bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effect on normal brain tissue during a combinational therapy of 2-deoxy-d-glucose and hypofractionated irradiation in malignant gliomas
Authors: Venkataramanaa Neelam , Venkatesh P , Dwarakanath B , Vani S
Published: April 2013

Purpose: To investigate the effect of 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG), an inhibitor of glucose transport and glycolysis, on glioblastoma and the normal brain tissue during combined treatment with hypofractionated radiotherapy. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients with malignant gliomas (18 Glioblastoma Multiformae, 2 Anasplastic Astrocytoma grade III) following surgery were treated weekly (once) with 2-DG, (250 mg/kg body weight), followed by 5 Gy of radiation to the tumor bed per fraction for 7 weeks. Clinical evaluation, complete hemogram, and random blood sugar levels were carried out in each cycle. Follow-up computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was done to evaluate radiation-induced changes. Kernofsky Performance scale (KPS) was recorded preoperatively; postoperatively, and post-therapy till the last follow-up. Results: Twenty patients were recruited for this trail; 19 of them completed the treatment and 1 discontinued. The survival period ranged between 6 and 36 months after the treatment, with a median survival of 14 months. CT and MRI revealed significant tumor necrosis. Histological evidence from the tissue during reexploration confirms the hypothesis of protective effect of 2-DG on normal brain. KPS was above 80% in majority of the patients, 6 months after the surgery. Conclusion: Radiotherapy coupled with 2-DG enhances tumor necrosis selectively and significantly while the normal brain gets relatively protected. This has been reflected in our study both clinically by preservation of quality-of-life and pathologically by retaining the integrity of normal brain architecture.
Decompressive craniectomy with multi-dural stabs - A combined (SKIMS) technique to evacuate acute subdural hematoma with underlying severe traumatic brain edema
Authors: Bhat Abdul , Kirmani Altaf , Wani Mohammed
Published: April 2013

Context: The decompressive craniotomy alone or with dural flap opening to evacuate acute subdural hematoma with underlying brain edema in severe traumatic brain injury has proved either insufficient in the first place or has fatal complications secondly. Aims: To reduce the fatality of conventional procedures and to evacuate acute subdural hematoma with severe brain edema by a combination of decompressive craniotomy and multi-dural stabs (SKIMS-Technique) without brain pouting and lacerations in low Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score patients. Settings and Design: The prospective study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery, from June, 2006 to June 2011, under a uniform protocol. Materials and Methods: A total of 225 patients of severe brain trauma were admitted to the accident and emergency unit of Neurosurgery and after initial resuscitation a CT brain was performed. All patients had a GCS score of 8 and below. All patients were ventilated postoperatively and ICP was monitored. Statistical Analysis Used: The data was analyzed and evaluated by the statistical methods like student's T-test. The analysis of Variance was used where-ever applicable. Results: The survival of multi-dural stab group was 77.31% (92/119) with good recovery in 42.02% (50/119) and a mortality of 22.69% (27/119) as compared with 46.23% (49/106) survival in open dural flap (control) group with 15.09% (16/106) good recovery and mortality of 53.77% (57/106). Conclusions: This new approach, known as SKIMS-Technique or Combined Technique i.e., "decompressive craniectomy with multi-dural stabs", proved much effective in increasing survival of low GCS and severe traumatic brain edema patients with acute subdural hematoma.
Intracranial epidermoid tumor; microneurosurgical management: An experience of 23 cases
Authors: Chowdhury Forhad , Haque Mohammod , Sarker Mainul
Published: April 2013

Objectives: An intracranial epidermoid tumor is relatively a rare tumor, accounting for approximately 0.1% of all intracranial space occupying lesions. These are also known as pearly tumor due to their pearl like appearance. In this series, the localization of the tumor, presenting age and symptoms, imaging criteria for diagnosis, surgical management strategy with completeness of excision and overall outcome were studied prospectively. Here, we report our short experience of intracranial epidermoid as a whole. Materials and Methods: Between January 2006 to December 2010, 23 cases of intracranial epidermoid were diagnosed preoperatively with almost certainty by computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain in plain, contrast and other relevant studies. All of them underwent operation in Dhaka Medical College Hospital and in some Private Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. All patients were followed-up routinely by clinical examination and neuroimaging. Average follow-up was 39 (range-71-11months) months. Patients of the series were prospectively studied. Results: Supratentorial epidermoids were 04 cases and infratemporal epidermoids were 19 cases. Clinical features and surgical strategy varies according to the location and extension of the tumors. Age range was 19-71 years (37.46 years). Common clinical features were headache, cerebellar features, seizure, vertigo, hearing impairment and features of raised intracranial pressure (ICP). Investigation was CT scan or/+ MRI of brain in all cases. Pre-operative complete excision was 20 cases, but post-operative images showed complete excision in 17 cases. Content of tumor was pearly white/white material in all cases except one, where content was putty material. Re-operation for residual/recurrent tumor was nil. Complications included pre-operative mortality one case, persisted sixth nerve palsy in one case, transient memory disturbance one case, and extra dural hematoma one case. One senior patient expired three months after the operation from spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. Rest of the patients were stable and symptom/s free till last follow-up. Conclusion: In the management of such tumors, one should keep in mind that an aggressive radical surgery carrying a high morbidity and mortality and a conservative subtotal tumor excision is associated with a higher rate of recurrence, but earlier diagnosis and complete excision or near total excision of this benign tumor can cure the patient with the expectation of normal life.
Post-craniotomy blindness in the supine position: Unlikely or ignored?
Authors: Vahedi Payman , Meshkini Ali , Mohajernezhadfard Zahra , Tubbs R
Published: April 2013

Immediate visual loss following craniotomy in the supine position is a disastrous complication in neurosurgical patients. The incidence is unknown and little is known on the definite pathogenesis. Also, preventive or restorative interventions are unclear. We describe the rare case of post-craniotomy optic neuropathy and sudden visual loss after craniotomy in the supine position for an olfactory groove meningioma, discuss the possible pathophysiology and review the literature on the pathogenesis, risk factors, and outcome. Although rare, neurosurgeons, as well as neuroanesthesiologists should be aware of the possibility of this devastating complication in the high-risk group of patients.
Hardy Averaging Operator on Generalized Banach Function Spaces and Duality
Authors: Mizuta Yoshihiro , Nekvinda Aleš , Shimomura Tetsu
Published: April 2013

Let

Af(x):=\frac{1}{|B(0,|x|)|} \int_{B(0,|x|)} f(t) \ dt

be the

n

-dimensional Hardy averaging operator. It is well known that

A

is bounded on

L^ p(\Omega)

with an open set

\Omega \subset \mathbb R^n

whenever

1<p\leq\infty

. We improve this result within the framework of generalized Banach function spaces. We in fact find the “source” space

S_X

, which is strictly larger than

X

, and the “target” space

T_X

, which is strictly smaller than

X

, under the assumption that the Hardy–Littlewood maximal operator

M

is bounded from

X

into

X

, and prove that

A

is bounded from

S_X

into

T_X

. We prove optimality results for the action of

A

and its associate operator

A'

on such spaces and present applications of our results to variable Lebesgue spaces

L^{p(\cdot)}(\Omega)

, as an extension of A. Nekvinda and L. Pick [Math. Nachr. 283 (2010), 262–271; Z. Anal. Anwend. 30 (2011), 435–456] in the case when

n=1

and

\Omega

is a bounded interval.
Does Terrorism Affect the Stock‐Bond Covariance? Evidence from European Countries
Authors: Kollias Christos , Papadamou Stephanos , Arvanitis Vangelis
Published: April 2013

Using daily stock and bond returns data from four European countries—France, Germany, Spain, and Great Britain—that have been the victims of significant terrorist activity, this study addresses the issue of whether transnational and/or domestic terrorist attacks have affected in any significant manner the time‐varying stock–bond covariance, their returns, and their variances. Stock and bond markets can be influenced and determined not only by the usual array of macroeconomic factors but also by security shocks, such as a terrorist incident, that have the potential to affect investors' sentiment and portfolio allocation decisions. The issue at hand is addressed using a VAR(p)‐GARCH(1,1)‐in‐mean model, and the results reported herein indicate that terrorist attacks trigger a flight‐to‐safety effect primarily in France and Germany and to a smaller degree in Great Britain and Spain.
Long-term patterns in dissolved organic carbon, major elements and trace metals in boreal headwater catchments: trends, mechanisms and heterogeneity
Authors: Oni S. K. , Futter M. N. , Bishop K. , Köhler S. J. , Ottosson-Löfvenius M. , Laudon H.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The boreal landscape is a complex, spatio-temporally varying mosaic of forest and mire landscape elements that control surface water hydrology and chemistry. Here, we assess long-term water quality time series from three nested headwater streams draining upland forest (C2), peat/mire (C4) and mixed (C7) (forest and mire) catchments. Acid deposition in this region is low and is further declining. Temporal trends in weather and runoff (1981–2008), dissolved organic carbon concentration [DOC] (1993–2010) and other water quality parameters (1987–2011) were assessed. There was no significant annual trend in precipitation or runoff. However, runoff increased in March and declined in May. This suggested an earlier snowmelt regime in recent years. Significant monotonic increasing trends in air temperature and length of growing season suggested a decrease in snowfall and less spring runoff. Stream [DOC] was positively correlated with some trace metals (copper, iron and zinc) and negatively with several other chemical parameters (e.g. sulfate, conductivity, calcium). Both sulfate and conductivity showed declining trends, while a significant increase was observed in pH during winter and spring. Calcium and magnesium showed monotonic decreasing trends. The declining trajectories of stream base cation and sulfate concentrations during other times of the year were not accompanied by changes in pH and alkalinity. These results indicate subtle effects of recovery from acidification. Water temperature increased significantly both annually and in most months. A simultaneous monotonic increase in iron (Fe) and [DOC] in autumn suggests co-transport of Fe-DOC in the form of organometallic complexes. A monotonic increase in UV absorbance in most months without co-occurring changes in DOC trend suggests a shift in DOC quality to a more humic-rich type. The observed increase in soil solution [DOC] and subtle trends in stream [DOC] suggest that climate rather than recovery from acidification is the dominant driver of DOC trends in the Svartberget catchment.
Response of halocarbons to ocean acidification in the Arctic
Authors: Hopkins F. E. , Kimmance S. A. , Stephens J. A. , Bellerby R. G. J. , Brussaard C. P. D. , Czerny J. , Schulz K. G. , Archer S. D.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The potential effect of ocean acidification (OA) on seawater halocarbons in the Arctic was investigated during a mesocosm experiment in Spitsbergen in June–July 2010. Over a period of 5 weeks, natural phytoplankton communities in nine ~ 50 m3 mesocosms were studied under a range of pCO2 treatments from ~ 185 μatm to ~ 1420 μatm. In general, the response of halocarbons to pCO2 was subtle, or undetectable. A large number of significant correlations with a range of biological parameters (chlorophyll a, microbial plankton community, phytoplankton pigments) were identified, indicating a biological control on the concentrations of halocarbons within the mesocosms. The temporal dynamics of iodomethane (CH3I) alluded to active turnover of this halocarbon in the mesocosms and strong significant correlations with biological parameters suggested a biological source. However, despite a pCO2 effect on various components of the plankton community, and a strong association between CH3I and biological parameters, no effect of pCO2 was seen in CH3I. Diiodomethane (CH2I2) displayed a number of strong relationships with biological parameters. Furthermore, the concentrations, the rate of net production and the sea-to-air flux of CH2I2 showed a significant positive response to pCO2. There was no clear effect of pCO2 on bromocarbon concentrations or dynamics. However, periods of significant net loss of bromoform (CHBr3) were found to be concentration-dependent, and closely correlated with total bacteria, suggesting a degree of biological consumption of this halocarbon in Arctic waters. Although the effects of OA on halocarbon concentrations were marginal, this study provides invaluable information on the production and cycling of halocarbons in a region of the world's oceans likely to experience rapid environmental change in the coming decades.
Short-term cropland responses to temperature extreme events during late winter
Authors: De Simon G. , Alberti G. , Delle Vedove G. , Peressotti A. , Zaldei A. , Miglietta F.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. In recent years, several studies have focused on terrestrial ecosystem response to extreme events. Most of this research has been conducted in natural ecosystems, but few have considered agro-ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the impact of a manipulated warmer or cooler late winter-early spring on the carbon budget and final harvest of a soybean crop (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Soil temperature was altered by manipulating soil albedo by covering the soil surface with a layer of inert silica gravel. We tested three treatments: cooling (Co), warming (W), mix (M) and control (C). An automated system continuously measured soil heterotrophic respiration (Rh), soil temperature profiles, and soil water content across the entire year in each plot. Phenological phases were periodically assessed and final harvest was measured in each plot. Results showed that treatments had only a transient effect on daily Rh rates which did not result in a total annual carbon budget significantly different from control, even though cooling showed a significant reduction in final harvest. We also observed anticipation in seed germination in both W and M treatments and a delay in germination for Co. Moreover, plant density and growth increased in W and M and decreased in Co.
A high resolution record of atmospheric carbon dioxide and its stable carbon isotopic composition from the penultimate glacial maximum to the glacial inception
Authors: Schneider R. , Schmitt J. , Köhler P. , Joos F. , Fischer H.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The reconstruction of the stable carbon isotope evolution in atmospheric CO2 (δ13Catm), as archived in Antarctic ice cores, bears the potential to disentangle the contributions of the different carbon cycle fluxes causing past CO2 variations. Here we present a highly resolved record of δ13Catm before, during and after the Marine Isotope Stage 5.5 (155 000 to 105 000 yr BP). The record was derived with a well established sublimation method using ice from the EPICA Dome C (EDC) and the Talos Dome ice cores in East Antarctica. We find an 0.4‰ offset between the mean δ13Catm level in the Penultimate (~140 000 yr BP) and Last Glacial Maximum (~22 000 yr BP), which can be explained by either (i) changes in the isotopic composition or (ii) intensity of the carbon input fluxes to the combined ocean/atmosphere carbon reservoir or (iii) by long-term peat buildup. Our isotopic data suggest that the carbon cycle evolution along Termination II and the subsequent interglacial was controlled by essentially the same processes as during the last 24 000 yr, but with different phasing and magnitudes. Furthermore, a 5000 yr lag in the CO2 decline relative to EDC temperatures is confirmed during the glacial inception at the end of MIS 5.5 (120 000 yr BP). Based on our isotopic data this lag can be explained by terrestrial carbon release and carbonate compensation.
Structural break or long memory: an empirical survey on daily rainfall data sets across Malaysia
Authors: Yusof F. , Kane I. L. , Yusop Z.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. A short memory process that encounters occasional structural breaks in mean can show a slower rate of decay in the autocorrelation function and other properties of fractional integrated I (d) processes. In this paper we employed a procedure for estimating the fractional differencing parameter in semiparametric contexts proposed by Geweke and Porter-Hudak (1983) to analyse nine daily rainfall data sets across Malaysia. The results indicate that all the data sets exhibit long memory. Furthermore, an empirical fluctuation process using the ordinary least square (OLS)-based cumulative sum (CUSUM) test for the break date was applied. Break dates were detected in all data sets. The data sets were partitioned according to their respective break date, and a further test for long memory was applied for all subseries. Results show that all subseries follows the same pattern as the original series. The estimate of the fractional parameters d1 and d2 on the subseries obtained by splitting the original series at the break date confirms that there is a long memory in the data generating process (DGP). Therefore this evidence shows a true long memory not due to structural break.
Responses of natural runoff to recent climatic changes in the Yellow River basin, China
Authors: Tang Y. , Tang Q. , Tian F. , Zhang Z. , Liu G.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The Yellow River, the second longest river in China, experienced frequent zero flow in the lower reaches of the mainstream in the 1990s. In recent years, the zero-flow phenomenon has almost disappeared. Besides engineering measures implemented to maintain ecological flows, the changes in natural runoff might have contributed to replenish the river. In this study, we used the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model and runoff elasticity analyses to assess the impacts of climatic changes on the natural streamflow at the Huayuankou station. The results show that there was little increase of precipitation but substantial recovery of natural runoff in the recent period (2003–2011) compared with the low flow period (1991–2002). The recent precipitation was slightly greater (~2% of the mean annual precipitation in the baseline period of 1960–1990) than precipitation in the low flow period. However, the natural runoff in the recent period was much larger (~14% baseline runoff) than runoff in the low flow period. The decreasing runoff in the low flow period was mainly caused by the decline in precipitation while the runoff recovery in the recent period was largely affected by the contributions from the climatic variables other than the precipitation. In the recent period, precipitation could account for a reduction of 21% baseline runoff whereas the others – net radiation, wind speed, air temperature, and relative humidity – accounted for an increase of 7.5% baseline runoff. The runoff reduction (~10.4% baseline runoff) caused by the changes in temperature and relative humidity was offset by the contribution from the decreasing net radiation and wind speed which resulted in an increase of ~17.9% baseline runoff.
Recent human impacts and change in dynamics and morphology of ephemeral rivers
Authors: Ortega J. A. , Razola L. , Garzón G.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Ephemeral streams induce flash-flood events which cause dramatic morphological changes and impacts on population, due the intermittent activity of these fluvial systems. Human pressure changes the fluvial environment and so enhances the effects of natural dynamics. Local human-induced modifications can be latent over long periods of time. These changes can be studied after the flood event, to quantify their effects and detect which are most harmful. In this paper we study flash-flood effects at two sites in Spain and compare the results before and after a~flood event. Erosion is associated with areas where there have been more anthropogenic changes in floodplains and channels. Deposition is related to erosional processes in the watershed and to the tributaries. Disruption of river channel patterns changes connectivity and scouring appears due to energy excess. This excess tends to concentrate at weak points downstream produced by anthropic disturbances. Riparian vegetation is an energy sink and reaches with more cover show less erosion than those with deforestation. Infrastructures perpendicular to the direction of flow increase stream power, but peaks of erosion on the floodplain appear displaced downstream. It is important to detect human changes by analysis of hydraulic variables before the occurrence of an extraordinary event in order to anticipate catastrophic consequences resulting from inappropriate fluvial management.
Application of wavelet transform for evaluation of hydrocarbon reservoirs: example from Iranian oil fields in the north of the Persian Gulf
Authors: Saadatinejad M. R. , Hassani H.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The Persian Gulf and its surrounding area are some of the biggest basins and have a very important role in producing huge amounts of hydrocarbon, and this potential was evaluated in order to explore the target for geoscientists and petroleum engineers. Wavelet transform is a useful and applicable technique to reveal frequency contents of various signals in different branches of science and especially in petroleum studies. We applied two major capacities of continuous mode of wavelet transform in seismic investigations. These investigations were operated to detect reservoir geological structures and some anomalies related to hydrocarbon to develop and explore new petroleum reservoirs in at least 4 oilfields in the southwest of Iran. It had been observed that continuous wavelet transform results show some discontinuities in the location of faults and are able to display them more clearly than other seismic methods. Moreover, continuous wavelet transform, utilizing Morlet wavelet, displays low-frequency shadows on 4 different iso-frequency vertical sections to identify reservoirs containing gas. By comparing these different figures, the presence of low-frequency shadows under the reservoir could be seen and we can relate these variations from anomalies at different frequencies as an indicator of the presence of hydrocarbons in the target reservoir.
NOT ALL DEFINED VALUE CLAUSES ARE EQUAL
Authors: Gerzog Wendy C.
Published: April 2013

Defined value clauses, used to value nonmarketable family limited partnership (FLP) interests, create valuation distortions and other public policy issues. This article describes these abuses and proposes the employment of restrictions similar to those applied to pecuniary formula marital deduction clauses.This article explains how pecuniary formula marital deduction provisions created valuation distortions by allowing for undervaluation of the marital share that were remedied by the IRS’s Rev. Proc. 64-19 and the enactment of § 2056(b)(10). Additionally, this article analyzes recent case law expanding the use of defined value clauses into the FLP area and criticizes the courts for not applying the public policy doctrines of Procter and Robinette to those cases. This article also distinguishes defined valuation clauses in the FLP context and shows how all fixed value clauses are not equivalent. Finally, this article proposes solutions for overcoming the valuation distortions that these clauses create.
TALES FROM A TAX CRIT
Authors: Brown Dorothy A.
Published: April 2013

N/A
Andrew Linzey and C. S. Lewis’s Theology of Animals
Authors: Devries Ben
Published: April 2013

This article provides a review and critique of Andrew Linzey’s article "C. S. Lewis’s Theology of Animals" (1998). In his article, Linzey, modern-day father of the Christian animal advocacy movement and director of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, evaluates fellow Anglican C. S. Lewis’s contributions to a theology of animals. The article considers Lewis’s perspective on animals and Linzey’s evaluation of the same within four general categories: animal pain, animal resurrection, human superiority, and human cruelty. The contributions of both authors to a theology of animals are acknowledged, but the lack of theocentric focus in their mutual thought is questioned.
Transgenic Animals, Biomedical Experiments, and "Progress"
Authors: Peggs Kay
Published: April 2013

By conducting a critical discourse analysis of a scientific research article that claims additional potential for using transgenic marmosets in biomedical experiments, this article critiques instrumental approaches to scientific progress as they are expressed in scientific research that uses nonhuman animal experiments. Following an analysis that focuses on issues associated with access to publication, assertions about scientific breakthrough and scientific facts, and the construction of science as impartial, the article concludes that manipulating the genetics of nonhuman animals to engineer a predisposition to the development of feared human health hazards represents moral deterioration rather than progress.
A Response to MacClellan
Authors: Bernstein Mark H.
Published: April 2013

In "Size Matters" in this issue, Joel MacClellan argues for three claims: (1) according to utilitarianism, faced with a choice of eating large or small animals, we should eat the large; (2) utilitarianism may ground obligations to eat meat; and (3) we justifiably attract greater moral responsibility for the "direct" killing of our food animals than we do for "indirect" killing. MacClellan tends to underestimate the resources available even to hedonistic utilitarianism and oversimplifies the conditions in the food industry. His second claim has merit but is merely an instance of utilitarianism’s problem with providing a satisfying account of justice.
Diretrizes para busca de informação no ciberespaço; Directrices para la búsqueda de información en el ciberespacio
Authors: Andrade Ilza Almeida de , Monteiro Silvana Drumond
Published: April 2013

Introdução: O ciberespaço é um espaço semântico/semiótico, desterritorializado, em constante modificação e a Web é seu principal constructo. O acesso ao ciberespaço e a Web se dá por meio dos mecanismos de busca que são tecnologias da informação que fazem a indexação automática dos conteúdos desses espaços; no entanto, tradicionalmente, utilizam palavras-chave ou descrições textuais para processarem a busca, o que dificulta a recuperação da informação de acordo com o contexto buscado pelo leitor. A grande riqueza da indexação maquínica são as múltiplas sintaxes, não obstante, o aspecto semântico é necessário para atribuir sentido a query, ou seja, a questão de busca. Entretanto, a elaboração de estratégias de busca facilita a recuperação de conteúdos ajustados ao contexto do leitor.Objetivo: Exemplificar como os mecanismos estão processando a busca (pragmática).Metodologia: Pesquisa documental com abordagem qualitativa e a análise documental como método e técnica.Resultados: Demonstraram que os mecanismos de busca selecionados proporcionam a busca contextual, porém, se as estratégias de busca forem elaboradas corretamente.Conclusões: O bibliotecário de referência deve conhecer e estudar as interfaces dos mecanismos de busca, tanto para buscar conteúdos que não estão indexados nas bases de dados, quanto para recomendar para os leitores. O bibliotecário de referência também deve utilizar sua habilidade prática de busca da informação para instruir e treinar o leitor nas técnicas e estratégias de busca.
The effect of water stress on nitrogen metabolism of horsegram Dolichos biflorus L.
Authors: Nigwekar Ashok S. , Chavan Prakash D.
Published: April 2013

Horsegram plants were raised in terule soil in earthen pots and subjected to various durations of water stress (7, 14 and 21 days). Total nitrogen contents were reduced in water-stressed plants but differently in different plant parts. Nitrate content and nitrate reductase activity decreased with stress. This species possesses a good capacity for accumulation of free proline under water stress. Analysis of amino acid composition also revealed marked changes in the levels of various amino acids in water-stressed plants. Accumulation of γ-aminobutyric acid in water-stressed plants was observed.
The degradation of potato virus M (PVM) particles in plant cells
Authors: Rudzińska-Langwald Anna
Published: April 2013

Degradation of potato virus M particles was observed in the cells of Solanum tuberosum, Solanum rostratum, Lycopersicon esculentum and Lycopersicon chilense plants infected with this virus. PVM particles found in the cytoplasm of infected parenchyma cells grouped together in the form of inclusions, often found near the tonoplast. The ends of the virus particles and the tonoplast came into close contact. Cytoplasmic protrusions containing PVM particles, reaching into vacuoles were formed in those places. In addition to a large central vacuole, small vacuoles were observed in cells containing PVM particles. Various stages of degradation of cytoplasmic protrusions were observed both in the large and small vacuoles.
Materials to the Zygnemaceae of Poland. IV. Spirogyra australica Czurda - a species new in Poland
Authors: Kadłubowska Joanna Z.
Published: April 2013

Spirogyra australica Czurda 1932 was identified in a sample taken from a small pond in the Arboretum in Rogowo (Skierniewice Voivodship) on June 17, 1986. The diagnosis of this species has been supplemented with data on the width of vegetative cells, the dimensions of zygotes and the development of the conjugation tube. S. australica has been reported in Europe only in the Federal Republic of Germany (Bock and Bock 1956, Arch. Hydrobiol. 52). The figures presented in this report are the first graphic documentation of this species.
Biosystematic studies on Dactylis L. l. Review of the previous studies. 1.2. Cytology, genetics, experimental studies, and evolution
Authors: Mizianty Marta
Published: April 2013

In this paper the author presents a review of the previous studies on Dactylis L., dealing with cytology,genetics, experimental studies and evolution. Following cytotypes of Dactylis are distributed mostly in Central Europe: 16 diploids, 7 tetraploids and also 2 hexaploids in North Africa. Some aneuploids and accessory chromosomes were also found in this genus. Data dealing with karyotypes of some taxa, and geographical distribution of cytotypes are also listed. Selected problems concerning crossing within diploids as well as tetraploids and also between diploids and teraploids were presented. Some opinions regarding the evolution in the genus Dactylis were also demonstrated. In all these hypotheses the following diploids are considered to be the oldest: D. smithii Link subsp. smithii, D. g. subsp. aschersoniana (Greabn.) Thell. and D. g. subsp. himalayensis Dom.
The morphology of hairs in taxa of the genus Plantago L. Sections: Polyneuron Decne and Lamprosantha Decne
Authors: Andrzejewska-Golec Emilia , Świętosławski Jacek
Published: April 2013

The hairs of above-ground parts (leaf, scape, bract, calyx) of 10 taxa from the section Polyneuron Decne and three from section Lamprosantha Decne are very similar. The presence of one type of headed hairs and three types of headless hairs was found in all of the studied taxa. The headed hairs are built analogically. The headless hairs in the taxa of section Polyneuron are composed of 3-4 cells, while in the taxa of sectio Lamprosantha, of 6-7 cells. P. japonica Franchet et Savat. f. polystachya Makino distinguishes itself among all the studied taxa because of the presence of a small basal cell in the headless hairs made up of several cells.
The acropetal effects of indole-3-acetic acid in isolated shoot segments of Acer pseudoplatanus L. I. Growth responses of buds
Authors: Adamczyk Jacek A.
Published: April 2013

The subject of this investigation were growth reactions of two opposite lateral buds of Acer pseudoplatanus L. stem sections in response to application of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and other synthetic growth regulators below the buds. No effect of IAA upon the initiation of bud growth was noted, however, elongation of new shoots was inhibited. This acropetal effect of auxin was enhanced by simultaneous treatment with triiodobenzoic acid (TIBA) or benzyladenine (BA). TIBA alone caused even stronger retardation of shoot growth. Exactly the opposite effect was produced by gibberellic acid (GA3) applied even 30 cm below the buds. In this case TIBA could reverse the effect of GA3 treatment. The results concerning acropetal effects of auxin suggest that some type of signalling system functions independently of the direct action of the exogenous IAA.
Distribution of linear growth rates in different directions in root apical meristems
Authors: Nakielski Jerzy
Published: April 2013

Growth of apical meristems in plants may be well described by the growth tensor method. Hejnowicz (Envir. Exp. Bot. 1989, 29) determined growth tensors for roots: one with a minimum and the other with a maximum of the relative elemental growth rate in volume and used them for the description of two types of apices: one with an apical cell and merophytes (I), and the other with files of cells converging towards a quiescent centre, CQ (II). In the present paper the same cases are considered from the point of view of a spatial and directional variation of the relative elemental rate of growth in length, RERG1. Maps of the RERG1 in two planes: axial and tangential, the latter determined by periclinal-longitudinal (PL) and periclinal-tangential (PT) principal growth directions, are shown. In an apical part of apex i where there is maximum volumetric growth, there also occurs a maximum of RERG1 for all directions. In regions other than this RERG1 decreases although RERG1 in the PL direction predominates everywhere. In apex II RERG1 for all directions has a minimum in CQ and becomes increasingly larger with increasing distance from it - the maximum is in the PL direction in the cylindrical part of the apex. In peripheral parts of both apices, in the place of the root/cap junction, RERG, in the anticlinal direction is significantly small.
The total sulphur content in the mosses of Polish National Parks - changes within the last 10 years
Authors: Szarek Grażyna , Chrzanowska Elżbieta
Published: April 2013

The pollution of Polish National Parks with sulphur compounds was determined for 1975 and 1986 using the moss, Pleurozium schreberi as a bioindicator. The mean total sulphur content in the mosses of the parks ranged from 895 to 2116 µg•g-1 dry weight in 1975 and 1117 to 2410 µg•g-1 dry weight in 1986. Statistical differences were found in the concentration of sulphur in mosses between the particular parks, as well as among the peripheral and central park areas in 1975 while such differences were lacking in 1986. The total sulphur in mosses showed a tendency to increase over the 10-year period although there was no statistically significant difference between the concentrations of this element between the two studied periods. The level of total sulphur is significantly modified by atmospheric precipitation and does not therefore always accurately illustrate the degree of air pollution with SO2. For this reason, mosses cannot be recognised as suitable indicators of pollution of the atmosphere with sulphur compounds.
The concentration of elements in the central vacuole sap and endosperm tissue during embryogenesis (Clivia miniata Regel)
Authors: Ryczkowski Marian , Reczyński Witold
Published: April 2013

Changes in the concentration of eight elements (K, Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu) in the central vacuole sap and endosperm tissue during development of Clivia miniata ovules using atomic absorption spectrometry were determined. Generally, the concentration of most of the elements in the central vacuole sap first increased to a certain maximum and then decreased (proembryo stage). In the endosperm tissue (proper embryo stage) the concentration of elements showed either a tendency to increase (K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu) or no visible change (Na, Mn) during embryogenesis. The concentration of the investigated elements (except Ca) was distinctly higher in the endosperm tissue than in the central vacuole sap. It is suggested that the elements contained in the sap were selectively taken up by the developing endosperm tissue and embryo. The final conclusion is that such selectivity leads to a gradual increase in the concentrations of these elements from the lowest in the central vacuole sap, medium in the endosperm tissue, to the highest concentration in the developing embryo.
Flavonoids from the flowers of Nymphaea alba L.
Authors: Jambor Jerzy , Skrzypczak Lutosława
Published: April 2013

Ten flavonoids were obtained from the flowers of Nymphaea alba L. Their structures were determined mainly on the basis of spectral analyses (UV, 'H NMR, MS). The following aglycons were isolated: quercetin, kaempferol, isokaempferide and apigenin as well as the following glycosides: quercetion 4'-β-xyloside, 3-methylquercetin 3'-β-xyloside and a mixture of quercetin 3-galactoside and 3-glucoside. The structures of three compounds obtained in very small amounts were determined in part.
The participation of chlorophyllase in chlorophyll metabolism
Authors: Drążkiewicz Maria , Krupa Zbigniew
Published: April 2013

Although the breakdown of chlorophylls can easily be visually recognized, the fate of these photosynthetic pigments as well as their catabolism is still largely unknown. In the past, the enzyme called "chlorophyllase" (chlorophyll-chlorofillido-hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.14) had been thought to participate both in the biosynthesis and in the degradation of chlorophylls. It is, however, clear at present that in vivo this enzyme is involved rather in the first steps of chlorophyll degradation.
Localization of Ca2+ and Ca-ATPase on wet (Ruscus aculeatus) and dry (Primula officinalis) stigma surface
Authors: Bednarska Elżbieta
Published: April 2013

Calcium is present in the surface cells of both types of stigma. The chlorotetracycline method was used to show that the papillae of the dry stigma of Primula officinalis are the source of fluorescence of the CTC-Ca2+ complex. The precipitation method (NHA) localized calcium ions mainly in the pellicula surrounding these papillae. The NHA-Ca2+ precipitates were localized on the plasma membrane in the papillae of the wet stigma of Ruscus aculeatus. Ca-ATPase activity was found in both types of stigma in sites where the presence of Ca2+ had been determined.
The roles of glutamate dehydrogenase, glutamine synthetase and three forms of glutamate synthase on nitrogen assimilation in various organs of Pisum arvense L.
Authors: Kubik-Dobosz Genowefa
Published: April 2013

The activities of GDH, GS and three forms of GOGAT (NADH, NADPH or ferredoxin-dependent) were studied in the leaves, stems and roots of the Pisum arvense. GS and the individual forms of GOGAT dominated in the leaves of 7 day-old plants which were taking up NO3- or NH4+ ions, while NADH-GDH dominated in the roots of these plants. In comparison with HNO3- , NH4+ ions stimulated the activity of most of the enzymes of the GS/GOGAT and GDH pathways in stems and roots, while in and leaves this effect was age-dependent. The Fd-GOGAT located in leaves and stems was not regulated by NH4+ , which indicates that this enzyme is not likely to be directly involved in the assimilation of NH4+ ions that have been taken up. The obtained data indicate that at lower tissue NH4+ concentration a decisive role in nitrogen assimilation in leaves and stems is played by the GS/GOGAT pathway, while in the roots-by GDH and in less degree by GS, GOGAT. High amounts of accumulated NH4+ ions set off a detoxication mechanism which includes NADH-GDH, common to all tissues. Only in 7 day-old leaves did the detoxication of NH4+ take place with the involvement of NADH-GOGAT and NADPH-GOGAT.
Use of X-ray microanalysis for study of cation distribution in potassium deficient pumpkin roots
Authors: Burmistrova Natalia , Krasavina Marina , Pogorelov Alexander
Published: April 2013

Ice slices of root tissues were investigated by X-ray microanalysis. It is shown that the cytoplasm of the meristematic and differentiated cells of potassium dificiest roots maintains a high potassium level. The vacuoles of various root cells loose more K and accumulate more Na and Mg than does the cytoplasm.
Distribution of plant communities as a function of the relative insolation of the Czyżówki rocky ridge in the Ojców National Park
Authors: Michalik Stefan
Published: April 2013

Highly significant dependences were found between the distribution of plant communities and the relative insolation on a small rocky ridge with relief and microclimatic conditions varying to a very great degree. The dependences are presented in graphical and numerical forms, and their significance is tested using non-parametric statistics.
Soil and vegetation characteristics of a peatland near Lake Édouard in Mauricie National Park, Québec, Canada
Authors: Milette Pierre , Fontaine Denis , Grandtner Miroslav V.
Published: April 2013

The majority of plant communities within the peatland near Lake Édouard belongs to the poor fen group. They are containing poor fen species such as Myrica gale, Carex rostrata, Glyceria canadensis, Calamagrostis canadensis, Carex canescens, Carex stricta, Alnus rugosa and Sphagnum subsecundum. Members of these taxa grow in association with a group of marsh species and with Chamaedaphne calyculata and Sphagnum majus, species characteristic of bogs. The soil are of the humisol great group, being well decomposed and relatively rich in nutrient elements but ranging from extremely to strongly acidic. Four new associations are noted: Sphagno-Juncetum brevicaudati, Sphagno-Hypericetum boreale, Sphagno-Glycerietum canadensis and Carici canescenti-Sphagnetum maji. The distribution of vegetation appears dependent on ground relief and, consequently, on the level and quality of water in the peatland.
The structure of plant communities on the example of an oak-pine forest (Pino-Quercetum) in Ratanica Valley (Carpathian Foothills) 1. The homotoneity of a forest floor vegetation in terms of the frequency and co-occurence of species
Authors: Pancer-Kotejowa Elżbieta , Różański Wojciech
Published: April 2013

Mathematical methods of uniformity analysis were used to evaluate the results of classification of plant communities by the Braun-Blanquet method. This was done by both the freguency analysis method traditionally used in phytosociology and by the verification of the null hypothesis on the independent occurrence of species. The results obtained confirmed the validity of the following assumptions: 1) the number of high frequency species rises along with the decreasing rank of the syntaxon and 2) the proportion of species occurring interdependently (showing a positive or negative correlation) decreases.
Significance of Hippophae rhamnoides L. in evolution of the Eemian Interglacial' flora in Warsaw area
Authors: Krupiński Krzysztof M.
Published: April 2013

Palynologic studies of sediments from Warsaw-Wawrzyszew and other sites in the Warsaw Basin enabled to analyze main occurrence phases of Hippophae rhamnoides during the widely understood Lake Pleistocene interglacial warming. In initial phases of the Eemian Interglacial (late glacial of a preceding glaciation) the area of Warsaw-Wawrzyszew indicated especially favourable conditions for such rich development of sea-buckthorn. Analysis of occurrence phases of this bush proves that besides climatic conditions, great influence on more abundant occurrence of sea-buckthorn in its late glacial (pre-interglacial) part could be played by edaphic conditions, mainly contents of basic compounds (CaCO3) in a substrate.
Problems of shape characterization and comparison in bryophytes
Authors: Szweykowski Jerzy , Krzyśko Mirosław
Published: April 2013

Shapes of leaves of two liverwort species, viz. Lophozia ventricosa and Lophozia silvicola, were characterized by means of three different methods: polar coordinates, conics, and Fourier series. Results were then used to compare the leaf shapes of the two taxa, and differentiate between their leaves. Characterization by Fourier series gave the most reliable results.
The activity of acid phosphatase and the level of storage proteins during the early stages of germination of Lupinus luteus L. and Lupinus angustifolius L. seeds
Authors: Olczak Mariusz , Nizioł Ewa , Widłak Wiesława , Morawiecka Bronisława
Published: April 2013

Changes in the level of protein and in the activity of acid phosphatase in seeds of Lupinus luteus L. and Lupinus angustifolius L. during storage and germination were studied. The protein level decreased during germination, mainly as the result of a fall in the concentration of β-conglutin. After an initial decrease in the activity of acid phosphatase activity during the first five days of germination, the activity of this enzyme began to rise with the appearance of two new molecular forms. No significant effect of gibberelin A3 on the specific ativity of acid phosphatase was observed.
The effect of endo- and exogenous factors on growth and maturation of oilseed rape (Brassica napus cv. Jet Neuf) siliques cultured in vitro
Authors: Drozdowska Lucyna , Ulanowska Małgorzata , Rogozińska Janina
Published: April 2013

The effect of developmental stage of siliques, growth regulators, agar and sucrose concentrations in the medium was investigated on the morphogenesis of the silliques and seed maturation. Regeneration of shoots, roots and callus occurred at the base of siliques during their growth. The developmental stage of the incubated siliques was the most important factor affecting the number of seeds, while the conditions of culture (agar and growth regulators) constituted a secondary factor. The reasons for the insignificant number of seeds produced could be the lack of fertilization of some of the ovules, limited ability of siliques to take up nutrients and the unspecific composition of the medium.
The metabolism of aged seeds. The formation of polyribosomes in germinating field bean ( Vicia faba sp. minor) seeds of different ages
Authors: Zalewski Kazimierz
Published: April 2013

Total dehydrogenase activity and formation of polyribosomes in embryonic axes and cotyledons of field bean seeds from different harvest years were studied. 3H-uridine incorporation experiments showed that seed ageing was accompanied by decreased capability for RNA synthesis and polyribosome formation. The embryonic axes of seeds with reduced vigor contained lower levels of polyribosomes.
Endogenous oscillations of electric potential difference in the cambial region of the pine stem. I. General characteristics of the oscillations
Authors: Kurek Wojciech
Published: April 2013

Extracellular measurements of electric potential difference (PD) in isolated tissue blocks from Scots pine were performed. Endogenous transient PD changes (oscillations) generated exclusively in the cambial region were found. They were not recorded in tissue blocks exposed to drastic thermal treatment. The oscillations were significantly damped by respiration inhibitors and stimulated by fusicoccin. The results point to the cambial region as the main source of electric activity in a woody stem.