bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel mutation in a patient with Carney complex
Authors: Halászlaki Csaba , Takács István , Patócs Attila , Lakatos Péter
Published: May 2011

Carney complex is a rare disease inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. It is mostly caused by inactivating mutations of the subunit of protein kinase A. Carney complex is associated with atrial myxoma, nevi or myxomas of the skin, breast tumors and endocrine overactivity. Primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease is the specific endocrine manifestation. The authors present the history of a 53-year-old female patient who had undergone surgery for atrial myxomas, thyroid tumor and breast cancer. She was also operated for an adrenal adenoma causing Cushing’s syndrome. Genetic study revealed a mutation in the regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (ivs2-1G>A splice mutation in intron 2). Her heterozygous twins were also genetically screened and one of them carried the same mutation. The authors emphasize that despite the absence of specific treatment for patients with Carney complex, confirmation of the diagnosis by genetic studies is important for the close follow-up of the patient and early identification of novel manifestations. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 802–804.
Radiographic Analysis of a Transalveolar Sinus‐Lift Technique: A Multipractice Retrospective Study With a Mean Follow‐Up of 5 Years
Authors: Soardi Elisa , Cosci Ferdinando , Checchi Vittorio , Pellegrino Gerardo , Bozzoli Paolo , Felice Pietro
Published: May 2011

Background: Various sinus‐lift techniques have been described in the literature. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the efficacy of a transalveolar sinus‐lift technique in terms of implant survival, marginal bone loss, and complications.

Methods: A total of 538 patient records were examined, and after applying exclusion and inclusion criteria, a sample of patients was included with a mean follow‐up of 5 years. Implants with a smooth or tapered surface were considered. Therefore, only sinus lifts with inorganic bovine bone matrix or demineralized bone matrix were included, and 1,536 periapical radiographs were analyzed. Outcome measures were implant success, implant failure (peri‐implantitis and loss of osseointegration), marginal bone resorption, and biologic complications (membrane perforations, sinusitis, and intraoperative and/or postoperative hemorrhage). Periapical radiographs were evaluated before surgery, post‐surgery, and after 6 months and 1, 3, and 5 years. We analyzed the residual crestal bone height under the sinus, the amount (mm) of height increase after surgery, and values of implant marginal bone resorption for considered follow‐ups.

Results: Two hundred eighty‐two (282) patients were excluded. Therefore, 256 patients treated with the transalveolar sinus‐lift technique were included. A total of 376 dental implants and 323 sinus lifts were analyzed. The overall rates of implant success and failure were 94.9% and 5.1%, respectively. The mean bone loss around implants was 1.98 mm (mean follow‐up of 5 years). Patients treated with inorganic bovine bone matrix showed a better implant success rate (P = 0.03) than did patients treated with demineralized human matrix. Three Schneiderian membrane perforations occurred in the 323 sinus lifts. In these cases, the surgeon performed another surgical operation after 3 months. Postoperative complications were peri‐implantitis (six cases) and osseointegration losses (13 cases).

Conclusions: The transalveolar sinus‐lift technique was a safe, minimally invasive technique with an implant success rate comparable to traditional implantology. The implant success rate was positively affected by the low‐resorption graft material, and a low bone‐resorption rate around implants was found.
Immediate Loading of Implants Placed With the Osteotome Technique: One‐Year Prospective Case Series
Authors: Koutouzis Theofilos , Koutouzis Giasemi , Tomasi Cristiano , Lundgren Tord
Published: May 2011

Background: There is limited information regarding marginal bone‐level changes around immediately loaded implants placed with the osteotome technique. The aim of this case series is to prospectively evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcome of immediately loaded implants placed with the osteotome technique over a 12‐month period.

Methods: Eighteen patients in need of oral prosthetic rehabilitation that included single implant placement in positions #4 to #13 and/or #20 to #29 participated in this prospective trial. A modified implant installation procedure with an under preparation of the implant bed using the osteotome technique and immediate loading of the implant was performed. Clinical examinations were performed at 2 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months of follow‐up. Radiographic examinations were performed at implant installation and at the 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up visits.

Results: One implant failed to integrate and was removed at 3 months after implant installation. Four of 20 implants had insertion torque value >35 Ncm. The mean marginal bone loss was ‐0.09 mm at the 6‐month and ‐0.19 mm at the 12‐month follow‐up visits.

Conclusion: The present case series indicates that implants placed with the osteotome technique and immediately loaded did not demonstrate a high insertion torque and exhibited minimal marginal bone loss.
Gingival Blood Glucose Estimation With Reagent Test Strips: A Method to Detect Diabetes in a Periodontal Population
Authors: Shetty Shreya , Kohad Ramesh , Yeltiwar Ramreddy , Shetty Karunakar
Published: May 2011

Background: Periodontal disease is considered the sixth complication of diabetes. Therefore, as a foremost responsibility of the periodontist, the present study was carried out to screen an unsuspecting periodontal population for the presence of diabetes with the help of gingival blood glucose and reagent test strips.

Methods: A total of 356 patients with no known medical history of diabetes visiting the outpatient Department of Periodontics, at the Government Dental College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, were divided into 3 groups: group 1 included patients with a healthy periodontium; group 2, patients with gingivitis; and group 3, patients with periodontitis. Gingival blood, formed by puncturing the interdental papilla of the upper anterior teeth with a lancet, was allowed to fall onto a test reagent strip, where the color change was noted, and corresponding glucose values recorded. Patients with glucose values >120 gm% (per manufacturer provided chart) were sent for glucose tolerance tests to confirm their glycemic status. Patients with abnormal glucose tolerance values were further referred to a physician for the confirmation of diabetes.

Results: Diabetes was detected in 19.1% of the survey population, of which 3.9% of patients belonged to group 1, 7.8% of patients belonged to group 2, and 7.3% of patients belonged to group 3. Diabetes was detected in 40.8% of patients with hyperglycemia, of which 8.4% of patients belonged to group 1, 16.8% of patients belonged to group 2, and 15.6% of patients belonged to group 3. A total of 10.11% of the survey population who tested positive for diabetes were females and 8.99% were males.

Conclusions: The use of reagent strips for the estimation of gingival blood glucose seemed to be a suitable option for the screening of an unsuspecting periodontal population for the presence of diabetes; however, additional studies in a larger population are needed to confirm their suitability.
Non‐Carious Cervical Lesions Associated With Gingival Recessions: A Decision‐Making Process
Authors: Zucchelli Giovanni , Gori Guido , Mele Monica , Stefanini Martina , Mazzotti Claudio , Marzadori Matteo , Montebugnoli Lucio , De Sanctis Massimo
Published: May 2011

Background: A method to predetermine the maximum root coverage level (MRC) was recently demonstrated to be reliable in predicting the position of the soft tissue margin after root coverage surgery. The aim of the present study is to suggest a decision‐making process for treating non‐carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) associated with gingival recessions based upon the topographic relationship between the MRC and NCCL and to assess patient and independent‐periodontist esthetic evaluations.

Methods: Five treatments were performed in 94 patients with NCCLs associated with a single gingival recession: 1) coronally advanced flap (CAF); 2) bilaminar procedure; 3) coronal odontoplasty plus restoration plus root odontoplasty plus CAF; 4) restoration plus CAF; and 5) restorative therapy. Clinical and esthetic evaluations made by the patient and an independent periodontist were done 1 year after treatments.

Results: The satisfaction of the patient and periodontist with esthetics was very high in all NCCL treatments and Miller Class gingival recessions. The patient satisfaction and evaluation of root coverage and the periodontist evaluation of root coverage were statistically correlated with color‐match evaluations and not with the amount of root coverage clinically achieved in each patient.

Conclusion: The proposed approaches provided good esthetic appearance and correct emergence profile for the great majority of NCCLs associated with gingival recessions.
Integrated Management of Sitona lineatus with Nitrogen Fertilizer, Rhizobium, and Thiamethoxam Insecticide
Authors: Vankosky Meghan A. , Cárcamo Héctor A. , McKenzie Ross H. , Dosdall Lloyd M.
Published: May 2011

The pea leaf weevil (Sitona lineatus L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a serious pest of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) and faba bean (Vicia faba L.) (Fabales: Fabaceae) in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Foliar feeding by adults and root nodule consumption by larvae reduces seed yield and N contributions to the soil. Foliar insecticides have limited efficacy against pea leaf weevil, prompting this study to investigate an integrated approach. Nitrogen fertilizer, Rhizobium inoculant, and thiamethoxam (systemic insecticide) were assessed alone and in combination for their effects on pea leaf weevil damage to field pea plants and seed yield. Nitrogen fertilizer did not reduce foliar feeding but did reduce root nodules by 35 to 43%. In 2008 only, N fertilizer improved yield by 0.48 t ha−1 relative to nonfertilized plots. Thiamethoxam seed treatment reduced foliar feeding for 40 to 50 d after planting in 2008 and 2009 but had no significant impact on seed yield. Rhizobium inoculation increased yield by 0.74 t ha
−1 compared to noninoculated plots in 2008. No effects of N fertilizer, Rhizobium inoculant or thiamethoxam on yield were observed in 2009, probably because root nodule damage was not affected by any treatment. Results of this study suggest that the most efficient method of preventing yield loss due to S. lineatus infestation is to inoculate field peas. Further investigation of thiamethoxam, preferably in large‐scale production systems, is required to better understand the efficacy of thiamethoxam against pea leaf weevil.
Lower Limits of Cotton Seeding Rates in Alternative Row Widths and Patterns
Authors: Gwathmey C. Owen , Steckel Lawrence E. , Larson James A. , Mooney Daniel F.
Published: May 2011

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) producers are motivated to reduce seeding rates by the high cost of seed and gene technology. A 3‐yr study was conducted in irrigated and nonirrigated fields at Milan, TN, using combinations of row width, planting pattern, and seeds m−1 row to produce seeding rates ranging from 3.6 to 21.5 m−2 The objective was to determine the lower limits of cotton seeding rates that maximize net return based on lint yield, fiber quality, and lint price in alternative planting systems. Weed suppression and crop maturity effects were also evaluated. Whether irrigated or nonirrigated, equivalent yields were achieved with seeding rates ≥10.8 m−2 that produced plant population densities ≥6.1 m−2 Yields were relatively stable above these thresholds with various combinations of row width, planting pattern, and seeds m−1 row. Seeding rate had little effect on price adjustments due to fiber quality, so net returns were driven primarily by lint yields and production costs. Irrigated cotton produced equivalently high net returns at seeding rates ≥7.2 m−2, with any combination of row spacing, configuration, and number of seeds m−1 row. In nonirrigated conditions, net returns were maximized at seeding rates between 5.4 and 14.3 m−2, except in solid planted 38‐cm rows. Planting in a 2 × 1 skiprow pattern generated savings of seed and technology costs, and of harvest labor and machinery costs, that shifted profit potential away from solid plantings. Producers may need specialized planting and harvesting equipment to maximize returns in ultra‐narrow rows or skiprow patterns.
Soil Organic Matter Accumulation in Creeping Bentgrass Greens: A Chronosequence with Implications for Management and Carbon Sequestration
Authors: Carley Danesha Seth , Goodman David , Sermons Shannon , Shi Wei , Bowman Dan , Miller Grady , Rufty Thomas
Published: May 2011

Excessive organic matter (OM) accumulation in creeping bentgrass (Agrostis palustris Huds.) putting greens, and its restriction of permeability, is one of the most difficult problems in turfgrass management. In this transition zone study, we characterized temporal and spatial aspects of OM accumulation, in an attempt to assess the effectiveness of management and to begin to uncover the processes controlling C sequestration. Root zone samples were collected from sand‐based putting greens at 49 golf courses of various ages, generating 212 individual observations. Organic matter accumulated hyperbolically over time in the top 2.5 cm; apparent critical levels of 40 g kg−1 were exceeded within 5 yr. At a depth of 2.5 to 7.6 cm, accumulation was much slower and linear over time, and critical levels were not reached even after 20 yr. Oxygen levels were never depressed more than 15%, indicating that intensive management of the upper soil profile was successfully allowing gas exchange into the root zone. Carbon accumulated in the soil profile hyperbolically, reflecting changes in the large OM pool near the soil surface. The sequestration rate of 59 g m−2 yr−1 over 25 yr was less than that observed by others examining soil under bentgrass greens in different environments. The evidence indicates that OM and C accumulation are strongly influenced by increasing microbial degradation rates as turfgrass systems age.
Dry Bean Response to Salinity in Southern Manitoba
Authors: Brogan Robert J. , Froese Jane C. , Entz Martin H.
Published: May 2011

Expansion of dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production into saline soil areas of Manitoba has led to increased concern regarding its yield and quality response to soil salinity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of salinity on dry bean productivity in southern Manitoba, including the application of a salt tolerance model for dry bean crops. Using a coulter‐based sensor (Veris 3100, Veris Technologies, Salina, KS) to measure apparent soil electrical conductivity (ECa), surveys of dry bean fields with five levels of soil salinity conditions (very low to very high salinity zones) were created for four sites over 2 yr. High values of ECa were associated with high values of soil saturation extract electrical conductivity (ECe). Across all site years, average root‐zone salinity (ECe) values ranged from 0.77 to 11.16 dS m−1 The lowest salinity zones resulted in greater crop biomass, grain yield, harvested seed weight, and grain number, and tended to have greater plant stand densities and grain protein content than the highest salinity zones. A 50% decrease in relative crop yield was caused by ECe values between 4.88 and 8.35 dS m−1 ECa surveys were found to be an excellent tool for assessing the relative soil salinity status of study fields.
Composition of Native Warm‐Season Grasses for Bioenergy Production in Response to Nitrogen Fertilization Rate and Harvest Date
Authors: Waramit Naroon , Moore Kenneth J. , Heggenstaller Andrew H.
Published: May 2011

Information about the interaction of harvesting and N fertilization on composition of warm‐season grasses grown as biofuel feedstocks is limited. Our objective was to determine composition of warm‐season grasses as influenced by N fertilization rates and harvest dates. A field study was conducted near Ames, IA, during 2006 and 2007. The experimental design was a split‐split plot arranged in a randomized complete block with four replications. Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii Vitman), eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides L.), indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutrans L. Nash), and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) were main plots. Three N application rates (0, 65, and 140 kg ha−1) were subplots, and 10 harvest dates were sub‐subplots. In both years, delaying harvest increased cellulose, lignin, and C concentrations, but decreased ash and N concentrations, however, the magnitude of these effects varied among species. On average, big bluestem had the highest cellulose (430.5 g kg−1) and C concentration (450.5 g kg−1) while switchgrass had the highest lignin concentration (58.5 g kg−1) among four species. Big bluestem had the lowest ash concentration (47.5 g kg−1) whereas indiangrass had the lowest N concentration (5.5 g kg−1). With increasing rates of N, average N, C, cellulose, and lignin concentrations increased 19 to 29%, 0.6 to 2.2%, 0.7 to 5.7%, and 5.6 to 23.9%, respectively, whereas ash concentration declined 1.8 to 18.4%, varied among species. Our results indicated that in general, warm‐season grasses supplied with N fertilizer at 140 kg ha−1 and harvest delayed until fall have the optimal composition for biomass feedstock production.
Soybean Response to Rhizobia on Previously Flooded Sites in Southern Wisconsin
Authors: Furseth Branden J. , Conley Shawn P. , Ané Jean‐Michel
Published: May 2011

Due to increased moisture and flooding in the midwestern United States during the 2008 growing season, some soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] growers were concerned about the viability of soil rhizobia (Bradyrhizobium sp.) in 2009. Three field experiments were established on land, which had previously been flooded for an extended period of time, to test the performance of rhizobia inoculants and the seed yield and quality response to the initial soil rhizobia population. Seed yield and oil content did not respond to rhizobia inoculants across locations (P = 0.39 and 0.70, respectively), whereas seed protein content response differed among inoculants (P = 0.006). Yield (P = 0.01, R
2 = 0.10) and protein (<0.001, R
2 = 0.36) content were negatively correlated with the initial rhizobia population. Seed oil content was positively correlated with the initial rhizobia population (P = 0.009, R
2 = 0.10). Results suggest that initial soil rhizobia populations were adequate for optimum crop growth and the addition of a rhizobia inoculant was not required in these environments.
Optimum Timing and Rate of Trinexapac‐ethyl to Reduce Lodging in Spring Wheat
Authors: Wiersma J. J. , Dai J. , Durgan B. R.
Published: May 2011

Lodging can be a limiting factor of hard red spring wheat (HRSW) production. The main objective of this study was to determine the optimum timing and rate of trinexapac‐ethyl (TE) to improve straw strength, resistance to lodging, and related agronomic responses of HRSW. Field experiments arranged in randomized complete blocks were conducted from 2004 to 2006 in Crookston, MN. Five TE rates (0, 62.5, 93.75, 125.0, and 250.0 g a.i. ha−1) and one ethephon rate (280.2 g a.i. ha−1) were applied at Zadoks growth stage (GS) 30, 32, or 37. Measurements included crop injury, plant height, lodging, straw strength, acid detergent lignin (ADL) content, plant maturity, plant density, and yield. Increasing TE rates linearly decreased plant height and increased lodging resistance, straw strength, and ADL content. Lodging resistance was negatively correlated with plant height and positively associated with straw strength and ADL content. The TE rate of 125 g a.i. ha−1 decreased plant height by approximately 6%, and increased plant erectness by 9% and straw strength by 13%, without causing crop injury, delaying maturity, or affecting yield. Applications of TE at GS 37 resulted in less crop injury, shorter stand, and more erect plants than those at GS 30 or 32. These data suggest that the optimum application rate and timing of TE may be 125.0 g a.i. ha−1 at GS 37 for HRSW.
Agronomic Responses of Corn to Stand Reduction at Vegetative Growth Stages
Authors: Coulter Jeffrey A. , Nafziger Emerson D. , Abendroth Lori J. , Thomison Peter R. , Elmore Roger W. , Zarnstorff Mark E.
Published: May 2011

The current standard for assessing corn (Zea mays L.) yield loss due to stand reduction from hail assumes that remaining plants lose the ability to compensate for lost plants by mid‐vegetative growth. From 2006 to 2009, experiments were conducted over 12 site‐years in Illinois, Iowa, and Ohio to determine the agronomic responses of corn to stand reduction at the 5, 8, 11, and 15 leaf collar stages (V5, V8, V11, and V15, respectively), and whether these responses vary between uniform and random patterns of stand reduction with differences in within‐row interplant spacing. When compared to a control of 88,900 plants ha−1, grain yield decreased linearly as stand reduction increased from 16.7 to 50%, but was not affected by the pattern of stand reduction. This rate of yield loss was greatest when stand reduction occurred at V11 or V15, and least when it occurred at V5. With 50% stand loss, yield was 83 and 69% of the control when stand loss occurred at V5 and V15, respectively. With 16.7% stand loss at V5, V8, or V11, yield averaged 96% of the control. Per‐plant grain yield increased when stand loss occurred at earlier stages and was more severe. With 50% stand loss at V11 or V15, per‐plant grain yield increased by 37 to 46% compared to the control. These results show that corn retains the ability to compensate for lost plants through the late vegetative stages, indicating that current standards for assessing the effect of stand loss in corn should be re‐evaluated.
Narrow‐Width Harvester for Switchgrass and Other Bioenergy Crops in Experimental Plots
Authors: Long D. S. , Scharf P. A. , Pierce F. J.
Published: May 2011

Greater capacity in field experimental research could be achieved by equipment that harvests high‐yielding biomass energy crops within small plots. Versatility and cost‐effectiveness would be enhanced if the harvester were adaptable to currently available equipment. A narrow‐width biomass harvester for experimental plots was constructed to meet these objectives. The machine consists of a hydraulic drive, flail mower, support arm assembly, collection box and weighing platform, and electronic weighing system. The harvester is currently being powered with a 63.7 kW narrow specialty tractor with a 1.4‐m outside tread width. The narrow tractor‐flail was used to harvest 1.52‐m swaths down the centers of 3.8 by 12.2 m plots of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) so that a portion of the crop remained undisturbed for other measurements. The harvester could harvest dry switchgrass yields up to 20 Mg ha−1 in 8.8‐m plots before its collection box was filled. Other grasses and forages with shape and size characteristics similar to switchgrass would also likely be accommodated. Under normal conditions, three people can harvest 12 plots (20 m long) within 1 h including weighing the biomass, emptying the harvester, and bagging samples. The harvester can be attached to a tractor and made ready for harvesting, or removed to make the tractor available for other purposes, in about 1.5 h. Cost of materials for the harvester was <$10,000.
Rainfall Impacts Winter Wheat Seedling Emergence from Deep Planting Depths
Authors: Schillinger William F.
Published: May 2011

Farmers in the low‐precipitation (<300 mm annual precipitation) region of the Pacific Northwest (PNW) practice a 2‐yr tillage‐based winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–summer fallow (WW–SF) rotation. Winter wheat is planted deep into moisture in late August or early September and seedlings emerge through 10 to 16 cm of dry soil cover. Rain showers that occur after planting create fragile soil crusts that the emerging first leaf often cannot penetrate. A rainfall simulator was used to conduct a five‐factor factorial laboratory experiment to evaluate emergence of WW planted deep in pots. Factors were: (i) rainfall intensity and duration (1.25 mm/h for 3 h, and 2.50 mm/h for 2 h); (ii) timing of rainfall after planting (1, 3, and 5 d after planting + controls); (iii) cultivar (standard‐height vs. semi‐dwarf), (iv) residue on the soil surface (0, 840, and 1680 kg/ha); and (v) air temperature (21° and 30°C). The high‐intensity rain caused a 2.3‐fold reduction in emergence compared to the low‐intensity rain. Emergence improved proportionally with increasing quantities of surface residue. The standard‐height cultivar had four times greater emergence than the semi‐dwarf. Air temperature and timing of rainfall had no significant effect on WW emergence. Results show that planting a WW cultivar with long coleoptile and first leaf as well as maintaining high quantities of surface residue to intercept rain drops will enhance WW stand establishment after rain showers to benefit both farmers and the environment.
Corn Harvest Strategies for Combined Starch and Cellulosic Bioprocessing to Ethanol
Authors: Gao Juan , Qian Leilei , Thelen Kurt D. , Hao Xinmei , Sousa Leonardo da Costa , Lau Ming Woei , Balan Vankatesh , Dale Bruce E.
Published: May 2011

Conventional harvest and ethanol conversion strategies for corn (Zea mays L.) grain and corn stover involve multiple trips across the field and separate bioprocessing of the grain and stover. The objective of this study was to compare bioethanol yield between a traditional source separated corn harvest coupled with conventional separate starch and cellulosic bioprocessing streams, and novel whole‐plant harvest strategies coupled with a whole‐plant (starch plus cellulosic) bioprocessing platform. Composition analysis showed immature cut whole‐plant fractions whether fresh processed (ImF) or ensiled (ImS), and mature cut whole‐plant fraction (MWP) had higher glucan (56.0 ± 8.0% kg kg−1 dry biomass), lower xylan (13.3 ± 2.7%), arabinan (2.9 ± 0.6%) and acid‐insoluble lignin (11.8 ± 2.6%) contents than mature cut source separated fractions of stover (MSep‐S) and cob (MSep‐C). Averaged across locations MWP corn had significantly higher bioethanol yield on a land area basis (6446 ± 974 L ha−1) than the other harvest strategies. There was no difference in ethanol yield on a land area basis between ImF (5679 ± 1046 L ha−1) or ImS (5294 ± 1052 L ha−1) indicating that conventional ensiling is a viable feedstock storage method for bioethanol production in future biorefineries. The results suggest that whole‐plant corn harvesting coupled with whole‐plant bioconversion to ethanol is a viable alternative to the convention of separate grain and stover harvesting and bioprocessing.
Determining Biophysical Parameters for Olive Trees Using CASI‐Airborne and Quickbird‐Satellite Imagery
Authors: Gómez J. A. , Zarco‐Tejada P. J. , García‐Morillo J. , Gama J. , Soriano M. A.
Published: May 2011

This study reports on the development of remote sensing methods for estimation of biophysical parameters in olive orchards. Field and airborne campaigns were conducted in 2003 and 2004 in two orchards located in southern Spain. Ground measurements of crown transmittance and leaf area index (LAI) of individual olive trees (Olea europaea L.) were done using the LAI‐2000 Plant Canopy Analyzer. Hyperspectral images were acquired with a compact airborne spectrographic imager (CASI) at 1‐m spatial and with QuickBird satellite sensor at 2.5‐m spatial resolution. The panchromatic 0.6‐m spatial resolution image was also acquired with QuickBird. These images enabled the application of automatic algorithms for olive crown identification and delineation, to determine tree crown size and LAI. These methods proved successful for determining projected olive crown area, obtaining determination coefficients (r
2) in the range of 0.82 to 0.65, and root mean square errors (RMSE) of 4.8 and 6.2 m2 for CASI hyperspectral and QuickBird panchromatic images, respectively. The olive crown volume was estimated using image‐estimated projected crown area values, yielding r
2 ranging between 0.87 and 0.70, with RMSE of 8.4 and 11.3 m3 for CASI hyperspectral and QuickBird panchromatic images, respectively. Olive crown transmittance and LAI of individual olive trees were evaluated using spectral vegetation indices (normalized difference vegetation index [NDVI], renormalized difference vegetation index [RDVI], simple ratio index [SR], modified simple ratio [MSR]) yielding better correlations with CASI images, r
2 in the range 0.71 to 0.75 (P < 0.0001) and 0.57 to 0.62 (P < 0.0001) for crown transmittance and LAI, respectively. These methods enable obtaining maps of biophysical parameters in olive trees at farm scale in an operational way demonstrating the validity of the methodology used.
In‐Season Prediction of Corn Yield Using Plant Height under Major Production Systems
Authors: Yin Xinhua , McClure M. Angela , Jaja Ngowari , Tyler Donald D. , Hayes Robert M.
Published: May 2011

The relationship between corn (Zea mays L.) yield and plant height has been poorly documented in major corn production systems. This study was conducted to assess the relationship of corn yield with plant height under four major corn production systems at Milan, TN from 2008 through 2010. Six N treatments at rates of 0, 62, 123, 185, 247, and 308 kg N ha−1 with four replications were evaluated in a randomized complete block design in the following corn production systems: nonirrigated corn after corn, nonirrigated corn after soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], nonirrigated corn after cotton [Gossypium hirsutum (L.)], and irrigated corn after soybean. The regression of corn yield with plant height was significant and positive at 6‐leaf growth stage (V6), 10‐leaf growth stage (V10), and 12‐leaf growth stage (V12), and mostly became stronger as plant growth progressed from V6 to V10 and to V12 under an exponential model in the four corn production systems for all 3 yr. In general, corn yield was strongly related with plant height measurements made at V10 and V12. Factors affecting the responses of plant height measured at V6, V10, and V12 or/and yield to the N treatments may have contributed to the variations of determination coeffient (R
2) values across years. In conclusion, corn yield may be predicted with plant height measurements collected during V10 to V12. This prediction provides a physiological basis for the utilization of high resolution plant height measurements to guide variable‐rate N applications within the field on corn at around V10 and to more accurately estimate yield for earlier grain marketing purposes.
Nitrogen Fertilization Influences Shear Strength and Quality of Kentucky Bluegrass Sod Grown on Clay
Authors: Li Deying , Fang Wenjuan , Han Liebao
Published: May 2011

Shipment costs and easiness of handling sometimes make it necessary to produce sod on non‐ideal soils, such as clay. The objective of this study was to test the effects of N rate and N‐application timing, seeding rate, and mowing height on sod shear strength of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) produced on a clayey soil under the climate conditions of the upper Midwest in the United States. A blend of four Kentucky bluegrass cultivars were seeded at 50 or 100 kg ha−1 in 2004 and 2005 and maintained at 4.5‐ or 7.5‐cm mowing height. Annual N rates of 120 or 210 kg ha−1 were applied from April to September in different splits. Sod was harvested at 14 or 23 mo after seeding. By 14 mo after seeding, all N treatments had turfgrass visual quality above 6.0 except the unfertilized control and the 120 kg ha−1 yr−1 rate applied mainly in summer or spring. Sod shear strength reached a minimum acceptable level of 0.9 kg m−2 ×104 about 23 mo after seeding. Highest sod shear strength (1.18–1.36 kg m−2 ×104) with acceptable visual quality could be achieved through an N program of 8, 16, 24, 32, and 40 kg ha−1 in May, June, July, August, and September, respectively. Based on a 23‐mo production time line, a seeding rate at 50 kg ha−1 and a 7.5‐cm mowing height is recommended for economic reasons. Applying more than 40 kg ha−1 of N in June and July is not recommended.
Potassium Fertilization on Maize under Different Production Practices in the North China Plain
Authors: Niu Junfang , Zhang Weifeng , Chen Xinping , Li Chunjian , Zhang Fusuo , Jiang Lihua , Liu Zhaohui , Xiao Kai , Assaraf Menachem , Imas Patricia
Published: May 2011

Potassium fertilization is uncommon in the North China Plain (NCP), especially in maize (Zea maysL.) production. Our specific objectives in this study were to determine yield response to K fertilization as affected by conventional as well as high‐yielding production practices. Seven field experiments were conducted in the NCP. The factorial study compared three levels of K fertilization (K0 = no K; K1 = medium K rate; K2 = high K rate) and two levels of production practices: conventional (CP) and high yielding (HP). At all sites, HP outperformed CP in terms of maize grain yield except at ZD in 2006. On average, maize grain yields were enhanced by 9.9 and 14.9% under CP and 15.7 and 21.0% under HP at the K1 and K2 levels, respectively. Maize yield response, as well as economic profit from applied K, were greater under HP than CP, on average, across seven site‐years. Medium K inputs improved partial factor productivity (PFP) of applied N and P, while higher rates had inconsistent results. Overall, PFP and agronomic efficiency of applied K were improved under HP, as was the apparent recovery efficiency of applied K, which suggests positive interactions among K and other high‐yielding production practices. Negative K balances were observed in all of the K0 and K1 treatments in both years and under both production practices, especially under HP. In intensive agricultural soils of the NCP with higher K content relative to South China, optimal K fertilization will improve soil fertility and support high grain yield.
Comparisons of Single‐Row and Twin‐Row Soybean Production in the Mid‐South
Authors: Bruns H. Arnold
Published: May 2011

A Maturity Group (MG) IV and MG V soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivar were planted on beds in 102 cm single‐rows or 25 cm twin‐rows with 102 cm centers at 20, 30, 40, and 50 seeds m−2 in a Beulah fine sandy loam (coarse‐loamy, mixed, active, thermic Typic Dysrudepts) in 2008, 2009, and 2010 and in Sharkey clay (very‐fine, smectitic, thermic Chromic Epiaquerts) in 2009 and 2010 at Stoneville, MS. Despite furrow irrigation, drought and consistent maximum temperatures −32°C during 2010 reduced stands, yields, and seed weight at both sites. Twin‐rows produced more plants than similar single‐rows, which helped increase twin‐rows yields compared to single‐rows on the clay. Yields on the clay did not differ among seeding rates. Yields from twin‐rows on the sandy loam were only greater than single‐rows at 40 and 50 seeds m−2 for the MG IV cultivar and did not differ for the MG V. The MG IV cultivar tended to yield better than the MG V at both sites. The MG IV cultivar averaged 20 nodes plant−1 compared to 15 for the MG V. Both cultivars on the sandy loam average 59 pods plant−1, while the MG V cultivar produced 70 pods plant−1 vs. 63 pods plant−1 for the MG IV cultivar on the clay. Twin‐rows did not produce more pods plant−1 Row type or seeding rate did not effect seed weight at either site. Seeds m−2were greater for the MG IV cultivar on the sandy loam and corresponded with yield, but not so on the clay.
Relationships among Traits of Tropical Early Maize Cultivars in Contrasting Environments
Authors: Badu‐Apraku B. , Akinwale R. O. , Ajala S. O. , Menkir A. , Fakorede M. A. B. , Oyekunle M.
Published: May 2011

Secondary traits can improve precision with which drought or low soil nitrogen (low‐N) tolerant maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes are identified, compared to measuring only grain yield under each stress. The objective of this study was to identify secondary traits for indirect selection for yield improvement under drought and/or low‐N. Two sets of experiments were conducted at four locations in Nigeria for 2 yr. In the first experiment, cultivars were evaluated under low (30 kg ha−1) and high (90 kg ha−1) N and drought and well‐watered environments in the second experiment. Most reliable traits for selection for yield under drought were ear aspect (EASP), plant aspect (PASP), anthesis‐silking interval (ASI), and number of ears per plant (EPP). Days to anthesis (DYA) and silking (DYS) were the most reliable under well‐watered environments. Under low‐N, most reliable traits were DYA, DYS, stay green characteristic (LDTH), ASI, plant height (PLHT), EPP, EASP, and PASP whereas PLHT, EPP, PASP, and EASP were most reliable traits under high‐N environments. The ASI, EPP, EASP, and PASP were identified as most reliable traits for simultaneous selection of drought and low‐N tolerant genotypes. Under drought, cultivars TZE‐Y DT STR C4, TZE‐W DT STR C4, and TZE Comp 3 DT C1F2 were outstanding and closest to the ideal cultivar. Seven cultivars were closest to the ideal under low‐N, two of which were among the three selected under drought stress. Faster progress in selecting for improved grain yield is possible using EPP, EASP, PASP, and ASI under either drought or low‐N.
Time and the Productivity of Agronomic Crops and Cropping Systems
Authors: Egli Dennis B.
Published: May 2011

Economic yield of a crop is always a function of a growth rate expressed over time, but historically plant processes associated with rates probably received more attention than those associated with time. Time influences crop productivity in two ways; the time devoted to the growth of the crop can affect yield, and the time available for plant growth in any environment determines the potential resource capture by the crop. These relationships were investigated using data describing the length of the vegetative and reproductive growth phases of major grain crops. The total growth duration (TGD) of six crop species (
n
= 83) varied from 62 to 185 d. Vegetative growth averaged 67% of TGD while the reproductive phase accounted for 33%. Total biomass was related to the TGD, and seed yield was related to the length of the reproductive phase. There was a curvilinear relationship between TGD and reproductive phase duration with the maximum reproductive phase occurring at a TGD of ∼110 d. Consequently, selecting a longer TGD cultivar does not necessarily increase seed yield, making it difficult to convert the extra resources available in long growing seasons into seed yield. The length of the vegetative phase can be manipulated to enhance yield or production efficiency by, for example, shortening it to place reproductive growth in a more favorable environment or to reduce the irrigation requirement. Involving time as well as rate in efforts to improve yield provides more opportunities to increase food supplies in the future.
A Beginning Teacher's Journey toward Culturally Responsive Practice
Authors: Birrell James R. , Vanatter Rebecca A. , Tinney Mari Vawn
Published: May 2011

Few studies have explored the work of successful beginning teachers in diverse settings. This investigation follows one promising young, white elementary teacher through her student teaching in the inner city of Washington, D.C. and into her first year of teaching in a suburban, diverse Virginia school. Seven themes articulate her journey into more culturally responsive teaching. These themes may help teacher education candidates consider their own attitudes and actions towards diverse others.
Perspectives on Team Teachers who are Culturally Different
Authors: Bakken Jeffrey P. , Whedon Craig K. , Fletcher Reginald
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of urban students regarding their teachers who were of different races/ethnicities. The participants in this study were twelve students (African-American, Caucasian, and Bi-Racial) in an urban elementary school. The twelve students were in a special education self-contained classroom and were labeled as having emotional and behavioral disorders (E/BD). Results of this survey indicated the students felt teachers of a different color were competent and they could learn from them and that their races/cultural backgrounds did not affect their performance or how they treated the students. In addition, they indicated that teachers of a different race/cultural background worked well together, taught in ways that were consistent, assisted with increasing their self-esteem, listened to them, and exhibited positive teaching behaviors.
Responding to Multicultural Challenges in Rural Special Education
Authors: Ashbaker Betty Y. , Wilder Lynn K.
Published: May 2011

In recent years, the majority of new immigrants to the United States have settled in rural areas, creating unique challenges for special education administrators. In this article, we discuss the details of the challenges to rural schools in meeting the requirements of the federal mandates, especially No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act passed in 2001 and the 2004 reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA). Additionally, we discuss the challenges related to isolation, distance, teacher retention, resources, and English language learners and learners in poverty in rural areas. We then provide guidance and recommendations for improving the practice of special education in rural areas.
Managing Anger of At-Risk Students Using a Comprehensive Support Model
Authors: Obiakor Festus E.
Published: May 2011

Many at-risk students face myriad problems that are pervasive, multifaceted, and socio-historical. These problems sometimes lead them to anger, frustration, hate, hostility, and rage. In the educational system, these problems frequently lead to stigmatization as well as misidentification, mislabeling, misplacement, and misinstruction. Ironically, too often, the students are blamed by the same system that fails to design innovative programs to respond to their behavioral and learning styles. In this article, I describe how to manage anger and optimize the educational potential of at-risk students using the Comprehensive Support Model (CSM).
Applying Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy to Multicultural Classrooms
Authors: Gregas Amanda J.
Published: May 2011

The principles of psychology are an effective, yet underutilized resource within American schools. Teachers can take advantage of established interventions from the field of psychology and apply them to their classrooms in a realistic, straightforward manner, while still remaining in the role of the educator. A large part of cognitive-behavioral therapy involves teaching individuals about how their thoughts, feelings, and actions are interrelated. Specifically, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) teaches one how to thrive in situations that may be beyond ones control, while combating the self-defeating thoughts or behaviors likely to develop under such circumstances. For these reasons, REBT has the potential to positively impact students, particularly those in multicultural settings who face the barriers of stereotyping and discrimination. This article explains how teachers and counselors can utilize REBT strategies to empower urban students. These skills allow educators to acknowledge the challenges within their students environment, without giving them permission to render themselves helpless. Consequently, REBT is a valuable tool for the multicultural learner because it recognizes and respects the power within the individual to positively influence his or her own future.
The Multicultural War
Authors: Jackson Charles C.
Published: May 2011

A multicultural curriculum is one that includes all cultures that make up the United States, and social class is one factor to address when considering such a curriculum. Social class is often misperceived as the middle class social strata, because it is the core structure within the United States. Culture is a social personality structure, and it involves language, sanctions, values, gender identity, family constellation, ethnic and racial identity, and acculturation. If a multicultural educational curriculum is implemented, the needs of all students are addresses and such a curriculum has to explore the impact of race, social class, and gender on education.
Dynamic Contexts in the Education of Multicultural Students with Disabilities in the Urban School Environment
Authors: Vesely Randall S. , Crampton Faith E.
Published: May 2011

The challenges in improving and sustaining success of children from multicultural backgrounds with disabilities in urban school districts manifest themselves in the contextual dynamics of legal, accountability, demographic, and fiscal terrains. Within each of these areas, educational leaders must solve existing problems of underservicing, overidentifying, inadequately funding, and unnecessarily placing multicultural students in restrictive special education placements. In this article, we focus on these terrains.
Language Study Matters for Classroom Teachers in Diverse Schools
Authors: Quach Lan Hue , Heining-Boynton Audrey L. , Wang Chuang
Published: May 2011

In this study, we explored dimensions ofa teachers experience with formal language study, time spent abroad, and levels of bilingualism as factors that relate to their personal teaching efficacy beliefs using a purposeful sample of teachers from North and South Carolina working with English Language Learners in the mainstream classroom. Our statistical results from independent sample t-tests and Analysis ofVariance (ANOVA) support the need for all educators working in diverse classrooms to commit to long-term formal foreign language study.
Office Disciplinary Referrals in an Urban Elementary School
Authors: Lo Ya-yu , Cartledge Gwendolyn
Published: May 2011

Office disciplinary referrals can be a useful index for assessing students discipline problems as well as designing and evaluating school discipline practices. In this paper, we examined disciplinary referral data compiled from an urban elementary school (majority African American) in a midwestern city over a 2-year period. Evident issues included the patterns of disciplinary referrals, the types of infractions and the administrative actions taken in response to the reported offenses, the characteristics of referred students relative to gender and ethnicity, and the effects of exclusionary discipline practices in the form of suspensions. Data for students who remained in the school for 2 years were also examined to further determine the possible impact of staff factors, in addition to students behaviors, on the disciplinary referrals. We discuss the potential impact of disciplinary referrals as applied in this school and the special implications for African American males.
Impact of Cultural and Linguistic Diversity on Self-Determination Skills and Perceptions
Authors: Richter Sharon M.
Published: May 2011

The key to adult success for students with disabilities is effective transition planning that includes self-determination instruction. Usually, transition programming reflects post-secondary outcomes valued by European Americans. Yet, parents and students who are culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) may value different post-secondary outcomes. The purpose of this article is to review the research literature to investigate the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity on skills and perceptions of self-determination to inform future research and practice.