The massless Thirring model in spherical field theory

We use the massless Thirring model to demonstrate a new approach to non-perturbative fermion calculations based on the spherical field formalism. The methods we present are free from the problems of fermion doubling and difficulties associated with integrating out massless fermions. Using a non-perturbative regularization, we compute the two-point correlator and find agreement with the known analytic solution.Comment: 11 pages, 2 figures, journal versio

CHECK BASED STABILITY ANALYSIS METHOD AND ITS APPLICATION TO WINTER WHEAT VARIETY TRIALS

Finley-Wilson (FW) regression based stability analysis is highly dependent on the testing varieties and environments being used. In this study, we proposed a check based regression method to determine yield stability. One advantage of this method is its capability to determine yield stability through widely acceptable varieties and thus to provide more meaningful information to evaluate the potential use of new varieties. In addition, with integration a resampling technique, bootstrapping method, yield stability can be compared among different varieties/genotypes from either the same or different testing environments. As a demonstration, we applied this method to analyze the 2009- 2011 winter wheat CPT (crop performance test) data collected by South Dakota State University

Lunar and Martian Vertical Takeoff & Vertical Landing (VTVL) Pad Concepts

Landing space craft rocket plume exhaust interactions with the regolith surfaces on the Moon and Mars will result in cratering and regolith particle ejecta traveling at velocities up to 2,000 meters per second in the vacuum surroundings. This phenomenon creates hazards for the spacecraft that is landing or launching and may also cause damage to surrounding assets, personnel and infrastructure. One potential solution to this issue is to construct vertical takeoff and vertical landing (VTVL) pad infrastructure systems which will mitigate these rocket plume exhaust effects. Concepts will be presented for the construction and maintenance of such VTVL pads in lunar and martian environments

Effect of Fungicides and Plant Populations on Soybean Disease and Yield

Applications of foliar fungicides on soybean have been shown to reduce disease pressure and protect yield under the right conditions, especially in environments that have very wet or humid conditions. In the past decade, fungicide use in Iowa has increased. Initially, growers were concerned with the potential threat of soybean rust, which is controlled effectively by foliar fungicides. In Iowa, however, there has not been any case of yield reduction due to soybean rust. New potential purposes for foliar fungicides include “plant health” benefits and the reduction of foliar diseases endemic in Iowa such as Septoria brown spot, Cercospora leaf blight, and frogeye leaf spot. Currently what is not known is how the efficacy of fungicides is affected when agricultural practices change. Our question: How does plant population affect the efficacy of fungicides

Effect of Foliar Fungicides on Late-season Anthracnose Stem Blight on Soybean

Anthracnose stem blight, caused by Colletotrichum truncatum, is responsible for soybean (Glycine max) yield losses in subtropical and tropical growing regions. There are inadequate data regarding the effect of anthracnose stem blight on yield in Iowa, and it is unknown if fungicide application can manage this disease. Field studies were conducted from 2008 to 2010 to determine the effect of fungicide application timing on late-season development of this disease. We also investigated the effect of anthracnose stem blight on yield and specific yield components. Fungicides reduced late-season symptom development when compared to the untreated control; however, there were no differences in yield and yield components. While foliar fungicides can reduce late-season disease development, anthracnose stem blight typically should not affect crop management decisions involving use of foliar fungicides on soybean in Iowa

Taiko: Its Past and Present in Japanese Society

The significance of Taiko in Japanese culture is far beyond being a percussion instrument. “Taiko” also refers to the art of drumming and is claimed to represent the spirit of Japanese people. Since ancient times, Taiko was used in the battlefield, Shinto and Buddhist religious ceremonies, festivals, royal courts, and theatrical arts performance. However, the origin of the Taiko remains unclear as well as its connection with Korean drum. The sacred power of Taiko for Japanese people is difficult to clarify in modern context. Japan is moving toward modernization, while promoting the importance of cultural preservation. It is important to understand the connection of the belief in Taiko that has been passed down since it first evidence appeared in the 6th century in Japan, from generation to generation, and how it survives in this modern Japanese society. To study the norm, performance practices, and its reception by musicians, religious leaders, and the public, an in-depth study of Taiko is necessary. The research, therefore aims to trace back its evolution, value, and its function in Japanese society. Results of the research display Taiko in relation to Japanese legend, development of Taiko, types of Taiko drum, and material used in Taiko manufacturing. More over, through research conducted, the connection of the past and present has provided Taiko with a new function in the modern society including of fusion music, contemporary music composition, and film music. Popular ensembles have brought Taiko to bridge the gap of traditional music of the past and Pop-Rock music of this modern world

Mid-season Soybean Disease and Fungicide Update

While the hot, dry weather across the Midwest has affected soybean production, it has also negatively affected soybean diseases. In general, there is very little disease across Iowa in soybean. There have been a few fields with Septoria brown spot and Cercospora leaf blight, but it has been a quiet year for soybean diseases