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Despite the close and clinically confirmed association between depression and overactive bladder, it remains unclear whether this affective disorder is a factor causing overactive bladder or whether overactive bladder is a specific symptom of psychosomatic disorders. This study examined the effects of repeated corticosterone administration on the occurrence of symptoms associated with depression and overactive bladder. Additionally, we examined whether administering TC-G 1008, an antidepressant that selectively activates the GPR39 receptor, could alleviate corticosterone-induced depression-like behavior and detrusor overactivity-related changes in cystometric measurements. We also explored its potential to reverse alterations in various biomarkers associated with both conditions in the serum, urinary bladder, and brain of female rats. The administration of corticosterone (20 mg/kg/day for 14 days) yielded anticipated results, including an increase in the duration of immobility during the forced swim test, alterations in parameters specific to bladder overactivity, a decrease in neurotrophins, and an elevation in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Treatment with TC-G 1008 (15 mg/kg/day) alleviated symptoms of both detrusor overactivity and depression, while also restoring the levels of biochemical and cystometric markers to normal ranges. Additionally, antidepressants based on GPR39 agonists could enhance the levels of kynurenic acid in the neuroprotective pathway. These results indicate that the GPR39 agonist receptor might be a promising future therapeutic approach for treating overactive bladder that occurs alongside depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing demand for sustainable vegetable production is leading to low- and zero-pesticide farming practices. This review examines many strategies intended to lower pesticide use without impacting crop quality and production. The use of biopesticides, biological control, integrated pest management (IPM), and organic farming are some of the important techniques that are examined. This investigation also covers cutting-edge technology that improves the efficacy and efficiency of various techniques, such as robots, artificial intelligence (AI), and precision agriculture. A rigorous evaluation of the effects of pesticide residues on the environment and human health emphasises how crucial it is to use fewer pesticides. Market trends and customer preferences are considered, as well as the social and economic effects of implementing these strategies. The paper's conclusion identifies obstacles to the general adoption of low- and zero-pesticide approaches and makes recommendations for future research topics to overcome these obstacles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arthospira platensis and Spirulina platensis microalgae are a rich source of pro-health metabolites (% d.m.): proteins (50.0–71.3/46.0–63.0), carbohydrates (16.0–20.0/12.0–17.0), fats (0.9–14.2/6.4–14.3), polyphenolic compounds and phenols (7.3–33.2/7.8–44.5 and 4.2/0.3 mg GAE/g), and flavonoids (1.9/0.2 QUE/g) used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. This review summarises the research on the chemical profile, therapeutic effects in dermatological problems, application of Arthrospira and Spirulina microalgae, and contraindications to their use. The pro-health properties of these microalgae were analysed based on the relevant literature from 2019 to 2024. The antiviral mechanism of microalgal activity involves the inhibition of viral replication and enhancement of immunity. The anti-acne activity is attributed to alkaloids, alkanes, phenols, alkenes, phycocyanins, phthalates, tannins, carboxylic and phthalic acids, saponins, and steroids. The antibacterial activity generally depends on the components and structure of the bacterial cell wall. Their healing effect results from the inhibition of inflammatory and apoptotic processes, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, stimulation of angiogenesis, and proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The photoprotective action is regulated by amino acids, phlorotannins, carotenoids, mycosporins, and polyphenols inhibiting the production of tyrosinase, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and free oxygen radicals in fibroblasts and the stimulation of collagen production. Microalgae are promising molecular ingredients in innovative formulations of parapharmaceuticals and cosmetics used in the prophylaxis and therapy of dermatological problems. This review shows the application of spirulina-based commercial skin-care products as well as the safety and contraindications of spirulina use. Furthermore, the main directions for future studies of the pro-health suitability of microalgae exerting multidirectional effects on human skin are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raspberry fruits are an important source of many biologically active chemical compounds exerting nutritional and pro-health effects. The study presents a comparative analysis of nutritionally important bioactive chemical compounds—polyphenols; flavonoids, including anthocyanins; vitamin C; amino acids; fatty acids; and primary metabolites—contained in the fruits of three biennial fruiting cultivars, R. idaeus 'Glen Ample', 'Laszka', and 'Radziejowa', i.e., common cultivars in Poland and Europe. The antioxidant activity of fresh fruits and juice was determined with five methods. The analyses revealed the strong free radical scavenging potential of the fruits and juice, confirmed by the high concentration of nutrients, e.g., polyphenols, anthocyanins, vitamin C, amino acids, and fatty acids. The antioxidant activity of the juice determined with the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and OH radical methods was from 2.5 to 4.0 times higher than that of the fruits. The following orders of total polyphenol contents were established in the analyzed cultivars: 'Glen Ample' < 'Laszka' < 'Radziejowa' in the fruits and 'Glen Ample' < 'Radziejowa' < 'Laszka' in the juice. The highest antioxidant activity was exhibited by the 'Radziejowa' fruits. Given their high content of dietary fiber, the fruits of the analyzed raspberry cultivars can be consumed by dieting subjects. The concentrations of vitamin C (28–34 mg/100 g) and anthocyanins (20–34 mg/100 g) indicate the biological and pharmacological activity of these fruits. The main unsaturated fatty acids in the fruits were gamma-linoleic acid (C18:2n6c) and alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3n3), which neutralize excess free radicals. The amino acids nutritionally essential to humans were dominated by leucine, arginine, and phenylalanine. This is the first comparative analysis of the antioxidant activity of fruits and juice and the contents of selected active compounds in the fruits of biennial fruiting cultivars of R. idaeus, i.e., a highly commercialized crop in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rubi idaei fructus is a source of nutritionally important bioactive chemical compounds, mainly antioxidants, which strengthen the immune system and can be used in the prophylaxis and adjuvant therapies of many oxidative stress-induced diseases. There are no literature reports presenting a comprehensive comparative analysis of the antioxidant activity and nutritionally relevant metabolites contained in the fruits of repeat-fruiting raspberry cultivars, which are commonly grown in Europe. The aim of this study was to carry out a comparative analysis of the antioxidant potential (Folin–Ciocalteu, DPPH, FRAP), the content of selected primary and secondary metabolites, and the qualitative and quantitative composition of amino acids and fatty acids in the fruits of R. idaeus cv. 'Pokusa', 'Polana', and 'Polka'. The fruits of the analyzed cultivars have a low caloric value (171–219 kcal/100 g); low content of available carbohydrates (6–6.6%) and total carbohydrates (3.4–4.8%); and high levels of dietary fiber (4.7–5.8%), vitamin C (22.8–27 mg/100 g), anthocyanins (25.1–29.6 mg/100 g), and flavonoids (0.5–2.6 mg/100 g). The fruits were found to contain valuable unsaturated fatty acids (35–60%), especially MUFAs with dominant oleic, elaidic, palmitic, and erucic acids and PUFAs (α-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic, and linoleic acids). MUFAs from the ω-9 group accounted for 12–18%, whereas the content of PUFAs from the ω-3 and ω-6 groups was in the range of 15–23 and 6–21%, respectively. Exogenous amino acids, accounting for 56–62%, were dominated by leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine. The following order of the total polyphenolic content was established in the fresh fruit juice from the analyzed cultivars: 'Pokusa' < 'Polana' < 'Polka'. The different antioxidant capacity assays used in the study confirmed the high antioxidant potential of the fruits and fresh juice from the three R. idaeus cultivars. This indicates that raspberry fruits can serve as a source of nutrients and can be used as a valuable supplement in a healthy human diet and a raw material in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychotropic effect of Crocus sativus L. (family Iridaceae) biologically active chemical compounds are quite well documented and they can therefore be used in addition to the conventional pharmacological treatment of depression. This systematic review on antidepressant compounds in saffron crocus and their mechanisms of action and side effects is based on publications released between 1995–2022 and data indexed in 15 databases under the following search terms: antidepressant effect, central nervous system, Crocus sativus, cognitive impairement, crocin, crocetin, depression, dopamine, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, picrocrocin, phytotherapy, neurotransmitters, safranal, saffron, serotonin, and biologically active compounds. The comparative analysis of the publications was based on 414 original research papers. The investigated literature indicates the effectiveness and safety of aqueous and alcoholic extracts and biologically active chemical compounds (alkaloids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoid, phenolic, saponins, and terpenoids) isolated from various organs (corms, leaves, flower petal, and stigmas) in adjuvant treatment of depression and anxiety. Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action. The antidepressant and neuroprotective effect of extract components is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The mechanism of their action, interactions with conventional drugs and other herbal preparations and the safety of use are not fully understood; therefore, further detailed research in this field is necessary. The presented results regarding the application of C. sativus in phytotherapy are promising in terms of the use of herbal preparations to support the treatment of depression. This is particularly important given the steady increase in the incidence of this disease worldwide and social effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing commercial production of R. idaeus offers insects nectar and pollen rewards, thus increasing the chance of cross-pollination, which enhances fruit yields. The knowledge of nectar characteristics may help farmers/beekeepers to improve the quality of their products. Therefore, we determined and compared nectar weight, sugar concentration and weight, and the qualitative and quantitative composition of sugars and amino acids in the nectar of six raspberry cultivars: three biennial and three repeated fruiting cultivars. The nectary abundance in these cultivars ranged between 20.2 ± 3.84 mg ('Polka') and 26.4 ± 7.3 mg ('Glen Ample') of nectar per flower with a sugar concentration of 34.6 ± 5.61–47.3 ± 9.33%. The contents of glucose and fructose (g/100 g) were in the range from 42.96 ± 0.71 ('Glen Ample') to 46.94 ± 0.55 ('Laszka') and from 50.7 ± 1.43 ('Polka') to 54.2 ± 0.72 ('Radziejowa'). Sucrose was detected only in 'Glen Ample' (5.6 ± 1.12 g/100 g) and 'Polka' (6.2 ± 0.95 g/100 g). Taking into account the increasing sugar weight in the nectar, the cultivars were ranked as follows: 'Polka' < 'Polana' < 'Radziejowa' < 'Pokusa' < 'Laszka' < 'Glen Ample'. The nectar of the analyzed raspberry cultivars was classified as a hexose-dominant type. Aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and proline were the most dominant endogenous amino acids, whereas exogenous acids were dominated by lysine and leucine. The present results provide valuable information about the nutritious value of R. idaeus nectar for pollinators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distinctive features of floral nectaries facilitate identification of ecological and phylogenetic links between related taxa. The structure and functioning of nectaries determine the relationships between plants, pollinators, and the environment. The aim of the study was to determine and compare the micromorphology of the epidermis in the floral nectaries of six Rubus idaeus cultivars belonging to biennial ('Glen Ample', 'Laszka', 'Radziejowa') and repeated fruiting ('Pokusa', 'Polana', 'Polka') groups. Another objective was to characterize the cuticle ornamentation and stomatal morphology, the anatomy of the nectary epidermis, parenchyma, and sub-nectary parenchyma in the initial nectar secretion phase, as well as the ultrastructure of the nectary epidermis and parenchyma cells in the initial and full nectar secretion phases. The study was carried out using light, fluorescence, scanning and transmission-electron microscopy techniques. Semi-thin and ultrathin sections were used for the microscopic analyses. The cuticular ornamentation and stomatal morphology may be helpful elements in the identification of relatedness between Rubus species. The interaction of the extensive system of endoplasmic reticulum membranes, mitochondria, and Golgi apparatus indicates high metabolic activity, and the fusion of transport vesicles with the membrane suggests granulocrine nectar secretion. The results bring new data to the biology of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden. was introduced in Poland as a fodder plant. Currently, it is regarded as an invasive plant posing a health hazard to humans and animals and a threat to native flora. The aim of the study was to localise furanocoumarins in the stem and leaf tissues. The investigations were carried out using light, fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy as well as histochemical assays. The epidermis of the analysed organs bears live, non-capitate hairs with variable length, which contain lipids, essential oils, polysaccharides, tannins, and furanocoumarins. The observations performed with scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of a foamy substance and furanocoumarin crystals on the surface of the trichomes and other epidermal cells, as well as in the parenchyma cells. Characteristic furanocoumarin autofluorescence was present in the epidermis and on its surface, as well as in the subepidermal parenchyma. Secondary fluorescence was emitted by furanocoumarins in different leaf petiole tissues: psoralen, bergapten, and xanthotoxin. We have detected for the first time the presence of furanocoumarins in different tissues of leaves in H. sosnowskyi. Furanocoumarins were also abundantly present on the epidermal surface of cells. This explains why the contact with the plant is dangerous to humans and results in development of photodermatoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel in excessive amounts deteriorates the nutritional status in plants, inter alia reduces the level of sulphur. Simultaneously, the common use of NPK fertilizers without sulphates (S-SO4) together with the progressive process of reducing emissions of S compounds to the natural environment may lead to deficiency of this element involved in stress tolerance. The aim of the studies was to evaluate the changes in the macronutrient contents and accumulation in Sinapis alba L. cv. Rota grown for 2 weeks at different levels of S-SO4 (S-2-standard dose, 6, 9 mM) and Ni (0, 0.0004, 0.04, 0.08 mM) in modified Hoagland's nutrient solution. Intensive S-SO4 nutrition of Ni-exposed mustard seems to improve to some extent the unfavourable macronutrient status. It substantially increased the root macronutrient content drop in the content of this macronutrient. The macronutrient status in shoots remained stable, except for the significant increase in the S content and the rise in Ca accumulation accompanied by an increase in N and K accumulation recorded at the S dose 6 mM. Ni-bioaccumulation did not change markedly with the exception of its increase in roots at the 6 mM S level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Representatives of the family Sapindaceae exhibit high morphological diversity of the nectary structure. The present paper shows for the first time the results of micromorphological, anatomical, and ultrastructural analyses of floral nectaries in Aesculus hippocastanum. We have also described the forage and signal attractants of these flowers, which are important for the ecology of pollination. Using light, fluorescence, and electron microscopy, we demonstrated that the A. hippocastanum nectary forming a lobed disc is histologically differentiated into the epidermis with stomata, nectariferous parenchyma, subglandular parenchyma, and vascular bundles reaching the basal part of the nectariferous parenchyma. The use of histochemical assays revealed the presence of insoluble polysaccharides, lipids, terpenoids, and polyphenols including coumarins in the nectary tissues. Nectar is exuded onto the nectary surface via stomata and the permeable cuticle. As indicated by the observation of the ultrastructure of the nectary cells, transport of pre-nectar into parenchymal cells may proceed via the symplast and apoplast. We have also demonstrated that nectar transfer outside the protoplasts of parenchymal cells has a character of granulocrine secretion. A. hippocastanum flowers produce nectar abundantly; one flower secreted on average 2.64 mg of nectar and the concentration of sugars in the nectar was 33%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of different sulfate(VI) sulfur (2, 6, and 9 mM S) levels and nickel(II) chloride (0, 0.0004, 0.04 and 0.08 mM Ni) in the nutrient solution on productivity and macronutrient (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S) status and accumulation in spring wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) Zebra cv. was studied. Ni treatment reduced the biomass and disturbed the balance and accumulation of macronutrients in wheat. Intensive S nutrition, especially with 6 mM S, at least partially increased the biomass, improved ionic equilibrium, and enhanced nutrient accumulation in Ni-exposed plants in spite of increased Ni accumulation. Admittedly, the dose 9 mM S reduced Ni accumulation in shoots but increased accumulation thereof in roots. Compared to 6 mM, the dose 9 mM was less effective in improving the mineral status of Ni-treated wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Poland Galanthus nivalis L. is partially protected. The flowers of this species are one of the first sources of nectar and pollen for insects from February to April. The aim of this study was to present the flowering biology as well as the topography, anatomical, and ultrastructural features of the floral nectary. The flower lifespan, the breeding system, and the mass of pollen and nectar produced by the flowers were determined. Examination of the nectary structure was performed using light, fluorescence, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The flower of G. nivalis lives for about 30 days. The stamens and pistils mature simultaneously and during this time nectar is secreted. The anthers of one flower produced the large amount of pollen (4 mg). The breeding system of G. nivalis was found to be characterized by partial self-compatibility, outcrossing, and xenogamy. The nectary is located at the top of the inferior ovary. The nectary epidermal cells are characterized by striated cuticular ornamentation. Initially, the secreted nectar formed vesicle-like protuberances under the cuticle. The epidermal and parenchymal cells contain numerous plastids, mitochondria, dictyosomes, ER cisterns, and vesicles fused with the plasmalemma, which indicates granulocrine nectar secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of protein hydrolysate (Hemozym) for fertilization purposes used in unpolluted and cadmium-polluted soil. Three levels of Hemozym (0, 0.1, and 0.2 cm3 kg−1dry weight [DW] soil) and cadmium (Cd) rate 5 mg kg−1DW soil were used. The fertilizer value of Hemozym was evaluated based on characteristics of the sorptive complex and soil respiratory activity as well as based on the soil and plant heavy-metal content. Increased soil fertility due to the beneficial effect of Hemozym on the improvement in the physicochemical properties of the soil and its microbial activity. However, they do not allow us to determine unambiguously the effect of this fertilizer on solubility vs. binding of heavy metals that occur naturally in the soil (zinc [Zn], copper [Cu], and lead [Pb]) and of intentionally introduced Cd, in spite of an indicative tendency towards the conversion of metals into poorly soluble forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agrobotanica is the property of Polish Botanical Society / Polskie Towarzystwo Botaniczne 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.)

In Poland Scorzonera hispanica L. is rare in the wild. This species is used as a vegetable and medicinal plant. Currently, attempts are being made to introduce this plant into cultivation in Poland. In this study, comparative analyses were conducted of the epidermis surface micromorphology and anatomical structure of the leaves of S. hispanica 'Maxima' and 'Meres'. The investigations were performed using fluorescence, light and scanning electron microscopy. The cuticle on the surface of epidermal cells is smooth or striated. In the epidermis, there are anomocytic stomata. The stomatal index in the epidermis of the studied cultivars is 9.3-11%. In the midrib of the leaf, there is an aerial cavity which occupies a substantial area. In this place, cracking and breaking of the leaf blade were observed. Over the aerial cavity under the adaxial epidermis, there is a single layer of collenchyma cells and 1-2 rows of parenchyma cells. Tangential collenchyma is also present between the abaxial epidermis and large vascular bundles located in the midrib and on both sides of the large vascular bundles in the lamina. This tissue strengthens the leaf margin. The mesophyll cells located in the abaxial epidermis of the midrib form protrusions surrounding the large vascular bundles. The leaves of S. hispanica represent the equifacial type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In its stems and leaves, Heracleum sosnovskii Manden. contains furanocoumarins, which exert a phototoxic effect on humans. The aim of the investigations was to describe the external secretory structures of the epidermis and internal secretory tissues in organs responsible for emission of secretion that is toxic to human skin. The study was conducted using light and fluorescence microscopy. On the stems and leaves, various types of secretory trichomes with dispersed or deposited secretion were found. The trichomes were most abundant on the abaxial leaf surface. Epidermal cells and the secretion present on the trichomes exhibited intense fluorescence, which may indicate the presence of furanocoumarins in the tissue and trichome secretions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aesculus hippocastanum L. is an ornamental tree appreciated for its beautiful flowers and leaves. The flowers of this species contain secondary metabolites exhibiting pharmacological activity. They also produce essential oils and coloured "nectar guides", which enable insects to reach nectar and pollen. The aim of the study was to investigate the types and characteristics of chestnut flower trichomes, which may contain biologically active substances. The analyses were performed using light, fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy. Three types of trichomes were found on the sepals and the surface of the ovary, whereas the corolla petals exhibited two types of hairs and papillae. The hairs differ in terms of their length and number of cells. The perianth and pistil had no capitate hairs, whereas the ovary exhibited the presence of colleters. Histochemical assays revealed that all the types of trichomes and papillae contained lipids or essential oils; hence, they can be classified as glandular structures. The "nectar guides" were characterised by higher density of secretory hairs than that on the rest of the petal surface, which implies that these petal fragments may emit stronger fragrance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agrobotanica is the property of Polish Botanical Society / Polskie Towarzystwo Botaniczne 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.)

Poland is the largest European Union producer of Rubus idaeus. This species provides insects with nectar and pollen from June to September. The rationale behind the present research is the increasing commercial production and the use of food attractants for pollinators increasing fruit yields. The intensive search for phytochemicals applicable in industry and phytotherapy together with the unavailability of data on anther epidermis and endothecium structure justify undertaking these investigations. The pollen mass, the content of elements, protein, and fat, as well as the composition of amino acids and fatty acids in the pollen of six R. idaeus cultivars were compared. In terms of pollen production, the cultivars ranked as follows: 'Pokusa' < 'Polana' < 'Glen Ample' < 'Polka' < 'Radziejowa' < 'Laszka'. The protein content (26–31%) in the pollen indicates its good quality and high attractiveness. Exogenous amino acids, including those with dietary importance, constituted a substantial proportion (33–39%). The content of MUFAs and PUFAs was 32–47% and 3.7–9.1%, respectively. The presence of elements that determine the nutritional value and proper development of pollen was detected in the mineral composition of the exine. The data on the epidermis and endothecium structure provide new information about the micromorphology, anatomy, ultrastructure of and generative organs and auxiliary criteria in the taxonomy of related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium is one of the most poorly reutilized nutrients. Its deficiencies cause various physiological disturbances and, consequently, reduce the quantity and quality of yields. Reduced content of Ca2+ ions in cells leads to development of, e.g., bitter pit in apples. Efficient and instantaneous mitigation of Ca2+ deficiencies is provided by foliar feeding. There are no detailed data on the effect of foliar feeding with various calcium forms on the cell structure or on the microanalysis and mapping of this element in apple fruit cells. Therefore, we carried out comparative studies of the ultrastructure of epidermis and hypodermis cells, to assess the content and distribution of calcium in the cell wall, cytoplasmic membrane, cytoplasm, and precipitates of Malus domestica Borkh. 'Szampion' fruit exposed to four Ca treatments, including the control with no additional Ca supplementation (I) and foliar applications of Ca(NO3)2 (II), CaCl2 (III), and Ca chelated with EDTA (IV). Light and transmission electron microscopy and an X-ray microanalyzer were used and showed a beneficial effect of calcium preparations on the ultrastructure of fruit epidermis and hypodermis cells, manifested in the presence of a normally developed cell wall with a regular middle lamella, preserved continuity of cytoplasmic membranes, and stabilized cell structure. In the selected elements of apical epidermis cells, the highest level of Ca2+ ions was detected in the middle lamella, cell wall, plasmalemma, and cytoplasm. The highest increase in the Ca2+ content in these cell constituents was recorded in treatment IV, whereas the lowest value of the parameters was noted in variant III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Rubus is one of the largest taxonomically diverse and complex genera in the family Rosaceae. Morphology of pollen grains (equatorial and polar axes length, shape and size, aperture position, exine sculpture, perforations) is regarded as one of its main diagnostic features for identification of species and varieties. An attempt was made to fill the gap concerning the pollen micromorphology and ultrastructure of R. idaeus L. using light, scanning, and electron transmission microscopy. This study is a comparative analysis of micromorphological and ultrastructural traits of pollen from six raspberry cultivars. The pollen grains were classified as small or medium of shape prolato-spheroids. The parallel striae in the equatorial view in the exine sculpture were sometimes branched dichotomously in 'Glen Ample', 'Polka', and 'Polana', arcuate in 'Laszka' and 'Pokusa', or irregularly overlapping in 'Radziejowa'. The width of exine striae of biennial fruiting cultivars was much larger than in repeated fruiting cultivars. In terms of the increasing number of perforations per unit area of the exine surface, the cultivars were ranked as follows: 'Pokusa' < 'Glen Ample' < 'Laszka' < 'Polka' < 'Polana' < 'Radziejowa'. The thickest tectum, the highest and thickest columellae with the largest distances between them, and the thicker foot layer were demonstrated in 'Glen Ample'. The ectoexine constituted on average ca. 78–90% of the exine thickness. The findings may constitute auxiliary traits i.a. for identification of related taxa, interpretation of phylogenetic relationships, and pollination biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal therapy is a potential alternative applied to pharmacological alleviation of depression symptoms and treatment of this disorder, which is predicted by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be the most serious health problem worldwide over the next several years. It has been well documented that many herbs with psychotropic effects have far fewer side effects than a variety of pharmaceutical agents used by psychiatrists for the treatment of depression. This systematic review presents literature data on the antidepressant activity of representatives of the genera Hemerocallis (H. fulva and H. citrina Baroni, family Xanthorrhoeaceae) and Gladiolus (G. dalenii, family Iridaceae) and on biologically active compounds and their mechanisms of action to consider the application of herbal preparations supporting the treatment of depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a research conducted to examine the nectar production and location and structure of the floral nectaries in the melliferous plant Daphne mezereum (D. mezereum) flowers. Topics discussed include high content of daphnin and coumarins in the D. mezereum's bark and Daphne odora's leaf buds, secretion of nectar onto the nectary surface of the stomata, and role of corolla filled with nectar in attracting bees and butterflies to the flower.

The article focuses on a research conducted to examine the micromorphology of pollen grains of three apricot species Prunus armeniaca cultivars including Early Orange, Harcot, and Wczesna z Morden using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy. Topics discussed include study's aim to determine shape, size, and exine ornamentation of the species, large distance in the striae observed in Harcot pollen grains, and perforation in tectum of Prunus armeniaca's pollen grains.