bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Related to phyllotaxis interlocked systems of vascular sympodia and cortical resin canals in Abies and Picea shoots
Authors: Zagórska-Marek Beata , Banasiak Alicja
Published: April 2013

We report on some new aspects of the internal architecture of conifer shoot, proving that it is even more strongly related to phyllotaxis than was initially thought. The number of vascular sympodia in an open system of Abies and Picea shoots is correlated with the number of cortical resin canals. Both numbers are the consecutive members of the phyllotactic series, which defines the phyllotactic pattern of the shoot. This means that the concentric systems of alternately oriented vascular sympodia and resin canals are interlocked, following the course of superficial opposite parastichies. Such pattern of inner architecture most likely contributes to the mechanical strengthening of the shoot. It also provides a new example of heterogenetic induction in plant morphogenesis because the development of orderly spaced resin canals is dependent upon earlier differentiation of vascular system. A rapid method of assessing the number of vascular sympodia becomes available by means of counting the number of discrete cortical resin canals visible on the cut surface of the shoot sectioned transversely. Despite being set up on the smaller radius, the number of sympodia is always one step higher in a phyllotactic series than the number of canals.
Inhibition of growth and sporulation of Penicillium expansum by extracts of selected Basidiomycetes
Authors: Florianowicz Teresa
Published: April 2013

A screening of antifungal activity of 33 Basidiomycetes strains was realized with their extracts. The influence of aqueous extracts of fruit-bodies of the testeded fungi after addition of spores or hyphae of Penicillium expansum on growth and sporulation of the fitopathogen in vitro was estimated. The species: Hydnum repandum L.: Fr., Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.: Fr.) Kummer, Coprinus comatus (Műll Fr.) S.F. Gray, Coprinus atramentarius (Bull: Fr.) Fr. and Lactarius turpis (Weinm.) Fr. reduced the mycelial growth and inhibited sporulation of this pathogen.
Migration of vascular plant species to a recent wood adjoining ancient woodland
Authors: Dzwonko Zbigniew
Published: April 2013

Woodland communities can be restored by natural succession in sites adjoining ancient woodlands which can act as seed sources for trees, shrubs and woodland herbs. The influence of dominant tree species and the distance from an adjacent ancient oak-hornbeam woodland upon the floristic composition of species in a recent pine wood planted on dry rendzina soil were studied. It was found that, in spite of a 52-year long succession, the border between woods was sharp and the composition of species in the recent wood were significantly different than in the adjacent ancient woodland. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed that the distance to the ancient woodland had a significant influence on species distributions in the recent wood. The numbers of species from the Querco-Fagetea class, vegetatively reproducing species and myrmecochores decreased with this distance, whereas the numbers of anemochores increased. The migration rate of many woodland species, calculated on occurrence of the farthest individuals was very slow, varying from 0.0 m year-1 to 0.38 m year-1. The restoration of the field layer vegetation in the studied pine wood was much slower than in recent deciduous woods on rich and moist soils where the migration rate of some species exceeded 1.50 m year-1. Recent woods adjacent to ancient woodlands can be more effectively colonised by woodland species only when they are dominated by broad-leaved trees with quickly decomposing litter, and the spatial continuity of these woods persists for a long period.
Effect of pistil age on pollen tube growth, fruit development and seed set in Cucurbita pepo L.
Authors: Pacini Ettore , Nepi Massimo
Published: April 2013

The effects of pistil age on pollen tube growth, fruit development and seed set were studied in Cucurbita pepo L., the flower of which opens for only six hours. Stigma receptivity lasts four days, from one day before until two days after anthesis. Style receptivity lasts three days, from the day before to the day after anthesis. Ovule receptivity lasts two days: the day of anthesis and the day before. The rate of pollen tube growth varies in different parts of the pistil and in relation to pistil age. In the stigmatic and stylar region, the tubes grow faster if pollination occurs the day before anthesis; in the ovary they grow faster when pollination occurs at anthesis. In the receptacle region, where the transmitting tissue is reduced, the growth rate decreases independently of the time of pollination. The fruits are larger and heavier with more seeds when pollination occurs at anthesis. There is a positive correlation between seed number and fruit weight when pollination occurred at anthesis and the day before.
Contemporary floristic changes in the Karkonosze Mts.
Authors: Fabiszewski Jerzy , Wojtuń Bronisław
Published: April 2013

The paper presents the transformations of species composition in the main plant communities of the Karkonosze Mts. subalpine and alpine belts during the last 35 years. The investigations of floristic changes were performed in associations: Carici (rigidae)-Nardetum, Carici-Festucetum supinae, Crepidi-Calamagrostietum villose and Empetro-Vaccinietum. Signalized are also some vegetation transformations in the remaining belts. The progressing floristic degradation of plant communities in the subalpine and alpine belts consists in: (a) expansion of grasses, (b) decline of rare vascular plants, and (c) elimination of terricolous bryophytes and lichens. In spruce forest belts declining are species connected with old-growth spruce forests like: Listera cordata and Moneses uniflora. The changes of plant communities of low mountain swards (Nardetalia) caused by cessation of pasture and mowing in the cause of retreat of many rare plants, like e.g., Arnica montana. The main cause of the still lasting in the Karkonosze Mts. community transformations is the changes in soil environment connected with anthropogenic nitrogen fertilization. The large inflow of mineral nitrogen from the atmosphere (1138 mg/m2 sum for vegetation season) is the reason of accelerated rate of decomposition of organic matter and intensified nitrification. The high content of nitrates in soil (5 times higher than in the Tatra Mts. swards) is the reason of expansion of graminoids, mainly Deschampsia flexuosa, Calamagrostis villosa and Carex bigelowii subsp. rigida. The overfertilisation of habitats causes the retreat of rare high mountain vascular plants and the decline of terricolous bryophytes and lichens.
Vegetation cover in an ancient agricultural landscape: the Proszowice Plateau (southern Poland) as a case-study
Authors: Kotańska Małgorzata , Towpasz Krystyna , Trzcińska-Tacik Helena , Mitka Józef
Published: April 2013

The investigations on vegetation cover in the Proszowice Plateau (Małopolska Upland, southern Poland) in 1997-1999 were carried out. This vast area (770 sq. km), hitherto not in this respect investigated, is covered with arable fields in 80%. This area has been used for agriculture since the Neolithic age. The aim of the paper is to show the present state of the vegetation and flora in face of the growing man's impact upon living biotas and their environment. The Braun-Blanquet phytosociological method was used, yielding 1030 relevés. In effect, a total of 48 plant associations and communities were found. Plateaux and gently slopes are covered with arable fields. In the cereal communities Vicietum tetraspermae and in the root crops Echinochloo-Setarietum are mostly found. In the wide and shallow stream valleys moist and wet meadows (Calthion, Magnocaricion) predominate, and the stands of the xerothermic grassland (Festuco-Brometea) occur in places not used for agriculture: on steep escarp-ments between fields and on steep slopes of hills, gullies and stream banks. Small and scarce forests (Querco-Fagetea) are preserved on plateaux and on gently slopes. In the stream banks they consist of willow thickets (Salicion) and fragments of riverside carr (Alno-Padion). Basing on the relevé material and floristic checklists a total of 860 vascular plant species was recorded, in this 19.2% of rare and endangered. The flora is of lowland character; c. 80% are native species. The characteristic feature of the Proszowice Plateau is the occurrence of the xerothermic grassland and wet meadows, in which species rare in other regions of the country flourish.
Phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI) polymorphism in Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz
Authors: Bednorz Leszek , Krzakowa Maria
Published: April 2013

Dormant buds of individual Sorbus torminalis trees collected from eight Polish populations were tested with horizontal gel electrophoresis according to one locus of PGI enzyme system. Three allozymes of different frequency were identified in each population. Genetic variability based on PGI locus A was high within seven populations (mean Ho=0.602 and mean Pg=0.491). Only one population with A3A3 genotypes was monomorphic, most probably due to intensive vegetative propagation or founder effect. The level of genetic differences among populations based on one variable locus reached GST=0.13.
The influence of shoot harvesting on the age structure of Convallaria majalis L. populations
Authors: Kosiński Igor
Published: April 2013

This paper presents the structure of developmental stages and the age structure of Convallaria majalis L. populations. The investigation material consisted of individuals and modules from populations in Betulo-Quercetum, Fago-Quercetum, Melico-Fagetum and Tilio-Carpinetum, in which the leaves and inflorescence of C. majalis were cut annually over a period of three years.

Fifty percent of the C. majalis regional population consisted of mature modules, 20% of juvenile modules, 25% of senile modules and a very small percentage of generative modules. In populations of Fago-Quercetum there are four times more senile modules than juvenile modules, while in Melico-Fagetum the percentage of juvenile modules is four times more numerous than the percentage of senile modules. The average age of modules is 4.7±3.8 years. Three year old individuals dominate in the population, while 10 year or older individuals are very rare.

In the population disturbed by the three raw material collections, the percentage of juvenile modules was decreased by 50% and the percentage of generative modules was nonexistent. As a result, the average module age is higher than in the undisturbed population. Cutting leaves and inflorescence is an important factor in limiting the recruitment of juvenile modules. The growth of individuals in the disturbed population occurs among older modules, which were able to reproduce before the disturbance occurred. Young individuals (three to four years old) are less numerous in the disturbed population, and the majority of individuals are three to six years old.
Loiseleuria procumbens (Ericaceae) in the Spanish Pyrenees
Authors: Boratyński Adam , Romo Angel
Published: April 2013

The paper analyses the distribution and occurrence conditions of Loiseleuria procumbens in the Spanish Pyrenees. The species represents a typical arctic-alpine element in the flora of Europe. In the Pyrenees it reaches its southernmost European localities. The Pyrenean populations of the species are not numerous in the majority of the localities. L. procumbens occurs most frequently in the alpine and subalpine zones, at altitudes between 2100 and 2650 m, with a minimum at 1750 m and a maximum at 2900 m. It has been reported nearly exclusively in the siliceous substrata, and predominantly on the north-facing slopes, on the regosols and/or on flat tops of rocks. It forms its own communities, mostly included into the Loiseleurio-Vaccinion alliance, and rarely enters associations of the Festucion airoidis and Rhododendro-Vaccinion alliances. Its typical community, Cetrario-Loiseleurietum procumbentis, is found only in the eastern and central parts of the Spanish Pyrenees.
Glomus claroideum and G. spurcum, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Glomeromycota) new for Poland and Europe, respectively
Authors: Błaszkowski Janusz , Adamska Iwona , Czerniawska Beata
Published: April 2013

The ontogenetic development and morphological properties of spores of two species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Glomeromycota) of the genus Glomus, G. claroideum and G. spurcum, are described and illustrated. Spores of the two species were not earlier found in Poland, and this paper is the first report of the occurrence of G. spurcum in Europe. In one-species pot cultures with Plantago lanceolata as the host plant, the mycorrhizae of G. claroideum consist of arbuscules, vesicles, as well as intra- and extraradical hyphae staining intensively with trypan blue. Glomus spurcum mycorrhizae were not recognized, because many attempts to establish one-species cultures of this fungus failed. Additionally, the distribution of both the fungi in the world is presented.
Links between root carbohydrates and seasonal pattern of soil microbial activity of diverse european populations of Pinus sylvestris grown in a provenance plantation
Authors: Kaliszewska-Rokicka Barbara , Oleksyn Jacek , Zytkowiak Roma , Reich Peter B.
Published: April 2013

Activity of soil dehydrogenase (DHA) was measured in the mineral soil in a forest stand of 15 to 16-year-old Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) from geographically diverse populations, as an indicator of biological activity of soil microorganisms, in a provenance experiment in Poland. The pine populations originated from six European countries (Sweden, Russia, Latvia, Poland, Germany, France) and differed widely in aboveground biomass and productivity. Soil DHA during two growing seasons showed pronounced seasonal variability, which was significantly related to the fine root concentration of nonstructural carbohydrates. Higher DHA was found in soil under canopies of the central and southern European populations than in those from more northern parts of the Scots pine range. Significant positive correlation between soil DHA and aboveground tree biomass suggest that these patterns most likely resulted from differences in carbon dynamics and productivity among populations.
Structural and ultrastructural study of Capsicum annuum leaves after treatment with Uncaria tomentosa bark extracts
Authors: Tykarska Teresa , Gulewicz Krzysztof , Zobel Alicja , Augustynowicz Julita , Żurowska Katarzyna , Kuraś Mieczysław
Published: April 2013

The influence of an Uncaria tomentosa extract on the development of Capsicum plants grown in green-house conditions was examined. The effect of the treatment was investigated with microscopic techniques (light and electron microscope) in leaves from three levels of control plants and plants after treatment with the extract added to the soil in doses of 0.4 and 16 mg/ml (200 ml per pot/plant). In control leaves, changes typical of the subsequent phases of normal development were observed: nuclear chromatin became slightly condensed, plastoglobuli of chloroplasts increased in number and size, intragranal thylakoids were somewhat dilatated. In addition to such commonly occurring changes, some symptoms typical of pepper were observed in the ontogenesis of the examined plant: an increased number of spherical electron-dense deposits in vacuoles, an increased number of peroxisomes, the occurrence of numerous paracrystalline structures in chloroplasts of mature leaves, and, starting in mature leaves, expulsion of plastoglobuli from chloroplasts.

After the treatment, most of those changes, leading to ageing, occurred much earlier and were more distinct. Chloroplasts, already in the youngest examined leaves, showed dilatation of intergranal thylakoids, which intensified with aging of the leaves and degradation of grana in the oldest leaves. Starch grains decreased in size and number and plastoglobuli became large. Vesiculation of ground cytoplasm in all leaves was stronger than in the control. No paracrystalline structures in chloroplasts or expulsion of plastoglobuli were observed. Another unusual phenomenon was the disappearance of spherical electron-dense deposits in the central vacuoles of cells.

Those observations suggested that U. tomentosa extract enhanced the natural ontogenesis of Capsicum annuum leaves, by accelerating and enhancing the typical characteristics of ageing, and, additionally, it changed the structure and physiology of cells.
Revision of the genus Xerula Maire (Basidiomycetes, Agaricales) in Poland
Authors: Ronikier Anna
Published: April 2013

Data concerning morphology, ecology and distribution of Polish representatives of the genus Xerula Maire are discussed in the paper. All available specimens of X. pudens and X. melanotricha from Polish herbaria were reexamined to verify their identity and geographical distribution. Several new localities of X. melanotricha in the country are provided. A key to European taxa of the genus is proposed.
Pediastrum species (Hydrodictyaceae, Sphaeropleales) in phytoplankton of Sumin Lake (Łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland)
Authors: Pasztaleniec Agnieszka , Poniewozik Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

During studies of phytoplankton in Sumin Lake (Łęczna-Włodawa Lakeland), conducted from May till September 2001 and 2002, 15 taxa of the genus Pediastrum (Hydrodictyaceae, Sphaeropleales) were found. Among them there were common species as Pediastrum boryanum, P. duplex, P. tetras and P. simplex, but also rare species as P. integrum or P. kawraiskyi. An especially interesting species was P. orientale, the taxon that until now has not been noted in phytoplankton of Polish water bodies. The paper gives descriptions of the genus Pediastrum coenobia and physico-chemical conditions of the habitat. The original documentation of Pediastrum taxa is added.
Morphological variation of Juniperus oxycedrus subsp. macrocarpa (Cupressaceae) in three Italian localities
Authors: Klimko Małgorzata , Boratyńska Krystyna , Boratyński Adam , Marcysiak Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

The intra- and interpopulational geographic variation of three distant populations of J. oxycedrus subsp. macrocarpa was examined biometrically on the basis of morphological key-characters of needles, seeds and cones. The shortest Euclidean distances were used in the agglomerative grouping of closest neighbourhood and discrimination analysis with principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to verify the south-north differentiation of the taxon in Italy. Most of the cone and seed dimensional characters are correlated. No significant correlations were found between cone and needle characters. The sampled populations differ only insignificantly from one another, while the intrapopulational variation is slightly higher. Cone length as well as seed number, width and thickness were significantly correlated with geographic latitude, while the other four characters are not. Differences in cone shape were observed between individuals, so that several morphotypes can be distinguished.
The disintegration of populations of underwater plants in soft water lakes enriched with acidic organic matter
Authors: Szmeja Józef , Bociąg Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

The characteristics of habitats, individuals and populations of four submerged macrophytes, Lobelia dortmanna L., Isoetes lacustris L., Sphagnum denticulatum Brid. and Fontinalis antipyretica Hedw., were studied in 12 soft water oligohumic lakes which had no inflow of allochtonic DOM and the DOC concentration in the water was <4.0 mg C dm-3 and 13 humic lakes enriched with allochthonous dissolved organic matter (DOM) from drained peat bogs and ranging in DOC water concentration from 4.1 to 44.0 mg C dm-3. The analyses of population disintegration were conducted basing on characteristics of individuals (size, habitat, fertility) and populations (aggregation density index, settlement index of the population area). The settlement index of the population area for Lobelia, Fontinalis, Isoetes, Sphagnum decreased from 8.4 to 6.2 g d.w. m-2, 4.6 to 0.01 g d.w. m-2, 85.4 to <0.001 g d.w. m-2 and 39.3 to 7.2 g d.w. m-2, respectively. Similar trends were observed in aggregation density. The general pattern of the disintegration of populations of these species was always similar. It was independent of the source macrophytes drew resources from or their susceptibility to environmental changes. Individuals began to be eliminated from the deep and central parts of the population area. The remainder of the populations, which persist in the shallowest, best-illuminated part of the area, are themselves endangered by disturbances caused by wavy motion. The only populations of submerged macrophytes which can survive in polyhumic lakes under such conditions are those which are resistant to disturbances common in the shallow littoral (Lobelia dortmanna, Fontinalis antipyretica).
Variability in morphology of Microsphaera alphitoides Griffon et Maubl. in Poland
Authors: Ufnalski Krzysztof , Przybył Krystyna
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to verify descriptions of the morphology of the fungus responsible for powdery mildew on oak leaves of nursery seedlings and of young trees in forest stands. Infected, fully developed leaves from apical parts of stems of Quercus robur or Q. petraea were collected in two national parks and in six forest districts in Poland. The taxonomic characteres of all specimens were generally consistent with those given in keys for Microsphaera alphitoides. However, the limoniform shape of conidia, characteristic of two sites (nurseries), has not been found in available synopses. Limoniform conidia were significantly longer and wider than others. Agreat variety of forms of mycelium on leaves were observed. The mycelium appeared in three forms: (1) floccose or felted oval patches (always with yellow or brown discoloration), (2) faveolate oval patches (often with yellow or brown discoloration), and (3) felted or mealy mycelium along veins (rarely with discoloration). Mycelium without limoniform conidia appeared in all forms, while mycelium with limoniform conidia appeared only in the form of patches, always causing leaf discoloration.
Influence of mineral salts upon activity of Trichoderma harzianum non-volatile metabolites on Armillaria spp. rhizomorphs
Authors: Przybył Krystyna , Mańka Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

Effect of non-volatile metabolites of Trichoderma harzianum together with certain salts containing Mg++, Fe+++, Mn++, Cu++, Al+++, Ca++, K++, Na+, PO4--- and SO3--- on the production and length of rhizomorphs of Armillaria borealis, A. gallica and A. ostoyae was studied. In pure medium, T. harzianum exhibited stimulating effect on rhizomorphs of A. borealis (both number and length) and A. ostoyae (only initiation). Cu++ salt totaly inhibited the initiation of rhizomorphs of Armillaria borealis, A. gallica and A. ostoyae. Effect of other compounds on the activity of T. harzianum depended on Armillaria species. The majority of chemical compounds tested supressed the activity of non-volatile metabolites of T. harzianum. Evident stimulating effect was observed under influence of sulphate salts consisting Al++ and Fe+++ on the rhizomorph number of A. borealis and A. gallica, respectively.
Effect of freezing desiccation on cold hardiness, ROS, membrane lipid levels and antioxidant status in spruce seedlings
Authors: Pukacki Paweł M. , Kamińska-Rożek Emilia
Published: April 2013

The symptoms of oxidative stress and antioxidative response were investigated on Norway spruce seedlings subjected to freezing desiccation conditions. Three-year-old seedlings were exposed to freezing desiccation at -3oC and -10oC for 45 days in two acclimation stages: autumn (October) and winter (January). The stress enhanced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS): superoxide radical anion (O2.-), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Concentrations of low molecular antioxidants: glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid (AsA) and a-tocopherol declined at both low temperatures and acclimation stages. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased with ROS production, while guaiacol peroxidase (POX) activity decreased. The freeze-induced desiccation of needles was significantly correlated with the cold hardiness (LT50), the level of low-molecular antioxidants, and POX activity, but not with SOD activity. Under extreme freezing desiccation conditions, these reactions continued, leading to the degradation of membrane phospholipids and a strong decrease in cold hardiness. The results show that membranes are the primary site of injury induced by ROS, produced under the influence of low temperature combined with dehydration. The acclimation response of Norway spruce needles to the oxidative stress generated by long-term cold and/or freezing desiccation is discussed.
Regeneration of Nardus stricta subalpine grasslands in the Giant Mountains (Krkonoše)
Authors: Hejcman Michal , Nežerková Pavla , Pavlů Vilém , Gaisler Jan , Lokvenc Theodor , Pavlů Lenka
Published: April 2013

The origin of Nardus stricta dominated subalpine grassland (Nardo-Caricion rigidae alliance) is a frequently discussed topic in the Giant Mountains (Karkonosze in the Czech Republic). Many researchers considered them, as secondary stands arisen after Pinus mugo removal and by consequent oligotrophization of original plant communities, caused by long-term rough grazing and hay making activities without manuring. On the contrary, they are recognized as natural due to inability of generative reproduction of N. stricta and the very slow vegetative spread there. The aim of this study was to find proofs for generative reproduction of mat grass in subalpine conditions of the Giant Mountains. We identified a Pinus mugo nursery with arable land abandoned in 1956 and compared its vegetation with that of the surrounding area. Dense and homogenous sward dominated by N. stricta developed during the succession on the old arable land for 48 years, and it is an indisputable proof of generative reproduction of N. stricta there. Synthesizing historical facts on human activities in the past and the results of our contemporary vegetation analysis, we conclude that the Nardo-Caricion rigidae grassland was capable to spread relatively quickly, when agricultural activities above the upper timber line were introduced.
The effect of Puccinia komarovii Tranzsch. infection on characters of Impatiens parviflora DC. in Galio sylvatici-Carpinetum (R. Tx. 1937) Oberd. 1957 forest association
Authors: Piskorz Renata , Klimko Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

The aim of the present study was to determine how internal diversity of oak-hornbeam forest modifies the course and effects of infestation of small-flowered balsam (Impatiens parviflora) with rust Puccinia komarovii. The study investigated the effect of the disease on the demography of the population, and the habit and biomass allocation of the infested specimens, as well as the initiation of non-specific defense mechanisms. It was shown that: 1) the percentage of infected specimens was independent of the undergrowth-coverage rate and of the I. parviflora density; 2) infected populations differ from healthy ones in the seasonal dynamics of abundance changes; 3) high mortality is observed as early as May and the first part of June, i.e. it pertains to specimens, which did not begin reproduction; 4) the presence of infection and its intensity stimulate the growth of the stem and the hypocotyl; 5) fresh weight of infected specimens is by almost 30% lower in comparison to the weight of uninfected plants; the weight of badly infected plants decreases by 20% in comparison to the less severely infected balsam plants; the weight of generative organs drops most significantly, even by over 50%; 6) biomass allocation does not fluctuate considerably; 7) reproduction effort expressed by the ratio of the weight of fruits (or only seeds) to the total biomass shows a distinct downward trend; 8) the environmental factor does not affect the force of defense mechanisms, the strength of biochemical response of diseased plants depends on the degree of their infestation.
Farmer decision making and its effect on subalpine grassland succession in the Giant Mts., Czech Republic
Authors: Hejcman Michal , Pavlů Vilém , Hejcmanová Pavla , Gaisler Jan , Hakl Josef , Rauch Otto
Published: April 2013

Nitrogen deposition is generally considered as a main reason for many recent plant expansions, but management changes are often not taken into account. Understanding the effects of agriculture management in the past can be decisive in the explanation of plant expansions at present. In order to understand the spread of Molinia caerulea and Calamagrostis villosa into Nardus stricta dominated subalpine grassland in the Giant Mts. (Krkonoše, Karkonosze), we undertook an experiment to explain farmer decision making and we discussed its effect on grassland succession. We measured mowing productivity, yields, biomass quality and nutrient removal in N. stricta, M. caerulea, and C. villosa dominated swards. With regard to defoliation management performed on the subalpine grasslands for at least 500 years and cancelled after the Second World War, we found the following results and conclusions. 1. Mowing productivity, yield and forage quality were lowest in the N. stricta sward, therefore farmers preferred to harvest C. villosa and M. caerulea stands if they had the possibility to select a sward for mowing. 2. Removal of all nutrients was the lowest in the N. stricta sward. With respect to these facts, the competitive advantage of N. stricta is obvious under long-term scything without fertilization. Consequently, the recent increase of defoliation sensitive species M. caerulea and C. villosa above the timber line must be evaluated with respect to both: termination of agricultural activities and recent nitrogen deposition.
Effectiveness of a Relationship Enrichment Program for Couples Living with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Tompkins Sara Anne , Roeder Jessica Ann , Thomas Jenifer J. , Koch Kimberly K.
Published: April 2013

Living with a chronic illness such as multiple sclerosis (MS) has significant psychosocial ramifications. In particular, the patient's relationship with a spouse or significant other is often negatively affected. Programs are needed to address the psychosocial challenges of the illness and help improve outcomes for both the person with MS and his or her romantic support partner. Relationship Matters (RM) is a relationship enrichment program that integrates information and resources of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society with empirically based marriage education. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the RM program in increasing relationship satisfaction and aspects of health-related quality of life in couples living with MS over a 3-month follow-up period. Couples were given 8 hours of programming via in-person workshops disseminated across the country or teleconferences. A control group consisting of members of MS couples who did not receive the intervention was used for comparison. The results indicate that RM significantly improved relationship satisfaction over time compared with no intervention (P < .05). Additional findings include significant improvements in mental health–related quality of life as well as reported improvements in communication, conflict resolution, and ability to handle MS-specific relationship issues. Overall, these findings show that RM results in improved couple functioning and additional psychological health benefits for individuals with MS and their romantic support partners.
Impact of Comorbidity on Fatigue Management Intervention Outcomes Among People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Finlayson Marcia , Preissner Katharine , Cho Chi
Published: April 2013

This exploratory secondary analysis examined whether the presence of six chronic health conditions moderated the effectiveness of a teleconference-delivered fatigue self-management education program for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The longitudinal data used were from a randomized controlled trial involving 181 community-dwelling adults with MS. The primary outcome was fatigue impact, as measured by the Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS). Mixed-effects analysis of variance (ANOVA) models were used to determine the best-fitting model. Just under 65% (n = 112) of participants had at least one comorbid condition. Only diabetes and arthritis moderated all three FIS subscales over time. People with diabetes were slower to show improvement after intervention than people without diabetes. People with arthritis made much more dramatic initial gains compared with people without arthritis but had difficulty maintaining those gains over time. The results point to the need for greater attention to the impact of comorbidities on rehabilitation interventions. These exploratory findings suggest that fatigue self-management education protocols may need to be customized to people who are trying to incorporate MS fatigue self-management behaviors while simultaneously managing diabetes or arthritis.
Psychometric Properties of the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale
Authors: Larson Rebecca D.
Published: April 2013

Psychometric assessments are tests or questionnaires that have been designed to measure constructs of interest in an individual or a target population. A goal of many of these self-report instruments is to provide researchers with the ability to gather subjective information in a manner that might allow for quantitative analysis and interpretation of these results. This requires the instrument of choice to have adequate psychometric properties of reliability and validity. Much research has been conducted on creating self-report quality of life questionnaires for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). This article focuses on one in particular, the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). The article starts with a brief description of the rationale, construction, and scoring of the inventory. Next, the best available reliability and validity data on the MFIS are presented. The article concludes with a brief discussion on the interpretation of scores, followed by suggestions for future research. This summative analysis is intended to examine whether the instrument is adequately measuring the impact of fatigue and whether the scores allow for meaningful interpretations.
Scanning Probe Microscopy of Nanocomposite Membranes and Dynamic Organization
Authors: Montaño Gabriel A. , Adams Peter G. , Xiao Xiaoyin , Goodwin Peter M.
Published: April 2013

Nanocomposite membrane assemblies are a class of materials that incorporate inorganic/organic nanoscale materials, such as fullerenes and gold nanoparticles or nanostructured materials with bio‐inspired amphiphilic structures composed of molecules such as lipids or block copolymers. One of the intrigues of such materials is the potential to develop programmable membrane assemblies that mimic biological membrane complexity, dynamics and function. Due to the nanoscale nature of the assemblies, it becomes necessary to understand interactions between these materials with nanoscale resolution. Although many techniques are able to provide information as to the overall organization of membrane‐based assemblies, only scanning probe microscopy (SPM) methods allow for a direct visualization of stochastic processes under environmentally relevant conditions. Here, an overview of nanocomposite membrane and thin film architecture investigations is presented with an emphasis on using in situ atomic force microscopy (AFM) in combination with fluorescence microscopy/spectroscopy techniques to understand organization and dynamics, in relation to activities and capabilities at the Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies.
Copper‐Catalyzed C‐Arylation and Denitrogenation of Tetrazoles: Domino Synthesis of 1,3‐Diaminoisoquinoline Derivatives
Authors: Shi Liangliang , Yang Haijun , Jiang Yuyang , Fu Hua
Published: April 2013

An unexpected copper‐catalyzed sequential C‐arylation and denitrogenation of tetrazoles leading to 1,3‐diaminoisoquinoline derivatives has been developed, and the corresponding 1,3‐diaminoisoquinoline derivatives were obtained in moderate to good yields. The method provides a novel strategy for the synthesis of isoquinoline derivatives containing various functional groups.
Copper‐Catalyzed Oxidative Transformation of Aryl Propargylic Azides to Aryl Propiolonitriles
Authors: Wang Teng , Yin Hang , Jiao Ning
Published: April 2013

A concise copper(I)‐catalyzed oxidative transformation of aryl propargyl azides to aryl propiolonitriles has been developed. Aryl propiolonitrile derivatives can be obtained in moderate to good yields by this strategy. An oxidative Schmidt rearrangement is involved in this transformation.
Relay Catalysis: Enantioselective Synthesis of Cyclic Benzo‐Fused Homoallylic Alcohols by Chiral Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed Allylboration/Ring Closing Metathesis
Authors: Fustero Santos , Rodríguez Elsa , Lázaro Rubén , Herrera Lidia , Catalán Silvia , Barrio Pablo
Published: April 2013

Six‐ and seven‐membered benzo‐fused cyclic homoallylic alcohols can be readily synthesized by a tandem chiral Brønsted acid‐catalyzed allyl (crotyl)boration/ring closing metathesis sequence performed under orthogonal relay catalysis conditions. Excellent enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities are obtained in most of the cases. In addition, the parent crotylboration/RCM process is also described. The required substrates, ortho‐vinylbenzaldehydes, are readily available in one step from commercially available starting materials. Both catalysts and reactants are also available from commercial suppliers. The reaction shows broad functional group compatibility and is also suitable for heteroaromatic substrates. Substitution at any position of the aromatic ring is tolerated; however, substitution at position 6 results in a substantial drop in enantioselectivity.
Synthesis of Optically Active 2H‐Thiopyrano[2,3‐b]quinolines with Three Contiguous Stereocenters via an Organocatalytic Asymmetric Tandem Michael–Henry Reaction
Authors: Wu Lulu , Wang Youming , Song Haibin , Tang Liangfu , Zhou Zhenghong , Tang Chuchi
Published: April 2013

Optically active 2H‐thiopyrano[2,3‐b]quinolines with three contiguous stereocenters have been synthesized via a chiral bifunctional squaramide‐catalyzed tandem Michael–Henry reaction between 2‐mercaptoquinoline‐3‐carbaldehydes and nitroolefins. The reactions proceed with excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity to give the title compounds in high yields with high levels of diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity (up to >99/1 dr and >99% ee, respectively).
The Strategy of One Firm Offering a New Product with Willingness to Pay Elicited in the Lab
Authors: Marette Stéphan
Published: April 2013

This study analyzes the strategy of one firm offering a new product with willingness to pay (WTP) for the usual and new products elicited in the lab. By using WTP from an experiment, surpluses for consumers choosing between the usual and new products are inferred and lead to an estimated demand for the new product. From this demand, the author shows how to estimate the ex ante price of the new product along with the ex ante level of advertising selected by one firm for informing consumers. The socially optimal level of advertising maximizing the welfare is also determined. The previous methodology is applied to two experiments with food. For a same‐advertising formula regarding information diffusion to consumers, the estimated levels of advertising highly differ between these two experiments because of different WTP variations linked to the new product.
Strukturell definierte Allylverbindungen der Hauptgruppenmetalle: Koordination und Reaktivität
Authors: Lichtenberg Crispin , Okuda Jun
Published: April 2013

Metallorganische Allylverbindungen sind von Bedeutung als Allylierungsreagentien in der organischen Synthese, als Polymerisationskatalysatoren und als flüchtige Metallvorstufen in den Materialwissenschaften. Während die Allylchemie der Lanthanoide und syntheserelevanter Übergangsmetalle wie Palladium gut etabliert ist, bestand für die Allylchemie der Hauptgruppenmetalle Nachholbedarf. Jüngste Erkenntnisse über die Allylkomplexe der Gruppen 1, 2 und 12–16 zeichnen nun ein vollständigeres Bild. Dies beruht auf dem grundlegenden Verständnis der Metall‐Allyl‐Bindungswechselwirkungen im Festkörper und in Lösung. Außerdem wurden Reaktivitätstrends rational erklärt und neue, allylspezifische Reaktivitätsmuster aufgedeckt. Schlüsselerkenntnisse umfassen 1) die Nutzung unterschiedlicher Metall‐Allyl‐Wechselwirkungen (stark ionisch bis vorwiegend kovalent), 2) das Nutzen synergetischer Effekte in Heterodimetallverbindungen und 3) die Regulierung der Lewis‐Acidität durch Variation der Ladung von Allylkomplexen.
Life cycle assessment of bioethanol‐based PVC
Authors: Alvarenga Rodrigo AF , Dewulf Jo , De Meester Steven , Wathelet Alain , Villers Joseph , Thommeret Richard , Hruska Zdenek
Published: April 2013

Literature suggests that depletion of non‐renewable resources is the most concerning environmental impact category in the life cycle of the polyvinyl chloride (PVC), mainly due to the fossil feedstock for ethylene. Therefore, bioethanol is considered as another source for ethylene in the PVC production chain. The objective of this review was to perform a cradle‐to‐gate attributional life cycle assessment (LCA) of bioethanol‐based PVC resin. We created two scenarios for bioethanol‐based PVC (2010 and 2018), and compared them with fossil‐based PVC. We used primary data from Solvay S.A. and secondary data from the literature, for the life cycle inventory. For the impact assessment, we used several midpoint indicators and the ReCiPe Endpoint H/A. At midpoint level, bioethanol‐based PVC from 2010 and 2018 presented better results than fossil‐based PVC for non‐renewable resource use (13.8, 13.4, and 44.8 MJex/kg of PVC resin, respectively) and climate change (−0.09, –0.19, and 1.52 kg CO2eq/kg of PVC resin, respectively), but worse results for other environmental impact categories (e.g. ecotoxicity). At endpoint level, the two bioethanol‐based PVC scenarios showed better results overall than fossil‐based PVC (up to 66% lower). Within the bioethanol‐based PVC scenarios, the results for 2018 were better than for 2010 (up to 43% lower for the endpoint single score results) corroborating that higher efficiency (at the crop field and bioethanol production) and reduction of burnt harvest ought to reduce environmental impacts. Even though bioethanol‐based PVC had better results in comparison to fossil‐based, improvements should be sought to minimize other environmental impact categories, for example, biodiversity and ecotoxicity. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Removal of the local geomagnetic field affects reproductive growth in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xu Chunxiao , Wei Shufeng , Lu Yan , Zhang Yuxia , Chen Chuanfang , Song Tao
Published: April 2013

The influence of the geomagnetic field‐removed environment on Arabidopsis growth was investigated by cultivation of the plants in a near‐null magnetic field and local geomagnetic field (45 µT) for the whole growth period under laboratory conditions. The biomass accumulation of plants in the near‐null magnetic field was significantly suppressed at the time when plants were switching from vegetative growth to reproductive growth compared with that of plants grown in the local geomagnetic field, which was caused by a delay in the flowering of plants in the near‐null magnetic field. At the early or later growth stage, no significant difference was shown in the biomass accumulation between the plants in the near‐null magnetic field and local geomagnetic field. The average number of siliques and the production of seeds per plant in the near‐null magnetic field was significantly lower by about 22% and 19%, respectively, than those of control plants. These resulted in a significant reduction of about 20% in the harvest index of plants in the near‐null magnetic field compared with that of the controls. These results suggest that the removal of the local geomagnetic field negatively affects the reproductive growth of Arabidopsis, which thus affects the yield and harvest index. Bioelectromagnetics. 34:437–442. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Zero‐modified Poisson model: Bayesian approach, influence diagnostics, and an application to a Brazilian leptospirosis notification data
Authors: Conceição Katiane S. , Andrade Marinho G. , Louzada Francisco
Published: April 2013

In this paper, a Bayesian method for inference is developed for the zero‐modified Poisson (ZMP) regression model. This model is very flexible for analyzing count data without requiring any information about inflation or deflation of zeros in the sample. A general class of prior densities based on an information matrix is considered for the model parameters. A sensitivity study to detect influential cases that can change the results is performed based on the Kullback–Leibler divergence. Simulation studies are presented in order to illustrate the performance of the developed methodology. Two real datasets on leptospirosis notification in Bahia State (Brazil) are analyzed using the proposed methodology for the ZMP model.
Split intein mediated ultra‐rapid purification of tagless protein (SIRP)
Authors: Guan Dongli , Ramirez Miguel , Chen Zhilei
Published: April 2013

Rapid and efficient tag removal remains a significant problem in recombinant protein purification. Using an engineered DnaE intein from Nostoc punctiforme, we developed a split intein mediated ultra‐rapid purification (SIRP) method for the purification of tagless recombinant protein from E. coli lysate in less than 1 h. This system exhibits extraordinarily rapid thio‐induced C‐terminal cleavage with about 50% completion within 30 s at both 22°C and 6°C. This is the fastest C‐terminal cleavage activity reported to date for inteins. Although the reaction kinetics slow down after the first minute, >90% cleavage completion is achieved within 30 min at 22°C, or within 3 h at 6°C. The ultra‐rapid cleavage kinetics are made possible by the positioning of the purification tag at the split junction to the C‐terminus of the intein N‐fragment, thus avoiding potential steric hindrance of the critical interaction between the N‐ and C‐extein. Target proteins are cleaved to >72% completion after 1 h of intein reaction regardless of the identity of the N‐terminal amino acid except in the cases of threonine (50% cleavage) and proline. The C‐terminal cleavage reaction can be effectively inhibited by divalent Zn2+ under non‐reducing conditions. Importantly, the association of the intein N‐ and C‐fragments is reversible, enabling the column‐bound intein N‐fragment bait protein to be regenerated for multiple usages and further reducing the cost of protein purification. SIRP technology should provide a useful tool for the purification of tagless proteins and peptides. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110:2471–2481. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.