Gaytha A. Langlois

Beyond the “Code”: A Guide to the Description and Documentation of Biodiversity in Ciliated Protists (Alveolata, Ciliophora)

Recent advances in molecular technology have revolutionized research on all aspects of the biology of organisms, including ciliates, and created unprecedented opportunities for pursuing a more integrative approach to investigations of biodiversity. However, this goal is complicated by large gaps and inconsistencies that still exist in the foundation of basic information about biodiversity of ciliates. The present paper reviews issues relating to the taxonomy of ciliates and presents specific recommendations for best practice in the observation and documentation of their biodiversity. This effort stems from a workshop that explored ways to implement six Grand Challenges proposed by the International Research Coordination Network for Biodiversity of Ciliates (IRCN‐BC). As part of its commitment to strengthening the knowledge base that supports research on biodiversity of ciliates, the IRCN‐BC proposes to populate The Ciliate Guide, an online database, with biodiversity‐related data and metadata to create a resource that will facilitate accurate taxonomic identifications and promote sharing of data.

A Conservation Plan for Metasequoia in China

Models for resource protection are examined in this chapter, including the program challenges and successes for the redwood forests in California, rainforests in Central and South America, coral reefs in Australia and the giant panda in China. A Metasequoia Conservation Plan is discussed and tools for assessing effectiveness of conservation programs are suggested. In addition, the Appendices include an education plan, a Metasequoia fact sheet, funding sources, international support organizations and an example of an endangered species management plan.

Transforming Educational and Business Practices in Belarus: Collaborative Learning at a Distance.

Abstract The Bryant College Collaborative Learning at a Distance (CLD) Program in Belarus was designed to promote collaboration across diverse cultural, political, and philosophical boundaries. CLD programs can assist the Newly Independent States (NIS) in meeting the political, social, and economic challenges associated with the transition from a centralized, administrative command economytoa more democratic and diversified society. Cost-effective, collaborative distance learning projects can help to address the problem of limited educational resources and prepare faculty, undergraduates, entrepreneurs, and NGO leaders for better understanding the role of civic responsibility as a foundation for western business practices. The ongoing Internet-based, Bryant College CLD Program, including educational institutions, research facilities and business firms, focuses on a non-hierarchical model, emphasizing reciprocal, interactive learning and problem-solving. Components include Web-based courses, International Virtual Roundtable Discussions via E-mail, seminars on business skills and Web design, Internet protocol video conferencing between the U.S. and Belarus, a faculty exchange and training project, and a business internship program aimed at providing hands-on experience with business and NGO leaders in the U.S. This project demonstrates that Internet-based, collaborative learning can transcend cultural and language barriers and advance the development of a business environment supportive to the entrepreneurial spirit.

Geographic Information Systems as a Tool for Understanding the History of Metasequoia

Abstract Changes in phytogeographical pattern of the Metasequoia fossil record correspond to global paleoecology and paleoclimate since Late Cretaceous times. Genetic and morphological studies of the living representatives of Metasequoia have further elucidated the evolutionary dynamics of the genus. In a continuing effort to integrate paleobotanical studies with the systematics and phytogeography of modern Metasequoia (the species M. glyptostroboides, in China), we have computerized the fossil database and used a geographic information system to untangle lines of evidence of the evolution of Metasequoia. Using Metasequoia as an example, we show the power of this technology for integrating spatial information on fossil occurrences and their geological and environmental context. Future Metasequoia fossil reports, combined with Global Positioning System locational descriptions, can be steadily integrated into the geographic information system database and offer more information for our understanding of Metasequoia evolution. Additionally, a geographic information system database has been created, linking observations of the distribution of cultivated M. glyptostroboides trees throughout the United States, and will eventually include observations of native populations in China, as part of the ongoing effort to implement an effective Metasequoia conservation plan.