bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the Fibre Distribution and Orientation in the Fracture Behaviour of Polyolefin Fibre Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Enfedaque Alejandro , Alberti Marcos G. , Gálvez Jaime C.
Published: December 2018

Polyolefin fibre reinforced concrete (PFRC) has become an attractive alternative to steel for the reinforcement of concrete elements mainly due to its chemical stability and the residual strengths that can be reached with lower weights. The use of polyolefin fibres can meet the requirements in the standards, although the main constitutive relations are based on the experience with steel fibres. Therefore, the structural contributions of the fibres should be assessed by inverse analysis. In this study, the fibre dosage has been fixed at 6kg/m³ and both self-compacting concrete and conventional concrete have been used to compare the influence of the positioning of the fibres. An idealized homogeneous distribution of the fibres with such fibres crossing from side to side of the specimen has been added to self-compacting concrete. The experimental results of three-point bending tests on notched specimens have been reproduced by using the cohesive crack approach. Hence, the constitutive relations were found. The significance of this research relies on the verification of the formulations found to build the constitutive relations. Moreover, with these results it is possible to establish the higher threshold of the performance of PFRC and the difficulties of limiting the first unloading branch typical of fracture tests of PFRC.
Emerging Molecular Technologies in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Liquid Biopsy
Authors: Cimadamore Alessia , Gasparrini Silvia , Massari Francesco , Santoni Matteo , Cheng Liang , Lopez-Beltran Antonio , Scarpelli Marina , Montironi Rodolfo
Published: December 2018

Liquid biopsy, based on the circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cell-free nucleic acids has potential applications at multiple points throughout the natural course of cancer, from diagnosis to follow-up. The advantages of doing ctDNA assessment vs. tissue-based genomic profile are the minimal procedural risk, the possibility to serial testing in order to monitor disease-relapse and response to therapy over time and to reduce hospitalization costs during the entire process. However some critical issues related to ctDNA assays should be taken in consideration. The sensitivity of ctDNA assays depends on the assessment technique and genetic platforms used, on tumor-organ, stage, tumor heterogeneity, tumor clonality. The specificity is usually very high, whereas the concordance with tumor-based biopsy is generally low. In patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) qualitative analyses of ctDNA have been performed with interesting results regarding selective pressure from therapy, therapeutic resistance, exceptional treatment response to everolimus and mutations associated with aggressive behavior. Quantitative analyses showed variations of cfDNA levels at different tumor stage. Compared to CTC assay, ctDNA is more stable than cells and easier to isolate. Splice variants, information at single-cell level and functional assays along with proteomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics studies can be performed only in CTCs.
Evaluation of Fengyun-3C Soil Moisture Products Using In situ Data from the Chinese Automatic Soil Moisture Observation Stations: A Case Study in Henan Province, China
Authors: Zhu Yongchao , Pearson Simon , Wu Dongli , Sun Ruijing , Fang Shibo
Published: December 2018

Soil moisture (SM) products derived from passive satellite missions are playing an increasingly important role in agricultural applications, especially in crop monitoring and disaster warning. Evaluating the dependability of those products before they can be used on a large scale is crucial. In this study, we assessed the level 2 (L2) SM product from the Chinese Fengyun-3C (FY-3C) radiometer against in situ measurements collected from the Chinese Automatic Soil Moisture Observation Stations (CASMOS) during a one-year period from January 1 to December 31, 2016 in Henan, which is an agricultural province in China. Four statistical parameters were used to evaluate the products’ reliability: mean difference, root-mean-square error (RMSE), unbiased RMSE (ubRMSE), and the correlation coefficient. These statistical indicators revealed that the FY-3C L2 SM product generally did not agree with the in situ SM data from CASMOS. The time-series analysis further indicated that the correlations and estimated error were highly related to the growing periods of the crops in our study area. FY-3C L2 SM data tended to overestimate soil moisture during May, August, and September, when the crops reach their maximum vegetation density, and tended to underestimate the soil moisture content during the rest of the year. The averaged correlation coefficient between FY-3C SM and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index was 0.55, which demonstrates that the vegetation water content of the crops considerably influences the SM product. To improve the accuracy of the FY-3C SM product, an improved algorithm that can filter out the influences of the crops should be applied in the future.
The Analysis of Reward Systems Implementation in Basic Network Course: Case Study of a Vocational School in Solo, Central Java.
Authors: Setyowati Anisa , Efendi Agus , Basori Basori
Published: December 2018

The 2013 curriculum requires students to take an active and creative role in teaching and learning. Submission of materials in basic network learning process is still using a more dominant learning method that is owned by the teacher (teacher centered). It makes students in the learning process becomes more passive, so the students' activity in the learning process is still in the low category. One of the solutions to improve students 'learning activeness is by using tools or media that can attract students' attention. Learning tool or media is expected to help students to be interested and can play an active role in teaching and learning process. Learning tool or media used in this research is application of reward system. This study aims to (1) Know the difference between the use of reward system application in terms of activeness (2) to know the effectiveness of the use of reward system application in terms of student activeness. This research type is quantitative research with research design that is quasi experimental design with posttest only control design design. Techniques of collecting research data using questionnaires, interviews, and observation. Data analysis using t test and gain index analysis. The results of research are as follows: 1) there is difference of influence of using reward system application that is by t independent t test. Based on the analysis result obtained tcount of 3,790. ttable = 2.64208 at 5% error level with df = 76. So thitung> ttabel. 2) the reward system application is more effective with the experimental class result of -thount 3,703> -ttable 2,642 (76) while the Control class is -thount> -ttable (2,642,76) (1,016 <-2,642) and sig <0,05.
Avaliação de parâmetros da laminação a quente no indicador de rendimento metálico de produção de tubos de aço sem costura
Authors: Cardoso Gabriela Rezende , Mapa Sílvia Maria Santana , Gomes Filipe José de Oliveira
Published: December 2018

Para tornarem-se ou manterem-se competitivas diante da atual concorrência, as empresas têm utilizado técnicas estatísticas, como o experimento fatorial, que permitem avaliar processos produtivos de forma a melhorá-los, reduzindo, assim, a possibilidade de insucesso. A proposta deste trabalho é apresentar uma aplicação da técnica estatística Experimento Fatorial Completo 2K em um processo de produção de tubos de aço sem costura, com o objetivo de estudar especificidades do principal indicador de rendimento metálico, denominado VZ (Verbrauch Zieff), que descreve o rendimento do emprego de insumos sobre a produção de tubos. Foram definidos quatro fatores para a análise: tipo de aço, calibre, parede de laminação e tratamento térmico. Para a realização do presente estudo, a metodologia adotada é a pesquisa de natureza empírica e descritiva, por meio de abordagem combinada, qualitativa e quantitativa. A realização do experimento fatorial utilizando os fatores escolhidos proporcionou como resultado  uma visão, até então desconhecida pela empresa, de como os fatores e suas interações influenciam o indicador estudado, sendo os fatores tipo de aço e calibre comprovados estatisticamente significativos, e, com isso, gerando maior assertividade no planejamento de matéria prima e reduzindo, assim, custos gerais dos produtos.
Método de análise e solução de problemas aplicado no tratamento de corrosividade severa em um oleoduto submarino
Authors: Do Espirito Santo Alex Vidal , Morais Alline Sardinha Cordeiro , Paes Fernanda Barcelos Alves
Published: December 2018

A dinâmica envolvida no processo de extração de petróleo em ambiente offshore envolve malhas de dutos interligando poços a plataformas e estas a navios aliviadores, permitindo o escoamento produtivo realizado. Como ofensor nesse ambiente marinho, a salinidade característica da água é fonte de corrosão nos dutos que compõem a cadeia de produção submarina. O presente trabalho buscou, por meio da utilização da Metodologia de Análise e Solução de Problemas (MASP) tratar o caso específico de um oleoduto submarino que apresenta corrosividade severa que poderia causar sérios danos ambientais, além de todo impacto à imagem da organização responsável pela extração de petróleo. A partir dessa sistemática, objetivou-se identificar as causas responsáveis para ocorrência não desejada, elaborar e executar um plano de ação que evite recorrência, com posterior verificação da eficácia e padronização. Os resultados obtidos atenderam aos objetivos propostos, sendo possível determinar que o fator gerador do evento indesejado fora a dosagem inadequada de desemulsificante no tratamento do petróleo produzido e com a padronização de parâmetros operacionais da planta de processo. Houve êxito na eliminação do problema com a perenização do conhecimento obtido para manutenção da operação da plataforma dentro dos quesitos considerados seguros em relação ao meio ambiente, pessoas e patrimônio.
Exchange Rate Disconnect Puzzle: A Review of Literature
Authors: Chitre Chetan
Published: December 2018

The exchange rate disconnect puzzle has been haunting economists for over four decades now. That the volatility in the movement of both real and nominal exchange rates has no linkage with macroeconomic fundamentals is a mystery. This paper selectively reviews the literature on attempts to resolve this puzzle.
Current State of Microorganisms Depositing Procedure in Collection Centers
Authors: Gracheva I. V. , Plotnikov O. P. , Ossin A. V.
Published: December 2018

Main forms of microorganisms depositing procedures in collection centers and normative and methodical documents that regulate them are considered in the paper. Discussed are some problems arising in the context of pathogenic microorganisms depositing in the Microbe State Collection of Pathogenic Bacteria of the RARI Microbe, the practice of their solving, based on the documents in force and Draft Guidelines on the order and conditions of microorganisms depositing for the purpose of the national patent procedure developed by the Federal Institute for Industrial Property.
Biological and Physical-Chemical Properties of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis Cultures in the Process of Submerged Cultivation at Various Temperatures
Authors: Gavrilov K. E. , Serebryakova E. V. , Dunyasheva T. Yu. , Zaytseva N. N. , Eremenko Yu. D. , Lobastov V. S. , Byvalov A. A. , Kuznetsov S. L. , Borisevich I. V.
Published: December 2018

Biological and physical-chemical properties of the pseudotuberculosis agent cultures were shown to be diverse in the process of submerged cultivation at various temperatures. The microbe cultivation at the increased temperature (37°C) was characterized by fast development and death of the population. Decelerated lag phase and extended exponential phase were observed under the conditions of cultivation at low temperature. The culture grown at 27 °C was found to get an intermediate position between those grown at 10 and 37 °C.
Differentiation of Pathogenic and Non-Pathogenic Burkholderias Using Rocket Immunoelectrophoresis
Authors: Napalkova G. M. , Korsakova I. I. , Khrapova N. P. , Piven' N. N. , Lomova L. V. , Bulatova T. V.
Published: December 2018

Demostrated is the possibility to differentiate virulent strains of melioidosis and glanders etiological agents from avirulent ones and closely related microorganisms according to the presence of the antigenic complex 8, using rocket immunoelectrophoresis with the serum containing antibodies to this complex.
Ensuring of Protection from Biological Threats During Olympic Games
Authors: Onischenko G. G. , Kulichenko A. N. , Maletskaya O. V. , Grizhebovsky G. M. , Klindukhov V. P.
Published: December 2018

Analysis of complex measures to ensure epidemiological safety during the period of preparation and carrying out the Olympic Games abroad is presented. The main directions of the anti-epidemic work during preparation for the 2014 Winter Olympic Games are suggested based upon available experience. It has been noted that syndromic surveillance, GIS technologies, automated stations for control of atmospheric air and other new technologies ensuring biological safety should be added to traditional epidemiological surveillance of infections.
A(H1N1) 2009 Flu in the Territory of Krasnoyarsk
Authors: Sergeeva I. V.
Published: December 2018

The results of analysis of case records of patients with type A flu, caused by A(H1N1) 2009 virus are presented. The greatest susceptibility to the disease is registered among young people of 16-20 years old. Dry paroxysmal cough and intoxication are shown to be the main symptoms of A(H1N1) 2009 flu. Severe course of the disease with complications is registered in the 24-44-year-old age group. The risk group includes pregnant women and patients with metabolic syndrome.
Prevalence and incidence of anal human papillomavirus infection in Mexican men: Need for universal prevention policies
Authors: Posso Hector , León-Maldonado Leith , Allen-Leigh Betania , Salmerón Jorge , Quiterio Manuel , Giuliano Anna R , Sudenga Staci L , Nyitray Alan G , Torres B. Nelson , Abrahamsen Martha , Lazcano-Ponce Eduardo
Published: December 2018

Objective. Describe the natural history of anal HPV among men. Materials and methods. Prospective study among men 18-70 years (n=665), from Cuernavaca, Mexico who completed questionnaires and provided specimens (HPV genotyped) at enrollment and 1+ follow-up visit. HPV preva­lence and incidence were estimated. Prevalence ratios were calculated with Poisson regression using robust variance esti­mation. Person-time for incident HPV infection was estimated using number of events modeled as Poisson variable for total person-months. Results. Anal infection prevalence: any HPV type=15%, high-risk=8.4%, HPV16=1.4%, tetravalent vaccine types (4vHPV)=4.4%, nonavalent vaccine types (9vHPV)=6.3%. Factors associated with prevalence: 50+ lifetime female sex partners (adjusted prevalence ratio, a PR=3.25, 95% CI:1.12- 9.47), 10+ lifetime male sex partners (aPR=3.06, 95%CI:1.4- 6.68), and 1+ recent male anal sex partners (aPR=2.28, 95%CI:1.15-4.5). Anal incidence rate: high-risk HPV=7.8/1000 person-months (95%CI:6.0-10.1), HPV16=1.8/1000 person-months (95%CI:1.1-2.9),4vHPV=3.4/1000 person-months (95%CI:2.3-4.9) and 9vHPV=5.5/1000 person-months (95%CI:4.1-7.5). Conclusions. Implementation of universal HPV vaccination programs, including men, is a public health priority.
Application of Microbubbles to Hydroponics Solution Promotes Lettuce Growth
Authors: Park Jong-Seok , Kurata Kenji
Published: December 2018

We investigated the effects of microbubbles, generated by a swivelling microbubble generator in hydroponics nutrient solution, on the growth of leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Twenty-four lettuce seedlings at the four- to five-leaf stage each were transplanted into two culture containers at 21 ± 1 °C (day) and 18 ± 1 °C (night) under fluorescent lamps that provided a photosynthetic photon flux of 173 ± 18 and 171 ± 16 μmol·m−2·s−1 averaged at eight points at the canopy level for micro- and macrobubbles conditions, respectively, during a photoperiod of 16 h per day. Seedlings were cultivated for 2 weeks in two deep flow technique (DFT) hydroponics culture systems in which micro- or macrobubbles were produced, respectively, by a microbubble aerator and aquarium aeration stones. The nutrient solution was maintained at a temperature of 22 ± 1 °C during the experiment. Fresh and dry weights of the microbubble-treated lettuce were 2.1 and 1.7 times larger, respectively, than those of the macrobubble-treated lettuce. Although the reasons for growth promotion by microbubbles are still under investigation, we speculate that the larger specific surface area of the microbubbles and negative electronic charges on the microbubbles surfaces may promote growth because microbubbles can attract positively charged ions that are dissolved in the nutrient solution. These results indicate that microbubbles generated in a DFT hydroponics culture system can remarkably promote plant growth.
Evaluation of Selected Fine-leaf Fescue Cultivars for Their Turfgrass Quality and Weed Suppressive Ability in Field Settings
Authors: Bertin Cécile , Senesac Andy F. , Rossi Frank S. , DiTommaso Antonio , Weston Leslie A.
Published: December 2018

A series of field studies were conducted from 1999 to 2005 in Ithaca, NY, at the Cornell Turfgrass Research Center as part of the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) to evaluate a collection of 78 fine-leaf fescue cultivars (Festuca spp.) for turfgrass quality, seedling vigor, and ability to inhibit the establishment of common annual and perennial weeds. Using these criteria, we evaluated the overall suitability of the cultivars for use in turfgrass settings, as well as their potential weed suppressive or allelopathic ability. The ability of fine-leaf fescue to displace weeds was visually evaluated by density-wise comparison, and several cultivars of the 78 studied consistently established well and provided good to very good suppression (greater than 70%) of common turf weeds when established at the same planting density. Other cultivars provided moderate (between 35% and 70%) to (< 30%) little weed suppression. Greater weed suppressivity is likely associated with the differential ability of fescue cultivars to establish rapidly and to form a dense canopy, as well as potential allelopathic interference. This study was conducted in conjunction with laboratory experiments that revealed that certain fine-leaf fescue cultivars produced phytotoxic root exudates that were released into the rhizosphere over time. Additional field studies conducted in Ithaca showed that cultivars Intrigue, Columbra, and Sandpiper were consistently more weed suppressive than the other fine-leaf fescues evaluated. Although our understanding of the dynamics of production and degradation of fine-leaf fescue root exudates in the rhizosphere is limited, recent field studies also suggest that allelopathic interference as well as the ability to rapidly establish influence subsequent weed infestation in fine-leaf fescue stands. From a more practical standpoint, certain fine-leaf fescue cultivars, including Intrigue, Columbra, Sandpiper, and Reliant II, could be recommended for use in low-maintenance turf settings in the northeastern United States due to their aesthetic appeal and their limited weed infestation in circumstances where herbicides are not applied.
Lethal Palm Diseases Common in the United States
Authors: Downer A. James , Uchida Janice Y. , Hodel Donald R. , Elliott Monica L.
Published: December 2018

Palms (Arecaceae) are affected by a variety of pathogens, most of which are fungi. We detail pathogens, host ranges, disease description, diagnosis and epidemiology as well as management for the significant, usually fatal, diseases affecting palms grown in the continental United States and Hawaii. These include fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. canariensis) of canary island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), diamond scale (Phaeochoropsis neowashingtoniae), ganoderma butt rot (Ganoderma zonatum), lethal yellowing (Candidatus Phytoplasma palmae subgroup 16SrIV-A), and diseases caused by Nalanthamala (Gliocladium), Phytophthora, and Thielaviopsis. We have omitted the leaf spot and minor blight diseases that often affect palms but pose no long-term consequence to their health and survival. Visual symptoms of lethal palm diseases are often similar, necessitating the isolation or detection of the pathogen with cultural, microscopic, or molecular methods. Management of palm diseases is varied, often requiring in-depth knowledge of the biology of the pathogen and its' infection process. Quarantine, eradication, sanitation, and proper species selection and culture are necessary practices to limit the spread of new and existing diseases of palms in landscapes and nurseries.
Integrating Horticulture Biology and Environmental Coastal Issues into the Middle School Science Curriculum
Authors: Karsh Kathryn , Bush Edward , Hinson Janice , Blanchard Pamela
Published: December 2018

Encouraging students to become better stewards of the environment and to be more educated in science content knowledge is an important goal of today's educational leaders. Eight lessons were created to aid an established stewardship program (Coastal Roots) in introducing hands-on activities to middle school children in southern Louisiana. Students were tested on science content in the lessons using a pre-test, eight multiple choice quizzes (each focusing on a particular lesson), and a post-test. The “children's attitudes toward the environment scale” test was administered to evaluate environmental awareness changes in the treatment and control group students. Students who received the horticulture lessons improved their post-test scores by 11.4 points (P ≤ 0.05) in the first year and 25.07 points (P ≤ 0.0001) in the second year of the study. Significant increases in individual lessons were found both years. In the second year, students who received the lessons were more aware of their role in the environment than those who did not receive the additional lessons (P ≤ 0.01). The addition of horticulture lessons to the middle school curriculum enhanced student knowledge and stewardship of the environment.
Modification of Switchgrass Substrate pH Using Compost, Peatmoss, and Elemental Sulfur
Authors: Altland James E. , Krause Charles
Published: December 2018

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) biomass is being evaluated as a potential alternative to pine bark as the primary potting component in containerized nursery crops. Substrates composed entirely of switchgrass have higher pH than what is considered desirable in container substrates. The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of elemental S, sphagnum moss, and municipal solid waste compost (MSC) as amendments for reducing substrate pH and buffering it against large changes over time. Three experiments were conducted; the first two experiments were conducted using annual vinca (Catharanthus roseus ‘Pacifica Blush’) to quickly assess how pH was affected by the three amendments, and the final experiment was conducted with blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Duke’) to assess the long-term effects of substrate amendments. Summarizing across the three experiments, elemental S was effective in reducing substrate pH; however, rates 1 lb/yard3 or greater reduced pH below the recommended level of 5.5 and lower S rates did not maintain lowered pH over time. Sphagnum moss and MSC together at 20% and 10% (v/v), respectively, were effective at reducing substrate pH and buffering against change. Sphagnum moss and MSC provided the additional benefit of improving physical properties of the switchgrass substrates.
Development of the Press Extraction Method for Plug Substrate Analysis: Effects of Variable Extraction Force on pH, Electrical Conductivity, and Nutrient Analysis
Authors: Scoggins Holly L. , Nelson Paul V. , Bailey Douglas A.
Published: December 2018

Substrate solution testing is an essential management tool for greenhouse plug production. Current methods of plug solution extraction and testing can be confounded by subjective aspects of their techniques. The press extraction method (PEM) developed at North Carolina State University offers a convenient and timely method of solution extraction. The rooting substrate is brought to container capacity and after a period of one hour, pressing the plug surface with a finger or thumb is sufficient to expel the solution. This series of experiments serves to quantify possible variation that may occur in pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), and nutrient analysis from differing manual extraction forces. A modified press was designed to apply a range of force [53, 71, 89, 106, and 124 N (5.0, 6.7, 8.3, 10.0, and 11.6 lb/inch2)], and sampling protocol consistency was verified. For all three experiments, the range of extraction forces within a single fertilizer rate did not significantly affect solution pH or EC. When testing included a range of fertilizer rates, results were significantly different among the fertilizer rates, demonstrating the method's ability to detect changes in pH and EC resulting from increases in fertility levels. Nutrient analysis (NO3-, NH4+, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) of solution extracted from two different rooting substrates (peat-based and coir-based) showed no differences within substrates for the range of force treatments.
Efficacy of Various Biological Control Agents and Biorationals against Pythium Root Rot in Poinsettia
Authors: Little M. , Brown W. , Blom T.J. , Gracia-Garza J.A. , Schneider K. , Allen W. , Potter J.
Published: December 2018

Pythium root rot (Pythium spp.) is a common disease of greenhouse-grown poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) that can cause serious plant loss or reduction in plant quality. Application of effective chemical fungicides to poinsettia plants has reduced losses due to Pythium; however, development of resistance to these fungicides is a legitimate concern, as well as the environmental implications of using chemical pesticides. In this study, a group of products of biological origin and known biocontrol agents were evaluated for their efficacy to control pythium root rot of poinsettia. These products and organisms were compared to metalaxyl (Ridomil), a fungicide commonly used to reduce losses to Pythium. The results showed that two products based on two different species of Streptomyces, Mycostop and Actino-Iron, were as effective as metalaxyl at reducing the symptoms associated with pythium root rot when artificially inoculated with Pythium ultimum var. ultimum compared to the control plants. Many roots remained functional throughout the duration of the experiments and the overall appearance and number of bracts of commercial quality of the plants were similar for the three treatments mentioned above. In an additional experiment, Mycostop was tested in combination with a single application of metalaxyl either at 3, 7, or 11 weeks after transplanting. Plants inoculated with P. ultimum var. ultimum and treated with metalaxyl either on week 3 or 7 after transplanting in combination with two applications of Mycostop, had greater fresh root weight than those only treated with metalaxyl at week 11 or the chemical control (three applications of metalaxyl). However, there was no significant difference in the number of bracts or the bract diameter between plants treated with metalaxyl at weeks 3 or 7 followed by Mycostop and those plants treated with the fungicide alone. A reduction in the amount of fungicide used to control pythium root rot can be achieved when used in combination with a biocontrol agent without compromising the health of poinsettias.
Fruit Size, Yield, and Market Value of `GoldRush' Apple are Affected by Amount, Timing and Method of Nitrogen Fertilization
Authors: Wargo James M. , Merwin Ian A. , Watkins Christopher B.
Published: December 2018

`GoldRush' is a new scab (Venturia inaequalis) resistant apple (Malus ×domestica) with excellent flavor and storage qualities that tends to produce small and russeted fruit. We investigated the effects of rate, timing, and method of nitrogen (N) fertilizers on `GoldRush' fruit size and quality during 1998-99. Fertilizer treatments were 1) no N fertilizer (control); 2) a low N rate of 45 kg·ha-1 (40.1 lb/acre) applied in April (LN-Apr); 3) a low N rate of 45 kg·ha-1 applied half in April and half in June (LN-Apr+Jun); 4) a high N rate of 90 kg·ha-1 (80.3 lb/acre) split in April and June (HN-Apr+Jun); 5) a high N rate of 90 kg·ha-1 applied in April, May, June, and July at 22.5 kg·ha-1 (20 lb/acre) each month (HN-Apr+May+Jun+Jul); and 6) canopy sprays of 1% (wt/wt) urea-N, equivalent to 7 kg·ha-1 (6.2 lb/acre) applied monthly in May, June, July, and August (foliar urea). In 1998, an additional foliar urea spray at 5% (wt/wt) concentration was applied to trees after harvest. The first year's Ntreatments did not affect relative average fruit weights or total yields, but unfertilized trees produced more fruit in smaller size categories. Nitrogen fertilization resulted in greener and softer fruit both years. In the second year, all N additions increased yields compared with controls, but average fruit weight was inversely correlated with crop load. Foliar urea sprays and HN-Apr+May+Jun+Jul treatments increased yields the most. Fruit from LN-fertilized trees were normally distributed across a range of eight box-count size categories, peaking at size 100 both years. In the unfertilized control, fruit size was skewed into smaller size categories and yield was reduced. Total yields were greatest in foliar urea and HN-Apr+May+Jun+Jul treatments, but fruit-size distribution was skewed into smaller categories, peaking at size 138 in the second year. Foliar urea and HN-Apr+May+Jun+Jul treatments produced the highest crop value, but when estimated labor and fertilizer costs were considered, foliar urea and LN-Apr+Jun were the most efficient treatments. Nitrogen fertilizer improved fruit size and market value, but average fruit size in all treatments remained relatively small in both years, indicating that N fertilization alone may not increase fruit size in `GoldRush.'
The Pawpaw Research Program at the Horticulture Department of the University of Florence
Authors: Bellini Elvio , Nin Stefania , Cocchi Maurizio
Published: December 2018

The Horticulture Department of the University of Florence has been studying the pawpaw (Asimina triloba) since 1990 through collaboration with Italian fruit grower Domenico Montanari, who currently hosts the largest pawpaw orchard and variety collection in Italy. Research efforts are focused mainly on the development of new varieties and selections with desirable ornamental characteristics. New variety selection is based on high tree productivity, large fruit size, good organoleptic quality and improved fruit postharvest handling. The breeding program has resulted in 3,000 seedlings that are currently being evaluated in Tuscany, Italy. In addition to breeding efforts, 15 commercially available varieties were evaluated in replicated trials in 2000 and 2001, with selections characterized for vegetative, reproductive and pomological traits. In 2000 and 2001, the varieties `Prima 1216' and `Prolific' had high yields and should be suitable for production in Italian fruit-growing areas. Experiments to establish explants of pawpaw in culture were also performed testing a range of genotypes, disinfestation procedures, and methods to induce callus culture. Protocols for the propagation of pawpaw in vitro would offer many advantages for mass multiplication of desirable plants; however, the propagation of pawpaw in vitro has so far been met with limited success.
Moderate Defoliation and Plant Population Losses Did Not Reduce Yield or Quality of Butternut Squash
Authors: Rangarajan Anusuya , Ingall Betsy A. , Orzolek Michael D. , Otjen Lewis
Published: December 2018

Butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata) plants are susceptible to defoliation and plant population (stand) reduction by insect, disease, temperature extremes, water, hail, or other mechanical damage. The timing of such losses may have variable effects on final fruit quality and yield. The objectives of these studies were 1) to determine the influence of the degree and timing of defoliation and stand reduction on the marketable yield of winter squash; 2) to determine yield compensation after stand reduction and defoliation; and 3) to explore effects of defoliation on fruit total carotenoid content. Experiments were conducted over 2 years in New York and Pennsylvania to explore these objectives. Marketable yields consistently improved with increasing plant population. If population losses occurred while plants were in the rapid vegetative growth phase, the remaining plants responded by increasing fruit number and weight per plant. Plant losses later in the season during fruit enlargement, however, did not elicit the same magnitude of response. Defoliation of 66% leaf area reduced marketable yields, and effects were most severe under high plant populations. Competition among plants restricted compensation. Moderate defoliation (33%) reduced yield in only one of three studies. This level of defoliation also increased the percentage of medium [1.0 to 1.5 kg (2.20 to 3.31 lb)] and large [1.5 to 2.0 kg (4.41 lb)] fruit and decreased the number of jumbo fruit (>2.0 kg). Total carotenoid concentration in mature fruit was unaffected by the defoliation or population treatments. Thus, butternut squash compensated for up to 33% leaf area loss at any time during the season. While the crop could compensate, under some conditions, for up to 50% plant losses, final plant population was more important than the growth stage of damage or defoliation for effects on crop yield.
Efficacy of Paclobutrazol and Gibberellin4+7 on Growth and Flowering of Three Curcuma Species
Authors: Sarmiento Mauricio J. , Kuehny Jeff S.
Published: December 2018

Rhizomes of Curcuma alismatifolia Roxb. `Chiang Mai Pink', C. gracillima Roxb. `Violet', and C. thorelii Roxb. were soaked in gibberellin (GA4+7) at 0, 200, 400, or 600 mg·L-1 (ppm) and planted into 15.2-cm-diameter (6 inches) containers. The plants were grown in a greenhouse at 30 °C day/23 °C night (86.0/73.4 °F) temperatures. When shoot height was 10 cm (3.9 inches), the plants were drenched with 118 mL (3.9 fl oz) of paclobutrazol at 0, 2, 3, or 4 mg a.i. per 15.2-cm-diameter container. Gibberellin4+7 delayed shoot emergence and fl owering but did not affect the fl ower number. Paclobutrazol rates were not effective in controlling height of C. alismatifolia `Chiang Mai Pink' averaging 85 cm (33.5 inches), C. gracillima `Violet' averaging 25 cm (9.8 inches), or C. thorelii averaging 17 cm (6.7 inches). Curcuma alismatifolia `Chiang Mai Pink', C. gracillima `Violet', and C. thorelii had postproduction longevities of 4.6, 2.6 and 3.8 weeks respectively, making these three species of curcuma excellent candidates for use as fl owering pot plants.
Evaluation of Five Methods for Estimating Class A Pan Evaporation in a Humid Climate
Authors: Irmak Suat , Haman Dorota Z.
Published: December 2018

Evaporation pans continue to be used extensively throughout the world to measure free-surface water evaporation (Epan) and to estimate evapotranspiration for irrigation scheduling and water management for agronomic and horticultural crops. Epan is also being used extensively to estimate evaporation rates from lakes, wetlands, rivers, reservoirs, and other water bodies for management of wildlife and ecological habitat. A reliable method is needed to estimate missing daily Epan data. Determination of a reliable method for the estimation of Epan would also be useful in modeling of crop growth, and hydrological and ecological systems. Five methods [Penman (Penman, 1948), Kohler-Nordenson-Fox (KNF) (Kohler et al., 1955), Christiansen (Christiansen, 1968), Priestley-Taylor (PT) (Priestley and Taylor, 1972), and Linacre (Linacre, 1977)] for estimating Epan were compared with the historical (23-year) measured daily values to determine the suc- cess of accurate and consistent Epan estimations under humid climatic conditions in Florida. The root mean square error (RMSE) was used as the criteria to judge the accuracy and reliability of a given method. An RMSE value of <0.5 mm·d-1 (0.02 inches/d) between the measured and estimated Epan was considered as an acceptable error for daily estimations. The standard deviation (sd) values, and percent error (%E) between the estimated and measured values were also considered in the performance evaluations. Performance evaluations of the Epan estimates of the methods were made on a daily, monthly, and annual basis. Results indicated that the KNF method provided the best Epan estimations. The Linacre method yielded the poorest estimates. The second, third, and fourth best methods were the Penman, PT, and Christiansen, respectively. The RMSE and sd of Epan estimates were lowest when using KNF method. The mean value of the %E of daily, monthly, and annual estimations were 27%, 27%, and 26% for Christiansen; 6%, 6%, and 4% for KNF; 33%, 32%, and 26% for Linacre; 24%, 24%, and 21% for PT; and 19%, 17%, and 11% for Penman methods, respectively. The weekly, monthly, and annual total of Epan estimates from KNF method were also compared to the measured values of the two selected years of data (1981 and 1983). The annual rainfall totals were significantly lower than the 23-year mean in 1981, and higher in 1983. The %Es of weekly, monthly, and annual total Epan estimates were 9%, 9%, and -1% in 1981; and 11%, 5%, and 4% in 1983, respectively. The KNF method underestimated Epan in 1981 (dry year) and the underestimations were higher in summer months. The underestimations in a dry year, especially in summer months, might be due to the fact that the sensible heat advection is not effectively accounted for in the KNF equation causing underestimations of Epan. Overall results indicated that the KNF method should be the first choice, among the methods tested, for estimating daily Epan for irrigation scheduling and for estimating the missing Epan data in humid areas.
Field Evaluation of Cold Hardy Citrus in Coastal Georgia
Authors: Rieger Mark , Krewer Gerard , Lewis Pam , Linton Mindy , McClendon Tom
Published: December 2018

Sixteen cultivars of citrus (Citrus spp.) and close citrus relatives were planted in Savannah, Georgia to evaluate their potential as fruiting landscape trees in an area that routinely experiences minimum temperatures of 15 to 20 °F (-9.4 to -6.7 °C) during winter. Three to six trees of each cultivar were planted in 1998, and stem dieback and defoliation data were collected in 1999, 2001, and 2002. During the 4 years of the study, air temperatures fell below 32 °F (0.0 °C) 27 to 62 times per season, with absolute minima ranging from 13 to 18 °F (-10.6 to -7.8 °C), depending on year. In general, kumquats (Fortunella spp.), represented by `Meiwa', `Nagami', and `Longevity', were completely killed (or nearly so) in their first year in the field after air temperature minima of 13.5 °F (-10.28 °C). Others experiencing 100% dieback were `Meyer' lemon (Citrus limon × C. reticulata) and `Eustis' limequat (C. aurantifolia × Fortunella japonica), which were tested twice during the study. Kumquat hybrids, including procimequat [(C. aurantifolia × F. japonica) × F. hindsii), `Sinton' citrangequat [(C. sinensis × Poncirus trifoliata) × unknown kumquat], `Mr John's Longevity' citrangequat [(C. sinensis × P. trifoliata) × F. obovat], razzlequat (Eremocitrus glauca × unknown kumquat), and `Nippon' orangequat (C. unshiu × F. crassifolia) survived freezing, but all experienced at least some defoliation and stem dieback. `Owari' satsuma (C. unshiu), `Changsha' mandarin (C. reticulata), nansho daidai (C. taiwanica) and ichang papeda (C. ichangensis) experienced only minor stem dieback but substantial defoliation in most years, except that ichang papeda was substantially damaged in the last year of the study. Seven cultivars produced fruit at least once during their first 4 years: nansho daidai, ichang papeda, `Nippon' orangequat, `Mr John's Longevity' citrangequat, `Owari' satsuma, `Changsha' mandarin, and procimequat. Based on cold hardiness, fruiting, and growth characteristics, `Owari' satsuma, `Changsha' mandarin, `Mr John's Longevity' citrangequat, and `Nippon' orangequat provided the hardiest, most precocious and desirable fruiting landscape trees in this study.
Evaluating a Wetness-based Warning System and Reduced-risk Fungicides to Manage Sooty Blotch and Flyspeck of Apple
Authors: Babadoost M. , McManus P.S. , Helland S.N. , Gleason M.L.
Published: December 2018

The effectiveness of a disease-warning system and efficacy of reduced-risk fungicides for management of sooty blotch (Peltaster fructicola, Leptodontium elatius, Geastrumia polystigmatis) and flyspeck (Schizothyrium pomi) (SBFS) of apple (Malus × domestica) were evaluated in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin in 2001 and 2002. Warning system-timed applications of the second-cover fungicide spray occurred when 175 h of leaf wetness had accumulated; wetness data were derived either from a sensor placed beneath the canopy of apple trees (on-site) or according to remotely sensed estimates. In replicated experiments, using sensor measurements as inputs to the warning system saved one to three (mean 1.8) and zero to four (mean 2.3) fungicide sprays per season in 2001 and 2002, respectively. Because remotely estimated wetness hours accumulated more rapidly than did on-site measurements, the warning system using remotely sensed wetness data saved only zero to one (mean 0.3) and zero to two (mean 0.7) sprays per season in 2001 and 2002, respectively. SBFS incidence in the integrated pest management (IPM) plots did not differ significantly from that of conventional calendar-based fungicide sprays plots in 11 of 12 site-years. When on-site wetness measurements were used in demonstration trials at 14 cooperating commercial orchards in 2001 and 2002, the SBFS warning system saved one to six (mean 2.6) and two to seven (mean 3.1) sprays per season, respectively. Incidence of SBFS in IPM plots did not differ significantly from trees managed with cooperating growers' conventional fungicide schedules in 16 of 28 siteyears. The on-site warning system was more consistently successful in Illinois and Iowa than it was in Wisconsin in both replicated experiments and in cooperating commercial orchards. The reduced-risk fungicides kresoximmethyl and trifloxystrobin provided control of SBFS equal to conventional fungicides (benomyl or thiophanatemethyl) in all trials. Potassium bicarbonate controlled SBFS less effectively than either conventional fungicides on a calendar-based or disease-warning schedule, or treatments incorporating reduced-risk fungicides.
Recommendations for Effective Use of a Garden Seeder for Research Plots and Gardens
Authors: Parish Richard L. , Bracy Regina P.
Published: December 2018

An Earthway garden seeder (model 1001B) is frequently used for seeding small research and demonstration plots as well as home gardens. Seeding uniformity tests were conducted with 18 species of vegetable in this seeder using the planter plates recommended by Earthway, alternate plates, and plates modified by taping off metering ports to change the seeding rates and spacings. Performance with the Earthway seeder with most vegetable seeds would not qualify it as a precision seeder, but the Earthway seeder can do an acceptable job of planting many vegetable seeds in small plots at less than 1/10th the cost of a commercialquality precision seeder. A table giving specific recommendations for each of the 18 species has been prepared to aid research and extension personnel as well as home gardeners.
Interaction of Light Intensity and Controlledrelease Fertilization Rate on Growth and Flowering of Two New Guinea Impatiens Cultivars
Authors: Vendrame Wagner , Moore Kimberly K. , Broschat Timothy K.
Published: December 2018

New guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) (NGI) `Pure Beauty Rose' (PBR) and `Paradise Orchid' (PO) were grown in full sun, 55% shade, or 73% shade and fertilized with a controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) [Nutricote Total 13-13-13 (13N-5.7P-10.8K), type 100] incorporated at rates of 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28 and 32 lb/yard3 of growing media (1.2, 2.4, 3.6, 4.7, 7.1, 9.5, 11.9, 14.2, 16.6, and 19.0 kg·m-3). Plant quality rating, shoot dry weight, and flower number were measured at harvest and substrate samples were collected to analyze final substrate pH and electrical conductivity (EC). For both cultivars, light intensity and fertilization rate interactions were different for shoot dry weight and flower number, but there was no difference in plant quality rating between the light levels. Quality ratings of both PBR and PO plants increased as CRF rate increased to 12 to 16 lb/yard3 above these levels quality was not improved. Shoot dry weight of PBR plants grown in full sun increased as CRF rate increased to 28 lb/yard3 and then decreased, while shoot dry weight of plants grown with 55% and 73% shade increased as CRF rate increased to 20 and 16 lb/yard3, respectively, with no further increases. Shoot dry weight of PO plants grown in full sun and 55% shade increased as CRF rate increased to 28 and 24 lb/yard3, respectively, with no further increases, while shoot dry weight of plants grown with 73% shade increased as CRF rate increased to 24 lb/yard3 and then decreased. Flower number of PBR plants grown in full sun, 55% shade, and 73% shade increased as CRF rate increased to 24 lb/yard3 and then decreased. Flower number of PO plants grown in full sun increased as CRF rate increased to 28 lb/yard3 and then decreased, while flower number of plants grown in 55% and 73% shade increased as CRF rate increased to 24 lb/yard3 and then decreased.
Yield and Quality of Spinach Cultivars for Spring Production in Oklahoma
Authors: Brandenberger Lynn , Wells Lynda K. , Haigh Michel M.
Published: December 2018

Nine (2001) and eight (2002) spinach (Spinacia oleracea) cultivars, including hybrid and open pollinated types, were tested for yield and quality characteristics during two spring production seasons in Oklahoma. Cultivars were evaluated for emergence, vigor, color, bolting resistance, and yield. Cultivars did not vary significantly for yield, which ranged from 11.9 to 14.9 tons/acre. `Baker', `Bolero', `Catalina', `Olympia', and `Padre' had significantly higher levels of bolting resistance than other cultivars in the trials. 'Catalina', `Olympia', and `Padre' also exhibited the darkest green color of those cultivars with bolting resistance. Based upon bolting resistance, `Catalina', `Olympia', `Padre', `Baker', and `Bolero' are five cultivars that can be recommended for use in spring planted spinach in Oklahoma and the southern plains.