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Background: An increase in upper-ocean thermal stratification is being observed worldwide due to global warming. However, how ocean stratification affects the vertical profile of plankton communities remains unclear. Understanding this is crucial for assessing the broader implications of ocean stratification. Pelagic ciliates cover multiple functional groups, and thus can serve as a model for studying the vertical distribution and functional strategies of plankton in stratified oceans. We hypothesize that pelagic ciliate communities exhibit vertical stratification caused by shifts in functional strategies, from free-living groups in the photic zone to parasitic groups in deeper waters. Results: 306 samples from the surface to the abyssopelagic zone were collected from 31 stations in the western Pacific and analyzed with environmental DNA (the V4 region of 18 S rDNA) metabarcoding of pelagic ciliates. We found a distinct vertical stratification of the entire ciliate communities, with a boundary at a depth of 200 m. Significant distance-decay patterns were found in the photic layers of 5 m to the deep chlorophyll maximum and in the 2,000 m, 3000 m and bottom layers, while no significant pattern occurred in the mesopelagic layers of 200 m – 1,000 m. Below 200 m, parasitic Oligohymenophorea and Colpodea became more prevalent. A linear model showed that parasitic taxa were the main groups causing community variation along the water column. With increasing depth below 200 m, the ASV and sequence proportions of parasitic taxa increased. Statistical analyses indicated that water temperature shaped the photic communities, while parasitic taxa had a significant influence on the aphotic communities below 200 m. Conclusions: This study provides new insights into oceanic vertical distribution, connectivity and stratification from a biological perspective. The observed shift of functional strategies from free-living to parasitic groups at a 200 m transition layer improves our understanding of ocean ecosystems in the context of global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent investigations have revealed the coordination and trade-offs between above- and belowground traits in structuring functional strategies of plant communities, but none of these have addressed ferns, a diverse plant lineage in tropical forests. We investigated terrestrial ferns from the perspective of how below- and aboveground traits are coordinated with functional responses to forest edges, which represent a significant part of the world's forest cover. Specifically, we examined differences in functional strategies between forest edges and forest interior as well as traits associated with species dominance. Fern richness and abundance were sampled in 24 edge plots and 44 interior plots within the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. We obtained data for five leaf traits and three rhizome traits. Ferns did not express any functional coordination between above- and belowground traits. At the edge, ferns did not display functional homogenization. In both the interior and at the edge, ferns exhibited multiple trait covariations across a broad spectrum of plant sizes and leaf numbers, associated with rhizome type and the presence of leaf trichomes and stolons. There were no cohesive functional groups of generalists or of exclusive species of forest edges and the forest interior. Fern species dominance was related to the species-specific number of leaves and the presence of stolons. We conclude that below- and aboveground traits did neither respond in conjunction nor as a functional response to edge effects. However, both kinds of traits affected the functional structure and species dominance of fern communities at the edge and in the interior of the forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background An increase in upper-ocean thermal stratification is being observed worldwide due to global warming. However, how ocean stratification affects the vertical profile of plankton communities remains unclear. Understanding this is crucial for assessing the broader implications of ocean stratification. Pelagic ciliates cover multiple functional groups, and thus can serve as a model for studying the vertical distribution and functional strategies of plankton in stratified oceans. We hypothesize that pelagic ciliate communities exhibit vertical stratification caused by shifts in functional strategies, from free-living groups in the photic zone to parasitic groups in deeper waters. Results 306 samples from the surface to the abyssopelagic zone were collected from 31 stations in the western Pacific and analyzed with environmental DNA (the V4 region of 18 S rDNA) metabarcoding of pelagic ciliates. We found a distinct vertical stratification of the entire ciliate communities, with a boundary at a depth of 200 m. Significant distance-decay patterns were found in the photic layers of 5 m to the deep chlorophyll maximum and in the 2,000 m, 3000 m and bottom layers, while no significant pattern occurred in the mesopelagic layers of 200 m – 1,000 m. Below 200 m, parasitic Oligohymenophorea and Colpodea became more prevalent. A linear model showed that parasitic taxa were the main groups causing community variation along the water column. With increasing depth below 200 m, the ASV and sequence proportions of parasitic taxa increased. Statistical analyses indicated that water temperature shaped the photic communities, while parasitic taxa had a significant influence on the aphotic communities below 200 m. Conclusions This study provides new insights into oceanic vertical distribution, connectivity and stratification from a biological perspective. The observed shift of functional strategies from free-living to parasitic groups at a 200 m transition layer improves our understanding of ocean ecosystems in the context of global warming. Graphical Abstract

Plant trait variation is constrained by mechanical and energetic trade‐offs as attested by the global spectrum of plant form and function and the fine‐root economics space for above‐ and below‐ground traits. However, traits that are key for fitness maintenance in some plant groups, such as clonal and bud bank traits, have not yet been integrated within the frameworks provided by the above‐ground and the fine‐root economics space.By using an extensive dataset encompassing above‐ground, fine‐root, clonal and bud bank traits of 2000 species of Central European herbs, we asked whether clonal and bud bank traits correspond to the placement of species in the above‐ground or fine‐root trait space.Perennial clonal and non‐clonal herbs show indistinct positioning within the above‐ground and fine‐root trait spaces. This extends and reinforces previous fragmentary evidence of weak correlations between clonal and bud bank traits and above‐ground trait dimensions. Additionally, we identify for the first time a limited correlation between clonal and fine‐root traits as well. This disconnection suggests that clonal traits operate independently from other trait spectra. For this reason, we introduce the concept of a 'clonal trait space' for clonal herbs. The first dimension of this space is defined by bud bank size and the persistence of clonal connection, reflecting a gradient of species specialisation for on‐spot persistence and tolerance to disturbance (persistence dimension). The second dimension, defined by multiplication rate and lateral spread, reflects a specialisation axis for clonal multiplication and horizontal size dimension (clonal multiplication dimension). Clonal trait dimensions add non‐redundant information to the above‐ground or fine‐roots trait space.Synthesis: We champion the integration of the persistence and clonal multiplication dimensions from the 'clonal trait space' into the frameworks provided by the above‐ground trait and the fine‐root economics spaces, thereby enhancing our comprehension of the multifaceted trait strategies exhibited by plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of strategy has become, in the past decades, a subject of interest for researchers and practitioners due to its contribution to a company’s survival and growth. The current business environment is extremely challenging and often, to some extent, uncertain. Therefore, companies are required to adapt quickly to changes, spot opportunities and exploit them in a unique manner in order to prosper. Organizations function based on objectives, short, medium or long-term. How firms manage to achieve their stated aims depends on the designed and applied strategies, in a certain moment. Moreover, strategy may be perceived as the intended plan of actions designed to address certain company needs. Additionally, strategies come in a variety of forms and sizes. Therefore, an understanding of the existing types of strategy is required. The aim of this study is to develop an understanding of how strategies can be classified, starting for the level of aggregation of an organization. The research methodology was based on the collection and analysis of relevant secondary data for the subject. The results present the umbrella types of strategies that can be used by a company, respectively the functional, business, corporate and global strategy, in a clear and concise manner.

The article analyzes various approaches to the company strategy, reveals the practical aspects of formatting and structuring the strategy. The purpose of the article shows that the problems of forming an effective system of strategic management of an enterprise, as well as the development of its development strategy are very relevant. The strategy needs constant changes with additions and acquisition of new value and high quality. In the activities of the largest companies approaches to the formation of the strategy correlate with the recommendations of modern theory of strategic planning. Open and urgent strategy with breakdown by spheres of activity proved to be preferable, within each sphere sets of strategic decisions or directions of vectors of development in this sphere were formulated. In the management system of enterprises the main task is not a quick response to the current changes in the external environment, but the formation of a strategic vision of the future of the enterprise, the development of a flexible and viable development strategy, the anticipation of tactical and strategic threats to the enterprise, their timely elimination, as well as the practical use of strategic management ideas for sustainable development. In the conditions of modern economic development the role and importance of strategic planning in enterprises is increasing. New trends emerged in the market, one of which is joint venture. The impetus for the development of joint ventures was the growth of exchange rates and the fact that domestic production is much more profitable than importing the necessary products. In this situation, it is necessary to adopt foreign experience and thoroughly test strategic methods in joint ventures and collectively improve them in a dynamically developing market. Macro environment includes factors that do not have a direct impact on the short-term activities of the enterprise, but can affect its long-term functioning. Conducted research allows enterprises within the integrated structure, to determine its place in the integrated structure and the nature of the relationship with the leadership of this structure in the design and implementation of their economic development strategies. Methodology. The scientific approach to problem solving allows predicting the opportunities of the enterprise and avoiding threats through unclearly formed and implemented strategy. The main purpose of this article is to identify methodological approaches to assess the characteristics of the impact of factors, properties of enterprise development strategy and the introduction of new technologies based on the performance of enterprises, which characterize the effectiveness of their market. Results. Based on the factors that are most important for the development of the enterprise, the most important criteria of the strategy were identified, on the basis of which the classification of strategies for the development of the enterprise was developed. The article indicates that there are a number of approaches to the content of the strategy, so it should be noted that the development of enterprise strategy is a set of decisions about the goals and objectives of the enterprise on the theoretical basis of the unity of resources and means of implementation. The strategy includes all areas of the enterprise: personnel, social culture and is aimed at high results. Managers should pay attention to the fact that approaches to company management should be better than competitors, achieve business advantages, create a business idea, provide the strategy with resources with the introduction of new technologies and highly qualified personnel, assess the state of the company and implementation conditions. Only in this case the strategy will be implemented both inside and outside the company.

Purpose of the study: The review aims to develop an understanding of the definition of ‘strategy’ to create an alignment of its use in business and public policy settings. There is no commonly accepted definition of strategy, it has widely different definitions in a range of settings, whether in business, government, sports, or civic society. Design/methodology/approach: A review of the literature was conducted from an exploratory perspective to identify academic articles and other publications that provide the most relevant content and research on strategy. The literature that was selected contained a substantive perspective on strategy, and covered any of the four different levels of strategy: grand strategy, corporate strategy, business strategy, and functional strategy. Findings: The literature review shows that there are multiple definitions of strategy in relation to its use in business and public policy settings. There is also a lack of studies that position grand strategy with the three other levels of strategy. Recommendations/value: This review contributes to the body of knowledge by (i) providing a theoretical framework to assist organisations in business and various public policy settings to develop and define their strategies; (ii) assisting in creating an alignment in business and public policy settings in the use of the term ‘strategy’; and (iii) providing a theoretical positioning of grand strategy as it relates to the other levels of strategy such as corporate strategy, business strategy, and functional strategy. Managerial implications: The review assists in the process of standardising the use of the term ‘strategy’ in business and public policy settings, as well as positioning grand strategy as it relates to the other levels of strategy such as corporate strategy, business strategy and functional strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sanguisorba dodecandra Moretti is an endemic plant of the Alps of the Lombardy region (Northern Italy). Differently from most endemic species, this plant grows in diverse environments, and it is often very abundant and a distinctive element of some mountain and sub-alpine agro-ecosystems. The ecological features and the role of this species in some mountain agricultural activities are poorly investigated. This article shows the results of a synecological analysis of S. dodecandra and the evaluation of its functional strategy. Furthermore, its forage value was investigated and melissopalynological analysis was used to characterize the honey produced in an area where this species grows. The ecological analysis defined this plant as euriecious and ruderal/competitive-ruderal strategist. Bromatological analysis showed a good forage value, confirming the ethnobotanical knowledge concerning this species. In fact, it has good protein content (12.92 ± 1.89%) and non-fiber carbohydrates (47.12 ± 3.62%) in pre-flowering. S. dodecandra pollen was identified as a "frequent pollen" in the honey, showing that this plant is attractive to honeybees. This research allowed a deeper knowledge of S. dodecandra ecology and showed that this species is a resource for traditional and sustainable agricultural activities of the Lombardy Alps such as pastoralism and beekeeping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of strategy has become, in the past decades, a subject of interest for researchers and practitioners due to its contribution to a company's survival and growth. The current business environment is extremely challenging and often, to some extent, uncertain. Therefore, companies are required to adapt quickly to changes, spot opportunities and exploit them in a unique manner in order to prosper. Organizations function based on objectives, short, medium or long-term. How firms manage to achieve their stated aims depends on the designed and applied strategies, in a certain moment. Moreover, strategy may be perceived as the intended plan of actions designed to address certain company needs. Additionally, strategies come in a variety of forms and sizes. Therefore, an understanding of the existing types of strategy is required. The aim of this study is to develop an understanding of how strategies can be classified, starting for the level of aggregation of an organization. The research methodology was based on the collection and analysis of relevant secondary data for the subject. The results present the umbrella types of strategies that can be used by a company, respectively the functional, business, corporate and global strategy, in a clear and concise manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Invasive species may act as a functional filter on native communities by differentially affecting species with different trait values. Across environments, invasive plants typically display traits associated with high resource acquisition and fast growth. Conversely, native plants, especially those in water-limited environments, tend to adopt one of two functional strategies: fast growth during high resource availability to avoid stress (resource-acquisitive), or slow growth during resource-poor conditions to tolerate stress (resource-conservative). While invasive competition can be a strong filter on these groups, many invaders also alter the structure of native communities through their accumulation of litter. How fast-growing invaders with litter shift native functional communities remains unknown. To elucidate these functional shifts, I manipulated invasive annual grasses and their litter in an annual grassland and followed the demographic rates of six native annual forb species that varied in their functional strategy. Live grass competition alone decreased per capita growth rates of resource-acquisitive natives and had no effect on resource-conservative natives. The presence of litter, however, decreased growth rates in both functional types of natives, with stronger declines in resource-acquisitive species through differential effects on seed set and germination. Invaders in this system thus create an unfavorable environment for natives through litter, limiting the capacity of both resource-acquisitive and resource-conservative native forbs to maintain high population growth. These findings suggest that grass invasions have the potential to dramatically shift the functional composition of native communities through the time-lagged effects of their litter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the determinants of species distributions is a central topic in ecology. Competition, stress tolerance and colonization, respectively represented by Grime's competitor (C), stress‐tolerator (S) and ruderal (R) schemes, are three important functions that interactively influence plant distributions. In this study, we compiled a dataset of 2645 vascular plant species to explore the roles of the CSR strategies in global plant distribution. We analyzed the associations between the CSR scores and species range size with phylogenetic generalized least square (PGLS) models and phylogenetic path analysis, both of which accounted for the effects of species phylogenetic relatedness, longevity and growth form. The functional strategy‐range size associations differed across different distributional ranges and growth forms. Specifically, species global and native range sizes were positively associated with the R score; species naturalized range size was positively associated with the C score; and all range‐size measurements were negatively associated with the S score. These patterns were mostly driven by herbs but not shrubs or trees. For species global and native‐range distributions, the patterns of shrubs were even opposite to those of herbs. Our work emphasizes the importance of distinguishing the functional strategy‐distribution associations between different distributional ranges and growth forms for ecosystem conservation and invasion risk prediction, because of the trade‐offs among the CSR strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research is devoted to the assessment of the scientific approaches to the identification of classification features of the strategy and its types distinguished in accordance with the mentioned features. The research object is the activities of tourist companies and this determines the choice of strategies typical for the tourism field. It is substantiated that the scientific approaches to the classification of strategies are various in specific literature because of obscurity in the strategy definition, vagueness and plurality of its classified features. Due to the current research the authors have improved the classified model of strategies for tourist companies that will result in making effective management decisions directed to the development of enterprise potential under conditions of unstable and unpredictable external environment. The paper singles out the peculiarities of functioning the tourism branch, which are the following : high sensitivity to the changes in external environment; the high level of competition in the field; dynamics and the lack of necessity for the use of «far-seeing» strategies; insufficiency of information provision for the application of traditional western models and matric methods of strategy development; time gap between obtaining the service and its consumption; a great number of intermediaries; seasonal swings in demands; the sudden shift of external environment caused by cyclicity, globalization, political decisions of separate countries and etc. The article shows essential differences in the development of financial strategies of small-scale enterprises and stock companies of tourist business. It is substantiated that small-scale enterprises develop strategies directed to a higher level of personal services, occupational competence, ability and experience in designing, the best knowledge of regional conditions and flexible decisions caused by the peculiarities of the received orders. Taking into account the peculiarities of functioning tourist companies of small- and middle-scale business, and according to the classification proposed, the author suggests the following priority in strategies: the 1-st priority is focusing on differentiation; the 2-nd priority is differentiation; the 3-d priority is focusing on expenditures; the 4-th priority is the leadership according to the expenditures.

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a multifunctional crop that is capable of prompt environmental adaptation. In this study, a monoecious cultivar (Futura 75) and a dioecious one (Finola) were tested in a mountain area in Valsaviore (Rhaetian Alps, Italy; elevation: 1,100 m a.s.l.) during the growing season 2018. Phytochemical behavior was evaluated by different analytical approaches: HPLC-high-resolution mass spectrometry, SDS-PAGE LC-MS/MS, HS-SPME GC-MS, and GC-FID in order to obtain complete profile of two varieties cultivated in altitude. CSR functional strategy used for ecological evaluation revealed that both genotypes are mainly competitors, although Finola is more stress tolerator (C:S:R = 57:26:17%) than Futura (C:S:R = 69:15:16%). The Finola inflorescences were characterized by higher quantities of β-ocimene and α-terpinolene, while α- and ß-pinene accompanied by extremely high ß-myrcene were found as predominant in Futura. Both varieties were rich in sesquiterpenes (45 recognized) among which trans-caryophyllene and α-humulene were the most abundant. Total tetrahydrocannabinol level was lower than 0.1%, while the most abundant cannabinoid was cannabidiolic acid (CBDA): 2.3% found in Finola vs. 2.7% revealed for Futura. The level of corresponding neutral form, cannabidiol, varied drastically: 0.27% (Finola) vs. 0.056% (Futura). Finola showed the unique cannabinoid profile with unexpectedly high cannabidivarin, 2-fold higher that corresponding acidic analogue, whereas the particularity of Futura 75 was the occurrence of cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) in the quantities that was double than those exposed for Finola. The seeds from both chemovars proved to be rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, and Finola showed a higher ratio ω6/ω3. No difference was found in the protein content, and the SDS-PAGE profile was similar. The most abundant protein was edestin, followed by heat shock protein 70, ß-conglycinin, and vicilin. In conclusion, comprehensive phytochemical and ecological study of two fiber-type varieties cultivated in Italian Alps displayed specific, legal, and safe cannabinoids profile, followed by particular terpene composition, polyunsaturated fatty acids content, and favorable protein profile. This postulates that geographical provenience of hemp should be considered in selecting a variety that would be suitable for a specific end-use nutraceutical application.

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a multifunctional crop that is capable of prompt environmental adaptation. In this study, a monoecious cultivar (Futura 75) and a dioecious one (Finola) were tested in a mountain area in Valsaviore (Rhaetian Alps, Italy; elevation: 1,100 m a.s.l.) during the growing season 2018. Phytochemical behavior was evaluated by different analytical approaches: HPLC-high-resolution mass spectrometry, SDS-PAGE LC-MS/MS, HS-SPME GC-MS, and GC-FID in order to obtain complete profile of two varieties cultivated in altitude. CSR functional strategy used for ecological evaluation revealed that both genotypes are mainly competitors, although Finola is more stress tolerator (C:S:R = 57:26:17%) than Futura (C:S:R = 69:15:16%). The Finola inflorescences were characterized by higher quantities of β-ocimene and α-terpinolene, while α- and ß-pinene accompanied by extremely high ß-myrcene were found as predominant in Futura. Both varieties were rich in sesquiterpenes (45 recognized) among which trans -caryophyllene and α-humulene were the most abundant. Total tetrahydrocannabinol level was lower than 0.1%, while the most abundant cannabinoid was cannabidiolic acid (CBDA): 2.3% found in Finola vs. 2.7% revealed for Futura. The level of corresponding neutral form, cannabidiol, varied drastically: 0.27% (Finola) vs. 0.056% (Futura). Finola showed the unique cannabinoid profile with unexpectedly high cannabidivarin, 2-fold higher that corresponding acidic analogue, whereas the particularity of Futura 75 was the occurrence of cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) in the quantities that was double than those exposed for Finola. The seeds from both chemovars proved to be rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, and Finola showed a higher ratio ω6/ω3. No difference was found in the protein content, and the SDS-PAGE profile was similar. The most abundant protein was edestin, followed by heat shock protein 70, ß-conglycinin, and vicilin. In conclusion, comprehensive phytochemical and ecological study of two fiber-type varieties cultivated in Italian Alps displayed specific, legal, and safe cannabinoids profile, followed by particular terpene composition, polyunsaturated fatty acids content, and favorable protein profile. This postulates that geographical provenience of hemp should be considered in selecting a variety that would be suitable for a specific end-use nutraceutical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the current state of the wine industry, namely, a comparison of the regions of Ukraine for the production of wine materials. The positive and negative trends in the functioning of the industry have been identified, the main problems of its development have been highlighted. The importance of strategic management as a modern model and management model and an effective way of enterprise response to changes in the external environment and its internal capabilities has been determined. The classification of strategies has been presented both by hierarchy and by competitive attributes, and the main components of these strategies and their contents have been identified. The place of each type of strategy in the system of enterprise strategies has been determined, which is especially important for making the right managerial decisions. The role and place of the functional strategies of the enterprise, such as: marketing, production, financial, organizational changes, social, R&D and environmental, have been determined. The system of types of strategies has been given, the constituent components of these strategies have been determined. The directions of the strategic development of the enterprises of the wine industry have been identified, a system of functional strategies for the winery has been developed, and proposals for the development of a strategic alternative have been presented on the example of LLC PTK Shabo. Measures have been proposed as part of a strategic functional set for each functional strategy at PTK Shabo LLC. As a result of the study, the leading role of the marketing strategy has been determined, which proposes measures to expand the assortment, enter new markets, improve pricing policies and stimulate sales, open new branches, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper pleads for the awareness of HR strategy importance, in terms of proper design and implementation, as they definitely could impede or sustain the development of an organization. By making use of G.VALI, the model of organizational culture dynamics, we look for revealing the impact that (non-)existence of HR strategy, its alignment and coherence could have on the organization success. As proven by human experience, all types of strategies could work and be effective in certain conditions. Even more, no one can say that one strategy is better than other. However, in the same way, there is no guarantee of some strategies success. In this light, the difference lays in the handy and clever interlock of the country specific advantages and firm (-tobe) specific advantages. For achieving this specific aim, vertical (alignment) and horizontal (coherence) integration of each functional strategy must be ensured.

To comply with claims of a modern economy significantly increases the role of strategic revenue management in enterprises, and in the first place, strategic management of income generation. The concept of an income generation strategy is not disclosed in the scientific literature, in this connection in article describes and analyzes the main concepts which are similar in content to the category of income generation strategy of enterprises (strategy analysis of income, revenue strategy, development strategy of income). Defines the role and importance of income generation strategy in modern management practices and presented the author's definition of income generation strategy. In article considered income generation strategy a compared to financial strategy of the enterprise and proved the difference between them. Show the position of income generation strategy in the hierarchy of strategies of enterprises and spheres of influence at all levels of the company. Income generation strategy described as interlevel, components of which are elements of all the functional and resource strategies and established a direct and feedback between the income generation strategy and corporate, competitive, functional and resource strategy.

Abstract: Questions: (a) Will seed banks develop on extensive green roofs (EGRs) – prime examples of novel ecosystems – as in (semi‐)natural systems? If so, which type of seed bank (transient or persistent) can be expected? (b) Do EGR characteristics, such as roof age and substrate depth, influence seed bank seed density and species richness? (c) Can differences in successional stages be noticed in the seed bank and vegetation on EGRs? Location: Flanders and Brussels regions of Belgium. Methods: We conducted a field sampling campaign in which the vegetation and seed bank of 109 EGRs were sampled. Information on roof characteristics (e.g. age, substrate depth) was also collected. Seedling emergence was monitored under standardized greenhouse conditions. Species traits were collected from several existing databases. Data analysis consisted of (generalized) linear mixed modelling. Results: A total of 18,466 seedlings from 139 different species emerged in the seed bank analysis. Average similarity between vegetation and the seed bank was low, and the majority of species could be considered spontaneous colonizers. Most species were classified as having a transient seed bank. Life forms were shown to be significantly different between vegetation and seed bank. Older EGRs had higher seed bank species richness and seed density, both of which were also positively influenced by sampling date and the vegetation species richness. A discrepancy between seed bank and vegetation successional state, characterized by functional signatures, was present for EGRs. Conclusions: EGRs do develop seed banks and show parallels with seed banks in other novel ecosystems. Seed bank species richness and seed density are influenced by temporal and vegetation related factors. We can also confirm EGR seed bank succession and the discrepancy between seed bank and vegetation successional state, as often observed in natural and novel systems. Furthermore, we argue that seed banks can function as biodiversity reservoirs, which can be considered in EGR vegetation restoration if a set of several conditions is fulfilled. Overall, this study explores seed bank analysis on EGR as a novel ecosystem model. It thereby provides multiple insights in processes impacting EGR plant species diversity, both on and in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resprouter species are important for Mediterranean ecosystem resilience, but they are scarce in landscapes dominated by pioneer pines. Sound knowledge of resprouter seedling functional responses and establishment success across different pine habitats would help guide forest restoration efforts., Four broadleaved resprouter species, that is two shrubs - Arbutus unedo and Pistacia terebinthus - and two trees - Fraxinus ornus and Sorbus domestica - were planted under an experimentally created gradient of pine cover from totally open conditions to dense pine cover., Seedling survival and growth were monitored for 5 years. Phenological, physiological and morphological traits were measured to gain insight into the mechanisms of pine-seedling interaction., Interaction outcomes varied according to species identity, pine cover treatment and time. Light-to-moderate pine cover induced greater height growth and little or no effects on diameter and survival of the two trees. Competition was always detected for shrubs, whereas competition and facilitation were noted for trees. Within pine stands, negative interactions increased with tree cover, making dense stands the most limiting. Interactions were only detectable after 2-3 years, but increased in intensity with time., Functional responses to increasing pine cover indicated a seedling strategy of carbon gain optimization in the shade (increased specific leaf area and leaf area, decreased leaf dry matter content), particularly in tree species seedlings. Increasing pine cover induced higher water stress, but lower photochemical stress. The deciduous species had a longer vegetation season under pine canopies, whereas the evergreen shrub Arbutus unedo showed a lower polycyclism rate and flower production., Synthesis and applications. Moderate pine cover facilitates the establishment of deciduous trees at the expense of shrubs. This pattern can be attributed to a higher shade tolerance of the trees than the shrubs combined with a low tolerance of trees to photoinhibition. We therefore recommend using evergreen shrubs for the restoration of open land and high-specific-leaf-area deciduous trees for pine stand diversification. However, in dense forests, thinning is needed to increase light availability prior to seedling introduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, managing the interface between design and other activities has received considerable attention. Effective coordination among these areas is therefore vital for effectiveness of the organization. The ideal situation would be continuous interdepartmental contact with well-developed channels of communication. In this study, the best strategy for product design department has been chosen using the strategic formulation framework with fuzzy approach. Subsequently, alignment of each functional design strategy with SAPCO business strategies has been explained. Findings indicate that developing partnerships with global automotive and engineering design companies and building strategic alliances with rival firms to achieve competitive advantages have maximum alignment with business strategies. In addition, findings provide a basis for firms in evaluating the concurrent design strategies and a reference for them to strengthen their concurrent capabilities. There are few reports on sustained use of concurrent design as an on-going strategic process in an organization. This study aims at contributing to the concurrent design solutions.

This article analyzes the Brazilian companies’ participation in global value chains, focusing on a footwear company. Most companies of this sector concentrated their efforts through indirect exports, meaning a reactive strategy in the global chain. In this study, we show a different strategy adopted by a Brazilian company in the German market, which includes branding and functional upgrading. This strategy changes the kind of chain governance existent that is led by international retailers (buyer-driven chain). The research methods included a focus group and a case study. The study found similarities with concepts related to the global value chains and analyzed the change in the company’s strategic positioning. The results indicate some strategic changes needed for an increasing insertion of Brazilian companies in international markets.

Internationalization and Tendency of small and medium enterprises to move into international markets are important and one of the essential factors of economic growth and development in the developing countries. Several factors affect the process of internationalization of firms has been studied. The main goal of this study is examination relations between business strategies and internationalization of SMEs in ICT industries of Iran. For this goal, we distributed our surveys among 55 international firms of ICT Industries for 70 managers. The results showed that, “low cost strategy”, “differentiation strategy”, “production strategy” and “alliance entry strategy” have positive and significance relationships with “internationalization of SMEs”. But “distribution strategy” and “marketing strategy” have negative and significance relationships with “internationalization of SMEs”.