bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphorus recycling in sediments of the central Baltic Sea
Authors: Viktorsson L. , Ekeroth N. , Nilsson M. , Kononets M. , Hall P. O. J.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Benthic fluxes of phosphorus (P) were measured in situ in the Eastern Gotland Basin (EGB), central Baltic Sea, using benthic landers. A total of 40 flux measurements of dissolved inorganic P (DIP) on 13 stations at water depths ranging 30–210 m and under different oxygen regimes were carried out on three cruises during three consecutive years (2008–2010) in August–September. Our study is the first to report in situ DIP fluxes in the Baltic proper, and it provides the most comprehensive dataset of benthic fluxes of DIP and dissolved organic P (DOP) in the Baltic proper existing to date. DIP fluxes increased with increasing water depth and with decreasing bottom water oxygen concentration. Average DIP fluxes were calculated for oxic bottom water conditions (− 0.003 ± 0.040 mmol m−2 d−1), hypoxic conditions (0.027± 0.067 mmol m−2 d−1) and anoxic conditions (0.376 ± 0.214 mmol m−2 d−1). The mean DIP flux at anoxic bottoms was higher than previous estimates based on ex situ measurements of pore water gradients. The DIP flux was positively correlated with the organic carbon inventory of sediment, and the benthic flux of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) at anoxic stations, but these variables were uncorrelated at oxic stations. The positive correlation between DIP and DIC fluxes suggests that the benthic DIP efflux from anoxic bottoms in the Baltic Proper is mainly controlled by rates of deposition and degradation of organic matter. The flux from anoxic sediment was very P rich in relation to both C and nitrogen (N). The average C : P ratio in fluxes at anoxic accumulation bottoms was 69 ± 15, which is well below the Redfield C : P ratio of 106 : 1. At oxic stations, however, the C : P flux ratio was much higher than the Redfield ratio, consistent with well-known P retention mechanisms associated with iron and bacteria in oxidised sediment. Using a benthic mass balance approach, a burial efficiency estimate of 0.2–12% was calculated for the anoxic part of the EGB, which suggests that anoxic Baltic sediments are very efficient in recycling deposited P. Based on the measured fluxes and the average areal extent of anoxic bottoms during years 1999–2006, an internal DIP load of 152 kton yr−1 was calculated. This is almost 9 times higher than the average external total phosphorus (TP) supply to the Baltic proper during the same period. This comparison clearly highlights the dominance of internally regenerated P as a DIP source in the Baltic Sea.
Nitrous oxide (N2O) production in axenic Chlorella vulgaris cultures: evidence, putative pathways, and potential environmental impacts
Authors: Guieysse B. , Plouviez M. , Coilhac M. , Cazali L.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Using antibiotic assays and genomic analysis, this study demonstrates nitrous oxide (N2O) is generated from axenic C. vulgaris cultures. In batch assays, this production is magnified under conditions favoring intracellular nitrite accumulation, but repressed when nitrate reductase (NR) activity is inhibited. These observations suggest N2O formation in C. vulgaris might proceed via NR-mediated nitrite reduction into nitric oxide (NO) acting as N2O precursor via a pathway similar to N2O formation in bacterial denitrifiers, although NO reduction to N2O under oxia remains unproven in plant cells. Alternatively, NR may reduce nitrite to nitroxyl (HNO), the latter being known to dimerize to N2O under oxia. Regardless of the precursor considered, an NR-mediated nitrite reduction pathway provides a unifying explanation for correlations reported between N2O emissions from algae-based ecosystems and NR activity, nitrate concentration, nitrite concentration, and photosynthesis repression. Moreover, these results indicate microalgae-mediated N2O formation might significantly contribute to N2O emissions in algae-based ecosystems. These findings have profound implications for the life cycle analysis of algae biotechnologies and our understanding of the global biogeochemical nitrogen cycle.
Late Pliocene lakes and soils: a data – model comparison for the analysis of climate feedbacks in a warmer world
Authors: Pound M. J. , Tindall J. , Pickering S. J. , Haywood A. M. , Dowsett H. J. , Salzmann U.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Based on a synthesis of geological data we have reconstructed the global distribution of Late Pliocene soils and lakes which are then used as boundary conditions in a series of model experiments using the Hadley Centre General Circulation Model (HadCM3) and the BIOME4 mechanistic vegetation model. By combining our novel soil and lake reconstructions with a fully coupled climate model we are able to explore the feedbacks of soils and lakes on the climate of the Late Pliocene. Our experiments reveal regionally confined changes of local climate and vegetation in response to the new boundary conditions. The addition of Late Pliocene soils has the largest influence on surface air temperatures, with notable increases in Australia, southern North Africa and Asia. The inclusion of Late Pliocene lakes generates a significant increase in precipitation in central Africa, as well as seasonal increases in the Northern Hemisphere. When combined, the feedbacks on climate from Late Pliocene lakes and soils improve the data to model fit in western North America and southern North Africa.
Precipitation and snow cover in the Himalaya: from reanalysis to regional climate simulations
Authors: Ménégoz M. , Gallée H. , Jacobi H. W.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. We applied a Regional Climate Model (RCM) to simulate precipitation and snow cover over the Himalaya, between March 2000 to December 2002. Due to its higher resolution, our model simulates a more realistic spatial variability of wind and precipitation than those of the reanalysis used as boundary conditions. In this region, we found very large discrepancies between the estimations of precipitation provided by reanalysis, rain gauges networks, satellite observations, and our RCM simulation. Our model clearly underestimates precipitation at the foothills of the Himalaya and in its Eastern part. However, our simulation brings an interesting estimation of liquid and solid precipitation in high altitude areas, where satellite and rain gauge networks are few reliable. We found our model to simulate quite accurately the snow cover extent and duration for the two years of simulation in these areas. Snow accumulation and snow duration differ widely along the Himalaya: snowfall can occur during the whole year Western Himalaya, due to both summer monsoon and mid-latitude low pressure systems bringing moisture into this region. In Central Himalaya and on the Tibetan plateau, a much more marked dry season occurs from October to March. Snow cover does not have a well marked seasonal cycle in these regions, since it depends both on the quite variable duration of the monsoon and on the rare but possible occurrence of snowfall during the winter.
Grain shape influence on light extinction in snow
Authors: Libois Q. , Picard G. , France J. L. , Arnaud L. , Dumont M. , Carmagnola C. M. , King M. D.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The energy budget and the photochemistry of a snowpack greatly depend on the penetration of solar radiation into the snowpack. While representing snow by a collection of spherical particles has been a successful option in the numerical computation of the albedo, such models poorly reproduce light extinction measurements. Here, we explore the limits of the spherical representation by using numerical tools and experimental data. For this, we investigate the influence of grain shape on light extinction in the visible and near-infrared (NIR) ranges. To compute light extinction, we developed a multi-layer radiative transfer model based on the δ-Eddington approximation and analytical expressions of the albedo, α, and the asymptotic flux extinction coefficient (AFEC), ke. The snowpack is characterized by the profiles of density, specific surface area (SSA) and two parameters (B and gG) depending only on the grain shape. The aim of the paper is to estimate the values of B and gG and to understand how they impact macroscopic optical properties of snow. First, the values of B and gG are deduced from simulations with ray tracing models for a variety of simple geometric shapes. The results show that spherical grains propagate light deeper into snow than the other shapes we have investigated, in agreement with theoretical and experimental studies from the literature. Then we present an experimental method to retrieve B for natural snow using optical measurements. Analytical expressions of albedo and AFEC demonstrate that B can be retrieved from simultaneous measurements of albedo and AFEC of a snow layer, or similarly from vertical profiles of reflectance and light intensity in a snowpack. Such measurements were performed in Antarctica and in the Alps and led to values of B between 0.8 and 2.0, which significantly differs from the theoretical value for spherical grains: B = 1.25. In addition, values of B were estimated from data in the literature. This led to a wider range of values (1.0–9.9) which may be partially explained by the accuracy of the data. We demonstrate that grain shape has a significant influence on AFEC in natural snow. It highlights the large variety of natural snow microstructure and the importance of considering grain shape for snow optics questions. It experimentally demonstrates that spherical grains are inappropriate to model light extinction in snow, an important result that should be considered in further studies dedicated to subsurface absorption of shortwave radiation and snow photochemistry.
Lo que piden los agricultores y lo que pueden los gobiernos ¿Mendigar dependencia o proporcionar emancipación?
Authors: Lacki Polan
Published: June 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/calera.v12i18.1127 Revista Científica Vol. 12. Nº 18, p. 67-69 / junio 2012
The Use of Leviticus in Ezra-Nehemiah
Authors: Harrington Hannah K.
Published: June 2013

In light of the current disparity of views regarding the dating of Leviticus and Ezra-Nehemiah, this study revisits similar traditions found in these books in order to gain a sense of logical progression. The author calls attention to elements from Leviticus which are present in Ezra-Nehemiah but not found elsewhere in the Torah. She argues for the chronological priority of significant cultic traditions from Leviticus over their counterparts in Ezra-Nehemiah.
A note on essential finite indecomposability and thickness in primary abelian groups
Authors: Danchev Peter V. , Keef Patrick W.
Published: June 2013

We present a new characterization of essentially finitely indecomposable abelian $p$-groups. Parallel ideas are also applied to the socles of groups, especially in the case of groups that are pure-complete. These results are then used to discuss the class of thick abelian $p$-groups.
Basic results in the theory of hybrid differential equations with linear perturbations os second type
Authors: Dhage Bapurao Chandrabahan
Published: June 2013

In this paper, some basic results concerning the strict and nonstrict differential inequalities and existence of the maximal and minimal solutions are proved for a hybrid differential equation with linear perturbations of second type.
Some new proof of the sum formula and restricted sum formula
Authors: Chang ChungYie
Published: June 2013

The sum formula is a basic identify of multiple zeta values that expresses a Riemann-zeta value as a homogeneous sum of multiple zeta values of given depth and weight. This formula was already known to Euler in the depth two case. Conjectured in the early 1990s, for higher depth and then proved by Granville and Zagier independently. Restricted sum formula was given in Eie \cite{2}. In this paper, we present some new proofs of those formulas.
New inequalities for Hermite-Hadamard and Simpson type with applications
Authors: Özdemir M. Emin , Yildiz Çetin
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we obtain new bounds for the inequalities of Simpson and Hermite-Hadamard type for functions whose second derivatives absolute values are $P$-convex. Some applications for special means of real numbers are also given.
Distribution and structure of internal secretory reservoirs on the vegetative organs of Inula helenium L. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Sulborska Aneta
Published: June 2013

The aim of the study was to investigate the structure and topography of endogenous secretory tissues of Inula helenium L. By using light and electron microscopy, morphological and anatomical observations of stems, leaves and rhizomes were made. It was shown that in the stems secretory cavities were situated in the vicinity of phloem and xylem bundles. The number of the reservoirs reached its maximum value (34) at shoot flowerig termination, whereas the cavities with the largest diameter were observed at full flowering stage (44.6 µm). In the leaf petioles and midribs, the reservoirs also accompanied the vascular bundles, and their number and size increased along with the growth of the assimilation organs. Observations of the cross sections of the rhizomes revealed the presence of several rings of secretory reservoirs. The measurements of the cavities showed that as a rule the reservoirs with a larger dimension were located in the phelloderm, whereas the smallest ones in the xylem area. The secretory cavities located in the stems and leaves developed by schizogenesis, whereas the rhizome reservoirs were probably formed schizolisygenously. The cells lining the reservoirs formed a one - four-layered epithelium. Observed in TEM, the secretory cells of the mature cavities located in the rhizomes were characterised by the presence of a large central vacuole, whereas the protoplast was largely degraded. Fibrous elements of osmophilic secretion and numerous different coloured vesicles could be distinguished in it. The cell walls formed, from the side of the reservoir lumen, ingrowths into the interior of the epithelial cells. Between the cell wall and the plasmalemma of the glandular cells, a brighter periplasmatic zone with secretory vesicles was observed.
Micromorphology and histochemical traits of staminal osmophores in Asphodelus aestivus Brot. flower
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Chwil Mirosława , Sawidis Thomas
Published: June 2013

The conducted studies pertained to micromorphology of the surface of epidermis cells and histological traits of staminal filaments of Asphodelus aestivus Brot. flowers. The structure of the filaments was analyzed in a light microscope (LM) using various histochemical techniques. The morphology of the surface of the epidermis of filaments was observed in scanning electron microscope (SEM). Filaments Asphodelus aestivus accrete together with the basal part of the abaxial surface with the leaves of perianth. Their lower, wider, and flattened part surrounds the ovary. The epidermis of the staminal osmophores creates papilliose cells and unicellular hairs of various sizes. In the uppermost part of these structures, round marks in the cuticle layer after the emission of discharge were observed with the SEM. The outside, convex wall of the isodiametric cells of the epidermis, papillae and hairs was significantly thicker from the remaining walls. It was covered with cuticle of different ornamentation. The cells that created papillae and hairs had a large, centrally located vacuole and a thin layer of cytoplasm with numerous small vacuoles as well as large, often lobed nuclei. In the protoplasts of these cells the presence of plastids and lipid droplets was noted. During the time of secretion of elicitor between the wall and cuticle of the epidermis cells, convex bubbles were formed, in which the secreted substance was accumulated. At the end of secretion, on the surface of papillae, hairs and other cells of the epidermis, irregularly protruding cuticle was observed. It was noted that the composition of staminal osmophores in the flowers of Asphodelus aestivus includes papillae, hairs and cells of the epidermis that do not form papillae.
The comparison of nectaries structure of some varieties of ornamental apple
Authors: Konarska Agata
Published: June 2013

The study of floral nectary structures of thirteen ornamental apple cultivars examined using light microscope (MS) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) was performed. It was found that nectary glands in the selected cultivars were located in the upper part of the flower receptacle, between the ovary of the pistil and the base of stamen filaments, and they generally belonged to the epimorphic or transitoric type. The nectary surface area, its thickness, the number of glandular tissue layers, the height of epidermal cells of the nectary and the thickness of the outer wall of the epidermis, together with the cuticle, were determined by light microscope. By using SEM, the structure of the surface of nectaries in four ornamental apple cultivars was observed. The epidermis of the upper part of the nectaries was composed of elongated cells of which outer cell wall was covered with a striated cuticle. The remaining part of the nectary was characterised by cells of similar arrangement and shape, but their surface was marked by a thinner and smoother layer of cuticle. Closed or opened stomata were generally situated at the level of the epidermal cells. Their pores were often filled with granular or plate-shaped structures.
Micromorphology of the epidermis of the floral nectary of Rhododendron japonicum (A. Gray) J. V. Suringar ex E.H. Wilson.
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Chwil Mirosława
Published: June 2013

The conducted study related to the structure of the floral nectaries of Rhododendron japonicum (A. Gray) J. V. Suringar ex E. H. Wilson. The structure of the secretory epidermis of the nectaries was analysed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Rhododendron japonicum develops the superior pistil with a 5-loculed ovary equipped in five ribs. The nectary gland is located in the lower part of the ovary. In the nectary regions located on the extension of the ribs of the ovary, stomata were very numerous. In the upper part of the nectary, stomata were arranged individually or in small clusters, whereas at its half- -height they formed stomatal areas. The stomata were at different growth stages. They were arranged in different directions. The stomata developed on the nectary surface according to the mosaic pattern. The stomata from the lower situated part of the nectary had a different structure than those occurring in the upper half of the nectary. The stomata in the nectaries of Rh. japonicum belong to the actinocytic type. The cuticle layer in the upper part of the nectary was better developed and had a characteristic sculpture, whereas in the lower part it was smooth.
The effect of D,L-β-aminobutyric acid on the growth and development of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. tulipae (Apt.)
Authors: Jarecka Anna , Saniewska Alicja
Published: June 2013

The effect of D,L-β-aminobutyric acid (BABA) on the growth and development of the root system and the development of fusariosis on tulip bulbs cv. Apeldoorn infected by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. tulipae (F.ox.t. 218) was studied. The length and fresh weight of roots, the development of fusariosis on bulbs and the linear growth of mycelium of F.ox.t. 218 on PDA medium were measured. Preventively used BABA at a concentration of 100, 250 and 300 µg·cm-3 for soaking uncooled and cooled tulip bulbs greatly inhibited the development of fusariosis on the root system; the length and fresh weight of roots were similar to those of the bulbs not inoculated with F.ox.t. 218. At a concentration of 100 µg·cm-3;, BABA used for soaking bulbs limited the development of fusariosis on scales in about 50% and the concentration of 200 µg·cm-3 totally inhibited the disease symptoms induced by F.ox.t. 218. At a concentration of 100 - 1000 µg·cm-3, BABA did not inhibit the mycelium growth of F.ox.t. 17 and F.xo.t. 218 on PDA medium. This study suggests that BABA protects tulip roots and bulb scales against F. oxysporum f. sp. tulipae by inducing resistance in these organs and has no direct influence on the pathogen.
The anthropogenic refuge areas for bee flora in agricultural landscape
Authors: Denisow Bożena , Wrzesień Małgorzata
Published: June 2013

The investigations were carried out in 2002-2006 in two municipalities of Konopnica and Jastków close to the western part of Lublin, Poland. The aim of the study was to identify the condition of bee flora and determine the floristic richness depending on the biotops in agricultural landscape. Flora of the anthropogenic refuge areas consists of 214 species, among them 80% were flow taxons. Apophytes (162 species - 78%) predominated on all types of biotops under consideration. Perennials predominated in flora of boundary strips and bush communities. Mainly annual (40%) and biennial (15%) species comprise the flora of fallows. A great number of bee taxons represent meadow, segetal or ruderal communities. Most of flow plants compose loose patches, but their successive blooming ensures a source of food for Apoidea from early spring till the end of summer. The flora of boundary strips, bush communities and fallows significantly increases the biodiversity in agricultural landscape. The treatments including sowing, mainly on fallows with nectariferous and polleniferous species, would enrich generally weak flows in highly agricultural landscape.
The structure of elaiophores in Oncidium cheirophorum Rchb.f. and Ornithocephalus kruegeri Rchb.f. (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Pacek Agata , Stpiczyńska Małgorzata
Published: June 2013

The shining appearance of the flowers of Oncidium cheirophorum and Ornithocephalus kruegeri results from the presence of lipids on the flower surface. The lipids are produced by elaiophores - secretory structures situated symmetrically at the base of the labellum or upon the callus. In O. cheirophorum, the elaiophores are epithelial type. They consist of one layer of cuboidal secretory cells and subsecretory parenchyma. The thick cuticle covering the outer, tangential wall of epithelial cells becomes distended and wrinkled as secreted oil accumulates beneath its surface. Oil secretion begins at the bud stage and lasts till the end of anthesis, that is 22 days, on average. Pollination does not influence oil production. In O. kruegeri, trichomatous elaiophores are situated on the central part of the callus. Unicellular trichomes project from the epidermis cells. Their outer walls are covered by a thin cuticle. In the dense cytoplasm of the trichomes, small plastids with few starch grains occur, whereas subsecretory parenchyma cells contain amyloplasts with large starch grains and raphides. The oil is already produced at the bud stage, about one week before flower opening, and lasts till the end of anthesis.
Characteristics of the surface of the epidermis in floral nectaries and the receptacle of mountain ash (Sorbus aucuparia L.)
Authors: Konarska Agata
Published: June 2013

The structure of receptacular surfaces of floral nectaries at two flowering stages and the structure of the outer surface of the receptacle of Sorbus aucuparia were investigated using scanning electron microscopy. Changes in the development of the cuticular epithelium of the nectary epidermis and differences in the degree of aperture of stomata were observed. Increased undulation of the gland surface was found during flower development. Numerous stomata were situated slightly below the level of epidermal cells of the nectary. At the pollination stage, open pores or pores surrounded by the cuticular epithelium were observed, as well as covered by dried secretion. Dried nectar in the form of patches was also visible on the surface of the gland. Stomata of the outer surface of the receptacle were located on protrusions and surrounded by the cuticular epithelium.
"Sweet but dangerous": nectaries in carnivorous plants
Authors: Płachno Bartosz J.
Published: June 2013

In carnivorous plants, two types of nectaries occur: extra-floral nectaries, generally associated with prey luring, and floral ones associated with pollination. Nectar produced by extra-floral nectaries not only attracts prey but may also be involved in trapping prey and plays a role in myrmecophily. The diversity of nectary structure in carnivorous plants reflects complicated evolutionary routes in this unique ecological group.
Analysis of flowering ability of regenerated Carlina acaulis subsp. simplex plants
Authors: Trejgell Alina , Tretyn Andrzej
Published: June 2013

Regenerated plants of Carlina acaulis subsp. simplex induced on shoot tips and fragments of hypocotyls, cotyledons and roots were used as an experimental material. Explants were isolated from 10-day-old, sterile seedlings and were put on growth media supplemented with BA (3 mg×dm-3), and NAA (0,1 mg×dm-3). Plantlets were acclimatized to ex vitro conditions and planted to the field. Analysis of flowering ability, inflorescence stem morphology, and survival level was the objective of the study. The plants regenerated from shoot tips and cotyledons were able to flower in the first year after acclimatization, however no vital seeds were found, while in the case of hypocotyl- and root- regenerated plants flowering appeared in the second year after acclimatization. Number of flowering-able plants grew in time, reaching 100% level. Few percent of inflorescence stems displayed branches ending with additional capitula. The number of this type of plants decreased in successive years, while the average length of inflorescence stem increased. In the case of intensively flowering plants, the survival rate decreased in 3 consecutive years.
Nine-year record of Alnus pollen deposition in the Roztocze region (SE Poland) with relation to vegetation data
Authors: Pidek Irena A.
Published: June 2013

Pollen deposition of alder has been measured at ground level by means of nine modifi ed Tauber traps in different plant communities according to rules of the Pollen Monitoring Programme (http://pmp.oulu.fi ). The series of data covers the period 1998-2006. The area under investigation is situated in the Roztocze (surroundings of the Guciów village) within the protective zone of the Roztocze National Park. During nine years of monitoring, significant variations were observed between single years of deposition. The occurrence of peak years (1998, 2001, 2003 and 2006) connected with higher production of Alnus pollen was observed at many pollen monitoring sites, but its relationship with different proportions of alder within the surrounding vegetation seems rather weak. The average value of annual pollen deposition of Alnus for the whole region was calculated at ca. 1370 grains • cm-2. At the sites situated within the open landscape, pollen influx values ranged from 442 (in 2005) to 6894 (in 1998). It seems that other factors than the proportion of alder within the vegetation control the deposition of Alnus pollen. Long-distance transport and meteorological factors such as wind speed and direction should be taken into account in future studies.
The effect of meteorological conditions on hazel (Corylus spp.) and alder (Alnus spp.) pollen concentration in the air of Szczecin
Authors: Puc Małgorzata
Published: June 2013

The aim of the study was to determine seasonal variations in concentrations of hazel and alder pollen count due to meteorological parameters. Measurements were performed using the volumetric method. The analysed meteorological parameters were the maximum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and wind speed. The beginning and end of a season were established by the 95 % method. During seven years of study, the highest concentration of hazel pollen in the air was noted in 2003 (the total number was two - three times higher than in the other years), with the pollen season starting in most years in the beginning of January and lasting till the end of March or beginning of April. The highest concentration of alder pollen in the air was noted in 2003, similarly as hazel pollen. The pollen season started in the beginning of January (in 2003 and 2006 in the beginning of March) and lasted till the turn of the March and April. The highest pollen count of 674 grains×m-3 was observed in the end of March. A positive and statistically signifi cant correlation (Pearson's coeffi cient and multiple regression) was found between the hazel and alder pollen concentration and air temperature and wind speed. A negative correlation was found in case of the relative humidity. A lot of analysed correlations were signifi cant (significance level of p=0.05), although the percentage of explained variation (R2) was very low. Besides the individual rhythm of pollination, the meteorological conditions are the most important factors (mainly air temperature and wind speed) influencing the analysed pollen concentration in the air.
Analysis of Alnus spp. pollen seasons in Lublin and Warszawa (Poland), 2001-2007
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Rapiejko Piotr
Published: June 2013

The course of Alnus spp. pollen seasons was compared in two cities, Lublin and Warsaw, located at a small distance from each other but included in different climatic regions of Poland. The studies were conducted using the volumetric method. It was shown that Alnus pollen seasons started in Warsaw earlier and were much shorter than in Lublin. The span between the start dates of pollen seasons was similar and it was 53-54 days. Peak days occurred in both cities most often in the second decade of March, but in Warsaw they were recorded several days earlier. Maximum concentrations reached higher values in Lublin, whereas annual totals were higher in Warsaw. The number of days with the concentration > 50 pollen grains × m-3 per 24 hours was 5-27 days for Warsaw and 10-19 days for Lublin over 7 years of study.
Reproductive effort as an element of life strategy of Lythrum salicaria L. populations
Authors: Czarnecka Bożenna , Franczak Magdalena , Nowak Katarzyna
Published: June 2013

The aim of the study was to compare some life strategy traits of individuals of Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicaria within three meadow populations existing under various habitat conditions. The study attempted to answer the following questions: Do different habitat conditions affect the biomass allocation between particular organs of individuals? Can the individuals belonging to different populations of the same species realise their own unique reproductive strategy, in other words, can their reproductive effort represent various levels? In the case of L. salicaria the reproductive effort, measured by the participation of infl orescence biomass in the biomass of aboveground parts of genets, exhibits similar values (14.2-15.1%) in all the study populations, despite their habitat conditions. This fact proves that at the population level, the reproductive effort is relatively stable. Great differences are visible in the case of particular individuals within each of the populations. Specific genets in a population, depending on the habitat microstructure and the biotic relations with other individuals both of their own and other species, may realise their own reproductive strategies, being a part of their life strategies.
Comparing the growth and flowering of selected basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) varieties
Authors: Nurzyńska-Wierdak Renata
Published: June 2013

Investigations carried out in 2005-2006 related to the growth, flowering, and yielding of selected basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) varieties. The most important biometric traits, number of days from sowing till flowering, size of fresh and air-dried herb weight, and essential oil content in dried material, were determined. Great morphological and developmental as well as chemical composition differentiation was found for studied basil varieties. Plants of 'Sweet' cv. were characterized by the largest height (53.4 cm) and side shoot number (16), 'Lemon' - by the largest plant diameter (42.3 cm). The number of days till flowering depended on weather conditions and the variety, and it amounted from 44 to 126. Basil flowers were white, pink, and violet. Herb yield depended on the variety and growth conditions. Differences in the amount and yield of essential oil from basil were also recorded. The largest amounts of oil (1.55%) were accumulated by 'Bush' cv.
Growth and flowering of two leuzea species
Authors: Zawiślak Grażyna
Published: June 2013

The experiment was carried out in 2004-2006 at the Experimental Farm of the Department of Vegetable and Medicinal Plants Cultivation, University of Agriculture in Lublin. The study was aimed at the evaluation of growth and development of two leuzea species: Leuzea carthamoides DC and Leuzea centauroides L. cultivated under Polish climatic conditions. Observations were made upon annual, biennial, triennial, and quadrennial plants. The leuzea plantation was set from seedlings produced in a greenhouse. Leuzea carthamoides DC plants were higher and produced more leaves. Leuzea carthamoides DC and Leuzea centauroides L. plants formed inflorescence stems and bloomed in the second year of cultivation. Inflorescence stems in Leuzea carthamoides DC are single, while those in Leuzea centauroides L. are branched. Leuzea carthamoides DC plants form larger heads compared to Leuzea centauroides L.
The influence of environmental factors on flowering of french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Łabuda Helena , Brodaczewska Anna
Published: June 2013

French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars cultivated for green pods from six sowing dates (since mid of May till end of June) at weekly intervals were performed in 2003-2005. The study included the determination of the number of inflorescences per plant, number of flowers in inflorescence, length of inflorescence axis, and number of total and marketable pods per plant. French bean sown in the mid of May till the end of June showed the greatest variability with respect to the flowering start date and flowering period length as well as the number of pods set on a plant. French bean plants sown on different dates produced a similar number of inflorescences and flowers per bunch; 61.6-74.6 flowers per plant, on average. Weather conditions in July and August had the greatest influence on the flowering pattern and bean pod setting.
Effects of compost media on growth and flowering of parviflorous garden pansy (Viola x wittrockiana Gams.). Part I. Plant growth and conformation
Authors: Zawadzińska Agnieszka , Janicka Dorota
Published: June 2013

The aim of the studies was to determine the effects of media with composts, based on sewage sludge and potato pulp, on the growth and conformation of the cultivar 'Butterfl y Yellow with Blotch'. In the experiment 14 potting media, including 12 media made of 4 composts, were tested. The percentage of compost mixed with sphagnum peat was 25%, 50% and 75%. The components of particular composts were as follows: I - municipal sewage sludge 70% and straw 30%; II - municipal sewage sludge 70% and sawdust 30%; III - municipal sewage sludge 35%, potato pulp 35% and straw 30%; IV - municipal sewage sludge 35%, potato pulp 35% and sawdust 30%. Two control potting media were used: 1 - sphagnum peat with Osmocote Exact Lo-Start at the dose 5 g×dm-3, and 2 - sphagnum peat with Azofoska at the dose 2.5 g×dm-3. There was no top-dressing during cultivation. The potting media used for pansy cultivation were rich in essential nutrients and in certain media macroelement content exceeded the limits recommended for the species with great nutrient requirements. The effects of the media on the growth, conformation and foliage of pansies depended on compost composition and its pecentage in a medium. The composts used for the media were found to be suitable for pansy cultivation. Despite smaller leaf rosettes in comparison with control plants, the pansies from compost media grew well and showed no disease symptoms.
Effects of compost media on growth and flowering of parviflorous garden pansy (Viola x wittrockiana Gams.). Part II. Plant flowering and decorative value
Authors: Zawadzińska Agnieszka , Janicka Dorota
Published: June 2013

The purpose of the studies was to determine the effects of media containing composts from sewage sludge and potato pulp on the flowering and decorative value of 'Butterfly Yellow with Blotch' parviflorous pansy. In the experiment 14 potting media, including 12 media made of 4 composts, were tested. The percentage of compost mixed with sphagnum peat was 25%, 50% and 75%. The components of particular composts were as follows: I - municipal sewage sludge 70% and straw 30%; II - municipal sewage sludge 70% and sawdust 30%; III - municipal sewage sludge 35%, potato pulp 35% and straw 30%; IV - municipal sewage sludge 35%, potato pulp 35% and sawdust 30%. Two control potting media were used: 1 - sphagnum peat with Osmocote Exact Lo-Start at the dose 5 g×dm-3 and 2 - sphagnum peat with Azofoska at the dose 2.5 g×dm-3. There was no top-dressing during cultivation. The pansies for whose cultivation a slow-release fertiliser was used turned out to have most flowers, but the plants cultivated in compost with peat at the ratio 1:1 had equally abundant flowering. At the generative stage, the pansies in control media were the most decorative and those growing in 25% of compost I, 75% of compost II and 50% of compost III and IV. On the basis of plant valuation scale, quality assessment and the abundance of flowering it was found that the media containing 50% of composts were optimal for pansy cultivation.
Production and Reproductive Performance of Bhadawari Buffaloes in Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Kushwaha B.P. , Singh Sultan , Das N. , Maity S.B. , Singh K.K. , Jayasankar J.
Published: June 2013

Bhadawari is one of the recognized buffalo breeds of India and is famous for high fat content in their milk. Data on production and reproductive traits were collected under Network Project on Bhadawari buffaloes, at Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The overall least squares means (±SE) for peak yield, days to attain peak yield, lactation milk yield, lactation length, 305 days milk yield, milk yield per day of lactation, service period, calving interval and dry period were 6.96±0.10 kg, 52.8±4.1 days, 1250.5±24.6 kg, 291.4±4.9 days, 1213.5±21.6 kg, 4.30±0.06 kg, 172.4±7.7 days, 522.1±12.1 days and 241.80±11.3 days, respectively. Period of calving had a significant (p<0.05) to highly significant (p<0.01) effect on all the traits studied except service period and dry period, where it was not significant. Season of calving had a significant (p<0.05) effect or lactation length and highly significant (p<0.01) effect on lactation milk yield, 305 days milk yield and all the reproductive traits under study. The lowest calving interval, service period and dry period were observed in rainy season calvers and they differed significantly (p<0.01) with winter and summer calvers. Parity had a significant effect (p<0.05) on lactation milk yield, 305 days milk yield and milk yield per day of lactation. Pair-wise comparison revealed that lactation milk yield was highest in the 2nd lactation followed by 3rd and 4th lactation. Large coefficient of variation observed for different traits under study indicates that there is enough scope for improvement in the production and reproduction traits. Better breeding management and selection for increased performance is needed for genetic improvement of these traits.
Solid‐Phase Supports for Oligonucleotide Synthesis
Authors: Guzaev Andrei P.
Published: June 2013

This unit attempts to provide a reasonably complete inventory of over 280 solid supports available to oligonucleotide chemists for preparation of natural and 3′‐modified oligonucleotides. Emphasis is placed on non‐nucleosidic solid supports. The relationship between the structural features of linkers and their behavior in oligonucleotide synthesis and deprotection is discussed wherever the relevant observations are available. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 53:3.1.1‐3.1.60. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Carbon markets proliferating despite difficulties, report notes
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: June 2013

Although some existing carbon markets are facing structural issues and economic difficulties in Europe have put a damper on the European Union emissions trading system, new carbon pricing initiatives are developing rapidly, and these initiatives could help slow down greenhouse gas emissions, according to a 29 May report from the World Bank.
Resolving Bias in Laser Ablation Geochronology
Authors: Bowring James , Horstwood Matthew , Gehrels George
Published: June 2013

Increasingly, scientific investigations requiring geochronology utilize laser ablation (LA)–inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS), taking advantage of the efficiency and throughput possible for uranium‐thorium‐lead (U‐Th‐Pb) dating. A number of biases exist when comparing data among laboratories and an ongoing community‐based effort is working to resolve and eliminate these biases to improve the accuracy of scientific interpretation based on these data.
AGU Launches Innovative Open Access, Transdisciplinary Journal: Earth's Future
Authors: Hanson Brooks
Published: June 2013

AGU announces the addition of a new publication to its journals program: Earth's Future. An exploration of global change and sustainability, the new journal will emphasize the Earth as an interactive, evolving system under the influence of the human enterprise and will reflect the risks and opportunities associated with environmental changes and challenges.
Identifying the physical processes that control the stratigraphic record
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: June 2013

The stratigraphic record, the sequential layers of sediment that geologists use to reconstruct the history of a landscape, has been described as “more gaps than record.” The record, laid down over time as sediment settles out from flowing water, does not grow consistently. Pauses in sediment deposition can leave gaps, and periods of heightened erosion can wipe out sections. Although attempts have been made to identify the processes that control the completeness of the stratigraphic record, early analyses relied on parameters (such as the long‐term sediment accumulation rate) that are not first‐order physical landscape processes.
Detection of multiple small plasmoids in the magnetotail
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: June 2013

Magnetic field lines in the Earth's dayside magnetic field can be broken down and swept to the Earth's nightside by the solar wind. The magnetic field lines reconnect in the magnetotail, in some cases triggering a magnetic substorm. During a substorm, plasma trapped in the magnetotail is sent flowing toward the Earth, and the magnetotail current sheet—the region where magnetic field lines from the Earth's North and South Poles come together—gets thinner.
Sediment processes can be significant source of ambient noise
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: June 2013

Many studies of ambient ocean noise have focused on anthropogenic, biological, and weather‐related sources, but collisions of sediment grains can also generate a significant amount of background noise.
Graphite lubricates fault zones
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: June 2013

Graphite is known to be a low‐friction material, and rocks rich in graphite are often found in fault zones. Oohashi et al. conducted laboratory studies to determine how much graphite is needed to reduce the frictional strength of a fault. Their experiments included samples with various mixtures of graphite and quartz, as well as pure quartz and pure graphite, and they covered large displacements (up to 100 meters), a range of slip rates (from 200 micrometers per second to 1.3 meters per second), and a range of shear strains (up to several tens of thousands).
Studying how flocculation affects acoustic reflection
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: June 2013

In inland estuaries and shallow coastal waters, small particles of organic matter, such as organic waste and debris or bacteria, clump together to form an aggregate known as floc. Flocculated particles can span a range of sizes, from a few micrometers to a few millimeters, and the properties and concentration of floc have a strong influence on water quality. To infer the properties of floc particles, researchers have proposed using acoustic backscatter measurements, a common technique for estimating sediment concentrations. To do so, however, requires an understanding of how the properties of floc particles affect acoustic wave reflection.
A fix to modeled biases in rainfall microphysical process rates
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: June 2013

Much of the uncertainty in global climate models stems from issues involved in accurately representing cloud properties. The difficulty arises in parameterizing the small‐scale physical interactions that turn water vapor to cloud to rain.
Hypnosis and Memory in the Forensic Context
Authors: Lynn Steven J. , Malaktaris Anne , Barnes Sean , Matthews Abigail
Published: June 2013

Judicial opinions about the legal admissibility of hypnosis are mixed, although the majority of states have ruled that hypnotically elicited recall isper seinadmissible. Skepticism about hypnosis has arisen from the facts that hypnosis: (i) increases the sheer volume of recall, with a trade‐off of inaccurate memories that often more than negates any increase in accurate memories; (ii) increases recall confidence independent of recall accuracy. Although research generally supportsper seadmissibility rulings, it is not firmly established that hypnosis increases resistance to cross‐examination, and misleading questions can compromise recall to an extent equal to or greater than hypnosis.
Friction Ridge Skin: Interaction Between Fingerprint Detection andDNA/Biological Material
Authors: Raymond Jennifer , Roux Claude
Published: June 2013

The DNA analysis of fingerprints and skin traces has become a routine component of forensic investigations. Research has found that most fingerprint enhancement techniques will not prevent subsequent DNA profiling of treated fingerprints or biological stains; however, the quantity of DNA recovered may be reduced. The exceptions include shortwave ultraviolet light, diaminobenzidine, and physical developer, which are likely to prevent DNA analysis of fingerprints. Sequencing of more than one fingerprint technique on an item is also likely to reduce the chance of successful DNA recovery. Guidelines are provided to assist the sequencing of fingerprint and DNA evidence.
Cross‐Examination: Impact on Testimony
Authors: Zajac Rachel , Hayne Harlene
Published: June 2013

When witnesses give evidence in adversarial trials, their testimony is open to scrutiny by the opposing party. This process is known ascross‐examination. Although the goal of cross‐examination is to uncover inaccuracies that may render the witness's testimony unreliable, recent research has cast doubt on cross‐examination as a means of eliciting accurate testimony, especially from children. In fact, the types of questions that lawyers ask witnesses during cross‐examination are the same types of questions that have been empirically shown to promote inaccuracy: leading questions, questions involving complex language, and questions that place strong social pressure on the witness. Under cross‐examination, child witnesses frequently change aspects of their earlier testimony. Laboratory research, however, has suggested that these changes may bear little relation to the truth. That is, children questioned about a staged event using an analog of cross‐examination tend to change both correct and incorrect information, resulting in a considerable decrease in accuracy. Adult witnesses also make changes to their testimony during cross‐examination, raising the possibility that concern about cross‐examination as a truth‐finding mechanism should not be limited to children. In light of these findings, it is crucial that research continues into the effect of cross‐examination on children's and adults' ability to provide accurate accounts of their past experiences.