bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructural, autoradiographic and electrophoretic examinations of Chara tomentosa spermiogenesis
Authors: Kwiatkowska Maria , Kaźmierczak Andrzej , Popłońska Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

Ultrastructure of a spermatid nucleus changes many times during spermiogenesis. Condensed chromatin forms irregular clusters during phases I-II, a continuous ring adjacent to a nuclear envelope during phases III-V and a network occupying the whole nucleus during phase VI. In advanced spermiogenesis dense chromatin disappears and short randomly positioned fibrils arise, then long parallel ones are found (phase VIII) which during phase IX form a lamellar structure. In mature spermatozoids (phase X) chromatin becomes extremely condensed. 3H-arginine and 3H-lysine incorporation into spermatids during 2-min incubation is intensive during phases IN, decreases during phases VI, VII and becomes very low during phases VIII-IX. Capillary electrophoresis has shown that during Chara tomentosa spermiogenesis replacement of histones with basic proteins whose mobility is comparable to that of salmon protamines takes place. At the beginning of spermiogenesis core and linker histones are found in spermatids. During early spermiogenesis protamine-like proteins appear and their amount increases in late spermiogenesis when core histones are still present. In mature spermatozoids only protamine-like proteins represented by 3 fractions: 9.1 kDa, 9.6 kDa, 11.2 kDa are found. Disappearance of linker histones following their modification precedes disappearance of core histones. The results indicate that dynamic rearrangement of chromatin ultrastructure and aminoacid incorporation rate during spermiogenesis are reflected in basic nuclear protein changes.
Influence of extract from shoots of Taxus baccata var. elegantissima on ultrastructure and tubulin cytoskeleton of meristematic cells of Allium cepa L. roots
Authors: Majewska Agnieszka , Furmanowa Mirosława , Głowniak Kazimierz , Guzewska Joanna , Zobel Alicja , Kuraś Mieczysław
Published: April 2013

We investigated the influence of extract from Taxus baccata var. Elegantissima (TbE) shoots in 1:8 dilution, containing paclitaxel in concentration of 81,6 µg/g fresh mass on ultrastructure and tubulin cytoskeleton of meristematic cells of Allium cepa L. root tips. Incubation time 3, 6, 12 and 24 h was followed with postincubation in water for 12 and 24 h. During shorter incubation (till 12 h) the surface of the cell nuclei decreased and chromatin became condensed (in comparison to control) but after 24 h the average surface increased and chromatin condensation decreased. In the course of incubation the average size of plastids and vacuoles increased. Moreover, after treatment mitochondria and plastids showed degradation of ultrastructure, which was reversed after 12 h of postincubation. Immunocytochemical assays demonstrated that in the course of incubation in the ThE extract, the tubulin cytoskeleton became partially disorganised. In most interphase cells, cortical microtubules (MTs) lost their oval transverse orientation. The preprophase band (PPB) position in the cell was often asymmetrical. The MTs array of the karyokinetic spindle and phragmoplast was also disturbed. These alterations were completely reversed during postincubation.
Presence and distribution of Suillus plorans in the Polish Tatra Mts (Western Carpatians)
Authors: Ronikier Michał , Miśkiewicz Anna , Mleczko Piotr
Published: April 2013

Suillus plorans is a very interesting mountain ectomycorrhizal fungus, attached to Pinus cembra. The paper reports its presence in the Polish Tatra Mts as a new species for Poland, discusses its previous situation among macromycetes of Poland, and its conservation status. It includes detailed descriptions of carpophores and mycorrhizae specimens collected in Poland. Basing on records of both carpophores and mycorrhizae, a map of species' occurrence in the Tatra National Park was prepared and compared with the distribution of Pinus cembra in this area. Identity of mycorrhizae was assessed by a morphological study and confirmed by PCR-RFLP patterns analysis of carpophore and mycorrhizal mycelium.
The dynamics of Listera ovata populations on mineral islands in the Biebrza National Park
Authors: Brzosko Emilia
Published: April 2013

Observations of two isolated populations of Listera ovata (Oparzelisko and Zabudnik) were conducted for 7 years in the Biebrza National Park. The studied populations differed in size, proportion of flowering individuals and effectiveness of reproduction. High number of juvenile individuals in OPA population was noted under conditions more favourable for germination (gaps in vegetation and higher moisture of soil). On the other hand, vegetative reproduction is important in the dynamics of ZAB population. The natural fruiting rate of L. ovata is relatively high (up to 90%) and does not seem to be pollinator limited. Some costs of reproduction especially in terms of leaf size were observed. The dormancy is important in the population dynamics. In some years even one third of the population may be dormant. L. ovata produces enough seeds and offspring to maintain or even increase population sizes. These facts, connected with the longevity of individuals,indicate that populations of L. ovata in the Biebrza National Park are not threatened with extinction in the nearest future.
Histological changes during the adventitious shoot formation in seedling explants of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) cultured in vitro
Authors: Gatz Andrzej
Published: April 2013

Adventitious shoots differentiated directly from explant tissue without intermediate callus on all types of examined explants (shoot tip, cotyledonary node, cotyledon and hypocotyl) of Capsicum annuum L. cv. Bryza. First cell divisions took place as early as after 3 days of explant culture within epidermal and subepidermal layers of explants, and in the case of cotyledon also within mesophyll cells located near epidermis. Mitotic activity in these layers led to the formation of meristemoids (meristematic centres). In all types of studied explants, meristematic centres appeared approximately at the same time (after about 7 days of culture). In the second week bud primordia began to differentiate from meristematic centres. Subsequently some of shoot primordia developed into leaves and leaf-like structures (mainly on cotyledon explants), and also into adventitious buds with well developed apical meristem and leaf primordia.
Ultrastructure of Gladiolus x hybridus root endodermis
Authors: Rudzińska-Langwald Anna
Published: April 2013

Gladiolus.x hybridus Van Houtte roots had primary, secondary and tertiary endodermis depending on the distance from the root apex. Free calcium ions were localized with the method of Slocum and Roux (1982). Electron microscopic observations revealed that electron dense calcium antimonite deposits were localized in some endodermis cells. Endodermis cells situated above xylem elements were rich in calcium antimonate deposits in contrary to those situated above the phloem elements and passage cells. The cells rich in calcium ions were present both in endodermis 11 and III stage of development. Localization of calcium deposits was on plasma membrane and tonoplast. There were also numerous calcium antimonate deposits in vacuoles. Dictiosome's cisterns and Golgi derived vesicles show presence of calcium ions. Calcium rich endodermis cells had plastids with antimonate deposits present in their tylacoids lumen. Plasmode-smata looked the same in all endodermis cells, but those from calcium rich endodermis cells had calcium antimonate deposits in the lumen of plasmodesmata.
The effect of water deficit on the activity of hydrogen peroxide-scavenging enzymes in two barley genotypes
Authors: Bandurska Hanna
Published: April 2013

Two barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) genotypes, the cv. Aramir and line R567, were subjected to water deficit by immersing their root systems in polyethylene glycol solution of osmotic potential -1.0 MPa. The stress caused a decline in the leaf-relative-water content (RWC) and affected membrane damage in both the genotypes. A higher decline in RWC and a higher membrane injury index was observed in R567 in comparison to 'Aramir'. Water deficit induced an increase in the activity of guaiacol peroxidase (GPO) and catalse (CAT). A higher increase of CAT than GPO peroxidase activity has been noted in both the genotypes. The results. together with our earlier reports (Bandurska et al. 1997) show that detoxification of hydrogen peroxide under water stress conditions in those two barley genotypes was associated with the action of GPO and CAT, and that the latter was more involved in that process.
Disturbances of ionic equilibrium in mosses of contaminated areas
Authors: Kosiba Piotr , Kolon Krzysztof
Published: April 2013

Mosses are sensitive and precise bioindicators of heavy metals contamination of the environment. They accumulate in their tissues large amounts of these elements than do higher plants. The aim of this study was to present the influence of environmental pollution on quantitative relations of heavy metals and cationic equilibrium in tissues of mosses: Pleurozium schreberi, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum cupressiforme. Twelve sampling sites were selected in the area of Lower Silesia (Poland), diverse in respect of pollution degree determined for dust fall and contents of metals in dust. The contents of Ca, K, Na, Mg, Al, Mn, Fe, Cu, Pb, Ni, Cd, and Zn have been examined in the mosses. Significant differences in the elements contents of mosses between the examined sites, and between moss species were found. This differentiation affects the cationic equilibrium. It is expressed by weighed sum of square roots of relative cation concentrations. The quantitative relations between contents of elements in mosses depended on species and pollution level. These relations and accumulation of metals in moss tissues is the indicator of environmental pollution, which influences the ecological condition of mosses and their occurrence in the given area. The air contaminated by heavy metals causes stress and the decline of moss populations, and can be of significance for their survival. The results of this type of investigations are of importance for the active protection of mosses and their biotopes.
Temporal and spatial variation of habitat conditions in the zonation of vegetation in the late stages of lake overgrowth
Authors: Kłosowski Stanisław
Published: April 2013

The water and substrate properties in the vegetation zones characteristic of the late stages of lake overgrowth were determined. It was demonstrated that the spatial distribution of plant communities conformed with the spatial gradient of habitat conditions. With regard to water properties the largest differences between the zones were found in Mg2+, Ca2+, electrolytic conductivity and NH4+. In the case of substrate the zones differed significantly in Ca2+, total Fe and organic matter content. The water properties varied greatly during the vegetative season in the successive zones. The temporal changes often proceeded at a different level of a given component or factor in most zones. The differences between the zones were, however, maintained. It appears that the plant communities can alter their habitats to a large extent. In the lake studied, the invasion of raised and transitional bog vegetation was observed. The process of dystrophy proceeded from the terrestrialized peripheral parts of the lake to the centre of the lake.
RER and protamine-type proteins during Chara tomentosa L. spermiogenesis
Authors: Kwiatkowska Maria , Popłońska Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

In Chara tomentosa during mid spermiogenesis (phases V, VI, VII) when the amount of nuclear protamine-type proteins increases, while the amount of histones decreases, in connection with chromatin remodelling, an extensive RER system filled with dark, fine-granular substance is observed. The intermembranous space of the nuclear envelope is filled with a homogenous substance which looks similar. The most extensive ER system can be observed in phase V, which is at the beginning of nuclear protein exchange. The results presented in this paper correspond with the earlier suggestion based on Chara vulgaris spermioge nesis studies, that ER takes part in a protamine-type protein synthesis, which enter a nucleus by endocytosis, through an inner nuclear envelope membrane.
Changes in the structure and floristic composition of the limestone grasslands after cutting trees and shrubs and mowing
Authors: Bąba Wojciech
Published: April 2013

The calcareous grasslands belong to the species-rich plant communities in Poland. Most of them are of anthropogenic origin and they need specific management (i.e. periodical cutting suckers of trees and shrubs, grazing or mowing) in order to protect their floristic diversity. Many of calcareous grasslands have been overgrown by shrubs as a result of cessation of traditional management. The aim of this study was to compare the structure and dynamics of xerothermic hazel shrub patches, which were undergoing secondary succession with patches where different management practices aiming at restoration of species-rich limestone grassland were applied. The managed plots had a significantly higher species richness than the control one. However, they strongly differed in their floristic composition from well-preserved limestone grasslands. There were also significant differences observed between both the managed plots. Too intensive management, particularly frequent mowing of herbs resulted in expansion of grass species such as Brachypodium pinnatum and Calamagrostis arundinacea and caused a sharp decline in species richness.

The species composition and turnover rate strongly depended on succesional stage (soil layer thickness) of plots at the start of the experiment. The deeper was the soil, the higher was the rate of species turnover and the smaller was the share of xerothermic and thermophilous species. The last mentioned group was dominated by species with a persistent seed bank in the soil, frequently colonizing anthropogenic habitats.
Response of maize (Zea mays L.) to rimsulfuron under salt conditions
Authors: Sacała Elżbieta , Demczuk Anna , Michalski Tomasz
Published: April 2013

Investigations were carried out to determine the possible interaction between salinity (60 mmol*dm-3 NaCl) and phytotoxicity of herbicide Titus 25 DF (sulfonylurea herbicide containing active ingredient rimsulfuron). The herbicide was added to the nutrient solution at two concentrations - 1 or 100 nmol*dm-3. After 7 days of cultivation in the nutrient solution determined were the growth parameters and some biochemical compounds (photosynthetic pigments, total protein and free amino compounds content). The combined action of 1 nmol*dm-3 rimsulfuron and salt caused a reduction in plant biomass accumulation, but this reduction was due to the salt itself. In the presence of 100 nmol*dm-3 rimsulfuron, growth inhibition of maize roots was very high and salinity did not modify herbicide toxicity. However, reduction in maize shoots growth equalled the sum of the reductions caused by each particular factor applied separately (additive effect). The reduction in shoot fresh weight reached 64%.

The investigated stress factors induced a significant increase in amino compounds, with the exception of maize roots grown under NaCl plus 100 nmol-dm-3 rimsulfuron. The concentration of total protein in maize roots diminished under NaCl and 100 nmol*dm-3 rimsulfuron, although in the other cases, it did not change distinctly in comparison to the control. All factors, with the exception of NaCl, induced a slight increase in protein contents in maize leaves. Stress factors did not change significantly the total chlorophyll concentration, however, carotenoid content was markedly reduced. Nevertheless, the combined action of 100 nmol*dm-3 rimsulfuron and NaCl caused a 10% increase in carotenoid content as compared to the control plants.

In conclusion, salinity did not change the toxicity of the herbicide applied in low dose (1 nmol*dm-3), but it did increase herbicide toxicity at high concentration (100 nmol*dm-3) regarding the maize shoots.
Environmental pollution changes in membrane lipids, antioxidants and vitality of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) pollen
Authors: Pukacki Paweł M. , Chałupka Władysław
Published: April 2013

Investigations were carried out on pollen grains of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) collected from trees at 1.5, 3, 4 km and control, 20 km from the Luboń factory producing mineral fertilisers. The percentage of germination of pollen formed close to the pollution source was ca 20% lower compared to the control pollen. Lowered vitality of the pollen was effected in changes of the structure of cytoplasmic membranes. Pollen from the polluted area contained ca 15% less total phospholipids, mainly phosphatidylcholine and phosphatytidylinositol and had a lower content of soluble proteins and less of low molecular antioxidants, such as thiols and ascorbic acid. Composition of total fatty acid in phospholipids fractions showed a significant reduction in the degree of unsaturation of fatty acids. Pollen originating from the polluted area and stored at -30°C showed considerably stronger degradation of cytoplasmic membranes than control.
Coleanthus subtilis (Tratt.) Seidel - a new species to the Polish vascular flora
Authors: Fabiszewski Jerzy , Cebrat Jan
Published: April 2013

The authors describe the locality of a so far in Poland unknown species Coleanthus subtilis. It was discovered on the Oleśnica Plateau near Wroclaw. This grass occurs on a surface of ca. 15 ha, round muddy shores of fishponds. The large stand makes the impression to be at least 50-year old. Together with the grass of our interest there grow also other, not frequent to day, species like Veronica peregrina, Myosurus minimus and Limosella aquatica. The traditional management of fishponds makes the basis of maintenance of all the species and the whole community. The constant filling with water of the reservoirs and application of fertilisers threatens the existence of the whole rare and interesting ecosystem.
Anomalous needle numbers on dwarf shoots of Pinus mugo and P. uncinata (Pinaceae)
Authors: Boratyńska Krystyna , Boratyński Adam
Published: April 2013

The frequency of occurrence of abnormal, three- (or more) needle dwarf shoots of most southern and central European two-needle pine (Pinus) species were studied. No specimens with more than two-needle dwarf shoots were found in a population of P. nigra Arnold subsp. salzmannii (Dunal) Franco from the Iberian Peninsula and in two populations of P. uliginosa Neumann from the Sudeten Mountains in Central Europe. Single specimens were found within one population of P. pinaster Aiton from the Iberian Peninsula and among six populations of P. sylvestris L. from the Iberian Peninsula and Central Europe. Abnormal dwarf shoots mostly with three, but also four, five or six needles were found among 24 of 25 surveyed populations of P. mugo Turra and P. uncinata Ramond. The average frequency of specimens with at least one three-needle dwarf shoot was 24% for P. mugo and 20% for P. uncinata. The frequencies of occurrence varied significantly among studied populations and were highest in samples collected from the upper elevational range limits of the species in the mountains and near the northern limits of their ranges. The frequency of abnormal dwarf shoots in the same populations was significantly high in 2-3 consecutive years. Needles from three-needle dwarf shoots were not significantly shorter than those of two-needle shoots.
Equisetum telmateia Ehrh. morphotypes related to anthropogenic habitats
Authors: Wróbel Dominik
Published: April 2013

The Giant Horsetail (Equisetum telmateia) is the only representative of Equisetum genus included in the list of strictly protected species. In Central and Western Europe the species is found in communities belonging to alliances: Alno-Padion and Calthion. With progressing destruction of these biotopes, one can observe the phenomenon of this species moving to the habitats extremely anthropogenic in character.

Frequent and intensive observations of this phenomenon were conducted in the Jasło - Krosno Dale area in southern Poland in three anthropogenic localities. In these localities three interesting, irregular Equisetum telmateia morphotypes were found: fo. serotinum subfo. proliferum, fo. spiralis and a morphotype with branched shoot.

The phenomenon of morphological plasticity of sporophytes is thought to be connected with the action of genes, which regulate the identity of developing plant organs and their distribution. These genes perform a superior part in relation to the system of growth regulators.
Effects of thidiazuron and paclobutrazol on regeneration potential of tulip flower stalk explants in vitro and subsequent shoot multiplication
Authors: Podwyszyńska Małgorzata , Marasek Agnieszka
Published: April 2013

The effects of TDZ and paclobutrazol on the primary regeneration on tulip flower stalk explants of six cultivars and subsequent shoot multiplication were examined. Explants, flower stalk slices, were excised from cooled and subsequently forced bulbs. The explants were incubated for two months in darkness on medium containing NAA and cytokinins, 2iP and BAP, as control, or TDZ (0.5-4 mg l-1) and paclobutrazol (0.05-0.4 mg l-1). Then, the regenerating explants were subcultured on medium with TDZ and NAA applied at low concentrations. Different regeneration capabilities were found depending on cultivar and growth regulators. The percentage of explants forming leaf-like structures ranged, on the control medium, from 80% in 'Blue Parrot' and 'Prominence' to below 30% in 'Apeldoorn' and 'Mirjoran'. TDZ, applied at optimum for each cultivar concentration, greatly increased the regeneration potential up to 70-100%. Paclobutrazol, added to the TDZ-containing medium, significantly enhanced the response of explants, resulting in high numbers of leaf-like structures formed per explant (13.7-22.8). The structures developed gradually into characteristic forms: the growing up cotyledonary leaf, the probable root primordium formed at its base, the growing downwards stolon and the shoot meristem developed finely on its tip. It is suggested that such primary regeneration may have a nature of somatic embryogenesis. Then, the adventitious shoots developed and formed clusters, which were divided into 2-3 smaller ones every two months. The growth regulators, used at initial stage, markedly influenced subsequent shoot multiplication. Thus, the most intensive shoot formation was noted with TDZ at concentrations of 0.5-2 mg l-1 and paclobutrazol of 0.05-0.1 mg l-1.
Perception of gravity expressed by production of cambial callus in ash (Fraxinus excelsior L) internodes
Authors: Kurczyńska Ewa U. , Hejnowicz Zygmunt
Published: April 2013

In ash internodes isolated from vertical stems during winter dormancy, cambial activity was stimulated by applying an aqueous solution of auxin to the apical end and water to the basal end. The internodes maintained nearly horizontally produced cambial callus at the apical cut surface with more callus on the upper half although both halves were in contact with the same concentration of auxin. A differential response to auxin of the cambium in the upper and lower halves of the horizontally oriented internodes is postulated.
The impact of acidic organie Matter on the diversity of underwater vegetation in soft water lakes
Authors: Bociąg Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

This paper addresses underwater vegetation in soft water lakes which are influenced by the anthropogenic input of allochtonic dissolved organic matter (DOM) from drained bogs. The aim of this work is to test the hypothesis regarding the role of DOM in shaping the diversity of underwater vegetation. Large differences in underwater vegetation habitats, the limitation of their occurrence to increasingly shallower littoral (the depth of the lower limit of their occurrence decreased from 12 m up to 1 m) and the regression of underwater vegetation were observed in lake types ranging from oligohumic (median (Me) of DOC in water = 2.5 mg C dm-3) to polyhumic (Me of DOC = 35.6 mg C dm-3). The gradual simplification of internal plant patch structure occurred and the Shannon-Weaver diversity index decreased (Me 0.04 → 0.00). Fewer species were observed in the lakes (Me 9 → 2), and the underwater vegetation covered increasingly smaller areas. Species replacement did not occur and no invasive species appeared.
RAPD markers and black pine (Pinus nigra Arnold) intraspecies taxonomy - Evidence from the study of nine populations
Authors: Liber Zlatko , Nikolić Toni , Mitić Bożena , Śatović Zlatko
Published: April 2013

Although intraspecies researches within the black pine (Pinus nigra Arnold) have a long tradition, the intraspecies taxonomy, classification and chorology are still unclear. Among the numerous reasons that have caused this situation the most important are: the absence of a study that would completely cover the whole range of this species, the impossibility of connection of results of the existing detailed studies of certain areas, and the high variability of traits which have been used so far. Since the characteristics of the molecular systematic techniques could make possible the research free of the mentioned shortages, the intention of this study was to determine the relationships among nine populations of black pine using the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). The obtained results were compared to the recent results of the morphological and anatomical analysis of the leaves of the same populations. The RAPD results clearly divided the Croatian populations from populations of Austria (subsp. nigra) and Turkey (subsp. pallasiana), while among Croatian populations, as in previous study, the existence of several groups (subsp. illyrica, subsp. dalmatica and transitional population between them) was noticed. It is assumed that the optimisations conducted in this study will finally make possible estimating the relationships on the level of the whole range of the black pine and the classification based on molecular traits that are probably less dependent on environmental influences than it has been the case with the characteristics mostly used so far.
Ultrastructural changes in chloroplasts of mesophyll cells of chlorotic and prematurely yellowed leaves of Betula pendula Rothr
Authors: Przybył Krystyna , Idzikowska Krystyna
Published: April 2013

The ultrastructure of chloroplasts was studied in mesophyll cells of the leaves of silver birch (Betula pendula) showing interveinal chlorosis or premature yellowing, in comparison with leaves without symptoms or exhibiting symptoms of natural senescence. The leaves were collected between May 26 to June 7 and additionally in the September 10-12 from the upper part of the crown, from increments of the past four years. No major difference in ultrastructure of chloroplasts was found between spongy and palisade mesophyll cells. The following senescencerelated changes were observed in chloroplasts of prematurely yellowed leaves and showing inteveinal chlorosis: reduced chloroplast size, degeneration of the membrane systems of thylakoids and increased electron density of plastoglobuli. The most electron dark globules (lipid droplets) were found together with starch grains in cells of spongy mesophyll of leaves showing interveinal chlorosis. Abnormal, spherical and rounded chloroplasts with electron-dark inside of thylakoids or the electron-dark stroma between thylakoids were found only in yellowed and chlorotic leaves in spring.
Genetic variation of cowslip (Primula veris L.) populations (West Poland)
Authors: Morozowska Maria , Krzakowa Maria
Published: April 2013

Genetic variation of twelve Polish populations of Primula veris L. from western Poland was investigated in respect of six enzyme systems: 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD), diaphorase (DIA), menadione reductase (MNR), formate dehydrogenase (FDH), isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT). Only two of them (6PGD and DIA) were polymorphic and all populations were compared according to four loci and eight alleles. For 6PGD only one out of the two detected loci (locus 6PGD-2) was polymorphic and consisted of three alleles a, b and c. For DIA each of two detected loci had two alleles. For 6PGD-2 one population was monomorphic and four populations were monomorphic for DIA-1 and DIA-2. The rest of the populations were polymorphic with low frequency of heterozygotes. The low heterozygosity level, found in the examined populations, was confirmed by high values of the fixation index (F). The level of genetic differentiation among GST populations specified for each polymorphic loci, was equal to 0.045 for 6PGD-2 and had the value of 0.078 for DIA-2 and 0.186 for DIA-1. Nm value for polymorphic loci was 1.10 for DIA-1 and 2.94 for DIA-2, and for 6PGD-2 was 5.33, what indicates some gene flow between the examined populations. The dendrogram constructed on the basis of genotype frequencies showed that the populations were divided into two groups, however the most southern population No. 2 was clearly similar to the northern population No. 8.
The modes of teliospore germination of Ustilago trichophora (Link) Kunze ex Körnicke occurring in Poland
Authors: Pusz Wojciech
Published: April 2013

Ustilago trichophora affects Echinochloa crus-galli and other species of Echinochloa genus. U. trichophora is a member of the order Ustilaginales, of which the germinating teliospores form a promycelium with sporidia. Investigations by Ingold (1996) proved that spores coming from various parts of the world germinate in a different way. The aim of the investigation was to determine the mode of germination of U. trichophora spores found in Poland.
Acteoside and related phenylethanoid glycosides in Byblis liniflora Salisb. plants propagated in vitro and its systematic significance
Authors: Schlauer Jan , Budzianowski Jaromir , Kukułczanka Krystyna , Ratajczak Lidia
Published: April 2013

From plantlets of Byblis liniflora Salisb. (Byblidaceae), propagated by in vitro culture, four phenylethanoid glycosides - acteoside, isoacteoside, desrhamnosylacteoside and desrhamnosylisoacteoside were isolated. The presence of acteoside substantially supports a placement of the family Byblidaceae in order Scrophulariales and subclass Asteridae. Moreover, the genera containing acteoside are listed; almost all of them appear to belong to the order Scrophulariales.
lAA and BAP affect protein phosphorylation-dependent processes during sucrose-mediated G1 to S and G2 to M transitions in root meristem cells of Vicia faba
Authors: Polit Justyna Teresa , Maszewski Janusz , Rosiak Marzena
Published: April 2013

In carbohydrate-starved root meristems of Vicia faba subsp. minor, the expression of two Principal Control Points located at the final stages of the G1 (PCP1) and G2 (PCP2) phases has been found to be correlated with a marked decrease of protein phosphorylation within cell nuclei, nucleoli and cytoplasm. Adopting the same experimental model in our present studies, monoclonal FITC conjugated antibodies that recognize phosphorylated form of threonine (αTPab-FITC) were used to obtain an insight about how the indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), benzyl-6-aminopurine (BAP), and the mixture of both phytohormones influence the time-course changes in an overall protein phosphorylation during sucrose-mediated PCP1→S and PCP2→M transitions. Unsuspectedly, neither IAA, BAP, nor the mixture of both phytohormones supplied in combination with sucrose did up-regulate protein phosphorylation. However using the block-and-release method, it was shown that root meristems of Vicia provided with sucrose alone indicated higher levels of αTPab-FITC. Contrarily, phytohormones supplied in combination with sucrose induced apparent decline in phosphorylation of cell proteins, which - when compared with the influence of sucrose alone - became increasingly evident in time. Thus, it seems probable, that a general decline in the amount of αTPab-FITC labeled epitopes may overlay specific phosphorylations and dephosphorylations governed by the main cell cycle kinases and phosphatases.
Molecular variation of antarctic grass Deschampsia antarctica Desv. from King George Island (Antarctica)
Authors: Chwedorzewska Katarzyna J. , Bednarek Piotr T. , Puchalski Jerzy
Published: April 2013

Deschampsia antarctica Desv. plants collected on King George Islands (Antarctica) at two localities that differ in topographic and nutrition conditions exhibited morphological variation that differentiated plants of both locations. The molecular variation characteristic to individuals of both sites was tested using AFLP approach in order to verify whether morphological variation characteristic to the plants resulted from environmental factors or possibly from differences at the DNA level. Four primer pair combinations were used to generate 339 AFLP fragments, 132 of which were polymorphic and allowed evaluation of genetic relationships among D. antarctica individuals. Chi-square test revealed that only 12 signals were discriminative for the plants from both locations. Cluster analysis conducted on these AFLP fragments demonstrated that plants from the location rich in biogenes were more polymorphic than those from poor one. Our data suggest that the phenotypic variation specific to plants of both locations seem to be the result of adaptation to the environmental conditions like soil and moisture rather than reflect genetic differences.
Schizothyrioma ptarmicae (Helotiales, Ascomycota), a rare European fungus newly found in Poland
Authors: Adamska Iwona
Published: April 2013

The morphological properties of Schizothyrioma ptarmicae (Helotiales, Ascomycota), a fungus known from a single locality in Poland and infrequently reported from Europe, are described and illustrated. Schizothyrioma ptarmicae is a parasite of leaves of Achillea ptarmica. It has been found in the Myrico-Saliceto auritae and Cirsio-Polygonetum plant associations of the Słowiński National Park. Additionally, the properties of the specimens of S. ptarmicae collected were compared with those of S. aterridium, the only other member of the genus Schyzothyrioma.
Endogone lactiflua (Zygomycota, Endogonales) occurs in Poland
Authors: Błaszkowski Janusz , Adamska Iwona , Czerniawska Beata
Published: April 2013

Morphological properties of sporocarps and spores of Endogone lactiflua (Zygomycota, Endogonales), a fungus for the first time found in Poland, are described and illustrated. Endogone lactiflua was wet sieved and decanted from a sample taken from the zone extending from the upper soil layer to rhizosphere of Pinus sylvestris growing in a forest dune in northern Poland. The recovered spores mainly occurred in large and compact sporocarps, although both small aggregates with a few spores and single zygosporangia of this fungus were also isolated. Endogone lactiflua is the fourth species of the genus Endogone found to occur in Poland. The distribution of the fungus in the world is also presented.
The structure and differentiation of the synanthropic flora of the botanical gardens in Poland
Authors: Galera Halina , Sudnik-Wójcikowska Barbara
Published: April 2013

Floristic studies were carried out in eight botanical gardens in Poland in the years 1992-1999. It was demonstrated that the spontaneous synanthropic flora of the gardens consisted of 1092 taxa in the rank of a genus or lower, among which alien species constituted 55% of the flora studied. Ergasiophygophytes, of which the introduction is closely associated with the activities of the botanical gardens, dominated in the latter group of species.

It appeared that the flora of the studied botanical gardens was rather similar. However, the structure of the flora of different spatial units (six types of microhabitats) distinguished in the particular gardens varied, which was associated with the various management practices. The flora of microhabitats identified in the gardens differed with respect to the number of taxa and spectra of geographical-historical groups of species and life forms. Ruderal sites, arable lands and roadsides supported the highest number of taxa (the flora of the above spatial units was represented by 646, 645 and 597 taxa, respectively). Moreover, they were characterized by a high proportion of annual plants in the flora (43, 38 and 34%, respectively) and by a relatively small representation of apophytes (39% in all the three types of microhabitats). The flora of wet areas and parks was, however, poor in species (154 and 403 species, respectively), but relatively rich in apophytes (72 and 55% of the flora, respectively) and with a low contribution of therophytes (19 and 20%, respectively).

The present data were compared with the findings of other authors who investigated the synanthropic flora of cities in which the botanical gardens were located. The comparative analysis of the flora of Poznań and Łódź showed a great richness of species (in relation to size of the area studied) and a high incidence of aliens (especially those, which had not become established permanently) in the botanical gardens. However comparative studies of the flora of Warsaw and that of the two botanical gardens established in the city revealed that the proportion of alien species was lower in case of these gardens.

In Warsaw the flora of areas, which had been managed in the same way as those of the botanical gardens, was also investigated. It was found that the botanical gardens in Warsaw were more similar to cemeteries with respect to the structure of flora than they were to the allotments. The present study showed that the high variability of flora within the particular gardens is attributed to the different ways the area is utilized.
Newly discovered relic population of Rubus chamaemorus L. in the Western Carpathians
Authors: Koczur Anna
Published: April 2013

In the territory of Poland, Rubus chamaemorus is a rare glacial relict. Its localities known to date were in the northern part of the country and in the Sudeten Mountains. In 2002, a new locality of this species was discovered in the Orawa-Nowy Targ basin in the Carpathians. It is the southernmost locality in the European distribution area of this species. Rubus chamaemorus grows there on a raised bog in communities of the Oxycocco-Sphagnetea class. The spatial structure of the population depends on microhabitats reflecting the hummock-hollow structure of the peatbog.
Hypocreopsis lichenoides P. Karst. (Fungi, Ascomycetes), new to Poland
Authors: Stasińska Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

Hypocreopsis lichenoides, a fungus found for the first time in Poland, is characterized and illustrated. The paper presents the distribution of the species in Poland and gives its morphological and ecological description.
Microspatial structure of the seed bank of xerothermic grassland - intracommunity differentiation
Authors: Czarnecka Joanna
Published: April 2013

The study analyses the quantity and spatial structure of the seed bank of the xerothermic grassland located in the Biała Góra near Tomaszów Lubelski (Central Roztocze Region). The seed stock of the bank was compared with the vegetation found in two different patches of the examined grassland. The number of seeds per square meter was estimated at 5328 and 5355, depending on the patch. The seed bank's spatial organisation is clustered. The most important factors determining this spatial distribution are: remaining of the seeds in close vicinity of parent plants, and the "group" dispersal of the seeds and fruits.
The effect of industrial air pollution on membrane lipid composition of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) needles
Authors: Pukacki Paweł M.
Published: April 2013

This work was undertaken to determine lipids changes in needles of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) populations growning on polluted stands near a phosphate fertilizer factory in Luboń, and copper smelter in Głogów and in a control area in Kórnik. Needles from polluted areas had a lower content of total phospholipids than samples from the unpolluted site. Greater changes were detected in membranes of needles collected in October and January. In comparison with the control total phospholipid in needles of populations from polluted areas were 14 to 33% lower. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylglicerol (PG) were the dominant phospholipids. The analysis of fatty acids in phospholipid fraction showed a decrease of linoleic acid (18:2) and linolenic acid (18:3) contents. The level of polyunsaturated fatty acids in needles of three populations from polluted areas was up to 40% lower as compared with the control. Moreover, phospholipids and their fatty acids showed seasonal fluctuations. The contents of PC, PG and PE increased in autumn and in winter, during the process of cold acclimation. In July, current-year needles did not show significant differences in membrane lipid composition between the polluted areas of Scots pine populations. The results suggest that the lipid changes of needles could be associated with disturbances in phohospholipid metabolism, caused by environmental pollution.
Morphological variability of the Caltha palustris L. complex (Ranunculaceae) in Poland
Authors: Cieślak Elżbieta
Published: April 2013

The paper presents results of biosystematic analysis of the critical group of Caltha palustris L. based on 71 populations from Poland. After a preliminary statistical analysis, fourteen morphological characters (nine quantitative and five qualitative), describing size and shape of basal leaves and mature follicles as well as stem morphology, were selected for the clearest differentiation of the complex. Several groups of morphotypes were distinguished within the complex, based on the statistical analysis of this group of characters. Against this background the taxonomy of the complex is proposed. Two species - Caltha laeta Schott, Nyman and Kotschy and Caltha palustris L. - and three subspecies within C. palustris (C. p. subsp. palustris, C. p. subsp. cornuta (Schott, Nyman and Kotschy) Hegi and C. p. subsp. radicans (T.F. Forst.) Syme, were distinguished in Poland. The status of the taxa within the Polish flora is defined. The paper includes also a key for determination of the complex taxa, as well as their detailed descriptions.
Morphological differentiation of Primula veris L. pollen from natural and cultivated populations
Authors: Morozowska Maria , Idzikowska Krystyna
Published: April 2013

Micromorphological characterisation and the comparative statistical analysis of the size of Primula veris L. pollen grains collected in three natural and three cultivated populations were done. Observations were carried out with SEM. The obtained measurements were analysed with the use of one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis Test and the Student-t Test. Pollen grains from long-styled ('pin') flower-morphs were mainly 6 colpate and from shortstyled ('thrum') flower-morphs 8 colpate. Colpi of some grains from 'thrum' flowers were 'sinuous' and 'circular', and they incised into the apocolpium zone. Ornamentation of 'pin' pollen grains was microreticulate, with lumina up to 0.8 μm wide, and for pollen grains from 'thrum' flowers was reticulate and eureticulate with lumina 1.1-1.7 μm wide. In lumina of mesocolpium area some free columellae were observed. Pollen grains from 'thrum' flower-morphs were more variable in size, both in natural and in cultivated populations, than grains from 'pin' flower-morphs. The differences in mean length (P) and breadth (E) of pollen grains from 'thrum' flowers collected in cultivated populations were statistically important (FP = 3.154 for the critical F005 = 3.098; K-We = 7.469 for the critical Test value α=005 = 5.991). Pollen grains from 'thrum' flowers were bigger when coming from plants growing in natural populations (tE = 2.784 for the critical Test value α=005 = 2.001).
Arbuscular mycorrhiza of herbs colonizing a salt affected area near Kraków (Poland)
Authors: Grzybowska Barbara
Published: April 2013

The arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) status of plants colonizing an area affected by leakage of salty water (Barycz near Kraków, Poland) was studied in 2000 and 2001. The occurrence of plants typical for soils of increased salinity was observed. Among the 13 examined plant species 7 were mycorrhizal. The abundance of mycorrhizal plant populations was increased in the second year of study. Strains of 4 species of AMF, including Glomus caledonium, G. claroideum, G. geosporum and G. intraradices were isolated using trap cultures. On the basis of morphological characters the presence of G. tenue was detected in plant roots of several species from the study area. The efficiency of mycorrhizal colonization and arbuscule formation by two strains of G. geosporum isolated from a saline area and a strain of G. intraradices from unaffected sites was tested in an experiment carried out on Plantago lanceolata cultivated on substrata of different salinity levels. The increase in mycorrhizal parameters with growing salt content was observed in the case of strains originating from the salt-affected area. At the highest salt level these strains formed better developed mycorrhiza than the strain from the non-saline site, suggesting a better adaptation of the strains from the saline area. The data on vitality (alkaline phosphatase test) of intraradical AM fungi gave a clearer picture than those obtained by the conventional aniline blue staining.
Biochemical activity of auxins in dependence of their structures in Wolffia arrhiza (L.) Wimm.
Authors: Czerpak Romuald , Piotrowska Alicja , Krotke Alicja
Published: April 2013

Wolffia arrhiza (L.) Wimm. (Lemnaceae) as a mixotrophic plant reacts considerably weaker to used auxins with different chemical structures than typical photosynthetic vascular plants and algae especially from Chlorophyta. Among used auxin compounds, the highest stimulative activity on W. arrhiza growth and biochemical parameters which were analysed in biomass, can be attributed to phenylacetic acid (PAA), a somewhat smaller to indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and the smallest to 2-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) used in optimal concentration of 10-6 M, in comparison with the control culture, devoid of exogenous auxins. The investigated auxins, especially PAA and IAA, were found to have the most powerful stimulative activity (prevailingly between the 10th and the 15th day of cultivation) on the content of reducing sugars between 127 and 169%, chlorophyll a and b from 117 to 125%, total carotenoids from 115 to 132% and net photosynthetic rate from 127 to 144% in comparison with the control culture, which was treated as 100% for reference. However, the content of water-soluble proteins as well as nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) in the biomass of W. arrhiza was less effectively stimulated, hardly from 110 to 116% when compared to the control culture (100%).