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The chemodiversity between and within individuals of several plant species is remarkable and shaped by the local habitat environment and the genetic background. The forb Erodium cicutarium (Geraniaceae) is globally distributed and partly invasive. This paper hypothesizes a high intra-specific and inter-individual chemical diversity in this species and investigates this by comparing the concentration and diversity of terpenoid compounds in different plant parts, i.e., leaves, blossoms and fruits. Plants were grown from seeds, originating from native range Bavaria (BY), Germany, and invaded range California (CA), USA, populations. In total, 20 different terpenoids were found, which occurred in distinct combinations and the patterns clustered into groups of distinct chemotypes for all plant parts. Several of the chemotypes were specific to plants of one region. The terpenoid compositions of different plant parts within individuals were highly correlated. Chemodiversity was higher in reproductive plant parts compared to the leaves, and higher in plants from BY compared to CA. This study highlights the intra-specific and inter-individual chemodiversity in E. cicutarium, linked to its geographical origin, which may facilitate its invasion success but also calls for further investigation of the role of chemodiversity in invasive plants on interactions with the environment.

С помощью сканирующего электронного микроскопа изучены пыльцевые зерна 22 таксонов из 7 секций и 2 подродов рода Geranium с территории Алтайской горной страны и 9 видов, произрастающих за пределами изучаемой территории. Впервые изучены пыльцевые зерна 10 таксонов. Установлено, что пыльцевые зерна у всех изученных таксонов рода Geranium радиально-симметричные, равнополярные, одиночные, 3-(редко 4-)бороздно-оровые, сплющенно-сфероидальной или округло-эллипсоидальной формы, в очертании с полюса трех-(редко четырех-)лопастные, с экватора – почти округлые. Показано, что для всех изученных таксонов рода Geranium характерным признаком является булавовидная скульптура экзины. Впервые для рода Geranium выявлен вид (G. regelii), имеющий 4-бороздно-оровые пыльцевые зерна. Показано, что признаки пыльцевых зерен имеют значение для систематики видов рода Geranium. Внутри секций Geranium и Recurvataпо признакам пыльцевых зерен выделены группы родства. В секции Geranium – 3 группы родства (группы G. sylvaticum, G. albiflorumи G. pseudosibiricum), в секции Recurvata – 2 группы родства (группы G. pratense и G. collinum). Изученные виды рода Geranium различаются по ряду признаков: длине полярной оси и экваториального диаметра, скульптуре экзины, размерам, форме и поверхности головок, орнаментации поверхности пыльцевого зерна. Размеры пыльцевых зерен определяют принадлежность к секции и коррелируют с размерами венчика: самые крупные размеры пыльцевых зерен наблюдаются в секции Recurvata, наиболее мелкие отмечены у пыльцевых зерен видов секции Batrachioides. Особенности внутренней сетки экзины и орнаментация поверхности пыльцевого зерна имеют значение в ранге подсекции. Скульптура поверхности булавовидных головок может служить дополнительным признаком при разделении видов.

Context: Pelargonium endlicherianum Fenzl. (Geraniaceae) roots and flowers are traditionally used in Turkey as a decoction treatment against intestinal parasites. Neither the chemical composition nor the potential bioactivity of the plant roots has been studied before. Objectives: The phenolic content and effects of P. endlicherianum root extracts on antioxidant enzyme levels on A549 cells were studied for the first time. Materials and methods: The chemical composition was analyzed via spectrophotometric and chromatographic (HPLC MS/MS and HPLC) techniques. The antioxidant activity was determined at different concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 2 mg/mL using DPPH• and ABTS•+ radical scavenging activity, β-carotene-linoleic acid co-oxidation assay, protection of 2-deoxyribose and bovine brain-derived phospholipids against a hydroxyl radical-mediated degradation assay. Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities were also studied as well as the effects of the extracts on nitric oxide levels on IL-1β stimulated A549 cells. Results: The key parameters for the most active ethyl acetate extract included the following: DPPH• IC50: 0.23 mg/mL, TEAC/ABTS: 2.17 mmol/L Trolox, reduction: 0.41 mmol/g AsscE, and protection of lipid peroxidation IC50: 0.05 mg/mL. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate extract increased the SOD level significantly compared to control group (4.48 U/mL) at concentrations of 100 and 200 μg/mL SOD, 5.50 and 5.67 U/mL, respectively. Apocynin was identified as the major component, and the ethyl acetate fraction was found to be rich in phenolic compounds. Discussion and conclusion: Pelargonium endlicherianum root extracts displayed antioxidant activity and increased the antioxidant enzyme levels in IL-1β stimulated A549 cells, while decreasing the NO levels.

This study investigates how California English speakers adjust nasal coarticulation and hyperarticulation on vowels across three speech styles: speaking slowly and clearly (imagining a hard-of-hearing addressee), casually (imagining a friend/family member addressee), and speaking quickly and clearly (imagining being an auctioneer). Results show covariation in speaking rate and vowel hyperarticulation across the styles. Additionally, results reveal that speakers produce more extensive anticipatory nasal coarticulation in the slow-clear speech style, in addition to a slower speech rate. These findings are interpreted in terms of accounts of coarticulation in which speakers selectively tune their production of nasal coarticulation based on the speaking style., (© 2023 Author(s). All article content, except where otherwise noted, is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).)

Introduction: American Indians and Alaska Native (AIAN) populations are disproportionately affected by opioid misuse. Medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is essential to decrease overdose events and overdose deaths. AIAN communities can benefit from MOUD programs that are housed within primary care clinics to improve treatment accessibility. This study aimed to gather information on the needs, barriers, and successes related to implementing MOUD programs in Indian health clinics (IHCs) offering primary care., Methods: The study used the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance Qualitative Evaluation for Systematic Translation (RE-AIM QuEST) evaluation framework to structure key informant interviews with clinic staff who received technical assistance for MOUD program implementation. The study incorporated RE-AIM dimensions into a semi-structured interview guide. We developed the coding approach for analyzing interview data using Braun and Clarke's (2006) reflexive thematic analysis in qualitative research., Results: Eleven clinics participated in the study. The research team conducted twenty-nine interviews with clinic staff. We found that inadequate education about MOUD, scant resources, and limited availability of AIAN providers adversely impacted reach. Challenges with integrating medical and behavioral care, patient-level barriers (e.g., rural conditions, geographical dispersion), and limited workforce capacity impacted MOUD effectiveness. Stigma at the clinic level was detrimental to MOUD adoption. Implementation was challenging due to a limited number of waivered providers, and the need for technical assistance and MOUD policies and procedures. Staff turnover and restricted physical infrastructure negatively influenced MOUD maintenance., Conclusions: Clinical infrastructure should be strengthened. The integration of culture into clinic services must be embraced by staff to support MOUD adoption. Increased representation from AIAN clinical staff is needed to appropriately represent the population being served. Stigma at various levels must be addressed, and the multiple barriers that AIAN communities face must be considered in understanding MOUD program implementation and outcomes., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest We have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Geranium biuncinatum Kokwaro was collected during a fieldwork around (Khuzestan province, Shoshtar to Masjed Soleyman) in South West of Iran. It is added as a new record for the flora of Iran. Micromorphological features of mericarps and seeds are investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy. Differences between Geranium biuncinatum and its relatives are discussed. Its diagnostic characters, geographical distribution map and detailed pictures are given.

Keywords: allergic contact dermatitis; case report; Geraniaceae; occupational; patch testing; Pelargonium zonale; plant EN allergic contact dermatitis case report Geraniaceae occupational patch testing Pelargonium zonale plant 328 329 2 03/15/23 20230401 NES 230401 Pelargonium hybrids of the geranium family (Geraniaceae) are popular pot and container plants in many European countries. Allergic contact dermatitis, case report, occupational, Geraniaceae, patch testing, Pelargonium zonale, plant Because of insufficient details in case reports, contact dermatitis from pelargoniums is not well documented.[1] CASE REPORT A 35-year-old atopic female greenhouse worker was referred because of occupational dermatitis of the forearms. [Extracted from the article]

• We assembled the plastomes of 80 Pelargonium species based on Illumina sequencing data. • Phylogenetic relationships within Pelargonium are investigated based on 74 protein coding genes as well as nuclear rDNA ITS. • Molecular dating analysis indicate Pelargonium to have originated around 9.8 Mya. • Long standing issues within Pelargonium phylogenetics are resolved. The predominantly South-African plant genus Pelargonium L'Hér. (Geraniaceae) displays remarkable morphological diversity, several basic chromosome numbers as well as high levels of organelle genomic rearrangements, and represents the 7th largest Cape Floristic Region clade. In this study, we reconstructed a phylogenetic tree based on 74 plastome exons and nuclear rDNA ITS regions for 120 species, which represents 43% taxon coverage for Pelargonium. We also performed a dating analysis to examine the timing of the major radiations in the genus. Phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide, amino acid, and ITS alignments confirmed the previously-documented subgeneric split into five main clades ((C1,C2),(B(A1,A2))) although clade only A1 received low bootstrap support. Using calibration evidence from a range of sources the Pelargonium crown age was estimated to be 9.7 My old, much younger than previous estimates for the genus but similar to recent studies of other Cape Floristic lineages that are part of both Fynbos and Succulent Karoo biomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cacyreus marshalli (Butler, 1898) is the only alien butterfly species in Italy, introduced from Southern Africa via the trade of ornamental Pelargonium plants (family Geraniaceae). In 2008, Quacchia and colleagues demonstrated that if Pelargonium plants are not available, females can lay eggs on Geranium spp., developing fertile offspring. C. marshalli is a thermophilous species, but in recent years some adults have been observed flying far from villages and at high altitudes (up to 2400 m a.s.l.) in the Orco valley (Gran Paradiso National Park, Aosta Valley). Due to the potential threat to native Geranium-consuming lycaenids and to evaluate the risk of naturalisation, we investigated: (i) dispersal abilities of gravid females, outside the National Park to avoid accidental establishment of the invasive species; (ii) pelargonium distribution and abundance; (iii) oviposition behaviour and preimaginal distribution; (iv) citizen care practices with pelargoniums. Pelargoniums were counted in the Orco Valley (5455 plants) and eggs and larvae were counted on 348 pelargoniums chosen on the basis of isolation and altitude. Flight experiments suggested that females were able to overcome barriers and fly at least 550 m looking for host plants. Eggs and larvae were unexpectedly abundant, but models showed that there was a temperature limit which prevented upward expansion of C. marshalli. Citizens were given a questionnaire to complete to investigate their propensity to replace pelargonium with other ornamental plants. We discuss the possibility of eradicating C. marshalli in the protected area in the light of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plants grow in multi-species communities rather than monocultures. Yet most studies on the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from plants in response to insect herbivore feeding focus on one plant species. Whether the presence and identity of neighboring plants or plant community attributes, such as plant species richness and plant species composition, affect the herbivore-induced VOC emission of a focal plant is poorly understood. Methods: We established experimental plant communities in pots in the greenhouse where the focal plant species, red clover (Trifolium pratense), was grown in monoculture, in a two species mixture together with Geranium pratense or Dactylis glomerata, or in a mixture of all three species. We measured VOC emission of the focal plant and the entire plant community, with and without herbivory of Spodoptera littoralis caterpillars caged on one red clover individual within the communities. Results: Herbivory increased VOC emission from red clover, and increasing plant species richness changed emissions of red clover and also from the entire plant community. Neighbor identity strongly affected red clover emission, with highest emission rates for plants growing together with D. glomerata. Conclusion: The results from this study indicate that the blend of VOCs perceived by host searching insects can be affected by plant-plant interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study a new distribution area has been given for the local endemic species Erodium somanum H. Peşmen, which was known only from around Soma (Manisa). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ranunculus paludosus is reported for the first time from Bulgaria. The occurrence of Erodium botrys has already been indicated for the Bulgarian flora. However, it has been subsequently rejected, due to lack of reliable data. The present paper confirms its distribution in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Extracts and compounds from G. asphodeloides proved potent α -glucosidase inhibitors. • 1 showed the strongest α -glucosidase inhibitory effect among the isolated compounds. • 1 was approximately 61 fold more effective than positive control, acarbose. • 2 , 3 and 4 were competitive; 1 and 6 were uncompetitive inhibitors. • Molecular docking studies gave insights into inhibition mechanisms of the compounds. Abstract Some Geranium species have been used to treat diabetes. To evaluate the scientific basis of this ethnopharmacological use, we aimed to isolate potent α -glucosidase inhibitory metabolites of Geranium asphodeloides Burm. through in vitro bioactivity-guided fractionation. All the tested extracts showed high α -glucosidase inhibitory effect compared to acarbose. Among the tested extracts, the ethyl acetate subextract showed the highest activity with an IC 50 value of 0.85 ± 0.01 µM. A hydrolysable tannin, 1,2,4-tri- O -galloyl- β - d -glucopyranose (1), and five flavonoid glycosides, kaempferol-3- O - α -rhamnopyranoside (2), kaempferol-3- O - α -arabinofuranoside (3), quercetin-3- O - β -glucopyranoside (4), quercetin-3- O - α -rhamnopyranoside (5), and quercetin-3- O - α -rhamnofuranoside (6), were isolated from the ethyl acetate subextract. Their structures were identified by 1D- and 2D-NMR experiments. 1 exhibited the highest α-glucosidase inhibitory effect, approximately 61 times more potent than positive control, acarbose, with an IC 50 value of 0.95 ± 0.07 µM. Also, 2 was more potent than acarbose. An enzyme kinetics analysis revealed that compounds 2 , 3 and 4 were competitive, whereas 1 and 6 uncompetitive inhibitors. Molecular docking studies were performed to get insights into inhibition mechanisms of the isolated compounds in the light of the enzyme kinetic studies using various binding sites of the enzyme model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Biebersteinia (Geraniaceae) has a history of use in traditional medicine in some countries including Iran. In the present study, cytotoxic and apoptogenic properties of hydro-ethanol extract of B. multifidi was investigated on human prostate cancer cell lines (PC3 and DU 145) and human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells. Materials and Methods: Cells were cultured in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with 10% FBS at 37ºC in a humidified atmosphere of 95% air and 5% CO2. The root of the plant was macerated with EtOH 70%. Cytotoxic activity of ethanol extract of B. multifida was assessed using alamarBlue® assay after 48 hr of treatment. Apoptotic cells were stained with propidium iodide (PI) and detected by flow cytometry (sub-G1 peak). Results: B. multifidi had cytotoxic effect on malignant cells and normal HEK293 cells in a dose-dependent manner and significantly decreased the cell viability (IC50 values were between 199.2 and 302.9 µg/ml). B. multifida increased the sub-G1 peak in flow cytometry histogram of treated PC3 cells compared to control showing the induction of apoptosis and DNA fragmentation. Conclusion: Due to cytotoxic and apoptotic activity of B. multifida, the plant is suggested for further phytochemical analysis and mechanistic evaluation.

This study aimed to compare the antioxidant activities of extracts obtained from three plant families and evaluate their therapeutic effect on strokes. Ethanol extracts were obtained from either the leaf or the aerial parts of plants of the families Annonaceae (Annona cherimola, A. diversifolia, A. muricata, A. purpurea, and A. reticulata), Lamiaceae (Salvia amaríssima and S. polystachya), and Geraniaceae (Geranium niveum and G. mexicanum). Extracts were analyzed in terms of hydroxyl radical (OH•), peroxyl radical (ROO•), and superoxide anion (O2•−). The efficiency of the extracts to prevent neuronal death induced by excitotoxicity was tested with the tetrazolium assay, the O2•− scavenging capacity was evaluated with the dihydroethidium dye, and the protective effect of the extracts with the highest antioxidant activity was tested on a stroke experimental model. The extracts’ IC50 values (μg/mL) of scavenging varied from 98.9 to 155.04, 4.5 to 102.4, and 20.2 to 118.97 for OH•, ROO•, and O2•−, respectively. In the excitotoxicity model, Annonaceae extracts were highly cytotoxic while Lamiaceae and Geraniaceae reduced intracellular O2•− production and protect neurons against oxidative stress. Salvia polystachya reduced cerebral damage, as well as improved survival and behavior after ischemia. Our results encouraged the use of plant extracts as natural antioxidants to minimize neuronal injury following stroke.

Background: Increased use of eHealth technology and user data to drive early identification and intervention algorithms in early psychosis (EP) necessitates the implementation of ethical data use practices to increase user acceptability and trust., Objective: First, the study explored EP community partner perspectives on data sharing best practices, including beliefs, attitudes, and preferences for ethical data sharing and how best to present end-user license agreements (EULAs). Second, we present a test case of adopting a user-centered design approach to develop a EULA protocol consistent with community partner perspectives and priorities., Methods: We conducted an exploratory, qualitative, and focus group-based study exploring mental health data sharing and privacy preferences among individuals involved in delivering or receiving EP care within the California Early Psychosis Intervention Network. Key themes were identified through a content analysis of focus group transcripts. Additionally, we conducted workshops using a user-centered design approach to develop a EULA that addresses participant priorities., Results: In total, 24 participants took part in the study (14 EP providers, 6 clients, and 4 family members). Participants reported being receptive to data sharing despite being acutely aware of widespread third-party sharing across digital domains, the risk of breaches, and motives hidden in the legal language of EULAs. Consequently, they reported feeling a loss of control and a lack of protection over their data. Participants indicated these concerns could be mitigated through user-level control for data sharing with third parties and an understandable, transparent EULA, including multiple presentation modalities, text at no more than an eighth-grade reading level, and a clear definition of key terms. These findings were successfully integrated into the development of a EULA and data opt-in process that resulted in 88.1% (421/478) of clients who reviewed the video agreeing to share data., Conclusions: Many of the factors considered pertinent to informing data sharing practices in a mental health setting are consistent among clients, family members, and providers delivering or receiving EP care. These community partners' priorities can be successfully incorporated into developing EULA practices that can lead to high voluntary data sharing rates., (©Laura M Tully, Kathleen E Nye, Sabrina Ereshefsky, Valerie L Tryon, Christopher Komei Hakusui, Mark Savill, Tara A Niendam. Originally published in JMIR Human Factors (https://humanfactors.jmir.org), 14.11.2023.)

The competitive exclusion principle establishes that the coexistence of closely related species requires a certain degree of resource partitioning. However, populations have individuals with different morphological or behavioral traits ( e.g ., maturity stages, sexes, temporal or spatial segregation). This interaction often results in a multi-level differentiation in food preferences and habits. We explored such resource partitioning between and within three batoid species: Hypanus dipterurus , Narcine entemedor , and Rhinoptera steindachneri in the southern Gulf of California, Mexico, using a combination of stomach content (excluding R. steindachneri ) and stable isotope analyses. We found a clear differentiation between H. dipterurus and N. entemedor , where the latter exhibited more benthic habitats, supported by a greater association to infaunal prey and higher δ 13 C values. Though the degree and patterns of intra-specific segregation varied among species, there was a notable differentiation in both sex and stage of maturity, corresponding to changes in specialization ( i.e ., isotopic niche breadth) or trophic spectrum (varying prey importance and isotopic values per group). This work is a promising step towards understanding the dietary niche dynamics of these species in a potentially important feeding area within the southern Gulf of California, as well as the biological and ecological mechanisms that facilitate their coexistence., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2023 Enríquez-García et al.)

Understanding processes leading to disease emergence is important for effective disease management and prevention of future epidemics. Utilizing whole genome sequencing, we studied the phylogenetic relationship and diversity of two populations of the bacterial oak pathogen Lonsdalea quercina from western North America (Colorado and California) and compared these populations to other Lonsdalea species found worldwide. Phylogenetic analysis separated Colorado and California populations into two Lonsdalea clades, with genetic divergence near species boundaries, suggesting long isolation and populations that differ in genetic structure and distribution and possibly their polyphyletic origin. Genotypes collected from different host species and habitats were randomly distributed within the California cluster. Most Colorado isolates from introduced planted trees, however, were distinct from three isolates collected from a natural stand of Colorado native Quercus gambelii, indicating cryptic population structure. The California identical core genotypes distribution varied, while Colorado identical core genotypes were always collected from neighboring trees. Despite its recent emergence, the Colorado population had higher nucleotide diversity, possibly due to its long presence in Colorado or due to migrants moving with nursery stock. Overall, results suggest independent pathogen emergence in two states likely driven by changes in host-microbe interactions due to ecosystems changes. Further studies are warranted to understand evolutionary relationships among L. quercina from different areas, including the red oak native habitat in northeastern USA., (© 2023. Springer Nature Limited.)

Leptospirosis, the most widespread zoonotic disease in the world, is broadly understudied in multi-host wildlife systems. Knowledge gaps regarding Leptospira circulation in wildlife, particularly in densely populated areas, contribute to frequent misdiagnoses in humans and domestic animals. We assessed Leptospira prevalence levels and risk factors in five target wildlife species across the greater Los Angeles region: striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis), raccoons (Procyon lotor), coyotes (Canis latrans), Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana), and fox squirrels (Sciurus niger). We sampled more than 960 individual animals, including over 700 from target species in the greater Los Angeles region, and an additional 266 sampled opportunistically from other California regions and species. In the five target species seroprevalences ranged from 5 to 60%, and infection prevalences ranged from 0.8 to 15.2% in all except fox squirrels (0%). Leptospira phylogenomics and patterns of serologic reactivity suggest that mainland terrestrial wildlife, particularly mesocarnivores, could be the source of repeated observed introductions of Leptospira into local marine and island ecosystems. Overall, we found evidence of widespread Leptospira exposure in wildlife across Los Angeles and surrounding regions. This indicates exposure risk for humans and domestic animals and highlights that this pathogen can circulate endemically in many wildlife species even in densely populated urban areas., (© 2023. Springer Nature Limited.)

Macrotylus henryi is described as a new species from South Africa. This new taxon is recorded as feeding on species of Pelargonium (Geraniaceae) in the Western Cape. Documentation is provided in the form of diagnosis, description, habitus photographs, scanning electron micrographs, illustrations and images of genitalic structures, detailed distributional data, host plant information, and images of hosts and habitats. Morphological traits are similar to species of Macrotylus Fieber from the Northern Hemisphere, but coloration is substantially variable, and the structure of the male genitalia is distinctive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles using plant extracts has become one of the alternative routes researchers use for the synthesis of nanomaterials. This is due to the high costs that are associated with nanoparticle preparation and the harsh solvents normally used as reducing agents. In this study, ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized from a Monsonia burkeana plant water extract and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Laser Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV–Vis spectroscopy (UV–Vis). Laser Raman confirmed the formation of ZnO nanoparticles with the E 2 high phonon mode. UV–Vis and FTIR corroborated the formation of the ZnO nanoparticles with a characteristic ZnO peak at 325 nm and the ZnO peak identified in the finger print region (i.e. below 100 cm −1 ), respectively. FTIR further showed the introduction of the phytochemical functional groups from the Monsonia burkeana plant that were incorporated to the ZnO nanoparticles. TEM showed that the formed ZnO particles had a uniform and narrow size distribution between 5 nm and 45 nm with the dominant particles being less than 20 nm. The photocatalytic experiments showed that the ZnO nanoparticles actively degraded methylene blue dye. The Monsonia burkeana derived ZnO nanoparticles demonstrated antibacterial activity against both gram negative and positive bacterial strains, which could be attributed to their small particle sizes. Lastly, cytotoxicity tests showed that the ZnO nanoparticles had a growth inhibitory effect against A549 lung cancer cell lines. This study showed that these nanoparticles can be used in various biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Functional traits in closely related lineages are expected to vary similarly along common environmental gradients as a result of shared evolutionary and biogeographic history, or legacy effects, and as a result of biophysical tradeoffs in construction. We test these predictions in Pelargonium, a relatively recent evolutionary radiation. • Bayesian phylogenetic mixed effects models assessed, at the subclade level, associations between plant height, leaf area, leaf nitrogen content and leaf mass per area (LMA), and five environmental variables capturing temperature and rainfall gradients across the Greater Cape Floristic Region of South Africa. Trait–trait integration was assessed via pairwise correlations within subclades. • Of 20 trait–environment associations, 17 differed among subclades. Signs of regression coefficients diverged for height, leaf area and leaf nitrogen content, but not for LMA. Subclades also differed in trait–trait relationships and these differences were modulated by rainfall seasonality. Leave-one-out cross-validation revealed that whether trait variation was better predicted by environmental predictors or trait–trait integration depended on the clade and trait in question. • Legacy signals in trait–environment and trait–trait relationships were apparently lost during the earliest diversification of Pelargonium, but then retained during subsequent subclade evolution. Overall, we demonstrate that global-scale patterns are poor predictors of patterns of trait variation at finer geographic and taxonomic scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proanthocyanidins have been characterized in the different organs of Geranium sylvaticum by using an off-line 2-dimensional chromatographic method. In the first dimension, proanthocyanidins were separated according to their increasing degree of polymerization by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography. In the second dimension, reversed-phase liquid chromatography was used to separate the same size isomers based on their hydrophobicity. Ultraviolet detection and high-resolution electrospray ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry were used for the identification and characterization of proanthocyanidins. The method was proven to be suitable for the analysis of plant organ fractions of G. sylvaticum that contained complex mixtures of phenolic compounds and proanthocyanidins from several classes. Procyanidins, prodelphinidins and mixed proanthocyanidins composed of both (epi)catechin and (epi)gallocatechin units including monomers, oligomers and polymers up to the degree of polymerization of 20 were identified. The type and size of proanthocyanidins varied between eight studied organs of G. sylvaticum . The 2-dimensional analysis revealed that each proanthocyanidin type occur in the equally complex isomeric pattern. The mean degree of polymerization of different proanthocyanidins in the eight plant organs of G. sylvaticum was 5 and it varied only slightly between plant organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context • The common cold (CC) is usually caused by a viral infection. Antibiotics are often prescribed unnecessarily for it, although no evidence exists for any benefit in the CC. Effective alternatives are needed. Objective • The study intended to evaluate the efficacy of 7630, a proprietary extract of Pelargonium sidoides, the active ingredient in umckaloabo, compared with a placebo for the treatment of the CC. Design • This was a prospective, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, phase 3 clinical trial (RCT), with an adaptive group-sequential design with 2 parts, both of which were 2-arm trials. The first used a standard dose (SD) of 3 × 30 drops per day of the active medication and the second used a high dose (HD) of 3 × 60 drops per day of the active medication, against 3 × 30 drops per day and 3 × 60 drops per day of a placebo, respectively. Setting • The study took place in 8 outpatient departments affiliated with hospitals. Participants • For the entire study, 207 adults with predefined cold symptoms that had been present for 24 to 48 h prior were included in the study, with 103 participating in the SD part and 104 participating in the HD part. Intervention • In the HD part, as covered in this article, the intervention group received treatment with 3 × 60 drops per day of the active medication and the control group received a placebo (control group), for a maximum period of 10 d. Outcome Measures • The primary outcome measure was the sum of differences in the cold intensity score (CIS) from day 1 to day 3 and from day 1 to day 5, defined as the sum of the symptom intensity differences (SSID). The criteria for the secondary outcome, efficacy, were (1) diverse response criteria according to the total CIS; (2) changes in individual CIS symptoms; (3) changes in further cold-relevant symptoms; (4) ability to work; (5) activity level; (6) general well-being; (7) health-related quality of life-the EuroQol questionnaire with 5 dimensions (EQ-5D), including the visual analogue scale EQ-VAS; (8) time until onset of treatment effect; (9) treatment outcome; and (10) satisfaction with treatment. Results • From baseline to day 5, the mean CIS decreased by 11.2 ± 4.8 points for the 7630 group and 6.3 ± 4.7 points for the control group. The mean SSID was 16.0 ± 7.6 points for the control group (P < .0001). After 10 d, 90.4% of the group receiving the active medication and 21.2% of the control group were clinically cured (P < .0001). In the treatment group, participants' inability to work was significantly lower, with a mean duration of 6.4 ± 1.6 d vs 8.3 ± 2.1 d for the control group (P < .0001), and treatment outcome-complete recovery or major improvement-was significantly better at day 5 for the active treatment group compared with the control group (P < .0001). Mild-to-moderate adverse events-all nonserious-occurred in 15.4% of those receiving active treatment vs in 5.8% for the control group. Conclusions • The active medication is an effective, well tolerated, and safe treatment for the CC. It significantly reduces the severity of symptoms and shortens the duration of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Background and Aims Much of morphological evolution in flowers has arisen from pollinator-mediated selection, often manifest as a match between the length of the pollinator's proboscis and the depth of tubular corollas or spurs. We investigate development, growth and homology of the unique nectar tube of Pelargonium, frequently described as 'a spur adnate to the pedicel'. • Methods We focused on two species. The nectar tube of P. ionidiflorum is three times longer than that of P. odoratissimum. Light and scanning electron microscopy were carried out, and daily growth measurements were used to compare nectar tube development and vascular patterns. • Key Results Nectar tubes in both species are initiated centripetally to the dorsal sepal in a space created by lateral displacement of two antepetalous stamens. The cavity deepens through subsequent intercalary growth of the receptacle that proceeds at the same rate in both species until tubes reach approx. 10 mm in length. Differences in final nectar tube lengths arise via an increase in the rate and duration of growth of the receptacle that begins just before anthesis (floral opening) and continues for several days past anthesis in P. ionidiflorum but does not occur in P. odoratissimum. Epidermal cells of the dorsal surface of the nectar tube in P. ionidiflorum are approx. 1.6 times longer than those in P. odoratissimum. Histological sections show no evidence that the nectar tube is a spur that became evolutionarily fused to the pedicel. • Conclusions Nectar tubes in Pelargonium are localized cavities that form in the receptacle via intercalary growth. Differences in the rate and duration of growth just prior to and following anthesis underlie differences in final tube lengths. Because differences in cell lengths do not fully account for differences in nectar tube lengths, evolutionary diversification must involve changes in both cell cycle and cell expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of plant groups have been proposed as ideal systems to explore plastid inheritance, plastome evolution and plastome-nuclear genome coevolution. Quick generation times and a compact nuclear genome in Arabidopsis thaliana, the relative ease of plastid isolation from Spinacia oleracea and the tractability of plastid transformation in Nicotiana tabacum are all desirable attributes in a model system; however, these and most other groups all lack novelty in terms of plastome structure and nucleotide sequence evolution. Contemporary sequencing and assembly technologies have facilitated analyses of atypical plastomes and, as predicted by early investigations, Geraniaceae plastomes have experienced unprecedented rearrangements relative to the canonical structure and exhibit remarkably high rates of synonymous and nonsynonymous nucleotide substitutions. While not the only lineage with unusual plastome features, likely no other group represents the array of aberrant phenomena recorded for the family. In this chapter, Geraniaceae plastomes will be discussed and, where possible, compared with other taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PREMISE OF THE STUDY: Abiotic environmental factors are often considered to be important in the distribution and maintenance of variation in sexual systems in flowering plants. Associations between sexes and abiotic factors are well documented in dioecious systems, but much less is known about this relationship in other sexually polymorphic systems. Species that are highly variable in sexual expression and habitat distribution can provide insights into the role of abiotic factors in maintaining variation in sexual expression. METHODS: Focusing on a sexually polymorphic species, Geranium transversale, we measured sexual expression at both the flower and the plant level and examined vegetative and floral traits, pollen deposition, and reproductive success. We also tested for correlations between sexual expression and other traits and examined whether and how these traits covaried with abiotic environmental conditions. KEY RESULTS: We identified unique variation of sexual expression in G. transversale. There are four sexual morphs that display different combinations of the three flower types (pistillate, staminate, and perfect). Sexual morphs that are phenotypically more female (i.e., female and gynomonoecious morphs) are found in wetter and milder environments, and flower earlier than morphs that are more male (i.e., hermaphroditic and andromonoecious morphs). Additionally, floral organ size and reproductive success are influenced not only by the flower type but also by the sexual morph of the plant. CONCLUSIONS: Environmental conditions are likely to cause some of the variation in sexual expression found in G. transversale. Both genetic and ecological factors likely contribute to the maintenance of sexual variation in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Pelargonium endlicherianumFenzl. (Geraniaceae) roots and flowers are traditionally used in Turkey as a decoction treatment against intestinal parasites. Neither the chemical composition nor the potential bioactivity of the plant roots has been studied before. Objectives:The phenolic content and effects ofP. endlicherianumroot extracts on antioxidant enzyme levels on A549 cells were studied for the first time. Materials and methods:The chemical composition was analyzed via spectrophotometric and chromatographic (HPLC MS/MS and HPLC) techniques. The antioxidant activity was determined at different concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 2 mg/mL using DPPH•and ABTS•+radical scavenging activity, β-carotene-linoleic acid co-oxidation assay, protection of 2-deoxyribose and bovine brain-derived phospholipids against a hydroxyl radical-mediated degradation assay. Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities were also studied as well as the effects of the extracts on nitric oxide levels on IL-1β stimulated A549 cells. Results:The key parameters for the most active ethyl acetate extract included the following: DPPH•IC50: 0.23 mg/mL, TEAC/ABTS: 2.17 mmol/L Trolox, reduction: 0.41 mmol/g AsscE, and protection of lipid peroxidation IC50: 0.05 mg/mL. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate extract increased the SOD level significantly compared to control group (4.48 U/mL) at concentrations of 100 and 200 μg/mL SOD, 5.50 and 5.67 U/mL, respectively. Apocynin was identified as the major component, and the ethyl acetate fraction was found to be rich in phenolic compounds. Discussion and conclusion:Pelargonium endlicherianumroot extracts displayed antioxidant activity and increased the antioxidant enzyme levels in IL-1β stimulated A549 cells, while decreasing the NO levels. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]