bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding land surface response to changing South Asian monsoon in a warming climate
Authors: Ramarao M. V. S. , Krishnan R. , Sanjay J. , Sabin T. P.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Recent studies have drawn attention to a significant weakening trend of the South Asian monsoon circulation and an associated decrease in regional rainfall during the last few decades. While surface temperatures over the region have steadily risen during this period, most of the CMIP (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project) global climate models have difficulties in capturing the observed decrease of monsoon precipitation, thus limiting our understanding of the regional land surface response to monsoonal changes. This problem is investigated by performing two long-term simulation experiments, with and without anthropogenic forcing, using a variable resolution global climate model having high-resolution zooming over the South Asian region. The present results indicate that anthropogenic effects have considerably influenced the recent weakening of the monsoon circulation and decline of precipitation. It is seen that the simulated increase of surface temperature over the Indian region during the post-1950s is accompanied by a significant decrease of monsoon precipitation and soil moisture. Our analysis further reveals that the land surface response to decrease of soil moisture is associated with significant reduction in evapotranspiration over the Indian land region. A future projection, based on the representative concentration pathway 4.5 (RCP4.5) scenario of the Intergovernmental panel on Climate Change (IPCC), using the same high-resolution model indicates the possibility for detecting the summer-time soil drying signal over the Indian region during the 21st century, in response to climate change. While these monsoon hydrological changes have profound socioeconomic implications, the robustness of the high-resolution simulations provides deeper insights and enhances our understanding of the regional land surface response to the changing South Asian monsoon.
Modelling the role of fires in the terrestrial carbon balance by incorporating SPITFIRE into the global vegetation model ORCHIDEE – Part 2: Carbon emissions and the role of fires in the global carbon balance
Authors: Yue C. , Ciais P. , Cadule P. , Thonicke K. , van Leeuwen T. T.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Carbon dioxide emissions from wild and anthropogenic fires return the carbon absorbed by plants to the atmosphere, and decrease the sequestration of carbon by land ecosystems. Future climate warming will likely increase the frequency of fire-triggering drought, so that the future terrestrial carbon uptake will depend on how fires respond to altered climate variation. In this study, we modelled the role of fires in the global terrestrial carbon balance for 1901–2012, using the ORCHIDEE global vegetation model equipped with the SPITFIRE model. We conducted two simulations with and without the fire module being activated, using a static land cover. The simulated global fire carbon emissions for 1997–2009 are 2.1 Pg C yr−1, which is close to the 2.0 Pg C yr−1 as estimated by GFED3.1. The simulated land carbon uptake after accounting for emissions for 2003–2012 is 3.1 Pg C yr−1, which is within the uncertainty of the residual carbon sink estimation (2.8 ± 0.8 Pg C yr−1). Fires are found to reduce the terrestrial carbon uptake by 0.32 Pg C yr−1 over 1901–2012, or 20% of the total carbon sink in a world without fire. The fire-induced land sink reduction (SRfire) is significantly correlated with climate variability, with larger sink reduction occurring in warm and dry years, in particular during El Niño events. Our results suggest a "fire respiration partial compensation". During the 10 lowest SRfire years (SRfire = 0.17 Pg C yr−1), fires mainly compensate for the heterotrophic respiration that would occur in a world without fire. By contrast, during the 10 highest SRfire fire years (SRfire = 0.49 Pg C yr−1), fire emissions far exceed their respiration partial compensation and create a larger reduction in terrestrial carbon uptake. Our findings have important implications for the future role of fires in the terrestrial carbon balance, because the capacity of terrestrial ecosystems to sequester carbon will be diminished by future climate change characterized by increased frequency of droughts and extreme El Niño events.
Implementation and validation of a Wilks-type multi-site daily precipitation generator over a typical Alpine river catchment
Authors: Keller D. E. , Fischer A. M. , Frei C. , Liniger M. A. , Appenzeller C. , Knutti R.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Many climate impact assessments require high-resolution precipitation time series that have a spatio-temporal correlation structure consistent with observations, for simulating either current or future climate conditions. In this respect, weather generators (WGs) designed and calibrated for multiple sites are an appealing statistical downscaling technique to stochastically simulate multiple realisations of possible future time series consistent with the local precipitation characteristics and their expected future changes. In this study, we present the implementation and validation of a multi-site daily precipitation generator re-built after the methodology described in Wilks (1998). The generator consists of several Richardson-type WGs run with spatially correlated random number streams. This study aims at investigating the capabilities, the added value and the limitations of the precipitation generator for a typical Alpine river catchment in the Swiss Alpine region under current climate. The calibrated multi-site WG is skilful at individual sites in representing the annual cycle of the precipitation statistics, such as mean wet day frequency and intensity as well as monthly precipitation sums. It reproduces realistically the multi-day statistics such as the frequencies of dry and wet spell lengths and precipitation sums over consecutive wet days. Substantial added value is demonstrated in simulating daily areal precipitation sums in comparison to multiple WGs that lack the spatial dependency in the stochastic process. Limitations are seen in reproducing daily and multi-day extreme precipitation sums, observed variability from year to year and in reproducing long dry spell lengths. Given the performance of the presented generator, we conclude that it is a useful tool to generate precipitation series consistent with the mean climatic aspects and likely helpful to be used as a downscaling technique for climate change scenarios.
Use of VOC sensors for air quality control of building ventilation systems
Authors: Großklos M.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Air quality control with VOC (volatile organic compound) sensors in residential buildings could increase user comfort by adapting to the actual contaminant level. Preliminary tests assessed the dynamics of VOC levels in single-family passive houses with a ventilation system. At normal and exceptional usages, sufficient signal variations were measured for air quality control. An air quality control was developed and tested in four single-family passive house dwellings to control the building ventilation system via VOC sensors and a special adaptation algorithm to handle variable contaminant loads and sensor drift. Results showed good operation of the air quality control for the ventilation system, detecting changing contaminants within a few minutes and changing the air flow rate in the building immediately. The 43 VOC sensors used during the monitoring had more than 1.2 million working hours in total without any electrical failure, but with a loss of sensitivity for the calibration gas CO. The air quality control could manage that loss of sensitivity and worked well till the end of the field test. A comparison between VOC and CO2 sensors in one building resulted in more detailed information about emission rates in the room with the VOC sensor, allowing one to get a better reaction of the ventilation system.
Simulating the Antarctic ice sheet in the late-Pliocene warm period: PLISMIP-ANT, an ice-sheet model intercomparison project
Authors: de Boer B. , Dolan A. M. , Bernales J. , Gasson E. , Goelzer H. , Golledge N. R. , Sutter J. , Huybrechts P. , Lohmann G. , Rogozhina I. , Abe-Ouchi A. , Saito F. , van de Wal R. S. W.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. In the context of future climate change, understanding the nature and behaviour of ice sheets during warm intervals in Earth history is of fundamental importance. The late Pliocene warm period (also known as the PRISM interval: 3.264 to 3.025 million years before present) can serve as a potential analogue for projected future climates. Although Pliocene ice locations and extents are still poorly constrained, a significant contribution to sea-level rise should be expected from both the Greenland ice sheet and the West and East Antarctic ice sheets based on palaeo sea-level reconstructions. Here, we present results from simulations of the Antarctic ice sheet by means of an international Pliocene Ice Sheet Modeling Intercomparison Project (PLISMIP-ANT). For the experiments, ice-sheet models including the shallow ice and shelf approximations have been used to simulate the complete Antarctic domain (including grounded and floating ice). We compare the performance of six existing numerical ice-sheet models in simulating modern control and Pliocene ice sheets by a suite of five sensitivity experiments. We include an overview of the different ice-sheet models used and how specific model configurations influence the resulting Pliocene Antarctic ice sheet. The six ice-sheet models simulate a comparable present-day ice sheet, considering the models are set up with their own parameter settings. For the Pliocene, the results demonstrate the difficulty of all six models used here to simulate a significant retreat or re-advance of the East Antarctic ice grounding line, which is thought to have happened during the Pliocene for the Wilkes and Aurora basins. The specific sea-level contribution of the Antarctic ice sheet at this point cannot be conclusively determined, whereas improved grounding line physics could be essential for a correct representation of the migration of the grounding-line of the Antarctic ice sheet during the Pliocene.
Female Entrepreneurship in Kenya: How do Female Micro-Entrepreneurs Learn to be Entrepreneurial?
Authors: Mulu-Mutuku Milcah Wavinya , Odero-Wanga Dolphine , Ali-Olubandwa Adijah
Published: May 2015

There is renewed interest in female entrepreneurship as policy makers recognize the importance of social inclusiveness in economic development. Women’s involvement in entrepreneurship is applauded as a necessary precursor to economic growth of developing nations despite women under-representation among business owners. Many factors have been blamed for this under-representation among them, socialisation and lack of motivation in choosing entrepreneurship as a career option. In Kenya, women entrepreneurs have low levels of education; are in need of business knowledge and skills yet unable to pay for business development services; and are affected strongly by patriarchal structures especially the role of husbands. Yet, some few women own growing businesses that contribute towards wealth and employment creation. This study sought to determine how women learn to be entrepreneurial and to establish hindrances to female entrepreneurial learning process. A survey was conducted on 106 women micro-entrepreneurs in the Kenyan dairy processing industry. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings showed that majority (76.9%) of the micro-entrepreneurs went into business without any prior business skills. Only 5.5% of them had training in business-related fields before starting their businesses. Another 17.6% had learnt some business skills from previous employment. Social contacts and relations were important sources of business knowledge and skills for 68.7% of them. Rarely did the respondents engage in active search of business knowledge and skills. Probably an entrepreneurship development curriculum weaved through the entire school syllabus would help in entrenching an enterprising culture among women.
Analysis of Effects of Agriculture Intervention Using Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Josephat Peter , Likangaga Rose
Published: May 2015

Nowadays, the agriculture extension programmes are practiced in many parts of the world. There is a mixture of results about the effects of agriculture intervention programmes. The literature shows that the interventions are ineffective and have limited diffusion. On the other side, it shows that interventions are effective. Following different arguments about the effects of agriculture extension, this paper adopted Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to analyze the effects of District Agricultural Sector Investment Project (DASIP) using agriculture data.  The study was conducted in rural Tanzania areas. It covered five regions namely Kagera, Mwanza, Mara, Simiyu and Kigoma. The study focused on agro-ecological zone where corn is cultivated. Two methods which are questionnaire administration and direct oral interview were used to collect primary data. The collection of data using the questionnaire was done from both participants (359) and non-participants (519). Before running the independent t test, the estimation of propensity score was done using Logistic regression. Thirteen confounding variables were used to estimate propensity scores.The effects of the intervention were analysed by considering four items namely the earnings from corn production, value of livestock owned, value of household assets owned, and value of farm assets owned. The results show that none of the four factors had significant result as the p values are greater than 0.05. This implies that the earning between farmers participating in DASIP are not significant different from those who do not participate in the programme. The study recommends that the group activities should last longer rather than changing them from time to time.
Testing a New Measure of Perceived Professional Development Engagement for Undergraduates
Authors: Blau Gary , Snell Corrine M. , Campbell Deborah , Viswanathan Krupa , Andersson Lynne M. , Lopez Andrea B.
Published: May 2015

Professional development engagement (PDE) is the level of undergraduate engagement in professional development. Professional development (PD) is defined as “activities designed to help students prepare for a successful college-to-work transition.” This study tested a new 12-item measure of PDE for a complete-data sample of 437 undergraduate business students. The “did not use” response to an activity for each of the 10 CPDC items resulted in a surprisingly high aggregated loss of respondents. Results indicated that students who either never joined a student professional organization or never lived on or near Main Campus had a higher “did not use” response percentage.
Observations on the development of plants
Authors: Listowski A. , Jaśmianowicz A. , Iwanejko M.
Published: May 2015

The influence of light intensity and daylength on four short-day species of Chenopodium was analysed. The following species were tested: Ch. ficifolium, Ch. glaucum, Ch. rubrum and Ch. hybridum. Under short day, generative initiation was accelerated, the abundance of flowering, and growth and leaf differentiation processes were reduced. Under light of low intensity, the rhythm of development of the plants growing under long day is similar to that under short day. The development of axillary buds indicates a decrease in the intensity of vegetative differentiation and elongation growth, with an enhancement of the generative tonus; the buds in the axils of the highest growing leaves form directly inflorescences without preceding leaf differentiation. Inversion of the shape of leaves on lateral shoots was noted.
Inhibitor chymotrypsynowy nasion wiechliny łąkowej (Poa pratensis) [Chymotrypsin inhibitor from Poa pratensis seeds]
Authors: Lorenc-Kubis I.
Published: May 2015

A chymotrypsin inhibitor was isolated from Poa pratensis seeds. The inhibitor showed also antytriptic activity. It is a termostable protein, soluble in water, sodium chloride, but insoluble in 5% trichloracetic acid and 0.15 M sulphosalicylic acid.
Badania nad pyłkiem potomstwa brzozy ojcowskiej Betula oycoviensis [Investigations on the pollen of the progeny of Betula oycoviensis Basser]
Authors: Szwabowicz A.
Published: May 2015

Several crossings have been executed, of which it results that the progeny of Betula oycomensis pollinated by Betula oycoviensis segregates into three groups: the type oycoviensis, type verrucosa and type „nova". The two formes occur as trees, the last mentioned is a small shrub. It has been established that the arithmetic means of the pollen diameter of the three types of birches hardly differed among themselves. As regards the degree of development, there were only very slight differences between the particular types within one generation and between generations. On the other hand, there were fairly great individual differences among the particular specimens as regards the size and degree of development of the pollen grains. These values underwent changes from year to year.
A cytochemical investigations of dry and germinating. Iris prseudoacorus seeds
Authors: Gabara B. , Modrzejewski R.
Published: May 2015

The composition and distribution of storage substances such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and phosphates and also some enzymes in dry Iris pseudoacorus endosperm and their changes during germination were investigated with light microscope.
O hodowli in vitro wycinków z łodygi rącznika (Ricinus communis L.) i wilczomlecza tyrlicza (Euphorbia lathyris L.) [In vitro culture of segment from shoots of Ricinus communis L. and Euphorbia lathyris L.]
Authors: Wojciechowska B. , Dajnowicz-Kolbe H. , Workowska A.
Published: May 2015

The influence of certain factors on the growth and differentiation of the material investigated was analysed. Histo- and organogenesis are discussed together with the anatomy of the coalescence of the segments.
Wzrost pomidorów na pożywce azotanowej lub amonowej w obecności różnych form i zróżnicowanych ilości żelaza [The development of tomato plants growing on nutrient solutions containing either nitrates or ammonium salts, in presence of various forms and doses of iron]
Authors: Stabrowsk J. , Paściak A.
Published: May 2015

In all the experiments the tomato plants seemed to grow better both in aerated and nonaerated cultures in the solutions containing nitrates, than in those with ammonium salts. The best development of plants was observed in aerated cultures containing a full dose of ferric citrate. The positive effect of ferric versenate was manifested rather in the nonaerated cultures containing lower doses of this compound.
Grzyby zasiedlające drewno w Puszczy Białowieskiej. XVII. Ceriporiopsis gilvescens (Bres.) Domański [Wood-inhabiting fungi in Białowieża virgin forest in Poland. XVII. Ceriporiopsis gilvescens (Bres.) Domański]
Authors: Domański St.
Published: May 2015

Ceriporiopsis gilvescens (Bres.) Domański producing white rot in wood of deciduous trees is the type species of the genus Ceriporiopsis Domański. In order to complete its generic description, the culture of the fungus was examined and its species code established. Interfertility studies, with single spore cultures isolated from sporophores derived from three sources in Poland have shown that the fungus is heterothallic and has the tetrapolar type of interfertility. It gives also positive reaction in the test for extracellular oxidase In this connection (1) these characters have been introduced in the description of !the genus Ceriporiopsis, and (2) the species Poria placenta (Fr.) Cke sensu J. Erikss. is excluded from this genus
Attempts at DNP isolation from callus and tumour tissues of Nicotiana tabacum
Authors: Kłyszejko-Stefanowicz L. , Rennert A. , Mazurczyk W. , Wysocki M. , Potaczyk W.
Published: May 2015

This paper deals with a preliminary investigation of ONP originating from tumour and callus tissues of Nicotiana tabacum. DNP preparations from tumour tissue contained on the average: 54.88% of protein, 38.4% of DNA and 2,9% of RNA. The N/P ratio value fluctuated within the limits 4.8—5.8. The respective mean values for DNP preparations from callus tissue were: 57.3; 21.6 and 13.l%. The NAP ratio was 4.7-6.6.
Productivity of photosynthesis in Scots pine (Pinus silvestris L.) seedlings grown from seed irradiated by X-rays)
Authors: Żelawski W. , Nalborczyk E.
Published: May 2015

Dry matter accumulation, growth, photosynthesis and respiration were investigated in seedlings grown in water culture from seed irradiated with various doses of X-rays. The stimulating effect of X-ray treatment appeared in formation of assimilatory organs and in accumulation of dry matter in various parts of a plant. Changes in photosynthesis and respiration activity seem to be rather secondary effects of growth stimulation or inhibition. Changes in growth, dry matter accumulation, photosynthesis and respiration of plants grown from seed irradiated by X-rays are investigated in the aspects of the influence of ionizing radiation on physiological processes in plants. On the other hand, seedlings grown from seed after X-ray treatment seemed to be an interesting object for studying photosynthetic productivity since stimulatory and inhibitory effects are obtainable here on plant material differentiated by the influence of only one factor i.e. various doses of radiation.
Free amino acids in different Lotus species
Authors: Przybylska J. , Chwałek B.
Published: May 2015

Studies on free amino acid pools in various organs of different Lotus species showed mature seeds to be distinguished by a high concentration of canavanine and by the presence of γ-glutamyltyrosine and γ-glutamylphenylalanine. In seeds of L. helleri and L. purshianus homoarginine has been found which is interesting as the occurrence of this amino acid seemed to be restricted to the genus Lathyrus.
Free amino acids in the environment of the proembryo during the inhibition phase of its growth (Monocotyledonuos plants)
Authors: Ryczkowski M.
Published: May 2015

Analyses of the central vacuole sap in the ovules of H. Katharinae and Clivia miniata (during the inhibition phase of proembryo growth) for free amino acids were carried out by means of a Micro Column Amino Acid Analyser. Some similarities and differences have been established for both speciesas regards the change of total concentration and concentration changes of particular amino acids.
Disc electrophoretic study of seed proteins of various Medicago species, Melilotus albus, Trifolium pratense, and T. repens
Authors: Przybylska J. , Hurich J.
Published: May 2015

Disc electrophoretic study covered albumins, globulins and urea-treated globulins of seeds of 12 Medicago species, Melilotus albus, Trifolium pratense and T. repens. The electrophoretic data differentiated most of the examined Medicago species and indicated M. lupulina to be especially distinct. Some similarities of M. lupulina to Melilotus and Trifolium have been pointed out.
Changes in cell wall structure during the protonema development on organic medium in conditions of light and darkness in Funaria hygrometrica
Authors: Młodzianowski F. , Woźny A. , Szweykowska A.
Published: May 2015

The cell walls of a protonema of Funaria hygrometrica cultivated in glucose containing medium were considerably thicker in dark than in light. After a prolonged time of dank culture, a considerable reduction of the wall thicknes was observed, simultaneously with the occurrence of vesicles and plasmalemma invaginations containing fibrillar material. It is suggested that in conditions unfavourable for growth, the sugar taken up from the medium can be accumulated in cell walls, from which it can be mobilized again in conditions of starvation. The authors also think that similar mechanism and cell structures can be involved in both building and decomposition of the cell wall.
Ultrastructure of cells in an initiating lateral root primordium of Raphanus sativus
Authors: Kadej F. , Rodkiewicz B.
Published: May 2015

Lateral root primordia in Raphanus sativus had developed 10 hours after main root decapitation. The primordia consisted of three cell layers — basal layer continuous with the pericycle. The primordia were initiated by activated groups of pericycle cells. Inactive pericycle cells with a thin layer of parietal cytoplasme large central vacuole and well developed leucoplasts with starch grains were trans-formed into meristematic cells. During transformation the amount of cytoplasm and number of cytoplasmic organelles greatly increased, the central vacuole disappeared, and an ER system continuous in many places with the nuclear envelope evolved. The lamellar structure of plastids underwent almost complete reduction; the dictyosomes became active. The newly formed meristem differed apparently from the apical root meristem only in the lack or scarcity of lipid bodies and starch.
Wpływ niektórych detergentów na przyrost biomasy Solanum lycopersicum i Scenedesmus quadricauda oraz na akumulację składników mineralnych u tych roślin [The effect of some detergents on the increase in biomass and the accumulation of mineral components in Solanum lycopersicum and Scenedesmus quadricauda]
Authors: Gumiński St. , Tatkowska E. , Suder-Moraw A. , Wilczkowski St.
Published: May 2015

The investigation on water cultures of tomato seedlings and Scenedesmus quadricauda colonies have shown that low doses of the detergents stimulate the growth of these plants. An intensified accumulation of N, P, Ca, Mg, Fe and a reduced accumulation of K-ions have been observed.
Cytogenetic relationships among some palearctic and nearctic tetraploid taxa of the Campanula rotundifolia L. group
Authors: Bielawska Halina
Published: May 2015

The cytogenetic interrelationships between tetraploid representatives of Campanula rotundifolia L. group were investigated. The F1 hybrids derived from the crosses between plants of European and American origin were fully fertile, however, some symptoms of hybrid sterility in F2s and Bs were noted. In the F1 the course of meiosis was normal. In some B segregants the disturbances in synchronization of meiotic divisions were observed. Although in most respect the F1 hybrids were intermediate between their parental forms, in some characters, like the shape of the corolla, the colour of pollen grains and the unrepeating flowering, they resembled more their American parents. No essential genetic barriers between tetraploid representatives of the C. rotundifolia L. group from Europe and North America were found. In view of the present data Guinochet’s hypothesis of the independent origin of European and American tetraploids is rather questionable.
Anthropochory in xerothermic grasslands in the light of experimental data
Authors: Faliński J. B.
Published: May 2015

The degree and character of epianthropochory was analyzed on the basis of the number and affiliation to particular species of diaspores (Table 2, Fig. 2) catching on clothes and shoes of humans moving freely in the grassland (Fig. 1). It has been noted that diaspores of various species which fructified during the experiments (Table l, Table 2) may be carried on clothes. The extent of anthropochory depends on the structural relationships of the environment, especially on the exuberance of the vegetation (Fig. 2).
Wood-inhabiting fungi of the Białowieża virgin forest in Poland. XVIII. Amylocystis lapponica (Romell)Bond. & Sing.
Authors: Domański Stanisław
Published: May 2015

The author examined the microstructure of the fruitbody and culture of polypore Amylocystis lapponica (Romell) Bond. & Sing., common in the Białowieża virgin forest on lying logs of Picea excelsa with symptoms of advanced brown rot produced by Fomitopsis rosea (Alb. & Schw. ex Fr.) P. Karst. In the fruitbody a monomitic hyphal system was revealed consisting for the most part of thick-walled nodose-septate hyphae 4-10,5 μm thick. Moreover, by examination of four cultures obtained from basidiospores, it was found (1) that the diploid mycelium gives nearly always a negative reaction, whereas the haploid mycelia give positive reactions in tests for extracellular oxidase, and (2) that the fungus is tetrapolar.
Movement of the cambial domain pattern and mechanism of formation of interlocked grain in Platanus
Authors: Krawczyszyn J.
Published: May 2015

The orientation of splitting and uniting of rays, which served as an indicator of the orientation of morphogenic events occurring in cambium, was determined on series of veneers covering large tangential faces of Platanus trunks. It has been shown that cambium consists of orientational domains of Z- and S-type. They are perpendicular to, or slightly inclined with respect to, the trunk axis. Axial dimensions of domains are 8-28 cm. They move upward along the trunk, at a rate 6,5—12 mm, per radial mm of xylem porduced. Migration domain patterns are responsible for the formation of the interlocked grain.
Wybrane zagadnienia z morfogenezy liści drzew. II. Występowanie młodocianych form liści w koronach drzew buka zwyczajnego (Fagus silvatica L.) [Studies on the mohprogenesis of tree-leaves. II. The occurrence of juvenile forms of leaves in the crowns of beech trees (Fagus silvatica L.)]
Authors: Więckowska I.
Published: May 2015

It was fairly often observed that Fagus silvatica L. leafed twice during one vegetational season. This secondary growth occurred on all trees, when the first leaves underwent destruction, e.g. in consequence of late spring frost. The leaves of secondary growth differed pronouncedly from normally developed ones by their shape and irregular nervation and were similar to the juvenile leaves of one-year-old seedlings of beech. Observations of leaf buds showed that the nerves appeared in leaf-primordia of Fagus silvatica as late as the latter part of July and if the secondary leaves developed at the end of July, they were normal in shape and bad regular nervation. Leaf-primordia compelled to an earlier development gave leaves of different form and irregular nervation.
Diatoms of the concrete embankment of the Zegrze Lake
Authors: Borzyńska Hanna
Published: May 2015

It has been established that conditions for the development of diatoms on a concrete embankment are favourable. Beside organisms permanently or periodically connected with the solid substrate, typical planktons also occurred. The following species were most numerous: Cymbella affinis, Nitzschia kützingiana, Amphora ovalis var. pediculus and Navicula gracilis. The most intensive development of diatoms was observed in April, May, July and October. The total number of organisms depended on pollution of water in the Żerań Canal, increased water temperature in autumn in the section between the Canal and Białobrzegi and intensity of waves.
Preliminary investigation on the interaction between some physiological processes in donors and acceptors of assimilates
Authors: Starck Z.
Published: May 2015

The interaction between physiological processes in donors and acceptors of 14C-assimilates was studied in sunflower and bean plants with temporarily limited supply of assimilates (shading a few days and then replacing in natural light conditions (NL)). An extended period of shading (4-7 days) affected growth of plants and reduced photosynthetic activity, especially in sunflower. The proportion of 14C-transported to roots decreased and that to the stern increased as an effect of preshading and did not significantly change in plants replaced in natural light conditions a few days before 14CO2-exposure. In preshaded blades and roots the rate of dark respiration decreased, but soon improved after a few days of NL conditions following the shading period. Absorption of 32P coincided with root respiration and sugar content in bean plant, in contrast to sunflower where 32P-absorption, calculated per l g of root dry matter in preshaded plants exceeded that in control ones.
On the effects of secretions of saprophytic bacteria on the course of mitosis in adventitious roots of Allium cepa L.
Authors: Kobierzyńska Z.
Published: May 2015

The influence of 21 strains of saprophytic bacteria isolated from onion cultures on the course of mitosis and on the level of chromosome aberrations in adventitious roots of Allium cepa L. was studied. Liquid cultures of all bacterial strains caused no changes in divisions of the cells. However, ten of the strains were responsible for disturbances in this process. The nature of these disturbances depended to a large extent on the kind of medium in which the bacteria were grown.
Isolation and chemical characterization of saponins from lucerne seeds (Medicago media Pers.)
Authors: Jurzysta Marian
Published: May 2015

Saponins of lucerne seeds have been prepared by two different methods. It was found by thin-layer chromatography that these glycosides consist of at least four components with one dominant. Soyasapogenols B, C and E were identified in acid hydrolysate of these saponins and in carbohydrate moiety glucose, galactose, rhamnose, small quantity of arabinose and xylose and glucuronic acid. It was established that saponins of lucerne seeds do not haemolyse red blood cells, contrary to top, root and blossom saponins. That may be due to the lack of medicagenic acid glycosides.
Fractions of nucleic acids in seedlings and leaves of winter wheat in the vegetative and generative development phases
Authors: Filek W.
Published: May 2015

The composition of nucleic acid preparations isolated from seedlings and leaves of plants grown from vernalized and nonvernalized winter wheat grain was chromatographically investigated on a methylated albumin kieselguhr column (MAK column). The intensity of synthesis of the particular nucleic acid fractions was compared by the 32P-incorporation technique and the nucleotide composition of the newly synthesized nucleic acid fractions was determined. It was observed that the rate of 32P incorporation into the sRNA, rRNA+mRNA and TB-RNA fractions of the leaves of vernalized plants was about two times higher as compared with that in the nonvernalized control.
The radioecology of Pogonatum urnigerum (L.) Pal. Beauv.
Authors: Sarosiek J. , Koła W> , Orda A.
Published: May 2015

Within the area of the radiation anomaly near Kowary (Sudetes), the moss Pogonatum urnigerum grows on sites with natural gamma radiation of the soil within the limits of 0.05 to 0.91 mR/h. By way of detailed ecological analysis, five stenotopic habitats of P. urnigerum were singled out, differing, however, in radiation level. On these microhabitats the intrapopulation variability, radioactivity and ecological properties of the P. urnigerum populations were investigated. It was demonstrated that radiation within the above mentioned range is an essential ecological factor conditioning the ecotype differences in Pogonatum urnigerum, and among them the develop-mental anomalies.
Selffertilization in Campanula rotundifolia L. s. 1. group
Authors: Bielawska Halina
Published: May 2015

Artificial selfpollination of six taxa of C. rotundifolia L. group was perfomed. More than 60% of the tetraploid plants and diploid C. rotundifolia s. str. representatives set seeds which germinated in some 42-76%. The seed setting in C. serrata was a little lower and the germination was very poor (0.07%). Only 18% of C. cochleariifolia plants yielded seeds after selfpollination. These seeds failed to germinate. The selfed offspring was viable only in part. Some developmental distur-bances were observed. A general tendency to reduction of height of stems and of the number of flowers per stem was also noted in successive selfed generations. A gradual decrease of pollen fertility was also observed. No tendency to gradual decrease of selfed seed fertility and germination was demonstrated. The factors preventing selffertilization proved to be efficient in C. cochleariifolia and C. serrata, but it seems that in nature they are strong enough even at a tetraploid level.
Effect of morphactine on differentiation and development of Cymbidium Sw. protocorms cultured in vitro
Authors: Kukułczanka K. , Twarda-Pędota B.
Published: May 2015

The morphogenetic effect of morphactine IT 3456 on meristematic tissue of Cymbidium Sw. was investigated within the dose range 0.01 to 10 ppm in in vitro culture on liquid and agar-solidified medium. In the doses applied, morphactine increased the number of protocorms differentiating from isolated meristematic tissues, and, in dependence on the dose, affected their shape and proliferation. Morphactine retards, and in large doses completely inhibits, the development of rhizoids, shoots and roots. Various developmental anomalies were observed under the influence of morphactine: leaf syncotylia, and their deformation, thickening, shortening, flattening and branching of shoots as well as formation of 2-3 shoots by one protocorm and development of secondary protocorms on the leaves.
Translocation of the generative cell towards the centre of the pollen grain due to changes in the vacuolar system in Ranunculus repens L.
Authors: Charzyńska Maria
Published: May 2015

On the basis of observations performed under the light microscope on the development of the male gametophyte of Ranunculus repens L., the hypothesis is advanced that the translocation of the generative cell from a position adjacent to the wall towards the centre of the pollen grain, associated with change in the shape of this cell, is the result of vacuolization of the generative and vegetative cells and the interaction of these two vacuole systems.
Studies on the androgenesis in cultured anthers of Atropa belladonna L.
Authors: Misiura E. , Zenkteler M.
Published: May 2015

Embryological investigations were carried out on developing anthers of Atropa belladonna grown in natural conditions and on anthers which produced androgenic embryos in the in vitro culture. The anatomy of developing anthers was analized in details. Meiotic abnormalities were not detected and 36 bivalents were present at metaphase of meiosis I. About 90% of pollen grains were normally developed. Anthers inoculated at the tetrad or microspore stage and cultured on Linsmaier and Skoog medium with kinetin 4 mg/1 and IAA - 2 mg/1 produced androgenic embryos. Differences in the development of septum, in the morphology of pollen grains, formation of tapetum, development of proembryos and the occurrence of storage materials were recorded. The origin of autopoliploid plants from haploid cells is discussed.
Desmids of transitional peats in Konik Stary near Warsaw
Authors: Tomaszewicz Grażyna H.
Published: May 2015

The author reports the results of investigations carried on for a whole year on the desmidian flora of a transitional peat bog. Sixty seven species, six varieties and one form, belonging to 18 genera were found.
Modifications in regeneration of Saintpaulia ionantha Wendl. leaves, due to morphactin added to in vitro cultures
Authors: Kukułczanka K. , Kwiecień J.
Published: May 2015

The paper reports the results of experiments on the course of leaf regeneratian in Saintpaulia ionantha Wendl. in vitro culture, depending on morphactin IT 3456 doses and its relation with kinetin and auxins (IAA and NAA). Morphactin retards regeneration, abolishes its polarity, inhibits root formation and causes developmental anomalies of buds and leaves. Kinetin and IAA neutralize the retardation of regeneration caused by morphactin, auxin and finetin do not prevent the anomalies.
Chloroplast degeneration and its inhibition by kinetin in detached leaves of Cichorium intybus L.
Authors: Młodzianowski F. , Młodzanowska L.
Published: May 2015

In the chicory (Cichorium intybus L. var. sativum cv. Polanowicka) leaves two types of chloroplasts are present differing by their degree of osmiophility of the thylakoid inside. This type of differentiation of chloroplasts has so far been found only in several plant species. The process of chloroplast degeneration in darkness is described. In osmiophilic chloroplasts at certain stage of degeneration minutely layered giant grana were found. Kinetin markedly inhibited the process of chloroplast degeneration, and after prolonged treatment even stimulated the stacking. process of grana thylakoids.
Trypsin inhibitor from starchy endosperm of rye seeds
Authors: Pawłowski A.
Published: May 2015

A method for the preparation of a trypsin inhibitor from starchy endosperm of rye seeds is described. Isolation and purification comprised the following steps: salting out of the water-soluble proteins at pH 4.5 with ammonium sulphate (0.4 saturation), followed by chromatography on CM-Cellulose, Sephadex G-100 and SE Sephadex C-25. The finally purified preparation of inhibitor was found to be homogeneous by both chromatographic and electrophoretic analyses. The preparation inhibited trypsin and chymotrypsin but was inactive against papain, kallikrein and pepsin. The molecular weight of the inhibitor was calculated to foe about 10 000.
Effects of auxins and cytokinins on tomato callus from anthers
Authors: Rogozińska Janina H. , Skutnik Leokadia
Published: May 2015

An investigation was carried out on growth substance requirements of tomato callus derived from anthers for culture in vitro. Linsmaier and Skoog (1965) medium was used with various levels of auxins (IAA and NAA) and cytokinins (K and BAP). The results show that cytokinin is an absolute requirement for callus growth irrespective of the auxin level. The optimum concentration of auxin in combination with cytokinin was found to be 5 μM of NAA or 25 μM of IAA, with 5 μM of K or BAP. Callus growth on media with NAA and cytokinin was superior to that on IAA, amounting to 6.05 g per piece on medium with 5 μM of NAA and BAP. Tissues grown on this medium have the highest water content. At the onset of culture the tissue is characterized by weak growth and attains its maximal increase in fresh weight after 6 weeks.
Effect of auxin on xylem tracheids differentiation in decapitated stems of Pinus silvestris L. and its interaction with some vitamins and growth regulators
Authors: Wodzicki T. J. , Zajączkowski S.
Published: May 2015

The effects of several vitamins and substances known as important agents in regulation of cell metabolism upon secondary xylem differentiation were studied in interaction with auxin (IAA) as applied in lanoline to decapitated stems of 5-year-old Pinus silvestris trees in early and late-summer. Tested substances were: gibberellic acid, kinetin, nicotinic acid, thiamine, pyridoxine, calcium panthotenate, choline chloride, riboflavin, inositol, ascorbic acid, vitamin, A (alcohol), vitamin A (ester), saponin. None of the effects of these substances appeared significant enough to indicate the involvement in the seasonal variation of the response of cambium or differentiating tracheids to auxin. However, several effects, especially those of inositol, vitamin A and pyridoxine upon cambial xylem production and further stages of tracheid differentiation were observed. Auxin (IAA) affected cambial activity and subsequent differentiation of tracheids during the earliest stages of cell ontogenesis. At these stages auxin treatment induced quantitative expression of the developmental processes involving radial growth and secondary wall formation by tracheids. In this respect, auxin did not affect cells advanced in differentiation, however, it proved to be an essential factor in the completion of the full cycle of tracheid ontogenesis.
Physiological and biochemical effects of morphactin IT 3233 on callus and tumour tissues of Nicotiana tabacum L. cultured in vitro. IV. IAA oxidase activity. Oat coleoptile biotest
Authors: Chirek Z.
Published: May 2015

IAA oxidase activity in callus and tumour tissue of tobacco subjected to the action of morphactin IT 3233 for shorter and longer periods was determined. Control tumour tissue shows an activity higher by about 40 per cent as compared with that of callus tissue. Morphactin applied for a short time (24-h incubation) does not change the activity of the enzyme. When application is prolonged, a considerable enhancement (up to 140%) of the enzyme activity in callus tissue is observed in dependence on the morphactin concentration. In tumour tissues the activity is stimulated by 45 per cent as compared to control. Oat coleoptile elongation growth induced by IAA is limited to 40 per cent when morphactin is added in the concentrations used for tobacco tissue cultures. The possibility of the morphactin action on tissue growth via IAA metabolism is discussed.
Leaf surface microflora of Hordeum vulgare L.
Authors: Mishra R. R. , Srivastava V. B.
Published: May 2015

The fungal and bacterial population of leaf surface of Hordeum vulgare L. has ben described. The phyllosphere and phylloplane regions of green and yellow leaves harboured different dominant species. Bacteria mostly suppressed the fungal growth and possibility of biological control has been suggested. The effect of three amino acids and one organic acid on leaf mycoflora has been studied by foliar spray method. Stimulatory effect of different concentrations of the acids has been noticed. Preferential growth of selected forms of microorganisms may be encouraged by the acid application to act as a mean of biological control.
Physico-chemical and biological properties of slag from blast furnaces after iron-nickel ore smelting
Authors: Buczek J. , Czerwińska K.
Published: May 2015

The slag from examined waste damps contains small amounts of macroelements, relatively high quantities of available iron, nickel and chromium, exhibits and alkaline reaction and low water capacity. Biological analyses demonstrated that symbiotic and asymbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria, as well as some papilionaceous species (Pisum sativum L., Lupinus luteus L., Sarothamnus scoparius L.) and some grasses (Bromus sterilis L., nad Bromus inermis Leyss.), find favorable conditions for development on this slag. The experiments indicate that the main factors delimiting plants growth and development on the slag are: lack of available nitrogen, excess of iron, nickel and chromium, and the dry dust layer forming on the slag surface.
Effect of limited supply of assimilates on the relationships between their sources and acceptors
Authors: Starck Z. , Ubysz L.
Published: May 2015

Sink activity in young sunflower and bean plants was determined mainly by their growth rate. The organ with higher RGR (stem in sunflower and apical part with expanded trifoliate leaf- in bean plant) was the dominant acceptor even in conditions of limited supply of assimilates.Specific activity of root - donor of phosphorus, depends on the roofs metabolic and physiological activity only in the case, when supply of P to the aerial parts is not a factor limiting photosynthesis. If the activity of the whole root system is relatively low (like in preshaded series of sunflower) the photosynthetic compensation observed in plants replaced into better conditions coincides with compensation of P-absorption (both calculated per g of dry matter). It may explain the existence of a functional balance between shoot and root activity in the case of a changed proportion between their sizes.
The Pteridophyta of the Kundalila Falls, Zambia
Authors: Koraś Jan
Published: May 2015

40 species of Pteridophyta occur at the Kundalila Falls, near Serenje in the Central Province of Zambia. Many of them have disjunct geographical distributions. Hygrophilous plant communities of wet rocks and evergreen fringing forests, in which these species grow, seem to represent a relict vegetation type.
Detection of potato virus X in potato leaves by means of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
Authors: Czupryn Marta , Błaszczyk Maria
Published: May 2015

A rapid method of detection and evaluation of potato virus X (PVX) infection in potato leaves is described. The method is based on: 1) discarding of major part of cytoplasmic proteins from leaf homogenate by precipitation with polyethylene glycol in final concentration of 2%, 2) precipitation of virus containing fraction by increasing the concentration of polyethylene glycol to 3.5% and electrophoretic identification of virus coat protein extracted from this fraction. The procedure allows early detection of PVX in plants inoculated with virus as well as grown from infected tubers.