Challenges, strategies and research priorities in legume-based nitrogen management for organic small grain producers in the Northeastern US

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Margaret Pickoff ◽  
Jessica Leahy ◽  
Ellen B. Mallory
Keyword(s):  
Nitrogen Mineralization ◽  
Weed Management ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Nitrogen Sources ◽  
Nitrogen Management ◽  
Organic Fertilizers ◽  
Educational Outreach ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Nitrogen Fertility

Abstract High yields and crop quality in organic small grain production can only be achieved through successful management of nitrogen. Experienced farmers and advisors in the Northeastern U.S. were asked to discuss the most pressing challenges in organic nitrogen management for organic small grain systems, with a particular focus on legume green manures (LGMs). Eighteen semi-structured interviews with 12 farmers and eight advisors were conducted between December 2017 and March 2018. The farmers employed a range of materials and practices for fulfilling the nitrogen fertility needs of their crops, including LGMs, animal manures and organic fertilizers. Farmers and advisors identified cost, overdependence on external nitrogen sources, nitrogen source access, diversifying rotations, weed management and predicting nitrogen mineralization of organic residues as major challenges in nitrogen management. Results indicated that cost-effectiveness in nitrogen management is essential, but that farmers consider additional factors, such as weed pressure and long-term soil health effects, when choosing nitrogen sources or practices. Legume-based nitrogen fertility is promising for small grain systems in this region, but structural challenges, such as the lack of animal agriculture proximal to grain operations, and limited cash crop markets, impede the development of diverse rotations that feature long-term legume sods. Recommendations include additional field-based research, including on-farm, participatory LGM studies as one avenue. Programming and educational outreach should focus on bolstering farmers' understanding of nitrogen mineralization of incorporated LGM residues, as well as their ability to anticipate and respond to sources of variability in LGM systems.

Integration of Digital Preservation Knowledge, Skills and Competencies in the Teaching Curricula of Library and Information Studies at the University of Botswana

Mousaion ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 37 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Thatayaone Segaetsho ◽  
Julie Moloi
Keyword(s):  
Digital Preservation ◽  
Records Management ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
University Of Botswana ◽  
Current Trends ◽  
Teaching Content ◽  
Library And Information Studies ◽  
Information Studies ◽  
The University

In the past few decades, digital technology has found a place in the acquisition, arrangement, description, preservation, and dissemination of information. However, heritage institutions are perturbed by the challenges of digital preservation strategies particularly for education. Despite continuous investment in digital preservation, there are limited skilled professionals to equip learners with the knowledge, skills and competencies required to drive digital preservation in Botswana. Therefore, this paper investigated the knowledge, skills and competencies related to digital preservation in the teaching curricula of the Department of Library and Information Studies (DLIS) at the University of Botswana. Data collection was done through intensive structured interviews with specific educators who teach courses on digital preservation in the archives and records management stream. The study revealed that despite the fact that the educators in preservation courses are aware of current trends in digital preservation, most of them have not obtained formal degree certification specific to digital preservation. The findings further revealed that minimal digital preservation competencies are observed in the teaching curricula. A significant number of challenges observed illustrated mainly a lack of resources and limited skills in terms of practical demonstrations by educators. The curricula mostly lacked clarity on long-term and short-term digital preservation. The study recommends that DLIS and other institutions should conduct surveys or curriculum auditing on digital preservation in order to improve the teaching content. A significant number of shortcomings regarding digital preservation that could motivate further studies are also discussed under the conclusion and recommendations section of this study.

Удобрение огурца в Западной Сибири

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Т.А. Кuznetsova ◽  
N.А. Коlpakov
Keyword(s):  
Organic Fertilizers ◽  
Control Variant ◽  
Positive Effect ◽  
Different Doses

Показано, что длительное применение как минеральных, так и органических удобрений в различных дозах и сочетаниях положительно влияет на урожайность огурца. Установлено, что в условиях 14-й ротации урожайность на всех вариантах опыта была выше, чем на контрольном варианте и составила 16,4–22,3 т/га, против 16,0 т/га в контроле.The authors show that the long-term use of both mineral and organic fertilizers in different doses and combinations has a positive effect on the yield of cucumber. It was found that under 14 rotation conditions the yield on all variants of the experiment was higher than on the control variant and amounted to 16.4–22.3 t/ha, against 16.0 t/ha on the control.

Research for a sustainable European sugar sector

2010 ◽  
pp. 487-495
Author(s):  
Martin Bruhns ◽  
Peter Glaviè ◽  
Arne Sloth Jensen ◽  
Michael Narodoslawsky ◽  
Giorgio Pezzi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sugar Industry ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Sustainable Chemistry ◽  
Technology Platforms ◽  
Research Themes ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Manufacturing Applications ◽  
European Technology

The paper is based on the results of international project entitled “Towards Sustainable Sugar Industry in Europe (TOSSIE)”. 33 research topics of major importance to the sugar sector are listed and briefly described, and compared with research priorities of the European Technology Platforms: “Food for Life”, “Sustainable Chemistry”, “Biofuels”, and “Plant for the Future”. Most topics are compatible with the research themes included in the COOPERATION part of the 7th Framework Program of the EU (2007-2013). However, some topics may require long-term R&D with the time horizon of up to 15 years. The list of topics is divided into four parts: Sugar manufacturing, Applications of biotechnology and biorefinery processing, Sugarbeet breeding and growing, Horizontal issues. Apart from possible use of the list by policy- and decision makers with an interest in sugarbeet sector, the description of each research topic can be used as a starting point in setting up a research project or other R&D activities.

Emotion Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder

2018 ◽  
pp. 282-298
Author(s):  
Emily Neuhaus
Keyword(s):  
Autism Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Social Communication ◽  
Educational Outcomes ◽  
Emotion Dysregulation ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Theoretical Models ◽  
Autism Spectrum ◽  
Repetitive Behaviors ◽  
Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is defined by deficits in social communication and interaction, and restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests. Although current diagnostic conceptualizations of ASD do not include emotional difficulties as core deficits, the disorder is associated with emotion dysregulation across the lifespan, with considerable implications for long-term psychological, social, and educational outcomes. The overarching goal of this chapter is to integrate existing knowledge of emotion dysregulation in ASD and identify areas for further investigation. The chapter reviews the prevalence and expressions of emotion dysregulation in ASD, discusses emerging theoretical models that frame emotion dysregulation as an inherent (rather than associated) feature of ASD, presents neurobiological findings and mechanisms related to emotion dysregulation in ASD, and identifies continuing controversies and resulting research priorities.

scholarly journals Long-term views on chronic kidney disease research priorities among stakeholders engaged in a priority-setting partnership: A qualitative study

2018 ◽  
Vol 21 (6) ◽  
pp. 1142-1149 ◽  
Author(s):  
Meghan J. Elliott ◽  
Joanna E. M. Sale ◽  
Zahra Goodarzi ◽  
Linda Wilhelm ◽  
Andreas Laupacis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Kidney Disease ◽  
Kidney Disease ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Priority Setting ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Disease Research ◽  
A Priority ◽  
Priority Setting Partnership

scholarly journals Effect of Barley Sowing Density on the Integrated Weed Management of Lolium rigidum (Annual Ryegrass) in Mediterranean Dryland: A Modeling Approach

Agronomy ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (8) ◽  
pp. 1565
Author(s):  
María Belén D’Amico ◽  
Guillermo R. Chantre ◽  
Guillermo L. Calandrini ◽  
José L. González-Andújar
Keyword(s):  
Weed Management ◽  
Life Cycles ◽  
Integrated Weed Management ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Seed Removal ◽  
Weed Infestation ◽  
High Control ◽  
Weed Dynamics ◽  
The Impact

Population models are particularly helpful for understanding long-term changes in the weed dynamics associated with integrated weed management (IWM) strategies. IWM practices for controlling L. rigidum are of high importance, mainly due to its widespread resistance that precludes chemical control as a single management method. The objective of this contribution is to simulate different IWM scenarios with special emphasis on the impact of different levels of barley sowing densities on L. rigidum control. To this effect, a weed–crop population model for both L. rigidum and barley life cycles was developed. Our results point out: (i) the necessity of achieving high control efficiencies (>99%), (ii) that the increase of twice the standard sowing density of barley resulted in a reduction of 23.7% of the weed density, (iii) non-herbicide-based individual methods, such as delayed sowing and weed seed removal at harvest, proved to be inefficient for reducing drastically weed population, (iv) the implementation of at least three control tactics (seed removal, delay sowing and herbicides) is required for weed infestation eradication independently of the sowing rate, and (v) the effect of an increase in the sowing density is diluted as a more demanding weed control is reached. Future research should aim to disentangle the effect of different weed resistance levels on L. rigidum population dynamics and the required efficiencies for more sustainable IWM programs.

scholarly journals “I’ve Heard of It, Yes, but I Can’t Remember What Exactly It Was”—A Qualitative Study on Awareness, Knowledge, and Use of the UV Index

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 1615
Author(s):  
Katharina Diehl ◽  
Tatiana Görig ◽  
Charlotte Jansen ◽  
Maike Carola Hruby ◽  
Annette B. Pfahlberg ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Sun Protection ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Protection Factor ◽  
Protection Measures ◽  
Uv Index ◽  
Correct Definition ◽  
Definition Of

Pharmacists and pharmaceutical technicians play an important role in counselling customers regarding sunscreen use and sun protection measures. A potentially helpful tool that can be used during counselling is the ultraviolet index (UVI), which informs individuals when and what sun protection measures are needed at a specific place and time. Our aim in this qualitative study was to explore awareness, knowledge, and use of the UVI during counselling in pharmacies. We used semi-structured interviews with pharmacists and pharmaceutical technicians (n = 20) to answer our research questions. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. During the interviews pharmacists and pharmaceutical technicians revealed a lot of uncertainty and lack of knowledge regarding the UVI. Eight professionals were able to give a correct definition of UVI. Amongst others, the UVI was confused with sun protection factor. Overall, the UVI was hardly used during the counselling of customers. The UVI was developed to provide guidance when which type of sun protection is required to avoid detrimental effects of ultraviolet radiation. For effective implementation, both the general population and health professionals (e.g., pharmacists) have to increase their knowledge about the UVI. This would strengthen its use during professional counselling in pharmacies and may help to reduce the incidence of skin cancer over the long term.

scholarly journals COVD-01. VINBLASTINE MONOTHERAPY INDUCTION FOR LOCALISED CNS GERMINOMA DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (Supplement_3) ◽  
pp. iii282-iii282
Author(s):  
Rafael Moleron ◽  
Sara Stoneham ◽  
Thankamma Ajithkumar ◽  
Justin Cross ◽  
James Nicholson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Germ Cell ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Single Agent ◽  
Germ Cell Tumour ◽  
Research Priorities ◽  
Tumour Volume ◽  
Cell Tumour ◽  
Low Grade ◽  
Testicular Seminoma

Abstract INTRODUCTION Patients with localised CNS-germinoma have excellent survival. More recently, intensive inpatient chemotherapy (carboPEI=carboplatin/etoposide/ifosfamide in Europe) has been effectively employed to reduce radiotherapy fields and/or dose. Current research priorities focus on reducing treatment burden and long-term sequelae. Of note, outpatient-based single-agent carboplatin chemotherapy is associated with excellent outcomes in metastatic testicular seminoma (an identical pathology) [Alifrangis,EJC,2020]. Recently, successful vinblastine monotherapy was reported in localised CNS-germinoma [Murray,Neurooncol-Adv,2020]. METHODS Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, adapted UK guidelines for germ-cell-tumour management were distributed, including potential non-standard treatment options that would reduce hospital visits/admissions. A 30-year-old patient presented with a 32mmx30mmx35mm diameter solid+multi-cystic localised pineal CNS lesion, consistent radiologically with a germ-cell-tumour with prominent teratoma component. Investigation revealed negative AFP/HCG markers and biopsy-proven pure germinoma. After appropriate consent, the patient commenced 12-week induction with weekly vinblastine monotherapy (low-grade-glioma dosing [Lassaletta,JCO,2016]), with wk6&12 MRI re-assessment prior to definitive radiotherapy. RESULTS Vinblastine was well-tolerated. After initial 4mg/m2 test-dosing (wk1), standard 6mg/m2 was delivered for wk2, but resulted in asymptomatic neutropenia (nadir 0.3x10^9/l) and missed dosing at wk3. Subsequent doses were 4mg/m2, with no further neutropenia. As expected, MRI showed moderate 40% tumour volume reduction by wk12. Surgical resection of the residual presumed teratoma component was undertaken prior to radiotherapy. CONCLUSION Patients with CNS-germinoma have excellent outcomes and reduction of treatment-effects remains a priority. The exquisite chemosensitivity of germinoma, excellent results from monotherapy for metastatic testicular disease, and early promise of vinblastine monotherapy lend itself to further exploration for CNS-germinoma.

scholarly journals Evaluation of an Educational Outreach Campaign (IMPACT) on Pain Management Delivered to General Practices in Walsall

2021 ◽  
Vol 29 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. i48-i49
Author(s):  
S Visram ◽  
J Saini ◽  
R Mandvia
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Pain Management ◽  
Cancer Pain ◽  
Educational Intervention ◽  
Opioid Analgesics ◽  
Educational Outreach ◽  
Opioid Prescribing ◽  
Prescribing Trends ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Introduction Opioid class drugs are a commonly prescribed form of analgesic widely used in the treatment of acute, cancer and chronic non-cancer pain. Up to 90% of individuals presenting to pain centres receive opioids, with doctors in the UK prescribing more and stronger opioids (1). Concern is increasing that patients with chronic pain are inappropriately being moved up the WHO ‘analgesic ladder’, originally developed for cancer pain, without considering alternatives to medications, (2). UK guidelines on chronic non-cancer pain management recommend weak opioids as a second-line treatment, when the first-line non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs / paracetamol) ineffective, and for short-term use only. A UK educational outreach programme by the name IMPACT (Improving Medicines and Polypharmacy Appropriateness Clinical Tool) was conducted on pain management. This research evaluated the IMPACT campaign, analysing the educational impact on the prescribing of morphine, tramadol and other high-cost opioids, in the Walsall CCG. Methods Standardised training material was delivered to 50 practices between December 2018 and June 2019 by IMPACT pharmacists. The training included a presentation on pain control, including dissemination of local and national guidelines, management of neuropathic, low back pain and sciatica as well as advice for prescribers on prescribing opioids in long-term pain, with the evidence-base. Prescribing trends in primary care were also covered in the training, and clinicians were provided with resources to use in their practice. Data analysis included reviewing prescribing data and evaluating the educational intervention using feedback from participants gathered via anonymous questionnaires administered at the end of the training. Prescribing data analysis was conducted by Keele University’s Medicines Management team via the ePACT 2 system covering October 2018 to September 2019 (two months before and three months after the intervention) were presented onto graphs to form comparisons in prescribing trends of the Midland CCG compared to England. Results Questionnaires completed at the end of sessions showed high levels of satisfaction, with feedback indicating that participants found the session well presented, successful at highlighting key messages, and effective in using evidence-based practice. 88% of participants agreed the IMPACT campaign increased their understanding of the management and assessment of pain, and prescribing of opioids and other resources available to prescribers. The majority (85%) wished to see this form of education being repeated regularly in the future for other therapeutic areas. Analysis of the prescribing data demonstrated that the total volume of opioid analgesics decreased by 1.7% post-intervention in the Midlands CCG in response to the pharmacist-led educational intervention. As supported by literature, the use of educational strategies, including material dissemination and reminders as well as group educational outreach was effective in engaging clinicians, as demonstrated by the reduction in opioid prescribing and high GP satisfaction in this campaign. Conclusion The IMPACT campaign was effective at disseminating pain-specific guidelines for opioid prescribing to clinicians, leading to a decrease in overall prescribing of opioid analgesics. Educational outreach as an approach is practical and a valuable means to improve prescribing by continuing medical education. References 1. Els, C., Jackson, T., Kunyk, D., Lappi, V., Sonnenberg, B., Hagtvedt, R., Sharma, S., Kolahdooz, F. and Straube, S. (2017). Adverse events associated with medium- and long-term use of opioids for chronic non-cancer pain: an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. This provided the statistic of percentage receiving opioids that present to pain centres. 2. Heit, H. (2010). Tackling the Difficult Problem of Prescription Opioid Misuse. Annals of Internal Medicine, 152(11), p.747. Issues with prescriptions and inappropriate moving up the WHO ladder.

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