Concentrations of the trace metals Cu, Cd, Pb, and Zn were measured in seawater, rhizosphere sediments, interstitial water, and the tissues of three tropical species of seagrasses (Thalassia hemprichii, Enhalus acoro...Concentrations of the trace metals Cu, Cd, Pb, and Zn were measured in seawater, rhizosphere sediments, interstitial water, and the tissues of three tropical species of seagrasses (Thalassia hemprichii, Enhalus acoroides and Cymodocea rotundata) from Xincun Bay of Hainan Island, South China. We analyzed different environmental compartments and the highest concentrations of Pb and Zn were found in the interstitial and seawater. The concentrations of Cd and Zn were significantly higher in blades compared with roots or rhizomes in 7". hemprichii and E. acoroides, respectively. A metal pollution index (MPI) demonstrated that sediment, interstitial water, and seagrasses in the sites located nearest anthropogenic sources of pollution had the most abundant metal concentrations. There was obvious seasonal variation of these metals in the three seagrasses with higher concentrations of Cu, Pb and Zn in January and Cd in July. Furthermore, the relationships between metal concentrations in seagrasses and environmental compartments were positively correlated significantly. The bioconcentration factors (BCF) demonstrated that Cd from the tissues of the three seagrasses might be absorbed from the sediment by the roots. However, for C. rotundata, Zn is likely to be derived from the seawater through its blades. Therefore, the blades of T. hemprichii, E. acoroides and C. rotundata are potential bio-indicators to Cd content in sediment, and additionally Zn content (C. rotundata only) in seawater.展开更多
Enviromnental pollution is serious social concern. The inflow of heavy metals in the ecological food chain and their subsequent bio-magnification in human bodies is cascading its harmful effects. The metabolism of pla...Enviromnental pollution is serious social concern. The inflow of heavy metals in the ecological food chain and their subsequent bio-magnification in human bodies is cascading its harmful effects. The metabolism of plants is being hampered by these heavy metals. In the present studies, effect of heavy metal especially cadmium has been studied on stomatal diffusive resistance (SDR), transpiration rate, leaf surface humidity and leaf temperature of soybean plants growing in hydroponic cultures. Cadmium treatment decelerates the rate of transpiration. The inhibition of transpiration associated with increased SDR leads to dehydration of leaf surface, thereby, increasing temperature of leaves in comparison to control plants. In the present study, temperature difference between stressed and non-stressed plant leaves was as high as 3℃ Moreover, any such rise in leaf temperature due to uptake and induced toxicity of heavy metals can possibly be a good bio-indicator having wide applications in thermal remote sensing and geospatial monitoring of metal polluted soils.展开更多
Organic pollution is a serious environmental problem in coastal areas and it is important to establish quantitative methods for monitoring this pollution. This study screened a series of sensitive biomarkers to constr...Organic pollution is a serious environmental problem in coastal areas and it is important to establish quantitative methods for monitoring this pollution. This study screened a series of sensitive biomarkers to construct an integrated biomarker response (IBR) index using Mytilus edulis. Mussels were exposed to the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon anthracene trader controlled laboratory conditions and the activities of components of the glutathione antioxidant system, and the concentrations of oxidative-damage markers, were measured in the gills and digestive glands. Anthracene exposure resulted in increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide radicals (O2-·), indicating that oxidative damage had occurred. Correspondingly, anthracene exposure induced increased activities of glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in digestive glands, and GPx and glutathione reductase (GR) in gills, consistent with stimulation of the antioxidant system. A field experiment was set up, in which mussels from a relatively clean area were transplanted to a contaminated site. One month later, the activities of GST, GPx and GR had increased in several tissues, particularly in the digestive glands. Based on the laboratory experiment, an IBR, which showed a positive relationship with anthracene exposure, was constructed. The IBR is suggested to be a potentially useful tool for assessing anthracene pollution.展开更多
A twelve week experiment was conducted to compare the effects of diets with plant-based and animal-based ingredients on growth and gonad development of Clarias gariepinus. One hundred and 12 sub-adult C. gariepinus wi...A twelve week experiment was conducted to compare the effects of diets with plant-based and animal-based ingredients on growth and gonad development of Clarias gariepinus. One hundred and 12 sub-adult C. gariepinus with an average weight of 205 ×5.09 g, were stocked in six concrete tanks (9 × 4 × 2 m3) containing 20 fish each. Experiment had 3 replicates and animals fed daily at 5% body weights. There was no significant difference (P 〈 0.05) in proximate compositions of the two experimental feeds and controls. Fecundity, gonad weight and gonasomatic index were higher in fish fed diet 13 than A and C. Similarly, growth indices were higher in fish fed diet B than in A and C. Histology of gonads showed a faster development of oocytes of eggs in fish fed animal-based ingredients than plant-based and combined plant and animal diets. Although there were slight differences in growth parameters and gonad development in favor of feed with animal-based ingredients, plant-based feed compared favorably in the growth and gonad development of C. gariepinus. Plant-based ingredients are recommended on the basis of affordability and availability as substitute for animal-based ingredients in C. gariepinus feed.展开更多
Jilong is a place behind The Himalayas,which is almost isolated from the world.There is typical vertical ecosystem thanks to its special geological environment. So it is honored as “the most abundant species gene war...Jilong is a place behind The Himalayas,which is almost isolated from the world.There is typical vertical ecosystem thanks to its special geological environment. So it is honored as “the most abundant species gene warehouse in the Plateau Area”and “the most beautiful valley in the world”.To exploit this valleyis necessary along with the construction of Jilong Porton the border of Sino-Nepal. Based on the research on the spot,the ecological resources there are evaluated and an idea that regards hiking tourism asmain form and ecotourismas the theme is put forward in this paper,which explores a way to develop the valley on the basis of sustainability.展开更多
Humus forms, especially the occurrence and the thickness of the horizon of humified residues (OH), provide valuable information on site conditions. In mountain forest soils, humus forms show a high spatial variabili...Humus forms, especially the occurrence and the thickness of the horizon of humified residues (OH), provide valuable information on site conditions. In mountain forest soils, humus forms show a high spatial variability and data on their spatial patterns is often scarce. Our aim was to test the applicability of various vegetation features as proxy for OH thickness. Subalpine coniferous forests dominated by Picea abies (L.) H. Karst. and Larix decidua Mill. were studied in the Province of Trento, Italian Alps, between ca. 900 and 22o0 m a.s.1. Braun-Blanquet vegetation relevds and OH thickness were recorded at 152 plots. The vegetation parameters, tested for their suitability as indicators of OH thickness, encompassed mean Landolt indicator values of the herb layer (both unweighted and cover-weighted means) as well as parameters of vegetation structure (cover values of plant species groups) calculated from the releves. To our knowledge, the predictive power of Landolt indicator values (LIVs) for humus forms had not been tested before. Correlations between OHthickness and mean LIVs were strongest for the soil reaction value, but indicator values for humus, nutrients, temperature and light were also significantly correlated with OH thickness. Generally, weighting with species cover reduced the indicator quality of mean LIVs for OH thickness. The strongest relationships between OH thickness and vegetation structure existed in the following indicators: the cover of forbs (excluding graminoids and ferns) and the cover of Erieaeeae in the herb layer. Regression models predicting OH thickness based on vegetation structure had almost as much predictive power as models based on LIVs. We conclude that LIVs analysis can produce fairly reliable information regarding the thickness of the OH horizon and, thus, the humus form. If no releve data are readily available, a field estimation of the cover values of certain easily distinguishable herb layer species groups is much faster than a vegetation survey with consecutive indicator value analysis, and might be a feasible way of quickly indicating the humus form.展开更多
This study evaluated the effect of carbon dioxide addition on microbiological quality during refrigerated storage of raw milk collected in Curitiba city, Brazil. A three factor-two level full factorial design was used...This study evaluated the effect of carbon dioxide addition on microbiological quality during refrigerated storage of raw milk collected in Curitiba city, Brazil. A three factor-two level full factorial design was used to investigate the effect of the pH (5.8-6.4), storage time (0-10 days) and storage temperature (5-10 ℃), on the responses, namely, mesophiles, psychrotrophs, lipolytic psychrotrophs and proteolytic psychrotrophs counts. Results showed that increase in pH and storage time had significant effect on the microbial count. No significant effect of storage temperature was observed for all the microorganisms studied. All responses were well predicted by selected mathematical models, as denoted by coefficient of determination above 0.95.展开更多
The present study was used freshwater Crab (Sesarma boulengeri Caiman) as bioindicator to measured the PAHs levels in AI-Hilla River, Iraq, during the period from March 2010 to February 2011. Crab samples were colle...The present study was used freshwater Crab (Sesarma boulengeri Caiman) as bioindicator to measured the PAHs levels in AI-Hilla River, Iraq, during the period from March 2010 to February 2011. Crab samples were collected from two sites on the AI-Hilla River. Sixteen of PAils compounds were identified seasonally in these samples. High mean value was (72.06 μg/g), recorded by Dibenzo (a, h) anthracene (DbA) in Site 1 and low mean value was (0.36 μg/g) recorded by Anthracene (Ant) in Site 2. The study showed a clear variation in PAHs concentration independent from the seasons and locations. Site 1 recorded high value of HMW (high molecular weight) and LMW (low molecular weight) more than Site 2. The present study revealed that all PAHs compounds were from Pyrogenic Origin. Seven carcinogenic PAHs (cPAHs) were recorded in crab tissues that were collected from the AI-Hilla River. The TEF (toxicity equivalency factor) was calculated to toxicity equivalent crab concentration. From the results, the fresh water Crab Sesarma boulengeri is a good bioindicator to water pollution by PAHs.展开更多
The analysis of environmental impact effects on forest ecosystems has a theoretical and practical nature. Many methods have been developed to determine characteristics and intensity of this impact. Methodologically, t...The analysis of environmental impact effects on forest ecosystems has a theoretical and practical nature. Many methods have been developed to determine characteristics and intensity of this impact. Methodologically, they can be divided into three groups: environmental parameter, bioindicative and combined methods. To evaluate the environmental impact a combined method was used in this study, it was based on trees as the bioindicators and their response reactions, and environmental parameter analysis. In this study the bioindicator was Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.), whose response reaction was used to explain total impact volumes of environmental factors in different places in the region of Kurzeme and try to interpret the causes of these differences. As the bioindicators criterion was used response reaction of Norway spruce during a period of 20 years, which was expressed with cumulative and annual additional volume increment, and was depending on the location of the stand and its morphometric characteristics. The empirical material was collected in Kurzeme region in 28 sample plots that are located on two transects and in one reference stand. For the evaluation the widths of the last 40 year growth rings were measured. To express the environmental impact in Kurzeme region a multiple regression model was developed, which explains the environmental impact in the volume of 68.2%, the rest part can be explained by the local conditions of each stand. It must be noted that methodology used in this study is very sensitive, thus, each of the nuances in the dynamics of volume's annual reduced additional increments has biological and ecological cause.展开更多
Status and trends of biodiversity components in Republic of Macedonia are presented in this article. The monitoring of biodiversity components is conducted according to the criteria of SEBI 2010 (Streamlining Europea...Status and trends of biodiversity components in Republic of Macedonia are presented in this article. The monitoring of biodiversity components is conducted according to the criteria of SEBI 2010 (Streamlining European 2010 Biodiversity Indicators) for establishment of consistency at global, regional, EU and national indicator level. Two core segments of the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan of Republic of Macedonia are presented as well as the draft list of biodiversity indicators. Ecosystems and biotopes (presented with plant communities) are explained from which 30 Corine habitat classes are identified for the Republic of Macedonia. The number of endemic and endangered species from different taxonomic groups of vascular plants, fungi, fauna, and Emerald species with European importance are presented. Agro-biodiversity, structure of agriculture land, autochthonic breeds of domestic animals as well as the network of protected areas in Republic of Macedonia are presented. At the end conclusion remarks are given for future necessary activities at national and international level regarding monitoring and conservation of the biodiversity.展开更多
Heat stress affects feed intake, milk production, and endocrine status in dairy cows. The temperaturehumidity index(THI) is employed as an index to evaluate the degree of heat stress in dairy cows. However, it is di...Heat stress affects feed intake, milk production, and endocrine status in dairy cows. The temperaturehumidity index(THI) is employed as an index to evaluate the degree of heat stress in dairy cows. However, it is difficult to ascertain whether THI is the most appropriate measurement of heat stress in dairy cows. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of heat stress on serum insulin, adipokines(leptin and adiponectin), AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK), and heat shock signal molecules(heat shock transcription factor(HSF) and heat shock proteins(HSP)) in dairy cows and to research biomarkers to be used for better understanding the meaning of THI as a bioclimatic index. To achieve these objectives, two experiments were performed. The first experiment: eighteen lactating Holstein dairy cows were used. The treatments were: heat stress(HS, THI average=81.7, n=9) and cooling(CL, THI average=53.4, n=9). Samples of HS were obtained on August 16, 2013, and samples of CL were collected on April 7, 2014 in natural conditions. The second experiment: HS treatment cows(n=9) from the first experiment were fed for 8 weeks from August 16, 2013 to October 12, 2013. Samples for moderate heat stress, mild heat stress, and no heat stress were obtained, respectively, according to the physical alterations of the THI. Results showed that heat stress significantly increased the serum adiponectin, AMPK, HSF, HSP27, HSP70, and HSP90(P〈0.05). Adiponectin is strongly associated with AMPK. The increases of adiponectin and AMPK may be one of the mechanisms to maintain homeostasis in heat-stressed dairy cows. When heat stress treatment lasted 8 weeks, a higher expression of HSF and HSP70 was observed under moderate heat stress. Serum HSF and HSP70 are sensitive and accurate in heat stress and they could be potential indicators of animal response to heat stress. We recommend serum HSF and HSP70 as meaningful biomarkers to supplement the THI and evaluate moderate heat stress in dairy cows in the future.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To verify the effects of scraping therapy on the weightlifting ability by measuring the subjective sensation,and changes of biomarkers.METHODS:Five students,who have been trained for 3 years in a sport schoo...OBJECTIVE:To verify the effects of scraping therapy on the weightlifting ability by measuring the subjective sensation,and changes of biomarkers.METHODS:Five students,who have been trained for 3 years in a sport school in China were participated in this study.A course of scraping therapy was applied to intervene during the normal 7-week of weightlifting training programme.The ability of weightlifting,the scale of rating perceived exertion and serum biochemical markers were measured before and after the intervention.RESULTS:Scraping therapy caused a significant increase in weightlifting ability(P<0.05).The level of rating perceived exertion remained stable with the increase in the training volume.Immuno-globulinA was significantly increased(P<0.05),and creatine kinase and blood urea nitrogen were significantly decreased(P<0.05).No significant changes were observed in white blood cell,neutrophil,and testosterone.CONCLUSION:Scraping therapy may facilitate weightlifting ability mainly by decreasing weight sensation and improving serum biochemical parameters.展开更多
Bioavailability is a key parameter in assessing contaminant transfer to biota. However, the input patterns and soil use types may impact the metal bioavailability. Several soil parameters were measured including chemi...Bioavailability is a key parameter in assessing contaminant transfer to biota. However, the input patterns and soil use types may impact the metal bioavailability. Several soil parameters were measured including chemical properties, such as pH, organic C, and Cu solution/solid speciation, and biological properties, such as soil microbial biomass C (SMBC), seed germination, and root elongation, to evaluate the bioavailability of Cu contaminated soils from three different sources, i.e., non-ferrous metal mining, Cu-based fungicides, and Cu-smelting. The results revealed that free Cu2+ ion in soil solution and the ratios of Cu fractions to total Cu content in the solid phase could not be used to predict total Cu content in soils. The indexes of seed germination and root elongation appeared not to be good biomonitors of Cu contamination in soils, which were more sensitive to soil pH and soil organic carbon (SOC). Relationships between SMBC and soil Cu forms or the ratio of SMBC/SOC and soil Cu forms showed that free Cu2+ ion and humie acid-complexed Cu could significantly inhibit soil microbial activities. Our findings suggested that both metal chemical forms and biological bioassays should be considered as a complementary technique rather than an alternative to evaluate the metal bioavailability from different pollution sources.展开更多
Pollution of the aquatic environment is an ever-growing problem, as waters are the ultimate sink for the large number of xenobiotics from multiple sources. DNA damaging agents have a significant ecological relevance s...Pollution of the aquatic environment is an ever-growing problem, as waters are the ultimate sink for the large number of xenobiotics from multiple sources. DNA damaging agents have a significant ecological relevance since they are implicated in many pathological processes and exert effects beyond that of individual being active through following generations. A large number of methods have been applied to evaluate genotoxic damage in different aquatic species. Comet assay, as method for de- tecting DNA alterations, and micronucleus test, as an index of chromosomal damage are the most widely applied and validated methods in field studies. These methods were applied in different vertebrate and invertebrate aquatic species, but only mollusk and fish species have been employed in routine biomonitoring programs. Mussels, due to their widely geographical distribution and the suitability for caging represent the bioindicator of choice in field studies. Mytilus species is the most used marine mussel. The use of fish is limited to specific geographic areas. The present review mainly focuses on the application of comet assay and micronucleus test in mussels. A number of biomonitoring studies in mussels, using comet assay or micronucleus test, revealed exposure to different classes of genotoxic compounds with a good discrimination power. The different evidence from the two as- says, reflects different biological mechanisms for the two genetic endpoints, DNA damage and chromosomal damage, suggesting their combined application in the field. Different endogenous and exogenous factors have been shown to modulate the genotoxic responses in mussels, acting as confounding factors in environmental monitoring. The use of standardized protocol for caging, sampling and genotoxity evaluation is critical in biomonitoring studies. The use of a multimarker approach coupling genotoxicity biomarkers with physiological and biochemical factors allows to have a complete picture of the environmental pollution [Current Zoology 60 (2): 273-284, 2014].展开更多
Treatment planning in external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) utilizes dose volume histograms (DVHs) as optimization and evaluation tools. They present the fraction of planning target volume (PTV) receiving more ...Treatment planning in external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) utilizes dose volume histograms (DVHs) as optimization and evaluation tools. They present the fraction of planning target volume (PTV) receiving more than a given absorbed dose, against the absorbed dose values, and a number of radiobiological indices can be computed with their help. Equivalent uniform dose (EUD) is the absorbed dose that, uniformly imparted, would yield the same biological effect on a tumor as the dose distribution described by the DVH. Uncertainty and missing information can affect the dose distribution, therefore DVHs can be modeled as samples from a set of possible outcomes. This work studies the sensitivity of the EUD index when a small change in absorbed dose distribution takes place. EUD is treated as a functional on the set of DVHs. Defining a Levy distance on this set and using a suitable expansion of the functional, a very simple expression for a bound on the variation of EUD when the dose distribution changes is found. This bound is easily interpreted in terms of standard treatment planning practice.展开更多
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.40776086,41076069)the Pilot Project of the Knowledge Innovation Program,South China Sea Institute of Oceanology,Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.LYQY200706)the Nationa l908 Special Project(No.GD908-02-08)
文摘Concentrations of the trace metals Cu, Cd, Pb, and Zn were measured in seawater, rhizosphere sediments, interstitial water, and the tissues of three tropical species of seagrasses (Thalassia hemprichii, Enhalus acoroides and Cymodocea rotundata) from Xincun Bay of Hainan Island, South China. We analyzed different environmental compartments and the highest concentrations of Pb and Zn were found in the interstitial and seawater. The concentrations of Cd and Zn were significantly higher in blades compared with roots or rhizomes in 7". hemprichii and E. acoroides, respectively. A metal pollution index (MPI) demonstrated that sediment, interstitial water, and seagrasses in the sites located nearest anthropogenic sources of pollution had the most abundant metal concentrations. There was obvious seasonal variation of these metals in the three seagrasses with higher concentrations of Cu, Pb and Zn in January and Cd in July. Furthermore, the relationships between metal concentrations in seagrasses and environmental compartments were positively correlated significantly. The bioconcentration factors (BCF) demonstrated that Cd from the tissues of the three seagrasses might be absorbed from the sediment by the roots. However, for C. rotundata, Zn is likely to be derived from the seawater through its blades. Therefore, the blades of T. hemprichii, E. acoroides and C. rotundata are potential bio-indicators to Cd content in sediment, and additionally Zn content (C. rotundata only) in seawater.
文摘Enviromnental pollution is serious social concern. The inflow of heavy metals in the ecological food chain and their subsequent bio-magnification in human bodies is cascading its harmful effects. The metabolism of plants is being hampered by these heavy metals. In the present studies, effect of heavy metal especially cadmium has been studied on stomatal diffusive resistance (SDR), transpiration rate, leaf surface humidity and leaf temperature of soybean plants growing in hydroponic cultures. Cadmium treatment decelerates the rate of transpiration. The inhibition of transpiration associated with increased SDR leads to dehydration of leaf surface, thereby, increasing temperature of leaves in comparison to control plants. In the present study, temperature difference between stressed and non-stressed plant leaves was as high as 3℃ Moreover, any such rise in leaf temperature due to uptake and induced toxicity of heavy metals can possibly be a good bio-indicator having wide applications in thermal remote sensing and geospatial monitoring of metal polluted soils.
基金Supported by the Joint Funds of National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaMarine Science Research Center of the People’s Government of Shandong Province(No.U1406403)
文摘Organic pollution is a serious environmental problem in coastal areas and it is important to establish quantitative methods for monitoring this pollution. This study screened a series of sensitive biomarkers to construct an integrated biomarker response (IBR) index using Mytilus edulis. Mussels were exposed to the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon anthracene trader controlled laboratory conditions and the activities of components of the glutathione antioxidant system, and the concentrations of oxidative-damage markers, were measured in the gills and digestive glands. Anthracene exposure resulted in increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide radicals (O2-·), indicating that oxidative damage had occurred. Correspondingly, anthracene exposure induced increased activities of glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in digestive glands, and GPx and glutathione reductase (GR) in gills, consistent with stimulation of the antioxidant system. A field experiment was set up, in which mussels from a relatively clean area were transplanted to a contaminated site. One month later, the activities of GST, GPx and GR had increased in several tissues, particularly in the digestive glands. Based on the laboratory experiment, an IBR, which showed a positive relationship with anthracene exposure, was constructed. The IBR is suggested to be a potentially useful tool for assessing anthracene pollution.
文摘A twelve week experiment was conducted to compare the effects of diets with plant-based and animal-based ingredients on growth and gonad development of Clarias gariepinus. One hundred and 12 sub-adult C. gariepinus with an average weight of 205 ×5.09 g, were stocked in six concrete tanks (9 × 4 × 2 m3) containing 20 fish each. Experiment had 3 replicates and animals fed daily at 5% body weights. There was no significant difference (P 〈 0.05) in proximate compositions of the two experimental feeds and controls. Fecundity, gonad weight and gonasomatic index were higher in fish fed diet 13 than A and C. Similarly, growth indices were higher in fish fed diet B than in A and C. Histology of gonads showed a faster development of oocytes of eggs in fish fed animal-based ingredients than plant-based and combined plant and animal diets. Although there were slight differences in growth parameters and gonad development in favor of feed with animal-based ingredients, plant-based feed compared favorably in the growth and gonad development of C. gariepinus. Plant-based ingredients are recommended on the basis of affordability and availability as substitute for animal-based ingredients in C. gariepinus feed.
文摘Jilong is a place behind The Himalayas,which is almost isolated from the world.There is typical vertical ecosystem thanks to its special geological environment. So it is honored as “the most abundant species gene warehouse in the Plateau Area”and “the most beautiful valley in the world”.To exploit this valleyis necessary along with the construction of Jilong Porton the border of Sino-Nepal. Based on the research on the spot,the ecological resources there are evaluated and an idea that regards hiking tourism asmain form and ecotourismas the theme is put forward in this paper,which explores a way to develop the valley on the basis of sustainability.
基金funded by the German Research Foundation(DFG)(Grant No.Br1106/23-1)the Swiss National Science Foundation(SNF)(Grant No.205321L_141186)the Austrian Science Fund(FWF)
文摘Humus forms, especially the occurrence and the thickness of the horizon of humified residues (OH), provide valuable information on site conditions. In mountain forest soils, humus forms show a high spatial variability and data on their spatial patterns is often scarce. Our aim was to test the applicability of various vegetation features as proxy for OH thickness. Subalpine coniferous forests dominated by Picea abies (L.) H. Karst. and Larix decidua Mill. were studied in the Province of Trento, Italian Alps, between ca. 900 and 22o0 m a.s.1. Braun-Blanquet vegetation relevds and OH thickness were recorded at 152 plots. The vegetation parameters, tested for their suitability as indicators of OH thickness, encompassed mean Landolt indicator values of the herb layer (both unweighted and cover-weighted means) as well as parameters of vegetation structure (cover values of plant species groups) calculated from the releves. To our knowledge, the predictive power of Landolt indicator values (LIVs) for humus forms had not been tested before. Correlations between OHthickness and mean LIVs were strongest for the soil reaction value, but indicator values for humus, nutrients, temperature and light were also significantly correlated with OH thickness. Generally, weighting with species cover reduced the indicator quality of mean LIVs for OH thickness. The strongest relationships between OH thickness and vegetation structure existed in the following indicators: the cover of forbs (excluding graminoids and ferns) and the cover of Erieaeeae in the herb layer. Regression models predicting OH thickness based on vegetation structure had almost as much predictive power as models based on LIVs. We conclude that LIVs analysis can produce fairly reliable information regarding the thickness of the OH horizon and, thus, the humus form. If no releve data are readily available, a field estimation of the cover values of certain easily distinguishable herb layer species groups is much faster than a vegetation survey with consecutive indicator value analysis, and might be a feasible way of quickly indicating the humus form.
文摘This study evaluated the effect of carbon dioxide addition on microbiological quality during refrigerated storage of raw milk collected in Curitiba city, Brazil. A three factor-two level full factorial design was used to investigate the effect of the pH (5.8-6.4), storage time (0-10 days) and storage temperature (5-10 ℃), on the responses, namely, mesophiles, psychrotrophs, lipolytic psychrotrophs and proteolytic psychrotrophs counts. Results showed that increase in pH and storage time had significant effect on the microbial count. No significant effect of storage temperature was observed for all the microorganisms studied. All responses were well predicted by selected mathematical models, as denoted by coefficient of determination above 0.95.
文摘The present study was used freshwater Crab (Sesarma boulengeri Caiman) as bioindicator to measured the PAHs levels in AI-Hilla River, Iraq, during the period from March 2010 to February 2011. Crab samples were collected from two sites on the AI-Hilla River. Sixteen of PAils compounds were identified seasonally in these samples. High mean value was (72.06 μg/g), recorded by Dibenzo (a, h) anthracene (DbA) in Site 1 and low mean value was (0.36 μg/g) recorded by Anthracene (Ant) in Site 2. The study showed a clear variation in PAHs concentration independent from the seasons and locations. Site 1 recorded high value of HMW (high molecular weight) and LMW (low molecular weight) more than Site 2. The present study revealed that all PAHs compounds were from Pyrogenic Origin. Seven carcinogenic PAHs (cPAHs) were recorded in crab tissues that were collected from the AI-Hilla River. The TEF (toxicity equivalency factor) was calculated to toxicity equivalent crab concentration. From the results, the fresh water Crab Sesarma boulengeri is a good bioindicator to water pollution by PAHs.
文摘The analysis of environmental impact effects on forest ecosystems has a theoretical and practical nature. Many methods have been developed to determine characteristics and intensity of this impact. Methodologically, they can be divided into three groups: environmental parameter, bioindicative and combined methods. To evaluate the environmental impact a combined method was used in this study, it was based on trees as the bioindicators and their response reactions, and environmental parameter analysis. In this study the bioindicator was Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.), whose response reaction was used to explain total impact volumes of environmental factors in different places in the region of Kurzeme and try to interpret the causes of these differences. As the bioindicators criterion was used response reaction of Norway spruce during a period of 20 years, which was expressed with cumulative and annual additional volume increment, and was depending on the location of the stand and its morphometric characteristics. The empirical material was collected in Kurzeme region in 28 sample plots that are located on two transects and in one reference stand. For the evaluation the widths of the last 40 year growth rings were measured. To express the environmental impact in Kurzeme region a multiple regression model was developed, which explains the environmental impact in the volume of 68.2%, the rest part can be explained by the local conditions of each stand. It must be noted that methodology used in this study is very sensitive, thus, each of the nuances in the dynamics of volume's annual reduced additional increments has biological and ecological cause.
文摘Status and trends of biodiversity components in Republic of Macedonia are presented in this article. The monitoring of biodiversity components is conducted according to the criteria of SEBI 2010 (Streamlining European 2010 Biodiversity Indicators) for establishment of consistency at global, regional, EU and national indicator level. Two core segments of the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan of Republic of Macedonia are presented as well as the draft list of biodiversity indicators. Ecosystems and biotopes (presented with plant communities) are explained from which 30 Corine habitat classes are identified for the Republic of Macedonia. The number of endemic and endangered species from different taxonomic groups of vascular plants, fungi, fauna, and Emerald species with European importance are presented. Agro-biodiversity, structure of agriculture land, autochthonic breeds of domestic animals as well as the network of protected areas in Republic of Macedonia are presented. At the end conclusion remarks are given for future necessary activities at national and international level regarding monitoring and conservation of the biodiversity.
基金Project supported by the National Basic Research Program(973)of China(No.2011CB100805)the Modern Agro-Industry Technology Research System of China(No.nycytx-04-01)the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program(No.ASTIP-IAS12),China
文摘Heat stress affects feed intake, milk production, and endocrine status in dairy cows. The temperaturehumidity index(THI) is employed as an index to evaluate the degree of heat stress in dairy cows. However, it is difficult to ascertain whether THI is the most appropriate measurement of heat stress in dairy cows. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of heat stress on serum insulin, adipokines(leptin and adiponectin), AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK), and heat shock signal molecules(heat shock transcription factor(HSF) and heat shock proteins(HSP)) in dairy cows and to research biomarkers to be used for better understanding the meaning of THI as a bioclimatic index. To achieve these objectives, two experiments were performed. The first experiment: eighteen lactating Holstein dairy cows were used. The treatments were: heat stress(HS, THI average=81.7, n=9) and cooling(CL, THI average=53.4, n=9). Samples of HS were obtained on August 16, 2013, and samples of CL were collected on April 7, 2014 in natural conditions. The second experiment: HS treatment cows(n=9) from the first experiment were fed for 8 weeks from August 16, 2013 to October 12, 2013. Samples for moderate heat stress, mild heat stress, and no heat stress were obtained, respectively, according to the physical alterations of the THI. Results showed that heat stress significantly increased the serum adiponectin, AMPK, HSF, HSP27, HSP70, and HSP90(P〈0.05). Adiponectin is strongly associated with AMPK. The increases of adiponectin and AMPK may be one of the mechanisms to maintain homeostasis in heat-stressed dairy cows. When heat stress treatment lasted 8 weeks, a higher expression of HSF and HSP70 was observed under moderate heat stress. Serum HSF and HSP70 are sensitive and accurate in heat stress and they could be potential indicators of animal response to heat stress. We recommend serum HSF and HSP70 as meaningful biomarkers to supplement the THI and evaluate moderate heat stress in dairy cows in the future.
文摘OBJECTIVE:To verify the effects of scraping therapy on the weightlifting ability by measuring the subjective sensation,and changes of biomarkers.METHODS:Five students,who have been trained for 3 years in a sport school in China were participated in this study.A course of scraping therapy was applied to intervene during the normal 7-week of weightlifting training programme.The ability of weightlifting,the scale of rating perceived exertion and serum biochemical markers were measured before and after the intervention.RESULTS:Scraping therapy caused a significant increase in weightlifting ability(P<0.05).The level of rating perceived exertion remained stable with the increase in the training volume.Immuno-globulinA was significantly increased(P<0.05),and creatine kinase and blood urea nitrogen were significantly decreased(P<0.05).No significant changes were observed in white blood cell,neutrophil,and testosterone.CONCLUSION:Scraping therapy may facilitate weightlifting ability mainly by decreasing weight sensation and improving serum biochemical parameters.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41101305)
文摘Bioavailability is a key parameter in assessing contaminant transfer to biota. However, the input patterns and soil use types may impact the metal bioavailability. Several soil parameters were measured including chemical properties, such as pH, organic C, and Cu solution/solid speciation, and biological properties, such as soil microbial biomass C (SMBC), seed germination, and root elongation, to evaluate the bioavailability of Cu contaminated soils from three different sources, i.e., non-ferrous metal mining, Cu-based fungicides, and Cu-smelting. The results revealed that free Cu2+ ion in soil solution and the ratios of Cu fractions to total Cu content in the solid phase could not be used to predict total Cu content in soils. The indexes of seed germination and root elongation appeared not to be good biomonitors of Cu contamination in soils, which were more sensitive to soil pH and soil organic carbon (SOC). Relationships between SMBC and soil Cu forms or the ratio of SMBC/SOC and soil Cu forms showed that free Cu2+ ion and humie acid-complexed Cu could significantly inhibit soil microbial activities. Our findings suggested that both metal chemical forms and biological bioassays should be considered as a complementary technique rather than an alternative to evaluate the metal bioavailability from different pollution sources.
文摘Pollution of the aquatic environment is an ever-growing problem, as waters are the ultimate sink for the large number of xenobiotics from multiple sources. DNA damaging agents have a significant ecological relevance since they are implicated in many pathological processes and exert effects beyond that of individual being active through following generations. A large number of methods have been applied to evaluate genotoxic damage in different aquatic species. Comet assay, as method for de- tecting DNA alterations, and micronucleus test, as an index of chromosomal damage are the most widely applied and validated methods in field studies. These methods were applied in different vertebrate and invertebrate aquatic species, but only mollusk and fish species have been employed in routine biomonitoring programs. Mussels, due to their widely geographical distribution and the suitability for caging represent the bioindicator of choice in field studies. Mytilus species is the most used marine mussel. The use of fish is limited to specific geographic areas. The present review mainly focuses on the application of comet assay and micronucleus test in mussels. A number of biomonitoring studies in mussels, using comet assay or micronucleus test, revealed exposure to different classes of genotoxic compounds with a good discrimination power. The different evidence from the two as- says, reflects different biological mechanisms for the two genetic endpoints, DNA damage and chromosomal damage, suggesting their combined application in the field. Different endogenous and exogenous factors have been shown to modulate the genotoxic responses in mussels, acting as confounding factors in environmental monitoring. The use of standardized protocol for caging, sampling and genotoxity evaluation is critical in biomonitoring studies. The use of a multimarker approach coupling genotoxicity biomarkers with physiological and biochemical factors allows to have a complete picture of the environmental pollution [Current Zoology 60 (2): 273-284, 2014].
文摘Treatment planning in external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) utilizes dose volume histograms (DVHs) as optimization and evaluation tools. They present the fraction of planning target volume (PTV) receiving more than a given absorbed dose, against the absorbed dose values, and a number of radiobiological indices can be computed with their help. Equivalent uniform dose (EUD) is the absorbed dose that, uniformly imparted, would yield the same biological effect on a tumor as the dose distribution described by the DVH. Uncertainty and missing information can affect the dose distribution, therefore DVHs can be modeled as samples from a set of possible outcomes. This work studies the sensitivity of the EUD index when a small change in absorbed dose distribution takes place. EUD is treated as a functional on the set of DVHs. Defining a Levy distance on this set and using a suitable expansion of the functional, a very simple expression for a bound on the variation of EUD when the dose distribution changes is found. This bound is easily interpreted in terms of standard treatment planning practice.