bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intertidal rocky shore fauna and flora of Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Authors: González-Solis Alicia , Torruco Daniel
Published: October 2015

Las costas rocosas de origen calizo, son ecosistemas comúnes en el estado de Quintana Roo en México. En el verano del 2012, se realizó una investigación de campo de comunidades inter-mareales rocosas en 10 sitios del Estado, tanto en la Riviera Maya como en la Gran Costa Maya, con el objetivo de conocer si existe algún patrón en la abundancia y diversidad de los grupos que las componen. En cada sitio se realizaron tres transecciones perpendiculares a la costa con un número variable de muestras que dependió de la longitud de la playa, en cada nivel se obtuvo una muestra de 25 cm2, realizando un total de 593. Las pendientes de las playas fueron variables (0.4-1 m); sin embargo, como patrón recurrente, la parte sur de cada playa fue más extensa que la norte. La fauna estuvo representada por los siguientes grupos: equinodermos (15 especies-11 géneros), moluscos (84-50), anélidos (10-9), crustáceos (23-22), sipunculidos (1-1) peces (1-1), algas (53-34), estableciendo un total de 187 especies pertenecientes a 128 géneros. Los resultados muestran que los moluscos dominaron en todas las zonas intermareales. Otros grupos tuvieron preferencias hacia las zonas intermareales bajas. Los patrones geográficos regionales de la abundancia, riqueza de especies y biodiversidad, son poco claros para algunos grupos. El sitio con mayor riqueza y diversidad fue Osho Oasis en la Riviera Maya. El agrupamiento de los sitios a un nivel de similitud del 50 %, presentan uniones fuertes entre sitios de la Riviera Maya y de la Costa Maya indistintamente, con excepción de los equinodermos que identifican y separan a ese nivel de similitud ambas zonas. Utilizando un análisis monotético de contenido de información de orden 2, se obtuvieron las especies responsables de las mayores caídas de información de cada grupo, se tienen los siguientes resultados: Algas- Padina santae-crucis, Moluscos-Tectarius antonii, Crustáceos- Maera inaequipes, Equinodermos- Tripneutes ventricosus y Annelidos- Pseudonereis variegata, estas especies se consideran indicadoras de cambios en la estructura de las comunidades de cada grupo y podrían ser objeto de una investigación más profunda que sirva de apoyo y soporte a programas de manejo en esas áreas.
Seed morphology and post-seminal development in species of Comanthera (Eriocaulaceae)
Authors: Dugarte Corredor Blanca Auxiliadora , Escobar Escobar Diego Fernando , Scatena Vera Lúcia
Published: October 2015

Comanthera brasiliana, C. magnifica y C. suberosa (Eriocaulaceae) forman parte de la lista de especies amenazadas de extinción en Brasil, debido a su alto grado de endemismo y a la recolecta indiscriminada. Estas tres especies junto con C. brunnea y C. linearis constituyen el clado de Comanthera magnifica. Se estudió la germinación, la morfología de semillas y el desarrollo post-seminal de las cinco especies, buscando caracterizar morfológica y anatómicamente las semillas y estadios posteriores a la germinación, así como generar datos que ayuden en la conservación de estas especies. Se recolectaron semillas maduras en los “campos rupestres” de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Fueron puestas a germinar cuatro repeticiones de 15 semillas para cada especie en cajas de Petri con papel filtro humedecido con agua destilada, a 25 ºC y luz fluorescente. Para el estudio morfológico de las semillas fue usado microscopía electrónica de barrido. Para la anatomía del desarrollo post-seminal, cada estado del desarrollo fue incluido en historresina, cortado con un micrótomo rotativo y analizado con microscopía de luz. Forma y tamaño de las semillas, así como las estructuras de la cubierta seminal permiten diferenciar las especies; a partir de estos caracteres desarrollamos una clave de identificación. Las semillas germinan en altos porcentajes (> 90 %) y rápidamente (< 7 días). La germinación ocurre a través de la protrusión del eje embrionario. Aproximadamente cuatro días después de germinar aparece la primera hoja, seguida por la raíz adventicia; después de 10-15 días se desarrollan la segunda hoja y nuevas raíces adventicias. En condiciones naturales estas especies habitan en suelos derivados de cuarcita y poseen semillas diminutas (tipo polvo) que germinan y se desarrollan rápidamente, incluso más rápido que en otras Eriocaulaceae de suelos mésicos. Estos datos pueden ayudar en la obtención de plántulas de las especies estudiadas, contribuyendo en la conservación de las mismas.

 
Biology of Rhizoprionodon lalandii (Elasmobranchii: Carcharhinidae) captured by the artisanal fishery of Margarita Island, Venezuela
Authors: Tagliafico Alejandro , Rago Néstor , Barany Michelle , Rangel Salomé
Published: October 2015

Rhizoprionodon lalandii es un pequeño tiburón (< 1.5 m) catalogado con Datos Deficientes por la IUCN. Sin embargo, en Venezuela es uno de los elasmobranquios más capturados y se observa a diario en diferentes puertos pesqueros del país, donde es utilizado en la elaboración de platos típicos tradicionales, por lo que posee una alta demanda y creciente valor comercial. Por la falta de información local disponible para la especie, se planteó como objetivo estudiar los aspectos reproductivos y alimentarios para generar información línea-base para el manejo sostenible de la pesquería. Para ello, se muestreó una vez por semana dos puertos de desembarque y dos mercados de venta de pescado, entre enero 2006 y diciembre 2007. Cada ejemplar fue medido, se le determinó el sexo y madurez sexual en campo. Adicionalmente, 108 estómagos fueron analizados para estudiar la dieta de la especie. Fueron analizados un total de 656 individuos con una longitud total de captura promedio de 56 ± 9 cm, se observaron diferencias significativas en la proporción sexual general, con 54 % hembras (H) y 46 % machos (M), así como también entre embriones (60 % H, 40 % M). El 45 % de los ejemplares analizados no había alcanzado la longitud de madurez sexual y 22 % de las hembras maduras capturadas se encontraba en estado de gravidez. Las hembras alcanzan la longitud media de madurez sexual en 53 cm, mientras que los machos en 57 cm. La fecundidad máxima uterina registrada fue cinco embriones, con una longitud máxima de 30.1 cm. No se detectó un patrón reproductivo claro entre ambos años; sin embargo, entre noviembre y febrero se observa una época de alumbramiento intenso, debido a una mayor frecuencia de hembras grávidas y embriones de gran tamaño. La especie muestra una dieta principalmente de peces óseos y, en menor grado, de cefalópodos. El nivel trófico calculado fue de 3.7. Se recomienda fijar una longitud mínima de captura (> 57 cm de LT), prohibir por completo el desembarque de hembras grávidas y decretar un periodo de veda de al menos cuatro meses al año, para preservar los beneficios económicos de la pesquería.
Breeding biology and hatching success of Chelonia mydas (Testudines: Cheloniidae) in Aves Island Wildlife Refuge, Venezuela, during the 2010 reproductive season
Authors: Prieto-Torres David A. , Hernández-Rangel Jim
Published: October 2015

El Refugio de Fauna Silvestre Isla de Aves (Venezuela) es la segunda colonia anidadora más importante para la tortuga verde (Chelonia mydas) en el Caribe, y su proyecto de investigación representa una sólida fuente de conocimiento sobre la ecología de esta especie. Sin embargo, existe poca información disponible sobre su biología reproductiva. Esta investigación estuvo enfocada en la evaluación de las características reproductivas y éxito de eclosión de la población anidadora durante la temporada 2010 en Isla de Aves. Los datos de anidación fueron recogidos a lo largo de la playa durante patrullajes nocturnos del 31 de julio al 09 de noviembre con el fin de determinar la actividad de anidación de las tortugas. Todas las hembras fueron marcadas y medidas para comparar los datos de las nuevas reclutas con los de las hembras remigrantes. Fue determinado el número de hembras anidadoras, el tamaño y la distribución espacial de las nidadas, el período de incubación, los períodos interanidación y remigración, así como el éxito de eclosión y emergencia por primera vez en la RFSIA. Se midieron las dimensiones de playa para determinar la densidad de nidos a lo largo de sus secciones. Fueron registradas 1 106 hembras anidadoras, de las cuales 436 hembras fueron identificadas individualmente como remigrantes. Las hembras anidadoras tuvieron un largo curvo del caparazón promedio de 112.2 ± 5.5 cm. La media para el tamaño de las nidadas fue de 124.0 ± 25.7 huevos, con una frecuencia de puesta estimada de 2.0 nidos/hembra y un intervalo de puesta inferido de 12.4 días. Estimamos un total de 2 261 ± 33 nidadas y un rango de 1 130 ± 17 hembras anidadodra para la temporada 2010. Para las nidadas in situ observamos un éxito de eclosión de 54.4 ± 30.0 % y un éxito de emergencia de 74.3 ± 29.2 %. Observamos una correlación positiva entre la morfometría de las hembras anidadoras y el tamaño de la nidada, así como diferencias significativas en el número de nidadas, los éxitos de eclosión y emergencia entre las tres secciones de la isla. Estos resultados son una primera aproximación para la caracterización de la población de Isla de Aves, pero tienen gran valor para establecer prioridades de conservación dentro del contexto de los planes de manejo nacionales. Los valores observados en este trabajo deben ser extrapolados con cuidados a otros años, ya que existe una importante necesidad de continuar con el monitoreo de la anidación, así como de desarrollar estrategias de conservación dirigidas a todas las etapas de vida de la población.
Influence of Spray-Solution Temperature and Holding Duration on Weed Control with Premixed Glyphosate and Dicamba Formulation
Authors: Devkota Pratap , Whitford Fred , Johnson William G.
Published: October 2015

Water is the primary carrier for herbicide application, and carrier-water–related factors can influence herbicide performance. In a greenhouse study, premixed formulation of glyphosate plus dicamba was mixed in deionized (DI) water at 5, 18, 31, 44, or 57 C and applied immediately. In a companion study, glyphosate and dicamba formulation was mixed in DI water at temperatures of 5, 22, 39, or 56 C and sprayed after the herbicide solution was left at the respective temperatures for 0, 6, or 24 h. In both studies, glyphosate plus dicamba was applied at 0.275 plus 0.137 kg ae ha−1(low rate), and 0.55 plus 0.275 kg ha−1(high rate), respectively, to giant ragweed, horseweed, Palmer amaranth, and pitted morningglory. Glyphosate plus dicamba applied at a low rate with solution temperature of 31 C provided 14% and 26% greater control of giant ragweed and pitted morningglory, respectively, compared to application at solution temperature of 5 C. At both rates of glyphosate and dicamba formulation, giant ragweed and pitted morningglory control was 15% or greater at solution temperature of 44 C compared to 5 C. Weed control was not affected with premixture of glyphosate and dicamba applied ≤ 24 h after mixing herbicide. When considering solution temperature, glyphosate and dicamba applied at low rate provided 13 and 6% greater control of Palmer amaranth and pitted morningglory, respectively, with solution temperature of 22 C compared to 5 C. Similarly, giant ragweed control was 8% greater with solution temperature of 39 C compared to 5 C. Glyphosate and dicamba applied at high rate provided 8% greater control of giant ragweed at solution temperature of 22 or 39 C compared to 5 C. Therefore, activity of premixed glyphosate and dicamba could be reduced with spray solution at lower temperature; however, the result is dependent on weed species.
Survivors with Dissociative Identity Disorder: Perspectives on the Counseling Process
Authors: Jacobson Lamerial , Fox Jesse , Bell Hope , Zeligman Melissa , Graham Joseph
Published: October 2015

Although individuals diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID) report high levels of trauma across their lifetime, there has been little research on survivors of DID and what they perceive as effective counseling techniques, therapist qualities, and treatment outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine the perspectives on the counseling process of clients diagnosed with DID (N = 13). This article spells out the implications of the findings for counselors working with survivors of DID.
Expresión de las relaciones de fraternidad en la diplomática medieval latina
Authors: Arias Alonso Magdalena
Published: October 2015

El presente artículo pretende ser una modesta aportación a los estudios de Lexicografía Latina Medieval. En él nos centraremos en el análisis del vocabulario de las relaciones de fraternidad, concepto que los textos diplomáticos de la alta Edad Media denominaban fraternitas. Con el término fraternitas nos referimos aquí no sólo a las relaciones que, dentro del denominado parentesco biológico, unen colateralmente a los hijos de unos mismos padres, sino también a un tipo de parentesco ficticio, muy desarrollado por la sociedad medieval, que instaura entre personas pertenecientes a diferentes grupos de parentesco un lazo de familiaritas artificial semejante a la relación consanguínea que comparten los hijos en las familias biológicas
El marqués de Villena y la cueva de Salamanca : entre literatura , historia y leyenda
Authors: Marcos Celestino Mónica
Published: October 2015

Es a la producción literaria poética del siglo XV a lo que el estudioso de la Literatura suele prestar una particular atención, dejando a menudo a un lado las creaciones en prosa que, quizá menores en número, no por ello presentan menos interés, pujanza y complejidad
Spiritual Quotient: A Significant Predictor of Teaching Effectiveness
Authors: Khurana Dr. Poonam , Yadav Mr. Miklesh Prasad , Varshney Ms. Deepika
Published: October 2015

All human beings are virtue by God as they get controlling mind and an attitude towards something with the help of which they can experience spirituality. People have different psychological thoughts and beliefs relating to god. Some people feel the immense pleasure in performing religious activities while some believe in the thought "Ahem Brahmasmi" i.e I am part of the divine and they feel pleasure in activities which motivate them to achieve peace. Religion in psychology is considered as a specific fundamental set of beliefs, thoughts and practices generally agreed and controlled by a number of person. It is the psychology of a person which commands their mind in deciding at which path they can attain the eternal feelings of the universe and accordingly they will develop their behavior towards religion and spirituality. Keeping the same in mind, the present study is based much on literature and a brief analysis of 50 teachers in Delhi and NCR collegesandmakes an attempt to study the relationship of spiritual quotient and effective teaching and suggest spiritual quotient as a considerablepredictor to make the workplace accessible.
Agripreneurship – Emerging trends & Impact on Rural Economy with Special Reference to Madhya Pradesh Region
Authors: Khanam Anisa , Varma Dr. Abhay
Published: October 2015

After independence, the focus of the Government of India was to frame the major policies based on equity along with growth in the agriculture sector. Being an agrarian country, many efforts been made towards economic and social stabilization over the past decades, but not much progress has been achieved in the growth of the agro industrial sector. Large population of India is dependent on agriculture for their livelihood. About 50% of them being poor, most of their earnings are spent on meeting their basic needs, particularly food. With the increasing population over the last five decades, their per capita share of land and water resources has reduced substantially. Agriculture is the backbone of the economy employing 70% of its working population, rural entrepreneurship is particularly crucial to development. The economic development of our country largely depends on the development of rural areas and the standard of living of its rural mass. There is a need for change. Agriculture must be considered as an enterprise, which should have a sound management back-up. As in any other enterprise, there should be proper planning about demand forecast, choice of technology, inventory of resources, need for external inputs, skill level of the available human resources and their training needs, infrastructure and services needed for carrying out various operations and marketing. This change in the mind set among the farmers and Agricultural Extension Agencies is the primary step for promoting successful entrepreneurship in agriculture. This research paper focuses on the challenges available in the Indian market by en-cashing the possibilities and prospects of the same to be a successful Agri-entrepreneur.
Comparative analysis of sip with Traditional Investment Options In India
Authors: Jha Ashish Kumar
Published: October 2015

The mutual fund industry in India has seen dramatic improvements in terms of quantity as well as quality of services. To attract the investors towards this industry different options of investment are provided to the investors and different innovations are tried in terms of funds offered and as well as for ways of investment. The major improvement in the industry which is still so famous is investment through SIP i.e. Systematic Investment Planning, through which small investors were attracted and motivated to go for their investment in mutual funds. Earlier the investors had options like bank recurring deposit, public provident fund, post office deposit ( such as NSC, KPV, etc) and for particularly for the mutual fund investors had to go with lump sum investment .
Use of Facebook in Higher Education: An extension of classroom learning
Authors: Saxena Adity , Majumdar Pallavi
Published: October 2015

Higher education is witnessing significant transformation due to Internet and computer mediated communication. Extant research suggests that new technologies such as Web 2.0 which include blogs, social media and collaborative content sites such as Wiki have positively enhanced the education related outcomes in higher education. Social networking tools like Facebook and Twitter have established themselves as powerful communication and collaboration tools due to the perceived educational needs of the current generation of students enrolled in higher education also known as the ‘digital natives’. Existing literature establishes that Facebook facilitates collaborative learning, extends classroom interaction and encourages even introvert students to participate in the learning process. Though the use of social media in developed countries is a tried and tested method for enhancing learning outcomes, educators and students in developing countries like India are still tinkering with the idea. The reluctance to extend learning beyond the formal classroom set-up emanates due to a variety of factors: Educators are ill-equipped technically to use the Web 2.0 technology effectively, the perception of both stakeholders that social media particularly Facebook is meant for social networking and entertainment and proves to be a ‘distraction’ in academics. This research paper explores the role of Facebook in creating a classroom extension in higher education by educators and students of multiple streams of mass communication located in Delhi and NCR. It employs a survey of both students and educators to understand the usage of Facebook in providing positive learning outcomes.
Crimes against Women: A Study of National Dailies on Coverage of Rape Cases
Authors: Singh Prof Dr. Charulata , Billa Dr. Vaishali
Published: October 2015

Recently the world has witnessed an upsurge in relation to crimes against women especially in reference to Nirbhaya's Rape Case in December 2012. Over the ages, women have been subjected to victims of any of the general crimes such as murder, robbery, cheating etc., According to Indian Penal Code (IPC) 'Crimes against women' are: rape kidnapping & abduction for specific purposes, homicide for dowry, dowry deaths or their attempts, torture-both mental & physical, molestation, sexual harassment and importation of girls. Whereas Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act 1956, Dowry Prohibition Act 1961, Indecent Representation of Women (Prohobition) Act 1986 & Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act 1987, all come under crimes under the Special & Local Laws (SLL).A total of 2,13,585 incidents of crime against women (both under IPC & SLL) were reported in the country during 2010. High profile cases of assault of women amounting to rape are have been in news whether it is snoopgate scandal, cases against Ashram Bapu and his son, Tejpal Singh of Tehalka or Justice Ganguli' s case of assault of an intern. High profile cases of assault of women amounting to rape are have been in news whether it is snoopgate scandal, cases against Ashram Bapu and his son, Tejpal Singh of Tehalka or Justice Ganguli' s case of assault of an intern. Media did play a very important role in coverage of Nirbhaya's Rape Case and brought the issues of crime against women to the forefront. In the backdrop of this context the present research is the study of the National Dailies in terms of their coverage of news stories of crimes against women. The study not only puts light on the coverage of news stories along with their follow ups but also analyzes the editorial page. It will look into the types of crimes against women reported, the space given by newspapers to them i.e. on which page & column wise study; state wise, the language used, photographs / data / graphs used. The present study is carried out on Four National Dailies: Two English Dailies-Times of India & Hindustan Times and Two Hindi Dailies: DainikJagran&NavBharat Times. The study will be spread over a period of one month i.e. October 2013 (1st – 30th October, 2013). Content Analysis method of research is applied for the present study. The data tabulation will be done using the percentile method & analysis will be present in descriptive manner. The research will present both the qualitative and quantitative analysis.
Efficiency of sire evaluation methods by using phase and stayablity traits to improve milk yield of Murrah buffaloes
Authors: Kamaldeep  , Yadav A. S. , Dhaka S. S. , Magotra Ankit , Malik Anika
Published: October 2015

The present investigation was conducted on records of 345 Murrah buffaloes maintained at Buffalo Research Centre (BRC), Hisar distributed over 20 years (1993-2012) to compare progeny of 61 sires. Three sire evaluation procedures [ordinary least squares (OLS), regressed least squares (RLS), and best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP)] based on estimated breeding value of phase traits such as ascending phase milk yield (APY), peak phase milk yield (PPY),descending phase milk yield (DPY)and stayablity trait such as stayablity life (STAYAB) in Murrah buffalo. The results indicated that sire number 26 had the highest merit computed by OLS, RLS and sire number 2 had the highest merit computed by BLUP method for APY. Product–moment correlations were comparatively lower than those of rank correlations barring a few exceptions. When comparison was made on the basis of coefficient of skewness, BLUP was found superior for APY, PPY, and DPY. When comparison was made on the basis of coefficient of kurtosis, OLS was better for APY and DPY whereas RLS was found superior for PPY and STAYAB. When coefficient of Determination, was considered OLS was found to be more accurate followed by RLS method for all the traits, whereas RLS method was most appropriate when coefficient of variation was considered.
Influence of season on peak milk yield in Deoni breed of cattle in marathwada region of Maharastra state, India
Authors: Thorat B. N. , Thombre B. M. , Bainwad D. V. , Bhutkar S. S.
Published: October 2015

In the present investigation the sixteen years data (1995-2010) on daily peak milk yield of cows calved during cold, hot, south-west monsoon and post monsoon season each for twelve month in year and climatic attributes like temperature (maximum and minimum), humidity (maximum and minimum), sunshine hours and temperature humidity Index during corresponding period were collected. Daily peak milk yield data were analyzed statistically to see the effect of climatic attributes and to know their association with peak milk yield. Generally post monsoon climatic condition favours the milk production in animals due to pleasant climate and availability of quality fodder. The average daily peak milk yield of Deoni cows was 2.60 kg. It could be inferred that apart from availability of quality nutritious fodder during different seasons, maximum peak milk yield was recorded during post monsoon season followed by south-west monsoon season, cold season and hot season respectively.
Effect of non-genetic factors on age at first freezing and age at first use in Murrah bulls
Authors: Mir Mohsin Ayoub , Chakravarty A. K. , Naha B. C. , Jamuna V. , Maher Dinesh M.
Published: October 2015

In present investigation, the effect of non-genetic factors on age at first freezing and age at first use in Murrah breeding bulls has been studied. The data on reproduction traits of 57 Murrah bulls under NDRI (National Dairy Research Institute) centre belonging to 14 sets of Network Project on Buffalo Improvement at ICAR-NDRI, Karnal (Haryana), India during 20 years (1993-2013) were analysed using fixed linear model. The data were classified into various sub-classes for season of freezing and use, period of freezing and use, parity, stages of lactation and age groups of buffalo for age at first freezing and age at first use of Murrah breeding bulls. The average age at first freezing and use of Murrah bulls was estimated as 3.46 ± 0.08 years and 4.05 ± 0.13 years with the coefficient of variation of 14.43 % and 12.27%. The overall least-squares means for age at first freezing of Murrah bulls was estimated as 3.38 ± 0.01 years. Period and season of freezing had significant effect (P
A priori prediction of an extreme crash in 2015 for a population network of the alpine butterfly, Parnassius smintheus
Authors: Matter Stephen F. , Roland Jens
Published: October 2015

Prediction provides important validation for scientific hypotheses and models. We update an existing model and present a priori predictions for the growth of a network of 21 populations of the butterfly Parnassius smintheus based on previous population size and climate during the overwintering period. The model predicts that the extremely warm, dry winter of 2015 in the Rocky Mountains will result in a network‐wide crash. All populations are expected to show extreme negative growth. Ten of 21 populations are expected to have less than one individual and the 95% confidence intervals of 17 of 21 populations are predicted to overlap zero in 2015. Given the unprecedented nature of climate change, these predictions represent the best estimate based on our understanding of the effects of climate and density‐dependence for the population growth for this species. If the predictions prove to be valid, it provides strong support for the predictive ability of the current model and the negative impact of extreme climatic events for the persistence of populations and ultimately species.
Inhibition of Gas Hydrates in Deepwater Drilling
Authors: Hale A. H. , Dewan A. K. R.
Published: October 2015

With the movement of offshore rigs into deep water, the problem of gas hydrates has become an important issue in drilling. If a kick is taken, gas hydrates can form in the BOP (Blow Out Preventers) or choke lines while circulating out the kick. A water-based pill formulation has been developed which is a significant improvement over current formulations for inhibiting gas hydrates. This pill can be spotted in the BOP to alleviate much of the concern for the formation of gas hydrates. The pill is environmentally safe, can be weighted up, and is easily adaptable to offshore operations. It is compatible with commonly used drilling fluids and can be incorporated directly into the mud system after removing the kick. The technology discussed represents an important safety consideration for deep water drilling well control operations.
Effects of Legume Green Manures on Forage Produced in Continuous Wheat Systems
Authors: Northup Brian K. , Rao Srinivas C.
Published: October 2015

Inorganic N fertilizers are important to continuous systems of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em Thell.) in the U.S. southern Great Plains (SGP). Costs have increased in recent years and resulted in producers considering summer‐grown legumes as green N sources. This study (2008–2012) defined effects of lablab [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet ‘Rio Verde’] cover crops on subsequent forage production by wheat under conventional and no‐till management, compared to soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr. ‘Laredo’], two inorganic fertilizer rates (40; 80 kg N ha−1yr−1), and unfertilized controls. Inoculated legume seeds were sown annually after wheat harvest, grown during June to August, and terminated in early‐September. Wheat was sown late‐September and samples collected at four growth stages through maturity. Wheat forage (kg ha−1), N concentration (g kg−1) and N accumulated (kg N ha−1) in forage were analyzed to define treatment, tillage, growth stage, and year effects. Precipitation was 53 to 92% of long‐term average (LTA) for the wheat growing (October‐May) period (1977–2012; 688 mm). Treatment x year interaction was significant (P < 0.01) for biomass, N concentration, and N accumulated in forage. Treatment effects on forage production varied among years; response to legume treatments were ≤ control. Response of N concentration and N accumulated in forage under legume treatments were largely ≤ control; responses to all treatments declined with length of study. Neither legume was an effective N source for forage production by continuous wheat systems in the SGP.
Displacing Inorganic Nitrogen in Lignocellulosic Feedstock Production Systems
Authors: Ashworth Amanda J. , Keyser Pat D. , Allen Fred L. , Tyler Donald D. , Taylor Adam M. , West Charles P.
Published: October 2015

Second‐generation feedstocks such as switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) have been proposed as sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, although they still require nonrenewable inputs, notably, inorganic N. Therefore, our objectives were to determine (i) the effects of biochar (1 and 2 Mg ha−1), three intercropped legumes [red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), partridgepea (Chamaecrista fasciculata [Michx.] Greene), and sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.)] vs. inorganic N [67 kg ha−1 and 0 kg ha−1 (control)] on desired feedstock characteristics, yield, and soil characteristics; and (ii) feedstock alterations and tissue‐nutrient levels for postsenescence (November) and overwintering (February) harvests in a two‐factor randomized block design. Overwintering harvests increased P and K remobilization, ethanol yield, fermentable sugars, and in‐field dry‐down (P ≤ 0.05), although yield losses occurred (22%). November harvests had greater tissue N and fermentable substrates, leading to greater soil nutrient removals. Consequently, harvests manipulated the desired feedstock traits, whereas soil amendments had little effect on feedstock characteristics. Therefore, the results suggest that legume intercrops (partridgepea) and biochar may supply analogous N to synthetic fertilizers (P ≤ 0.05), thereby displacing inorganic N without altering feedstock quality. However, for inorganic N alternatives to be competitive on a break‐even cost basis, greater biomass yields need to be obtained under these management practices.
Survey of Glyphosate‐ and Imazapic‐Resistant Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) in Florida
Authors: Berger Sarah T. , Ferrell Jason A. , Dittmar Peter J. , Leon Ramon
Published: October 2015

Herbicide‐resistant Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats.) is the most troublesome weed in Florida cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production. In 2012, Palmer amaranth populations were surveyed to document the extent and level of resistance to glyphosate and imazapic. Mature seedheads were sampled at 31 locations in the northwest region of Florida where cotton and peanut are predominantly produced, and in the north‐central region of Florida that mainly consists of peanut production. Palmer amaranth plants were grown from field‐collected seed in the greenhouse and treated with glyphosate and imazapic to establish a dose response for each population. Glyphosate‐resistant Palmer amaranth was found in 11 populations that were located primarily in the northwest region, with some populations having up to 30‐fold resistance. Imazapic resistance was much more widespread, being found in 29 of the 30 populations tested. Since peanut production in Florida has historically relied on successive imazapic applications, it is not surprising that widespread resistance to imazapic has developed. Resistance to both herbicides was found in 10 populations. Results from this survey reveal the magnitude of herbicide resistance in Florida and the need for growers to diversify management strategies in the future.
Comparing Yield Monitors with Weigh Wagons for On‐farm Corn Hybrid Evaluation
Authors: Nelson Bjorn P. , Elmore Roger W. , Lenssen Andrew W.
Published: October 2015

For many years, on‐farm yield evaluations of corn (Zea mays L.) hybrids were done with weigh wagons, handheld moisture testers, and measuring wheels. Today, most combines have continuous flow yield and moisture sensors. Published research results comparing the accuracy of combine‐mounted sensor systems with that of weigh wagons are limited for on‐farm corn hybrid evaluation. This study examined the accuracy of combine‐mounted yield sensors with traditional weigh wagon methodology in on‐farm corn hybrid strip trials. Data from combine‐mounted sensors for plot weight, moisture percentage, and yield were compared with weigh wagon weight, handheld moisture testers, and calculated yield in six nonreplicated strip trials in 2012, 2013, and 2014 in east‐central South Dakota. A total of 195 total entries were compared. Pearson correlation coefficients and linear regressions for weight, moisture percentage, and yield were calculated for each environment and for all environments combined. The Pearson correlation coefficients across all environments were 0.998 for weight of grain in pounds, 0.928 for grain moisture content percentage, and 0.983 for yield in bushels per acre corrected for moisture content. The probability of nonsignificance for weight, moisture percentage, and yield was P < 0.0001. Linear regression models predicting combine‐mounted sensor of sample weight, sample moisture, and yield with the traditional system were significant at P < 0.0001 for all three measurements. Yield monitors can be used successfully for on‐farm hybrid evaluations, replacing traditional methods that use weigh wagons, measuring wheels, and handheld moisture testers.
Blending Polymer‐Coated Nitrogen Fertilizer Improved Bermudagrass Forage Production
Authors: Payne Kathryn M. , Hancock Dennis W. , Cabrera Miguel L. , Lacy R. Curt , Kissel David E.
Published: October 2015

Urea‐based fertilizers have replaced ammonium nitrate (AN) as the most common N source used in forage crops. However, urea‐based fertilizers are less efficient and result in greater N loss as ammonia. Environmentally Smart Nitrogen (ESN, Agrium Advanced Technologies) is a polymer‐coated urea‐N fertilizer that controls N release through temperature‐controlled diffusion. This study assessed the effect of different proportions of ESN and untreated urea (0, 50, 75, and 100% ESN with the balance as urea) on yield and nutritive quality of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.], as compared with conventional applications of AN and urea. The experimental design was a randomized complete‐block design with four replications on each of two sites and 3 yr (2010–2012). Nitrogen was applied at 336 kg ha−1 season−1, but was split over the season into two equal applications for the ESN treatments and four equal applications for the AN and urea conventional treatments. As the proportion of ESN increased, the amount of N lost through volatilization decreased. Relative to conventionally applied AN, the 50 and 75% ESN blends resulted in similar yields and 16.8% lower nitrate (NO3–N) levels in the harvested forage. Relative to conventionally applied urea, the 50 and 75% blends produced 10 and 6.1% more yield and 14.4 and 19.5% greater N removal, respectively. The 50 and 75% ESN blends were also the most cost‐effective blend systems. These results support a recommendation of blending ESN at a rate of 50 and 75% with urea as a substitute for AN.
Switchgrass Germplasm Resources
Authors: Casler Michael D. , Vogel Kenneth P. , Harrison Melanie
Published: October 2015

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is an important native grass and dominant member of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. It is used for conservation, restoration, livestock feed production, and bioenergy feedstock production. The purpose of this review is to describe the biological and geographical basis for switchgrass germplasm diversity and to provide a resource for scientists and outreach personnel to find switchgrass germplasm to meet their needs. Upland and lowland ecotypes represent the most important polymorphism in switchgrass, with distinct but overlapping geographic distributions. Variation in ploidy exists within both ecotypes, with 2n = 4x = 36 the dominant ploidy in the lowland ecotype and 2n = 8x = 72 the dominant ploidy in the upland ecotype. Ploidy is a strong barrier to gene flow, but ecotype is a weak barrier, with up to 10% of random individuals demonstrating some evidence for upland‐lowland hybridization in their ancestry. Latitudinal and, to a lesser extent, longitudinal differentiation exists within each ecotype, such that most wild populations and cultivars are not well adapted more than one hardiness zone from their place of origin. Plant breeding can alter this relationship by creating populations with improved cold tolerance, for example, increasing the adaptation range of an individual cultivar. The USDA National Plant Germplasm System maintains the national switchgrass collection, which is available for research and breeding purposes.
Irrigation Practices on Rice Crop Production in Arsenic‐Rich Paddy Soil
Authors: Chou Mon‐Lin , Jean Jiin‐Shuh , Sun Guo‐Xin , Yang Chwen‐Ming , Hseu Zeng‐Yei , Kuo Sheng‐Feng , Tseng Hong‐Yang , Yang Yuai‐Jen
Published: October 2015

Irrigation and water management are important cultivation practices, controlling rice crop production and regulating As concentration in both paddy fields and rice plants (Oryza sativa L.). This study investigated the impacts of various types of irrigation practices with As‐contaminated groundwater on the extent of arsenic accumulation within rice plant parts during development and rice crop production at maturity. Three types of irrigation practices were applied to As‐rich paddy fields: flooded irrigation, aerobic irrigation, and alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWDI). The arsenic accumulation in various plant parts was monitored at 40, 54, 68, 82, 96, and 110 d after transplanting in the first (with ‘Tainong 84’) and the second (with ‘Tainan 11’) cropping seasons of 2013. Results show that the arsenic concentration in different parts of rice plants varied with growth stage and irrigation practices in both cropping seasons. There was a seasonal fluctuation of arsenic concentration within rice plants during plant development with flooded irrigation, which had the largest amount of irrigation input. Lower levels of As in rice were found in AWDI and aerobic irrigation than in flooded irrigation. Different irrigation practices can change the oxidation and reduction conditions of the paddy field, which lead to As release or absorption in the soil, thus influencing the uptake of As by plants.
Seeding Rate, Oat Companion Crop, and Planting Season Effects on Irrigated Organic Birdsfoot Trefoil Stands in the Mountain West United States
Authors: Hunt Sara R. , MacAdam Jennifer W. , Griggs Thomas C.
Published: October 2015

The nonbloating perennial legume birdsfoot trefoil (BFT, Lotus corniculatus L.) is well suited for ruminant production on pastures, supporting greater weight gain and milk production than other forages. This study evaluated establishment options available to organic producers on subsequent BFT stands. We applied all combinations of spring vs. autumn planting, broadcast seeding rates of 3, 7, 20, and 34 kg pure live seed (PLS) ha−1, and use of an annual oat (Avena sativa L.) companion crop during establishment. These options were assessed using a split‐split‐split plot experimental design with four replications. Dry matter (DM) production and forage nutritive value under irrigation were assessed for 3 yr, and foliar cover was assessed on mature stands. In the first year after planting, DM production was less at 3 kg PLS ha−1 than at 20 or 34 kg ha−1, greater at 34 than at 7 kg PLS ha−1, and was reduced by a companion crop. Second and third year DM production for all treatments was similar and greater than 6000 kg DM ha−1. In the first year after planting, crude protein concentration was less, while neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber concentrations were greater compared with subsequent years. In the third year after planting, cover of BFT was greater than 70% for all treatments. On the basis of this study, early autumn planting of BFT without a companion crop at rates from 7 to 20 kg PLS ha−1 is recommended for organic establishment of BFT.
Response of Selected Bermudagrass Cultivars to Bermudagrass Stem Maggot Damage
Authors: Baxter Lisa L. , Hancock Dennis W. , Hudson William G. , Dillard S. Leanne , Anderson William F. , Schwartz Brian M.
Published: October 2015

Information regarding the susceptibility of currently grown bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] cultivars to the bermudagrass stem maggot (BSM; Atherigona reversura) could aid forage producers with the implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to manage this exotic pest. The objectives of this research were to compare the severity of damage among selected cultivars and quantify the phenotypic variation in cultivar response to the BSM among selected bermudagrass cultivars. Eight Cynodon cultivars were used in this study. Flies collected from infested fields were introduced six times throughout the 4‐wk growing period to the cultivars, which were grown in the greenhouse and contained in acetate and mesh enclosures. The number and percent of tillers damaged depended on cultivar in that cultivars with greater tiller density exhibited the greatest damage. When corrected for cultivar differences in the number of total tillers per pot, the stargrass (Cynodon nlemfuensis Vanderyst) cultivars and hybrids had a lower percentage of their tillers damaged (P < 0.10) by the presence of BSMs than the fine‐textured cultivars, except for ‘Russell’ in 2012. Presence of the BSM was coincident with a lower tiller count, increased tiller diameter, and darker leaf color, though no difference in any other physical characteristic was observed. The results showed that stargrass and stargrass hybrids are less susceptible to damage by the BSM and should be employed in IPM strategies wherever these cultivars are adapted.
Diabetic Stroke Severity: Epigenetic Remodeling and Neuronal, Glial, and Vascular Dysfunction
Authors: Kalani Anuradha , Kamat Pradip Kumar , Tyagi Neetu
Published: October 2015

We determined the mechanism of severity during type 1 diabetic (T1D) stroke (ischemia-reperfusion [IR] injury) that affects potential markers associated with epigenetics, neuronal, glial, and vascular components of the brain with regard to nondiabetic stroke. The study used male genetic T1D Ins2+/− Akita and wild-type (C57BL/6J) mice. The experimental mice groups were 1) sham, 2) IR, 3) shamAkita, and 4) IRAkita. Mice were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion for 40 min, followed by reperfusion for 24 h. Brain tissues were analyzed for inflammation, neuro-glio-vascular impairments, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 expression, and epigenetic alterations (DNA methyltransferase-3a [DNMT-3a]; DNA methyltransferase-1 [DNMT-1]; 5-methylcytosine [5-mC]; and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine [5-hmC]). Intracarotid fluorescein isothiocyanate-BSA infusion was used to determine pial-venular permeability. IRAkita mice showed more infarct volume, edema, inflammation, and vascular MMP-9 expression compared with IR and sham groups. ShamAkita mice showed the highest DNMT-1 and DNMT-3a levels compared with the other groups. Reduced tight and adherent junction expressions and severe venular leakage exemplified intense cerebrovascular impairment in IRAkita mice compared with the other groups. Interestingly, we found differential regulations (downregulated expression) of epigenetic (5-mC, DNMTs), vascular (endothelial nitric oxide synthase), glial (connexin-43, glial fibrillary acidic protein, CD11b), and neuronal (neuron-specific enolase, neuronal nitric oxide synthase) markers in IRAkita compared with the IR group. These findings suggest that IR injury in T1D is more severe because it intensifies differential epigenetic markers and neuro-glio-vascular changes compared with nondiabetic mice.
βig-h3 Represses T-Cell Activation in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Patry Maeva , Teinturier Romain , Goehrig Delphine , Zetu Cornelia , Ripoche Doriane , Kim In-San , Bertolino Philippe , Hennino Ana
Published: October 2015

βig-h3/TGF-βi is a secreted protein capable of binding to both extracellular matrix and cells. Human genetic studies recently revealed that in the tgfbi gene encoding for βig-h3, three single nucleotide polymorphisms were significantly associated with type 1 diabetes (T1D) risk. Pancreatic islets express βig-h3 in physiological conditions, but this expression is reduced in β-cell insult in T1D. Since the integrity of islets is destroyed by autoimmune T lymphocytes, we thought to investigate the impact of βig-h3 on T-cell activation. We show here that βig-h3 inhibits T-cell activation markers as well as cytotoxic molecule production as granzyme B and IFN-γ. Furthermore, βig-h3 inhibits early T-cell receptor signaling by repressing the activation of the early kinase protein Lck. Moreover, βig-h3–treated T cells are unable to induce T1D upon transfer in Rag2 knockout mice. Our study demonstrates for the first time that T-cell activation is modulated by βig-h3, an islet extracellular protein, in order to efficiently avoid autoimmune response.
Knockdown of GLP-1 Receptors in Vagal Afferents Affects Normal Food Intake and Glycemia
Authors: Krieger Jean-Philippe , Arnold Myrtha , Pettersen Klaus G. , Lossel Pius , Langhans Wolfgang , Lee Shin J.
Published: October 2015

Nutrient stimulation of enteroendocrine L cells induces the release of the incretin and satiating peptide glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). The vagus nerve innervates visceral organs and may contribute to the mediation of gut-derived GLP-1’s effects on food intake, energy homeostasis, and glycemic control. To test the hypothesis that vagal afferent neuron (VAN) GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1Rs) are necessary for these effects of endogenous GLP-1, we established a novel bilateral nodose ganglia injection technique to deliver a lentiviral vector and to knock down VAN GLP-1Rs in male Sprague Dawley rats. We found that a full expression of VAN GLP-1Rs is not necessary for the maintenance of long-term energy balance in normal eating conditions. VAN GLP-1R knockdown (kd) did, however, increase meal size and accelerated gastric emptying. Moreover, postmeal glycemia was elevated and insulin release was blunted in GLP-1R kd rats, suggesting that VAN GLP-1Rs are physiological contributors to the neuroincretin effect after a meal. Collectively, our results highlight a crucial role for the VANs in mediating the effects of endogenous GLP-1 on food intake and glycemia and may promote the further development of GLP-1–based therapies.