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The 2007 flora "Green Seaweeds of Britain and Ireland" did not present the molecular data underpinning the Ulvaceae treatment, mostly ITS sequences. Subsequently, names have changed as type material of Ulva species is sequenced and intensive sampling with DNA barcoding adds new European species. To update the Ulvaceae, we systematically sampled from 2007 to 2021, identifying specimens using various molecular markers alongside DNA from type material of four species. We show here that Ulva gigantea, based on rbcL, tufA and ITS sequences of its holotype, is assigned to Ulva compressa, as is the lectotype of Ulva curvata. Ulva gigantea sensu GenBank and Ulva pseudocurvata are conspecific. The correct name is U. pseudocurvata based on rbcL sequences of the lectotype. Two species of monostromatic Ulvaceae were included in the 2007 flora, but we show that both of them and all earlier British monostromatic collections represent Ulvaria splendens, a species originally described from Alaska. Analysis of two rbcL amplicons of the Ulva sordida lectotype shows that it is conspecific with Ulvaria splendens. Our first genuine collections of Ulvaria obscura from SW England and SW Wales correspond to topotype material from the Bay of Biscay, recent samples from Galicia and unpublished tufA sequences from Britanny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With climate zones moving poleward, it is interesting to know how rapidly species are gained and lost along temperature gradients. For the Australian native vascular flora, observed climate envelopes for species distributions have here been calculated from data for occurrence at geographical locations. For each degree temperature increase along a continental temperature gradient, numbers of species crossing their cold boundary and hence added to the flora, and crossing their warm boundary and hence lost to the flora, were counted. These counts of gains and losses were expressed as percentages of the flora recorded as present at that temperature. We report results for the flora at > 700 mm rainfall pa along the Australian east coast, where higher rainfall is continuously distributed throughout the latitudinal range. Per °C mean annual temperature increase, 20 ± 11% (mean ± SD) of species were gained, and 14 ± 4% were lost, across the range 9–23°C. Many further questions arise. For example, which other continental floras might show faster or slower rates of species gain and loss along temperature gradients? Similarly, might species with particular traits show faster rates of turnover: for example, species with local dispersal such as those with diaspore morphologies adapted for ants, compared to those adapted for bird dispersal? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The microphenotype plays a key role in bridging the gap between the genotype and the complex macro phenotype. In this article, we review the advances in data acquisition and the intelligent analysis of plant microphenotyping and present applications of microphenotyping in plant science over the past two decades. We then point out several challenges in this field and suggest that cross‐scale image acquisition strategies, powerful artificial intelligence algorithms, advanced genetic analysis, and computational phenotyping need to be established and performed to better understand interactions among genotype, environment, and management. Microphenotyping has entered the era of Microphenotyping 3.0 and will largely advance functional genomics and plant science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Plants possess a large variety of nonacquisitive belowground organs, such as rhizomes, tubers, bulbs, and coarse roots. These organs determine a whole set of functions that are decisive in coping with climate, productivity, disturbance, and biotic interactions, and have been hypothesized to affect plant distribution along environmental gradients.We assembled data on belowground organ morphology for 1712 species from Central Europe and tested these hypotheses by quantifying relationships between belowground morphologies and species optima along ecological gradients related to productivity and disturbance. Furthermore, we linked these data with species co‐occurrence in 30 115 vegetation plots from the Czech Republic to determine relationships between belowground organ diversity and these gradients.The strongest gradients determining belowground organ distribution were disturbance severity and frequency, light, and moisture. Nonclonal perennials and annuals occupy much smaller parts of the total environmental space than major types of clonal plants. Forest habitats had the highest diversity of co‐occurring belowground morphologies; in other habitats, the diversity of belowground morphologies was generally lower than the random expectation.Our work shows that nonacquisitive belowground organs may be partly responsible for plant environmental niches. This adds a new dimension to the plant trait spectrum, currently based on acquisitive traits (leaves and fine roots) only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study published in the New Phytologist journal examines the genetic diversity of grapevines and their ability to withstand extreme heatwaves caused by climate change. The researchers conducted experiments on a grapevine diversity panel in South France during a record heatwave in 2019. They discovered that certain genomic regions were linked to heat tolerance, suggesting that genetic diversity could be used to breed fruit crops that can withstand heatwaves. The study also investigated the role of leaf size, leaf mass per area, and evaporative cooling in heat tolerance. The researchers identified candidate genes that may contribute to heat tolerance in grapevines. [Extracted from the article]

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

In the eastern Adriatic flora the genus Pistacia L. (Anacardiaceae) is represented with P. lentiscus L., P. terebinthus L., their hybrid P. × saportae Burnat and the cultivated P. vera L. In addition, an endemic putative taxon from Mt. Biokovo was described in 1985 as P. calcivora Radić. Our aim was to resolve relationships between the four putative indigenous taxa of this genus in Croatia (P. lentiscus, P. terebinthus, P. × saportae and P. calcivora) based on genetic (AFLP) and morphological data. Specifically, we aimed to determine the presence of the hybrid taxon P. × saportae and to validate the controversial taxonomic status of P. calcivora at the molecular and morphological levels. Our combined results indicate the presence of two well separated groups of populations. The first group included all individuals of P. terebinthus and the individuals initially assigned to the potential taxon P. calcivora based on leaf morphology, suggesting that there is no support for the described taxon P. calcivora and that it should be considered as a synonym for P. terebinthus. The second group corresponded to P. lentiscus and included the majority of the presumed hybrid individuals of P. × saportae. However, four hybrid individuals were confirmed at the molecular level and were placed between the two parental taxa in the phylogenetic tree, confirming the presence of P. × saportae in Croatia. Although confirmed P. × saportae individuals were genetically closer to P. lentiscus, they were morphologically more similar to P. terebinthus, hindering their correct identification in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Danshen-Honghua herb pair (DHHP) is a common modern Chinese medicine pair for activating blood circulation and resolving blood stasis. It has been used for centuries to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and is often found in some herbal compounds for treating cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of DHHP on the intestinal flora of rats with acute myocardial ischemia and its microbial transformation in vitro. Methods: In this study, we investigated the protective effect of DHHP on isoproterenol-induced acute myocardial ischemia in rats based on metagenomic sequencing technology, and further characterized the in vitro metabolic transformation products of DHHP, so as to investigate its anti-myocardial ischemic efficacy material basis. Results: Pharmacodynamic results demonstrated that DHHP significantly ameliorated pathological changes and improved abnormal cardiac enzyme levels in acute myocardial ischemia rats. In addition, metagenomic analysis showed the efficacy of DHHP in ameliorating the isoproterenol-induced modifications of the intestinal flora in rats. Specifically, DHHP promoted the growth of the intestinal potential probiotics such as Lactobacillus while suppressing the pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia and Streptococcus. The in vitro metabolism results showed that the DHHP's active components underwent primarily phase I metabolism through hydroxylation, decarboxylation, and dehydration inversions in the isolated intestinal flora of acute myocardial ischemia rats and in phase II through sulfation esterification and methylation reactions. Conclusion: The results suggest that there may be a bidirectional regulatory effect between DHHP and intestinal flora, which is important to explain the pharmacological mechanism of DHHP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trait‐based approaches have received increasing interest among freshwater scientists given their capacity to predict community structure and biodiversity effects on ecosystem functioning. However, the inconsistent development and use of trait concepts and terms across freshwater scientific disciplines may have limited realisation of the potential of traits.Here, we reviewed trait definitions and terms use to provide recommendations for their consistent application in freshwater science. To do so, we first reviewed literature to identify established trait definitions, historical and current use of trait terms and challenges restricting the application of trait‐based approaches in freshwater science. Next, we surveyed 414 freshwater researchers from 54 countries to assess variability in the current use of trait terminology in relation to respondent characteristics (i.e., professional experience, geographical region, research discipline, and focal freshwater ecosystem, biotic group, and ecosystem function).Our literature review identified two well‐established trait definitions, which emphasise individual phenotypic characteristics that influence either eco‐evolutionary aspects (i.e., organism performance and fitness) or ecosystem dynamics and processes (i.e., responses to the environment and/or effects on ecosystem functioning). Publications used a range of trait‐related terms and their frequency of use varied among scientific fields. The term functional trait dominated fields such as biodiversity conservation, environmental sciences and ecology, plant sciences and microbiology. In contrast, the terms biological trait, functional trait, and species trait were used with similar frequencies in fields such as entomology, fisheries, marine and freshwater biology, and zoology. We also found that well‐established trait definitions are difficult to apply to freshwater unicellular organisms, colonial multicellular organisms, genomic information, and cultural traits.Our survey revealed highly inconsistent use of trait terms among freshwater researchers. Terms including biological trait, functional trait, structural measure, and ecosystem function were commonly used to describe the same traits or functions. Variability in the use of terms was generally explained by research discipline, geographical region, and focal biotic group and ecosystem functions.We propose making the trait concept flexible enough to be applicable to all freshwater biota and their characteristics, while keeping and integrating links to eco‐evolutionary and ecosystem aspects. Specifically, our new definition expands the established functional trait definition by considering also supra‐individual scales of trait measurement (colonial‐ or community‐mean traits), genotypic traits (e.g., functional gene markers of enzymes) and cultural traits (e.g., feeding behaviours, communication skills). To reduce terminological ambiguity, we also recommend that researchers define trait terms, prioritising the use of functional trait as an overarching term over alternative terms (e.g., biological trait), and restricting specific terms (e.g., morphological trait) to situations in which such precision is desirable. The findings of our integrative study could help to improve terminological consistency across freshwater disciplines and to better recognise the potential of traits to elucidate the mechanisms behind ecological patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the use of the CRISPR/CasΦ2 system for gene editing in wheat and rye plants. The researchers made modifications to the CasΦ2 protein and optimized the expression of crRNA to improve the efficiency of gene knockout and base editing. They successfully demonstrated the functionality of CRISPR/CasΦ2 in plants, with high specificity and low off-target effects. The findings suggest that CRISPR/CasΦ2 could be a valuable tool for future research on genome modifications in wheat and rye crops. [Extracted from the article]

Especially within the light of the current loss of biodiversity, we want our students to gain a better understanding of the issues at stake in order to take action and support plants and their pollinators. Many educational approaches focus on honeybees, disregarding the vast diversity in the context of pollination systems and the complex (co-)adaptations on both plants and pollinators that evolved over time. This article tries to remedy this by providing scientific background and two practical teaching approaches including legumes (Fabaceae s. s., Faboideae) as one of the largest plant families worldwide, containing many well-known crop species. Legume flowers show specializations regarding pollination and are therefore excellent examples to teach not only about pollination and adaptations, but also conservation. The main elements of both teaching approaches are functional flower models. The first approach was developed for learners with little background knowledge on pollination, whereas the second approach is more elaborate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study is to update the list of bryophytes in the Cape Verde archipelago, with a focus on its distinctive terrestrial biota. The research was carried out through a combination of herbarium collections revision and fieldwork conducted from 2016 to 2019. The revised list includes 185 bryophyte taxa (175 species, 5 subspecies, and 5 varieties) from 93 genera and 42 families. Notably, 8 taxa are endemic, and the inclusion of 35 new taxa further enriches the bryophyte diversity of the archipelago. The distribution of bryophyte taxa varies across islands, with Santo Antão, São Nicolau, and Fogo exhibiting particularly high diversity. Acrocarpous mosses are the most common growth form (58.4%), followed by pleurocarpous mosses, thalloid liverworts (15.1% each), and leafy liverworts (11.4%). In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the bryophyte diversity of southern Macaronesia enhancing our understanding of its unique flora and emphasizing the imperative need for conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical and updated alien species inventories are crucial to properly manage and contrast biological invasions. After 6 years, a second update to the inventory of the vascular flora alien to Italy is presented. It provides details on the occurrence at administrative regional level and, for the first time, floristic data for San Marino. The checklist includes 1782 taxa (1673 species, 28 subspecies, 69 hybrids and 12 cultivar groups not attributable to a specific binomial), distributed in 786 genera and 159 families; 2 taxa are lycophytes, 13 ferns and fern allies, 37 gymnosperms and 1730 angiosperms. Among these, 154 taxa are archaeophytes and 1628 neophytes. The alien taxa currently established in Italy are 899 (649 naturalized and 250 invasive), while 796 taxa are casual aliens, 1 is not assessed, 38 have not been confirmed in recent times, 4 are considered extinct or possibly extinct in the country, 40 are doubtfully occurring in Italy, 4 are of unknown regional distribution and 110 are reported by mistake and to be excluded at national level. This checklist allows to establish an up-to-date number (10,023) of taxa currently constituting the whole (either native or alien) Italian flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical species inventories provide primary biodiversity data crucial for biogeographical, ecological, and conservation studies. After six years, a second update to the inventory of the vascular flora native to Italy is presented. It provides details on the occurrence at regional level and, for the first time, floristic data for San Marino. The checklist includes 8,241 species and subspecies, distributed in 1,111 genera and 153 families; 23 taxa are lycophytes, 108 ferns and fern allies, 30 gymnosperms, and 8,080 angiosperms. The species/subspecies endemic to Italy are 1,702, grouped in 71 families and 312 genera. The taxa currently occurring in Italy are 7,591, while 545 taxa have not been confirmed in recent times, 94 are doubtfully occurring in the country, 11 are data deficient, and 236 are reported by mistake and to be excluded at national level. Out of the 545 not confirmed taxa, 28 are considered extinct or possibly extinct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study discusses the outcome of palynlogical and palaeobotanocal investigations of Middle Jurassic strata of the Tabas Block. The most commonly identified spore type is a trilete spore, Klukisporites, which accounts for 30 per cent, and the genus Ischyosporites which makes up 12 per cent of the spore collection. Plant fossils recovered from the borehole studied are indicative of a varied assemblage, starting with a diverse range of ferns and followed by Cycadophytes, Ginkgophytes and Coniferophytes. The predominance of the Lowland group in the Tabas Block during the Bajocian–Bathonian, as indicated by the Sporomorph EcoGroup (SEG) and Plant EcoGroup (PEG) models, suggests that the strata studied were laid down mainly in a lowland environment. Dinoflagellate cysts were found in locations that correspond to river and coastal ecogroups, hinting at marine influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders worldwide. Due to changes in diet, lifestyle, and the aging population, the incidence of chronic constipation has increased year by year. It has had an impact on daily life and poses a considerable economic burden. Nowadays, many patients with chronic constipation try to seek help from complementary and alternative therapies, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is often their choice. The intestinal flora play an important role in the pathogenesis of constipation by affecting the body's metabolism, secretion, and immunity. Regulating the intestinal flora and optimizing its composition might become an important prevention and treatment for chronic constipation. TCM has unique advantages in regulating the imbalance of intestinal flora, and its curative effect is precise. Therefore, we reviewed the relationship between intestinal flora and chronic constipation as well as advances in research on TCM as adjunct therapy in the management of chronic constipation by regulating intestinal flora. Some single Chinese herbs and their active ingredients (e.g., Rheum palmatum, Radix Astragalus, and Cistanche deserticola), some traditional herbal formulations (e.g., Jichuan decoction, Zengye decoction, and Zhizhu decoction) and some Chinese patent medicines (e.g., Maren pills and Shouhui Tongbian capsules) that are commonly used to treat chronic constipation by regulating intestinal flora are highlighted and summarized. Moreover, some external forms of TCM, and especially acupuncture, have also been found to improve intestinal movement and alleviate constipation symptoms by regulating intestinal flora. We hope this review can contribute to an understanding of TCM as an adjunct therapy for chronic constipation and that it can provide useful information for the development of more effective constipation therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay investigates the literary exchanges between the Irish poet and agronomist George William Tighe and Percy Bysshe Shelley in Pisa, where the former lived with Margaret King Mount Cashell, alias 'Mrs Mason', a radical Irish writer and former pupil of Mary Wollstonecraft. After moving to Pisa in 1820, Shelley began daily visits to the Mason-Tighe household, sourcing from Tighe's library a wealth of reading material on agricultural chemistry and botany, alongside Irish political and historical titles. Tighe's previously unexamined papers showcase his interests in Irish and Italian literature, republicanism, botany, and agriculture and reveal his links with the Lunar Society of Birmingham. Taking as a case study the first poem Shelley composed in Pisa, I argue that Tighe's agricultural pursuits shaped Shelley's political and botanical imagination in 'The Sensitive-Plant' and exerted a significant influence on Shelley's later poetry as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study on the role of autotoxin-degrading bacteria in alleviating replant problems in tobacco crops. The researchers found that Pseudomonas and Burkholderia species were more abundant in soil with autotoxin-degrading bacteria, and they isolated two strains of bacteria that efficiently degrade vanillin, a component of autotoxin. Inoculating these bacteria into vanillin-modified soil improved the growth of tobacco seedlings. The study suggests that autotoxin-degrading bacteria have the potential to promote soil health and crop growth. [Extracted from the article]

Numerous studies have demonstrated the pivotal roles of intestinal microbiota in many physiopathological processes through complex interactions with the host. As a unique period in a woman's lifespan, pregnancy is characterized by changes in hormones, immunity, and metabolism. The gut microbiota also changes during this period and plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Consequently, anomalies in the composition and function of the gut microbiota, namely, gut microbiota dysbiosis, can predispose individuals to various pregnancy complications, posing substantial risks to both maternal and neonatal health. However, there are still many controversies in this field, such as "sterile womb" versus "in utero colonization." Therefore, a thorough understanding of the roles and mechanisms of gut microbiota in pregnancy and its complications is essential to safeguard the health of both mother and child. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the changes in gut microbiota during pregnancy, its abnormalities in common pregnancy complications, and potential etiological implications. It also explores the potential of gut microbiota in diagnosing and treating pregnancy complications and examines the possibility of gut‐derived bacteria residing in the uterus/placenta. Our aim is to expand knowledge in maternal and infant health from the gut microbiota perspective, aiding in developing new preventive and therapeutic strategies for pregnancy complications based on intestinal microecology. Highlights: Pregnancy complications critically affect maternal and child health, necessitating urgent research and therapeutic strategies to reduce health and socioeconomic impacts.Gut microbiota dysbiosis in patients with various pregnancy complications acts as both a causal factor and a contributor to these conditions.Gut microbiota‐derived metabolites are involved in various pathophysiological pathways closely related to the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications, including intestinal barrier permeability, inflammatory responses, and glucose and lipid metabolism.Emerging therapeutic strategies based on gut microbes show potential in treating pregnancy complications, yet there is a lack of evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to substantiate this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocarriers protect RNAs from enzymatic degradation after application onto plants for sustained protection against viruses and insects. Nanocarriers enabled controlled delivery of nucleic acids to plant cells, including slow and sustained release, subcellular organ targeting delivery, stimulated release, and endosome escape. The nanoparticle-mediated delivery system has high versatility, in terms of applicability to all plant species and the capacity to deliver alternative forms of nucleic acids and proteins. Plant biotechnology plays a crucial role in developing modern agriculture and plant science research. However, the delivery of exogenous genetic material into plants has been a long-standing obstacle. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems are being established to address this limitation and are proving to be a feasible, versatile, and efficient approach to facilitate the internalization of functional RNA and DNA by plants. The nanoparticle-based delivery systems can also be designed for subcellular delivery and controlled release of the biomolecular cargo. In this review, we provide a concise overview of the recent advances in nanocarriers for the delivery of biomolecules into plants, with a specific focus on applications to enhance RNA interference, foreign gene transfer, and genome editing in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A petrified wood resembling the modern wood of Mammea africana Sabine is described from the Oligocene Gebel Ahmer Formation from Egypt. The fossil wood is attributed to Mammeoxylon lanneoides Lemoigne according to the xylotomical homologies with the species recorded previously from Ethiopia. The wood anatomy observed in the fossil specimen, along with the climatic information available from the Nearest Living Relative comparison, suggests a tropical humid climate at the site of growth. This is the oldest record of Mammeoxylon Lemoigne in Africa, which contributes towards the understanding of the origin and paleo-dispersal pathways of the genus. A list of 46 Egyptian Oligocene wood species attributed to 11 families is also given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Derris Lour. and Brachypterum (Wight & Arn.) Benth. (Leguminosae subfamily Papilionoideae) in Australia are revised on the basis of examination of fresh, dried and spirit-preserved specimens and phylogenetic analysis of plastid matK and nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence data. Three species of Derris and four species of Brachypterum are recognised as occurring in Australia. Two new Brachypterum species, namely Brachypterum nitidum W.E.Cooper and Brachypterum opacum W.E.Cooper, are described and illustrated. Notes on habitat, distribution and an identification key are presented for all species of both genera that occur in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impatiens platypetala Lindl. (Balsaminaceae) with a small and white flower variant was recently discovered in West Java, Indonesia. This variant was known for some time but rarely found and collected in the field, thus there is little information on this flora. This specimen resembles I. platypetala based on morphological characters. Phylogenetic analysis using Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) was performed to check its relationship with other I. platypetala accessions. The ITS result showed that the small white flower Impatiens was nested in I. platypetala clade, thus this is only a variant of I. platypetala. Therefore, a new variety, I. platypetala var. minialba Utami has been proposed here. A detailed description, notes on habitat and distribution, phenology, conservation status, and photographs of the small and white flower variety are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global need for food security has sparked interest in the potential of our indigenous food systems, including indigenous fruits and other wild edible flora and fauna. However, majority of these indigenous food resources remain underutilised despite its potentially high nutritional and economic benefits. This is largely due to the inadequacy of technical and practical information regarding the availability, propagation, and overall utility of the species. In this regard, the present study investigated the early growth responses of three selected indigenous fruit tree species, namely, Kalumpit (Terminalia microcarpa), Libas (Spondias pinnata) and Tibig (Ficus nota) to fertilisation and mycorrhizal inoculation following a Completely Randomized Design with treatments being Control, 2.5-g complete fertiliser (14:14:14), MYKOVAM, and Fertilisation + MYKOVAM. After 24 weeks (6 months), it was found that the selected indigenous fruit tree species can grow equally well without fertiliser or mycorrhizal inoculation. However, when necessary, MYKOVAM can be a better option than complete fertiliser. Findings showed that S. pinnata and F. nota seedlings inoculated with MYKOVAM yielded higher height increments than the fertiliser group. MYKOVAM inoculated F.nota seedlings also yielded higher diameter growth and total biomass than those treated with fertiliser. No significant variation in root volume was recorded for all selected indigenous fruit tree species among all treatments. Early growth of T. microcarpa was not enhanced by any of the treatments. The study, therefore, revealed relevant information that could enhance the mass propagation of these species in support of food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has emerged as a potential and secure antiproteinuric agent in IgA nephropathy (IgAN). This study endeavored to explore the impact of HCQ on the immune functionality and intestinal flora disorders in IgAN rats, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through in vivo and in vitro experiments. IgAN model was established in Sprague-Dawley rats through the administration of BSA, LPS, and CCl4, and the IgAN rats received a continuous 8-week treatment with HCQ. Moreover, the human glomerular mesangial cells (HMCs) were incubated with IgA1 to establish an in vitro cellular model of IgAN. At the end of experimental period, samples were collected for further analysis. HCQ ameliorated the elevated levels of 24hUTP, SCr, BUN, the number of urinary RBC, and the activation of inflammation-related proteins within the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. In the IgAN rat group, there was a pronounced escalation in IgA deposition, mesangial matrix hyperplasia, and glomerular inflammatory cell infiltration, while the administration of HCQ effectively mitigated these pathological changes. In addition, the reduced production of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg in the IgAN group was effectively reversed by HCQ. Furthermore, HCQ has the capacity to restore the compromised state of the intestinal mucosal barrier induced by IgAN and mitigate the circumstances of intestinal permeability and disruption in the intestinal flora. HCQ diminishes IgA aberrant glycosylation levels, ameliorates renal and intestinal histopathological damage, and attenuates intestinal flora disorders and immune dysfunction in IgAN rats by means of activating the C1GALT1/Cosmc pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The curriculum for undergraduate Agricultural Engineering does not usually include much laboratory practice. In order to address this, here we propose the design of a practical class on legume-rhizobia symbiosis, using an interdisciplinary approach that takes elements from botany, agriculture, and microbiology. The students perform an assay to stimulate nodulation in chickpea seedlings through inoculation with Mesorhizobium strains recommended as commercial inoculants, and evaluate improvement in plant growth as a result of nitrogen fixation. The experiment could serve as a springboard to discuss the importance of plant-bacteria interactions in the cultivation of a regionally relevant crop. It may also encourage the use of abilities of different kinds, including the appropriate manipulation of lab materials, the active engagement of scientific thought, the application of knowledge to specific real world scenarios and collaborative teamwork, all of which will be of paramount importance throughout the students' careers. The class can be easily adapted for other degrees connected to environmental microbiology, as well as for other symbiotic pairs that may include significant crops from other regions around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Botany explores the role of NAC transcription factors in cuticle development in tomato fruit. The researchers found that the NAC TF SlNOR-like1 has a dual function in cuticle development, promoting cutin deposition and thickening the outer layer of the fruit, while also inhibiting wax accumulation. These findings provide new insights into the regulation of cuticle development in fruit and offer potential targets for improving fruit quality and storability through biotechnological approaches. The study highlights the importance of further characterizing the remaining "orphan" NAC TF family members to better understand their biological functions. [Extracted from the article]

Addition to the angiosperm flora provides essential insights into the biodiversity of a region, contributing to ecological understanding and conservation planning. Gafargaon subdistrict under Mymensingh district in Bangladesh represents a diverse population of angiosperms with a multifaceted ecosystem that demands re-evaluation of the existing angiosperm diversity of Gafargaon to update the status of angiosperm taxa and facilitate their conservation efforts. With this endeavor, a total of 100 angiosperm taxa belonging to 90 genera and 46 families were uncovered as additional occurrence in Gafargaon. The species in the area showcased a variety of life forms, including 63 herbs, 14 shrubs, 14 trees, and 9 climbers. Among the recorded taxa, Chamaecostus cuspidatus (Nees & Mart.) C.D. Specht & D.W. Stev. was selected for antidiabetic drug design endeavor based on citation frequency and ethnomedicinal evidence. A total of 41 phytochemicals of C. cuspidatus were screened virtually, targeting the Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 protein through structure-based drug design approach, which unveiled two lead compounds, such as Tigogenin (-9.0 kcal/mol) and Diosgenin (-8.5 kcal/mol). The lead candidates demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties with no major side effects. Molecular dynamics simulation revealed notable stability and structural compactness of the lead compounds. Principal component analysis and Gibbs free energy landscape further supported the results of molecular dynamics simulation. Molecular mechanics-based MM/GBSA approach unraveled higher free binding energies of Diosgenin (-47.36 kcal/mol) and Tigogenin (-46.70 kcal/mol) over Alogliptin (-46.32 kcal/mol). The outcome of the present investigation would enrich angiosperm flora of Gafargaon and shed light on the role of C. cuspidatus to develop novel antidiabetic therapeutics to combat diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has emerged as an invaluable analytical technique for investigating the spatial distribution of molecules within biological systems. In the realm of plant science, MSI is increasingly employed to explore metabolic processes across a wide array of plant tissues, including those in leaves, fruits, stems, roots, and seeds, spanning various plant systems such as model species, staple and energy crops, and medicinal plants. By generating spatial maps of metabolites, MSI has elucidated the distribution patterns of diverse metabolites and phytochemicals, encompassing lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids, organic acids, phenolics, terpenes, alkaloids, vitamins, pigments, and others, thereby providing insights into their metabolic pathways and functional roles. In this review, we present recent MSI studies that demonstrate the advances made in visualizing the plant spatial metabolome. Moreover, we emphasize the technical progress that enhances the identification and interpretation of spatial metabolite maps. Within a mere decade since the inception of plant MSI studies, this robust technology is poised to continue as a vital tool for tackling complex challenges in plant metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the relationship between sunflower plants and the parasitic plant broomrape. The study reveals that broomrape infiltrates sunflower roots by entering the host cells, creating a new compartment. The researchers also observed cell divisions in the sunflower roots near the attachment sites, potentially leading to root enlargement. The study suggests that the parasitic plant damages the host cell walls with enzymes, but the host plants only exhibit minimal defense responses. These findings contribute to our understanding of parasitic plant interactions and may aid in the development of resistance strategies. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: To explore the changes and potential mechanisms of microbiome in different parts of the upper airway in the development of pediatric OSA and observe the impact of surgical intervention on oral microbiome for pediatric OSA. Methods: Before adeno-tonsillectomy, we collected throat swab samples from different parts of the oropharynx and nasopharynx of 30 OSA patients and 10 non-OSA patients and collected throat swab samples from the oropharynx of the above patients one month after the adeno-tonsillectomy. The 16 S rRNA V3–V4 region was sequenced to identify the microbial communities. The correlation analysis was conducted based on clinical characteristics. Results: There was a significant difference of alpha diversity in different parts of the upper airway of pediatric OSA, but this difference was not found in children with non-OSA. Beta diversity was significantly different between non-OSA and pediatric OSA. At the genus level, the composition of flora in different parts is different between non-OSA and pediatric OSA. The correlation analysis revealed that the relative abundance of Neisseria was significantly correlated with obstructive apnea hypopnea index. Furthermore, the functional prediction revealed that pathways related to cell proliferation and material metabolism were significantly different between non-OSA and pediatric OSA. Besides, the adeno-tonsillectomy has minimal impact on oral microbiota composition in short term. Conclusion: The changes in upper airway microbiome are highly associated with pediatric OSA. The relative abundance of some bacteria was significantly different between OSA and non-OSA. These bacteria have the potential to become new diagnostic and early warning biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful tool for understanding and manipulating signaling pathways in plant science, potentially facilitating the accelerated development of novel plant traits and crop yield improvement. The common strategy for delivering siRNA into intact plants using agrobacterium or viruses is complicated and time‐consuming, limiting the application of RNAi in plant research. Here, a novel delivery method based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) is reported, which allows for the efficient delivery of siRNA into mature plant leaves via topical application without the aid of mechanical forces, achieving transient gene knockdown with up to 98% silencing efficiency at the molecular level. In addition, this method is nontoxic to plant leaves, enabling the repeated delivery of siRNA for long‐term silencing. White spots and yellowing phenotypes are observed after spraying the MSN‐siRNA complex targeted at phytoene desaturase and magnesium chelatase genes. After high light treatment, photobleaching phenotypes are also observed by spraying MSNs‐siRNA targeted at genes into the Photosystem II repair cycle. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that MSNs can simultaneously silence multiple genes. The results suggest that MSN‐mediated siRNA delivery is an effective tool for long‐term multi‐gene silencing, with great potential for application in plant functional genomic analyses and crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the mechanism of the hypoglycemic effect of BQP in type 2 diabetic mice induced by the combination of high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ). Treatment with BQP significantly ameliorated blood glucose and lipid levels and improved oxidative stress levels and liver injury levels. The results of the intestinal flora study showed that the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in cecum contents of BQP group mice was significantly higher than those of the diabetic mice. BQP treatment improved microbial disorders in feces, altered the diversity of intestinal flora, reduced the Bacteroidota to Firmicutes (B/F) ratio in diabetic mice, and increased the abundance of Dubosiella, Akkermansia, Faecalibaculum, and Allobaculum. Spearman correlation analysis showed that changes in intestinal microorganisms were closely related to biochemical parameters. The function's prediction of gut microbiota indicated that the microbial compositions involving chemoheterotrophy, aerobic chemoheterotrophy, Gram-negative, potential pathogenicity, and sulfur cycle were changed. Conclusion. Intake of BQP can effectively regulate the blood glucose level of diabetic mice through improving glucose and lipid metabolism, and its mechanism may be related to the improvement of obesity and intestinal microecological balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the importance of botany education and how local vegetation becomes a valuable tool for learning. It introduces a hands-on learning approach through a botanical inquiry trail, which engages prospective teachers in various activities, including plant identification, information retrieval, and understanding the practical applications of local plants. It highlights the potential of hands-on, experiential learning activities in promoting effective botany education and motivating future educators. The study involved the administration of pre- and post-activity questionnaires to assess the impact of the trail on participants’ knowledge, teaching methodology preferences, and perceptions of its educational value. Our findings indicate that prospective teachers perceived botanical inquiry trails as active teaching strategies that can improve the learning of botany among primary school students. Prospective teachers expressed a strong preference for nature field trips as a teaching methodology and the activity’s potential to promote social and emotional learning. Moreover, the participants recognised the educational value of the trail in improving learner protagonism, active learning, and investigation tasks. Finally, the results show that this activity can be a valuable resource for educators to engage their students in hands-on learning experiences that promote curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the natural world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously, we have prepared clam peptides (RBPs) that exhibited potential antihypertension and kidney protective effects in SHR rats by fermentation of Ruditapes philippinarum with Bacillus natto. In this study, we established an adenine-induced chronic kidney disease (CKD) in SD rats and investigated the improvement effects of RBPs on CKD. The results showed that compared with the model group, 8 weeks gavage of RBPs restored the structure of the kidney and reduced serum levels of CKD-related biochemical indicators, including NGAL, CR, Ca, UA, TG, IP, L-FABP, BUN, CHO, and cystatin C (p < 0.05). RBPs treatment also reduced serum levels of MDA, IL-1β, TGF-β1, and TNF-α and increased those of CAT and T-AOC (p < 0.05). In addition, the results of intestinal microbiota analysis showed that RBPs improved the intestinal flora composition by downregulating the proportion of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, decreasing the relative abundance of Romboutsia, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005, and Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and increasing that of Lactobacillus and Muribaculaceae (p < 0.05). The results of this study indicated that RBPs can also be used as bioactive substances in marine drugs or functional foods to alleviate CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies suggest that mangiferin (MAF) has good therapeutic effects on chronic bronchitis and hepatitis. Also, it is one of the antiviral ingredients in Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge. However, its effect on the LPS‐induced inflammation and intestinal flora during sepsis remains unclear yet. In the present study, LPS‐stimulated inflammation RAW264.7 cells and LPS‐induced sepsis mice were used to evaluate the efficacy of MAF in vitro and in vivo. 16S rDNA sequencing was performed to analyze the characteristics of intestinal flora of the sepsis mice. It has been demonstrated that MAF (12.5 and 25 μg/mL) significantly inhibited protein expressions of TLR4, MyD88, NF‐κB, and TNF‐α in the LPS‐treated cells and reduced the supernatant TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels. In vivo, MAF (20 mg/kg) markedly protected the sepsis mice and reduced the serum TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels. Also, MAF significantly downregulated the protein expressions of TLR4, NF‐κB, and MyD88 in the livers. Importantly, MAF significantly attenuated the pathological injuries of the livers and small intestines. Further, MAF significantly increased proportion of Bacteroidota and decreased the proportions of Firmicutes, Desulfobacterota, Actinobacteriota, and Proteobacteria at phylum level, and it markedly reduced the proportions of Escherichia‐Shigella, Pseudoalteromonas, Staphylococcus at genus level. Moreover, MAF affects some metabolism‐related pathways such as citrate cycle (TCA cycle), lipoic acid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, bacterial chemotaxis, fatty acid biosynthesis, and peptidoglycan biosynthesis of the intestinal flora. Thus, it can be concluded that MAF as a treatment reduces the inflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting the TLR4/ MyD88/NF‐κB pathway, and corrects intestinal flora imbalance during sepsis to some degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food for special medical purposes (FSMP) has received increasing attention as an enteral nutritional supplement. To investigate the effects of whole nutritional formula (WNF) containing dietary fiber and regular formula on nutritional supplementation and improvement of intestinal microecology, a rat malnutrition model was established with the formulations of WNF, FOS, and SDF (10, 20 g/kg bw) administered by gavage for 30 days. The results showed that the three formulations effectively improved the nutritional status of the malnourished rats, significantly increasing the level of IgG, increasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes, and affecting the content of propionic acid (PRO). The nutritional status of rats is closely related to growth performance, nutritional indexes, and immunoglobulin index, which cause changes in the composition of the intestinal flora. The above results showed that WNF positively affected the nutritional improvement, immune level, and intestinal health of rats. The comprehensive evaluation also suggested that the formulation containing ginseng water‐soluble dietary fiber (ginseng‐SDF) had the most significant effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Matrine possesses a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities as one of the primary components of Chinese herbal medicine Sophora flavescens extract, along with fewer side effects and low toxicity. Matrine possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-virus, antibiosis, and anti-oxidative properties and protects the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, immunosuppression, intestinal flora balance regulation, and broad-spectrum insecticidal activities. We reviewed the recent progress in matrine research in terms of the pharmacological activities and associated mechanisms to provide a reference for the wide and safe application of matrine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a compilation of various articles and research papers on bryophytes, specifically mosses and liverworts. The articles cover a range of topics including the distribution and diversity of bryophytes in different regions, their role as indicators of environmental pollution, and their ecological significance. The articles are written in different languages and provide valuable information for researchers and enthusiasts interested in bryophytes. [Extracted from the article]

Plagiochila squamulosa subsp. tamas-pocsii Sajitha, Manju & Rawat, a new subspecies of P. squamulosa Mitt. of sect. Vagae Lindenb., is described from the Nelliyampathy Hills in the Western Ghats of Peninsular India. This is the first Indian record of the species P. squamulosa from outside Africa and is supportive of the close relationship between the bryophyte floras of tropical Africa and southern India. The affinities of the new subspecies with P. peradenyensis Schiffn. and P. palangiensis S.C.Srivast., K.K.Rawat & P.K.Verma are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tank bromeliads provide a vast amount of stagnant water high up in the Neotropical forest canopy. However, the aquatic macroinvertebrate diversity in this specialized habitat remains poorly explored. Here, we study obligatorily bromeliadicolous species of the diving beetle genus Copelatus Erichson, 1832. We review the known species Copelatus bromeliarum Scott, 1912 (Trinidad and Venezuela) and Copelatus bimaculatus Resende & Vanin, 1991 (Brazil). We describe three new species: Copelatus espinhasso sp. nov. (Brazil), Copelatus florae sp. nov. (Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Panama) including its larva, and Copelatus panguana sp. nov. (Peru). Based on their male genital morphology, these species form a distinct clade within the genus. Other shared characters such as compact drop-shaped habitus, shortened appendages, and reduction of natatory setae on legs are interpreted as adaptations for what we call the 'hygrofloric' lifestyle. We document the thin water layer between leaf axils as the preferred habitat of both Copelatus adults and larvae, and not necessarily the central tank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of genetic diversity leads to better adaptation of plants to different environments and enables researchers to select superior genotypes adapted to given culture conditions. In order to estimate the genetic diversity of eggplant, 22 accessions were obtained from the INRAe vegetable germplasm center and the National Plant Gene Bank of Iran and were planted in horticultural science station of University of Tehran, Karaj, in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The number of flowers per plant and number of fruits per plant were higher in the MM00007 and FLT02 accessions, respectively. The maximum leaf area (190 cm² plant-1) was recorded for MM 01597. Accessions FLT46, MM 0064, MM 00108 bis MM 01597 and MM 01010 revealed high variations in root characters. Higher number of root tips and maximum number of roots were assigned for FLT46, and average root orientation and steep root angle frequency for MM 01597 and MM 01010. The correlation of root angles frequency and root number could possibly be exploited in selection programs as factors indirectly involved in increasing yield and the number of flowers per plant. Based on all evaluated traits, genotypes FLT10, MM 01597, MM 01010, FLT46, and FLTE9012 could be used as parents for future eggplant breeding programs due to their desirable agricultural traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Questions: Climate change may have different effects on species richness depending on regional climates, soil types and the functional composition of local communities. Location: Subalpine belt of the Grandes Rousses (Alps) and Sancy mountain ranges (the Massif Central), France. Methods: We compared changes in species richness in response to recent climate change in communities from two mountain ranges subjected to contrasting environmental conditions, with a more continental climate and drier soils in the Alps than in the Massif Central. Vegetation composition of 189 and 157 plots was assessed in 1997 and 2017–2018 in the Alps and 1988–1989 and 2022 in the Massif Central, respectively. Five species traits (height, lateral spread, leaf area, specific leaf area and leaf dry matter content) were measured on 108 and 144 species, respectively. Changes in vegetation composition and species richness along spatial environmental gradients were analysed with correspondence analysis at the Sancy site and canonical correspondence analysis at the Alpe d'Huez site. Changes in functional composition across sites were analysed with principal components analysis. Changes in species richness with climate change were analysed with repeated‐measure ANOVAs. Results: In both mountain ranges summer temperatures increased and the hydric balance decreased over the past three decades, but snow cover duration decreased in the Alps only, whereas irradiance strongly increased in the Massif Central only. Functional composition was characterized by shorter and more conservative species in the Alps than in the Massif Central, which was dominated by tall exploitative species. Species richness overall decreased with climate change by ca 10% in the Alps but overall increased by ca 10% in the Massif Central. Species richness decreased in the Alps probably because of increasing competition induced by dwarf shrub encroachment due to decreasing snow cover duration, whereas species richness increased in the Massif Central probably due to increasing irradiance in a very nebulous climate. Conclusion: The opposite changes in species richness observed in the two mountain ranges with recent climate change were likely to be explained by their contrasting climate and soil conditions driving different functional compositions and diversity–environment relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study that examines the relationship between functional traits of plants and mean annual precipitation (MAP). The researchers analyzed data from the AusTraits database, which includes information on various traits of plant species in Australia. They found that certain traits, such as leaf area and leaf nitrogen per area, were strongly correlated with MAP. The study also investigated the influence of plant growth form on these relationships and found that woody taxa exhibited stronger responses to climate variables compared to nonwoody taxa. Overall, the findings suggest that MAP is an important factor in shaping plant functional traits. [Extracted from the article]