ALBERT

All Library Books, journals and Electronic Records Telegrafenberg

Your email was sent successfully. Check your inbox.

An error occurred while sending the email. Please try again.

Proceed reservation?

Export
Filter
  • nitrogen  (460)
  • evolution  (377)
  • Nitrogen fixation
  • Ultrastructure
  • Springer  (1,333)
  • American Chemical Society
  • Essen : Verl. Glückauf
  • Krefeld : Geologischer Dienst Nordhein-Westfalen
  • 2015-2019
  • 2005-2009
  • 1995-1999  (758)
  • 1985-1989  (575)
Collection
Keywords
Years
Year
  • 1
    facet.materialart.
    Unknown
    Springer
    In:  Heidelberg, Springer, vol. 113, no. XVI:, pp. 1-14, (ISBN 1-56670-263-3)
    Publication Date: 1999
    Keywords: Handbook of geophysics ; Seismology ; Seismics (controlled source seismology) ; Early warning systems (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis etc.) ; Earthquake hazard ; KTB ; ICDP ; IOcean Drilling Program ; climate ; Antarctica ; Nuclear explosion ; Volcanology ; GeodesyY ; satellites ; remote ; sensing ; gas ; hydrates ; Geothermics ; Energy (of earthquakes) ; potable ; water ; waste ; soils ; evolution ; Geol. aspects ; geotechnics ; Engineering geophys. ; ores
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 2
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Entomologia experimentalis et applicata 91 (1999), S. 359-368 
    ISSN: 1570-7458
    Keywords: Barbarea vulgaris ssp. arcuata ; Cruciferae ; Phyllotreta nemorum ; Chrysomelidae ; Alticinae ; flea beetle ; plant defence ; host plant range ; near-isogenic ; Y-linkage ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract A Y-linked gene (R-gene) in the flea beetle Phyllotreta nemorum L. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae) confer the ability of larvae to survive on types of the plant Barbarea vulgaris R.Br. (Brassicaceae) which are immune to attack by susceptible conspecifics. Two near-isogenic flea beetle lines were developed. The YE-line contained the Y-linked R-gene, and male larvae from this line survived on B. vulgaris. The ST-line did not contain the gene and did not survive on the plant. The YE-line had been developed through 8–9 generations of backcrosses (YE-males with ST-females) and the two lines were considered to be isogenic except for genes located on the Y-chromosome. A single copy of the Y-linked gene is sufficient to transfer a susceptible genotype (ST) into a resistant genotype (YE) which is able to utilize a plant that is immune to attack by specimens without R-genes. The Y-linked gene had no effects on survival on other plant species tested. The gene did not have any effect on developmental times and weights of adult beetles reared on other plants than B. vulgaris. Developmental times of larvae with the Y-linked gene were longer on B. vulgaris than on normal host plants, R. sativus and S. arvensis, but the adults obtained the same size on these plant species. No trade-offs of the Y-linked gene were discovered. The results suggest that the occurrence of the Y-linked gene is a derived trait which has enabled the flea beetle to expand its host plant range. The evolution of a host shift to B. vulgaris seems not to be favoured by the presence of this single gene.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 3
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Entomologia experimentalis et applicata 92 (1999), S. 205-216 
    ISSN: 1570-7458
    Keywords: Samea multiplicalis ; Spodoptera pectinicornis ; Pistia stratiotes ; waterlettuce ; nitrogen utilization efficiency ; compensatory feeding ; nitrogen ; biological control of weeds
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Compensatory responses of caterpillars fed low quality food include increased consumption and utilization of essential nutrients. Information about an insect's responses to nutritional challenges from their host plants could benefit weed biological control efforts in the selection and establishment of new agents. The target weed, Pistia stratiotes L. (Araceae) is a floating aquatic plant that has relatively low nitrogen levels which are further diluted with high water content. Efforts to establish the insect Spodoptera pectinicornis (Hampson) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) for biological control of P. stratiotes could benefit by examining the nutritional responses of a similar widely established lepidopteran species, Samea multiplicalis (Guenèe) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Larvae of this species were fed leaves of P. stratiotes plants that had been fertilized (NPK) at high and low rates. The leaves of the fertilized plants had a 4.3-fold increase in nitrogen (dry weight) and a 1.6-fold increase in water content. The results suggest that no compensatory increases occurred in larvae fed leaves from the low fertilized plants as no changes were found in fresh mass consumption or nitrogen utilization efficiency. Consequently, development time from second-third instars to pupation was delayed about 3 days compared with larvae fed the high nitrogen leaves. Furthermore, consumption of nitrogen was only 30% and its accumulation into larval tissues was only 60% compared with the larvae fed the high fertilized leaves. The resulting larvae had both a final biomass and a growth rate that were reduced by 40%. Regardless of plant fertilizer level, the larvae fed at a rate 5–10 times greater than that of similar lepidopteran species consuming either low or high quality diets, suggesting that the S. multiplicalis larvae may be functioning at their biological limit for ingesting food.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 4
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Entomologia experimentalis et applicata 91 (1999), S. 29-35 
    ISSN: 1570-7458
    Keywords: chemoreception ; deterrents ; Pieris ; Brassicaceae ; cardenolides ; host-plant selection ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Pieris butterflies (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) are specialist herbivores of cruciferous plants. They exploit glucosinolates, secondary plant metabolites chemotaxonomically characteristic for this plant family, as token stimuli. In addition to particular glucosinolates, some genera of the Cruciferae contain cardenolides, steroidal allelochemicals that act as potent feeding and oviposition deterrents to several Pieris species. We investigated the sensory mechanisms by which these compounds are perceived in larvae. Pieris caterpillars and many other lepidopterous species are endowed with so-called generalist deterrent receptors, that respond to a broad spectrum of secondary plant substances. In Pieris caterpillars we found a second type of deterrent chemoreceptor in maxillary styloconic taste sensilla. This neuron is very sensitive to cardenolides (threshold 0.1–0.3 μM). The generalist deterrent receptor also responds to these substances but its threshold lies at 50–100× higher concentrations. In behavioural preference experiments Pieris brassicae L. caterpillars preferred cardenolide-treated cabbage leaf discs when confronted with a choice between them and a deterrent substance that does not occur in the Brassicaceae. The cardenolides acted as potent deterrents when offered against untreated cabbage leaf discs. This demonstrates that the balance of activity elicited in the two types of deterrent chemoreceptors determines the behavioural decision.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 5
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Acta biotheoretica 47 (1999), S. 29-40 
    ISSN: 1572-8358
    Keywords: Sexual selection ; mate selection ; gamete selection ; evolution ; ploidy ; asssortative mating
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Results of an agent-based computer simulation of the evolution of diploid sexual organisms showed that several mate selection strategies confer much higher average fitness to the simulated populations, and higher evolutionary stability to the alleles coding for these strategies, than random mating. Strategies which select for 'good genes' were very successful, and so were strategies based on assortative mating. The results support the hypothesis that mating is not likely to be random in nature and that the most successful mate selection strategies are those based on assortative mating or on advantageous genes.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 6
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Entomologia experimentalis et applicata 92 (1999), S. 165-177 
    ISSN: 1570-7458
    Keywords: Chrysomelidae ; herbivory ; Asteraceae ; life history ; nitrogen ; plant quality ; season
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Phytophagous insects which feed on the leaves of herbaceous host plants have to adapt their life histories to the fact that protein nitrogen is usually highest in growing tissues in spring. We monitored field populations of larvae and adults of three chrysomelid species (Galeruca tanaceti (L.) (main host Achillea millefolium (L.) Yarrow), Cassida rubiginosa (Mueller) (main host Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop.) and Oreina luctuosa (Suffrian) (host Centaurea scabiosa (L.)) together with the amount of protein nitrogen of their food resources and host plant biomass. As expected, the development of host quality, measured as concentration of protein nitrogen, and host plant biomass showed inverse trends during the season. The euryphagous G. tanaceti attacks Achillea early and profits from high nitrogen concentrations in the leaves. Occasional overexploitations of local populations of Achillea are compensated by the capacity to move to other host species. In C. rubiginosa, a species with a host range restricted to the Cardueae, the main larval feeding activity is postponed to a period when the nitrogen content of the host leaves had dropped to 50% of its initial value, but when host plant biomass had increased by 30%. In the monophagous O. luctuosa the larval development is synchronized with a still later phase of host phenology, at which the nitrogen content is below 50% but plant biomass has reached its maximum. There seem to be selection factors, which oppose the use of high quality food in spring and which force the latter two species to postpone their larval development to a later time in the year. This could be caused by numerous factors like, for example, mean daytime temperature. Later in the season the larvae have to cope with the low quality of their host plants. They have, however, the advantage of large quantities of food available. A laboratory study with adults and mature larvae of O. luctuosa shows that this species can overcome low levels of protein nitrogen either by selecting younger leaves with higher nitrogen concentrations or by increasing the daily food consumption rate (RCR) on leaves with a low level of nitrogen and by a prolongation of the feeding period. In this way the larvae compensate the effect of lower daily growth rates (RGR) and a lower food conversion index (ECI) on poor food quality: Regardless of the level of protein nitrogen there was no statistically significant difference in total gain of weight during the third-instar feeding period and in the weight at the end of the third larval stage. The three investigated chrysomelids show that there exists a broad spectrum of adaptations to overcome the dilemma of variable food quality.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 7
    ISSN: 1572-879X
    Keywords: adsorption ; adsorption isotherms ; dinitrogen ; FTIR spectroscopy ; geminal species ; NaY ; nitrogen ; zeolites
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Notes: Abstract Adsorption of N2 on NaY zeolites at 85 K and equilibrium pressures higher than 1 kPa results in the formation of geminal dinitrogen complexes characterized by an IR band at 2333.5 cm−1 (2255.4 cm−1 after adsorption of 15N2). With decreasing equilibrium pressure the complexes tend to loose one N2 ligand, thus forming linear species characterized by an IR band at 2336.8 cm−1 (2258.7 cm−1 after adsorption of 15N2). All species disappear completely after evacuation. Co-adsorption of N2 and CO revealed that the dinitrogen complexes are formed on Na+ cations. The changes in the concentrations of the linear and geminal N2 species with the changes in the equilibrium pressure are excellently described by equations of adsorption isotherms proposed earlier for mono- and di-carbonyls.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 8
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Minds and machines 9 (1999), S. 309-346 
    ISSN: 1572-8641
    Keywords: language ; grammar ; syntax ; semantics ; evolution ; emergence ; brain size
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Computer Science , Philosophy
    Notes: Abstract It is commonly argued that the rules of language, as distinct from its semantic features, are the characteristics which most clearly distinguish language from the communication systems of other species. A number of linguists (e.g., Chomsky 1972, 1980; Pinker 1994) have suggested that the universal features of grammar (UG) are unique human adaptations showing no evolutionary continuities with any other species. However, recent summaries of the substantive features of UG are quite remarkable in the very general nature of the features proposed. While the syntax of any given language can be quite complex, the specific rules vary so much between languages that the truly universal (i.e. innate) aspects of grammar are not complex at all. In fact, these features most closely resemble a set of general descriptions of our richly complex semantic cognition, and not a list of specific rules. General principles of the evolutionary process suggest that syntax is more properly understood as an emergent characteristic of the explosion of semantic complexity that occurred during hominid evolution. It is argued that grammatical rules used in given languages are likely to be simply conventionalized, invented features of language, and not the result of an innate, grammar-specific module. The grammatical and syntactic regularities that are found across languages occur simply because all languages attempt to communicate the same sorts of semantic information.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 9
    ISSN: 1572-8757
    Keywords: kinetics ; isotope-exchange ; nitrogen ; adsorption ; methane ; zeolite ; equilibria
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Physics , Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
    Notes: Abstract The Isotope Exchange Technique (IET) was used to simultaneously measure pure and binary gas adsorption equilibria and kinetics (self-diffusivities) of CH4 and N2 on pelletized 4A zeolite. The experiment was carried out isothermally without disturbing the adsorbed phase. CH4 was selectively adsorbed over N2 by the zeolite because of its higher polarizability. The multi-site Langmuir model described the pure gas and binary adsorption equilibria fairly well at three different temperatures. The selectivity of adsorption of CH4 over N2 increased with increasing pressure at constant gas phase composition and temperature. This curious behavior was caused by the differences in the sizes of the adsorbates. The diffusion of CH4 and N2 into the zeolite was an activated process and the Fickian diffusion model described the uptake of both pure gases and their mixtures. The self-diffusivity of N2 was an order of magnitude larger than that for CH4. The pure gas self-diffusivities for both components were constants over a large range of surface coverages (0 〈 θ 〈 0.5). The self-diffusivities of CH4 and N2 from their binary mixtures were not affected by the presence of each other, compared to their pure gas self-diffusivities at identical surface coverages.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 10
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Journal for general philosophy of science 30 (1999), S. 37-58 
    ISSN: 1572-8587
    Keywords: protein ; experimentation ; conceptual variation and selection ; evolution ; Mulder ; Liebig ; Pflüger ; Nägeli
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Philosophy , Nature of Science, Research, Systems of Higher Education, Museum Science
    Notes: Abstract A philosophically comprehended account is given of the genesis and evolution of the concept of protein. Characteristic of this development were not shifts in theory in response to new experimental data, but shifts in the range of questions that the available experimental resources were fit to cope with effectively. Apart from explanatory success with regard to its own range of questions, various other selecting factors acted on a conceptual variant, some stemming from a competing set of research questions, others from an altogether different field of inquiry, and still others from the external environment. These results are best explained on, hence support, an evolutionary model of the progress of experimental investigation, whose outlines are briefly discussed.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 11
    ISSN: 1432-0789
    Keywords: Key words Soil tillage ; Rhizosphere microorganisms ; Cereals ; Nitrogen fixation ; Gaeumanomyces graminis
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Geosciences , Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract  In long-term field experiments on sandy loam and loamy sand soils, the influence of conservation and conventional tillage on soil and rhizosphere microorganisms was studied. Conservation tillage stimulated rhizosphere bacteria on winter wheat, winter barley, winter rye and maize in different soil layers. Particularly the populations of Agrobacterium spp. and Pseudomonas spp. were increased. On the sandy loam, N2 fixation and nodulation of pea plants were significantly increased. No influence of different soil tillage was determined on the colonization of the rhizosphere by mycorrhiza and saprophytic fungi. Stubble residues infected with Gaeumanomyces graminis were infectious for a longer time on the soil surface than after incorporation into the soil.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 12
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biology and fertility of soils 29 (1999), S. 141-145 
    ISSN: 1432-0789
    Keywords: Key words Blue-green algae ; Nitrogen fixation ; Rice ecosystem ; Zooplankton ; Benthos
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Geosciences , Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract  As part of an integrated pest management project to study the role blue-green algae (BGA) may play in the food web of rice-field ecosystems, 14C-labelled filamentous and monocellular BGA were used as food for fish, zooplankton and benthic fauna in artificial rice fields in the form of three aquaria. 14C present in the organisms was then traced by liquid scintillation to follow the manner in which the labelled BGA were consumed by different organisms. In this study the grazing rate of fish (mud carp) was compared to that of benthic organisms and zooplankton. It was found that fish consumed the BGA at the fastest rates and in the largest amounts, followed by the benthic species and zooplankton. It was also found that filamentous BGA were consumed in higher amounts than monocellular BGA. The importance of grazing in nutrient recycling is emphasized.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 13
    ISSN: 1432-0789
    Keywords: Key words Red alder ; White clover ; Nitrogenase activity ; Acetylene reduction assay ; Nitrogen fixation
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Geosciences , Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract  Simultaneous measurements were made to assess the diurnal and seasonal patterns of nitrogenase activity of red alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.) growing together in a silvopastoral agroforestry system using the acetylene reduction assay. Diurnal measurements were made in the summer and autumn at 3-h intervals whereas seasonal nitrogenase activity was assessed based on observations made at midday in July, September and January to represent the summer, autumn and winter seasons, respectively. No obvious diurnal patterns of nitrogenase activity were found in either red alder or white clover in summer and no significant variations in nitrogenase activity were observed between day and night. However, in autumn, pronounced diurnal patterns were observed in both species. Significantly higher rates of nitrogenase activity per unit dry weigh (dwt) of nodules were detected at 1500 hours in red alder, whereas, in white clover, significantly higher rates were obtained at 2100 hours. There was no significant correlation between diurnal nitrogenase activity and air temperature, photosynthetically active radiation and soil temperature at 10 cm depth in either red alder or white clover. Seasonal rates of nitrogenase activity showed significantly higher activity in summer, which subsequently decreased in autumn, to reach very low levels in the winter. The rates of nitrogenase activity of white clover were consistently higher than those of red alder both diurnally and seasonally. In the three seasons sampled, the average nitrogenase activity for white clover was 66.42 μmol C2H4 g dwt–1 h–1, which was 3.5 times higher than the 18.67 μmol C2H4 g dwt–1 h–1 obtained for red alder.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 14
    ISSN: 1432-0789
    Keywords: Key words Arbuscular mycorrhiza ; Collembola ; Nitrogen fertilization ; Nitrogen fixation ; Soil aggregation
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Geosciences , Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract  The effect of the form of N nutrition on soil stability is an important consideration for the management of sustainable agricultural systems. We grew soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] plants in pot cultures in unsterilized soil, and treated them by (1) inoculating them with Bradyrhizobium japonicum, fertilizing with (2) nitrate or (3) ammonia, or (4) by providing only minimum N amendment for the controls. The soils were sampled at 3-week intervals to determine changes in water-stable soil aggregates (WSA), soil pH, the development of roots, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) soil and root colonization, and selected functional groups of soil bacteria. The soil fauna was assayed at the end of the experiment (9 weeks). WSA was correlated positively with root and AM soil mycelium development, but negatively with total bacterial counts. Soil arthropod (Collembola) numbers were negatively correlated with AM hyphal length. Soils of nodulated and ammonia-fertilized plants had the highest levels of WSA and the lowest pH at week 9. Sparse root development in the soils of the N-deficient, control plants indicated that WSA formation was primarily influenced by AM hyphae. The ratio of bacterial counts in the water-stable versus water-unstable soil fractions increased for the first 6 weeks and then declined, while counts of anaerobic bacteria increased with increasing WSA. The numbers of soil invertebrates (nematodes) and protozoans did not correlate with bacterial counts or AM soil-hyphal lengths. Soil pH did not affect mycorrhiza development, but actinomycete counts declined with decreasing soil pH. AM fungi and roots interacted as the factors that affect soil aggregation, regardless of N nutrition.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 15
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Nutrient cycling in agroecosystems 53 (1999), S. 209-218 
    ISSN: 1573-0867
    Keywords: cattle slurry ; fertilizer splitting ; nitrogen ; recovery ; residual nitrogen ; Zea mays L
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract The recovery of soil mineral nitrogen (N) by crops, and its subsequent utilisation for dry matter (DM) production may be increased when the application of N is postponed until after crop emergence. The significance of this strategy for silage maize was studied in nine field experiments on Dutch sandy soils from 1983 to 1988. In five experiments the effect of slurry applied before planting at a rate of circa 66 m3 ha-1, was compared to the effect of a similar rate of which half was applied before planting and half at the 4–6 leaf stage. In the 4-6 leaf stage slurry was either injected or banded. In four other experiments the effect of mineral fertilizer-N splitting was studied. In these experiments, 30 m3 ha-1 cattle slurry, applied before planting, was supplemented with mineral fertilizer-N at rates ranging from 40 to 160 kg ha-1, either fully applied before crop emergence or split. When split, 40 kg ha-1 of the mineral fertilizer-N rate was banded at the 4–6 leaf stage. According to balance sheet calculations, substantial losses of slurry N and mineral fertilizer-N occurred during the growing season. Losses were compensated for, however, by apparent mineralization, ranging from 0.34 to 0.77 kg N ha-1 day-1. Split applications of cattle slurry had a significant positive effect on the DM yield in two out of five experiments compared to the conventional non-split application, but only when the post-emergence slurry application was banded which is no longer in accordance with present legislation. Split applications of mineral fertilizer-N had a significant positive effect in one experiment where rainfall was excessive but not in the others. The results provide insufficient evidence to recommend farmers to split applications. Soil mineral N sampling at the 4–6 leaf stage should hence be considered a control on the appropriateness of early N applications after exceptional weather conditions rather than a routine observation on which the post-emergence N dressing is to be based in a deliberate splitting strategy. Our data suggest that the financial return of a 40 kg ha-1 supplementation with mineral fertilizer-N, was questionable when more than 175 kg N ha-1 were found in the upper 0.6 m soil layer at the 4–6 leaf stage.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 16
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Nutrient cycling in agroecosystems 53 (1999), S. 259-267 
    ISSN: 1573-0867
    Keywords: farming systems ; nitrogen ; nitrogen budgets ; sustainability
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract Three approaches to nitrogen budgeting were developed and their ability to quantitatively describe nitrogen cycling in a fertilizer based and a grass–clover based beef system tested. Budgets ranged in complexity from the Economic Input:Output (EIO) budget, which accounted simply for purchases and sales of nitrogen over the farmgate, through the Biological Input:Output (BIO) budget, which included estimates of biological nitrogen fixation and attempted to partition losses into leaching and gaseous forms, to the Transfer:Recycle:Input:Output (TRIO) budget, which also accounted for key soil processes. Nitrogen unaccounted for in the fertilized system decreased with increasing budget complexity (285, 212 and 188 kg ha-1 yr-1 unaccounted for by the EIO, BIO and TRIO budgets, respectively). In the legume based grass–clover system, the EIO budget did not accurately describe total nitrogen inputs as it did not include 146 kg ha-1 yr-1 from symbiotic nitrogen fixation. In the grass–clover system, nitrogen unaccounted for was again greater using the BIO than the TRIO budget (103 and 79 kg ha-1 yr-1, respectively). In conclusion, the most complex budgeting approach (TRIO) was able to account for the fate of a greater proportion of nitrogen inputs than the simpler approaches. However, the perceived success of the different approaches was strongly dependent on the precise objective.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 17
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Nutrient cycling in agroecosystems 55 (1999), S. 1-6 
    ISSN: 1573-0867
    Keywords: chlorophyll meter ; irrigation ; LAI ; nitrogen ; Spring Wheat
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract A Spring Wheat crop was grown using three irrigation levels and nitrogen rate applications to evaluate chlorophyll meter measurements as a possible nitrogen nutrition index for modelling. These measurements yielded the most reliable indications at Zadoks GS45. The lower limit indicating severe nitrogen deficiency in the leaves was approximately 35 SPAD units while the upper limit of 45 SPAD units, indicated an excess consumption.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 18
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Nutrient cycling in agroecosystems 55 (1999), S. 89-94 
    ISSN: 1573-0867
    Keywords: algae ; flooded soils ; N cycling ; nitrogen ; 15N ; rice
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract Algal N labelled with 15N added to a flooded soil in laboratory columns without plants was studied to determine the changes over time in the fate of N assimilated by algae and to study how its fate is affected by (a) exclusion of light simulating complete closure of the rice canopy, and (b) addition of fertilizer-NH4 *. In the light but with no added fertilizer-N there was little net mineralization of the added algal N during the first 4 weeks, but after 8 weeks 42% had been mineralized, of which 95% was denitrified. Exclusion of light caused net mineralization to proceed more rapidly in the first 4 weeks due to the death of algal cells and lowered reassimilation. After 8 weeks 51% had been mineralized, of which 54% was denitrified, 16% volatilized and 30% was present as KCl exchangeable NH4 +-N. Application of fertilizer-NH4 + apparently caused mineralization of 25% of the algal N within one week but the results were probably affected by pool substitution in which labelled N mineralized to NH4 +-N was diluted with fertilizer – NH+ 4 and then immobilized leaving more labelled NH4–N in the mineral pool. After 8 weeks, 42% of algal N had been mineralized, of which 69% was estimated to have been denitrified, 19% lost through NH3 volatilization and 12% remained as extracted NH4 ++NO- 3. Uptake of N by a rice crop would reduce the gaseous losses. Algal N was mineralized quickly enough to be available during the growing season of a rice crop and, depending on field conditions, algae may have a role in assimilating N and protecting it from loss as well as being a major driving force for NH3 volatilization through diurnal increases in pH.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 19
    ISSN: 1572-9702
    Keywords: tomato plants ; susceptibility ; mite ; tridecan-2-one ; nitrogen ; potasium
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract The objective of this work was to study the effect of NK fertilization levels and canopy height on the resistance of Lycopersicon hirsutum and Lycopersicon esculentum to Aculops lycopersici (Acari: Eriophydae). The effects of NK fertilization levels and canopy height in the leaf size and density of trichomes and their effects on tridecan-2-one (2-TD) and undecan-2-one (2-UD) limiting the attack of A. lycopersici on tomato plants were assessed. Different NK fertilization levels had no effect on the resistance of L. hirsutum to A. lycopersici. No significant differences were found in attack rates of this mite on leaves of the top and median parts of L. hirsutum canopy. The type and density of trichomes were the main determining factor of A. lycopersici attack on tomato plants. High trichome densities and type VI glandular trichomes which produce tridecan-2-one are important resistance factors on tomato plants. L. hirsutum showed a high resistance level to A. lycopersici due to high densities of type VI glandular trichomes and consequently higher levels of tridecan-2-one in its leaves.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 20
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Journal of the history of biology 32 (1999), S. 343-383 
    ISSN: 1573-0387
    Keywords: agnosticism ; Darwinian ; evolution ; materialism ; Malthusian ; nebular hypothesis ; popularization ; professionalization ; transitional forms
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , History
    Notes: Abstract Robert Chambers and Thomas Henry Huxley helped popularize science by writing for general interest publications when science was becoming increasingly professionalized. A non-professional, Chambers used his family-owned Chambers' Edinburgh Journal to report on scientific discoveries, giving his audience access to ideas that were only available to scientists who regularly attended professional meetings or read published transactions of such forums. He had no formal training in the sciences and little interest in advancing the professional status of scientists; his course of action was determined by his disability and interest in scientific phenomena. His skillful reporting enabled readers to learn how the ideas that flowed from scientific innovation affected their lives, and his series of article in the Journal presenting his rudimentary ideas on evolution, served as a prelude to his important popular work, Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation. Huxley, an example of the new professional class of scientists, defended science and evolution from attacks by religious spokesmen and other opponents of evolution, informing the British public about science through his lectures and articles in such publications as Nineteenth Century. He understood that by popularizing scientific information, he could effectively challenge the old Tory establishment -- with its orthodox religious and political views -- and promote the ideas of the new class of professional scientists. In attempting to transform British society, he frequently came in conflict with theologians and others on issues in which science and religion seemed to contradict each other but refused to discuss matters of science with non-professionals like Chambers, whose popular writing struck a more resonant chord with working class readers.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 21
    ISSN: 1432-041X
    Keywords: Key words Imaginal disc ; Axonal trajectories ; Ultrastructure ; Chaoborus (Insecta ; Diptera)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract  In one of his classical studies on insect metamorphosis, Weismann compared the imaginal anlagen of the ancestral phantom midge, Chaoborus, with those of advanced brachycerans. We have expanded his findings on the relationships between larval and imaginal organs using electron microscopy and cobalt backfilling of the antenna and leg anlagen and the axonal trajectories of corresponding larval sensilla. We show that both primordia are confluent with the larval antennae and ”leg” sensilla (an ancestral Keilin organ), respectively. These fully developed larval organs represent the distal tips of the imaginal anlagen rather than separate cell clusters. The axons of the larval antenna and leg sensilla project across the corresponding anlagen to their target neuromeres within the central nervous system (CNS). Within the discs, nerves composed of these larval axons, developing afferent fibres and efferences ascending from the CNS are found. Both the structure of the primordia and the axonal trajectories thus relate the situation found in advanced brachycerans with that seen in more ancestral insects. In addition, the larval antennae, legs, wings and even the eyes possess very similar afferent pioneer trajectories supporting the idea that the described pattern is generally used in the ontogeny of sensory systems.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 22
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Immunogenetics 49 (1999), S. 865-871 
    ISSN: 1432-1211
    Keywords: Key words Orangutan ; MHC class I ; HLA-C ; natural killer cells ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract  HLA-B and C are related class I genes which are believed to have arisen by duplication of a common ancestor. Previous study showed the presence of orthologues for both HLA-B and C in African apes but only for HLA-B in Asian apes. These observations suggested that the primate C locus evolved subsequent to the divergence of the Pongidae and Hominidae. From an analysis of orangutan Tengku two HLA-C-like alleles (Popy C*0101 and Popy C*0201) were defined as well as three HLA-B-like (Popy-B) alleles. By contrast, no Popy-C alleles were obtained from orangutan Hati, although three Popy-B alleles were defined. Thus an HLA-C-like locus exists in the orangutan (as well as a duplicated B locus), implying that the primate C locus evolved prior to the divergence of the Pongidae and Hominidae and is at least 12–13 million years old. Uncertain is whether all orangutan MHC haplotypes contain a C locus, as the failure to find C alleles in some individuals could be due to a mispairing of HLA-C-specific primers with certain Popy-C alleles. These results raise the possibilities that other primate species have a C locus and that the regulation of natural killer cells by C allotypes evolved earlier in primate evolution than has been thought.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 23
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Sexual plant reproduction 12 (1999), S. 99-109 
    ISSN: 1432-2145
    Keywords: Key words Arabidopsis thaliana ; Megasporogenesis ; Meiosis ; Ultrastructure ; Cellular polarity
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract  In this study, megasporogenesis of the plant model Arabidopsis thaliana was investigated by electron microscopy for the first time. The data described here could constitute a reference for future investigations of Arabidopsis mutants. During the beginning of meiosis the megaspore mother cell shows a polarity created by unequal distribution of organelles in the cytoplasm. Plastids accumulate in the chalazal region and long parallel saccules of endoplasmic reticulum, small vacuoles and some dictyosomes are found in the micropylar region. Plasmodesmata are abundant in the chalazal cell wall. The nucleus is almost centrally localized and contains a prominent excentric nucleolus and numerous typical synaptonemal complexes. After the second division of meiosis the four megaspores are separated by thin cell walls crossed by numerous plasmodesmata and do not show significant cellular organization. The young functional megaspore is characterized by a large nucleus and a large granular nucleolus. The cytoplasm is very electron dense due to the abundance of free ribosomes and contains the following randomly distributed organelles: mitochondria, a few short saccules of endoplasmic reticulum, dictyosomes and undifferentiated plastids. However, there is no apparent polarity, except for the distribution of some small vacuoles which are more abundant in the micropylar region of the cell. The degenerating megaspores are extremely electron dense and do not show any substructure.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 24
    ISSN: 1432-072X
    Keywords: Key words Cpn60 ; groESL ; Heat shock protein ; Hsp60 ; NifA ; Nitrogen fixation ; Symbiosis
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract At least five highly conserved, but disparately regulated groESL operons are present in Bradyrhizobium japonicum. Expression of groESL 3 is coregulated with symbiotic nitrogen fixation genes, implying a role of GroESL chaperonins in the nitrogen fixation process. Null mutants of individual groEL genes, however, were not impaired in symbiotic nitrogen fixation activity. By contrast, the groEL 3-plus-groEL 4 double mutant strain D4, which is mutated in those groEL genes that contribute most to the GroEL pool under symbiotic conditions, exhibited less than 5% Fix activity as compared to the wild-type. Expression of lacZ fusions made to several representative nif and fix genes was not, or only marginally, reduced in mutant D4, indicating that the requirement of chaperonins for nitrogen fixation does not occur at the level of RegSR-NifA-σ54- or FixLJ-FixK2-dependent gene regulation. Instead, immunoblot analyses revealed that the level of NifH and NifDK nitrogenase proteins was drastically decreased in extracts prepared from D4 bacteroids and from free-living cells grown anaerobically. Transcriptional fusions of the anaerobically induced groESL 3 promoter (P3) to all five B. japonicum groESL operons and also to groESL from Escherichia coli were integrated into the chromosome of mutant D4. Strains harboring P3 fused to groESL 1, groESL 2, groESL 5, or E. coli groESL partially complemented the symbiotic defect of mutant D4, whereas the wild-type phenotype was completely restored in strains complemented with P3 fused to groESL 3 (control) or groESL 4. Likewise, the growth defect of an E. coli groEL mutant could be corrected at least partially by individual B. japonicum groESL operons. In conclusion, both series of complementation analyses were not indicative of a strict substrate specificity of any of the B. japonicum groESL gene products, which is in good agreement with their high degree of sequence conservation.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 25
    ISSN: 1432-072X
    Keywords: Key wordsClostridium xylanolyticum ; Cinnamic acid ; Esterase ; Lignocellulose ; Sporogenesis ; Ultrastructure ; Cell envelope
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Microorganisms that hydrolyse the ester linkages between phenolic acids and polysaccharides in plant cell walls are potential sources of enzymes for the degradation of lignocellulosic waste. An anaerobic, mesophilic, spore-forming, xylanolytic bacterium with high hydroxy cinnamic acid esterase activity was isolated from the gut of the grass-eating termite Tumilitermes pastinator. The bacterium was motile and rod-shaped, stained gram-positive, had an eight-layered cell envelope, and formed endospores. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA indicated that the bacterium is closely related to Clostridium xylanolyticum and is grouped with polysaccharolytic strains of clostridia. A wide range of carbohydrates were fermented, and growth was stimulated by either xylan or cellobiose as substrates. The bacterium hydrolysed and then hydrogenated the hydroxy cinnamic acids (ferulic and p-coumaric acids), which are esterified to arabinoxylan in plant cell walls. Three cytoplasmic enzymes with hydroxy cinnamic acid esterase activity were identified using non-denaturing gel electrophoresis. This bacterium possesses an unusual multilayered cell envelope in which both leaflets of the cytoplasmic membrane, the peptidoglycan layer and the S layer are clearly discernible. The fate of all these components was easily followed throughout the endospore formation process. The peptidoglycan component persisted during the entire morphogenesis. It was seen to enter the septum and to pass with the engulfing membranes to surround the prespore. It eventually expanded to form the cortex, verification for the peptidoglycan origin of the cortex. Sporogenic vesicles, which are derived from the cell wall peptidoglycan, were associated with the engulfment process. Spore coat fragments appeared early, in stage II, though spore coat formation was not complete until after cortex formation.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 26
    ISSN: 1432-1327
    Keywords: Key words Iron-sulfur ; Nitrogen fixation ; Evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Notes: Abstract  The [2Fe-2S] protein from Azotobacter vinelandii that was previously known as iron-sulfur protein I, or Shethna protein I, has been shown to be encoded by a gene belonging to the major nif gene cluster. Overexpression of this gene in Escherichia coli yielded a dimeric protein of which each subunit comprises 106 residues and contains one [2Fe-2S] cluster. The sequence of this protein is very similar to that of the [2Fe-2S] ferredoxin from Clostridium pasteurianum (2FeCpFd), and the four cysteine ligands of the [2Fe-2S] cluster occur in the same positions. The A. vinelandii protein differs from the C. pasteurianum one by the absence of the N-terminal methionine, the presence of a five-residue C-terminal extension, and a lesser number of acidic and polar residues. The UV-visible absorption and EPR spectra, as well as the redox potentials of the two proteins, are nearly identical. These data show that the A. vinelandii FeS protein I, which is therefore proposed to be designated 2FeAvFdI, is the counterpart of the [2Fe-2S] ferredoxin from C. pasteurianum. The occurrence of the 2FeAvFdI-encoding gene in the nif gene cluster, together with the previous demonstration of a specific interaction between the 2FeCpFd and the nitrogenase MoFe protein, suggest that both proteins might be involved in nitrogen fixation, with possibly similar roles.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 27
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Journal of materials synthesis and processing 7 (1999), S. 311-319 
    ISSN: 1573-4870
    Keywords: Iron ; carbon ; nitrogen ; microstructure ; characterization ; HIP-drip
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
    Notes: Abstract A new processing technique makes nitrogen alloying possible by adding nitrogen under elevated nitrogen pressure to prealloyed Fe-C ingots during continuous casting, producing a whole new class of precipitation-free, iron–carbon–nitrogen alloys. When both carbon and nitrogen bulk concentration levels exceeded 0.5 wt%, a duplex fcc-/(bcc-bct-) Fe microstructure resulted that is iron carbide- and nitride-free. With increasing carbon and nitrogen concentrations, there was an increase in the retained fcc-Fe phase. In cooling rate studies, increasing carbon and nitrogen concentrations shifted the knee of the fcc-Fe-to-bcc-Fe phase time–temperature–transformation (T–T–T) curve to longer times. Hardness, compression strength, and wear resistance increased with increasing carbon and nitrogen concentrations and were superior to iron–carbon alloys without the nitrogen addition.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 28
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Journal of chemical ecology 25 (1999), S. 31-49 
    ISSN: 1573-1561
    Keywords: Chemical ecology ; evolution ; variation ; population dynamics ; community ; species interactions ; infochemical ; semiochemical ; parasitoid ; foraging behavior ; learning ; phenotypic plasticity
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Notes: Abstract The marriage of chemistry with ecology has been a productive one, providing a wealth of examples of how chemicals play important roles in the loves and lives of living organisms. At first the marriage may have been a simple and monogamous one with the major scientific aim of making proximate analyses of chemically mediated, individual level interactions. But times have changed and chemical ecology is broadening, embracing different approaches and disciplines. There is, for example, increasing appreciation of variability in the systems under study and an increase in evolutionary thinking. Another promising development is greater recognition of the potential importance of chemically mediated interactions for population dynamics and for structuring communities and species coexistence. The latter is an utterly underexplored area in chemical ecology. The field of chemical ecology of insect parasitoids shows some of these promising developments. Responses of parasitoids to infochemicals are increasingly studied with an integrated approach of mechanism and function. This integration of “how” and “why” questions significantly enhances the evolutionary and ecological understanding of stimulus–response patterns. The future challenge in chemical ecology is to demonstrate how chemically mediated interactions steer ecological and evolutionary processes at all levels of ecological organization. To reach this goal there is a need for interdisciplinary collaboration among chemists and ecologists working at different levels of organization and with different approaches, with other disciplines as partners.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 29
    ISSN: 1573-4943
    Keywords: Klebsiella aerogenes ; ribitol dehydrogenase ; evolution ; mutant structures
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Notes: Abstract A mutant ribitol dehydrogenase (RDH-F) was purified from Klebsiella aerogenes strain F which evolved from the wild-type strain A under selective pressure to improve growth on xylitol, a poor substrate used as sole carbon source. The ratio of activities on xylitol (500 mM) and ribitol (50 mM) was 0.154 for RDH-F compared to 0.033 for the wild-type (RDH-A) enzyme. The complete amino acid sequence of RDH-F showed the mutations. Q60 for E60 and V215 for L215 in the single polypeptide chain of 249 amino acid residues. Structural modeling based on homologies with two other microbial dehydrogenases suggests that E60 → Q60 is a neutral mutation, since it lies in a region far from the catalytic site and should not cause structural perturbations. In contrast, L215 → V215 lies in variable region II and would shift a loop that interacts with the NADH cofactor. Another improved ribitol dehydrogenase, RDH-D, contains an A196 → P196 mutation that would disrupt a surface α-helix in region II. Hence conformational changes in this region appear to be responsible for the improved xylitol specificity.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 30
    ISSN: 1432-2048
    Keywords: Key words: ATPase ; Glycine max ; Nitrogen fixation ; Symbiosome
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract. The localization of H+-ATPases in soybean (Glycine max L. cv. Stevens) nodules was investigated using antibodies against both P-type and V-type enzymes. Immunoblots of peribacteroid membrane (PBM) proteins using antibodies against tobacco and Arabidopsis H+-ATPases detected a single immunoreactive band at approximately 100 kDa. These antibodies recognized a protein of similar relative molecular mass in the crude microsomal fraction from soybean nodules and uninoculated roots. The amount of this protein was greater in PBM from mature nodules than in younger nodules. Immunolocalization of P-type ATPases using silver enhancement of colloidal-gold labelling at the light-microscopy level showed signal distributed around the periphery of non-infected cells in both the nodule cortex and nodule parenchyma. In the central nitrogen-fixing zone of the nodule, staining was present in both the infected and uninfected cells. Examination of nodule sections using confocal microscopy and fluorescence staining showed an immunofluorescent signal clearly visible around the periphery of individual symbiosomes which appeared as vesicles distributed throughout the infected cells of the central zone. Electron-microscopic examination of immunogold-labelled sections shows that P-type ATPase antigens were present on the PBM of both newly formed, single-bacteroid symbiosomes just released from infection threads, and on the PBM of mature symbiosomes containing two to four bacteroids. Immunogold labelling using antibody against the B-subunit of V-type ATPase from oat failed to detect this protein on symbiosome membranes. Only a very faint signal with this antibody was detected on Western blots of purified PBM. During nodule development, fusion of small symbiosomes to form larger ones containing multiple bacteroids was observed. Fusion was preceded by the formation of cone-like extensions of the PBM, allowing the membrane to make contact with the adjoining membrane of another symbiosome. We conclude that the major H+-ATPase on the PBM of soybean is a P-type enzyme with homology to other such enzymes in plants. In vivo, this enzyme is likely to play a critical role in the regulation of nutrient exchange between legume and bacteroids.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 31
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words Chondrocyte ; Synoviocyte ; Co-culture ; Proliferation ; Lipid peroxidation ; Cytotoxicity ; Ultrastructure ; Rat (Wistar)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract  Objective: A new co-culture system of rat articular chondrocytes and synoviocytes (HIG-82; cell line) was incubated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), H2O2 or a combination of Fe2+ and ascorbic acid to simulate inflammation-like radical attacks in articular joints. Methods: Chondrocytes were characterized by immunocytochemistry against collagen type II, transmission electron (TEM) and light microscopy. Lipid peroxidation was investigated by measuring thiobarbituric-acid-reactive material in the supernatants, cytotoxicity by determining release of lactate dehydrogenase and proliferation by measuring [3H]thymidine incorporation, culture protein and DNA. Results: PMA or Fe2+ and ascorbic acid induced lipid peroxidation in chondrocytes and synoviocytes that was decreased significantly in co-cultures. PMA and H2O2 dose dependently induced release of lactate dehydrogenase in chondrocytes, which was lowered in co-cultures or in previously co-cultured chondrocytes to a nearly basal level. In contrast, conditioned media of synoviocyte cultures showed no lowering effect on the radical-induced toxicity. Protection against H2O2-induced damage of cellular membranes by co-culturing was also shown by TEM. Synoviocytes released chondrocyte-stimulating growth factors spontaneously without previous interaction. Conclusion: Chondrocytes establish protective mechanisms against reactive oxygen species via an interaction with synoviocytes. Our co-culture model presents a possible way to study mechanisms of inflammation in articular joints under defined conditions.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 32
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words Chloride cells (mitochondria-rich cells) ; Teleost larvae ; Osmoregulation ; Immunohistochemistry ; Quantification ; Ultrastructure ; Oreochromis mossambicus (Teleostei)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract  Integumental and branchial chloride cells of tilapia larvae (Oreochromis mossambicus) were studied at the light-microscopical and ultrastructural level. Total numbers and distribution of chloride cells were quantified after immunostaining of cross sections of the entire larvae with an antibody against the α-subunit of Na+/K+-ATPase. The majority (66%) of Na+/K+-ATPase-immunoreactive (ir) cells, i.e. chloride cells, of freshwater tilapia larvae were located extrabranchially up to 48 h after hatching. Five days after hatching, the majority (80%) of chloride cells were found in the buccal cavity. Transfer of 24-h-old larvae to 20% sea water speeded up this process; 24 h after transfer (i.e. 48 h after hatching), the majority (59%) of chloride cells were located in the buccal cavity. The branchial chloride cell population of 24-h- and 120-h-old larvae consisted of immature, mature, apoptotic and necrotic chloride cells. However, relatively more immature chloride cells were observed in freshwater larvae (42–63%) than in (previously studied) freshwater adults (21%), illustrating the developmental state of the gills. After transfer to sea water, the incidence of degenerative chloride cells did not change. Furthermore, the incidence of immature cells had decreased and a new subtype of chloride cells, the ”mitochondria-poor” cells, appeared more frequently. These mitochondria-poor chloride cells were characterised by an abundant tubular system and relatively few mitochondria, which were aligned at the border or concentrated in one part of the cytoplasm. Most of these cells did not contact the water. The function of their enhanced appearance after seawater transfer is unknown.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 33
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words Mechanoreceptors ; Synaptic proteins ; Histochemistry ; Ultrastructure ; Slit sensilla ; Hair sensilla ; Cupiennius salei (Chelicerata)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract Indirect immunocytochemical tests were used at the light- and electron-microscopic levels to investigate peripheral chemical synapses in identified sensory neurons of two types of cuticular mechanosensors in the spider Cupiennius salei Keys.: (1) in the lyriform slit-sense organ VS-3 (comprising 7–8 cuticular slits, each innervated by 2 bipolar sensory neurons) and (2) in tactile hair sensilla (each supplied with 3 bipolar sensory cells). All these neurons are mechanosensitive. Application of a monoclonal antibody against Drosophila synapsin revealed clear punctate immunofluorescence in whole-mount preparations of both mechanoreceptor types. The size and overall distribution of immunoreactive puncta suggested that these were labeled presynaptic sites. Immunofluorescent puncta were 0.5–6.8 μm long and located 0.5–6.6 μm apart from each other. They were concentrated at the initial axon segments of the sensory neurons, while the somata and the dendritic regions showed fewer puncta. Western blot analysis with the same synapsin antibody against samples of spider sensory hypodermis and against samples from the central nervous system revealed a characteristic doublet band at 72 kDa and 75 kDa, corresponding to the apparent molecular mass of synapsin in Drosophila and in mammals. Conventional transmissionelectron-microscopic staining demonstrated that numerous chemical synapses (with at least 2 vesicle types) were present at these mechanosensory neurons and their surrounding glial sheath. The distribution of these synapses corresponded to our immunofluorescence results.Ultrastructural examination of anti-synapsin-stained neurons confirmed that reaction product was associated with synaptic vesicles. We assume that the peripheral synaptic contacts originate from efferents that could exert a complex modulatory influence on mechanosensory activity.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 34
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words Teleost fish ; Puberty ; Testes ; Sex steroids ; Ultrastructure ; Steroidogenesis ; Clarias gariepinus (Teleostei)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract  The present report focuses on the mechanism(s) involved in the steroid-induced decrease of androgen production in immature African catfish testes that was observed in previous studies. Juvenile animals were implanted with Silastic pellets containing different 11-oxygenated androgens (11-ketotestosterone, KT; 11β- hydroxyandrostenedione, OHA; 11-ketoandrostenedione, KA), testosterone (T) or estradiol-17β (E2). Control groups received steroid-free pellets. Two weeks later, testis tissue fragments were either incubated with increasing concentrations of catfish luteinizing hormone (LH), or incubated with [3H]-pregnenolone ([3H]-P5) or [3H]-androstenedione ([3H]-A). Tissue fragments were also prepared for the quantitative assessment of Leydig cell morphology. Most of the parameters studied were not affected significantly by implantation of E2. Implantation of all androgens inhibited both the basal and the LH-stimulated androgen secretory capacity in vitro. This was associated with a reduced size of the Leydig cells and loss of half of their mitochondria. The studies on the metabolism of tritiated steroid hormones indicated that steroidogenic steps prior to 11β-hydroxylation, probably C17–20 lyase activity, were affected by all androgens. Although the effects of 11-oxygenated androgens and T on Leydig cells were mostly similar, previous work showed that only the 11-oxygenated androgens stimulated spermatogenesis, suggesting that distinct mechanisms of action are used by 11-oxygenated androgens and T. These mechanisms, however, seem to merge on the same target(s) to impair Leydig cell androgen production. Such a negative feedback mechanism may be of relevance in the context of the decline in androgen secretion per milligram testis tissue that accompanies the first wave of spermatogenesis in pubertal African catfish.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 35
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Cell & tissue research 295 (1999), S. 151-158 
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words Class II MHC-positive cells ; Human leukocyte antigen-DR ; Dental pulp ; Dendritic cells ; Macrophages ; Ultrastructure ; Human
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract The distribution and ultrastructure of class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-positive cells were investigated in human dental pulp, employing immunohistochemistry using an anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR-monoclonal antibody. HLA-DR-immunopositive cells, appearing spindle-like or dendritic in profile, were densely distributed throughout the dental pulp. Under the electron microscope, these cells exhibited various sizes of vesicles containing clear or opaque contents, multivesicular bodies and characteristic fine tubulovesicular structures in their cytoplasm. Some reactive cells possessed coated pits and vesicles including electron-dense materials, indicating an active endocytosis. At the periphery of the pulp tissue, the HLA-DR-immunopositive cells were predominantly situated in the subodontoblastic layer, with some located in the odontoblast layer and/or predentin and extending their cytoplasmic processes into the dentinal tubules. Cell processes of these cells occasionally made contact with several odontoblast processes in the same way as the nerve fibers in the predentin. These cells never contained the typical phagosomes frequently observed in the HLA-DR-immunoreactive macrophages in the subodontoblastic layer and the pulp core. The results suggest that the HLA-DR-immunopositive cells in the odontoblast layer and/or predentin have some regulatory function on the odontoblasts under physiological conditions, in addition to their involvement in the initial defense reaction after tooth injury.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 36
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words Neuromelanin ; Neuron ; Peroxidase ; Oxygen metabolism ; High-definition light microscopy ; Electron microscopy ; Ultrastructure ; Cytochemistry ; Substantia nigra ; Lumbricusterrestris (Annelida)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract Histochemical examination of 1-μm tissue sections from the dorsal nerve plexus of the earthworm, Lumbricus terrestris, reveals multiple brown intraneuronal granules. These granules contain material morphologically and histochemically consistent with neuromelanin. When viewed with transmission electron microscopy, these were seen as single membrane-enclosed biphasic granules with diameters of 370–730 nm. Exposure of L. terrestris to high-level environmental oxygen resulted in an increase in the number of neuromelanin-like pigment granules within the neurons of the circular muscle layer. As measured by ortho-phenylenediamine hydrochloride, the endogenous peroxidase activity of extracts from worms incubated in high-level environmental oxygen was 51% more than controls. The endogenous peroxidase activity was localized in situ with 3,3-diaminobenzidine (DAB) and was found to increase in and around the neuromelanin-like pigment-containing neurons within the circular muscle layer. These studies suggest that the nerve net of L. terrestris may serve as a model to study the role of neuromelanin production in oxidative stress and its relationship to endogenous peroxidases.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 37
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words Melanin-concentrating hormone neurons ; Lateral hypothalamic slice culture ; Immunocytochemistry ; Ultrastructure ; In situ hybridization ; Competitive RT-PCR ; Leptin assay ; Rat (Sprague Dawley)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract  Hypothalamic slices containing the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) were prepared from 6- to 8-day-old rats and maintained in stationary culture for up to 35 days in order to analyse how well the melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) neurons survived. As previously reported for other brain areas, this method yielded a long-term well-preserved organotypic organization. Light- and electron-microscopic investigations showed that differentiation continued and that synaptic contacts developed in vitro. After a period of elimination of damaged cells and fibres, most of the remaining neurons and glial cells retained a normal morphology throughout the culture period. MCH neurons, in particular, survived well as attested by the strong immunocytochemical and in situ hybridization signals still observed after several weeks. In a comparison with the day of explantation, competitive reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction demonstrated the remarkable stability of the level of MCH mRNA at least until the 20th day in culture; after 30 days, the clear decrease in this level seemed to be correlated with a loss of MCH neurons, rather than with a decrease in MCH expression. After 10 days of culture, the incubation of slices in the presence of the hormone leptin (50 ng/ml) resulted in a strong decrease of MCH gene expression, suggesting that MCH neurons retained their physiological properties. Thus, the LHA slice stationary culture, especially between one and three weeks (i.e. after tissue stabilization and before extensive cell loss), appears to be a suitable method for physiological and pharmacological studies of these neurons.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 38
    ISSN: 1432-0878
    Keywords: Key words ECL cells ; Gastrin ; Reserpine ; Organelles ; Ultrastructure ; Rat (Sprague-Dawley)
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Medicine
    Notes: Abstract The histamine-storing ECL cells in the stomach play a key role in the control of acid secretion. They contain granules, secretory vesicles and microvesicles, and sustained gastrin stimulation results in the additional formation of vacuoles and lipofuscin bodies. The cells are rich in the vesicle monoamine transporter type-2 (VMAT-2), which can be inhibited by reserpine. The present study examines the effect of reserpine on ECL-cell ultrastructure and histamine compartmentalization. Rats received reserpine and/or gastrin. Reserpine was given twice by the intraperitoneal route (25 mg/kg once daily). Gastrin-17 was given by subcutaneous infusion (5 nmol/kg/h), starting at the time of the first reserpine injection and continuing for 4 days when the rats were killed. At this stage, histamine in the oxyntic mucosa was unaffected by reserpine but elevated by gastrin. Immunocytochemical analysis (confocal microscopy) showed ECL-cell histamine in control and gastrin-treated rats to be localized in cytoplasmic organelles (e.g., secretory vesicles). After treatment with reserpine alone or reserpine+gastrin, ECL-cell histamine occurred mainly in the cytosol. Planimetric analysis (electron microscopy) of ECL cells showed reserpine to increase the number, size and volume density of the granules and to reduce the size and volume density of the secretory vesicles. Gastrin reduced the number and volume density of granules and secretory vesicles, increased the number and volume density of microvesicles and caused vacuoles and lipofuscin bodies to appear. Reserpine+gastrin increased the number, volume density and size of the granules. Reserpine prevented the effects of gastrin on secretory vesicles, vacuoles and microvesicles, but did not prevent the development of lipofuscin. Our findings are in line with the views: (1) that preformed cytosolic histamine is taken up by granules/secretory vesicles via VMAT-2, that histamine is instrumental in the transformation of granules into secretory vesicles and in their consequent enlargement and (2) that vacuoles are formed by the fusion of large secretory vesicles.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 39
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Potato research 42 (1999), S. 559-568 
    ISSN: 1871-4528
    Keywords: plastic mulch ; transplanting ; nitrogen ; planting depth ; seed tuber weight ; physiological age ; radiation conversion efficiency ; harvest index
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Summary In many seed potato producing areas, micro- and minitubers are too small for direct planting as seed tubers in the field. Such use of these propagules can, however, be feasible if the crop's growth and development can be advanced. Increasing light interception, harvest index and yield of useable progeny tubers has been proved possible with plastic mulch and pre-planting of small tubers in a greenhouse. High amounts of nitrogen (up to 180 kg ha−1) or deep planting (up to 9 cm) were less effective. Using older or pre-sprouted micro- or minitubers may be beneficial, because this might increase the number of sprouts per mother tuber (and thus stems per plant) or advance the growth of sprouts or stems. However, this would require even more careful management, due to the weakness of these sprouts and stems. Micro- and minitubers should be as large as feasible when used for direct planting in the field.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 40
    ISSN: 1615-6102
    Keywords: Cumulus oophorus ; Ovarian follicle ; Fertilization ; Ultrastructure ; Immunocytochemistry ; Human
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Summary The fine structure of the human cumulus oophorus has been reviewed on the basis of scanning and transmission electron microscopic observations as well as of immunofluorescence data. Tissues sampled from preovulatory ovarian follicles and cumulus-enclosed oocytes and fertilized eggs (collected from the oviduct or obtained during in vitro fertilization procedures) have been evaluated from a microtopographic and morphodynamic point of view in order to better clarify the possible role of this population of cells. In particular, the following aspects have been studied and discussed: the presence of multiple close contacts (modulated by the interposition of the zona pellucida) between the oocyte surface and the long microvillous evaginations projecting from the inner aspect of corona cells surface (through these structures the intraovarian cumulus oophorus may control oocyte growth and metabolism up until the time of ovulation); the occurrence of different subpopulations of cells (steroid-synthetic cells, cells producing adhesive proteins, leukocytes, macrophages) in the postovulatory, extraovarian cumulus oophorus surrounding oocytes, zygotes and early developing embryos. All these elements found in the cumulus mass may positively act, through their paracrine activities, on the chemical composition of the microenvironment in which fertilization occurs.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 41
    ISSN: 1615-6102
    Keywords: Plasmalemmic cord ; Pollen grain ; Ultrastructure ; Magnolia ×soulangeana
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Summary InMagnolia ×soulangeana pollen grains the generative cell (GC) does not become totally free within the vegetative cell (VC), at least until the pollen tube emergence. Due to a deviation in its detachment process from the sporoderm, the opposing ends of the VC plasmalemma do not fuse themselves when the GC moves away from the intine. Consequently, the interplasmalemmic space surrounding the GC does not become isolated but rather maintains continuity with the sporoderm through a complex formation that we have called plasmalemmic cord. The real existence of this formation was confirmed through serial sectioning showing the plasmalemmic cord to consist of the VC plasmalemma. In its initial portion it is occupied by a reasonably accentuated wall ingrowth of the inner layer of the intine (intine 3). In the remainder portion, neither of the cytochemical tests used in this work have revealed the presence of a significant amount of wall material. However, ultrathin sections of samples processed either chemically or by cryofixation showed the existence of an intricate system of tubules and vesicles, some of which are evaginations of the VC plasmalemma. The hypothesis that the plasmalemmic cord may have a role in the complex interactions between the two pollen cells is discussed.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 42
    ISSN: 1615-6102
    Keywords: Diffusion ; Intercellular spaces ; Nitrogen ; Nitrogen fixation ; Oxygen ; Symbiosomes
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Summary The previously published simulation of physiological functions occurring in infected cells of soybean nodules has been extended to include consideration of the diffusion of N2 from the outside of a nodule to the nitrogen-fixing bacteroids, in relation to published values for the apparentK m(N2) for nitrogen fixation in the soybean nodule system. Nitrogen fixation is driven by bacteroid respiration, so increases in the average relative oxygenation (Y) of cytoplasmic leghaemoglobin lead to increased bacteroid respiration, increased nitrogen fixation, and greater differences in concentration of dissolved N2 between the cell surface and the innermost bacteroids (d[N2]). Over the range ofY considered, values for d[N2] were from 5.2- to 6.2-fold greater than the corresponding values for d[O2], because of facilitation of O2 flux by cytoplasmic leghaemoglobin. Gradients of [N2] within symbiosomes are small relative to cytoplasmic values and at the symbiosome surface [N2] was greater than 0.4 mol/m3 at the greatest rates of nitrogen fixation calculated. Therefore, it is unlikely that values for [N2] anywhere in the infected cell are low enough to affect rates of nitrogen fixation significantly, unless low external atmospheric N2 pressures are used experimentally.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 43
    ISSN: 1615-6102
    Keywords: Anatomy ; Floral nectary ; Modified stomata ; Phloem ; Pisum sativum ; Stereology ; Ultrastructure
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Summary The floral nectary ofPisum sativum L. is situated on the receptacle at the base of the gynoecium. The gland receives phloem alone which departed the vascular bundles supplying the staminal column. Throughout the nectary, only the companion cells of the phloem exhibited wall ingrowths typical of transfer cells. Modified stomata on the nectary surface served as exits for nectar, but stomatal pores developed well before the commencement of secretion. Furthermore, stomatal pores on the nectary usually closed by occlusion, not by guard-cell movements. Pore occlusion was detected most frequently in post-secretory and secretory glands, and less commonly in pre-secretory nectaries. A quantitative stereological study revealed few changes in nectary fine structure between buds, flowers secreting nectar, and post-secretory flowers. Dissolution of abundant starch grains in plastids of subepidermal secretory cells when secretion commenced suggests that starch is a precursor of nectar carbohydrate production. Throughout nectary development, mitochondria were consistently the most plentiful organelle in both epidermal and subepidermal cells, and in addition to the relative paucity of dictyosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, and their associated vesicles, the evidence suggests that floral nectar secretion inP. sativum is an energy-requiring (eccrine) process, rather that granulocrine.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 44
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Plant systematics and evolution 215 (1999), S. 37-47 
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Ranunculaceae ; Aconitum ; Delphinium ; Helleborus ; Nigella ; Seed oil ; fatty acids ; phylogeny ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Many members ofRanunculaceae contain unusual fatty acids in their seed oils. This leads to rather typical genus-specific fatty acid patterns or “fingerprints” in these seed oils. The members of theDelphinioideae and/orHelleboroideae, however, do not contain highly unusual fatty acids. Nevertheless, their seed oil fatty acid fingerprints are also fairly typical and genus-specific, and the patterns found are rather consistent throughout several species of one genus. It was found that species ofAconitum do not contain fatty acids with 20 carbon atoms.Delphinium, Consolida, Helleborus, Nigella and others do contain C20 fatty acids. In allHelleborus species, for example, there was a consistent C20 fatty acid pattern of 20:0≪20:1≫20:2〉20:3. Species ofNigella andGaridella contain high levels,Helleborus low levels, of 20:2n-6 in their seed oils.Delphinium andAconitum both contain low levels of 18:3n-3, whereasHelleborus spp. consistently show high levels of this fatty acid. The genus-specific fatty acid patterns found are discussed, and a correlation with the subfamily and tribe affiliation of the genera investigated here is attempted.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 45
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Plant systematics and evolution 216 (1999), S. 135-166 
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Dipsacaceae ; Pseudoscabiosa ; Scabiosa ; Sixalix ; Lomelosia ; Pycnocomon ; Scabiosiopsis ; Tremastelma ; Epicalyx ; fruit anatomy ; evolution ; systematics
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Fruits ofDipsacaceae are single-seeded, have bristle-shaped calyx segments and are tightly enclosed by four fused bracts forming an epicalyx. Comparative morphological and anatomical studies reveal a great diversity of epicalyx and calyx, often relevant to fruit dispersal. The present contribution deals with theScabiosa group of genera, the core of theScabioseae tribe. Most of its taxa develop a diaphragma from a meristem on the inside of the epicalyx. This diaphragma, together with the lower part of the epicalyx encloses the fruit proper, whereas the upper parts form a so-called “epi-diaphragma” (ed) and a ± hyaline corona. Differences of the epicalyx with respect to the size and position of the ed, elaboration of the corona, origin of pits (=foveoles) and other morphological and anatomical specializations can be demonstrated. Together with palynological and karyological data these new facts support an improved concept of relationships and systematics for the taxa studied:Scabiosa sect.Scabiosa and sect.Cyrtostemma are closely related and should be united to form the genusScabiosa s. str.;Pycnocomon can be maintained as an independent genus, sister toScabiosa sect.Trochocephalus which then has to be treated as a genus,Lomelosia. In contrast, the following genera have to be included inLomelosia:Tremastelma asLomelosia sect.Callistemma, andScabiosiopsis as part ofLomelosia sect.Lomelosia. Pseudoscabiosa deviates in so many features that it has to be excluded from the redefinedScabioseae s. str.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 46
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Gymnosperms ; Pinaceae ; A. alba ; A. cephalonica ; A. borisii-regis ; A. bornmuelleriana ; A. nordmanniana ; A. equi-trojani ; A. pinsapo ; A. numidica ; A. cilicica ; Allozyme variation ; genetic diversity ; phylogenetic relationships ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Nineteen natural Mediterranean fir populations, belonging to eight species and to one natural hybrid (A. ×borisii-regis), were investigated by starch and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. A total of 31 alleles was scored at eight loci (IDH-B, ACP-A, PER-B, 6PGD-A, 6PGD-B, MNR-B, PGI-B, PGM-A. Great variation was observed in the heterozygosity among the population studied and ranged from 0.010 (A. pinsapo) to 0.328 (A. cephalonica). The interpopulation genetic diversity was about 26% of the total genetic diversity. From the dendrogram, new phylogenetic relationships were revealed. High affinity was observed between the Calabrian fir population and the one from north-west Greece as well as betweenA. equi-trojani grown in Asia Minor and the southern Greek populations. Species specific alleles were found inA. cilicica. From the findings of the present work, a new hypothesis concerning the taxonomy, distribution and evolution ofAbies species in the Balkan Peninsula is supported.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 47
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Chlorococcales ; Microsporales ; Microspora ; Absolute configuration ; classification ; evolution ; flagellar apparatus ; ultrastructure ; zoospore
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract The spatial configuration of the flagellar apparatus of the biflagellate zoospores of the green algal genusMicrospora is reconstructed by serial sectioning analysis using transmission electron microscopy. Along with the unequal length of the flagella, the most remarkable characteristics of the flagellar apparatus are: (1) the subapical emergence of the flagella (especially apparent with scanning electron microscopy); (2) the parallel orientation of the two basal bodies which are interconnected by a prominent one-piece distal connecting fiber; (3) the unique ultrastructure of the distal connecting fiber composed of a central tubular region which is bordered on both sides by a striated zone; (4) the different origin of the d-rootlets from their relative basal bodies; (5) the asymmetry of the papillar region which together with the subapical position of the basal bodies apparently cause the different paths of corresponding rootlets in the zoospore anterior; (6) the presence of single-membered d-rootlets and multi-membered s-rootlets resulting in a 7-1-7-1 cruciate microtubular root system which, through the different rootlet origin, does not exhibit a strict 180° rotational symmetry. It is speculated that the different basal body origin of the d-rootlets is correlated with the subapical implant of flagella. It is further hypothesized that in the course of evolution the ancestors ofMicrospora had a flagellar papilla that has migrated from a strictly apical position towards a subapical position. Simultaneously, ‘ancestral’ shift of flagella along the apical cell body periphery has taken place as can be concluded from the presence of an upper flagellum overlying a lower flagellum in the flagellar apparatus ofMicrospora. The basic features of the flagellar apparatus of theMicrospora zoospore resemble those of the coccoid green algal generaDictyochloris andBracteacoccus and also those of the flagellate green algal genusHeterochlamydomonas. This strengthens the general supposition thatMicrospora is evolutionarily closely related to taxa which were formerly classified in the traditionalChlorococcales.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 48
    ISSN: 1573-5125
    Keywords: denitrification ; nature restoration ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; riparian areas ; sedimentation
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract In Denmark, as in many other European countries, the diffuse losses of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from the rural landscape are the major causes of surface water eutrophication and groundwater pollution. The export of total N and total P from the Gjern river basin amounted to 18.2 kg ha−1 and 0.63 kg P ha−1 during June 1994 to May 1995. Diffuse losses of N and P from agricultural areas were the main nutrient source in the river basin contributing 76% and 51%, respectively, of the total export. Investigations of nutrient cycling in the Gjern river basin have revealed the importance of permanent nutrient sinks (denitrification and overbank sedimentation) and temporary nutrient storage in watercourses. Temporary retention of N and P in the watercourses thus amounted to 7.2–16.1 g N m−2 yr−1 and 3.7–8.3 g P m−2 yr−1 during low-flow periods. Deposition of P on temporarily flooded riparian areas amounted from 0.16 to 6.50 g P m−2 during single irrigation and overbank flood events, whereas denitrification of nitrate amounted on average to 7.96 kg N yr−1 per running metre watercourse in a minerotrophic fen and 1.53 kg N yr−1 per linear metre watercourse in a wet meadow. On average, annual retention of N and P in 18 Danish shallow lakes amounted to 32.5 g N m−2 yr−1 and 0.30 g P m−2 yr−1, respectively, during the period 1989–1995. The results indicate that permanent nutrient sinks and temporary nutrient storage in river systems represent an important component of river basin nutrient budgets. Model estimates of the natural retention potential of the Gjern river basin revealed an increase from 38.8 to 81.4 tonnes yr−1 and that P-retention increased from −0.80 to 0.90 tonnes yr−1 following restoration of the water courses, riparian areas and a shallow lake. Catchment management measures such as nature restoration at the river basin scale can thus help to combat diffuse nutrient pollution.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 49
    ISSN: 1573-5052
    Keywords: mineralization ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; salinity ; stress
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Plant zonation patterns across New England salt marshes have been investigated for years, but how nutrient availability differs between zones has received little attention. We investigated how N availability, P availability, and plant N status varied across Juncus gerardii, Spartina patens, and mixed forb zones of a Northern New England high salt marsh. We also investigated relationships between several edaphic factors and community production and diversity across the high marsh. P availability, soil salinity, and soil moisture were higher in the mixed forb zone than in the two graminoid zones. NH+ 4-N availability was highest in the J. gerardii zone, but NO− 3-N availability and mid season net N mineralization rates did not vary among zones. Plant tissue N concentrations were highest in the mixed forb zone and lowest in the S. patens zone, reflecting plant physiologies more so than soil N availability. Community production was highest in the J. gerardii zone and was positively correlated with N availability and negatively correlated with soil moisture. Plant species diversity was highest in the mixed forb zone and was positively correlated with P availability and soil salinity. Thus, nutrient availability, plant N status, and plant species diversity varied across zones of this high marsh. Further investigation is needed to ascertain if soil nutrient availability influences or is a result of the production and diversity differences that exist between vegetation zones of New England high salt marshes.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 50
    ISSN: 1573-5125
    Keywords: denitrification ; eutrophication ; estuary ; nitrogen ; sediment-water exchange
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract In this review of sediment denitrification in estuaries and coastal ecosystems, we examine current denitrification measurement methodologies and the dominant biogeochemical controls on denitrification rates in coastal sediments. Integrated estimates of denitrification in coastal ecosystems are confounded by methodological difficulties, a lack of systematic understanding of the effects of changing environmental conditions, and inadequate attention to spatial and temporal variability to provide both seasonal and annual rates. Recent improvements in measurement techniques involving 15 N techniques and direct N2 concentration changes appear to provide realistic rates of sediment denitrification. Controlling factors in coastal systems include concentrations of water column NO 3 − , overall rates of sediment carbon metabolism, overlying water oxygen concentrations, the depth of oxygen penetration, and the presence/absence of aquatic vegetation and macrofauna. In systems experiencing environmental change, either degradation or improvement, the importance of denitrification can change. With the eutrophication of the Chesapeake Bay, the overall rates of denitrification relative to N loading terms have decreased, with factors such as loss of benthic habitat via anoxia and loss of submerged aquatic vegetation driving such effects.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 51
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Journal of bioeconomics 1 (1999), S. 13-18 
    ISSN: 1573-6989
    Keywords: Malthus ; Darwin ; evolution ; policy
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Economics
    Notes: Abstract This is a rather impressionist report of my recollections of the history of the bioeconomics field.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 52
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Journal of bioeconomics 1 (1999), S. 19-34 
    ISSN: 1573-6989
    Keywords: Darwinian world view ; evolution ; evolutionary economics ; development ; subjectivism ; natural selection ; analogy ; adaptation ; evolutionary progress ; preferences ; genetic endowment ; growth of consumption
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Economics
    Notes: Abstract Bioeconomics—the merging of views from biology and economics—on the one hand invites the 'export' of situational logic and sophisticated optimization developed in economics into biology. On the other hand, human economic activity and its evolution, not least over the past few centuries, may be considered an instance for fruitfully applying ideas from evolutionary biology and Darwinian theory. The latter perspective is taken in the present paper. Three different aspects are discussed in detail. First, the Darwinian revolution provides an example of a paradigm shift which contrasts most significantly with the 'subjectivist revolution' that took place at about the same time in economics. Since many of the features of the paradigmatic change that were introduced into the sciences by Darwinism may be desirable for economics as well, the question is explored whether the Darwinian revolution can be a model for introducing a new paradigm in economic theory. Second, the success of Darwinism and its view of evolution have induced economists who are interested in an evolutionary approach in economics to borrow, more or less extensively, concepts and tools from Darwinian theory. Particularly prominent are constructions based on analogies to the theory of natural selection. Because several objections to such analogy constructions can be raised, generalization rather than analogy is advocated here as a research strategy. This means to search for abstract features which all evolutionary theories have in common. Third, the question of what a Darwinian world view might mean for assessing long term economic evolution is discussed. Such a view, it is argued, can provide a point of departure for reinterpreting the hedonistic approach to economic change and development. On the basis of such an interpretation bioeconomics may not only go beyond the optimization-cum-equilibrium paradigm currently prevailing in economics. It may also mean adding substantial qualifications to the subjectivism the neoclassical economists, at the turn of the century, were proud to establish in the course of their scientific revolution.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 53
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biology and philosophy 14 (1999), S. 395-430 
    ISSN: 1572-8404
    Keywords: adaptationism ; Daniel C. Dennett ; electric fish ; electroreception ; evolution ; evolutionary function ; indeterminism ; mental content ; neuroethology ; sensory modality ; underdetermination
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Philosophy
    Notes: Abstract Are attributions of content and function determinate, or is there no fact of the matter to be fixed? Daniel Dennett has argued in favor of indeterminacy and concludes that, in practice, content and function cannot be fixed. The discovery of an electrical modality in vertebrates offers one concrete instance where attributions of function and content are supported by a strong scientific consensus. A century ago, electroreception was unimagined, whereas today it is widely believed that many species of bony fish, amphibians, sharks, skates, and rays possess this non-human sensory modality. A look at the history of science related to this discovery reveals a highly interdisciplinary endeavor, encompassing ethology, behavioral analysis, neuroscience, and evolutionary biology. While each area provides important evidence, none is sufficient on its own to fix content and function. Instead, I argue that an interdisciplinary, neuroethological approach is required to carry out such determinations. Further, a detailed consideration of biological research suggests that while content and function claims are empirically underdetermined and uncertain, there is insufficient reason to believe in an additional problem of indeterminism. In particular, Dennett's indeterminism arises from a research methodology -- logical adaptationism -- that generates evidence from only one of the areas of neuroethology. However, logical adaptationism does not reflect adaptationism as it is practiced in contemporary biology. I conclude that Dennett is faced with a dilemma: On the one hand, he can hold to logical adaptationism and the indeterminism that results from it, while giving up the relevance of his arguments to biological practice. On the other, he can embrace a more accurate version of adaptationism -- one which plays a role in a larger neuroethological framework -- but from which no strong indeterminacy claims follow.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 54
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biology and philosophy 14 (1999), S. 561-584 
    ISSN: 1572-8404
    Keywords: change ; evolution ; evolutionary epistemology ; selection
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Philosophy
    Notes: Abstract This paper is concerned with the debate in evolutionary epistemology about the nature of the evolutionary process at work in the development of science: whether it is Darwinian or Lamarckian. It is claimed that if we are to make progress through the many arguments that have grown up around this issue, we must return to an examination of the concepts of change and evolution, and examine the basic kinds of mechanism capable of bringing evolution about. This examination results in two kinds of processes being identified, dubbed ‘direct’ and ‘indirect’, and these are claimed to exhaust all possibilities. These ideas are then applied to a selection of the debates within evolutionary epistemology. It is shown that while arguments about the pattern and rate of evolutionary change are necessarily inconclusive, those concerning the origin of novel variations and the mode of inheritance can be resolved by means of the distinctions made here. It is claimed that the process of selection in the evolution of science can also be clarified. The conclusion is that the main process producing the evolution of science is a direct or Lamarckian one although, if realism is correct, an indirect or Darwinian process plays a vital role.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 55
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biology and philosophy 14 (1999), S. 65-82 
    ISSN: 1572-8404
    Keywords: adaptation ; explanation ; evolution ; preadaptation ; specialization
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Philosophy
    Notes: Abstract The concept of preadaptation, though useful, continues to trouble evolutionary scientists. Usually, it is treated as if it were really adaptation, prompting such diverse theorists as Gould and Vrba, and Dennett to suggest its removal from evolutionary theory altogether. In this paper, I argue that the as-if sense is ill-founded, and that the sense of preadaptation as a process may be defended as unequivocal and generally useful in evolutionary explanations, even in such problem areas as human evolution.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 56
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biology and philosophy 14 (1999), S. 253-278 
    ISSN: 1572-8404
    Keywords: ancestry ; Bayesianism ; creationism ; Darwin ; evolution ; likelihood ; natural selection ; phylogeny ; probability ; Reichenbach
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Philosophy
    Notes: Abstract Modus Darwin is a principle of inference that licenses the conclusion that two species have a common ancestor, based on the observation that they are similar. The present paper investigates the principle's probabilistic foundations.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 57
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biology and philosophy 14 (1999), S. 39-54 
    ISSN: 1572-8404
    Keywords: experiment ; evolution ; industrial melanism ; natural selection
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Philosophy
    Notes: Abstract H. B. D. Kettlewell's field experiments on industrial melanism in the peppered moth, Biston betularia, have become the best known demonstration of natural selection in action. I argue that textbook accounts routinely portray this research as an example of controlled experimentation, even though this is historically misleading. I examine how idealized accounts of Kettlewell's research have been used by professional biologists and biology teachers. I also respond to some criticisms of David Rudge to my earlier discussions of this case study, and I question Rudge's claims about the importance of purely observational studies for the eventual acceptance and popularization of Kettlewell's explanation for the evolution of industrial melanism.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 58
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Aquatic ecology 33 (1999), S. 55-64 
    ISSN: 1573-5125
    Keywords: estuaries ; nitrogen ; oxygen depletion ; phosphorus ; regression model ; vertical mixing
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract In a detailed analysis of oxygen saturation in a shallow Danish estuary it was possible to separate the effect of meteorological forcings (i.e. wind and solar radiation) and nutrient loads on oxygen depletion in bottom water. Regression analysis showed that oxygen saturation tied to nitrogen load rather than to phosphorus load. During summer periods of stratification the oxygen saturation could be attributed to the time elapsed after the onset of stratification and the accumulated nitrogen loading 10 month prior to measurement. Using a 10-year meteorological database and an empirical model it was calculated that a 25% reduction in nitrogen loading would reduce the number of days with severe oxygen depletion (i.e. 〈15% of saturation) by more than 50%.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 59
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Neural processing letters 10 (1999), S. 181-193 
    ISSN: 1573-773X
    Keywords: evolution ; learning ; ontogeny ; neural development ; structure optimization
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Computer Science
    Notes: Abstract The interaction between learning and evolution has elicited much interest particularly among researchers who use evolutionary algorithms for the optimization of neural structures. In this article, we will propose an extension of the existing models by including a developmental phase – a growth process – of the neural network. In this way, we are able to examine the dynamical interaction between genetic information and information learned during development. Several measures are proposed to quantitatively examine the benefits and the effects of such an overlap between learning and evolution. The proposed model, which is based on the recursive encoding method for structure optimization of neural networks, is applied to the problem domain of time series prediction. Furthermore, comments are made on problem domains which associate growing networks (size) during development with problems of increasing complexity.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 60
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    European journal of plant pathology 105 (1999), S. 61-76 
    ISSN: 1573-8469
    Keywords: core sampling ; foliar nutrient concentrations ; minirhizotrons ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; potassium ; Rhizolab
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract Potato-cyst nematodes (Globodera pallida) cause severe yield losses in potato. Plants infected with potato-cyst nematodes generally have reduced concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the foliage. This study investigated whether reduced growth of nematode-infected potato is caused by nutrient limitation. Experiments in the field and in containers showed that phosphorus concentration correlated best with total crop biomass at early stages of growth. The role of phosphorus in nematode damage was further investigated in the field and in the Wageningen Rhizolab. The experimental field was infested with potato-cyst nematodes and two levels of nematode density were established by fumigation with a nematicide. Prior applications of calcium carbonate resulted in pHKCl levels of 4.8 and 6.1. Two levels of phosphorus fertiliser were applied: either 0 or 225 kg P ha−1. In the Wageningen Rhizolab, soil of both pH levels from the field was used after treatment with 1 MRad gamma irradiation to kill the nematodes. Subsequently, half of the soil was inoculated with cysts to give a nematode density of 30 viable juveniles per gram of soil. In the field, nine weeks after planting, the total crop biomass ranged from 107 g m−2 for the treatment with nematodes at pHKCl 6.1 without phosphorus fertiliser to 289 g m−2 for the fumigated treatment at pHKCl 4.8 with phosphorus fertiliser. The differences in total biomass for the various treatments were explained by differences in foliar phosphorus concentration. Nematodes induced or aggravated P deficiency and reduced total biomass. This was not the only damage mechanism as at high, non-limiting levels of foliar phosphorus concentration, nematodes still reduced total biomass. In the Wageningen Rhizolab, directly after planting, the number of roots visible against minirhizotrons was reduced by nematodes. However, the increase of root number in the nematode treatment continued longer than in the control, until root number was higher than that of the control. The compensary root growth of the nematode treatment was restricted to the top 30 cm and nematodes reduced rooting depth. High soil pH reduced growth, mainly by reducing the availability of phosphate. Both nematodes and high soil pH reduced nutrient uptake per unit root length. Our results lead us to suggest an interaction between nematodes and soil pH, with nematode damage being higher at pHKCl 6.1 than at pHKCl 4.8.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 61
    ISSN: 1573-868X
    Keywords: Osaka Bay ; sediment ; carbon ; nitrogen ; organic matter ; stable isotope ratio ; terrestrial organic matter ; TOC ; POC
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N) of surface sediments were measured within Osaka Bay, in the Seto Inland Sea in Japan, in order to better understand the sedimentation processes operating on both terrestrial and marine organic matter in the Bay. The δ13C and δ15N of surface sediments in the estuary of the Yodo River were less than −23‰ and 5‰ respectively, but increased in the area up to about 10 km from the river mouth. At greater distances they became constant (giving δ13C of about −20‰ and δ15N about 6‰). It can be concluded that large amounts of terrestrial organic matter exist near the mouth of the Yodo River. Stable isotope ratios in the estuary of the Yodo River within 10 km of the river mouth were useful indicators allowing study of the movement of terrestrial organic matter. Deposition rates for total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN) over the whole of the Bay were estimated to be 63,100 ton C/year and 7,590 ton N/year, respectively. The deposition rate of terrestrial organic carbon was estimated to be 13,200 (range 2,000–21,500) ton C/year for the whole of Osaka Bay, and terrestrial organic carbon was estimated to be about 21% (range 3–34) of the TOC deposition rate. The ratio of the deposition rate of terrestrial organic carbon to the rate inflow of riverine TOC and particulate organic carbon (POC) were estimated to be 19% (range 3–31) and 76% (range 12–100), respectively.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 62
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Water resources management 13 (1999), S. 303-314 
    ISSN: 1573-1650
    Keywords: economics ; irrigation ; nitrogen ; nutrients ; wastewater
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Surveying , Geography
    Notes: Abstract The optimal wastewater treatment level is affected by costs, hazards and benefits. Lowering the wastewater treatment level decreases fertilization costs because of the increased levels of available nutrients left in the water, and irrigation costs decrease if water prices reflect the lower treatment costs. Agricultural yields and/or prices may decrease according to differences between levels of nutrients needed by crops and those available in wastewater. The present article focuses on determination of monthly optimal treatment levels and of the mix of crops calculated to maximize agricultural incomes, according to farmers' point of view. It does not reflect the national point-view focusing on maximization of net national benefits considering also environmental hazards. The methodology appears in Haruvy (1994) and application will be presented in another article (Haruvy et al., 1999).
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 63
    ISSN: 1573-4935
    Keywords: Histidine decarboxylase ; Tetrahymena ; gene sequencing ; evolution ; histamine
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology , Chemistry and Pharmacology
    Notes: Abstract RNA was isolated from Tetrahymena pyriformis GL and using human histidine decarboxylase (HDC) gene primers, the RT-PCR product was sequenced. A fraction containing 207 base pairs was compared to the published sequences of prokaryotic and mammalian (rat, mouse and human) HDC cDNA (exons). The HDC-cDNA fraction of Tetrahymena was similar to the mammalian cDNA-s and it was completely different from the prokaryotic HDC-gene. The results indicate the presence of a mammalian-like HDC-gene already in a unicellular eukaryote organism and demonstrates also that the divergence of the prokaryotic–eukaryotic common gene took place already at this low evolutionary level.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 64
    ISSN: 1573-6857
    Keywords: D. melanogaster ; evolution ; frameshifting ; retrotransposon
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Earlier related to parasitic elements, retrotransposons of eukaryotes have been demonstrated to participate in general cell processes such as chromosome repair and evolution of gene expression (Teng et al., 1996; McDonald, 1993). Here, we report the existence of two class of genomic copies of retrotransposon 1731 with different expression strategies, one of which might be driven by natural selection. The first class uses conventional translation frameshifting known to ensure expression of revere transcriptase (RT) open reading frame (ORF), depending on the efficiency of frameshifting. The bulk of genomic copies are related to the second class where the frameshift is prevented as a result of the substitution of a rare codon recoginsing rare tRNA by a codon preferred by host genome, whereas the RT ORF is restored by downstream single nuclotide deletion. We suggest that natural selection has driven the switching of 1731 expression strategy from retrovirus-like to the fussion-ORF expression. This observation is in accordance with the detection in testes of fused Gag-RT polypetide encoded by 1731. The abundance of RT in testes may serve for normal development of host tissue.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 65
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: Baltic Sea ; cyanobacteria ; estuaries ; grazing ; iron ; lakes ; molybdenum ; nitrogen ; nitrogen fixation ; nitrogen limitation ; Zooplankton
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract Explaining the nearly ubiquitous absence of nitrogen fixation by planktonic organisms in strongly nitrogen-limited estuaries presents a major challenge to aquatic ecologists. In freshwater lakes of moderate productivity, nitrogen limitation is seldom maintained for long since heterocystic, nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria bloom, fix nitrogen, and alleviate the nitrogen limitation. In marked contrast to lakes, this behavior occurs in only a few estuaries worldwide. Primary production is limited by nitrogen in most temperate estuaries, yet no measurable planktonic nitrogen fixation occurs. In this paper, we present the hypothesis that the absence of planktonic nitrogen fixers from most estuaries is due to an interaction of bottom-up and top-down controls. The availability of Mo, a trace metal required for nitrogen fixation, is lower in estuaries than in freshwater lakes. This is not an absolute physiological constraint against the occurrence of nitrogen-fixing organisms, but the lower Mo availability may slow the growth rate of these organisms. The slower growth rate makes nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria in estuaries more sensitive to mortality from grazing by Zooplankton and benthic organisms. We use a simple, mechanistically based simulation model to explore this hypothesis. The model correctly predicts the timing of the formation of heterocystic, cyanobacterial blooms in freshwater lakes and the magnitude of the rate of nitrogen fixation. The model also correctly predicts that high Zooplankton biomasses in freshwaters can partially suppress blooms of nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria, even in strongly nitrogen-limited lakes. Further, the model indicates that a relatively small and environmentally realistic decrease in Mo availability, such as that which may occur in seawater compared to freshwaters due to sulfate inhibition of Mo assimilation, can suppress blooms of heterocystic cyanobacteria and prevent planktonic nitrogen fixation. For example, the model predicts that at a Zooplankton biomass of 0.2 mg l−1, cyanobacteria will bloom and fix nitrogen in lakes but not in estuaries of full-strength seawater salinity because of the lower Mo availability. Thus, the model provides strong support for our hypothesis that bottom-up and top-down controls may interact to cause the absence of planktonic nitrogen fixation in most estuaries. The model also provides a basis for further exploration of this hypothesis in individual estuarine systems and correctly predicts that planktonic nitrogen fixation can occur in low salinity estuaries, such as the Baltic Sea, where Mo availability is greater than in higher salinity estuaries.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 66
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: N15 ; nitrogen ; nutrient cycling ; plants ; stable isotopes ; soil ; temperate forest ; tropical forest
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract Several lines of evidence suggest that nitrogen in most tropical forests is relatively more available than N in most temperate forests, and even that it may function as an excess nutrient in many tropical forests. If this is correct, tropical forests should have more open N cycles than temperate forests, with both inputs and outputs of N large relative to N cycling within systems. Consequent differences in both the magnitude and the pathways of N loss imply that tropical forests should in general be more 15N enriched than are most temperate forests. In order to test this hypothesis, we compared the nitrogen stable isotopic composition of tree leaves and soils from a variety of tropical and temperate forests. Foliar δ15N values from tropical forests averaged 6.5‰ higher than from temperate forests. Within the tropics, ecosystems with relatively low N availability (montane forests, forests on sandy soils) were significantly more depleted in 15N than other tropical forests. The average δ15N values for tropical forest soils, either for surface or for depth samples, were almost 8‰ higher than temperate forest soils. These results provide another line of evidence that N is relatively abundant in many tropical forest ecosystems.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 67
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: estuaries ; lakes ; marine ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; rivers ; streams ; temperate ; tropics
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract Published data and analyses from temperate and tropical aquatic systems are used to summarize knowledge about the potential impact of land-use alteration on the nitrogen biogeochemistry of tropical aquatic ecosystems, identify important patterns and recommend key needs for research. The tropical N-cycle is traced from pre-disturbance conditions through the phases of disturbance, highlighting major differences between tropical and temperate systems that might influence development strategies in the tropics. Analyses suggest that tropical freshwaters are more frequently N-limited than temperate zones, while tropical marine systems may show more frequent P limitation. These analyses indicate that disturbances to pristine tropical lands will lead to greatly increased primary production in freshwaters and large changes in tropical freshwater communities. Increased freshwater nutrient flux will also lead to an expansion of the high production, N- and light-limited zones around river deltas, a switch from P- to N-limitation in calcareous marine systems, with large changes in the community composition of fragile mangrove and reef systems. Key information gaps are highlighted, including data on mechanisms of nutrient transport and atmospheric deposition in the tropics, nutrient and material retention capacities of tropical impoundments, and N/P coupling and stoichiometric impacts of nutrient supplies on tropical aquatic communities. The current base of biogeochemical data suggests that alterations in the N-cycle will have greater impacts on tropical aquatic ecosystems than those already observed in the temperate zone.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 68
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: Baltic Sea ; cyanobacteria ; estuaries ; grazing ; iron ; lakes ; molybdenum ; nitrogen ; nitrogen fixation ; nitrogen limitation ; zooplankton
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract Explaining the nearly ubiquitous absence of nitrogen fixation by planktonic organisms in strongly nitrogen-limited estuaries presents a major challenge to aquatic ecologists. In freshwater lakes of moderate productivity, nitrogen limitation is seldom maintained for long since heterocystic, nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria bloom, fix nitrogen, and alleviate the nitrogen limitation. In marked contrast to lakes, this behavior occurs in only a few estuaries worldwide. Primary production is limited by nitrogen in most temperate estuaries, yet no measurable planktonic nitrogen fixation occurs. In this paper, we present the hypothesis that the absence of planktonic nitrogen fixers from most estuaries is due to an interaction of bottom-up and top-down controls. The availability of Mo, a trace metal required for nitrogen fixation, is lower in estuaries than in freshwater lakes. This is not an absolute physiological constraint against the occurrence of nitrogen-fixing organisms, but the lower Mo availability may slow the growth rate of these organisms. The slower growth rate makes nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria in estuaries more sensitive to mortality from grazing by zooplankton and benthic organisms. We use a simple, mechanistically based simulation model to explore this hypothesis. The model correctly predicts the timing of the formation of heterocystic, cyanobacterial blooms in freshwater lakes and the magnitude of the rate of nitrogen fixation. The model also correctly predicts that high zooplankton biomasses in freshwaters can partially suppress blooms of nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria, even in strongly nitrogen-limited lakes. Further, the model indicates that a relatively small and environmentally realistic decrease in Mo availability, such as that which may occur in seawater compared to freshwaters due to sulfate inhibition of Mo assimilation, can suppress blooms of heterocystic cyanobacteria and prevent planktonic nitrogen fixation. For example, the model predicts that at a zooplankton biomass of 0.2 mg l−1, cyanobacteria will bloom and fix nitrogen in lakes but not in estuaries of full-strength seawater salinity because of the lower Mo availability. Thus, the model provides strong support for our hypothesis that bottom-up and top-down controls may interact to cause the absence of planktonic nitrogen fixation in most estuaries. The model also provides a basis for further exploration of this hypothesis in individual estuarine systems and correctly predicts that planktonic nitrogen fixation can occur in low salinity estuaries, such as the Baltic Sea, where Mo availability is greater than in higher salinity estuaries.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 69
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Fabaceae ; Medicago ; Systematics ; evolution ; allozymes ; isozymes
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Medicago intertexta andM. ciliaris have been controversially recognized as separate species. The only reliable diagnostic character, gland-tipped trichomes on the fruits inM. ciliaris, is controlled by presence of a single dominant allele, and such one-character taxonomies are debatable. Contributing to the difficulty,M. muricoleptis andM. granadensis, the other two species ofMedicago sectionSpirocarpos subsectionIntertextae, are sometimes confusingly similar toM. intertexta or to each other. Allozyme differences provided 95% verification of the suitability of the gland-tipped trichome character for separatingM. intertexta andM. ciliaris, thus corroborating their recognition as separate taxa. Several measures of allozyme variation indicated thatM. intertexta is more polymorphic than its sister species. Heterozygosity was also highest inM. intertexta, suggestive of a higher outcrossing rate, which is also consistent with larger floral size. Heterozygosity ofM. intertexta was concentrated in Sicily and nearby countries. Taxonomic difficulties in identifying SicilianM. intertexta are well known, and may be the result of interspecific hybridization and introgression.Medicago muricoleptis differed from the above two species in the frequency of several alleles, whileM. granadensis possessed numerous unique alleles consistent with its complete absence of genetic exchange with the other three substantially interfertile species.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 70
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Plant systematics and evolution 214 (1999), S. 187-198 
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Malvales ; Sterculiaceae ; Tiliaceae ; Bombacaceae ; Malvaceae ; Inflorescence morphology ; epicalyx ; systematics ; homology ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract A broad comparative analysis reveals that the inflorescences of coreMalvales, familiesSterculiaceae, Tiliaceae, Bombacaceae andMalvaceae, include characteristic repeating units. The basic repeating unit is called bicolor unit (afterTheobroma bicolor, where it was first observed). It is determinate and bears three bracts, one of which is invariably sterile, whereas the others subtend lateral cymes or single flowers. Through the demonstration of intermediate steps in closely related taxa the triad of bracts within a bicolor unit and the trimerous malvalean epicalyx are shown to be homologous. Various possibilities for an origin of the bicolor unit are discussed. Bicolor units are variously arranged to form complete inflorescences. In many taxa they are terminal on modules that comprise two (or fewer) prophylls. These modules may be arranged in elongated anthocladia or condensed sympodia, which in turn may constitute components of higher order inflorescence structures. The presence of the bicolor unit or its derivatives linksSterculiaceae, Tiliaceae, Bombacaceae andMalvaceae. It is absent from all other families included in a broader defined orderMalvales and represents one of the rare morphological synapomorphies of coreMalvales. Furthermore, inflorescence morphology provides characters of systematic significance for various taxa within coreMalvales.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 71
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Salicaceae ; Salix alba ; S. fragilis ; Allozymes ; clones ; population structure ; hybridization ; polyploidy ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Genetic variability was estimated by enzyme electrophoresis in 239 Belgian clones from theSalix alba-S. fragilis complex. This morphological complex suggested a high frequency of hybrids. To test this hypothesis, the clones were pooled as a single co-adapted species complex and secondly as belonging to either species, i.e. beingS. alba-like orS. fragilis-like. The standard genetic variability measures showed higher values for the complex than for the separate species. However, the observed mean heterozygosity was lower in the putative hybrid complex than for each of the species separately. The fixation indices were more variable at the species level and indicated that mostS. fragilis locations appeared fixed forlap-1, whereas no fixation occured inS. alba locations. Averaged at the regional (i.e. catchment) level, this difference between the two species remained and values ranged from 0.457 to 0.617 inS. alba and were much higher, fixed homozygous or monomorph inS. fragilis. Hierarchical F-statistics revealed that most of the differentiation occured at the lower levels of localities and tributaries and that there was no further differentiation between catchments. Tributaries which are 10–25km in length were proposed as the most likely entities for further examination of putative hybridization and events of allelic fixations. By considering the two abovementioned approaches of data input, it could be suggested that most of the allozyme differentiation was between the species and less between the regions.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 72
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Plant systematics and evolution 218 (1999), S. 43-54 
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Fabaceae ; Phaseolus ; Phaseolus lunatus ; Taxonomy ; germplasm ; evolution ; origin ; allozyme ; Latin America
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract An investigation was made of the phylogenetic relationships among wild accessions of Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) and wild allies of Mesoamerican and Andean origins, using electrophoresis of seed storage proteins and isozymes. Mesoamerican wild species are phylogenetically more distant fromP. lunatus than Andean species, and apparently belong to the tertiary gene pool of Lima bean. The Andean wild species, which are investigated for the first time, reveal a high similarity to the Lima bean, and particularly with its Mesoamerican gene pool. These Andean species probably constitute a secondary gene pool of Lima bean, and are thus of considerable interest in the context of genetic improvement of the crop. Based on these observations, an Andean origin is suggested for the Andean wild species and forP. lunatus. These results point out the importance of collecting and conserving AndeanPhaseolus germplasm.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 73
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Plant systematics and evolution 217 (1999), S. 279-297 
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Arecaceae ; Phytelephantoideae ; Aleocharinae ; Baridinae ; Derelomini ; Mystrops ; Xanthopygus ; Brood-site pollination ; dioecy ; evolution ; floral scents ; flower-breeding ; pollination ; thermogenesis
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract The subfamilyPhytelephantoideae comprises three genera (Ammandra, Aphandra, andPhytelephas) and seven species of dioecious palms. The floral scents ofAmmandra dasyneura, A. decasperma, Aphandra natalia, Phytelephas aequatorialis, P. macrocarpa, andP. seemannii were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We studied the pollination biology ofA. natalia, P. aequatorialis, andP. macrocarpa, and tested how the synthetically produced main constituents of the floral scents ofAphandra andPhytelephas attracted insects in two natural populations ofPhytelephas. The genera are distinct in terms of floral scents.Ammandra has sesquiterpenes,Aphandra (+)-2-methoxy-3-sec-butylpyrazine, andPhytelephas p-methyl anisol. These constituents dominated the scents quantitatively and qualitatively. The similarity between scents of male and female inflorescences was 76.5% inAmmandra, 84.2% inAphandra, and 〉99% inPhytelephas. Different species ofAleocharinae (Staphylinidae) pollinateAphandra natalia andPhytelephas species and reproduce in their male inflorescences.Derelomini (Curculinoidae) andMystrops (Nitidulidae) only visit and pollinatePhytelephas in which male inflorescences they reproduce. A species ofBaridinae (Curculionidae) only visits and pollinatesAphandra natalia, and reproduces in its female inflorescence. The apparent reliance on one or a few floral scent constituents as attractants and few and specific pollinators may indicate co-evolution. Sympatric species ofPhytelephantoideae have different scents. We suggest that species with similar scents have allopatric distributions due to the absence of a pollinator isolation mechanism.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 74
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Asteraceae ; Brachycome ; B chromosome ; polymorphism ; evolution ; karyotyping ; centromere
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract The A and B chromosomes of different karyotype variants (cytodemes A1, A2, A3 and A4) ofBrachycome dichromosomatica were analysed by computer-aided chromosome image analysis and fluorescencein situ hybridisation (FISH). Ribosomal DNA and the B chromosome-specific sequence Bd49 were detected on all B chromosomes. In addition to minor size variation of the Bs, polymorphism of the rDNA and Bd49 position and copy number revealed two major types of B chromosomes. The B chromosomes of all the cytodemes were indistinguishable from each other in length, but that of A3 showed evidence of rearrangements consistent with its long-term geographic isolation. The results presented suggest a monophyletic origin of the B chromosomes ofB. dichromosomatica.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 75
    ISSN: 1615-6110
    Keywords: Hymenophyllopsis ; Lophosoria ; molecular systematics ; evolution ; rbcL ; phylogeny
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Nucleotide sequences fromrbcL were used to infer relationships of Lophosoriaceae and Hymenophyllopsidaceae. The phylogenetic positions of these two monotypic fern families have been debated, and neither group had been included in recent molecular systematic studies of ferns. Maximum parsimony analysis of our data supported a sister relationship betweenLophosoria andDicksonia, and also betweenHymenophyllopsis andCyathea. Thus, both newly-examined families appear to be part of a previously characterized and well-supported clade of tree ferns. The inferred relationships ofLophosoria are consistent with most (but not all) recent treatments. However,Hymenophyllopsis includes only small delicate plants superficially similar to filmy ferns (Hymenophyllaceae), very different from the large arborescent taxa. Nevertheless, some synapomorphic characteristics are shared with the tree fern clade. Further studies on gametophytes ofHymenophyllopsis are needed to test these hypotheses of relationship.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 76
    ISSN: 1615-6102
    Keywords: Endosymbiont ; Mycetocyte ; Mycetome ; Oocyte ; Transovarial transmission ; Ultrastructure
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Summary All anoplurans live symbiotically with prokaryotic microorganisms hosted in specialized cells, termed mycetocytes. In nymphs and males mycetocytes are distributed between midgut epithelial cells. In females, besides the midgut, mycetocytes are found in the reproductive organs where they are located at the base of ovarioles in contact with lateral oviducts. The mycetocyte-associated symbionts are transmitted from one generation to the next transovarially. Here, the results of histological and ultrastructural studies on the distribution and transmission of symbiotic microorganisms within the ovaries of the anopluranHaematopinus suis are presented. Interestingly, during advanced oogenesis (i.e., choriogenesis) of this species all symbionts are localized extracellularly and form a tight mass located at the posterior pole of the oocyte just below the hydropyle. In insects studied so far, such localization of transovarially transmitted microorganisms has been reported only in the closely related speciesHaematopinus eurysternus.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 77
    ISSN: 1573-5036
    Keywords: ectomycorrhizae ; Eucalyptus regnans ; forest burns ; nitrogen ; phosphorus
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract This study was conducted to compare the effects on the growth of Eucalyptus regnans seedlings of unheated soil and soil heated to different extents (as indicated by soil colour–bright red or black) in burnt logging coupes, and to separate the effects of heating of the soil on direct nutrient availability and on morphotypes and effectiveness of ectomycorrhizae. Burnt soils were collected from three logging coupes burnt 2, 14 and 25 months previously and unbumt soil from adjacent regrowth forests. Compared to unburnt soil, the early seedling growth was stimulated in black burnt soil from all coupes (burnt 2, 14 and 25 months previously). Seedling growth was generally poor in red burnt soil, especially in soil collected 2 months after burning. However, the concentration of extractable P was extremely high in red burnt soil, especially in soil collected 2 months after burning. In black burnt soil, extractable P was increased in soil 2 months after burning, but not in the soils collected 14 or 25 months after burning. However, both total P content and concentration in seedlings were increased in all collections of black burnt soil. Frequency of ectomycorrhizae was high in seedlings grown in all black burnt soils, but the mycorrhizal mantles were poorly developed in seedlings in black burnt soil collected 2 months after burning. Seedlings were also ectomycorrhizal in red burnt soil, except in soil collected 2 months after burning. Fine root inocula from seedlings grown in black burnt soils collected 14 and 25 months after burning significantly stimulated both seedling growth and P uptake compared with the uninoculated control, whereas the fine root inocula from the seedlings grown in all the other soils did not. These results suggest that, in black burnt soil, both direct nutritional changes and changes in the ectomycorrhizae may contribute to seedling growth promotion after regeneration burns. The generally poor seedling growth in red burnt soils is likely to have been due to N deficiency as the seedlings in these soils were yellow-green and the tissue concentrations of N were significantly lower than in other treatments.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 78
    ISSN: 1573-5036
    Keywords: crop residues ; isotope dilution ; 15N ; nitrogen ; organic matter ; pool substitution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract Experiments were carried out to compare the direct approach for estimating crop N uptake from 15N labelled organic inputs, to two indirect approaches, 15N isotope dilution and A value. In the first experiment soils received 25, 50, 75, or 100 mg N kg soil−1 in the form of Casuarina equisitifolia residues in addition to ammonium sulphate fertiliser, to give a total of 100 mg N kg soil−1 added. This was a cross labelling design, thus two matching sets of treatments, were set up, identical in all but the position of the 15N label. Maize (Zea mays L.) plants were grown in the soils amended with residues for 11 weeks and N derived from residues (Ndfr) estimated using the A-value or the direct approach. The A-value approach appeared to significantly overestimate %Ndfr compared to the direct method. In the second experiment contrasting residues were added to soil, fababean (Vicia faba L. var. minor), alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), soyabean fixing, (Glycine max (L.) Merrill), soyabean non-fixing, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and maize. This was also cross-labelling design, labelled and unlabelled residues were used. Maize plants were grown in these soils for 11 weeks and %Ndfr in the maize plants estimated using 15 N isotope dilution and the direct approach. The 15 N isotope dilution approach also overestimated %Ndfr compared to the direct method in this experiment. Pool substitution appeared to be responsible for the discrepancy between the direct and indirect techniques. It was concluded that 15N isotope dilution and A-value approaches as used in these experiments (i.e where residues and 15N label are added simultaneously) were not appropriate techniques for estimating N derived from organic residues in soils.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 79
    ISSN: 1573-5036
    Keywords: nitrogen ; Prunus ; remobilisation ; storage ; uptake
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract Two-year old nectarine trees (Prunus persica, Batsch, var. nectarina, cv. Starkredgold on GF305 rootstock) planted in pots each received five applications of 1.0 g 15N labelled urea either from mid May to mid July (early uptake) or from mid August to the beginning of October (late uptake). All trees were supplied with a corresponding amount of unlabelled urea when they did not receive the labelled N. In autumn, all abscised leaves were collected and during winter randomly selected trees were harvested and divided into main organs. The remaining trees were transplanted into similar pots filled with sand; they received no N fertiliser and were harvested in May to evaluate the remobilisation of N. Total N and 15N abundance were determined in each organ. Nectarine trees took up similar amounts of N in the 'early' and in the 'late' period; however, more labelled nitrogen was recovered in the perennial organs during the winter when trees received the labelled N in the 'late' than in the 'early' period. Some 73–80% of the N present in the dormant trees was stored in the roots, which contained almost twice the amount of labelled N taken up 'late' than that absorbed 'early'. Nitrogen for spring growth was remobilised predominantly from the roots and accounted for some 43–49% of the labelled N recovered in the tree during winter. Results suggest that the nitrogen taken up 'late' in the season is preferentially stored in roots and used by peach trees to sustain new growth the following spring.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 80
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Plant and soil 212 (1999), S. 207-217 
    ISSN: 1573-5036
    Keywords: legume ; nitrogen ; N2-fixation ; pea ; sulphur
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract A S-deficient soil was used in pot experiments to investigate the effects of S addition on growth and N2-fixation in pea (Pisum sativum L.). Addition of 100 mg S pot−1 increased seed yield by more than 2-fold. Numbers of pods formed were the most sensitive yield component affected by S deficiency. Sulphur addition also increased the concentration of N in leaves and stems, and the total content of N in the shoots. The amounts of N fixed by pea were determined at four growth stages from stem elongation to maturity, using the 15N dilution technique. Sulphur addition doubled the amount of N fixed at all growth stages. In contrast, leaf chlorophyll content and shoot dry weight were increased significantly by S addition only after the flowering and pod fill stage, respectively. Pea roots were found to have high concentrations of S, reaching approximately 10 mg g−1 dry weight and being 2.6–4.4 times the S concentration in the shoots under S-sufficient conditions. These results suggest that roots/nodules of pea have a high demand for S, and that N2-fixation is very sensitive to S deficiency. The effects of S deficiency on pea growth were likely to be caused by the shortage of N, due to decreased N2-fixation.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 81
    ISSN: 1573-5028
    Keywords: cysteine positions ; evolution ; gene duplication ; glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase ; isoform classes ; redox regulation
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract In a recent paper (Wenderoth et al., J Biol Chem 272: 26985–26990, 1997) we reported that the positions of the two redox regulatory cysteines identified in a plastidic G6PD isoform from potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) differ substantially from those conserved in cyanobacterial G6PDH sequences. To investigate the origin of redox regulation in G6PDH enzymes from photoautotrophic organisms, we isolated and characterized several G6PD cDNA sequences from higher plants and from a green and a red alga. Alignments of the deduced amino acid sequences showed that the cysteine residues cluster in the coenzyme-binding domain of the plastidic isoforms and are conserved at three out of six positions. Comparison of the mature proteins and the signal peptides revealed that two different plastidic G6PDH classes (P1 and P2) evolved from a common ancestral gene. The two algal sequences branch off prior to this class separation in higher plants, sharing about similar amino acid identity with either of the two plastidic G6PDH classes. The genes for cytosolic plant isoforms clearly share a common ancestor with animal and fungal G6PDH homologues, whereas the cyanobacterial isoforms branch within the eubacterial G6PDH sequences. The data suggest that cysteine-mediated redox regulation arose independently in G6PDH isoenzymes of eubacterial and eukaryotic lineages.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 82
    ISSN: 1573-5036
    Keywords: fire ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; soil nutrient heterogeneity ; tree effects ; tropical dry forest
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract Individual trees are known to influence soil chemical properties, creating spatial patterns that vary with distance from the stem. The influence of trees on soil chemical properties is commonly viewed as the agronomic basis for low-input agroforestry and shifting cultivation practices, and as an important source of spatial heterogeneity in forest soils. Few studies, however, have examined the persistence of the effects of trees on soil after the pathways responsible for the effects are removed. Here, we present evidence from a Mexican dry forest indicating that stem-related patterns of soil nutrients do persist following slash-and-burn removal of trees and two years of cropping. Pre-disturbance concentrations of resin extractable phosphorus (P), bicarbonate extractable P, NaOH extractable P, total P, total nitrogen (N) and carbon (C), KCl extractable nitrate (NO3 -), and net N mineralization and nitrification rates were higher in stem than dripline soils under two canopy dominant species of large-stemmed trees with contrasting morphologies and phenologies (Caesalpinia eriostachys Benth. and Forchhammeria pallida Liebm.). These stem effects persisted through slash burning and a first growing season for labile inorganic and organic P, NaOH inorganic P, and plant-available P, and through a second growing season for labile organic P, NaOH organic P, and plant-available P. While stem effects for extractable NO3 -, net nitrification rates, total N and C disappeared after felling and slash burning, these stem effects returned after the first growing season. These results support the view that tree-influenced patterns of soil nutrients do persist after tree death, and that trees contribute to the long-term spatial heterogeneity of forest soils.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 83
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Plant and soil 212 (1999), S. 173-181 
    ISSN: 1573-5036
    Keywords: nitrogen ; phosphatase activity ; phosphorus ; protease activity ; soil microbial biomass ; substrate-induced respiration
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract Estimating in situ N and P status of the soil microbiota is complicated because microbiological features reflect potentials rather than field conditions. Complementary microbiological assays were, therefore, combined to evaluate the N and P requirement of the microbiota in seven agricultural, grassland and forest topsoils of the Bornhöved Lake district as follows: (i) the sensitivity of the substrate-induced respiration (SIR) to supplemental addition of N and P was monitored during microbial growth and (ii) soil protease and phosphatase activities were analysed and related to soil mass and microbial biomass content. Nitrogen addition increased the maximal SIR rate in all except one soil indicating that the growth of organisms is restricted by this element when easily degradable C source is present. Supplemental N (and in some cases also P) retarded the respiratory response within the first 24 h which suggests microbial sensitivity and/or greater anabolic efficiency. With additional N the maximal SIR rate was most strongly enhanced in topsoils of the beech forest and the dystric alder forest. Thus, the microbial growth in these soils that were below litter horizons seems to be mostly restricted by N. Supplemental P positively affected respiratory response of soils under monoculture, wet grassland and dystric alder forest. In the dystric alder forest soil, high rates of alkaline and unbuffered phosphatase activity were observed when activity was related to either soil mass or microbial biomass content. The data of proteolytic and phospholytic enzymes are discussed with reference to nutrient deficiency and microbial strategy for N and P adsorption.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 84
    ISSN: 1573-5036
    Keywords: effluent ; leaching ; 15N isotope ; nitrogen ; pasture ; uptake
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract The objective of this study was to compare the N leaching loss and pasture N uptake from autumn-applied dairy shed effluent and ammonium fertilizer (NH4Cl) labeled with 15N, using intact soil lysimeters (80 cm diameter, 120 cm depth). The soil used was a sandy loam, and the pasture was a mixture of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and white clover (Trifolium repens). The DSE and NH4Cl were applied twice annually in autumn (May) and late spring (November), each at 200 kg N ha-1. The N applied in May 1996 was labeled with 15N. The lysimeters were either spray or flood irrigated during the summer. The autumn-applied DSE resulted in lower N leaching losses compared with NH4Cl. However, the N applied in the autumn had a higher potential for leaching than N applied in late spring. Between 4.5–8.1% of the 15N-labeled mineral N in the DSE and 15.1–18.8% of the 15N-labeled NH4Cl applied in the autumn were leached within a year of application. Of the annual N leaching losses in the DSE treatments (16.0–26.9 kg N ha-1), a fifth (20.3–22.9%) was from the mineral N fraction of the DSE applied in the autumn, with the remaining larger proportion from the organic fraction of the DSE, soil N and N applied in spring. In the NH4Cl treatments, more than half (53.8–64.8%) of the annual N leaching loss (55.9–57.6 kg N ha-1) was derived from the autumn-applied NH4Cl. DSE was as effective as NH4Cl in stimulating pasture production. Since only 4.4–4.5% of the annual herbage N uptake in the DSE treatment and 12.3–13.3% in the NH4Cl treatment were derived from the autumn-applied mineral N, large proportions of the annual herbage N uptake must have been derived from the N applied in spring, the organic N fraction in the DSE, soil N and N fixed by clover. The recoveries of 15N in the herbage were similar between the DSE and the NH4Cl treatments, but those in the leachate were over 50% less from the DSE than from the NH4Cl treatment. The lower leaching loss of 15N in the DSE treatment was attributed to the stimulated microbial activities and increased immobilization following the application of DSE.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 85
    ISSN: 1573-5109
    Keywords: evolution ; genetic resources ; PCR-RFLP ; RAPDs ; Vicia ; taxonomy
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract We report the results of two methods of DNA analysis to elucidate phylogenetic relationships among 29 Vicia subgen. Vicia species in comparison with two species of subgenus Vicilla sect. Vicilla. The methods employed were RAPD analysis of total genomic DNA and PCR-RFLP analysis of five chloroplast genes, rbcL, rpoB, 16S, psaA and trnK. The results of each method were similar and complementary, and support the current taxonomic systems of subsp. Vicia. According to RAPD and PCR-RFLP analysis the Narbonensis complex can be considered a well separated section, which may be related to section Vicia. Sections Vicia, Atossa and Wiggersia are separate, but closely related sections. Species of the section Hypechusa form a single monophyletic section, where V. lutea, V. anatolica and V. hyrcanica are quite remote from other species. Our results suggest that within the subgenus Vicia, V. faba is more closely related to V. bithynica and that these two species are most closely related to section Peregrinae. We found that PCR-RFLP of cp DNA provided more precise information concerning relationships between Vicia sections than RAPD analysis. However, RAPD analysis was more informative concerning diversity of closely related Vicia taxa, such as the variable groups, section Narbonensis and V. sativa aggregate.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 86
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Genetic resources and crop evolution 46 (1999), S. 501-504 
    ISSN: 1573-5109
    Keywords: cytogenetics ; evolution ; interspecific hybrids ; oat
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
    Notes: Abstract The newly discovered tetraploid oat Avena insularis was crossed with the diploid A. strigosa and the tetraploid A. murphyi. Considerably reduced chromosome association at meiosis and a low average number of chiasmata per cell of the A. strigosa × A. insularis hybrids indicated that the diploid A. strigosa did not participate in the creation of A. insularis. From A. murphyi, A. insularis differed by four chromosomal rearrangements and the hybrids between them were sterile. The tetraploids A. magna, A. murphyi and A. insularis share the two to four floret large diaspore, which is adapted to heavy alluvial soil. They all, however, diverge from one another by four chromosomal rearrangements. At this point it is not possible to determine whether they have diverged from a single tetraploid progenitor, or developed from different diploid species.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 87
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Hydrobiologia 402 (1999), S. 255-265 
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: evolution ; spiral cleavage ; Spiralia ; cell lineage
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract It is clear that the spiralian developmental program represents a highly flexible platform for the generation of diverse larval and adult body plans. The widespread occurrence of this pattern of early development attests to its tremendous evolutionary success. Despite the large degree of conservation in the spiral cleavage pattern and other basic aspects of early development, changes in cell fate maps and in the mechanisms of blastomere specification have arisen. While we have learned a great deal about this mode of development, a number of important questions remain to be answered. To what extent do these conditions apply to the lesser studied spiralian phyla? What constraints have led to the preservation of the early spiral cleavage program? How has this developmental program been adapted for the construction of the various spiralian body plans (e.g. the segmental body plans of annelids or to the potential secondary loss of segmentation)? Are most changes associated with the elaboration of these different larval and adult body plans restricted to the late period of development? What molecular/genetic processes underlie this developmental program? Clearly, the spiralian phyla represent an important group of organisms for further studies on development and evolution.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 88
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Hydrobiologia 406 (1999), S. 281-290 
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: evolution ; Branchiobdellida ; Hirudinea ; Clitellata ; Lumbriculidae
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract The debates about the relationship among clitellate taxa at research conferences on aquatic oligochaetes have provided two alternative hypotheses. While both involve cladistic analyses, the differences focus on questions of homology. A single unique synapomorphy supports a taxon consisting of Branchiobdellida plus Lumbriculidae. Muscle ultrastructure provides a potential autapomophy for Lumbriculidae within the clade, while Branchiobdellida has many autapomophies. Some proposed synapomorphies for a Branchiobdellida plus Hirudinea grouping (jaws, oral sucker) are not based on homologous structures. Others (loss of chaetae, median male pore) are not unique, or are based on potentially convergent characters. Initial molecular analyses support a Branchiobdellida - Hirudinea grouping. A preliminary manually drawn cladogram based on re-evaluated characters supports Lumbriculidae, Branchiobdellida, Acanthobdella and Euhirudinea as a monophyletic taxon. Observations on sperm ultrastructure support this hypothesis. If substantiated, a very considerable change in nomenclature will result. However, before any nomenclatural changes are proposed, a resolution of the apparently paraphyletic Oligochaeta is necessary.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 89
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Hydrobiologia 408-409 (1999), S. 375-387 
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: eutrophication ; multi-lake studies ; phosphorus ; nitrogen ; chlorophyll-a ; transparency ; zooplankton ; macrophytes
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Monitoring data obtained from 231 freshwater lakes and ponds in the Netherlands, covering the period 1980–1996, were used to analyse the relationships between (a) transparency and chlorophyll-a, and the effect of system characteristics on this relationship, (b) chlorophyll-aand nutrient concentrations, and the effect of biological variables and (c) nutrient concentrations and nutrient loading. (a) Chlorophyll-aimposes a maximum on water transparency, but deviations from this maximum can be large. Reducing chlorophyll-a, therefore, does not guarantee a sufficient improvement of transparency. Soil type and the average depth of a lake were shown to influence the relationship between chlorophyll-aand transparency. (b) The maximum ratios of both chlorophyll-a: total-P and chlorophyll-a: total-N were higher in systems dominated by filamentous cyanobacteria than in systems dominated by other algae, indicating the efficiency of the former group with respect to nutrients. In systems with an areal coverage with submersed macrophytes above 5%, concentrations of chlorophyll-aand nutrients were lower than in systems with lower coverages. The ratios between chlorophyll-aand nutrients were lower at coverages larger than 10%. This indicates both bottom-up and top-down control of algae by macrophytes. Grazing pressure by zooplankton was also found to lower the chlorophyll-a: nutrient ratios. (c) System specific linear relationships were found between the average concentrations of total-P and total-N in the incoming water and the summer mean concentration in the lake. This allows the assessment of admissible loads for individual lakes, with narrower confidence limits compared to traditional relationships based on combined data from many lakes. From the analysis, it is concluded that the chain of relationships from nutrient loading to transparency is complex, and depends on biological variables as well as system characteristics.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 90
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Environmental biology of fishes 56 (1999), S. 17-38 
    ISSN: 1573-5133
    Keywords: embryo ; larva ; metamorphosis ; indirect or direct development ; life-history model ; altricial ; precocial ; allometry ; fish biologists vs. fishery biologists ; alprehost ; ontogeny ; evolution
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Lack of knowledge of early and juvenile development often makes it difficult to decide when a fish becomes a juvenile or, for that matter, a definitive phenotype. According to the established life-history model, a fish develops naturally in a saltatory manner, its entire life consisting of a sequence of stabilized self-organizing steps, separated by distinct less stabilized thresholds. Changes are usually introduced during thresholds. In principle, there are two ways to reach the juvenile period: by indirect or by direct development. Indirectly developing fishes have a distinct larva period that ends in a cataclysmic or mild remodeling process, called metamorphosis, from which the fishes emerge as juveniles. During metamorphosis, most temporary organs and structures of the embryos and larvae are replaced by definitive organs and structures that are also possessed by the adults. In contrast, directly developing fishes have no larvae. Their embryos develop directly into juveniles and do not need major remodeling. Consequently, the beginning of their juvenile period is morphologically and functionally less distinct than in indirect development. The life-history model helps to find criteria that identify the natural boundaries between the different periods in the life of a fish, among them, the beginning of the juvenile period. Looking at it from a different angle, when ontogeny progresses from small eggs with little yolk, larvae are required as the necessary providers of additional nutrients (‘feeding entities’ similar to amphibian tadpoles or butterfly caterpillars) in order to accumulate materials for the metamorphosis into the definitive phenotypes. Directly developing fishes start with large demersal eggs provided with an adequate volume of high density yolk and so require no or little external nutrients to develop into the definitive phenotype. These large eggs are released and develop in concentrated clutches. It therefore becomes possible and highly effective to guard them in nests or bear them in external pouches, gill chambers or the buccal cavity. Viviparity is the next natural step. Now the maternal investment into large yolks can be supplemented or replaced by direct food supply to the developing embryos like, for example, the secretion of uterine histotrophe or nutrient transfer via placental analogues. When the young of guarders and bearers start exogenous feeding, they are much larger or better developed than larvae of nonguarders and the larva period in the former is reduced to a vestige or eliminated entirely. In the latter case, the juvenile period begins with the first exogenous feeding. Such precocial fishes are more specialized and able to survive better in competitive environments. In contrast, altricial forms retain or revert to a life-history style with indirect development and high fecundity when dispersal is advantageous or essential. Fishes become juveniles when the definitive phenotype is formed in most structures, either indirectly from a larva via metamorphosis or directly from the embryo.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 91
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biogeochemistry 44 (1999), S. 93-118 
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: Everglades National Park ; mangrove soils ; organic matter ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; sedimentation ; simulation model
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract The distribution and accumulation of organic matter, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in mangrove soils at four sites along the Shark River estuary of south Florida were investigated with empirical measures and a process-based model. The mangrove nutrient model (NUMAN) was developed from the SEMIDEC marsh organic matter model and parameterized with data from mangrove wetlands. The soil characteristics in the four mangrove sites varied greatly in both concentrations and profiles of soil carbon, N and P. Organic matter decreased from 82% in the upstream locations to 30% in the marine sites. Comparisons of simulated and observed results demonstrated that landscape gradients of soil characteristics along the estuary can be adequately modeled by accounting for plant production, litter decomposition and export, and allochthonous input of mineral sediments. Model sensitivity analyses suggest that root production has a more significant effect on soil composition than litter fall. Model simulations showed that the greatest change in organic matter, N, and P occurred from the soil surface to 5 cm depth. The rapid decomposition of labile organic matter was responsible for this decrease in organic matter. Simulated N mineralization rates decreased quickly with depth, which corresponded with the decrease of labile organic matter. The increase in organic matter content and decrease in soil bulk density from mangrove sites at downstream locations compared to those at upstream locations was controlled mainly by variation in allochthonous inputs of mineral matter at the mouth of the estuary, along with gradients in mangrove root production. Research on allochthonouns sediment input and in situ root production of mangroves is limited compared to their significance to understanding nutrient biogeochemistry of these wetlands. More accurate simulations of temporal patterns of nutrient characteristics with depth will depend on including the effects of disturbance such as hurricanes on sediment redistribution and biomass production.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 92
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: Chaohu Lake ; chemical fertilizer ; cycling ; denitrification ; multipond system ; nitrogen ; nutrient budget ; phosphorus
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract During a two-year field study, an annual nutrient budget and cycles were developed for a small agricultural watershed. The study emphasized the integrated unit of the watershed in understanding the biogeochemistry. It was found that the total nutrient input was 39.1× 104 kg nitrogen and 3.91×104 kg phosphorus in the year 1995, of which the greatest input of nutrients to the watershed was chemical fertilizer application, reaching 34.7×104 kg (676 kg/ha) nitrogen and 3.88×104 kg (76 kg/ha) phosphorus. The total nutrient output from the watershed was 13.55×104 kg nitrogen and 0.40×104 kg phosphorus, while the largest output of nitrogen was denitrification, accounting for 44.1% of N output; the largest output of phosphorus was sale of crops, accounting for 99.4% of P output. The results show that the nutrient input is larger than output, demonstrating that there is nutrient surplus within the watershed, a surplus which may become a potential source of nonpoint pollution to area waters. The research showed that both denitrification and volatilization of nitrogen are key ways of nitrogen loss from the watershed. This suggests that careful management of fertilizer application will be important for the sustainable development of agriculture. The research demonstrated that a multipond system within the watershed had high retention rate for both water and nutrients, benefiting the water, nutrient and sediment recycling in the terrestrial ecosystem and helping to reduce agricultural nonpoint pollution at its source. Therefore, this unique watershed system should be recommended due to its great potential relevance for sustainable agricultural development.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 93
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: Chihuahuan desert ; desert ; desertification ; grassland ; nitrogen ; nutrient budgets ; phosphorus ; runoff
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract Rainfall simulation experiments were performed in areas of semiarid grassland (Bouteloua eriopoda) and arid shrubland (Larrea tridentata) in the Chihuahuan desert of New Mexico. The objective was to compare the runoff of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from these habitats to assess whether losses of soil nutrients are associated with the invasion of grasslands by shrubs. Runoff losses from grass- and shrub-dominated plots were similar, and much less than from bare plots located in the shrubland. Weighted average concentrations of total dissolved N compounds in runoff were greatest in the grassland (1.72 mg/1) and lowest in bare plots in the shrubland (0.55 mg/1). More than half of the N transported in runoff was carried in dissolved organic compounds. In grassland and shrub plots, the total N loss was highly correlated to the total volume of discharge. We estimate that the total annual loss of N in runoff is 0.25 kg/ha/yr in grasslands and 0.43 kg/ha/yr in shrublands — consistent with the depletion of soil N during desertification of these habitats. Losses of P from both habitats were very small.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 94
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: nitrogen ; phosphorus ; pore water ; macrophyte ; floodplain ; Paraná River
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract Inorganic nitrogen and soluble reactive phosphate (o-P) concentrations were measured in the water of a marsh and in its interstitial water at two sites, and in the river water of a floodplain marsh of the Lower Paraná River. These values were compared with the N and P concentration in sediments and macrophyte biomass in order to assess nutrient availability, fate and storage capacity. High variability was found in the interstitital water using a 1 cm resolution device. Nitrate was never detected in the pore water. Depth averaged NH4 + concentrations in the upper 30 cm layer often ranged from N = 1.5 to 1.8 mg l-1, but showed a pronounced minimum (0.5–0.7 mg l-1), close to (March 95), or relatively soon after (May 94) the end of the macrophyte growing season. Soluble phosphate showed a large variation between P = 0.1–1.1 mg l-1 without any discernible seasonal pattern. NH4 + depletion in the pore water concentration and low N/P ratios (3.7 by weight) within the macrophyte biomass at the end of the growing period suggest that available N limits plant growth. NH4 + and o-P concentrations were 35 and 7 times higher, respectively, in the pore water than in the overlying marsh, suggesting a permanent flux of nutrients from the sediments. o-P accumulate in the marsh leading to higher concentrations than in the incoming river. NH4 + did not accumulate in the marsh, and no significant differences were observed between the river and the marsh water, while the NO3 - contributed by the river water was depleted within the marsh, caused probably by coupled nitrification-denitrification at the sediment–water interface. Although an order of magnitude smaller, the pore water pool can supply enough nutrients to build up the macrophyte biomass pool, but only if a fast turnover is attained. The Paraná floodplain marsh retains a large amount of nutrients being stored mainly in the sediment compartment.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 95
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: shallow lake ; nutrient loading ; retention ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; release
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract The shallow (mean depth 4.9 m), polymictic and eutrophic lake Müggelsee was highly loaded with phosphorus (6 gP m-2a-1) and nitrogen (170 gN m-2a-1) by the river Spree up to the end of the 1980s. Annual load declined by 40–50% during the last years (1991–97). Phosphorus retention fluctuated strongly during the seasonal cycle between −200 and +100 kgP d-1and from year to year between −44% and + 26% of the P import. At the end of the eighties, the P retention capacity of the sediment was exceeded and Müggelsee became a source of phosphorus. The lake regained its ability to retain P in the sediments after external load reduction in the 1990s. However, the internal load of P reached the level of the external one. The release of P during summer was strongly related to the import of nitrate. On long-term average (1979–1997), less than 1% of the P input was retained in Müggelsee. About 24% of the nitrogen load were removed in the lake on annual mean. This rate decreased during the last years.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 96
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Hydrobiologia 395-396 (1999), S. 389-401 
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: legislation ; eutrophication ; phosphorus ; nitrogen ; wildlife conservation ; SSSI
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract There is no single piece of legislation which comprehensively addresses the problem of eutrophication of freshwater lakes. An examination is made of the extent to which national and EU laws applicable in England and Wales may be used to reduce phosphorus inputs to eutrophicated lakes. This case study is then used to outline the shortcomings of existing legislation and the future challenges for lake eutrophication control. Applicable legislation may be divided into that relating to nature conservation, to water quality and to agricultural extensification. Nature conservation laws are applicable, in that lakes designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), are theoretically safeguarded from degradation. The main limitation of the SSSI system lies in the boundary definition process under which, as a rule, no other category of legally protected land may be designated. Thus, the use of surrounding buffer land to protect water quality at the catchment level is generally precluded. The introduction of consultation areas around SSSIs of international importance under the EU Directive on Habitats is unlikely to alleviate the problem, since the area involved remains minimal compared to the extent of the majority of catchments. Intensive agricultural practices are responsible for significant nutrient enrichment of rivers and lakes, so that legislation aimed at extensification is also relevant. Examples of agricultural extensification include the Environrnentally Sensitive Areas programme and various options available for Set-Aside land. However, the prime purpose of such initiatives is the alleviation of surplus and budgetary problems and, as such, they fall short of a fully integrated approach to the ecological management of farmland. Nutrient enrichment is, essentially, a water quality issue, but policy and legislation in this area are not yet sufficiently developed to address the problem comprehensively. The current regulatory process for water quality carries the potential to work comparatively well for point sources under the system of consents to discharge. This potential is limited, however, by the paucity of information available on ecologically acceptable concentrations of phosphorus in discharges. In addition, the consents system is not constructed to deal effectively with diffuse agricultural losses of phosphorus, since, unlike point sources, these tend to arise from the cumulative effect of many activities. The main legislative challenge for lake eutrophication control lies in the area of diffuse agricultural losses of phosphorus. In this respect, experience in the U.S.A. reveals that the use of comprehensive and catchment-wide ‘Best Management Practices’ is capable of producing significant water quality improvements, providing that some degree of mandatory compliance is incorporated.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 97
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: Integrated lake management ; biomanipulation ; lake recovery ; phosphorus ; nitrogen ; eutrophication ; restoration
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract The majority of Danish lakes are highly eutrophic due to high nutrient input from domestic sources and agricultural activities. Reduced nutrient retention, and more rapid removal, in catchments as a result of agricultural drainage of wetlands and lakes and channelisation or culverting of streams also play a role. Attempts have recently been made to reduce nutrient loading on lakes by intervening at the source level and by improving the retention capacity of catchment areas. The former measures include phosphorus stripping and nitrogen removal at sewage works, increased use of phosphate-free detergents, and regulations concerning animal fertiliser storage capacity, fertiliser application practices, fertilisation plans and green cover in winter. In order to improve nutrient retention capacity of catchments, wetlands and lakes have been re-established and channelised streams have been remeandered. In addition, cultivation-free buffer strips have been established alongside natural streams and there has been a switch to manual weed control. These measures have resulted in a 73% reduction of the mean total phosphorus concentration of point-source polluted streams since 1978; in contrast, there has been no significant change in the total nitrogen concentration. Despite the major reduction in stream phosphorus concentrations, lake water quality has often not improved. This may reflect a too high external or internal phosphorus loading or biological resistance. Various physico-chemical restoration measures have been used, including dredging and oxidation of the hypolimnion with nitrate and oxygen. Biological restoration measures have been employed in 17 Danish lakes. The methods include reducing the abundance of cyprinids, stocking with 0+ pike ( Esox lucius) to control 0+ cyprinids, and promoting macrophyte recolonization by protecting germinal submerged macrophyte beds against grazing waterfowl and transplanting out macrophyte shoots. In several lakes, marked and long-lasting improvements have been obtained. The findings to date indicate that fish manipulation has a long-term effect in shallow lakes, providing nutrient loading is reduced to a level so low as to ensure an equilibrium lake water phosphorus concentration of less than 0.05–0.1 mg phosphorus l−1. If nitrogen loading is very low, however, positive results may be obtained at higher phosphorus concentrations. Macrophyte refuges and transplantation seem to be the most successful as restoration measures in the same nutrient-phosphorus regime as fish manipulation.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 98
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Hydrobiologia 412 (1999), S. 191-212 
    ISSN: 1573-5117
    Keywords: Branchiopoda ; paleontology ; phylogeny ; evolution ; classification
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Biology
    Notes: Abstract We present a cladistic analysis of all branchiopod groups, using a total of 42 morphological characters. The class Branchiopoda is composed of five superorders and 11 orders (nine recent, two fossil). The orders Ctenopoda, Anomopoda and Onychopoda form a monophyletic group, combined in the superorder Cladocera. The order Haplopoda, the fourth so-called cladoceran order (s. lat.), belongs to a new monotypic superorder, the Leptodorida. The circumtropical Cyclesteria hislopi is the sole representative of a new conchostracan order, the Cyclestherida.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 99
    Electronic Resource
    Electronic Resource
    Springer
    Biogeochemistry 44 (1999), S. 93-118 
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: Everglades National Park ; mangrove soils ; organic matter ; nitrogen ; phosphorus ; sedimentation ; simulation model
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract The distribution and accumulation of organic matter, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in mangrove soils at four sites along the Shark River estuary of south Florida were investigated with empirical measures and a process-based model. The mangrove nutrient model (NUMAN) was developed from the SEMIDEC marsh organic matter model and parameterized with data from mangrove wetlands. The soil characteristics in the four mangrove sites varied greatly in both concentrations and profiles of soil carbon, N and P. Organic matter decreased from 82% in the upstream locations to 30% in the marine sites. Comparisons of simulated and observed results demonstrated that landscape gradients of soil characteristics along the estuary can be adequately modeled by accounting for plant production, litter decomposition and export, and allochthonous input of mineral sediments. Model sensitivity analyses suggest that root production has a more significant effect on soil composition than litter fall. Model simulations showed that the greatest change in organic matter, N, and P occurred from the soil surface to 5 cm depth. The rapid decomposition of labile organic matter was responsible for this decrease in organic matter. Simulated N mineralization rates decreased quickly with depth, which corresponded with the decrease of labile organic matter. The increase in organic matter content and decrease in soil bulk density from mangrove sites at downstream locations compared to those at upstream locations was controlled mainly by variation in allochthonous inputs of mineral matter at the mouth of the estuary, along with gradients in mangrove root production. Research on allochthonouns sediment input and in situ root production of mangroves is limited compared to their significance to understanding nutrient biogeochemistry of these wetlands. More accurate simulations of temporal patterns of nutrient characteristics with depth will depend on including the effects of disturbance such as hurricanes on sediment redistribution and biomass production.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
  • 100
    ISSN: 1573-515X
    Keywords: Chaohu Lake ; chemical fertilizer ; cycling ; denitrification ; multipond system ; nitrogen ; nutrient budget ; phosphorus
    Source: Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
    Topics: Chemistry and Pharmacology , Geosciences
    Notes: Abstract During a two-year field study, an annual nutrient budget and cycles were developed for a small agricultural watershed. The study emphasized the integrated unit of the watershed in understanding the biogeochemistry. It was found that the total nutrient input was 39.1 × 104 kg nitrogen and 3.91 × 104 kg phosphorus in the year 1995, of which the greatest input of nutrients to the watershed was chemical fertilizer application, reaching 34.7 × 104 kg (676 kg/ha) nitrogen and 3.88 × 104 kg (76 kg/ha) phosphorus. The total nutrient output from the watershed was 13.55 × 104 kg nitrogen and 0.40 × 104 kg phosphorus, while the largest output of nitrogen was denitrification, accounting for 44.1% of N output; the largest output of phosphorus was sale of crops, accounting for 99.4% of P output. The results show that the nutrient input is larger than output, demonstrating that there is nutrient surplus within the watershed, a surplus which may become a potential source of nonpoint pollution to area waters. The research showed that both denitrification and volatilization of nitrogen are key ways of nitrogen loss from the watershed. This suggests that careful management of fertilizer application will be important for the sustainable development of agriculture. The research demonstrated that a multipond system within the watershed had high retention rate for both water and nutrients, benefiting the water, nutrient and sediment recycling in the terrestrial ecosystem and helping to reduce agricultural nonpoint pollution at its source. Therefore, this unique watershed system should be recommended due to its great potential relevance for sustainable agricultural development.
    Type of Medium: Electronic Resource
    Location Call Number Expected Availability
    BibTip Others were also interested in ...
Close ⊗
This website uses cookies and the analysis tool Matomo. More information can be found here...