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The use of aquaponic systems has grown in recent years, but few of these systems have integrated the production of prawns and short-cycle vegetables. This study evaluated the potential for producing microgreens (beet, amaranth, arugula, and red cabbage) integrated with Amazon River prawns (Macrobrachium amazonicum) in an aquaponic system. Four seeding densities (5, 10, 15, or 20 seeds/cell) were assessed in two treatments: one using prawn wastewater and the other using plain dechlorinated water (control). Water quality, prawn growth performance, and microgreen productivity were monitored over 13 days, revealing optimal conditions for both prawns and microgreens in the aquaponic system. Amaranthus paniculatus yielded 374.00 g/m2 in prawn wastewater compared to 231.34 g/m2 in the control, while Beta vulgaris produced 1734.39 g/m2 in wastewater versus 1127.69 g/m2 in the control. Similarly, Brassica oleracea (2180.69 g/m2) and Eruca sativa (2109.46 g/m2) had higher yields in the prawn aquaponics system. These findings demonstrate that integrating prawn cultivation in aquaponic systems significantly enhances microgreen production compared to traditional methods. This integrated approach not only improves yields but also offers a more sustainable production model. Significant variation in productivity and growth metrics among species treatments underscores the viability and need for more systematic aquaponic procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The taxonomic classification of the genera Salsola L., Pyankovia Akhani and Roalson, and Xylosalsola Tzvelev within Chenopodiaceae Vent. (Amaranthaceae s.l.) remains controversial, with the precise number of species within these genera still unresolved. This study presents a comparative analysis of the complete plastid genomes of S. foliosa, S. tragus, P. affinis, and X. richteri species collected in Kazakhstan. The assembled plastid genomes varied in length, ranging from 151,177 bp to 152,969 bp for X. richteri and S. tragus. These genomes contained 133 genes, of which 114 were unique, including 80 protein-coding, 30 tRNA, and 4 rRNA genes. Thirteen regions, including ndhC-ndhD, rps16-psbK, petD, rpoC2, ndhA, petB, clpP, atpF, ycf3, accD, ndhF-ndhG, matK, and rpl20-rpl22, exhibited relatively high levels of nucleotide variation. A total of 987 SSRs were detected across the four analyzed plastid genomes, primarily located in the intergenic spacer regions. Additionally, 254 repeats were identified, including 92 tandem repeats, 88 forward repeats, 100 palindromic repeats, and only one reverse repeat. A phylogenetic analysis revealed clear clustering into four clusters corresponding to the Salsoleae and Caroxyloneae tribe clades. These nucleotide sequences obtained in this study represent a valuable resource for future phylogenetic analyses within the Salsoleae s.l. tribe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nomenclatural status and typification of the names Arthrocaulon macrostachyum, Salicornia fruticosa, S. fruticosa var. deflexa, S. fruticosa var. glaucescens, S. fruticosa var. intermedia, S. fruticosa var. humilis, S. fruticosa var. pachystachya, S. fruticulosa, S. glauca, S. lignosa, S. macrostachya var. virescens, S. macrostachya var. glaucescens, S. perennis, S. radicans, S. radicans var. caespitosa, S. sarmentosa, S. sempervirens, and S. virginica, as well as an unnamed β-variety of S. fruticosa proposed by A. Bertoloni, are investigated. Concerning A. macrostachyum, we document that the type indicated in literature (G00177362) is not a holotype, and that lectotypification is necessary. A specimen from G (G00687638) is here designated as a lectotype. On the level of variety, Arthrocnemum fruticosum var. macrostachyum is an earlier legitimate name for Salicornia fruticosa var. pachystachya. Furthermore, Piirainen et al. are incorrect when citing Forsskål's "Salicornia" from Alexandria as "S. virginica Forssk."; it is not a new name and should be cited as S. virginica auct. non L., as published in Forsskål's Flora Aegyptiaco-Arabica. Like with numerous other parallel cases in Flora Aegyptiaco-Arabica, Forsskål's designation of "Salicornia virginica" for an Arabian plant is to be considered a misapplication of the earlier Linnaean name for an American plant. Arthrocnemum glaucum (a nomen illegitimum of Ungern-Sternberg), was listed as type species of Arthrocnemum by the Names in Current Use project; the basionym, Salicornia glauca Delile, is here lectotypified and identified as Arthrocaulon meridionale, published by Ramirez et al. Updated synonymies of Arthrocaulon macrostachyum, A. meridionale, Salicornia fruticosa, and S. perennis are proposed. Salicornia sempervirens is an invalid name according to Art. 36.1a of ICN. No original material was found for S. radicans var. caespitosa. This paper also refer to lecto- or neotypifications on specimens deposited at BM, G, LINN-HS, LY, MPU, NAP, and PAL, and their current taxonomic positions are suggested in a taxonomic part of the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The digitization of herbarium collections is an important process that allows access to sometimes huge amounts of data that can be used in various natural sciences. In recent years, the collections of one of the thirty oldest herbariums in the world—the herbarium of the Jagiellonian University—have been digitized. This paper presents the resources of the economically very important Amaranthaceae family, which include 8801 herbarium sheets. They were analyzed in taxonomic, geographical, historical, and functional terms. Herbaria constitute a form of documentation, store and secure comparative material, as well as constitute an extra original gene bank. They are an invaluable database among others for the biological, ethnobotanical and agricultural sciences. The digitization of herbarium collections significantly facilitates access to archival materials; however, searching them is still time-consuming. Therefore, our work aims to analyze the herbarium collection of 8801 sheets for specimens representing the economically important family Amaranthaceae (Chenopodiaceae-Amaranthaceae clade) deposited the oldest herbarium in Poland, the herbarium of the Jagiellonian University (KRA). These specimens have been collected from almost all the continents in dozens of countries for over 200 years. The analyses conducted, including the taxonomic coverage, geographical characteristics and origin, temporal coverage and utility importance of representative species, present the discussed resources in a more accessible way and may become a more attractive form for scientists potentially interested in more advanced research work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Krascheninnikovia ewersmanniana is a dominant desert shrub in Xinjiang, China, with high economic and ecological value. However, molecular systematics research on K. ewersmanniana is lacking. To resolve the genetic composition of K. ewersmanniana within Amaranthaceae and its systematic relationship with related genera, we used a second-generation Illumina sequencing system to detect the chloroplast genome of K. ewersmanniana and analyze its assembly, annotation, and phylogenetics. Total length of the chloroplast genome of K. ewersmanniana reached 152,287 bp, with 84 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNAs, and eight rRNAs. Codon usage analysis showed the majority of codons ending with base A/U. Mononucleotide repeats were the most common (85.42%) of the four identified simple sequence repeats. A comparison with chloroplast genomes of six other Amaranthaceae species indicated contraction and expansion of the inverted repeat boundary region in K. ewersmanniana, with some genes (rps19, ndhF, ycf1) differing in length and distribution. Among the seven species, the variation in non-coding regions was greater. Phylogenetic analysis revealed Krascheninnikovia ceratoides, Dysphania ambrosioides, Dysphania pumilio, and Dysphania botrys to have a close monophyletic relationship. By sequencing the K. ewersmanniana chloroplast genome, this research resolves the relatedness among 35 Amaranthaceae species, providing molecular insights for germplasm utilization, and theoretical support for studying evolutionary relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Insect pests can be controlled by manipulating their behaviour, which can be achieved by understanding the cues they use to find their food plants. In this study, we explored how the sugar beet weevil, Asproparthenis punctiventris, responds to the odours of various food plants. Using an olfactometer, we tested the reactions of adult weevils to the volatile leaf odours of different food plants, including sugar beet and chard. The results showed that both male and female weevils were attracted to the leaf odours of young sugar beet and chard plants. However, only males responded positively to the odour of the garden orache, while there was no response to the odours of fat hen or the common amaranth. This suggests that the weevil uses leaf odours to locate sugar beet and other food plants. Knowledge of the olfactory responses of this pest can provide a basis for improved monitoring or mass trapping strategies. Understanding the stimuli used by insect pests to find their food plants can be a first step towards manipulating their behaviour and, thus, controlling them. We investigated the responses of the sugar beet weevil Asproparthenis punctiventris (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) to the volatile leaf odours of its food plants, including Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris (Altissima and Cicla groups), Atriplex hortensis, Chenopodium album, and Amaranthus retroflexus, in a four-arm olfactometer. A bioassay procedure was developed, and the frequency of visits and time spent by adult weevils in the quadrant of the olfactometer with leaf volatiles was recorded, as was their first choice of quadrant. Females and males were equally attracted to the leaf odours of young B. vulgaris subsp. vulgaris plants, i.e., sugar beet and chard, as indicated by the overall picture of the behavioural parameters analysed. Males, but not females, responded positively to the leaf odour of the garden orache (A. hortensis), and no response was observed when the weevils were tested with the leaf odours of fat hen (C. album) or common amaranth (A. retroflexus). These results suggest that A. punctiventris uses leaf odours to locate sugar beet and other food plants. Knowledge of the olfactory responses of this pest can provide a basis for improved monitoring or mass trapping strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus is a genus of C4 dicotyledonous herbaceous plant species that are widely distributed in Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe and are used as grain, vegetables, forages, and ornamental plants. Amaranth species have gained significant attention nowadays as potential sources of nutritious food and industrial products. In this study, we performed a comparative genome analysis of five amaranth species, namely, Amaranthus hypochondriacus, Amaranthus tuberculatus, Amaranthus hybridus, Amaranthus palmeri, and Amaranthus cruentus. The estimated repeat content ranged from 54.49% to 63.26% and was not correlated with the genome sizes. Out of the predicted repeat classes, the majority of repetitive sequences were Long Terminal Repeat (LTR) elements, which account for about 13.91% to 24.89% of all amaranth genomes. Phylogenetic analysis based on 406 single-copy orthologous genes revealed that A. hypochondriacus is most closely linked to A. hybridus and distantly related to A. cruentus. However, dioecious amaranth species, such as A. tuberculatus and A. palmeri, which belong to the subgenera Amaranthus Acnida, have formed their distinct clade. The comparative analysis of genomic data of amaranth species will be useful to identify and characterize agronomically important genes and their mechanisms of action. This will facilitate genomics-based, evolutionary studies, and breeding strategies to design faster, more precise, and predictable crop improvement programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species within the genus Chenopodium hold significant research interest due to their nutritional richness and salt tolerance. However, the morphological similarities among closely related species and a dearth of genomic resources have impeded their comprehensive study and utilization. In the present research, we conduct the sequencing and assembly of chloroplast (cp) genomes from six Chenopodium and related species, five of which were sequenced for the first time. These genomes ranged in length from 151,850 to 152,215 base pairs, showcased typical quadripartite structures, and encoded 85 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 1 pseudogene, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Compared with the previously published sequences of related species, these cp genomes are relatively conservative, but there are also some interspecific differences, such as inversion and IR region contraction. We discerned 929 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and a series of highly variable regions across 16 related species, predominantly situated in the intergenic spacer (IGS) region and introns. The phylogenetic evaluations revealed that Chenopodium is more closely related to genera such as Atriplex, Beta, Dysphania, and Oxybase than to other members of the Amaranthaceae family. These lineages shared a common ancestor approximately 60.80 million years ago, after which they diverged into distinct genera. Based on InDels and SNPs between species, we designed 12 pairs of primers for species identification, and experiments confirmed that they could completely distinguish 10 related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Soil salinization is a widespread problem, causing soil degradation and limiting agricultural productivity worldwide. However, the protection and restoration of halophyte species communities can effectively help improve and reconstruct saline–alkali land. We collected seeds of Suaeda salsa (Linn.) Pall., a highly salt-tolerant and widely distributed halophytic species, from seven different saline–alkali habitats, numbered S1–S7, of Songnen Plain, China, and tested their germination and seedling growth responses to saline–alkali stress. Results showed a strong saline–alkali tolerance in S. salsa seeds, but the germination characteristics and saline–alkali tolerance varied across provenances, highlighting the geographical variations in germination responses. The saline–alkali tolerance of S1 and S7 locations was significantly higher than that of others. Suaeda salsa has important applications in the restoration of saline–alkali soil. However, the seeds from appropriate provenances must be screened to ensure the best saline-alkaline tolerant variety. The germplasm materials from the selected varieties can also be used as high-quality sources to study the mechanism of saline–alkali tolerance in halophytes. These seeds can also serve as excellent germplasm resources for the restoration of saline–alkali soil. Salinity is a pressing and widespread abiotic stress, adversely affecting agriculture productivity and plant growth worldwide. Seed germination is the most critical stage to seedling growth and establishing plant species in harsh environments, including saline stress. However, seed germination characteristics and stress tolerance may vary among geographical locations, such as various provenances. Suaeda salsa (Linn.) Pall. (S. salsa) is a halophytic plant that exhibits high salt tolerance and is often considered a pioneer species for the restoration of grasslands. Understanding the germination characteristics and stress tolerance of the species could be helpful in the vegetation restoration of saline–alkali land. In this study, we collected S. salsa seeds from seven different saline–alkali habitats (S1–S7) in the Songnen Plain region to assess the germination and seedling growth responses to NaCl, Na2CO3, and NaHCO3, and to observe the recovery of seed germination after relieving the salt stress. We observed significant differences in germination and seedling growth under three salt stresses and among seven provenances. Resistance to Na2CO3 and NaHCO3 stress was considerably higher during seedling growth than seed germination, while the opposite responses were observed for NaCl resistance. Seeds from S1 and S7 showed the highest tolerance to all three salt stress treatments, while S6 exhibited the lowest tolerance. Seeds from S2 exhibited low germination under control conditions, while low NaCl concentration and pretreatment improved germination. Ungerminated seeds under high salt concentrations germinated after relieving the salt stress. Germination of ungerminated seeds after the abatement of salt stress is an important adaptation strategy for black S. salsa seeds. While seeds from most provenances regerminated under NaCl, under Na2CO3 and NaHCO3, only seeds from S4 and S7 regerminated. These findings highlight the importance of soil salinity in the maternal environment for successful seed germination and seedling growth under various salinity-alkali stresses. Therefore, seed sources and provenance should be considered for vegetation restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adaptive potential and biochemical properties of the Amaranthaceae species make them promising for introduction into agriculture and markets, particularly in arid conditions. Molecular genetic polymorphism analysis is the most powerful tool for studying plant resources; therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the polymorphisms of allelic variations in the ARF and SOD gene families, as well as the genetic diversity of six Amaranthaceae species, using retrotransposon-based fingerprinting with the multi-locus EPIC-PCR profiling approach. Additionally, the iPBS PCR amplification was employed for genome profiling, revealing variations in genetic diversity among the studied Amaranthaceae samples. The observed genetic diversity in Amaranthaceae species contributes to their enhanced tolerance to adverse environmental conditions. The knowledge about the genetic diversity of genes crucial in plant development and stress resistance can be useful for the genetic improvement of cultivated Amaranthaceae species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A spinach-supplemented diet exerts numerous health benefits, but high levels of oxalic acid and nitrate can cause medical problems, so their levels should be reduced, while the levels of vitamins and phytochemicals could be further increased by breeding. Conventional spinach breeding is limited by the very complex sex determination. However, these limitations could be circumvented in synergy with a biotechnological approach. Accordingly, tissue culture techniques allow rapid and efficient clonal propagation of selected valuable genotypes, and somatic embryogenesis has been recognized as a superior process for clonal propagation because somatic embryos resemble zygotic embryos and therefore can spontaneously develop into complete plants. Since spinach has been considered recalcitrant to in vitro regeneration for decades, a deeper insight into the mechanisms underlying somatic embryogenesis is important for a better understanding and further improvement of the efficiency of this process. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the major factors affecting somatic embryogenesis in spinach is presented and discussed, with particular emphasis on the synergistic effects of α-naphthaleneacetic acid, gibberellic acid, light, and the intrinsic predisposition of individual seedlings to somatic embryogenesis, as well as the expression of genes encoding key enzymes involved in the maintenance of gibberellin homeostasis and the levels of endogenous gibberellins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents data on phylogeny, genome size, and ploidy of species of the genus Kalidium Moq. in the flora of Kazakhstan. Genus Kalidium belongs to the tribe Salicornieae of the subfamily Salicornioideae of the family Chenopodiaceae and unites eight species, the main range of which covers the Iranian-Turanian and Central Asian deserts. There are four species in the flora of Kazakhstan: K. foliatum, K. caspicum, K. schrenkianum, and the recently described K. juniperinum. Populations of species of the genus Kalidium in the saline deserts of Kazakhstan occupy large areas, often forming monodominant communities. Sometimes there is a joint growth of two and very rarely three species of the genus. During the period of fieldwork (2021–2022), populations were identified in which these species grew together with a predominance, in most cases, of K. caspicum. Samples of representatives from 15 populations were collected for research. Selected plant samples were studied by flow cytometry to determine plant ploidy. Sequencing of nrITS and two chloroplast fragments were used to build a phylogenetic tree, including sequences from the NCBI database., A phylogenetic tree of species of the genus Kalidium was compiled, which takes previously published data into consideration. In the valley of the middle reaches of the Syrdarya River, tetraploid populations of K. caspicum were found. A hybrid between K. foliatum and K. caspicum was found in the Ili River valley (Almaty region, Uigur district). To identify phylogenetic processes at the intraspecific level, the SCoT (Start codon targeted) fingerprinting method was used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Anabasis is a member of the family Amaranthaceae (former name: Chenopodiaceae) and includes approximately 102 genera and 1400 species. The genus Anabasis is one of the most significant families in salt marshes, semi-deserts, and other harsh environments. They are also renowned for their abundance in bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, saponins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and betalain pigments. Since ancient times, these plants have been used to treat various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases and are used as an antirheumatic and diuretic. At the same time, the genus Anabasis is very rich in biologically active secondary metabolites that exhibit great pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antiangiogenic, antiulcer, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, etc. All of the listed pharmacological activities have been studied in practice by scientists from different countries and are presented in this review article to familiarize the entire scientific community with the results of these studies, as well as to explore the possibilities of using four plant species of the genus Anabasis as medicinal raw materials and developing medicines based on them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suaeda aralocaspica, which is an annual halophyte, grows in saline deserts in Central Asia with potential use in saline soil reclamation and salt tolerance breeding. Studying its genetic diversity is critical for effective conservation and breeding programs. In this study, we aimed to develop a set of polymorphic microsatellite markers to analyze the genetic diversity of S. aralocaspica. We identified 177,805 SSRs from the S. aralocaspica genome, with an average length of 19.49 bp, which were present at a density of 393.37 SSR/Mb. Trinucleotide repeats dominated (75.74%) different types of motifs, and the main motif was CAA/TTG (44.25%). We successfully developed 38 SSR markers that exhibited substantial polymorphism, displaying an average of 6.18 alleles with accompanying average polymorphism information content (PIC) value of 0.516. The markers were used to evaluate the genetic diversity of 52 individuals collected from three populations of S. aralocaspica in Xinjiang, China. The results showed that the genetic diversity was moderate to high, with a mean expected heterozygosity (He) of 0.614, a mean Shannon's information index (I) of 1.23, and a mean genetic differentiation index (Fst) of 0.263. The SSR markers developed in this study provide a valuable resource for future genetic studies and breeding programs of S. aralocaspica, and even other species in Suaeda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nomenclatural and taxonomic issues concerning Amaranthus caudatus and the related taxa are presented. Types are designated for names A. caudatus var. albiflorus (neotype at RO), A. caudatus var. atropurpureus (neotype at GH), A. caudatus var. gibbosus (neotype at RO), A. dussi (neotype at NAP), and A. edulis (lectotype at LP). Holotypes are indicated for the names A. caudatus var. pseudopaniculatus f. oblongipetalus (EA), A. caudatus var. pseudopaniculatus f. pseudopaniculatus (EA), A. caudatus subsp. saueri (PR), and Amaranthus edulis var. spadiceus (CORD). The names A. caudatus var. albiflorus, A. caudatus var. atropurpureus, A. caudatus subsp. saueri, A. dussi, and Amaranthus edulis var. spadiceus are considered as hererotypic synonyms of A. caudatus. On the basis of morphological, cytological, and molecular data, the taxa caudatus, mantegazzianus, and gibbosus are here proposed to be treated as different species. A new name—Amaranthus baileyanus—is proposed for A. caudatus var. gibbosus because of a previous and validly published Amaranthus gibbosus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus is a genus taxonomically complex because of its high morphological variability, which led to nomenclatural disorders, misapplication of names, and misidentifications. Floristic and taxonomic studies on this genus are still incomplete, and many questions remain open. Seed micromorphology has been shown to play an important role in the taxonomy of plants. Regarding Amaranthaceae and Amaranthus, investigations are rare, and they refer to one or a few species. With the primary aim to test if seed features are helpful in the taxonomy of Amaranthus, we here present a detailed SEM study on seed micromorphology in 25 Amaranthus taxa using morphometric methods. Seeds were collected from field surveys and herbarium specimens; 14 seed coat features (7 qualitative and 7 quantitative) were measured on 111 samples (up to 5 seeds per sample). The results obtained revealed that seeds micromorphology provides interesting new taxonomic data concerning some taxa (species and below ranks). In fact, we were able to distinguish a few seed types, including one or more taxa, i.e., blitum-type, crassipes-type, deflexus-type, tuberculatus-type, and viridis-type. On the other hand, seed features are not useful for other species, for example, those included in the deflexus-type (A. deflexus, A. vulgatissimus, A. cacciatoi, A. spinosus, A. dubius, and A. stadleyanus). A diagnostic key of the studied taxa is proposed. Subgenera cannot be distinguished using seed features, thus confirming the published molecular data. All these facts reveal, once again, the taxonomic complexity of the genus Amaranthus since, e.g., just a few seed types can be defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Agriophyllum squarrosum (sand rice) is an annual psammophyte that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many years. Its medicinal properties have been studied in mice and human, but the nutritional value and metabolic function of the above-ground parts as a ruminant feed ingredient have not been reported. Here, we find that supplementing lamb diets with A. squarrosum reduced blood lipids, enhanced immunity and anti-inflammatory capacities, and mediated lipid metabolism in adipose tissue and adipocytes of Tan lambs. These findings have provided strong evidence that A. squarrosum has the potential to be used as a beneficial dietary supplement for ruminants. Agriophyllum squarrosum (sand rice), a widespread desert plant, possesses anti-hyperglycemic and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many years. However, its effects on ruminants are unknown. To fill this gap, we examined the effects of A. squarrosum on the immune and anti-inflammatory responses of lambs. A total of 23, 6-month-old Tan ewe-lambs (27.6 ± 0.47 kg) were divided into four groups and offered a basic diet (C—control), or a diet that contained 10%, 20%, or 30% A. squarrosum, on a dry matter basis, for 128 days. Serum concentrations of total cholesterol were lower (p = 0.004) in the 30% supplemented lambs than controls, while concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were lower (p = 0.006) in the 10% and 20%, but not in 30% supplemented lambs than controls. Serum-cortisol concentrations were lower (p = 0.012) in the 30% supplemented lambs and free fatty acid concentrations were higher in the 10% and 20% supplemented lambs than in control lambs (p < 0.001). Supplementation with A. squarrosum decreased (p < 0.05) the area of adipocytes in subcutaneous adipose tissue, but there was no difference between the 20% and 30% diets. Conversely, the area in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) increased (p < 0.05), especially for the 10% and 20% supplemented diets. Supplementation with A. squarrosum also enriched immune and anti-inflammatory related and lipid and glucose-metabolic pathways and associated differentially expressed gene expressions in adipose tissue. A total of 10 differential triacylglycerol, 34 differential phosphatidylcholines and seven differential phosphatidylethanolamines decreased in the diet with 30% supplementation, when compared to the other diets. Finally, adipocyte-differentiation genes, and immune and inflammatory response-related gene expression levels decreased in lamb adipocytes cultured with an aqueous A. squarrosum extract. In conclusion, supplementing lamb diets with A. squarrosum reduced blood lipids, enhanced immunity and anti-inflammatory capacities, and mediated lipid metabolism in adipose tissue and adipocytes of Tan lambs. A level of approximately 10% is recommended, but further research is required to determine the precise optimal level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axyris is a small genus of six species with a disjunct geographic range. Five species are present in Siberia, Central Asia, the Himalayas, and Tibet, whereas Axyris caucasica has been registered in the Central Caucasus only. Axyris species diversity is the highest in the Altai Mountains (four spp.), followed by the Tian Shan and Pamir Mountains (three spp.), and the Himalayas and Tibet (two spp.). Axyris sphaerosperma, sometimes considered endemic to Southern Siberia, in fact has a disjunct range: it is present in the lowlands of Eastern Siberia and in the Altai, Tian Shan, and Pamir Mountains. It has also been found in Mongolia and China for the first time. An updated detailed distribution of Axyris in Siberia is presented on the basis of thorough herbarium revisions. One nuclear and three plastid markers were selected for phylogenetic analysis. Divergence times were estimated using a time-calibrated Bayesian approach. Axyris shows two major clades: an Axyris amaranthoides clade and a clade including the remaining species. The latter clade consists of two subclades (A. sphaerosperma/A. caucasica and A. mira/A. prostrata + A. hybrida). The crown age for Axyris dates back to the Early Pliocene (~5.11 mya, the Zanclean). The ancestral range of Axyris covers Southern Siberia, Mongolia, NW China, and the Tian Shan/Pamir Mountains, with extensions toward Eastern Siberia, the Himalayas/Tibet, and the Caucasus. Fruit and seed characteristics of Axyris are discussed with reference to the present phylogenetic results. Closely related A. sphaerosperma and A. caucasica have the thickest seed coat among all Chenopodiaceae, and these traits have probably evolved as adaptations to extremely low winter temperatures. This reproductive peculiarity may explain the disjunct range of A. sphaerosperma, which is restricted to harsh climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reported annual temperature increase and significant precipitation drop in Armenia impact the country's ecosystems and biodiversity. The present study surveyed the geographical distribution of the local wild beet species under the ongoing climate change conditions. We showed that B. lomatogona, B. corolliflora and B. macrorhiza are sensitive to climate change and were affected to various degrees, depending on their location. The most affected species was B. lomatogona, which is at the verge of extinction. Migration for ca. 90 and 200–300 m up the mountain belt was recorded for B. lomatogona and B. macrorhiza, respectively. B. corolliflora was found at 100–150 m lower altitudes than in the 1980s. A general reduction in the beet's population size in the native habitats was observed, with an increased number of plants within the populations, recorded for B. corolliflora and B. macrorhiza. A new natural hybrid Beta x intermedium Aloyan between B. corolliflora and B. macrorhiza was described and confirmed using chloroplast DNA trnL-trnF intergenic spacer (LF) and partially sequenced alcohol dehydrogenase (adh) of nuclear DNA. An overview of the wild beets reported in Armenia with the taxonomic background, morphological features, and distribution is provided. Conservation measures for preservation of these genetic resources are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd., Amaranthaceae) is an environmental stress-resilient crop of increasing global importance. Sowing density is a critical factor in the quinoa cultivation protocol. We evaluated the row-spacing effect on quinoa growth, yield, and grain quality under Mediterranean conditions. We hypothesized that lower row spacing would reduce quinoa stem diameter and increase yield but may reduce grain quality. Two quinoa accessions were sown in northern Israel with 16, 26, or 80 cm between rows during two consecutive years, in November and January each year. Plant density at harvest ranged from 22 to 260 plants m−2. Plant height and stem diameter ranged from 77 to 126 and 6.3 to 10.5 cm, respectively. Hay, grain, and straw yield ranged from 2259 to 17,979, 1604 to 4266, and 1212 to 3660 kg DM ha−1, respectively. Grain protein content (PC) ranged from 5.2 to 14.2 and thousand grain weight (TGW) from 2033 to 3446 mg. Plant density, hay, grain, and straw yield were negatively correlated to row spacing. Stem diameter was positively correlated to row spacing, while there were no correlations between this parameter and plant height, grain PC, or TGW. Results indicated that 16 cm between rows may be optimal, as this produced the greatest yields with no effect on grain quality. However, as it may result in plant lodging, 26 cm row spacing should also be considered. The effects of additional management-related parameters on quinoa production should be examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb., commonly known as "Alligator weed" in English, and "Malancha" in Bengali, is a leafy vegetable from the family Amaranthaceae A. L. de Jussieu. This species is native to China, particularly to the provinces around the Yangtze River, other Far East and South-East Asian countries, and countries from other continents (e.g., South America). This plant also grows in certain areas in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. While in Bangladesh the leaves of this plant are consumed as a vegetable, in China, this plant has been used widely as a traditional remedy for the treatment of various viral diseases (e.g., measles, influenza, and haemorrhagic fever). Flavonoids and saponins are the two largest groups of phytochemicals produced by this plant, and the antiviral property of this plant and its compounds has been studied extensively. This review article reviews all published literature on this plant and critically appraises its phytochemical profile linking to biomolecular interactions and therapeutic potential, particularly, against viral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suaeda aralocaspica is an annual halophyte in the Amaranthaceae in the saline deserts of central Asia. This plant has succulent leaves and grape-like fruits and is a potential horticultural plant. To obtain the efficient sterilization method and optimal culture conditions, two types of seeds produced from a single plant of S. aralocaspica were treated with 75% ethanol for different time durations first, and then sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) or mercury chloride (HgCl2), with five different timing treatments were used for second seed surface sterilization. Sterilized seeds were germinated on a Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium at different potential hydrogenation (pH) levels, to examine germination and seedling performance. The results showed that the highest germination percentage of brown seeds was 100% and that of black seeds was 17%. Thus, brown seeds were more suitable for further culture experiments than black seeds. For brown seeds, the sterilization effect of NaClO was better than that of HgCl2, based on the results of seed germination, contamination, and seedling survival. Rinsing with 75% ethanol for 60 s, sterilizing with NaClO for 8 min, and cultivating at pH 8.0 MS for 7 days was the best of all sterilization procedures and cultivation methods tested, which has been successfully applied to S. aralocaspica in vitro culture. The optimized protocol described here can be used as the reference for the Suaeda genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Salsola L. (Russian thistle, Saltwort) includes halophyte plants and is considered one of the largest genera in the family Amaranthaceae. The genus involves annual semi-dwarf to dwarf shrubs and woody tree. The genus Salsola is frequently overlooked, and few people are aware of its significance. The majority of studies focus on pollen morphology and species identification. Salsola has had little research on its phytochemical makeup or biological effects. Therefore, we present this review to cover all aspects of genus Salsola, including taxonomy, distribution, differences in the chemical constituents and representative examples of isolated compounds produced by various species of genus Salsola and in relation to their several reported biological activities for use in folk medicine worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achyranthes bidentata, a Chinese medicinal herb, is reported to be neuroprotective. However, its role in cardioprotection remains largely unknown. Our present study aimed to investigate the effects of Achyranthes bidentata polypeptides (ABPP) preconditioning on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury and to test the possible mechanisms. Rats were treated with ABPP (10 mg/kg/d, i.p.) or saline once daily for one week. Afterward, all the animals were subjected to 30 min of myocardial ischemia followed by 4 h of reperfusion. ABPP preconditioning for one week significantly improved cardiac function following MI/R. Meanwhile, ABPP reduced infarct size, plasma creatine kinase (CK)/lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and myocardial apoptosis at the end of reperfusion in rat hearts. Moreover, ABPP preconditioning significantly inhibited superoxide generation, gp91phox expression, malonaldialdehyde formation and enhanced superoxide dismutase activity in I/R hearts. Furthermore, ABPP treatment inhibited PTEN expression and increased Akt phosphorylation in I/R rat heart. PI3K inhibitor wortmannin blocked Akt activation, and abolished ABPP-stimulated anti-oxidant effect and cardioprotection. Our study demonstrated for the first time that ABPP reduces oxidative stress and exerts cardioprotection against MI/R injury in rats. Inhibition of PTEN and activation of Akt may contribute to the anti-oxidant capacity and cardioprotection of ABPP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new phytoecdysteroids, (25S)-20,22-O-(R-ethylidene)inokosterone (1) and 20,22-O-(R-3-methoxycarbonyl)propylidene-20-hydroxyecdysone (2), together with six known phytoecdysteroids 3-8 were isolated from the roots of Achyranthes bidentata Blume. The new structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic studies and chemical evidences. The absolute configuration at C-25 in the structure of known compound 3 was determined by chemical and spectroscopic means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new phytoecdysteroid compounds, named niuxixinsterone A (1), B (2) and C (3) with acetal functions in the side-chain were isolated from Achyranthes bidentata Bl. The structures were established as (20R,22R,24S)-20-O,22-O-(5'-hydroxymethyl)-furfurylidene-2β,3β,14α,25-tetrahydroxy-5β-ergost-7-en-6-one (1), (20R,22R)-20-O,22-O-(5'-hydroxymethyl)-furfurylidene-2β,3β,25-trihydroxy-14β-methyl-18-nor-5β-cholesta-7,12-dien-6-one (2) and (20R,22R,25R)-20-O,22-O-(5'-hydroxymethyl)-furfurylidene-2β, 3β,5β,14α,26-pentahydroxycholest-7-en-6-one (3) by means of spectroscopic evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products continue to provide inspiring moieties for the treatment of various diseases. In this regard, investigation of wild plants, which have not been previously explored, is a promising strategy for reaching medicinally useful drugs. The present study aims to investigate the antidiabetic potential of nine Amaranthaceae plants: Agathophora alopecuroides, Anabasis lachnantha, Atriplex leucoclada, Cornulaca aucheri, Halothamnus bottae, Halothamnus iraqensis, Salicornia persia, Salsola arabica, and Salsola villosa, growing in the Qassim area, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The antidiabetic activity of the hydroalcoholic extracts was assessed using in vitro testing of α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory effects. Among the nine tested extracts, A. alopecuroides extract (AAE) displayed potent inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase enzyme with IC50 117.9 µg/mL noting better activity than Acarbose (IC50 191.4 µg/mL). Furthermore, AAE displayed the highest α- amylase inhibitory activity among the nine tested extracts, with IC50 90.9 µg/mL. Based upon in vitro testing results, the antidiabetic activity of the two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg) of AAE was studied in normoglycemic and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. The effects of the extract on body weight, food and water intakes, random blood glucose level (RBGL), fasting blood glucose level (FBGL), insulin, total cholesterol, and triglycerides levels were investigated. Results indicated that oral administration of the two doses of AAE showed a significant dose-dependent increase (p < 0.05) in the body weight and serum insulin level, as well as a significant decrease in food and water intake, RBGL, FBGL, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, in STZ-induced diabetic mice, compared with the diabetic control group. Meanwhile, no significant differences of both extract doses were observed in normoglycemic mice when compared with normal control animals. This study revealed a promising antidiabetic activity of the wild plant A. alopecuroides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Plants of the family Amarantaceae are hosts to hundreds of gall-midge taxa (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), one of which is the genus Halodiplosis, which has been known so far from 99 species, almost all of which are from Central Asia. Immature stages have never been described in this genus nor have molecular data been used in its classification. In preparation for the description of 10 new species from Israel, we conducted a thorough review of the taxonomic literature on Halodiplosis (almost all of which is in Russian) and found that this genus should be divided into several genera based on morphological and life-history attributes. As a result, we reinstated the genus Asiodiplosis for most of the species in this group, all of which develop in complex bud galls. This leaves only 14 species in Halodiplosis, which live in galls induced by other gall-midges or develop in plant tissues without causing distinct galls. Here we describe nine Asiodiplosis species and one Halodiplosis species from Israel based on morphological and molecular data, including the first description of larvae and pupae for these genera. This work demonstrates the value of combining morphological, molecular, and life-history data to resolve the systematics of taxonomically difficult groups. The genus Halodiplosis includes 99 species restricted to host-plants of the Amaranthaceae, virtually all of which are from Central Asia. The discovery of numerous undescribed species putatively belonging to this genus in Israel instigated an exhaustive review of the original descriptions of all known species in this genus. This study revealed that the generic concept of Halodiplosis and some of the genera synonymized under it should be redefined based on morphological and life-history attributes, such that Halodiplosis is limited to only 13 species developing in plant tissues without obvious gall formation or as inquilines in galls of other cecidomyiids. Revised status were proposed for Asiodiplosis, Onodiplosis, and Desertomyia, all species of which are gall inducers. A detailed morphological study of the Israeli species combined with data on their life history and an analysis of mitochondrial COI and 16S gene sequences revealed nine gall-inducing species belonging to Asiodiplosis and one inquilinous species belonging to Halodiplosis. All ten species (Asiodiplosis admirabilis n.sp., A. bimoda n.sp., A. delicatula n.sp., A. largifica n.sp., A. mohicana n.sp., A. mucronata n.sp., A. paradoxa n.sp., A. pillosaeconspicua n.sp., A. stellata n.sp., and Halodiplosis fugax n.sp.) are described here as new to science, including the first descriptions of larvae and pupae for these genera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthaceae (incl. Chenopodiaceae) shows an immense diversity of C4 syndromes. More than 15 independent origins of C4 photosynthesis, and the largest number of C4 species in eudicots signify the importance of this angiosperm lineage in C4 evolution. Here, we conduct RNA-Seq followed by comparative transcriptome analysis of three species from Camphorosmeae representing related clades with different photosynthetic types: Threlkeldia diffusa (C3), Sedobassia sedoides (C2), and Bassia prostrata (C4). Results show that B. prostrata belongs to the NADP-ME type and core genes encoding for C4 cycle are significantly upregulated when compared with Sed. sedoides and T. diffusa. Sedobassia sedoides and B. prostrata share a number of upregulated C4-related genes; however, two C4 transporters (DIT and TPT) are found significantly upregulated only in Sed. sedoides. Combined analysis of transcription factors (TFs) of the closely related lineages (Camphorosmeae and Salsoleae) revealed that no C3-specific TFs are higher in C2 species compared with C4 species; instead, the C2 species show their own set of upregulated TFs. Taken together, our study indicates that the hypothesis of the C2 photosynthesis as a proxy towards C4 photosynthesis is questionable in Sed. sedoides and more in favour of an independent evolutionary stable state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoa has acquired a great interest due to its high content of nutrients and biomolecules that have nutritional and medicinal properties. The aim of this study was to compare the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids (TF), and the antioxidant capacity of 20 varieties of seeds and sprouts of quinoa extract. Quinoa seeds were germinated for 72 h and dried in an oven at 45 °C. The extracts were obtained by dynamic extraction using methanol. Phytochemical analysis with liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS), TPC, TF, and the antioxidant capacity was carried out and compared between both extracts. The TPC was determined with Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, TF with AlCl3, and the antioxidant capacity was determined according to the DPPH and ABTS assays. Sprout extracts showed high values of TPC (31.28 ± 0.42 mg GAE/g; Pasankalla variety), TF (14.31 ± 0.50 mg EQ/g; black Coito variety), and antioxidant capacity (IC50 (DPPH): 12.69 ± 0.29 µg/mL and IC50 (ABTS): 3.51 ± 0.04 µg/mL; Pasankalla). The extracts of the Pasankalla variety revealed 93 and 90 phytochemical constituents in the seeds and sprouts, respectively, such as amino acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, fatty acids, and triterpene saponins, among others. Quinoa sprouts showed a high content of TPC and TF, and high antioxidant capacity compared with seed extracts, especially the Pasankalla variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fat/carbohydrate-rich diet consumption or elevated secretion of pancreatic lipase (PL) in pancreatic injury results in increased fat digestion and storage. Several metabolites in plant-based diets can help achieve the requirements of nutrition and fitness together. Presently, nutritional metabolites from Amaranthus tricolor, A. viridis, and Achyranthes aspera were assessed and predicted for daily intake. The volatile-metabolite profiling of their extracts using GC-MS revealed various antioxidant and bioactive components. The implication of these specialized components and antioxidant-rich extracts (EC50 free radical scavenging: 34.1 ± 1.5 to 166.3 ± 14.2 µg/mL; FRAP values: 12.1 ± 1.0 to 34.0 ± 2.0 µg Trolox Equivalent/mg) in lipolysis regulation by means of interaction with PL was checked by in silico docking (Betahistine and vitamins: ΔGbind −2.3 to −4.4 kcal/mol) and in vitro fluorescence quenching. Out of the various compounds and extracts tested, Betahistine, ATRA and AVLA showed better quenching the PL fluorescence. The identification of potential extracts as source of functional components contributing to nutrition and fat regulation can be improved through such study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existence of more of 16,000 varieties of quinoa accessions around the world has caused a disregard on their structural and phytochemical characteristics. Most of such accessions belong to cultivars settled in Colombia. The goal of this research was to evaluate the structural attributes and antioxidant capacities from six quinoa cultivars with high productive potential from central regions in Colombia. This study used middle-range infrared spectroscopy (IR-MIR) to determine the proteins, starch and lipids distinctive to quinoa grains. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization Orbitrap, along with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC/ESI-Orbitrap MS), were also used to identify the existence of polyphenols in cultivars. The antioxidant capacity was determined through DPPH, ABTS and FRAP. The spectrums exhibited significant variances on the transmittance bands associated with 2922 cm−1, 1016 cm−1 and 1633 cm−1. Moreover, the intensity variations on the peaks from the secondary protein structure were identified, mainly on the bands associated with β-Sheet-1 and -2, random coil α elice and β-turns-2 and -3. Changes found in the ratios 996 cm−1/1014 cm−1 and 1041 cm−1/1014 cm−1 were associated with the crystalline/amorphous affinity. Regarding the antioxidant capacity, great differences were identified (p < 0.001) mainly through FRAP methods, while the phenolic acids and flavonoids were determined by UHPLC/ESI-Orbitrap MS techniques. The presence of apigenin and pinocembrin on grains was reported for the first time. Titicaca and Nariño were the most phytochemically diverse quinoa seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agasicles hygrophila is a classical biological agent used to control alligator weed ( Alternanthera philoxeroides ). Previous research has indicated that the heat shock factor (HSF) is involved in regulating the transcriptional expression of Hsp70 in response to heat resistance in A. hygrophila. However, the regulatory mechanism by which AhHsf regulates the expression of AhHsp70 remains largely unknown. Here, we identified and cloned a 944 bp AhHsp70 promoter ( AhHsp70 p) region from A. hygrophila. Subsequent bioinformatics analysis revealed that the AhHsp70 p sequence contains multiple functional elements and has a common TATA box approximately 30 bp upstream of the transcription start site, with transcription commencing at a purine base approximately 137 bp upstream of ATG. Promoter deletion analyses revealed that the sequence from -944 to -744 bp was the core regulatory region. A dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that overexpressed AhHsf significantly enhanced the activity of AhHsp70 p. Furthermore, qPCR showed that AhHsp70 expression increased with time in Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells, and AhHsf overexpression significantly upregulated AhHsp70 expression in vitro. Characterization of the upstream regulatory mechanisms demonstrated that AhHsf binds to upstream cis -acting elements in the promoter region of AhHsp70 from -944 to -744 bp to activate the AhHSF-AhHSP pathway at the transcriptional level to protect A. hygrophila from high temperature damage. Furthermore, we proposed a molecular model of AhHsf modulation of AhHsp70 transcription following heat shock in A. hygrophila . The findings of this study suggest that enhancing the heat tolerance of A. hygrophila by modulating the upstream pathways of the Hsp family can improve the biocontrol of A. philoxeroides .

Understanding the salt tolerance mechanism in obligate halophytes provides valuable information for conservation and re-habitation of saline areas. Here, we investigated the responses of three obligate halophytes namely Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, Sarcocornia fruticosa and Salicornia europaea to salt stress (0, 100, 200, 400 and 600 mM NaCl) during their vegetative growth with regard to biomass, ions contents (Na+, K+ and Ca2+), chlorophyll contents, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and superoxide dismutase, peroxidase and esterase activities. S. europaea showed the lowest biomass, root K+ content, Chl a/b ratio, and carotenoids under salinity. This reduction of biomass is concomitant with the increase in proline contents and peroxidase activity. On the other hand, the promotion of growth under low salinity and maintenance under high salinity (200 and 400 Mm NaCl) in A. Macrostachyum and S. fruticosa are accompanied by an increase in Chl a/b ratio, carotenoids, phenolics contents, and esterase activity. Proline content was decreased under high salinity (400 and 600 mM NaCl) in both species compared to S. europaea, while peroxidase showed the lowest activity in both plants under all salt levels except under 600 mM NaCl in Arthrocnemum macrostachyum compared to S. europaea. These results suggest two differential strategies; (1) the salt tolerance is due to activation of antioxidant enzymes and biosynthesis of proline in S. europaea, (2) the salt tolerance in A. macrostachyum, S. fruticosa are due to rearrangement of chlorophyll ratio and biosynthesis of antioxidant compounds (carotenoids, phenolics and flavonoids) which their cost seem to need less energy than activation of antioxidant enzymes. The differential behavior in halophytes of the same habitat confirms that the tolerance mechanism in halophytes is species-specific which provides new insight about the restoration strategy of saline areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crude ethanol extract of the whole plant of Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb was investigated for its potential as antidementia, induced by estrogen deprivation, based on in vitro antioxidant activity, β-amyloid aggregation inhibition and cholinesterase inhibitory activity, as well as in vivo Morris water maze task (MWMT), novel object recognition task (NORT), and Y-maze task. To better understand the effect of the extract, oxidative stress-induced brain membrane damage through lipid peroxidation in the whole brain was also investigated. Additionally, expressions of neuroinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) and estrogen receptor-mediated facilitation genes such as PI3K and AKT mRNA in the hippocampus and frontal cortex were also evaluated. These effects were confirmed by the determination of its serum metabolites by NMR metabolomic analysis. Both the crude extract of A. philoxeroides and its flavone constituents were found to inhibit β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanidins are widely studied polyphenolics owing to their antiradical activity. Recently, beetroot dyes have drawn an attention as possible radical scavengers, but scant information can be found on this topic. In this study selected compounds were investigated using computational chemistry methods. Implicit water at physiological pH was chosen as the environment of interest. Betalains' dissociation process and electronic structure were examined, as well as the reactivity in six pathways against some common radicals, such as hydroxyl, hydroperoxide, superoxide, and nitric oxide. The study showed that all carboxyl groups are dissociated in the given conditions. The dissociation process impacts the electronic structure, which has consequences for the overall activity. Highly stabilized conjugated structures favor the electron–accepting type of scavenging reactions, primarily by a radical adduct formation mechanism. Betanidin and indicaxanthin were found to be the most promising of the compounds studied. Nevertheless, the study established the role of betalains as powerful antiradical dietary agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sclerolaena napiformis is a perennial chenopod endemic to southeast Australia. Human-mediated habitat loss and fragmentation over the past century has caused a rapid decline in abundance and exacerbated reduced connectivity between remnant populations across three disjunct regions. To assess conservation requirements, we measured the genetic structure of 27 populations using double digest RADseq). We combined our genetic data with habitat models under projected climate scenarios to identify changes in future habitat suitability. There was evidence of regional differentiation that may pre-date (but also may be compounded) by recent habitat fragmentation. We also found significant correlation between genetic and geographic distance when comparing sites across regions. Overall, S. napiformis showed low genetic diversity and a relatively high proportion of inbreeding/selfing. Climate modelling, based on current occupancy, predicts a reduction in suitable habitat for S. napiformis under the most conservative climate change scenario. We suggest that the best conservation approach is to maximise genetic variation across the entire species range to allow dynamic evolutionary processes to proceed. We recommend a conservation strategy that encourages mixing of germplasm within regions and permits mixed provenancing across regions to maximise genetic novelty. This will facilitate shifts in genetic composition driven by individual plant fitness in response to the novel environmental conditions this species will experience over the next 50 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various plant species contain biocidal and/or semiochemical components. These can be used for managing insect pests, in order to reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and to improve the quality of vegetable crops. This study was conducted to assess the effect of repellent plants Ocimum gratissimum L. and Ocimum basilicum L. on aphids Aphis craccivora Koch, Aphis fabae Scopoli and Myzus persicae Sulzer when they are associated with Amaranthus hybridus L. plants. The results have shown that in the two approaches tested—Ocimum sp. plants surrounded by A. hybridus plants and the dual-choice test—the number of aphids on the A. hybridus plant associated with either O. gratissimum or O. basilicum was significantly less significant compared to the A. hybridus alone. This first study on the association between A. hybridus and Ocimum spp. shows that the Ocimum species might be used as an alternative method for controlling aphids in order to avoid the use of synthetic pesticides on Amaranthus. The ability of Ocimum spp. to repel pests can make it an important companion plant for farmers, because those plants can not only be used to control pests, but they can also be harvested, providing a direct economic return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leishmaniasis is a group of neglected tropical diseases caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus. The absence of effective vaccines and the limitations of current treatments make the search for effective therapies a real need. Different plant-derived essential oils (EOs) have shown antileishmanial effects, in particular from Bixa orellana L. (EO-Bo) and Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants (EO-Da). In the present study, the EO-Bo and EO-Da, formulated in nanocochleates (EO-Bo-NC and EO-Da-NC, respectively), were evaluated in vitro and in vivo against L. amazonensis. The EO-Bo-NC and EO-Da-NC did not increase the in vitro inhibitory activity of the EOs, although the EO-Bo-NC showed reduced cytotoxic effects. In the animal model, both formulations (30 mg/kg/intralesional route/every 4 days/4 times) showed no deaths or weight loss greater than 10%. In the animal (mouse) model, EO-Bo-NC contributed to the control of infection (p < 0.05) in comparison with EO-Bo treatment, while the mice treated with EO-Da-NC exhibited larger lesions (p < 0.05) compared to those treated with EO-Da. The enhanced in vivo activity observed for EO-Bo-NC suggests that lipid-based nanoformulations like nanocochleates should be explored for their potential in the proper delivery of drugs, and in particular, the delivery of hydrophobic materials for effective cutaneous leishmaniasis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halophytes are naturally adapted in saline environments, where they benefit from the substantial amounts of salt in the growth media. The need for salt-tolerant crops increases as substantial percentages of cultivated land worldwide are affected by salinity. There are few protocols, guidelines, or trials for glasswort (Salicornia (L.) and Sarcocornia (Scott), belong to the Amaranthaceae) field cultivation. The high salt tolerance and content in bioactive compounds make glassworts one of the most important candidates for future use both for fresh and processed food, due to their functional and health properties. This review describes the glassworts respect to their biodiversity and the most important factors affecting propagation, salt tolerance traits, agro-techniques and yields, food uses and nutraceutical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharide (ABPS) supplementation on performance, immune response, intestinal mucosal morphology, and gut microbiome in yellow-feathered broilers challenged with Escherichia coli K88. A 2 × 2 factorial design was used for the trial. Two hundred and forty one-day-old female broilers were randomly assigned to four treatments: (1) negative-control broilers were fed by a basal diet and saline (NG); (2) positive-control broilers were fed by a basal diet and orally challenged with 108 CFU E. coli K88 (CNG); (3) ABP group broilers were fed by a basal diet containing ABPS (500 mg/kg of feed) and saline; (4) CABP group broilers were fed by a basal diet containing ABPS (500 mg/kg of feed) and orally challenged with 108 CFU E. coli K88. Growth performance, serum biochemical indexes, immune responses, intestinal mucosal morphology, and cecal microbial community structure were evaluated. The ABP group had greatest body weight (BW), average daily body weight gain (ADG), and intestinal villus height compared to other treatments (p < 0.05). The CABP group had a higher villus height/crypt depth ratio (V/C) compared with other treatments (p < 0.05). The expression levels of NF-κB were lower in the ABP group. The CNG group had higher Escherichia coli and Enterococcus contents in cecal samples compared to other treatments (p < 0.05). Serum glucose, uric acid, TNF-α, and Secretory Immunoglobulin A (S-IgA) levels were higher in broilers challenged with E. coli (p < 0.001) than that with saline. Broilers challenged with E. coli had reduced taxa richness in the cecal samples. Sequencing of 16S rRNA genes in cecal samples revealed that a lower proportion of Firmicutes and a higher proportion of Proteobacteria were detected in the broilers challenged with E. coli. Compared with the controls, dietary ABPS supplementation increased serum total protein, albumin, and S-IgA levels, but decreased serum glucose, uric acid, and TNF-α levels in broilers (p < 0.05). Diet supplemented with ABPS increased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and the abundance of Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae, and altered cecal microbiota community structure. These results suggest that ABPS can promote growth performance and improve intestinal morphology and microbiota community structure in broilers challenged with E. coli K88. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural pigments are largely distributed in the plant kingdom. They belong to diverse groups, with distinct biochemical pathways. Betalains with colours that range from yellow to red-violet can de divided into two main subgroups: betaxanthins and betacyanins. These types of pigments are confined into 13 families of the order Caryophyllales and in some genera of higher fungi (Amanita muscaria, Hygrocybe and Hygrophorus). The Amaranthaceae family includes diverse genera in which betalains are present: Alternanthera, Amaranthus, Beta, Chenopodium, Celosia and Gomphrena. The biosynthesis of betalains and their general biological properties were reviwed in the present work. In addition, the types of betalains present in some species of the aforementioned genera, their stability and production, as well as biological attributes, were reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]