bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of fertility, weed density and crop competition on biomass partitioning in Centaurea cyanus L.
Authors: Chachulski Łukasz , Janakowski Sławomir , Golinowski Władysław
Published: April 2013

The influence of environmental factors on biomass partitioning of annual arable weed Centaurea cyanus was analysed. We investigated the effect of fertilisation, density and competition with the winter rye crop on the reproductive investment. Three fertiliser treatments and three density levels were applied. In Centaurea cyanus differences in the pattern of biomass allocation to reproduction are related to plant size. The relationship between reproductive and vegetative mass is close to linear. It is consistent with the model of linear size-dependent reproductive output. In Centaurea cyanus this model worked well for size differences that have been generated by interspecific competition, nutrients supply and density. Our data support the hypothesis that plastic changes in relationship between vegetative and generative biomass are environmentally-induced. Significantly different relationship between vegetative and reproductive biomass were detected among populations growing at different density and fertility levels. The fertilisation with mineral fertiliser and manure resulted in an increase of generative biomass allocated to flowerheads and a decrease of reproductive effort. Generative dry weight increased more rapidly with plant size in higher densities of population and at lower fertility levels. The experiment showed that the rate of weight allocated to reproductive structures was bigger under the pressure of competition with cereal crop. At low fertility level and high density, when the individuals were small, generative biomass increased faster with plant size. The production of seeds was not directly dependent on biomass allocated into total reproductive structures. At low level, of nutrient supply C. cyanus gave more offspring per gram of its biomass. We discuss the results in context of life-history theory. From the strategic point of view, size-dependent variation in reproductive effort and in efficiency of reproduction can be interpreted as good tactics to favour high reproductive investment in small individuals, thus ensuring some offspring. Such a strategy is due to developmental constraints like short vegetation, the small amount of resources available and strong competition with crop.
Localization of actin in pollen tubes of Ornithogalum virens L.
Authors: Stępka Małgorzata , Ciampolini Fabricio , Cresti Mauro , Charzyńska Maria
Published: April 2013

The germinating pollen grain (in vivo on the stigma or in vitro in germination medium) forms a pollen tube which transports the vegetative nucleus and generative cell/two sperm cells participating in the process of double fertilization. The growth of the tube and the transport of organelles and the cells occur due to two major motor systems existing in the pollen tubes of higher plants: the tubuline-dynein/kinesin and the actin-myosin system. In pollen tubes of Ornithogalum virens the actin filaments were labelled with TRITC-phalloidin (2 µg/ml) in the PIPES buffer and the 10% sucrose, without the fixative and DMSO. Omission of the fixative and permeabilizing agent (DMSO) allowed better preservation of the structure, and the "fluorescence" of actin was observed in living pollen tubes. Observations in CLSM (confocal laser scanning microscope) showed that actin is distributed in the vicinity of the cell membrane. This could support the view that actin filaments and the plasmalemma form the pollen tube cortex along which the cytoplasmic movement of organelles, and cell transport occurs.
Micropropagation of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi
Authors: Stojakowska Anna , Malarz Janusz , Kohlmünzer Stanisław
Published: April 2013

Plant propagation via nodal explants of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Lamiaceae) was studied. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented either with NAA and kinetin or NAA and BA in different concentrations was used for this purpose. The most favourable for axillary branching was MS medium supplemented with 0.5 µM NAA and 2.5 µM kinetin. The number of regenerated shoots per explant reached 3.8 ± 1.3. To increase the multiplication rate a two stage procedure of propagation was also elaborated. First, an induction of organogenic calli was achieved using thidiazuron (TDZ) as a sole growth regulator in the nutrient medium (concentration range: 0.1-0.5 µM). Next, regeneration of shoots on the medium containing 2.2 µM BA was performed. Over 20 shoots per explant could be obtained following the described procedure. The regenerated shoots rooted easily on a modified MS medium (1/2 macronutrients) and were successfully adapted to growth in pots.
The distribution of Allium schoenoprasum L. subsp. sibiricum (L.) Hartm. in Poland
Authors: Kwiatkowski Paweł
Published: April 2013

Chorological analysis of the distribution of Allium schoenoprasum L. subsp. sibiricum (L) Hartm. presented in the paper is based on literature data, herbaria and the authors own observations. A. *sibiricum is a rare and threatened species in Poland, reported exclusively from the Karkonosze Mts. and the Pilsko Massif in the Beskid Żywiecki Mts. The author discusses the taxonomic position, general distribution as well as environmental and phytocoenotic conditions preferred by the species in Europe. Detailed phytosociological analysis of phytocoenoses in which A. *sibiricum typically occurs in the Karkonosze Mts. is presented. They belong to the association Allietum sibirici Šmarda 1950 which is described here for the first time from Poland.
Histological anomalies in stems of common and runner beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L. and Ph. coccineus L.) treated with pendimenthalin
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Borowy Andrzej
Published: April 2013

Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) 'Augustynka' and 'Złota Saxa' and runner beans (Ph. coccineus L.) 'Blanka' and 'Eureka' were seeded on loess-like soil containing 1.6% of organic matter, and sprayed with pendimethalin at the dose of 1650 g•ha-1 ' immediately after seeding in the middle of May. The herbicide inhibited shoot growth and caused enlargement of the stem at the soil level. Observations made in light and scanning electron microscope showed that in the swollen parts of the stem, the diameter of cortical parenchyma cells was bigger, the thickness of phloem layer was irregular, phloem fibers were less lignified, and the xylem cylinder was asymmetrical. In stems of 'Augustynka', 'Złota Saxa' and 'Eureka' cultivars, the thickness of secondary xylem and the diameter of vessels were reduced. Some vessels and tracheids were positioned transversely and obliquely to the stem axis and had an arched shape. Cell walls were less lignified and had a smaller number of pits. The largest number of histological anomalies was found in stems of the 'Augustynka' and 'Złota Saxa' cultivars.
Phyllotaxis of vegetative shoots of Anagallis arvensis L. treated in vitro with 6-benzylaminopurine
Authors: Kwiatkowska Dorota , Kromer Krystyna
Published: April 2013

Application of 6-benzylaminopurine (BA), a synthetic cytokinin, to the growth medium in vitro stimulates the formation of adventitious shoots on stem explants of Anagallis arvensis. They regenerate from dedifferentiating epidermal cells of stem internodes. The process starts from periclinal and anticlinal divisions in a few of neighbouring cells. The amount of adven-titious shoots increases with an increasing BA concentration. The BA treatment also affects phyllotaxis, but only of adventitious shoots, and not of normal lateral shoots developing in leaf axils. Leaf arrangement on adventitious shoots is always variable, even on the control medium. Generally, patterns observed in case of in vitro shoots do not differ from those reported earlier for intact A. arvensis plants. BA treatment also leads to the teratologic development, i.e. fasciation and the formation of abnormally shaped leaves, but again in adventitious rather than in normally developing shoots. We postulate that the variability of phyllotaxis characteristic for adventitious shoots and their responce to BA treatment, result from the fact that their apical meristems develop de novo from initially unorganised meristematic centres, whereas meristems of normally developing lateral shoots are well organised from the time of their initiation.
Antifungal properties of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) seedling homogenates
Authors: Kozłowski Grzegorz , Métraux Jean P.
Published: April 2013

The presence of antimicrobials in root, hypocotyl and cotyledon homogenates of Norway spruce was studied using in vitro assays with soil-borne pathogens. For the studies presented here Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) as a typical host and forest tree and Pythium as a typical soil-bome pathogen were used. The highly virulent species Pythium ultimum and the less virulent species Pythium irregulare were chosen for all experiments. They are both the causal agents of damping-off disease, which can affect plants at a very early stage. The strongest antimicrobial effect was observed using medium prepared from older seedlings and containing extracts from cotyledons. The influence of various treatments on antimicrobials accumulation in spruce extracts was also tested. Seed coat shedding was observed to affect mortality of Picea abies seedlings infected by Pythium. Seedlings which had shed their seed coats were more resistant to Pythium attack. This phenomenon could be correlated with antimicrobial production in well developed cotyledons.
Effect of light on contents of coumarin compounds in shoots of Ruta graveolens L. cultivated in vitro
Authors: Ekiert Halina , Gomółka Ewa
Published: April 2013

Shoots of Ruta graveolens L. (Rutaceae) were cultivated in stationary liquid culture under different light conditions: constant artificial light (900 lx), darkness, constant artificial light (900 ix) following irradiation with UV-C light. The contents of five furanocoumarins: psoralen, bergapten, xanthotoxin, isopimpinellin and imperatorin, as well as biogenetic precursor of these metabolites, umbelliferone, were determined by HPLC method in shoots cultivated in vitro and in overground parts of plants growing in open air. It was shown that light conditions, tested in these experiments, significantly influenced contents of the metabolites in shoots cultivated in in vitro culture. Total content of the coumarin compounds in shoots cultivated under constant artificial light (900 lx) was equal or higher than in plants growing under natural conditions. Therefore, it is suggested that stationary liquid shoot culture of R. graveolens. can be an alternative source for obtaining biologically active furanocoumarins.
Selection of valine-resistance in callus culture of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. derived from leaf explants
Authors: Gaj Małgorzata D. , Czaja Grzegorz , Nawrot Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

The selection of valine-resistant mutants was carried out in leaf explant cultures of three Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. ecotypes: C-24, RLD and Columbia. The valine concentration used for in vitro selection, lethal for seed-growing plants, has not affected callus formation and growth. However, strong inhibition of shoot regeneration ability of calli growing under selection pressure was noticed. In total, 1043 explants were cultured on valine medium and 18 shoots were regenerated with an average frequency of 1.7 shoots per 100 calli. Most R1 shoots were sterile and seeds were collected from 3 plants. The transmission of valine-resistance to the sexual progeny of these plants was scored and the increased level of valine-resistance was found in progeny of one line - 61 C. This line originated from the culture of Columbia leaf explant and displayed tetraploid chromosome number.
Assimilate distribution in bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) during phosphate limitation
Authors: Ciereszko Iwona , Miłosek Irena , Rychter Anna M.
Published: April 2013

The influence of phosphate deficiency on the increased "C-assimilate transport from shoot to root of bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) was studied. The roots of plants were cultured in split configurations (a half of the root system was exposed to a short-term or long-term culture in phosphate-deficient nutrient medium, while the other half - in complete nutrient medium) to establish the conditions of translocation enhancement. It was found that both short term Pi stress applied to a part of root and longer localized phosphate deficiency is not sufficient to increase assimilate transport from the shoot to the root. Low concentration of Pi in tissues of the whole plant as a signal for changes in assimilate distribution and sugar accumulation in the roots is discussed.
Transgenic root cultures of Gentiana punctata L.
Authors: Vinterhalter Branka , Orbović Vladimir , Vinterhalter Dragan
Published: April 2013

Shoot cultures of Gentiana punctata L. were inoculated with suspension of Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain A4 M70GUS. Hairy roots which appeared 2-3 weeks later were cultured on hormone-free, liquid, WPM (Lloyd and McCown 1980) basal medium for more than 5 years (60 subcultures). Growth rate of transformed roots was higher than the growth rate of nontransformed roots. Spontaneous shoot regeneration occured only in three culture vessels in subcultures No. 40 and 42. Plants had phenotype characteristics typical for A. rhizogenes transformed plants including: wrincled leaves, short internodes, plagiotropic roots and in general their growth rate was reduced. These plants also manifested precocious formation of flower buds without vernalization and flowering under in vitro conditions. Flowers were pale yellow, the same as in the standard phenotype.
Chromatographical analysis of phenolic acids in some species of Polygonum L. genus. Part 1 Qualitative analysis by two-dimensional thin layer chromatography (TLC)
Authors: Smolarz Helena D.
Published: April 2013

The Two-Dimensional Thin Layer Chromatography method has been used for the separation and identification of phenolic acids from six taxons of Pohygonum L. genus. The following acids were found: caffeic, p-coumaric, ferulic, p-hydroxybenzoic, m-hydroxybenzoic, vanillic, syringic, p-hydroxyphenylacetic, o-hydroxyphenylacetic, synapic, melillotic, salicylic, gentisic, elagic, gallic, chlorogenic, protocatechuic and homoprotocatechuic. Gallic, ferulic, vanillic, p-coumaric and p-hydroxybenzoic acids were isolated from herb Polygonum convolvulus L. using column chromatography.
Hemagglutinating and acid phosphatase (AcPASE) activities in developing seedlings of four species of Cucurbitaceae
Authors: Lorenc-Kubis Irena , Uram-Walaszczyk Urszula
Published: April 2013

The acid phosphatase and hemagglutinating activities of four species of Cucurbitaceae were determined during seeds germination and seedlings development. In all cases traces of enzyme and hemagglutinating activities were found in dry and imbibided seeds. In developing seedlings of Cucumis sativus the activities increased to maximum on the 3rd day while in other species on the 6th day of germination and than fell down. Dot blot and Western blot techniques have shown that in seeds and seedlings of all investigated species present were proteins which cross-reacted with antibodies raised against lectins: CLBa and Con A. It has been shown that proteins from seeds and seedlings of Cucurbita maxima var. bambino, Cucurbita pepo var. giromontia and Cucumis sativus had more pronounced antigenical similarity to lectin CLBa (from Cucurbitaceae) than Con A, while proteins from cotyledons of Cucurbita pepo var. patissonina reacted better with antibodies raised against Con A (the lectin from Papilionaceae) than with CLBa.
Pollen grain sporoderm and types of dispersal units
Authors: Pacini Ettore , Franchi Gian G.
Published: April 2013

The pollen of gymnosperms and angiosperms may be dispersed in monads, tetrads, polyads, massulae or compact pollinia. The monads and tetrads may form larger clumps of pollen because filiform pollen is tangled while other kinds of pollen can be glued by means of different devices. Exine and intine modify their structure to adapt to pollen dispersing units, exine in some cases can be absent. An additional layer, a thin callosic wall, can be present in some species beneath the intine; this occurs when pollen grains are slightly dehydrated before dispersal.
Heterochromatin organization in metaphase chromosomes and interphase nuclei of Dasypyrum breviaristatum (Lindb) Frederiksen
Authors: Pignone Domenico , Galasso Incoronata , Blanco Antonio , Cremonini Roberto
Published: April 2013

Metaphase chromosomes of Dasypyrum breviaristatum (Lindb f) Frederiksen, a tetraploid wild species, were differentially stained with C-banding and fluorochromes in order to aquire information on heterochromatin chromosomal distribution and composition. DNA content and relative amount of nuclear heterochromatin were determined by cytophotometric analysis after Feulgen reaction. The results were compared to those of Dasypyrum villosum (L.) P. Candargy, a diploid species of the same genus. The achieved information indicate that D. breviaristatum and D. villosum differ in the composition, organization and distribution of heterochromatin, and may suggest that the telomeric regions of the chromosomes of the two species are more differentiated than the centromeric ones, as a result of a long lasting divergence between the two species.
Metabolitic activity of 11-deoxycorticosterone and prednisolone in the alga Chlorella vulgaris Beijerinck
Authors: Czerpak Romuald , Szamrej Izabela K.
Published: April 2013

The influence of optimal concentrations 5 x 10-6M - 10-6M of 11-deoxycorticosterone (mineralocorticoid) and prednisolone (glucocorticoid) on the growth (fresh and dry weight) and content of soluble proteins, reducing sugars and nucleic acids in the green alga Chlorella vulgaris (Chlorophyceae). Both corticosteroids at concentration 5 x 10-6M were most strongly active metabolically between the 5th-15th day of the cultivation and this probably was caused by their chemical biotransformation. The applied corticosteroids induced the strongest stimulative effect on the content of soluble proteins in the range of 167-196% and reducing sugars (233-275%) when compared to the control (100%). Prednisolone showed lower stimulative activity on the content of proteins. But 11-deoxycorticosterone showed weaker stimulation of on the content of sugar. Both of the corticosteroids showed a stimulating or inhibitory influence upon the content of nucleic acids in C. vulgaris cells without regard to the concentration.
The flora of the highest building in Poland (the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw)
Authors: Galera Halina , Sudnik-Wójcikowska Barbara
Published: April 2013

The flora of the Palace of Culture and Science, which is the highest office building in Poland, was analysed. The exterior horizontal surfaces of the building (roofs, terraces, stairs) could be regarded as polyhemerobic habitats. A total of 111 species of vascular plants (native species - 65%) and 6 species of bryophytes were recorded from an area of 16 500 m2. It was found that the flora was relatively rich in species, of which some occurred in considerable quantities (over 1000 individuals of such species as: Eragrostis minor, Sagina procumbens, Chaenarrhinum minus were encountered). Moreover anemochorous species dominated (85%) in the flora of the Palace. Thermophilous species and species indifferent to temperature were also strongly represented. The relatively high incidence of hygrophilous species was noteworthy. With regard to life forms an increased proportion of therophytes and phanerophytes (40% and 22%, respectively) was observed. No significant differences were found between the flora of roofs situated on different floors of the building. However, slight differences between - the flora of north-facing and south-facing horizontal roof surfaces were marked.
Water content in terricolous lichens
Authors: Matwiejuk Anna
Published: April 2013

Investigations of the 24-hour absorption and evaporation in Cetraria ericetorum, Cetraria islandica, Cladina mitis, Cladina rangiferina, Cladonia furcata, Cladonia phyllophora were carrided out. A high correlation was found between these processes and weather conditions and especially 24-hour changes in relative air humidity and changes in temperature. These processes are correlated independently of the season of the year.
Differentiation between Carex arenaria L. populations at the eastern range margin based on female and male glumes variation
Authors: Urbaniak Lech , Maik Izabella , Urbaniak Daromiła
Published: April 2013

480 spikes from 16 populations of Carex arenaria L. planted in an experimental garden were collected and analysed for 4 female and 4 male glumes each. The characteristic of the interpopulational differentiation on the area of Poland was based on multivariate analysis, Student t-test and the coefficients of variation. The separateness of three populations from the isolated inland stations - 3(Góra), 11 (Tuczno), 15 (Poznań) and individual character of - 2 (Wisełka), 6 (Sobieszewo) from the coast and 9 (Ołobok) from Lower Silesia is shown. The lowest level of variation and in consequence a particular usefulness for taxonomic considerations have two characters - a and a' (length of female and male glumes). The obtained pattern of interpopulational differentiation may be caused by various factors - migration routes on the Polish territory; selection pressures associated with different ecological conditions present in fixed dunes along the Baltic Sea coast and in isolated inland stations, occupied by C. arenaria; reduction of an extensive primary populations to markedly smaller isolated subpopulations.
In vivo labelling of Anagallis arvensis L. cells with green fluorescent protein
Authors: Łukaszewicz Marcin , Kwiatkowska Dorota
Published: April 2013

A few methods only enable to follow the fate of plant cells in vivo. One of the most promising is using the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). In our preliminary study we set up the experimental system enabling labelling of Anagallis arvensis cells with this marker. We prepared an expression plasmid containing red-shifted gfp with optimised translation start site context, under the control of CaMV 35S transcription promoter. The construct was introduced into A. arvensis cells by particle bombardment. We developed two methods of material preparation for this transformation: in vitro cultured stem internodes with regenerating adventitious shoots (the earliest stages of regeneration); and shoot tips with temporarily exposed apices. The reflected light fluorescence microscope Olympus with the set of filters U-MNB designed for fluorescein detection enables the observation of GFP fluorescence. Both ordinary epidermal cells and stomata guard cells were transformed. Their fluorescence was observed for up to 14 days. Artefacts (autofluorescence of glandular trichomes and faint green glowing of meristematic tissue) could be overcome by the optimisation of the filter set.
Effect of pectinase on the production of sesquiterpene lactones in the hairy root culture of Lactuca virosa L.
Authors: Malarz Janusz , Kisiel Wanda
Published: April 2013

Direct addition of pectinase as an elicitor to the hairy root culture of Lactuca virosa L. transformed with Agrobacterium rhizogenes stimulates the accumulation of constitutive sesquiterpene lactones - lactuside A and crepidiaside B. The highest amounts of lactuside A (80% above the control level) and crepidiaside B (39% above the control level) have been found 24 and 48 hours, respectively, after pectinase treatment.
Transgenic shoots and plants as a source of natural phytochemical products
Authors: Floryanowicz-Czekalska Katarzyna , Wysokińska Halina
Published: April 2013

Genetic engineering has allowed the production of plants and in vitro cultures with an altered content of secondary metabolites. In the present work it is hoped to give some detailed background information on obtaining bioactive compounds based on the use of genetically transformed shoots and the whole plants. Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated shoots have recently been a matter of great interest as a source of chemicals synthesized in the aerial parts of plants. The possibilities for the future exploitation of Agrobacterium tumefaciens transformation techniques are enormous. However, we need more knowledge of genes and enzymes controlling secondary metabolic synthesis.
Numerical investigation of action potential transmission in plants
Authors: Pietruszka Mariusz , Pazurkiewicz-Kocot Krystyna
Published: April 2013

In context of a fairly concise review of recent literature and well established experimental results we reconsider the problem of action potential propagating steadily down the plant cell(s). Having adopted slightly modified Hodgkin-Huxley set of differential equations for the action potential we carried out the numerical investigation of these equations in the course of time. We argue that the Hodgkin-Huxley-Katz model for the nerve impulse can be used to describe the phenomena which take place in plants - this point of view seems to be plausible since the mechanisms involving active ionic transport across membranes from the mathematical point of view are similar. Besides, we compare in a qualitative way our theoretical outcomes with typical experimental results for the action potentials which arise as the reaction of plants to electrical, mechanical and light stimuli. Moreover, we point out the relevance of the sequence of events during the pulse with the appropriate ionic fluxes.
Genetic variation of F1 hybrids from controlled crosses between Pinus montana var. rostrata and Pinus sylvestris in anatomical needle traits
Authors: Bobowicz Maria A. , Stephan Bruno R. , Prus-Głowacki Wiesław
Published: April 2013

One hundred and seventeen individuals representing ten hybrid families from controlled crosses between Pinus montana var. rostrata and Pinus sylvestris were examined with respect to eight traits of anatomy of their two-year old needles. The biometric data obtained by measurements of anatomical traits were used to conduct multivariant statistical analyses with discriminant analysis and Mahalanobis distances as principal methods. Some of the hybrid families were similar to parental species representing the typ Montana or Sylvestris, and some less numerous intermediate forms. The results of the anatomical studies correspond to a great extent to those obtained for isoenzymes and antigene proteins (Prus-Głowacki and Stephan 1998).
Contemporary habitat and floristic changes in the Sudeten Mts
Authors: Fabiszewski Jerzy , Brej Teresa
Published: April 2013

The authors present the view that in the Sudeten for fourty years paralelly eutrophication and acidification processes are taking place, as a result of industrial emissions. This view is based on results of bioindication studies on pollution and accumulation of sulphur, nitrogen and heavy metals. At the same time, after 30 years, vegetation and floristic changes were investigated on permanent plots on the Śnieżnik and in the Karkonosze Mts. In most habitats a decrease of pH over 1.0 has been recorded, even in areas with calcium bedrock. Acid rains containing a lot of nitrates contribute to the fertilization of most of the ecosystems. The yearly fall of total nitrogen in the Sudeten ranges from 38 kg in the Karkonosze, to 59 kg/ha on the Śnieżnik, of nitrates - from 380 to 900 ppm/year, and sulphur, on the average, 1300 ppm/year in the whole Sudeten. The acidification of soil causes the inaccessibility of alcaline elements (magnesium, calcium) and mobilization of harmful for plants aluminium. Overfertilization of habitats, the lack of calcium and magnesium and the excess of aluminium cause unfavourable alterations in all phytocenoses in the Sudeten. The high mountain forests are particularly suffering, but also the high mountain vegetation and above all the subalpine swards exposed to acid rains. Examples of plant species which adapt themselves to the new ecological conditions, and mountain plants which reduce their range are given. In general, the typical mountain flora and vegetation of the Sudeten is endangered in the existing ecological conditions.
Species specific cpDNA markers useful for studies on the hybridisation between Pinus mugo and P. sylvestris
Authors: Wachowiak Witold , Leśniewicz Krzysztof , Odrzykoski Ireneusz J. , Augustyniak Halina , Głowacki Wiesław
Published: April 2013

PCR-RFLP technique has been used to detect species-specific mutations of organelles DNA for closely related dwarf mountain pine (Pinus mugo) and Scots pine (P. sylvestris). Restriction fragment patterns have been compared of amplification products for trnL-trnF cpDNA and for coxI and orf25 genes of mtDNA. The difference has been found in the Dral and Hinfl restriction patterns of the amplification products for trnL-trnF region of cpDNA with two haplotypes detected. The haplotype M is characteristic for P. mugo and the haplotype S for P. sylvestris. These markers may be useful for the analysis of the natural hybridisation and introgression between these species postulated for some sympatric populations on the basis of morphological analysis. No differences have been disclosed in the studied mtDNA regions.
Morphological and anatomical relationships in Alpine-Dinaric populations of the genus Iris L., Pallidae series (A. Kern.) Trinajstić (Iridaceae)
Authors: Mitić Bożena , Nikolić Toni , Liber Zlatko
Published: April 2013

The relationships within the Alpine-Dinaric and cultivated populations of the genus Iris, Pallidae series, have been analysed. Seven morphological characteristics (stem length, length of the largest leaf, greatest width of the largest leaf, length of the smallest leaf, greatest width of the smallest leaf, the number of leaves and the number of flowers) and seven leaf anatomical (length and width of stomata, length and width of epidermal cells, number of stomata and epidermal cells per mm'- and length of styloids) have been used for this purpose. Relationships between populations were analysed by methods of multivariate statistics (Cluster, PCA and MST analyses). The results of Cluster and PCA analyses showed that, owing to leaf anatomical features, five main groups of the populations could be distinguished within the Pallidae series. Four of them belong to the species L. pallida, L. cengialti, L. illyrica and I. pseudopallida. The MST analyses showed that the fifth group contained mixed populations of I. illyrica and I. pseudopallida. The results point at the lack of taxonomic usefulness of the leaf anatomical features analysed and indicate that they caused successive geographical differentiation of the populations of the Pallidae series.
Mycocoenology in Abies alba Miller woods of central-southern Tuscany (Italy)
Authors: Laganà Angela , Salerni Elena , Barluzzi Carla , Perini Claudia , De Dominicis Vincenzo
Published: April 2013

Numerous reports indicate that fir woods in central and northern Europe have recently been damaged by increasing pollution. It has been demonstrated that fungi can be good bioindicators of forest health status. In polluted areas the production of fruit bodies generally declines and the fungal biodiversity, especially of symbiotic species, is reduced. Here we report the results of a survey of the fungal and plant communities in woods of Abies alba Miller in central-southern Tuscany, already studied in the past. Certain changes were observed in the study areas, but they seem more likely to be due to other factors than pollution, such as the weather conditions, the age and natural evolution of the forests towards their climax.
The influence of the groundlayer structure on the invasion of small balsam (Impatiens parviflora DC.) to natural and degraded forests
Authors: Obidziński Tomasz , Symonides Ewa
Published: April 2013

Impatiens parviflora DC. was brought to European botanic gardens in 1837, from which it escaped and spread over almost the entire continent colonising predominantly synanthropic habitats. However, in the second half of the 20th century it also became permanently naturalised in natural deciduous forests. The causes of small balsam's success in colonisation of new habitats are not known. They may include either the continuous degradation of forest phytocoenoses or those properties of the alien species that allow it to colonise degraded habitats more effectively as compared to the native species. The aim of this paper was to verify the hypothesis on the relationship between the floristic and structural degradation of the herbaceous or groundlayer and its resistance to the invasion of I. parviflora. The investigations were carried out in the Forest Reserve "Las Bielański" in Warsaw using 30 transects that crossed natural floodplain forests and natural and degraded lime-hornbeam forests. The study has shown that: (1)there is a significant negative correlation between the species richness and cover of the groundlayer and the frequency, cover, and density of the population of I. parviflora; (2) small balsam easily penetrates into degraded and floristically impoverished communities; (3) dense groundlayer of the natural communities provides an effective barrier to the expansion of I. parviflora. This expansion is promoted by such disturbances of the groundlayer that induce formation of gaps providing safe microsites for seed germination and further growth of seedlings.
Pythium species in 13 various types of water bodies of N-E Poland
Authors: Czeczuga Bazyli , Snarska Anna
Published: April 2013

Pythium species and environmental factors in various types of water bodies (2 springs, 2 rivers, 3 ponds and 6 different trophic lakes) were studied. Samples of water were collected every two months (springs, rivers, ponds) and every three months (lakes) in the years 1996-1999 for hydrochemical analysis and in order to determine the Pythium species content. From springs rivers and ponds collected were also ice blocks for determinations of presence of Pythium species. Buckwheatand hemp-seeds, cellophane and snake exuviae were used as bait. Forty-five species of Pythium were found in various types of water bodies. Pythium acanthicum, P. complectens, P. complens, P. diameson, P. dissimile, P. elongatum, P. lucens, P. megalacanthum, P. nagae, P. oedochilum, P. oryzae, P. palingenes, P. periilum and P. polysporum were recorded for the first time in Poland. The largest mean number of species was observed in spring Cypisek, a bit fewer in spring Jaroszówka and lake Białe (oligotrophic-like waters). The lowest mean number of Pythium species was noted in pond Akcent and Pałacowy (polytrophic waters). In all types of water bodies the higest mean number of species was found in winter, and the lowest in summer.
Osmophores of the fragrant orchid Gymnadenia conopsea L. (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Stpiczyńska Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

Osmophores of Gymnadenia conopsea are located on the adaxial surface of labellum and on distal parts of two lateral sepals. Osmophore cells are characterised with a large nucleus, and dense, granular cytoplasm, which contains numerous membranes of ER and large lipid droplets. Plastids are probably involved in the synthesis of fragrant substances and, contrary to the most of investigated orchid species, they do not contain starch. Numerous secretory vesicles take part in the secretion. Secreted fragrant substance migrates across the cell wall and through the pores in the cuticle. It is not accumulated on the osmophore cell surface.
The distribution of Arum maculatum L. (Araceae) in Poland
Authors: Dajdok Zygmunt , Kącki Zygmunt
Published: April 2013

Until recently Arum maculatum was considered the only representative of genus Arum in our country. The record of Arum ulpinum Schott and Kotschy in localities in south-east Poland, from which Arum muculatum L. had been reported previously, encouraged us to undertake the study on the distribution of both species in the west of Poland. We found that Arum alpinum occurs also in Silesia, whereas the range of Arum muculatum is restricted to northwestern part of Poland. So far a total of 17 localities of Arum maculatum were recorded in Poland (within the present borders). Only 7 of them exist at present, 4 in natural and 3 in synanthropic sites. In view of such a small number of existing localities, the species should be regarded as endangered in Poland. In this paper we present the diagnostic features of both species and their distribution on ATPOL base-maps.
Ecological significance of assimilate distribution in Agropyron repens clones under influence of the copper smelter Legnica
Authors: Brej Teresa
Published: April 2013

The studies on couch grass (Agropyron repens (L.) P. Beauv.) populations growing in stress conditions in close vicinity of a copper smelter concern the integrity of clonal structure. The connections of tillers within a clone and the interclonal integrity was investigated by means of assimilate translocation, using 14C. It was found that heavy metal stress affects the phenotypic plasticity of couch grass in regard to clonal growth of the phalanx type. The phalanx type growth is supported by a considerable integration, which allows the redistribution of resources, through internal routes, from places rich in resources to such clone parts, which cover a surface poor in nutritive compounds. In an unpolluted (control) couch grass population representing the guerilla type of growth, the translocation of assimilates concerns only the closest (sister) ramets. The phalanx type of growth in couch grass subjected to contamination favours also the accumulation of organic matter and macronutrients (N, Ca) in zones of occurrence of Agropyron repens clusters, which are in deficit in areas close to the smelter. The irregular accumulation of heavy metals and the deficit of macronutrients in soil, form near the smelter a patchy environment. In this patchy environment couch grass, as one of few plants, finds appropriate conditions for foraging. The whole of factors in the studied polluted area creates a unique dynamic system between couch grass clones and the local ecological conditions.
Arbuscular mycorrhiza and plant succesion on zinc smelter spoil heap in Katowice-Wełnowiec
Authors: Gucwa-Przepióra Ewa , Turnau Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

Mycorrhizal status of plants colonising the zinc wastes in Katowice was surveyed. In total 69 vascular plant species (25 families) appearing on the investigated area have been noted. More than 60% of them were mycorrhizal. Non-mycorrhizal species, such as Cardaminopsis arenosa and Silene vulgaris dominated the early successional part of the zinc heap. Tussilago farfara was the only AM plant there, however, no arbuscules were developed at this stage. The number of AM species was increased on the 20 years old part of the zinc wastes and on the older 30-50 years old areas. AM plants constituted about 60% of the total number of species there. The frequency of particular AM species was the highest on the oldest part of the investigated area. The usefulness of the results for restoration practices was discussed.
Flavonoids from Teucrium fruticans L.
Authors: Kisiel Wanda , Stojakowska Anna , Piozzi Franco , Rosselli Sergio
Published: April 2013

From aerial parts of Teucrium fncticans L. three flavonoids were isolated and identified as 5-hydroxy-6, 7, 3', 4'-tetramethoxyflavone, 5, 4'-dihydroxy-6, 7, 3'-trimethoxyflavone (cirsilineol) and 5, 4'-dihydroxy-6, 7-dimethoxyflavone (cirsimaritin). The former compound was found to be a predominant flavone aglycone constituent of the plant material. This is the first report on the isolation of flavonoids from the plant.
Preliminary results of indole alkaloids production in different roots of Catharanthus roseus cultured in vitro
Authors: Pietrosiuk Agnieszka , Furmanowa Mirosława
Published: April 2013

Six groups of untransformed and hairy root cultures of Catharunthus roseus (L.) G. Don were established. Agrobacterium rhizogenes strains: ATCC 15834, LBA 9403, and TR 105 were used for infection of the 3-week old rooted plantlets of C. roseus. The highest contents of examined indole alkaloids were found in: roots of intact plants - yohimbine and serpentine; in hairy roots - catharanthine. Vinblastine and ajmalicine were detected in untransformed roots of plants regenerated in vitro, and transferred to the soil for 5 months.
Anatomy and ultrastructure of spur nectary of Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) Orchidaceae
Authors: Stpiczyńska Małgorzata , Matusiewicz Janusz
Published: April 2013

The anatomy and the ultrastructure of spur nectaries of Cymnadenia conopsea at different developmental stages were investigated. The secretory epidermis surrounded the inside of spur and formed many unicellular papillae, which significantly enlarged the secretory surface. At the activity stage the epidermal cells contained characteristic plastids with well developed intraplastidal membrane system and numerous osmiophillic globules. The contact of plastids and endoplasmic reticulum indicates a possibility of the involvement of these structures in the secretory processes. The cell wall and the cuticle did not form a barrier for the secreted nectar and no pores or cracks were visible in the cuticle covering secretory papillae.
Dryadicolous microfungi from Greenland.I. List of species
Authors: Chlebicki Andrzej , Knudsen Henning
Published: April 2013

Seventeen taxa of microfungi growing on Dryas are recorded from Greenland based on 147 collections. Five of them are new to the archipelago, Lophium igoschinae Chlebicki sp. nov, is described as a new species, the other four being: Crocicreas variabile, Gnomonia dryadis, Naemacyclus lambertii var. diyadis, Pseudomassaria islandica and Stomiopeltis diyadis. Short descriptions and drawings of diagnostic microscopic features are presented. Lophiostoma macrostomum, Phueosphaeria vagans, Pleospora pentumera and Scleropleella hyperborea were not previously reported on Dryas from Greenland. Specimens of Stictis mollis reported by Rostrup (1891) in fact belongs to Naemacyclus lambertii var. diyadis.
Seed morphology of the native species of the genus Ribes L. Part 2. The characteristics of individual species
Authors: Wrońska-Pilarek Dorota
Published: April 2013

In this work the results of studies on the seed morphology of 6 native species of the genus Ribes L.: R. uva-crispa L., R. nigrum L., R. alpinum L., R. petraeum Wulfen, R. rubrum L. and R. spicatum Robson are presented. The diagnostic features of the investigated seeds are: colour and sarcotesta structure, aril size, seed coverage by arils, seed outline and the length to width ratio. The complex of these features allows to differentiate such species, as R. uva-crispa, R. nigrum and R. alpinum. The other species: R. petraeum, R. rubrum and R. spicatum can not be seperated, on the basis of the seed. Within the seeds devoid of outer parenchyma) layers of exotesta only the seeds of R. uva-crispa and R. nigrum can be seperated. Then the seeds of other species look the same. Two keys to determine the seeds of the investigated species, based on the fruit features, fresh seeds and "cleaned" seeds form the recapitulation of the work.
Water deficit-induced membrane injury and oxidative stress in two barley genotypes
Authors: Bandurska Hanna , Floryszak-Wieczorek Jolanta
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this paper was to examine the effect of water deficit on membrane injuries, superoxide radical generation and lipid peroxidation in the leaves of two barley genotypes. Six-day-old seedlings of the cv. Aramir and line R567 were used in the experiments. According to our earlier work these genotypes significantly differ in the level of membrane injuries under water deficit conditions. Water stress was applied directly to leaves or to roots. The stress caused considerable membrane injuries in the leaves of all genotypes investigated.The percentage membrane injury was higher in the line R567 than in the cv. Aramir. Water stress imposed on leaves caused higher membrane injuries than water stress imposed on roots. The water stress treatment followed by an oxidative stress in the leaves. Line R567 having noticeably larger membrane injuries also exhibited a higher level of superoxide radical generation than the cv. Aramir. The level of lipid peroxidation increased in the both genotypes under the conditions of water stress imposed on leaves, but not on roots.
The involvement of gibberellins in phytochrome-controlled flowering of Pharbitis nil
Authors: Kulikowska-Gulewska Halina , Kopcewicz Jan
Published: April 2013

The seedlings of Pharbitis nil, a sesitive short-day plant (SDP), were cultivated under special photoperiodic conditions: 72-h-long darkness, 24-h-long white light with low intensity, 24-h-long inductive night. During 24-h-long inductive darkness the total content of gibberellins in cotyledons underwent fluctuations with a maximum at 0 h and 8 h, and a decrease at the end of the dark period. FR light applied at the end of the 24-h-long white-light period inhibited flowering. R light flash and partially exogenous GA3 added on cotyledons could reverse the effect of FR. The seedling growth was not affected by FR and R light irradiation, but was promoted by exogenous GA3 application. The obtained results suggest that gibberellins are involved in photoperiodic control of SDP P. nil flowering. This involvement has nothing in common with participation of gibberellins in the control of the elongation growth of seedlings.
Soligenous wetlands of North-western Poland as an environment for endangered mire species
Authors: Wołejko Lesław
Published: April 2013

Environmental conditions and the occurrence of protected and rare species have been studied in 18 groundwater-fed wetland complexes in north-western Poland. The plant cover of studied objects consisted of 81 syntaxa of water-, spring-, rush and sedge-, mire-, meadow-, tall-forb-, willow carr- and alderwood communities, as well as of 4 syntaxa of the mesophytic forests. Their microhabitat differentiation has been discussed. The expression of environmental conditions in the groundwater-fed communities has been analysed on the basis of Ellenberg's indicator values and the occurrence of protected and rare species. A signifficant negative correlation has been found between the occurrence of rare species and the trophy index. The special position of the mesotrophic rich fen communities, concerning their role in preservation of a large number of endangered species, as well as of rare plant communities is emphasized.
Impact of humic substances on Sphagnum denticulatum habitats
Authors: Banaś Krzysztof
Published: April 2013

In 10 softwater lakes of NW Poland (5 very acid and 5 slightly acid) three kinds of Sphagnum denticulatum Bridel [=S. auriculatum Schimper] habitats have been studied: oligohumic (<2.0 mg CDHS dm-3) and α-mesohumic (2.0-4.0 mg CDHS dm-3) and β-mesohumic (4.1-8.0 mg CDHS dm-3). During habitats humification in very acid lakes some water and sediment characteristics, such as pH, conductivity, TDS, and calcium concentration are low and almost invariable, whereas variable are the colour and clearness of the water. In low-acidity lakes the values of habitat characteristics are higher and also nearly invariable. The optimum habitats for S. denticulatum are oligohumic (<1.8 mg CDHS dm -3), very acid (pH 4.0-4.4) sites found at depths from 4 to 8 m, where the species forms large and close carpets. In slightly acid lakes it is rare, grows at depths below 5 m and forms populations of very low density. In mesohumic habitats in both kinds of lakes S. denticulatum is a frequent species, but its populations are very thin there.