PRÉCIS There are various structural morphologies. Some of these may usefully be regarded as ““natural”” morphologies of structure. Characteristically they are discovered and elaborated in accord with their intrinsic quality, rather than idealistically schematized and then imposed upon existence. Examples are the regular and semi-regular polyhedra, the beautiful pattern of interrelationship they...

The range and use of ecosystem services provided by urban sacred sites has hardly been considered in studies of urban ecology, sustainability and human wellbeing. This paper examines the perceived ecosystem services supplied by green spaces or gardens associated with places of religious worship and appreciated by worshippers in a mid-sized town in South Africa. A questionnaire with open, closed...

Sacred lotus is rich in biologically active compounds, particularly benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs). Here, we report on isolation of genes encoding (S)-norcoclaurine synthase (NCS) in sacred lotus, which is a key entry-enzyme in BIA biosynthesis. Seven NCS genes, designated NnNCS1 through NnNCS7, were identified in the sacred lotus genome, and five are located next to each other within a 83...

The terrain of the Czech historical lands (Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia) as a part of the central European space reflects one typical feature in its music historical research – the importance of sacred music life. Generally speaking, such formulation says nothing new. But the closer view of research reveals more interesting findings. Till the end of the 19 century, the churches represented the ...

Conflict over Iran’s nuclear program, which involves a US-led policy to impose sanctions on Iran, is perceived by each side as a preeminent challenge to its own national security and global peace. Yet, there is little scientific study or understanding of how material incentives and disincentives, such as economic sanctions, psychologically affect the targeted population and potentially influenc...