bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic Effect of BDNF-Overexpressing Human Neural Stem Cells (HB1.F3.BDNF) in a Rodent Model of Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Chang Da-Jeong , Lee Nayeon , Choi Chunggab , Jeon Iksoo , Oh Seung-Hun , Shin Dong Ah , Hwang Tae-Sun , Lee Hong J. , Kim Seung U. , Moon Hyeyoung , Hong Kwan Soo , Kang Kyung-Sun , Song Jihwan
Published: April 2013

Ischemic stroke mainly caused by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) represents the major type of stroke; however, there are still very limited therapeutic options for the stroke-damaged patients. In this study, we evaluated the neurogenic and therapeutic potentials of human neural stem cells (NSCs) overexpressing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (HB1.F3.BDNF) following transplantation into a rodent model of MCAo. F3.BDNF human NSCs (F3.BDNF) were transplanted into the contralateral side of striatum at 7 days after MCAo, and the transplanted animals were monitored up to 8 weeks using animal MRI and various behavioral tests before they were sacrificed for immunohistochemical analysis. Interestingly, animal MRI results indicate that the majority of contralaterally transplanted neural stem cells were migrated to the peri-infarct area, showing a pathotropism. Transplanted animals exhibited significant behavioral improvements in stepping, rotarod, and modified neurological severity score (mNSS) tests. We also found that the transplanted human cells were colocalized with nestin, DCX, MAP2, DARPP-32, TH, GAD65/67-positive cells, of which results can be correlated with neural regeneration and behavioral recovery in the transplanted animals. More importantly, we were able to detect high levels of human BDNF protein expression, presumably derived from the transplanted F3.BDNF. Taken together, these results provide strong evidence that human neural stem cells (F3.BDNF) are effective in treating stroke animal models.
Cholinergic Neuron-Like Cells Derived from Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Induced by Tricyclodecane-9-yl-Xanthogenate Promote Functional Recovery and Neural Protection after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Sun Chunhui , Shao Jing , Su Le , Zhao Jing , Bi Jianzhong , Yang Shaonan , Zhang Shangli , Gao Jiangang , Miao Junying
Published: April 2013

The rate of neuronal differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) in vivo is very low; therefore, it is necessary to elevate the number of BMSC-derived neurons to cure neurodegenerative diseases. We previously reported that tricyclodecane-9-yl-xanthogenate (D609), an inhibitor of phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC), induced BMSCs to differentiate into neuron-like cells in vitro. However, the neuronal type is not clear, and it is still unknown whether these neuron-like cells possess physiological properties of functional neurons and whether they can contribute to the recovery of neuron dysfunction. To answer these questions, we investigated their characteristics by detecting neuronal function-related neurotransmitters and calcium image. The results showed that these cells exhibited functional cholinergic neurons in vitro. Transplantation of these cholinergic neuron-like cells promoted the recovery of spinal cord-injured mice, and they were more effective than BMSCs. The number of cholinergic neurons was increased after injection with BMSC-derived cholinergic neuron-like cells, indicating their high differentiation rate in vivo. Moreover, the proportion of cholinergic neurons in host cells and secretion of acetylcholine were increased, and preservation of neurofilament was also observed in the lesion of mice implanted with BMSC-derived neurons, suggesting the neuronal protection of BMSC-derived neurons. Our findings provide both a simple method to induce the differentiation of BMSCs into cholinergic neuron-like cells and a putative strategy for the therapy of spinal cord injuries.
Quantification of N-acetylcysteamine activated methylmalonate incorporation into polyketide biosynthesis
Authors: Klopries Stephan , Sundermann Uschi , Schulz Frank
Published: April 2013

Polyketides are biosynthesized through consecutive decarboxylative Claisen condensations between a carboxylic acid and differently substituted malonic acid thioesters, both tethered to the giant polyketide synthase enzymes. Individual malonic acid derivatives are typically required to be activated as coenzyme A-thioesters prior to their enzyme-catalyzed transfer onto the polyketide synthase. Control over the selection of malonic acid building blocks promises great potential for the experimental alteration of polyketide structure and bioactivity. One requirement for this endeavor is the supplementation of the bacterial polyketide fermentation system with tailored synthetic thioester-activated malonates. The membrane permeable N-acetylcysteamine has been proposed as a coenzyme A-mimic for this purpose. Here, the incorporation efficiency into different polyketides of N-acetylcysteamine activated methylmalonate is studied and quantified, showing a surprisingly high and transferable activity of these polyketide synthase substrate analogues in vivo.
Concepts et mesure de la création de valeur organisationnelle
Authors: Cappelletti Laurent , Khouatra Djamel
Published: April 2013

Cette recherche présente le concept de valeur organisationnelle dans le cadre d’une analyse des paradigmes de la valeur. L’hypothèse centrale développée est que la valeur organisationnelle détermine la valeur économique et sociale de l’entreprise. Une méthode de mesure de la création de valeur organisationnelle est proposée et illustrée par une étude de cas consistant en une recherche-intervention conduite de 1999 à 2000, dans une PME du secteur de la gestion du patrimoine.
L'adoption des principes comptables généralement reconnus aux États-Unis par Saint-Gobain-Pont-à-Mousson : du conflit d'agence à la légitimité institutionnelle
Authors: Touron Philippe
Published: April 2013

Cet article a deux objectifs : 1) fournir un cadre théorique complémentaire aux explications économiques traditionnellement avancées pour expliquer les choix comptables ; 2) comprendre pourquoi Saint-Gobain-Pont-à-Mousson a adopté les principes comptables généralement reconnus (PCGR) aux États-Unis dès 1970. Une étude de cas approfondie indique que les deux théories nous aident à comprendre le phénomène étudié. Nous en concluons que les aspects sociologiques ne doivent pas être négligés dans les recherches comptables.
Spatial dynamics of the red grouper Epinephelus morio (Pisces: Serranidae) on the Campeche Bank, Gulf of Mexico
Authors: López-Rocha Jorge A. , Arreguín-Sánchez Francisco
Published: April 2013

The spatial dynamics of the red grouper Epinephelus morio plays a fundamental role in the fishery management on the Campeche Bank, where it is overfished. The objective of this study was to characterize the spatial dynamics of this population. We used a dynamic model of spatial distribution to estimate population movement rates between adjacent areas. The model was applied using information on catch per unit effort and length-frequency distributions for the Mexican mid-sized fleet that operated in the area in the period 1973-1977. These data were chosen to ensure that the information would reflect the condition of the resource before overfishing. It was possible to quantify the spatial dynamics of the red grouper and the results were consistent with previously known movement patterns. The results showed different movement rates and temporal patterns of movement for different population sectors. The spawning aggregations and the seasonal upwelling occurring in the eastern part of the Bank were considered as key factors influencing the pattern of population movements.
On the use of biomass size spectra linear adjustments to design ecosystem indicators
Authors: Gómez-Canchong Paúl , Blanco José M. , Quiñones Renato A.
Published: April 2013

Biomass size spectra describe the structure of aquatic communities ataxonomically. The slope (b) of the normalized biomass size spectrum (NBSS) is often used as an indicator of the impact of perturbations, such as pollution or overfishing. The NBSS intercept (a), has generally been ignored on the basis of a correlation between the NBSS slope and intercept, although this correlation has not been shown to be universal. We assessed whether the NBSS parameters are correlated using: (i) theoretical analysis, (ii) virtual communities randomly generated based only on statistical considerations, and (iii) virtual food webs changing over time following a dynamic bioenergetic model. We also analyzed whether the parameters of the Pareto distribution are correlated or not, using approaches (i) and (ii). We found that when communities change over time there is no single relationship between the two NBSS parameters, due to a dependence on the variation in total community abundance (N). We conclude that to characterize any aquatic system at least two parameters are necessary from the NBSS triad N, a, b. In the case of the Pareto distribution, both NPareto and bPareto are necessary.
Reproductive output traits of the simultaneous hermaphrodite Serranus scriba in the western Mediterranean
Authors: Alós Josep , Alonso-Fernández Alexandre , Catalán Ignacio A. , Palmer Miquel , Lowerre-Barbieri Susan
Published: April 2013

We studied multiple individual parameters that affect the reproductive output in the painted comber Serranus scriba, a simultaneous hermaphroditic fish that is widely exploited by recreational fishing in temperate marine coastal regions. Batch fecundity was significantly affected by maternal size, but was not related to maternal age or condition. However, egg quality as estimated by egg dry weight was significantly influenced by the interaction effect of maternal size and age. An empirical assessment demonstrated the existence of a diel spawning pattern based on a daily release of a partial fraction of eggs related to sunset time. Buoyancy varied during the incubation period, but it consistently resulted in positive buoyancy that situated the eggs near the top of the water column. This study represents the first estimation of reproductive output of the simultaneous hermaphrodites S. scriba and also provides a comprehensive study about the potential maternal factors that affect egg production. These results are a crucial step towards ongoing efforts to improve the stock assessment of this species.
A brief critical approach to Janz’s penultimate space model to authenticate experience with the transcendental from a Christian perspective
Authors: Potgieter Raymond
Published: April 2013

Janz proposed a model of authenticity, based on the thesis that the closest proximity possible allows conditions for the Ultimate to become a referential framework within which the transcendental real meets with empirical reality. This is mainly expressed in terms of metaphysical time and space. This model may be usefully employed by religions that claim meeting with the transcendent and wish to do so on a rationally motivated basis. It is the author’s belief that this model may be employed by the Christian faith in conjunction with other similar models so that Christianity’s unique distinctives of its experience of the penultimate are emphasised.’n Kort kritiese benadering tot Janz se ruimte model om geloofservaring te kontroleer vanuit ’n Christelike geloofsperspektief. Janz se model is gebaseer op die tesis dat die naaste nabyheid voorwaardes nakom sodat die Uiteindelike ’n verwysingsraamwerk daarstel waarbinne die ware transendentale empiriese werklikheid ontmoet. Dit word hoofsaaklik uitgedruk in terme van metafisiese tyd en ruimte. Hierdie model kan nuttig in diens geneem word deur godsdienste wat aanspraak maak op ontmoeting met die transendente en wat dit op ’n rasioneel gemotiveerde grondslag wil fundeer. Dit is die skrywer se oortuiging dat hierdie model deur die kerk in samewerking met ander soortgelyke modelle gebruik moet word sodat die kenmerkende eienskappe van die Christendom geloof sy unieke ervaring van die voorlaaste kan beklemtoon.
Present and future nitrogen deposition to national parks in the United States: critical load exceedances
Authors: Ellis R. A. , Jacob D. J. , Payer M. , Zhang L. , Holmes C. D. , Schichtel B. A. , Blett T. , Porter E. , Pardo L. H. , Lynch J. A.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. National parks in the United States are protected areas wherein the natural habitat is to be conserved for future generations. Deposition of anthropogenic nitrogen (N) transported from areas of human activity (fuel combustion, agriculture) may affect these natural habitats if it exceeds an ecosystem-dependent critical load (CL). We quantify and interpret the deposition to Class I US national parks for present-day and future (2050) conditions using the GEOS-Chem global chemical transport model with 1/2° × 2/3° horizontal resolution over North America. We estimate CL values in the range 2.5–5 kg N ha−1 yr−1 for the different parks with the goal of protecting the most sensitive ecosystem receptors. For present-day conditions, we find 24 out of 45 parks to be in CL exceedance and 14 more to be marginally so. Many of these are in remote areas of the West. Most (40–85%) of the deposition originates from NOx emissions (fuel combustion). We then project future changes in N deposition using the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) emission scenarios for 2050. These feature 52–73% declines in US NOx emissions relative to present but 19–50% increases in US ammonia (NH3) emissions. Nitrogen deposition at US national parks then becomes dominated by domestic NH3 emissions. While deposition decreases in the East relative to present, there is little progress in the West and increases in some regions. We find that 17–25 US national parks will have CL exceedances in 2050 based on the RCP scenarios. Even in total absence of anthropogenic NOx emissions, 14–18 parks would still have a CL exceedance. Returning all parks to N deposition below CL by 2050 will require at least a 55% decrease in anthropogenic NH3 emissions relative to RCP-projected 2050 levels.
Theoretical study of solar light reflectance from vertical snow surfaces
Authors: Nikolaeva O. V. , Kokhanovsky A. A.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The influence of horizontal and vertical inhomogeneity of snow surfaces on solar light reflectance is studied using the radiative transfer theory (RTT). We compared 1-D RTT and 2-D RTT and found that large errors are produced if the 1-D RTT is used for the calculation of the snow reflection function (and, therefore, also in the retrievals of the snow grain radii) in 2-D measurement geometries. Such 2-D geometries are common in the procedures for the determination of the effective snow grain radii using near-infrared photography and spectroscopy of vertical snow walls. In particular, we have considered three cases for the numerical calculations: (1) the case with no black film; (2) the case with a black film at the pit's bottom; (3) the case with a black film at the pit's bottom and also at one of the vertical snow walls.
The role of authenticity in electoral social media campaigns
Authors: Grow Gabrielle , Ward Janelle
Published: April 2013

Authenticity is a popular buzzword in electoral politics: Electoral candidates and politicians are expected to be authentic in their public interactions. Since 2008, campaigning via social media has become an integral part of elections in the United States, and continues to gain importance. In such an environment, this paper presents research into the role of authenticity in social media electoral campaigns. Using Gilpin, et al.’s (2010) definition of authenticity as the theoretical basis, interviews were conducted with U.S. Democrats to query their perceptions of candidates’ Facebook pages, and particularly in relation to authenticity. This study refines existing definitions of authenticity and offers insights into how electoral candidates can demonstrate authenticity in electoral social media campaigns.
Fungi colonizing roots of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L. var. giromontina) plants and pathogenicity of Fusarium spp. to zucchini seedlings
Authors: Jamiołkowska Agnieszka , Wagner Anna , Sawicki Krzysztof
Published: April 2013

Zucchini is a very valuable vegetable, easy to grow both in the field and under covers but it is often attacked by soil-borne fungi. The investigations were carried out in a farm near Lublin where three zucchini cultivars: Astra, Atena and Soraya, were grown in a tunnel and in the field in 2008-2009. Plants with stem and root rot were collected for laboratory tests. Mycological analysis showed that the predominant fungi were F. culmorum, F. equiseti and F. oxysporum. More Fusarium colonies were isolated from the roots of zucchini grown in the tunnel. In the pathogenicity test, all tested isolates of F. culmorum, F. equiseti and F. oxysporum proved to be pathogenic to zucchini seedlings, causing stunting, stem and root rot. The highest disease index was noticed in the combination with F. culmorum isolate fck61.
The effect of soil extracts from a monoculture of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown under different tillage systems on the germination of its seeds
Authors: Kraska Piotr
Published: April 2013

The present experiment was carried out in the period 2006-2008. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of aqueous soil extracts from the soil of a spring wheat monoculture on seed germination energy and capacity, the length of the first leaf and of the longest radicle as well as the number of radicles. Moreover, the content of 0-dihydroxyphenols in the soil was compared in the last year of the study. The soil used to prepare the solutions came from a field experiment established on medium heavy mixed rendzina soil. Spring wheat, cv. Zebra, was grown using plough tillage and two conservation tillage methods in the presence of undersown crops (red clover, Westerwolds ryegrass) and stubble crops (lacy phacelia, white mustard). Germination energy of the seeds watered with the soil extracts from the ploughed plots was significantly higher than this trait in the seeds watered with the extracts from the conservation tillage treatments with spring disking of the catch crops. Germination energy and capacity of spring wheat in the control treatment watered with distilled water were significantly higher compared to the other treatments under evaluation. Spring wheat watered with the aqueous extract prepared from the soil obtained from the plough tillage treatment produced a significantly longer first leaf compared to the treatments in which both conservation tillage methods had been used. The shortest leaf and the lowest number of radicles were produced by the seedlings watered with the soil extract from the treatment with the white clover stubble crop. Radicle length was not significantly differentiated by the soil extracts under consideration. The content of 0-dihydroxyphenols in the rendzina soil determined during the spring period was higher than that determined in the autumn. The content of 0-dihydroxyphenols in the soil was lower in the conservation tillage treatments with autumn incorporation of the catch crops than in the plots in which plough tillage and conservation tillage with spring disking of the catch crops had been used. The type of catch crop used did not have a significant effect on the soil content of these compounds. At the same time, it was found that the treatments in which the catch crops had been sown tended to have higher contents of these compounds compared to the plots without catch crops.
An assessment of the Ambrosia L. pollen threat at a regional scale using the example of the town of Sosnowiec (Silesian Uplands, Poland)
Authors: Chłopek Kazimiera , Dąbrowsa-Zapart Katarzyna , Tokarska-Guzik Barbara
Published: April 2013

The investigation of Ambrosia pollen counts in the air of Sosnowiec was carried out from 1998 to 2010 by means of the volumetric method. The pollen season which was determined by means of the 98% method started at the end of July and the beginning of August and lasted until the end of October. The highest Ambrosia pollen count was recorded in 1999 (222 grains x m-3) and the lowest in 2001 (18 grains x m-3). It was stated that the daily count of pollen grains depended on the wind direction and maximum air temperature. The strongest correlations were found with maximum temperature and with a wind direction from the south east. A high negative correlation coefficient was found between the frequency of inflows of air masses from the west and the annual total of pollen grains and the value of the maximum daily count. The closest sites of Ambrosia L. are at a distance of 25-40 kilometres from the sampling point. Significant correlations with the frequency of inflow of air masses can support the conclusion that Ambrosia pollen grains recorded in Sosnowiec were most probably carried not only from local sources but also, at least in part, from distant places.
The response of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) to the application of growth stimulators and forecrops
Authors: Kwiatkowski Cezary A. , Juszczak Jolanta
Published: April 2013

A field experiment in growing sweet basil was carried out in the period 2008-2010 in Fajsławice (Lublin region), on podzolic soil. The study evaluated the biometric traits of the plants, yield, the qualitative parameters of herbal raw material and weed infestation of the crop in dependence on growth simulators (Asahi SL, Bio-algeen, Titanit) and the forecrop (winter wheat or spring barley + white mustard cover crop). Plots without foliar application of the growth stimulators were the control treatment. Tillage, mineral NPK fertilization as well as mechanical and chemical weed control were typical for this plant species and consistent with the recommendations for herbal plant protection. A hypothesis was made that the application of growth stimulators would have a positive effect on basil productivity, raw material quality and weed infestation of the basil crop. It was also assumed that the phytosanitary and fertilizing effects of the cover crop would result in higher and qualitatively better yield compared to the cereal forecrop alone (winter wheat). The best quantitative parameters of sweet basil raw material and the highest reduction in air-dry weight of weeds in the crop were observed after the application of the growth stimulators. The forecrop - spring barley + a white mustard cover crop that is ploughed in - also had a beneficial effect on yield and weed infestation of the plant in question. The traditional crop protection method used in the basil crop, without the application of the growth stimulators, resulted in a lower plant height and a smaller number of shoots per plant. This caused higher weed infestation of the crop and a decrease in yield. The positive side of the non-application of growth stimulators was a better chemical composition of basil raw material. Asahi SL and Tytanit yielded the best growth and productivity of the basil plants.
Segetal flora of the Łuków Plain
Authors: Rzymowska Zofia , Skrajna Teresa
Published: April 2013

The aim of the study was to characterize and analyze the segetal flora of the Łuków Plain. The study was carried out from 2003 to 2006 in 182 towns and villages. Vascular flora of the arable fields in the area under study consists of 305 species belonging to 39 families and 168 genera. The analysed flora is characterised by the prevalence of native species (64.6%) over alien species (35.4%). Archaeophytes dominate among anthropophytes, whereas meadow species are the most frequent in the group of apophytes. Annuals and biennials show a slight prevalence over perennials. The analysis of the life-form categories shows the dominance of therophytes (52.8%) as well as a relatively high share of hemicryptophytes (34.4%) and geophytes (12.5%). In the analysed flora, rare and very rare species constitute a vast majority (61.7%), whereas the common and very common species reach 13.1%.
Morphological characters of the flowers and the structure of the nectaries of Acer platanoides L.
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Sulborska Aneta
Published: April 2013

The micromorphology of the nectaries and of other elements of the flower was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The anatomy of the nectaries was determined using light microscopy (LM). The inflorescences of A. platanoides comprise flowers included in two categories: functionally male and female. Nectaries of similar structure are found in both types of these flowers. The nectary gland located on the surface of the receptacle belongs to interstaminal nectaries. It has the form of a fleshy ring situated between the petals and the pistil. The bases of the staminal filaments are located in the depressions of the nectary. The outer diameter of the nectary reaches ca. 5 mm, while the thickness of this gland's tissues is 400-700 μm. In the epidermis of the nectary gland, there are numerous, evenly distributed stomata through which nectar release occurs. The stomata function asynchronously. In some stomata, we could observe nectar drops flowing out and a layer of this secretion around the stomata. The secretory parenchyma of the nectary is composed of several layers of thick-walled cells, whereas the ends of the vascular bundles with xylem and phloem elements are situated in the subglandular parenchyma. Chloroplasts are found both in the epidermal cells and in the glandular parenchyma cells and photosynthesis can take place in them due to the nectary's good exposure to light. The presence of starch grains was found in the chloroplasts; they can be energy material for nectar production.
The influence of fertilization on quality of inflorescences of easy pot freesia (Freesia Eckl. ex Klatt) grown from adventitious corms
Authors: Żurawik Piotr , Placek Monika
Published: April 2013

The experiments were carried out in 2006-2007, in the spring-summer season, in an unheated plastic tunnel. Adventitious corms of Easy Pot Freesia: 'Gompey', 'Popey' and 'Suzy', were the plant material. The influence of a traditional fertilizer Azofoska and slow-release fertilizers, Osmocote Plus 5/6, Osmocote Exact and Polyon 5/6, on the ornamental value of plants was evaluated. All fertilizers were applied at rates of 2.5 and 5.0 g × dm-3. Freesias cultivated without fertilizer were the control plants. The cultivar 'Gompey' was characterized by longer inflorescence shoots and flowers of greater diameter, while the cultivar 'Suzy' had more flowers than the plants of the other cultivars evaluated. Plants with the greatest number of flowers and the longest inflorescences and shoots were obtained when slow-release fertilizers Osmocote Plus 5/6 and Osmocote Exact were used, regardless of cultivar and fertilizer dose. Polyon was useless for freesia fertilization, since it resulted in a decrease of the ornamental value of plants. Plants fertilized with Polyon had fewer flowers, additionally with a smaller diameter, and their inflorescences were shorter and deformed.
Optimization of the processes of sterilization and micropropagation of cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.) from apical explants of seedlings in in vitro cultures
Authors: Tomaszewska-Sowa Magdalena , Figas Anna
Published: April 2013

Cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.) is a tall, reaching up to 2.5 m, perennial plant that represents the Asteraceae family. Silphium perfoliatum L. can be applied in medicine, animal feeding, and as a decorative, honey-producing and energy production plant which proves its multi-functional features. Sowing material currently available in Poland is insufficient, which justifies the present attempts at propagating these plants in in vitro cultures. Therefore, Silphium perfoliatum L. seed sterilization and micropropagation processes were studied under controlled conditions in in vitro cultures. Among the tested methods, ACE proved to be the most effective for sterilization. The apical parts of seedlings were used as explants; they were placed onto MS media with growth regulators added. 4 growth regulator concentration variants were applied. The highest percentage of explants with lateral shoots (41.7%) and callus (90.3%) was obtained on MS medium with 5 mg x dm-3 BAP + 1 mg × dm-3 NAA added. Shoots were isolated and transferred onto MS rooting medium without growth regulators. The rooted plants were transferred to the greenhouse and acclimatised to ex vitro conditions.
Analysis of the grass (Poaceae L.) pollen seasons in Wrocław, 2003-2010
Authors: Malkiewicz Małgorzata , Klaczak Kamilla
Published: April 2013

The aim of the study was to analyse the grass pollen season dynamics in Wrocław in 2003-2010. The studies were carried out using volumetric method (Burkard trap). Special attentions was paid to differences in pollen season duration and patterns. The pollen season started on average on the 130th day of the year (±10 days) and ended on the 240th (±11 days). Peak of pollen seasons occurred between 156th and 185th day of the year. The mean of SPI value was 2805 (±380). On average, 18 days (±4 days) with a grass pollen concentration of more than 50 grains × m-3, and 2 days (±1 day) with concentration of more than 120 grains × m-3 were recorded during the seasons analysed. Three types of pollen seasons were distinguished on the basis of cluster analysis (the non-hierarchical method of multifeature clustering - the k-means method).
Problems in nomenclature and systematics in the subfamily kalanchoideae (Crassulaceae) over the years
Authors: Chernetskyy Mykhaylo
Published: April 2013

Ambiguity concerning the systematics and nomenclature of the subfamily Kalanchoideae has been observed in the family Crassulaceae. In the history of research on representatives of the above-mentioned systematic group, there have been two opposing viewpoints aiming at either the establishment of separate genera Bryophyllum, Kalanchoë and Kitchingia or combining all the species into one genus Kalanchoë divided into subgenera (Bryophyllum, Calophygia, Kalanchoë) or sections (Bryophyllum, Kalanchoë (Eukalanchoë) and Kitchingia or Bryophyllum, and Kalanchoë. According to the analysis of various morphological, anatomical, embryological, karyological, phytogeographical, molecular genetics researches, it is challenging to establish the three genera in the subfamily Kalanchoideae due to the existence of intermediate species. Taking also into account the results of his own research, the author of the present work postulates that the most appropriate taxonomic approach is to recognize one genus Kalanchoë with the division into three sections: Bryophyllum, Kalanchoë and Kitchingia. The names of two of these sections correspond with the previously adopted names of the genera, thus referring to the initial stages of research concerning this subfamily.
Seasonal changes of photoperiodic response and inflorescence quality in pot cultivars of Chrysanthemum × grandiflorum grown in greenhouse
Authors: Jerzy Marek , Breś Włodzimierz
Published: April 2013

The aim of the research was to investigate seasonal changes of photoperiodic response and inflorescence quality in chrysanthemum from the Time group grown all year round without supplementary lighting. Four chrysanthemum cultivars were grown in 12 cycles starting on the second day of each successive month. The first cycle began on 2 January. From the moment of potting, the plants were treated with a short day. In periods of naturally long days, the day was shortened to 10.5 hours through shading. No supplementary illumination was used from November to mid-February (a photoperiod of under 10 hours) to improve light conditions in the period of insolation deficit. In Polish climatic conditions, the shortest photoperiodic responses were recorded usually in the cycles starting in February or March and August or September. An exceptionally longer photoperiodic response was recorded in the cycle including the height of summer, i.e. planting from June to July, when the temperature during the day was very high, and from October to December i.e. in the period of substantial insolation deficit. The highest quality of flower heads was attained by plants potted mostly between 2 March and 2 September and flowering from April - May to November. Those plants developed the greatest number of inflorescences and usually a typical, cultivar-specific colour of the flower. Chrysanthemums potted from 2 June to 2 July, i.e. in the period of the greatest heat, produced inflorescences with the smallest diameter. For the cultivar 'Cool Time', this unfavorable period lasted from 2 April to 2 August.
Flora of vascular plants of selected Poznań cemeteries
Authors: Czarna Aneta , Woźnicka Agata , Maj Małgorzata , Morozowska Maria
Published: April 2013

The presence of 395 species of vascular flora at four rarely used cemeteries within the Poznań city was confirmed in 2010. Apart from naturally occurring species, cultivated species were noted equally. Among species appearing spontaneously between the graves, species new for the flora of Poland: Chionodoxa forbesii, Ch. luciliae, Puschkinia scilloides, new for the flora of Wielkopolska: Bidens ferulifolius, Hyacinthoides hispanica and new for the flora of Poznań: Erigeron ramosus, Lilium bulbiferum, Pimpinella nigra, Poa subcaerulea, Veronica hederifolia s.s., were recorded. Names of taxa originating from cultivation are underlined.
The growth, flowering and chemical composition of leaves of three ecotypes of Allium ursinum L.
Authors: Błażewicz-Woźniak Marzena , Michowska Anna
Published: April 2013

The experiment was conducted in the Botanical Garden of UMCS in Lublin. A collection of three ecotypes of Allium ursinum L. from Dukla, Roztocze Region and Bieszczady mountain range, were the subject of our study. The aim of the study was to compare the biometrical features and chemical composition of garlic leaves. There were substantial differences both in growth characteristics and flowering characteristics of the ecotypes of Allium ursinum. The Dukla ecotype formed the longest leaves, whereas the shortest ones were found in the Roztocze ecotype. The Bieszczady ecotype was characterized by the widest leaf blades, the longest leaf stalk and flowering stems as well as the largest diameter of inflorescence. The Roztocze ecotype had the largest number of flowers in an inflorescence, while the Dukla ecotype had the shortest flowering stems and the fewest flowers in an inflorescence. The largest concentration of dry mass in leaves was detected in A. ursinum from Roztocze. The largest concentration of proteins was detected in the leaves of A. ursinum from Bieszczady. The most flavonoids were assayed in the leaves of the Roztocze ecotype of A. ursinum, the fewest in the Dukla one. Phenolic acids were at their highest concentration in the leaves of bear's garlic from Dukla, while the lowest concentration was recorded in the leaves of the ecotype from Bieszczady. The garlic leaves from Dukla had also the highest content of essential oil, while the Roztocze ones had the lowest oil content. The ecotypes of Allium ursinum differed substantially when it comes to the number of components of their essential oils and the amount of selected components.
Commercially important properties of plants of the genus Plantago
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Matysik-Woźniak Anna , Sulborska Aneta , Rejdak Robert
Published: April 2013

The centuries-old experience of folk medicine, nutritional traditions, and the results of numerous research studies show that plants of the genus Plantago can be used for medicinal, cosmetic, dietetic, and ritual purposes. In the phytochemical composition of Plantago, there is an abundance of biologically active substances (among others, glycosides, flavonoids, polysaccharides, and vitamins) exhibiting beneficial effects and, simultaneously, there is a low content of compounds that may exert a toxic effect. Scientific research has confirmed that Plantago plants have antioxidative, apoptosis-inhibiting, protective, healing-enhancing, spasmolytic, anthelmintic, and antimicrobial properties; they inhibit the development of some tumours, reduce the level of lipids in blood and inhibit tissue glycation. In phytotherapy, leaves, stems, and/or seeds of different plantain species are used. Plantago leaves and seeds are also used to manufacture creams, lotions, and face masks. Different parts of these plants (fresh plant material, extracts, or isolated substances) are also used in human and animal nutrition. Plantain leaves can be eaten like lettuce or added to salads, fried in pastry, used to prepare a tea, juice, or wine. Its seeds are added to cakes, bread, breakfast cereals, ice cream, and drinks, or they are cooked like groats. Animals fed with plantain can live longer and are healthier, while meat derived from such animals is tastier and healthier to humans. Plantago seeds are readily eaten by cage birds. Plantain pollen, produced in large amounts (up to 20,000 pollen grains per 1 stamen of P. lancolata), can cause allergies in sensitive people. Due to a long flowering period of plants of the genus Plantago, the effect of the allergenic factor persists for many weeks. In Poland days with the maximum concentration of airborne plantain pollen most often occur in July.
Effect of increased copper ion content in the medium on the regeneration of androgenetic embryos of carrot (Daucus carota L.)
Authors: Kowalska Urszula , Szafrańska Katarzyna , Krzyżanowska Dorota , Kiszczak Waldemar , Górecki Ryszard , Janas Krystyna , Górecka Krystyna
Published: April 2013

The study was conducted to determine the effect of elevated concentrations of copper in the medium on the regeneration of androgenetic embryos of the carrot cultivar ‘Kazan F1’ obtained in anther cultures and to determine the level of soluble phenols produced in the regenerates under copper stress. Green embryos were laid out on 4 regeneration media based on B5 medium (G a m b o r g et al. 1968) without hormones, containing 0.1 – control, 1, 10, and 100 μM CuSO4×5H2O. The plant material was passaged 3 times, after 4, 9 and 15 weeks. During these passages the emerging structures were examined; they were classified in terms of growth and development in vitro, weighed and counted. The levels of soluble phenols in the freeze-dried regenerates were determined. The elevated concentrations of copper in the regeneration media affected positively the formation of complete plants (rooted rosettes) and secondary embryos during the first 4 weeks of culture. After a longer regeneration time (9, 15 weeks), the elevated concentrations of copper caused negative effects: deformation of rosettes. After 15 weeks, the number of rooted rosettes decreased. The 9-week culture subjected to copper stress brought about an increase in the amounts of soluble phenols. The highest values were recorded in the rosettes treated with 10 μM CuSO4. Prolonged exposure to media containing elevated concentrations of CuSO4 caused a reduction in the accumulation of phenolic compounds in the rosettes.
Decorative values and the nutritional status of some Magnolia L. species under the climatic conditions of Lublin (Poland) Part. I. Decorative values of the plants
Authors: Michałojć Zenia , Jarosz Zbigniew
Published: April 2013

Six species of Magnolia L., growing in the Botanical Garden of the Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin which is located on the north-western outskirts of the city of Lublin, were studied during the period 2006-2008. The aim of this study was to determine the dynamics of leaf and flower development in these Magnolia species under the climatic and soil conditions of Lublin as well as to evaluate the size of their leaves and long shoots. The present study included the following species: M. acuminata L., M. kobus DC, M. liliiflora Desr., M. salicifolia Siebold et Zuch, M. x soulangiana Soul.- -Bod., and M. tripetala L. The magnolia trees were planted in 1968-1989 on grey-brown podzolic soil derived from loess. The study area is affected by the continental climate which is characterized by large annual amplitude of temperatures, long summers as well as long and cold winters. The long-term average annual air temperature for this region is 8.1oC, while the long-term average annual rainfall reaches 541.6 mm. The obtained results showed that, among the Magnolia species studied, M. salicifolia flowered earliest under the climatic and soil conditions of Lublin, while M. tripetala was the last to bloom. Full leaf development, on average for the study period, was recorded earliest in M. salicifolia and M. liliiflora, whereas it occurred latest in M. tripetala. The leaves of M. tripetala were characterized by the greatest length and width, while the smallest leaves were recorded in M. kobus. M. liliiflora was found to show the smallest annual shoot increments and the lowest number of leaves.
The contribution and importance of rare macrofungi in selected plots of endangered xerothermic grasslands in the Nida Basin
Authors: Tomaszewska Agnieszka , Łuszczyński Janusz , Łuszczyńska Bożena , Jaworska Justyna
Published: April 2013

Xerothermic habitats of protected sites in the Nida Basin are of special natural value. The richness of steppe plant species contributes to the biodiversity of grassland ecosystems and increases the floristic and landscape uniqueness of Ponidzie. A rich thermophilous biota of interesting steppe macromycetes (Basidiomycetes) develops in the xerothermic vegetation in the area. As preliminary investigations into macrofungi in xerothermic communities in the Nida Basin have shown, many very rare and valuable species as well as species new to the Polish mycobiota occur in the study area. Several rare species of gasteroid fungi, such as Geastrum minimum and G. schmidelii, were found in patches of Sisymbrio-Stipetum capillatae. Many taxa are indicator species of these biocoenoses. Noteworthy are parasitic macrofungi infecting roots of the genus Stipa: Gastrosporium simplex and Polyporus rhizophilus. Localities of species of the genus Tulostoma: T. brumale, T. kotlabae and T. melanocyclum, T. squamosum, new to the Nida Basin, were recorded in patches of Koelerio-Festucetum rupicolae and Festucetum pallentis. The above fungi are very rare in Poland’s mycobiota. They are strongly threatened and are classified as endangered (E). Geastrum minimum and the species of the genus Tulostoma are strictly protected.
Response of Fuchsia hybrida cuttings to flurprimidol and naphthaleneacetic acid application
Authors: Wróblewska Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

Auxins are the only compounds used in commercial plant propagation to stimulate rooting, although efforts have been made to find other efficient compounds. Another group of rooting promoters could be plant growth retardants (PGRs) which act as inhibitors of gibberellin synthesis. The aim of the experiment was to determine the effect of flurprimidol and naphthalene-1-acetic acid (NAA) applied by quick-dip method on rooting and development of Fuchsia hybrida 'Swingtime' cuttings and their subsequent growth. Anatomical analysis of the rooting process was also done. Flurprimidol and NAA did not influence the percentage of rooted fuchsia cuttings but increased the number of adventitious roots. Both compounds were involved in earlier formation of root primordia. Flurprimidol and NAA, used simultaneously or separately, increased the number and length of axillary shoots of fuchsia cuttings. The effect of flurprimidol on the number of roots and shoots was stronger than that of NAA, but diminished after transplanting the rooted cuttings. The influence of flurprimidol on axillary shoot length was weaker as its concentration increased.
Essential oil composition of the coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) herb depending on the development stage
Authors: Nurzyńska-Wierdak Renata
Published: April 2013

The herbal material of Coriandrum sativum is the fruit. Fresh herb is also used as an aromatic spice. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the content and chemical composition of coriander herb obtained at different plant growth stages. Coriander plants were grown in a glasshouse, the herb was harvested at the initial stage of flowering and from regrowing shoots. Essential oil extraction from the herb was performed by the hydrodistillation method, whereas the assessment of the chemical composition – using GC-MS method. The examined material contained 0.17–0.29 ml × 100g-1 of essential oil, depending on the stage of plant development when the harvest was done. 61 (generative phase) and 65 (vegetative phase) compounds were found in the examined coriander oil. The essential oil from the coriander herb contained the highest amount of aliphatic aldehydes, among which was decanal, E-2-dodecanol and E-2-decenol had the highest percentages. The contents of most aliphatic aldehydes decreased with each subsequent harvest of the herb. In addition to the above-mentioned aliphatic aldehydes, the presence of linalool, phytol, and oleic acid was found in the essential oil extracted from the coriander herb.
The effect of tillage systems on soil seedbank
Authors: Wrzesińska Eleonora , Pużyński Stanisław , Komorowska Anna
Published: April 2013

The research was carried out in 2006–2008 in a static field experiment started in 1993 in the Research Field Station at Lipnik near Stargard Szczeciński, on Eutric Cambisol soil. In soil samples taken from following layers:  0–10, 10–20, 20–30 cm of soil under ploughing, ploughless or direct drilling tillage systems, species composition and number of weed diaspores were evaluated. In the samples, in total there were diaspores of 17 weed species. Chenopodium album was the dominant weed species in all soil layers and tillage systems. The number of diaspores was significantly dependent on tillage system and soil layer. Irrespective of soil depth, the highest total number of diaspores (12251 pcs × m-2) was in the treatment with the ploughing tillage system, while for the other treatments this number was significantly lower: by 14% for ploughless tillage and by 51% for the direct drilling treatment. Regardless of soil tillage system, the highest total number of diaspores (19936 pcs × m-2) was in the top layer, while in the next layers this number was significantly lower (by 62 and 87%, respectively). The largest number of weed diaspores was in the top layer of soil after long application of the ploughless tillage system.
Weed communities in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) crops of the Mazowiecki Landscape Park
Authors: Ługowska Maria , Skrajna Teresa
Published: April 2013

This paper presents a description of segetal communities in potato crops cultivated in the Masovian Landscape Park. The communities were analysed based on 64 phytosociological relevés made at 45 localities. 4 associations were found in the study area, that is, Digitarietum ischaemi, Echinochloo-Setarietum, Galinsogo-Setarietum, and Lamio-Veronicetum politae. Phytocenoses representing the associations Digitarietum ischaemi and Echinochloo-Setarietum were most varied floristically. Lower syntaxonomical units were determined within these associations, that is, subassociations and variants. These phytocenoses were frequently found; they occurred in various habitats characterized by different trophic and moisture conditions. Patches of the association Lamio-Veronicetum polita were rare and they occurred only on fertile soils and on small areas.
Arbuscular mycorrhiza of plants spontaneously colonizing the soda heap in Jaworzno (southern Poland)
Authors: Gucwa-Przepióra Ewa , Błaszkowski Janusz
Published: April 2013

The results of studies of the mycorrhizal status of plant species spontaneously established on the soda heap located in Jaworzno (Upper Silesia, Poland) are presented. Additionally, the species of arbuscular fungi of the phylum Glomeromycota extracted from field-collected rhizosphere substrate samples of the heap are showed. Arbuscular mycorrhizae were described in 17 plant species. Five Glomus spp. were recognized in the spore populations of arbuscular fungi isolated. The investigation presented in this paper for the first time revealed Centaurea stoebe and Trifolium montanum to be hosts of arbuscular fungi.