bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In the realm of Big Data ...
Authors: Bryant Antony , Raja Uzma
Published: February 2014

In 2008, Chris Anderson (2008), at that time the Editor–in–Chief of Wired, proposed that in the age of the petabyte, there was no longer any need for the scientific method, nor for models or theories. Although it might be contended that this was more provocation and journalistic hubris than formal or substantiated claim, the issue was taken up and has gathered momentum ever since. Indeed within a year or so of Anderson’s article, and a series of rejoinders published on the Edge Web site, ‘The Age of Big Data’ was being heralded, and the measure had increased from petabytes to exabytes, zettabytes, and yottabytes. Diebold (2012) usefully distinguishes between Big Data ‘the phenomenon’, ‘the term’, and ‘the discipline’; arguing that the phenomenon ‘continues unabated’, the term is ‘firmly entrenched’, and the discipline is ‘emerging’. In what follows we focus initially on the term and the phenomenon, but our main objective is to argue that it is critical that there is general understanding of the emerging discipline. In particular we aim to justify the assertion that in the age of Big Data the ability to be able to develop abstractions and concepts is at least as important as it was previously; perhaps even more so. Moreover that these skills and techniques need to be understood and available to all of us in an era where we are all analysts and researchers at least to the extent of our use of the internet and its potential for affording search and investigation of online resources. We seek to offer some critical insights into these activities — modeling, conceptualizing, and theorizing — by comparing and contrasting Knowledge Discovery from Data (KDD) with the Grounded Theory Method (GTM). The former a technical orientation, that although predating Big Data, lies at the heart of the emerging tools and techniques. The latter a widely used approach to qualitative research aimed at developing conceptual models ‘grounded in the data’.
Agreement between Photographic Screening and Hospital Biomicroscopy Grading of Diabetic Retinopathy and Maculopathy
Authors: Healy Rachel , Sallam Ahmed , Jones Vanessa , Donachie Paul H.J. , Scanlon Peter H. , Stratton Irene M. , Johnston Robert L.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To examine the level of agreement and reasons for disagreement between grading of diabetic retinopathy and maculopathy using mydriatic digital photographs in a diabetic retinopathy screening service (DRSS) and hospital eye service (HES).

Methods

English NHS Diabetic Eye Screening Programme grades for diabetic retinopathy prospectively recorded on a hospital electronic medical record were compared to the grades from the DRSS event that prompted referral. In cases of disagreement, images were reviewed.

Results

Data for 1,501 patients (3,002 eyes) referred between 2008 and 2011 were analyzed. The HES retinopathy grades were R0 (no retinopathy) in 341 eyes, R1 (background retinopathy) in 1,712 eyes, R2 (pre-proliferative retinopathy) in 821 eyes, and R3 (proliferative retinopathy) in 128 eyes. The DRSS grades were in agreement in 2,309 eyes (76.9%), recorded a lower grade in 227 eyes, and recorded a higher grade in 466 eyes. Agreement was substantial (κ = 0.65). The commonest cause for disagreement was overgrading of R1 as R2 by hospital clinicians. The HES maculopathy grades were M0 (no maculopathy) in 2,267 eyes and M1 (maculopathy) in 735 eyes. The DRSS were in agreement in 2,111 eyes (70.2%), recorded a lower grade in 106 eyes, and recorded a higher grade in 785 eyes. Agreement was fair (κ = 0.39). The commonest cause for disagreement was hospital clinicians missing fine exudates.

Conclusions

This study establishes a benchmark standard for agreement between HES and DRSS grading. Review of DRSS and grading reports images for newly referred patients is likely to improve levels of agreement, particularly for diabetic retinopathy, and should be strongly encouraged.
Venous International Assessment, VIA Scale, Validated Classification Procedure for the Peripheral Venous System
Authors: de la Torre-Montero Julio-César , Montealegre-Sanz María , Faraldo-Cabana Araceli , Oliva-Pellicer Belén , García-Real Isabel , Fenwick Molly , Cáceres Esther Marcos , Rivas-Eguía Beatriz , Vila-Borrajo Concepción , Valles-Andrés Jesús , Alonso-Gordoa Teresa , García-Carrión Carmen , García Eduardo Diaz-Rubio , Beneit-Montesinos Juan-Vicente
Published: February 2014

Purpose

VIA scale is a dynamic performance status tool of the peripheral venous system that is divided into five different grades, composed of three parameters: number of observable puncture points; optimal catheter size for cannulation and ease of performing venipuncture and risk of extravasation.

Methods

Prospective single-center, observational, open, non-randomized study divided into two phases. In the first longitudinal phase, we studied the clinical characteristics and the changes in their peripheral venous systems during intravenous chemotherapy for 16 patients (n=16) for an average period of 24 months. In the second transverse phase, we measured the vein's diameter at the selected puncture points with a high-resolution ultrasound and paired this figure with VIA scale. We selected a group of oncology patients (n=52) and a control group (n=56).

Results

In the first phase, the level of agreement between the three reviewers was excellent. The second step was to assess the relationship between the measurements obtained with ultrasound and the VIA scale. The vein diameter measurements show a decrease directly related to the assessment of observers in the VIA scale.

Conclusions

The VIA scale is a simple, easy and practical method for classification of the peripheral venous system in terms of vascular access. The practical application of our VIA scale significantly increases the quality of life of patients by increasing the chances of successful venipuncture and cannulation and thus reducing the risk of extravasation and material costs, allowing both an economical and a safe venous assessment tool.
Feasibility of nephron sparing surgery in giant oncocytoma
Authors: El Hajj Albert , Thanigasalam Ruban , Boulay Isabelle , Molinié Vincent , Escudier Bernard , Baumert Hervé
Published: February 2014

Oncocytomas represent 3 to 7% of renal masses and behave as benign tumours. Nephron-sparing procedures are preferred for biopsy confirmed lesions; however, giant oncocytomas have been generally treated by radical nephrectomy. We report the first case of partial nephrectomy in a 45-year-old man who presented with a 20-cm oncocytoma. At the 1 year follow-up, he had a normal functioning kidney. Despite the difficulty of this procedure, partial nephrectomy for very large benign tumours can be considered in appropriately selected young patients.
Overexpression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 through aberrant canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in heterotopic ossification of adrenal myelolipoma
Authors: Mitsui Yozo , Yasumoto Hiroaki , Hiraki Miho , Arichi Naoko , Ishikawa Noriyoshi , Harada Yuji , Maruyama Riruke , Shiina Hiroaki
Published: February 2014

The precise mechanism of heterotopic ossification caused by several types of tumours is largely unknown. However, recent studies have indicated that bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) is closely linked to the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in this rare phenomenon of bone formation. We report a rare case of adrenal myelolipoma (ML) in a 27-year-old woman with heterotopic bone formation. Immunohistochemical findings showed BMP2 expression in the cytoplasm of tumour cells, as well as the matrix adjacent to newly developed bone tissue. In addition, β-catenin was prominent in the cytoplasm and nuclei of BMP2-positive tumour cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of adrenal ML showing heterotopic ossification with accelerated expression of both BMP2 and β-catenin. Our case findings indicate that BMP2 overexpression via aberrant canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling may contribute to heterotopic bone formation occurring in adrenal ML.
Estimation of Reduced Partition Function Ratios of Lithium-Graphite Intercalation Compounds by Density Functional Theory
Authors: Sato Kunihiko , Saito Shun , Yanase Satoshi , Oi Takao
Published: February 2014

The reduced partition function ratio (RPFR) of lithium in lithium-graphite intercalation compounds (Li-GICs) was evaluated at the UB3LYP=6-311G(d) level of theory. The partition functions were written in the usual rigid-rotor harmonic oscillator approximation.With a C24H12coronene molecule as the model of graphene, lithium-coronene sandwich, and club sandwich compounds were considered as models of Li-GICs. The estimated value of the6Li-to-7Li RPFR was 1.0402 at 25 °C, which yielded 1.034 as the value of the equilibrium constant, K, of the lithium isotope exchange reaction between a lithium ion in an ethylene carbonate=ethylmethyl carbonate mixed solvent and a lithium atom in interlayer space of graphite. The estimated value of K was larger than the experimental value of 1.025. The unsatisfactory agreement between the estimated and experimental K values suggested that larger molecules should be used as models of graphene and that the vibrational anharmonicity should also be taken into consideration.
Serological characteristics of some putative hybrid individuals from a Pinus sylvestris x Pinus mugo hybrid swarm population
Authors: Prus-Gowacki Wiesław , Szweykowski Jerzy
Published: February 2014

The antigenic properties of some putative hybrid individuals from a hybrid swarm population were studied. All the plants were to a major or lesser degree intermediate between three pure taxa, i.e. P. sylvestris, P. mugo and P. uliginosa. The plants are, however, not intermediate in general, but are sin-Mar to one species in part of their antigenic properties (enzymatic systems) and to the other one in the rest. It means that there is no common trend in the variation of the antigenic characters (proteins) and they behave independently.
Differentiation of shoot elements from the rachis of Secale cereale L.
Authors: Rybczyński Jan J. , Stolarz Andrzej , Ślusarkiewicz-Jarzyna Aurelia
Published: February 2014

In vitro culture of young Secale cereale spikes is described with special attention given to changes in development of the rachis. 7 mm explants were cultivated on a modified M u r a s h i g e and S k o o g (1962) medium (MS) supplemented with 2,4-D (dichlorophenoxyacetic acid), NAA (α-naph-thaleneacetic acid), IAA (β-indoleacetic acid), 2,4,5-T (trichlorophenoxyacetic acid), and ZEA (zeatin), KIN (kinetin), BAP (6-benzylaminopurine), IPA (izopentenyladenine or 2 iP) in numerous combinations and concentrations. Rachises differentiated branches with node construction in the presence of synthetic auxin. Rhizogenesis of explants was stimulated by 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T. 2,4,5-T + IPA appeared to be the best combination for callus regeneration. Many meristematic centres were found previously and combinations of NAA + KIN stimulated direct, whereas 2,4-D + ZEA indirect, differentiation of shoot elements. Development was observed from plantlets to flowering plants.
Flavonoids in the leaves of polish species of the genus Betula L. III. The flavonoids of B. oycoviensis Bess. leaves
Authors: Pawłowska Lucyna
Published: February 2014

B. oycoviensis Bess. leaves were found to contain compounds characteristic of B. "nova" i.e. myricitrin, isoquercitrin and probably also kaempferol 3-rhamno-7-glucoside, quercetin 3,7,4'-trimethyl ether, and quercetin 7,3',4'-trimethyl ether. They also contain compounds which occur in B. pendula Roth. (kaempferol 3-glucoside, isorhamnetin 3-glactoside, 6-methoxykaempferide, acacetin 7-glucoside, and probably scutellarein 7-glycoside). These biochemical traits bring out still better the hybrid origin of B. oycoviensis.
The history of Pseudomonas extorquens In commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the death of Professor Kazimierz Bassalik
Authors: Bassalik-Chabielska Ludmiła
Published: February 2014

On the 20th anniversary of the death of Professor Kazimierz Bassalik it is just the time to relate the story of the bacterial strain Pseudomonas extorquens isolated by him in 1913. The history of investigations on these bacteria in recent years is discussed. Attention is called to the lack of the description of the species extorquens in the latest edition of B e r g e y' s Manual of Determinative Bacteriology (1974) and in P a l l e r o n i' s monograph (1978).
Pattern of ray arrangement on cross section of bark of Aesculus
Authors: Pyszyński Władysław
Published: February 2014

The arrangement of rays within the phloem and rhytidome was studied in Aesculus stems. It was found that on the cross section most rays in the stem deviate in Z-direction, that is to the right from the geometric radius. The mechanism of Z-arrangement of the rays may be as follows: owing to the action of wind on the crown torques arise causing the torsion of the wood core. The dissymmetry of the mechanical properties of the Aesculus wood core leads to accumulation of residual Z-torsion, and as consequence of this wood core torsion to the right occurs when seen from above. In the course of this torsion the soft phloem layers lying between the column and the rigid shield of the outer tissues (rhytidome and outher sclerified phloem layers) are drawn by the core and this results in their deviation to the right in respect to the geometrical radius.
Taxonomy and nomenclature of Camelina pilosa auct.
Authors: Mirek Zbigniew
Published: February 2014

It was found when examining typical herbary material that Camelina sativa a pilosa DC. is a synonym, of C. microcarpa Andrz.. subsp. silvestris (Wallr.) Hiit. and C. pilosa (DC:) Zing. Q=C. sativa (L.) Cr. subsp. pilosa (DC.) Zing.) belongs to C. sativa (L.) Cr. s.l.. Therefore the name of C. pilosa (DC.) Zing. as based on the alien type should be rejected and the author suggests in its place the name of C. sativa (L.) Cr. var. Zingeri Mirek vas. nova.
Cytoplasniic differentiation during microsporogenesis in higher plants
Authors: Dichinnson H.
Published: February 2014

Conspicuous cytoplasmic dedifferentiation in the pollen mother cells takes place early in the meiotic prophase of many plants. This event involves the removal of much of the cytoplasmic RNA. and the differentiation of both plastids and mitochondria to approaching the sole expression of their genomes. Much of the RNA removed from the cytoplasm passes to the nucleoplasm where it is utilised in the construction of a new `generation' of ribusomes. These new ribosomes are incorporated into cytoplasmic `nuclewhich disintegrate in the post-meiotic cytoplasm, restoring its ribosomes to pre-prophase levels. These changes are interpreted as evidence of a process by which the cytoplasm is cleansed of sporophytic control elements, both for the expression of the new gametophytic genome, and in the female cells of higher plants, for transmission to the new generation. The absence of control elements (presumably long-term messenger RNA) from the cytoplasm would result in the dedifferentiation observed in the organelles, and the low levels of reserves in these cells presumably results in characteristically lengthy and unusual redifferentiation of both plastids and mitochondria, once information-carrying molecules again enter the cytosol.
Changes in nucleic acid and protein levels during in vitro germ¬nation and elongation of Lilium longifforum cv. "Ace" polleni
Authors: Dashek William V.
Published: February 2014

While changes in nucleic acid and protein levels during germination and subsequent tube elongation have been determined for a number of pollens, they have not been extensively examined for in vitro grown Lilium longiflorum, cv. `Ace' pollen. Nucleic acids and proteins were extracted with cold trichloroacetic acrid (TCA), cold-hot TCA or cold TCA and potassium hydroxide-perchloric acid (KOH-HClO4). Following extraction, RNA, DNA and total protein were assayed colorimetrically with orcinol, diphenylamine and Folin-Phenol reagents, respectively. Extraction of 500 x g supernatants with KOH-HClO4, yielded less RNA than either of the TCA-extraction procedures which gave similar nucleic acids and protein recoveries. Whereas total protein levels decreased initially and then increased during 36 h, RNA and DNA levels rose throughout the time-course. Precipitation and quaritiation of nucleic acids and protein from homogenized and soaicated 500 x g pellets resulted in time-dependent alterations in levels of macromolecules which differed from those for 500 x g supernatants. Whereas DNA and RNA levels increased and then decreased over 36 h, total protein levels remained constant for 12 h and then declined during the : next 24 h. Addition of the data obtained for 500 x g supernatants to those for 500 x g pellets revealed that total protein levels increased 2.4 times for the first 12 h and thereafter remained constant, that RNA levels increased 9.8 times for the first 12 h and then levelled off and that the DNA content rose more than 5 times over 36 h.
Praline metabolism by germinating Lilium longiflorum pollen. I. Labelling of cytoplasmic, wall and culture medium molecules
Authors: Dashek W. V. , Mills R. R.
Published: February 2014

Radioactivity occurs in trithloroacetic acid (TCA)-soluble and precipitable, cytoplasm and salt-washed walls following germination of Lilium longiflorum, cv. 'Ace' pollen in medium containing [14C]-proline (Pro). Sephadex gel filtration on G-25 through G-100 was employed to determine whether radioactivity in cytoplasm, wall and growth medium from pollen fed [14C]-Pro or [3H]=Pro plus [14C]-arafbinose (Ara) was contained within molecules possessing molecular weights of 5,000 to 100,000 daltones or greater. G-25 elution profiles of a crude cytoplasmic fraction (15,000 X g supernatant) from [14C]-Pro labelled pollen yielded a radioctive void volume peak and a retarded peak. The void volume peak contained hydroxyproline (Hyp), and exhibited a coincidence of [3H]-Pro and [14C] -Ara labelling when pollen was double labelled with the two isotopes. This peak also contained radioactivity when pollen was germinated in 2-[3H]-myo-inositol. Germination in medium supplemented with 100 µM 2,2'-dipyridyl eliminated radioactivity from 2-[3H]-myo-inositol or [14C]-,Pro in the peak. Filtratian on G-25 of aTCA-soluble fraction of a salt-extract of walls from [14C]-Pro labelled pollen resulted in void volume and two retarded peaks. Void volume and two retarded peaks were also obtained upon G-25 filtration of a cellulase-digest of walls from [M]-Pro labeled pollen. The void volume peak contained Hyp, Lys, Gly, Ala, Ser, Glu and Asp acids, Val, Tyr, Leu or lieu and Pro. Sephadex G-90, 75, and 100 elution profiles of cellulasedigests of walls from [3H]-,Pro and [14C]-Ara labelled pollen yielded radioactive retarded and Hyp-containing void volume peaks with a coincidence of [3H] and [14C] labelling. Label in the void volume was obtained when either rhozyme P11- or pepsin-digests of walls from [14C]-Pro labelled pollen were gel filtered on G-50. Paper electrophoresis coupled with paper chromatography of acid hydrolyzates of salt-washed wall fractions demonstrated 15 of the common amino acids. Gel filtration on G-25 of growth medium in which pollen was germinated resulted in two peaks, one of which eluted in the void volume. contained Hyp and excluded during subsequent gel filtration on G-100.
The metabolic incorporation of label from myoinositol-2-3H by the growing young anther of Lilium lorlgiflorum
Authors: Miki-Hirosige H. , Nakamura S.
Published: February 2014

Fine structural autoradiography involving the incorporation of myo-inositol-2-3H (MI-2-3H) unto lily anther during development has been used to explore the metabolic processes of microspore development and the interation between the devlaping microspore and degenerating tapetal cells.
Pollen tube growth through nucellus into embryo sac of Spinacia - an ultrastructural investigation
Authors: Wilms H. J.
Published: February 2014

The micropylar parts of nucellus and embryo sac were studied in relation to pollen tube growth and its entrance into the embryo sac. The initially homogeneous walls of the cells of the conductive nucellar tissue disintegrate at the middle lamellae region. Pollen tubes pierce the nucellar cuticle and continue their growth into the nucellus intercellularly. Subsequently they can follow various pathways to reach the FA of the degenerated synergid. The penetration into this synergid, and the discharge of the tube contents are described and discussed.
A molecular basis for the self-incompatibility system operating in Brassica sp.
Authors: Dickinson H. G. , Roberts I. N.
Published: February 2014

Molecules contained in the sporophytically-derived coating of the pollen grain and in the superficial pellicle of the stigmatic papillae control the self-incompatibility response of the breeding system of Brassica. The stigmatic pellicle consists of a lipidic matrix in which float a mosaic of proteins many of which can rapidly be renewed from pools in the papillar cyto-plasm. A fraction of these proteins are involved in facilitating the passage of water to the pollen whilst another, possibly a glycoprotein, suppresses this activity in an incompatible mating. The pollen coating must also contain two sets of active molecules, one for identifying the stigmatic recognition molecules, and another for effecting the changes that take place tothe coat itself on compatible pollination. In essence, the self -incompatibility mechanism appears to operate through the control of water flow from 'the papilla to the grain. Even when incompatible grains manage to germinate by obtaining atmospheric water, their proteins will often stimulate a reaction in the stigmatic papilla once the cuticle has been penetrated.
Cytoembryological aspects of reduced seed setting in Ranunculus ficaria L. subsp. bulbifer (Marsden-Jones) Lawalrée
Authors: Wcisło Helena , Pogan Eugenia
Published: February 2014

Highly disturbed micro- and macro-sporogenesis in R. ficaria L. subsp. bulbifer gives rise to cytologically and genetically unbalanced reproductive cells. In plants from different papulatians, pollen degenerates in various percentages. The majority of apparently normal 7-nucleate ES's undergo abortion. Fertilization occurs sporadically only in ca 7% of ovules. Numerous young achenes undergo degeneration resulting from unviable genotypic combinations. Only 1% of seeds contain multicellular embryos, endosperm tissue and are capable of germination.
Experimental study of embryo differentiation in angiosperms
Authors: Batygina T. B. , Vasilyeva V. E.
Published: February 2014

By comparison of peony and lotus embryos in in vitro culture we established differences in their morphogenetic potential. We traced in peony embryo culture: embryogenesis, embryoidogenesis, organogenesis and histogenesis, whereas the lotus embryo enhibited only one pathway of development - embryogenesis. At the critical stage the embryo becomes independent of the maternal organism, i.e, self-sufficient. Self-sufficiency of the lotus embryo on the 4O-11th day after pollination correlates with development and greening of the first -lead in the plumule, with a sharp increase in embryo dry weight and content of carbohydrates, decrease in the size of the endosperm, degeneration of the inner integument, appearance of starch in the embryo and ovary walls an Increase of its content in the outer integument.
Dynamics of early embryo development in reference to endosperm and embryo types in angiosperms
Authors: Erdelska Olga
Published: February 2014

The mitotic cycle of the endosperm cells is relatively short in the firsit phases of the postfertilization development. The endosperm type does not significantly influence the duration of the mitotic cycle; it might, however, influence the dynamics of zygote and embryo development. The quick development and early end of cellular endosperm proliferation is connected with the fact that it is, in most cases, bound to small, "spare" or "saving" tenuinucellate and unitegmic ovules. Structural differences in the behaviour of the endosperm of different types, in the phase of globular and early heart embryo, might point to differences in the time or way of transition of the embryo from suspensorial to surface nutrition.
The contribution of embryogeny to the systematics of Polycarpi cae and Helobiae
Authors: Guignard J. , Thi Ba Ly
Published: February 2014

The study of embryogenesis in 27 genera of Polycarpicae and Helobiae allows to determine the embryological characters of these two taxa and determine their phylogenetic bonds by comparison with other morphologic criteria. This study suggests that 'there is no direct relationship between Ranunculales and Helobiae, whereas the latter, in spite of their appearance, show some relationship with Magnoliaceae.
Early events during embryogenesis in Zea mays L.
Authors: Van Lammeren A. A.
Published: February 2014

The megagametophyte of Zea mays L. undergoes a series of structural changes after fertilization resulting in a well differentiated mature embryo and cellular endosperm at 480 hours after pollination in greenhouse conditions. In the present work emphasis was laid on the localization of the cytoplasm in the synergids, central cell-endosperm and egg cell-zygote prior to and after fertilization. The observations are discussed in relation to the process of early embryogenesis.
Further observations on the physico-biochemical and physiolo gical gradients in the ovule during embryogenesis
Authors: Ryczkowski Marian
Published: February 2014

In the developing ovule (Clivia sp. and Clivia miniata; exponential phase of embryo growth) the following gradients were found: of osmotic value, concentration of free amino acids, respiration rate in the endosperm tissue, and osmotic value and respiration rate gradients in the embryo. Generally these gradients (with the exception of respiration rate in the embryo) were directed from the chalaza to the micropyde i.e. in the opposite direction of the embryo elongation (imicropyle→chalaza). The obtained results suggest of the direction of some gradients can change during the ovule development.
Embryogenesis of angiosperms: ultrastructural transformations of plastids
Authors: Zhukova G. Ya.
Published: February 2014

Electron microscopic study of Alcea rosea and Valeriana officinalis embryogenesis showed the ultrastructural changes in the embryo plastidome. It is assumed that plastids of the mature angiosperms zygote are of one genetic type. Tissue ditferentiation and changes of plastid functions in the course of embryogenesis and plant development underlie the histological differentiation of plastids and their ontogenic transformations (metamorphosis).
Structural and functional polymorphism of plastids in leaves of Clivia miniata Rgl. I. Ontogenesis of plastids in epidermis and guard cells
Authors: Mikulska Eugenia , Damasz Barbara , Żołnierowicz Halina
Published: February 2014

During leaf ontogenesis in Clivia miniata epidermal and guard cell plastids differing in structure and function differentiate from morphologically equal proplastids. Plastid differentiation proceeds in parallel to cellular differentiation and stops in cells reaching maturity. It is suggested that the developmental sequence of plastids is fixed within cells and controlled by the inner mechanisms.
Inhibition of nitrate reductase and ATPase activities in Zea mays roots by tungsten and N, N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide
Authors: Buczek Józef , Burzyński Marek , Suder-Moraw Anna
Published: February 2014

The activity of soluble and membrane-bound ATPase obtained from corn roots was in vivo markedly inhibited by N,N' -dicyclohexylcanbodiimide (DCCD) and W042- ions. DCCD (2.5 X 10-5 M) added to the nutrient solution strongly decreased in vivo nitrate reductase (NR) activity after 12-h growth of plants while it had no effect in experiments in vitro on NR activity. Tungsten in a concentration of 10-4 M completely blocked NR activity after 24 h. In the above used concentrations neither DCCD nor W042- inhibited completely N03- absorption by corn roots. The results suggest that there must exist in corn roots another or an additional mechanism of N03- assimilation apart from of that proposed by Butz and Jackson (1977).
The use of Sphagnum recurvum Pal. Beauv. as biological tests for determination of the level of pollution with fluorine compounds and sulphur dioxide in the environment
Authors: Świeboda Maria , Kalemba Andrzej
Published: February 2014

The green parts of the peat moss Sphagnum recurvum Pal. Beauv. were used as a biological test to evaluate the pollution level of the natural environment in the region of the aluminium works "Skawina" (Southern Poland) with fluorine compounds and sulphur dioxide. The moss samples were placed in nylon nets and exposed to the polluted air for 6 weeks, then the fluorine and sulphur content in them was determined. The results demonstrated the usefulness of this method for the purpose of establishing the range of influence of the emitted industrial pollution.
The effect of kinetin on cytochemical localization of Mg++ dependent ATP-ase in isolated lupine cotyledons
Authors: Przymusiński Roman , Woźny Adam , Młodzianowski Fortunat
Published: February 2014

ATP-ase activity stimulated with Mg++ ions was localized cytochermically in lupine cotyledons. Studies were also made of the effect of kinetin on this activity. Activity of Mg++ dependent ATP-ase was observed in plasmalemma, nucleus, nucleolus, endoplasmic reticulum, thylakoid membranes, prolamellar bodies, cell wall, and irilter-cellular spaces. Kinetin (6-furfurylaminpurine) used in the experiment, stimulated ATP-ase activity, but dad not affect its localization.
Development of antheridial filaments of Chara vulgaris L. in isolated antheridia in vitro
Authors: Kuran Hanna , Marciniak Kazimierz
Published: February 2014

The study was undertaken to establish the conditions of culture in vitro of Chara vulgaris L. antheridium isolated from the mother plant and to ascertain the regularities in the development of the antheridial filaments under these conditions. The culture of isolated antheridia was run for 5 days on Forsberg medium. The antheridial filaments were found to preserve their full viability evaluated in terms of 3H-phenylalanine incorporation With simultaneous depression of mitotic activity. Under these conditions a considerable part of the filaments pass through at least three division cycles. In vitro culture of isolated antheridia causes the greater shortening of the cell length the longer the antheridia are kept Isolated from the thallus.
Alkylresorcinols in rye (Secale cereale L.) grains. V. Chromatographic analysis of 5-n-alk(en)ylresorcinols during their preparation
Authors: Kozubek Arkadiusz , Tłuścik Franciszek , Mejbaum-Katzenellenebogen Wanda
Published: February 2014

Analysis of 5-n-alk(en)ylresorcinols during the coarse of their preparation from rye grains showed that changes of the composition of 5-n-alkylresorcinol homologues in acetone oil; raw preparation, and alkylresorcinol fraiction obtained after chromatography on silica gel, were insignificant. About 20% of alk(en)-ylresorcinals were washed out from acetone oil with pentane. Over 50% of alk(en)ylresorcinols eluted by pentane constituted homologues with unsaturated hydrocarbon chains (5-n-alkenylresorcinols). Preparation obtained after chromatagraphic separation constituted a mixtureof 5-n-alk(en)ylresorcinols width saturated hydrocarbon chains (5-n-alkylresorcinols).
Role of endogenous growth regulators in vernalization of seeds of radish (Raphanus sativus L.)
Authors: Michniewicz Marian , Kriesel Krystyna , Rożej Barbara
Published: February 2014

In embryos and cotyledons of seeds of the radish cv. `Tetra Iłówiecka' (which needs 20 days of vernalization) and cv. 'Saxa' (which flowers without vernalization) germinating at a vernalizing temperature of 5°C, the levels of auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins and the aibscisic acid-like inhibitor were determined, The analyses were performed after 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 days of chilling. The levels of growth regulators were also determined in embryos and cotyledons of seeds germinated at 260C when in the same growth stage as the material taken from chilled seeds. Cold treatment significantly affected the level of all endogenous growth regulators in embryos and cotyledons of both varieties. However, changes in the levels of these substances were not directly connected with the vernalization process. It was found that the vernalization of seeds of 'the radish cv. `Tetra Iłówiecka' increased the level of GAs in leaves, this did not, however, coincide with flower initiation. It is concluded that the role of GAs in flowering of the studied plants is connected rather with photoinduction than with vernalization.
Specific effects of certain salts on carbohydrate metabolism in young corn seedlings
Authors: Hatata Mohammad , Farah Michel
Published: February 2014

The effects of sodium and magnesium chlorides and sulphates on carbohydrate metabolism of corn seedlings and their component parts were studied. There was a decrease in the total carbohydrate content of seedlings with advance of time, in control and in different concentrations of salts. The decrease became less marked with increase of salt concentrations. The main effect of salinization, on the changes in carbohydrates, was strongest on the roots and grains. The roots contained the lowest proportion of the various carbohydrate fractions. This feature suggests that the mobilization of carbohydrates from grains to roots is greatly retarded by salinization. Both cations and anions exert an influence on the conversion of reserve carbohydrates.
Tissues development in stems of Aristolochia clematitis L. in the point of view of multicellular complexes formation
Authors: Puławska Zofia
Published: February 2014

After cytokinesis the cells do not separate but remain within the wall of the mother cell. After a series of divisions a multicellular complex arises. In the stems of Aristolochia clematitis procambium is closer related to protoxylem than to protophloem, and metaphloem is closer related to metaxylem than to protophloem. Since protophloem has a closer common origin with fibre primordia than with the remaining tissues, it cannot be decided unequivocally what is the origin of the fibres or when procambium differentiates. The common origin of the primary vascular tissues is visible in the pattern of the multicellular complexes, whereas the common origin of the secondary vascular tissue developing in the underground several-year-old parts of the stem can be traced in the arrangement of the single radial tiers. Some characteristics of symplastic growth are discussed.
Apical control of xylem formation in the pine stem. I. Auxin effects and distribution of assimilates
Authors: Wodzicki Tomasz J. , Rakowski Krzysztof , Starck Zofia , Porandowski Jarosław , Zajączkowski Stefan
Published: February 2014

The effect of IAA upon cambial activity, xylem differentiation and translocation of assimilates from the lateral shoot was investigated in spring and late summer in decapitated and ring-barked young trees of Pinus silvestris in the forest stand. Decapitation interrupted cambial xylem production in the uppermost part of the main stem of decapitated trees in spring and late summer, regardless of whether lateral branches below were growing, dormant or disbudded, and the contact through phloem with the roots was maintained or severed. Auxin supplied to the decapitated stems caused an increasing stimulation of cambial xylem production in spring. It also stimulated cambial activity in August but was ineffective in September. Apical control of cambial xylem production was strongly dependent upon the continuity of phloem and/or cambial tissues of the decapitated main-stem-section with lower parts of the plant. Decapitation of the stem strongly reduced the daily rate of cell wall deposition in the cambial xylem derivatives which on the day the experiment started constituted the zones of radial enlargement and maturation. This reduction limited progressively secondary wall deposition in consecutive maturing tracheids even though the cells differentiated longer. Irrespective of the season, auxin prevented the effect of decapitation in cells which were already differentiating when the experiment started as well as extension of the maturation phase. The effect of auxin was somewhat reduced when the lateral branches were additionally decapitated in early summer. In early summer auxin caused a significant increase of the daily rate of cell wall deposition in cells of the cambial zone or the newly produced ones, thus resulting in formation of progressively thicker secondary walls. Late in summer assimilates were transported mostly to the lower part of the stem. Decapitation changed the intact tree pattern of assimilate distribution, increasing the transport in spring and reducing it later in the summer. Prevention of the contact with roots via phloem and cambium in spring (by ring-barking the stem at tree base) decreased decapitation-induced downward transport of assimilates. Application of auxin to the decapitated uppermost segment of the main stem resulted in a significant increase of assimilate translocation into the stem. At least two mechanisms of auxin involvement in regulation of the rate of secondary wall deposition in pine stem tracheids can be considered: (a) induction (or activation) of the cell wall metabolic potential which seems to occur during meristematic or early radial enlargement phases of tracheid differentiation, and (b) regulation of substrate availability during the phase of tracheid maturation.
The high mutagenic effectiveness of MNUA in inducing a diversity of dwarf and semidwarf forms of spring barley
Authors: Małuszyński Mirosław
Published: February 2014

By the modified method of mutagenic MNUA treatment consisting in a short interincubation germination, a very high frequency of point mutations was obtained in many varieties and stocks of spring barley. In the obtained collection of dwarf and semidwarf mutants a rich variability of many traits not connected with the plant height was noted. Mutations concerned the productivity of the plants, their tillering, the length and width of leaves, the habitus, distribution of leaves on the stalk and the morphology of the ear. The diversity of forms described in the collection of dwarf and semidwarf mutants characterises MNUA as a mutagen inducing a very high frequency of mutations in initial cells.
Viability and vigour of ageing pea seeds with various densities
Authors: Górecki Ryszard J.
Published: February 2014

Pea seed lots (of big and small densities and a control) were stored for six months in hydrostats in relative air humidity 90 and 50 per cent, at 21°C. Viability was determined on the basis of germination rate (energy) and capacity; vigour on the basis of sprout growth analysis, conductometric measurements and over-all dehydrogenase activity in the embryonic axes (tigella). Seeds stored in a high relative air humidity were losimg their viability and vigour more quickly than did those stored in a dry air. Seeds of big density were preserving better and ageing slower than seeds of small specific gravity.
Effect of N-hydroxyurea, mitomycin C and actinomycin D on tumour formation on the leaves of Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Authors: Koawalczyk Józef
Published: February 2014

The leaves of Kalanchoe daigremontiana wounded and infected with Agrobacterium tumefaciens were treated with single doses of inhibitors (hydroxyurea - 190, mitomycin - 0.5, actinomycin - 2 µ,g per leaf). After delaying the time' of dosage of inhibitors during five days after inoculation, changes in susceptibility of the system to antitumorous activity of analysed compounds were observed. In several hours after inoculation (period of the bacteria metabolic activity in wounds) all the inhibitors prevent strongly the tumour formation. At the time between 14 and 72 hours after inoculation, including the phase of tumour induction, the system becomes sensitive to the DNA synthesis inhibitors, particularly hydroxyurea. The intensified action of actinomycin appears again only about 60 hours after inoculation and lasts till the end of experiment (the initiation of the transformed plant cell proliferation). According to the literature the antitumorous effect of inhibitors could be connected with their action on the bacteria metabolism inside the host tissue. The activities of hydroxyurea and mitomycin in the second period correspond with the intensive DNA synthesis in plant cells, which is induced by wounding. The effect of actinomycin D in 60 hours after inoculation could depend upon the inhibition of the proliferation of the transformed host cells.
The finding of Compsopogon coeruleus (Balbis) Montagne in Poland
Authors: Szymańska Hanna , Krupińska Irena
Published: February 2014

The rhodophyte - Compsopogon coeruleus (Balbis) Mont. found in Poland was described. So far in this country only C. aeruginosus (J. Ag.) Kütz. was known in the glasshouse of the Botanical Garden in Cracow (S t a r m a c h 1977).
Effect of sodium humate on membrane potential in internodal cells of Nitellopsis obtusa
Authors: Zientara Maria
Published: February 2014

Membrane potential and resistance changes in Nitellopsis obtusa induced by Na-humate as a function of external pH were investigated. The administration of Na-humate at concentrations of 12.5, 25, 50 and 100 mg dm-3 brought about a hyperpolarization of the membrane potential and a drop of d.c. resistance in the pH range between 4.0 and 9.0. Depolarization of the membrane potential induced by low pH was counteracted by Na-humate. The electrophysiological effects of Na-humate are compared with those of IAA.
Effect of auxin, gibberellin and kinetin on membrane potential and proton pump in wheat coleoptile cells
Authors: Zientara Maria
Published: February 2014

The changes in the electric potential differences between the vacuole and the external medium, induced by IAA, GA3 and kinetin in wheat coleoptiles were investigated in relation to the acidification of the external medium brought about by these growth regulators. IAA caused a greater hyperpolarization of the membrane potential and larger enhancement of the proton pump as compared with GA3, whereas kinetin exerted no effect. Ouabain partly reversed IAA-induced hyperpolarization, this suggesting that ATPase might be involved in the action of IAA on son transport processes.
Species frequency distribution as a function of the surface area
Authors: Kwiatkowska Anna J.
Published: February 2014

Paper deals with the results of statistical analysis of the type of frequency distribution of species occuring in the field layers of two forest phytocoenoses. In the both cases frequency distributions were ranged out for the surface area of 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64 m2. The types of frequency distributions were determined on the grounds of the values of Fisher's and Pearson's K coefficients. Analysed distributions were classified into Pearson's system. Also the size of the sample plot at which the empirical frequency distributions were symetrical, from the statistical point of view, nad where they were U-shaped was determined.
Activation of rape (Brassica napus L.) embryo during seed germination. III. Ultrastructure of dry embryo axis
Authors: Kuraś Mieczysław
Published: February 2014

Mature dry winter rape (Brassica napus L.), var. oleifera, cv. Górczański embryos were studied in the light and the electron microscope. Considerable modifications and regression of the cell ultrastructure were noted in the resting embryo as compared with the metabolically active cells. The degree of regression of the ultrastructure differed in the particular organs and tissues of the embryo. Of most regressed character are the cells of the storage organs - the hypocotyl and cotyledones. They are almost completely filled with protein and lipid bodies. The small spaces between them are filled with dense cytoplasm with a lobular nucleus and not numerous, difficult to identify, plastids and mitochondria. The cells of the shoot primordium and radicle, particularly of the protoderm at the boundary of the hypocotyl and root and columella of root cap have a less regressed ultrastructure. They contain less storage material, a less dense cytoplasm and nearly all cell organelles with a normal appearance. The mitochondria are quite numerous with rather large cristae. Plastids are large with characteristic infolds filled with cytoplasm and some lamellae and a few agglomerations of plastoglobules. The nucleus is lobular with distinctly double and porous nuclear envelope and uniformly dense nucleolus. These cells do not contain dictyosomes and the ER is reduced to short, mostly rough cisternae and vesicles. Cells within the columella itself are also differentiated. The least regression of ultrastructure is seen in the cells of external layers containing the most numerous and most active looking mitochondria and more ER structures. The promeristem cells are similar to those of the deeper columella layers but their mitochondria are more regressed. The cells of the lateral parts of the cap and radicle cells, distant from the promeristem are more similar to the hypocotyl cells.
Binding of 1-nitro-9- (3-dimethylaminopropylamino)-acridine to the DNA of the apical meristem cells of adventitious onion (Allium cepa L.) roots
Authors: Antosiewicz Danuta
Published: February 2014

It was established that one half of the ledakrin (I-nitro-9-(3-dimethylaminopropylamino)-acridine) bound to the DNA in the cells of the studied onion root tips (Allium cepa L.), forms labile complexes with it, the remaining half is covalently attached to only one strand of the DNA. One molecule of covalently bound ledakrin falls on average to 104-2X104 pairs of bases.
Influence of simazine on nitrate uptake and nitrate reductase activity in Triticum aestivum (L.) and Cucumis sativus (L.) seedlings
Authors: Jarzyńska Irena , Buczek Józef
Published: February 2014

The influence of simazine (2-chloro-4,6-bis(ethylamine)-1,3,5-triazine) on N03- uptake and nitrate reductase (NR) activity in wheat (Triticum aestivum) and cucumber (Cucumis sativus) seedlings was investigated. It was found that at first (up to 12 h after herbicide treatment) simazine enhanced and then inhibited NR activity in the leaves and roots of the tested plants. After seven days of growth in nutrient medium containing 2.5 and 25 µM simazine the herbicide inhibited by 25 and 70 per cent, respectively, NR activity and reduced by 30 per cent in wheat and 50 per cent in cucumber seedlings nitrate uptake. The probable mechanism of NR inhibition by simazin is discussed and it is suggested that the influence of the herbicide on NR activity may not be exclusively connected with photosynthesis inhibition.
Modeling of spatial variations of growth within apical domes by means of the growth tensor. II. Growth specified on dome surface
Authors: Hejnowicz Zygmunt , Nakielski Jerzy , Hejnowicz Krystyna
Published: February 2014

Variations of the elemental relative rate of growth are modeled for parabolic, elliptic and hyperbolic domes of shoot apices by using the growth tensor in a suitable curvilinear coordinate system when the mode of area growth on the dome surface is known. Variations of growth rates within the domes are obtained in forms of computer-made maps for the following variants of growth on the dome surface: (1) constant meridional growth rate, (2) isotropic area growth, (3) anisotropy of area growth which becomes more intensive with increasing distance from the vertex. In variants 1 and 2 a maximum of volumetric growth rate appears in the center of the dome. Such a distribution of growth seems to be unrealistic. However, the corresponding growth tensors are interesting because they can be used in combination with other growth tensors to get the expected minimum volumetric growth rate in the dome center.