bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges to Managing Privacy Impact Assessment of Personally Identifiable Data
Authors: Onwubiko Cyril
Published: April 2013

The challenges organisations face in managing privacy risks are numerous, and inherently diverse. Traditionally, organisations focused on addressing business and security requirements of a project, but most recently, privacy impact assessment has become an essential part of the risk management regime for most projects. Significant efforts are now directed toward providing appropriate guidance on how to conduct privacy impact assessments. Appropriate assessments of privacy invasive technologies, justification for project, collection and handling of personally identifiable data and compliance to privacy legislations possess enormous challenges to carrying out appropriate privacy impact assessments. In this chapter, guidance on how to assess privacy risks of both new and in-service projects is provided. Further, lessons learned from managing privacy risks of new and in-service projects resulting from aggregation, collection, sharing, handling and transportation of personally identifiable information are discussed.
Evaluating bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) diversity using Malaise traps in coffee landscapes of Costa Rica
Authors: Ngo H.T. , Gibbs J. , Griswold T. , Packer L.
Published: April 2013

Even though Arabica coffee (Coffea arabicaLinnaeus, Rubiaceae) can self-pollinate, bees are important pollinators, without which there is lower fruit quality and yield. We studied bee diversity in coffee agroecosystems in Costa Rica during two coffee flowering seasons (2005 and 2006). Malaise traps were used as a passive sampling method to collect bees during coffee blooms. We collected 1012 bee individuals from three different site types: nonagricultural fields and shaded and unshaded coffee farms. Unshaded coffee farms had significantly higher species richness (S) and number of bee individuals (n) than did the shaded coffee farms and nonagricultural sites. Overall bee diversity did not differ among site types but evenness (J′) was significantly lower in unshaded coffee farms. Using a more detailed community analysis, there was a significant association between functional groups and habitat type with more species and individuals of small-bodied ground-nesting bees (Lasioglossum(Dialictus) Robertson) associated with unshaded coffee farms. A large proportion (49%) of bees collected were of this subgenus, which was never before reported as common in coffee agroecosystems. Further studies should establish whetherDialictusis important in coffee pollination. We propose strategies involving conservation of native bees through simple habitat management for small-scale coffee farms that may improve crop quality and quantity.
Improving on-time start for iMRI neurosurgeries
Authors: Ghadiali Natascha Fherzinah , Koh Darren , Chia Kuok , Quek Shin
Published: April 2013

Background: In the Singapore General Hospital, intraoperative MRI (iMRI) neurosurgery is a multi-disciplinary process that involves staff from multiple departments. However, a baseline analysis showed that only 10.5% of iMRI neurosurgeries start on time, resulting in unnecessary waste of resources. The project aimed to improve the percentage of on-time start iMRI neurosurgeries to 100% within nine months. Materials and Methods: Clinical Practice Improvement methodology was used. The project involves four phases: Diagnostic, in which a baseline analysis is conducted; Intervention, in which problem areas are identified; Implementation, in which potential solutions are implemented; and sustaining, in which strategies to sustain gains are discussed. Results: The percentage of on-time start cases gradually increased to 100% in eight months, and was sustained above 85% in the following five months. Conclusion: This project serves as a successful demonstration of how quality improvement can be effected in a complex, multidisciplinary workflow, which is the norm for many hospital procedures.
Intracranial metastasis from primary spinal primitive neuroectodermal tumor
Authors: Ghanta Rajesh , Koti Kalyan , Ghanta Venkata Sateesh , Teegala Ramesh
Published: April 2013

Primary spinal primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET) are rare tumors, with only 94 cases reported till date. Metastasis to brain from a spinal PNET is even rarer. In the present report, we evaluate the pathology and treatment of solitary intracranial metastasis from spinal PNET in a 22-year-old female who presented with headache and left hemiparesis and was diagnosed to have right parietal parasagittal tumor. She has been previously diagnosed to have cervicothoracic primary spinal PNET, and was treated by surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy seven years back. The intracranial tumor has been removed and pathological examination confirmed as PNET. She received radiotherapy and chemotherapy with ifosfamide and etoposide, following surgery for the right parietal PNET. At 20 months follow-up, patient is stable and has no recurrence of the disease. Critical review of reported cases of primary spinal PNET metastsising to brain was done.
Intracerebral hemorrhage cause by a ruptured oncotic aneurysm from choriocarcinoma metastasis
Authors: Wanarak Watcharasaksilp , Songkiet Suwansirikul
Published: April 2013

Ruptured oncotic aneurysms from choriocarcioma metastasis are very rare. One rare case of metastatic cerebral choriocarcioma with an initial presentation of intracerebral hemorrhage is reported. A 25-year-old woman initially presented with sudden onset of alteration of consciousness. The computed tomography scan showed left parietal hematoma and CT angiography showed a small aneurysm of the left middle cerebral arteries territories. Her chest X-ray showed two lung masses. A craniectomy was performed to remove the hematoma and decompression following the aneurysm excision. After surgery the patient regained consciousness and had no neurological deficit. The pathology reported metastatic choriocarcioma and her beta - HCG was 73,656 units. After recovery she received chemotherapy with an etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide, and vincristine/oncovine (EMA-CO) regimen.
Neglected primary Ewing′s sarcoma of ethmoid presenting as surgical emergency
Authors: Shukla Dinesh , Rao Vinjamuri , Rajesh Alugolu , Purohit Aniruddh
Published: April 2013

We present a male child with primary Ewing′s sarcoma arising from ethmoid sinuses with intradural and extracranial extension (bilateral nasal cavities, orbits, and maxillary sinuses). This is a rare condition. He presented with recurrent episodes of epistaxis for 2 years, sudden onset rapidly progressive bilateral proptosis, with painful restriction of extraocular movements, and decreased visual acuity for 4 days. Sudden complete loss of vision following admission demanded emergency tumor decompression.
A Characterization of Bipartite Zero-divisor Graphs
Authors: Jafari Rad Nader , Heidar Jafari Sayyed
Published: April 2013

In this paper we obtain a characterization for all bipartite zero-divisor graphs of commutative rings R with 1 such that R is finite or |Nil(R)| ≠ 2.
Universal Singular Sets and Unrectifiability
Authors: Gratwick Richard
Published: April 2013

The geometry of universal singular sets has recently been studied by M. Csörnyei et al. [Arch. Ration. Mech. Anal. 190 (2008)(3), 371–424]. In particular they proved that given a purely unrectifiable compact set

S \subseteq \mathbb{R}^2

, one can construct a

C^{\infty}

-Lagrangian with a given superlinearity such that the universal singular set of

L

contains

S

. We show the natural generalization: That given an

F_{\sigma}

purely unrectifiable subset of the plane, one can construct a

C^{\infty}

-Lagrangian, of arbitrary superlinearity, with universal singular set covering this subset.
Sources, trends and regional impacts of fine particulate matter in southern Mississippi valley: significance of emissions from sources in the Gulf of Mexico coast
Authors: Chalbot M.-C. , McElroy B. , Kavouras I. G.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The sources of fine particles over a 10 yr period at Little Rock, Arkansas, an urban area in the southern Mississippi Valley, were identified by positive matrix factorization. The annual trends of PM2.5 and its sources, and their associations with the pathways of air mass backward trajectories were examined. Seven sources were apportioned, namely, primary traffic particles, secondary nitrate and sulphate, biomass burning, diesel particles, aged/contaminated sea salt and mineral/road dust, accounting for more than 90% of measured PM2.5 (particles with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm) mass. The declining trend of PM2.5 mass (0.4 μg m−3 per year) was related to lower levels of SO42− (0.2 μg m−3 per year) due to SO2 reductions from point and mobile sources. The slower decline for NO3− particles (0.1 μg m−3 per year) was attributed to the increasing NH3 emissions in the Midwest. The annual variation of biomass burning particles was associated with fires in the southeast and northwest US. Of the four regions within 500 km from the receptor site, the Gulf Coast and the southeast US accounted cumulatively for more than 65% of PM2.5 mass, nitrate, sulphate and biomass burning aerosol. Overall, more than 50% of PM2.5 and its components originated from sources outside the state. Sources within the Gulf Coast and western Gulf of Mexico include 65% of the busiest ports in the US, intense marine traffic within 400 km of the coast burning rich in S diesel, and a large number of offshore oil and natural gas platforms and many refineries. This approach allowed for the quantitative assessment of the impacts of transport from regions representing diverse mixtures of sources and weather conditions for different types of particles. The findings of this effort demonstrated the influences of emission controls on SO2 and NOx on PM2.5 mass, the potential effect of events (i.e. fires) sensitive to climate change phenomena on air pollution and the potential of offshore activities and shipping emissions to influence air quality in urban areas located more than 1000 km away from the sources.
Dependence of particle nucleation and growth on high molecular weight gas phase products during ozonolysis of α-pinene
Authors: Zhao J. , Ortega J. , Chen M. , McMurry P. H. , Smith J. N.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. We report the first time-dependent measurements of high molecular weight (up to 700 amu) gas-phase oxidation products from α-pinene ozonolysis in an aerosol chamber under dry and low NOx conditions. Measurements of products having mole fractions ranging from 10−14 to −11 were carried out with a chemical ionization mass spectrometer (the Cluster CIMS). Most products that were correlated with number concentrations of the smallest particles measured (10–20 nm) had molecular weights in the 430–560 amu range. Those products are proposed to be likely responsible for the initial nuclei formation and the early growth of the freshly-nucleated particles based on their high molecular weights and chemical identities, both of which suggest low volatility compounds. Another group of oxidation products in the lower mass range of 140–380 amu was well correlated with particles larger than 20 nm. We postulate that those products contributed to the later growth of particles (i.e. larger than 20 nm in diameter). Although particle nucleation in this study was primarily due to condensation of oxidation products from α-pinene ozonolysis, the involvement of residual sulfuric acid vapor in particle nucleation cannot be totally excluded.
The effects of surface moisture heterogeneity on wetland carbon fluxes in the West Siberian Lowland
Authors: Bohn T. J. , Podest E. , Schroeder R. , Pinto N. , McDonald K. C. , Glagolev M. , Filippov I. , Maksyutov S. , Heimann M. , Lettenmaier D. P.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. We used a process-based model to examine the roles of spatial heterogeneity of surface and sub-surface water on the carbon budget of the wetlands of the West Siberian Lowland over the period 1948–2010. We found that, while surface heterogeneity (fractional saturated area) had little overall effect on estimates of the region's carbon fluxes, sub-surface heterogeneity (spatial variations in water table depth) played an important role in both the overall magnitude and spatial distribution of estimates of the region's carbon fluxes. In particular, to reproduce the spatial pattern of CH4 emissions recorded by intensive in situ observations across the domain, in which very little CH4 is emitted north of 60° N, it was necessary to (a) account for CH4 emissions from unsaturated wetlands and (b) use a methane model parameter set that reduced estimated CH4 emissions in the northern half of the domain. Our results suggest that previous estimates of the response of these wetlands to thawing permafrost may have overestimated future increases in methane emissions in the permafrost zone.
Scenario and modelling uncertainty in global mean temperature change derived from emission-driven global climate models
Authors: Booth B. B. B. , Bernie D. , McNeall D. , Hawkins E. , Caesar J. , Boulton C. , Friedlingstein P. , Sexton D. M. H.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. We compare future changes in global mean temperature in response to different future scenarios which, for the first time, arise from emission-driven rather than concentration-driven perturbed parameter ensemble of a global climate model (GCM). These new GCM simulations sample uncertainties in atmospheric feedbacks, land carbon cycle, ocean physics and aerosol sulphur cycle processes. We find broader ranges of projected temperature responses arising when considering emission rather than concentration-driven simulations (with 10–90th percentile ranges of 1.7 K for the aggressive mitigation scenario, up to 3.9 K for the high-end, business as usual scenario). A small minority of simulations resulting from combinations of strong atmospheric feedbacks and carbon cycle responses show temperature increases in excess of 9 K (RCP8.5) and even under aggressive mitigation (RCP2.6) temperatures in excess of 4 K. While the simulations point to much larger temperature ranges for emission-driven experiments, they do not change existing expectations (based on previous concentration-driven experiments) on the timescales over which different sources of uncertainty are important. The new simulations sample a range of future atmospheric concentrations for each emission scenario. Both in the case of SRES A1B and the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs), the concentration scenarios used to drive GCM ensembles, lies towards the lower end of our simulated distribution. This design decision (a legacy of previous assessments) is likely to lead concentration-driven experiments to under-sample strong feedback responses in future projections. Our ensemble of emission-driven simulations span the global temperature response of the CMIP5 emission-driven simulations, except at the low end. Combinations of low climate sensitivity and low carbon cycle feedbacks lead to a number of CMIP5 responses to lie below our ensemble range. The ensemble simulates a number of high-end responses which lie above the CMIP5 carbon cycle range. These high-end simulations can be linked to sampling a number of stronger carbon cycle feedbacks and to sampling climate sensitivities above 4.5 K. This latter aspect highlights the priority in identifying real-world climate-sensitivity constraints which, if achieved, would lead to reductions on the upper bound of projected global mean temperature change. The ensembles of simulations presented here provides a framework to explore relationships between present-day observables and future changes, while the large spread of future-projected changes highlights the ongoing need for such work.
27-day cycles in human mortality: Traute and Bernhard Düll
Authors: Halberg F. , Düll-Pfaff N. , Gumarova L. , Zenchenko T. A. , Schwartzkopff O. , Freytag E. M. , Freytag J. , Cornelissen G.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. This tribute to her parents by one co-author (NDP) is the fruit of a more than a decade-long search by the senior author (FH) for the details of the lives of Bernhard and Gertraud (''Traute'') Düll. These pioneers studied how space/terrestrial weather may differentially influence human mortality from various causes, the 27-day mortality pattern being different whether death was from cardiac or respiratory disease, or from suicide. FH is the translator of personal information about her parents provided by NDP in German. Figuratively, he also attempts to ''translate'' the Dülls' contribution in the context of the literature that had appeared before their work and after their deaths. Although the Dülls published in a then leading journal, among others (and FH had re-analyzed some of their work in a medical journal), they were unknown to academies or libraries (where FH had inquired about them). The Dülls thoroughly assembled death certificates to offer the most powerful evidence for an effect of solar activity reflected in human mortality, as did others before them. They went several steps further than their predecessors, however. They were the first to show possibly differential effects of space and/or Earth weather with respect to suicide and other deaths associated with the nervous and sensory systems vs. death from cardiac or respiratory disease as well as overall death by differences in the phase of a common 27-day cycle characterizing these mortality patterns. Furthermore, Bernhard Düll developed tests of human visual and auditory reaction time to study effects of weather and solar activity, publishing a book (his professorial dissertation) on the topic. His unpublished finding of an increased incidence of airplane crashes in association with higher solar activity was validated after his death, among others, by Tatiana Zenchenko and A. M. Merzlyi.
THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE OF CRITICAL TAX THEORY: A CONVERSATION
Authors: Brown Karen B. , Fellows Mary Louise , Crawford Bridget J.
Published: April 2013

N/A
Front Matter
Authors: Tax Review Pittsburgh
Published: April 2013

Masthead and Journal/Subscription Information
Dickkopf-1: As a Diagnostic and Prognostic Serum Marker for Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Hao , Chen Guo-Dong , Fang Feng , Liu Zhen , Hiu Yan Lau Stephanie , Zhang Jin-Fan , Lau Wan Yee , Yang Lian-Yue
Published: April 2013

Background and aims

The aim of the present study was to evaluate serum Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1) as a marker for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as well as for prognostic prediction of early HCC after hepatic resection.

Methods

One-hundred and four cases of matched fresh tissue specimens of early HCC and adjacent non-tumorous liver tissue (ANLT) were obtained for RT-PCR, qRT-PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry assays. Sera were collected from patients with early HCC (n=184), benign liver tumors (n=29), cirrhosis (n=174), non-cirrhotic hepatitis B (n=193), and from healthy individuals (n=202). The levels of Dkk-1 and alpha fetoprotein (AFP) were measured.

Results

The Dkk-1 mRNA and protein levels were both upregulated in early HCC. Serum levels of Dkk-1 in patients with early HCC were significantly higher than in the other 4 groups (p<0.001). Dkk-1 had a better sensitivity and accuracy than AFP (p<0.05). More importantly, 73.1% of the patients negative for AFP could be diagnosed with early HCC using Dkk-1. A combination of Dkk-1 and AFP further improved the diagnostic efficacy. Patients with a high serum Dkk-1 level had poorer overall and relapse-free survivals than those with a low Dkk-1 level (p=0.028 and p=0.045, respectively). These results were shown in a testing cohort and confirmed in a validation cohort of patients. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses showed serum Dkk-1 level to be an independent prognostic factor for overall survival.

Conclusions

Our data show that Dkk-1 is a diagnostic and prognostic serologic marker for early HCC.
Endometriosis of the Appendix: The Experience of General Surgeons in a Large Teaching Hospital
Authors: Ward Stephen T. , Scarpinata Rosaria , Hejmadi Rahul K. , Ismail Tariq
Published: April 2013

Endometriosis presents frequently to the general surgeon both electively and as an emergency. One reason for this is that the symptoms from endometriosis may mimic appendicitis. Endometriosis is not closely associated with appendicitis but numerous case reports of appendiceal endometriosis exist in the literature. We reviewed all cases of appendiceal endometriosis from a large UK teaching hospital over a ten-year period to determine how this rare entity may present.

Seven cases were identified and the case notes retrieved. Based on histology findings, two patients were found to have appendiceal endometriosis in association with acute appendicitis. In three cases, endometrial deposits were found in their appendix with evidence of previous endometriosis-associated inflammation. The finding of appendiceal endometriosis was incidental in a further two cases. Evidence for an association between endometriosis and appendicitis and the evidence for appendicectomy at the time of laparoscopic-diagnosis of endometriosis is discussed.
Primary and secondary succession on wooded peat-bogs
Authors: Neuhäusl Robert
Published: April 2013

Study of primary and secondary succession on wooded peat- bogs are presented. Research has been done on a complex of mountain peat-bogs in the Bohemian Moravian Highland (Czechoslovakia). Natural succession series began with reed sedge and reed stands and terminated with Viccinio uliginosi-Pinetum, Calamagrostio villosae-Piceatum and Alnion glutinosae uder oligotrophic, oligo-mesotrophic and meso-eutrophic conditions, respectively. In marginal parts of peat-bogs (lagg) sedge fens are followed by birch cart. Open pine stands (Pino rotundatae-Sphagnetum) is submitted to cyclic succesion. The secondary succession may begin with the Sphagnum cuspidatum, Eriophorum angustifolium or Carex rostrata, and Carex rostrata stages, depending on trophic conditions of water. The final stage is usually Vaccinio uliginosi-Pinetum or Pino rotundatae-Spagnetum. Secondary succession pattern is influenced both by eutrophication and peat-land drainage.
The effect of photoperiodic treatments on mitotic activity in Pharbitic nil Chois
Authors: Czaplewska Joanna , Kopcewicz Jan
Published: April 2013

The short-day plant, Pharbitis nil, requires only a single inductive cycle with a 16-hour dark period for flowering. The mitotic activity in the shoot apices was studied directly after the termination of the inductive photoperiod. A pronounced rise in the mitotic index was found in the 2nd and the 8th-14th hours. Control plants grown under noninductive conditions (continuous light, a light interruption in the middle of the dark period) did not flower and did not show an increased mitotic index. The increased mitotic activity in the shoot apices of Pharbitis seems to be causally connected with the phytochrome-controlled entry of the plants into the state of generative induction.
Structure, ontogeny and histochemistry of cyathial nectaries in Euphorbia heterophylla L. (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Arumugasamy Karuppanan , Subramanian Ramalingam B. , Inamdar Jayant A.
Published: April 2013

The mature cyathial nectary of Euphorbia heterophylla L. consists of distint secretory and sub-secretory zones. The secretory zone consists of 1-3 layer of palisade-like epidermal cells, supplied by both phloem and xylem. Distinct 'secretory pits' surrounded by thin cuticle are present in the secretory tissue. Enzymes such as succinic dehydrogenase and acid phosphatase were localized. Probable functions of cyathial nectaries and animal visitors are discussed.
The relationship between the arrangement of rays in secondary phloem and grain inclination in the wood of Pinus silyestris L. and Picea abies Karst
Authors: Pyszyński Władysław
Published: April 2013

The arrangement of rays in cross sections of secondary phloem and the wood grain on the tangential and radial surfaces of wood columns from Pinus silvestris and Picea abies was studied. It was found that in most cases the rays were slanted and deviated from the geometric radius in either the S-direction (to the left) or in the Z-direction (to the right) when the cross section of the stem was observed from above. The S-type deviation dominated in those stems in which the wood grain in the peripheral parts was of the S-type (left-oriented), whereas the deviation of rays in the Z-direction was found to dominate in those objects, in which the wood grain in the peripheral parts of the stem was of the Z-type (right-oriented).
Cytological changes in phloem parenchyma cells of Solanum rostratum (Dunal.) related to the replication of potato virus M (PVM)
Authors: Rudzińska-Langwald Anna
Published: April 2013

The first cytological symptom of infection of phloem parenchyma cells by potato virus M is the formation of clusters of endoplasmic reticulum cisterns in a cytoplasm containing numerous ribosomes. Randomly distributed PVM particles are found in the vicinity of the cisterns. As the infection progresses, inclusions made up of regularly arranged particles of PVM are formed.The cytoplasm of the cells becomes electron transparent because the ER cisterns disappear. Masses of homogenous substances containing single PVM particles appear. There are two types of deposits in the inclusions containing PVM virus particles - additionally coated particles and tubules.
A geometrical model of Chara rhizoid growth
Authors: Ogrodnik Bogdan
Published: April 2013

The applicability of the Kirchoff-Love Hypothesis to the growth of the Chara rhizoid, approached as the constant deformation of the shell, was investigated. It is shown that the observed distribution of cell wall growth velocity may be, under certain assumptions, the result of the changing curvature of the growing surface.
In vitro placental self and cross pollination in some species
Authors: Shehata Azza , Zenkteler Maciej
Published: April 2013

Excised placentae with ovules of Primula pubescens, P. auricula, Scopolia carniolica, Digitalis purpurea, Torenia fournieri and Chionodoxa luciliae were self pollinated in vitro and the development of seeds was observed. The same method was used for obtaining hybrid globular embryos from crosses between: P. pubescens x P. auricula, Scopolia carniolica x Physochlaina praealta, Melandrium album x Silene saxifraga and M. album x Arenaria pungens.
Phenolic arids from the flowers of Nymphaea alba L.
Authors: Jambor Jerzy , Skrzypczak Lutosława
Published: April 2013

Nympheae alba flowers contain a variety of phenolic acids. Crystalline ellagic and gallic acids were isolated as well as their methyl and ethyl esters. Their identification was made on the basis of the results of spectral analyses 1H NMR, 13C NMR, MS, UV). Small amounts of p-hydroxybenzoic, p-cumaric, vanillic and ferulic acids were isolated. The presence of bound forms of acids in the material was demonstrated.
Claytonia linearis Dougl. (Montia linearis (Dougl.) Greene) in Poland
Authors: Bińka Krzysztof
Published: April 2013

Clavtonia linearis, an ephemerophyte hitherto not known to occur in Poland, was found in the Czachówek region. Its morphological description, data on the occurrence of this species in Poland and in its native habitat are given.
Ontogeny of trichomes in taxa of genus Plantago L. subgenus Plantago
Authors: Andrzejewska-Golec Emilia
Published: April 2013

The development of three types of headed hairs has been studied: 1) hairs with a unicellular stalk and a head divided vertically into two cells, 2) bottle-like hairs, 3) morel-like and two types of headless hairs: a) with a characteristic 2-3-celled base, b) without the characteristic base in six representatives belonging to 4 sections of the genus Plantago L. The bottle-like and the morel-like hairs may have originated from the hairs with a unicellular stalk and a head divided vertically into two cells. The Plantago sections characterized by the presence of the bottle-like and morel-like hairs are probably evolutionally younger than the sections characterized by the presence of hairs with a unicellular stalk and a head divided vertically into two cells.
DNA endoreplication level in endosperm and in cotyledons during seed development in three dicotyledonous species
Authors: Marciniak Kazimierz
Published: April 2013

The DNA content of nuclear and cellular endosperm and in cotyledons in the course of seed development in Helianthus annuus, Pisum sativum and Vicia faba was cytophotometrically measured after Faulgen's reaction. Helianthus annuus is characterized by the lowest endoreplication dynamics attaining a maximum DNA content of 48C in nuclear endosperm, which corresponds to four endoreplication rounds, and 16C DNA (three rounds) in cotyledons. In Pisum sativum cellular endosperm in the studied stages of seed development was absent and the highest DNA content in cotyledons was 512C DNA; this corresponds to eight endoreplication rounds. In Vicia faba, the maximum DNA endoreplication level was 1536C in nuclear endosperm, which corresponds to nine endoreplication rounds; in cotyledons the maximum DNA content was 64C (five rounds). In the course of seed development, differences in the dynamics of DNA endoreplication in throphic tissues of the examined species seem to be similar to differences in the endoreplication level in root and leaf parenchyma, but the DNA endoreplication level is much higher in throphic tissues. Therefore, the endoreplication pattern might be species-specific and genetically conditioned.
Notes on Pyrenomycetes and Coelomycetes from Poland l.
Authors: Chlebicki Andrzej
Published: April 2013

Several coelomycete and pyrenomycete fungi from the Białowieża National Park are presented in this paper. All with descriptions and illustrations: Myxocyclus polycistis, Diplodia carmentorum, Zythiostroma pinastri, Slilbospora maccrosperma. Phomatospora angemae, Diaporthe larseniana, Lasiosphaeria punctata, Coniochaeta malacotricha and Nitschkia parasitans. Five species are new to Poland.
Concepts of fen and bog re-examined in relation to bryophyte cover and the acidity of surface waters
Authors: Gorham Eville , Janssens Jan A.
Published: April 2013

Studies of surface-water pH and bryophyte assemblages in 440 plots from five peatland regions across northern North America reveal a very distinct, two-fold division into fens with a pH mode at 6.76-7.00, in which Amblystegiaceae are prominent, and bogs with a pH mode at 4.01-4.25, in which Sphagnaceae are dominant. The relevance of the data to past and current views on peatland classification is explored.
Theory of Kulczyński on hydrological classification of peatlands in the light of contemporary investigations
Authors: Okruszko Henryk , Oświt Jan
Published: April 2013

Basic assumptions of the peat science theory of Kulczyński presented by him in every detail in his work "Peat bogs of Polesie" at particular consideration of the effect of hydrological phenomena on the development and differentiation of peatlands are discussed. While developing the Kulczyński's theory, own concept of hydrological classification of wetlands is presented, which distinguishes four types of wetlands on the basis of hydrological alimentation of site and nine kinds of wetlands on the basis of hydroecological conditions in the site.
Vegetation change and the protection of the Csaroda relic mires, Hungary
Authors: Simon Tibor
Published: April 2013

Study of vegetation change of the protected mires situated near Csaroda and Beregdaróc (the Great Hungarian Plain) are presented. These are the southermost mires with raised bog communities in the plains of Europe. In the past few decades (by the early 80-s) vegetation showed both qualitative and quantitative signs of degradation. These changes were caused by natural (climatic variation, succesion) and by human effects. Natural changes were following: the decline or extinction of hygrophytes, the expansion of hydromesophytes and mesophytes and the acceleration of forest growth. The most important human-caused change was the drainage of the bogs. The harmful processes had slight effect on the Sphagnum-dominated associations. The "original" (i.e. before drying out) state of mires has been recovered by blocking drainage canals, plantation of a buffor zone and prohibition of using chemicals.
Distribution of biomass along hummock-hollow gradients: A comparison between a North American and a Scandinavian peat bog
Authors: Wallén Bo , Smalmer Nils
Published: April 2013

This is an attempt to illustrate the universality of cause and effect of the plant interactions in hummock formation. Two bogs, both situated within boreonemoral zone, with comparable structure, but within completly different flora regions, were chosen to test whether the hummock-hollow structures on the surface were functionally comparable. In spite of different history of mires, it was obvious that the mire hummocks were clearly a product of the interactions between Sphagnum mosses and vertically growing dwarf shrubs. The hight of the hummocks on the Meddybemps heath, was probably an effect of the comparatively high productivity of both mosses and dwarf shrubs resulting from nutrient enrichment by fire. The high hummocks were associated with a higher amount of biomass of vertically growing dwarf shrubs. Both sites on the Meddybemps heath had twice as much biomass as the Åkhult mire.
Transformation of lakes in mires
Authors: Marek Stanisław
Published: April 2013

It has been presented relations among different types to lakes with respect to their morphometry, hydrodynamic, hydrochemistry, and biological properties of plants growing under various conditions of water depth, showing methods of their transformations in mires, as they become shallow. It has been explained too, how different lakes may be overgrown by vegetation and transformed in mires.
A fossil trace of the interglacial flora from Katowice in Silesia
Authors: Środoń Andrzej
Published: April 2013

The age of an interglacial peat sample on the basis of the results of palaeobotanical studies, radiocarbon dating and the presence of Caricoidea globosa (C. et. E.M. Reid) Mai fruits was determined.
The metabolism of aged seeds. The involvement of the pentose phosphate pathway in respiration in germinating rye grains of various ages
Authors: Zalewski Kazimierz
Published: April 2013

Winter rye grains from different harvest years (having distinctly different viabilities) were studied in terms of germination, total dehydrogenase activity and growth analysis. Reduction of seed vigor and viability was accompanied by a decrease in the intensity of embryo respiration during germination. The use of (1-14C) glucose and (6-14C) glucose showed that germinating rye embryos catabolize glucose through glycolysis, Krebs cycle and the pentose phosphate pathway. It was also shown that the C6/C1 ratio in respiring embryos initially increased during the first 48 hours of germination, then dropped, which suggests a mounting contribution of the PP pathway to the overall cotabolism. The oxidation of glucose in, embryos from the most deteriorated grains proceeded through glycolysis and Krebs cycle only.
Influence of sugars on the reddening of triturated florets of dyer's saffron flowers
Authors: Saito Koshi
Published: April 2013

Pentoses, hexoses and disaccharides were administered to the triturated florets of dyer's saffon (Carthamus tinctorius) and their effects on enzyme-catalyzed floret reddening examined spectrophotometically. Among the sugars tested, hexoses promoted reddening most prominently. On average, a 4.2-fold increase in the certhamin content was observed when hexoses were added to the crushed materials. Disaccharides followed these. Upon incubation of the triturated tissues with 10 mM sugars, the pigment producing activity was raised to 3.4-fold or more. Pentoses were also potent stimulators, although their efficiencies were somewhat lower (3.2-fold). On the whole, D-forms were more stimulative than L-forms (D-forms - 3.6-fold, L-form -2.8-fold). Based on these comparisons, we concluded that sugars play a role in floret reddening through interaction with endogenous precarthamin-oxidizing enzyme(s) in the floral tissues of the garden plant.
Investigations on carotenoids in lichens. XXXII. Carotenoids occurring in the thalli of lichens from Kenya (Equatorial Africa)
Authors: Czeczuga Bazyli , Moberg Roland , Alstrup Vagn
Published: April 2013

The presence of cartenoids in nineteen species of lichens from Kenya (Equatorial Africa) was studied by column and thinlayer chromatography. This investigations revealed the presence of the following carotenoids: neurosporene, α-carotene, β-carotene, rubixanthin, α-cryptoxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, 3'-epilutein, torularhodin, diatoxanthin, neoxanthin, echinenone, 3'-hydroxyechinenone, canthaxanthin, α-doradexanthin, astaxanthin, β-carotene epoxide, antheraxanthin, lutein epoxide, violaxanthin, mutatoxanthin, flavoxanthin, capsochrome, β-apo-8'-carotenal, β-apo-10'-carotenal and apo-12'-violaxanthal. Five of these, torularhodin, 3'-hydroxyechinenone, capsochrome, β-apo-8'-carotenal and β-apo-10'-carotenal, are reported for the first time from lichens. The total carotenoid content of the material ranged from 15.88 (Pyxine cocoes) to 135.44 µg g-1 dry weight (Telaschistes chrysophthalmus).
Influence of different spectral ranges of light and Ca2+ -channel blockers on Ca2+ and K+ levels in Phaseolus coccineus L. pulvini
Authors: Białczyk Jan , Lechowski Zbigniew
Published: April 2013

The effect of different spectral ranges of light on the modification of transport processes in isolated parts of Phaseolus coccineus pulvini was analysed in a bath medium by determining the Ca2+ and K+ contents. After 1 h incubation of separated fragments of the extensor and flexor in solutions containing deionized water, medium, or medium with verapamil or nifedipine, the investigated material was irradiated with monochromatic light of different wavelengths. The concentration of Ca2+, K+ and the pH value were determined in the medium. The obtained results suggest the occurrence of a specific coupling between the concentration of Ca2+ and K+ dependend on the wavelength of the applied light and part of the pulvinus. Certain spectral ranges of light brought about opposite effects on ion transport in opposite parts of the pulvinus. Changes in the pH of mediums containing isolated parts of the pulvini part to different effects of blue, red, and far-red light on the activity of H+-pumps located in the motor cells. The use of verapamil and nifedipine, specific Ca2+-channel blockers, made it possible to demonstrate the significant effect of Ca2+ on the activity and functioning of K+ -channels. The two types of inhibitors decreased the influx of Ca2+ and K+ to motor cells of the pulvini, however they did not limit the efflux of ions to the medium. The obtained results suggest that Ca2+ ions take part in transduction of the light signal. It seems probable that the action of blue light is also mediated by part of the Ca2+ ions.
A comparison between Carex arenaria L. and Carex ligerica GAY - sedges from the Arenariae group based on leaf characteristics
Authors: Urbaniak Lech
Published: April 2013

The purpose of the study was to compare two taxonomically close species of sedges - Carex arenaria and Carex ligerica. The analysis was based on 6 characters of leaves. The populations studied were grown for the period of at least one year under the same conditions in a greenhouse. The results of statistical analysis indicate a distinctive character of each of the studied populations. Furthermore, the results show a higher interpopulational differentiation among C. ligerica populations.
Observation of changes of cambial domain patterns on the basis of primary ray development in Fagus silvatica L.
Authors: Włoch Wiesław , Szendera Waldemar
Published: April 2013

The high multiseriate primary rays that occur in young stems of Fagus silvatica L. undergo splitting during cambium development. Segments of the split primary rays remain close to each other and form characteristic strands. Within these strands, sections can be observed in which the rays are split in the same direction, either in configuration Z or S. The configuration of other cambial cellular events neighboring the primary rays under consideration is in agreement with the configuration of the splitting of these rays. The arrangement of the rays on the surface of the wood after debarking a young stem makes it possible to decipher the domain pattern on a surface of any given size. As the stem segment ages, the borders between domains migrate and new borders are formed, changing their course from longitudinal to transverse.
Vessel differentiation in isolated stem segments of Fraxinus excelsior L. after treatment with auxin
Authors: Kurczyńska Ewa U.
Published: April 2013

Experiments were carried out on isolated stem segments of ash collected from natural conditions during the winter dormancy season. In order to stimulate cambial activity and vessel differentiation the internodes were treated with auxin. The duration of treatment with auxin was different in the particular experimental variants. It appeared that auxin was necessary not only for induction of vessel differentiation but also during their maturation. The results are discussed on the basis of S a c h s' (1981) hypothesis.
Phytochrome-controlled level of growth substances in etiolated oat seedlings
Authors: Kopcewicz Jan , Madela Kazimierz
Published: April 2013

Irradiation with red light of coleoptiles and leaves of etiolated oat seedlings, causing photoconversion of phytochrome mainly into Pfr, leads to the release of free auxins and free gibberellins from conjugated forms. The effect of red light is reversible by far-red light irradiation. A correlation between the photostationary state of phytochrome and endogenous abscisic acid content was not found.
Effect of fluorophenylalanine on indole-3-acetic acid oxidation in Avena coleoptiles
Authors: Maksymowych Andrew B. , Orkwiszewski Joseph A.J.
Published: April 2013

Effects of the amino acid analog D,L-p-fluorophenylalanine on auxin oxidizing activity from Avena saliva cv. Clintford have been examined. Incubation of etiolated Avena coleoptile apices with D,L-p-fluorophenylalanine, previously reported to promote elongation and depress phenolic metabolism, lowers auxin oxidizing activity. Temperature and pH profiles demonstrated that depression of oxidizing activity by D,L-p-fluorophenylalanine occurs over a relatively wide range. Incubation of coleoptiles in media containing L-phenylalanine alone or L-phenylalanine combined with D,L-p-fluorophenylalanine result in oxidizing activities which are, respectively, slightly higher than or restored to control levels. Thus, dark incubation of coleoptiles with D,L-p-fluorophenylalanine results in auxin oxidizing activity which differs from that of control and other treatment groups. Oxidizing activity from D,L-p-fluorophenylalanine pretreated coleoptiles has a Michaelis constant (70 µM) and a maximum velocity (0.200) which are consistently lower than the control constants. These findings provide further clarification of the effects of D,L-p-fluorophenylalanine, on coleoptile elongation and auxin oxidizing activity in etiolated Avena coleoptiles.
Anatomy and ultrastructure of osmophores of Cymbidium tracyanum Rolfe (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Stpiczyńska Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

The intense smell secreted by flowers of Cymbidium tracyanum Rolfe (Orchidaceae) derives from osmophores situated on the axipetal surface, mainly at the petals' base and the margin of labellum. The epiderm in those places created vesicular or somewhat elongated glandular cells, particularly on the labellum. In the production of smell 2-3 layers of subepidermal cells also take part. Submicroscopic examinations showed that those cells were characterized by the presence of a big nucleus. There were also numerous granules of starch and plastoglobules in plastids, a great amount of mitochondria and smooth-surfaced endoplasmic reticula. The traces of secretion products are visible on the surface of glandular cells. The above mentioned features are typical for osmophore cells.
Micropropagation of Urginea maritima (L.) Baker s. str.
Authors: Stojakowska Anna
Published: April 2013

A method of micropropagation of Urginea maritima (L.) Baker s.str. (Liliaceae) by adventitious shoot formation was developed. Bulb scales and leaf fragments were used as primary and secondary explants, respectively. The most favourable for shoot regeneration were media: MS supplemented with BAP or kinetin (bulb scales) and medium C containing NAA along with BAP (leaf explants). No difficulties in rooting and adapting of plants to greenhouse conditions were observed.
Ultrastructure and oil secretion in Hiptage sericea Hook
Authors: Arumugasamy K. , Udaiyan K. , Manian S. , Sugavanam V.
Published: April 2013

The oil secreting glands of Hiptage sericea Hook. consist of three regions: epithelial, sub-epithelial and sub-glandular. In early stages, the oil secreting cells are characterized by the presence of plastids with starch grains and electron translucent vesicles, mitochondria, rER, polysomes, small vacuoles, numerous lipid bodies and well-defined nucleus with nucleolus. Later, the accumulation of plastoglobuli and inclusion bodies occur in the matrix of the plastid. Tubular, smooth endoplasmic reticulum begins to appear in the cytoplasm. With the onset of secretion, the osmiophilic contents of plastids which appear as electron dense, round droplets move-into cytoplasm and often occur in the region of the plasmalemma invaginations. However, in matured glands the lipid bodies disappear from the cytoplasm. The size of the vacuoles increases and are filled with electron opaque substance. Similar substances are also found in the sub-cuticular spaces as well as outside the cuticle.
Isolation and chromatography of 15-deoxyrepin and 25 other sesquiterpene lactones from Centaurea bella Trautv
Authors: Nowak Gerard
Published: April 2013

24 guaianolides and I germacranolide have been found so far in Centaurea bella Trautv. 15-deoxyrepin is another guaianolide, obtained in a similar way as previous compounds - by column chromatography, and identified by means of spectral analysis (1H NMR, MS, IR). Proposed are chromatographic systems allowing the separation of two types of guaianolides: with an ester at C-2 - characteristic for C. bella and at C-8 - typical for other species of the genus Centaurea L.
Auxin apical control of the auxin polar transport and its oscillation - a suggested cellular transduction mechanism
Authors: Wodzicki Tomasz J.
Published: April 2013

The proposed hypothesis concerns the transduction of auxin molecular signals arriving from the apoplast at the plasma membrane or recognized by the proteineous receptors of the responding cell, to the concentration gradients oscillating in the supracellular space, associated usually with the specific plant growth and differentiation. Acting as an agonist from outside the target cell auxin stimulates in this cell: (1) the liberation of auxin from the cytosolic pool of its conjugates directly into the basipetal efflux; (2) the synthesis of new auxin which restores the cytosolic reserve of auxin conjugates. The functioning of such a system may be effective in a series of processes initiated by the changing concentration of cytosolic calcium. The hypothesis suggests a molecular mechanism for the development and effective operation of the morphogenetic field in the supracellular space of the plant body, such as the field resulting from auxin waves discovered in cambium.