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Introduction Establishment and research of progeny tests are a part of forest tree improvement programmes in many countries around the world (Bogdan et al. 2004, Review 2011, North Carolina 2018, Hayda 2019, Hossain et al. 2020, Oweviev 2020, Plus tree 2020). The main aim of such testing is to select elite trees to establish clonal seed orchards of the second and higher levels. The testing assesses, first of all, the intensity of growth, but a need for an integrated approach is emphasized (Methods 2019, Overview 2020). The oak progeny tests in different regions in Ukraine by growth rate, health and stem quality have shown that about 20 % of the trees are promising (Hayda et al. 2010, Los 2016, Los et al. 2009, 2012, 2017). However, the analysis of test results of the plus trees progenies of different geographical origin provides an opportunity to identify certain patterns (Hayda et al. 2010, 2011). The aim of the study was to compare the growth rate, quality and condition of 62-year-old offspring of plus and the best English oak trees of Trostyanets origin in Kharkiv and Sumy Regions. Materials and Methods The study was carried out in the oldest in Ukraine progeny test of English oak in Kharkiv and Sumy Regions, where in 1958 the seeds of 20 the best English oak trees selected in the forests of Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise were sown. At the end of the growing season in 2019, when the biological age of plants was 62 years, an observation of both plots was carried out. The diameter, height, stem straightness, condition of the tree were determined as well as the presence of defects and damage. The obtained data were processed by the methods of variation statistics and the significance of differences between the variants and the control was determined. The final conclusion on the selection value of plus and the best trees was made following the comprehensive assessment. Results In the test plot in Kharkiv Forest Research Station the average diameter of the progenies at the age of 62 ranged from 15.9 (Tr-5) to 37.5 cm (Tr-2). The last variant significantly exceeded the control by 51.7%. Variants Tr-3 and Tr-5 significantly fell behind the control by an average of 25.1%. The average height of the progenies was in the range from 21.2 to 25.8 m. The progenies of trees Tr-2, Tr-15, Tr-16, and Tr-18 significantly exceeded the control by an average of 6.9%. The rest of the progenies grew at the level of the control. The average diameters of the progenies at Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise ranged from 22.0 to 44.0 cm. Only the Tr-1 variant significantly exceeded the control by 9.1%, and Tr-6 was significantly inferior by 9.1%. The average height of the progenies ranged from 25.0 m (Tr-18) to 30.5 m (Tr-2). The progenies Tr-1 and Tr-15 significantly exceeded the control in height by 4.1%. The variants Tr-4, Tr-11, Tr-16, and Tr-18 fell significantly behind the control by 3.3%. The rest of the progenies grew at the level of the control. The advantages of the most intensively growing variant (Tr-2) proved to be insignificant due to a small number of survived trees. In almost all cases, both the average diameter and height of the variants were larger in the plot in Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise. The difference in average heights ranged from 0.6 to 6.0 m. The average diameter was greater by 2.7–15.6 cm. Thus, the volume of the average tree was higher by 0.3 m3 to 1.0 m3 and ranged from 0.45 m3 to 2.12 m3 (in Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise it was from 0.25 m3 to 1.38 m3). This can be explained by higher precipitation level and, consequently, better humidification conditions. The average annual precipitation in Kharkiv is 528 mm, and it is 330 mm during the growing season, while in Trostyanets these figures are 631 mm and 417mm, respectively. The average annual temperature of the regions is the same: +7.5°C, and during the growing season differs by 0.7°C (14.9°C and 14.2°C). The calculations show that a decrease in annual precipitation by 10 mm resulted in a decrease in the average height of oak plantations by 2.2%, the average diameter by 3.5 % and the volume of the average tree by 3.2 %. Reducing the amount of precipitation during the growing season by 10 mm will reduce the average height of the oak by 2.6 %, the average diameter by 4.1 % and the volume of the average tree by 15.7 %. It should be noted that such calculations are only preliminary and cannot be extrapolated to other regions or other species. The variants condition index ranged from 2.0 (Tr-17) to 3.2 (Tr-5) in Sumy Region and from 2.0 (Tr-2) to 3.3 (Tr-3, Tr-15) in Kharkiv Region. There were no variants with unsatisfactory condition. Variants Tr-2, Tr-6, Tr-12, Tr-13, Tr-16, and Tr-18 turned out to be the most drought-resistant in drier conditions of Kharkiv Region. According to the results of the complex assessment, the progenies in Kharkiv Forest Research Station scored from 8 (Tr-5) to 16 (Tr-2) points and in Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise from 6 (Tr-18) to 17 (Tr-2) points. The promising variants were Tr-2, Tr-6, Tr-13, and Tr-18 in the progeny tests in Kharkiv Forest Research Station and Tr-2, Tr-3, Tr-6, Tr -11, and Tr-13 in Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise. Three variants were the leaders in both test plots. Conclusions At the progeny test in Kharkiv Forest Research Station, the best variant (Tr-2) among the progenies of plus and best trees of Trostyanets origin significantly exceeded the control by 51.7% in diameter and by 12.4% in height. According to the comprehensive assessment, four promising variants were identified in progeny tests in Kharkiv Forest Research Station and five variants were recognized in Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise. The mother trees of these progenies can be recommended for vegetative propagation and establishment of clonal seed orchards of the second level in relevant regions. Higher precipitation level and, accordingly, better humidification conditions in Sumy region had a positive effect on the growth of the plus trees progeny in Trostyanets State Forest Enterprise. According to the preliminary calculations, a decrease in annual precipitation by 10 mm reduces the height of oak by 2.2%, its diameter by 3.5% and the volume of the average tree by 3.2% on average. A decrease in the amount of precipitation during the growing season by 10 mm results in a decrease in height by 2.6%, in diameter by 4.1%, and in volume of the average tree by 15.7% on average. 4 Figs., 2 Tables, 16 Refs. Key words: English oak, progeny test, breeding category, complex assessment.

The article presents data on the study of the radiation regime and photosynthesis net productivity in the crown of an apple tree in connection with the regenerative pruning of old-aged trees. The object of the research was an apple tree of the Antonovka obyknovennaya variety, a seed stock (seedlings of cultivated varieties), planted in 1987. The test plot soil is leached chernozem. Options: 1. Established pruning (control); 2. Pruning for 5-6 year-old wood; 3. Pruning for 7-8 year-old wood. The experiment was arranged inrandomized blocks of 6 accounting trees in 3 replicates. The regenerative pruning was carried out in spring 2016. Every year damaged branches were removed in the control variant, while “wolf-like” shoots were thinned in other variants. The solar output was accounted within the daytime with the 2-hour interval from the northern and southern sides of the apple tree crown in its center, as well as under the crown at a distance of 1, 2 and 3 meters from the periphery to the center of the crown. The measurements were carried out after the growth activity cessation in the fine weather in August with a universal albedometer M-69 coming with a galvanometer GSA-1. The net productivity of leaves was determined by the method of A. S. Ovsyannikov in parallel, taking into account solar radiation. It is revealed that the regenerative pruning has a considerable impact on the performance of the solar output. The greatest arrival of solar radiation is noted on the periphery of the crown. In the treatment with pruning branches for 5-6 year-old wood, this parameter was 10.5-13.5 % higher than in the control variant. Pruning branches for 7-8 year-old wood improved lighting conditions by 27.6-31.7 % compared to the control. In the lower part of the crown, the radiation regime is less favorable for the photosynthesis process relative to the central part of the crown. Regenerative pruning increased the photosynthesis productivity significantly. In the central part of the crown, the highest parameters of the net photosynthesis productivity were observed on the periphery on the southern side when pruning for 7-8 year-old wood - 7.81 g of dry basis/m2 *day.

The article is devoted to the bird communities in individual linden consortia (Tilia cordata Mill.) of the linden-ash oak forests. This work material was collected during different seasons of the 2009–2017 years in a linden-ash oak grove on the test plot No. 209 of the ecological profile of the NSC «Bel'gard Prisamar`e International Biospheric stationary», Novomoskovsk district, Dnepropetrovsk region. The individual consortia of 145 examples of three age conditions oak trees (virgins – virg, young generative – gl, mature and old generative individuals – g2-g3) has been investigated. Studies have shown that birds are actively involved in consortia of linden for most of the year. Meroconsortia of linden generative organs are attractive to birds during the growing season and in the cold season. In summer, the consortia of linden in terms of species composition of birds is inferior to the consortia of oak about 2 times. The same trend is observed in DTB and DMB. Only 2 species of birds participate in the consortia of the virgin linden. The consortia of young generative linden consists of only 4 species of birds, but DTB increases almost 30 times. The consortia of mature and old generative linden acquires a sufficient species composition – 14 species of birds. Interactions of birds with virginal linden are stochastic in autumn. Only 2 species of birds participate in the consortia of virgin linden in autumn. The consortia of young generative linden consists of 5 species (more than in summer). The old generative linden has a depression of consortia interactions of birds. Their volume is reduced by half compared to summer. Specialized consumers of linden nuts remain in the consortia of old generative linden mainly. Birds have very low DTB and DMB rates in consortia of all linden age groups in winter. Instead, the species composition of birds increases in the consortia of generative groups of linden in winter. The system of consortia interactions of birds is not intensive, but stable on the linden tree in winter. The volume of interactions of birds with a linden tree essentially increases in the spring. This trend is typical for trees with a dense crown. The number of consort birds is higher than in summer in consortia of virgin and young generative linden. DTB is five times higher in virgin linden than in summer. The participation of birds in the consortia of young generative linden is also greater than in summer. We believe that this is due to the fact that linden begins to grow earlier than other trees in the upper tier. The old generative linden is one of the main feeding grounds for birds in the spring. Linden, like common oak, is much more interesting for birds in spring and summer in contrast to field maple and ash. Linden first supports the system of trophic connections, and then topical in most seasons of the year. Linden forms stable groups of birds at a young generative stage during the year. Linden creates an environment for birds to live in the middle tier and complements the field maple.

According to the results of continuous long-term seismic-ecological monitoring at the Caucasian Mineral Waters test plot (the seismic zone in the Cis-Elbrus region), data on the seismic velocity distribution pattern were obtained for the test plot territory. The high-speed structure is revealed, the horizontal dimensions of which do not allow predicting local earthquakes with a very high magnitude in this territory. Three-dimensional models of anisotropy index γ were obtained and the indexes of stress state S were estimated for different depths according to the interpretation results of converted PS waves from distant earthquakes. It is found that the distribution of the anisotropy index γ varies continuously by the depth, by the laterals and in time. The cyclic changes in the index S with time are noted for all depths.

The purpose. To determine influence of complex application of doses of nitric fertilizers and growth regulating substances on display of character of formation of photosynthetic and grain efficiency of different varieties of summer barley in conditions of Forest-steppe Right-bank. Methods. Applied general scientific methods (dialectics, experiment, analysis and synthesis, method of hypotheses), and special: field - for studying interaction of subject of researches with weather conditions and receptions of technology of cultivation; visual; measuring and weight; quantitative; physiological; laboratory — for establishment of qualitative characteristics of soil of test plot; dispersive, correlation and regression — for determination of reliability of distinctions between factors, pair and plural dependences. Results. Influence of complex application of doses of nitric fertilizers and regulators of growth of plants on formation of photosynthetic and seed efficiency of summer barley of varieties Nabat and Vinnitskiy 28 is investigated. It is noted that in variants of experiment with maximal parameters of photosynthetic efficiency, in particular accumulation of organic substance (1045,9–1035,1 g/m2), pure efficiency of photosynthesis (5,5–5,9 g/m2), content of chlorophylls «a+b» (2,29–2,14 mg/g of crude weight), it is observed the maximal productivity of grain of culture. The highest productivity of grain for varieties Nabat (6,39 t/hectare) and Vinnitskiy 28 (5,78 t/hectare) was gained in variants of experiment where on phosphoric-potash background P45K45 they entered nitric fertilizers in doze of N90 and morpho-regulator Terpal in a phase of the beginning of tubing. That was more accordingly on 2,21 t/hectare, or 52,8% and 1,97 t/hectare, or 51,7% in comparison with the control (on plots without fertilizers and growth regulators). Conclusions. Optimization of technology of cultivation of summer barley due to the balanced system of fertilizer, namely entering of nitric fertilizers in doze of N90P45K45 and application of growth regulators (Binom or Terpal), provides realization of genetic potential of varieties Nabat and Vinnitskiy 28 on 60–70% and level of productivity of grain — 6,39 and 5,78 t/hectare accordingly.

Estimation of the change point of a process may be the most important result and application of control charts in the literature of statistical process control. The time to the change point...

Consideration was given to the results of proof tests of varieties of original potato seed by soil control. The practical experience of soil control of varieties of original potato seed on the test plot of the Russian Potato Research Center is presented. Description of laboratory diagnosis of phytopathogens is given. Sampling rates for laboratory testing are presented. The authors specified the requirements for marking of potato seed intended for sale.

Tree structure parameters of mangrove forests are hard to measure in the field and therefore inventories of this type of forests are impossible to keep up to date. In this article, we tested a structured pointcloud segmentation method for extracting individual mangrove trees. Structure parameters of individual trees were estimated from the segmented pointcloud and its 3d geometry was generated using revolution surfaces. Estimated parameters were then assessed at both plot and tree levels using field data. It was observed that the number of segments in each test plot agreed well with the number of trees observed in the field. Nonetheless, the estimated parameters exhibited mixed accuracy with top height being the most accurate.

Quite extensive test sites are needed to provide remote sensing methods of the Earth with reliable information on the electrical characteristics of the surface layer and on their daily-seasonal changes. Observation is constantly made on them for the main indicators that determine the results of sensing. The paper discusses a set of tools using radiophysical and optical methods for long-term studies of the properties of the environment at the test station "Kaybasovo".

This paper reviews the main historical stages of the development and implementation of the largest environmental project of the late 20th century—the “General Plan to Combat Desertification of Black Lands and Kizlyar Pastures.” The goal of this project was to implement a scientifically grounded set of measures to stop desertification processes, improve the economic state of pastures, increase their fertility, and protect lands. The implementation of the general plan has led to the performance of agroforestry works in an area of more than 7000 km2, the fixing of more than 4000 km2 of mobile sands, and the restoration of more than 2500 km2 of pastures. According to the forecasts, if all of the measures stipulated by the general plan were observed, the area of the ecological disaster zone would decrease and then completely disappear. A study conducted with Landsat satellite images showed that this forecast has partially come true: the area of open sands that was recorded in the test plot in 2016 (27.3 km2) is only 1% of the open sands area recorded in 1975, which is a consequence of the implementation of the general plan, a number of environmental measures, and favorable climate fluctuations.

In an experiment, we demonstrated that the same outcome of a new corn variety was evaluated less positively if it was from gene technology (GT) compared with conventional breeding technology (CT). The participants (N = 205) were randomly assigned to one of two experimental conditions—GT or CT. In the first step, the participants’ affect associated with GT or CT plants was measured. Then, the participants read a hypothetical scenario about a new genetically modified (GT condition) or conventionally produced (CT condition) corn variety that was more resistant to the corn borer. They were presented with a matrix in which 1976 black (50%) and white (50%) cells were randomly scattered. The participants were informed that each cell represented a test plot and that the corn plants in the white test plots were not damaged by the corn borer. The participants were then asked to estimate the percentage of the plots infested by the corn borer and how effective they perceived the new corn variety was in resisting the pest. The results indicated that the participants assigned to the GT condition perceived the new corn variety as significantly less effective compared with the participants assigned to the CT condition. No significant difference was observed for estimated percentages. The results suggest that the difference in perceived effectiveness between genetically modified and conventionally bred corn can be explained by people’s reliance on the affect heuristic.

Trial research of teak clones was located in Wonogiri, Central Java. This research was conducted in order to evaluate the growth performance of teak clones that can be developed for forest plantation and private forest. Establishment of teak clones test was conducted in 2002 using 20 clones with Randomized Completely Block Design/RCBD consisting of 5 ramets and 5 replications with plant spacing of 2 m x 6 m . The second plot was established in 2005 using 100 clones with RCBD that consisted of 3 ramets and 5 replications with spacing of 2 m x 6 m. The observation and measurement on height and diameter at breast height/dbh were carried out periodically in every year to determine the level of plant growth The results showed that the average growth at the age of 5 years in two test plot clones are height from 8,73 to 9,97 m , tree diameter from 8.61 to 13.14 cm and tree volume estimated 0,046 - 0,103 m3. Estimated heritability clones of tree height and diameter were 0,18; 0,29 in plot 1 and 0,32; 0,38 in plot 2.

Data characterizing the distribution pattern of the main morphometric parameters of chernozems in the Kamennaya Steppe are given. Variable thickness of humus horizon within a flat test plot typical for the central part of the chernozemic zone of Russia is shown. It has been revealed that annually exerted strong anthropogenic impact causes a pronounced drop in the thickness of humus horizon. The investigated objects on the test plot—fallow land, plowed filed, and forest shelter belt—were situated side by side. The statistical parameters of the thickness of humus horizon in different subtypes of chernozems have been calculated. They mainly differ by the depth of continuous impregnation with calcium carbonate (effervescence depth varies from 1 to 95 cm). The deepest effervescence is seen in the soils of the fallow and under the forest belt (68 and 63 cm, respectively).

Picking cherries for industrial processing at ,,Diamant Agrar’’ Zrenjanin with production area of 22 hectars of orchards and 9 hectars of orchards at 'Smoljan Farm' Žabalj was performed manually until 2011. In recent years, mechanized harvesting of ’’Oblanačka’’ sort of cherry is implemented by using towed harvester and self-propelled harvester shaker. Tests for towed harvester 'Felix/Z 830' were in agricultural area called ,,Melenci – Zrenjanin’’. Yield of cherries on the test plot of 1 ha was about 15.882 kg. Combine’s productivity for one working hour was about 0.21 ha /h, or about 3,5 ha /day.Technical productivity was around 3.340 kg /h, or 54.210 kg /day, with a power of consumption of 1370 MJ /ha. Tests of self-popelled harvester ‘Samober S’ were done in Žabalj agricultural area called ,,Jaroš’’. Yield of cherries on this tested plot of size 1 ha was approximately 16.600 kg. Productivity of combine for one working hour was about 0.20 ha /h, or about 3.2 ha /day. Technical productivity was around 3 380 kg /h, or 53.120 kg /day, with a power of consumption of 540 MJ /ha.

Vegetation has been proven for establishing and implementing resistive measures against erosion and failure of slopes, river banks, removal of air pollution and reduced storm water runoff. Installation of cover crop involved soil element usage as growth medium which create several interaction between both strands. This study was carried out to investigate the soil strength performance by using Guinea grass at different construction period up to three months. Grass was planted in a 300 mm x 300 mm x 700 mm test plot with a suitable soil medium. Direct shear tests were conducted for each plot to determine the soil shear strength according to different construction period. Some basic geotechnical testing also were carried out. The results showed there is an increment in shear strength for soil sample over the time at various depths. During period of 1st, 2nd and 3rd month, the average shear stress of 100 mm depth was 50.56 kPa, 63.96 kPa, and 96.59 kPa respectively. Meanwhile, for 200 mm depth the result was 40.843 kPa, 53.91 kPa and 62.93 kPa respectively. Lastly, on 300 mm depth, shear stress was 37.21 kPa, 51.09 kPa, and 59.27 kPa respectively. Based on the result, the higher shear strength was obtained at different construction period and at varying depths. From the observation, roots mass increased for different construction period. In terms of tensile strength, the diameter of the root affects the rate of resistance against the tensile forces. This indicated that the roots structure growth affects the soil shear strength.

The study methods of soil erosion and main soil erosion prediction model are introduced in this paper. The soil erosion study methods include the erosion features survey procedure, test plot long-term monitoring, rainfall simulation experiment in laboratory, agrology method, river gauging, remote sensing method, nuclide traces method, soil erosion prediction model method et al. The soil erosion prediction model includes the USLE and RUSLE, CSLE, WEPP, YWYM et al. We introduced the relative merits about these soil erosion study methods and soil erosion prediction model in this paper.

China has been facing serious land degradation and desertification in its north and northwest arid and semi-arid areas. Monitoring the dynamics of percentage vegetation cover (PVC) using remote sensing imagery in these areas has become critical. However, because these areas are large, remote, and sparsely populated, and also because of the existence of mixed pixels, there have been no accurate and cost-effective methods available for this purpose. Spectral unmixing methods are a good alternative as they do not need field data and are low cost. However, traditional linear spectral unmixing (LSU) methods lack the ability to capture the characteristics of spectral reflectance and scattering from endmembers and their interactions within mixed pixels. Moreover, existing nonlinear spectral unmixing methods, such as random forest (RF) and radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), are often costly because they require field measurements of PVC from a large number of training samples. In this study, a cost-effective approach to mapping PVC in arid and semi-arid areas was proposed. A method for selection and purification of endmembers mainly based on Landsat imagery was first presented. A probability-based spectral unmixing analysis (PBSUA) and a probability-based optimized k nearest-neighbors (PBOkNN) approach were then developed to improve the mapping of PVC in Duolun County in Inner Mongolia, China, using Landsat 8 images and field data from 920 sample plots. The proposed PBSUA and PBOkNN methods were further validated in terms of accuracy and cost-effectiveness by comparison with two LSU methods, with and without purification of endmembers, and two nonlinear approaches, RF and RBFNN. The cost-effectiveness was defined as the reciprocal of cost timing relative root mean square error (RRMSE). The results showed that (1) Probability-based spectral unmixing analysis (PBSUA) was most cost-effective and increased the cost-effectiveness by 29.3% 29.3%, 33.5%, 50.8%, and 53.0% compared with two LSU methods, PBOkNN, RF, and RBFNN, respectively; (2) PBSUA, RF, and RBFNN gave RRMSE values of 22.9%, 21.8%, and 22.8%, respectively, which were not significantly different from each other at the significance level of 0.05. Compatibly, PBOkNN and LSU methods with and without purification of endmembers resulted in significantly greater RRMSE values of 27.5%, 32.4%, and 43.3%, respectively; (3) the average estimates of the sample plots and predicted maps from PBSUA, PBOkNN, RF, and RBFNN fell in the confidence interval of the test plot data, but those from two LSU methods did not, although the LSU with purification of endmembers improved the PVC estimation accuracy by 25.2% compared with the LSU without purification of endmembers. Thus, this study indicated that the proposed PBSUA had great potential for cost-effectively mapping PVC in arid and semi-arid areas.

This paper describes the setting and results of a real-time experiment of irrigation scheduling by a time series of optical satellite images under real conditions, which was carried out on durum wheat in the Haouz plain (Marrakech, Morocco), during the 2012/13 agricultural season. For the purpose of this experiment, the irrigation of a reference plot was driven by the farmer according to, mainly empirical, irrigation scheduling while test plot irrigations were being managed following the FAO-56 method, driven by remote sensing. Images were issued from the SPOT4 (Take5) data set, which aimed at delivering image time series at a decametric resolution with less than five-day satellite overpass similar to the time series ESA Sentinel-2 satellites will produce in the coming years. With a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.91mm per day, the comparison between daily actual evapotranspiration measured by eddy-covariance and the simulated one is satisfactory, but even better at a five-day integration (0.59mm per day). Finally, despite a chaotic beginning of the experiment—the experimental plot had not been irrigated to get rid of a slaking crust, which prevented good emergence—our plot caught up and yielded almost the same grain crop with 14% less irrigation water. This experiment opens up interesting opportunities for operational scheduling of flooding irrigation sectors that dominate in the semi-arid Mediterranean area.

Soil sampling was carried out on the experimental plot, and comprehensive analysis of characteristics of soil nutrient and physical and chemical environment based on the soil and water conservation monitoring site topography and vegetation etc., on the basis of present situation investigation. The plant selection analysis of different experiment plot was carried out combined with experiment village construction planning, and the plants by nature, on the basis of the different soil and water conservation monitoring sites have in common in Zhejiang province. Targeted put forward of the construction of the proposed plant and soil improvement measures, for each monitoring site experiment plot of provide the scientific basis for the establishment of soil and water conservation measures.

Growth is one of important and economic traits of jabon. Growth is not only determined by environment but also genetic factor. Seedling quality and suitable site would create well growing plants. This research is purposed to know growth characteristic of jabon from Sumbawa provenances in nursery and after plantation as well as the effect of genetic factor on growth characteristic of jabon. Research design used in nursery is Completely Randomized Design with 24 mother trees and 3 replications. Each replication comprises 10 seedlings. Totally, there are 720 seedlings. Experimental design used in progeny test plot of jabon is Randomized Complete Block Design. Breeding strategy used in this plot was subline system with single treeplot. Number of families used are 28 families. Each family comprises 20 blocks that were also functioned as replication. The results showed that there were significant differences in terms of height and diameter among the tested families at all observation ages. Family heritability estimates for height were high at at all observation ages. Family heritability estimates for diameter were high at nursery and moderate after plantation.

Despite the rapid producer adoption of hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.) in recent years, the economic advantage of hybrid rice in the mid-southern United States remains disputed. This study compared the economic risk and return of three popularly sown hybrid rice cultivars: XL723, Clearfield (CL) XL729, and CL XL745; and eight conventional rice cultivars: Cheniere, CL 142-AR, CL 151, Francis, Roy J, Taggart, Templeton, and Wells, using University of Arkansas experimental test plot data from 2006 to 2010. Paddy and milling yield data on each cultivar were used to estimate a Just–Pope production function, allowing comparison of mean yields and mean yield variances across cultivars. A Monte Carlo simulation was used to compare net returns and net return variance (risk) across hybrid and conventional cultivars. Just–Pope estimation results indicated that hybrid cultivars exhibited mean paddy yield premiums of 1.6 to 2.4 Mg ha–1 relative to the best-performing conventional cultivar (Francis); furthermore, the hybrid yield advantage was not associated with increased yield risk. Among hybrid-CL and conventional-CL cultivars, hybrid milling quality was not statistically different. Among non-CL cultivars, the hybrid XL723 exhibited a mean head rice yield premium relative to conventional alternatives. Monte Carlo simulation results suggested that the net revenue advantage of hybrid cultivars makes them preferable to conventional alternatives in the CL and non-CL categories across the entire range of producer risk preferences considered in this study.

Level II intensive monitoring of forest vitality represents a multipurpose research system. Forest ecosystems are highly complex entities characterized by numerous different parameters subject to continuous variation due to constant and mutually inseparable effects of both biotic and abiotic factors. Evaluation criteria applied in intensive monitoring are compatible and defined in such a manner that, subsequent to their recording and statistical processing, data obtained on the condition of forests are easy to compare both analytically and logically, thus providing the basis for a variety of comparative studies. Dedicated test plot for intensive monitoring of trans-boundary air pollution impact on forest ecosystems in Serbia, a Level II test plot, was established in Kopaonik in 2010, with ten panels - from 10 separate forestry research areas, grouped according to the research subjects, which methodology is prescribed by ICP Forests Manual. This paper presents the results of intensive monitoring of parameters under review at Level II test plot Kopaonik in 2012.

This study estimates the proportion of rice yield increase in University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture's (UofA) released rice cultivars that are attributable to genetic improvements through the University's breeding program. Test plot data from eight UofA experiment stations were used to quantify the yield increases and potential yield growth decreases over time. In addition to quantifying the yield and yield variance evolution at the UofA, this study also calculates the economic benefits of the UofA rice breeding program. Results indicated that by releasing modern rice cultivars, the UofA rice breeding program increased average producer yield by 0.68 bu/ac annually. During the last decade, 1997-2007, the average annual economic benefits were 34.3 million (2007) dollars. When accounting for the spillover of UofA rice varieties to neighboring states the average annual economic benefit of the breeding program increases to 46.7 million (2007) dollars.

Out of 150 toilet paper rolls used in the test plot (600 m2), 131 rolls (87.3%) were attacked by Microcerotermes; 61 rolls being attacked by this species alone throughout the whole experimental period, and 70 rolls with other species. Similarly, 75 rolls (50%) were attacked by Microtermes, of which 12 rolls only were attacked by this species alone. Mixed cultures of termites were observed on 71 rolls: 44 rolls contained 2 species of termites, 26 rolls contained 3 species, and a single roll contained 4 species. To delineate the colony boundaries of each species, early attaked rolls were considered colony foci, and overlapping between species was neglected. It was neglected. It was possible to detect the presence of 16 1/2 colonies for Microcerotermes in the test plot (9 complete and 15 partial colonies), and same number of colonies for Microtermes (11 complete and 11 partial colonies). The estimated number of colonies per donum being 27.5 for each species. Colonies of the former species occupied 131 rolls distributed in 524 m2, with an average foraging area of 31.8 m2/colony. Those of the latter species occupied 75 rolls distributed in 300 m2, with an average foraging area of 18.2 m2/colony. Based on BOUDINE'S ratio, subsurface density: surface density = 114:1, the mean number of individuals per colony is expected to be approximately 19000 in Microcerotermes and 50000 in Microtermes. Zusammenfassung Die Verteilung von Frasterritorien und Dichte der Kolonien zweier unterirdisch lebender Termitenarten in der Al-Kharj-Oase, Zentralregion von Saudi-Arabien Von 150 Rollen Toilettenpapier, die auf einer Versuchsflache von 600 m2 verteilt waren, wurden 131 Rollen (87,3%) von Microcerotermes befallen. 61 Rollen enthielten nur diese Art wahrend der einjahrigen Untersuchungsperiode, und 70 Rollen teilte sie mit anderen Termitenarten. Von Microtermes waren 75 Rollen (50%) befallen, davon 12 Rollen nur von dieser Art. 71 der 150 Papierrollen waren von gemischten Kolonien besetzt, 44 Rollen mit 2, 26 Rollen mit 3 und 1 Rolle mit 4 Termitenarten. Zwecks Abgrenzung der Kolonie-Areale wurde die am fruhesten befallene Rolle jeweils als Kolonisationszentrum betrachtet; Uberlappungen verschiedener Termitenarten blieben unberucksichtigt. Auf diese Weise wurden von Microcerotermes 16 1/2 Kolonien (9 komplette und 15 partielle) und von Microtermes ebenfalls 16 1/2 Kolonien (11 komplette und 11 partielle) auf der Testflache festgestellt. Kolonien von Microcerotermes besetzten 131 Rollen auf einem Areal von 254 m2 mit einem mittleren Frasterritorium von 31,8 m2 pro Kolonie. Microtermes okkupierte 75 Rollen auf einem Areal von 300 m2 mit einem mittleren Frasterritorium von 18,2 m2 pro Kolonie. Auf der Grundlage des Boudine-Verhaltnisses Untergrund-Dichte: Oberflachen-Dichte = 114:1 ergaben sich fur Microcerotermes ca. 19 000 und fur Microtermes ca. 50 000 Individuen pro Kolonie.

Piled foundations for residential buildings have predominantly been used in areas where conventional trench footing foundations have not been possible. The reasons for this have included loose and unstable overburden and contaminated ground, which result in the use of concrete piles as an economically technical solution. More recent methods have enabled concrete pile foundations to become an economic option for ground conditions that would be otherwise considered for trench-fill. It is also realised that the heat load of modern residential buildings has reduced significantly in recent years, and will fall further in forthcoming years. It is now considered that the residential energy piles can not only be economically installed, but can also provide the necessary heat requirement, which is sustainable over the life of the building. A test plot has been produced with 21 concrete piles, 10 m deep, with a single U-tube pipe in each. A heat rejection facility was devised to simulate the heat load of a two-storey, modern residential building with ground floor area 72 m2. Testing of the energy piles has been conducted over the 2007–2008 heating season. The ground was monitored by thermocouples at depth along each pile, and also as an array at various depths and distances in the ground around the plot. The temperature variation of the ground and its effect upon the heat pump efficiency have been observed. Findings of the testing conducted over the 2007–2008 heating season are presented and analysed in this technical note.

The results of studying the dynamics of forest litter properties in the loci of a Siberian moth (Dendrolimus sibiricus) mass outbreak are considered. As a fir forest defoliated by this pest burns, the reserves and fractional composition of the forest litter, its actual acidity, and its chemical composition drastically change. Upon the burning out of such forests, the litter complex of invertebrates is fully destroyed and begins restoring only two years after the fire.

The soil diversity in the Terek-Kuma Lowland has been studied on the basis of detailed soil maps of several key sites. The role of multicomponent soil complexes in the formation of stable soil cover is shown. The main tendencies in the evolution of soil diversity in the area of the Terek-Kuma Lowland under natural and anthropogenic conditions are shown. Two types of development of soil diversity — development regulated by stable genetic, ameliorative, and ecological conditions and development regulated by the dynamic processes — are specified.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of genotype and environment on the total content and relative concentrations of simmondsin and its derivatives in the seeds and leaves of jojoba ( Simmondsia chinensis ). Simmondsin and simmondsin 2′-ferulate cause reduction in food intake and can thus serve as a dietary modifier. If the defatted meal or extracts of the purified compounds are to find commercial application as dietary modifiers, it is important to identify the genotypes and growing conditions providing the maximum concentrations of active compounds. The contents of simmondsins in the seeds and leaves of female genotypes growing in our varietal test plot at Hazerim (Western Negev, Israel) were thus determined. The genotypes differed significantly in the total concentrations and relative amounts of the two biologically active methylated compounds, i.e., simmondsin and simmondsin 2′-ferulate, and of the five demethylated derivatives, i.e., 5- and 4-demethyl simmondsin, didemethyl simmondsin, and simmondsin 4- and 5-demethyl ferulates. The effect of location on concentrations of simmondsins was compared for six genotypes growing at two locations in the Negev, Hazerim and Ramat Negev, differing in climatic conditions. The levels of simmondsins were almost universally lower for seeds harvested from the Ramat Negev plantation. A study of the effect of salinity of the irrigation water on eight female genotypes growing at Ramat Negev showed that salinity only slightly increased the amount of simmondsins in the seeds. Analysis of jojoba leaves showed that ferulates were not present; only simmondsin itself and the three-non-ferulated derivatives were found in the leaves.

The basic objective of this experiment was to evaluate organic-approved bioinsecticides against the caterpillar complex in Alabama. The overall goal was to determine the effectiveness of multiple applications of bioinsecticides specifically for fruit protection in tomatoes. Typical caterpillar pests of tomatoes in Alabama consist of THW, TFW, and BAW. In 2013, experiments were conducted at the Chilton Research and Extension Center (Clanton, AL) and the North Alabama Horticulture Research Center (Cullman, AL) to evaluate bioinsecticidal treatments as tank-mixes or as premixes (Table 1). At both locations, tomatoes were transplanted mid-Jun in 20 ft (6 m long) plots and bioinsecticide treatments were initiated at weekly intervals during August as shown in Table 1 to protect the developing fruits. Each test plot consisted of two tomato rows (20 plants per plot). Bioinsecticidal treatments and an untreated check were replicated four times in a RCB design. All foliar treatments were applied using standard CO2 backpack sprayers. Drench application of neem oil was done by pouring appropriate amount of dissolved formulation at the base of plants. Fruit damage assessment, involving counting of feeding holes on 10 random fruits per plot, was completed at 7DAT2 and 7DAT4. Data shown in table indicates the percent damaged or unmarketable fruit (at least one feeding hole). Data were analyzed using ANOVA and LSD procedures (LSD; P=0.05).

An infiltration test plot study has been initiated at the Questa mine, located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico. The objective of this study is to determine the key processes controlling infiltration into the mine rock piles. This study is part of a comprehensive site investigation carried out in support of the development of a closeout plan for the Molycorp Questa Mine. From 1965 to 1983 large-scale open pit mining at the Questa mine produced over 300 Mio tons of mine rock, which was end-dumped into various steep valleys adjacent to the open pit. As a result, the mine rock piles are typically at angle of repose and have long slope lengths (up to 2000 ft), and comparatively shallow depths (~100-200 ft). Initial analyses suggested that net infiltration may vary significantly across the site due to differences in the local micro-climate (caused by differences in elevation and aspect). In order to account for these differences, test plots were located on sites representative of low, mid and high elevation conditions. The test plots consist of 92” deep HDPE tanks (94” dia), which were backfilled with local mine rock material. The lysimeters are instrumented with suction and temperature sensors as well as access tubes for measuring volumetric moisture content at various depths. The lysimeters are free-draining and leachate from the test plot is monitored using a tipping bucket. An automated weather station was erected at each site to monitor all relevant climate parameters. This paper describes the design and installation of these test plots and summarizes monitoring results obtained to date. The results of this infiltration study will be used to assess the effectiveness of alternative closure measures.

Estimates made by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Australian National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Committee (NGGIC) suggest that grazed pastures are substantial anthropogenic sources of nitrous oxide (N2O), contributing 28% of all anthropogenic N2O emissions globally and >43% for Australia. These estimates are based almost wholly on extrapolations of enclosure experiments to the field scale and uncertainty levels are high. Verification with direct field measurements is needed. This paper reports micrometeorological studies of N2O emissions from Australian grazed pastures made at the same location on a variety of space scales. They included a mass-balance study employing a small test plot approximately 0.05 ha in area in which 14 sheep were grazed, tower-based flux measurements representing areas between 25 ha and 5 km2 and convective boundary-layer budgets representing regions of order 100 km2. The mass-balance study, which was considered to be the most reliable micrometeorological approach, gave an average emission over 8 days of 1.87 g N2O–N head−1 d−1 corresponding to 11.5% of the nitrogen (N) voided by the animals in urine and dung. However, the data set included two days after rain on which emissions were an order of magnitude larger than on the other days in the study. For the latter, the emission of N2O accounted for 3.9% of the N excreted. Although uncertainty levels remain high due to large temporal and spatial variability, the micrometeorological measurements suggested that N2O emissions might be considerably larger than those predicted by NGGIC algorithms which use emission factors of 0.4% for urine and 1.25% for dung, but appear to be predicted more closely by IPCC algorithms which use 2% for both. The study has indicated ways to improve the precision of relevant micrometeorological approaches.

Two sister-samples of 400 tubers each were taken from seed potato lots of cultivars Atlantic, Hampton, and Russet Norkotah, all of which were grown in New York State during the summer of 1996. One sample of each cultivar was planted in Homestead, Florida in a winter test plot where plants were inspected for disease symptoms. Tubers in the other sample were directly tested for the presence of potato potyvirus Y (PVY) and potato leafroll luteovirus (PLRV) using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) methods. Hampton tubers appeared to have similar PVY infection rates in dormant tubers according to summer inspection, Florida winter inspection and RT-PCR, whereas Florida testing appeared to reveal a higher PVY infection rate in Atlantic tubers compared to RT-PCR and summer inspection. In contrast, higher rates of PVY infection in Russet Norkotah were observed by RT-PCR compared to Florida tests. In addition, RT-PCR appeared to detect PLRV at higher rates in all three cultivars compared to Florida test results. All tubers positive for virus by RT-PCR were sprouted in a greenhouse and ELISA results from leaves corroborated the PCR results in 85% of the positive cases, and 100% of the negative cases that were sprouted.