Taxonomic System Research Articles

Cultural landscape zoning of Ukraine

Formulation of the problem. Nowadays in Ukraine there is a significant gap in the application of cultural-landscape approach and the lack of cultural and landscape zoning (CLZ) at different taxonomic levels, as one of the fundamental stages in the protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage, which is recognized in a number of international documents by the world community. The purpose of the article. The purpose of this study is to develop methodological approaches to CLZ in Ukraine. Analysis of recent research and publications. The study and analysis of the experience of differentiation and zoning of different level territories on the basis of cultural and landscape approach in some European countries showed the crucial role of CLZ in studying cultural landscapes and planning management actions for their protection, conservation and use. Methodology and results. The overall purpose of CLZ was to identify, define and differentiate integral natural and cultural systemic territorial formations of different levels, which form a set of interconnected cultural landscapes in a given area. The main factors of cultural-landscape differentiation of Ukraine at the macro level were natural-geographical, ethnographic, linguistic, historical-geographical, historical-political and administrative-territorial features and features of spatial localization and concentration of natural and cultural heritage - immovable and intangible. The information base for conducting the CLZ were researches that reflects the territorial differentiation of Ukraine by these groups of features and has developed appropriate zoning schemes with their cartographic implementation. The taxonomic system of the country's CLZ has been developed. It consists of two levels: 14 cultural-landscape regions and 52 cultural-landscape macro-districts; 26 cultural and landscape regions have been identified as a separate taxon, outside of the hierarchy, according to the administrative-territorial division of the country. The most important result of the study – the map "Cultural-landscape zoning of Ukraine", became one of the key topics of the electronic atlas "Population of Ukraine and its natural and cultural heritage". The development of the atlas was completed in 2020 by the Institute of Geography of NASU. Scientific novelty and practical significance. For the first time in Ukraine, CLZ has been developed at the macro level, thus starting to fill a gap of the absence of domestic developments of this kind. The study identified proposals on the main directions of development and practical application of CLZ in the field of protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage through inclusion in the systems of national and regional strategy, spatial development planning, research on integrated study of territory, mapping and development of CLZ regions and administrative districts, etc.

Genetic Diversity of Durian (Durio Zibethinus Murr.) in Nias Island, North Sumatera Use Random Amplified Polymorphic Dna (Rapd) Markers

Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) is one of tropic fruits that has varian taste depending on the places of their production. Nias Island, well known as durian production place in North Sumatera. The information about it’s varian was less studied and now day we need that information to analyze variant of durian especially in Nias Island. The aim of this research was to analyze genetic diversity of durian in Nias Island with Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Ten shoots of durian was collected from each 5 regencies, which were: Nias Selatan, Nias Barat, Nias Utara, Nias Kota, dan Nias Induk. Durian’s DNA has been isolated by using Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB) method and amplified with six RAPD primers namely: OPA 01, OPA 03, OPA 07, OPA 10, RAPD 05, and OPN 06. The amplified band were scored and translated to biner data, then analyzed using Numerical Taxonomy and Multivariate System (NTSys) and clustered by Unweighted Pair Group Method With Arithme Average (UPGMA) method. Isolated DNA showed a clear and unsmeared band. The size of amplified band was around 221-2855bp with 100% of polymorphism. The dendogram was constructed by 50 accession of Nias’s durian with 0.51-0.59 of similarity value in each population. All of Nias’s durian accession has similiar value of 67% and B2 (Nias Barat) as a farthest genetic distance from all accession.

The phylogeny of Seseli (Apiaceae, Apioideae): insights from molecular and morphological data

BackgroundThe genus Seseli L., which consists of 125–140 species distributed in the Old World from western Europe and northwestern Africa to China and Japan, is one of the largest and most taxonomically difficult genera of Apiaceae Lindl. Although several previous studies have been conducted on Seseli based on limited morphological characteristics and molecular fragments, a robust and comprehensive phylogeny of Seseli remains elusive. Plastomes provide abundant genetic information and have been widely used in studying plant phylogeny and evolution. Consequently, we newly generated the complete plastomes of eleven Seseli taxa. We combined plastome data and morphological characteristics to investigate the phylogeny of Seseli.ResultsIn our study, we observed that the genome length, gene numbers, IR/SC borders, and repeat composition of the eleven Seseli plastomes were variable. Several appropriate mutation hotspot regions may be developed as candidate DNA barcodes for evolution, phylogeny, and species identification of Seseli. The phylogenetic results identified that Seseli was not a monophyletic group. Moreover, the eleven newly sequenced Seseli taxa did not cluster with S. tortuosum (the type species of Seseli, belonging to the tribe Selineae), where S. delavayi clustered with Eriocycla belonging to the tribe Echinophoreae and the other ten belonged to Selineae. The comparative plastome and morphological characteristics analyses confirmed the reliability of the phylogenetic analyses and implied the complex evolution of Seseli.ConclusionCombining molecular and morphological data is efficient and useful for studying the phylogeny of Seseli. We suggest that “a narrow sense” of Seseli will be meaningful for further study and the current taxonomic system of Seseli needs to be revised. In summary, our study can provide new insights into the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic framework of Seseli.

:Assembled for Use: Indigenous Compilation and the Archives of Early Native American Literatures

:<i>Assembled for Use: Indigenous Compilation and the Archives of Early Native American Literatures</i>

The National Provider Identifier Taxonomy: Does it Align With a Surgeon’s Actual Clinical Practice?

IntroductionThe taxonomy code(s) associated with each National Provider Identifier (NPI) entry should characterize the provider’s role (e.g., physician) and any specialization (e.g., orthopedic surgery). While the intent of the taxonomy system was to monitor medical appropriateness and the expertise of care provided, this system is now being used by researchers to identify providers and their practices. It is unknown how accurate the taxonomy codes are in describing a provider’s true specialization. MethodsDepartment websites of orthopedic surgery and general surgery from three large academic institutions were queried for practicing surgeons. The surgeon’s specialty and subspeciality information listed was compared to the provider’s taxonomy code(s) listed on the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES). The match rate between these data sources was evaluated based on the specialty, subspecialty, and institution. ResultsThere were 295 surgeons (205 general surgery and 90 orthopedic surgery) and 24 relevant taxonomies (8 orthopedic and 16 general or plastic) for analysis. Of these, 294 surgeons (99%) selected their general specialty taxonomy correctly, while only 189 (64%) correctly chose an appropriate subspecialty. General surgeons correctly chose a subspecialty more often than orthopedic surgeons (70 versus 51%, P = 0.002). The institution did not affect either match rate, however there were some differences noted in subspecialty match rates inside individual departments. ConclusionsIn these institutions, the NPI taxonomy is not accurate for describing a surgeon’s subspecialty or actual practice. Caution should be taken when utilizing this variable to describe a surgeon’s subspecialization as our findings might apply in other groups.

Toward Field Soil Surveys: Identifying and Delineating Soil Diagnostic Horizons Based on Deep Learning and RGB Image

The diagnostic horizon in a soil is reflective of the environment in which it developed and the inherent characteristics of the material, therefore quantitative approaches to horizon delineation should focus on the diagnostic horizon. Moreover, it can enable the exchange and transfer of soil information between different taxonomic systems. This study aims to explore the use of deep learning and RGB images to train a soil diagnostic horizon identification model that can help field workers determine soil horizon information quickly, efficiently, easily, and cost-effectively. A total of 331 soil profile images of the main soil categories (five soil orders, including Primosols, Ferrosols, Argosols, Anthrosols, and Cambosols) from Hubei and Jiangxi Provinces were used. Each soil profile image was preprocessed and augmented to 10 images and then inputted into the UNet++ architecture. The mean intersection over union and pixel accuracy of the model were 71.24% and 82.66%, respectively. Results show that the model could accurately identify and delineate the soil diagnostic horizons. Moreover, the model performance varied considerably due to the definition of the horizon and whether the diagnostic conditions applied to a wide range of visual features on RGB images, the number of samples, and the soil characteristics of the study area.

Экологическая ответственность бизнеса как критерий ESG и устойчивого развития

Introduction: in the context of a sanctioned foreign policy, which includes the possibility of abandoning Russian energy carriers, in addition to risks, some opportunities for sustainable development and implementation of ESG strategies are revealed. The innovative green projects in the interests of the Russian Federation are implemented for sustainable development mainly by the business community, whose responsibility is interpreted in the context of ESG criteria. The purpose of the study: to substantiate the concept of environmental responsibility of business as a criterion of ESG and sustainable development. Methods: the research was carried out by means of a set of methods of scientific cognition, namely, analysis (the analysis of concepts, identification of their signs, traits) and synthesis (the generalization of debatable conclusions, contrasted definitions), the method of analogies, by which the characteristics of the studied theses and definitions were projected onto legal relations. The preparation of the paper required the use of special legal research methods, such as formal legal and comparative legal. Results: ESG as a new trend and category is correlated in content with the sustainable development goals. The principles of ESG and sustainable development are implemented in Russia taking into account the local peculiarities. The ESG criteria are data that capture the measure of responsibility of business in the environmental protection field. The environmental responsibility of business as a type of environmental responsibility is a responsible approach of business to nature protection not out of fear of being held liable, but on the basis of the calculations of stimulating indicators, positive factors. The environmental responsibility of business, in this sense, becomes a value criterion, an incentive for the use of green technologies, innovative “clean” business models and can be attributed to the criteria of ESG and sustainable development. Conclusions: the environmental responsibility of business as an ESG criterion is achieved by external and internal factors, requires the state participation, achieving environmental transparency, improving environmental insurance, developing a system of taxonomy and criteria assessment.

Algebraic Reasoning in Marzano's Taxonomy Cognitive System

This article explores the relationship between algebraic reasoning and the cognitive system of Marzano’s taxonomy. The reasoning is known as a thought process that connects premises to conclusions. The ability to solve problems related to learning and how to state generalizations about numbers, quantities, relations, and functions is part of algebraic reasoning. There are four indicators of algebraic reasoning ability – Knowledge Retrieval, Connecting Mathematical Representations, Pattern Recognition, and Reasoned Solving. Algebraic reasoning abilities can increase awareness of the knowledge process, help in constructing or using knowledge, and develop one’s self-confidence while engaged in tasks through assignments to Marzano’s taxonomy. Marzano’s taxonomic cognitive system not only explains how a person makes a decision to engage in a new task but also explains how information is processed post decision-making. Thus, algebraic reasoning is related to the cognitive system in Marzano’s taxonomy.&#x0D; Keywords: algebraic reasoning, cognitive system, Marzano’s taxonomy

Genetic Analysis of (Oreochromis niloticus) Nirvana Tilapia Cultivated in Wanayasa and Galunggung, Lumajang, Bali, Minahasa Using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Method

This research aims to determine the kinship of nirvana tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) cultivated in Wanayasa with Galunggung, Lumajang, Bali, and Minahasa by Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA method. All tilapia cultivated in these four places originated from Wanayasa. This research was conducted in the Biotechnology Laboratory, Laboratory of Microbiology and Molecular Biotechnology, FPIK UNPAD. The research method was an explorative experiment with the RAPD-PCR technique using primary OPA-3 and OPA-5. However, the results of DNA amplification with OPA-3 were better than with OPA-5. Therefore, further analysis was carried out using data from OPA-3. Kinship was analyzed based on the similarity index which was calculated by Numerical Taxonomy and Multivariate Analysis System (NTSYS) program. The results showed that the kinship between Nirvana tilapia cultivated in Wanayasa with Galunggung, Lumajang, Bali, and Minahasa, according to the similarity index was high, about 77-85%. The highest similarity index (85%) was obtained between nirvana tilapia cultivated in Wanayasa with Galunggung, and the lowest similarity index (77%) between tilapia cultivated in Bali with Minahasa. Genetic changes that occur because of differences in cultivation environments range from 15-23%.

Revised proposed classification for human modified soils in Canada: Anthroposolic order

As the global human population and associated anthropogenic activities rapidly increase, so does the areal extent of disturbed soils. Regulatory frameworks must incorporate reclamation criteria and management options for these disturbed soils, requiring consistent descriptions and interpretations. Many human-altered soils cannot be classified using the current Canadian System of Soil Classification (CSSC), thus an Anthroposolic order is proposed. Anthroposols are soils that are highly modified or constructed by human activity, with one or more natural horizons removed and replaced, added to, or significantly modified. Disturbed horizons are anthropic in origin and contain materials significantly modified physically and/or chemically by human activities. Three great groups are defined by the presence of anthropogenic artefacts and organic carbon content. Eight subgroups are based on the amount of organic material, thickness of horizons, material composition, hydrologic regime, and presence of permafrost. Traditional phases and modifiers are used as in the CSSC. The proposed classification has been revised from the original publication in 2012 after field testing and discussion among soil scientists across Canada. This revised classification is proposed for inclusion in the revised CSSC, to account for the very large and expanding aerial extent of disturbed soils in Canada, and to remain current with other global soil taxonomy systems.

From Personalized Medicine to Population Health: A Survey of mHealth Sensing Techniques

Mobile Sensing Apps have been widely used as a practical approach to collect behavioral and health-related information from individuals and provide timely intervention to promote health and well-beings, such as mental health and chronic cares. As the objectives of mobile sensing could be either \emph{(a) personalized medicine for individuals} or \emph{(b) public health for populations}, in this work we review the design of these mobile sensing apps, and propose to categorize the design of these apps/systems in two paradigms -- \emph{(i) Personal Sensing} and \emph{(ii) Crowd Sensing} paradigms. While both sensing paradigms might incorporate with common ubiquitous sensing technologies, such as wearable sensors, mobility monitoring, mobile data offloading, and/or cloud-based data analytics to collect and process sensing data from individuals, we present a novel taxonomy system with two major components that can specify and classify apps/systems from aspects of the life-cycle of mHealth Sensing: \emph{(1) Sensing Task Creation \& Participation}, \emph{(2) Health Surveillance \& Data Collection}, and \emph{(3) Data Analysis \& Knowledge Discovery}. With respect to different goals of the two paradigms, this work systematically reviews this field, and summarizes the design of typical apps/systems in the view of the configurations and interactions between these two components. In addition to summarization, the proposed taxonomy system also helps figure out the potential directions of mobile sensing for health from both personalized medicines and population health perspectives.

Not a programmer? You can mobilize data from biodiversity informatics APIs, too!

An enormous amount of biodiversity information is accessible via many biodiversity informatics APIs (application programming interface). However, there may be a steep learning curve for finding, accessing, interchanging and reusing data among these APIs, often requiring a large time investment to learn a programming language, and develop and rigorously test the software. The emergence of no-code and low-code software architecture could potentially lower this barrier and empower non-programmers with the ability to use biodiversity informatics APIs. Instead of writing code, no-code/low-code applications offer flexible graphical user interfaces for quickly constructing complex data processing workflows. One such open source low-code application is n8n.io, which is a powerful workflow automation tool that could conceivably make interchanging data among scientific APIs much easier. Workflows within n8n.io are developed by connecting together nodes that take input, perform processing, and return output (Figs 1, 2). For example, you could create a workflow that starts with a node querying Wikidata for all registered external identifiers (IDs) for a species and use the output IDs to access all information about that species in biodiversity informatics APIs. After a workflow has been saved, it can be triggered manually, on a schedule, by command line, or by a remote push request. As part of the new Biology Node-to-Node (BioN2N) project, nodes were developed for several biodiversity informatics APIs including Barcode of Life, Bionomia, Catalogue of Life, ChecklistBank Datasets, Global Biodiversity Information Facility, Global Biotic Interactions, Global Names, Integrated Taxonomic Information System, Open Tree of Life, TaxonWorks, Wikidata Query Service, ZooBank, and more nodes currently are under development. A technical demonstration will be given showing how to use n8n.io for accessing and interchanging data among biodiversity informatics APIs. A major advantage of the n8n.io platform is that it allows reusable workflows to be shared as templates, which could enable building a community of biodiversity informatics users. It also wraps hundreds of popular APIs, which could open the door to integrating scientific knowledge with many other services on the internet.

An open and continuously updated fern tree of life.

Ferns, with about 12,000 species, are the second most diverse lineage of vascular plants after angiosperms. They have been the subject of numerous molecular phylogenetic studies, resulting in the publication of trees for every major clade and DNA sequences from nearly half of all species. Global fern phylogenies have been published periodically, but as molecular systematics research continues at a rapid pace, these become quickly outdated. Here, we develop a mostly automated, reproducible, open pipeline to generate a continuously updated fern tree of life (FTOL) from DNA sequence data available in GenBank. Our tailored sampling strategy combines whole plastomes (few taxa, many loci) with commonly sequenced plastid regions (many taxa, few loci) to obtain a global, species-level fern phylogeny with high resolution along the backbone and maximal sampling across the tips. We use a curated reference taxonomy to resolve synonyms in general compliance with the community-driven Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group I classification. The current FTOL includes 5,582 species, an increase of ca. 40% relative to the most recently published global fern phylogeny. Using an updated and expanded list of 51 fern fossil constraints, we find estimated ages for most families and deeper clades to be considerably older than earlier studies. FTOL and its accompanying datasets, including the fossil list and taxonomic database, will be updated on a regular basis and are available via a web portal (https://fernphy.github.io) and R packages, enabling immediate access to the most up-to-date, comprehensively sampled fern phylogeny. FTOL will be useful for anyone studying this important group of plants over a wide range of taxonomic scales, from smaller clades to the entire tree. We anticipate FTOL will be particularly relevant for macroecological studies at regional to global scales and will inform future taxonomic systems with the most recent hypothesis of fern phylogeny.

A new approach to feature-based asteroid taxonomy in 3D color space

The taxonomic classification of asteroids has been mostly based on spectroscopic observations with wavelengths spanning from the visible (VIS) to the near-infrared (NIR). VIS-NIR spectra of ~2500 asteroids have been obtained since the 1970s; the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) Moving Object Catalog 4 (MOC 4) was released with ~4 × 105 measurements of asteroid positions and colors in the early 2000s. A number of works then devised methods to classify these data within the framework of existing taxonomic systems. Some of these works, however, used 2D parameter space (e.g., gri slope vs. z-i color) that displayed a continuous distribution of clouds of data points resulting in boundaries that were artificially defined. We introduce here a more advanced method to classify asteroids based on existing systems. This approach is simply represented by a triplet of SDSS colors. The distributions and memberships of each taxonomic type are determined by machine learning methods in the form of both unsupervised and semi-supervised learning. We apply our scheme to MOC 4 calibrated with VIS-NIR reflectance spectra. We successfully separate seven different taxonomy classifications (C, D, K, L, S, V, and X) with which we have a sufficient number of spectroscopic datasets. We found the overlapping regions of taxonomic types in a 2D plane were separated with relatively clear boundaries in the 3D space newly defined in this work. Our scheme explicitly discriminates between different taxonomic types (e.g., K and X types), which is an improvement over existing systems. This new method for taxonomic classification has a great deal of scalability for asteroid research, such as space weathering in the S-complex, and the origin and evolution of asteroid families. We present the structure of the asteroid belt, and describe the orbital distribution based on our newly assigned taxonomic classifications. It is also possible to extend the methods presented here to other photometric systems, such as the Johnson-Cousins and LSST filter systems.

Morphological Identification and Phylogenetic Analysis of Laelapin Mite Species (Acari: Mesostigmata: Laelapidae) from China.

Laelapinae mites are involved in transmission of microbial diseases between wildlife and humans, with an impact on public health. In this study, 5 mite members in the subfamily Laelapinae (laelapin mites; LM) were morphologically identified by light microscopy, and the phylogenetic relationship of LM was analyzed in combination with the sequence information of part of the LM cytochrome oxidase subunit I (cox1) gene. The morphological identification revealed that 5 mites belonged to the genera Laelaps and Haemolaelaps, respectively. Sequence analysis showed that the ratio of non-synonymous mutation rate to synonymous mutation rate of LM was less than 1, indicating that the LM cox1 gene had undergone purifying selection. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Laelapinae is a monophyletic group. The genera Haemolaelaps and Hyperlaelaps did not separated into distinct clades but clustered together with species of the genus Laelaps. Our morphological and molecular analyses to describe the phylogenetic relationships among different genera and species of Laelapinae provide a reference for the improvement and revision of the LM taxonomy system.

Analysis of Radiology Report Recommendation Characteristics and Rate of Recommended Action Performance

Following up on recommendations from radiologic findings is important for patient care, but frequently there are failures to carry out these recommendations. The lack of reliable systems to characterize and track completion of actionable radiology report recommendations poses an important patient safety challenge. To characterize actionable radiology recommendations and, using this taxonomy, track and understand rates of loop closure for radiology recommendations in a primary care setting. Radiology reports in a primary care clinic at a large academic center were redesigned to include actionable recommendations in a separate dedicated field. Manual review of all reports generated from imaging tests ordered between January 1 and December 31, 2018, by primary care physicians that contained actionable recommendations was performed. For this quality improvement study, a taxonomy system that conceptualized recommendations was developed based on 3 domains: (1) what is recommended (eg, repeat a test or perform a different test, specialty referral), (2) specified time frame in which to perform the recommended action, and (3) contingency language qualifying the recommendation. Using this framework, a 2-stage process was used to review patients' records to classify recommendations and determine loop closure rates and factors associated with failure to complete recommended actions. Data analysis was conducted from April to July 2021. Radiology recommendations, time frames, and contingencies. Rates of carrying out vs not closing the loop on these recommendations in the recommended time frame were assessed. A total of 598 radiology reports were identified with structured recommendations: 462 for additional or future radiologic studies and 196 for nonradiologic actions (119 specialty referrals, 47 invasive procedures, and 43 other actions). The overall rate of completed actions (loop closure) within the recommended time frame was 87.4%, with 31 open loop cases rated by quality expert reviewers to pose substantial clinical risks. Factors associated with successful loop closure included (1) absence of accompanying contingency language, (2) shorter recommended time frames, and (3) evidence of direct radiologist communication with the ordering primary care physicians. A clinically significant lack of loop closure was found in approximately 5% of cases. The findings of this study suggest that creating structured radiology reports featuring a dedicated recommendations field permits the development of taxonomy to classify such recommendations and determine whether they were carried out. The lack of loop closure suggests the need for more reliable systems.

The Lund Molecular Taxonomy Applied to Non–Muscle-Invasive Urothelial Carcinoma

The precise classification of tumors into relevant molecular subtypes will facilitate both future research and optimal treatment. Here, the Lund Taxonomy system for molecular classification of urothelial carcinoma was applied to two large and independent cohorts of non-muscle-invasive tumors. Of 752 tumors classified, close to 100% were of the luminal subtypes, 95% urothelial-like (Uro; UroA, UroB, or UroC) and 5% genomically unstable. The obtained subtype structure organized the tumors into groups with specific and coherent gene mutation, genomic, and clinical profiles. The intrasubtype variability in the largest group of tumors, UroA, was caused by infiltration and proliferation, not considered as cancer cell type-defining properties. Within the UroA subtype, a HOXB/late cell-cycle gene expression polarity was found, strongly associated with FGFR3, STAG2, and TP53 mutations, as well as with chromosome 9 losses. Kaplan-Meier analyses identified the genomically unstable subtype as a progression high-risk group, also valid in the subgroup of T1 tumors. Almost all progression events occurred within 12 months in this subtype. Also, a general progression gene signature was derived that identifies high- and low-risk tumors. All findings were demonstrated in two independent cohorts. The Lund Taxonomy system is applicable to both non-muscle- and muscle-invasive tumors and may be a useful biological framework for translational studies.

Alloexidiopsis gen. nov., A Revision of Generic Delimitation in Auriculariales (Basidiomycota).

Auriculariales is a fungal order with highly diverse morphological traits of basidiomes, which partially leads to a poor understanding of its taxonomic system at the generic level. To identify our recently collected specimens of Auriculariales to a species level, we perform a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the generic relationships in Auriculariales. In association with morphological characteristics, a new genus Alloexidiopsis belonging to Auriculariaceae is erected with two new species, namely, A. australiensis and A. schistacea. Moreover, Exidiopsis calcea separated from the generic type E. effusa and Heteroradulum niveum and H. yunnanense recently inaccurately described as members of Heteroradulum are recovered in the clade of Alloexidiopsis. These three species are thus transferred to this new genus. One collection of Exidiopsis grisea also falls in the clade of Alloexidiopsis, whereas another collection of this species is separated far from Alloexidiopsis and E. effusa. Since we have no collection to confirm the species identity of E. grisea, its generic position is uncertain. The main taxonomic morphological differences among Alloexidiopsis and related corticioid genera in Auriculariales are summarized. A key to all the five accepted species of Alloexidiopsis is provided. As two unnamed lineages exist in Alloexidiopsis besides the abovementioned five species, it is assumed that more new species will be revealed from this genus under its current circumscription.

Potential of rheometry in detecting cohesive soils in Brazil as an additional tool to morphological field description and tensile resistance quantification

Although an experienced pedologist quickly identifies soils with a cohesive character (similar to hardsetting soils) directly in the field, advances in its correct diagnosis are needed, since the description requires wet and dry soil situations and relies upon qualitative aspects. Taxonomic systems usually consider metrics for other diagnostic attributes (clay fraction activity, abrupt textural change, etc.), but not for the cohesive character, although the latter is environmentally important and is referred to in soil taxonomy systems. Research is especially required at the microscale, where adhesive and cohesive forces are manifested as particle interactions. The aim of this study was to determine whether rheological properties obtained in amplitude sweep tests can serve as indicators of hardsetting or cohesive soils to improve the understanding of underlying processes in such soils. We analyzed soil samples from horizons identified as either cohesive or non-cohesive from six Brazilian soils (Typic Paleudalf, Ultic Hapludalf, Typic Hapludalf, Typic Paleustult, Kandiudox and Hapludox), separated by depth in top, middle and bottom layers. As rheological properties we determined: strain at the end of the linear viscoelastic range (LVR) (γLVR), shear stress at the end of the LVR (τLVR), strain at the yield point (YP) (γYP), storage and loss modulus at the YP (G′G″YP), maximum shear stress (τmax), strain at the maximum shear stress (γ τ max), and integral z (Iz). Cohesion only affected γLVR in the base position, and had a significant effect on τmax and γ τ max in the top and middle positions, respectively. Three soil materials did not reach the yield point. The Iz was either higher or lower in cohesive soils compared to non-cohesive soils. Where the Iz was higher in non-cohesive soils, this seems to be linked to a small dilatancy as a consequence of the high friction between soil particles. Also, τmax and Iz showed significant interactions of soil type and cohesion by means of a two-way ANOVA. Soil type had a greater effect on rheological properties, and the Typic Paleudalf had generally higher values. Parallely determined iron, organic carbon and clay contents, bulk density and normal force at the beginning of the test had the greatest impact on rheology. Tensile strength, a property evaluated on the mesoscale, had the closest relationship with γτ max and τmax. In conclusion, rheometry can support common analyses to identify the cohesive character, however, for an independent evaluation based upon most sensitive rheological attributes, further testing is needed, with a greater diversity of soils and at different water contents. The possibility to promptly identify cohesive character by quantitative means is essential for effective measures for the mitigation of the mechanical impediments of cohesive soils for agriculture. With the existence of a single parameter to distinguish cohesiveness and its magnitude, different soil management strategies can be easily tested and compared to obtain greater soil workability and, therefore, improved fertility.

Taxonomic reassessment of chaetognaths (Chaetognatha, Sagittoidea, Aphragmophora) from Korean waters.

Since the first record of chaetognaths (arrow worms) reported from Korean waters by Molchanov in 1907, three families, 12 genera and 21 species have been additionally described. Eighteen of the 21 recorded species have been reported under scientific names different from the latest taxonomic system. This study aimed to address this issue by conducting a taxonomic re-evaluation of chaetognaths collected from Korean waters. Furthermore, the taxonomic usefulness of morphological differences in corona ciliata and distribution of ciliary sense receptors were re-examined using specimens stained with 1% Chlorazol black E (CBE) solution. This study includes taxonomically-validated voucher specimens of 18 species from Korean waters. Based on the specimens, re-description including image data and CBE staining pattern, distribution, ecological information and improved key were provided for each species. However, Decipisagittadecipiens, Serratosagittaserratodentata and Sagittapseudoserratodentata from Korean waters is still questioned because of the paucity of the voucher specimen and scientific literature.