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The book "The role of Quercus trojana Webb in the biodiversity of Murgia Materana Park", by Enrico L. De Capua, offers a comprehensive overview of the park's biodiversity, with a particular focus on Quercus trojana Webb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyrcanian forests are a green belt of deciduous forests in the south of the Caspian Sea whose integrity and survival of its commercial species, such as the chestnut-leaved oak (Quercus castaneifolia), are at risk due to anthropogenic activities. This study performed coupled spatial-statistical modeling to identify the rate and determinants of Q. castaneifolia in parts of the forest landscape (5400 km2) in Mazandaran Province, Northern Iran. According to the Maximum Entropy model (MaxEnt), the species' most suitable habitats were small in area (9.03 % of the total forest cover of the region) and uneven in spatial distribution due to the prevailing effect of bioclimatic variables (Bios). Using object-based segmentation analysis, the oak’s suitable habitats were divided into spectrally and topographically homogenous areas as working units to search for their occurrence and rate thinning operations. The mean annual Landsat-NDVI of each unit was regressed against the year to use its slope as a measure of thinning, indicating that more than 80 % of the units experienced different thinning levels over the past two decades (2002–2022). Using the multiple linear regression model (p

Oaks (Quercus spp.) are among the most important trees in the forests of Iran and worldwide. Over the last decade, oak charcoal disease (OCD) has become more common in numerous forest areas in the Zagros and Hyrcanian regions, largely due to reduced rainfall and drought stress. The oak charcoal disease causes local or systemic necrosis, wilting, and even death of infected oak trees. In addition, there is a complex interaction between trees and biotic and abiotic environmental factors. This study was conducted in 2021- 2022 on oak trees in seven provinces of the country, including Khuzestan, Ilam, Lorestan, Kurdistan, Khuzestan, Isfahan and Golestan, to analyze and determine the current status of oak charcoal disease and associated fungal species. For this purpose, samples of diseased bark (from trunk and branches) of Quercus spp. trees were collected, and fungal isolates were recovered from infected wood tissues using the usual methods and then identified morphologically. Identification of the fungal isolates was confirmed by sequencing the fungal ITS-rDNA and ß-tubulin gene. The results showed that the most prevalent fungal isolates of OCD in the samples were Biscogniauxia mediterranea and Obolarina persica. The prevalence of these fungi in the studied provinces varied, with the highest prevalence of B. mediterranea in Lorestan and the highest prevalence of O. persica in Ilam. The results of this study complemented the relatively limited data on the prevalence of each fungal pathogen of OCD in different provinces. In addition, the current status of oak infection in each studied region was clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The book “The role of Quercus trojana Webb in the biodiversity of Murgia Materana Park”, by Enrico L. De Capua, offers a comprehensive overview of the park’s biodiversity, with a particular focus on Quercus trojana Webb.

Background: Increased resistance of Candida albicans to standard antifungal agents has caused special attention to medicinal plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Jaftex mouthwash on the growth of C. albicans and Candida tropicalis. Methods and Material: In this in vitro study, standard strains of C. albicans and C. tropicalis were used. Jaftex mouthwash was prepared with the active ingredient (10g/100cc) of aqueous extract of oak fruit hull (Jaft), Zataria multiflora, and Satureja bachtiarica. The mouthwash was diluted in half, 8 different concentrations were obtained. 10 μl volume of each dilution was poured on discs mounted linearly on the culture medium inoculated with the target fungus. After 24 h, due to the slow growth rate of these fungi, the Petri dishes were incubated at 37°C and the mean minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for each fungus. The modified E. test method was used to measure the MIC of Jaftex mouthwash for the two fungi. The experiment was repeated three times for each fungus and the mean value was measured. Results: The mean value of MIC for C. albicans and C. tropicalis was 0.0625 (mg/mL) and 0.0833 (mg/mL), respectively. Candida albicans appeared to be more sensitive to Jaftex, but no statistically significant difference was observed. Conclusion: Jaftex mouthwash inhibits the growth of C. albicans and C. tropicalis. The use of this mouthwash is recommended for treatment of oral candidiasis.

Pantophthalmus zoos (Enderlein, 1931), is recorded for the first time in northern Morelos. The specimen was collected attracted to light in the vicinity of the university campus near the vicinity of a pine-oak forest in the northern part of the state of Morelos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The echo of what happened in Alba Iulia in October 1922 will be felt in the farthest corners of the Kingdom of Romania. The documents of the time record not only interesting aspects of what was happening at the national level through the presence of the royal family in Alba Iulia and some important guests from European countries, but also the way in which the moment of Coronation was perceived in local communities and remained in collective memory. From this perspective, I approach two aspects of local history based on unpublished and unknown archival information in the historiography related to the anniversary moment of October 15, 1922. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Diadora is the property of Archaeological Museum in Zadar and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and Objectives The aim of this present study is to review the effects of antibacterial properties of oak fruit, inner husk of oak fruit, and Jaftex mouthwash. Subjects and Methods The present study is a narrative literature review conducted using electronic databases such as ISI, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, SID, Magiran, and IranMedex from 1995 to 2019. The keywords that were searched included “Oak fruit”, “Oak tree”, “Jaftex mouthwash”, “Antibacterial”, “Antimicrobial”, and “Microorganism”. Results Review of previous studies showed that oak fruit, Jaft, and Jaftex mouthwash have antimicrobial properties against different microorganisms. Jaftex mouthwash significantly reduced number of microorganisms in mouth, however it had less antimicrobial effect compared to chlorhexidine. Jaftex had a greater inhibitory effect on bacterial growth than Matrica and Persica. Conclusion Oak fruit and Jaft have antibacterial properties which is related to presence of phenols, tannin, proteins. Various studies confirmed antibacterial property of these types of plants. The antibacterial characteristics of Jaftex mouthwash is mainly related to Jaft extract. Jaftex is recommended as an antibacterial mouthwash. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increased resistance of Candida albicans to standard antifungal agents has caused special attention to medicinal plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Jaftex mouthwash on the growth of C. albicans and Candida tropicalis. Methods and Material: In this in vitro study, standard strains of C. albicans and C. tropicalis were used. Jaftex mouthwash was prepared with the active ingredient (10g/100cc) of aqueous extract of oak fruit hull (Jaft), Zataria multiflora, and Satureja bachtiarica. The mouthwash was diluted in half, 8 different concentrations were obtained. 10 μl volume of each dilution was poured on discs mounted linearly on the culture medium inoculated with the target fungus. After 24 h, due to the slow growth rate of these fungi, the Petri dishes were incubated at 37°C and the mean minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for each fungus. The modified E. test method was used to measure the MIC of Jaftex mouthwash for the two fungi. The experiment was repeated three times for each fungus and the mean value was measured. Results: The mean value of MIC for C. albicans and C. tropicalis was 0.0625 (mg/mL) and 0.0833 (mg/mL), respectively. Candida albicans appeared to be more sensitive to Jaftex, but no statistically significant difference was observed. Conclusion: Jaftex mouthwash inhibits the growth of C. albicans and C. tropicalis. The use of this mouthwash is recommended for treatment of oral candidiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the soil forming factors, climate is one of the most important factors that determines the soil physical and chemical properties. This research aims at studying the effect of different climates in Ilam Province on soil chemical and physical characteristics of Iranian oak forest (Quercus brantii Lindl.) including high and coppice growth types. Soil samples were randomly taken at 0-20 cm depth under each growth types. According to the results, the climate significantly affected all soil chemical and physical characteristics (p < 0.01) which indicates the importance of climate effect in three study areas of Ilam province. While, except for soil’s K (p < 0.01), growth type had no significant effect on soil properties which indicates that climate effectiveness is more important than growth type on soil properties. The highest and lowest pH was found in Syrvan with 7.4, and in Ilam and Eyvan with 7.1, respectively. Ilam region with 556 mm rainfall had the most amount of OC=31% compared to Eyvan and Syrvan regions. Simple correlation for two growth types showed steady trends between variables and most soil variables had strong and significant correlation (α=0.01). Generally, climate had more influence than growth type on soil properties which indicates the importance of climate on soil forming processes. Based on growth type characteristics, Ilam has the best conditions for oak tree growth in terms of soil and climate.

Summary: Two populations of needle nematode, Longidorus longicaudatus Siddiqi, 1962, are described from Quercus hemisphaerica , Q. nigra and Q. virginiana from north Florida, USA. These populations are characterised morphologically by females having a body shorter than 3800 μ m, a rounded or slightly flattened lip region, an amphidial fovea pouch-like often with two symmetrical lobes, an odontostyle 99-110 μ m long, a conoid tail ending in a bluntly pointed terminus, ranging values of ratio c′ greater than 2, and males very rare. The polytomous code for these populations is A34, B23, C2, D23, E2, F12, G12, H6, I12, J1, K6. Although the morphology and morphometrics of these two populations fit the original description of Longidorus longicaudatus , Florida specimens have greater diameters of lip region, mid and anal body than those of the five type specimens used for the description of this species. The Florida L. longicaudatus is similar to L. paralongicaudatus , but differs from the paratypes of this species in having smaller and greater values of ratios c (53.8 (43.8-64.5) vs 79.2 (61.9-103.5)) and c′ (2.4 (2.1-2.9) vs 1.8 (1.5-2.0)), respectively, and longer tail (60 (53-67) vs 46 (36-53) μ m). Molecular characterisation of one of the two Florida L. longicaudatus populations was made based on the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA, ITS1 rRNA and COI gene sequences. The results of the ITS1 rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that it is genetically different from L. paralongicaudatus. A few specimens of a needle nematode associated with L. longicaudatus were identified morphologically and molecularly as the pine needle nematode, L. americanus. This detection is a new record of the occurrence of the pine needle nematode in Florida. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Exposure to heavy metals such as lead (Pb) results in oxidative stress induction in the male reproductive system. Herbal medicine can be utilized as antioxidant agents against oxidative stress. Quercus brantii (QB) has shown antioxidant activity in previous studies. The aim of the present study was to evaluate effects of QB hydro-alcoholic extract against Pb-induced oxidative stress in the male mice reproductive system. Materials and Methods: Forty-two NMRI adult male mice were randomly divided into 7 groups of 6 animals each. Group I was the control group that received no treatment. Group II was the sham group and received 0.2 ml distilled water. Groups III and IV received QB hydro-alcoholic extract 500 and 1000 mg/kg bw, respectively. Group V received Pb 1000 ppm/kg bw. Group VI and VII received Pb 1000 ppm/kg bw and QB extract 500 and 1000 mg/kg bw, respectively. All groups received treatment via oral gavage. After 35 days, sperm parameters (i.e. sperm motility, count and morphology) were evaluated. Levels of sex hormones including LH, FSH, and testosterone, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in animals’ serum. Results: Exposure to Pb negatively affected sperm parameters (i.e. sperm motility, count and morphology), decreased serum concentrations of sex hormones (i.e. LH, FSH, and testosterone), TAC and SOD activity but increased MDA levels. However, co-administration of 500 and 1000 mg/kg bw QB hydro-alcoholic extract and Pb considerably improved sperm parameters (i.e. sperm motility, count and morphology), increased sex hormones (i.e.LH, FSH, and testosterone), TAC, and SOD activity while decreased MDA levels in animals’ serum. Conclusion: Administration of QB extracts (Low dose and high dose) is able to protect the male reproductive system of mice against Pb-induced oxidative stress.

This research was carried out to determine the most suitable method of collecting rainwater for Persian oak (Quercus brantii Lindl var persica Zohary) planting in forest regeneration and enrichment projects in Chenarfaryab Kohmareh Sorkhi region of Fars province during three years. In order to provide the moisture necessary for the growth of oak seedlings, four sowing methods were used in the form of a split plot design with the main source of seeding (seed and seedling), and methods for collecting water including hollowing, barley, platform and pothole. Treatments were carried out in four replicates along with control treatment in the field. Results showed that the percentage of seeds and seedlings in the studied years had declining trends. No significant difference was observed between seed and seedling methods. Sowing methods had a statistically significant difference at 1% level, but there was no significant difference in reciprocal effects of seed and seedling sowing and planting methods. In seed planting, rectangular, pitch hole, and furrow showed the highest percentage of survival, while rectangular pitch, pitch hole, and trace method had the highest percentage of survival, respectively in planting of the seedlings. In this way, rectangular and pitch hole planting methods are the most suitable methods for preserving the water available for oak forests, a method commonly used by the owners and contractors.

This study aimed to characterize acorn oil (AO) and carnauba wax-based acorn oil oleogel (AOG) and the effect of AOG replacement on the textural and sensorial properties of chocolate spread. Oil yields from cold-pressing (Quercus longipes) were around 14%wt with a nice nutty smell. The main fatty acids of AO were included oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acid (44, 38, and 10%wt) respectively. The prepared AOG using 6%wt of carnauba wax (CW) showed high strength (G' > 100 mPa) and oil binding capacity ∼87 %. Based on microstructure assays platelet-like and β' polymorphic triglyceride crystalline networks were formed in AOG. The Pickering AOG/water emulsions in the volumetric ratio of from 90:10 up to 40:60 were stable due to the placement of CW-based AOG particles at the interface of water/oil as Pickering stabilizer. The high physical stability of the emulgel against phase separation is considered an important advantage for using oleogel in chocolate spread formulations instead of vegetable oils, which usually have a high percentage of oil release. The spreads prepared by replacing 50%wt AOG with butter showed acceptable textural and sensorial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimulant effect of radiation on the mycorrhizal behavior of seedlings and parental individuals of Scotch pine, English oak tree, European fir at MED = 120 ... 270 microR / h and inhibitory effect at MED = 500 ... 1000 mcR / h is considered.

A significant amount of felling in stock and area requires the introduction of measures to recover the stands. Consequently various methods and kinds of felling aimed at natural treee stand recovering have been used since the mid 29th century. Kornakovsky logging method is one of them. Thus, the purpose of our research is to explore the features and use of this method in Ternopil region. Oak forest stands in Galileo Cottage Forest Stand in Chortkiv Forestry. The results of the research are as follows. In 1950 Kornakovsky logging method was applied in Galileo Cottage Forest Stand array. This area was divided into 24 narrow band width 25 m. where continuous logging was conducted. Forest area where felling took place both in the summer and winter had the contiguity term not less than 3 years. The regular inspection of the facility, which was conducted in 1992 showed that the newly formed after cutting oak plantations share is low and mostly is about 1 %, and in some areas it didn't exist. Oak share on this area was evaluated to be quite low. The largest share of the existing stand was ash mixed with large cypress. Insignificant part of cherries and other related species was noticed. Most areas in terms of security were not successful. This was due to delayed start of the illuminated for 4 and 5 year latency period and repetition held up to 4 years. Although these areas had no economic value because of the high proportion of small oak plantations in the composition, they performed protective functions. Thus, we have made the conclusions that the use of Kornakovsky felling enables providing a significant share of natural regeneration of mature oak stands and its relatively successful growth and development. The difficulty of lit and сleaning and their successful application in young natural stands is caused by uneven arrangement of oak in the area. This is a major factor in the low share of oak stands in part of a later age.

Copyright of Economic & Ecohistory / Ekonomska i Ekohistorija is the property of Society for Croatian Economic & Environmental History and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In order to investigate the amount of biomass in Oak (Quercus macranthera) coppice stand, an area of 278 hectare of Khalkhal forest locating at the northeast of Ardebil was selected as the study area. After combining slope, aspect and altitude maps, the number of land form units (polygons) as well as their areas were determined. Then 63 stump sprouts were selected in such a way that all environmental and typological conditions were taken into account. After determining the overall weight of different parts of trees to measure the dry weight as well as the amount of biomass, different parts of trees were delivered to kiln. The woody debris was collected and weighted in an area of 400 cm2 under each stump sprouts. For determining the soil properties and evaluating its relationships with the amount of biomass, soil samples were taken from depth of 0 –10 and 10-30 cm. The mean amount of biomass was 23.4 tons per hectare of which 65.2% were stored in aerial organs, 29.2% in underground organs and 5.6% in woody debris. There was a significant difference between the amount of biomass in different densities of crown cover. Among the physiographic factors, only the altitude had a significant relationship with the biomass. Basal area and diameter at breast height (DBH) exhibit the highest correlation with the biomass.

In order to understand the timing of leaf wax synthesis in higher plants, we analysed the variability in leaf waxn-alkane concentration, composition (expressed as average chain length (ACL)), and δ2Hwaxvalues as well as plant source water δ2H values (xylem and leaf water) in the evergreen treeQuercus agrifoliaover a period of 9 months, beginning with leaf flush. We identified three distinct periods of leaf development with the first month following leaf flush being characterized byde novosynthesis and possibly removal ofn-alkanes. During the following 3 months,n-alkane concentrations increased sevenfold and δ2Hwaxand ACL values increased, suggesting this period was the major leaf waxn-alkane formation period. During the remaining 4 months of the experiment, stable values suggest cessation of leaf waxn-alkane formation. We find thatn-alkane synthesis inQ. agrifoliatakes place over 4 months, substantially longer than that observed for deciduous trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercus gilva is an evergreen oak species which is native to Japan, continental China and the islands of Taiwan. However, because of historical logging practices and habitat destruction in ancient times, Q. gilva is threatened with extinction in several regions of Japan. In this study, 13 polymorphic markers spanning the whole chloroplast DNA of Q. gilva were developed, using next-generation sequencing technology. These markers could distinguish between two individuals established in close proximity to one another as well as those from geographically-distinct regions. This indicates that the markers will be suitable for detecting the genetic structure and phylogeography of Q. gilva on both a large and a fine scale, potentially providing us with useful information for the conservation of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1848 Dr. Castro Madriz issued the decree which established the Republic of Costa Rica and its new coinage. An oak tree (Quercus sp.) was engraved on silver coins as a symbol of the strength and hospitality of the new Republic. These coins were minted between 1850 and 1862 (1/4, 1/8 and 1/16 of Peso) and between 1864 and 1875 (50, 25, 10, and 5 cents of Peso). This paper provides information on the significance of the oak tree in the socio-political context of mid XIX century Costa Rica. It also provides estimates of the number of pieces minted of each value for a total of approximately 1.871.000 coins. The quarter Pesos of 1853 and 1855 are scarce while the 50 cents of 1875 are relatively common, and all denominations with little wear are rare. The Q. salicifolia tree is similar to that engraved on the coins. After 1880 an oak branch was engraved in different issues of paper money, mainly as a crown for the head of Liberty. The last bill with this symbol was issued in 1943, with a value of 1 colón. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex of Nature reservation Zbytka is the rest of various fen vegetation in the northeast part of the Czech Republic. It represents an important spring area which provides high quality potable water for more than 150 000 inhabitants. Waterworks utilization was started in the 1960s and the change of land-use practices has had a strong effect on the ecosystem. Oak chronology has been showing different tree growth trends since the start of the waterworks utilization. Also the occurrences of negative pointer years differ markedly before and after initiation of pumping underground water. Dendroclimatological analyses primarily revealed a close relationship between the temperature and tree growth - positive influence of spring and summer temperature. The period 1983-1992 of maximum artesian water pumping is expressed as higher tree-ring increments, but linear model analyses showed that the growth reaction of oak is not due to simple causality between temperature and under-ground water level. The radial increments reacted positively to the combination of high temperature during the vegetation season and low or, the contrary, high depth of underground water level. No direct relationship was detected between tree growth and fluctuation of underground water level; despite of the results dendrochronological data may be useful in historical ground water modelling studies. Results are also crucial for conflict of interests between nature preservation and potable water supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in ground elevation were monitored between 1990 and 1997 at depths of 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.6 m and distances of 1, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 50 m from a mature oak tree on the Lias Clay of Lower Jurassic age. Whilst movement was evident at all monitoring points, it was most pronounced within 5 m of the tree where in 1995 a maximum seasonal difference of 63 mm was recorded at 0.4 m depth, compared with only 14 mm at the same depth but 10 m from the tree. The influence of the tree on the geotechnical properties of the Liassic clays is reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A gene encoding a potential NADPH-dependent cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (QsCAD1) (GenBank accession no: AY362455) was identified in Quercus suber (cork oak). Its complete cDNA sequence was obtained by RACE-PCR, starting from total RNA extracted from roots of seedlings of Q. suber, infected with Phytophthora cinnamomi, the causal agent of the decline and sudden death of Q. suber and Quercus ilex subsp. rotundifolia in the Iberian Peninsula. Sequence information to perform the RACE-PCR was acquired from a polymorphic fragment (C9), specifically identified by cDNA-AFLP, in leaves of epicormic shoots of a cork oak tree that suffered sudden death. RT-PCR and hybridization analysis showed that the QsCAD1 gene is up-regulated in root seedlings of Q. suber infected with P. cinnamomi. QsCAD1 has a high structural homology with VR-ERE (Vigna radiata), an enzyme that detoxifies eutypine (produced by Eutypa lata, the causal agent of eutypa dieback of grapevines), to eutypinol, and with QrCAD1 (Q. ilex subsp. rotundifolia), EgCAD1 (Eucalyptus gunnii), MdCAD1 (Malus x domestica). Taken together, these results suggest that these enzymes, and namely QsCAD1 belong to a new group of CAD potentially involved in deactivation of toxins produced by phytopathogens. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bursaphelenchus parvispicularis n. sp. is described and figured. The new species was isolated from the bark of a dead oak tree, Quercus mongolica var. grosseserrata, and reared on Botrytis cinerea. Specimens were collected from a 2-week-old culture on Botrytis cinerea. The new species has a body length of 894 (711-1012) μm in the female and 764 (600-870) μm in the male, a ratio of 33.4 (29.7-37.1) in the female and 35.6 (31.4-45.3) in the male, and c and c′ ratios of 16.7 (14.8-19.0) and 4.4 (3.9-5.1), respectively, in the female and 24.3 (20.0-28.4) and 2.5 (2.2-2.8), respectively, in the male. The stylet is 14-16 μm long in the female and 13-15 μm in the male; there are three lines in the lateral field; the spicules are small (13 (13-15) μm long) and broad; there are seven (2 + 1 + 2 + 2) male caudal papillae; the 'bursa' varies from roundish trapezoid to rectangular with a concave terminus, and the female tail is tapered with clearly annulated dorsal surface near the tail tip and a rounded terminus. Based upon morphology the new species belongs to the B. hofmanni-group sensu Braasch. However, the new species is distinguished from the other B. hofmanni-group species by the size and form of the spicule, female tail shape, and morphometric values. Based on the molecular phylogenetic analysis of the DNA base sequences of ribosomal DNA and mtCOI gene, the new species was close to two B. hofmanni-group species (B. paracorneolus and B. hofmanni) and to B. hylobianum. This result is in accordance with their morphological similarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal changes in photosynthesis, leaf nitrogen (N) contents and leaf mass per area (LMA) were observed over three growing seasons in open-grown sun-lit leaves of red maple (Acer rubrum ), sugar maple (A. saccharum) and northern pin oak (Quercus ellipsoidalis) trees in southern Wisconsin. Net photosynthesis and leaf N were highly linearly correlated on both mass and area bases within all species from late Spring until leaf senescence in fall. Very early in the growing season leaves had high N concentrations, but low photosynthetic rates per unit leaf N, suggesting that leaves were not fully functionally developed at that time. Leaf N per unit area and LMA had nonparallel seasonal patterns, resulting in differing relationships between leaf N/area and LMA in the early versus late growing season. As a result of differences in seasonal patterns between leaf N/area and LMA, net photosynthesis/area was higher for a given LMA in the spring than fall, and the overall relationships between these two parameters were poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regarding to the importance of forest in carbon sequestration, this study attempted to investigate the carbon storage potential and CO2 uptake in a coppice oak stand. An area of 278 ha of Khalkhal forest located in Ardebil province, north of Iran was selected as the study area. After combining slope, aspect and hypsometric maps, 63 land units (polygons) as well as their area were determined. Then 60 sample trees were selected in such a way that all environmental and typological conditions were taken into account. After determining the fresh weight of different parts of trees in the field, their dry weight and biomass was determined after drying in the kiln. The humus was collected and weighted from an area of 400 cm2under canopy of each tree. To determine the organic carbon content of the biomass, ash content was deduced from dry biomass. To determine the amount of stored carbon in soil, samples were collected from 0-10 and 10-30 cm soil depths. The amount of annual sequestrated carbon in biomass and soil was estimated as 1.51 and 0.1 tons per hectare, respectively. The annual carbon dioxide uptake was 5.94 tons per ha.

Cankers are localized dead areas in the bark of stems, branches or twigs of many types of trees and shrubs, and are usually caused by fungi. We observed severe canker symptoms in oak trees located in Gyeongnam province in 2011. A total 31 trees were discovered with cankers of varied size, with an average of 48.5 x 15.2 cm. Black, half-rounded globular mound shaped stromata were associated with the cankers, and the asci of the fungi associated with the cankers were cylindrical shaped with their spore-bearing parts being up to 84 μm in length. The average fungal ascospores size was 7.59 x 4.23 μm. The internal transcribed spacer sequence for the canker causing fungus showed 99% similarity to the sequence of Annulohypoxylon truncatum. In this study, the isolated fungus was precisely described and then compared with fungi of similar taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Exposure to heavy metals such as lead (Pb) results in oxidative stress induction in the male reproductive system. Herbal medicine can be utilized as antioxidant agents against oxidative stress. Quercus brantii (QB) has shown antioxidant activity in previous studies. The aim of the present study was to evaluate effects of QB hydro-alcoholic extract against Pb-induced oxidative stress in the male mice reproductive system., Materials and Methods: Forty-two NMRI adult male mice were randomly divided into 7 groups of 6 animals each. Group I was the control group that received no treatment. Group II was the sham group and received 0.2 ml distilled water. Groups III and IV received QB hydro-alcoholic extract 500 and 1000 mg/kg bw, respectively. Group V received Pb 1000 ppm/kg bw. Group VI and VII received Pb 1000 ppm/kg bw and QB extract 500 and 1000 mg/kg bw, respectively. All groups received treatment via oral gavage. After 35 days, sperm parameters (i.e. sperm motility, count and morphology) were evaluated. Levels of sex hormones including LH, FSH, and testosterone, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in animals' serum., Results: Exposure to Pb negatively affected sperm parameters (i.e. sperm motility, count and morphology), decreased serum concentrations of sex hormones (i.e. LH, FSH, and testosterone), TAC and SOD activity but increased MDA levels. However, co-administration of 500 and 1000 mg/kg bw QB hydro-alcoholic extract and Pb considerably improved sperm parameters (i.e. sperm motility, count and morphology), increased sex hormones (i.e.LH, FSH, and testosterone), TAC, and SOD activity while decreased MDA levels in animals' serum., Conclusion: Administration of QB extracts (Low dose and high dose) is able to protect the male reproductive system of mice against Pb-induced oxidative stress., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest.

Anatomical, morphological and physiological leaf traits of Quercus ilex in response to different traffic levels (high traffic level, typeA sites; average traffic level, type B sites; control sites, type C sites) were analysed in Rome. Superficial leaf deposits were analysedcomparing unwashed and washed leaf samples. Washing lowered Pb 61% in A, 54% in B and 27% in C. Sr, Fe, Cu, Zn and Al showed the same trend as Pb. The higher photosynthetic activity of 1-year-old leaves (Pn=7.0+/-2.9 mu mol m-2 s-1, average value) in A sites with respect to B sites (6.7+/-2.4 mu mol m-2 s-1) and C sites (6.7+/-1.8 mu mol m-2 s-1) seems to be related to higher stomatal conductance (gs=0.13+/-0.06 mol m-2 s-1), higher total chlorophyll content (Chl=1.57 mg g-1) and higher leaf thickness (LT=218.9 mu m), particularly palisade parenchyma thickness (109.4 mu m). Q. ilex showed, on average, 95% of 1-year-old leaves andrarely 2-year-old leaves in A and B sites; 77% 1-year leaves, 20% previous-year leaves and sporadic 3-year leaves in C sites. The enhanced leaf senescence in A sites is compensated by a stimulated shoot production (18% higher with respect to C sites); 25% increased specific leaf area seems to be compensatory growth occurring in order to increase the size of the assimilatory area. The inverse trend of leaf life-span and Pn seems to be Q. ilex' adaptive strategy in polluted areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to identify the influence of light, water, nutrients andseedling age on the relation between water consumption and growth inyoung seedlings of oak Quercus robur, in order to achieve optimized water use in forest regeneration and plant nurseries. Newly emerged oak seedlings were grown in a controlled environment chamber for two growing seasons at various photosynthetic photon flux densities (PPFD)ranging from 0.7 to 23.1molm-2day-1. The transpiration rate increased with PPFD during the first 11 weeks after seedling emergence. At short-term variation in irradiance, transpirationrate increased with increased PPFD, and decreased with increase in seedling age. At 15 weeks, transpiration rate decreased with increasedprevious long-term PPFD level. A set of seedlings grown at 1.5molm-2day-1 irradiance were supplied with nutrients of various strengths containing 2.7, 8 or 15.9mM of nitrogen, and a second set grown at 23.1molm-2day-1 irradiance were supplied with 8, 15.9 or 31.9mM of nitrogen. Another set of seedlings, given 15.9mM of nitrogen, were grown at 14.5molm-2day-1 and subjected to two periods of drought. Transpiration rate decreased with nutrient strength and with soil water content. Seedlings grown at 0.7 or 14.5molm-2day-1 in Year1 were transferred to 0.7, 7.3 and 14.5molm-2day-1 in Year 2. In the two-year-old seedlings transpiration rate increased with increases in current and previous-year PPFD. The increase in dry mass over a certain period was compared with the integrated transpiration, i.e. the calculated total amount of water transpired during the same period. Dry mass and integrated transpiration were closely correlated during the first and second year of growth in seedlings, in relation to PPFD. The correlation between growth and total waterconsumption became weaker when nutrient strength or water availability chan [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential for nutrient uptake by forest trees is a function of site fertility, fine roots and mycorrhizal symbiants. This study focuses on the effects of moderate doses of liming on the mycorrhizal status of oak (Quercus petraea and Q. robur) roots. In ten in situ trials, where liming has been applied 1-27 years prior to sampling, the effects on fine roots and their mycorrhizal status were assessed from 1994 to 1996. All sites, except one, were situated on acidic soils withlow base saturation. Fine roots were evaluated in terms of fine rootbiomass, length and specific root length. Mycorrhizal status was evaluated in terms of total number of mycorrhizal tips, number of tips per root length and main ectomycorrhizal morphotypes, both in absolutenumbers and in relative proportion. At two of these sites, in close vicinity to each other, consecutive sampling was carried out during four periods between 1995 and 1996. The fact that some variation existed between the sampling seasons was verified, but lime-induced treatment effects were similar for all seasons. Data from all ten sites showed liming to slightly but significantly increase total number of mycorrhizal tips (ranging from 5.81 to 109.3x 109ha-1 and from 9.63 to 125.6x 109ha-1 for the control and liming treatment, respectively), but this was mainly an effect of a significantly increased total fine root length (ranging from 26.8 to 104.9x 106mha-1 and from 23.6 to 112.2x106mha-1 for the control and liming treatment,respectively) than of a higher number of tips per metre of root length. The latter variable was not significantly affected by liming on an overall basis (ranging in general between 100 and 600 tipsm-1, with a highest value up to 1700 tipsm-1). Liming ingeneral decreased the relative proportion of smooth mycorrhizae in favour of hairy types (increasing significantly on average from 0.5 to1.0% i [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]