bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapist Characteristics Predict Discrete Trial Teaching Procedural Fidelity
Authors: Peters-Scheffer Nienke , Didden Robert , Korzilius Hubert , Sturmey Peter
Published: August 2013

Early intensive behavioral intervention is generally effective for children with autism spectrum disorder but is associated with variability in treatment outcome and quality of treatment delivery may contribute to this. This study examined the relationship between therapist personality, attitude toward individuals with a disability, and perceived relationship between therapist and child on procedural fidelity. Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) was provided at a preschool for children with intellectual disabilities. Seventy DTT sessions between 22 therapists and 35 children were videotaped and analyzed. Data on therapist's attitude toward individuals with a disability, therapist's personality traits, and perceived relationship between therapist and child were also collected. Procedural fidelity was high and significantly related to therapist's attitude toward individuals with a disability, therapist's openness to experience, and perceived relationship between therapist and child. Therapists with high procedural fidelity tended to have a more positive attitude toward individuals with disabilities on the cognitive dimension, a more negative attitude toward individuals with disabilities on the affect dimension, lower levels of openness to experience, and perceived the relationship between themselves and the child as less positive.
Women's Emotions One Week After Receiving or Being Denied an Abortion in the United States
Authors: Rocca Corinne H. , Kimport Katrina , Gould Heather , Foster Diana G.
Published: August 2013

Context

The notion that abortion causes poor mental health has gained traction, even though it is not supported by research. Few studies have comprehensively investigated women's postabortion emotions.

Methods

Baseline data from a longitudinal study of women seeking abortion at 30 U.S. facilities between 2008 and 2010 were used to examine emotions among 843 women who received an abortion just prior to the facility's gestational age limit, were denied an abortion because they presented just beyond the gestational limit or obtained a first‐trimester abortion. Multivariable analyses were used to compare women's emotions about their pregnancy and about their receipt or denial of abortion after one week, and to identify variables associated with experiencing primarily negative emotions postabortion.

Results

Compared with women who obtained a near‐limit abortion, those denied the abortion felt more regret and anger (scoring, on average, 0.4–0.5 points higher on a 0–4 scale), and less relief and happiness (scoring 1.4 and 0.3 points lower, respectively). Among women who had obtained the abortion, the greater the extent to which they had planned the pregnancy or had difficulty deciding to seek abortion, the more likely they were to feel primarily negative emotions (odds ratios, 1.2 and 2.5, respectively). Most (95%) women who had obtained the abortion felt it was the right decision, as did 89% of those who expressed regret.

Conclusions

Difficulty with the abortion decision and the degree to which the pregnancy had been planned were most important for women's postabortion emotional state. Experiencing negative emotions postabortion is different from believing that abortion was not the right decision.
Sexual Health Resources at Minnesota Colleges: Associations with Students’ Sexual Health Behaviors
Authors: Eisenberg Marla E. , Hannan Peter J. , Lust Katherine A. , Lechner Kate E. , Garcia Carolyn , Frerich Ellen A.
Published: August 2013

Context

Sexual risk behaviors are common among college students, and research examining the environmental context of these behaviors is important for prevention. The presence of college sexual health resources is a potentially important part of that context.

Methods

In a 2010–2011 survey, 6,318 undergraduates from 28 two‐ and four‐year Minnesota college campuses provided data on their sexual health behaviors. In addition, a specially designed inventory was used to assess the sexual health resources available on each campus. Multilevel regression was used to test the associations of four types of resources with students’ condom use, birth control use,STDorHIVtesting, and unplanned pregnancy.

Results

In models that controlled for students’ personal and demographic characteristics, the higher the level of sexual health resources at a college, the lower the likelihood that students had had intercourse without birth control, intercourse without a condom and involvement in unplanned pregnancy. For example, students attending colleges with the maximum number of general clinic resources had a lower predicted probability of reporting nonuse of reliable birth control at last intercourse than students attending colleges with no resources (7% vs. 14%). After college characteristics were adjusted for, most measures of resources remained significant, although associations were reduced; two measures became significant in unexpected directions.

Conclusions

Colleges’ provision of sexual health resources may be associated with students’ sexual health behaviors. Research using quasi‐experimental or experimental designs is needed to assess the mechanisms underlying these associations; such work could lead to interventions that might help reduce students’ risky behaviors.
Hysterectomy and Disability Among U.S. Women
Authors: Rivera Drew Julia A.
Published: August 2013

Context

Hysterectomies are the second most common surgery performed on women in the United States, and most are done for elective reasons. Although women with disabilities appear to have an increased risk of undergoing the procedure, little research has evaluated the relationship between disability and hysterectomy.

Methods

Data on 42,842 women aged 18 or older from the 2000, 2005 and 2010 National Health Interview Surveys were used to evaluate the relationship between disability and the risk of having a hysterectomy over the life course. Piecewise exponential event history models were estimated to identify associations between timing of disability onset, type of disability, and the occurrence and timing of hysterectomy.

Results

Women with multiple disabilities experienced a higher risk of undergoing a hysterectomy than women with no disability (hazard ratio, 1.3), and this heightened risk was concentrated at younger ages. During their 20s, 30s and early 40s, women who had multiple disabilities were more likely to have had a hysterectomy than were their same‐age counterparts with no or one disability (1.3–2.4). Women with a single type of disability, as well as most women who had multiple disabilities and were aged 46 or older, were not at increased risk of having had a hysterectomy.

Conclusions

Additional research is needed to investigate why young women with multiple disabilities appear to face an increased risk of having a hysterectomy, especially because it is major surgery that can carry significant health risks.
Extracting light out of LEDs
Authors: Muschaweck Julius , Wiesmann Christopher
Published: August 2013

‘External quantum efficiency’, that is, the number of photons generated per electron passing through the p-n junction of an LED is probably the most important number to quantify the performance of an LED chip. Although advances in epitaxy have increased the fraction of radiative recombination to extremely high values, the extraction of the precious photons that are trapped in a high refractive index crystal is still tricky. In this brief tutorial, we look at the physics of light extraction both from a geometrical optics/thermodynamic and a wave optics point of view, discussing both random and deterministic surface structures.
Lighting with laser diodes
Authors: Basu Chandrajit , Meinhardt-Wollweber Merve , Roth Bernhard
Published: August 2013

Contemporary white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are much more efficient than compact fluorescent lamps and hence are rapidly capturing the market for general illumination. LEDs are also replacing halogen lamps or even newer xenon based lamps in automotive headlamps. Because laser diodes are inherently much brighter and often more efficient than corresponding LEDs, there is great research interest in developing laser diode based illumination systems. Operating at higher current densities and with smaller form factors, laser diodes may outperform LEDs in the future. This article reviews the possibilities and challenges in the integration of visible laser diodes in future illumination systems.
Selective fluorescence sensing of ferric ion with novel triazolethione Schiff bases probes
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Junwu , Jiang Xiaoyu , Yang Kui , Zhang Qiang , Gao Yan
Published: August 2013

New triazolethione Schiff base derivatives 3a–f were synthesized. The structures of the products were characterized by elemental analysis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR and MS. Their complexation properties to different heavy and transition metal ions were studied by UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Compound 3a shows selective recognition of Fe3+ with a 1:1 stoichiometric complex formation.
Impact of glucocorticoid hormones on adipokine secretion and human adipose tissue metabolism
Authors: Fain John N.
Published: August 2013

The glucocorticoid hormones alter the metabolism of the adipose tissue after an approximately 2-h lag period. The effects are mediated through the nuclear receptors that alter the expression of a wide variety of genes through the mechanisms that are similar to those seen in the other cells. There are many direct metabolic effects of the glucocorticoids on the adipose tissue metabolism, and every year, new effects are added to the list of proteins whose expression is influenced by the glucocorticoids. Furthermore, some enzymatic processes are affected by these hormones only in the presence of the other hormones such as growth hormone (GH) or insulin. Most of the effects of the glucocorticoids are on the gene transcription, and the effects on the mRNA are reflected in the altered levels of the target proteins. The glucocorticoids enhance the leptin release, while reducing that of the inflammatory adipokines and stimulating that of the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) in the presence of insulin. The activity of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD1) is enhanced by the glucocorticoids along with that of α1 glycoprotein 1 and serum amyloid A release by the adipose tissue. In contrast, the tumor necrosis factor α (TNF)-stimulated lipolysis in the adipose tissue is blocked by the glucocorticoids. It is still unclear which, if any, of these effects account for the insulin resistance due to the glucocorticoids in the adipose tissue. However, recent work suggests that, at least in mice, the reduction in the osteocalcin release by the osteoblasts in the presence of the glucocorticoids accounts for much of the in vivo insulin resistance. In summary, there are multiple direct effects of the glucocorticoids, both anti-inflammatory and proinflammatory, on the adipose tissue.
Site-directed spin labeling EPR spectroscopy in protein research
Authors: Klare Johann P.
Published: August 2013

Site-directed spin labeling (SDSL) in combination with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy has emerged as an efficient tool to elucidate the structure and the conformational dynamics of proteins under conditions close to the native state. This review article summarizes the basics as well as the recent progress in SDSL and EPR methods, especially for investigations on protein structure, protein function, and interaction of proteins with other proteins or nucleic acids. Labeling techniques as well as EPR methods are introduced and exemplified with applications to systems that have been studied in the author’s laboratory in the past 15 years, headmost the sensory rhodopsin-transducer complex mediating the photophobic response of the halophilic archaeum Natronomonas pharaonis. Further examples underline the application of SDSL EPR spectroscopy to answer specific questions about the system under investigation, such as the nature and influence of interactions of proteins with other proteins or nucleic acids. Finally, it is discussed how SDSL EPR can be combined with other biophysical techniques to combine the strengths of the different methodologies.
MeCP2 phosphorylation in the brain: from transcription to behavior
Authors: Damen Daniela , Heumann Rolf
Published: August 2013

Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2), a nuclear protein highly expressed in neurons, was identified because of its ability to bind methylated DNA. In association with the transcriptional corepressor proteins Sin3a and histone deacetylases, it represses gene transcription. However, it has since become clear that MeCP2 is a multifunctional protein involved not only in transcriptional silencing but also in transcriptional activation, chromatin remodeling, and RNA splicing. Especially, its involvement in the X-linked neurologic disorder Rett syndrome emphasizes the importance of MeCP2 for normal development and maturation of the central nervous system. A number of animal models with complete or partial lack of MeCP2 functions have been generated to correlate the clinical phenotype of Rett syndrome, and studies involving different mutations of MeCP2 have shown similar effects. Animal model studies have further demonstrated that even the loss of a specific phosphorylation site of MeCP2 (S80, S421, and S424) disturbs normal maturation of the mammalian brain. This review covers recent findings regarding MeCP2 functions and its regulation by posttranslational modification, particularly MeCP2 phosphorylation and its effects on mammalian brain maturation, learning, and plasticity.
Characterization of the Fréchet derivative of the elasto-acoustic field with respect to Lipschitz domains
Authors: Barucq Hélène , Djellouli Rabia , Estecahandy Elodie
Published: August 2013

We establish the continuous Fréchet differentiability of the elasto-acoustic field with respect to Lipschitz continuous deformation of the shape of an elastic scatterer. We then characterize the derivative as a solution of a direct elasto-acoustic-type problem. Such a characterization has the potential to advance the state-of-the-art of the solution of inverse elasto-acoustic scattering problems.
Preparation of graphene adsorbents and their applications in water purification
Authors: Xu Jing , Lv Hongda , Yang Sheng-Tao , Luo Jianbin
Published: August 2013

Graphene has attracted great interest for its unique structure, fantastic properties, and wide applications. Among the various applications, graphene-based materials hold great potential as adsorbents in decontaminating water because of the large surface area, diverse functionalities, ease of preparation, and low cost of treatment. Graphene and its composites have been used in treating heavy metals, dyes, pesticide, antibiotics, oils, and so on. In this paper, we reviewed the preparation methods of graphene adsorbents and their applications in water purification. The adsorption behaviors of contaminates on graphene are summarized. The interactions between graphene and contaminates are discussed, emphasizing the influence of functional groups. We also propose some guidelines in designing high-performance graphene adsorbents from the physicochemical perspective.
Recent advances in the chemistry of nitrosyl complexes of chromium
Authors: Døssing Anders
Published: August 2013

A review of the chemistry of nitrosyl complexes of chromium published since 2002 is given including coordination complexes as well as organometallic complexes. The syntheses, electronic structures, optical absorption spectra, electron paramagnetic resonance parameters, photochemistry, reactivity, and magnetic properties of the complexes are presented.
Structural determinants regulating cell surface targeting of melanocortin receptors
Authors: Rodrigues A R , Sousa D , Almeida H , Gouveia A M
Published: August 2013

Melanocortin receptors (MCRs) belong to the G-protein-coupled receptor family of transmembrane proteins. They recognize specific ligands named melanocortins that are mainly produced in the pituitary and hypothalamus. Newly synthesized MCRs at the endoplasmic reticulum are subjected to quality control mechanisms that screen for the correct structure, folding or processing, essential for their proper cell surface expression. Some motifs, located at the N- or C-terminus or even on transmembrane and in loop regions, have been implicated in these biological processes. This article reviews these specific domains and the role of accessory proteins and post-translation modifications in MCRs' targeting to cell surface. Additionally, promising approaches involving pharmacological stabilization of misfolded and misrouted mutant MCRs, which improve their forward transport, are reported. Understanding the MCRs' structural determinants fundamental for their proper cell surface integration is essential for correcting abnormalities found in some diseases.
Human machine music
Authors: Hill Barry , Fitzgerald Jon
Published: August 2013

This article presents a participant–observer documentation and analysis of creative practices among a group of contemporary Australian musicians working within the field of ‘live electronica’ (LE)—defined as electronic dance music (EDM) performed for an audience in real time by a group of musicians without the aid of machine/computer-controlled sound generation sequences. Australian LE emerged in the 1990s and went through a period of development during the first decade of the twenty-first century, as live performers dealt with challenges and opportunities associated with digital music technology and EDM. The article examines how LE musicians responded to various technological, social and economic changes by developing innovative creative processes and music industry practices, and argues that LE musicians have played a significant role in the ‘humanizing’ of EDM performance.
Association between Dental Arch Widths and Interarch Relationships in Children with Operated Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Patrícia Bittencourt Dutra Dos Santos , Janson Guilherme , Assis Vivian Helena , De Paula Leite Battisti Maira , Garib Daniela Gamba
Published: August 2013

Objective

Palate and lip repair have great influence on the sagittal and transverse growth of the maxilla. The correlation between arch widths and sagittal interarch relationships in operated patients with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) in the mixed dentition is not clear. The aim of this study was to compare the maxillary arch widths of patients with UCLP and different interarch relationships (GOSLON Yardstick index)

Methods

The study sample consisted of 144 pairs of dental casts of patients with complete UCLP from 8 to 10 years of age, from a single center. These dental casts were divided into three groups: group I (patients with GOSLON Yardstick 1 and 2 interarch relationships), group II (GOSLON Yardstick 3), and group III (GOSLON Yardstick 4 and 5). The control group consisted of 40 pairs of dental casts of noncleft Class I patients at the same age range. The maxillary and mandibular arch widths were measured at canine, deciduous molars, and permanent first molar regions. Intergroup comparisons were performed by analysis of variance followed by Tukey tests ( P < .05)

Results

Maxillary arch widths were significantly smaller in all three groups with repaired UCLP compared to the control group. Group III showed reduced intercanine and second deciduous molar widths compared to group I. No intergroup differences were observed for mandibular arch widths.

Conclusions

Operated UCLP patients with more severe sagittal discrepancies tend to show more severe transverse maxillary arch deficiencies.
Investigation of Parental Transmission of RUNX2 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism and Its Association with Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip with or Without Palate
Authors: Jung Seung Hee , Lee Ah-Young , Park Ji Wan , Baek Seung-Hak , Kim Young Ho
Published: August 2013

Objective

To investigate the association and parental transmission of RUNX2 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with risk of nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NS-CL±P).

Design

Four RUNX2 SNPs in 142 Korean NS-CL±P families (nine cleft lip, 26 cleft lip and alveolus, and 107 cleft lip and palate; 76 trios and 66 dyads) were genotyped. The minor allele frequency, heterozygosity, and chi-square test for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at each SNP were computed between parents. Pairwise linkage disequilibrium was computed as D′ and r2 for all SNPs. Both allelic and genotypic transmission disequilibrium tests (TDTs) were performed for individual SNPs using a family-based association test program. Sliding windows of haplotypes consisting of two to four SNPs were tested using a haplotype-based association test program. Genotypic odds ratios (GORs) were calculated from conditional logistic regression models. Parent-of-origin effects were assessed using transmission asymmetry test and parent-of-origin likelihood ratio test.

Results

The family-based TDT showed significant evidence of linkage and association at rs1934328 ( P = .001). In the haplotype analysis, two, three, and four haplotypes containing rs1934328 revealed significant associations ( P = .0017, P = .0022, and P = .0020, respectively). The genotypes A/T and T/T at rs1934328 were significantly associated with NS-CL±P compared with the genotype A/A (GOR = 2.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.39–5.45, P =0.0019 in the dominant model; GOR = 5.38, 95% CI = 1.34–21.68, P = .0046 in the additive model). However, no parent-of origin effect was observed.

Conclusion

These findings suggest possible involvement of RUNX2-rs 194328 in the etiology of NS-CL±P in Korean cleft-parent trios without excess parental transmission.
Rapid synthesis and characterization of amorphous manganese oxide nanowires
Authors: Patel Rajen B. , Chou Tsengming , Iqbal Zafar
Published: August 2013

Large amorphous MnOx nanowires/nanofibers, consisting of curved 1D mesoporous structures with the potential for use in electrochemical battery electrodes, have been synthesized by a facile chemical precipitation process at room temperature. The synthesis process is adapted from one that is used to obtain nanoscale metal borides and is easily scalable. X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopies, Raman spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy were performed to reveal critical details about the morphology, structure and composition of this material.
Willingness to pay for improved water services in Trinidad
Authors: Peters Everson , Despot Daniesh , Ragbersingh Kaseima , Iyer Nikhyl
Published: August 2013

Trinidad and Tobago is not a water-scarce country by accepted definitions, yet it is struggling to meet set objectives of satisfying public demand for potable water. Consequently, in many communities, households have developed some coping mechanisms. Previous willingness to pay (WTP) studies have shown that households were not averse to paying more for improved water supply services. This study used the contingent valuation method to estimate the level of WTP in four different socio-economic communities in Trinidad. It was found that, while households' perceptions of the importance of water services when compared to other utilities is not homogeneous, there was a recognition of the need to pay more for water services. For payments through a fixed method or metered method, most households were prepared to pay substantially more than what they are now required to pay. Consequently, there are opportunities for the water and sewage authority to increase its revenue by implementing targeted programmes.
Effect of Nanocrystalline Calcium Sulfate Bone Graft in a Bilateral Sinus‐Augmentation Procedure: A Case Report
Authors: Mazor Ziv , Mamidwar Sachin
Published: August 2013

Introduction: Patients with an edentulous posterior maxillary segment frequently lack adequate bone mass to support dental implants. Implant placement into the posterior maxillary ridge can be complicated by limited quantity and poor quality of bone. Sinus lift and bone grafting result in bone regeneration as well as an increase in bone volume and hence help stabilize implants. The challenge of bone deficiency of this segment has been traditionally addressed by two approaches: 1) lateral maxillary window (hinge osteotomy) and 2) the crestal approach via osteotome technique.

Case Presentation: A 70‐year‐old female patient presented needing a full maxillary rehabilitation. The osteotome‐closed approach was used on the right side, which was grafted with nanocrystalline calcium sulfate (nCS) bone graft. The lateral window sinus elevation approach was used on the left side, which was grafted with nCS in combination with platelet‐rich fibrin. Implants were placed simultaneously. Computed tomography scans showed bone formation in the augmented sites at 6 months. Implants were restored at this time. A 2‐year follow‐up showed satisfactory results with good implant stability.

Conclusion: This case demonstrates the effective use of nCS for sinus‐augmentation cases.
Analytical Model for Unconventional Multifractured Composite Systems
Authors: Stalgorova Ekaterina , Mattar Louis
Published: August 2013

This paper presents an analytical model for unconventional reservoirs with horizontal wells with multiple fractures. The model is an extension of the "trilinear flow" solution, but it subdivides the reservoir into five regions instead of three. This enables it to be used for more-complex reservoirs. Accordingly, the model can simulate a fracture that is surrounded by a stimulated region of limited extent (fracture branching), whereas the remaining reservoir is nonstimulated. In addition to modeling flow within the fracture and flow within the stimulated region, the model takes into account flow from the surrounding nonstimulated region, both parallel to and perpendicular to the fracture.

The model can be used to simulate the flow in tight reservoirs with multifractured horizontal wells. In many cases, the fractures do not have a simple biwing shape, but are branched. This effectively creates regions of higher permeability around each fracture, which obviously affect the production performance significantly. However, in many tight reservoirs, in spite of their low permeability, the surrounding nonstimulated region can also be a significant contributor to long-term production. The five-region model accounts for this contribution. Thus, it is particularly valuable when generating production forecasts for reserves evaluation.

The model was validated by comparing its results with numerical simulation. We found that analytical and numerical results are in good agreement only when the geometry of the system falls within certain limitations. However, these limitations are met in most cases of interest. Therefore, the model is useful for practical engineering purposes.
Complementing Late‐Season Nitrogen Fertilization of Cool‐Season Turfgrass Putting Greens with Trinexapac‐ethyl
Authors: Rogan Chase M. , Schlossberg Maxim J.
Published: August 2013

Considering the vast number of golf course putting greens (PGs) comprised of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) and annual bluegrass (Poa annua L.) polystands; greater understanding of seasonal growth response to fall applications of growth regulators and/or N fertilizers is needed. The objective was to determine how timing of fall trinexapac‐ethyl (TE; 4‐[Cyclopropyl‐a‐hydroxymethylene]‐3,5‐dioxo‐cyclohexanecarboxylic acid ethyl ester) plant growth regulator and/or N application rate influence(s) PG N assimilation, removal, and spring canopy density. Field studies were initiated on a mixed creeping bentgrass + annual bluegrass PG in September 2009 or 2010. Foliar applications of TE at 0, 0.044+0.044, or 0.088 kg ha–1 were made in combination with soluble N at 30 or 60 kg ha–1. Treatment initiations, recurring every 10±1 d and centered on 15 October (30‐yr average date of first frost), represent the four treatment timings. Fall N rate directly influenced PG density but did not interact with TE. Compared to the 30 kg ha–1 N rate, significantly lesser proportions of the 60 kg N rate were removed by mowing. Fall and early‐spring PG growth decreased linearly with later N application dates, yet application timing significantly interacted with TE. Late fall TE treatment reduced early‐spring shoot growth as much as 20%.
Rapid Assessment of Bioenergy Feedstock Quality by Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Foster A. J. , Kakani V. G. , Ge J. , Mosali J.
Published: August 2013

The portability, quick turnaround time, and low long‐term maintenance costs of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) offers rapid determination of feedstock quality. The objective of this study was to estimate biomass composition (total N [TN], acid detergent fiber [ADF], neutral detergent fiber [NDF], and acid detergent lignin [ADL]) with NIRS. Linear regression of simple ratios (SRs), and partial least square (PLS) regression models with all wavebands (WBs) and selected waveband (SB) approaches were used. Laboratory analysis was conducted for TN, ADF, NDF, and ADL. Samples from 13 switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) cultivars, ES5200 high‐biomass sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], and mixed grasses composed of Alamo switchgrass, Cheyenne Indian grass [Sorghastrum nutans (L.) Nash] and Kaw big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii Vitman) fertilized at different rates of N ranging from 0 to 252 kg N ha–1 yr–1 were collected from two locations in Oklahoma. Spectral reflectance between 1000 and 2500 nm was collected with an ASD Fieldspec spectroradiometer from all samples. Results showed that TN can be estimated using a SR of R2080/R2190 (r2 = 0.84), while a SR of R2190/R2230 (r2 = 0.65) was able to estimate ADF (r2 = 0.70), NDF (r2 = 0.65), and ADL (r2 = 0.67). In comparison with SRs, a SB PLS model gave better prediction accuracy with nine wavebands for TN (r2 = 0.93) and seven wavebands for ADF (r2 = 0.78), NDF (r2 = 0.78), and ADL (r2 = 0.65). In conclusion, the success of both SR and SB PLS for estimating bioenergy feedstock composition indicates opportunities for instrument development for practical purposes.
Fertilizer and Irrigation Management Effects on Nitrous Oxide Emissions and Nitrate Leaching
Authors: Maharjan Bijesh , Venterea Rodney T. , Rosen Carl
Published: August 2013

Irrigation and N fertilizer management are important factors affecting crop yield, N fertilizer recovery efficiency, and N losses as nitrous oxide (N2O) and nitrate (NO3−). Split application of conventional urea (split‐U) and/or one‐time application of products designed to perform as enhanced‐efficiency N fertilizers may mitigate N losses. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of controlled‐release polymer‐coated urea (PCU), stabilized urea with urease and nitrification inhibitors (IU) and split‐U on direct soil‐to‐atmosphere N2O emissions, NO3− leaching, and yield for fully irrigated and minimum‐irrigated corn in loamy sand. Indirect N2O emissions due to NO3− leaching were estimated using published emission factors (EF5). Split‐U increased yield and N uptake compared with preplant‐applied PCU or IU and decreased NO3− leaching compared with PCU. Direct N2O emissions were significantly less with IU or split‐U than with PCU, and there was a trend for greater emissions with split‐U than with IU (P = 0.08). Irrigation significantly increased NO3− leaching during the growing season but had no significant effect on direct N2O emissions. After accounting for significantly increased yields with irrigation, however, N losses expressed on a yield basis did not differ and in some cases decreased with irrigation. Post‐harvest soil N and soil‐water NO3− in spring showed the potential for greater N leaching in minimum‐irrigated than fully irrigated plots. Indirect emissions due to NO3− leaching were estimated to be 79 to 117% of direct emissions using the default value of EF5, thus signifying the potential importance of indirect emissions in evaluating management effects on N2O emissions.
Agronomic Responses of Continuous Corn to Stover, Tillage, and Nitrogen Management
Authors: Sindelar A. J. , Coulter J. A. , Lamb J. A. , Vetsch J. A.
Published: August 2013

Corn (Zea mays L.) stover removal for biofuel production is expected to increase in the near future. Previous research suggests stover removal is best suited to continuous corn (CC) cropping systems with reduced tillage. However, grain yields in reduced tillage CC systems in the Upper Midwest can be reduced because of cool soil temperatures restricting early‐season growth. Field experiments were conducted over 3 yr at two locations in southern Minnesota with medium‐ and fine‐textured soils to assess the agronomic responses of CC to stover removal, tillage system, and fertilizer N rate. Stover removal and/or tillage increased soil temperature by as much as 4°C, and differences among treatments generally existed until canopy closure. Corn emergence was 6% greater with stover removal in no‐tillage (NT), but was not affected by stover removal in chisel‐tillage (CT) and strip‐tillage (ST). Stover removal increased normalized difference vegetative index (NDVI) at the eight leaf collar stage (V8) by 20 and 13% in NT and ST, respectively, but had no effect on NDVI in CT. Stover removal decreased the economically optimum N rate (EONR) by >12 and >19 kg N ha–1 in NT and ST, respectively, and increased grain yield at the EONR by 7, 9, and 6% in CT, NT, and ST, respectively. These results indicate stover removal can improve short‐term agronomic productivity of moderate‐ to high‐yielding CC on productive soils in the Upper Midwest.
Multifractal Analysis of Soil Properties along Two Perpendicular Transects
Authors: Vidal-Vázquez E. , Camargo O.A. , Vieira S.R. , Miranda J.G.V. , Menk J.R.F. , Siqueira G.M. , Mirás-Avalos J.M. , Paz González A.
Published: August 2013

The spatial variability of soil properties can be best characterized through concepts of scale invariance, fractals, and multifractals. The objectives of this study were to analyze and to compare the scaling patterns and structural heterogeneity of soil properties across two transects in Campinas, SP, Brazil, using the multifractal formalism. Two transects were marked parallel and perpendicular to land slope, with a length of 2.28 and 1.98 km, respectively. Soil samples were collected at the 0 to 20 cm depth every 30 m. The soil properties analyzed were: texture (sand, silt, clay), pH (H2O and KCl), organic carbon (OC) content, exchangeable Ca, H, and Al, exchangeable bases (SB), cation exchange capacity (CEC), and percent base saturation (V). Spatial variability of soil properties was controlled by natural causes, including parent material and topography, and by soil use and management. The variability of pH across the two transects was characterized by either quasi‐monofractal behavior or by a relatively low degree of multifractality. The other soil properties studied showed stronger degrees of multifractality. Hence, the multifractality for OC and silt content was much higher at the transect perpendicular to land slope. Variables from the soil exchange complex, particularly exchangeable Al, Ca, and SB, were characterized by higher multifractal indices in the two transects. Patterns of spatial distribution assessed by multifractal analysis were linked to soil forming factors and processes. Our results suggest that scale heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of soil properties was enhanced by the interaction of various natural or anthropogenic sources of variability.
Modeling Water Potentials and Flows in the Soil–Plant System Comparing Hydraulic Resistances and Transpiration Reduction Functions
Authors: de Jong van Lier Quirijn , van Dam Jos C. , Durigon Angelica , dos Santos Marcos A. , Metselaar Klaas
Published: August 2013

Transpiration reduction functions are often used in hydrological modeling to estimate actual transpiration as a function of soil water status. Empirical reduction functions are most frequently used due to the higher data needs and computational requirements of mechanistic models. Empirical models, however, lack a description of physical mechanisms and their parameters require extensive calibration. We derive a process‐based reduction function predicting system potentials, resistances, and water flows. An analytical solution for a special case of Brooks and Corey soils is presented. A numerical version of the reduction function for van Genuchten soils was implemented in the Soil–Water–Atmosphere–Plant (SWAP) hydrological model, allowing predictions for layered soil profiles and root length density variations over depth. The analytical and numerical versions of the model allow an increasingly quantitative insight into the mechanism of root water uptake, such as the existence of a maximum root water uptake rate as a function of soil water status, soil hydraulic properties, root length density, and root radius, in addition to the fact that sensitivity of simulated root water uptake to the radial root conductivity and axial conductance decrease when root length density increases. The approach can be used for the estimation of threshold values for empirical reduction functions.
Geophysical‐Based Modeling of a Kettle Hole Catchment of the Morainic Soil Landscape
Authors: Koszinski Sylvia , Gerke Horst H. , Hierold Wilfried , Sommer Michael
Published: August 2013

Soilscapes of the post‐glacial morainic regions of the youngest glaciation are characterized by small hydrological kettle hole catchments forming hummocky soil landscapes. The spatial heterogeneity of subsurface structures as well as erosion‐controlled pedogenesis under arable land use may complicate hydrological modeling. Our aim was to generate a soil landscape model for a small representative kettle hole catchment based on geoelectrical exploration and soil profile information. For a 1‐ha catchment located in the northeastern German lowlands near the town of Prenzlau, electrical resistivity transects were determined by a multi electrode system (IMPETUS 12 Fs) and electrical conductivity (ECa) was mapped by using the electromagnetic induction (EMI) device EM38DD in both the vertical and horizontal modes. The 1‐m digital elevation model (DEM) was obtained by kriging from high resolution manual elevation data determined with a leveling device (ZEISS Ni 40). Soil profile data from 26 boreholes distributed radially around the central pond were used to identify boundaries between soil horizons. The soil is characterized by varying topography and morphology of diagnostic horizons such as M‐ (colluvium), Bt‐ (clay illuviation), and C‐ (parent glacial till). By EMI mapping we identified (i) the boundary between erosive and colluvial areas around the kettle hole, and modeled (ii) the subsurface morphology of loamy horizons. Electrical resistivity tomography results coincide with these findings and allow for distinguishing between sandy and loamy dominated areas both in vertical and horizontal direction, respectively. This soil model of soil textural properties could be used for hydrological modeling.
Hydropedology and Ecohydrology of the Brigalow Belt, Australia: Opportunities for Ecosystem Rehabilitation in Semiarid Environments
Authors: Arnold Sven , Audet Patrick , Doley David , Baumgartl Thomas
Published: August 2013

The Brigalow Belt Bioregion—located between the subtropical coastline and semiarid interior of eastern Australia—is a unique ecological area characterized by noncracking clay soils that have high water‐holding capacities, and rainfall patterns that are spatiotemporally erratic and unpredictable. These attributes have resulted in highly variable water‐supply conditions defined by alternating periods of intense rainfall and prolonged drought to which open‐forests and woodlands dominated by endemic Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla F. Muell. ex Benth.) plant communities are best adapted. Since the 1950s, most of the Brigalow woodland has been cleared for agriculture and now coal mining developments, therefore very little of the predisturbance vegetation today remains. The primary goal of landscape rehabilitation currently targets the re‐establishment of native Brigalow plant communities in hopes of achieving stable and self‐sustaining ecosystems. However, very few reference ecosystems exist from which to determine essential ecological structure and function. Therefore, restoration practitioners are faced with the daunting task of reconstructing landforms and ecosystems that are characteristic of the bioregion's distinct environmental conditions. Here, we examine the fundamental hydropedological and ecohydrological relationships that define the function of natural Brigalow ecosystems. We propose these relationships as the cornerstone for rehabilitation of semiarid environments and suggest applying investigative methods of related disciplines within a unifying modeling framework (gray‐box) to promote the development of native plants in the Brigalow Belt. This is particularly critical where model parameterization may span a broad ecological organizational scale or where there are knowledge gaps within the model framework.
Gas Diffusivity‐Based Design and Characterization of Greenhouse Growth Substrates
Authors: Chamindu Deepagoda T.K.K. , Moldrup Per , Tuller Markus , Pedersen Mette , Chen Lopez Jose Choc , Wollesen de Jonge Lis , Kawamoto Ken , Komatsu Toshiko
Published: August 2013

Growing plants in containerized substrates has long been common practice in horticulture. Containerized plants (e.g., greenhouse tomatoes) have restricted access to essential growth resources such as oxygen, water, and nutrients. Since a wide range of inorganic and organic materials, and different combinations thereof, are commonly used as growth media, detailed and comparable physical characterization is key to identify the best performing media. In this study, five potential growth media and two mixtures thereof were characterized based on soil gas diffusivity (Dp/Do, where Dp and Do are gas diffusion coefficients in soil air and free air, respectively) and an operationally defined critical window of diffusivity (CWD) representing the interval of air‐filled porosity between critical air filled porosity where Dp/Do ≈ 0.02 and interaggregate porosity. The Dp measurements were conducted with 100‐cm3 samples from wet to complete dry conditions achieved by stepwise air drying and equilibration of initially water‐saturated samples. A previously developed inactive pore and density‐corrected (IPDC) model was able to describe gas diffusivities for media with distinct inactive pore space in the interaggregate pore region reasonably well. An extended IPDC model was introduced for media exhibiting a second percolation threshold in the intra‐aggregate pore region. The analysis revealed comparable CWD values for the majority of the investigated media. The results further highlighted the importance of other major aspects (physical, chemical, and biological) of growth media characterization for optimal growth media design. A simple approach toward designing a gas diffusivity mixing model is presented to assist with selection of optimal mixing ratios of growth media with markedly different Dp/Do behavior.
Scaling in Soil and Other Complex Porous Media
Authors: Guadagnini Alberto , Martínez Fernando San José , Pachepsky Yakov A.
Published: August 2013

Scaling remains one of the most challenging topics in earth and environmental sciences, forming a basis for our understanding of process development across the multiple scales that make up the subsurface environment. Tremendous progress has been made in discovery, explanation, and applications of scaling. And yet much more needs to be done and is being done as part of the modern quest to quantify, analyze, and manage the complexity of natural systems. Understanding and succinct representation of scaling properties can unveil underlying relationships between system structure and response functions, improve parameterization of natural variability and heterogeneity, and help us address societal needs by effectively merging knowledge acquired at different scales.
Evaluating Bias‐Corrected AMSR‐E Soil Moisture using in situ Observations and Model Estimates
Authors: Sridhar V. , Jaksa W.T.A. , Fang Bin , Lakshmi Venkat , Hubbard Kenneth G. , Jin Xin
Published: August 2013

Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer‐Earth Observing System (AMSR‐E) soil moisture data products are proven to be useful across various regions around the world. However, numerous studies have suggested that validation and bias‐correction at the local scale is important to use them with confidence for numerical weather prediction, land surface energy, and water balance assessment, including infiltration and drainage. Here we investigate the cumulative distribution function (CDF) to correct AMSR‐E surface soil moisture data using field observations of soil moisture for 37 sites from Nebraska's Automated Weather Data Network (AWDN) and model‐simulated soil moisture from southwestern Idaho. We explore the scaling of AMSR‐E data using simulated soil moisture from three hydrological models, Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC), Noah Land Surface Model (Noah LSM) and Robinson Hubbard 1‐D (RH1D) models. We hypothesize that these calibrated hydrological models can substitute for field observations to represent continuous surface of soil moisture fields over space and time when used in conjunction with daily AMSR‐E data. Our results suggest that it is necessary to have the AMSR‐E data bias‐corrected based on either field observations or model estimates. The magnitude of values for corrected AMSR‐E soil moisture and observed soil moisture showed better correlation for the growing seasons between 2003 and 2005. It is also shown that well‐calibrated hydrological models can be useful to provide correction for the AMSR‐E product thereby adding value to the AMSR‐E soil moisture datasets.
Effects of Nano-SiO2 on Setting Time and Compressive Strength of Alkaliactivated Metakaolin-based Geopolymer
Authors: Gao Kang , Lin Kae-Long , Wang DeYing , Shiu Hau-Shing , Hwang Chao-Lung , Cheng Ta-Wui
Published: August 2013

This study presents a discussion on the effects of different solid-to-liquid (S/L) ratios (0.97 to 1.19) and nano-
SiO2 (NS) percentages (0% to 3%) on some properties of metakaolin (MK)-based geopolymers. The setting time and
compressive strength were investigated. Mercury intrusion porosimetry, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and
scanning electron microscopy were used to determine the microstructure of the samples. The results show that a MKbased
geopolymer sample added 1% NS with the S/L ratio of 1.03 exhibits more strength and less porosity. Applying NS
to the geopolymer enhances compactness and increases strength. Therefore, nanotechnology can be used to improve geopolymers.