bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole‐Farm Evaluation of Forage Mixtures and Grazing Strategies
Authors: Deak Atila , Hall Marvin H. , Sanderson Matt A. , Rotz Al , Corson Michael
Published: July 2010

Complex forage mixtures (mixtures of more than three species) have been researched as a means to increase yield and sustain forage production in pastures of the northeastern United States. However, little research has focused on the economic impact of forage mixture complexity and grazing strategy on a whole‐farm scale. We used the Integrated Farm System Model (IFSM) to examine the short‐ (2‐yr) and long‐term (25‐yr) performance and economic returns of four pasture mixtures (two, three, five, and seven species of grasses and legumes) and grass monocultures grazed according to plant morphology or canopy height criteria. For both 2‐ and 25‐yr analyses, reduced pasture production in the morphology‐based grazing strategy led to a decrease in net return compared to the height‐based grazing strategy. Both analyses showed that the differences in net return were mainly due to seed, fertilizer, and feed costs, pasture production, and the income from excess forage sales. Production was more dependable for the height‐based grazing strategy compared with the morphology‐based strategy. Complex mixtures generated greater and more consistent net returns compared with either the simple mixtures or grass monoculture. More importantly, when comparing the difference in net return obtained by a particular forage treatment in dry and wet years, the net return using complex mixtures was reduced by only 25 to 27%. On the other hand, reductions in net return ranged from 36% for a three‐species mixture to 55% for grass monoculture. For dairy pastures, complex mixtures are a useful alternative to reduce production variability in dry years.
An Active Sensor Algorithm for Corn Nitrogen Recommendations Based on a Chlorophyll Meter Algorithm
Authors: Solari Fernando , Shanahan John F. , Ferguson Richard B. , Adamchuk Viacheslav I.
Published: July 2010

In previous research we found active canopy sensor reflectance assessments of corn (Zea mays L.) N status have potential for directing in‐season N applications, but emphasized an algorithm was needed to translate sensor readings into appropriate N application (Napp) rates. The objectives of this work were to: (i) develop an active canopy sensor algorithm based on a SPAD chlorophyll meter algorithm and (ii) validate the active canopy sensor algorithm using data collected from a companion study. We derived the sensor algorithm using a linear relationship between sensor sufficiency index (SIsensor) and SISPAD values established in the previous research and a published SPAD algorithm employing a quadratic equation to calculate Napp as a function of SISPAD. The resulting equation: represents the function for translating SIsensor to Napp. To validate the algorithm, SIsensor values collected from small plots receiving varying N amounts were converted into Napp using the algorithm. Then Napp was converted into crop N balance (Nbalance) estimates, where Nbalance = applied N‐Napp. Negative Nbalance values indicate N deficiency while positive values indicate excess N. The Nbalance values were compared with relative yields and a quadratic‐plateau model fit to the data set for both growth stages (V11 and V15), producing an R2 of 0.66. Relative yields plateaued at an Nbalance near zero (−11 kg N ha−1), indicating the algorithm provided reasonable estimates of Napp for maximizing yields. The equation provides a basis for the use of active crop canopy sensors for in‐season N management of irrigated corn
Evaluating the Agronomic Potential of Chickpea Germplasm for Western Nebraska
Authors: Urrea Carlos A. , Harveson Robert M. , Koehler Ann E. , Burgener Paul , Baltensperger David D.
Published: July 2010

The chickpea or garbanzo bean (Cicer arietinum L.) shows promise as an alternative crop for Nebraska because it fits well with existing equipment, processors, and infrastructure. Initially chickpea production grew rapidly in Nebraska, but it declined in recent years because of Ascochyta blight [Ascochyta rabiei (Pass.) Labr.] and concern about the variability in yield, seed size, pest resistance, and quality of current varieties. Therefore, we evaluated existing chickpea germplasm (Western Regional Chickpea Trial provided by USDA‐ARS, Pullman, WA) under irrigated and dryland conditions at 11 environments in western Nebraska during 2005 to 2007 to identify lines that are well adapted to this region, have desirable yield and quality characteristics, and are resistant to Ascochyta blight. This paper reports findings of the agronomic characteristic portion of the study. CA0090B347C and W6 17256 were the top yielding entries under both irrigated and dryland conditions and showed some resistance to Ascochyta blight however, their seed size did not meet commercial standards. Nevertheless, these lines show promise as parental germplasm for ongoing breeding efforts. ‘Sierra’, a commercial cultivar, may be an acceptable alternative, though fungicides treatments will likely be needed to control blight. During these trials, only irrigated production was economically viable. Returns from the higher yielding entries were competitive and if achieved on a consistent basis would make chickpea a viable crop for this region. For dryland production to be feasible, the cost of production needs to be reduced and/or varieties need to be developed with improved yield and seed size under limited moisture conditions.
Soybeans Compensate at Low Seeding Rates but not at High Thinning Rates
Authors: Cox W. J. , Cherney J. H. , Shields E.
Published: July 2010

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed costs have more than tripled, so high seeding rates are expensive insurance against poor emergence associated with planting conditions or pest damage to established plant stands. Drilled soybeans (0.19 m spacing) were evaluated in New York (NY) in 2006 and 2007 at three seeding (358,000; 469,000; and 580,000 seeds ha−1) and four thinning rates (0, 10, 25, and 50% at the sixth node stage) to determine if yields can be maintained at lower seeding rates. Soybean plants responded linearly to seeding rates with 20% more grams of biomass, 0.9 more side branches, 21% more pods, and 21% more seeds plant−1 at 358,000 seeds ha−1 vs. the recommended 469,000 seeds ha−1 (21.1 g, 1.4 side branches, 30.6 pods, and 70.1 seeds plant−1), resulting in similar biomass accumulation (∼555 g m−2) during seed development (∼R5 stage), pod density (817 vs. 805 m−2), and seed density (1883 vs. 1816 m−2, respectively). Seeds pod−1 (∼2.30) and seed mass (∼170 mg) did not vary and all seeding rates yielded similarly (∼3.1 Mg ha−1). Thinning rates resulted in linear reductions in biomass accumulation and pod density with no effect on seeds pod−1 or seed mass. Thinning reduced yields linearly (3.3 Mg ha−1 for no‐thinning and 2.8 Mg ha−1 for 50% thinning). Seeding by thinning rate interactions were not observed so plant density reductions after stand establishment posed no greater risk at lower seeding rates. Growers who drill soybeans in the northeastern United States should consider lower seeding rates.
Effects of Elevated Ammonia Concentration and Nitrogen Status on the Growth and Yield of Winter Wheat
Authors: Chen Xiaoli , Ren Xiaolong , Wu Pute , Zhao Xining , Li Jing , Li Shiqing
Published: July 2010

Elevated atmospheric NH3may affect productivity of crops in part by altering N assimilation, and the effect may be responsible for the N status of the plant. To investigate this possibility, measurements of plant height, leaf area per plant, net photosynthesis rate (Pn), plant biomass production, shoot/root (S/R) ratio, grain yield and its components were used to examine the effects of elevated NH3concentration in combination with N status on growth and yield in pot‐grown winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) using open‐top chambers. After 2 month of NH3injection, elevated NH3significantly increased plant height, leaf area per plant, shoot biomass production (total biomass), and S/R ratio in the N‐deprived plants in both years, but the corresponding values in the N‐sufficient plants were reduced. ThePnvalues were increased with NH3enhancement both in the presence and absence of N in the potting soil in each experimental year, but the increment ofPnin N‐deprived plants was two times higher than that of the N‐sufficient plants in both years. At harvest, grain yields of N‐deprived winter wheat exposed to elevated levels of NH3were increased by 21% and 23% than that of N‐deprived winter wheat exposed to 0 levels of NH3, while grain yields of N‐sufficient winter wheat exposed to elevated levels of NH3were decreased by 27% and 23% than that of N‐sufficient winter wheat exposed to 0 levels of NH3in 2007 and 2008, respectively.
Yield, Quality, and Water and Nitrogen Use of Durum and Annual Forages in Two‐Year Rotations
Authors: Lenssen A. W. , Cash S. D. , Hatfield P. G. , Sainju U. M. , Grey W. R. , Blodgett S. L. , Goosey H. B. , Griffith D. A. , Johnson G. D.
Published: July 2010

Annual spring‐seeded forage crops use less water than cereal grains, including durum (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum), and may be suitable to replace summer fallow. We conducted an experiment from 2002 through 2006 comparing yield, quality, and water and N use of durum and three annual forages, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), barley interseeded with pea [Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poir.], and foxtail millet [Setaria italica (L.) Beauv.] in 2‐yr rotations. Durum in rotation with summer fallow and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) were included. Averaged over 5 yr, alfalfa had higher forage yield and quality, water use, and N accumulation compared to annual forages. Annual forages had similar preplant and postharvest soil water contents, but barley and barley–pea had higher yields and water use compared to millet. Barley–pea intercrop had superior forage crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and N accumulation compared to barley and millet, but acid detergent fiber (ADF) and nitrogen recovery index (NRI) were similar among annual forages. Averaged over 4 yr, preplant soil water and residual N content were greater for durum following fallow than for durum following annual forages, resulting in reduced fertilizer N requirement and greater yield, water use, grain N accumulation and NRI following fallow. Replacing summer fallow with annual forages reduced durum grain yield by 727 kg ha−1 but provided forage yield of 4.9 Mg ha−1 Annualized net returns in annual forage‐durum systems were $127 ha−1, $77 and $34 ha−1 greater than for fallow‐durum and alfalfa, respectively. Replacing summer fallow with annual forages reduced durum yield but improved profitability.
Biomass Production in Switchgrass across the United States: Database Description and Determinants of Yield
Authors: Wullschleger S. D. , Davis E. B. , Borsuk M. E. , Gunderson C. A. , Lynd L. R.
Published: July 2010

Fundamental to deriving a sustainable supply of cellulosic feedstock for an emerging biofuels industry is understanding how biomass yield varies as a function of crop management, climate, and soils. Here we focus on the perennial switchgrass (Panicum virgatumL.) and compile a database that contains 1190 observations of yield from 39 field trials conducted across the United States. Data include site location, stand age, plot size, cultivar, crop management, biomass yield, temperature, precipitation, and information on land quality. Statistical analysis revealed the major sources of variation in yield. Frequency distributions of yield for upland and lowland ecotypes were unimodal, with mean (±SD) biomass yields of 8.7 ± 4.2 and 12.9 ± 5.9 Mg ha−1for the two ecotypes, respectively. We looked for, but did not find, bias toward higher yields associated with small plots or preferential establishment of stands on high quality lands. A parametric yield model was fit to the data and accounted for one‐third of the total observed variation in biomass yields, with an equal contribution of growing season precipitation, annual temperature, N fertilization, and ecotype. The model was used to predict yield across the continental United States. Mapped output was consistent with the natural range of switchgrass and, as expected, yields were shown to be limited by precipitation west of the Great Plains. Future studies should extend the geographic distribution of field trials and thus improve our understanding of biomass production as a function of soil, climate, and crop management for promising biofuels such as switchgrass.
Effects of Plant Age and Environmental and Management Factors on Tea Yield in Northeast India
Authors: Dutta R. , Stein A. , Smaling E.M.A. , Bhagat R.M. , Hazarika M.
Published: July 2010

In this study, we quantify the effect of plant age and environmental (rainfall, pH, and soil organic carbon) and management (NPK fertilizers and pruning) factors that influence tea (Camellia sinensis) yields. The motivation for the study is that, recently, tea yield has stagnated in Northeastern India. We applied a statistical analysis on the agronomical factors influencing yield at the estate level as well as the within estate section level, using the datasets collected at seven tea estates between 1998 and 2007. The rationale was to identify the genotype, environmental, and management variables that have a significant influence on tea yield at the two spatial scales. Mean tea yields range between 1500 and 2500 kg ha−1 Tea yield is correlated with rainfall (R2 = 0.665 at one estate, R2 = 0.249 on an average) and it has a weak but significant correlation with organic carbon (R2 = 0.1 on average) on estates where organic carbon contents <2%. Plant age had a negative (R2 = 0.28 on average) and N fertilizer application a positive effect (R2 = 0.30 on average) on tea yield. Combined analysis of the effect of age and fertilizer application gave higher regression coefficients than separate analysis (R2 values ranging between 0.146–0.637). A pruning analysis was inconclusive due to the recovery time needed for freshly pruned plants. At the section level, we could include spatial dependence using spatial autoregression at one estate with sufficient data. Spatial dependence was shown most clearly in a reduced linear mixed model that only includes N fertilizer as an independent variable. We conclude that at the estate level, major differences in tea yield occurred due to variation in management practices and uncontrolled environmental factors. Tea yield at the section level is mostly affected by age and N application.
Municipal Biosolids as an Alternative Nutrient Source for Bioenergy Crops: II. Decomposition and Organic Nitrogen Mineralization
Authors: Castillo Miguel S. , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Vendramini João M.B. , Woodard Kenneth R. , Gilmour John T. , O'Connor George A. , Newman Yoana C. , Silveira Maria L. , Sartain Jerry B.
Published: July 2010

High‐yielding biomass crops remove significant quantities of soil nutrients, and nutrient replacement using inorganic fertilizers may not be sustainable. Municipal biosolids (MBS) are an alternative nutrient source. Organic N is the primary N form in MBS, and patterns of N mineralization can determine the effectiveness of MBS as an N source. The objectives of this experiment were to: (i) determine the effect of season of application on organic N mineralization rate and dry matter (DM) decomposition of Class A MBS measured in the field with litter bags and (ii) compare N mineralization measured using a field‐based technique with that predicted from the DECOMPOSITION model. Treatments were season of MBS application (spring and summer) during 2 yr. Organic N mineralization measured using litter bags followed the same pattern and arrived at a similar endpoint as predicted by the DECOMPOSITION model in three of four seasons. Lower spring temperatures and rainfall were associated with lower rates of N mineralization and DM decomposition during the 50 d following spring vs. summer application of MBS. When MBS were applied in summer, organic N mineralization leveled off approximately 50 d after application compared with 150 to 250 d following spring application. Seasonal weather conditions and N mineralization patterns should be considered when determining whether to apply MBS as the source of N, the timing of MBS application, and if single or split applications are best.
Continuous Cropping Systems Reduce Near‐Surface Maximum Compaction in No‐Till Soils
Authors: Blanco‐Canqui Humberto , Stone L. R. , Schlegel A. J. , Benjamin J. G. , Vigil M. F. , Stahlman P. W.
Published: July 2010

Because of increased concerns over compaction in no‐till (NT) soils, it is important to assess how continuous cropping systems influence risks of soil compaction across a range of soils and NT management systems. We quantified differences in maximum bulk density (BDmax) and critical water content (CWC) by the Proctor test, field bulk density (ρb), and their relationships with soil organic carbon (SOC) concentration across three (>11 yr) cropping systems on a silty clay loam, silt loam, and loam in the central Great Plains. On the silty clay loam, BDmax in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]–fallow (SF) and winter wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.)]–fallow (WF) was greater than in continuous wheat (WW) and continuous sorghum (SS) by 0.1 Mg m−3 in the 0‐ to 5‐cm soil depth. On the loam, BDmax in WF was greater than in W–corn (Zea mays L.)–millet (Panicum liliaceum L.) (WCM) by 0.24 Mg m−3 and perennial grass (GRASS) by 0.11 Mg m−3 On the silt loam, soil properties were unaffected by cropping systems. Elimination of fallowing increased the CWC by 10 to 25%. The ρb was greater in WF (1.52 Mg m−3) than in WW (1.16 Mg m−3) in the silty clay loam, while ρb under WF and WCF was greater than under WCM and GRASS in the loam for the 0‐ to 5‐cm depth. The BDmax and ρb decreased whereas CWC increased with an increase in SOC concentration in the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth. Overall, continuous cropping systems in NT reduced near‐surface maximum soil compaction primarily by increasing SOC concentration.
The combined use of MODFLOW and precipitation-runoff modeling to simulate groundwater flow in a diffuse-pollution prone watershed
Authors: Elçi A. , Karadaş D. , Fıstıkoğlu O.
Published: July 2010

A numerical modeling case study of groundwater flow in a diffuse pollution prone area is presented. The study area is located within the metropolitan borders of the city of Izmir, Turkey. This groundwater flow model was unconventional in the application since the groundwater recharge parameter in the model was estimated using a lumped, transient water-budget based precipitation-runoff model that was executed independent of the groundwater flow model. The recharge rate obtained from the calibrated precipitation-runoff model was used as input to the groundwater flow model, which was eventually calibrated to measured water table elevations. Overall, the flow model results were consistent with field observations and model statistics were satisfactory. Water budget results of the model revealed that groundwater recharge comprised about 20% of the total water input for the entire study area. Recharge was the second largest component in the budget after leakage from streams into the subsurface. It was concluded that the modeling results can be further used as input for contaminant transport modeling studies in order to evaluate the vulnerability of water resources of the study area to diffuse pollution.
Acetate uptake by PHA-accumulating and non-PHA-accumulating organisms in activated sludge from an aerobic sequencing batch reactor fed with acetate
Authors: Oshiki M. , Satoh H. , Mino T.
Published: July 2010

The present study was conducted to evaluate the specific acetate uptake rates of microorganisms with and without polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) accumulation. Activated sludge was aerobically incubated with 75 mgC L−1 radiolabeled or non-labeled acetate, and acetate consumption and PHA accumulation were monitored. Microorganisms were quantified as follows: all microbial cells by DAPI staining, whole acetate utilizing organisms by microautoradiography, and PHA-accumulating organisms by staining with Nile blue A. The abundance of acetate-utilizing organisms without PHA accumulation was also calculated from the outcomes. The estimate of acetate utilized by PHAAOs included both the acetate converted to PHA and that used to supply reducing power and ATP. Acetate utilized by PHAAOs and non-PHAAOs were divided by their respective abundances to obtain their respective specific acetate uptake rates: PHAAOs ranged between 5.3 and 8.0 × 10−10 mgC cell−1 h−1, and non-PHAAOs ranged between 2.8 and 4.2 × 10−10 mgC cell−1 h−1.
Decomposition and biodegradability enhancement of textile wastewater using a combination of electron beam irradiation and activated sludge process
Authors: Mohd Nasir Norlirubayah , Teo Ming Ting , Ahmadun Fakhru'l-Razi , Sobri Shafreeza
Published: July 2010

The research conducted a study on decomposition and biodegradability enhancement of textile wastewater using a combination of electron beam irradiation and activated sludge process. The purposes of this research are to remove pollutant through decomposition and to enhance the biodegradability of textile wastewater. The wastewater is treated using electron beam irradiation as a pre-treatment before undergo an activated sludge process. As a result, for non-irradiated wastewater, the COD removal was achieved to be between 70% and 79% after activated sludge process. The improvement of COD removal efficiency increased to 94% after irradiation of treated effluent at the dose of 50 kGy. Meanwhile, the BOD5 removal efficiencies of non-irradiated and irradiated textile wastewater were reported to be between 80 and 87%, and 82 and 99.2%, respectively. The maximum BOD5 removal efficiency was achieved at day 1 (HRT 5 days) of the process of an irradiated textile wastewater which is 99.2%. The biodegradability ratio of non-irradiated wastewater was reported to be between 0.34 and 0.61, while the value of biodegradability ratio of an irradiated wastewater increased to be between 0.87 and 0.96. The biodegradability enhancement of textile wastewater is increased with increasing the doses. Therefore, an electron beam radiation holds a greatest application of removing pollutants and also on enhancing the biodegradability of textile wastewater.
Strategies to mitigate diffuse phosphorus pollution during rewetting of fen peat soils
Authors: Meissner R. , Rupp H. , Seeger J. , Leinweber P.
Published: July 2010

The cultivation of fen peat soils (Eutric Histosols) for agricultural purposes, started in Europe about 250 years ago, resulting in decreased soil fertility, increased oxidation of peat and corresponding greenhouse gas fluxes to the atmosphere, nutrient transfer to aquatic ecosystems and losses in total area of the former native wetlands. To prevent these negative environmental effects set-aside programs and rewetting measures were promoted in recent years. Literature results and practical experiences showed that large scale rewetting of intensively used agricultural Histosols may result in mobilisation of phosphorus (P), its transport to adjacent surface waters and an accelerated eutrophication. The paper summarises results from an international European Community sponsored research project and demonstrates how results obtained at different scales and from different scientific disciplines were compiled to derive a strategy to carry out rewetting measures. Based on this findings a simple decision support system (DSS) for a hydrologically sensitive area in the Droemling catchment in north-eastern Germany was developed and since 2005 practically used to prevent freshwater resources from non point P pollution.
Evaluation of dual-mode rainwater harvesting system to mitigate typhoon-induced water shortage in Taiwan
Authors: Islam M. M. , Chou F. N.-F. , Liaw C.-H.
Published: July 2010

The water shortage of today's world is one of the most challenging problems and the world is looking for the best solution to reduce it. Some human made causes and also natural causes are liable for the shortage of the existing water supply system. In Taiwan, especially during typhoon, the turbidity of raw water increases beyond the treatment level and the plant cannot supply required amount of water. To make the system effective, a couple of days are needed and the shortage occurs. The purpose of this study is to solve this emergency shortage problem. A dual-mode Rainwater Harvesting System (RWHS) was designed for this study as a supplement to the existing water supply system to support some selected non-potable components such as toilet and urinal flushing of an elementary school. An optimal design algorithm was developed using YAS (yield after spillage) and YBS (yield before spillage) release rules. The study result proved that an optimum volume of tank can solve the emergency water shortage properly. The system was found to be more reliable in Taipei area than that of Tainan area. The study also discovered that a government subsidy would be needed to promote the system in Taiwan.
Monitoring endocrine activity in kraft mill effluent treated by aerobic moving bed bioreactor system
Authors: Chamorro S. , Pozo G. , Jarpa M. , Hernandez V. , Becerra J. , Vidal G.
Published: July 2010

A Moving Bed Bioreactor (MBBR) was operated at three different hydraulic retention times for a period of 414 days. The fate of the extractive compounds and the estrogenic activity of the Pinus radiata kraft mill effluents were evaluated using Yeast Estrogen Screen (YES) and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS) detection. Results show that the MBBR reactor is able to remove between 80–83% of estrogenic activity present in the kraft mill Pinus radiata influent, where the values of the effluent's estrogenic activity ranged between 0.123–0.411 ng L−1, expressed as estrogenic equivalent (EEqs) of 17-a-ethynylestradiol (EE2 eq.). Additionally, the biomass of the MBBR reactor accumulated estrogenic activity ranging between 0.29–0.37 ng EEqs EE2 during the different Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT) operations. The main groups present in pulp mills effluents, corresponding to fatty acids, hydrocarbons, phenols, sterols and triterpenes, were detected by solid phase extraction (SPE) and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results suggest that the sterols produce the estrogenic activity in the evaluated effluent.
Establishment of sustainable water supply system in small islands through rainwater harvesting (RWH): case study of Guja-do
Authors: Han Mooyoung , Ki Jaehong
Published: July 2010

Many islands in Korea have problems related to water source security and supply. In particular, the water supply condition is worse in small islands which are remote from the mainland. A couple of alternatives are developed and suggested to supply water to islands including water hauling, groundwater extraction, and desalination. However, these alternatives require much energy, cost, and concern in installation and operation. Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable option that supplies water with low energy and cost. However, lack of practical or comprehensive studies on rainwater harvesting systems in these regions hinders the promotion of the system. Therefore, this research examines defects of current RWH systems on an existing island, Guja-do, and provides technical suggestions in quantitative and qualitative aspects. A simple system design modification and expansion of system capacity using empty space such as a wharf structure can satisfy both the qualitative and the quantitative water demand of the island. Since rainwater harvesting is estimated to be a feasible water supply option under the Korean climate, which is an unfavorable condition for rainwater harvesting, implies a high potential applicability of rainwater harvesting technology to other regions over the world suffering from water shortage.
Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. in surface water supply of Campinas, Southeast Brazil
Authors: Neto Romeu Cantusio , dos Santos Luciana Urbano , Sato Maria Ines Zanoli , Franco Regina Maura Bueno
Published: July 2010

Surface water contaminated by domestic sewage discharges is a potential source of pathogens, including protozoa. During 2005–2006, the source water (Atibaia River) of the Surface Water Treatment Plant (WTP) of Campinas city, São Paulo, Brazil was sampled to obtain an assessment of Cryptosporidium oocyst and Giardia cyst concentrations. Calcium carbonate flocculation (CCF) and membrane filtration (MF) concentration techniques, with and without purification by immunomagnetic separation (IMS) were evaluated. The cysts and oocysts were detected by immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and confirmed by differential interference contrast (DIC). Membrane filtration method generally produced higher recovery efficiency. Giardia spp. was detected in 87.5% of the water samples analyzed with densities ranging from 2.5 to 120 cysts per L. Cryptosporidium spp were detected in 62.5% and the concentrations ranged from 15 to 60 oocysts per L. Cryptosporidium oocyst and Giardia cyst concentrations detected in this study were elevated and are associated with discharge of untreated sewage in Atibaia River. Measures should be taken to protect surface water from sources of contamination.
The Effect of Customer Value, Customer Satisfaction, and Switching Costs on Customer Loyalty: An Empirical Study of Hypermarkets in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Ming-Tien , Tsai Chung-Lin , Chang Han-Chao
Published: July 2010

Hypermarkets play an increasingly important role in the retail industry in Taiwan. In this study hypermarket customers in Taiwan were surveyed, using switching costs as a variable, to explore the relationship between customer value, customer satisfaction, and customer loyalty. The results
indicate that a customer with a more positive perception of the value of products/services has a more positive evaluation of the hypermarket, greater satisfaction, and loyalty. Greater satisfaction combined with greater concern over nonmonetary switching costs also increases customer loyalty
to the hypermarket. These findings may help hypermarket operators to develop their businesses further in Taiwan's competitive retail sector.
The Effect of Different Motivation Factors on Knowledge-Sharing Willingness and Behavior
Authors: Liu Wen-Chung , Fang Chen-Ling
Published: July 2010

The main purpose in this study was to examine the correlations between knowledge-sharing motivation, willingness, and behavior of volunteers and paid staff in different types of social welfare nonprofit organizations. Statistical analysis of empirical data from 375 participants' questionnaires
revealed the following results. Only one of the hygiene factors, extrinsic motivation, was found to be unrelated to willingness to share knowledge. All other hygiene factors were significantly related to knowledge-sharing willingness behavior, and the intrinsic motivation factor had the strongest
influence on knowledge-sharing willingness and behavior.
Cross-Cultural Approach to Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Eysenck William , Eysenck Michael W.
Published: July 2010

In his theory of anxiety disorders, Eysenck (1997) argued that focus on one's own behavior is associated with social phobia, whereas focus on future-oriented threat cognitions is associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder. These foci occur in part because social phobics tend to be
introverted and obsessive-compulsives either perceive themselves as having onerous responsibilities or actually do have them (e.g., women with infants). These assumptions have empirical support (Eysenck). We can use the theory to predict cross-cultural differences in anxiety disorders.
Social phobia should be more common in introverted cultures. We correlated lifetime incidence of social phobia (data: Wittchen & Fehm, 2001) with extraversion (data: Steel & Ones, 2002) across several countries, obtaining the predicted negative correlation (-0.35). We will expand the
database to establish definitively the strength of this association. We will also explore the prediction that people in individualistic countries (emphasizing personal responsibility) have a higher incidence of obsessive-compulsive disorder than those in collectivistic countries, a prediction
receiving preliminary support (e.g., Essau, Sakano, Ishikawa, & Sasagawa, 2004).
The influence of social class salience on self-assessed inTelligence
Authors: Kudrna Laura , Furnham Adrian , Swami Viren
Published: July 2010

Previous research on self-assessed intelligence (SAI) has been focused on sex differences to the exclusion of other pertinent factors, including objective and subjective social class differences. In this study, 343 participants completed an online questionnaire in which the salience
of social class identity was manipulated and measures of self-assessed overall intelligence, participant sex, and objective and subjective social class status were obtained. Results showed that participants of a high social class had a significantly higher SAI when their social class identity
was salient, but there was no significant difference in the SAI of low social class groups with or without their social class identity salient. Results also revealed significant sex differences in SAI, but only among participants of a high social class. Overall, these results suggest that
social class salience may be an important factor in shaping SAI.
Chorion Structure of Diapause and Subitaneous Eggs of Four Diaptomid Copepods (Calanoida, Diaptomidae): SEM Observations
Authors: Samchyshyna L. , Santer B.
Published: July 2010

Chorion Structure of Diapause and Subitaneous Eggs of Four Diaptomid Copepods (Calanoida, Diaptomidae): SEM Observations

Scanning electron microscopic examination of diapause eggs of freshwater CalanoidaHemidiaptomus amblyodonMarenzeller,Eudiaptomus vulgaris(Schmeil),E. graciloides(Lilljeborg) and subitaneous one s ofE. gracilis(Sars) is described. The chorion surface ornamentation and number of coated layers are revealed. Diapause eggs have a thick (0.6-4.8 μ), at least two-layered chorion with patterned surface, whereas subitaneous eggs have a thin (0.13-0.25 μ), single-layered chorion with smooth surface. The mean number of eggs in egg sac, diameter of eggs and thickness of chorion were measured. The significance of the egg chorion thickness for diaptomid species inhabited temporary and/or permanent water-bodies is discussed.
Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation for vasospasm after experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Takahashi Masataka , Zhang Zhen-Du , Macdonald R. Loch
Published: July 2010

Object

Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation activates perivascular vasodilatory nerves in the ipsilateral anterior circle of Willis. This experiment tested whether stimulation of the ganglion could reverse vasospasm and improve cerebral perfusion after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in monkeys.

Methods

Thirteen cynomolgus monkeys underwent baseline angiography followed by creation of SAH by placement of autologous blood against the right intradural internal carotid artery, the middle cerebral artery (MCA), and the anterior cerebral artery. Seven days later, angiography was repeated, and the right sphenopalatine ganglion was exposed microsurgically. Angiography was repeated 15 minutes after exposure of the ganglion. The ganglion was stimulated electrically 3 times, and angiography was repeated during and 15 and 30 minutes after stimulation. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was monitored using laser Doppler flowmetry, and intracranial pressure (ICP) was measured throughout. The protocol was repeated again. Evans blue was injected and the animals were killed. The brains were removed for analysis of water and Evans blue content and histology.

Results

Subarachnoid hemorrhage was associated with significant vasospasm of the ipsilateral major cerebral arteries (23% ± 10% to 39% ± 4%; p < 0.05, paired t-tests). Exposure of the ganglion and sham stimulation had no significant effects on arterial diameters, ICP, or CBF (4 monkeys, ANOVA and paired t-tests). Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation dilated the ipsilateral extracranial and intracranial internal carotid artery, MCA, and anterior cerebral artery compared with the contralateral arteries (9 monkeys, 7% ± 9% to 15% ± 19%; p < 0.05, ANOVA). There was a significant increase in ipsilateral CBF. Stimulation had no effect on ICP or brain histology. Brain water content did not increase but Evans blue content was significantly elevated in the MCA territory of the stimulated hemisphere.

Conclusions

Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation decreased vasospasm and increased CBF after SAH in monkeys. This was associated with opening of the blood-brain barrier.
Thermo diffusion and chemical effects with simultaneous thermal and mass diffusion in MHD mixed convection flow with ohmic heating
Authors: Reddy N Ananda , Varma SVK , Raju MC
Published: July 2010

Thermo diffusion and chemical effects on heat transfer in MHD mixed convection flow and masstransfer past an infinite vertical plate with Ohmic heating and viscous dissipation have beenstudied. Approximate solutions have been derived for velocity, temperature, concentration profiles,skin friction, rate of heat transfer and rate of mass transfer using perturbation technique. Theobtained results are discussed with the help of graphs to observe the effect of various parameterslike Schmidt number (Sc), Prandtl number (Pr), Magnetic parameter (M),Soret number (So) andchemical parameter (K), taking two cases viz. Case I: when Gr > 0 (flow on cooled plate) and CaseII: Gr < 0 (flow on heated plate). Thermal diffusion causes both the fluid velocity and temperature tofall due to the presence of the chemical effect. Velocity and temperature profiles are higher formercury than electrolytic solution. Soret effect increased the concentration of the fluid while chemicaleffect decreased.Keywords: Chemical effect; thermo diffusion; magnetic field; heat-mass transfer.DOI: 10.3329/jname.v6i2.3761
Backward Induction versus Forward Induction Reasoning
Authors: Perea Andres
Published: July 2010

In this paper we want to shed some light on what we mean by backward induction and forward induction reasoning in dynamic games. To that purpose, we take the concepts of common belief in future rationality (Perea [1]) and extensive form rationalizability (Pearce [2], Battigalli [3], Battigalli and Siniscalchi [4]) as possible representatives for backward induction and forward induction reasoning. We compare both concepts on a conceptual, epistemic and an algorithm level, thereby highlighting some of the crucial differences between backward and forward induction reasoning in dynamic games.
Decreased Erythrocyte CCS Content is a Biomarker of Copper Overload in Rats
Authors: Bertinato Jesse , Sherrard Lindsey , Plouffe Louise J.
Published: July 2010

Copper (Cu)is an essential trace metal that is toxic in excess. It is therefore important to be able to accurately assess Cu deficiency or overload. Cu chaperone for Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (CCS) protein expression is elevated in tissues of Cu-deficient animals. Increased CCS content in erythrocytes is particularly sensitive to decreased Cu status. Given the lack of a non-invasive, sensitive and specific biomarker for the assessment of Cu excess, we investigated whether CCS expression in erythrocytes reflects Cu overload. Rats were fed diets containing normal or high levels of Cu for 13 weeks. Diets contained 6.3 ± 0.6 (Cu-N), 985 ± 14 (Cu-1000) or 1944 ± 19 (Cu-2000) mg Cu/kg diet. Rats showed a variable response to the high Cu diets. Some rats showed severe Cu toxicity, while other rats showed no visible signs of toxicity and grew normally. Also, some rats had high levels of Cu in liver, whereas others had liver Cu concentrations within the normal range. Erythrocyte CCS protein expression was 30% lower in Cu-2000 rats compared to Cu-N rats (P < 0.05). Notably, only rats that accumulated high levels of Cu in liver had lower erythrocyte CCS (47% reduction, P < 0.05) compared to rats fed normal levels of Cu. Together, these data indicate that decreased erythrocyte CCS content is associated with Cu overload in rats and should be evaluated further as a potential biomarker for assessing Cu excess in humans.
Conducting Polymer Nanostructures: Template Synthesis and Applications in Energy Storage
Authors: Pan Lijia , Qiu Hao , Dou Chunmeng , Li Yun , Pu Lin , Xu Jianbin , Shi Yi
Published: July 2010

Conducting polymer nanostructures have received increasing attention in both fundamental research and various application fields in recent decades. Compared with bulk conducting polymers, conducting polymer nanostructures are expected to display improved performance in energy storage because of the unique properties arising from their nanoscaled size: high electrical conductivity, large surface area, short path lengths for the transport of ions, and high electrochemical activity. Template methods are emerging for a sort of facile, efficient, and highly controllable synthesis of conducting polymer nanostructures. This paper reviews template synthesis routes for conducting polymer nanostructures, including soft and hard template methods, as well as its mechanisms. The application of conducting polymer mesostructures in energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors and rechargeable batteries, are discussed.
Insects – An Open Access Journal of Entomology
Authors: Forschler Brian T.
Published: July 2010

Conventional thought would suggest that there are sufficient venues for the publication of entomological scientific inquiries and begs the question: “Why begin another outlet for insect-related scientific comment?” The open access journal Insects is a response to the pressing global thirst for information and an acknowledgement of the potential of electronic media. Dissemination of information is critical to growing the global knowledge base through easy and open access. This new journal is a celebration of the diversity of insects, other arthropods, and their relationship with humans in our shared environment. [...]
Phospholipase D2 Enhances Epidermal Growth Factor-Induced Akt Activation in EL4 Lymphoma Cells
Authors: Chahal Manpreet S. , Brauner Daniel J. , Meier Kathryn E.
Published: July 2010

Phospholipase D2 (PLD2) generates phosphatidic acid through hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine. PLD2 has been shown to play a role in enhancing tumorigenesis. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) can both activate and interact with PLD2. Murine lymphoma EL4 cells lacking endogenous PLD2 present a unique model to elucidate the role of PLD2 in signal transduction. In the current study, we investigated effects of PLD2 on EGF response. Western blotting and RT-PCR were used to establish that both parental cells and PLD2 transfectants express endogenous EGFR. Levels of EGFR protein are increased in cells expressing active PLD2, as compared to parental cells or cells expressing inactive PLD2. EGF stimulates proliferation of EL4 cells transfected with active PLD2, but not parental cells or cells transfected with inactive PLD2. EGF-mediated proliferation in cells expressing active PLD2 is dependent on the activities of both the EGFR and the PI3K/Akt pathway, as demonstrated by studies using protein kinase inhibitors. EGF-induced invasion through a synthetic extracellular matrix is enhanced in cells expressing active PLD2, as compared to parental cells or cells expressing inactive PLD2. Taken together, the data suggest that PLD2 acts in concert with EGFR to enhance mitogenesis and invasion in lymphoma cells.
Use of Incineration MSW Ash: A Review
Authors: Lam Charles H. K. , Ip Alvin W. M. , Barford John Patrick , McKay Gordon
Published: July 2010

This study reviews the characteristics of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ashes, with a main focus on the chemical properties of the ashes. Furthermore, the possible treatment methods for the utilization of ash, namely, separation processes, solidification/stabilization and thermal processes, are also discussed. Seven types of MSWI ash utilization are reviewed, namely, cement and concrete production, road pavement, glasses and ceramics, agriculture, stabilizing agent, adsorbents and zeolite production. The practical use of MSWI ash shows a great contribution to waste minimization as well as resources conservation.
Raccourcir le mandat pour durer ! Les faux-semblants de l'auto-limitation de la durée des fonctions sénatoriales
Authors: TROUPEL Aurélia
Published: July 2010

À partir de la loi du 30 juillet 2003 - qui réduit la durée du mandat sénatorial de neuf à six ans - cet article voudrait montrer que la fixation du temps politique peut, dans certains cas, obéir à des calculs politiques. Pourquoi en effet, les sénateurs auraient-ils volontairement renoncé à trois années de pouvoir ? L'étude de cette auto-réforme permet de faire ressortir les logiques mais aussi les garanties qui président à l'adoption de telle réforme. En effet, dans ce cas très précis, « l'auto-limitation » permet à l'institution sénatoriale d'étendre sa mission constitutionnelle de représentante des collectivités territoriales sans pour autant fragiliser la carrière de ses élus. Ainsi, modifier la durée des mandats peut s'avérer aussi stratégique que changer de mode de scrutin ou le découpage des circonscriptions.
Collective Identities and Failed Nationalism. The Case of Valencia in Spain
Authors: Coller Xavier
Published: July 2010

This paper tries to explain an anomaly. One of the outcomes ofthefederalization of polities is the emergence and consolidation of peripheral identities in conflict or in combination with the central identity. This is largely the case of Spain since the late seventies. However, having the conditions to develop a regional identity, Valencia largely lacks it. This situation puzzled Juan J. Linz during the seventies and has remained largely unsolved. Historic legacies explain part of the problem, but the role played by democratic institutions controlled by different elites has an impact as well. The main explanatory variable is the lack of social consensus as expressed in elite division over cultural matters including symbols, language, and nature of the community. Competing for cultural hegemony, political elites have deepened the divide between two major groups whose conflictive relationship is far from over.
Sites à fosses rubéfiées du Ier Âge du Fer en Limagne d'Auvergne (Puy-de-Dôme) / Burnt pits settlements of Early Iron age in Limagne d'Auvergne (Puy-de-Dôme)
Authors: Mennessier-Jouannet Christine , Vernet Gérard
Published: July 2010

Les sites à fosses à parois rubéfiées, bien représentés en Europe du Nord au Bronze final et durant le Ier Age du Fer, semblent, en Limagne d'Auvergne, caractéristiques du Hallstatt C. Implantés indifféremment sur l'ensemble de la plaine limagnaise et ses versants occidentaux, ces sites sont remarquables par un certain nombre de caractères communs : habitats de petite dimension ayant connu une brève durée d'occupation et/ou une occupation périodique et une mise en place soigneusement ordonnancée des ensembles de fosses. Le mobilier céramique de ces sites, typologiquement comparable, reste tributaire du répertoire du Bronze final IIIb. Les mesures de Radiocarbone permettent de confirmer cette appartenance au Ier Age du Fer et de soulever la question du terminus ante quern de l'occupation de ces sites.