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This article addresses one of the current issues in education: the use of resources in biological disciplines classes that are required for students to develop meta-subject competencies. The incorporation of natural objects into educational content can create a favorable environment for teaching biology classes and assist students in developing necessary knowledge about regional flora. The authors created a set of integrated plant tasks that require knowledge of ecology, plant physiology, and evolution. The main goal of tasks is to learn about regional plant species and to control what students have learned. Certain activities are specifically created for hands-on engagement with nearby natural entities to determine their taxonomic classification, morphological characteristics, and adaptations. This approach, according to the authors, ensures productivity in biology teaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Argentinian Journal of Applied Linguistics is the property of Federacion Argentina de Asociaciones de Profesores de Ingles and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Plants possess a natural genetic diversity that is used for various scientific research purposes. This diversity is useful in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fingerprint and barcode studies, which have many applications in scientific research such as determining the relationships between plant species, determining parentage, creating genome maps, and determining genetic variations. It can also help understand evolutionary issues, identify species’ subspecies or races, and prepare phylogenetic trees and cladograms. Moreover, genetic diversity can assist in population genetics, plant breeding, revision studies, and forensic medicine applications. The widespread use of plant material in human life has led to the formation of the concept of criminal botany in the field of forensic sciences. This study, it was aimed to determine the origin of plant findings which frequently encountered at crime scenes by conducting criminal botanical investigations so that the ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit (rbcL/RuBisCO) gene was used to identify various exotic/tropical plant species (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr, Chamaedorea elegans Mart., Nolina recurvata (Lem.) Hemsl. (Beaucarnea recurvata Lem.), Pandanus veitchii hort., Phoenix dactylifera L., Phormium tenax J.R.Forst. & G.Forst., Sansevieria trifasciata Prain, Theobroma cacao L., Washingtonia filifera (Linden ex André) H.Wendl.)) grown in the tropical greenhouses of Istanbul University Alfred Heilbronn Botanical Garden (AHBG). This gene is specific to plants and is obtained from chloroplast. Different restriction enzymes (AccI, BamHI, DraI, PstI, and SacII) were used for typing these plants. Their molecular characterizations were investigated by using Cleaved Amplified Polymorphic Sequence (CAPS) markers, also known as Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), which is a technique based on the fragmentation of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-amplified DNA regions with restriction enzymes/endonucleases using appropriate primers, resulting in DNA particle length polymorphism. Exotic and tropical plant samples, which are also fibrous plants, were subjected to DNA analysis to contribute to forensic botany in solving illegal activities and increase the use of plants as evidence in crime scene investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article considers the intersection of medievalism and Orientalism in the botanical study of the Holy Land from the Middle Ages itself through the 1930s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Achyranthes bidentata Blume (A. bidentata) is a plant of Amaranthaceae family, and its root is the main medicinal part, named "Huai-Niu-Xi." It is used to expel blood stasis through menstruation, tonify liver and kidney, strengthen muscles and bones, and induce diuresis. This review aimed to provide a systematic summary of botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of A. bidentata. Methods: The present review covers the literature survey. The data have been collected from various journals, books, and some of the electronic search via Internet-based information such as Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, Google patents, CNKI, SpringerLink, online electronic journals, and ScienceDirect. Key findings: So far, more than 270 metabolites have been isolated from A. bidentata, including terpenoids, steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and so on. Among them, terpenoids and steroids are the main metabolites. The extract and metabolites exert multiple pharmacological activities such as alleviating osteoarthritis effect, antiosteoporosis activity, neuroprotective effect, antidiabetic activity-associated complications, immunoregulatory activity, and so on. Summary: Some traditional uses of A. bidentata need further in-depth studies to confirm. Similarly, the separation and screening of active compounds, as well as the corresponding molecular mechanisms of action of compounds, are also needed to be studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the life and accomplishments of Dr. Kattungal Subramaniam Manilal, a highly respected botanist, taxonomist, and professor in India. It highlights his research on the plant wealth of the Malabar Coast, his teaching and administrative experience at the University of Calicut, and his numerous awards and fellowships. The article also discusses his significant contributions to the field of botany, including his research on Ayurvedic plants, biodiversity studies in Kerala, and his work on orchids and floral morphology. Dr. Manilal's leadership and establishment of the Indian Association for Angiosperm Taxonomy are also emphasized. The text concludes with a list of his publications and further reading suggestions for interested researchers. [Extracted from the article]

Background: The Alangium Lam. belongs to the Alangiaceae family and contains over 30 species. Researchers have identified over 300 phytochemicals from these species, including alkaloids, glycosides, terpenes, lignans, flavonoids, and steroids. However, there is no review of the antitumor properties of the Alangium genus, and the subsequent information on the mechanism of its antitumor action is not comprehensive enough. Methods: This article reviews previous studies on the Alangium obtained from various sources, including the CNKI, PubMed, Google Scholar, Connected Paper, and the chemical abstracts service (CAS). Results: Among these compounds, 85 have been found to possess anti-tumor properties, mainly belongs to alkaloids, glycosides, and terpenes. This will provide new insights and a broader perspective for future research on the effects of anti-tumor chemicals and their mechanisms of action within this plant genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn, a herbaceous plant with a long history in traditional medicine for the treatment of hepatobiliary diseases, particularly in Europe, which has attracted attention for its remarkable therapeutic effect. This review systematically summarizes the research progress in the botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, comprehensive utilization and synthetic biology of S. marianum. Up to now, more than 20 types of flavonolignan components have been isolated from S. marianum. In addition, the rearch on fatty acids and triterpenoids is also constantly improving. Among them, silybin is the most active compound in flavonolignans components. Its pharmacological effects in vivo and in vitro include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, hypoglycaemic, neuroprotective and immunoregulatory properties. The use of coniferyl alcohol and taxifolin as substrates to produce silybin and isosilybin under the action of enzyme catalysis is the commonly used biosynthetic pathway of silymarin, which provides support for a comprehensive analysis of the synthetic pathway of silymarin. In addition to medicinal use, the extracts of plants also have broad application prospects in the production of food, healthcare products, cosmetics and other aspects. In addition, the chemical composition, pharmacological mechanism and synthetic biology of S. marianum need to be further studied, which is very important for its clinical efficacy and resource development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field-Based Practicum (FBP) about Pterydophyta diversity material in Low plant botany learning is very important, even though the facts in the field show that FBP is still minimally carried out. This research aims to utilize the potential diversity of Pterydophyta in the Tuban-Lamongan Pantura area as a support for FBP about low plant botany learning. The type of research is descriptive exploratory with a transect method, which divides the research area into five plots. Data collection techniques involve observing abiotic parameters and fern morphology in each plot and counting the number of individuals of each species. Data analysis used the Shannon & Wiener index for diversity and qualitative descriptive analysis for morphology. The research results showed 19 species of ferns with 210 individuals divided into two classes, namely Polypodiopsida and Psyotopsida. The fern diversity index is in the medium category (H´=2.10). The diversity of ferns obtained shows that the Tuban-Lamongan Pantura area has a high potential to support FBP about low plant botany learning to provide insight and direct experience to students about the diversity of ferns in the surrounding environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The taxonomic history, nomenclature and application of the oldest species names available for the common hybrids between Pilosella caespitosa and P. lactucella are reviewed. Elias Fries created a nomenclatural and bibliographical collision when he replaced a printed label of his exsiccata Herbarium normale with its second version, distributed at a later date, in which the protologue of Hieracium suecicum had appeared. In this protologue, the new species name was validly published with a mere reference to the original description of H. auricula var. majus, thus being based on the type of the latter. In a later fascicle of the same exsiccata, Fries excluded this synonym and distributed a different morphotype of H. suecicum, which caused taxonomic confusion and re-description of the same taxon under the name H. fennicum. The surviving original material of H. auricula var. majus is rejected, and its neotype is designated, making H. suecicum the correct name for the hybrids strictly intermediate between P. lactucella and P. caespitosa. Such hybrids constitute the most common hybridogenous taxon of Pilosella in Scandinavia, Finland and neighbouring Russia, with many synonyms described from this area and partly typified here. Another hybridogenous taxon of the same origin, more similar to P. lactucella and previously known as P. cochlearis, is correctly named P. stipitiflora comb. nov. The nomenclatural value and bibliographic complexity of exsiccata, a commonly underestimated kind of grey literature in taxonomic botany, are further highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of botany following European expansion and the consequent increase of plants necessitated significant development in classification methodology, during the key decades spanning the late 17th to the mid-18th century, leading to the emergence of a "natural method." Much of this development was driven by the need to accurately identify medicinal plants, and was founded on the principle of analogy, used particularly in relation to properties. Analogical reasoning established correlations (affinities) between plants, moreover between their external and internal characteristics (here, medicinal properties). The diversity of plants, names, and botanical information gathered worldwide amplified confusion. This triggered the systematisation of the collection and referencing of data, prioritizing the meticulous observation of plant characteristics and the recording of medicinal properties as established by tradition: it resulted in principled methods of natural classification and nomenclature, represented by the genus, to enhance reliability of plant knowledge, which was crucial in medical contexts. The scope of botany increased dramatically, with new methods broadening studies beyond traditional medicinal plants. The failure of chemical methods to predict properties, particularly of unknown flora, amplified the reliance on analogy and on natural affinities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Ordering the Myriad Things: From Traditional Knowledge to Scientific Botany in China" by Nicholas K. Menzies is a comprehensive history of the study of botany in China. Menzies traces the origins of botany in China back to the Ming Dynasty and explores the role of Jesuit missionaries in translating scientific descriptions and establishing a scientific language in China. The book covers topics such as taxonomy, illustrations, communication, and the place of botany in museums and exhibitions. Menzies provides a readable and concise account of the history of botany in China, connecting it to cultural, political, and scientific developments. [Extracted from the article]

"Thoreau's Botany: Thinking and Writing with Plants" by James Perrin Warren explores Henry David Thoreau's shift towards a deeper appreciation and understanding of plants in his writing. The book argues that Thoreau's study of botany, which he began in 1851, fundamentally changed the way he experienced and wrote about the world. Warren examines Thoreau's works such as "The Maine Woods" and "Walden" to demonstrate how his botanical excursions influenced his writing and thinking. The book also discusses Thoreau's relationship with Indigenous peoples and traditional ecological knowledge. Overall, "Thoreau's Botany" offers insights into the importance of plant thinking and its connection to Thoreau's writing and the natural world. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Investigações em Ensino de Ciências is the property of Instituto de Fisica-UFRGS and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article discusses the importance of studying and protecting plant biodiversity in the face of global changes and threats to ecosystems. It emphasizes the need for modern approaches to morphological and anatomical research, supported by biochemical and molecular methods, as well as digital technologies. The article presents various studies on natural populations, crops, and ornamental plants, highlighting the importance of understanding their characteristics, genetic diversity, and responses to environmental factors. The research aims to contribute to scientific knowledge in the field of experimental botany and promote environmental responsibility and biodiversity conservation. [Extracted from the article]

Ligustrum lucidum W.T. Aiton is an outstanding herb with the homology of medicine and food. Its ripe fruits are traditionally used as an important tonic for kidneys and liver in China. Ligustrum lucidum W.T. Aiton is rich in nutritional components and a variety of bioactive ingredients. A total of 206 compounds have been isolated and identified, they mainly include flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, iridoid glycosides, and triterpenoids. These compounds exert anti-osteoporosis, anti-tumor, liver protective, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Ligustrum lucidum W.T. Aiton has been traditionally used to treat many complex diseases, including osteoporotic bone pain, rheumatic bone, cancer, related aging symptoms, and so on. In the 2020 Edition of Chinese Pharmacopoeia, there are more than 100 prescriptions containing L. lucidum W.T. Aiton. Among them, some classical preparations including Er Zhi Wan and Zhenqi fuzheng formula, are used in the treatment of various cancers with good therapeutic effects. Additionally, L. lucidum W.T. Aiton has also many excellent applications for functional food, ornamental plants, bioindicator of air pollution, algicidal agents, and feed additives. Ligustrum lucidum W.T. Aiton has rich plant resources. However, the application potential of it has not been fully exploited. We hope that this paper provides a theoretical basis for the high-value and high-connotation development of L. lucidum W.T. Aiton in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guilandinabonduc L. is popularly known as a fever nut that grows widely in evergreen forests and moist deciduous forests with a pantropical distribution. The plant is highly therapeutic in various systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Siddha, and homeopathy. The purpose of this review is to analyze the published data on G. bonduc, including traditional uses, taxonomic position, botanical description, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and toxicological assessment of its various parts. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies were the main focus of this review. The previously published research on G. bonduc was tracked from scientific databases such as Online Library, Google, Taylor and Francis, PubMed, Research Gate, Scopus, Springer, Wiley, Web of Sciences. Numerous phytochemical, pharmaceutical, and pharmacological studies have been carried out on the various parts of G. bonduc. To date, more than 97 phytochemicals have been isolated from the leaves, roots, stems, stem bark, flowers, twigs, and seeds of this plant. The phytochemicals isolated from the plants are flavonoids, homoisoflavonoids, terpenoids, diterpenoids, steroids, fatty acids, alkanes, acids, phenols, ketones, esters, amides, azides, silanes, and ether groups. This plant has been extensively studied in in vitro and in vivo pharmacological experiments, where it showed analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antidiabetic, abortive, anticataleptic, immunomodulatory, and antiestrogenic effects. This comprehensive review revealed that phytochemicals isolated from various parts of G. bonduc have significant therapeutic efficacy, with promising anticancer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. This review provides a good source of information for the development of a drug using modern scientific tools, in view of its underexplored traditional uses. Further studies on preclinical and clinical trials and toxicological studies on the bioactive molecules of G. bonduc to validate its traditional uses are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information about the achievements of Dr. N.P. Balakrishnan, a prominent figure in Indian botany. It details his educational background, career in the Botanical Survey of India, and contributions to the field, including his work on the family Euphorbiaceae in India. This article is part of a series called "Living Legends of Indian Botany," which aims to honor and recognize outstanding botanists.

The quality of botanical education depends on the quality and interests of the teacher. The aim of our paper was to conduct an initial study on the attitudes of primary and secondary school teachers about plants and botany. We initiated a study in which 211 biology and 168 teachers of different subjects, from primary to secondary schools in Croatia, participated on a voluntary basis. Statistical analysis was processed using jamovi 2.3 software. Teachers of all profiles (biology and others) had similar attitudes: high opinion about the importance of plants for life and education but not about school botany; botany was in the middle of their scale for potential exclusion from education. The last part of the survey referred only to biology teachers and their interests and suggestions for increasing the attractiveness of botany as a subject. The results showed that botany was the least popular, and within it, teachers were most interested in ecology and horticulture. They suggested that botany would be more interesting with active teaching methods and references to everyday contexts; however, it remains unclear why that is so, as the level of autonomy they are given does enable them to introduce such changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moslae Herba (MH) can be used for both medicine and food and has a long history of medicine. MH has the effects of sweating and relieving the exterior, removing dampness and harmonizing, and is mainly used for colds caused by damp heat in summer. It is called "Xiayue Zhi Mahuang" in China. So far, 123 chemical compounds have been isolated and identified from MH, including flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, and other chemical compounds. Its chemical components have a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic sedation, antipyretic, immune regulation, insecticidal, and other effects. In addition, because of its aromatic odor and health care function, MH also has development and utilization value in food, chemical, and other fields. This paper reviewed the research progress of MH in botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology and provided a possible direction for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In China, Russia, Mongolia, Japan, North Korea, and Mexico, Sedum aizoon L. (S. aizoon) is used as an edible plant. Up to now, over 234 metabolites, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, triterpenes, phytosterols, and alkaloids, among others, have been identified. In addition to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifatigue, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, and hemostatic activities, S. aizoon is used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. This paper provides an overview of the history, botany, nutritional value, traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and quality control of S. aizoon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While interest in early modern herbaria has so far mainly concentrated on the dried plants stored in them, this paper addresses another of their qualities – their role as manuscripts. In the 1670s, the German botanist Paul Hermann (1646–95) spent several years in Ceylon (today Sri Lanka) as a medical officer in the service of the Dutch East India Company. During his stay he put together four herbaria, two of which contain a wealth of handwritten notes by himself and several later owners. First, it will be shown that these notes provide information on the linguistic skills and interests of those who collected plants in an overseas trading settlement. Hermann's botanical practice demanded and, at the same time, generated knowledge of Sinhalese (an Indo-Aryan language that is spoken by the largest ethnic group on the island) and its script. In his herbarium, observations on the semantics, morphology, and pronunciation of Sinhalese are inextricably intertwined with those of botanical nature. Second, on the basis of these voluminous notes, the character of early modern herbaria as manuscripts will be highlighted. And third, Hermann's herbaria will be integrated into an investigation of scribal practices and publication strategies of eighteenth-century botany. Along with field notes, letters, manuscripts, illustrations, and printed books, herbaria were knots in the textual–visual mesh of early modern botany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ample number of studies have shown that during the late eighteenth century and the first half of the nineteenth century, botany attracted the attention and involvement of women not only as readers of literature on the subject but also as participants in botanical activities and as authors. However, women are still largely absent from the historiography of Portuguese botany in this period. This article contributes to filling this gap by focusing on the translation of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's Letters on the elements of botany (1800) by the Marquise of Alorna (1750-1839) and her long poem Botanical recreations (1844). It addresses the issue of women's participation in science and looks not only at the importance of gender but also genre and social status in the dissemination of botany in Portugal. This article shows that in the period, the cultivation of science by women was associated with the upper classes while exchanges within circles of sociability through salons offered them an alternative to the public male-centred world of publication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small shallow cumulus clouds (<1 km) over the tropical oceans appear to possess the ability to self‐organize into mesoscale (10–100 km) patterns. To better understand the processes leading to such self‐organized convection, we present Cloud Botany, an ensemble of 103 large‐eddy simulations on domains of 150 km, produced by the Dutch Atmospheric Large Eddy Simulation model on supercomputer Fugaku. Each simulation is run in an idealized, fixed, larger‐scale environment, controlled by six free parameters. We vary these over characteristic ranges for the winter trades, including parameter combinations observed during the EUREC4A (Elucidating the role of clouds–circulation coupling in climate) field campaign. In contrast to simulation setups striving for maximum realism, Cloud Botany provides a platform for studying idealized, and therefore more clearly interpretable causal relationships between conditions in the larger‐scale environment and patterns in mesoscale, self‐organized shallow convection. We find that any simulation that supports cumulus clouds eventually develops mesoscale patterns in their cloud fields. We also find a rich variety in these patterns as our control parameters change, including cold pools lined by cloudy arcs, bands of cross‐wind clouds and aggregated patches, sometimes topped by thin anvils. Many of these features are similar to cloud patterns found in nature. The published data set consists of raw simulation output on full 3D grids and 2D cross‐sections, as well as post‐processed quantities aggregated over the vertical (2D), horizontal (1D) and all spatial dimensions (time‐series). The data set is directly accessible from Python through the use of the EUREC4A intake catalog. Plain Language Summary: The organization of shallow cumulus clouds over the tropical ocean has recently received a lot of attention. This type of organization is potentially important for how the clouds are affected by a changing climate and also for how they modulate further warming. We present a collection of 103 detailed simulations of shallow cumulus clouds in idealized atmospheric environments. These environments are described by six parameters, and our collection is formed by systematically simulating different parameter combinations. This way an ensemble is created that spans up a multidimensional phase space of environmental conditions typical for the wintertime subtropical Atlantic Ocean. This approach allows us to form a picture of how the environmental conditions relate to the cloud organization that develops in the simulations. At a glance, most simulations evolve similarly: They quickly form small cumulus clouds, which then grow in size and organize into patterns. Often this leads to rainfall, which then causes further heterogeneity and pattern formation. The data is openly available online, and will serve future studies of cumulus clouds, their organization, and how they interact with the climate. Key Points: We present Cloud Botany, an ensemble of idealized large‐eddy simulations of the winter trade wind regions, controlled by six varied parametersThe parameter ranges are chosen to match the climatology of the trade wind regionThe simulations show a variety of cloud organization patterns: small cumulus, stripes, cold pools, cloud arcs, and anvils [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Poorly studied species are potentially under‐prioritised by conservation programmes due to knowledge gaps presenting barriers to informing effective management strategies. The Botany Bay Bearded Greenhood, Pterostylis sp. Botany Bay, is an example of a poorly studied plant that is listed as endangered under both Commonwealth and New South Wales legislation. This study reports on archival surveys from 1998 to 2005 conducted at up to eight sites known to contain the Botany Bay Bearded Greenhood and follow‐up surveys in 2022. The archival surveys found that the total population count ranged from 83 to 341 individuals. Mean numbers (± standard error) of seedlings, flowering individuals and individuals exhibiting capsule development recorded in the population were 43 ± 14, 33 ± 9 and 2 ± 1 respectively. The 2022 surveys did not detect the species. An area of potential habitat was derived from records in biodiversity databases, which determined a total historical extent of 1.38 ha restricted to the Kurnell Peninsula in Sydney, New South Wales. The priority next step is to gather contemporary data to confirm whether the Botany Bay Bearded Greenhood remains extant, which can be done by applied researchers, students, landholders and land managers, botanical practitioners and/or volunteers. For optimal species detection, we recommend undertaking formal surveys or opportunistic searches in historically known sites and replicating detection efforts across July–September periods to exploit seasonal flowering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rubus ellipticus Smith. (Family Rosaceae), often known as the yellow Himalayan raspberry (Yellow Hissar), is one of the most widely used edible fruits in Indian folk medicinal systems. The current review aims to identify the gap between research and existing applications of this fruit to help scientists explore the current trends and opportunities for future development. Fruits of R. ellipticus are the source of several classes of compounds. Fruits of R. ellipticus are also rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It has been shown to have significant medical value in a variety of studies, including as an anti-diabetic, nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, antitumor, wound healing, antifertility, oviposition deterrent, antibacterial, and antioxidant. Fruits of R. ellipticus have been the subject of several in vitro and in vivo investigations, all of which have corroborated their wide range of biological activities and demonstrated their potential for the identification of new therapeutic candidates and the development of innovative herbal food supplements. Additional mechanism-based pharmacological evaluation and clinical research should provide an adequate scientific basis for the traditional usage of R. ellipticus fruits, which is currently not sufficiently supported by the available research on its active components and molecular mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Ranunculus L. genus contains 413 species, and it is the biggest genus in the family Ranunculaceae Juss. This review is to provide botanical characteristics, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, and pharmaceutical preparations of the genus Ranunculus. Key findings: The genus Ranunculus contains flavonoids, organic acids, coumarins, lactones, glycosides, sterols, polysaccharides, and trace elements. These chemical constituents complement the pharmacological actions and work together to exert anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antitubercular, antibacterial, antimalarial, etc. Those traditional Chinese medicine characteristics, like clearing away heat and detoxification, make this genus significant in ethnic medicine. The progress in research and the development of various pharmaceutical preparations made it appear in epidemiological and clinical studies. Summary: The genus Ranunculus has attracted the attention of experts and scholars in many fields due to its unique advantages. However, there are many species that are not scientifically investigated. The toxicity issues are also a huge concern. Fortunately, the toxicity can be overcome via special processes like drying or heating and by choosing a safe extraction solvent, such as water thus ensuring the safety of medication. Pharmaceutical preparations containing the plants from Ranunculus have gratifying clinical value, but they are not promoted sufficiently. Therefore, further research should be carried out to promote the genus for its health benefits to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban natural science consists of many fields. We consider urban plant science (urban botany) to be one of the main branches of urban natural sciences and urban biology. Urban plant science (urban botany) is a discipline studying urban vegetation. Some areas of urban plant science are also developing as applied disciplines. Urban forestry and urban horticulture are important trends. We consider urban botany as a field that includes all urban plant sciences. Urban botany is relevant area in the concept of urban natural sciences. There are many studies on urban plant biology. Urban plants have many beneficial functions, including phytoremediation and aesthetic properties, microclimate improvement, and impact on biodiversity. The main objectives of urban plant science are: the study of urban plants and plant communities of urban ecosystems; the effect of urban environment on plants; the increase of plant resistance to the urban environment; the selection of plant species and varieties for urban greening. Urban botany can be considered as an academic discipline. We believe that in the future it may be possible to train specialists in a new direction of "Urban Natural Science". Urban botany will be one of the leading academic disciplines in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decolonization created new opportunities for international scientific research collaboration. In Indonesia this began in the late 1940s, as Indonesian scientists and officials sought to remake the formerly colonial botanical gardens in the city of Bogor into an international research center. Indonesia sponsored the Flora Malesiana project, a flora of all of island Southeast Asia. This project was formally centered in Bogor, Indonesia, with participation from tropical botanists from around the world. The international orientation of Indonesian science led to the establishment of one of UNESCO's Field Science Co-operation Offices in Jakarta, and to a period of close collaboration between Indonesian botanists and UNESCO. This paper examines the importance of UNESCO's Humid Tropics research program, which initially provided further opportunities for Indonesian botanists to participate in international scientific networks. The paper concludes by showing that the Humid Tropics program led to the slow erosion of Indonesian agency and authority over tropical botany, and the assertion of Western control and management over tropical botany research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytotherapy is a cost-effective alternative that continues to evolve. This has sparked significant research interest in naturally occurring compounds found in edible plants that possess antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Corchorus tridens L. is a wild edible plant widely recognised for its edible leaves, which are used for vegetable and animal feed. The plant is widely distributed across the African continent and is utilised in numerous countries for treating fever, pain, inflammation, and sexually transmitted diseases. Extracts from various parts of this plant exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pesticidal properties. This plant is a rich source of amino acids, vitamins, essential fatty acids, proteins, and minerals, as well as secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, quinines, steroids, terpenoids, phenols, and tannins. Additional studies are still needed to determine other biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory activity, involvement in the treatment of measles, prevention of anaemia, and pain-relieving properties. The current review aims to provide information on the characteristics, distribution, nutritional content, bioactive compounds, traditional uses, and biological activities of the edible plant species C. tridens L. to stimulate further research interest to address the existing literature gaps concerning this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Murrayae Folium et Cacumen (MFC) is a plant considered to be a traditional Chinese medicine with culinary value as well. The dry leaves and twigs of Murraya paniculata and M. exotica are used to treat stomach aches, rheumatism, toothaches, swelling, and insect and snake bites. They are also used to prepare spicy chicken dishes. Aim of the review: This review comprehensively summarizes the available information on the botanical characterization, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of MFC. Methods: Relevant scientific literature up to August 2023 was included in the study. Chinese and English studies on MFC were collected from databases, including PubMed, Elsevier, Web of Science, Springer, Science Direct, Wiley, ACS, and CNKI (Chinese). Doctoral and Master's dissertations were also included. Results: In total, 720 compounds have been identified and reported in the literature, including flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, sterols, phenylpropenols, organic acids, spirocyclopentenones, and volatile oils. Flavonoids and coumarins are the two most important bioactive compounds responsible for these pharmacological activities. MFC has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, antitumor, anti-oxidant, anti-depressant, potential anti-Alzheimer's disease, chondroprotective, and analgesic properties. The pharmacological effects include interrupting the STAT3/NF-κB/COX-2 and EGFR signaling pathways downregulating EpCAM expression, inhibiting NF-κB and ERK signals, inhibiting the EP/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway and miR-29a/Wnt/β-catenin signaling activity, and upregulating Foxo3a expression. Conclusion: This review demonstrates that the chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of MFC support its use in traditional Chinese botanical medicines. MFC contains a wide range of chemical compounds. Flavonoids and coumarins promote strong pharmacological activity and, are low-toxicity natural phytomedicines that are widely used in medicine, food, ornamentation, and cosmetics, making MFC a promising compound for development and use in the treatment of several medical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bryonia genus (Cucurbitaceae) is divided into 13 plants considered medicinal species with a significant pharmacological value fortreating as well as preventing various ailments. The current systematic review aims to present useful and updated findings published onthis genus inthe last two decades. Based on PubMed, Science Direct, JSTOR, and Google Scholar, 42 of the available previous studies on Bryonia have been selected from 2000 to 2022. Thereafter, these studies were analyzed, summarized, and separately recorded according to the topic or section, adding some comments foreach. Our review provided a botanical description of the genus, followed by itsindigenous uses. Furthermore, more than 150 reported phytochemical compounds were grouped into families such as terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and volatile oils. Hereby, thebiological activities part of this genus wereexposed, including itsantimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory functions, along with an interesting anticancer efficiency. Overall, our findings could contribute to forthcoming investigations that may lead to determining the responsible phytoconstituents for Bryonia's efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mistletoe detection and sampling remain challenging for arborists, dendrologists, forest ecologists, and other specialists because of the limited access to host tree canopy. In this review, smart solutions for mistletoe detection based on airborne platforms are discussed. Airborne remote sensing (ARS) has the developing potential to provide rapid, accurate, and cost-efficient detection and research of mistletoe on tree level and large areas within the complex terrain. Herein, such mistletoe ARS research methods as image spectroscopy, infrared thermography, light detection and ranging, and structure from motion are overviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Armeniacae semen amarum-seeds of Prunus armeniaca L. (Rosaceae) (ASA), also known as Kuxingren in Chinese, is a traditional Chinese herbal drug commonly used for lung disease and intestinal disorders. It has long been used to treat coughs and asthma, as well as to lubricate the colon and reduce constipation. ASA refers to the dried ripe seed of diverse species of Rosaceae and contains a variety of phytochemical components, including glycosides, organic acids, amino acids, flavonoids, terpenes, phytosterols, phenylpropanoids, and other components. Extensive data shows that ASA exhibits various pharmacological activities, such as anticancer activity, anti-oxidation, antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammation, protection of cardiovascular, neural, respiratory and digestive systems, antidiabetic effects, and protection of the liver and kidney, and other activities. In clinical practice, ASA can be used as a single drug or in combination with other traditional Chinese medicines, forming ASA-containing formulas, to treat various afflictions. However, it is important to consider the potential adverse reactions and pharmacokinetic properties of ASA during its clinical use. Overall, with various bioactive components, diversified pharmacological actions and potent efficacies, ASA is a promising drug that merits in-depth study on its functional mechanisms to facilitate its clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trollius chinensis Bunge, a perennial herb belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, has been extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine. Documented in the Supplements to the Compendium of Materia Medica, its medicinal properties encompass a spectrum of applications, including heat clearance, detoxification, alleviation of oral/throat sores, earaches, eye pain, cold-induced fever, and vision improvement. Furthermore, T. chinensis is used in clinical settings to treat upper respiratory infections, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, esoenteritis, canker, bronchitis, etc. It is mainly used to treat inflammation, such as inflammation of the upper respiratory tract and nasal mucosa. This comprehensive review explores the evolving scientific understanding of T. chinensis, covering facets of botany, materia medica, ethnopharmacological use, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and quality control. In particular, the chemical constituents and pharmacological research are reviewed. Polyphenols, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids, are highly abundant among T. chinensis and are responsible for antiviral, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. The flower additionally harbors trace amounts of volatile oil, polysaccharides, and other bioactive compounds. The active ingredients of the flower have fewer side effects, and it is used in children because of its minimal side effects, which has great research potential. These findings validate the traditional uses of T. chinensis and lay the groundwork for further scientific exploration. The sources utilized in this study encompass Web of Science, Pubmed, CNKI site, classic monographs, Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Chinese Medicine Dictionary, and doctoral and master's theses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas is the property of Journal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Cultural Studies / Kültür Araştırmaları Dergisi is the property of Journal of Cultural Studies / Kultur Arastirmalari Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Decades of empirical research have revealed how the geological history of our planet shaped plant evolution by establishing well‐known patterns (e.g., how mountain uplift resulted in high rates of diversification and replicate radiations in montane plant taxa). This follows a traditional approach where botanical data are interpreted in light of geological events. In this synthesis, I instead describe how by integrating natural history, phylogenetics, and population genetics, botanical research can be applied alongside geology and paleontology to inform our understanding of past geological and climatic processes. This conceptual shift aligns with the goals of the emerging field of geogenomics. In the neotropics, plant geogenomics is a powerful tool for the reciprocal exploration of two long standing questions in biology and geology: how the dynamic landscape of the region came to be and how it shaped the evolution of the richest flora. Current challenges that are specific to analytical approaches for plant geogenomics are discussed. I describe the scale at which various geological questions can be addressed from biological data and what makes some groups of plants excellent model systems for geogenomics research. Although plant geogenomics is discussed with reference to the neotropics, the recommendations given here for approaches to plant geogenomics can and should be expanded to exploring long‐standing questions on how the earth evolved with the use of plant DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Hypericum sampsonii Hance, also known as Yuanbao Cao in Chinese, is a traditional medicinal herb from the Guttiferae family and has been widely used in China to treat various conditions, including dysentery, enteritis, mastitis, scrofula, and contusion. Aim of the review: This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, biological activity and safety of H. sampsonii and to highlight its potential for medical application and drug development. Materials and methods: We searched several databases, i.e., Web of Science, SciFinder, PubMed, CBM, CNKI, Google Scholar, etc., for relevant information on H. sampsonii. Additionally, we also consulted some books on Chinese medicine. Results: To date, 227 secondary metabolites have been isolated from H. sampsonii, including polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (PPAPs), benzophenones, xanthones, flavonoids, naphthodianthrones, anthraquinones and aromatic compounds. These metabolites exhibit various biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-depressant, anti-oxidant, anti-viral and anti-bacterial effects. PPAPs are considered the main active metabolites with rich biological activities. Despite being known as rich source of PPAPs, the full extent of H. sampsonii biological activities, including their potential as PDE4 inhibitors, remained unclear. Since, previous studies have mainly been based on structural identification of metabolites in H. sampsonii, and efficacy evaluations of these metabolites based on clinical applications of H. sampsonii lack sufficient data. However, current evidence suggest that PPAPs are the most likely material basis for efficacy. From the limited information available so far, there is no evidence of potential safety issues and the safety data are limited. Conclusion: Collectively, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and safety of H. sampsonii, a valuable medicinal plant in China with various pharmacological activities. Based on pharmacological studies, H. sampsonii shows potential for treating gastrointestinal and gynecological disorders as well as traumatic injuries, which aligns with traditional medicinal use due to the presence of PPAPs, benzophenones, xanthones, and flavonoids. Therefore, further studies are needed to evaluate the pharmacological effects and elucidate the pharmacological mechanisms. In addition, pharmacological mechanisms and safety evaluation of PPAPs on animal models need to be clarified. Yet, further comprehensive studies are required to elucidate the phytochemical constituents, pharmacological mechanisms, structure-activity relationships, safety evaluation, and quality standards of this plant. Takentogether, this review highlights the potential of H. sampsonii for medical application and drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the involvement of botanic gardens in the colonial expansion of the British Empire is well documented, the public communication of this part of the history of the gardens is not as visible as it has increasingly become in many ethnographic museums, where the topic has been dealt with more actively within recent years. In this article, presenting findings from ethnographic fieldwork conducted in the botanic gardens of Oxford and Kew in 2022 and 2023,1 I show how colonial-era scientific practices are still used in the namegiving of plants, although scientists within the field have become increasingly aware of the importance of recognising Indigenous people and places.2 Through an analysis of the wording applied in signs and guided tours, I furthermore demonstrate how the colonial legacies of the plant collections of the two gardens are only superficially communicated to their visitors, despite numerous initiatives taking place behind the scenes.3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sharon Kingsland's book, "A Lab for All Seasons: The Laboratory Revolution in Modern Botany and the Rise of Physiological Plant Ecology," explores the development and impact of the phytotron on plant physiology, agriculture, and the emergence of physiological ecology as a scientific specialty. The phytotron, a laboratory complex consisting of greenhouses and controlled environmental chambers, was created by Dutch botanist Frits Went and designed to facilitate precise and controlled experiments on whole plants. Despite its successes, the Caltech phytotron faced challenges such as chronic underfunding and conflicting institutional priorities, leading to its closure in 1969. However, similar facilities were constructed worldwide, and Kingsland examines the diverse national contexts and research interests that shaped these phytotrons. She argues that the laboratory movement revolutionized botany and contributed to the synthesis of physiology and ecology, ultimately playing a crucial role in the field of physiological ecology and addressing the challenges of global climate change. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: With the current dynamics of scientific publishing increasingly driven by citation metrics, it is quite possible this will lead to the loss of some lower-ranked journals as they will be undervalued by authors, research institutions and research funders. This has been specifically predicted for natural science journals, but the efforts of editors of such journals to improve reputation have not been quantitatively assessed. This research aimed to fill this knowledge gap and assess the potential vulnerability of lower-ranked botany journals. Design/methodology/approach: Changes in article citation rates since 2009 for 21 lower-ranked general botany journals were examined by least squares linear regression and factors potentially predictive of higher citation potential by principal component analysis. The findings were then examined in a case study of the publishing that followed the celebrated discovery of a living-fossil plant (Wollemia nobilis) in the mid-1990s. Findings: Article citation rates steadily declined across most of these 21 journals over the period, and if submissions had been favoured (directly or indirectly) for citation potential, this appears to have been an ineffective, perhaps even a flawed, endeavour. Analysis of quantifiable article attributes across a subset of these journals revealed inconsistent relationships with no predictive value for citation potential. The case study clearly highlighted some processes contributing to declining citation rates and the value of botanical reporting well beyond that indicated by citation metrics. Research limitations/implications: It is not possible to know how important prediction of citation potential (directly or indirectly) is when journal editors accept papers for review or publication (such information is not made public, and this might not be a formalised process), so this study is only based what is considered (by the author) to be a reasonable assumption that all journals aim to improve their reputation and use citation metrics as one determinant of this. Social implications: Unless we give value to lower-ranked regional botany journals in other ways than citations, the current trends in citation rates could lead to the diminution, even loss, of their valuable contribution biodiversity conservation. Originality/value: Although concerns have been expressed about the long-term viability of natural history journals, this is the first research to examine this quantitatively using citation metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of ensuring accurate and efficient collection and preservation of physical evidence is known as crime scene management. Incriminating evidence can be strongly supported during criminal investigations by forensic botany. This article aims to show how crucial the role of forensic botany can be at crime scenes. When crime scene and autopsy findings are insufficient to determine the dynamics and mode of death, botanical evidence may come to the rescue. The use of plant studies in legal proceedings is known as forensic botany. In order to piece together evidence that will help solve serious crimes, including the cause of death, kidnapping, and murder, forensic botany uses evidence from plants and plant parts. Various subfields within forensic botany help solve criminal cases. Palynology is the study of pollen grains and spores, which can withstand degradation and can be used to confirm or reject a relationship between individuals, locations, and articles that are the subject of investigation in both criminal and civil cases. Moss shoots are easily attached to clothing and shoes, or even the human body, just as pollen grains, and may be useful to make connections between individuals and crime. DNA barcoding, which involves rapid species identification based on DNA sequences, and dendrochronology, which is the study of tree rings, are also useful as strong evidence. Though forensic botany has grown significantly in importance and is increasingly being applied to investigate crimes, greater awareness of the field and expertise are required. Forensic botany can also be taken up as a challenging career option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astragali Radix (Huangqi) is mainly distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, South America, and Africa and rarely in North America and Oceania. It has long been used as an ethnomedicine in the Russian Federation, Mongolia, Korea, Kazakhstan, and China. It was first recorded in the Shennong Ben Cao Jing and includes the effects of reinforcing healthy qi, dispelling pathogenic factors, promoting diuresis, reducing swelling, activating blood circulation, and dredging collaterals. This review systematically summarizes the botanical characteristics, phytochemistry, traditional uses, pharmacology, and toxicology of Astragalus to explore the potential of Huangqi and expand its applications. Data were obtained from databases such as PubMed, CNKI, Wan Fang Data, Baidu Scholar, and Google Scholar. The collected material also includes classic works of Chinese herbal medicine, Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Chinese Medicine Dictionary, and PhD and Master's theses. The pharmacological effects of the isoflavone fraction in Huangqi have been studied extensively; The pharmacological effects of Huangqi isoflavone are mainly reflected in its anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-oxidant, antiallergic, and anti-diabetic properties and its ability to treat several related diseases. Additionally, the medicinal uses, chemical composition, pharmacological activity, toxicology, and quality control of Huangqi require further elucidation. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the botany, phytochemistry, traditional uses, pharmacology, toxicology, and quality control of Astragalus to assist future innovative research and to identify and develop new drugs involving Huangqi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prunella vulgaris L. (PV) is a well-known renewable drug resource full of different groups of biologically active substances with a wide range of pharmacological actions and applications in medicine. In this review, we present an updated comprehensive overview of the botany, extracting methods, chemical composition, and pharmacological activity of different parts of PV extracts. As a result of this review, it was found that chemical composition of PV depends on various factors ranging from the part of the plant to the method of extraction. We also highlight extraction methods that have not been previously used for obtaining PV extracts and may have high scientific interest. With this review, we hope to guide present and future professionals and provide possible previously unexplored areas to find new solutions associated with PV plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An urgent demand for natural compound alternatives to conventional medications has arisen due to global health challenges, such as drug resistance and the adverse effects associated with synthetic drugs. Plant extracts are considered an alternative due to their favorable safety profiles and potential for reducing side effects. Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is a valuable plant resource and a potential candidate for the development of pharmaceutical medications. A single pure compound or a combination of compounds exhibits exceptional medicinal properties, including antiviral activity against both DNA and RNA viruses, antibacterial effects against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, antifungal properties, antioxidant activity, antidiabetic potential, neuroprotective qualities, and anticancer properties. The plant contains various phytochemical constituents, which mostly consist of linalool, eucalyptol, estragole, and eugenol. For centuries, community and traditional healers across the globe have employed O. basilicum L. to treat a wide range of ailments, including flu, fever, colds, as well as issues pertaining to digestion, reproduction, and respiration. In addition, the current research presented underscores the significant potential of O. basilicum-related nanotechnology applications in addressing diverse challenges and advancing numerous fields. This promising avenue of exploration holds great potential for future scientific and technological advancements, promising improved utilization of medicinal products derived from O. basilicum L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]