Combining Ability Estimates for Yield and Fiber Quality Parameters in Gossypium Hirsutum L. Hybrids
Pages 53-58
Mah-e-Jabeen Memon,Moula Bux Kumbhar, Muhammad Jurial Rind, Mohammad Ibrahim Keerio and Shabana Memon

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2016.12.08

Published: 03 February 2016

Abstract: General and specific combining ability effects were discriminated in different parents and offspring to isolate the potential of genotypes used in diallel system to attain the genetic inheritance pattern ascertain with the nature of gene action. A six-by-six, hirsutum diallel excluding reciprocals, was analyzed for general and specific combining ability estimates and components of genetic variation to investigate the genetic retrospect and inheritance pattern of eleven quantitative and fiber quality characters. Hirsutum cultivars included CIM-506, BH-160, NIAB-111, CIM-497, NIAB-999 and RH-510. Some of the traits like boll number, boll weight and sympodia plant^-1 did not reveal the highest GCA scoring parent for seed cotton yield. The ranking order for GCAs of the parents was not maintained from F₁ to F₂ diallel set and the ranking order of the hybrids with respect to their SCA values was also not maintainable from F₁ to F₂ diallel set. Thus the hybrids could not maintain their superiority (or inferiority) of their SCA values.

Keywords: Cotton, Diallel analysis, Fiber, GCA and SCA, quality, yield.

Editorial: Mindfulness Practices
Pages i-ii
Stephanie Bryan

Published: 04 February 2016

Editorial

Exploring Mindfulness Techniques in Physical Therapy to Address Motor Skill Acquisition: A Perspective Piece
Pages 59-61
Genevieve Pinto Zipp and Stephanie Bryan

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2016.12.09

Published: 03 February 2016

Abstract: This perspectives piece provides a theoretical frame supporting the exploration of mindfulness techniques as a complimentary interventions strategies for physical therapy interventions to promote motor skill learning especially under dual tasking conditions.

Keywords: Mindfulness, physical therapy.

Exercise and Mindfulness-Based-Stress-Reduction: A Multidimensional Approach Towards Cancer Survivorship Care
Pages 62-67
Timothy F. Marshall

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2016.12.10

Published: 03 February 2016

Abstract: Cancer survivors often experience a variety of physiological deficits resulting from cancer treatment such as reduced muscle strength, decreased range of motion and poor balance. Cancer survivors also commonly experience psychosocial side effects, such as anxiety, depression and fear of recurrence. Overall, it is common for cancer survivors to report a decrease in physical and emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life. Research suggests that improvements in physical health can be achieved through moderate intensity exercise such as light resistance training and moderate aerobic exercise in this population. Mindfulness-Based-Stress-Reduction (MBSR) programming utilizes various mind/body techniques that can reduce state anxiety levels, distress and depression. While cancer survivors face numerous physiological and psychological challenges, exercise interventions focus on physical health, while MBSR interventions focus on psychosocial health. The American Medical Association (AMA) recommends a patient’s care should include psychological, physiological, psychosocial and educational components, emphasizing the need for an integrated approach to cancer survivorship. Integrating exercise and MBSR interventions may serve to optimize the overall health and quality of life of a cancer survivor.

Keywords: Cancer, Survivorship, Exercise, Mindfulness-Based-Stress-Reduction, Quality of Life, Health.

Mindfulness and Nutrition in College Age Students
Pages 68-74
Stephanie Bryan

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2016.12.11

Published: 04 February 2016

Abstract: Primary Objective: The obesity rate among young Americans is now almost 25% with higher rates found in minority populations; lack of exercise and poor eating habits are some of the leading causes. The collegiate environment provides a unique opportunity to share nutrition-related knowledge while enhancing students’ awareness, both of which may ultimately lead to changes in health-related behaviors. Mindful eating is associated with a lower Body Mass Index (BMI) and an increased intake of fruits and vegetables. A semester-long nutrition course may result in an increased awareness of eating patterns and may be associated with improvements in dietary intake over time.

Methods: Of the 38 students registered for a college-level nutrition course held during an almost four-month-long-semester, 37 self-selected to complete an anonymous Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ) before and after taking the nutrition course; the participants also answered two open-ended questions for qualitative data collection post-test.

Results: Of the 37 students 22 were female and 16 male between the ages of 18 and 24; 35 % self-identified as African American, 29% self-identified as white, 22% as self-identified as Latino/Hispanic, 10% self-identified as other and 2% self-identified as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. No significant change in the MEQ score occurred from pre to post-test; however, there was a trend towards improvement. The students’ answers to open-ended questions regarding any shifts in understanding, approach, or changes in eating habits, revealed overwhelming increases in mindful eating and dietary changes

Conclusions: A collegiate course taught over a semester is a unique opportunity to introduce nutrition information, emphasizing the connection between nutrition, optimal health, and disease prevention. A student’s exposure to nutrition information while also observing their own eating patterns over time can provide a non-judgmental informed space that allows for the development of a heightened awareness. In turn, the heightened awareness can lead to changes in eating behaviors as evidenced here.

Keywords: Mindful eating, mindfulness, health behaviors.