bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gossypin as a Novel Selective Dual Inhibitor of v-raf Murine Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog B1 and Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4 for Melanoma
Authors: Bhaskaran Shylesh , Dileep Kalarikkal V. , Deepa Sathyaseelan S. , Sadasivan Chittalakkottu , Klausner Mitch , Krishnegowda Naveen K. , Tekmal Rajeshwar R. , VandeBerg John L. , Nair Hareesh B.
Published: March 2013

Mutation in the BRAF gene (BRAFV600E) exists in nearly 70% of human melanomas. Targeted therapy against BRAFV600E kinase using a recently identified RAF-selective inhibitor, PLX4032, has been successful in early clinical trials. However, in patients with the normal BRAF allele (wild-type), PLX4032 is protumorigenic. This conundrum identifies the unmet need for novel therapeutic agents to target BRAFV600E kinase that are not counterproductive. We have identified gossypin, a pentahydroxy flavone, as a potent antimelanoma agent. Gossypin inhibited human melanoma cell proliferation, in vitro, in melanoma cell lines that harbor both BRAFV600E kinase and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) as well as in cells with BRAF wild-type allele. Gossypin inhibited kinase activities of BRAFV600E and CDK4, in vitro, possibly through direct binding of gossypin with these kinases, as confirmed by molecular docking studies. For cells harboring the BRAFV600E, gossypin inhibited cell proliferation through abrogation of the MEK–ERK–cyclin D1 pathway and in cells with BRAF wild-type allele, through attenuation of the retinoblastoma–cyclin D1 pathway. Furthermore, gossypin significantly inhibited melanoma growth in an organotypic three-dimensional skin culture mimicking human skin. Gossypin (10 and 100 mg/kg) treatment for 10 days in human melanoma (A375) cell xenograft tumors harboring BRAFV600E significantly reduced tumor volume through induction of apoptosis and increased survival rate in mice, and the effect was significantly superior to that of PLX4032 (10 mg/kg) or roscovitine 10 mg/kg. In summary, this study identified gossypin as a novel agent with dual inhibitory effects for BRAFV600E kinase and CDK4 for treatment of melanoma. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(4); 361–72. ©2013 AACR.
Combination of Intermittent Calorie Restriction and Eicosapentaenoic Acid for Inhibition of Mammary Tumors
Authors: Mizuno Nancy K. , Rogozina Olga P. , Seppanen Christine M. , Liao D. Joshua , Cleary Margot P. , Grossmann Michael E.
Published: April 2013

There are a number of dietary interventions capable of inhibiting mammary tumorigenesis; however, the effectiveness of dietary combinations is largely unexplored. Here, we combined 2 interventions previously shown individually to inhibit mammary tumor development. The first was the use of the omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and the second was the implementation of calorie restriction. MMTV-Her2/neu mice were used as a model for human breast cancers, which overexpress Her2/neu. Six groups of mice were enrolled. Half were fed a control (Con) diet with 10.1% fat calories from soy oil, whereas the other half consumed a diet with 72% fat calories from EPA. Within each diet, mice were further divided into ad libitum (AL), chronic calorie-restricted (CCR), or intermittent calorie-restricted (ICR) groups. Mammary tumor incidence was lowest in ICR-EPA (15%) and highest in AL-Con mice (87%), whereas AL-EPA, CCR-Con, CCR-EPA, and ICR-Con groups had mammary tumor incidence rates of 63%, 47%, 40%, and 59%, respectively. Survival was effected similarly by the interventions. Consumption of EPA dramatically reduced serum leptin (P < 0.02) and increased serum adiponectin in the AL-EPA mice compared with AL-Con mice (P < 0.001). Both CCR and ICR decreased serum leptin and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) compared with AL mice but not compared with each other. These results illustrate that mammary tumor inhibition is significantly increased when ICR and EPA are combined as compared with either intervention alone. This response may be related to alterations in the balance of serum growth factors and adipokines. Cancer Prev Res; 6(6); 540–7. ©2013 AACR.
Endothelial Junction Regulation: A Prerequisite for Leukocytes Crossing the Vessel Wall
Authors: Daniel Anna E. , van Buul Jaap D.
Published: April 2013

The leukocytes of the innate immune system, especially neutrophils and monocytes, exit the circulation early in the response to local inflammation and infection. This is necessary to control and prevent the spread of infections before an adaptive immune response can be raised. The endothelial cells and the intercellular junctions that connect them form a barrier that leukocytes need to pass in order to get to the site of inflammation. The junctions are tightly regulated which ensures that leukocytes only exit when and where they are needed. This regulation is disturbed in many chronic inflammatory diseases which are characterized by ongoing recruitment and interstitial accumulation of leukocytes. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms that regulate endothelial cell-cell junctions and prevent or permit leukocyte transendothelial migration.
Enterococcus faecalis
Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Dahl Anders , Rasmussen Rasmus V. , Bundgaard Henning , Hassager Christian , Bruun Louise E. , Lauridsen Trine K. , Moser Claus , Sogaard Peter , Arpi Magnus , Bruun Niels E.
Published: March 2013

Background—

Because of the nephrotoxic effects of aminoglycosides, the Danish guidelines on infective endocarditis were changed in January 2007, reducing gentamicin treatment in enterococcal infective endocarditis from 4 to 6 weeks to only 2 weeks. In this pilot study, we compare outcomes in patients with
Enterococcus faecalis
infective endocarditis treated in the years before and after endorsement of these new recommendations.

Methods and Results—

A total of 84 consecutive patients admitted with definite left-sided
E faecalis
endocarditis in the period of 2002 to 2011 were enrolled. Forty-one patients were treated before and 43 patients were treated after January 1, 2007. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics. At hospitalization, the 2 groups had similar estimated glomerular filtration rates of 66 and 75 mL/min (
P
=0.22). Patients treated before January 2007 received gentamicin for a significantly longer period (28 versus 14 days;
P
<0.001). The primary outcome, 1-year event-free survival, did not differ: 66% versus 69%, respectively (
P
=0.75). At discharge, the patients treated before 2007 had a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (45 versus 66 mL/min;
P
=0.008) and a significantly greater decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (median, 11 versus 1 mL/min;
P
=0.009) compared with those treated after 2007.

Conclusions—

Our present pilot study suggests that the recommended 2-week treatment with gentamicin seems adequate and preferable in treating non–high-level aminoglycoside-resistant
E faecalis
infective endocarditis. The longer duration of gentamicin treatment is associated with worse renal function. Although the certainty of the clinical outcomes is limited by the sample size, outcomes appear to be no worse with the shorter treatment duration. Randomized, controlled studies are warranted to substantiate these results.
Towards Historicizing “Magic” in Antiquity
Authors: Otto Bernd-Christian
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Even though the concept of “magic” has suffered severe criticism in academic discourse, the category continues to be used in many disciplines. During the last two decades, classicists in particular have engaged in a lively discussion over “magic” and have produced an impressive amount of written output. Given the impossibility of defining “magic” in a consistent and widely accepted manner, one cannot help but wonder what these scholars are actually talking about. Hence this paper purports (a) to critically review the recent debate on “magic” in Classical Studies, (b) to advocate for abandoning an abstract category of “magic” in favour of a proper analysis of ancient sources and (c) to historicize the term “magic” in Antiquity, that is, to muse on its ancient semantics, functions, and contexts. This methodological approach does not only overcome the major problems inherent in modern definitions of “magic,” but will also yield new insights into terminologies, modes of thought and speech strategies that underlie ancient religious discourses.
Regarding Rocky: A Theoretical and Ethnographic Exploration of Interspecies Intersubjectivity
Authors: Young Robert L.
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Both theoretical and empirical work in a variety of disciplines has resulted in a recent turn away from Cartesian and Meadian anthropocentrism in the direction of a radical reconsideration of nonhuman animal mind and agency. Central to sociology’s role in envisioning a repopulated social world is the analysis of nonhuman-human social interaction. Because all social action is predicated on certain assumptions regarding the minds of others, a theory of intersubjectivity must be at the core of any such project. It is argued here that the key elements employed in Alfred Schutz’s conceptualization of intersubjectivity among humans are also demonstrated in the routine communicative projects of humans and their companion animals. After presenting a Schutzian theory of intersubjectivity, this article analyzes, from an ethnographic perspective, elements of the everyday lifeworld Rocky—a deaf, paraplegic cat—cohabits with the author and other family members. Through that analysis, the paper demonstrates that the dynamics of everyday interactions through which Rocky actively participates in the creation of meaning and the achievement of understanding is highly consistent with Schutz’s theory of human intersubjectivity.
The Metaphor at Stake in Ezra 9:8
Authors: Moffat Donald P.
Published: March 2013

Abstract

This article argues that the tendency to interpret the stake metaphor in Ezra 9:8 as a reference to security is out of step with the sentiments of the penitential prayer in which it is used. The prayer emphasizes community vulnerability. Other uses of the stake as a metaphor in the Hebrew Bible include an element of divine dependence either explicitly or implicitly. The metaphor is precisely in tune with the sentiments of the prayer and represents Yahweh-dependent support. Interpretations need to reflect the nuances of the metaphor while translations must be careful not to obscure its subtleties.
The Syntax of the Periphrastic Progressive in the Septuagint and the New Testament
Authors: Bentein Klaas
Published: March 2013

Abstract

In this article, I discuss the use of the periphrastic progressive construction of εἰµί with present participle in the Septuagint and the New Testament. I argue that a broad distinction can be made between two main uses, called “durative progressive” and “focalized progressive.” In both cases, a number of syntactic frames can be specified in which the periphrastic construction occurs. I conclude the article by discussing the relationship between the Septuagintal and the New Testamental use of the periphrastic construction, arguing that while there are many similarities, this relationship should not be conceived of in terms of imitation, as some scholars have suggested.
Description of Schistonchus superbus n. sp. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae), an associate of Ficus superba in China
Authors: Zeng Yongsan , Ye Weimin , Li Changhui , Wang Xinrong , Du Zhijian , Giblin-Davis Robin M.
Published: March 2013

A new nematode species was recovered from the syconia of Ficus superba from the South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, during a survey of nematode biodiversity from 2007 to 2012. It is described herein as Schistonchus superbus n. sp. and is characterised by possessing the combined characters of a short post-uterine sac and digitate tail without a mucron in females, excretory pore located near the metacorpus, amoeboid sperm, a unique wedge-shaped male tail with variable tip and two pairs of subventral papillae, absence of a gubernaculum and possession of sickle-shaped spicules without a cucullus and with a thorn-shaped rostrum. Schistonchus superbus n. sp. is typologically differentiated from all other described species in this genus by the possession of a wedge-shaped tail in males and a digitate tail without mucron in females. Schistonchus superbus n. sp. was easily differentiated from other sequenced species by the partial small subunit rRNA gene (SSU), D3 expansion segment of the large subunit rRNA gene (LSU) and mitochondrial DNA subunit I (mtCOI). Phylogenetic analysis with partial SSU sequences suggests that S. superbus n. sp. is sister to S. caprifici and S. hirtus, and is a polyphyletic relative to other Schistonchus species that have been sequenced. Based on inferences using LSU D3 sequence data, S. superbus n. sp. is in a well-supported monophyletic clade with S. caprifici, S. hirtus and S. macrophylla.
Finding the Edges of Payday Lending
Authors: Aitken Rob
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Although virtually unknown in 1990, payday lending has become an important and profitable credit practice over the past two decades. Because of this growth, and because it has been implicated in ever-increasing levels of debt among the poor, payday lending has been confronted by an active political movement which has had some success in imposing forms of regulation in the United States and abroad. This paper argues, however, that this activism has failed to address the increasingly globalized nature of payday lending. Over the past five years, in particular, payday lending has become a thoroughly globalized practice deeply connected to and enabled by liberalized global financial markets. This paper reflects on the distance between the activism that now confronts it in national or subnational contexts and this increasingly global reach of payday lending. It concludes by making the case for a more fully globalized conception of global financial justice.
The Heads of the Godhead The Number of Heads/Faces of Yoginīs and Bhairavas in Early Śaiva Tantras
Authors: Törzsök Judit
Published: March 2013

This paper examines the prescriptions for multi-headed representations of śaiva deities, in particular of yoginīs and Bhairavas, in early tantric or āgamic literature. Multi-headed deities appear mostly in the prescriptions of mantra images, usually without any discussion of their material representation. The paper shows that the four-faced mantric representation of Śiva, Bhairava and other divine creatures precedes the five-headed one, as is observable in epic literature and in art history. The fifth head is associated with tantric or āgamic śaivism, whose supreme deity is the five-headed Sadāśiva. As the five-headed mantra image becomes the standard, texts are rewritten to conform to this norm. Moreover, female deities are also often assimilated to this god and can be assigned four or five heads depending on the context. It is suggested as a hypothesis that the four-faced Śiva, or rather Īśvara, was perhaps adopted from the proto-tantric currents of the Atimārga (or from one particular current), from a representation whose Eastern or frontal face represented Śiva as half man, half woman (ardhanārīśvara).
Frustrating Noble Intentions
Authors: Pohrib Aurelia Marina
Published: March 2013

Abstract

This article will show that the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutorial strategy may hamper any deterrent effect created by the Court, by analyzing the flaws of the prosecutorial strategy as it relates to the ICC’s possibility of deterring future violations. The deterrence goal of the ICC and the Prosecutor’s “policy of focused investigations and prosecutions” on those “who bear the greatest responsibility” do not “constitute a harmonious whole; rather, they pull in different directions, diminishing each other’s power and creating tensions.”
The Sempra Annulment Decision of 29 June 2010 and Subsequent Developments in Investment Arbitration Dealing with the Necessity Defence
Authors: Cristani Federica
Published: March 2013

Abstract

On 29 June 2010, an ad hoc International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) Annulment Committee annulled the 2007 Sempra Award for manifest excess of powers (within the meaning of the ICSID Convention), as it found that the Tribunal had failed to apply the correct law. The decision took into account the measures adopted by the Argentine Government to face the 2001 economic and political crisis and (like other previous awards and decisions on similar cases) raised the issue of the interpretation and application of the necessity defence in situations of economic emergencies. The approach of the ad hoc Committee on this particular point is the main focus of this note.
In the Border-Land of Literalism: Interpretative Scripture Alterations in Medieval Karaite Translations of the Bible into Arabic
Authors: Zawanowska Marzena
Published: March 2013

With a perfectly faithful translation being but a pipe dream, every interpreter exercises certain degree of freedom in choosing what he perceives as the most appropriate representation of the source text in the target language. This flexible dimension is discernible also in overall literalistic approach of medieval Karaite translators of the Hebrew Bible into Arabic. The article focuses on non-theological alterations demonstrated in their renderings of scriptural verses, which are intended to modify rather than clarify the original meanings. It pays special attention to distinct ways in which these exegetes cope with the descriptions of indecent, improper or irrational behavior from the revered Forefathers—Patriarchs, Matriarchs and prophets of the Jewish nation.
Review — The Orientation of Cellulose Microfibrils in the cell walls of Tracheids in Conifers
Authors: Abe Hisashi , Funada Ryo
Published: March 2013

We examined the orientation of cellulose microfibrils (Mfs) in the cell walls of tracheids in some conifer species by field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and developed a model on the basis of our observations. Mfs depositing on the primary walls in differentiating tracheids were not well-ordered. The predominant orientation of the Mfs changed from longitudinal to transverse, as the differentiation of tracheids proceeded. The first Mfs to be deposited in the outer layer of the secondary wall (S1 layer) were arranged as an S-helix. Then the orientation of Mfs changed gradually, with rotation in the clockwise direction as viewed from the lumen side of tracheids, from the outermost to the innermost S1 layer. Mfs in the middle layer of the secondary wall (S2 layer) were oriented in a steep Z-helix with a deviation of less than 15° within the layer. The orientation of Mfs in the inner layer of the secondary wall (S3 layer) changed, with rotation in a counterclockwise direction as viewed from the lumen side, from the outermost to the innermost S3 layer. The angle of orientation of Mfs that were deposited on the innermost S3 layer varied among tracheids from 40° in a Z-helix to 20° in an S-helix.
A Study of Eucalyptus Grandis and Eucalyptus Globulus Branch wood Microstructure
Authors: Washusen Russell , Evans Robert , Southerton Simon
Published: March 2013

Experimental measurements of cellulose crystallite width and microfibril angle (MFA) by X-ray diffractometry on SilviScan-2 and by conventional microtechniques revealed that the branch wood of the two species exhibited very similar trends in cellulose crystallite width and MFA. Cellulose crystallite width was greater on the upper side of the branches. Tension wood, as defined by the occurrence of gelatinous fibres, was found where cellulose crystallite width was greater than 3.0 nm and 3.1 nm in Eucalyptus grandis and E. globulus respectively. In the tension wood zones, MFA was lower than in the rest of the samples and so could be used to differentiate tension wood. On the lower side of the branches MFA determined from X-ray diffractometry unexpectedly exceeded 40° and fibres were often buckled in both the tangential and radial directions in both species. This local variation in the direction of the fibre axes contributed only slightly to the magnitude of the MFA determined by SilviScan-2. Even given this misalignment, the additional evidence gained from pit angles and cracks in fibre walls suggested that the MFA was indeed around 40° in the lower radius of the branches. This MFA is considerably larger than would be expected for eucalypt stem wood and it is suggested that opposite wood in eucalypt branches may provide a complimentary structural role to that of the tension wood. Experimental measurements of crystallite width produced by SilviScan-2 may be used to accurately locate tension wood zones in both species.
Radial Variation of Fiber Length Increment in Acacia Mangium
Authors: Honjo K. , Furukawa I. , Sahri M.H.
Published: March 2013

The radial variation of fiber length increment (due to intrusive growth) and its relation with internal and external (climatic) factors were investigated for Acacia mangium trees collected in Indonesia and Malaysia. Wood fiber length and fiber length increment were approximated with respect to the distance from the pith (x) by a logarithmic function and vessel element length by a linear function. The results were y = 0.14 . ln(x) + 0.48, y = 0.0005 . x + 0.20, and y = 0.13 . ln(x) + 0.31, respectively. The radial variation of fiber length was related to the growth rate rather than the age of the cambium. The results of the cross-correlation function between wood fiber length increment and climatic factors showed that fiber lengths responded to changes in precipitation with a time lag of between zero to four months.
Histochemical Study of the Chemical Composition of Vestured Pits in two Species of Eucalyptus
Authors: Watanabe Yoko , Sano Yuzou , Asada Takayuki , Funada Ryo
Published: March 2013

We analyzed the chemical composition of vestures of vessel elements and wood fibres of Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Eucalyptus globulus by ultraviolet (UV) microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) after staining with potassium permanganate (KMnO4) or the PATAg reaction, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Samples were treated with dilute solutions of NaOH at various concentrations. Before treatment with alkali, the vestures on the secondary walls of vessel elements and wood fibres were visible on UV micrographs taken at 280 nm and were strongly stained by KMnO4. Vestures were strongly stained by the PATAg reaction in samples that had been treated with 0.1% NaOH. However, treatment with higher concentrations of NaOH dissolved the vestures. FE-SEM observations showed that the process of dissolution of vestures during alkali extraction differed between the two species. It appears that vestures in Eucalyptus woods consist mainly of alkali-soluble polyphenols and polysaccharides. In addition, the chemical composition of vestures may differ between the two species of Eucalyptus that we examined.
Compression Wood does not Form in the Roots of Pinus Radiata
Authors: Hsu Linda C.Y. , Walker John C.F. , Butterfield Brian G. , Jackson Sandra L.
Published: March 2013

We investigated the potential for the roots of Pinus radiata D. Don to form compression wood. Compression wood was not observed in either the tap or any lateral roots further than 300 mm from the base of the stem. This suggests that either the roots do not experience the stresses required to induce compression wood formation, or that they lack the ability to form it. Roots artificially subjected to mechanical stress also failed to develop compression wood. It is therefore unlikely that an absence of a compressive load on buried roots can account for the lack of compression wood. Application of auxin to the cambia of lateral roots was similarly ineffective at inducing the formation of compression wood. These observations suggest that the buried roots of radiata pine lack the ability to develop compression wood. We also report the formation of an atypical S3 wall layer in the mechanically-stressed and auxin-treated tracheids and suggest that a reaction wood that is different to compression wood may well form in roots.
Distribution of Libriform Fibers and Presence of Spiral Thickenings in Fifteen Species of Acer
Authors: Vazquez-Cooz Iris , Meyer Robert W.
Published: March 2013

Fifteen Acer species were examined to study distribution and percentage by area of their libriform fibers. Safranin-O and astra blue dissolved in alcohol solution is an effective differential staining method to identify and localize libriform fibers. They have larger lumens than fiber tracheids, intercellular spaces, and occur in various patterns, ranging from large groups to wavy bands. In some cases they occur in radial files. The percentage by area of libriform fibers ranges from 14 to 40%. Inconspicuous to moderately visible spiral thickenings are part of the Acer libriform fibers and fiber tracheids. Differences in stain reactions and fluorescence indicate that libriform fibers differ in lignin concentration or composition from fiber tracheids – the concentration of syringyl lignin is greater in libriform fibers.
Annual Growth Rings in a Sample of Hymenaea Courbaril
Authors: Westbrook Jessica A. , Guilderson Thomas P. , Colinvaux Paul A.
Published: March 2013

Several tropical tree species form regular growth rings that may be annual and thus be useful in paleoclimate reconstructions. Regular growth rings were observed in one stem disk of the tropical legume Hymenaea courbaril harvested near the city of David, Panama. By comparison to annual reference Δ14C values from temperate tree wood and air, Δ14C values from the growth rings in this H. courbaril sample indicated the rings were annual. During this study, H. courbaril was also observed to translocate recently produced photosynthate into older growth rings as sapwood is converted to heartwood. This process alters the overall Δ14C values of these transitional growth rings as organic carbon with a higher Δ14C content is translocated into growth rings with relatively lower Δ14C content. Proper chemical pretreatment can recover the original cellulose Δ14C content.
SEASONAL VARIATION IN WOOD FORMATION OF CEDRELA FISSILIS (MELIACEAE)
Authors: Marcati Carmen Regina , Angyalossy Veronica , Evert Ray Franklin
Published: March 2013

Cambial activity and periodicity of secondary xylem formation in Cedrela fissilis, a semi-ring-porous species, were studied. Wood samples were collected periodically from 1996 to 2000. The phenology was related to climate data of the region. The cambium has one active and one dormant period per year. The active period coincides with the wet season when trees leaf-out. The dormant period coincides with the dry season when trees lose their leaves. Growth rings are marked by parenchyma bands that begin to be formed, together with the small latewood vessels, just before the cambium becomes dormant at the beginning of the dry season. These bands are added to when the cambium reactivates in the wet season. At this time, the large earlywood vessels of the growth rings are also formed. As these bands consist of both terminal and initial parenchyma, we suggest the general term marginal bands be used to describe them. The growth layers vary in width among and within the trees.
Alterations in Vessel Size in Twigs Of Quercus Robur and Q. Petraea Upon Defoliation and Consequences For Water Transport Under Drought
Authors: Thomas Frank M. , Bartels Christiane , Gieger Thomas
Published: March 2013

In the complex of natural factors responsible for damage to the Central European oak species Quercus robur and Q. petraea, repeated defoliation and drought are considered the most important ones. To investigate the impact of these factors on xylem anatomy and hydraulic conductance, saplings of both species were manually defoliated in the spring of two consecutive years, and equal fractions of defoliated and control saplings were subjected to drought stress in the third year of the study. Defoliation did not significantly reduce the annual ring width of the twigs, but in the twigs of Q. robur it resulted in a significant reduction of the cross-sectional area of early- and latewood vessels, and in a shift in the distribution of the earlywood vessel cross-sectional areas towards smaller size classes in the year after the first defoliation. In the earlywood of Q. petraea twigs, repeated defoliation led to a significant increase in the cross-sectional vessel areas and to a shift in their distribution towards larger size classes. No significant differences in the percentage loss of hydraulic conductance (PLC) occurred between trees that had been defoliated in two successive years prior to the drought experiment and control trees. However, PLC was significantly increased by drought. The different responses of the oak species are attributed to their different capability to recover from the applied stress factors.
The Distribution and Structure of Pits Between Vessels and Imperforate Tracheary Elements in Angiosperm Woods
Authors: Sano Yuzou , Ohta Tomohiro , Jansen Steven
Published: March 2013

This study focuses on the interspecific variation in the distribution and structure of pits between vessels and imperforate tracheary elements. Specimens from the outer sapwood of eight species, in which vessel elements are frequently in contact with fibres and/or tracheids, were prepared using two different techniques and examined by field-emission scanning electron microscopy. In three species in which vessels are surrounded by vasicentric tracheids and/or fibres with distinctly bordered pits, pit pairs frequently occurred in walls between vessels and imperforate tracheary elements. In the five species in which vessels are in contact with fibres with indistinctly bordered pits, no or very few pit pairs were present, and blind pits were often found. Blind pits were exclusively present in vessel elements in some species, while they were restricted to imperforate tracheary elements in other species. The nature of vessel to imperforate tracheary element pitting appears to depend on tracheary element specialization.
Anatomy, Cell Wall Structure and Topochemistry of Water-Logged Archaeological wood aged 5,200 and 4,500 years
Authors: Čufar Katarina , Gričar Jožica , Zupančič Martin , Koch Gerald , Schmitt Uwe
Published: March 2013

Evaluating the state of deterioration of water-logged archaeological wood is necessary in order to select treatments for its conservation and storage, particularly in the case of valuable archaeological artefacts. For this purpose archaeological wood of ash (Fraxinus sp.) and oak (Quercus sp.) buried in water-logged conditions at prehistoric settlements on the Ljubljansko barje (Ljubljana moor), Slovenia, aged approx. 5,200 and 4,500 years, was investigated by means of light microscopy (LM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cellular UV-microspectrophotometry (UMSP). LM and TEM revealed that the ash wood aged 5,200 years was the least preserved. The secondary walls of fibres, vessels and parenchyma cells were considerably thinner than in normal wood, indicating distinct degradation. TEM and UMSP additionally revealed strong delignification of the remaining parts of the secondary walls of all cell types. The compound middle lamellae appeared structurally intact, but had lower UV-absorbance than normal wood of the same species. The cell corners were topochemically unchanged, as shown by high analogue UV-absorbance. The UV-absorbance maxima at a wavelength of 278 nm corresponded to those of hardwood lignins. The oak heartwood was generally better preserved than the ash wood. Within each species, the 4,500- year-old samples generally appeared better preserved than those 5,200 years old.
Stem Protective Tissue in Erythroxylum Tortuosum (Erythroxylaceae), A Fire Tolerant Species from Cerrado
Authors: Antonio Alonso Alexandre , Machado Silvia Rodrigues
Published: March 2013

The origin and structure are described of the secondary protective tissue in the stem of Erythorxylum tortuosum Mart., a fire tolerant shrubby species common in Brazilian cerrado. The highly tortuous stems are covered with thick bark which is more developed at the base of the stem. After fire in the cerrado, rhytidome fragments of the burned stem flake off, revealing newly formed cork. The first periderm appears near of the terminal buds and is iniated by periclinal divisions in subepidermal cells giving rise to radial rows of cells. The first phellogen is discernible only after the differentiation of the several radial rows of cork cells. Other phellogens have their origin in successively deeper layers of the cortex. The sucessive periderms are discontinuous around the circumference. The collapsed cells with phenolic substances and the accumulated dead cells cause the formation of discontinuous blackish lines, which delimit the sucessive periderms in the rhytidome. The rhytidome contains large quantities of sclereids developed from cell wall thickening of cortex cells. The occurrence of periderm in the young parts of the stem and of rhytidome in the older parts represents pyrophytic characteristics and may explain, in part, the fire tolerance of this species.
Fundamental Differences Between two Fiber Types in Acer
Authors: Vazquez-Cooz Iris , W. Meyer Robert
Published: March 2013

Our earlier studies on Acer have shown morphological and chemical differences between two fiber types. Our new research applies the soft-rot cavity method using the soft-rot fungus Chaetomium globosum to measure the microfibril angle (MFA) in these two fiber types in fifteen species of Acer (maple). Microfibril angles in fiber type 1 were significantly larger than those in fiber type 2. The greatest difference (11.6°) was noted in radial sections of Acer floridanum, in which the average MFA (n =100) obtained from soft-rot cavities for fiber type 1 was 23.3 degrees (95 % C.I. ±1.4°) and for fiber type 2 11.7 degrees (95 % C.I. ±1.2°). The second greatest difference (10.0°) was in Acer nigrum, where the average MFA for type 1 was 16.4 degrees (95 % C.I. ±1.07°) and for type 2 6.4 degrees (95 % C.I. ± 0.64°). When transverse sections were examined with polarized light, areas of fiber type 1 were darker (less birefringent) than those of type 2, which indicates that the MFA of the two cell types differs. After four weeks of exposure to C. globosum the fibers of type 1 were more intensely attacked by the fungus than were the fibers of type 2, suggesting a difference in cell wall chemistry. Fluorescence spectra of the two types of fibers support that observation. Differences in MFA supplement the differences in morphology and chemistry and demonstrate that for Acer species the two fiber types are fundamentally different. These two types of fiber differ in the distribution of their pits. In type 1 the pits are concentrated mainly toward the center of the fiber while in type 2 the pits are distributed along the fiber length.
Wall Sculpturing in Vessel Elements of Juglans Species of the United States
Authors: Eom Young Geun , Kwon Ohkyung , Hanna Robert B. , Meyer Robert W.
Published: March 2013

Wall sculpturing in the vessel elements of some Juglans species of the United States, four black walnuts (J. major, J. nigra, J. microcarpa (= J. rupestris), and J. californica) and one butternut (J. cinerea), was investigated through light and scanning electron microscopy. This feature showed various forms such as helical and reticulate thickenings, and thickening-like structures formed by coalescent pit apertures and large vessel to ray pits. Light to prominent wall sculpturing occurred regularly in black walnuts but fine and indistinctive wall sculpturing was observed rarely in butternut. Thus, vessel wall sculpturing was of some diagnostic value for separating black walnut from butternut.
Cambial Activity and Wood Anatomy in Prosopis Spicigera (Mimosaceae) Affected by Combined air Pollutants
Authors: Rajput Kishore S. , Rao K. S. , Kim Y. S.
Published: March 2013

Seasonal cambial activity and xylem anatomy were studied in Prosopis spicigera Linn. (Mimosaceae) growing under the influence of combined air pollutants. Cambial cell division and differentiation of secondary xylem began in April, reached a peak in July–August and ceased in October in trees (normal) growing in a relatively unpolluted locality. In contrast, in trees (affected) growing near a fertilizer complex, the initiation of cambial activity was delayed by one month and the cambium ceased to divide in September. Considerable variations were noticed in the structure and arrangement of xylem derivatives between affected and normal trees. The vessel lumen diameter was reduced and vessel frequency was significantly higher in the affected trees. Axial parenchyma was aliform to confluent in normal trees compared to mainly vasicentric parenchyma with heavy accumulation of tannin contents in affected trees. Cambial activity and xylem development did not show any correlation with the phenology of affected trees.
Perforated Ray Cells in the Wood of Roots and Branches of Cerrado Species from Brazil
Authors: Sonsin Julia Oliveira , Machado Silvia Rodrigues , Marcati Carmen Regina
Published: March 2013

Perforated ray cells (PRCs) are recorded here for the first time in the roots and branches of Schefflera vinosa, Caryocar brasiliense, Acosmium subelegans, Byrsonima basiloba, B. coccolobifolia, B. verbascifolia and Alibertia concolor which occur in Pratâniaʼs cerrado (SP, Brazil). PRCs are larger than normal ray cells, occurring isolated or in groups of two or more in the same ray, and are present predominantly in the uniseriate portion of multiseriate rays in all species studied. In the roots and branches, the types of perforation plates (PP) of the PRCs are similar to those of the vessel elements (VE) in most species, with the exception of the branches of Schefflera vinosa and the branches and roots of Caryocar brasiliense. The diameter of the PRC plates was greater in the roots than in the branches, but the differences were only statistically significant in Schefflera vinosa, Byrsonima basiloba and B. verbascifolia. In a general way the PRC plates were greater in diameter than the VE plates in both roots and branches of most species.
Wood Anatomy Of Flueggea Anatolica (Phyllanthaceae)
Authors: Serdar Bedri , John Hayden W. , Terzioğlu Salih
Published: March 2013

Wood anatomy of Flueggea anatolica Gemici, a relictual endemic from southern Turkey, is described and compared with wood of its presumed relatives in Phyllanthaceae (formerly Euphorbiaceae subfamily Phyllanthoideae). Wood of this critically endangered species may be characterized as semi-ring porous with mostly solitary vessels bearing simple perforations, alternate intervessel pits and helical thickenings; imperforate tracheary elements include helically thickened vascular tracheids and septate libriform fibers; axial parenchyma consists of a few scanty paratracheal cells; rays are heterocellular, 1 to 6 cells wide, with some perforated cells present. Anatomically, Flueggea anatolica possesses a syndrome of features common in Phyllanthaceae known in previous literature as Glochidion-type wood structure; as such, it is a good match for woods from other species of the genus Flueggea.
Wood Fluorescence of Commercial Timbers Marketed in Mexico
Authors: Silva Guzmán J.A. , Richter H.G. , Rodríguez Anda R. , Fuentes Talavera F.J.
Published: March 2013

A market survey conducted in Mexico yielded 579 wood specimens attributed to 92 genera belonging to 40 families. The fluorescence characteristics of these timbers and their extracts were determined. Additional tests were conducted for the presence of natural saponins and aluminium. The combustion behavior (burning splinter test) was also studied. The results obtained largely concur with information on wood fluorescence and other physical characteristics published earlier. The families Fabaceae, Anacardiaceae and Rubiaceae showed positive fluorescence for a large number of genera or species. Vochysia was the only genus with a positive reaction to the test for aluminium. The froth test for natural saponins can contribute to wood identification in specific cases. The results of the burning splinter test are unambiguous only as regards the difference between charcoal and ash; ash characteristics (consistency, color) are difficult to interpret and their successful application in wood identification considered doubtful. The use of fluorescence and other physical features can be a very useful adjunct to the classical methods of wood identification in specific cases arising from the market situation and may be applied as rapid and easy tests to verify certain identifications.
Pernambuco Wood (Caesalpinia Echinata) used in the Manufacture of Bows for String Instruments
Authors: Alves Edenise Segala , Longui Eduardo Luiz , Amano Erika
Published: March 2013

The anatomy and the physical, mechanical, acoustical and chemical properties of pernambuco wood (Caesalpinia echinata Lam.) were investigated to determine factors that could explain the different quality of sticks used in bow manufacture. Eighteen sticks were classified into four classes (A to D with A being the best) according to their potential quality for bow manufacture. Selection of samples was based on the experience of a bow maker and on some nondestructive tests. The A-class sticks had a lower frequency of vessels and rays and a higher percentage of fibers when compared to the other classes. They also had higher values of density, speed of sound propagation, modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture. Klason lignin content was higher in the A-class sticks but the quantity of hydrosoluble and ethanol/benzene soluble extractives was lower. The values of density and speed of sound propagation obtained by nondestructive and destructive methods were similar showing the applicability of the former in the prior selection process of the sticks.
Ray Structure Differences between Rootwood and Stemwood in a Range of Softwood Species
Authors: Denne Pat , Turner Siân
Published: March 2013

Differences between the ray structure of rootwood and stemwood were analysed in 11 species from 5 families of gymnosperms. Rootwood was consistently found to have fewer ray tracheids, with ray parenchyma cells which were taller axially, wider tangentially, but shorter radially, and had more pits per cross-field than stemwood. A scale for quantifying types of cross-field pitting is proposed, and statistically significant differences in type and diameter of cross-field pitting were found between rootwood and stemwood of most species sampled. These structural differences have practical implications for identification of gymnosperm roots, and for distinguishing between rootwood and stemwood.
Characterization of Cork Oak (Quercus Suber) Wood Anatomy
Authors: Sousa Vicelina B. , Leal Sofia , Quilhó Teresa , Pereira Helena
Published: March 2013

The cork oak (Quercus suber L.) is important for ecological and socioeconomic sustainability and nature conservation in the Mediterranean area. Anatomical and structural features of cork oak wood were characterized at two sites in Portugal, including never-debarked trees and trees under cork production. Cork oak wood showed semi-ring porosity, solitary vessels with simple perforation plates, and large rays. Vessels were arranged in a diagonal to radial pattern, larger and more abundant in earlywood, and gradually decreasing in intermediate and latewood. In trees under cork production vessel distribution and frequency were altered, with more frequent and smaller pores, and a less distinct porosity pattern. Vessel diameter, element length and frequency were 133 ± 49 μm, 433 ± 103 μm and 2.9 ± 0.5 vessels/mm2 for never-debarked trees and 139 ± 50 μm, 341 ± 100 μm and 5.1 ± 1.5 vessels/mm2 for debarked trees. Multiseriate ray width ranged 0.15–1.04 mm, and uniseriate ray height 9.1–791.3 μm. Fibres had a mean length of 1.15 ± 0.20 mm. Vasicentric tracheids were frequent. Tyloses and crystals were commonly present. The anatomical features of cork oak wood favour water conduction and mechanisms of drought adaptation to the Mediterranean climate. The wood can also adapt to cork removal.
Cenomanian angiosperm wood from the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin, Czech Republic
Authors: Gryc Vladimír , Vavrčík Hanuš , Sakala Jakub
Published: March 2013

The first permineralized angiosperm wood from the Cenomanian of the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin (Czech Republic) is described. The wood is diffuse porous, with vessels solitary and in radial multiples of 2–5, perforation plates are exclusively simple, and tyloses abundant. Rays are usually 4–7-seriate and heterocellular, narrower rays are rare. The fossil is designated as Paraphyllanthoxylon aff. utahense Thayn, Tidwell et Stokes. Other occurrences of Paraphyllanthoxylon are reviewed and the equivocal botanical affinity of the taxon is discussed.
TREE-RING STUDIES IN INDIA PAST APPRAISAL, PRESENT STATUS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS
Authors: Bhattacharyya Amalava , Shah Santosh K.
Published: March 2013

A large number of tree species, especially of conifers growing in the Himalaya and a few broad-leaved taxa in the peninsular region, have been dendrochronologically analyzed in India. This paper is a review providing information as regards the present status and future prospects of tree-ring research in India. Many trees are recorded to have datable tree rings but only some of them have been used for climate reconstruction and other aspects, e.g., glacial fluctuation or palaeo-seismic dating. In future not only ring width which is widely used so far, but also other tree-ring parameters need to be analyzed for a better understanding of the regional climate and its linkage with other climatic phenomena in a global perspective.
A 3585-YEAR RING-WIDTH DATING CHRONOLOGY OF QILIAN JUNIPER FROM THE NORTHEASTERN QINGHAI-TIBETAN PLATEAU
Authors: Shao Xuemei , Wang Shuzhi , Zhu Haifeng , Xu Yan , Liang Eryuan , Yin Zhi-Yong , Xu Xinguo , Xiao Yongming
Published: March 2013

This article documents the development of a precisely dated and wellreplicated long regional tree-ring width dating chronology for Qilian juniper (Juniperus przewalskii Kom.) from the northeastern Qinghai- Tibetan Plateau. It involves specimens from 22 archeological sites, 24 living tree sites, and 5 standing snags sites in the eastern and northeastern Qaidam Basin, northwestern China. The specimens were cross-dated successfully among different groups of samples and among different sites. Based on a total of 1438 series from 713 trees, the chronology covers 3585 years and is the longest chronology by far in China. Comparisons with chronologies of the same tree species about 200 km apart suggest that this chronology can serve for dating purposes in a region larger than the study area. This study demonstrates the great potential of Qilian juniper for dendrochronological research.
DENDROCLIMATOLOGICAL STUDIES OF PICEA LIKIANGENSIS AND TSUGA DUMOSA IN LIJIANG, CHINA
Authors: Guo Gaiai , Li Zong-Shan , Zhang Qi-Bin , Ma Ke-Ping , Mu Conglong
Published: March 2013

Expansion of climate proxy records over space is needed for improving our knowledge of past climate variability. Here we report on a 112-year tree-ring chronology of Picea likiangensis (Franch.) E.Pritz. and a 165- year tree-ring chronology of Tsuga dumosa (D.Don) Eichler for the Lijiang area, northwestern Yunnan, China. Mean correlation coefficients of tree-ring width series among individual trees are 0.48 for P. likiangensis and 0.45 for T. dumosa, indicating a growth response to common environmental variability. Analysis of climate-growth relationships shows that the radial growth of P. likiangensis is mainly negatively correlated with temperature from December of the prior growth year to May of the growth year, and that of T. dumosa is mainly positively correlated with precipitation of January and May in the growth year. We further found that the chronology of T. dumosa can be used to reconstruct the May-June Palmer Drought Severity Index. The reconstruction shows that major wet periods occurred in the 1860s, 1910s and 1940s, and drought periods in 1892–1905, 1914–1924 and 1928–1938. The moisture condition of the late 20th century is characterized by a near-normal state from the 1950s to the 1970s and an increasing trend from 1982 to 2003.