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Best management practices that optimize agronomic performance and make Brassica carinata production compatible with existing cropping systems are crucial for the establishment of a carinata supply chain in the southeastern United States. To this end, research was carried out to quantify land preparation method (conventional, no-till, broadcast-disc, and ripper-roller) and seeding rate effects on (1.12, 5.60, 10.09, and 14.57 kg seed ha−1) on B. carinata physiology, yield, and seed chemical composition. Data were collected on days to 50% flowering; canopy cover; gaseous exchange parameters (leaf net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, intercellular CO2, and water use efficiency); leaf area index; root weight; shoot weight; aboveground biomass; yield; and seed chemical composition. Leaf net photosynthesis was affected by land preparation treatment, being greater under the ripper-roller treatment, particularly during bolting. On the other hand, a decrease in photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and water use efficiency was observed as seeding rate increased, especially during bolting. Carinata seed under the ripper-roller land preparation had the greatest oil content but lowest glucosinolates and protein contents. Yield did not respond to land preparation. Yield was minimized (732 kg seed ha−1) at the 1.12 kg ha−1 seeding rate and maximized (1087 kg seed ha−1) at the 5.6 kg ha−1 seeding rate. No land preparation by seeding rate interaction was observed for gas exchange parameters and LAI during any of the growth stages, nor was any interaction observed for yield. Carinata's physiological response to seeding rate did not depend on land preparation method employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grounded in Strategic Leadership Theory (SLT), the exploratory study examined the effects of appraisal frequency on various work-related factors (job satisfaction, perceived board support, and organizational commitment) on executive director's current appraisal experiences. One hundred and sixty-two executive-level professionals in local park and recreation agencies completed an online survey that was used to measure the variables of interest. Results indicated differences in executive directors' job satisfaction, perceived board support, and organizational commitment based on the frequency in which the formal appraisal was administered. Complete and implications for organizations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a recently introduced crop in the United States, there are limited data regarding temporal nutrient accumulation and partitioning dynamics of Brassica carinata (carinata). A four site‐year study was conducted in Jay, FL and Salisbury, NC during the 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 growing seasons. Three carinata genotypes (DH‐157.715, M‐01, and Avanza 641) proposed by the industry to represent early‐, mid‐, and full‐season genotypes, respectively, were sampled at multiple growth stages and partitioned into leaves, stems, reproductive parts (flowers plus pods), and seed to determine biomass and nutrient accumulation across three genotypes in Florida and one full season genotype in North Carolina. Averaged over two site‐years and genotypes in Florida, accumulation (per ha) of 169 kg N, 22 kg P, 160 kg K, 58 kg S, 475 g Zn, and 218 g B was required to produce 1635 and 10,872 kg ha−1 of seed yield and biomass, respectively. Nutrients with high harvest index values included P (60%), N (55%), S (32%), and Mg (29%). Averaged over two site‐years in North Carolina, accumulation (per ha) of 178 kg N, 26 kg P, 87 kg K, 24 kg S, 416 g Zn, and 127 g B produced 2428 and 9102 kg ha−1 of seed yield and biomass, respectively. Nutrients with greatest harvest index values were P (57%), N (50%), S (32%), and Mg (26%). Internal efficiency of N, P, and K, measured as slopes of seed yield regressions over nutrient uptake across all genotypes and locations were 16, 83, and 8 kg seed yield per kg N, P, and K uptake, respectively. These results describe temporal nutrient accumulation and partitioning in carinata and are critical to refine nutrient management strategies and guide fertilizer application decisions. Core Ideas: Nutrient acquisition for Brassica carinata as a winter crop was most rapid between pre‐bolting and flowering growth stage.Time and rate of nutrient acquisition varied among nutrients.Carinata genotypes with proposed variable maturity exhibited similar nutrient accumulation and partitioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Well-designed performance appraisals provide a formal evaluation system to measure employees’ contributions to the agency while motivating staff and enhancing productivity levels. Despite their prominence and popularity, performance appraisal systems are often a contentious activity within public park and recreation agencies. Appraisal literature has indicated that many of these frustrations stem from issues such as (1) criteria that is not job related, (2) unclear or confusing rating levels, and/or (3) poorly designed processes and inconsistent implementation techniques. Recent research has also suggested many of these issues might be linked to the social dimensions surrounding the appraisal system. The purpose of this study was to build upon the previous appraisal research in public parks and recreation by exploring the role of two process proximal social context factors (employee participation and supervisor trust) on the utility of the appraisal system. More specifically, the cumulative effects of employee participation at various stages (job analysis, instrument development, appraisal interview, and training related to the appraisal system) and employees’ perceptions of their supervisor on employees’ reactions to their agency’s appraisal system were examined. Analyses indicated supervisor trust and employee participation significantly contributed to public park and recreation professionals’ satisfaction with their appraisal system, satisfaction with their appraisal interview, and their procedural and distributive justice perceptions with their appraisal system. Study findings and implications for management are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassica carinata (carinata), a non‐food oilseed feedstock mainly used for biofuel, is a relatively new alternative winter crop in the southeastern (SE) United States (US). However, there are limited N rate and N application timing data available at the regional scale. These data are needed to expand production in the SE US. An N rate study was conducted during the winter–spring growing seasons during 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 in Florida, US, and at three locations during 2018–2019 in Georgia, US, to quantify the effects of N rate (0, 45, 90, 134, and 179 kg N ha−1) on carinata nutrient uptake, biomass, seed yield, and seed chemical composition. Seed yield showed a linear response up to 134 kg N ha−1. Seed protein and glucosinolate concentrations decreased from 0 to 90 kg N ha−1, then increased from 90 to 179 kg N ha−1. Seed oil concentration was inversely related to seed protein concentration. A two‐factor N application timing study (4 N application timing: at‐plant, pre‐bolting, at‐plant + pre‐bolting, at‐plant + pre‐bolting + bolting × 4 N rates: 0, 45, 90, and 134 kg N ha−1) was conducted in Georgia, US, over three site‐years to quantify the effect of N application timing on yield and agronomic and economic optimum N rates (AONR and EONR, respectively). All split applications increased AONR by at least 10 kg N ha−1 compared to a single at‐plant application. A two‐split N application was more profitable than either a single N application or a three‐split N application based on marginal return. A two‐way split application (at‐plant + pre‐bolting) at 134 kg N ha−1 is recommended to optimize yield and economical production. Based on uncertainty analyses, the 50% credible interval of EONR occurred between 116 and 152 kg N ha−1, with a median estimate at 130 kg N ha−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassica carinata, a nonfood oilseed crop, is used to produce renewable fuels because of its high oil content and favorable fatty acid profile. Production in the southeastern United States is relatively new, and information on agronomic management practices to optimize growth and yield is limited. Since optimal seeding rate may depend on the land preparation method for this small‐seeded crop, a study was conducted to evaluate the effect of tillage system (conventional, no‐till, broadcast‐disc, and ripper‐roller) and seeding rate (1.12, 5.60, 10.09, and 14.57 kg seed ha−1) on the performance of B. carinata. A randomized complete block design with a strip‐plot restriction on randomization and four replications was implemented in Headland, AL, Jay, FL, and Quincy, FL, over five site‐years during the 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 growing seasons. Data were collected on soil residue cover; plant population; soil penetrometer resistance and moisture; biomass (including carbon and nitrogen); stalk diameter; yield and yield components; seed oil, protein, and glucosinolates concentration; and oil composition. Soil penetrometer resistance was significantly affected by tillage system, with the ripper‐roller consistently having the lowest penetration resistance values across all site‐years. Ripper‐roller tillage had the highest oil content and lowest protein and glucosinolate contents. Yield response to tillage system was variable. Among seeding rate treatments, yield was lowest at 1.12 kg seed ha−1 and similar among 5.60, 10.09, and 14.57 kg seed ha−1 at all site‐years. There was no tillage by seeding rate interaction for yield. Results indicate that among seeding rate treatments used, 5.6 kg seed ha−1 rate was optimal at all site‐years regardless of land preparation method and is thus the recommended seeding rate for commercial carinata production in the Southeastern United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to explore possible predictors of career and non-career bridge employment intentions among local government employees. The effects of eight professional characteristics, life satisfaction, family-work balance, work philosophy, and perceived role support at work were assessed on bridge employment intentions. Two hundred and twenty-six professionals completed a survey and results indicated career bridge employment intentions were influenced by professionals' age, life satisfaction, work-family balance, serious work philosophy, and work role support while non-career bridge employment was influenced by age, work-family balance, and serious work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of theoretically- guided, instructional design strategies in an online learning module that was implemented in four undergraduate sport management and recreation courses. The study was framed within Social Cognitive Theory, a well-studied model for adult learning, and several instructional design hypotheses were examined. Using an experimental research design, the effects of online discussion groups and multiple formats on students' self-efficacy perceptions in an online learning module were examined. Results of the analyses indicated that the use of discussion groups produced significantly higher self-efficacy perceptions compared to the other instructional design strategies. Findings from the study are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an opportunity for crop farmers in the Southeast United States (SE US) to increase income by producing carinata during the winter following summer crop production. However, a major limitation to the use of carinata as a winter annual in the SE US is the lack of information on double-cropping with summer commodity crops common to the region. Considering that integrating carinata into cropping systems common to the region could impact productivity of those systems, it is critical to quantify the potential effects of carinata on existing cropping systems. To this end, a study was conducted in Jay, Florida for three years to evaluate the effects of winter cropping history (carinata vs. fallow) on the productivity of subsequent summer crops including cotton, peanut, sorghum, and soybean. Treatments (winter carinata vs. winter fallow) were laid out in a randomized complete block design with eight replications. Data were collected on infiltration; plant population; plant canopy height; aboveground biomass; and yield. Infiltration rates, determined within a week of carinata harvest, were affected by winter cropping history, being greater in former carinata plots than former fallow plots. Carinata harvest coincided with the timely planting of cotton and peanut which resulted in these summer crops being sown three to four weeks later than their typical sowing window for the SE US. Winter cropping history (including the winter fallow control) did not influence commodity crop (cotton, peanut, sorghum, and soybean) yields when all summer crops were planted at the same time, as in a double-crop scenario. Regarding the combined productivity of winter (carinata vs. winter fallow) and summer crops, carinata-cotton, carinata-peanut, carinata-sorghum, and carinata-soybean systems were necessarily more productive than their winter fallow counterparts due to no crop production in the fallow during the winter cropping years. Overall, results from this study showed that carinata can successfully replace winter fallow, and can be double-cropped with summer-planted sorghum and soybean with no adverse effect on yield. Double-cropping carinata caused a delay in timely planting of cotton and peanut, and represents a limitation that may hinder its adoption in the SE US until such time a faster-maturing carinata cultivar can be developed. • Carinata-summer crop systems were more productive than fallow-summer crop systems, in terms of combined productivity. • A carinata-cotton or carinata-peanut double cropping system may not be agronomically feasible for the SE US. • Carinata may be successfully double-cropped with summer-planted sorghum and soybean with no adverse effect on yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite their prominence and popularity, pay-for-performance systems are often an area of controversy within an agency. Getting employees more engaged in the pay-for-performance appraisal system's development, implementation, and administration has been suggested as a possible method to improve the effectiveness of these systems. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of employee participation and supervisor trust in employee reactions toward a pay-for-performance appraisal system. Guided by Social Cognitive Theory, a series of hypotheses are proposed and tested. The paper concludes with a discussion of the findings and their implications for management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of professionals retiring from public parks and recreation agencies is increasing. This growing number of retirees raises significant challenges (and potential opportunities) for these agencies as they manage this loss of institutional capital. Anecdotal evidence suggests that while some professionals elect to pursue a traditional retirement route by transitioning from full-time employment to full-time retirement, a growing number are choosing to return to the workforce after they retire from their career jobs. Referred to as "bridge" employment experiences, these post-retirement jobs act as transitions between long-term career positions and total retirement. These bridge employment experiences have been found to range from part-time work, selfemployment, and temporary employment to full-time employment. Despite these trends, little work has been done to explore the bridge employment phenomenon within the recreation profession. The purpose of this study was to explore possible predictors of public park and recreation professionals' career bridge employment intentions. Social Cognitive Theory was selected as the theoretical framework for the study to determine the impact of three individual factors (financial preparedness, job satisfaction, physical health) and three environmental factors (social retirement anxiety, career attachment, and professional development opportunities) on career bridge employment intentions. Two hundred and twenty-seven public park and recreation professionals who anticipated retiring within the next 10 years and were currently employed on a full-time basis completed an online survey that was used to measure the variables of interest. Analyses indicated career bridge employment intentions were influenced by professionals' financial preparedness, social retirement anxiety, career attachment, and professional development opportunities. Interestingly, job satisfaction and physical health perceptions were not found to significantly impact career bridge employment intentions. Overall, the findings suggest that there is a career transition and socialization process that arises as professionals near the retirement phase of their career. The study's findings identified a few areas of concern and/or opportunities for professionals and their agencies. First, professionals who perceived to be less financially prepared for retirement or who had anxieties about disrupting longstanding friendships and support networks within the workplace were more likely to pursue bridge employment. Secondly, the findings suggest that professionals with stronger career attachment and who were more pleased with the quality and quantity of professional development opportunities were more interested in bridge employment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harvest index (HI) is conventionally measured using end-of-season biomass, but leaf abscission during crop growth can represent a substantial portion of total crop biomass for several species. A field study was conducted in Florida, USA, to determine the accuracy of conventional and alternative HI methods using sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) as a model species and to assess biomass and nutrient contributions from abscised leaves. Seed and nutrient HI was determined from three cultivars using the following four methods: (1) total biomass method that included both end-of-season and seasonal abscised biomass; (2) conventional method based solely on end-of-season biomass; (3) early-bloom method in which biomass collected during early-bloom stage was used as the nonseed biomass component; (4) mid-bloom method where biomass from mid-bloom stage was used for nonseed biomass. Early- and mid-bloom methods overestimated all HI and underestimated biomass and nutrient return to the soil. Most nutrient HI based on the conventional method was higher than the values based on the total biomass method. Compared to the total biomass method, the conventional method underestimated biomass and nutrient return to soil per ha by 714.8 kg biomass, 28.5 kg nitrogen, 3.6 kg phosphorus, 34.7 potassium, 4.6 magnesium, 25.7 calcium, 3.4 kg sulfur, 26.5 g boron, 361 g zinc, 25.9 g manganese, 527.2 g iron, and 18.7 g copper. Including abscised leaves when determining HI may not be feasible in field experiments due to labor constraints but is an option when measuring HI for species under similar management at regional scales to improve estimates of nutrient cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Row croppers in the Southeast United States (SE US) are interested in diversifying their cropping systems and increasing revenue by growing a winter cash crop between summer crops, especially cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Double-cropping carinata (Brassica carinata A. Braun) between summer crops has potential to boost grower revenue and increase land use efficiency in the region. Given that this winter crop is fairly new in the SE US, its successful establishment in the region depends on its rotational fit into current cropping systems. Since incorporating carinata into the existing cropping systems in the region could influence the productivity of those systems, it is crucial to determine what changes row croppers should expect. To resolve this, research was conducted to quantify the effects of summer cropping history on the performance of carinata as part of diversified crop rotations in the SE US. A randomized complete block design with eight replications was implemented in Jay, Florida, over three years. Summer cropping history treatments were peanut, cotton, and summer fallow. Data was collected on carinata aboveground biomass and stover [including carbon (C) and nitrogen (N)]; yield (including yield components); and seed chemical composition (glucosinolates concentration, protein and oil contents, and oil composition). Carinata biomass, biomass C and N, stover residue, stover residue C and N, and stover residue C:N ratio were not affected by summer cropping history across years. Likewise, yield and seed chemical composition were not affected by summer cropping history. In terms of combined productivity of summer crops and carinata, cotton-carinata was the most productive system while fallow-carinata was the least productive. Overall, results from this study show that the insensitivity of carinata yield or seed quality to previous summer crops allows for flexibility in integrating carinata into existing rotations in the SE US. This simplifies the agronomic management of carinata as a biofuel crop since growers can concentrate on meeting yield goals without the risk of affecting yield or seed quality with different summer cropping histories. • Carinata was evaluated for yield and seed quality following cotton, peanut, and fallow cropping histories. • Carinata can be grown after cotton or peanut without compromising yield or seed quality. • Carinata has potential to be a fallow replacement winter crop for producing jet fuel in the Southeast US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agronomic systems based on zero tillage and residue retention are becoming more important due to their potential for climate change adaptation through the reduction of soil erosion and improved water availability. Denser soil surface conditions and large amounts of crop residues, however, may be a constraint for early plant establishment, especially in irrigated production areas with high yield potential. Genotype by tillage interactions for yield are not well understood and it is unknown whether tillage should be an evaluation factor in breeding programs. Twenty-six CIMMYT bread ( Triticum aestivum ) and durum ( Triticum turgidum ) wheat genotypes, created between 1964 and 2009, were tested for yield and agronomic performance at CIMMYT’s experimental station near Ciudad Obregon, Mexico, over six years. Treatments included conventional and permanent raised beds with full and reduced irrigation. The objectives were to study breeding progress in distinct agronomic systems and to elucidate the importance of tillage and genotype by tillage interaction for yield and agronomic traits. Breeding progress was achieved irrespective of agronomic treatment. Tillage influenced plant growth and number of grains per m 2 in both wheat types. In bread wheat, genotype by tillage interaction was significant for yield, test weight, and growth parameters. However, no cross-over effects were detected and rank changes were small. In durum wheat, genotype by tillage interaction was only significant for plant growth. The results do not indicate the need for separate breeding programs. However, the question of a need for selection under zero tillage to increase breeding progress is yet to be answered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Well-designed employee performance appraisals assume great importance by providing park and recreation agencies with information that can guide administrative and developmental decision-making about their most important asset—their human resources. Despite their importance, an agency's performance appraisal system can often be viewed by employees and management as a frustrating and unfair process. Responding to these issues, a pay-for-performance appraisal system was developed in 2004 for the Elmhurst Park District (Elmhurst, IL) that utilized an employee participation model and was guided by the appraisal literature. The purpose of this study was to examine the employees' longer-term reactions to the implementation and administration of the performance appraisal system over the past 10 years. Data was collected at three points: (1) in 2004, prior to the start of the pay-for-performance workshops (n = 56); (2) in 2005 at the conclusion of the workshops and initial implementation of the newly developed system (n = 56); and (3) in 2014-15, 10 years after implementation of the system (n = 51). Drawing from existing management literature and the utilization of an employee participation model, this 10-year follow-up study sought to address the following questions: To what extent are the employees' (1) overall satisfaction, (2) perceptions of accuracy of the appraisal ratings, (3) perceptions of procedural justice, and (4) perceptions of distributive justice with the appraisal system different in 2014-15 compared to 2005 and the original system in 2004? Analyses indicated that there were significant differences between employees' attitudes toward their agencies' performance appraisal systems in 2004 compared to 2005 and 2014-15. Study findings and implications for management are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been proposed that crops can be improved to be more competitive with weeds by increasing their ability to suppress weed growth and reproduction. Weed suppressive ability is predominantly influenced by plant architectures that favor shading and rapid canopy closure. A three-yr field experiment was conducted in Jay, FL to assess the response of peanut cultivars with different growth habits to weed interference. Three cultivars ('Bailey', erect growth and tall canopy height; 'Georgia-06G', semi-bunch and intermediate height; 'TUFRunner 727', prostrate growth and intermediate height) and one advanced breeding line ('UFT312', very prostrate growth and short canopy height) were subjected to three weed interference levels: no interference, early season interference, and full-season interference. Results showed that, despite differences in growth habit, morphological response to weed interference was similar among peanut cultivars. All cultivars suppressed weed growth more than 76% in 2 of 3 yr. Peanut reduced reproductive growth and maintained vegetative growth under weed interference scenarios, and yields decreased as interference duration increased. Competitiveness of peanut to weeds could be improved by identification of lines that better balance translocation of photoassimilates favoring kernels over vegetative growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the significance of the legal process voir dire for trial lawyers and presents several fundamental techniques for selecting jurors to enhance the chances of success in a trial. It examines the discretion given to judges concerning jury selection. The article also discusses securing commitments from jurors to be impartial, using strikes and challenges, and developing questions for voir dire.

One of the characteristics of a professional field is having a means to certify the knowledge and competence of members of the profession. Certification programs can range from specialist-based certifications to those that are more general in scope (Mathis & Jackson, 2010). Supporters of certifications, both specialist and generalist, contend: certifications improve organizational effectiveness by having more competent and productive employees; improve the overall quality of a profession by following an established body of knowledge; help keep the professional current with the literature and trends in the field through the requirements associated with maintaining the certification over time (i.e., continuing education unit requirements); enhance professional recognition and lifelong learning among professionals in the field; and, lead to increased pay/salary and/or career advancement opportunities for professionals (Chipkin, 2010; Smith, 2013). Despite these claims made by certification supporters and advocates, little empirical research has been conducted on the specific impact of certifications within the field of park and recreation. In response to this need, the purpose of this study was to explore the possible links between a generalist certification (i.e., the CPRP certification), specialist certifications, and job self-efficacy among public park and recreation professionals. Job self-efficacy is a concept introduced in Bandura's social cognitive model (see Bandura, 1997) and is described as one's perceived performance capabilities for a specific activity. Three hundred and forty-seven public park and recreation professionals completed an online survey that was used to measure the variables of interest. Analyses identified significant differences in employees' job self-efficacy levels between CPRP professionals and non-CPRP professionals while no significant differences were found between specialist certified professionals and those without a certification. Complete results of the study are analyzed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The number of dual-career couples, workers with eldercare responsibility, single-parent families, and working parents with young children has become increasingly common in the American workplace (Breaugh & Frye, 2008) and has led to increased work-family conflicts for the park and recreation professional. In response to these workforce changes, family-friendly employee benefits programs (FFEBP) are becoming more readily available and offered by public park and recreation agencies. Guided by these challenges, this study sought to explore the link between FFEBP and job attitudes (organizational commitment) and employee motivation (self-efficacy) among public park and recreation employees. Specifically, the effects of two FFEBP (dependent care supports and flexible work arrangements) were assessed on organizational commitment and job self-efficacy outcomes. Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1991) was selected as the theoretical framework for this study due to its relevance to a variety of human resource management functions that occur within an organization and its application within employee motivation and commitment contexts (Gibson, 2004). Four hundred and fifty-six public park and recreation professionals completed an online survey that was used to measure the variables of interest. Analyses identified significant differences in employees' job self-efficacy and organizational commitment levels between agencies with family-friendly employee benefits programs and agencies without these programs. Specifically, the findings from this study suggest agencies with dependent care supports or flexible work arrangements benefit programs have employees who are more committed to the agency and generally have higher levels of motivation (i.e., job self-efficacy) than employees working in agencies without these programs. For administrators, these results suggest the potential of FFEBP in creating a strategic advantage for agencies by recruiting and retaining higher performers within an agency and by establishing a more productive workforce. However, despite the potential value of these benefits, careful planning and internal assessment is needed prior to implementation of a FFEBP. Complete results of the study are analyzed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Well-designed employee performance appraisals provide agencies with information that can guide administrative and developmental decision-making about their most important asset--their human resources. Administratively, performance appraisals serve as the formal evaluation tool used by managers when making decisions about distribution of pay increases. Developmentally, performance appraisals assist agencies in identifying issues such as employee training needs, selection, and promotional opportunities (Milkovich & Newman, 2005). Despite its importance, an agency's performance appraisal system is often viewed by employees and management as a frustrating and unfair process. These frustrations are largely attributed to performance appraisal instruments that are not job related, have confusing or unclear rating levels, and are viewed as subjective and biased by staff (Mathis & Jackson, 2006). A study was undertaken to respond to this issue by identifying the steps involved in creating a pay-for-performance system for a public park and recreation agency. This case study (1) identified a systematic procedure for creating performance appraisal instruments, (2) described the appropriate training necessary for those conducting a performance appraisal interview, (3) implemented the performance reviews using the developed instruments and the results of the appraisal training, and (4) determined how much of a merit increase is to be given for different levels of performance. Emergent themes from focus group interviews with employees identified differences between employee attitudes toward the original pay-for-performance system and the newly developed system, highlighting the value of employee participation in the development of the appraisal system. Results of the case study are analyzed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuroectodermal differentiation or melanocytic colonization are the opposing theories of histogenesis for the Bednár tumor or pigmented dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP). Observation: A 31-year-old African-American woman presented with a 2-cm blue-black shoulder nodule of 1-year duration. Punch biopsy revealed a CD34+, Factor XIIIa-DFSP, harboring numerous, pigmented spindle S100+, Mart-1+ and HMB-45+ cells. Subsequent wide excision demonstrated pigmented dendritic and spindled cells widely scattered throughout the dermis of the 3-cm excisional margins and punch biopsy specimens of normal skin from both shoulders. This latter process was interpreted as dermal melanocytosis (nevus of Ito). The dermal pigmented spindle cells were Mart-1+ and CD34-, and were associated with non-pigmented CD34+, cytologically banal spindle cells, which were more numerous in the excisional margins than the contralateral shoulder. Conclusion: Reported herein is a singular case of Bednár tumor associated with dermal melanocytosis. Although the coexistence of these processes implicates colonization of the DFSP by constituent dermal melanocytes, the mixed immunophenotype (CD34+ or Mart-1+ cells) of dispersed dermal spindle cells hints at the possibility of a common cell of origin: the putative neuromesenchymal cell. In effect, the Bednár tumor could represent one part of a spectrum of neural crest-derived dermal tumors that includes dermal melanocytosis, cellular blue nevus and conventional DFSP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Peanut is said to provide N credits to future crops in the southeastern USA but evidence is lacking to support this claim. • We evaluated wheat performance following peanut, cotton, and fallow in a conservation tillage cropping system. • Peanut residues contained up to 93 kg N ha-1, but available N at wheat planting was usually not affected by cropping history. • Peanut did not provide detectible N credits to wheat, but there were cases of lower yield after cotton relative to peanut. Agricultural extension services in many peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)-producing regions recommend that farmers reduce nitrogen (N) fertilization rates, or apply N credits, to crops planted after peanut but do not typically specify how peanut residue management or planting schedules of subsequent crops affect the magnitude of peanut N credits. The objective of this study was to quantify peanut N credits to winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in a conservation tillage cropping system in different subtropical growing environments. A five site-year study was conducted in Florida, USA beginning in 2016. A split-plot experimental design was arranged in which summer crop [peanut, cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), and weed-free fallow] was the main plot factor, while N rate (0, 34, 67, and 101 kg N ha−1) to winter wheat was the split plot factor. Peanut and cotton were planted under strip-tillage, while winter wheat was drilled into peanut and cotton residues and weed-free fallow plots without tillage. Although peanut residues accumulated 54–93 kg N ha−1, plant available N at winter wheat planting in the 0–15 cm soil depth range of former peanut plots was only higher than in former cotton or fallow plots for one site-year. A previous peanut crop did not affect winter wheat grain yield, but there were cases of lower grain yield, grain N removal, and agronomic efficiency following cotton relative to peanut depending on site. Nonlinear regression procedures predicted that N rates required to optimize grain yields following peanut would exceed 94 kg N ha−1, further indicating the absence of detectible peanut N credits in this study. These results suggest that assuming peanut provides N credits to subsequent crops in the southeastern USA is not justified and, if assumed, will reduce the productivity of subsequent crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carinata (Brassicacarinata) is an oilseed crop which, because of its non‐edible oil composition and favorable fatty acid profile, is proposed as a "green" sustainable aviation fuel. It can be grown as a winter crop in the southeastern USA or as a summer annual crop in northern latitudes. No crop models exist for carinata because it is a relatively new crop. The CROPGRO model is a mechanistic crop simulation of daily crop growth and development as a function of daily weather, soil properties, crop management, and species parameters. We adapted the CROPGRO model to simulate carinata based on growth analysis data collected over two seasons at three sites: Quincy, FL, Jay, FL, and Shorter, AL. The adaptation process required literature knowledge as well as optimization against field observations. The parameterization of model sensitivities to climatic factors is presented. The adapted model gave good simulations of carinata growth dynamics compared to observed growth during different seasons and locations and in response to N fertilization. While additional testing is appropriate, the model is sufficiently ready to be used for various applications. An example application is presented for the effect of sowing date on carinata yield and maturity over long‐term weather in the Southeastern USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND. There are many techniques used to remove professional tattoos. Each method can be complicated by hypertrophic scarring, pigmentary changes, and/or insufficient pigment removal. OBJECTIVE. To study the results of precise, thin, tangential excisions of professional tattoos. The posttreatment migration of dermal tattoo pigment was also evaluated. METHODS. Five healthy white males had their professionally placed tattoos excised at a depth of 0.008 in (0.2 mm) using a Brown dermatome. Pre- and posttreatment biopsies were used to measure the depth of the tattoo pigment. RESULTS. At 3 months posttreatment, four patients had no significant scarring and three patients retained only scattered flecks of tattoo pigment. Each patient demonstrated migration of the deeper denim! pigment to a more superficial level. CONCLUSION. A superficial, tangential excision of a professional tattoo by a Brown dermatome is a viable, low-risk, inexpensive procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassica carinata has the potential to become an economical biofuel winter crop in the Southeast U.S. An IPM program is needed to provide management recommendations for B. carinata in the region. This study serves as the first steps in the developing IPM tactics documenting pest occurrence, pest position within the canopy, and the impact of defoliation on B. carinata yield. The study was performed in Jay, FL, during the 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 winter/spring crop seasons. Pest species in B. carinata were documented by plant inspection within 16 genotypes of B. carinata, and the presence of insect pests in three canopy zones (upper, medium, and lower canopy) was documented. The defoliation impact on B. carinata was evaluated by artificial defoliation. Five levels of defoliation (2017–2018 crop season: 0%, 5%, 25%, 50%, and 100%; 2018–2019 crop season: 0%, 50%, 75%, 90%, and 100%) were artificially applied during vegetative, flowering, and pod formation stages of the commercial cultivar "Avanza64." During the 2018–2019 crop season, two experiments were performed, a one‐time defoliation event and continuous defoliation. The plants were hand harvested and the average number of pods per plants, seeds per pod, thousand seed weight, and yield were estimated and correlated with defoliation levels. Results indicated the following species of pests associated with B. carinata: Microtheca ochroloma Stål (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), Plutela xylostella larvae, Pieris rapae L. (Lepidoptera: Pieridae), Diabrotica undecimpunctata Barber (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), Lipaphis pseudobrassicae Davis (Hemiptera: Aphididae), Leptoglossus phyllopus L. (Hemiptera: Coreidae), and Chloridea virescens F. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The insect distribution within the plant canopy was not uniform. Different levels of artificial B. carinata defoliation did not affect seed weight, the number of seeds per pod, or the oil content of the seeds. The number of pods per plants and estimated yield were negatively impacted by defoliation during the vegetative and flowering stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientists often turn to farmers to understand soil management. This process reveals differences and overlaps between local and scientific soil knowledge but rarely considers women and gender issues. This paper examines men's and women's local knowledge of soils in upland, smallholder farms in two villages in Mindanao, the Philippines, using focus group discussions, semi-structured household interviews, field visits, GIS and soil testing. Farmers' field areas were calculated and delineated based on their perceptions of the different types of soils on their land. Men and women chose the same plots for what they considered their best soil but differed on what they felt were their worst. The fertility of the soils that women considered to be the best and worst was not significantly different from that of the men's respective choices. There was a difference in fertility, however, between the best and worst soils regardless of gender. Although soil fertility analyses showed that the women's chosen soils were similar to men's, analyses of qualitative data showed that their knowledge of soils was different and was based in part on a gendered division of labour. A multidisciplinary approach helped bridge the gap between sociocultural and physical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) is commonly a limiting nutrient affecting crop yields in tropical cultivated systems, and a high P-sorption capacity in many of these soils can decrease the effectiveness of fertilizer use. Smallholder farmers, such as those in rural Haiti who do not have sufficient access to P fertilizers, may benefit from crops that are efficient at scavenging for P. To evaluate commonly grown and potentially useful plants for this purpose, a pot study was conducted in a controlled-environment chamber set to approximate ambient May–June conditions in Haiti's Central Plateau with seven treatments (six legume and one grass species) using soil from an Ustalf taken in the region. Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens[L.] DC) produced the largest amount of biomass, though no difference in P uptake among treatments was observed. Phosphorus uptake and rhizosphere P were positively correlated, indicating plants with a larger capacity to solubilize P took up more P. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Employee turnover is an unavoidable part of most public park and recreation agencies. Agencies must become increasingly concerned with understanding the repercussions of an employee leaving an agency as they attempt to strategically assess current and future economic and human resource plans. This exploratory study considers the issue of turnover within a cost analytical framework and proposes a model for park and recreation agencies to accurately quantify their employee turnover costs. Specifically, the study incorporates Cascio's (2000) costing model of turnover to explore the costs associated with the departing employee and the placement of a new employee. Building upon Cascio's (2000) model we include variables to examine the potential drop in performance and overtime payment required as a result of turnover. Using the proposed model, an exploratory study was conducted within the public park and recreation profession. Turnover data was collected from park and recreation professionals within the state of Illinois. Findings suggest that the separation costs are about two to three times larger than replacement costs making it increasingly important for managers to control unused vacation and sick pay, losses in production and overtime paid to existing staff. Significant differences in pre-employment testing and training costs were found between recreation staff and operations/support staff. The findings and application of the costing model are discussed with suggestions made for further development of turnover cost models that can be applied in public park and recreation settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) is a multipurpose crop widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Characterizing cowpea phenotypes in germplasm collections is a crucial step to ensure future breeding efforts in the species. In this study, we estimated variance components and calculated genetic parameters for eight traits in 292 accessions from the University of California Riverside cowpea mini‐core collection, along with three lines released by the USDA, and seven cultivars. Broad‐sense heritability (H2) ranged from.21 to.83 for all accessions evaluated in Year 1, and from.16 to.83 for traits evaluated in 100 accessions during Year 2. Genotype × year correlations ranged from.45 to.99, illustrating consistency in phenotypic performance for some traits. Positive trait correlations were estimated for plant height and days to flowering, biomass at flowering (R1), and biomass at pod maturity (R6). Biomass at R1 and R6 were highly positively correlated. The USDA line US‐1137 showed high biomass production and can be used as forage and cover crop, whereas US‐1136, US 1138, and the cultivar Iron Clay showed superior traits as dual‐purpose (grain and/or fodder). Several accessions from the mini‐core outperformed cultivars and represent valuable genetic resources that can contribute to cowpea improvement. Moreover, these results showed that multiyear and/or multienvironment studies are needed to reliable select improved germplasm for agronomic traits. This study will provide cowpea breeders and geneticists with valuable phenotypic data to start new breeding efforts, and/or opportunities for gene discovery for key phenological and agronomic traits. Core Ideas: The UC‐Riverside mini‐core cowpea collection was phenotyped in Florida.Genetic parameters revealed large phenotypic diversity in this germplasm.Grain, forage, and multipurpose types were identified and selected.Accessions showed greater diversity than cowpea cultivars.The collection holds broad genetic diversity to improve cowpea productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental consequences of using nonrenewable fossil fuels have motivated a global quest for sustainable alternatives from renewable sources. Carinata has been developed as a low carbon intensity, non‐food oilseed biomolecular platform to produce advanced drop‐in renewable fuels, meal, and co‐products. The crop is widely adaptable to grow in the humid subtropical and humid continental climatic regions of Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Europe, and Australia as a spring or winter crop. Carinata is heat tolerant, resistant to diseases and seed shattering with lower water‐use requirements than other oilseed brassicas. Adopting carinata in double‐cropping systems would require continuing research to integrate crop biology with agronomy, to understand growth and development and its interaction with agricultural inputs and management. Site‐specific best management agronomic practices and crop improvement research to develop frost‐tolerant, early‐maturing, nutrient use‐efficient, and high yielding varieties with desirable oil content and fatty acid profile will enhance the crop's adaptability and economic viability. The exploitation of intra‐ and interspecific and intra‐ and intergeneric diversity will further enhance carinata productivity and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. This review attempts to present a comprehensive description of carinata's biology, beginning with its origin and current state of distribution, availability of genetic and genomic resources, and a discussion of its morphology, phenology, and reproduction. A detailed analysis of the agronomy of the crop, including planting and germination and management practices, is presented in the context of crop growth and development. This will facilitate global adoption, sustainable production, and commercialization of carinata as a dedicated biofuel oilseed crop in diverse cropping systems and growing regions of the world, including the Southeast United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 94-year old woman with dementia and unable to speak, presented for the treatment of nodular and infiltrative basal cell carcinoma (BCC) on the left temple region. She was operated for BCC one and half years back and it reoccurred eight months back. Examinations revealed a 6 by 5.5 cm ill-defined erythematous ulcer with nodular borders. She was safely and effectively treated with vismodegib by opening the capsule and administering the contents within food

Brassica carinata A. Braun is a non‐edible, oilseed winter crop for biofuel production that can diversify crop rotations and improve integrated weed management. The research objective was to evaluate the influence of B. carinata on weed population dynamics in the southeastern United States cropping systems. B. carinata was grown after cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), peanut (Arachis hypogea L.), or a clean summer fallow, and winter weed pressure was modified with or without S‐metolachlor. The emergence of Lamium amplexicaule L. increased at least 40% after cotton or peanut in 2018–2019 and 50% after cotton in 2019–2020 compared to summer fallow. Stellaria media (L.) Vill. emergence was increased over threefold after peanut or cotton in 2019–2020. Senna obtusifolia (L.) H.S. Irwin & Barneby emergence after cotton was increased at least 43% during both experimental years, whereas Amaranthus hybridus L. emergence was increased over 50% after peanut in 2019–2020 compared to summer fallow. Even without S‐metolachlor, B. carinata reduced A. hybridus (>27%) and S. obtusifolia (>25%) emergence compared to weedy winter fallow. After B. carinata harvest, A. hybridus emergence was reduced >40% with or without S‐metolachlor compared to winter fallow in 2018–2019. Overall, B. carinata biomass was highest after peanut for both seasons. B. carinata seed yield did not differ among crop history treatments in the first season, whereas in 2019–2020, the yield was higher after peanut (2417 kg ha−1) or fallow (2520 kg ha−1) compared to cotton (1710 kg ha−1). Weed management treatments were not different for B. carinata biomass or yield in any year. The results indicate that B. carinata can enhance integrated weed management strategies at the rotational level for summer crops by reducing seed banks of summer weed species, in addition to its potential as a winter biofuel crop for the southeastern United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carinata (Brassica carinata A. Braun) is an emerging oilseed crop with potential as a dual use winter cover/cash crop in the southeastern US region. Although carinata is historically cultivated as a spring crop in northern latitudes, incorporating carinata into southeastern US cropping systems can provide winter/cover ecosystem services and a bio-feedstock for a high value, renewable aviation fuel without displacing feed and food crops. In this study, our major objective was to quantify the agronomic performance and stability of selected carinata genotypes across several locations in the southeastern US. Extensive field evaluations of twelve, elite carinata genotypes, arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications, were conducted from 2016 to 2019 across Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Data was collected on days to 50% bolting, days to 50% flowering, plant height, grain yield, and test weight. Results demonstrated the ability to produce viable grain yields across the region, but also highlighted the impact of freezing temperatures on winter production. In total 20% of all environments were lost to mortality due to freezing temperatures. Overall, genotype 15 produced the highest grain yield across individual environments, topping the trial in 74% of all environments. However, both crossover and non-crossover genotype × environment interactions were detected for agronomic traits, with problematic crossover interactions more prevalent for days to 50% bolting and days to 50% flowering. Our results also suggest the southeastern US be separated into three mega environments to include 1) northern Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, 2) southern and central Georgia and Alabama, and 3) northern Florida. Future efforts to identify advanced breeding lines and/or commercial seed products with adaptation to the region should consider field testing in each of these mega environments. • Winter carinata production is feasible in the southeastern US, but there is increased freeze injury risk in northern and western locations. • Genotype 15 produced the highest grain yield across 74% of environments. • Problematic genotype × environment crossover interactions are prevalent for days to 50% bolting and days to 50% flowering. • The southeastern US is separated into three mega environments that serve as a basis for winter carinata seed product development and placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]