bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expansion of Tussilago farfra L. in disturbed environments. III. Successful colonization and the properties of individuals
Authors: Namura-Ochalska Anna
Published: April 2013

The survival, seedling and juvenile growth rates and the effectiveness of development and renewal of individuals obtained from seeds and rhizomes were studied. The results showed that the success of Tussilago farfara L. in colonizing disturbed environments, after its seeds reach the site and germinate, is a function of several of the important traits of this species: 1) tolerance of seedlings and juveniles to a wide range of changeable external conditions, 2) fast growth and development of individuals, 3) a high degree of adaptability in reaching successive stages of development, 4) querilla type growth, 5) intense spreading and renewal of individuals of generative and vegetative origin, 6) high effectiveness of vegetative reproduction, 7) adaptable allocation of resources to above-, and underground shoots.
Variability and stratigraphy of the tussocks of Carex Apropinquata Schum
Authors: Tomaszewska Klara
Published: April 2013

Thirty tussocks of Carex appropinquata Schum. from various parts of the peatlands in the Biebrza River valley were analysed. The results confirmed the variability of the shape in tussocks and a considerable range of their height (15-34 cm). The group of tussocks from the vicinity of the river Kosódka was higher (usually exceeding 25 cm) and had a characteristic pole-like shape. The shape of the tussock and especially the slope of its sides determine to a high degree the possibility of development of other species growing on the tussocks. Two different parts can be distinguished in the structure of the tussock. The outer layer (of ash content on average 6,5%) is built mainly of leaf sheaths of Carex appropinquata and numerous roots of other species growing on the tussocks. The inner layer consists mainly of thick roots of the sedge and few fine roots of other species. The ash content in that layer ranges from a dozen or so to as much as 26%. The number of Carex appropinquata nuts varies between layers of the tussock and between tussocks, and decreases towards the basis of the tussock. The number of nuts may to some degree characterize the fertility of individual plants, and changes in fertility of the same individual over a period of several dozen years.
Application of the Richards function to the description of leaf area growth in maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Grzegorczyk Andrzej
Published: April 2013

The leaf area growth in maize was approximated basing on the Richards function in the form of: y=A[l+b exp(-kt)]1/(1-m) . The constant coefficients of the Richards function were found by means of the Marquardt's method. The initial values of parameters were given basing on results of the preliminary approximation of the growth process by means of logistic function y = A[l+b exp(-kt)]-1. The procedure of nonlinear regression was found to be useful (curvilinear determination coefficient R2 = 0.995). The Richards curve precisely describes the course of changes of the leaf area in maize since sprouting to a tassel flowering phase.
Sesquiterpene lactones from Picris pauciflora Willd.
Authors: Kisiel Wanda
Published: April 2013

The aerial parts of Picris pauciflora Willd. (Asteraceae) yielded 11β, 13-dihydrolactucin, while the roots of the plant afforded 3-β-D-glucopyranosides of 11β, 13-dihydrozaluzanin C and 9α-hydroxy-11β, 13-dihydrozaluzanin C (ixerin F). The guaianolides were isolated from ethanol extracts using chromatographic methods and were identified on the basis of spectral analysis. They are reported for the first time from this species.
Calcium effect on the content of DNA and NYS-stained nuclear, nucleolar and cytoplasmic proteins in cortex cells of pea (Pisum sativum L.) roots treated with heavy metals
Authors: Stecka E. , Krajewska M. , Gabara B.
Published: April 2013

Using cytophotometric procedures, following Feulgen-NYS staining, the measurements of DNA and nuclear, nucleolar and cytoplasmic protein contents in cortex cells of pea roots growing for 144 h in calcium and/or heavy metals (Cd2+, Cr3+, Pb2+) presence were made. All tested metals treatment reduced the number of nuclei in 4C DNA class and induced appearance of nuclei with DNA amount below 2C, that was expressed in diminished DNA content. The level of NYS proteins in cells underwent also reduction. In lead presence protein content diminished in nucleus. On the other hand, increased amount of nuclear, nucleolar and cytoplasmic proteins was observed in material treated with cadmium while only of nucleolar protein content in chromium presence. In root cells treated with tested metals protein content in nucleus was related with ploidy level, disturbances in this relation appeared in nucleolus and mostly in cytoplasm. Calcium added to chromium and mostly to lead solutions diminished the toxic effect of these metals that was demonstrated by an increase in DNA content, although calcium alone reduced DNA amount in nucleus due to lower number of 4C nuclei accompanied by appearance of 1C and 1-2C DNA classes. Calcium in different ways affected protein content changed by metal treatment. Present in cadmium solution it caused a further reduction in protein content in nucleus, nucleolus and cytoplasm but increased nuclear and cytoplasmic protein when added to lead, and nucleolar proteins - in chromium solution. Moreover, calcium ions presence in metal solutions did not restore the relationship between ploidy level and nucleolar and cytoplasmic NYS stained proteins and it did not disturbe the relation existing in nucleus.
Structural bases for effectivity of bacteroidal tissue in pea root nodules formed by effective or ineffective bacteria strain
Authors: Borucki Wojciech
Published: April 2013

The performed comparison included changes in volume and surface area of the chosen cellular structures during the development of the effective and ineffective bacteroidal tissue of pea root nodules. It has been noted that the increase of the volume of the infected cell in effective nodules is associated with the increase of the volume of vacuome, symbiosomes and cystol while in ineffective bacteroidal tissue with the increase of the starch volume and to a lesser degree symbiosomes and cytosol volumes. In turn, the volume increase of uninfected cells in effective bacteroidal tissue is associated with the volume increase of vacuome and cystol and in case of ineffective nodules with the increase of the volumes of cystol, starch, and to a lesser degree, vacuome. This data point to the disturbances in the vacuolation process of infected and uninfected cells in ineffective bacteroidal tissue. In effective symbiosis the volume of vacuome and peribacteroidal spaces in the infected cells change in the dependent way that stresses common features of these two compartments. It has also been observed that the surface area and/or volume of such infected cell compartments as plastids, mitochondria, symbiosomes and cystol change in a more co-ordinated way during the development of the effective than ineffective bacteroidal tissue. All these facts create a basis for discussion about the role of particular compartments in the functioning of bacteroidal tissue.
Coumarins and alkaloids in shoot culture of Ruta graveolens L.
Authors: Ekiert Halina , Kisiel Wanda
Published: April 2013

A shoot culture of Ruta graveolens L. (Rutaceae) was maintained in the stationary liquid phase. From the cultured shoots seven compounds were isolated and identified as psoralen, bergapten, xanthotoxin, isopimpinellin (linear furanocoumarins), rutamarin (linear dihydrofuranocoumarin), kokusaginine and skimmianine (furanoquinoline alkaloids) by spectral methods. The compounds are known as secondary metabolites of the intact plant, as well as its cell and tissue cultures.
Elimination of browning exudate and in vitro development of shoots in Pistacia vera L. cv. mateur and Pistacia atlantica Desf. Culture
Authors: Trujillo M. I. , Mederos-Molina S.
Published: April 2013

We report diminution and/or elimination of browning exudate followed by in vitro establishment of in Pistacia vera cv. mateur and Pistacia atlantica explants. Soaking P. vera cv. mateur explants prior to culture in L-cysteine HCl for 15 min (100 µM) inhibits blackening of the modified Murashige and Skoog medium - MS + 400 mg/l NH4NO3 - and of the explants; while shoot formation was increased. The browning in P. vera cv. mateur and P. atlantica explants dissolved when modified MS and Quoirin and Lepoivre - QL.4 - media were supplemented with activated charcoal (from 1 to 3 g l-1) and with 4 and 8 days of darkness. These treatments were enough to eliminate browning from the explants and to improve the shoots elongation, but symptoms of chlorosis were detected. On the other hand, AgNO3 (from 15 to 40 µ1V1) showed a very strong antibrowning effect on the medium and explants of P. atlantica. Thus shoot organogenesis was best achieved and the developing sturdy shoots had large and green leaves.
The syntaxonomic position of Santolina etrusca - multivariate analysis
Authors: Angiolini Claudia , De Dominicis Vincenzo
Published: April 2013

The results of multivariate analysis of the syntaxonomic role of Santolina etrusca (Lacaita) Marchi et D'Amato, a species endemic to Tyrrhenian central Italy, are reported. Classification was performed by polythetic divisive analysis using two-way indicator species (TWINSPAN). Ordination analysis was performed by correspondence analysis (CA). Classification and ordination showed that although Santolina etrusca grows prevalently in communities of Rosmarinetalia Br.-Bl. ex Molinier 1934, it is ecologically correlated and associated with entities of unstable nitrophilous communities subject to frequent disturbance belonging to an order, Helichryso-Santolinetalia Peinado and Martinez-Parras 1984, with western eumediterranean distribution. However it does not have a well defined sociological role, as it is constant in all community groups.
Effect of methyl jasmonate on the production of sesquiterpene lactones in the hairy root culture of Lactuca virosa L.
Authors: Malarz Janusz , Kisiel Wanda
Published: April 2013

Hairy roots of Lactuca virosa L. transformed with Agrobacterium rhizogenes and treated with methyl jasmonate, are capable of producing sesquiterpene lactones - crepidiaside B and lactuside A in amounts higher than in untreated roots. An HPLC analysis showed the highest content of crepidiaside B after 24 hours of methyl jasmonate treatment (60% above the control). The increase in the content of lactuside A was relatively small and reached 27% after 48 hours of the treatment, in comparison with the control.
Lupinus x hispanicoluteus - an interspecific hybrid of Old World lupins
Authors: Święcicki Wojciech K. , Święcicki Wiktor , Nijaki Teresa
Published: April 2013

Lupinus species are distributed in two centers of origin: in the Old and New World. In the Old World, 13 lupin species have been recognized hitherto in the Mediterranean basin (mostly with different chromosome numbers and not out-crossing in situ), including three lupin crops, i.e. L. albus, L. angustifolius and L. luteus. Interspecific crossing within this group is interesting from the theoretical as well as practical point of view - for breeding improvement. Results of crossing of two Old World Lupinus species are presented: L. hispanicus subsp. hispanicus x L. luteus. Description and a diagnosis of the synthetic, stable hybrid is presented. The standard and wings from bud to open flower are yellow-violet to violet. The inflorescence is yellow-violet at the top, changing gradually to violet bottom when older. Plant habitus and smooth seed surface as in L. luteus. Dark green colour of leaves, not scented flowers and angular edge of compressed seeds as in L. hispanicus. The name L. x hispanicoluteus is proposed.
Effect of aluminium toxicity on the development of poplar (Populus tremula L. x P. alba L.) cultured in vitro
Authors: Bojarczuk Krystyna
Published: April 2013

Adventitious bud cultures were established using vegetative buds from selected clones of poplar (Populus tremula L. x P. alba L.) as initial explants. For multiplication of shoots a modified Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) was used. Aluminium salts (aluminium sulphate and aluminium chloride) were added to the media. It was found that the pH of the medium had no effect on the development of cultures at low concentrations of nutrients (1/2 or 1/4 MS). Low concentrations of aluminium (Al 25mg•dm-3 supplied as aluminium sulphate, Al 15 mg•dm-3 as aluminium chloride) had no inhibitory effect on shoot development but decreased regeneration of adventitious roots. High concentrations of aluminium inhibited the development of shoots and roots, especially in a medium at pH 4.5. Microcuttings rooted in the highest percentage and formed the strongest rooting system on 1/4 strength MS medium at pH 4.5. It was found that there was no difference between the rooting of shoots excised from cultures cultivated with or without A1 in this medium at pH 5.5.
Phytoplasma detection in tissue culture of Gladiolus plants grown under various conditions
Authors: Kamińska Maria , Gabryszewska Eleonora , Korbin Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

To test whether phytoplasmas are sensitive to temperature, phytoplasma affected micropropagated gladiolus plants were grown under varying conditions of media content and temperature, in the presence or absence of light. PCR analysis indicated that phytoplasma detection was more successful in plants grown at low temperatures. Plants kept from one to three months at reduced temperature tended to have higher titre of phytoplasma than the plants maintained in stable 20oC high temperature. The best detection was in plants grown on medium containing kinetin+NAA and in the presence of light. In those plants phytoplasmas were detected in direct PCR after one month of culture.
Ultrastructural changes in aster yellows phytoplasma affected Limonium sinuatum Mill. plants.I Pathology of conducting tissues
Authors: Rudzińska-Langwald Anna , Kamińska Maria
Published: April 2013

Changes in anatomy and cytology of conducting tissues of Limonium sinuatum Mill. plants affected by aster yellows phytoplasma were investigated. In the phloem tissues of affected plants stem necrosis takes place. In necrotic regions no sieve tubes were observed only necrotic cells and parenchyma cells. The sieve tubes present on the border of necrosis showed collapsed walls and were rich in vesicles. Phytoplasma cells were observed in sieve tubes present in nonnecrotic regions of the phloem. Various structural changes in sieve elements were investigated. The endoplasmic reticulum cistemae were often localised in the lumen of the sieve element without contact with the walls. Such localisation of endoplasmic reticulum was never observed in healthy plants. Vesicles of different size, fuzzy material and clumping of p-proteins were characteristic for sieve elements from nonnecrotic part of phloem. No correlation with the sieve tube structure and the appearance of phytoplasma in a single sieve element was found. In control plants of L. sinuatum phloem observed were phloem parenchyma cells with spiny vesicles (SV). In infected plants there were a remarkable increase in cells with SV. Also the SV itself had not only a vesicular but also a tubular or extended cistern shape.
Sucrose degradation in sink and source poplar leaves treated with sulfite
Authors: Lorenc-Plucińska Gabriela , Szadel Anna , Pluciński Andrzej , Pukacka Stanisława
Published: April 2013

Sulfite at concentrations from 0.5 to 5.0 mM was supplied to illuminated, detached poplar (Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh) leaves via the transpiration stream. Concentrations of chlorophyll a and b, carotenoids, glucose, fructose, sucrose and starch, and extractable specific activities of sucrose synthase (SuSy), acid invertase (AI) and neutral invertase (NI) were measured. In sink and source leaves chlorophylls and carotenoids appeared to be increased by sulfite at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 mM. In source leaves the application of 5.0 mM and ≥ 2.5 mM sulfite led to a decrease in total nonstructural soluble sugars (sTNC) and starch, respectively. The specific activity of SuSy was enhanced by ≥ 0.5 mM sulfite. There was only a slight decline in the activity of Al and N1.In sink leaves sTNC decreased and starch increased under the influence of sulfite at concentrations ≤ 1.O mM and ≥ 0.5 mM, respectively. The effect of sulfite on the activity of At, NI and SuSy was negligible. However, in both development groups of leaves alterations in sucrose, glucose and fructose contents were observed. On the basis cf the obtained results we postulate that sulfite changes the sucrolytic activities primarily in source leaves and only marginally in sink leaves.
Genetic variation of Abies alba Mill. in Polish part of Sudety Mts.
Authors: Lewandowski Andrzej , Filipiak Maciej , Burczyk Jarosław
Published: April 2013

The genetic structure of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) was investigated among 8 populations from Sudety Mts. and 2 additional populations from other parts of Poland. Nine enzyme systems controlled by 13 allozyme loci were analyzed using starch gel electrophoresis. The mean expected heterozygosity, ranging from 0.06 to 0.11 and was lower compared to that found in other conifers. The mean genetic distance among all silver fir populations was 0.005. The Sudeten group of populations appeared to be genetically different from the two populations from other parts of Poland, indicating that at least two different centers are responsible for the current distribution of allozyme polymorphism in the tested populations.
The influence of shoot harvesting on the size and fecundity of Convallaria majalis L.
Authors: Kosiński Igor
Published: April 2013

The paper presents results concerning the size and fecundity of Convallaria majalis L. in populations both disturbed and undisturbed by shoot cutting. The subject of the investigations were coenopopulations of Betulo-Quercetum, Fago-Quercetum, Melico-Fagetum, Stellario-Carpinetum and Tilio-Carpinetum, in which, over a period of four consecutive years, C. majalis shoots were cut once a year. In the undisturbed population the vegetative shoot is 22.2 ± 4.8 cm high, weighs 0.23 ± 0.16 g d.w., and most often has two leaves. The leaf lamina was 12.0 ± 2.5 cm long and 3.3 ± 1.1 cm wide. The largest shoots occur in the population in Betulo-Quercetum, and the smallest in the population in Melico-Fagetum. The generative shoot is higher and has larger leaves than the vegetative shoot. The inflorescence most often consists of six flowers and is 21.3 ± 3.9 cm high and weighs 0.08 ± 0.03 g d.w. In the population in Betulo-Quercetum the inflorescence is the highest and has the greatest number of flowers. Multiple raw material collection leads to the decrease of C. majalis shoot sizes. In the second year of the experiment the shoots were three times lighter. Collection of raw material leads to a decrease in lily of the valley fecundity. After the second cut generative reproduction was halted and the influx of genets to the population was almost entirely eliminated.
Ultrastructural analysis of initial stages of dedifferentiation of root explants of Gentiana cruciata seedlings
Authors: Mikuła Anna , Tykarska Teresa , Rybczyński Jan , Kuraś Mieczysław
Published: April 2013

The studies were carried out on isolated roots of 10-day old seedlings of Gentiana cruciata, which were placed and cultured on induction medium of Murashige and Skoog (1962) supplemented with 1.0 mg/dm3 dicamba + 0.l mg/dm3 NAA + 2.00 mg/dm3 BAP + 80.0 mg/dm3 adenine sulphate. Changes in explants from the 3rd to the l lth day of culture with the help of light and electron microscope were observed. Observations showed gradual dedifferentiation of root tissues, which was seen earliest in cortex at the proximal end of the explant and shifted gradually inwards the root and towards distal parts of its elongation zone. The most intensive callus formation appeared at cut surface of explant, where proliferation of cells in both cortex and axial cylinder was recognised. In the distal part of the elongation zone, cell divisions occurred only in endoderm and in axial cylinder. The meristematic part of the root was inactive. Finally, the following areas were distinguished in the explant: (I) an area of intensive cell divisions, i.e., the elongation zone; (II) an area of cell dispersion; and (III) the inactive meristem. The ultrastructure brought evidences of cell reorganisation as the meaning of cell readiness to the division. Observations showed an increased activity of mitochondria and Golgi structures, thickening of walls and disappearance of plasmodesmal connections. Amyloplasts and lipid bodies in tissues in which they had been scarce or had not appeared before founding. Intensively dividing cells showed features of meristematic cells. They had dense cytoplasm with numerous organelles, large centrally located nuclei, and "nucleolar vacuoles" inside nucleoli. Cortex-derived callus formed aggregates. Both pericycle and endoderm produced callus of characteristic dense structure and regular type of divisions.
Comparison of protein patterns after two-dimensional gel electrophoresis from leaves of in vitro cultures and seedlings of Rubus chamaemorus L.
Authors: Thiem Barbara , Kalinowski Andrzej
Published: April 2013

Proteins from leaves of Rubus chamaemorus propagated in vitro were subjected to miniaturized 2-D electrophoresis. The 2-DE patterns of proteins showed qualitative differences between plants propagated in vitro and control seedlings. More proteins of a high molecular weight were observed in leaves of plants from in vitro culture. A two-dimensional map of proteins from leaves provides detailed data concerning both polymorphism and protein patterns of this species. This makes it possible to start constructing a protein map of R. chamaemorus. The reasons for qualitative differences are discussed.
Dactylis glomerata L. subsp. slovenica (Dom.) Dom., a new taxon to Caucasus
Authors: Mizianty Marta , Wilk Łukasz
Published: April 2013

Dactylis glomerata L. subsp. slovenica (Dom.) Dom. has been recorded in Western Caucasus at southern slopes of the Abishira-Akhuba range (Karachay-Cherkessia Autonomous Republic belonging to the Russian Federation). This new information is very important supplement dealing with the distribution of this taxon, because the area of its known distribution was moved very strongly to the East.
Remarks on Potamogeton hybrids based on characters of P. x salicifolius Wolfg. from a new locality in Poland
Authors: Zalewska-Gałosz Joanna
Published: April 2013

Information on Potamogeton hybrids, their identification, taxonomy, ecology and distribution has not been sufficiently recognised yet. Based on characters of P. x salicifolius (= P. perfoliatus x P. lucens) from a new locality in Poland - the Gatno lake (the Kaszuby Lakeland in NW Poland) - general comments on Potamogeton hybrids identification are introduced. The description of P. x salicifolius morphology from the Gatno lake are presented. Analysis of quantitative morphological characters of these specimens provided new information on variability of this taxon. The distribution map of P. x salicifolius in Poland, the original draft of P. x salicifolius based on specimens from the Gatno lake and the table with comparison of P. x salicifolius and the characters of parental species are also provided.
In vitro propagation of lnula royleana DC
Authors: Stojakowska Anna , Malarz Janusz
Published: April 2013

A micropropagation method, through axillary shoot proliferation, was elaborated for Inula royleana DC. (Asteraceae), a medicinal plant native of Himalaya. Primary explants (cotyledonary node explants) and secondary explants (node explants of in vitro regenerated shoots) of the plant, inoculated on MS medium supplemented with 0.1 μM NAA and 5.0 μM kinetin, regenerated 3.4 ± 1.2 and 5.1 ± 1.9 axillary shoots per explant, respectively. The regenerated shoots were easily rooting and adapting to growth in soil.
Comparison of stimulatory effect of cytokinins adenine and urea derivatives on the level of some components in Wolffia arrhiza (L.) Wimm. (Lemnaceae)
Authors: Piotrowska Alicja , Czerpak Romuald , Adamowicz Joanna , Biedrzycka Alicja , Potocka Marta
Published: April 2013

The effect of cytokinins with different chemical structures, adenine-type: N6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), N6-furfurylaminopurine (FAP) and derivative of urea - 1,3-diphenylurea (DPU) applied in optimal physiological concentrations of 10-6-10-4 M on the mixotrophic plant Wolffia arrhiza during the period of 20 days of culture, was examined. The cytokinin highest influence on the metabolites level in W. arrhiza fresh weight was demonstrated in the range of concentrations 10-6-10-5 M between the 5th and the 10th day of culture. Among used cytokinins, the highest stimulative effect on the content of water-soluble proteins can be attributed to DPU (181%), slightly lower to BAP (167%) and the lowest to FAP (113%) in comparison with the control culture (100%). BAP was found to exert the most stimulative activity on nucleic acids accumulation (DNA+RNA) to the maximum value (127%). FAP and DPU possessed weaker stimulative activity increasing the nucleic acid content to the level of 120% and 118%, properly. The content of monosaccharides was stimulated to the highest level of 174% in FAP treated plants, to 151% in case of BAP and in case of DPU to 144%. Whereas, the highest increase of the photosynthetic pigments content (chlorophyll a and b as well as total carotenoids) to the range of 123-146% in W. arrhiza culture in the presence of DPU, was observed. Under the influence of FAP the accumulation of photosynthetic pigments was stimulated less effectively to the range of 113-140%. When the plants grew with BAP the chlorophylls and carotenoids contents increased to the lowest values of 119-131%. On the other hand, the content of total carotenoids was stimulated only during the first days of culture, then between the 15th and the 20th day it was inhibited by all applied adenine and urea-type cytokinins to the value of 70%. The results indicate that there is no quantitative correlation between the structure of all analysed cytokinins and their influence on the biochemical responses of W. arrhiza.
Effect of NaCI and supplemental calcium on growth parameters and nitrate reductase activity in maize
Authors: Sacała Elżbieta , Biegun Agnieszka , Demczuk Anna , Grzyś Edward
Published: April 2013

In this study, investigated were the effects of NaCl (60 mmol/dm-3) and NaCl supplemented with different salts (5 mmol/dm-3 CaCl2, CaSO4, CaCO3, KCl), on growth of two maize varieties (Cyrkon and Limko). After 7 days of cultivation in nutrient solution the growth response to salinity of both maize varieties was similar. NaCl led to a dramatic decrease in growth of plants (approx. 50% reduction in fresh and dry weight of root, and 70% reduction in fresh weight of shoot). Addition of extra Ca2+ or K+ to nutrient solution containing NaCl did not definitely improve the growth parameters of maize. However, among the tested salts, CaCl2 had a beneficial visual effect on maize seedlings. In other cases the plants showed noticeable symptoms of salt damage. In long term exposure to salinity (two weeks) growth of Cyrkon was more inhibited than Limko. Comparison of growth responses in short-term exposure to salinity (7 days) with long-term (14 days) showed that in Cyrkon variety the negative effects of NaCl were intensified and addition of CaCl2 to salinized solution had not positive effects on growth. On the contrary, in Limko variety, there was a significant improvement in growth (especially in root dry weight). This fact indicates that during longer exposure to salinity Limko was able to adapt to those conditions. Salinity caused a significant decrease in leaf nitrate reductase activity (60% and 30% reduction respectively in Limko and Cyrkon). Addition of CaCl2 to salinized nutrient solution resulted in greater enzyme inhibition in Cyrkon (50% decline in relation to plants grown under sole NaCl), and 30% increase in Limko. Inhibition of nitrate reductase activity did not cause a decrease in concentration of soluble protein in maize leaves.
Epicuticular wax on stomata of damaged silver fir trees (Abies alba Mili.)
Authors: Bačić Tomislav , Krstin Ljiljana , Roša Jadranka , Popović Željko
Published: April 2013

Condition of epistomatal wax on the abaxial surface of the current and previous-year needles of damaged silver fir trees (Abies alba Mill.), both from the polluted Risnjak and "clean" Donja Dobra sites in Gorski Kotar region, both influenced by pollutants coming from Europe, during two years, three times a year, were examined with Scanning Electron Microscope. In the course of time the wax tubules on the epistomatal rims of stomata in polluted, but also in "clean" needles surface, become fused and agglomerated rapidly to various extents of morphologically different types of amorphous wax crusts, primarily compact and particulate ones. This process begins very early, especially in polluted Risnjak site, and may be interpreted as a possible result of air pollution. However, the recrystalization, or production of new tubules, also appears relatively quickly in mostly cases. Quantitative estimations indicate a very large total amount of amorphous wax crusts in the current-year needles, and a very high percentage of the same wax in previous-year needles. Amorphous wax crusts cover stomatal pores, as well as the rims, disturbing the normal gas exchange. Statistically there is a signicant tendency of increase in wax degradation in the needles of the polluted site in comparison with those of the unpolluted one, but there is an insignificant wax degradation among the needles of damaged trees within each site. These results confirmed most of the research done in our preliminary report.
Thermodynamics of irreversible plant cell growth
Authors: Pietruszka Mariusz , Lewicka Sylwia , Pazurkiewicz-Kocot Krystyna
Published: April 2013

The time-irreversible cell enlargement of plant cells at a constant temperature results from two independent physical processes, e.g. water absorption and cell wall yielding. In such a model cell growth starts with reduction in wall stress because of irreversible extension of the wall. The water absorption and physical expansion are spontaneous consequences of this initial modification of the cell wall (the juvenile cell vacuolate, takes up water and expands). In this model the irreversible aspect of growth arises from the extension of the cell wall. Such theory expressed quantitatively by time-dependent growth equation was elaborated by Lockhart in the 60's.The growth equation omit however a very important factor, namely the environmental temperature at which the plant cells grow. In this paper we put forward a simple phenomenological model which introduces into the growth equation the notion of temperature. Moreover, we introduce into the modified growth equation the possible influence of external growth stimulator or inhibitor (phytohormones or abiotic factors). In the presence of such external perturbations two possible theoretical solutions have been found: the linear reaction to the application of growth hormones/abiotic factors and the non-linear one. Both solutions reflect and predict two different experimental conditions, respectively (growth at constant or increasing concentration of stimulator/inhibitor). The non-linear solution reflects a common situation interesting from an environmental pollution point of view e.g. the influence of increasing (with time) concentration of toxins on plant growth. Having obtained temperature modified growth equations we can draw further qualitative and, especially, quantitative conclusions about the mechanical properties of the cell wall itself. This also concerns a new and interesting result obtained in our model: We have calculated the magnitude of the cell wall yielding coefficient (T) [m3 J-1•s-1] in function of temperature which has acquired reasonable numerical value throughout.
Orientational variability of parallel arrays of cortical microtubules under the outer cell wall of the Helianthus hypocotyl epidermis
Authors: Burian Agata , Hejnowicz Zygmunt , Dobrowolska Izabela , Kolano Ewa
Published: April 2013

The epidermis of Helianthus hypocotyl can be peeled off and, in the form of detached strips can be used as a model system to study the effect on cortical microtubule (cMTs) orientation of these factors, which are difficult to be manipulated in situ, such as apoplastic pH or applied stress. In the first step, however, the orientation and reorientation of cMTs in the epidermis in situ must be described. The cMTs under the epidermal wall in hypocotyl epidermis at different positions along the hypocotyl and on its opposite sides were studied by means of immunostaining, using epi-fluorescence microscopy. The angle λ that parallel array of cMTs makes with cell longitudinal axis was measured. The variation of λ in a population of cells was documented by λ-histogram (frequency of cells exhibiting a particular λą∆λ plotted against λ value). The histograms were of either transverse type (maximum at λ ~90o, denoted as type A) or oblique type (two maxima on both sides of the transverse direction, denoted as type B) in the apical part of the hypocotyl, and were either of B type or of longitudinal type (maximum at λ ~0o or 180o denoted as type C) in the basal part. The change from A or B to C basipetally may be considered as due to the developmental trend in cMT orientation. The occurrence of B above A in some hypocotyls in their apical part strengthens the hypothesis on the autonomous reorientation of cMTs. The intermingled occurrence of A and B reorientation in the upper part of hypocotyl is interpreted as a manifestation of a subtle control of cell growth in latitudinal direction. The majority of histograms were asymmetric showing predominance of cMT parallel arrays inclined as the middle part of the letter Z.
A multi-criteria optimization and decision-making approach for improvement of food engineering processes
Authors: Abakarov Alik , Sushkov Yuri , Mascheroni Rodolfo H.
Published: April 2013

The objective of this study was to propose a multi-criteria optimization and decision-making technique to solve food engineering problems. This technique was demonstrated using experimental data obtained on osmotic dehydration of carrot cubes in a sodium chloride solution. The Aggregating Functions Approach, the Adaptive Random Search Algorithm, and the Penalty Functions Approach were used in this study to compute the initial set of non-dominated or Pareto-optimal solutions. Multiple non-linear regression analysis was performed on a set of experimental data in order to obtain particular multi-objective functions (responses), namely water loss, solute gain, rehydration ratio, three different colour criteria of rehydrated product, and sensory evaluation (organoleptic quality). Two multi-criteria decision-making approaches, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Tabular Method (TM), were used simultaneously to choose the best alternative among the set of non-dominated solutions. The multi-criteria optimization and decision-making technique proposed in this study can facilitate the assessment of criteria weights, giving rise to a fairer, more consistent, and adequate final compromised solution or food process. This technique can be useful to food scientists in research and education, as well as to engineers involved in the improvement of a variety of food engineering processes.
Increase of “Umami” and “Kokumi” Compounds in Miso, Fermented Soybeans, by the Addition of Bacterial γ-Glutamyltranspeptidase
Authors: Ho Thao Van , Suzuki Hideyuki
Published: April 2013

γ-Glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) hydrolyzes γ-glutamyl compounds and transfers their γ-glutamyl moieties to amino acids and peptides.  We previously showed that the “umami” taste of soy sauce could be improved by the addition of salt-tolerant Bacillus subtilis GGT to the fermentation mixture, “moromi”.  Although miso fermentation is a semi-solid fermentation, unlike soy sauce fermentation, this was also the case. When 15 units of purified B. subtilis GGT were added to 418 g miso “moromi” (fermentation mixture), the glutamate concentration in “moromi” became 20 mM higher and the “umami” taste became stronger than without the addition of GGT after 2 to 6 months of fermentation.  In addition, γ-Glu-Val and γ-Glu-Val-Gly, which are known as “kokumi” peptides, were identified in “tamari”, and the concentrations of these γ-glutamyl peptides in “tamari" fermented by the addition of GGT were significantly higher than those of “moromi” without the addition of GGT.  These results indicate that B. subtilis GGT is able to improve the taste of miso.
National Food Safety Systems in the European Union: A Comparative Survey
Authors: Hadjigeorgiou Andreas , Soteriades Elpidoforos S. , Philalithis Anastasios , Psaroulaki Anna , Tselentis Yiannis , Gikas Achilleas
Published: April 2013

This paper is a comparative survey of the National Food Safety Systems (NFSS) of the European Union (EU) Member-States (MS) and the Central EU level. The main organizational structures of the NFSS, their legal frameworks, their responsibilities, their experiences, and challenges relating to food safety are discussed. Growing concerns about food safety have led the EU itself, its MS and non-EU countries, which are EU trade-partners, to review and modify their food safety systems. Our study suggests that the EU and 22 out of 27 Member States (MS) have reorganized their NFSS by establishing a single food safety authority or a similar organization on the national or central level. In addition, the study analyzes different approaches towards the establishment of such agencies. Areas where marked differences in approaches were seen included the division of responsibilities for risk assessment (RA), risk management (RM), and risk communication (RC). We found that in 12 Member States, all three areas of activity (RA, RM, and RC) are kept together, whereas in 10 Member States, risk management is functionally or institutionally separate from risk assessment and risk communication. No single ideal model for others to follow for the organization of a food safety authority was observed; however, revised NFSS, either in EU member states or at the EU central level, may be more effective from the previous arrangements, because they provide central supervision, give priority to food control programs, and maintain comprehensive risk analysis as part of their activities.
Physical properties of honeys produced in the Northeast of Brazil
Authors: Costa Patricia Argemira , Moraes Izabel Cristina Freitas , Bittante Ana Mônica Q.B. , Sobral Paulo José do Amaral , Gomide Catarina A. , Carrer Celso C.
Published: April 2013

The aim of this work was to study the rheological, thermal and some other physical-chemical properties of selected honeys produced in the Northeast of Brazil. Two samples were produced by native “Jandaira” bees (Melipona subnitida) and ten other samples by Africanized bees (Apis mellifera). The samples were analyzed for pH, water activity (aW), soluble solids and water content. Viscosity flow curves were obtained using a rheometer (25ºC, 0-100s-1). Thermal analyses were performed on a differential scanning calorimeter, with heating rate of 10ºC/min (-100 to 100ºC). The water content and the pH of the honey samples varied from 17.2 to 27.9% and from 3.2 to 4.2, respectively, and, the aW of the samples varied from 0.57 to 0.74. Two samples were out of specification with respect to water content, according to Brazilian laws. In relation to rheology, all honey samples showed Newtonian behaviour with no thixotropy or dilatancy. The viscosity varied as an exponential function of the water content. The highest viscosity was obtained for the sample with lower values of water content and aW. Thermograms showed a glass transition (Tg) occurring between -52.4 and -42.6ºC, in the samples produced by Apis mellifera and -67.6 and -57.0ºC for the other samples. A linear relationship was obtained between Tg and water content. In conclusion, the honey viscosity depended on the water content of the product. The higher the water value and therefore the greater the aw, the lower viscosity and Tg of the samples.
Non-destructive estimation of lichen biomass
Authors: Moen Jon , Danell Öje , Holt Roger
Published: April 2013

Ground lichens constitute a vital part of reindeer winter diet, and non-destructive estimation of lichen biomass is therefore crucial for providing objective data for the management of lichen resources. The aim of this study is to compare precisions of different methods of estimating lichen biomass from ground cover and thallus heights of the four most important lichen species: Cladonia arbuscula, C. rangiferina, C. stellaris, and Cetraria islandica. The methods were validated against actual lichen biomass within 50 cm x 50 cm plots. Different methods gave remarkably similar results, except when cover estimation was based on presence/absence data with a strict criterion of 100% lichen cover. Average thallus heights within the plot explained the variation in lichen biomass as well as lichen volume (estimated from cover and average heights). Relationships between biomass and volume or height were also very similar for all four lichen species, and separation into species thus do not seem necessary for practical purposes.Abstract in Swedish / Sammandrag:Icke-destruktiv skattning av lavbiomassa Marklavar utgör en kritisk del av renars vinterföda, och det blir därmed väsentligt att kunna skatta lavbiomassa på ett icke-destruktivt sätt för att kunna förvalta lavresursen. Syftet med denna studie är att jämföra precisionen hos olika metoder för att skatta lavbiomassa baserat på volym- och bålhöjdsmätningar för de fyra viktigaste arterna: Cladonia arbuscula, C. rangiferina, C. stellaris, and Cetraria islandica. Metoderna validerades mot lavbiomassa mätt i 50 cm x 50 cm provytor. Olika metoder gav anmärkningsvärt lika resultat, förutom när täckning skattades med förekomstdata med ett strikt kriterium av 100% lavförekomst. Medelhöjd på lavbålarna i provytan förklarade lika mycket av variationen i lavbiomassa som lavvolym (baserat på täckning och medelhöjd). Förhållandet mellan biomassa och volym eller bålhöjd var också mycket lika mellan arterna vilket medför att det, för praktiska ändamål, inte är nödvändigt att separera arterna vid skattningar av total biomassa.
Molecular monitoring and stepwise preemptive therapy for Epstein–Barr virus viremia after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Liu Qifa , Xuan Li , Liu Hui , Huang Fen , Zhou Hongsheng , Fan Zhiping , Zhao Ke , Wu Meiqing , Xu Lanping , Zhai Xiao , Zhang Fuhua , Liu Can , Sun Jing , Huang Xiaojun
Published: April 2013

The optimal preemptive therapy for Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐associated diseases remains under discussion. We developed a stepwise preemptive therapy (antiviral agents and reduction of immunosuppressants [RI] followed by rituximab) for EBV viremia, based on duration of EBV viremia and changes of viral loads. The blood EBV‐DNA loads were regularly monitored by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction in 251 recipients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The 3‐year cumulative incidence of EBV viremia and EBV‐associated diseases were 31.1% ± 3.1% and 15.6% ± 2.5%, which rose steeply with greater numbers of major risk factors. Of the 64 patients undergoing first‐step preemption, 24 achieved complete response (CR) and 40 showed no response, including 25 progressing to EBV‐associated diseases. The effective rates of antiviral agents and RI plus antiviral agents were 2/16 and 22/48 (P = 0.017). Fourteen achieved CR and one progressed to lymphoproliferative disease in the 15 patients undergoing rituximab preemption. Of the 26 patients progressing to EBV‐associated diseases during preemptive therapy, 20 obtained CR in the 23 cases with rituximab‐based treatments. The preemptive efficacy of RI plus antiviral agents was correlated with the numbers of major risk factors (rs = −0.298; P = 0.04). B‐cell reconstitution was significantly delayed for at least 6 months in patients with rituximab preemption. The risk of herpesvirus infection was similar in patients who showed effective progress to first‐step and rituximab preemption (P = 0.094). RI plus antiviral agents could be given priority to low‐risk patients, whereas more frequent monitoring of blood EBV‐DNA and earlier preemptive rituximab should be advocated in high‐risk patients. Am. J. Hematol. 88:550–555, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Young Alu insertions within the MHC class I region in native American populations: Insights into the origin of the MHC‐Alu repeats
Authors: Gómez‐Pérez Luis , Alfonso‐Sánchez Miguel A. , Dipierri José E. , Sánchez Dora , Espinosa Ibone , De Pancorbo Marian M. , Peña José A.
Published: April 2013

Objectives

Genetic heterogeneity of two Amerindian populations (Jujuy province, Argentina, and Waorani tribe, Ecuador) was characterized by analyzing data on polymorphic Alu insertions within the human major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I region (6p21.31), which are completely nonexistent in Native Americans. We further evaluated the haplotype distribution and genetic diversity among continental ancestry groups and their potential implications for the dating of the origin of MHC‐Alus.

Methods

Five MHC‐Alu elements (AluMicB, AluTF, AluHJ, AluHG, and AluHF) were typed in samples from Jujuy (N = 108) and Waorani (N = 36). Allele and haplotype frequency data on worldwide populations were compiled to explore spatial structuring of the MHC‐Alu diversity through AMOVA tests. We utilized the median‐joining network approach to illustrate the continental distribution of the MHC‐Alu haplotypes and their phylogenetic relationships.

Results

Allele and haplotype distributions differed significantly between Jujuy and Waorani. The Waorani featured a low average heterozygosity attributable to strong population isolation. Overall, Alu markers showed great genetic heterogeneity both within and among populations. The haplotype distribution was distinctive of each continental ancestry group. Contrary to expectations, Africans showed the lowest MHC‐Alu diversity.

Conclusions

Genetic drift mainly associated to population bottlenecks seems to be reflected in the low MHC‐Alu diversity of the Amerindians, mainly in Waorani. Geographical structuring of the haplotype distribution supports the efficiency of the MHC‐Alu loci as lineage (ancestry) markers. The markedly low Alu diversity of African populations relative to other continental clusters suggests that these MHC‐Alus might have arisen after the anatomically modern humans expanded out of Africa. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 25:359–365, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.