June 2003 Newsletter                                                     Volume 5  No. 1

*  Editor's Note
*  IAS Officers
*  President's Message
*  Highlights from the 3rd World Congress on Allelopathy
*  Tsukuba Award Winners
*  Photos from the Tsukuba Meeting
*  Preview of the 4th World Congress
*  Minutes of the Executive and General Business Meetings
*  Treasurer's Report
*  Membership and Dues Information
*  Past President's Corner
*  Announcements: Publications and Meetings of Interest
*  A Tribute to E.L. Rice

Newsletter Editor:          Jeff Weidenhamer

                              Department of Chemistry

                               Ashland University

                               Ashland, Ohio 44805 USA

Editor's Note

 

President     Dr. Azim Mallik     Department of Biology     Lakehead University     955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay     Ontario, Canada P7B 5E1     email: azim.mallik@lakehedu.ca
Past President:     Dr. Francisco A. Macias     Department of Organic Chemistry     University of Cadiz     Faculty of Sciences     Apdo. 40, 11510-Puerto Real (Cadiz)     SPAIN     email: famacias@uca.es
President-Elect:     Dr. Yoshiharu Fujii     Head, Allelopathy Laboratory     National Institute of Agro-Environmental Sciences (NIAES)     3-1-1 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki     JAPAN     email: yfujii@niaes.affrc.go.jp
Program Vice President:      Dr. James Pratley     Dean, Faculty of Science and Agriculture     Mail: Locked Bag 588     Charles Sturt Unversity     Wagga Wagga      NSW 2678     Australia     email: yfujii@niaes.affrc.go.jp
Treasurer:     Dr. Leslie Weston     Department of Horticulture     Cornell University     49D Plant Science     Ithaca, NY 14853 USA     email: law20@cornell.edu
Secretary:     Dr. Jeff Weidenhamer     Department of Chemistry     Ashland University     Ashland, Ohio 44805 USA     email: jweiden@ashland.edu
Editor in Chief:     Dr. Hank Cutler     Dept. of Pharmaceutical Sciences     Southern School of Pharmacy     Mercer University     Atlanta, GA 30341-4155     email: Hcutler876@aol.com
Webmanager:     Dr. Diego Castellano     Department of Organic Chemistry     University of Cadiz     Faculty of Sciences     Apdo. 40, 11510-Puerto Real (Cadiz)     SPAIN     email: diego.castellano@uca.es

        Recognition of the phenomenon of allelopathy is old, experimental proof of its existence often controversial and emotions run high amongst researchers who are often asked to bear the ‘burden of proof’ by experimental demonstration of allelopathy ‘beyond reasonable doubts’ (Williamson 1990). Nonetheless, we have come a long way from a humble begining of Hans Molisch who with a remarkable foresight articulated the discipline (Molisch 1937). Over the last few decades with the advent of new technological breakthroughs particularly molecular techniques, sophisticated analytical tools and innovative experimental designs some of the past hurdles are overcome but there remain many more. This is because of the spatially and temporally complex and interacting nature of the phenomenon with other biotic and abiotic processes and there lies the challenge and excitement. Fundamental knowledge of plant-plant interactions involving allelopathy of weed species is becoming increasingly clear (Callaway and Aschehoug 2000). More than ever the need for environment friendly alternative methods for developing sustainable agriculture and forestry has been recognized and meticulous application of allelopathy principles can help achieving this goal.

        Michael Birkett and colleagues have written an impressive review by asking the question whether allelopathy offers real promise for practical weed management and for explaining rhizosphere interactions involving higher plants (Birkett et al. 2001). In this review they paid special attention to chemical signalling mechanisms of plant root systems in response to rhizosphere ecology and allelochemicals. As an example of bulk toxic effects, allelopathy of low molecular weight biocidal isoprenoid compounds of conifers and juglone of walnut tree (Juglans regia), high potency quinone of oak trees (Quercus spp.) were mentioned. As examples of crop-weed allelopathy they mentioned allelochemicals from gooseweed (Sphenoclea zylanica), marigolds (Tagetes spp), alfalfa, (Medicago sativa), witchweeds (Striga asiatica and S. hermonthica) and plants in the family Brassicaceae. A clearer understanding of allelochemicals and rhizosphere ecology of crops and weeds can help achieve ecological weed control. Increased crop production is possible in a sustainable way by intercropping and crop rotation based on their effects on rhizosphere chemistry. Encouraging results have already been obtained in farmer-managed trials of these kinds in Kenya (Khan et al. 2000). Birkett et al (2001) concluded that in addition to biocidal effects of bulk allelochemicals in the rhizosphere plant-plant, plant-microbial and plant-insect/nematode interactions can be controlled by sophisticated chemical signalling system. Germination stimulants such as (+)-strigol and (+)-strigolactone and other regulatory signalling compounds produced by hosts of gooseweed have been discovered. Further discovery and exploitation of allelopathy signalling system have future potential in enhancing sustainable productivity without compromising environment.

        As in general ecology, pluralism in allelopathy provides challenges as well as excellent opportunities for research in diverse directions ranging from fundamental to applied research and any thing in between. One can perform analytically and conceptually complex experiments using high-tech equipment as well as straightforward but useful low-tech field trials involving farmers. However, the researcher must have clearly defined hypotheses and legitimate method(s) to test them. Several authors have cautioned about asking the wrong or vague question and using unjustified methodology in the study of allelopathy (Romeo 2000; Inderjit and Weston 2000). Reviewers and editors of many international journals still complain quite justifiably that a large majority of the submitted manuscripts dealing with allelopathy research suffer from unclear objectives, unacceptable methodology, unreasonable interpretation of data and unjustifiable conclusions. We must pay attention to these if we are to advance allelopathy as a discipline. To establish any discipline on a sound scientific footing its students must criticize their own work as well as pay attention to the opinions of the skeptics. In a recently published opinion regarding self-criticism in ecology Jacob Weiner said that ecology’s tradition of skepticism and self-criticism is essential to its development as a science (Weiner 2002).  The same thing can be said for allelopathy. We can no longer afford to create ‘inbreeding depression’ of the discipline by talking to ourselves only. To be successful as scientists our research results must stand the wash of our critics. This is why it is important to invite established researchers of contrasting views to allelopathy conferences and symposia and have ‘cross fire discussions’. We can learn a great deal from these open discussions. It is also important to hold allelopathy symposia in large international gatherings that provide opportunity to exchange ideas with general ecologists, agronomists, soil scientists and natural product chemists.

        In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to Professor George Waller for doing an excellent job in developing several country committees and regional chapters of allelopathy as the founding President. Dr. Rick Willis as a founding Secretary has done an admirable job of drafting the IAS constitution and we have to finalize that as soon as possible. I thank the immediate past-president, Professor Francisco Macias for carrying the torch during his tenure and Dr. Fujii and his colleagues for holding a very successful Third World Allelopathy Congress in Tsukuba, Japan.  I particularly congratulate our three colleagues of the European Allelopathy Society, Professors G. Aliota, M. Reigosa and F. Pellissier on their successful organization of most useful workshops and symposia on allelopathy in Italy, Spain and France. These types of workshops are extremely valuable in giving practical training and generating research enthusiasm among young scientists.

        I look forward to working with the new executives of IAS in the coming months on many challenging issues and with Professor Jim Pratley and his team in organizing the Fourth World Allelopathy Congress scheduled for 2005 in Australia. Most of all I would like to reach out to the very heart of the society, the general members, with a sincere plea to take active part in all aspects of the society by their suggestions and support.

Reference:
Birkett, M.A., Chamberlain, K., Hooper, A.M. and Pickett, J.A. 2001. Does allelopathy offer real promise for practical weed management and for explaining rhizosphere interactions involving higher plants? Plant and Soil 232: 31-39.
Callaway, R.M. and Aschehoug, E.T. 2000. Invasive plants versus their new and old neighbors: a mechanism for exotic invasion. Science 290: 521-523.
Inderjit and Weston, L. 2000. Are laboratory bioassays for allelopathy suitable for predictions of field responses? Journal of Chemical Ecology 26: 2111-2118.
Khan, Z.R. et al. (11 authors) 1997. Intercropping increases parasitism of pests. Nature 388: 631-632.
Molisch, H. 1937. Der einfluss einer Pflanze auf die andere-Allelopathie, Gustav Fischer, Jena.
Romeo, J.T. 2000. Raising the beam: Moving beyond phytotoxicity. Journal of Chemical Ecology 26: 2011-2014.
Weiner, J. 1999. On self-criticism in ecology. Oikos 85: 373-374.
Williamson, G.B. 1990. Allelopathy, Koch’s postulates and the neck-riddle. In: Perspectives in plant competition, J. Grace and D. Tilman (eds.) pp. 484-462. Academic Press, New York.

Azim Mallik
President, International Allelopathy Society
 

          The Third World Congress on Allelopathy was held in Tsukuba, Japan (26-30 August 2002) under the title “Challenges for the New Millennium”. Some 250 researchers and officials representing forty countries participated in this event. The scientific program included fourteen symposia for keynote papers, oral presentations and poster sessions. Recent research advancements in allelopathy were documented by more than eighty four oral presentations and one hundred nineteen posters focused on the allelopathic phenomena in field, physiological aspects, plant-plant interactions, plant-insect communication, plant-microorganism relationships, plant-animal counter-action, identification of new allelochemicals, soil-allelochemical dynamics, aquatic allelopathy, management in relation to the environment, and application of allelopathy to eco-friendly agriculture.

        Although not commonly recognized, the effects of allelopathy are an integral component of most naturally occurring communities and agro-ecosystems. Adverse effects exerted by specific allelochemicals from some weeds and plants display reduced production of many agricultural crops and managed forest systems. Therefore, evaluation of the allelochemical effects of preceding plants, weeds, plant residues, associated plants, and auto-toxicity that may be involved in cropping systems is urgently needed.

          During the past two decades, this subject has flourished as an exciting scientific discipline through multidisciplinary research approach and efforts.  In this congress, a good number of scientists emphasized the identification and isolation of new or newly identified allelochemicals with potent biological activities.  Although bioassay guided studies in laboratory conditions are a useful tool to find clues for possible interactions between plants and chemicals in the environment, it must be emphasized that researchers need to continue their investigation under field conditions in order to prove their laboratory oriented observations have relevance to field conditions.

            New and innovative tools in molecular biology are powerful methods for elucidating many underlying questions in the nature. Although interactions between biology and chemistry have been well documented for allelopathic phenomena in the past and present times, very little work has been carried out at the molecular level for allelopathy research. Micro-array analysis techniques are promising in screening thousands of genes, and provide opportunity to identify relevant gene(s) involved in a specified phenomenon. In the future, extensive scientific efforts should be given to gene discovery related to allelopathic phenomena and the signal transduction of allelochemicals under environmental conditions. All these efforts will assist in exploring and elucidating the real-time mode of action and precise function of relevant genes.

            The IAS was founded less than a decade ago with the call to rapidly increase the number of scientists involved in the study of allelopathy.  To date, three World Congresses on Allelopathy have been held on three continents. During each Congress, scientists sit together and discuss the new discoveries and contributions in this field. Scientists representing nineteen countries participated in the First World Congress on Allelopathy in 1996.  At the Third World Congress on Allelopathy in 2002, forty countries were represented, with a significant increase in the numbers of symposia, individual, oral and poster presentations. At the third IAS meeting, the organizing committee gave new awards (Gold, Silver, and Bronze) after the strict selection by the authorities in this field to encourage young scientists for the poster presentations, in addition to the outstanding contribution awards (Molisch, Grodzinski, and Rice). With the successful end of the Third World Congress on Allelopathy in Japan in 2002, scientists are now looking forward to see the outcomes of new challenges that have been forwarded in the Fourth Congress schedule to be held in Wagga Wagga, Australia in 2005.

Yoshiharu Fujii.
President-Elect, International Allelopathy Society
Organizer of the Third World Congress on Allelopathy, Tsukuba, Japan (2002)
 

More Photos from Tsukuba

Society Award Winners

The Molisch Award is given for outstanding academic achievement and/or service relating to the field of allelopathy. This year's recipient is Steven O. Duke (USA).

The Grodzinsky Award is given for the best single publication or book relating to allelopathy, to be awarded on a triennual basis. This year's recipient is Azim Mallik (Canada).

The Rice Award is presented for the best single paper or article presented at a symposium sponsored by the IAS. This year's recipient is Regina Belz (Germany).

The Executive Committee announced that former President George R. Waller (USA) was being honored with a special award, the IAS Sustained Support Award.  The University of Cadiz was also recognized for its outstanding support of the IAS and the First World Congress with an IAS Patron Award.  Lakehead University was recognized for its outstanding support of the second World Congress with an IAS Patron Award.

An additional feature of the Tsukuba Congress was the presentation of awards for outstanding posters.  These were selected by a committee chaired by Steven Duke (USA).  Members of the committee included A. L. Anaya (Mexico), Hank Cutler (USA), Maria DellaGreca (Italy), Yoshiharu Fujii (Japan), E.A. Golovko (Ukraine), B. Leszczynski (Poland), Francisco Macias (Spain), Azim Mallik (Canada), J. Mizutani (Japan), Y-G. Park (Korea), Manuel Reigosa (Spain), Jeff Weidenhamer (USA), and Leslie Weston (USA).

Poster awards are listed below.  In the case of multiple authors, only the first author is listed:

Gold Award:

Parvez, M.M . Function of flavonoids as allelopathic substances (P-104)

Silver Awards:

Ishikawa, T . Biological phenomenon of nitrification inhibition: a case study with Brachiaria humidicola (P-089)
Reigosa, M.J . Effects of 2-benzoxazolinone on seedlings and plants of Lactuca sativa L. (P-115)
Tahara, S. Interactions between phytopathogenic oomycete zoospores and host- and nonhost-plants via their secondary metabolites (P-038)

Bronze Awards:

Blum, U. Can data derived from field and laboratory bioassays establish the existence of allelopathic interactions in nature? (P-012)
Bogatek, R.  Induction of oxidative stress by sunflower allelopathics during germination of mustard (Sinapis alba L.) seeds (P-015)
Tomita-Yokotani, K. Allelopathic substances during Arabidopsis thaliana seeds germination (P-022)
Morimoto, M. Chemical defense of Cyperus spp.: the functions and localization of cyperaquinones (P-052)
Hachinohe, M. Phytotoxic effect, absorption, translocation and metabolism of l-DOPA in plants at the germination stage (P-061)
Takeuchi, Y. Allelopathic effect of some Korean barley varieties on the growth of red rice (P-066)
Sato, D.  Analysis of germination stimulants for weedy root parasites by LC/MS/MS (P-072)
Nishihara, E.  The inhibition of lettuce growth by diffused L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) in Mucuna accessions (P-103)
Macías, F.A. Synthesis and bioactivity evaluation of hydroxamic acids: structure-activity relationships studies (P-107)
Macías, F.A. New bioactive terpenoids from sunflower leaves: Helianthus annuus cv. Peredovick® (P-108)
Macías, F.A. Structure-activity relationships study of heliotropine, a new allelochemical from Heliotropiun megalanthum , and its derivatives (P-109)
Horimoto, S. Weed suppression and rice yield in the hairy vetch introduced paddy field (P-096)
Yamamoto, Y. Allelopathy of sweet vernalgrass [ Anthoxanthum odoratum L.] for invading Zoysia-grassland in Japan (P-118)
 
 
 
 

        The Conference venue is on the CSU campus. CSU is Australia’s leading rural University with multiple campuses. The Wagga Wagga campus has a particular focus on Agriculture, Wine Science, Viticulture, Food Science and Environmental Science.

        Accommodation for delegates will be in motels in the city of Wagga Wagga (population 60,000), about 10 minutes driving time from the University. This allows delegates to be near the “action” at night with bus transport being provided to move delegates to the venue.

        Papers for this Congress will be refereed. It will be a two stage process with an abstract and a full paper. Proceedings will be published in time for the Congress. It is anticipated that all will be done electronically, although provision will be made where contributors have difficulties meeting the electronic requirements.

        A web site is currently being developed for people to monitor regularly. The URL is:
        http://www.csu.edu.au/special/allelopathycongress/

        There are also links to matters of interest including Charles Sturt University:
        http://www.csu.edu.au
        Wagga Wagga:
         http://www.tourismwaggawagga.com.au
        Australia - information for travellers, including climatic data, sayings, price list for every day items, health and safety:
        http://www.australiatravelsearch.com.au/trc

Any enquiries, suggestions, etc, would be welcome. These can be directed to Jim Pratley through:
Email:  jpratley@csu.edu.au
Fax: 61 2 69332868

We look forward to welcoming you in Wagga Wagga in 2005.

Jim Pratley
Chair, Organising Committee

26 August 2002Venue:  Sansui-tei Room, Hotel Grand Shinonome
            Tsukuba, Japan

The meeting began at 6:00 pm.

Attendance:  F. Macias (Chair), H. Cutler, Y. Fujii, S. Hiradate (Observer), A. Mallik, J. Weidenhamer, L. Weston.

1. IAS Membership Fees and Society Budget:  Payment of dues by society members
has been sporadic.  The reasons for this were explored, and the impact on society finances was discussed.  Also discussed was the relationship between services provided by the society and the amount of dues.  After substantial discussion, the following proposal was put forward:

MOTION
Annual membership fees will be changed to $25 per year ($75 per three years) for regular members, and $10 per year ($30 per three years) for students.  Life membership will be $500.  The current distinction between developed and developing countries in the dues structure will be eliminated.  Dues will be collected at each triennial meeting, beginning with the Fourth World Congress in 2005.

The motion passed unanimously.

Note of clarification:  Members paying the annual membership fee at this Congress will pay at the old rates.  Membership will cover the three year period from now until the next Congress.

2. Venue of Next Meeting:  At this time, the committee is aware of possible proposals from Dr. Anaya (Mexico), Dr. Zobel (Poland), Dr. Hegazy (Egypt), Dr. Inderjit (India), and Dr. Chou (Taiwan).  Time will be allotted for each proposer at the business meeting.

3. Dr. Waller: Dr. George Waller was unable to attend the Third World Congress due to health concerns.  The Executive Committee decided to give Dr. Waller, the immediate Past President and first President of the Society, a special award named the "IAS Sustained Support Award."

4. University of Cadiz:  It was noted that the University of Cadiz has made substantial contributions to the Society through its role in the First World Congress, establishment of a web site, and in other ways.  The Executive Committee agreed that this support should receive special recognition as well.

5. Elections: Dr. Fujii is being nominated as President-elect, Dr. Mallik as President, and Dr. Cutler as Editor-in-Chief.  The Program Vice President will be nominated once the venue of the Fourth World Congress is decided.  As the Treasurer and Secretary have six-year terms, Drs. Weidenhamer and Weston will continue in their offices for the next three years.  Dr. Weidenhamer will prepare ballots for the election at the business meeting.

6. Publications:   Lengthy discussion was given to concerns about society publications and the possible establishment of a publications committee.  This discussion will continue tomorrow.

The meeting ended at 9:15 pm.

27 August 2002

The meeting took place in the Congress Conference Room over the lunch hour.

Attendance:  F. Macias (Chair), H. Cutler, Y. Fujii, S. Hiradate (Observer), A. Mallik, J. Weidenhamer, L. Weston.

1. Funding of Triennial Congresses: Azim Mallik presented a summary of the accounting of the Thunder Bay meeting.  It was agreed that IAS will contribute $2000 to the local committee in Tsukuba for the reimbursement of fees of keynote speakers and to pay for awards for the best posters.

2. Azim Mallik shared a letter received from George Waller.  Azim will share portions
of this with the membership at the business meeting.

3. Publications:   Azim Mallik shared a proposal to establish an editorial board for the
society.  He proposed that it be composed of four members of the executive committee, and three members from outside the committee.  He introduced Rick Willis, who discussed a manuscript he has prepared on the history of allelopathy.  It has twelve chapters, covering the time period from antiquity to 1950.  There was extended discussion of this topic.

30 August 2002

The meeting took place in the Congress Conference Room over the lunch hour.

Attendance:  F. Macias (Chair), H. Cutler, Y. Fujii, A. Mallik, J. Pratley, J. Weidenhamer, L. Weston.

1. Voting results from the business meeting were reviewed.  Hank Cutler was elected as
Editor-in-Chief of the Society.

2. Fourth World Congress:  Azim Mallik requested a plan from Jim Pratley outlining
symposia and invited speakers, and a proposed financial plan for the Congress.  He would like to have an idea by the end of the year of the cost for invited speakers.  Jim indicated that the probable date of the Congress would be late August or early September.  Leslie Weston commended Dr. Fujii for his support of third world scientists.  Various possibilities for funding of the Fourth World Congress were discussed.  Jim mentioned several Australian agencies.  Azim noted that he began 18 months prior to the Second World Congress, which was too late.

3. The need for an updated list of members was discussed, so that the Society could email all members.  Leslie will confer with Dr. Fujii on this, and she will pass the list on to Jeff.  Hank requested that the list include fax numbers as well as email addresses.

4. Azim stated that $4000 remained in the Lakehead University account from the Second World Congress.  He asked permission to keep the money there to use for postage phone and other costs.  Francisco mentioned that the web page had been maintained on a voluntary basis to this point, and that a small amount to help cover costs would be helpful.

5. Subcommittees.   Azim Mallik established the following subcommittees to handle
specific issues for the society.  (a) Publications Committee.  This will include Cutler, Macias, Mallik and Weston from the Executive Committee, and Fujii as organizer of the Third World Congress.  Several names were discussed for additional spots on the committee.  Azim will contact those individuals to see if they are willing to serve.  (b) The Bylaws committee is comprised of Mallik, Weidenhamer, and Weston.  Jeff will review the Constitution and this committee will bring recommended changes to the next Congress.  (c)  Nominations Committee (for both awards and Society offices).  The need for the chair of the committee to attend the next Congress was discussed.  Jim would like to see a call for nominations be a part of the registration process.  (d) The possibility of a membership subcommittee to recruit new members was also discussed.

6. Upcoming workshop on methodology in India.  The committee discussed the proposal from Dr. Bansal to organize an international workshop on protocols and methodologies in allelopathy in Palampur, India in late 2003 or early 2004.  The Society will support this effort scientifically but can offer only limited financial support given the need to assist with the Fourth World Congress.  An amount of US $250 was committed to support this project.

Respectfully submitted,

Jeff Weidenhamer, Secretary

Minutes of General Business Meeting

29 August 2002

1. Introduction.  Dr. Fujii welcomed everyone and opened the meeting.

2. President's Report.  Dr. Macias reviewed the accomplishments and projects of the past three years.  He expressed thanks to everyone for their work for the Society.  Dr. Macias then turned the podium over to Dr. Mallik, who read from a letter by Past President Dr. George Waller to the Third World Congress.

3. Remarks of George Waller.  Greetings to the participants and friends of the Third
World Congress on Allelopathy!  We recognize the high quality facilities prepared by Dr. Yoshiharu Fujii, laboratory assistants, and the other personnel from the National Institute of Agro-Environmental Sciences.

    I regret that it is impossible to join you at this time.  I have had a fall with my left leg collapsing.  The medical doctors have diagnosed it as "lumbar spinal stenosis."  I am at home using a walker and a wheelchair.

    The IAS is still in its infancy.  The members could exert more influence to provide more direction for the agricultural and forestry leaders in their respective countries.  Each IAS member recognizes allelopathy as a component of natural communities and agro-ecosystems, however, it often goes unrecognized by the leaders of our nations.  Allelopathic interactions are complex, and require a multidisciplinary approach to solve its problems.

    An outstanding example of scientific leadership is the formation of the European Allelopathy Society under the direction of Prof. Francisco Macias, President of IAS.  This grew out of our discussion establishing the IAS in Delhi, India in 1994.  The high aspirations were confirmed at the First Laboratory Course on Allelopathy held in Italy during 2000 which was organized by Professors Giovanni Aliotta and Francois Pellissier.  Professors Manuel Reigosa and Nuria Pedrol have published the book titled "Allelopathy: From Molecules and Ecosystems."  It is based on papers given at the meeting held in Vigo, Spain in June, 2001.

    Members of IAS have much to look forward to: (1) We look forward to learning from scientists meeting here in Tsukuba, Japan.  We expect to share with them the ways to meet the challenges for research and how they progress on the road to successful conclusions.  (2)  We look forward to determining how the research is put in practice in the form of technology which could solve problems in Agriculture and Forestry for the new millennium.  (3) We expect you to enjoy the interactions with your colleagues and spread the word about allelopathy.  (4) We have skilled and talented leaders of IAS for this meeting.  We expect strong leadership during the next three years – Give them your support!

    I hope that you leave this conference with a strong commitment to continue allelopathy research.  The roles that each of you will play in the future for advancing the International Allelopathy Society will help set the new priorities and new values which are evolving within world society.

George Waller
Past President, IAS

4. Secretary's Report.  Dr. Weidenhamer reviewed the financial issues which led to the last edition of the newsletter being published electronically on the Society's web page, rather than in print form.  He indicated that it would be possible to send printed copies to members who do not have internet access, and asked any members present at this meeting who would like printed copies of the newsletter to let him know.

5. Treasurer's Report.  Dr. Weston reported a balance as of May 2002 of $1023.91.
Since that time, a wire transfer of $5000 has been received from the Thunder Bay meeting, and $2000 has been allotted for expenses from the Tsukuba meeting such as the fees of keynote speakers and special awards.6. Financial Report on Second World Congress.  Dr. Mallik presented an accounting of the Thunder Bay Meeting. Dollars reported here are Canadia dollars.

Income	Fees & Grants	Expenditures		Balance
Registration fees	70,537.50	Rooms	15,672.88
Room & Food payment	37,457.30	Food	30,785.84
MNR grant	5,000.00	Field trips	8,406.14
Northern Studies grant	2000.00	Printing/Signs	6,503.41
FedNor grant	2,000.00	Computer, printer & accessories	4,899.48
CNFER grant	1,000.00	Poster boards rental	1,417.75
Bowater grant	1,500.00	Bags, T-shirts, gifts	7,693.53
Dean of Arts & Science grant	1,000.00	GST on fees	5,575.83
City of Thunder Bay	465.00	Salaries	21,823.20
Thunder Bay Travel	300.00	Honoraria	2,000.00
		Travel	4,572.51
		Misc. (postage, fax, telephone etc.)	2,855.84
		Grant for the 3rd WCA congress	5,000.00
Total	121,259.80	Total	117,206.41	4,053.39

    Dr. Mallik proposed that the remaining funds be allowed to remain with Lakehead University to cover his communications expenses as President and expenses associated with a forthcoming book from the Congress.  Dr. Zobel moved, seconded by Dr. Willis, to accept the report and Dr. Mallik's plans for use of the remaining funds.  The motion passed unanimously.

6. Executive Committee Report.  Dr. Weidenhamer shared the Executive Committee's
plans on several matters: (a) Special Recognition awards to Dr. George Waller and to the University of Cadiz; (b) Establishment of a Publications Committee; and (c) Review of the Constitution and Bylaws by the Constitution and Bylaws Committee.

    Also discussed was the motion passed by the Executive Committee to amend the Society's dues structure so that dues will be collected on a triennial basis at each Congress.  Regular membership will be $75 for three years, student memberships $30, and life memberships $500.  There will be no distinction made between developed and developing countries in the fee structure.  The new dues rates will go into effect at the next Congress.

7. Venue of the Fourth World Congress.  Presentations were made on bids to host the
Fourth World Congress from Mexico, India, Australia and China.  Invitations were also extended from Poland and Taiwan.  On the first ballot, no venue received a majority of votes.  Australia (39) and Mexico (28) received the highest number of votes (95 total votes cast), and a second ballot was held.  Australia received a majority of the votes, garnering 45 ballots to Mexico's 37.

8. Election of Officers.  The following nominations were made by the Executive
Committee and seconded from the floor:  For President – Azim Mallik; For President-Elect – Yoshiharu Fujii; For Program Vice President – Jim Pratley.  These officers were elected by acclamation.  For Editor-in-Chief, the Executive Committee, nominated Hank Cutler, with a second from the floor.  Inderjit was nominated and seconded from the floor.  Dr. Cutler received a majority of the votes cast and was elected as Editor-in-Chief.

9. Tribute to E.L. Rice.  Dr. M.A.B. Mallik presented a tribute to E.L. Rice, who passed
away following the Second World Congress.  Dr. Rice's daughter, Linda Price, was in attendance at the Third World Congress and was recognized.  The full text and slides from Dr. Mallik's presentation is included in the newsletter.

Respectfully submitted,Jeff Weidenhamer, Secretary
 

August 22, 2002
Balance was 5, 998.91 including a deposit in 6/02 of 5,000.00 from Thunder Bay Ontario IAS meeting in 1999Checks written at IAS 2002 included the following for meeting expenses:

Check	Amount	Payee
102	225.00	Costs for medal construction
103	300.00	F. Macias – invited speaker
104	300.00	H. G. Cutler – invited speaker
105	300.00	S. O. Duke – invited speaker
106	300.00	A. Mallik – invited speaker
107	500.00	Y. Fujii – poster awards

Total  $1925.00 expended

Deposit of membership dues 702.00 plus 600.00 plus 150.00
Deposit of 1452.00 membership fees

Monthly bank fees of 5.00 per month x 9 months = 45.00 debit for checking account

Current balance after checks clear = 5480.91

Since we have not used the credit card access service for this account which costs 5.00 per month over the last 2 year period, I have decided to cancel this option. We can continue to pay our membership fees at upcoming meetings or by checks sent to the address shown on the membership and membership renewal forms.Dr. Leslie A. Weston
Treasurer, International Allelopathy Society.
20 Plant Science Building
Department of Horticulture
Cornell University
Ithaca NY 14853
 
 

New members:   Membership application Renewing members:  Membership renewal

Past Presidents' Corner

        Based on information received from members of IAS that attended the "Third World Congress on Allelopathy: Challenge for the New Millennium", you had a good presentation of papers that were
received well. You enjoyed the wonderful sights of Japan visiting agricultural research locations and the tourist attractions in and around Tsukuba, Japan. Tsukuba is sometimes called the "Science City". Of course it would be educational as well as being worthwhile to visit the many sites of interest in Japan while you are there.

        The quality of the papers was excellent. >From the Book of Abstracts it was clear to me that the fourteen Symposia were an indication of how broad the field of Allelopathy is developing. My congratulations go
to the winners of the Molisch Award - Steven Duke, Grodzinsky Award - Azim Mallik, and the Rice Award - Regina Belz, which are the most prestigious awards in the field of allelopathy.

        I regret that Hilda and I were not able to join you for the meeting.   My diagnosis was Lumbar Spinal Stenosis.

George Waller
Past President, International Allelopathy Society
 
 
 

Step by step, the baby has learned to walk!!!

        Almost ten years ago a dream began to be realised.  From the early beginning in Delhi, India, and then with the adoption of our constitution in Cadiz, Spain, during the First World Congress in 1996, plenty of difficulties have been encountered.  This is normal for any new project born with the objective to serve as a common reference for a broad spectrum of disciplines and countries.   The obstacles have been faced and overcome, through our second World Congress at Thunder Bay, Canada, and recently at the third World Congress at Tsukuba, Japan, and we will continue to the fourth in Wagga Wagga, Australia.  We can now say with confidence that no one can stop this Society!

        The number of publications dealing with different aspects of Allelopathy grows daily. Many researchers around the world are working on different aspects of the problem.  It may not always be realised that new contributions from different areas and as well as new questions and doubts as a result of our self-criticism are an essential aspect to the scientific health and development of our Science.

        It is time to reflect on “what we want to be when we get older.”  We must establish our own strategy for the future as a Scientific Society and show new scientists how large and wide the road to be walked could be.

        To do that, we need:

      a) Good infrastructure. As can be read it in our Constitution and Bylaws, one purpose of our Society is to promote the necessary diffusion of knowledge and scientific news about allelopathy.  We are well on our way to meeting this objective.  We have a World Congress every three years that gathers researchers together to meet and present their research, and a number of Local and/or Regional Meetings, and Workshops (European, Indian, ….) have been and are being held.  Our web page, which needs more contributions from our members, is also an important resource.  We need to continue to develop any type of electronic or printed editions of books or potential printed material of general interest for the development of this Science.

      b) Economic resources. In this direction, the new rules about the membership fees have been designed to make it more convenient for members to maintain their membership. It is important to consider the possibility to receive some financial support from the members who want to help the society or potential benefactors as, Universities, Research Institutes, public or private, Agrochemical Companies, among others.  It is part of our task to show and convince these potential benefactors why they need and must assist us in our efforts.  The answer is very simple, based in the quality of our work and our results.

        c) Human resources. We, the Officers of the Society, have a duty to serve the Society and obviously all our members as well as the potential ones.  We also want to transmit the necessary enthusiasm to everyone, both students and senior researchers.  Involvement with IAS is not a question of advantages, it is a question of dedication. This is not just another scientific society, where I will contribute every three years and that’s all.  No, this is not the way that we must to enjoy the Society.  Our Society is very special since it has been developed during the last 20 years in an exponential and multidisciplinary way, which means that we need a continuous interchange of information and experiences since we are growing in a synergistic way.  To favour the interchange of Scientists and to help people work in multidisciplinary teams are crucial goals in our Society.

      d) Establishment of clear scientific goals for the coming years. This should be a key point for all of us.  We need to focus our attention on the development of new and specific methods of allelopathic studies, as well as their corresponding technology. “Cross fire discussions” serve an important purpose, but it is very important not to wait for another three years to have such discussions.  Through the Society we need annually generate a list of what we think should be principal objectives to be resolved in the near future, with specific invitation to external scientists with great reputation in his areas. In this way we can focus most of the potential of our teams and we can make corrections of some traditional mistakes that appear during the development of our Science.

        To do that, it is important to nominate mentors with great reputation in their corresponding areas of expertise for specific topics (bioassays, modes of actions, chemistry, etc.) that can moderate the corresponding discussion by e-mail and or on our web page.  These should be presented in a report by the end of every March, something that can be called “Priority IAS Research Areas” with specific emphasis on “IAS Goals of the year”, as well as “IAS Triennial Goals”.

        In this direction, as the financial resources of the Society increase, the Society can make the appropriate financial effort to favour people that work on these topics by financing fellowships, workshops, or, if is possible, specific research projects. At the least, this could be a strong argument to ask for financial support, in any national or international agency, since it is not a single opinion but the one of the International Society as a result of the corresponding internal and external reports and discussions. This will be a good tool for the future and can help people to focus their own research.

        I am completely sure that we are headed in the right direction as a Society.  It will not be easy, but nevertheless, with the contribution of everyone and learning from our past mistakes, we can continue the real development of this great and fascinating Science, Allelopathy.

        As usual, work hard, good luck and my best wishes in your personal and scientific life. I will see you in Wagga Wagga !!!!
 

Francisco A. Macías Past-President, International Allelopathy Society

 
 
 

        Prof. Rice found that the first weed stage plants like sunflower and others are highly inhibitory to other broadleaf plant species but innocuous to triple-awn grass (Aristida oligantha). This grass survives in soil with low mineral content, in particular, nitrogen and phosphorous.  He concluded that accumulation of nitrogen and phosphorous in the soil is a very important factor in determining the rate of succession. He calculated the concentration of total nitrogen in the top 15 cm of soil as 754 ppm. at stage I (1st. Yr.), 768ppm.  at stage II (10th. Yr.), and 1075 ppm. at climax, and showed the increase of nitrogen content  from 1st. successional stage to  the climax.  The weed stage plants are highly inhibitory to biological nitrogen fixation, restricting nitrogen accumulation.  Allelopathic inhibition of biological nitrogen fixation by the first weed stage plants is the principal factor shaping the duration of the plant succesional stages. Allelopathic inhibition of biological nitrogen fixation by the first weed stage is the principal contributing factor in suppressing weedy broadleaf plants.

        Prof. Rice identified several inhibitory allelochemicals from the 1st. stage  broadleaf weedy species, principally  phenolics  which inhibit certain plants important in plant succession.  His research provided evidence of the importance of biological nitrogen fixation in plant succession and in a natural ecosystem. In the initial stage of his research, his attention was focused principally on legume-rhizobia symbiosis; in later years his research also elucidated the importance of asymbiotic nitrogen fixation (by Azotobacter and Clostridium) and nitrification (involving Nitrobacter and Nitrosomonas) in a natural ecosystem.  His investigation provided evidence that condensed tannins and breakdown products of hydrolyzable tannins are important factors in the inhibition of nitrification. He further emphasized this point in his article on “Allelopathic Effects on Nitrogen Cycling” in 1992. Nitrogen fixation by blue green algae did not escape his attention.

        As you all know, it was Prof. Hans Molisch who first introduced the word allelopathy in his monograph “Der Einfluss  Einer Pflanze auf die andere: Allelopathie” based on his painstaking research. He defined the word to mean harmful and beneficial interactions among plants through the release of chemicals. His monograph was published in 1937, and thus the science of allelopathy was born. Unfortunately, the monograph became obscured, I suppose, principally because of the Second World War which engulfed Europe and all humanity.  The scientific community, in particular biologists, perforce went into dormancy. The publication of the monograph “Allelopathy” by Elroy L. Rice in 1974 caused, so to say, a rebirth of the science of allelopathy. This monograph, the first ever in English, is the summation of his research and those of his students over a period of more than a decade. This was translated into Russian in 1978. This book has been cited 440 times during the period of 1981 to 2002. The revised and enlarged edition of this book was published in 1984. This edition has been translated into Japanese in 1991 and also into Korean in 1997, and has been cited 749 times during the same period. His book “Pest Control with Nature’s Chemicals: Allelochemics and Pheromones in Gardening and Agriculture” was published in 1983.  This book was aimed at making allelopathy a household word, which has been a great success. It was translated into Russian in 1986. This book earned him a gold medal from BioSocial Publications in 1984.

        Prof. Rice contributed more than 100 publications to the literature including journal articles, several book  chapters and a few popular articles  on allelopathy. “Allelopathy – an update” published in The Botanical Review, 1979 (vol.45, pp.15 – 109) was cited 239 times during the period of 1981 – 2002.  During the same period,  “Allelopathic effects of Adropogon verginicus and its persistence in old field” published in the  American  Journal of Botany, 1972 (vol. 59, pp.752 – 755) was cited 226 times and, “Inhibition of Nitrification by Climax Ecosystem II. Additional Evidence and Possible Role of Tannins” published in the American  Journal of Botany, 1973 (vol.60, pp. 691 – 702)  161 times. His research received almost continuous funding from the U. S. National Science Foundation.

        In recognition of his dedicated services as a teacher and as a researcher, the University of Oklahoma awarded Dr. Rice an “Alumni Teaching Award” in 1955, a “Regent’s Award for Superior teaching” in 1966, one of four, and the most prestigious  “David Ross Boyd Professorship” in 1967. The Oklahoma Academy of Science presented him the “Oklahoma Scientist of the Year Merit Award” in 1984. The Alumni Association of the Chicago University awarded him a “Professional Achievement Citation as one of the World’s Top Authorities in Allelopathy”, and the Medical and Biological Science Alumni Association of the Chicago University “Distinguished Service Award for a Lifetime of Teaching and For More Than 40 years of Pioneering Work in Allelopathy Research”, both in 1995. The International Allelopathy  Society  has established the “Rice Award”  for the “Best Single Paper or Article Presented by a Student at a Symposium Sponsored by the International Allelopathy Society” and   presented  him the “Molisch Award for “Outstanding  Achievement and/ or Service Relating to  the Field of Allelopathy” in 1996.

        Born on a farm near Edmond, Oklahoma, young Elroy L. Rice developed a keen interest in plants while living there until his graduation from a local college and assisting his parents on the farm.  He was an award-winning wrestler while in high school. He met Esther, his first and only love, in a dancing party while he was serving in U.S. Army Signal Corps.  In later years he became an avid golfer. After retirement the Rices became involved in square dancing and became skilled dancers. They traveled extensively in their motor home within the U. S. and traveled worldwide.

        I was fortunate to be one of his 32 Ph.D. students and many other MS. students.  A good number of his students considered him their mentor. He was an excellent classroom teacher as well as a reputed researcher. To my understanding, he could touch the souls of his pupils and establish a deep understanding between him and his students. I think this is the secret of his success as an outstanding teacher.  He was admired on the campus as a highly conscientious, upright, softhearted person and as a superb researcher. His over 100 journal article publications, several book chapters and five books bear a brilliant testimony of his superb scholarship.

        After official retirement in 1981  Prof. Rice continued an active professional life until his incapacitation.  All his books except one were written during this period.  He first concentrated his attention on revising his book “Allelopathy”. You will notice that in the revised and expanded edition of his “Allelopathy” published in 1984, the definition of allelopathy was broadened to include allelopathic stimulation which was excluded in the first edition of the book.

        Prof. Grodzinsky, an outstanding allelopathy scientist (appropriately honored as the “Father of  Allelopathy in the then Soviet Union”), came to Norman, Oklahoma in 1968 to meet Prof. Rice to cement his friendship developed over several years with  him. The Rices visited Prof. Grodzinsky and family in Russia in 1975.

        In spite of his deep commitment to research, Prof. Rice did not overlook science in Oklahoma. He was ardent supporter and active participant of the Oklahoma Academy of Science and held numerous positions with the Academy including the elective office of President in 1981. He also served as President of the University Of Oklahoma Chapter Of Sigma Xi in 1955 and the Southern Association of Naturalists in 1970. Prof. Rice was an active member of Editorial Boards of the Journal of Chemical Ecology and  the Allelopathy Journal.

        More than 40 years of pioneering research on allelopathy and his books have made a profound impact on the management of farms, forests and grasslands. His leadership has stimulated research on allelopathy throughout the world. The recent public concern for environmental degradation has elevated the science of allelopathy into a central position in Biology.

        Thanks to his indefatigable enthusiasm in extensive and intensive research program, keynote addresses at different international and national symposia, and invited lectures delivered at  various universities that have inspired young biologists, allelopathy is  now a distinct discipline in biological science and is a household word.

        The culmination of Prof. Rice’s long career as a researcher and teacher is his last book “Biological Control of Weeds and Plant Diseases: Advances in Applied Allelopathy”, published in 1995. I had the privilege of writing a review of this book (published in the Journal of Chemical Ecology). In this book he recommended that agricultural scientists in general should develop an holistic approach to address all agricultural problems instead of discipline oriented research. In his message (his last)  to the II Congress of International Allelopathy Society in 1999 at Thunder Bay, Canada, he said, “to meet the ever growing demand for more food, feed and fiber, agricultural scientists should come together to enhance crop productivity and develop an environmentally compatible and sustainable agriculture based on allelopathic research. Sustainable agriculture can only be accomplished by incorporating allelopathy in agricultural management”.

     He left this world at the age of 83 years on Aug. 9, 2000, and is survived by his wife Esther, daughter Linda, three grandsons, a brother and a sister.

diego.castellano@uca.es