bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Imaging Coupled with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for the Study of Photooxidation of Polypropylene
Authors: Zhou Yanming , Li Bobin , Zhang Pudun
Published: April 2012

Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) imaging coupled with principal component analysis (PCA) is used to characterize the photooxidation of polypropylene (PP) and identify the photooxidative products at different oxidation times. PP slices were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation for times up to 60 hours and spatially resolved spectra were acquired with a transmission FT-IR imaging system in order to view the steric inhomogeneity of the photooxidation process of PP. The evolution of the oxidized products with irradiation time is shown through the application of PCA. Carboxylic acid is the major oxidized product in the initial period from 0 h to 8 h while ketone becomes the major product with the increase of irradiation time. Carboxylic anhydride is identified for the first time to our knowledge in oxidized PP after 16 h irradiation. Carboxylate ester is also observed in the oxidized PP after 32 h irradiation. Possible mechanisms forming these products have been discussed.
Characterization of a Water-Dispersible Metal Protective Coating with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry, and Ellipsometry
Authors: Boyatzis Stamatis C. , Douvas Antonios M. , Argyropoulos Vassilike , Siatou Amalia , Vlachopoulou Marilena
Published: April 2012

An ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymer, formulated by BASF as a waterborne suspension of its alkylammonium salt and used, among other applications, in art conservation as a temporary protective coating was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy aided by modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) and ellipsometry. The thermal conversion of thin copolymer films from the freshly applied state, where carboxylic acid and carboxylate ion functional groups co-exist, to a purely acidic working state was spectroscopically followed. Transmission mid-infrared data of the working state showed a 1 : 12 ratio of methacrylic acid towards ethylene units. The glass transition temperature ( Tg) in the same state was found at 45 °C. Copolymer films spin-coated on mechanically polished bronze and iron coupons were characterized with transflection infrared spectroscopy and compared to corresponding transmission mid-infrared spectra of copolymer films spin-coated on silicon wafers. In the case of bronze coupons, evidence for interaction of the carboxylate ion with the copper substrate was obtained. The chemical structure and the thermal behavior of the coating, as well as some implications on its protective capability towards iron and copper alloys, is discussed as this material has received considerable attention in the field of metal conservation and coatings.
In Situ Real-Time Diffuse Reflection Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS) Study of Hydrogen Adsorption and Desorption on Ir/SiO2 Catalyst
Authors: Hu Gengshen , Zhu Lin , Jia Aiping , Hu Xin , Xie Guanqun , Lu Jiqing , Luo Mengfei
Published: April 2012

The adsorption and desorption of hydrogen on Ir/SiO2 catalyst were studied by using in situ diffuse reflection infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) combined with curve-fitting analysis. The results indicate that there are three different surface species formed on the catalyst that correspond to the peaks at 1950, 2010, and 2035 cm−1, respectively, when exposed in H2 flow at 130 °C. These surface species display different adsorption and desorption trends. Surface hydride forms after the catalyst is cooled to 80 °C and it disappears after the catalyst is heated to 130 °C again. This study may help us understand the interaction between hydrogen and noble metals and thus give more insights to heterogeneous catalytic mechanism involving hydrogen and hydrogen storage using metal materials.
A Compact Wide-Range Spectrometer with Image Intensifier: Unexpected Advantages, New Functions, and a Variety of Applications
Authors: Protopopov Vladimir
Published: April 2012

Gated intensified spectrometers are very efficient instruments not only in time-resolved applications but also in all other fields were traditional non-gated and non-intensified devices are so popular today. This paper describes the design and performance of a simple, reliable, and relatively inexpensive wide-range gated intensified spectrometer that was conceived as a prototype for volume production. With 200–900 nm spectral range, 3 ns temporal resolution, variable optical gain up to 4000, repetition rate up to 200 kHz, spectral resolution 2 nm (0.9 nm with deconvolution), and affordable price, such a device may be useful for budget research laboratories working in the fields of cell biology, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, molecular kinetics, plasma diagnostics, materials characterization, combustion analysis, and forensic analysis.
Street names, politics of memory and social debate in Republican Barcelona (1931–1936): A theoretical reflection and case study
Authors: Sánchez Costa Fernando
Published: April 2012

Public memory is an exceptional stage for social dialogue regarding the values and principles of a political community. One of its main axes is street names, which can be considered an authentic tapestry of urban memory. This article interprets street names as a communicative act of
transmission and debate regarding historical and identity-based narratives. In describing a theoretical and methodological approach for studying street names and other contexts of public memory, it is argued that the nomenclature is the fruit of political and social practices in which many
agents take part and debate the community’s past, present and future. This interpretation is based on a study of symbolic transformation of the map of Barcelona during the Second Republic and an analysis of the policies of memory, the roles of civil society in the public memory of the
time and citizens’ reactions to the new historical accounts reflected therein.
The television of the past: History, remembrance and representation of Franco’s Spain
Authors: Coronado Ruiz Carlota , Rueda Laffond José Carlos
Published: April 2012

The potential of television to provide explanatory accounts of the past is the road less travelled in research into social and cultural history in Spain. This article analyses the characteristics that defined televised entertainment in the latter years of Franco’s regime and a
key fiction work that historically evokes this period, Cuéntame cómo pasó/Tell me how it happened (TVE, 2001–present). The aim is to study the function of television in two distinct political, social and cultural periods, first in terms of its historical socialization
role and second, in terms of its representation of shared experiences and its creation of historical memory. The ultimate aim is to understand the nature of television as the mediatizing context of public history.
Transformations in the practice of communication: Journalism, advertising, fiction and entertainment
Authors: López Bernat
Published: April 2012

Although media and communication careers have gained professional recognition over the last century, especially if compared to the careers of such outstanding figures as Avel•lí Artís-Gener and Joan Puig i Ferreter, employment conditions remain inadequate. Companies
continue to offer short-term temporary contracts and low salaries. And universities, by offering too many places and by practicing academic naivety, do not do enough to improve the status and image of communication studies. As a result, the communication occupations have become undervalued,
a circumstance that will only change if, after the financial crisis, we begin to look outwards and to truly think globally.
Toka Boot/The Big Jam: Making music in rural East Timor
Authors: Howell Gillian , Dunphy Kim
Published: April 2012

This article discusses a community music project in rural East Timor. Australian musician Gillian Howell lived for three months in the isolated town of Lospalos as an Asialink artist-in-residence, where she worked with local community members and visiting Australian musicians to share
music and ideas, and to communicate across cultures. Three activities are described in detail: a songwriting project, a large-scale community music event and a series of informal jam sessions, particularly with respect to the context, teaching and learning models used. An evaluation of the
impact of the project on participants, other community members and visiting musicians, indicated that stakeholders valued the project highly for a range of different reasons. These included fun and enjoyment, maintenance of cultural heritage, creative expression, English language learning
and cross-cultural exchange. Learnings and recommendations for future similar cross-cultural collaborations include the value of integrating local music traditions with new participatory arts approaches.
TraLaLa Blip: Community music for the electronically abled
Authors: Reimann Randolf
Published: April 2012

This article presents a personal reflection on the use of electronic music as a vehicle for community music in a disability setting. In order to do this, I draw on my experiences as the founder, facilitator, producer, tutor, sound artist and musician of TraLaLa Blip. I established the
group in 2008, after having worked with people with disabilities for over fifteen years. From a health worker/music practitioner’s perspective, I describe some of the experiences and understandings I have developed working with this group, with the hope that these insights might be useful
to others working with differently abled young people and electronic music in community music settings.
A Latent Instrumental Variables Approach to Modeling Keyword Conversion in Paid Search Advertising
Authors: Rutz Oliver J. , Bucklin Randolph E. , Sonnier Garrett P.
Published: April 2012

The authors present a modeling approach to assess the purchase conversion performance of individual keywords in paid search advertising. The model facilitates estimation of daily keyword conversion and click-through rates in a sparse data environment while accounting for the endogenous position of the text advertisement served in response to a search. Position endogeneity in paid search data can arise from both omitted variables and measurement error. The authors propose a latent instrumental variable approach to address this problem. They estimate their model on keyword-level paid search data containing daily information on impressions, clicks, and reservations for a major lodging chain. They find that higher positions increase both the click-through and conversion rates. When advertisements are served in higher positions, approximately one-third of new conversions is due to increased click-through while approximately two-thirds are due to increased conversion rates. The authors show that the keyword list generated on the basis of their estimated conversion rates outperforms the status quo list as well as lists generated by observed conversion and click-through rates.
Comparison of Adolescent, Young Adult, and Adult Women’s Maternity Experiences and Practices
Authors: Kingston Dawn , Heaman Maureen , Fell Deshayne , Chalmers Beverley ,   on behalf of the Maternity Experiences Study Group of the Canadian Perinatal Surveillance System, Public Health Agency of Canada
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Pregnant adolescents face unique challenges. Understanding the experiences, knowledge, and behaviors of adolescents during the pregnancy and postpartum periods may contribute to improvement of their maternity care. The purpose of this study was to compare the maternity experiences, knowledge, and behaviors of adolescent, young adult, and adult women by using a nationally representative sample.

METHODS:

This study used data from the Canadian Maternity Experiences Survey (N = 6421). The weighted proportions of each variable were calculated by using survey sample weights. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios. Bootstrapping techniques were used to calculate variance estimates for prevalence and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS:

Adolescents and young adults were more likely to experience physical abuse in the previous 2 years, initiate prenatal care late, not take folic acid before or during pregnancy, have poor prenatal health behaviors, have a lower cesarean delivery rate, have lower breastfeeding initiation and duration rates, experience more stressful life events, experience postpartum depression symptoms, and rate their infant’s health as suboptimal than adult women. Adolescents were more likely to rate their own health as suboptimal.

CONCLUSIONS:

Adolescents have unique needs during pregnancy and postpartum. Health care professionals should seek to provide care in a manner that acknowledges these needs.
Characterization of Fe3O4 and Fe2O3 ferrogels prepared under uniform magnetic field
Authors: Suthar Kamlesh J. , Ghantasala Muralidhar K. , Ilavsky Jan , Mancini Derrick C.
Published: April 2012

We compare the characteristics of ferrogels prepared with and without the presence of a uniform magnetic field using Fe3O4 and Fe2O3 nanoparticles immobilized in hydrogels of N-isopropylacrylamide. The spatial distribution and agglomeration of the nanoparticles within the ferrogels were investigated using ultra small angle x-ray scattering (USAXS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Hydrated ferrogels were also studied for magnetization using direct current superconducting quantum interference device (DC-SQUID). Volume size distribution resulting from USAXS data of the Fe3O4-ferrogel prepared under a uniform 225 G magnetic field showed a single broad peak appreciably different from that prepared without magnetic field with three distinct peaks. Volume size distributions resulting from USAXS data of the Fe2O3-ferrogel prepared with and without the presence of a uniform magnetic field both similarly show two peaks. Nanoparticle agglomeration was also determined by analyzing TEM images of ferrogel samples. DC-SQUID measurements of Fe3O4-ferrogel prepared in the presence of a uniform magnetic field showed 9% higher magnetization compared to the Fe3O4-ferrogel prepared without magnetic field. Similarly, DC-SQUID measurements of Fe2O3-ferrogel prepared in the presence of a uniform magnetic field showed 3% higher magnetization compared to the Fe2O3-ferrogel prepared without magnetic field. Thus, the presence of a uniform magnetic field during ferrogel polymerization can enabled the enhancement of the magnetoelastic property of the ferrogel.
Application of Wide Band Gap Semiconductors to Increase Photocurrent in a Protein Based Photovoltaic Device
Authors: Takshi Arash , Yaghoubi Houman , Jun Daniel , Saer Rafael , Mahmoudzadeh Ali , Madden John D. , Beatty J. Thomas
Published: April 2012

Reaction centers (RCs) from natural photosynthetic cells are photoactive proteins, which generate electron-hole pairs in presence of light. In a new approach presented in this work, a solution of suspended RCs with mediators has been applied as the electrolyte to build electrochemical based photovoltaic (PV) devices. In this approach, the mediators transfer charges from the RCs to the electrodes (indirect charge transfer). Various metallic and wide bandgap semiconducting materials, including Carbon, Au, Indium Tin Oxide (ITO), SnO2, WO3, have been tested as the electrodes. Among all WO3, which is a semiconductor, have shown the largest photocurrent density with an amount of ∼5.1 μA/cm2. The results show that the material of the electrode can affect the rates of the reactions in the cell. Choosing an appropriate material for the electrode, the charge transfer from the mediators to the electrode would be rectified to achieve a large photocurrent.
Child feeding practices and household food insecurity among low-income mothers in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Lindsay Ana Cristina , Ferarro Mabel , Franchello Alejandra , La Barrera Raul de , Machado Marcia Maria Tavares , Pfeiffer Martha Erin , Peterson Karen Eileen
Published: April 2012

This qualitative study of low-income mothers in Buenos Aires, Argentina, examines the influence of socio-economic conditions, organizational structures, family relationships, and food insecurity on child feeding practices and weight status. Thirty-eight mothers of preschool children living in urban Buenos Aires participated in four focus group discussions. The results indicated that many mothers were aware that obesity may be detrimental to the child's health, but most of them are unclear about the specific consequences. Maternal employment, family pressures, food insecurity and financial worries seem to influence child feeding practices. These findings have important implications for developing strategies for nutritional assistance that could benefit the health of children and provide opportunities for educational programs that are directed to nutritional awareness in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The right to eat regularly and properly is an obligation of the State and must be implemented taking into account the notion of food sovereignty and respecting the importance of preserving the culture and eating habits of a country and its diverse population groups
Evidence-Based Clinical Guidelines and Their Impact on Prevention of Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections
Authors: McCauley Paula
Published: April 2012

The growing concern for hospital-acquired infections in health care has stimulated the development of evidence-based practice (EBP) guidelines. Health care institutions across the United States are increas- ing their focus on the implementation of clinical practice guidelines using
current EBP. Adherence to these guidelines by health care professionals is expected to improve the quality, equity, and efficiency of patient care.
Cyanoacrylate Versus Laser in the Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Controlled, Randomized, Double‐Masked and Non‐Inferiority Clinical Trial
Authors: Flecha Olga D. , Azevedo Camila G.S. , Matos Fabiana R. , Vieira‐Barbosa Natália M. , Ramos‐Jorge Maria L. , Gonçalves Patricia F. , Koga Silva Edina M.
Published: April 2012

Background: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a painful, exaggerated response to normal stimuli, such as cold, sweetness, and brushing. The aim of the present controlled, randomized, double‐masked, non‐inferiority clinical trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of cyanoacrylate in the treatment of DH when compared to the application of low‐intensity laser.

Methods: The study includes 434 sensitive teeth from 62 patients. A total of 216 teeth were treated with laser and 218 with cyanoacrylate. A numeric rating scale was used to record the parameters of pain related to the stimuli at baseline and after the treatment at intervals of 24 hours and 30, 90, and 180 days.

Results: Both groups had significant reductions in DH. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups ≤6 months. Intragroup analysis showed that the effect of cyanoacrylate obtained at 24 hours remained for 90 days in response to air‐jet test and 30 days for cold‐spray test. There was a statistically significant difference between all other intragroup comparisons at the time intervals (P <0.001).

Conclusions: It was concluded that cyanoacrylate is as effective as low‐intensity laser in reducing DH. In addition, it is a more accessible and low‐cost procedure and can be safely used in the treatment of DH.
Vertebral morphometrics in Varanus
Authors: Burnell Amy , Collins Sean , Young Bruce A.
Published: April 2012

The forces acting on the vertebral column of varanid lizards differ greatly during swimming and walking. To examine the long-term impact of these forces, the dorsal vertebrae of terrestrial and aquatic species of Varanus were compared using 3-D laser scanning and morphometric analysis. There were significant differences between the two groups in vertebral anatomical features, particularly in the articular surfaces. Further analysis demonstrated that the dorsal vertebrae could be significantly divided into three groups of nearly equal size: the sternal group (dorsal vertebrae 1–7), the middle group (dorsal vertebrae 8–14), and the pelvic group (dorsal vertebrae 15–22). Within each of these groups there was significant differences between the terrestrial and aquatic species; these differences were least in the more conserved sternal region and greatest in the highly variable pelvic region. The results suggest that vertebral morphometrics can be used as a tool to further delineate the habitat preferences of extinct varanoid lizards, and could serve to highlight the functional transitions between terrestrial and aquatic species.
The postpulmonary septum of Varanus salvator and its implication for Mosasaurian ventilation and physiology
Authors: Burnell Amy , Collins Sean , Young Bruce A.
Published: April 2012

The postpulmonary septum (PPS) is a relatively thick sheet of connective tissue covering the inferior surface of the lungs in varanid lizards. The primary connection of the PPS is to the medial surface of the ribs; additional connections occur to the inferior midline of the dorsal vertebrae, the pericardium, and a direct (through loose connective tissue) link to the surface of the lung. The PPS effectively partitions the coelomic cavity into peritoneal and pleural cavities. Investigation demonstrates that the PPS is not capable of preventing displacement of the more caudal (peritoneal) viscera, which is displaced cranially during terrestrial locomotion; this cranial displacement could impinge on the tidal volume of the lungs. Kinematic analyses of terrestrial and aquatic locomotion in Varanus salvator document the different propulsive mechanics used during movement through these two media, and, most importantly, the marked reduction in lateral displacement of the trunk during swimming. These findings, when combined with previous studies of the cardiovascular and respiratory system of varanids performing terrestrial locomotion, suggest that mosasaurs had a versatile, effective respiratory system and were likely capable of both sustained swimming and prolonged submersion, such as during ambush foraging.
Genetic Linkage Map and Diversity Analysis of Tahitian Vanilla (Vanilla ×tahitensis, Orchidaceae)
Authors: Lepers‐Andrzejewski Sandra , Causse Sandrine , Caromel Bernard , Wong Maurice , Dron Michel
Published: April 2012

The first vanilla genetic linkage map was constructed by analyzing the progeny of an interspecific cross between Vanilla ×tahitensis J. W. Moore (pro sp.) and Vanilla pompona Schiede. The two‐way pseudotestcross mapping strategy was used and a total of 225 amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers were mapped on 18 linkage groups covering 1035.85 cM. Thirteen tahitian vanilla morphotypes, one Vanilla planifolia Andrews and recent hybrids were compared by measuring seven morphological traits and by genotyping, with 539 AFLP fragments. The morphotypes studied showed relatively homogenous stem traits but differed in their bean and leaf traits as in their AFLP pattern. Genetic variability and AFLP genotyping comparison suggest a diversification in French Polynesia based on sexual reproduction and are consistent with the hypothesis of a single introduction event. These results are the first step for vanilla breeding program and will be also useful for tahitian vanilla resource preservation.
Diallel Analysis of Fiber Traits for Extra‐Long Staple Cotton Progeny
Authors: Berger Gregory , Hague S. , Smith C. Wayne
Published: April 2012

Demand for high‐quality cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in international markets has increased the demand for improved fiber quality in U.S.‐grown cultivars. In an effort to meet this demand, cotton plant breeders seek alleles related to improved fiber quality. This study was conducted to evaluate fiber quality traits in a diallel analysis of eight cotton genotypes to determine genotypes with the greatest potential for improvement of fiber quality. Genotypes included four experimental extra‐long staple (ELS) lines, A‐106‐8 ELS, B‐147‐21 ELS, B‐182‐39 ELS, and C‐155‐22 ELS, and four cultivars, ‘Deltapine 491’ (PI 618609), ‘Deltapine 50’ (PI 529566), ‘FiberMax 832’ (PI 603955; Constable et al., 2001), and ‘Tamcot CAMD‐E’ (PI 529633; Bird, 1979). Parents and F1 progeny were grown in replicated trials at the Texas AgriLife Research Farm near College Station, TX, in 2007 and 2008. Significant (p < 0.05) genotype × year (G×Y) interactions were observed for all traits. Significant (p < 0.05) general combining ability (GCA) effects and specific combining ability (SCA) effects were found for most fiber quality traits measured as well as lint percent. Combining ability effects varied by year, which is reflected in significant general combining ability × year (GCA×Y) and specific combining ability × year (SCA×Y) interactions. Extra‐long staple experimental lines from the Texas A&M University breeding program had the greatest potential for improving fiber length and strength as indicated by GCA.
Influence of Rootstocks on Photosynthesis in Navel Orange Leaves: Effects on Growth, Yield, and Carbohydrate Distribution
Authors: Jover Sara , Martínez‐Alcántara Belén , Rodríguez‐Gamir Juan , Legaz Francisco , Primo‐Millo Eduardo , Forner Juan , Forner‐Giner M. Angeles
Published: April 2012

The effects of two rootstocks on tree growth, fruit set and development, yield, CO2 assimilation, 13C‐photoassimilates transport, and carbohydrate distribution were investigated. Cleopatra mandarin (CM) (Citrus reshni hort. ex Tanaka) and Forner‐Alcaide 13 (FA‐13) [Citrus reshni hort. ex Tanaka × Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.] rootstocks were used for this study. The first experiment was performed with 2‐yr‐old plants grown under greenhouse conditions. The results showed that leaves from navel orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] grafted onto FA‐13 rootstock (navel onto FA‐13) had higher net CO2 assimilation (Aco2) rates than those from navel orange grafted onto CM rootstock (navel onto CM). Also, FA‐13 rootstock induced an increase in leaf transpiration rate with respect to CM rootstock resulting in similar water use efficiency (WUE) values. The higher of photosynthetic activity in navel onto FA‐13 plants resulted in higher photoassimilate transport (13C‐labeled) from leaves to roots compared to navel onto CM plants, causing higher sucrose and starch accumulation in FA‐13 roots. The second experiment was performed under field conditions using 7‐yr‐old trees. Navel orange grafted onto FA‐13, which had the highest Aco2 values, displayed higher photoassimilate transport (13C‐labeled) from leaves to developing fruits than those on CM. navel onto FA‐13 leaf sucrose content decreased compared to navel onto CM and leaf concentrations of this sugar were inversely correlated with Aco2 values. On the other hand, sucrose and starch concentrations in root bark appeared to be related with fruit sink strength. In conclusion, FA‐13 rootstock enhances photosynthetic rate in navel orange leaves compared to CM and differences in this parameter affected growth and increased yield.
The Benefit of Color Information in Digital Image Analysis for the Estimation of Legume Contribution in Legume–Grass Mixtures
Authors: Himstedt M. , Fricke T. , Wachendorf M.
Published: April 2012

Efficient detection of spatial legume dry matter (DM) contribution in legume–grass mixtures is of great importance for targeted management of legume‐based swards. Legume coverage may be an appropriate indicator for the contribution of legumes, because it can be assessed by on‐the‐go systems with digital image analysis (DIA). To examine the perspectives of DIA a pot experiment, under controlled conditions, was conducted across a wide range of legume species (white clover [Trifolium repens L.], red clover [Trifolium pratense L.], and alfalfa [Medicago sativa L.]), legume proportion (0–800 g kg−1), and growth stage (start of tillering to start of heading). In this study, an advanced procedure for the determination of legume DM contribution by DIA is suggested. The DIA procedure comprises the analysis of color images and applies an advanced function to predict legume DM contribution from legume coverage by considering total sward biomass. This resulted in an accurate prediction of legume contribution (grams per kilogram) with R2 of 0.90, 0.94, and 0.93 for red clover, white clover, and alfalfa, respectively. For validation, swards of a field experiment were used. It showed that legume detection is possible, but for practical field application some further adjustments are necessary.
Association of Spectral Reflectance Indices with Plant Growth and Lint Yield in Upland Cotton
Authors: Gutierrez Mario , Norton Randall , Thorp Kelly R. , Wang Guangyao
Published: April 2012

Canopy reflectance plays an increasingly important role in crop management and yield prediction at large scale. The relationship of four spectral reflectance indices with cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) biomass, leaf area index (LAI), and crop yield were investigated using three cotton varieties and five N rates in the irrigated low desert in Arizona during the 2009 and 2010 growing seasons. Biomass, LAI, and canopy reflectance indices (normalized difference vegetation index [NDVI], simple ratio [SR], near‐infrared index [NIR], and ratio vegetation index [RVI]) were determined at different growth stages. The commonly used NDVI and the other three canopy reflectance indices explained over 87% variation in cotton biomass (all R2 > 0.87) and LAI (R2 > 0.93). Indices SR, NIR, and RVI all had higher coefficients of determination (R2) compared to NDVI because these indices were not saturated at late growth stages. There was no significant relationship between lint yield and the spectral indices measured at early growth stages. However, the spectral indices determined at peak bloom showed significant correlations with lint yield. Indices SR, NIR, and RVI explained 56, 60, and 58% of variations in cotton lint yield, respectively, while NDVI only explained 47% of variation in lint yield. This study suggests canopy reflectance indices can be used to predict cotton lint yield at peak bloom and the accuracy of yield prediction can be significantly improved when SR, NIR, and RVI are used.
Wide‐Compatibility Gene S5n Exploited by Functional Molecular Markers and Its Effect on Fertility of Intersubspecific Rice Hybrids
Authors: You‐Xin Yang , Yan‐Hong Li , Jing‐Fei Tong , Qasim Shahid Muhammad , Zhi‐Xiong Chen , Lan Wang , Jin‐Quan Li , Xiang‐Dong Liu , Yong‐Gen Lu
Published: April 2012

Embryo‐sac abortion is one of the most important reasons for hybrid sterility between indica and japonica subspecies. Wide compatibility gene S5n can overcome the embryo‐sac sterility between indica–japonica hybrids caused by the S5 locus located on chromosome 6. In this paper, key sequence analysis and functional molecular markers were used to identify S5n gene–harboring genotypes from 646 rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes, including 323 cultivated and 323 wild rice genotypes. Whole‐mount eosin B–staining confocal laser scanning microscopy was employed to observe the embryo‐sac fertility of hybrids. A total of 28 genotypes, including 16 cultivated, 9 Oryza rufipogon accessions, and 3 Oryza nivara accessions, were found to have the S5n gene. These results suggested that the S5n gene differentiated and evolved from wild rice. Different indica–japonica hybrids were developed using O. sativa genotypes carrying the S5n gene and without the S5n gene. Embryo‐sac fertility was more than 93% in the S5n gene–harboring hybrids, whereas embryo‐sac fertility was relatively low in control hybrids between typical indica and japonica cultivars without the S5n gene, suggesting that S5n can overcome the sterility between indica–japonica hybrids. Furthermore, it verified the reliability of molecular functional markers to detect S5n gene–harboring genotypes. Functional molecular markers used in the present study will be very useful to identify S5n gene–harboring genotypes, and genotypes detected with the S5n gene in the present study are very important germplasm for overcoming intersubspecific hybrid sterility.
Effects of Salinity on Seashore Paspalum Cultivars at Different Mowing Heights
Authors: Shahba Mohamed A. , Alshammary Saad F. , Abbas Mohamed S.
Published: April 2012

The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of salinity on turf quality, clipping yield, root mass, canopy photosynthetic rate (Pn), total nonstructural carbohydrate content (TNC), shoot reducing sugar content (RSC), proline content, and K+/Na+ in shoots and roots of seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum Swartz) cultivars (Salam, Excalibur, and Adalayd). These cultivars were evaluated at different mowing heights using a hydroponics system in the greenhouse. Salam achieved 11.9, 24.2, 36.5, and 55.7% more clipping yield than Adalayd at 0, 16, 32, and 44 dS m−1 salinity levels, respectively, under the highest mowing level. At the highest mowing height, the root mass of Salam, Excalibur, and Adalayd increased by 162.9, 170.0, and 204.0%, respectively, as salinity increased from 0 to 44 dS m−1. The values of Pn in Salam were the highest (16.66, 19.89, and 25.85 μmol CO2 M−2 S−1 at 25‐, 35‐, and 45‐mm mowing heights, respectively) at 44 dS m−1. The TNC decreased by 44.2, 29.2, and 25.5% in Salam while RSC increased by 49.3, 44.3, and 40.3% at 25‐, 35‐, and 45‐mm mowing heights, respectively, as salinity increased from 0 to 44 dS m−1. In Salam, as salinity levels increased from 0 to 44 dS m−1, proline content increased by 417.7, 429.5, and 438.7% at 25‐, 35‐, and 45‐mm mowing heights, respectively. Paspalum had its highest selectivity of K+/Na+ when maintained at 45‐mm mowing height. Salinity tolerance of seashore paspalum cultivars can be enhanced by increasing mowing height.
Quantitative Trait Loci for Seed Tocopherol Content in Sunflower
Authors: Del Moral Lidia , Fernández‐Martínez José M. , Velasco Leonardo , Pérez‐Vich Begoña
Published: April 2012

Tocopherols are natural antioxidants with vitamin E activity. Sunflower seeds contain predominantly α‐tocopherol (>950 g kg−1 tocopherols), which is the tocopherol form exhibiting the highest vitamin E activity. The objective of this research was to study the genetic basis of total seed tocopherol content in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis was conducted in two mapping populations derived from crosses between lines with increased (IAST‐413) and reduced (IAST‐522) tocopherol content and the conventional sunflower line HA‐89. Tocopherol content was measured in the F2 and the F3 generations. Linkage maps were constructed using simple sequence repeat and insertion‐deletion polymorphism markers. Seven and six QTL determining increased and reduced seed tocopherol content, respectively, were identified. Of these, a major QTL on linkage group (LG) 10 was responsible for more than half the explained phenotypic variation for increased tocopherol content in the IAST‐413 × HA‐89 population, whereas a major QTL on LG 11 was responsible for more than half the explained phenotypic variation for reduced seed tocopherol content in the IAST‐522 × HA‐89 population. Three QTLs on LG 2, 4, and 17 were found in both mapping populations at overlapping support intervals. A 2‐methyl‐6‐phytyl‐1,4‐benzoquinone/2‐methyl‐6‐solanyl‐1,4‐benzoquinonone methyltransferase (MT‐2) locus was found co‐locating with the QTL on LG 4. Quantitative trait loci information from this research will contribute to the development of marker‐assisted selection tools for total tocopherol content in sunflower seeds.
Modifying Genes for Palmitate and Stearate Concentration Impacts Selection for Low‐Phytate, Low‐Saturate Soybean Lines
Authors: Brace Ryan C. , Fehr Walter R.
Published: April 2012

Development of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivars with low phytate (LP) and low saturated fatty esters (LS) would add value to both the meal and the oil. One of the challenges in breeding for the two traits has been the lack of LP parents with <70 g kg−1 palmitate plus stearate (saturate) concentration. The LP line A38 developed at Iowa State University was the first line identified with a saturate concentration <70 g kg−1 in multiple environments. The objective of our study was to determine if the LS in A38 was due to breakage of linkages between the lpa1 and lpa2 alleles and genes for elevated saturates that interacted epistatically or to the accumulation of favorable modifying genes for LS concentration. Three populations were made by crossing A38 to three LS cultivars with normal phytate (NP). The F2 plants were genotyped for the Lpa and lpa alleles, harvested individually, and evaluated for fatty ester composition. The mean saturate concentrations of the LP individuals were significantly greater than NP individuals. The frequency of LP lines with a saturate concentration ≤70 g kg−1 was greater than previously reported in populations in which LP parents had a saturate concentration >70 g kg−1. The LS concentration of A38 was attributed to favorable modifying genes for LS concentration. Use of LP and NP parent lines with a saturate concentration <70 g kg−1 would improve the frequency of LP, LS progeny.
Genetic Variation among Inbred Lines and Testcrosses of Maize for Early Growth Parameters and Their Relationship to Final Dry Matter Yield
Authors: Strigens Alexander , Grieder Christoph , Haussmann Bettina I. G. , Melchinger Albrecht E.
Published: April 2012

Reduced early growth of maize (Zea mays L.) might impair subsequent biomass accumulation, and, therefore, final whole‐plant dry matter yield (DMY). Quantitative genetic studies on biomass growth rates and their relation to final DMY in large germplasm sets have been hampered so far by a lack of suitable phenotyping techniques. In this study, we took advantage of a recently developed nondestructive phenotyping platform to (i) determine early biomass and growth rates in a broad set of 285 dent inbred lines and their testcrosses with two flint testers grown at three locations in 2008 and 2009, based on nondestructive measurements of biomass between the four‐ and eight‐leaf stage; (ii) estimate variance components and heritability for these traits; (iii) investigate the association of early growth with final DMY and other agronomic traits; and (iv) calculate correlations between line per se performance (LP) and general combining ability (GCA) for these traits. We observed significant genetic variance and high heritabilities for early growth traits, though masking variance components were larger than for agronomic traits. Early growth traits showed weak (GCA) to moderate (LP) correlations with final DMY. Correlations between LP and GCA were only moderate for early growth traits, most probably due to masking effects of the testers. Since correlations among early growth traits were tight, the simple visual scoring of early vigor is sufficient in selection of promising testcrosses.
Genetic Yield Gains and Changes in Associated Traits of CIMMYT Spring Bread Wheat in a “Historic” Set Representing 30 Years of Breeding
Authors: Lopes M. S. , Reynolds M. P. , Manes Y. , Singh R. P. , Crossa J. , Braun H. J.
Published: April 2012

The genetic yield progress of 26 spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) advanced lines released by the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT) in the period from 1977 to 2008 was evaluated in the selection environment in Mexico as well as at a set of target environments in Asia and Africa. In Mexico, grain yield progress was significantly linear and about 0.7% yr−1 and yield was associated with fewer days to heading, cooler canopy temperature at grain filling, and increased stay‐green and thousand kernel weight. These results suggested that changes in the former traits at least partially explain the yield progress. When genetic yield progress was measured in subsets of sites in Asia and Africa grouped into high, intermediate, and low yielding, the genetic yield progress was 0.9, 0.7, and 0.5% yr−1, respectively. We conclude that there is no evidence that genetic gains to increase yield have slowed down in wheat lines released by CIMMYT.
Tradeoffs in Biomass and Nutrient Allocation in Prairies and Corn Managed for Bioenergy Production
Authors: Jarchow Meghann E. , Liebman Matt
Published: April 2012

Prairie vegetation has the potential to serve as a bioenergy feedstock with favorable environmental impacts but generally yields less than corn (Zea mays L.). To more fully assess the potential of prairie vegetation to serve as a biofuel feedstock, more needs to be understood about prairie responses to different management strategies, including fertilization. We hypothesized that (i) N fertilization would increase prairie productivity and nutrient content and (ii) fertilized prairie would produce similar amounts of total biomass as corn but would allocate more biomass and nutrients to roots. Our hypotheses were tested in a field experiment using prairie species representing different functional groups—C3 grasses, C4 grasses, legumes, and multifunctional group mixtures—grown with and without N fertilizer as well as fertilized corn. Fertilized and unfertilized C4 prairie grasses produced as much total biomass as corn but allocated up to 65% of their biomass belowground compared to 3% for corn. Corn yields decreased over the 3‐yr period of the study whereas yields of fertilized C4 grasses and multifunctional group mixtures were stable, and yields of unfertilized C4 grasses and mixtures increased and became equal to their fertilized counterparts. Calculated annual costs for replacing nutrients removed in the harvested portions of corn and fertilized and unfertilized C4 grasses were US$403, $137, and $40 ha−1, respectively. Results of this experiment show tradeoffs among corn and prairie systems with respect to harvested biomass, root production, and nutrient exports, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach to fully evaluate bioenergy feedstock production systems.
Mapping and Validation of Fiber Strength Quantitative Trait Loci on Chromosome 24 in Upland Cotton
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Singh Rippy , Lubbers Edward L. , Shen Xinlian , Paterson Andrew H. , Campbell B. Todd , Jones Donald C. , Chee Peng W.
Published: April 2012

A major fiber strength quantitative trait locus (QTL) has been identified on chromosome 24 in the Chinese germplasm line ‘Suyuan 7235’; however, the effects of this QTL have not been tested in different genetic backgrounds. In this study, we confirmed the effects of this QTL by crossing Suyuan 7235 with two U.S. germplasm lines with different fiber strength. This QTL was consistently expressed over generations and years in both populations. The Suyuan 7235 allele explained up to 40% of the total phenotypic variation and accounted for an increase of up to 22.8 kN m kg−1. The effects on fiber strength appear to be greater in Suyuan 7235 × ‘Sealand 883’ (Pop‐883) than in Suyuan 7235 × ‘Sealand 542’ (Pop‐542) despite the Sealand 883 parent having stronger fiber than the Sealand 542 parent. Deoxyribonucleic acid fingerprinting on a collection of elite cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) lines indicated that this QTL is not present in a survey of elite U.S. public germplasm. These results indicate that this fiber strength QTL could significantly improve the economic value of Upland cottons in the United States. The identification of 27 novel markers tightly linked in this region adds additional tools to allow this QTL to be more efficiently deployed in breeding cultivars with improved fiber strength.
MlNCD1: A Novel Aegilops tauschii‐Derived Powdery Mildew Resistance Gene Identified in Common Wheat
Authors: Maxwell J. J. , Lyerly J. H. , Srnic G. , Murphy J. P. , Cowger C. , Parks R. , Marshall D. , Brown‐Guedira G. , Miranda L.
Published: April 2012

Powdery mildew is a major fungal disease in wheat, especially in cool maritime climates. A novel Aegilops tauschii Coss.‐derived wheat powdery mildew resistance gene present in the germplasm line NC96BGTD1 was genetically characterized as a monogenic trait in field trials using F2– and F4–derived lines from a NC96BGTD1 × ‘Saluda’ cross. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used to map and tag the resistance gene present in NC96BGTD1. Two dominant SSR markers flanking the resistance gene were identified. Xgwm635 mapped 5.5 and 8.3 cM distal to the resistance gene in the F2 and F4 generations, respectively. Xgpw328 mapped 16.2 cM proximal to the resistance gene in the F2 and 13.6 cM proximal to the resistance gene in the F4 generation. These SSR markers were previously mapped to the short arm of chromosome 7D and their positions were confirmed using Chinese Spring aneuploid and deletion stocks. Significant segregation distortion was observed in the F4 generation with markers distal to the resistance gene showing a preference for the A. tauschii alleles while markers proximal to the resistance gene showed less significant preference for Saluda alleles. Only the adult plant resistance gene Pm38 has been mapped to the short arm of chromosome 7D but to a more proximal position than the gene in NC96BGTD1. The resistance gene described herein should be temporarily designated MlNCD1.
Efficient Computation of Ridge‐Regression Best Linear Unbiased Prediction in Genomic Selection in Plant Breeding
Authors: Piepho H. P. , Ogutu J. O. , Schulz‐Streeck T. , Estaghvirou B. , Gordillo A. , Technow F.
Published: April 2012

Computational efficiency of procedures for genomic selection is an important issue when cross‐validation is used for model selection and evaluation. Moreover, limited computational resources may be a bottleneck when processing large datasets. This paper reviews several options for computing ridge‐regression best linear unbiased prediction (RR‐BLUP) in genomic selection and compares their computational efficiencies when using a mixed model package. Attention is also given to the problem of singular genetic variance‐covariance. Annotated code is provided for implementing and evaluating the methods using the MIXED procedure of SAS. It is concluded that a recently proposed method based on a spectral decomposition of the variance‐covariance matrix of the data is preferable compared to established methods because of its superior computational efficiency and applicability also for singular genetic variance‐covariance.
Melanoma metastatic to the breast: A report of an unusual case
Authors: Prvulovic Natasa , Ðilas-Ivanovic Dragana , Nikolin Borislava , Stojiljkovic Bratislav
Published: April 2012

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Preparation and Properties of EPDM/NBR/Organoclay Nanocomposites
Authors: Ersali M. , Fazeli N. , Naderi Gh.
Published: April 2012

In this research work, three different types of nano-composites based on EPDM/NBR blend (70/30 wt.%) have been prepared: one type including Cloisite 20A in EPDM phase, the other one containing Cloisite 30B in NBR phase and the third type consisting of Cloisite 20A in EPDM and Cloisite 30B in NBR phases simultaneously (called EN-xAB). XRD and TEM techniques showed intercalated or exfoliated structures for all types of nano-composites. According to SEM results, the most roughness of the surface was observed at EN-xAB nano-composites. Cure characteristics of the samples showed that the lowest scorch and cure time and highest crosslink density was devoted to EN-xAB samples. Comparison of mechanical properties of the nano-composites showed that the best properties were found in the samples consisted of both types of organo-clays simultaneously.