bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Spanish dehesas: a financial appraisal of holm oak (Quercus ilex) regeneration
Authors: Van Rensburg T. M.
Published: May 2024

Spain’s 2.25 million hectares of dehesa woodlands are managed for livestock, fuel wood and charcoal production. They also provide wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation, aesthetic values and are considered to be of outstanding ornithological interest. However, in recent years, in an attempt to raise farm profitability, farmers have increased the number of livestock grazing on their land. Concern regarding poor holm oak has led policy makers in Spain to investigate whether or not domestic herbivory threatens the holm oak population. An ecological-economic model is constructed from four case-study sites in Extremadura. The model is used to define grazing thresholds commensurate with the long-term sustainability of holm oak. Results indicate that farmers under highly intensive grazing regimes (> 2.0 Ewe Equivalents/ha) have a negative impact on natural regeneration. However, results also show that it is unlikely that farmers engaged in moderately intensive livestock management regimes (< 1.5 EE/ha), will lead to the demise of holm oak. The model is also used to determine changes in farm income brought about by potential restrictions in livestock management strategies for complying with grazing thresholds. This information is then used as likely payments that a farmer would require in compensation for the supply of environmental goods associated with holm oak habitat. These results could be used to guide conservation practices and contribute towards the development of agri-environment policy associated with dehesa agro-ecosystems.
Productivity, cost and environmental effects of fully mechanised thinnings on Pinus sylvestris L. planted stands in Spain
Authors: Tolosana Esteban E. , Ambrosio Torrijos Y. , Vignote Peña S.
Published: May 2024

20 Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) commercial early thinnings, fully mechanised, in Central and North Spain are studied. Harvesting system is shortwood, while one grip harvester and forwarder (1 + 1 system) is used in 13 of the 20 operations. The analysis has been carried out from a double point of view. On one hand, productivity and cost equations are developed from stopwatching time study data (13 for harvesters, 17 for forwarders). Both mechanised felling and hauling off by forwarders are analysed. Results are different for heavy forwarders –more than 15 t of unloaded weight– than for light or medium-sized forwarders. Regarding cost circumstances, ratio «Forest harvester to forest operator hourly wages» is nowadays close to 6.0 in Spain. At this stage, mechanised thinning cost proves to be always higher than motor-manual options. Anyway, mechanisation is necessary due to increasing difficulties to find skilled forest operators and the analisys shows that a slight increment in the above mentioned ratio would make mechanised thinnings more profitable than motor-manual. Commercial margin is also estimated for both thinning systems, concluding that silvicultural prescriptions must be often overpassed when possitive margins are one of the operational targets, particularly in mechanised thinnings. On the other hand, inmediate environmental effects are also studied. Soil surface disturbation and compaction –by means of penetrometer cone index– are quantified, as well as tree damages, shrubs cover reduction and slash accumulations. Although these effects can not be considered as severe, damages are greater than those fixed by foreign legal regulations in most developed countries. Besides, some factors conditioning the damages are identified, as a basis to upgrade forest harvesting practices.
Pastures fertilization effect on basic density of Pinus radiata D. Don
Authors: Moya Roque R. , Salazar F. , Valenzuela L.
Published: May 2024

The effects of pasture fertilization on basic density of Pinus radiata wood growing in silvopastoral sistem, for two trials submitted to different fertilization schemes: fertilized pasture and unfertilized pasture, are shown in this study. In addition, the different social classes existing in the dominant, intermediate and suppressed stands, are considered. To determine the basic density of wood, disks extracted at a diameter breast height, where annual rings were separated, measuring for each one of them its green volume and dry weight, were used. Statistical analyses showed that density of wood was effected by pasture fertilization, remaining its effect for a period of two and three years depending on the social class. Pasture fertilization effects are higher in the suppressed trees, lower in the intermediate trees, and without any effect in the dominant trees. As a general conclusion it was determined that pastures fertilization decreases basic density on Pinus radiata, especially during its first 10 years of tree growth. It was also found that on trees growing on pastures, there is no significant variation on basic density of wood during their first 10 years of growth. This behavior is the result of the intensive management of the trees forcing them to compete for light for forage development.
Growth phenology and mating system of maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Aiton) in central Spain
Authors: Miguel Pérez I. , González Martínez S. C. , Alía Miranda R. , Gil Sánchez L.
Published: May 2024

The study of the mating systems of forest species is important both in forest management and breeding. In this work, we analyzed the phenology of diameter growth, the phenology of female and male flowering, and the seed yield in a native stand of maritime pine (from Meseta Castellana provenance) during the years 1999 and 2000. Maritime pine showed a long vegetative period in the study area (8.6 months). The male flowering period lasted 15 days whereas the female flowering lasted four weeks. Maximum pollen production occurred when most female strobili reached their maximum receptivity. Individual female strobilus production was medium-high in the studied stand (annual mean about 30 strobili per tree) and there was a remarkable correlation between both years. During the studied period, a high seed yield was observed (300,000 seeds/ha estimated in year 2000) and no limitation to natural regeneration due to mating system is expected
Autoecology of sweet-chestnut stands in Andalucia (Spain)
Authors: Gómez Sanz V. , Blanco Andray A. , Sánchez Palomares O. , Rubio Sánchez A. , Elena Roselló R. , Graña Domínguez D.
Published: May 2024

This paper is a characterization of the chestnut stand biotopes in Andalucia (Spain). The distribution of these stands is quite iregular, with four areas of chestnut tree dominant presence, located in Granada, Huelva, Malaga y Sevilla respectively, totalling over 9.000 ha. In these locations, 23 forest sites have been evaluated by computing a set of 34 phytoecological parameters and 7 silvicultural parameters. The sampling design was based on the Spanish Forest Map (Ceballos, 1966) overlaid on the Biogeoclimatic Classification of the Peninsular and Balearic Spain (Elena, 1996).This information has made it possible to establish the physioclimatic and edaphic habitat of the chestnut stands in Andalucia and to characterize their current silvicultural situation. As result, chestnut forest sites in Andalucia show the following features:1. Chestnut woodstands display strong heterogeneity, as a result of their human use, with four areas of discontinuous presence, absence of forestry uniformity and very different conservation and stability conditions.2. The most restrictive parameters in the chestnut stand biotopes have turned out being those retaled to thermic conditions (over 15 _C of anual temperature average) and to the soil reaction (moderately acid in all the cases).3. Chestnut stands occupy heterogeneous biotopes, with a high elevation range, marked summer aridity conditions and very varied edaphic textures that produce highly different conditions of permeability, soil water holding capacity and edaphoclimatic behaviour.4. The analysed soils are mainly classified as Cambisols and Luvisols, with predominant dystric and chromic units.
Chemical control of Platypus sulcatus Chapuis (Coleoptera: Platypodidae) on poplars
Authors: Giménez R. A. , Etiennot A. E.
Published: May 2024

This preliminary work was carried out in order to found alternative insecticides to control the wood borer that damages the plantations of poplars in the Delta of the Parana River during 2 years. The following treatments were applied by direct spray to the trunks: chlorpyrifos (127,5 cm3 a.i./hl, EC), lambdacyhalothrin (1,67 cm3 a.i./hl, EC), phenthoate (150 cm3 a.i./hl, EC), carbaryl (425 gr a.i./hl, WP), cypermethrin (5 cm3 a.i./hl, EC) and control without insecticides. Effectiveness was calculated applying the formula of Sun-Shepard and data were subjected to ANOVA and Tukey test. Lambdacyhalothrin, chlorpyrifos, carbaryl and cypermethrin, were effective for the control of P. sulcatus. They should be sprayed when most of the adults of P. sulcatus carry out flights of couple and host search during the spring and this coincides with the presence of perforations in the bark of the trees surrounded by the characteristic sawdust of the attack of the adults, conformed by longitudinal particles. When the rain overcome the historical averages, the cypermethrin showed some variability. Phenthoate was not effective in the control of this pest, but we have only one year of data. It is needed to make more studies for getting certain results.
Characterisation of the agroforestry performance of 12 walnut (Juglans sp.) genotypes grown in two locations of Catalonia
Authors: Aletá N. , Ninot A. , Voltas J.
Published: May 2024

The performance of 10 progenies of J. regia and two Juglans commercial hybrids (Ng23 x Ra and Mj209xRa) at two planting sites, Massanes (Girona) and Prades (Tarragona), which was monitored during 6 consecutive years starting in1995, is here described. Based on differences in height growth rate, three well-defined genotypic groups could be established: 1) genotypes with an average growth of up to 60 cm per year, which comprises the two commercial hybrids; 2) genotypes with an average growth of about 50 cm per year, which includes those J. regia flushing before April 20; and 3) genotypes with an average growth less than 40 cm per year, which corresponds to J. regia progenies flushing after April 20. Growth evolution over time for height and diameter was significantly affected by the location, while progeny ranking was similar for both traits at both sites. Trunk diameter at 2,50 m at the sixth growing season depended on planting site and genotype. Thus, the largest diameters at 2,50 m always appeared in Massanes, regardless of the genotype, whereas the hybrid progenies showed an advantage in diameter of about twice the value for the best J. regia at both Massanes and Prades. Apical dominance and stem form were mostly dependent on genotype. Accordingly, only two J. regia showed an acceptable forest aptitude, that is, two Italian provenances namely «Bleggiana» and «Boschi Maria Grazia». Overall, the commercial hybrids Ng23xRa and Mj209xRa exhibited a better agroforestry behaviour than the J. regia genotypes studied: less orchard mortality, better primary and secondary growth, and more suitable apical dominance and stem form.
Root growth potential in nursery Pinus halepensis Mill. seedlings. Fertilization effect
Authors: Oliet J. , Planelles R. , Artero F. , Martínez Montes E. , Álvarez-Linarejos L. , Alejano R. , López Arias M.
Published: May 2024

In response to the importance of Root Growth Potential (RGP) attribute as a field performance potential predictor, this paper analyses the relationship between nursery fertilization and this attribute by mean of applying several mineral nutrition treatments (3, 5, 7 g/L Osmocote 9-13-18, Osmocote 17-10-10, 5 g/L Osmocote 15-8-11) in an experiment with Aleppo pine seedlings. Significative differences in the Root Growth Potential response between treatments were found; in particular, seedlings produced with 9-13-18 showed an increase in new roots produced (maximum value of 74 new roots > 1 cm corresponding to 7 g/L of this fertilizer) comparing with other compositions. After seeking univariable relationships between morphological or physiological attributes and RGP, no significative correspondence was found. In addition, seedlings survived over 70 per cent one year after planting in semiarid conditions, irrespective the mineral nutrition treatment considered; this indicates high vigor of the stock, even for the treatment showing a lower response in PCR (17 roots > 1 cm).
Mineral deficiencies in seedlings of two Mediterranean hardwood species
Authors: Navarro Cerrillo R. M. , Arribas García M. A. , Gallegos Pérula V. , Alcántara Vara E.
Published: May 2024

Mineral deficiencies are common during the seedling growth in forestry nurseries, as well as during the initial establishment of the plantations. The aim of this work was to study the effects of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and iron deficiencies in two Mediterranean hardwood species: Quercus suber L. and Ceratonia siliqua L. The test was made in hydroponic liquid culture, using solutions lacking N, P, K or Fe and a control solution. The test lasted 139 days for Quercus suber and 190 days for Ceratonia siliqua, and was developed with 50% of shade. During this period, morphological attributes (height, dry weight of aerial part and root) and physiological attributes (relative chlorophyll content and nutrient concentration in leaves) were determined, as well as the visible symptoms caused by the respective nutrient deficiencies. Nutrient deficiencies affected morphological and physiological attributes, and in some cases visual symptoms appeared. In addition, other determinations like relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) and nutrient foliar concentration are suggested to assure a correct diagnosis.
Parametrical autoecology of beechwood stands in Castilla y León (Spain)
Authors: Sánchez O. , Rubio A. , Blanco A. , Elena R. , Gómez V.
Published: May 2024

This work has been carried out applying similar methodologies to former parametric autoecological studies on Fagus sylvatica stands in other Spanish regions. The beechwood territory of Castilla y León (Spain) has been stratified in order to select 37 representative parcels for sampling. Several physiographic, climatic, edaphic and forestry parameters have been elaborated from the sampling data. The parameter analysis has allowed finding out the parametric values that def ine the central and marginal habitats for beechwood stands in Castilla y León. The multivariable statistical analysis has enabled us to build predictive models for forestry parameters in relation to the most signif icant environmental parameters. The results are an important basis to establish the ecological aptitude of a territory with a view to establishing stable Fagus sylvatica stands in Castilla y León.
Comparison between two methods of generating pressure-volume curves in Quercus species
Authors: Corcuera L.
Published: May 2024

Water relation parameters derived from the pressure-volume curves of eight Quercus species from contrasting phytoclimates: Mediterranean (Q. coccifera L., Q. ilex ssp. ballota L. and Q. suber L.), nemoral (Q. laurifolia Michx. and Q. rubra L.) and nemoro-Mediterranean (Q. cerris L., Q. faginea Lam. and Q. pyrenaica Willd.), were compared using the sap expression (SE) and free transpiration techniques (TL). The methods yield different results for the relative simplasmic water content (S) in all species, and the same results for the relative simplasmic water expressed at the turgor loss point (Sptt) and the maximum bulk modulus of elasticity (εmax) in all species with the exception of Q. pyrenaica Nemoral species showed similar results in all P-V parameters with both techniques, except for S. Most of the Mediterranean species (Q. coccifera and Q. ilex) showed differences in all the studied parameters, except for εmax and Sptt. Nemoro-Mediterranean species behaved differently, Q. cerris behaved like the Mediterranean species and Q. faginea like the nemoral species, for all the hydric parameters. The more negative values in osmotic potential at full turgor (Π0) water potential at the turgor loss point (ψppt) and the higher values of S in the more sclerophyllous species, pointed to ppt a tendency to get a shallower slope with the TL method. These disagreements did not allow a similar arrangement of the species according to the P-V curves parameters.
Individual code yield evaluation in a Stonepine (Pinus pinea L.) clone bank
Authors: Mutke Regneri S. , Sada Arias B. , Iglesias Sauce S. , Gil Sánchez L.
Published: May 2024

The present paper analyses cone yields of ninety clones during four years in a stonepine clone bank in Madrid. The yield of each tree was modelled by a generalized linear model that includes the genotype as fixed factor and size parameter and spatial correlations as covariables. The latter two were surrogated by stem cross-section area above grafting point and by the moving average of the direct neighbour trees. Original Complete Block Design failed to remove plot variability, so a iterative method was used for archiving independent residuals. Clonal least square means showed a gradual variation, which did not allow to discriminate a clear group of plus genotypes.
Interpretation of foliar nutrient concentrations in young Pinus radiata D. Don plantations on abandoned agricultural lands in Galicia
Authors: Zas Rafael
Published: May 2024

The nutritional status of 14 4-5-yr-old Pinus radiata plantations on abandoned agricultural lands in Galicia (NW Spain) was studied. Nutritional status was assessed using macronutrient foliar analysis followed by the critical levels method, foliar nutrient ratios interpretation and the DRIS system. The relationships between foliar and soil nutrient levels and between annual growth and foliar and soil data were also analyzed. Mg and P deficiencies were the most common in foliage samples. Foliar N concentrations were always over the critical level and foliar N:P ratios were unbalanced in almost all sites. The annual height, diameter and volume growth were positively correlated with foliar P concentrations and negatively correlated with foliar N:P ratio. The P nutrition seems to play an important role in the plantation’s development. However, both, the high levels of available P in the soils, and the lack of a significant correlation between foliar and soil P levels, suggest that other factors, such the N excess or the soil pH, may interfere in the P assimilation. On the contrary, exchangeable soil Mg levels were not very high and were significantly correlated with foliar Mg. Thus, a positive growth response to Mg fertilization can be expected.
Pastures fertilization effect on the delimitation and caracteristics of Pinus radiata D. Don juvenil wood
Authors: Moya Roque R. , Valenzuela H. L. , Salazar R. F.
Published: May 2024

This study presents the effects of prairie fertilization on the juvenile wood delimitation, on wood basic density, late wood percentage and on ring wide for Pinus radiata in Chile. Wood samples were taken at diameter at breast height (DBH). Two silvopastoril trails were evaluated, one corresponding to a fertilized prairie and the other to a non-fertilized prairie. In addition, tree height dominance was considered on each prairie (dominants, intermediate, and suppressed). Results showed at f irst, that production of juvenile wood in Pinus radiata growing on silvopastoril cultivation ceases between the 7th and the 11th year of age. At second, it was found that prairie fertilization had no significant effects on juvenile wood formation. At third, prairie fertilization tended to produce wood of low basic density and low percentages of late wood, but greater ring width. Finally, the end of the juvenile period occurred when the current annual increment in tree height and DBH reached the maximum.
Dutch elm disease in Austria
Authors: Kirisits T. , Konrad H.
Published: May 2024

Dutch elm disease (DED) has first been recorded in Austria in 1928 and subsequently caused severe damage to elms in this country. In the 1990s studies on the incidence and geographical distribution of Ophiostoma ulmi and the subspecies of O. novo-ulmi in Austria have been initiated. Additionally, efforts were made to identify hybrids between these subspecies. In this paper we present a synthesis of this research and review the history and impact of DED in Austria. By the 1990s only O. novo-ulmi was present in Austria and O. ulmi had already disappeared. Based on its unique colony morphology and its female sterility, one isolate is suspected of being a hybrid or introgressant between O. ulmi and O. novo-ulmi. Both subspecies of O. novo-ulmi were detected in Austria, with ssp. novo-ulmi occurring more frequently than ssp. americana, and their ranges overlap, which suggests that they hybridize in this part of Europe. Examination of seven isolates of O. novo-ulmi for their fertility response as donor to authenticated isolates of O. novo- ulmi and by PCR-RFLP of the cerato-ulmin (cu) gene and colony type (col1) gene have unequivocally shown that genetic recombination occurs between ssp. novo-ulmi and ssp. americana and that Austria forms part of a hybrid zone between O. novo-ulmi ssp. novo-ulmi and O. novo-ulmi ssp. americana.
The Canadian Ophiostoma genome project
Authors: Bernier L. , Breuil C. , Hintz W. E. , Horgen P. A. , Jacobi V. , Dufour J. , Aoun M. , Bouvet G. , Kim S. H. , Diguistini S. , Tanguay P. , Eades J. , Burgess S. , De la Bastide P. , Pinchback M. , Tadesse Y.
Published: May 2024

The Canadian Ophiostoma Genome Project, which was initiated in 2001, is a collaborative effort between research teams in four different universities. Its general objective is to conduct a large-scale identification and analysis of genes controlling important aspects of the life cycle of Ophiostomatoid fungi. To this end, several expressed sequence tag (EST) libraries were obtained for the Dutch elm disease pathogen Ophiostoma novo-ulmi and the sapstainer O. piceae, following partial, single-pass automated sequencing of complementary DNA clones. The largest EST library, prepared from yeast like cells of O. novo-ulmi grown at 24 °C, contains over 3,400 readable sequences and serves as a general reference library for Ophiostomatoid fungi. Smaller, specific EST libraries were constructed from mycelia of O. novo-ulmi grown at suboptimal temperatures, from perithecia formed in laboratory crosses, as well as from O. piceae grown on different carbon sources. Ongoing bioinformatic searches in public databases have so far identified over 750 Ophiostoma unique ESTs which show significant homology with other fungal genes of known function, although a high proportion of Ophiostoma ESTs are either orphans (no match to any known gene) or show homology to genes of unknown function. In addition to EST analysis, differential expression of selected genes and structural genomics are also being studied.
Ultrastructural and cytochemical studies of host and pathogens in some fungal wilt diseases: retro- and introspection towards a better understanding of DED
Authors: Ouellette G. B. , Rioux D. , Simard M. , Cherif M.
Published: May 2024

This report presents a survey of previous and more recent ultrastructural and cytochemical investigations of disease development in elm, caused by Ophiostoma novo-ulmi, with results of some comparative studies of other wilt diseases caused by f.spp., of Fusarium oxysporum and of Verticillium sp. For cytochemical studies, probes complexed to colloidal gold to detect cellulose, pectin, chitin, and DNA were used. Thus, the formation of tyloses, pit membrane alterations, and the disease effect on parenchyma cells in mature as well as in young tissue were characterized. Vessel lumina in these plants, in diverse situations, contained heterogeneous matter, among which occurred masses of opaque matter and in certain instances pectin fibrils secreted by parenchyma cells and tyloses. Numerous globoid, opaque bodies of regular sizes, which have been mostly overlooked previously, abounded in vessel elements of U. americana and U. glabra, including trees injected with glucose solutions prior to inoculation. Coarser fibrillar material was also noted in vessel lumina, but mostly shortly after inoculation. Other peculiar forms of O. novo-ulmi are also described. The possible role of the components under study is discussed, and a model for DED is proposed in which hindrance to vessel invasion, including downward spread of the pathogen, and reactions of parenchyma cells are complementary and considered to be conducive to defence mechanisms, including compartmentalization of the invaded xylem.
Micropropagation of Ulmus minor and U. minor x U. pumila from 4-year-old ramets
Authors: Diez J. , Gil L.
Published: May 2024

As part of the Spanish breeding programme against Dutch elm disease, investigations were undertaken on reproduction of Ulmus minor by means of tissue culture. Microshoots were obtained from nodal segments, collected from terminal twigs of 4-year-old ramets of selected clones of this species and of U. minor x U. pumila, and cultured on a modified Murashige & Skoog medium containing 6-Benzylaminopurine (BA). When subcultured, the microshoots or nodal segments excised from these, formed new shoots, their maximum numbers per explant (1.94 to 2) being obtained with the hybrid clone M-TC2 on media containing 3.5 to 8.8 μM BA. The number of microshoots obtained was highest with subcultures of the whole shoot, e.g. 6.9 times superior to control, against 1.5 with nodal segments of VJR1 in presence of 8.8 μM BA. The addition of 0.5 to 5.3 μM indole-acetic acid of α-naphthaleneacetic acid to the medium induced the highest percentage of root formation from the shoots. Both shoot and root formation varied greatly among clones.
Methods and progress in the conservation of elm genetic resources in Europe
Authors: Collin E. , Rusanen M. , Ackzell L. , Bohnens J. , De Aguiar A. , Diamandis S. , Franke A. , Gil L. , Harvengt L. , Hollingsworth P. , Jenkins G. , Meier-Dinkel A. , Mittempergher L. , Musch B. , Nagy L. , Pâques M. , Pinon J. , Piou D. , Rotach P. , Santini A. , Vanden Broeck A. , Wolf H.
Published: May 2024

The progress made in the conservation of European elm genetic resources since the 1st International Elm Conference is reviewed, and the complementarity of in situ and ex situ methods is discussed. The financial support of the European Union to RESGEN project CT96-78 has permitted to co-ordinate and rationalize the ex situ conservation of elms. The project, which involved 17 partner institutes in nine west European countries, aimed at a better evaluation, conservation and utilisation of the existing collections of native elm clones. Main achievements are: establishing a common database of about 2,000 clones; characterizing over 500 clones through RAPDs and chloroplast DNA PCR-RFLPs molecular markers; completing and rationalizing the existing collections; establishing a long-term core collection of 850 clones; cryo-preserving a subset of 444 clones; and identifying clones of interest for breeding and prudent use in the reconstruction of countryside hedges. The «Noble Hardwoods» network of the pan-European programme EUFORGEN groups members representative of 31 countries, and promotes the dynamic conservation of the genetic resources of several genera of broadleaf forest trees, including Ulmus spp. Strategies for the conservation of the adaptive potential of elm resources were defined and will be disseminated among foresters and conservationists through «Guidelines» leaflets. Some countries have already started implementing conservation measures for U. laevis, associating in situ preservation and the establishment of seed orchards. Others are undertaking inventories, or acquiring genetic knowledge on target populations.
Initial response on nutritional status of a young Pinus radiata D.Don plantation to wood-ash application
Authors: Solla-Gullón F. , Taboada M. P. , Rodríguez-Soalleiro R. , Merino A.
Published: May 2024

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of the application of wood-bark ash as a amendment and fertilizer of a young plantation of Pinus radiata grown on an acid soil. Two different doses of ash (5.000 and 10.000 kg ha-1) and one dose of 8:24:16 NPK fertilizer (200 g in hole) were applied at establishment. The response of the soil solid fraction and foliar chemical composition was studied throughout 28 months. Fertilization of the soil with wood-bark ash produced an increase in soil pH, at the same time increasing the availability of Ca, Mg, P and K. Related to this increase, the needle levels of Ca and, in a lower extent, Mg were also higher. Possible diagnosis of vector analysis of foliar nutrient contents and concentrations showed that these two elements limited the species growth.
Effects of forest fire on the hydrological response of a Mediterranean drainage basin (Arbúcies River, Catalan Coastal Ranges, NE Spain)
Authors: López Alonso R. , Pérez Gispert A. , Batalla R. J.
Published: May 2024

We analyse the hydrological response of the Arbúcies River basin after a wildland fire occurred in August 1994, which burnt 15% of its drainage area. The Arbúcies River is located in the Catalan Coastal Ranges, draining an area of 106 km2. Deep sandy soils are predominant in the catchment. The study is based on rainfall and runoff records (1991-1997), from which twenty-six flood events were selected. River response, especially runoff volume and peak discharge, showed a remarkable increment for events occurred six months after the fire, in comparison with those of similar magnitude prior the fire. The higher the magnitude of the episodes the higher the degree of hydrological alteration. Maximum increment of peak discharge is 173%, which is susbtantially more important that that produced on the effective rainfall (+40%). Flood events tend to recover pre-fire hydrological response eighteen months after the fire.
Description of hybrid Abies x masjoannis
Authors: Soto García D. , García Viñas J. I. , Pérez Bujarrabal E.
Published: May 2024

We are presenting a research about the history, systematization and diagnosis of the hybrid Abies x majoannis = Abies alba Mill. x Abies pinsapo Boiss., whose existence was already known but neither its general description nor its three notomorphes: alboides, mesoides and pinsapoides nor its differential characterization of the three groups: parental, parentofilial and filial, represented by around 200 samples in Spain whose ages range from 10 to 100 years old.
Germination of three threatened halophytes in Castilla-La Mancha under salt-stress conditions
Authors: Herranz J. Mª. , Ferrandis P. , Copete M. A.
Published: May 2024

The influence of incubation temperature, light, and salinity on seed germination of Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, Senecio auricula, and Lepidium cardamine was studied. Seeds were incubated at constant temperature of 5ºC and fluctuating temperatures of 15-4, 20-7, 25-10, 28-14 y 32-18ºC, both at 12 h-photoperiod and darkness. In fluctuatingtemperature treatments, the highest temperature was programmed to coincide with the light phase. Salt concentration ranged from 0 to 3% NaCl. Seed treatments lasted 30 days. Final germination percentages showed highly significant variations among species. Main effects of temperature, light, and salinity, and interactions of the three factors were highly significant on that parameter as well. Final germination percentage exceeded 68% in all species when seeds were incubated at 20-7ºC, 25-10ºC, 28-14ºC, and 32-18ºC with photoperiod and distilled water. Both percentage and velocity of germination decreased with salt concentration at all temperatures. At 2% NaCl concentration, only A. macrostachyum showed relevant germination percentage (57% at 20-7ºC). Negative correlation between salinity and germination were first manifested at higher temperatures (28-14ºC and 32-18ºC). For most temperatures, A. macrostachyum and L. cardamine seeds reached higher final germination when incubated with photoperiod than in darkness. In S. auricula, however, it was only true for 5ºC. In A. macrostachyum and S. auricula, germination velocity increased when seeds where transferred from hipper-saline solution (4% NaCl) during 6 months to distilled water. That change in salinity conditions also increased final germination of A. macrostachyum seeds when incubated at 15-4ºC. The existence of salt concentrations over 2% NaCl in the natural habitat of the three species studied, may transitorily prevent germination until rainfall reduces salinity in the soil.
Water stress in Pinus engelmannii Carr., under nursery conditions
Authors: Prieto Ruiz J. A. , Cornejo Oviedo E. H. , Domínguez Calleros P A. , Návar Chaidez J. de J. , Marmolejo Moncivais J. G. , Jiménez Pérez J.
Published: May 2024

The effect of water stress was evaluated in relation to the water potential and growth of five-month old seedlings of Pinus engelmannii Carr. The essay was conducted from September 21st to October 27th, 2003; in this period of time three water stress cycles were completed. Significant differences between water supply treatments were found (p < 0.01) in regard to the seedlings water potential after the third day of watering. The seedlings under water stress reached final water potentials from –1,96 to –2,29 MPa, while the seedlings without water stress showed values between –0.13 and –0.20 MPa. The morphological response of the seedlings presented two well-defined trends. First, the seedlings irrigated without humidity restriction showed larger growth rates in height (20.7%), collar diameter (69.4%) and total phytomass production (144.1%). On the other hand, the seedlings under water stress showed smaller increments in height (1.3%), collar diameter (9.8%) and total phytomass (73.1%). It is concluded that the seedlings were sensible to the evaluated levels of water stress, therefore allowing management to promote their hardening. Key words: humidity deficit, seedlings quality, growth, preaconditioning phase.
Examining alternative landscape metrics in ecological forest planning: a case for capercaillie in Catalonia
Authors: Palahi M. , Pukkala T. , Pascual L. , Trasobares A.
Published: May 2024

This study examined the performance of four different landscape metrics in a landscape ecological forest planning situation in Catalonia: (1) proportion of suitable habitat (non-spatial) (%H); (2) spatial autocorrelation; (3) the proportion of habitat-habitat boundary of the total compartment boundary (H-H) and (4) the proportion of habitat-non-habitat boundary (H-nonH). They were analysed in a case study problem that aimed at the maintenance and improvement of capercaillie habitats in two simulated forests of 14,400 hectares consisting mainly of Pinus uncinata, P. sylvestris and P. nigra stands. The habitats were determined by using a stand-level habitat suitability index (HSI). Stands in which the HSI exceed a specified threshold value were considered as habitats. Then, four different planning problems were formulated to test the four landscape metrics as one of the management objectives. The objective functions of the problems were written in the form of an additive utility model, and the problems were solved using heuristic optimization techniques. Before this, five different heuristic optimization techniques: random ascent; Hero, simulated annealing (SA), tabu search and genetic algorithms (GA), were compared in a non-spatial and a spatial planning problem. Based on these comparisons, GA was selected for solving the spatial planning problems while SA was used for non-spatial problems. The spatial pattern of habitat patches was comparable when using the %H, H-H or spatial autocorrelation as a management objective. However, the limitations of using the non-spatial %H objective were clear in the second forest landscape with lacking trends in forest features. H-H and spatial autocorrelation yielded a more clustered landscape with larger habitat patches. The largest proportions of habitat and habitat–habitat boundaries were created when using the H-H as the ecological management objective. The use of spatial autocorrelation as a management objective resulted in a smaller habitat area and shorter habitat-habitat boundary than when %H and H-H were used as objectives, but the proportion of large habitat patches was rather high. H-H was very suitable for connecting habitat patches. When H-nonH was used as the ecological management objective a very fragmented landscape was generated.
Does Fertility Culture Matter in Reproductive Decision Making? A Case Study of a Chinese Multi-child Family
Authors: Mo Yunya
Published: May 2024

This study delves into individual cases within multi-child families, building upon a literature review of sociocultural factors influencing reproductive decision-making. Although previous research has highlighted the significant influence of societal factors on reproductive choices, there is a knowledge gap regarding specific cases within multi-child families, necessitating a more in-depth investigation. The research question is framed as follows: "How do sociocultural factors interact in the reproductive decision-making of multi-child families, influencing family interactions and dynamics?" Using a case study approach, this paper employs a qualitative methodology by conducting semi-structured interviews to gather data. Grounded theory is applied for in-depth qualitative analysis. Findings reveal the pivotal role of sociocultural factors in internal family dynamics, supporting and extending previous research. Theoretical implications highlight a nuanced understanding of multi-child family dynamics, while practical implications underscore the need for tailored family support programs. This research contributes theoretical insights and practical guidance for addressing the unique needs of multi-child families in reproductive decision-making processes.
The Impact of Social Work Relationships on Preschool Teachers' Social and Emotional Competence
Authors: Zhou Xintong
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) initiated a survey focused on the social and emotional competence (SEC) of educators, garnering significant attention across the educational community. Despite this interest, there remains a notable gap in research concerning the development of SEC among preschool teachers within the context of various social relationships. Addressing this gap, our study examines the influence of leadership trust, collegial relationships, pro-teacher relationships, teacher-child interactions, and self-efficacy on the SEC of preschool educators. This investigation aims to elucidate the role these social relationships play in shaping the SEC of preschool teachers. The study sample consisted of 223 Chinese preschool teachers, with data analyzed through hierarchical regression techniques. Findings reveal that leadership trust, pro-teacher relationships, and self-efficacy are significant predictors of teachers' SEC. These results underscore the importance of fostering a positive, trust-based, and supportive social work environment as a pivotal strategy for enhancing preschool teachers' SEC, thereby contributing to the broader understanding of how social relationships influence educators' emotional and social capabilities.
An Economic Analysis of Adverse Possession Statutes -- The Case of China and Germany
Authors: Di Zhengyang
Published: May 2024

Adverse possession, a doctrine whereby a possessor of land who is not the true owner acquires title to the land without the consent or compensation of the "true" owner, while simultaneously appearing to be a trespasser's possession of the land adverse to the owner's interests from an economic perspective. This paper explores the economic implications of adverse possession statutes, focusing on China and Germany. It provides an overview of adverse possession, comparing relevant national laws, particularly those of Germany. Despite its economic efficiency, China has not established an adverse possession system. The analysis examines the current legislative status in China and explores inherent reasons for its absence. Evaluating the necessity for China to adopt such a system, potential problems are identified, including issues related to homeless individuals seizing property and challenges in replacing existing systems. However, the study highlights the economic benefits, such as enhancing transaction certainty reducing costs, and preventing errors through adverse possession.
Research on the Differences Between the Laws Designed to Protect Brands and Traditional Trademark Laws
Authors: Cheng Xingpeng
Published: May 2024

Brand protection is an important and challenging issue in the contemporary market, as brands are valuable and influential intangible assets that create and sustain competitive advantage. However, there is a lack of a clear and comprehensive legal category that can adequately address the diverse and complex aspects of brand protection. This paper aims to explore how a law designed to protect brands might differ from traditional trademark law, which mainly focuses on the registration and protection of distinctive signs that identify the source and quality of goods or services. The paper adopts a qualitative and comparative approach, using online sources, such as web articles, research papers, and guides, as well as examples of famous brands and cases, to illustrate and analyze the possible ways, characteristics, challenges, and benefits of brand protection. The paper concludes that brand protection is a useful or viable legal category that recognizes and respects the value and importance of brands as intangible assets that create and sustain competitive advantage in the market, adapts and innovates to changing market trends, consumer preferences, and competitive forces, and harmonizes and cooperates with the existing trademark laws and standards across different countries and regions.
Balancing Act: The Dual Role of Military Alliances in Contemporary International Relations
Authors: Zou Wenxuan
Published: May 2024

This paper critically examines the dual role of military alliances in contemporary international relations, particularly focusing on their impact on global stability and regional cooperation. By analyzing historical and modern examples, including NATO and the interactions among the United States, China, and Russia, the study elucidates how military alliances have transitioned from Cold War security mechanisms to multifaceted entities confronting today's geopolitical complexities. It delves into the security dilemmas alliances face, their strategic contractions, and the unique challenges posed by China's ascendancy and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The paper underscores that while these alliances are pivotal in upholding global order, they also generate substantial obstacles to regional cooperation, especially in East Asia. This dichotomy is evident in the alliances' evolution, which reflects a shift from primarily defensive postures to roles that encompass economic and diplomatic dimensions, influencing regional dynamics and power balances. This paper demonstrates the various differences and contradictions between today's military alliances and regional cooperation, including contradictions in mechanisms, differences in concepts, overlaps in functions, and conflicts of practical interests. The findings advocate for a reassessment of military alliances, suggesting that future frameworks should foster trust and inclusivity, accommodating the diverse interests of regional actors to enhance cooperative security and stability.
Analysis of the Board Oversight and Accountability Mechanism under UK Company Law
Authors: Xu Siqi
Published: May 2024

This paper focuses on the legal framework and the effectiveness of the board oversight and accountability mechanism within UK company law, highlighting its importance and challenges in ensuring sustainable corporate development and protecting investor interests. UK company law aims to protect stakeholders by regulating directors' behaviour, addressing issues such as conflicts of interest and inadequate information disclosure that hinder effective supervision. As remedies, this study suggests enhancing training for board members, improving information disclosure, and incorporating independent directors to mitigate conflicts of interest and increase oversight transparency and efficiency. Through case analysis, this paper further explicates the implementation outcomes and challenges faced, providing references for corporate governance improvement. Ultimately, the research underscores that refining the oversight and accountability mechanisms is crucial to elevate corporate governance standards, fostering long-term corporate prosperity.
Research and Analysis on Policy Governance Based on Traffic Congestion in Beijing
Authors: Ying Mingshen
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes three-game models to improve Beijing's traffic environment through the analysis method of game theory. First, the author examines the impact of improving drivers' moral character on alleviating traffic congestion. Second, this paper focus on the role of improving the public transportation environment in reducing road stress. Finally, this research examines the possibility of mitigating traffic congestion through a reward-punishment system. Comprehensive analysis of the results of these three game models, this paper conclude that a single policy of license restriction and traffic restriction is not enough to solve the traffic congestion problem in Beijing, and multiple policy measures need to be considered comprehensively. However, these policy measures also face some challenges and limitations, including time and education investment, people's travel needs and transportation network layout, and the design and implementation of the reward and punishment system. Therefore, future research and policy development need to further explore these issues and find more comprehensive and feasible policy solutions. Finally, this article recommends that the Beijing Municipal Government comprehensively consider the results of different game models and formulate comprehensive policy measures based on the actual situation, including improving road transportation facilities, encouraging green travel methods, and promoting intelligent transportation systems. Through these efforts, it is expected to improve Beijing's traffic environment, enhance citizens' travel experience, and achieve the goal of sustainable urban transportation.
Rock and China: From Cui Jian to Second Hand Rose
Authors: Wu Yi
Published: May 2024

Whether its mainland Chinas Hao Fang or Taiwans Zhang Tiezhi, they are both committed to constructing a resistance narrative to describe the rise and development of rock music. [1] Zhang Tiezhi believes that the emergence of rock music in mainland China has already carried the banner of enlightenment. [2] He also mentioned that rock music, together with poetry, films, the documentary River Elegy, and the book series Toward the Future, collectively constituted the enlightenment power of the chaotic era. [2] However, as part of the cultural mosaic of mainland China in the 1980s, how was rock music shaped, reconstructed, and utilized in the power system of commerce, culture, and politics? How does rock music interact and create tension with other cultural phenomena? With the tremendous changes in Chinese society in the 21st century, facing different historical contexts, has Chinese rock music also undergone changes? Unfortunately, Zhang did not delve into these questions seriously, and at the same time, mainland Chinese rock musicians have not included these questions in their thinking. This paper selects Cui Jian and the Second Hand Rose band as representatives of Chinese rock music in different periods. Through the theoretical perspectives of political philosophy, sociology, and history, it analyzes their lyrical texts and historical backgrounds, delving into Cui Jians unique understanding of revolution and capitalism as a rock superstar of the 1980s, and how this understanding has shaped the unique sensory structure of Chinese rock musicians. At the same time, this paper aims to provide some insights for the future development of Chinese rock music.