bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth of Xanthium (Compositae) internodes at different positions on the stem
Authors: Orkwiszewski Joseph A.J. , Maksymowych Roman
Published: April 2013

Internode growth of vegetative Xanthium plants was studied at various levels on the stem with application of the plastochron index. The bottom internodes were of small size and they displayed small rates of growth. Both, the size of the internodes and their growth rates increased proceeding in the acropetal direction. Rates of cortical cell elongation followed a bell shaped curve, starting with a rate of 7 µm per day, reaching a peak of 15 µm per day and stopping after leaf plastochron index 14. Young internodes, smaller than 25 mm, grew at a constant relative elemental rate of 0.2 day-1 throughout. Internodes larger than 30 mm displayed an acropetal pattern of elongation.
Uptake of fluorescent-labeled BSA into root cells: endocytosis?
Authors: Kaźmierczak A. , Maszewski J.
Published: April 2013

Incorporation of rhodamine- and fluorescein-isothiocyanate labeled bovine serum albumin (BSA-TRITC, BSA-FITC) was examined in different root zones of the 3-day-old seedlings in Melandrium noctiflorum, Allium cepa and Zea mays. The uptake of fluorescent-labeled BSA was found: (1) species-specific, (2) cell-type dependent, and (3) cytochalasin B-sensitive. The characteristic punctute distribution of vesicles within the cytoplasm suggests the internalization of labeled proteins by endocytosis.
Apples as enantiospecific bioreagents in the hydrolysis of racemic esters and oxygenation of alcohols obtained during the process
Authors: Mironowicz Agnieszka
Published: April 2013

Biotransformation carried out by apples (Malus silvestris) resulted in enantiospecific hydrolysis of racemic acetates, the derivatives of secondary aromatic-aliphatic or terpenic alcohols. The alcohols are oxygenated to ketones (reversible reaction). The differences in the rate of the hydrolysis of enantiomeric esters enable isolation of pure, unreacted R-acetates.
In vitro mass propagation of Salvia canariensis by axillary shoots
Authors: Mederos Molina Sebastiana , Amaro Luis J. M. , Luis Javier G.
Published: April 2013

During the establishment of shoots of Salvia canariensis L., five environmental factor treatments were applied. For each axillary node two shoots grew well when explants were incubated at continued ligth for 15 days followed by 16 hrs photoperiod by 30 days. Shoots multiplication was improved on a modified Murashige and Skoog (MS) (1962) medium - MS + 825 mg/l NH4NO3 - supplemented with 10-7 M BA and 10-7 M NAA. The shoots produced well developed root systems within three weeks after transfer to the same culture medium supplemented with 5x 10-7 M NAA.
Bioassay for investigation of auxin transport in single cell layers
Authors: Wodzicki Alina B. , Gessel Sylwia , Wodzicki Tomasz J.
Published: April 2013

Auxin was collected from the cambial region of Pinus sylvestris by applying agar strips to the cut surfaces of stem sections which comprised a single layer of 2 to 4-mm long, mainly intact fusiform cells. Sections of the agar strips were either bioassayed immediately to determine their auxin content or stored for several months at -80oC, extracted with 80% MeOH and redissolved in hot agar prior to bioassay. Auxin concentrations were determined by Went's oat coleoptile test, as described by Funke, which was modified considerably to give highly reproducible results. The modifications proved essential for good replication of results and are described in detail together with the use of the bioassay to determine changes in cambial cell polarity during ageing and senescence in P. sylvestris.
Inter- and interspecific serological relationships in Pellia epiphylla complex
Authors: Wojnicka-Półtorak Aleksandra , Chudzińska Ewa , Prus-Głowacki Wiesław
Published: April 2013

Antigenic proteins were used as markers for the study of relationships between three liverwort species from P. epiphylla complex. It has recently been shown that the electrophoretic phenotypes of this species suggested an amphiploid origin of P. borealis. Two sibling species: P. epiphylla -species S and -species N could have probably represented the parental species for P. borealis. We examined three clones of P. borealis from different localities using immunodiffusion. Then we compared them with P. epiphylla species S and N as well as with the mixture of proteins of P. epiphylla S and N samples. The results indicate that polyploid P. borealis shows an identical immunological pattern to that of the mixture of proteins of putative parental species. Only in one case the result resembled much more the pattern of P. epiphylla S proteins. The sibling species P. epiphylla S and N showed antigenic difference but the nature of the differences requires further studies. Antigenic pro-perties of proteins from P. epiphylla S and N and of their allopolyploid - P. borealis, indicated some specifity of the protein spectrum in each of the parental species and intermediate character of proteins in the polyploid forms.
Biometric characters of seeds and wings as markers of geographical differentiation between European scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) provenances
Authors: Urbaniak Lech
Published: April 2013

Biometric characters of seeds and wings served to describe interprovenance differentiation of Scots pine in Europe. Grouping analysis was applied, Mahalanobis distances were calculated as well as Hotellings T2 statistics were applied. The similarity of East European and Finnish provenances was conspicuous. The provenance from Scotland proved to be similar to provenances originating from the region of Scandinavia. On the other hand, two southern provenances 54(Rychtal, Poland) and 55(Luboml, Ukraine), were also found similar to provenances originating from the region of Scandinavia (western Norway). The obtained pattern of reciprocal relations may indicate pathways of Scots pine migration in the postglacial period or may be a result of adaptation to certain similar environmental conditions. No relations were detected between size of seeds and geographic origin of provenances.
Dynamics of frost resistance in various provenances of Abies grandis Lindl.
Authors: Dolnicki Adam , Kraj Wojciech
Published: April 2013

The frost resistance of one year old needles and shoots of Abies grandis (seven provenances) and Abies alba (one provenance) was determined using Dexter's method since early autumn till late spring (September-May). Material was collected from trees over ten year old, planted in Beskid Sądecki Range near Krynica, 800 m above sea level. In this study it was found, that in early autumn (September) A. grandis develops weaker frost hardiness than Abies alba. In the late autumn and in winter, provenances coming from region II (according to Müller), and especially provenance 12016, are equal in respect to frost hardiness of shoots and needles to Abies alba. Among the provenances from Müller's region I exceptional frost hardiness is displayed by provenance 12005, which is also characterized by fast growth. In spring, Abies alba flushes earlier than A. grandis, which makes it more susceptible to late frosts.
Triterpene saponins from the aerial parts of Dianthus caryophyllus var. remontant Hort.
Authors: Gumnicka Olesia , Oleszek Wiesław
Published: April 2013

Triterpene saponins from the aerial parts of carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus var. remontant) Hort. have been studied. Three gypsogenic acid glycosides including 3-O-glucopyranoside, 3,28-O-di-glucopyranoside and 3-O-glucopyranosy1,28-0-[glucopyranosyl(1→6)glucopyranoside] have been identified by means of LSI mass spectrometry and 1H and 13C NMR. Inhibitory activities of isolated compounds against growth of the fungus Trichoderma viride and the growth of the roots of Lepidium sativum and D. caryophyllus seedlings were measured. None of the isolated compounds showed pronounced activity in T. viride test. Seedling root growth was affected severely at the presence of gypsogenic acid 3-O-glucopyranoside. Bidesmosidic form showed marginal stimulatory activity. The obtained data are discussed in relation to the activity of medicagenic acid 3-O-glucopyranoside, the compound differing just with 2-OH substitution from gypsogenic acid glycosides.
Heavy metal content and localization in mycorrhizal Euphorbia cyparissias zinc wastes in southern Poland
Authors: Turnau Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) development, heavy metal uptake by the plant and localization of heavy metals within plant and AM fungal structures, has been investigated in Euphorbia cyparissias collected from zinc wastes in Poland and from two other stands differing in soil parameters. The plant was selected on the basis of preliminary research on mycorrhiza of plants colonizing zinc wastes. E. cyparissias was strongly mycorrhizal and arbuscules were abundant except at the very beginning of the vegetation period. Light microscopy after rhodizoniate staining and SEM equiped with an EDS system have been used to localize heavy metals within the fungal mycelium and mycorrhizal roots. About 80% of the total intraradical mycelium show an increased content of heavy metals in comparison to the remaining 20% where heavy metals were under detection limit. At the same time the number of arbuscules formed by mycelium stained by rhodizoniate is slightly lower than in mycelium containing a low level of these elements. Using the rhodizoniate staining lead was found in epidermal cell walls, root hairs, in mycorrhizal mycelium and in crystaloids deposited within latex and inside cortical cells, around fungal hyphae. SEM observations with EDS system confirmed that these crystaloid depositions contained higher concentrations of Zn than root cell wall and fungal structures.
Initial transitions, order and disorder in phyllotactic patterns: the ontogeny of Helianthus annuus: a case study
Authors: Couder Yves
Published: April 2013

The variability of the phyllotactic organization of Helianthus annuus L. is investigated. Specimens exhibiting the various possible phyllotactic modes (Fibonacci spirals, Lucas spirals, bijugate spirals etc...) were selected. The transitions from the initial decussate growth to these organizations, were characterized and shown to correspond to only a few archetypes. The possible transients from a decussate mode were then investigated in the model of self organization introduced by Douady and Couder (1996a, b, c). They are shown to exhibit the same phenomenology as the observed ones. These various transients have a very different probability of ccurrence which explains the difference of their frequency in plants. Finally the imperfections of the observed dispositions, which affect mainly the plastochron, are also investigated. The model provides an interpretation of this apparent disorder: after a transition the system optimizes the regularity of the parastichies but in doing so it disturbs the plastochron and the divergence. It is only when very large external disturbances affect the system that a real disorder is generated. In these latter cases the parastichies themselves disappear.
Organ and plantlet regeneration of Menyanthes trifoliata through tissue culture
Authors: Adamczyk-Rogozińska Urszula , Wysokińska Halina
Published: April 2013

The conditions for the regeneration of plants through organogenesis from callus tissues of Menyanthes trifoliata are described. The shoot multiplication rate was affected by basal culture media, the type and concentration of cytokinin and subculture number. The best response was obtained when caulogenic calli were cultured on the modified Schenk and Hildebrandt medium (SH-M) containing indole-3-acetic acid (IAA 0,5 mg/l) and 6-benzyladenine (BA 1 mg/l) or zeatin (2 mg/l). Under these conditions ca 7 shoots (mostly 1 cm or more in length) per culture in the 5th and 6th passages could be developed. In older cultures (after 11-12 passages) there was a trend for more numerous but shorter shoot formation. All regenerated shoots could be rooted on the SH-M medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/l IAA within 6 weeks; 80% of in vitro rooted plantlets survived their transfer to soil.
Anatomical structure and surface micromorphology of tomatillo leaf and flower (Physalis ixocarpa Brot., Solanaceae)
Authors: Dyki Barbara , Jankiewicz Leszek S. , Staniaszek Mirosław
Published: April 2013

Tomatillo (Physalis ixocarpa Brot.) is a newly introduced cultivated plant in Poland. Its anatomy was investigated in light and scanning electron microscopes. Tomatillo adult leaf had one layer of palisade parenchyma. The 1-2 cell layers of spongy parenchyma situated just below the palisade parenchyma showed large, tightly packed cells with great druses. The remaining spongy parenchyma was built of cells showing several extensions. Peculiarity of the sepals were the stomata situated on columns or hills formed of many cells. The petals had a very loose mesophyl. Their adaxial epidermis was composed of papillate cells. Such structure of the petal epidermis probably contributes to light dispersion and prevents glittering. There were several types of trichomes on the leaves, sepals and petals, some of them glandular and some simple. The large, very ramified, dendritic trichomes situated on the petals at the entry to the ovary might eventually protect it against excessive drying. The pollen grain was spherical, three-colpate. The style had a hollow channel inside. The stigma was of a wet, pa-pillate type. Sometimes thorny trichomes were found among papillae.
Structure of syncytia induced by Heterodera schachtii Schmidt in roots of susceptible and resistant radish (Raphanus sativus L., var. oleiformis)
Authors: Grymaszewska Grażyna , Golinowski Władysław
Published: April 2013

The structure of syncytia induced by Heterodera schachtii Schmidt in roots of susceptible Raphanus sativus L. cv. "Siletina" and resistant radish cv. "Pegletta" was investigated. In the radish cultivar "Siletina" the syncytia most often appeared in the elongation zone of lateral roots. They were initiated in the procambium and pericycle but also included the parenchyma cells of vascular cylinder. In the susceptible cultivar "Siletina" the cells forming the female's syncytia were subject to hypertrophy. Their cytoplasmic density increased. The cytoplasm contained numerous organella. The proliferation of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum took place. Branched cell wall ingrowths were formed next to the vessels. In the male's syncytia the cells were only slightly increased. Their protoplasts contained few organelles. The cell wall ingrowths were poorly developed. In the syncytia of the resistant cultivar "Pegletta" there was only a slight increase of the cell volume. A well developed system of rough endoplasmic reticulum was observed in the protoplast. Distended ER cisterns contained fine fibrillar material. Material of similar structure also appeared in numerous small vacuoles. In resistant plants only some, not numerous, syncytia spreading in procambium fully developed and functioned long enough for the parasite females to mature. At an advanced stage of infection a well developed system of a rough ER was observed also in those syncytia and numerous vacuoles appeared.
Morphogenic processes in callus tissue cultures and de novo regeneration of plants in Actinidia chinensis Planch
Authors: Ludvová Adela , Ostrolucká Mária G.
Published: April 2013

Our experiments have confirmed the considerable disposition of leaf explants of Actinidia chinensis Planch. for induction and intensive proliferation of callus cultures, as well as, a possibility to regulate morhogenesis in in vitro conditions. Under specific culture conditions the morphogenic potential of callus cells of Actinidia chinensis was manifested both in organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis. Organogenesis was represented by induction of adventitious buds and regeneration shoots on the modified MS culture medium (Murashige and Skoog 1962) with BAP in combination with GA3 (each 1.0 mg. l-1). Rooting of shoots was successful on modified MS medium containing IBA (0.5-1.0 mg. l-1). Histological studies of callus tissues revealed their structural heterogeneity. Morphogenic processes in the callus were characterized by the appearance of meristematic zones and vascular elements. The formation of apical meristem, leaf primordia and finally shoot development proved de novo regeneration in callus culture. The obtained results demonstrate a possibility of plant regeneration through indirect organogenesis, which can be used for propagation of Actinidia chinensis Planch.
Phenolic acids in leaves of Secamone afzelii (Rhoem.) Schult. (Asclepiadaceae)
Authors: Nowak Renata , Kawka Sławomir
Published: April 2013

The analysis of the sets of free and liberated by hydrolysis phenolic acids in the leaves of, Secamone afzelii (Rhoem.) Schult. was conducted by 2D-TLC and RP-HPLC methods. Sixteen phenolic acids were identified: chlorogenic, gallic, protocatechuic, homoprotacatechuic, caffeic, gentysic, α-resorcylic, p-hydroxyphenylacetic, p-hydroxybenzoic, p-coumaric, o-hydroxyphenylacetic, syryngic, vanillic, synapic, ferulic and salicylic. By means of the RP-HPLC the contents of major phenolic acids was described. It is fairly diversified in cases of different compounds ranging from 0.05 up to 16.89 mg%.
Flavonoids from Lactuca quercina and L. tatarica
Authors: Kisiel Wanda
Published: April 2013

From aerial parts of Lactuca quercina L. and Lactuca tatarica C. A. Meyer six flavonoids were isolated using different chromatographic techniques. Of these, three compounds, apigenin, luteolin and quercetin-3-O-β-glucopyranoside, were found in both species, two compounds, apigenin-7-O-β-glucopyranoside and kaempferol-3-O-β-glucopyranoside, originated from the latter, and one compound, luteolin-7-O-β-glucopyranoside, from the former.
The effect of desiccation on viability and membrane lipid composition of Acer pseudoplatanus seeds
Authors: Pukacka Stanisława , Czubak Anna
Published: April 2013

The viability of desiccation-intolerant sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) seeds during desiccation was investigated by tetrazolium and by a germinability test, together with membrane permeability and membrane phospholipid composition. Loss of viability was associated with an increase of solute leakage, reduced content of all phospholipid groups, decrease of unsaturated fatty acids and the unsaturated/saturated fatty acids ratio. Growth of malondialdehyde content was also observed. Some results were compared with those for tolerant to desiccation Norway maple (Acer platanoides L.) seeds. The results indicate active participation of membranes in the desiccation process in tolerant seeds and their decomposition in intolerant ones. The destruction of membranes was the result of lipid peroxidation, probably due to the free radical effect.
Taxonomic position of Pinus uliginosa Neumann as related to other taxa of Pinus mugo complex
Authors: Prus-Głowacki Wiesław , Bajus Ewa , Ratyńska Halina
Published: April 2013

Studies on taxonomic position of Pinus uliginosa Neumann, P. uncinata Ram. and P. mugo Turra, indicate a significant specificity of P. uliginosa population from Wielkie Torfowisko Batorowskie Peat Bog. Pinus uncinata in respect of genetic similarity is close to Pinus mugo Turra populations from the Tatra Mts. The time of divergence of P. uliginosa from the common ancestor, taking into account Nei's genetic distances, is twice as long as in the case of Pinus uncinata. In the view of the results the supposition that Pinus uliginosa from Wielkie Torfowisko Batorowskie Peat Bog is a marginal population of P. uncinata can be excluded, because of their significant difference in genetic structure. The presumable reasons of specificity of P. uliginosa population are disscused.
Conifer epicuticular wax as a biomarker of air pollution: an overview
Authors: Grodzińska-Jurczak Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

Epicuticular wax covering the conifer tree species surface has been used, mainly in conifers, as a biomarker of air pollution damage. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) various alterations in wax structure and chemistry caused by natural and anthropogenic factors have been noticed. SEM enables to evaluate wax deterioration at a very early stage, before visible symptoms occur. Symptoms of wax injury are, in general, not specific to the air pollutant type. Most common alterations in wax were the following: an undeveloped structure, various type of wax tubes fusion or erosion (deformed and disfunctioned stomatal complexes, a decrease in wax tube distribution, increased enrichment of completely amorphous stage), shifted annual wax erosion rate, chemical and needle wettability changes. To use SEM as an accurate tool for evaluating wax alteration, it is essential to distinguish air pollution and natural factors from artefacts caused by inappropriate usage of technique.
The effects of pulse cycloheximide treatments on the light-induced recovery of mitotic divisions in antheridial filaments of Chara vulgaris
Authors: Kwiatkowska Maria , Malinowski Sławomir , Maszewski Janusz
Published: April 2013

Within the proliferative period of spermatogenesis in Chara vulgaris, the progression throughout successive cell divisions in antheridial filaments is greatly influenced by changes in photoperiodic conditions. The extended (4-day) period of total darkness brings about cell cycle arrest in the early G2 phase. The recovery of mitosis requires about 20 hours of exposition to light. In the present study, a series of 8 pulse incubations of plants in cycloheximide (Cx; 2.5 mg/I, 2.5 h each pulse) were performed within the period elapsing till the resumption of mitotic divisions. Depending on the time of treatment, the effects induced by Cx vary considerably. Within the first 10 hs of exposition to light, incubations with Cx result in the delays of mitoses; within the period between the 10th and the 17th h, mitotic divisions become blocked, and, following the 17.5 h of light-induced recovery, no influence of Cx is noticed on mitotic activity, as compared with the untreaed control plants. The obtained results provide a starting point for the characteristic of proteins synthesized during the G2 phase and a preliminary study on those mechanisms, which become engaged in the regulation of the G1-deficient cell cycle evidenced in antheridial filaments of Chara.
Ethylene-dependent activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and lignin formation in cucumber roots exposed to phenolic allelochemicals
Authors: Politycka Barbara
Published: April 2013

Seedling roots of cucumber were subjected to allelochemical stress by treating them with 0.1 mM solutions of ferulic, p-coumaric, p-hydroxybenzoic and vanillic acids. In the experiment the influence of derivatives of cinnamic acid (ferulic and p-coumaric acids) on the activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (E.C. 4.3.1.5.) (PAL), lignin content, and cucumber root growth was compared to that of benzoic acid (p-hydroxybenzoic and vanillic acids. Roots treated with ferulic and p-coumaric acids were found to have an increased activity of PAL, a higher lignin content, and lower growth indices. No similar effect was recorded in the case of p-hydroxybenzoic and vanillic acids. The application of ethylene synthesis inhibitor, (aminooxy) acetic acid (AOA), cancelled out the effect of ferulic and p-coumaric acids on the activity of PAL. Lignin content in roots treated with ferulic acid remained on the control level when using the inhibitor, while that in roots treated with p-coumaric acid increased. The obtained results suggest that an increase in the activity level of PAL induced by the action of ferulic and p-coumaric acids, depended on ethylene synthesis. A consequence of changes in the studied enzyme activity was an increased lignin content, and in the case of p-coumaric acid also a direct participation of that compound in their synthesis. A consequence of the above changes was inhibition of the growth of cucumber roots treated with ferulic and p-coumaric acids.
Zoosporic fungi in the ice of some water reservoirs
Authors: Czeczuga Bazyli , Muszyńska Elżbieta , Pankiewicz Anna
Published: April 2013

The presence of 65 zoosporic fungi species was noted in the water obtained from melting ice from five water (3 ponds and 2 rivers). In the water of the all basins the number of zoosporic fungus species decreases along with the increasing chemical loading (more eutrophic water). Out of these 65 species, 18 are known as necrotrophs of fish. The following fungi were recorded for the first time from Poland: Achlya conspicua, Apodachlyella completa, Pythiomorpha undulata, Pythium butleri, Pythium carolinianum, Pythium gracile, Pythium imperfectum, Pythium indicum, Pythium irregulare, Pythium myriotylum, Pythium papillatum, Pythium pyrilobum and Pythium rostratum.
Auxin signal transduction into a quantitative change in natural auxin polar transport in pine cambium
Authors: Wodzicki Tomasz J. , Wodzicki Alina B. , Adamczyk Jacek
Published: April 2013

Results of experiments performed with 6-mm high stem sections of Pinus sylvestris L. confirmed the hypothesis that the fusiform cells of the cambial region respond to the arrival of indole-3-acetic-acid (IAA) at the signalling concentration in the apoplastic space around their apical ends by increasing the basipetal efflux of endogenous natural auxin. Thus, the auxin signal propagation along the stem cambial region could be a chain of reactions between the axially neighbouring cells, each capable of responding and contributing to the change of auxin concentration in the apoplast which requires only transduction of the foreign auxin signal by each of the cells to increase the basipetal efflux of their own endogenous auxin. The rate of auxin signal propagation in this system is not limited by the rate of auxin molecular transport, and if it functions in conjunction with feedback inhibition, it may produce oscillations of the auxin basipetal efflux generating supracellular auxin waves. Inhibitors of the proteinaceous auxin efflux carrier associated with the plasmalemma (NPA and TIBA), although reducing total basipetal transport of the natural auxin, did not prevent the stimulated additional efflux of this phytohormone. The studied auxin-signal transduction processes seem to be intracellular but not mediated by the Ca-calmodulin complex. The natural auxin basipetal efflux increased significantly within 45 min following the period when it had been strongly reduced by successive collections to agar receivers replaced several times at the basal ends of 6-mm high stem sections in which the intact fusiform cells of the cambial region in about 90% are arranged in only one axial row. Such exhaustion of the cellular reserve of auxin did not prevent the additional auxin basipetal efflux stimulated by the IAA apical treatment. The results may suggest an effect of the auxin signal upon the supply of newly-synthesised auxin directly to the system responsible for its basipetal efflux.
Changes in the number and size of nucleoli of Chara vulgaris L. antheridial filament cells during the period preceding light-induced re-initiation of cell divisions following a mitodepressive effect of darkness
Authors: Kwiatkowska Maria , Papiernik Ewa
Published: April 2013

The changes in number and size of nucleoli of Chara vulgaris antheridial filament cells were monitored with the use of Howell and Black's silver staining method. After a 3-day mitodepressive treatment with darkness the cells were exposed to light which reactivated mitotic activity after 18-20 hours. Eight-celled antheridial filaments were observed. In the period preceding light-induced re-initiation of mitoses a gradual reconstruction of the number and size of nucleoli characteristic of control, as well as their total area per nucleus appeared. The obtained results indicate that one of the important conditions for a cell to be able to divide is accumulation of nucleolus components characteristic of a given developmental stage and this controls nucleologenesis of the subsequent cell cycle.
Cytopathological evidence for transport of phytoplasma in infected plants
Authors: Rudzińska-Langwald Anna , Kamińska Maria
Published: April 2013

Pleomorphic phytoplasmas were observed in sieve tubes, companion cells and in phloem parenchyma of Tagetes patula L., Helichrysum bracteatum Willd. and Gladiolus sp. L. plants with morphological changes typical for phytoplasma infection. In the pores of the sieve plate phytoplasma cells were seen which suggests that the vertical transport of this pathogen goes in the sieve tubes of infected plants throughout the sieve tube pores. The contact of the sieve tube with the neighbouring cells goes through the plasmodesmata, but no changes of the plasmodesmata were observed in the phloem of infected plants. The size and structure of unchanged plasmodesmata does not allow passing through such big structures like phytoplasma. Instead close contact between phytoplasma cells and vertical sieve tube walls takes place. Damages to the cell wall were observed forming cavities in which the phytoplasma cells were present. The damages of parenchyma and companion cells walls also were seen. In cells where the damages of the walls were observed phytoplasmas were present. The phytoplasma cells were sporadically seen also in the intercellular spaces of parenchyma. These data suggest that horizontal transport depends on damages to the infected plant cell walls caused by the phytoplasma itself.
Phosphate status and acid phosphatase activity in soil and ectomycorrhizas in two mature stands of scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) exposed to different levels of anthropogenic pollution
Authors: Kieliszewska-Rokicka Barbara
Published: April 2013

The relations between anthropogenic environmental pollution and the level of inorganic phosphorus in soil, enzyme activities of extracellular soil acid phosphatase and the surface acid phosphatase of excised ectomycorrhizas of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) were studied. Soil and root samples were taken from two Scots pine stands in central Poland: a polluted site exposed to long-term pollution from a steelworks and the city of Warsaw and a reference plot (control) free from direct impact of pollution. The polluted site was characterised by high concentration of trace elements (Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, Mn, Cr) and low level of inorganic phosphate in soil. This site had significantly lower enzyme activities of soil acid phosphatase (0.54 µmoles p-nitrophenol released g-1 dry weight h-1) and surface acid phosphatase of pine ectomycorrhizas (3.37 µmoles p-nitrophenol released g-1 fresh weight h-1) than the control site (1.36 µmoles p-nitrophenol released g-1 dry weight h-1 and 12.46 µmoles p-nitrophenol released g-1 fresh weight h-1, respectively). The levels of phosphate, carbon and nitrogen in pine fine roots were also analysed. Low concentrations of P04-P and high N: P ratio in pine fine roots from polluted site were found. The results suggest that soil pollutants may have a negative effect on the extracellular acid phosphatase of soil and Scots pine ectomycorrhizas and on the phosphorus status in fine roots of the plant.
Pollen morphology of genus Rubus L., Part II. Introductory studies on the Malesian species of subgenus Micranthobatus
Authors: Tomlik-Wyremblewska Anna
Published: April 2013

The results of studies on pollen morphology of 6 Malesian Rubus species are presented (R. clementis, R. cordiformis, R. diclinis, R. megacarpus, R. novoguineensis and R. royenii var. ikilimbu). The examination has been made by SEM for the first time and also by LM. Detailed descriptions of the pollen grains are given. The pollen grains are small, isopolar and trizonocolporate. Ornamentation is generally classified as striate, although with some modifications. A striate-reticulate pattern has been observed in only one species (R. cordiformis). A rugulate-striate pattern represents R. novoguineensis. The typical striate patterns differed in form, width and orientation of the muri are observed in R. clementis, R. diclinis, R. megacarpus, R. royenii var. ikilimbu. The tectum perforations are clearly observed in R. clementis, R. diclinis, R. megacarpus, R. royenii var. ikilimbu. The relation between the species has also been disscused. Pollen morphological studies confirmed partly the systematic concept. Rubus megacarpus, R. cordiformis, R. novoguineensis show completely different patterns and can not be regarded as closely related species; Rubus clementis has its own striate pattern, which resembles the pollen morphological type of R. lucens (not included in this study). Rubus diclinis and R. royenii var. ikilimbu have almost the same type of pollen morphology.
Changes in the ultrastructure of meristematic root cells of Allium sativum L. treated with selenium
Authors: Glińska Sława , Gabara Barbara
Published: April 2013

Ultrastructure of meristematic cells of garlic (Allium sativum L.) roots treated with sodium selenate and sodium selenite was assessed using transmission electron microscopy. Both selenium compounds applied at the concentrations: 80, 160 and 320 µM caused many malformations in the ultrastructure of mitochondria, plastids, endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus such as deformation in shape and size, disturbances in inner membranes organization, appearance of concentric or parallel arrangement of ER cisternae. Moreover, in the presence of selenium, beside uneven thickening of cell wall, many vacuoles of different dimensions filled with wall-like material even in the vicinity of nucleus were visible. The latter results suggest that selenium not only intensified the synthesis of cell wall material but also inhibited the process of cell wall material deposition. The similarity of all observed ultrastructural changes in garlic root cells after selenium treatment with those appearing after action of other stress factors are discussed.
Phenolic compounds distribution along the lenght of Scots pine needles in a polluted and control environment and its connection with necroses formation
Authors: Giertych Marian J. , Karolewski Piotr
Published: April 2013

Phenolic compounds distribution was studied along the length of Scots pine needles from trees in a polluted and a control site. There is no significant difference in the content of total phenols between the studied sites. There are significant differences in distribution of phenolics along the length of needles. The highest content is in the tip part of the needle and the lowest at the base. This kind of distribution suggests a role of these compounds in the processes of necroses formation. The content of phenolic compounds is positively correlated with the toxic elements - fluorine and aluminium and negatively with the macroelements - phosphorus, potassium and magnesium.
Influence of extract from shoots of Taxus baccata var. 'Elegantissima' on mitotic activity of meristematic cells of Allium cepa L. roots
Authors: Majewska Agnieszka , Furmanowa Mirosława , Śliwińska Elwira , Głowniak Kazimierz , Guzewska Joanna , Kuraś Mieczysław , Zobel Alicja
Published: April 2013

We investigated the influence of different concentrations of alcoholic extract from young shoots of Taxus baccata var. 'Elegantissima' (TbE), containing paclitaxel (81.6 µg/g fresh mass), on mitotic activity and DNA content in meristematic ` cells of Allium cepn adventitious root tips. During 24 hours of incubation we obtained different level of inhibition of mitotic activity: ranging from slight changes (dilution 1:32), through complete inhibition reversible in postincubation (dilution 1:8), to whole inhibition irreversible in postincubation (dilution 1:4). Inhibition of mitotic activity was connected with an increase of prophases and metaphases and changes in morphology of chromosomes (thick chromosomes of prophases with diluted karyolymph and c-metaphases). During the experiment, the number of aberrations and micronuclei didn't increase but the number of cells with replicated DNA (4C) blocked in G2 phase was higher. This study was done by a flow cytometry method. The optimal concentration of the TbE extract, which inhibited mitotic activity, did not damage the genetic material (chromosomes) visibly.
Inheritance and linkage of allozymes in Juniperus phoenicea L. (Cupressaceae)
Authors: Lewandowski Andrzej , Samoćko Joanna , Boratyński Adam , Mejnartowicz Leon
Published: April 2013

Eight enzyme systems coding for 14 loci were assayed in Juniperus phoenicea. Mendelian inheritance was confirmed for allozymes at 10 loci (Fle 2, Gdh, Got 1, Idh, Mdh 1, Mdh 2, Men 1, Pgi, Pgm I, Pgm 2) by testing the fit of band-pattern segregation in macrogametophytes from heterozygous trees to the expected I: I ratio. Linkage relationships were examined for 21 pairs of allozyme loci and these pairs do not appear to be linked in our material.
Effect of aluminium on in vitro rooting of birch (Betula pendula Roth.) and poplar (Populus tremula L. x P. alba L.) microcuttings
Authors: Bojarczuk Krystyna
Published: April 2013

Poplar (Populus tremula L. x P. alba L.) and birch (Betula pendula Roth.) microcuttings obtained from in vitro cultures on media with aluminium (Al+) or without aluminium (Al-) were rooted in perlite saturated with a liquid 1/4 MS medium. Aluminium was added to the rooting medium in the form of aluminium sulphate or aluminium chloride. In the control, i.e. in the medium without aluminium, Al+ and Al- shoots usually developed similarly. Addition of aluminium to the rooting medium had a negative effect on the development of adventitious roots. Poplar and birch shoots obtained from cultures on media with aluminium (AI+) were distinguished by a greater tolerance of aluminium in the medium than shoots obtained from cultures on media without aluminium (A1-).
A new sand pouch-plant infection technique for enumeration of rhizobia in soil
Authors: Martyniuk Stefan , Woźniakowska Anna , Martyniuk Maria , Oroń Jadwiga
Published: April 2013

A sand pouch-plant infection technique for counting most probable numbers of rhizobia in soil is described. Populations of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifoli detected by the plant infection method performed in enclosed glass tubes or in sand pouches did not differ significantly. The described method was used to assess numbers of R. leguminosarum bv. trifoli (R.l.t.) and bv. viciae (R.l.v.) in 20 soils of Poland. Logarithms of the populations of R.l.t. in the tested soils ranged from not detectable level to 4.76 and those of R.l.v. from 2.23 to 5.84 in g1 of soil dry mass. Numbers of R.l.t. were significantly correlated with soil clay, C org, and total N contents but not with the soil pH (in KCI), while numbers of R.l.v. showed significant correlation only with the soil pH.
The level of phyA in Pharbitis nil Chois during the photoperiodic flower induction
Authors: Szmidt-Jaworska Adriana , Jaworski Krzysztof , Kopcewicz Jan
Published: April 2013

The aim of this work was to determine if there is any relationship between an endogenous phyA level and photoperiodic flower induction. The level of phyA was characterised with polyclonal antibodies directed to phyA from pea. At first it was detected that phyA level is predominant in cotyledons, whereas in roots and stems the concentration of labile phytochrome is rather low. So cotyledons were used for later experiments. In these cotyledons exposed to light illumination a rapid destruction of phyA has been observed. The loss of extractable phyA chromoprotein occurs already after 60 min of irradiation. Pharbitis nil is a short-day plant and a single 16-hours-long dark period is fully inductive. We assessed that phyA level is extremely low during a long inductive night and an immunodetectable phytochrome appears only after 24 hours of darkness. The obtained results suggest that labile phytochrome is not taking part in the direct control of the photoperiodic flower induction.
Studies on the reaction in tissue culture of tomato genotypes under biotic stress
Authors: Hanus-Fajerska Ewa
Published: April 2013

Plant regeneration in vitro from virus-infected somatic tomato (Lycopersicon sp.) tissue was performed. Regeneration experiments were started after the determination of virus presence, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, in leaves used as a source of explants. Leaf explants infected with selected strains of tomato mosaic Tobamovirus or cucumber mosaic Cucumovirus respectively, were cultured on a standarised MS agar medium to induce adventitious shoots, which were afterwards excised, rooted in vitro and cultured to plants. Explants were also screened for their ability to produce callus. Diverse effects of viral infection, ranging from stimulation to inhibition of callus formation and of morphogenesis rate, were observed. The health condition of the tissue proved to affect regeneration potential of Lycopersicon esculentum, whereas wild accesions did not react in that case so distinctly. In cultivated tomato was encountered the decline in competence to reproduce shoots adventitiously in infected tissue. There was also relationship between donor plant health condition and adventitious root formation in regenerated shoots. Experiments with short-term cultures of L. esculenum reveled also that a certain number of shoots regenerated from diseased tissue can be virus-free.
The occurence of polyprenols in Euphorbiaceae
Authors: Verughese George , Muthukrishnan Murughan , Chojnacki Tadeusz
Published: April 2013

The distribution and occurrence of polyprenols in leaves of 19 species belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family were investigated. Polyprenols comprising 11 and 12 isoprene units were the dominant ones in the majority of the plants investigated. Out of the 19 species studied the highest concentration of polyprenols was observed in Phyllanthus amarus (0.1-0.3%, dry wt.).
Ustilago trichophora (H.F. Link) F. Körnicke, a fungus newly found in Poland
Authors: Madej Tadeusz , Błaszkowski Janusz , Tadych Mariusz
Published: April 2013

Ustilago trichophora, a smut fungus found for the first time in Poland, is characterized and illustrated. Ustilago trichophora affected Echinochloa crus-galli growing in the Lower Silesia voivodeship. In laboratory investigations, the germinability of teliospores, the morphological properties of promycelium, sporidia and colonies produced on potato dextrose agar, Sabouraud-glucose agar, and in water were determined. Attempts to infect seeds and seedling of E. crus-galli in a greenhouse pot experiment failed.
The flora and vegetation of an old solvay process tip in Jaworzno (Upper Silesia, Poland)
Authors: Cohn E V. J. , Tokarska-Guzik B. , Trueman L. C. , Woźniak G.
Published: April 2013

This paper demonstrates the flora, plant communities and substrates of an old solvay process spoil tip in Upper Silesia, Poland. In an area of 15 000 m2 there are growing 136 vascular plant species. The flora is characterised by the preponderance of Asteraceae - species and long-lived perennial herbs, many of them coming from meadows and grasslands. Ninety-five percent of species are apophytes despite the anthropogenic origin of the site. A majority of species are associated with moderately dry, base-rich soils with low or moderate levels of nitrogen. The site is shown to be an important refuge for some protected species, montane species and other elements uncommon in the local flora. An analysis of a series of samples used a methodology based on the assessment of percentage cover of particular species and multivariate analysis based on TWINSPAN. Both suggested a relatively high overall similarity between the samples with minor variations associated with moister substrates.Elemental analysis and pH determinations of soil samples associated with the relevés revealed a narrow range of pH and an absence of any strong concentrations of heavy metals. A redundancy analysis of the soil-plant relationships suggested that the strongest trend of differentiation was most closely associated with a phosphate gradient, and the next strongest was pH and possibly waterlogging. The most species-rich vegetation was associated with low phosphate and high pH levels. The results could be interpreted to suggest that processes of soil development and plant succession are slow but nevertheless perceptible, with implications for future loss of diversity. The vegetation constitutes an assemblage essentially of one type showing only weak relationships with described vegetation types such as Molinio-Arrhenatheretea meadow, Festuco-Brometea grassland and Caricetalia davallianae mire. The results also suggest that the vegetation of the site is of considerable value for nature conservation. The site should be protected and be the subject of further research.
Fungi and bacteria associated with the wet and brown wood in trunk of Betula pendula trees
Authors: Przybył Krystyna
Published: April 2013

Bacteria and fungi were isolated from external and internal zone of brown and water saturated wood of trunk of Betula pendula trees aged 44-46. Quantitative and qualitative differences in the bacterial and fungal populations were found between both the zones. Populations of bacteria increased towards the internal sapwood, contrary to the fungi which more frequently colonised the external zone. The most common bacteria were Pseudomonas spp. (mainly P.fluorescens biovar I) whereas Bacillus macerans, B. alvei and Erwinia heibicola were able to degrade the polygalacturonic acid and pectin gels. In case of the fungi population, the most common (more than 3%) colonising the external zone were successively: Phialophora fastigiata, Trichoderma harzianum, Alternaria alternata, Mortierella isabellina, Cladosporium herbarum, T. viride, C. cladosporioides and Melanconium betulinum. In the community of fungi occurring in the internal zone, the most common (more than 6.5%) were:Cladosporium herbarum, Phialophora lagerbergii and Ph.fastigiata.
Host/patogen interactions between Scots pine seedlings (Pinus sylvestris L.) and the p-strains of Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref. in pure culture
Authors: Werner Antoni , Idzikowska Krystyna
Published: April 2013

Pinus sylvestris L. seedlings representing half-sib families of several trees of known resistance in field conditions were inoculated with three strains of Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref. representing the P intersterility group. Standardized inoculation procedure and uniform in vitro conditions allowed for evaluation of the genetically controlled host/pathogen interactions. Early and advanced stages of infection after prolonged exposure to the fungus were studied with the help of light and transmission electron microscopy. Abundance of osmiophilic material in vacuoles, necrotic reaction of cortical cells and secondary thickenings of cell walls in root regions in proximity to external mycelium were responsible for transient stagnation of pathogen spread in the cortex of resistant seedlings. Immobilized and degenerating hyphae inside vacuolar deposits in cortical cells of short roots of resistant plants are indicative of elevated toxicity of the protective materials at the initial stage of infection. Structural changes of vacuolar deposits and their subsequent disappearance, which coincided with heavy colonization of cortical cells of moderately susceptible seedlings, preceded hyphal penetration into the stele within 2-6-months after inoculation. Despite severe damage to root caps, there was no further spread of the fungus into meristems of growing roots and short dormant roots. , In susceptible seedlings, lack of a hypersensitive reaction and apparently low levels of osmiophilic material resulted in quick colonization of cortical cells, breakdown of endodermis and root abortion after entering the stele.