bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of hospital admission respiratory disease cases attributed to exposure to SO2 and NO2 in two different sectors of Egypt
Authors: Mohammed Atef MF , Ibrahim Yasser H , Saleh Inas A
Published: October 2020

Air Q 2.2.3 was used to predicted hospital admissions respiratory disease cases due to SO2 and NO2 exposure in two sectors of Egypt during December 2015 to November 2016. Levels were 19, 22 μg/m3 at Ain Sokhna sector and 92, 78 μg/m3 at Shoubra El-Khaima sector for SO2 and NO2, respectively. These levels were less than the Egyptian Permissible limits (125 µg/m³ in urban and 150 µg/m³ in industrial for SO2, 150 µg/m³ in urban and industrial for NO2). Results showed that relative risks were 1.0330 (1.0246 - 1.0414) and 1.0229 (1.0171 - 1.0287) at Ain Sokhna sector while they were 1.0261 (1.0195 -1.0327) and 1.0226 (1.0169 - 1.0283) at Shoubra El-Khaima sector for SO2 and NO2, respectively.The highest cases of HARD were found in Shoubra El-Khaima sector; 311 cases at 120 - 129 μg/m3 of SO2 and 234 cases at 120 - 129 μg/m3 of NO2. While, in Ain Sokhna, HARD were 18 cases at 50 - 59 μg/m3 of SO2 and 15 cases at 60 - 69 μg/m3 of NO2. The excess cases found in Shoubra El-Khaima sector as compared to those in Ain Sokhna sector, may be attributed to the higher density of population and industries in Shoubra El-Khaima sector.Keywords: AirQ2.2.3 model; Hospital admissions respiratory disease (HARD); Nitrogen dioxide (NO2); Sulfur dioxide (SO2); Coastal Sectors.
Trends and gender differences in age at sex debut among adolescents and young adults in urban Cape Area, South Africa
Authors: Muchiri Evans , Odimegwu Clifford
Published: October 2020

Background: Adolescents and young adults in South Africa are at increased risk of experiencing negative outcomes from early sex initiation due to the context they develop in. This study aimed at investigating trends and gender differences in early age at sexual debut.Methods: Data from the Cape Area Panel Study (CAPS) of young adults’ conducted between 2002 and 2009 in urban Cape Town were used. Correlates of early sex using ecological risk factors were analysed. Results: Overall mean age at sexual debut at follow-up was 17.5 years (standard deviation (SD) =2.5), with males at 16.8 years (SD=2.5) and 18.1 years (SD=2.4) for females. Males consistently reported an earlier age at sex debut across the five waves of the survey. Significant risk factors for early sex appeared at all levels of the ecology to include individual, household, and community factors. Conclusions: Integrated interventions for delaying early sex debut should consider factors within the ecology of the young adults’ development context.Keywords: Sex debut, adolescents and young adults, contextual risk factors, cumulative risk.
Sexual dysfunction: prevalence and associated factors in patients with mental illness receiving psychotropic medication in Nigeria
Authors: Osasona Samuel Obateru , Ehimigbai Mary
Published: October 2020

Objectives: The objectives were to determine the prevalence of total and specific sexual dysfunction among psychiatric out-patients taking psychotropic medication, assess its relationship with some demographic and clinical variables, determine the effect of sexual dysfunction on subject’s self- esteem and compliance with medication.Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in the psychiatric out-patient clinic of a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Benin City. The International Index of Erectile Functioning (IIEF), Rosenberg’s self esteem scale and a socio-demographic and clinical data questionnaire were administered to 300 participants; 150 (50%) psychiatric male patients and 150 (50%) controls.Results: The prevalence of total sexual dysfunction was 48.7%, while that of the specific SDs ranged from 20.0% to 39.3%, with erectile dysfunction having the highest proportion. Age, marital status, class, dose of psychotropic medication, poly-pharmacy and duration of treatment were significantly associated with SD. Majority of patient with SD reported poor compliance with medication. Self-esteem scores had significant inverse relationship with total SD scores.Conclusion: Sexual dysfunction is prevalent amongst psychiatric patients taking psychiatric medication and has negative implications for self-esteem and medication compliance. Routine enquiry about sexual symptoms by physicians and prompt treatment of SD might enhance overall treatment success.Keywords: Sexual dysfunction, psychiatric patients, psychotropic medication, Nigeria.
Complementary and alternative treatment methods for menopausal hot flashes used in Turkey
Authors: Ozcan Handan , Çolak Pınar , Oturgan Berna , Gülsever Esra
Published: October 2020

Objective: Study was planned to determine complementary and alternative treatment methods for menopausal hot flashes.Methods: Women who reported their discomfort of hot flashes as a degree of discomfort of 4 or more according to the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were included in the study (n:356). In data collection, Questionnaire Form and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Approaches Scale were used.Results: The average age of the women was 56.65±6.05 and the average age of menopause was 46.39±5.25. According to VAS, the average severity of hot flashes was 7.85±1.83.Women with obesity and any chronic disease were more likely to have hot flashes. It was determined that 73.6% of women in the menopausal period were using Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). It was determined that women were using herbal supplements, dietary supplements, mind-body practices and religious practices against the discomfort of hot flashes. 72% of women using CAM stated that the method used was effective.Conclusion: Women who use CAM usually use it with information that is out of the knowledge of health profession and lack of information. It is recommended to carry out extensive studies for CAM methods and the mechanisms of action that women use.Keywords: Menopause, hot flashes, complementary and alternative medicine.
The current pattern of facility-based perinatal and neonatal mortality in Sagamu, Nigeria
Authors: Ogunlesi Tinuade A , Ayeni Victor A , Ogunfowora Olusoga B , Jagun Edward O
Published: October 2020

Background: Perinatal and neonatal mortality rates have been described as sensitive indices of the quality of health care services. Regular audits of perinatal and neonatal mortalities are desirable to evaluate the various global interventions.Objective: To describe the current pattern of perinatal and neonatal mortality in a Nigerian tertiary health facility.Methods: Using a prospective audit method, the socio-demographic parameters of all perinatal and neonatal deaths recorded in a Nigerian tertiary facility between February 2017 and January 2018 were studied.Results: There were 1,019 deliveries with stillbirth rate of 27.5/1000 total births and early neonatal death (END) rate among in-born babies of 27.2/1000 live births. The overall perinatal mortality rate for in-facility deliveries was 53.9/1000 total births and neonatal mortality (till the end of 28 days) rate of 27.2/1000 live births. Severe perinatal asphyxia and prematurity were the leading causes of neonatal deaths while obstructed labour and intra-partum eclampsia were the two leading maternal conditions related to stillbirths (25.0% and 21.4% respectively).Gestational age < 32 weeks, age < 24 hours and inborn status were significantly associated with END (p = 0.002, p <0.001 and p = 0.002 respectively).Conclusion: The in-facility perinatal mortality rate was high though stillbirth rate was relatively low. There is a need to improve the quality of emergency obstetric and neonatal services prior to referral to tertiary facilities.Keywords: Asphyxia, neonatal death, obstructed labour, perinatal death, stillbirth.
Immunoglobulin heavy variable (IgHV) gene mutation and micro-RNA expression in Burkitt’s lymphoma at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Western Kenya
Authors: Ndede Isaac , Mining S K , Patel K , Wanjala F M , Tenge C
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL) is a virus associated childhood B-cell cancer common in Eastern Africa. Continued survival of B-cells in germinal centres depend on expression of high affinity immunoglobulins (Ig) to complementary antigens by somatic hypermutation of Ig genes. Cellular microRNAs, non-coding RNAs have been reported to play role in cell cycle regulation. Both viral antigen dependent mutation and micro-RNA expression maybe involved in BL pathogenesis.Objective: To describe immunoglobulin heavy variable (IgHV) rearrangement and micro-RNA expressions in BL tumours.Methods: Genomic DNA were extracted and purified from BL tissue blocks at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, before amplification using IgHV consensus primers and sequencing. The sequences were then aligned with germline alleles in IMGT/V-QUEST® database. Total RNA extracted from tissue blocks and cell lines were used to determine relative expression of hsa-miR-34a and hsa-miR-127.Results: In all tumours, allele alignment scores and number of mutations range were 89.2-93.2%, 15-24 respectively. The range of IgHV amino acid changes were higher in EBER-1+ (15-25) than EBER-1- (9-15). In MYC+ tumours, the relative expression were: hsa-miR-127(2.09);hsa-miR-34a (2.8) and MYC- hsa-miR-127 (1.2), hsa-miR-34a (1.0).Conclusion: B-cell in BL contained somatic mutated IgHV gene and upregulated cellular microRNAs with possible pathogenetic role(s).Keywords: IgHV; somatic hypermutation; microRNA; Burkitt’s lymphoma.
Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Khanna Deepak , Chaubal Tanay , Bapat Ranjeet , Abdulla Anshad Mohamed , Philip Sunil Thomas , Arora Suraj
Published: October 2020

Background: Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CA-ex-PA) is extremely unusual in minor salivary glands of oral cavity. CA-ex-PA is a carcinomatous change as a primary or as a recurrence of pleomorphic adenoma.Objective: Due to resemblance of clinical symptoms of Ca ex PA and benign pleomorphic adenoma, it is mandatory for surgeons to keep high degree of clinical alertness, considering the peculiarity of this tumor.Case Report: 54-year-old male presented with swelling on left side in the pre-auricular region from the middle of zygomatic arch to mastoid process and from tragus of the ear up to angle of mandible. Fine needle aspiration cytology revealed a mixture of benign and malignant components. Total left parotidectomy with left radical neck dissection followed by reconstruction with cervicodeltopectoral flap was performed. Combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy were given to patient. Histologic examination and pre-operative fine needle aspiration cytology confirmed the diagnosis of Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CA-ex-PA). Two-year follow-up of patient showed no recurrence of the lesion.Conclusion: Due to the similarity in the clinical symptoms of CA-ex-PA and benign pleomorphic adenoma, it is vital that clinicians maintain a high degree of clinical vigilance, considering the oddity of this malignancy.Keywords: Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, Fine needle aspiration cytology, parotidectomy.
An overview of recent development in bio-oil upgrading and separation techniques
Authors: Panwar Narayan Lal , Paul Arjun Sanjay
Published: October 2020

Bio-oil produced from the fast pyrolysis/hydrothermal liquefaction is gaining popularity worldwide as the forerunner to replace fossil fuel. The bio-oil can be produced from agricultural waste, forest residue, and urban organic waste. It is also called pyrolysis oil, renewable fuel, and has the potential to be used as fuel in many applications. The application of bio-oil as transportation fuel helps to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and to keep up the ecological balance. The bio-oil has the heating value of nearly half of the diesel fuel i.e. 16-19 MJ/kg; but, the inferior properties such as high water content, high viscosity, low pH, and poor stability hinder bio-oil application as a fuel. Thus, this paper provides a detailed review of bio-oil properties, its limitations and focuses on the recent development of different upgrading and separation techniques, used to date for the improvement of the bio-oil quality. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of each upgrading method along with the application and environmental impact of bio-oil are also discussed in this article.
Título en español.
Authors: José Adsuar
Published: October 2020

La estría clorótica de la caña de azúcar es una enfermedad causada por un virus que reduce notablemente la producción de azúcar por cuerda. El tratamiento para combatir esta enfermedad consiste en sumergir la caña afectada por 20 minutos en agua calentada a 52° C. Se sabe que el tratamiento puede afectar la germinación de las distintas variedades. Se sometieron trece de las mejores variedades de caña de azúcar recomendada por la Estación Experimental al tratamiento con calor para determinar como se afectaba la germinación de las mismas. El tratamiento afectó adversamente la germinación de las variedades M. 336, B. 41227 y Co. 281. Estimuló la germinación de las variedades H. 328560, P.R. 1000, B. 37161, B. 40105, B. 37172, B. 371933, P.R. 907 y P.R. 902. No influyó en forma alguna sobre la germinación de las variedades P.R. 905 y P.R. 980.
Título en español.
Authors: M. A. Lugo-López  , E. Hernández-Medina  , P. Landrau, Jr.
Published: October 2020

Se presentan aquí datos para verificar la hipótesis de que las adiciones de materia orgánica a suelos lateríticos, de condición física favorable, son de valor dudoso; mientras que en el caso de suelos no lateríticos, con condiciones físicas desfavorables, estas aplicaciones pueden aumentar efectivamente los niveles de materia orgánica. No su pudieron medir aumentos en el contenido de materia orgánica de suelos lateríticos cuando se trataron con diferentes cantidades de paja de caña, cachaza y abonos verdes de habichuelas terciopelo. En suelos no lateríticos se midieron aumentos positivos cuando se trataron en la forma descrita anteriormente.
Título en español.
Authors: R. Santini, Jr.  , Alice S. Huyke
Published: October 2020

Por medio de la cromatografía de papel fué posible identificar los azúcares presentes en la acerola. Dextrosa, levulosa, y sacarosa fueron los azúcares que se encontraron presentes.
Título en español.
Authors: J. A. Ramos
Published: October 2020

Este es un estudio taxonómico de las Kinnaridae, Cercopidae, Membracidae y Cicadidae de Puerto Rico. Con el mismo se concluye la revisión entera de las Auchenorhyncha de la Isla, según fué inciciado por Caldwell y Martorell en el 1950, con un tratamiento similar de las Cicadelliade y las Fulgoroidea, a excepción de las Kinnaridae. Se cataloga un total de 37 especies de estas familias de la región con observaciones sobre su distribución, abundancia y plantas hospederas. Se dan claves para la identificación de las especies de cada familia. Se describen los siguientes nuevos géneros y especies; Oreopenes gen. n., O. luteifacies sp. n.; Quilessa collaris sp. n., Q. pellucidoides sp. n., Q. atrata sp. n., Q. nahiba sp. n., Q. heminfuscata sp. n., Q. oraria sp. n., Q. wirshingi sp. n. en la Kinnaridae; Leocomia uprae sp. n.; Asprocranites gen. n., A. variegata sp. n.; Gaetopsis gen. n., G. juanalis sp. n.; Clastoptera martorelli sp. n. y C. diminuata sp. n., en la Cercopidae; Jibaraita gen. n., J. borincana sp. n.; Nessorhinus esbeltus sp. n.; Paradarnoides caldwelli sp. n.; Spathenotus gen. n., S. tridentatus sp. n.; Antillotolania gen. g., A. doramariae sp. n.; Brachycentrotus rufinervis sp. n. y Monobelus maldonadoi sp. n. en la Membracidae. Se discute y analiza la fauna puertorriqueña de las familias Kinnaridae, Cercopidae, Membracidae y Cicadidae.
Lack of Response of Old Coffee Trees Grown in Alonso Clay To Lime and Phosphatic Fertilization
Authors: Bonnet J. A. , Riera A. R. , Lugo-López M. A.
Published: October 2020

Data are reported here from a 4-year field experiment in an Alonso clay with old coffee trees in the vicinity of Adjuntas and Lares, in the heart of the Coffee Region of Puerto Rico. The experiment included super- and hyperphosphate applied either with or without lime, and at rates of 0, 50, 125, and 200 pounds to the acre. Lime was applied at a rate of 4 tons to the acre. No significant differences were measured in coffee yields which could be attributed to any of the treatments. These results are analyzed in the fight of previous similar work. The general statement could be made that lime applications to acid Alonso clay soils do not affect the yields of coffee in any way, except perhaps when the acidity is high (pH 4.0 to 4.5), in which case applications of 1 ton are apparently sufficient. There is no need to apply phosphatic fertilizers to Alonso soils. However, the beneficial effects of these fertilizers have been demonstrated when dealing with other soils.
First Records for the Rice Plant Hopper, Sogata orizicola Muir, in Puerto Rico (Homoptera: Fulgoridea: Delphacidae)
Authors: Kramer James P. , Martorell Luis F.
Published: October 2020

The important disease of rice, "hoja blanca" is transmitted by the fulgorid, Sogata orizicola Muir. The vector was found breeding in rice fields at the eastern region of the Island of Puerto Rico. A brief description of the insect, as well as a plate illustrating the same are given in the article.
The Effect of Yields on Picking Efficiency in Coffee Production
Authors: Silva Servando , Abruña Fernando , Vicente-Chandler José
Published: October 2020

Picking efficiency was found to increase gradually with yields of coffee up to about 1,800 pounds of market coffee per acre in 128 plots varying widely in productivity as a result of differential fertilization.
Response of Guinea, Pangola, and Coastal Bermuda Grasses To Different Nitrogen Fertilization Levels Under Irrigation in The Lajas Valley of Puerto Rico
Authors: Rivera Brenes L. , Torres Más J. , Arroyo J. A.
Published: October 2020

An experiment was established at the Lajas Substation to measure the response of Guinea, which is the prevailing grass of the Valley, Pangola, and Coastal Bermuda grasses to fertilization with nitrogen at the levels of 200, 400, 800, and 1,200 pounds of nitrogen in six equal applications per year for two consecutive years under irrigation. A split-plot design was followed with four replications, grasses being tested in the large plots and nitrogen in the subplots. The grasses were cut every 60 days and the following classes of data were taken for comparisons: 1, Yields of green and dry matter per acre per year; 2, hay yields per acre, using an all-crop dryer and adjusting yields to 20- percent moisture for uniformity; 3, gross-energy values as affected by treatment; 4, percentage of protein and total protein per acre as affected by treatment; 5, leaf-to-stem ratio; 6, observations on palatability of the hays produced; 7, other observations. Generally speaking, and with few exceptions, highly significant differences were found in yield per acre of green forage, dry matter, hay, and total protein for all three grasses between the high and lower nitrogen treatments. No differences were found between the two high-nitrogen treatments. Seasonal variation was measured. There was an increase in yield for the three grasses, starting in April with a peak in September, and a reduction starting in late October with the lowest yield in January no matter how much water and fertilizer was applied. Tentative recommendations are made. Further work is being carried on, however.
Palatability Tests on Giant Pangola grass (Digitaria valida Stent) and Signal grass (Brachiaria brizantha) as compared with Napier (Merker) grass (Pennisetum purpureum)
Authors: Rivera Brenes L. , Arroyo J. A. , Cestero H. , Sierra A.
Published: October 2020

Signal grass (Brachiaria brizantha) and Giant Pangola (Digitaria valida Stent) were introduced into Puerto Rico by the Agricultural Experiment Station in 1957, from Ceylon and Cuba, respectively. Field observations and unpublished data on yields indicate good forage possibilities for these grasses for the Island. Both were submitted to a palatability test and compared with Napier grass, (Pennisetum purpureum), which is one of our most palatable forage grasses, using a 3 x 3 Latin-square design. The two grasses are as palatable as and contain more dry matter per pound of green forage than Napier grass. Both grasses are under grazing trials and must be submitted to more field observations before final recommendations are given to the farmers.
The Influence of Degree of Maturity on the Quality of Canned Pigeonpeas
Authors: Sánchez Nieva F.
Published: October 2020

The effect of maturity on the quality of canned pigeonpeas was studied. Various quality criteria such as drained weight, volume, and viscosity of the brine, color and turbidity of brine, and uniformity of color with respect to the predominance of green pigment were found to depend on the maturity of the pigeonpeas processed. It was found that higher drained weights were obtained as maturity increased. The viscosity of the brine increased while its volume decreased and the brine became darker and had a higher turbidity. Since all these quality criteria are taken into consideration in grading the product, the maturity of the pigeonpeas being processed will determine the grade of the canned product. Since higher shelled-out percentages are obtained as the pigeonpeas become more mature, processors may process peas at a stage of development which may lead to a lowering of the quality of the canned product. To insure a high-quality pack it is suggested that pigeonpeas should be bought by the processor according to quality or maturity, and not on a weight basis.
An Analysis of the Quantitative and Qualitative Composition of the Nematode Populations in Pineapple Fields in Puerto Rico
Authors: Ayala Alejandro
Published: October 2020

In this study undertaken in Puerto Rico during the months from March through September 1957, 60 different samples of plant-parasitic nematodes from roots and soil were taken from various pineapple farms in 3 of the 4 production Regions of Puerto Rico: Northern, Southwestern, and Central. The fields were selected at random, and those showing no symptoms of nematode injury, as well as those showing such symptoms, were studied. The methods employed for field collection were a modification of those used by Cobb. The laboratory methods and the recovery of nematodes from the soil were a combination of the screen and Baermann-funnel methods. Twenty-three different genera of nematodes were recovered, 16 of which were recognized as being plant parasites and the other 7 were suspected. There was no case in which a sample was found to be free of plant nematodes. In fact, the lowest number of genera present in 1 sample was 5 and the highest was 15, with a mean average of 9 genera per sample. The most frequently occurring genera were Rotylenchulus and Helicotylenchus which were present in all the samples. Less frequent but still common were Pratylenchus, Paratylenchus, Aphelenchoides, Dorylaimus, Ditylenchus, and Meloidogyne. This last one was found only in the Northern Region. The other 16 genera were less widely distributed. Populations of the first 2 genera were large, with a general mean average of 0.97 and 0.67 million per square meter (3.90 and 2.70 billions per acre), respectively. Their population size was higher in the Northern Region, while in the Central and Southwestern Regions it was lower. The average nematode population was 1.75 millions per square meter (7.05 billions per acre) at 6 inches depth. Several edaphic, climatological, and biological factors were found to be related to population sizes for all the genera and some specific genera studied. Population size of the genera varied with geographic location, type of soil, age and variety of the plants (although not statistically), previous crops planted, and temperature. No apparent relation was noted between precipitation except for the root-knot nematode and pH of the soil and nematode population size. No study was conducted of other biological factors such as different soil organisms, or cultivation methods and soil additives. It was estimated from the results obtained in this study and the damage observed in the pineapple plantings of this as well as previously scattered experiments that nematodes cause the loss of a great part of the crop yield in the Island. This loss has been calculated by the Extension Service officers to amount to at least 40 percent of the potential yield.
Notes and Records of Little-Known Species of Birds from Puerto Rico
Authors: Rolle Francis J.
Published: October 2020

Notes and records of little-known species of birds from Puerto Rico are presented in an annotated list form. In some cases the records represent migrant birds never before reported from the Island. The bulk of the data was gleaned from past publications, a number of which are now out of print and not available to those seeking information.
Título en español.
Authors: José Vicente-Chandler  , Jacinto Figarella
Published: October 2020

Se determinaron los efectos de aplicar 600 libras de nitrógeno por cuerda anualmente de cinco fuentes distintas sobre el rendimiento y composición de la yerba Napier. Las fuentes de nitrógeno no causaron diferencias en el rendimiento o en el contenido de calcio, fósforo, potasio, y manganeso de la yerba. Sin embargo, la aplicación de urea y hidróxido amoniacal resultaron en la producción de menos proteína que el sulfato amónico, el nitrato de sodio o el nitrato amónico, señalando que los compuestos mencionados primeramente son fuentes menos eficientes de nitrógeno, bajo las condiciones de este experimento. Los rendimientos de forraje fueron menores, pero el contenido de proteína del forraje fué mayor durante los meses "invernales," con menos lluvia y con días más cortos y frescos.
Título en español.
Authors: G. Samuels  , F. González-Vélez  , E. G. Boneta-García  , A. Sierra-Bracero
Published: October 2020

Un experimento con abonos para tabaco de tripa, en arcilla Mabí en la Subestación de Gurabo, y en el cual se aumentaron los niveles de potasa desde 0 hasta 300 libras por cuerda (0, 100, 200, 300), reveló lo siguiente: 1. Hubo aumento de los rendimientos de tabaco, según aumentaron las proporciones de potasa. El uso de 300 libras de K2O por cuerda produjo un aumento significativo sobre el tratamiento sin potasa, pero éste no fue significativo cuando se comparó con el tratamiento de 200 libras de K2O por cuerda. 2. El uso de 2 toneladas de cal, más 200 libras de K2O por cuerda, produjo aumentos significativos en cuanto al tabaco curado sobre el tratamiento sin potasa, pero esto no resultó así cuando se compararon con los resultados del tratamiento de 200 libras de K2O por cuerda. 3. El tratamiento de 200 libras de K2O por cuerda produjo el tabaco curado de mejor calidad, según se determinó al computar el precio pagado por el producto. 4. Si se considera el ingreso del agricultor por el tabaco curado después de restar el costo del abono, puede afirmarse que el tratamiento más remunerativo fue el que consistió de la aplicación de 2 toneladas de cal y 200 libras de K2O por cuerda. 5. En cuanto a la aceptación de los fumadores, no hubo diferencias significativas entre los distintos tratamientos con potasa, en lo concerniente a los factores de calidad.
Título en español.
Authors: E. Boneta-García  , M. A. Lugo-López
Published: October 2020

Se presentan aquí datos con relación a las pérdidas de sacarosa de seis variedades de caña dejadas bajo sombra o bajo sol, como se acostumbra hacer en las plazas de las centrales azucareras de Puerto Rico. El estudio incluyó las variedades P.R. 980, P.O.J. 2878, M. 336, H. 32-8560, P.R. 1000 y P.R. 902. Dos grupos de muestras, con un total de 120 muestras de 10 cañas cada una, se cortaron a un intervalo de 20 días y se dejaron bajo las condiciones arriba descritas. Las muestras se molieron a varios intervalos después de la cosecha. La reducción diaria de sacarosa, la cual puede atribuirse al almacenaje antes de la molienda, fué significativa. Las distintas variedades de caña se comportaron diferentemente. La variedad M. 336 fue la que menos se afectó de todas, pero la P.R. 1000 sufrió pérdidas considerables de sacarosa durante el período de almacenaje.
Título en español.
Authors: Tara Singh-Dhaliwal  , Aníbal Torres-Sepúlveda
Published: October 2020

Durante 7 años se estudió el comportamiento de la acerola (Malpighia punicifolia L.) en la Subestación de Castañer ubicada en el centro de la región cafetalera de Puerto Rico. Las plantitas de acerola provinieron de semillas del clon B-17. Se sembraron en el campo en un tipo de suelo Alonso arcilloso cuyo pH era alrededor de 5.0. Como el terreno era en declive, la siembra se dejó sin cultivar para evitar la erosión, aunque otras prácticas como la erradicación de los yerbajos, el abonamiento, etc., se atendieron debidamente. Hubo gran variación entre los árboles de acerola en cuanto a tamaño, diámetro del dosel, número y grosor de las ramas escalonadas, longitud de las ramas laterales y número de espolones. Empezaron a producir frutas cuando tuvieron alrededor de 3 años. La cosecha empezó en abril, continuó hasta noviembre y llegó a su apogeo en agosto. Los árboles también demostraron gran variación en sus rendimientos de frutas. A través de un período de 3 años, el promedio anual de producción por árbol fluctuó entre 205.2 y 481 onzas. En promedio, los árboles de acerola demostraron una gran variación en el diámetro y peso de las frutas. Sin embargo, no varió mucho el diámetro ni el peso de las frutas cosechadas de los mismos árboles en fechas distintas. Estos árboles sí revelaron una gran variación en el contenido de vitamina C de sus frutas. Las bien maduras tenían menos cantidad de vitamina C que las que, en el mismo árbol, habían madurado sólo parcialmente. Las frutas se utilizaron para preparar jugos y jaleas en pequeña escala. A muchas personas les gusta comer la fruta fresca, especialmente las más grandes y las menos ácidas. Por lo demás, los árboles bajo estudio no sufrieron daño importante debido a enfermedades o a plagas de insectos. Este estudio indica que la acerola podría cultivarse comercialmente en la región cafetalera de Puerto Rico, si la producción lograra venderse para fines industriales.
FAILURE OF RATS TO TRANSMIT THE CAUSAL AGENT OF THE RATOON-STUNTING DISEASE SUGARCANE
Authors: José Adsuar
Published: October 2020

FAILURE OF RATS TO TRANSMIT THE CAUSAL AGENT OF THE RATOON-STUNTING DISEASE SUGARCANE
Título en español.
Authors: C. L. González Molina  , A. Sierra Bracero  , E. G. Boneta García
Published: October 2020

En dos experimentos hechos en la Subestación Experimental Agrícola de Gurabo con el fin de evaluar las diferencias en rendimiento e ingreso de la cosecha, mediante el cape de las plantas de tabaco de la variedad Selección Olor, no se encontró diferencia alguna entre los distintos tratamientos. Tal parece que cuando el cape es bajo, el beneficio que se deriva de esta práctica no es suficiente para compensar el gran número de hojas que se pierden durante la operación. Debido a que la variedad Selección Olor es de madurez tardía y produce un gran número de hojas, no se adapta bien a los tipos de cape bajos o intermedios. Cuando se capa la planta de tabaco se provoca la producción de tallos secundarios y renuevos, los cuales hay que eliminar cada 6 u 8 días. Esta es labor que acarrea gastos adicionales que aumentan el costo producción, sin que el rendimiento adicional compense dichos gastos. A pesar de que el cape mejora el tamaño y la calidad del tabaco, ésto no significa beneficio alguno para el agricultor, ya que los lotes de tabaco se clasifican principalmente a base de los caracteres físicos de las hojas y no de las propiedades químicas de las mismas. Debido a que varios factores, tales como: condiciones climáticas, niveles de fertilidad, madurez fisiológica de las hojas, clase de variedad, densidad de siembra, etc., pueden afectar la eficiencia de las diferentes alturas de cape, es que se recomienda que se continúen las investigaciones encaminadas a determinar los efectos de esas influencias sobre la eficacia del cape. Hasta tanto no se obtenga evidencia que demuestre lo contrario a esta aseveración, se recomienda que los agricultores que siembran la variedad Selección Olor practiquen un cape alto, o mantengan las plantaciones sin capar, pues esto es lo más económico.
Título en español.
Authors: D. S. Boyce
Published: October 2020

1. Se confirmó que el rendimiento de materia seca del café desmucilaginado por medios mecánicos fue mayor que el del café sometido al proceso de fermentación natural en un ambiente húmedo y permitiendo que el agua escurriera. Esta diferencia fue prácticamente significativa al nivel del uno por ciento. 2. Se encontró que la pérdida de peso obedecía mayormente al proceso de fermentación, habiéndose registrado una pérdida significativamente mayor al nivel del 5 por ciento entre muestras de café pergamino tratadas idénticamente, a excepción de que las muestras que rindieron la mayor cantidad de materia seca fueron desmucilaginadas mecánicamente antes de exponerse a las condiciones de fermentación natural. 3. La ventaja de adoptar la desmucilaginación mecánica dependería de si un aumento en rendimiento de más del 3 por ciento del pergamino seco pudiera justificar el capital invertido y la operación del equipo necesario. 4. No pudo establecerse correlación alguna entre la pérdida de materia seca durante la fermentación o la rapidez de descomposición del mucílago y la temperatura o la duración de la fermentación natural. Podría suponerse que los agentes responsables de la fermentación natural contaminan el pergamino en forma fortuita y que determinados agentes son más afectados que otros por la temperatura o la duración del proceso.
PHYTOPHTHORA DAMPING-OFF OF "BRUJAS" (BRYOPHYLLUM SPP.)
Authors: Luis A. Alvarez García
Published: October 2020

PHYTOPHTHORA DAMPING-OFF OF "BRUJAS" (BRYOPHYLLUM SPP.)
A NEW SPECIES OF LEPTOSPHAERIA CAUSING LEAF BLIGHT OF COMMON GARDEN ASPARAGUS IN PUERTO RICO
Authors: Alvarez García Luis A.
Published: October 2020

A NEW SPECIES OF LEPTOSPHAERIA CAUSING LEAF BLIGHT OF COMMON GARDEN ASPARAGUS IN PUERTO RICO
Influence of Nitrogen Sources and Time of Cutting on Yield and Protein Content of Napier (Merker) Grass
Authors: Samuels George , González-Vélez Francisco
Published: October 2020

Ammonium sulfate, urea, and Nitroform were evaluated as nitrogen sources for Napier (Merker) grass (Pennisetum purpureum), as influenced by liming and harvesting interval. The results indicated that: 1. The annual mean yield of green grass per acre was increased by longer harvest or cutting intervals. The 9-week harvest interval gave significantly more tonnage of forage than did the 6-week interval, but the 12-week interval was not significantly better than the 9-week. 2. There was a significant increase in forage tonnage attributable to nitrogen sources used, over the no-nitrogen treatment at all harvest intervals. 3. Ammonium sulfate gave the highest yields of green forage and percentages of protein for the average of the three harvest intervals. 4. The protein content of Napier grass decreased with increasing harvest intervals, and none of the nitrogen sources used prevented or modified this decrease. 5. Liming did not significantly increase yields of green forage per acre or percentages of protein.
Application of the Shear Press to Determine The Degree of Maturity of Pigeonpeas
Authors: Sánchez-Nieva F.
Published: October 2020

The Lee-Kramer shear press has been found to afford a rapid means of measuring the maturity of pigeonpeas. The high correlation coefficients between shear-press readings and starch, alcohol-insoluble solids, and total-solids content, and with the percentage of yellow pigeonpeas, indicate that the shear press can be used with accuracy to measure the maturity of pigeonpeas. Regression equations can be used to calculate the values for the objective indices from the corresponding shear-press readings.
Spontaneous Hybridization of Coffee Varieties and Species in Puerto Rico
Authors: Singh-Dhaliwal T. , Meléndez-Gonzáles P. , Torres Sepulveda A.
Published: October 2020

Puerto Rican, Columnaris, and Bourbon varieties of Coffea arabica are commonly grown in Puerto Rico. In some localities there are small plantings also of other coffees, such as Excelsa (C. excelsa) and Robusta (C. canephora). Recently some farmers have started testing several newly introduced Arabica-types coffees, such as Caturra, Villalobos, Mundo Novo, Mibirizi, and so on. The farmers generally establish mixed plantings of different coffee varieties and species rather than planting them in separate plots. The time of flowering of these coffees overlaps. These conditions are favorable to spontaneous hybridization. Spontaneous hybridization of Bourbon with Puerto Rican and Columnaris was studied, using the genetic tester "bronze." In one of the experiments 18 progenies were raised using open-pollinated seed collected from individual Bourbon trees growing mixed with Puerto Rican and Columnaris at different locations. In these progenies the proportion of spontaneous hybrids varied from 0 to 34.14 percent. Taking all the progenies into account, out of a total of 4,994 plants studied, 5.66 percent were spontaneous hybrids. In another experiment two populations were raised using openpollinated random seed samples collected from a Bourbon planting surrounded by Puerto Rican and Columnaris plantings. Out of a total of 1,126 plants of both populations, 7.54 percent were spontaneous hybrids. Taking both experiments into account, out of a grand total of 6,120 plants studied, 6.01 percent were spontaneous hybrids.
The Chromosomes of Chironja
Authors: Virkki Niilo
Published: October 2020

Like most Citrus species and varieties, the Puerto Rican chironja has nine pairs of short chromosomes. Although micronuclei are formed sporadically, generally the PMC meiosis is normal, and the pollen looks fertile. The chromosome relations do not help us to decide whether the chironja is a hybrid between orange and grapefruit or not.
Yields of Tomatoes As Influenced By Application of Filter-Press Cake and Starter Solutions
Authors: Azzam H. , Samuels G.
Published: October 2020

An experiment using the Manalucie variety of tomato was established on a Vega Alta sandy clay soil at Río Piedras, P.R., with various combinations of filter-press cake, and starter solutions such as Folo-food, Growgreen, and 9-10-5, in addition to the regular commonly used fertilizer, 9-10-5. Filter-press cake increased the marketable yield by 6.76 tons. When filter-press cake was not applied the use of starter solutions failed to increase yields. A starter solution made from a 9-10-5 fertilizer was just as effective as the commercial starter solutions. The use of filter-press cake and/or starter solutions is recommended for tomato production in Puerto Rico.
TWO NEW MITES REPORTED FROM PUERTO RICO
Authors: Medina Gaud Silverio
Published: October 2020

TWO NEW MITES REPORTED FROM PUERTO RICO
The Plant-Nematode Problem of the American Tropics
Authors: Steiner G. , Buhrer Edna M.
Published: October 2020

This article deals with the nematode problem of the American Tropics, and is a compilation of the late Dr. G. Steiner's notes by Edna M. Buhrer. According to Steiner, the apparent rapid exhaustion of tropical soils under cultivation is not a depletion in mineral and organic elements, but a condition in which the world of organisms which these soils harbor, particularly nematodes, plays an important part. In spite of the importance of these organisms, very little attention has been given to them. The presence of nematodes in all agricultural lands, and wherever plants grow and vegetation occurs, is an established fact. This has been shown for such crops as pineapple, sugarcane, and others. Since early years the shifting of cultivation has been practiced in the American Tropics. Although its effects have been almost completely overlooked, now its significance is known as a means of reducing and avoiding the effect of soil pests, particularly of noxious nematodes.
Bibliography on Agro- and Plant Nematodes of the American Tropics
Authors: Steiner G. , Ramírez Carmen T.
Published: October 2020

In this paper 402 publications are listed in the Bibliography of Plant Nematodes of the American Tropics, and 57 other publications which, in some respect, refer to the subject, making a total of 459. These publications cover the following countries in the American Tropics, in which actual research on plant nematodes has been or is being pursued: Hawaii, Brazil, Peru, Puerto Rico and certain islands of the Caribbean, Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Panama, Guatemala, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Mexico. In spite of the fact that a relatively large number of countries have conducted research on plant nematodes, only a restricted number of crops are covered, such as pineapple, banana, sugarcane, coffee, coconut palm, cotton, kenaf, potato, and certain vegetables.
Hoplolaimus puertoricensis n.sp. (Nematoda: Hoplolaimidae)
Authors: Ramírez Carmen T.
Published: October 2020

Among the parasitic nematodes found on sugarcane soils in Puerto Rico, a new species of the genus Hoplolaimus was found on soil samples from the Luce & Co. sugarcane fields, in Santa Isabel. A description of the nematode Hoplolaimus puertoricensis, as well as figure 1 illustrating it, are given in this article.
Effects of Photoperiodism and Other Factors on the Improvement of Pigeonpea Varieties
Authors: Riollano Arturo
Published: October 2020

Studies on the effects of photoperiodism and other factors were conducted to obtain information which might be useful in a breeding program with pigeonpeas. The information was sought for accelerating this work in a region where extremes of day-length vary by only 2 hours because of its location in latitude 18°. By shortening the length of day to 8 hours through the use of a darkroom, and planting during the month of February, it was possible to induce flower formation 4 months earlier in two early varieties and 7 weeks earlier in a late variety. However, this short-day treatment did not appreciably affect the time of flower induction in an all-season, or "Totiempo" variety. One-gallon tin-can containers and 10-inch polyethylene bags were found satisfactory for growing pigeonpea plants of different varieties.
Effects of Phosphorus Fertilization on Productivity of Intensively Managed Grasses Under Humid Tropical Conditions in Puerto Rico
Authors: Figarella Jacinto , Vicente-Chandler José , Silva Servando , Caro-Costas Rubén
Published: October 2020

The effects of phosphorus applications on yields and phosphorus content of otherwise well-fertilized tropical grasses growing on three typical soils of the Humid Region of Puerto Rico were determined. Napier grass responded strongly in yield to applications of 150 pounds of P2O5 per acre yearly on both Múcara and Catalina clay soils at Orocovis. The phosphorus content of the forage increased with applications of up to 300 pounds of P2O5 per acre yearly on both soils. On the other hand, Napier, Guinea, and Pangola grasses, growing on a Fajardo clay formerly in moderately fertilized sugarcane for many years, did not respond in yield or phosphorus content to applications of phosphorus over a 5-year period. Various methods of determining "available" soil phosphorus did not give satisfactory results with these soils.
Experiments on Strawberry-Growing in the Central Western Mountainous Region of Puerto Rico
Authors: Singh-Dhaliwal T. , Meléndez González P. , Torres Sepúlveda A.
Published: October 2020

Experiments on strawberry-growing were carried on for several years at Castañer located in the Central Western Mountainous Region of Puerto Rico. The experimental field had Alonso clay soil with pH range from 5.91 to 6.30. It was fairly level and well-drained. Its altitude above sea level was approximately 1,800 feet. The dormant strawberry plants received from Maryland produced numerous runner plants when planted in spring. The multiplication was 23.4 to 85.20 times. The runner plants were quite suited for fall planting. The strawberry varieties Florida Ninety, Missionary, Klonmore, Blakemore, and Hybrid (Missionary x Pocahontas) were tested in replicated plots in different field trials. In general the first two varieties gave relatively higher fruit yields. The strawberry plantings made during spring yielded more than those planted during fall. A strawberry planting made during fall produced a very small crop the second year. Thus renewing strawberry plantings did not seem to be justified. The strawberry varieties fruited from December to June. Much of the crop was harvested from January to April. The strawberry varieties differed in fruit characteristics. The two high-yielding varieties, Florida Ninety and Missionary, were observed to be producing fruits of good quality. Fruits harvested when almost ripe, and showing only some green or white color, kept well at room temperature for about a day. If, immediately after harvesting, they were stored at 40°F. they remained in fairly good condition for several days. The fruits had good taste and were much liked for eating fresh. The strawberry plantings were affected by cutworms (Agrotis sp.), slugs, and nematodes which were controlled by the use of suitable insecticides. Florida Ninety and Hybrid were severely affected by the common leaf spot disease caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella fragariae (Tul.) Lindu. The other varieties remained almost free from the disease. The present study indicates that the strawberry can be raised in home gardens, and possibly on a commercial scale, in the Central Western Mountainous Region of Puerto Rico. However, as its cost of production seems to be quite high, farmers interested in raising it commercially should first plant it on a small scale to get necessary experience in its culture and marketing of fruits.
A MOSAIC DISEASE OF WATERMELON AT LAJAS VALLEY
Authors: Adsuar José
Published: October 2020

A MOSAIC DISEASE OF WATERMELON AT LAJAS VALLEY
NO ANGIOSTRONGYLUS CANTONENSIS (NEMATODA: METASTRONGYLIDAE) OBSERVED IN 108 RATS IN SAN JUAN, P. R.
Authors: De León Delfín D.
Published: October 2020

NO ANGIOSTRONGYLUS CANTONENSIS (NEMATODA: METASTRONGYLIDAE) OBSERVED IN 108 RATS IN SAN JUAN, P. R.