A soil’s capillarity, associated with the parameter sorptivity, is a dominant control on
infiltration, particularly at the onset of rainfall or irrigation. Many mathematical models
used to estimate sorptivity are only valid for dry soils. This paper examines how sorptivity
and its capillary component (as wetting front potential) change with...
We propose a novel, accurate quantification of precipitation and evaporation, as needed to understand fundamental hydrologic processes. Our system uses a collection vessel placed on top of a slender rod that is securely fixed at its base. As the vessel is deflected, either by manual perturbation or ambient forcing (for...
Shrinkage cracks in soil function as a dominant control on the partitioning and distribution of moisture fluxes in the vadose zone. Their dynamics influence moisture balance and control water availability for runoff, deep infiltration, and near-surface storage. We present a new low-cost field instrument to monitor the temporal change in...
Current laboratory methods for determining volume and bulk density of soil clods include dipping saran-coated clods in water (a destructive process due to the permanent coating), performing physical measurements on samples with well-defined geometries, or using expensive equipment and proprietary software (such as laser scanners). We propose an alternative method...
Irrigation experiments on 12 instrumented field plots were used to assess the impact of dynamic soil crack networks on
infiltration and run-off. During applications of intensity similar to a heavy rainstorm, water was seen being preferentially
delivered within the soil profile. However, run-off was not observed until soil water content...
Abstract: In semi-arid climates, seed is often sown into soil with inadequate water for rapid germination. Distinguishing between adequate and marginal water can be difficult. Planting decisions become increasingly complicated when one considers possible differences between cultivars. This study was designed to measure the soil water potential limits for rapid,...
Stable surface adhesion of cells is one of the early pivotal steps in bacterial biofilm
formation, a prevalent adaptation strategy in response to changing environments. In Pseudomonas
fluorescens, this process is regulated by the Lap system and the second messenger cyclic-di-GMP.
High cytoplasmic levels of cyclic-di-GMP activate the transmembrane receptor...
BACKGROUND: Parents play a significant role in shaping youth physical activity (PA). However, interventions targeting PA
parenting have been ineffective. Methodological inconsistencies related to the measurement of parental influences may be a
contributing factor. The purpose of this article is to review the extant peer-reviewed literature related to the measurement...