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Besides growing crops, a farmer is an active steward of the natural resources that support those crops. Just a few acres of wetlands on the farm can easily filter ag water for many harmful microbes introduced through livestock- or crop-related use.

Farm Water Quality Planning Series. A template for a comprehensive farm water quality management plan for use in planning, implementation, and evaluation of management practices to help satisfy water quality regulatory requirements. (Replaces #9002)

This is reference sheet 8.4 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

This is fact sheet 3.1 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

This is reference sheet 8.1 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

This is reference sheet 9.2 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

This is reference sheet 8.3 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

This is reference sheet 9.1 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

This is reference sheet 7.2 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

This is reference sheet 7.1 in the Farm Water Quality Planning series.

Data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau (the Current Population Survey and Survey of Income and Program Participation) and other federal agencies were used to examine trends in the ways different cohorts of women born between 1906 and 1975 have attempted to balance motherhood, marriage, and employment. The study focused on the following: childbearing; marriage and living arrangements; education; labor force participation and occupational attainment; earnings; family well-being and the special problems of wives and single mothers; and ways/problems of combining employment and family. It was discovered that, although women have always held multiple roles, past generations either stayed home or entered the labor force after their children had grown, whereas women today are assuming the responsibilities of motherhood and employment simultaneously rather than sequentially. This change has triggered many social and economic changes, including the following: marked jumps in divorce and out-of-wedlock childbirth rates; increased numbers of female-headed households; and increased numbers of women living in poverty. These problems have been exacerbated by the lack of U.S. policies to support working mothers. The observed trends in the United States paralleled those in other industrialized countries. (Eighty-one tables/figures and 361 references are included. Appended is information about measures of fertility.) (MN)

The scaling behaviour of both log-price and volume is analyzed for three stock indexes. The traditional approach, mainly consisting of the evaluation of particular moments such as variance or higher absolute moments, is replaced by a new technique which allows the estimation of the self-similarity parameter on the whole empirical distribution designed by any time horizon. In this way, the method we propose attaches its own scaling parameter to any two given time lags, so defining a scaling surface whose properties give information about the nature of the analyzed process. We conclude that, for the log-price process, self-similarity is rejected with a frequency much larger than that assumed by the confidence interval and, when not rejected, the scaling parameter heavily changes with the considered pair of time horizons. Opposite evidence is provided for the volumes, characterized by (generally low) self-similarity parameters which are somewhat uniform with respect to the pairs of time horizons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isolation, quantification, and genetic analysis of circulating plasma DNA have clinical applications in prenatal diagnosis, oncology, organ transplantation, posttrauma monitoring, and infectious disease. Recent technology has allowed the rapid isolation and purification of DNA from whole blood, plasma, serum, buffy coat, tissues, stool, and urine. With the advent of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, extracted DNA not only can be easily identified to aid in clinical diagnoses, but also can be readily quantified to analyze ongoing clinical dynamics and aid in the medical prognoses of patients. Historically, identification of unique cell-free fetal DNA sequences has relied on the detection of paternally specific Y chromosome sequences owing to their relative ease in identification. However, any DNA sequence that is unique to the fetus has the potential to be amplified and quantified using real-time PCR. Our laboratory specializes in extraction of fetal DNA from maternal plasma with subsequent quantification with real-time PCR of paternally inherited sequences, such as the Y chromosome gene, SRY. The successful isolation and quantification of this DNA from plasma is dependent on three distinct protocols: plasma harvesting from whole blood, DNA extraction from cell-free plasma, and real-time PCR amplification and quantification of the SRY sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the extension of seagrass meadows over time is of primary importance for the surveillance of marine coastal biodiversity. Here, we analyse the evolution of the meadow of Cymodocea nodosa in the Gulf of Tigullio, a coastal tract of naturalistic interest but subjected to high anthropogenic pressure. Historical maps at a scale 1:25,000 of C. nodosa meadow drawn in 1986, 1991 and 2001 were processed with GIS (Geographical Information System), using overlay vector methods. Diachronic analyses allowed the measurements of temporal changes, in term of percentage gain or loss of meadow extension, through concordance and discordance maps. A general increase in the extension of the meadow from 1986 to 1991 was evidenced, but the disparity of mapping methods (SCUBA diving in 1986, Side Scan Sonar in 1991) in the two surveys imposes caution when interpreting this result. On the other hand, the comparison of 1991 and 2001 maps, both derived from Side Scan Sonar surveys, showed a regression of the meadow of about 60% in the northern area, and modifications in the upper and lower limits of the meadow due to the impact of coastal works. C. nodosa meadow showed the only enlargement in front of the mouth of the Entella River, due to the increase in nutrient contents for rainfall in the period 1988-1994. The overall analysis evidenced a net decrease in seagrass meadow extension, an early warning of risk for marine coastal biodiversity in the Gulf of Tigullio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present-day Mediterranean marine biodiversity is undergoing rapid alteration. Because of the increased occurrence of warm-water biota, it has been said that the Mediterranean is under a process of ‘tropicalization'. This paper analyses the main patterns of the Mediterranean Sea tropicalization and considers briefly its extent and consequences. As happened during previous interglacial phases of the Quaternary, Atlantic water, entering via the Straits of Gibraltar, carries into the Mediterranean species that are prevalently of (sub)tropical affinity. On the other side of the basin, Red Sea species penetrate through the Suez Canal, a phenomenon called lessepsian migration from the name of F. de Lesseps, the French engineer who promoted the cutting of the Canal. Also the many exotic species introduced by humans voluntarily or involuntarily are nearly always typical of warm waters. Climate change combines with Atlantic influx, lessepsian migration and the introduction of exotic species by humans to the establishment of tropical marine biota in the Mediterranean Sea. Present-day warming ultimately favours the spread of warm-water species through direct and indirect effects, and especially by changing water circulation. It is impossible at present to foresee to what extent the exuberance of warm-water species will affect the trophic web and the functioning of marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean Sea of tomorrow. While Mediterranean Sea communities are modifying their pattern of species composition, they do not seem to be acquiring a more marked tropical physiognomy: Mediterranean coastal marine ecosystems are still dominated by fron-dose algae (even if the species that are gaining ascendancy are of tropical origin) and not by corals as is normal in tropical seas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we discuss the possibility of performing a sleep evaluation from the heart rate variability (HRV) and respiratory signals. This is particularly useful for non standard sleep measurements based on wearable devices or special sensors inserted in the bed. The HRV and the respiration signals were analysed in the frequency domain and the statistics on the spectral and cross-spectral parameters put into evidence the possibility of a sleep evaluation on their basis instead of the classical polysomnography in a sleep laboratory. Additional information can be achieved from the number of microarousals recognized in correspondence of typical modifications in the HRV signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the histologic point of view, nerves are round or flattened cords, with a complex internal structure made of myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers, containing axons and Schwann cells grouped in fascicles (Fig. 4.1a) (Erickson 1997). Along the course of the nerve, fibers can traverse from one fascicle to another and fascicles can split and merge. Based on the fascicular arrangement, two theories have been hypothesized to explain the internal architecture of a nerve: the "cable" and the "plexiform" models (Stewart 2003). The first states that nerves are cable-like structures, in which fascicles run separately throughout the entire nerve length (Fig. 4.1b). The second asserts that fascicles alternate splitting, branching, and rejoining along the course of the nerve trunk (Fig. 4.1c). In fact, nerves have both cable and plexiform arrangement of the fascicles depending on the level of examination. In their more proximal portion (e.g., brachial plexus), a plexiform organization of the fascicles predominates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

US is particularly well suited to examination of the pediatric musculoskeletal system, as an exquisite depiction of the immature skeleton with large amounts of cartilaginous bone can be obtained in a well-tolerated and noninvasive way without using ionizing radiation or sedation. Although US has been widely used in the diagnosis of hip disorders in children, many other applications for US in the pediatric musculoskeletal system have been developed (Keller 2005). More than other imaging techniques, US is ideally suited to the evaluation of the soft-tissue structures, including tendons and ligaments, joints and muscles. In this chapter, we will review the use of US in developmental dysplasia and painful hip and will also describe its use in a variety of other musculoskeletal applications, including congenital, inflammatory and traumatic abnormalities. Spine disorders are not included in this chapter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term "interventional US" refers to a wide and heterogeneous range of invasive procedures performed percutaneously using US guidance. In practice, most of these procedures consist of aspiration of fluid collections and injection of steroids either into joint cavities and tendon sheaths or into the para-articular soft tissues (Adler and Sofka 2003; Cardinal et al. 1997, 1998; Sofka et al. 2001). More complex US-guided procedures, such as biopsies of space-occupying masses and removal of foreign bodies, are usually performed in specialized centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The foot plays an essential role in standing and locomotion. It supports the body weight in standing, levers it forward in walking, and absorbs shock in running and jumping. The foot can be affected by a variety of congenital, inflammatory, infectious, degenerative, and neoplastic disorders. Based on its dynamic and resolution capabilities, US is an efficient means of detecting and assessing foot disorders (Rockett 1999; Rawool and Nazarian 2000; D'Agostino et al. 2005; Borman et al. 2005; Sabir et al. 2005). Parts of this chapter (i.e., tendons, nerves) are linked with what has already been described in the chapter on the ankle (Chapter 16). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ankle is the most frequently injured major joint in the body. Although routine radiography still remains crucial to evaluate and diagnose many ankle disorders, US has become increasingly important in the assessment of abnormalities of tendons, joints, ligaments, nerves and other soft-tissue structures. Because there are so many structures to be examined in the ankle joint, the US examination should be focused and guided by the clinical findings in an attempt to save time and increase the efficacy of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Similar to the thigh, typical clinical manifestations in the soft tissue of the leg are mainly related to muscle pathology, including traumatic injuries and muscle hernias, the first most often affecting the posteromedial compartment, the latter the anterolateral one. Pathology of nerves and vessels of the lower leg is less common but should be recognized by the examiner nevertheless due to important clinical implications and possible association with other musculoskeletal abnormalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of disorders involving tendons, vessels, nerves, joints and para-articular structures of the knee can be accurately assessed with US (Grobbelaar and Bouffard 2000; Friedman et al. 2001). On the other hand, this technique has specific limitations in the assessment of knee disorders affecting the menisci and the cruciate ligaments. Since the referring clinician may ignore these limitations, knowledge of the presumptive clinical diagnosis is important for the examiner in order to avoid inappropriate studies. US examination of the knee is performed using a broadband linear array transducer working at a frequency band range of 5-10 MHz. For evaluation of the popliteal fossa, a probe with a center frequency of 5 MHz can help to image the deepest structures, whereas US frequencies in the 10-15 MHz band range may improve the assessment of the most superficial structures, such as the patellar tendon and the peroneal nerve around the fibular head. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the anatomic and functional points of view, the thigh can be divided in three main regions: anterior, medial and posterior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

US examination of the hip has mostly been dedicated to examination of the infant hip to detect developmental hip dysplasia. More recently, the development and refinement of "small-parts" transducers and the widespread consciousness of the capabilities of US in the assessment of musculoskeletal disorders have increased the number of US examinations of the hip in adults. This chapter deals with the normal anatomy, technique of examination and pathologic findings of the hip joint and hip region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, substantial improvement in transducer technology has led to a growing interest in the US evaluation of the hand and wrist (Bianchi et al. 1999, 2001; Chiou et al. 2001; Creteur and Peetrons 2000; Ferrara and Marcelis 1997; Fornage and Rifkin 1988; Lee 1998; Milbrat et al. 1990; Read et al. 1996; Teefey et al. 2000; Lee and Healy 2005). US transducers with frequencies ranging from 10 to 15 MHz allow accurate assessment of tendons, joints, nerves and vessels of the extremities without requiring stand-off pads. The association of standard radiographs with high-resolution US works well in the evaluation of wrist and hand disorders. Radiographs can recognize most bone and joint disorders and US can be used to assess a wide spectrum of pathologic conditions affecting soft-tissue structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being capable of a wide range of hinged and rotational motion, the elbow is intrinsically predisposed to acute injures and degenerative changes. Although clinical examination and routine radiography are essential to evaluate elbow disorders, US has become increasingly important in the diagnostic investigation of several abnormalities affecting tendons and muscles, joints, ligaments, nerves and other softtissue structures around the elbow joint. After US examination, CT and MR imaging may be required to further address the status of the joint cavity, the articular cartilage and the bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shoulder is one of the most common applications of musculoskeletal US due to the high incidence of rotator cuff disorders related to increasing aging and sporting activities. Many papers dealing with the US scanning technique of the rotator cuff tendons have already been published in the radiological, rheumatologic and orthopaedic literature and US is now widely recognized as an accurate means to evaluate rotator cuff disease (Ptasznik 2001; Bouffard et al. 2000; Brasseur et al. 2000; Thain and Adler 1999; Bretzke et al. 1985; Collins et al. 1987; Crass et al. 1985; Hall 1986; Middleton et al. 1984; Middleton et al. 1986b; Mack et al. 1988a; Middleton 1989; Seibold et al. 1999; Teefey et al. 2000; Naredo et al. 2002). With appropriate equipment and skilled hands, this technique provides assessment of rotator cuff pathology with high sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of both partial and fullthickness tears with some specific advantages over MR imaging, such as higher resolution capabilities and the ability to examine tissues in both static and dynamic states and with the patient in different positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]