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Saturday, 27 August 2016

Modelling the influence of light, water and temperature on photosynthesis in young trees of mixed Mediterranean forests

Published Date
Volume 46, Issue 4, pp 485–506

Title 

Modelling the influence of light, water and temperature on photosynthesis in young trees of mixed Mediterranean forests

  • Rafael Calama
  • Mariola Sánchez-González
  • Marta Pardos

Article
DOI: 10.1007/s11056-015-9471-y

Cite this article as: 
Mayoral, C., Calama, R., Sánchez-González, M. et al. New Forests (2015) 46: 485. doi:10.1007/s11056-015-9471-y

Abstract

The composition of Mediterranean forests is expected to vary with ongoing changes in climate and land use. To gain a clearer understanding of the response to global change of growth and survival during regeneration it is necessary to take a closer look at the ecophysiological traits underlying seedling performance. Gas exchange, leaf water potential, chlorophyll fluorescence, soil moisture, temperature and global site factor were measured over 1 year in naturally regenerated young trees of three coexisting species (Pinus pineaQuercus ilex and Juniperus oxycedrus) in two stands of different density. We modelled the photosynthetic response of plants to micro-climatic conditions via the parameterization of the non-rectangular hyperbolic model of photosynthesis, which relates gross photosynthesis to incident light through three biochemical parameters, and the subsequent expansion of these parameters as a function of environmental variables (light environment, soil moisture and temperature). We investigated the relationship between different photosynthetic performance and the species-specific strategies to cope with stress (stress tolerant or avoiders). The optimal light environment, defined through the global site factor (GSF), and the regeneration niche to maximize carbon assimilation differed between the three species. P. pinea showed high sensitivity to water availability in agreement with a drought avoidance strategy, attaining the maximum photosynthetic capacity of the three species following the spring rainfall. Q. ilex was the most thermophilic and light-demanding of the species. Under high light conditions, J. oxycedrus was more drought tolerant and displayed higher net CO2assimilation than P. pinea over the course of a growing period. Optimal locations for P. pinearegeneration are below-crown environments, while for J. oxycedrus regeneration the optimal locations are open gaps. Q. ilex regeneration occupy open gaps where the other two species are unable to establish themselves because of excessive light, temperature or very low water availability. Competition between species will occur under a canopy gap fraction of 0.5. Higher GSF values will exclusively favour the regeneration of Q. ilex.

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For further details log on website :
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11056-015-9471-y

Genetic variation in growth, stem straightness, pilodyn and dynamic modulus of elasticity in second-generation progeny tests of Acacia mangium at three sites in Vietnam

Published Date
Volume 46, Issue 4, pp 577–591

Title 

Genetic variation in growth, stem straightness, pilodyn and dynamic modulus of elasticity in second-generation progeny tests of Acacia mangium at three sites in Vietnam



  • La Anh Duong
  • Nguyen Quoc Toan
  • Trieu Thi Thu Ha

Article
DOI: 10.1007/s11056-015-9484-6

Cite this article as: 
Hai, P.H., Duong, L.A., Toan, N.Q. et al. New Forests (2015) 46: 577. doi:10.1007/s11056-015-9484-6

Abstract

164 open-pollinated families of Acacia mangium from six different genetic groups were tested in three second-generation progeny tests planted at Tuyen Quang and Ba Vi in northern Vietnam and Bau Bang in the south. All trees were measured to estimate individual heritabilities and genetic correlations for growth traits, stem straightness and pilodyn in the three trials, and dynamic modulus of elasticity (MoEd) of standing trees was only assessed in Tuyen Quang. There were significant differences between families for growth traits, stem straightness, pilodyn penetration and predicted MoEd. Heritabilities of growth traits, stem straightness, pilodyn and dynamic modulus of elasticity were low to moderate (h2 = 0.11–0.30). The coefficient of additive genetic variation for DBH, pilodyn and MoEd were moderate at age 3 or 4 years (CVa = 4.9–9.4 %). Genetic correlations between stem straightness, pilodyn and growth traits were favourable but weak, while those between growth traits and dynamic modulus of elasticity were weak and unfavourable. The substantial coefficients of additive genetic variation and significant heritabilities for all traits indicate that it should be possible to use a selection strategy that combines improvements in growth, stem straightness, and wood quality for A. mangium in Vietnam. The site–site genetic correlations between the two northern trials and Bau Bang site were low for growth traits, indicating that G × E effects are of practical importance for growth and different deployment populations will be required for different sites.

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For further details log on website :
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11056-015-9484-6

Development of 18 microsatellite markers in Pieris japonica, a poisonous tree insulated from the browsing pressure of herbivores, using a next-generation sequencer

Published Date
Volume 20, Issue 1, pp 244–247

Title 

Development of 18 microsatellite markers in Pieris japonica, a poisonous tree insulated from the browsing pressure of herbivores, using a next-generation sequencer

  • Engkong Tan
  • Shuichi Asakawa
  • Chunlan Lian

Short Communication
DOI: 10.1007/s10310-014-0456-z

Cite this article as: 
Kurokochi, H., Tan, E., Asakawa, S. et al. J For Res (2015) 20: 244. doi:10.1007/s10310-014-0456-z

Abstract

Pieris japonica is a poisonous tree species that is rarely eaten by herbivorous animals, which could allow it to expand its distribution and change ecosystems. Using a next-generation sequencer, 18 microsatellite markers were isolated from Pjaponica and characterized. The number of alleles at each locus ranged from 2 to 11. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.13 to 1.00 and 0.32 to 0.88, respectively. These markers will be useful for genetic studies of Pjaponica, which will be essential for conservation of its surrounding environment.

References




For further details log on website :
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10310-014-0456-z

Is There a Natural Way to Reduce Overactive Sebum Glands?

by  
Is There a Natural Way to Reduce Overactive Sebum Glands?
A woman is splashing water on her face. Photo Credit Comstock Images/Stockbyte/Getty Images
Oily and combination skin naturally produces excess sebum -- otherwise known as skin oils. For some this creates a sheen on the skin, while others experience blemishes from oil buildup. Skin needs to be balanced in order to minimize oil production without drying out. Some chemical products strip the skin and cause it to overcompensate by producing more sebum. Natural ingredients cleanse and nourish your skin without causing irritation. Take on a natural skin-care routine to reduce overactive sebum glands, and leave the blotting papers at home.

Cool Cleansing

Cleansing skin morning and night will help to prevent oil buildup and blackheads. Combine 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 cup of water and 1/2 tablespoon of honey. Wet your face with warm water to open your pores, and massage the mixture over your face using an upward circular motion for 30 seconds. Rinse with warm water and use a clean cotton cloth to wipe away any remaining cleanser.

T-Zone Toning

Toning is essential in balancing the skin. Drying out oily skin will only lead your skin to overcompensate with excess sebum production in the future. Witch hazel is a natural toner that is ideal for oily skin. It clears any remaining debris and residue from your pores, while restoring the natural pH balance. Skin is left feeling refreshed, but not tight and uncomfortable. Soak an exfoliating cotton pad in witch hazel after cleansing morning and night; smooth it over your skin, concentrating on the T-zone. The exfoliating cotton pad will gently remove dead skin as you tone and is less abrasive than a manual exfoliator.

Helpful Hydration

Oily skin needs to be moisturized to prevent it from overproducing sebum. Use essential oils to stop sebum production, while treating any blemishes and calming redness. Sea Buckthorn Oil contains vitamins A, E and C and absorbs into the skin to fight internal and external aggressors. It strengthens the skin to promote balance and healing. Massage a dime-size amount of oil into your skin both morning and night. Use an upward circular motion to encourage sebum to drain and prevent under-the-skin blemishes. Apply the oil while your skin is still damp from cleansing and toning so that it can be thoroughly absorbed.

Mega Masks

Create a mask with all-natural ingredients. Egg whites naturally tighten pores and can even help with hyperpigmentation and acne. Pour two egg whites into a bowl and use a whisk to mix them together. Smooth the mixture over your face after cleansing, and allow it to dry before rinsing with warm water. Use the mask twice a week to treat oily skin without drying it out.
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Advantages and Disadvantages of Fasting for Runners

Author BY   ANDREA CESPEDES  Food is fuel, especially for serious runners who need a lot of energy. It may seem counterintuiti...