amaranth control by diuron and fomesafen applied PRE varied by location, but fomesafen was generally more effective. Control by both herbicides was inadequate when timely rainfall was not received for activation. Palmer amaranth control was more consistent when programs included a preplant residual herbicide. Applied preplant, flumioxazin was more effective than diuron. Programs with diuron preplant followed by fomesafen PRE were as effective as flumioxazin preplant followed by fomesafen only if fomesafen was activated in a timely manner. Programs with flumioxazin preplant followed by diuron PRE were as effective as flumioxazin preplant followed by fomesafen PRE at all locations, regardless of timely activation of the PRE herbicide. As opposed to flumioxazin preplant followed by fomesafen PRE, which exposes Palmer amaranth to two PPO-inhibiting herbicides, one could reduce selection pressure by using flumioxazin preplant followed by diuron PRE without sacrificing Palmer amaranth control or cotton yield.
Decision Support System for Optimized Herbicide Dose in Spring Barley
Authors: S⊘nderskov Mette , Kudsk Per , Mathiassen Solvejg K. , B⊘jer Ole M. , Rydahl Per
Published: February 2014

Crop Protection Online (CPO) is a decision support system, which integrates decision algorithms quantifying the requirement for weed control and a herbicide dose model. CPO was designed to be used by advisors and farmers to optimize the choice of herbicide and dose. The recommendations from CPO for herbicide application in spring barley in Denmark were validated through field experiments targeting three levels of weed control requirement. Satisfactory weed control levels at harvest were achieved by a medium control level requirement generating substantial herbicide reductions (∼ 60% measured as the Treatment Frequency Index (TFI)) compared to a high level of required weed control. The observations indicated that the current level of weed control required is robust for a range of weed scenarios. Weed plant numbers 3 wk after spraying indicated that the growth of the weed species were inhibited by the applied doses, but not necessarily killed, and that an adequate level of control was reached later in the season through crop competition.
Confirmation and Control of Triazine and 4-Hydroxyphenylpyruvate Dioxygenase-Inhibiting Herbicide-Resistant Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) in Nebraska
Authors: Jhala Amit J. , Sandell Lowell D. , Rana Neha , Kruger Greg R. , Knezevic Stevan Z.
Published: February 2014

Palmer amaranth is a difficult-to-control broadleaf weed that infests corn and soybean fields in south-central and southwestern Nebraska and several other states in the United States. The objectives of this research were to confirm triazine and 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD)-inhibiting herbicide-resistant Palmer amaranth in Nebraska and to determine sensitivity and efficacy of POST-applied corn herbicides for control of resistant and susceptible Palmer amaranth biotypes. Seeds from a putative HPPD-resistant Palmer amaranth biotype from Fillmore County, NE were collected from a seed corn production field in fall 2010. The response of Palmer amaranth biotypes to 12 rates (0 to 12×) of mesotrione, tembotrione, topramezone, and atrazine was evaluated in a dose–response bioassay in a greenhouse. On the basis of the values at the 90% effective dose (ED90) level, the analysis showed a 4- to 23-fold resistance depending upon the type of HPPD-inhibiting herbicide being investigated and susceptible biotype used for comparison. This biotype also had a 9- to 14-fold level of resistance to atrazine applied POST. Results of a POST-applied herbicide efficacy study suggested a synergistic interaction between atrazine and HPPD-inhibiting herbicides that resulted in > 90% control of all Palmer amaranth biotypes. The resistant biotype had a reduced sensitivity to acetolactate synthase inhibiting herbicides (halosulfuron and primisulfuron), a photosystem-II inhibitor (bromoxynil), and a protoporphyrinogen oxidase inhibitor (fluthiacet-methyl). Palmer amaranth biotypes were effectively controlled (≥ 90%) with glyphosate, glufosinate, and dicamba, whereas 2,4-D ester provided 81 to 83% control of the resistant biotype and > 90% control of both susceptible biotypes.
Glyphosate-Resistant Giant Ragweed (Ambrosia trifida) and Waterhemp (Amaranthus rudis) Management in Dicamba-Resistant Soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Spaunhorst Douglas J. , Siefert-Higgins Simone , Bradley Kevin W.
Published: February 2014

Field experiments were conducted across two locations during 2011 and 2012 to evaluate herbicide options for the control of glyphosate-resistant (GR) giant ragweed and GR waterhemp in dicamba-resistant (DR) soybean. All herbicide treatments provided 91 to 100% control of GR giant ragweed 3 wk after treatment (WAT). Flumioxazin plus dicamba plus glyphosate applied preplant provided greater control and density reduction of GR giant ragweed than flumioxazin plus 2,4-D plus glyphosate. When flumioxazin plus dicamba plus glyphosate were applied preplant, the addition of dicamba to glyphosate at either the early-postemergence (EPOST) or mid-postemergence (MPOST) timing provided greater control and density reduction of GR giant ragweed than glyphosate alone. Regardless of the preplant treatment, delay of EPOST dicamba to the MPOST timing did not influence GR giant ragweed control or density reduction. In the GR waterhemp experiment, dicamba plus glyphosate applied sequentially provided 88 to 89% control and 90% density reduction at the EPOST and MPOST timings compared to only 24% control and 42% density reduction in response to glyphosate applied sequentially. Control and GR waterhemp density reduction did not improve with the addition of acetochlor to either the EPOST or late-postemergence (LPOST) timings. Flumioxazin plus chlorimuron applied PRE followed by dicamba plus glyphosate or dicamba plus glyphosate plus acetochlor provided greater control of GR waterhemp than glyphosate plus fomesafen or glyphosate alone applied EPOST. Results from this research indicate that dicamba applied once or sequentially and when timed appropriately to match the biology of the weed species can be utilized as a component of an integrated program for the management of GR weeds like giant ragweed and waterhemp in DR soybean.
Distribution of Herbicide-Resistant Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) in Arkansas
Authors: Johnson Dennis B. , Norsworthy Jason K. , Scott Robert C.
Published: February 2014

In 2008, a population of johnsongrass collected from a soybean field near West Memphis, AR, in Crittenden County was confirmed resistant to glyphosate. This was the first documented case of glyphosate-resistant johnsongrass in Arkansas. The purpose of this study was to determine the geographical distribution of glyphosate-resistant johnsongrass in Arkansas crops and screen for resistance to additional herbicides. A total of 141 johnsongrass accessions were collected from 14 counties in Arkansas in the fall of 2008, 2009, and 2010 and screened for resistance to four of the most commonly used POST herbicides for johnsongrass control—imazethapyr, glyphosate, clethodim, and fluazifop. One accession potentially resistant to glyphosate (J12) and another with apparent resistance to imazethapyr (J14) were further evaluated in a dose–response experiment. The lethal dose required to kill 50% of the plants from the putative glyphosate-resistant and imazethapyr-resistant accessions was higher than that of a biotype known to be susceptible to these herbicides. The J12 accession had an LD50of 1,741 g ae ha−1glyphosate, which was 8.5-fold greater than the susceptible biotype. The J14 accession had an LD50of 73 g ai ha−1imazethapyr, which was 3.7-fold greater than the LD50of the susceptible biotype. All other accessions were effectively controlled by the four evaluated herbicides. Widespread herbicide-resistant johnsongrass was not found in Arkansas, although accession J12 was resistant to glyphosate and J14 resistant to imazethapyr.
Sweet Corn Response and Weed Control to Saflufenacil plus Dimethenamid-P in Organic Soils
Authors: Odero Dennis C. , Wright Alan L. , Fernandez Jose V.
Published: February 2014

There are limited PRE herbicide options available to provide residual weed control in sweet corn grown on organic soils in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA). Field studies were established to determine the efficacy of PRE applied saflufenacil + dimethenamid-P at six rates ranging from 10 + 88 to 319 + 2802 g ai ha−1 on weed control and sweet corn tolerance on organic soils in the EAA in 2011 and 2012. Saflufenacil + dimethenamid-P is a premix recently labeled for PRE weed control in field corn at 50 + 438 to 90 + 788 g ha−1 depending on soil texture. There was no phytotoxic effect of PRE applied saflufenacil + dimethenamid-P on sweet corn. At 42 d after treatment, common lambsquarters, common purslane, and spiny amaranth were controlled 90% with saflufenacil + dimethenamid-P at 58 + 508, 71 + 622, and 58 + 512 g ha−1, respectively. Sweet corn yield at 95% of the weed-free yield was estimated to be obtained at 69 + 606 g ha−1 of saflufenacil + dimethenamid-P. Our results show that saflufenacil + dimethenamid-P at 69 + 606 to 71 + 622 g ha−1 controlled three common weeds and maintained acceptable sweet corn yield. Labeled rates of saflufenacil + dimethenamid-P for field corn on mineral soils were adequate for weed control in sweet corn on organic soils.
Influence of Application Timing and Glyphosate Tank-Mix Combinations on the Survival of Glyphosate-Resistant Giant Ragweed (Ambrosia trifida) in Soybean
Authors: Riley Eric B. , Bradley Kevin W.
Published: February 2014

In recent years, glyphosate-resistant (GR) giant ragweed has become an increasingly problematic weed in soybean in Missouri and throughout many areas of the Midwest. Field trials were conducted in 2010 and 2011 to determine the influence of various application timings and glyphosate tank-mix combinations on the survival of GR giant ragweed in soybean. Glyphosate was applied alone and in combination with selected tank-mix combinations early POST (EPOST) to 10-, 20-, or 30-cm GR giant ragweed. Treatments received late POST (LPOST) applications approximately 3 wk after EPOST applications, once GR giant ragweed resumed growth. GR giant ragweed survival 2 wk after EPOST applications (2 WAEPOST) ranged from 60 to 100%. Glyphosate plus fomesafen applications to 10-cm plants resulted in 60% survival of GR giant ragweed, which was the lowest survival observed across all treatments and application timings. However, GR giant ragweed survival ranged from 37 to 98% 4 wk after LPOST applications (4 WALPOST). Glyphosate plus fomesafen applications to 10-cm plants resulted in 37% survival of GR giant ragweed 4 WALPOST, which was the lowest survival observed across all treatments and application timings. Few differences in soybean yields were observed between herbicide treatments within application timings in either year, and all herbicide treatments resulted in yields higher than the nontreated control. In 2011, soybean yields were reduced following glyphosate tank-mix combinations to larger plants. Overall, higher soybean injury and GR giant ragweed survival was observed in response to glyphosate tank-mix combinations made to taller plants. Results from this research indicate that additional methods of GR giant ragweed control, other than POST-only glyphosate tank-mix combinations, will be needed for effective management of GR giant ragweed in GR soybean.
Herbicide Programs for Controlling Glyphosate-Resistant Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) in Glufosinate-Resistant Soybean
Authors: Johnson Dennis B. , Norsworthy Jason K. , Scott Robert C.
Published: February 2014

Three field experiments were conducted in 2010 and 2012 in a soybean production field near West Memphis, AR, containing glyphosate-resistant johnsongrass. The goal of this research was to develop effective herbicide programs for glyphosate-resistant johnsongrass in glufosinate-resistant soybean. Control of the resistant johnsongrass was greater with glufosinate at 590 and 740 g ai ha−1than at 450 g ha−1. Sequential glufosinate applications were more effective than a single application, irrespective of rate. A PRE application of flumioxazin at 71 g ai ha−1immediately after planting provided no more than 26% johnsongrass control 6 wk after soybean emergence (WAE). The addition of clethodim at 136 g ai ha−1to sequential applications of glufosinate at 450 g ha−1improved control over sequentially applied glufosinate alone. Herbicide programs containing imazethapyr or imazamox in combination with glufosinate followed by clethodim plus glufosinate controlled johnsongrass at least 94% at 10 WAE and provided three distinct mechanisms of action, a highly effective resistance management strategy. Results from this research indicate that a high level of glyphosate-resistant johnsongrass control can be achieved through the use of several herbicide options in glufosinate-resistant soybean.
Effects of Preemergence Herbicides on the Establishment Rate and Tensile Strength of Hybrid Bermudagrass Sod
Authors: Brosnan James T. , Breeden Gregory K. , Thoms Adam W. , Sorochan John C.
Published: February 2014

Use of PRE herbicides for control of annual grassy weeds during commercial sod production has been limited. Research was conducted from 2010 to 2013 evaluating the effects of pendimethalin (3.36 kg ai ha−1), dithiopyr (0.56 kg ai ha−1), prodiamine (0.6 kg ai ha−1), oxadiazon (3.36 kg ai ha−1), prodiamine + sulfentrazone (0.84 + 0.41 kg ai ha−1), dimethenamid-P(1.68 kg ai ha−1), and indaziflam (0.03 and 0.05 kg ai ha−1) applications at sprigging on the establishment rate and tensile strength of ‘Tifway' hybrid bermudagrass sod at harvest (377 d after sprigging). All herbicides increased the days required to reach 50% hybrid bermudagrass cover compared with the nontreated control. Days required to reach 50% hybrid bermudagrass cover were lowest for oxadiazon and prodiamine (39 to 44 d), greatest for both rates of indaziflam (65 to 141 d), with dimethenamid-P, prodiamine plus sulfentrazone, pendimethalin, and dithiopyr ranking intermediate (45 to 63 d). Both rates of indaziflam reduced sod tensile strength at harvest compared with the nontreated control during a single year of the study; no other differences in sod strength due to herbicide treatment were detected at any time.
Integrating Weed and Vegetable Crop Management with Multifunctional Air-Propelled Abrasive Grits
Authors: Wortman Sam E.
Published: February 2014

Abrasive weed control is a novel weed management tactic that has great potential to increase the profitability and sustainability of organic vegetable cropping systems. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of air-propelled organic abrasive grits (e.g., organic fertilizers) on weed seedling emergence and growth and vegetable crop growth. A series of thirteen greenhouse trials were conducted to determine the susceptibility of weeds to abrasive weed control with one of six organic materials including: corn cob grits, corn gluten meal, greensand fertilizer, walnut shell grits, soybean meal, and bone meal fertilizer. In addition, crop injury was quantified to determine the potential utility of each organic material as abrasive grits in tomato and pepper cropping systems. Of the six organic materials, corn gluten meal, greensand fertilizer, walnut shell grits, and soybean meal provided the broadest range of POST weed control. For example, one blast of corn gluten meal and greensand fertilizer reduced Palmer amaranth (one-leaf stage) seedling biomass by 95 and 100% and green foxtail (one-leaf stage) biomass by 94 and 87%, respectively. None of the organic materials suppressed weed seedling emergence when applied to the soil surface, suggesting that residual weed control with abrasive grits is unlikely. Tomato and pepper stems were relatively tolerant of abrasive grit applications, though blasting with select materials did increase stem curvature in tomato and reduced biomass (corn cob grit) and relative growth rate (corn gluten meal and greensand) in pepper. Results suggest that organic fertilizers can be effectively used as abrasive grits in vegetable crops, simultaneously providing weed suppression and supplemental crop nutrition. Field studies are needed to identify cultural practices that will increase the profitability of multifunctional abrasive weed control in organic specialty crops.
Response of Nebraska Kochia (Kochia scoparia) Accessions to Dicamba
Authors: Crespo Roberto J. , Bernards Mark L. , Sbatella Gustavo M. , Kruger Greg R. , Lee Don J. , Wilson Robert G.
Published: February 2014

Kochia is a troublesome weed in the western Great Plains and many accessions have evolved resistance to one or more herbicides. Dicamba-resistant soybean is being developed to provide an additional herbicide mechanism of action for POST weed control in soybean. The objective of this study was to evaluate variation in response to dicamba among kochia accessions collected from across Nebraska. Kochia plants were grown in a greenhouse and treated when they were 8 to 12 cm tall. A discriminating experiment with a single dose of 420 g ae ha−1of dicamba was conducted on 67 accessions collected in Nebraska in 2010. Visual injury estimates were recorded at 21 d after treatment (DAT) and accessions were ranked from least to most susceptible. Four accessions representing two of the most and least susceptible accessions from this screening were subjected to dose-response experiments using dicamba. At 28 DAT, visible injury estimates were made and plants were harvested to determine dry weight. An 18-fold difference in dicamba dose was necessary to achieve 90% injury (I90) between the least (accession 11) and most susceptible accessions. Approximately 3,500 g ha−1of dicamba was required in accession 11 to reach a 50% dry weight reduction (GR50). There was less than twofold variation among the three more susceptible accessions for both the I90and GR90parameters, suggesting that most kochia accessions will be similarly susceptible to dicamba. At 110 DAT, accession 11 had plants that survived doses of 35,840 g ha−1, and produced seed at doses of 17,420 g ha−1. The identification of one resistant accession among the 67 accessions screened, and the fact that dicamba doses greater than 560 g ha−1were required to achieve GR80for all accessions suggest that repeated use of dicamba for weed control in fields where kochia is present may quickly result in the evolution of dicamba-resistant kochia populations.
Dragged-Rail Treatments for Reducing Cholla Infestation in Southeast New Mexico, USA
Authors: Cox Robert D. , Johns Braden G.
Published: February 2014

Cholla infestations can be problematic on rangelands in North America, Australia, Africa, and Europe, and treatment options for this plant are limited because of its ability to resprout from broken stem fragments. We investigated dragged-rail treatments, where iron rails are dragged across the rangeland by tractor and knock plants over while uprooting them, as a treatment option for tree cholla in southeast New Mexico. Railing effectively controlled tree cholla plants over 0.5 m tall, but did not effectively control plants smaller than 0.5 m. Nevertheless, treatment did effectively reduce overall cholla density: Treated areas averaged 40 to 50 plants ha−1, whereas nontreated areas averaged over 350 plants ha−1. Railing can be an effective means of cholla control, especially if followed by another treatment, such as prescribed fire, that is known to be effective against the smaller sizes of cholla.
Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua) Control in Glyphosate-Resistant Perennial Ryegrass Overseeding
Authors: Flessner Michael L. , McElroy J. Scott , Wehtje Glenn R.
Published: February 2014

‘Replay' and ‘JS501’ perennial ryegrass cultivars have been conventionally bred for reduced sensitivity to glyphosate, potentially allowing the herbicide to be used for selective weed control in overseeded bermudagrass. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate optimal glyphosate application rate, regime (single and sequential applications), and timing for annual bluegrass control in bermudagrass overseeded with these cultivars. Additionally, greenhouse experiments were conducted to compare the sensitivity to glyphosate of Replay and JS501 to susceptible cultivars ‘Caddy Shack' and ‘Top Gun II' through log-logistic rate-response analysis. In field experiments, only two treatments resulted in > 90% annual bluegrass control and < 25% perennial ryegrass injury. These two treatments were a single application of 280 g ae ha−1glyphosate in January and 140 g ha−1followed by an additional 140 g ha−1applied in January. Perennial ryegrass cultivars were compared using 50% inhibition (I50) values, i.e. 50% visible estimates of injury or 50% reduction in clipping weight.I50values obtained 6 wk after treatment from injury data were 2.56, 2.64, 0.81, and 0.84 g ha−1glyphosate for Replay, JS501, Caddy Shack, and Top Gun II, respectively. Replay and JS501 were similar in sensitivity to glyphosate and were up to four times more tolerant than Caddy Shack and Top Gun II across rating dates and data types.
Occurrence and Characterization of Kochia (Kochia scoparia) Accessions with Resistance to Glyphosate in Montana
Authors: Kumar Vipan , Jha Prashant , Reichard Nicholas
Published: February 2014

Herbicide-resistant kochia is an increasing concern for growers in the northwestern United States. Four suspected glyphosate-resistant (Gly-R) kochia accessions (referred to as GIL01, JOP01, CHES01, and CHES02) collected in fall 2012 from four different chemical-fallow fields in northern Montana were evaluated. The objectives were to confirm and characterize the level of glyphosate resistance in kochia accessions relative to a glyphosate-susceptible (Gly-S) accession and evaluate the effectiveness of various POST herbicides for Gly-R kochia control. Whole-plant dose–response experiments indicated that the four Gly-R kochia accessions had 7.1- to 11-fold levels of resistance relative to the Gly-S accession on the basis of percent control ratings (I50values). On the basis of shoot dry weight response (GR50values), the four Gly-R kochia accessions exhibited resistance index (R/S) ratios ranging from 4.6 to 8.1. In a separate study, the two tested Gly-R accessions (GIL01 and JOP01) showed differential response (control and shoot dry weight reduction) to various POST herbicides 21 d after application (DAA). Paraquat, paraquat + linuron, carfentrazone + 2,4-D, saflufenacil alone or with 2,4-D, and bromoxynil + fluroxypyr effectively controlled (99 to 100%) and reduced shoot dry weight (88 to 92%) of the GIL01 accession, consistent with the Gly-S kochia accession; however, bromoxynil + MCPA and bromoxynil + pyrasulfotole provided 76% control and 83% shoot dry weight reduction of the GIL01 accession and were lower compared with the Gly-S accession. The JOP01 accession exhibited lower control or shoot dry weight reduction to all herbicides tested, except dicamba, diflufenzopyr + dicamba + 2,4-D, paraquat + linuron, and bromoxynil + pyrasulfotole, compared with the Gly-S or GIL01 population. Furthermore, paraquat + linuron was the only treatment with ≥ 90% control and shoot dry weight reduction of the JOP01 kochia plants. Among all POST herbicides tested, glufosinate was the least effective on kochia. This research confirms the first evolution of Gly-R kochia in Montana. Future research will investigate the mechanism of glyphosate resistance, inheritance, ecological fitness, and alternative strategies for management of Gly-R kochia.
Effect of Mowing Height and Fertility on Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) Encroachment and Brown Patch Severity in Tall Fescue
Authors: Cutulle Matthew , Derr Jeffrey , McCall David , Nichols Adam , Horvath Brandon
Published: February 2014

Tall fescue is a commonly used turfgrass in the temperate and transition zone areas of the United States. During hot, humid summers, tall fescue is under stress and is susceptible toRhizoctonia solani(brown patch) infection, causing turf thinning, leading to encroachment from weeds, such as bermudagrass. Field trials were established to evaluate the effect of mowing height and fertility programs on disease severity and bermudagrass encroachment in tall fescue. Mowing at 10 cm resulted in less bermudagrass encroachment than did a 6-cm mowing height. Increasing the nitrogen fertilization level from 49 to 171 and 220 kg N ha−1generally led to more bermudagrass encroachment at the 6-cm, but not the 10-cm, mowing height. Plots receiving 220 kg N ha−1annually at the 6-cm mowing height had the most brown patch. Turfgrass cover was greatest in plots mowed at 10 cm and receiving 220 kg N ha−1annually.
Heterochrony, dental ontogenetic diversity, and the circumvention of constraints in marsupial mammals and extinct relatives
Authors: Forasiepi Analía M. , Sánchez-Villagra Marcelo R.
Published: February 2014

In marsupial mammals and their extinct relatives—collectively, metatherians—only the last premolar is replaced, but the timing of dental eruption is variable within the group. Our knowledge of fossils metatherians is limited, but is critical to understanding several aspects of the evolution and morphological diversification of this clade. We analyzed the sequence of eruption of 76 specimens of metatherians, including Sparassodonta, an extinct clade of specialized carnivores from South America. In Sparassodonta (1) the P3/p3 erupt simultaneously, in common with some didelphids (in other didelphids, p3 erupts before P3, whereas in the remaining didelphids, some peramelids, one caenolestid, andPucadelphysthis order is reversed); (2) the upper and lower molars at the same locus erupt more in synchrony than in other carnivorous metatherians in which the lower molars clearly precede the upper equivalents; (3) the upper canine in thylacosmilids and proborhyaenids is hypselodont; (4) species with similar molar morphologies have different morphologies of the deciduous premolars, suggesting diverse diets among the juveniles of different taxa; (5) deciduous teeth are functional for a long period of time, with thylacosmilids even retaining a functional DP3 in the permanent dentition. The retention of the DP3 and the hypertrophied and hypselodont upper canine of thylacosmilids represent clear heterochronic shifts. Specializations in the timing of dental eruption and in the deciduous tooth shape of sparassodonts are evolutionary mechanisms that circumvent constraints imposed by the metatherian replacement pattern and increase morphological disparity during ontogeny.
Diversification of mammals from the Miocene of Spain
Authors: Domingo M. Soledad , Badgley Catherine , Azanza Beatriz , DeMiguel Daniel , Alberdi M. Teresa
Published: February 2014

The mammalian fossil record of Spain is long and taxonomically well resolved, offering the most complete record of faunal change for the Neogene of Europe. We evaluated changes in diversification, composition, trophic structure, and size structure of large mammals over the middle and late Miocene with methods applied to this record for the first time, including ordination of fossil localities to improve temporal resolution and estimation of confidence intervals on taxa temporal ranges. By contrast, analysis within the traditional Mammal Neogene (MN) biochronology obscures important aspects of diversification. We used inferred temporal ranges of species and evaluated per capita rates of origination, extinction, diversification, and turnover over 0.5-Myr time intervals.

Three periods of significant faunal change occurred between 12.0 and 5.5 Ma: (1) From 12.0 to 10.5 Ma, elevated origination rates led to an increase in diversity without significant change in ecological structure. Immigrants and geographic-range shifts of species to lower latitudes during an interval of global cooling contributed to these faunal changes. (2) From 9.5 to 7.5 Ma, high extinction rates followed by high origination rates coincided with significant changes in taxonomic composition and ecological structure. These changes represent the Vallesian Crisis, with replacement of a fauna of forest affinities (with frugivores and browsers) by a fauna of open woodlands (with grazers and mixed feeders). (3) From 6.5 to 5.5 Ma, high extinction rates reduced diversity without substantial changes in ecological structure, and large mammal faunas became highly endemic across the northern Mediterranean region. This interval includes the Messinian Salinity Crisis, the desiccation of the Mediterranean basin. Extinction may have been caused by geographic isolation and aridification, with evolution of endemic lineages giving rise to new species in the early Pliocene. These distinct macroevolutionary patterns of faunal change correspond to different geographic scales of inferred climatic and tectonic drivers.
Effects of calcium-carbonate-based aggregates on alkali-free accelerators
Authors: Stefanoni Massimo , Maltese Cristiano , Pistolesi Carlo , Bravo Anna , Cella Fiorenza , Cerulli Tiziano , Salvioni Davide , Negro Enrico Dal
Published: February 2014

Alkali-free flash setting accelerators are widely used in the area of underground construction as they allow a very rapid hardening of cementitious systems. These admixtures are particularly used for wet-mix shotcrete, which involves pneumatically pumping a previously prepared concrete to a nozzle, where liquid accelerator is added. Compressed air is used to ‘shoot' the mixture onto the receiving surface. The resulting concrete layer acts as a consolidating shield that helps to avoid the tendency of the excavated section to squeeze (convergence) or collapse. The accelerator's efficiency is related to many parameters such as cement class, environmental conditions (humidity, temperature), concrete mix design and aggregate type. A limited number of papers have been published on the effects of these factors on the accelerating properties of alkali-free accelerators. In this paper, the influence of the aggregates chemical nature is studied. Setting time and mechanical strength development of mortar samples containing calcareous or siliceous sands, with the addition of an alkali-free accelerator, are analysed. It is discovered that calcium-carbonate-based aggregates strongly improve accelerator performances. In order to better understand this phenomenon, the influence of calcium carbonate on accelerated hydrating cement mortar is investigated through thermo-chemical hydration profiles, thermogravimetry (TG), environmental scanning electron microscopy – field emission gun (ESEM-FEG), induced coupled plasma – atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). From the results, a significant increase of ettringite is evident in the accelerated mortars containing calcite.
Morphology of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel: a molecular dynamic study
Authors: Hou Dongshuai , Ma Hongyan , Li Zongjin
Published: February 2014

Due to its complexity at nanoscale, calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H), the dominant binding phase in cement hydrates, is not yet completely understood. In this study, molecular dynamics was employed to simulate the hydration products at low and high calcium/silicon ratios. It was found that two morphologies of calcium silicate hydrate gels can be distinguished – a branched structure at low calcium/silicon ratios and an ellipsoid particle structure at high calcium/silicon ratios. Using virtual X-ray diffraction (XRD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) techniques, the simulated structures were characterised, confirming that they show features of calcium silicate hydrate as revealed by experimental approaches. The short-range structures of calcium and silicon atoms and the distorted calcium tetrahedrons resemble the features of silicate glasses obtained from experiments, implying the amorphous nature of the local structure in calcium silicate hydrate gel. Furthermore, formation mechanisms for the two morphologies are proposed. In the hydration process, calcium ions play roles in depolymerising the silicate structure and preventing the amorphous network formation. Therefore, at low calcium/silicon ratios, the reaction is governed by silicate skeleton growth, but at high calcium/silicon ratio, aggregations of calcium ions and short silicate chains dominate.
Investigation into the behaviour of shear stud applied weak column–strong beam connections
Authors: Buyukkaragoz Alper , Arslan Abdussamet
Published: February 2014

The behaviour of weak column–strong beam reinforced concrete (RC) connections with the application of specially manufactured steel plates with shear studs (SPwSS) under cyclic loads was investigated, both experimentally and analytically. The aim of the work was to improve the seismic behaviour of the joint by using SPwSS. In total, 15 full-scale RC connections were tested under reversed-cyclic lateral loads. The specimens were formed as an exterior joint of a frame. The compressive strength of concrete, the width of the shear stud heads and their spacing on the steel plates were adopted as the main test parameters, whose effects on the weak columns were investigated. It was observed that plastic hinges occurred at the beams after SPwSS application. The obtained experimental results were compared with analytical results and similarities in the behaviours were observed.
Integrating population‐ and individual‐level information in a movement model of Yellowstone bison
Authors: Geremia C. , White P. J. , Hoeting J. A. , Wallen R. L. , Watson F. G. R. , Blanton D. , Hobbs N. T.
Published: February 2014

Throughout the world, fragmentation of landscapes by human activities has constrained the opportunity for large herbivores to migrate. Conflict between people and wildlife results when migrating animals transmit disease to livestock, damage property, and threaten human safety. Mitigating this conflict requires understanding the forces that shape migration patterns. BisonBos bisonmigrating from Yellowstone National Park into the state of Montana during winter and spring concern ranchers on lands surrounding the park because bison can transmit brucellosis (Brucella abortus) to cattle. Migrations have been constrained, with bison being lethally removed or moved back into the park. We developed a state‐space model to support decisions on bison management aimed at mitigating conflict with landowners outside the park. The model integrated recent GPS observations with 22 years (1990–2012) of aerial counts to forecast monthly distributions and identify factors driving migration. Wintering areas were located along decreasing elevation gradients, and bison accumulated in wintering areas prior to moving to areas progressively lower in elevation. Bison movements were affected by time since the onset of snowpack, snowpack magnitude, standing crop, and herd size. Migration pathways were increasingly used over time, suggesting that experience or learning influenced movements. To support adaptive management of Yellowstone bison, we forecast future movements to evaluate alternatives. Our approach of developing models capable of making explicit probabilistic forecasts of large herbivore movements and seasonal distributions is applicable to managing the migratory movements of large herbivores worldwide. These forecasts allow managers to develop and refine strategies in advance, and promote sound decision‐making that reduces conflict as migratory animals come into contact with people.
Prevalence and Risk Indicators of Dentin Hypersensitivity in Adult and Elderly Populations From Porto Alegre, Brazil
Authors: Costa Ricardo S.A. , Rios Fernando S. , Moura Mauricio S. , Jardim Juliana J. , Maltz Marisa , Haas Alex N.
Published: February 2014

Background: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a clinical condition with potential implications for patients. However, little is known about its occurrence and determinants in the general population. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and risk indicators of DH in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Methods: A representative multistage probability sample of 1,023 adults aged ≥35 years was obtained. Individuals were interviewed and clinically examined in their homes. DH was assessed dichotomously in all present teeth by a blast of air and a manual probe. Teeth restored with crowns and presenting with carious cavitation were excluded. Survey logistic regression using sampling weights was applied to assess demographics and behavioral and clinical determinants.

Results: Overall prevalence estimates for DH diagnosed by air and probe were 33.4% and 34.2%. DH affected ≈1 tooth per individual, and approximately 10% of teeth with gingival recession (GR) had DH. In a multivariable model for DH diagnosed with air, females had increased chance of DH (odds ratio [OR] = 2.14; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.57 to 2.91). Smoking, periodontal treatment, and GR were also associated with increased DH risk. The chance of DH was lower (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.29 to 0.76) among individuals ≥60 than among those aged 35 to 49 years. Oral hygiene practices, socioeconomic and education status, dental visits, and gingival inflammation were not associated with DH.

Conclusions: DH may be considered a concern in a Brazilian general population. Reduction of DH may be achieved by smoking cessation and periodontal health improvements.
Increased Bacterial Invasion and Differential Expression of Tight‐Junction Proteins, Growth Factors, and Growth Factor Receptors in Periodontal Lesions
Authors: Choi Yun S. , Kim Yong C. , Ji Suk , Choi Youngnim
Published: February 2014

Background: Many pathogens are known to modulate epithelial physical barriers, particularly tight‐junction (TJ) proteins, to enter host cells and/or tissues. Growth factors have been implicated in the regulation of TJ proteins. The aim of this study is to determine differences in the levels of TJ proteins, growth factors, and their receptors in relation to bacterial invasion in diseased gingival tissues obtained from patients with periodontitis.

Methods: The presence of bacteria and expression of junctional adhesion molecule (JAM)‐A, occludin, epidermal growth factor (EGF), keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I), EGF receptor, KGF receptor, and IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) were evaluated in gingival tissues from healthy (n = 10) and diseased (n = 10) sites in patients with periodontitis by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry.

Results: The bacterial invasion of gingival tissue was increased in periodontal lesions compared with healthy sites. Although the levels of JAM‐A and occludin were not significantly different between the healthy and diseased sites, aberrant cytoplasmic expression of JAM‐A and occluding was often observed in the lesions. In addition, more leukocytes expressing JAM‐A or occludin were observed within the disease‐associated epithelia. Compared with the healthy sites, the differential expression of KGF, IGF‐I, and IGF‐1R was observed in the periodontal lesions. The levels of TJ proteins showed positive correlations with those of growth factors.

Conclusion: The aberrant expression of growth factors and TJ proteins may contribute to increased bacterial invasion and disease progression in periodontal lesions.
Capital-Labor Struggle: The Unspoken Causes of the Crises
Authors: Navarro Vicente
Published: February 2014

The literature on the causes of the current financial and economic crises often fails to consider both the causal role of the conflict between capital and labor, and this conflict's continued effect. This article analyzes the evolution of the conflict and its implications for the distribution of income during the post-World War II period. Especially emphasizing the relationship between the U.S. and European economies, it examines the genesis and development of the governing structures of the Eurozone as determining factors in the increasing gap between capital and labor. The history of the European economic trajectory and the current German financial leadership provide important context for the analysis. Evidence is provided that this conflict between capital and labor is at the roots of the current financial and economic crisis, a thesis has been dramatically underexposed in the current scientific literature.
The Painful Effects of the Financial Crisis on Spanish Health Care
Authors: Bosch Xavier , Moreno Pedro , López-Soto Alfonso
Published: February 2014

Spain has an advanced, integrated health care system that has achieved remarkable results, including substantially improved health outcomes, over a relatively short time. Measures introduced by central and regional governments to combat the financial crisis may be severely affecting the health sector, with proposed changes potentially threatening the principles of equity and social cohesion underlying the welfare state. This article examines recent developments in Spanish health care, focusing on the austerity measures introduced since 2010. In Spain, as in other countries, evaluation of health care changes is difficult due to the paucity of data and because the effects of measures often lag well behind their introduction, meaning the full effects of changes on access to care or health outcomes only become apparent years later. However, some effects are already clear. With exceptions, Spain has not used the crisis as an opportunity to increase efficiency and quality, rationalize and reorganize health services, increase productivity, and regain public trust. We argue that immediate health care cuts may not be the best long-term answer and suggest evidence-driven interventions that involve the portfolio of free services and the private sector, while ensuring that the most vulnerable are protected.
The Impact of Thatcherism on Health and Well-Being in Britain
Authors: Scott-Samuel Alex , Bambra Clare , Collins Chik , Hunter David J. , McCartney Gerry , Smith Kat
Published: February 2014

Margaret Thatcher (1925–2013) was the United Kingdom's prime minister from 1979 to 1990. Her informal transatlantic alliance with U.S. President Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1989 played an important role in the promotion of an international neoliberal policy agenda that remains influential today. Her critique of UK social democracy during the 1970s and her adoption of key neoliberal strategies, such as financial deregulation, trade liberalization, and the privatization of public goods and services, were popularly labeled Thatcherism. In this article, we consider the nature of Thatcherism and its impact on health and well-being during her period as prime minister and, to a lesser extent, in the years that follow; we focus mainly on Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). Thatcher's policies were associated with substantial increases in socioeconomic and health inequalities: these issues were actively marginalized and ignored by her governments. In addition, her public-sector reforms applied business principles to the welfare state and prepared the National Health Service for subsequent privatization.
Does Autonomization of Public Hospitals and Exposure to Market Pressure Complement or Debilitate Social Health Insurance Systems? Evidence from a Low-Income Country
Authors: Sepehri Ardeshir
Published: February 2014

Granting public hospitals greater autonomy and creating organizational arrangements that mimic the private sector and encourage competition is often promoted as a way to increase efficiency and public accountability and to improve quality of care at these facilities. The existence of good-quality health infrastructure, in turn, encourages the population to join and support the social health insurance system and achieve universal coverage. This article provides a critical review of hospital autonomization, using Vietnam's experience to assess the influence of hospital autonomy on the sustainability of Vietnam's social health insurance. The evidence suggests that a reform process based on greater autonomy of resource mobilization and on the retention and use of own-source revenues can create perverse incentives among managers and health care providers, leading to the development of a two-tiered provision of clinical care, provider-induced supply of an inefficient service mix, a high degree of duplication, wasteful investment, and cost escalation. Rather than complementing social health insurance and helping the country to achieve universal coverage, granting public hospitals greater autonomy that mimics the private sector may indeed undermine the legitimacy and sustainability of social health insurance as health care costs escalate and higher quality of care remains elusive.
“Trade Creep” and Implications of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership Agreement for the United Kingdom National Health Service
Authors: Koivusalo Meri , Tritter Jonathan
Published: February 2014

The ambitious and comprehensive Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership Agreement (TTIP/TAFTA) agreement between the European Union and United States is now being negotiated and may have far-reaching consequences for health services. The agreement extends to government procurement, investment, and further regulatory cooperation. In this article, we focus on the United Kingdom National Health Service and how these negotiations can limit policy space to change policies and to regulate in relation to health services, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and health industries. The negotiation of TTIP/TAFTA has the potential to “harmonize” more corporate-friendly regulation, resulting in higher costs and loss of policy space, an example of “trade creep” that potentially compromises health equity, public health, and safety concerns across the Atlantic.
Social Differentials in Non-Employment following Hospital Admission for Musculoskeletal Disorders in Sweden, 2001–2006
Authors: Falk Johanna , Burström Bo , Nylén Lotta
Published: February 2014

The article studies social differentials in non-employment among individuals who had been employed in 2001 following hospital admission for musculoskeletal disorders, by gender, educational level, and country of birth, in Stockholm County during 2001–2006. Individually linked population registers on health service use and sociodemographic characteristics were used. Individuals ages 25 to 59, living in Stockholm County and having employment in 2001, were followed until 2006. Annual age-standardized employment rates were calculated for people admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with a musculoskeletal disorder (n = 1,888) and compared to a reference group of others in employment. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to calculate the hazard risks of non-employment in 2006. Both women and men admitted to the hospital had lower age-standardized employment rates compared to the reference group and were at higher risk of non-employment. The hazard risk of non-employment was significantly higher among women and men with short education and among foreign-born individuals. Employment consequences of musculoskeletal disorders seem to be unequally distributed between different social groups, with women, people with short education, and people born outside Sweden more likely to be non-employed.