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Our work aims to improve the knowledge of the various ecosystem services rendered by Bambusa vulgaris, one of the non-timber forest products with high conservation value. The study was carried out in Ekali I and Ballong II, two localities in the Center Region of Cameroon. A semi-structured questionnaire on the ethnobotany of bamboo species was administered to 150 people selected in the two study localities. The clumping-based sampling design was used to collect structural data for Bambusa vulgaris. In addition, its biomass was estimated using allometric models developed using the destructive method. The survey revealed that Bambusa vulgaris is used for construction, food, handicrafts, household energy supply, and agriculture and as poles for transporting electric wires. The average culm density of Bambusa vulgaris in both localities is 4733.67 culms ha-1 with an average number of clumps of 96 ha-1. The Ballong II locality has higher structural parameters than Ekali, with 120 clumps ha-1, an average density of 5720 stems/ha-1, an average diameter of 9.46 cm, and an average height of 12.61 m. The biomass of the Bambusa vulgaris stands estimated to average 24.66 ± 21.50 kg ha-1, with a coeffcient of variation of 1.19%. Because of the pressure on this species due to its uses and role in climate regulation, it is urgent to think of a robust policy for its development and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In view of broadening the genetic base of bamboo resources and looking for alternative bamboo species that can grow in mid altitude areas where indigenous species are not growing in Ethiopia, different introduced bamboo species were tested for their adaptability and growth performance in different areas across the country. Data on ecological and climatic conditions of testing sites and corresponding growth in terms of diameter, height and density of the species were assessed; growth in Ethiopia was compared with growth of the species in their place of origin, i.e. South, Southeast and Tropical Asia. Accordingly, Dendrocalamus asper, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii, Bambusa vulgaris and Dendrocalamus giganteus were found to have similar diameter and height growth while Dendrocalamus membranaceus showed lower values in Ethiopia when compared to growth in its origin. The species-site matching effort of the species within Ethiopia in this regard, is conducted based on similarity in altitude and climatic conditions (rainfall, temperature) of experimental sites to other sites across the country. All the species, except B. bambos, perform well in Oromia, Amhara, SNNP and Tigray regions. All species, except D. gigantues. B. balcoa and B.bambos performed well in Benishangul-Gumuz region. Research on adaptability study needs to be extended in other regions of Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little to no records of Bambusa vulgaris (Schrad. ex J.C. Wendl.) flowering events have been published for Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies. This paper aims to document past flowering events on these islands and to record environmental conditions surrounding an individual flowering event in north-west Trinidad. A novel systematic sampling approach using aerial surveys was adopted. An unmanned drone was used to establish a 500 m radial transect at the first flowering clump and this method was continued until no more flowering bamboo clumps/clusters were identified. Additional aerial surveys and site visits along major roads were also conducted to search for flowering clumps/clusters on both islands. Much research isstill warranted (using similar methodologies and guidelines) to record environmental cues associated with B. vulgaris flowering on the islands as the present study was only able to provide a baseline for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have evolved constitutive and inductive defense mechanisms to protect themselves from herbivorous insects. Metabolites in plants are thought to be involved in response to herbivores. Bambusa emeiensis is an important bamboo species widely distributed in Southwest China. It is easy to attract herbivores such as Cyrtotrachelus buqueti. Through the detection and analysis of metabolites in B. emeiensis metabolomic data, 35 differential metabolites (biomarkers) were finally identified from 206 detection peaks, mainly primary metabolites. Subsequently, we conducted an association analysis between 35 biomarkers that annotated to be involved in 71 metabolic pathways in the metabolome and 324 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in 207 gene expression pathways distributed in the transcriptome of B. emeiensis after feeding by C. buqueti. We also discussed the relationship between the changes in gene expression levels and metabolite content variation. A total of 47 integrated pathways containing the corresponding DEGs and biomarkers were screened out, with the amino acid synthesis pathway (ko01230) containing the most DEGs and biomarkers. In these integrated pathways, the changes in biomarkers content and the expression levels of the corresponding genes were generally consistent. For example, the increase in tryptophan content was accompanied by an increase in the expression of the corresponding catalase in the tryptophan synthesis pathway. Similar to this was glucose and trehalose in carbohydrate metabolism. Therefore, this study further deepened our understanding of the defense mechanism of B. emeiensis against bamboo pests and provided new insights for the prevention and control of bamboo diseases and pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to produce composite boards from two bamboo species i.e., Bambusa blumeana and Dendrocalamus asper. The composites were termed as "strip-board" and "shavings-board" to indicate that such was processed from shavings and strips, respectively. The strip-board was produced from 1.2 meter poles. The poles were turned into slats and were deskinned, denoded, and further processed into thin long strips. The shavings-board were made from the internodes converted into slats, deskinned, and processed into thin materials. During defibering, the vascular bundles were cooked in three varying NaOH-water concentrations (i.e., 1%, 3%, and 5%) for 3 hours. The cooked bundles were thoroughly washed and dried to 14% MC, applied with polyvinyl acetate, and pressed at 1000 psi. The produced boards were cured, dried, and samples were subsequently tested for tensile, compression, and bending strength following the ASTM D-143-22 standards. The data were analyzed using the 2x2x3 (i.e., species, board type, NaOH concentration) factorial experiment in CRD. Results showed that the pressing pressure used was insufficient to produce void-free boards. No interaction was noted between the three factors, but the main effect indicated that B. blumeana has significantly higher tensile and compression strength compared to D. asper. The stripboards also obtained the same compared to shavings-boards. Despite the strength properties exhibited by B. blumeana, boards from D. asper were economical because of the lower price per pole and production cost. We conclude that the high pressing pressure was the most crucial factor in producing void-free, tightly compacted dense boards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was carried out to determine the effect of type and position of branch cuttings on rooting behaviour and root morphology in Bambusa vulgaris Schard. ex.J.C Wendl. using different concentrations of Indole butyric acid (IBA) harmone Maximum rooting was observed in primary (base end) cuttings treated with 1000 ppm. The propagules from single node basal end cuttings exhibited significantly higher values for all the branch cuttings for propagation is its abundant availability and ease of handling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This study investigated changes of soil quality of bamboo forests with different restoration years in the hilly area of southern Sichuan and comprehensively evaluated the effect of returning farmlands to bamboo forests on soil quality to provide support for ecological restoration of bamboo forests in southern Sichuan. [Method] In Changning, Sichuan, the Bambusa rigida plantations with different restoration years (5 and 10 years) were studied using bamboo forestland without returning farmland as control. Using field investigation and laboratory analysis, seventeen soil biological indices including soil physical properties (soil bulk density, maximum water holding capacity, capillary water holding capacity, capillary porosity, field water holding capacity, total porosity and non-capillary porosity) and chemical properties (pH, alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen, exchangeable magnesium, exchangeable calcium, total nitrogen, total potassium, total phosphorus, rapidly available phosphorus, organic matter and available potassium) were measured. Principal component analysis, weighted synthesis and fuzzy mathematics were used to evaluate soil quality of Bambusa rigida plantations with different restoration years. [Result] At same soil layers, soil bulk density and non-capillary porosity first decreased and then increased with the extension of restoration years, field water capacity, maximum water capacity and capillary water capacity first increased and then decreased, while capillary porosity and total porosity decreased continuously. Contents of organic matter, total nitrogen, alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, exchangeable Ca and Mg firstly increased and then decreased, content of available phosphorus firstly decreased and then increased, while content of available potassium decreased all the time. At same restoration years, soil bulk density increased gradually with the increase of soil depth, while field water capacity and soil chemical properties (except pH and total potassium) decreased gradually. With the extension of restoration years, the comprehensive index of soil quality increased at first and then decreased with peak values at 5 years. Under same restoration period, soil quality index decreased with the increase of soil depth. [Conclusion] Different restoration years had significant effects on soil quality of Bambusa rigida plantations in southern Sichuan. At early stage of restoration (5 years), comprehensive index of soil quality increased obviously. After 10 years of restoration, soil improvement was minor. Thus, it is necessary to carry out artificial management for Bambusa rigida forests 10 years after restoration to better utilize their ecological function and improve ecological environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bambusa tulda (Poaceae) is one of the most valuable bamboo species in terms of health-promoting effects. The goal of this research work was to carry out the in-vivo acute toxicity, anti-diabetic and anti-oxidative activities of hydro-methanolic extract of B. tulda leaves. The median lethal dose (LD50) of the hydro-methanolic extract of B. tulda leaves was found to be 6088.13 mg/kg body weight in mice. Supplementing the low (100 mg/kg) and high dose (200 mg/kg) of B. tulda leaf extract showed significant elevation in the endogenous enzymes level of superoxide dismutase (24.81%) and glutathione peroxidase (31.60%) with a decline in malondialdehyde levels (21.90%) when compared to untreated alloxan-induced diabetic control rats. The histopathological assessment of pancreas also showed an increase in ß-cells, though not at a significant level. Hence the presence of phyto-constituents substantiates the pharmacological activities of hydro-methanolic extract of B. tulda leaf particularly as a potential candidate for anti-diabetic activity. However, detailed studies are needed to elucidate its exact mechanism of action against diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuaries are natural and important coastal bodies that are found in different regions of the world. They provide economically and ecologically indispensable services. However, their muddy substrate is a problem for their water and soil quality. Therefore, estuaries are difficult to develop. Ecologically, the presence of bamboo plants could be an appropriate solution to improving the hydrological system of estuaries. This study aimed to analyze the diversity of bamboo species and their relationship with existing environmental conditions during 2019 and 2020 in Indragiri Hilir Estuary, Riau, Indonesia. Follow-up analyses were carried out at the bamboo herbarium of the Botanical Laboratory, Department of Biology, Riau University, Indonesia. Three different bamboo genera, 10 species, and two cultivars were identified in the estuary. Bambusa was the most adaptive and abundant genus with five species, followed by genus Gigantochloa with four species. Only one species was recorded for genus Dendrocalamus. The existence of these genera was influenced by environmental factors, such as elevation, soil pH, temperature, and humidity. Bambusa (galah bamboo) was found in larger quantities in its natural habitat than in the forests. Canonical correspondence analysis showed that Bambusa vulgaris var. striata was highly influenced by soil pH, temperature and elevation. B. vulgaris. var. vulgaris showed great tolerance for several environmental stresses, including high salinity. Therefore, it was considered a eurytopic species with the highest productivity value (59.4%) and has the potential to be further developed in this estuary. Bamboo species with great diversity can be further exploited and adapted well to muddy substrates with high salinity in the Indragiri Hilir estuary area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo is known for its edible shoots and beautiful texture and has considerable economic and ornamental value. Unique among traditional flowering plants, many bamboo plants undergo extensive synchronized flowering followed by large-scale death, seriously affecting the productivity and application of bamboo forests. To date, the molecular mechanism of bamboo flowering characteristics has remained unknown. In this study, a SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CONSTANS1 (SOC1)-like gene, BoMADS50, was identified from Bambusa oldhamii. BoMADS50 was highly expressed in mature leaves and the floral primordium formation period during B. oldhamii flowering and overexpression of BoMADS50 caused early flowering in transgenic rice. Moreover, BoMADS50 could interact with APETALA1/FRUITFULL (AP1/FUL)-like proteins (BoMADS14-1/2, BoMADS15-1/2) in vivo, and the expression of BoMADS50 was significantly promoted by BoMADS14-1, further indicating a synergistic effect between BoMADS50 and BoAP1/FUL-like proteins in regulating B. oldhamii flowering. We also identified four additional transcripts of BoMADS50 (BoMADS50-1/2/3/4) with different nucleotide variations. Although the protein-CDS were polymorphic, they had flowering activation functions similar to those of BoMADS50. Yeast one-hybrid and transient expression assays subsequently showed that both BoMADS50 and BoMADS50-1 bind to the promoter fragment of itself and the SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP)-like gene BoSVP, but only BoMADS50-1 can positively induce their transcription. Therefore, nucleotide variations likely endow BoMADS50-1 with strong regulatory activity. Thus, BoMADS50 and BoMADS50-1/2/3/4 are probably important positive flowering regulators in B. oldhamii. Moreover, the functional conservatism and specificity of BoMADS50 and BoMADS50-1 might be related to the synchronized and sporadic flowering characteristics of B. oldhamii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of the mechanical behaviour of Bamboo fibre (Bambusa Vulgaris) reinforced unsaturated polyester resin has been carried out in this work. The composites have been fabricated manually using the hand lay-up method. The purpose of the work is to develop a suitable alternative as a replacement for synthetic materials in industries. Five different weight fraction of fibre/matrix have been developed and investigated for their mechanical properties such as tensile strength and tensile modulus in accordance to test standard of ASTM D3039/D3039M-17. The ratio used for bamboo fibre and unsaturated polyester resin is 10:90, 15:85, 20:80 and 25:75. The pulping pre-treatment process was used to extract the fibre. The surface failure of the specimen has been determined from the tensile test and fractography failure is also discussed in this study. The results from this research will provide understanding of bamboo composite properties for future flooring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spider mites, especially members of Schizotetranychus represent a common and dominant group of bamboo pests, enjoying worldwide distribution. The present paper highlights the feeding attributes of a notorious species of bamboo spider mite, viz. Schizotetranychus schizopus (Zacher, 1913) infesting the Indian Thorny Bamboo, Bambusa bambos (L.) Voss. Observations on feeding behavior of the mite were completed in the laboratory by collecting mite specimens from infested leaves of bamboo plants grown in Calicut University Botanical Garden. The species showed initial colonization on the abaxial surface of bamboo leaves, adjacent to the midrib and feeding activity of the members of the colony resulted in the development of damage symptoms like chlorotic spots, white patches, yellowing etc. Comparative analysis of the biochemical constituents of mite infested and uninfested leaves of B. bambos revealed significant alterations. Mite infested bamboo leaves presented significantly reduced values of chlorophyll fluorescence (30.10% loss in Fv/Fm ratio) thereby indicating a decline of photosynthetic efficiency. Significant reduction in total carbohydrate (58.87%) and total protein (21.02%) contents also could be accounted in mite infested leaves. Meanwhile, mite infestation was found to enhance the production of stress compounds such as Total Phenol (22.86%) and Proline (69.05%). An increase in the uptake of micro and macronutrients like Potassium (18.87%), Calcium (36.66%), Copper (48.76%) and Zinc (19.62%) was also observed in mite infested leaves. Despite this, the uptake of nutrients such as Phosphorus (8.22%), Magnesium (3.55%), Sulphur (1.54%), Iron (11.46%), Manganese (13.64%) and Boron (30.09%) significantly decreased owing to mite infestation. Significant decrease in moisture content also was evident in the mite infested bamboo leaves. The results of the study helped to evidence the biotic stress induced by the mite on its bamboo host, by promoting enhanced production of Total Phenol, Proline, Potassium, Calcium, Copper and Zinc which would play a substantial role in the defense mechanism of the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Northeastern hilly states of India harbor nearly 90 species of bamboos, 41 of which are endemic to the region. Estimation of C-storage and C-sequestration in aboveground biomass of two common bamboo species namely Bambusa tulda and Dendrocalamus longispathus was carried out in Mizoram-one of the eight states of Northeastern India. Recording of density of culms was done by quadrate method and harvesting of culms was done to estimate the aboveground biomass. C-storage in different components of the culms was found out for three age classes namely 1, 2 and ≥ 3 year old culms. Aboveground biomass ranged from 73.58 to 127 Mg/ha in Bambusa tulda and 115 to 150 Mg/ha in Dendrocalamus longispathus. Culm density and aboveground biomass were maximum in the ≥ 3 year age class in both the species. C-storage ranged from 36.34 to 64.00 Mg/ha in Bambusa tulda and 50.11 to 65.16 Mg/ha in Dendrocalamus longispathus. Although having lower aboveground biomass the rate of C-sequestration was higher in Bambusa tulda with 27.79 Mg/ha/year than Dendrocalamus longispathus which have 15.36 Mg/ha/year. The reason was attributed to higher increment of culm density and DBH of the older age class in the second year study period in Bambusa tulda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classification of Bambusa vulgaris for structural application was carried out based on the maximum crushing strength perpendicular and parallel to the grain of the culm as well as bending moduli of rupture (MOR) and elasticity (MOE). The findings of the work showed that the MOR > 70 N/mm2, MOE > 9000 N/mm2 and compression strength > 35 N/mm2. Following the standard classification of timber species for structural use in building, B. vulgaris is placed in group one as the strength properties surpassed the standard stress limit required for structural application. The basic density of B. vulgaris falls in the range of 755.22 to 877.23 kg/m3 which is comparable to most bamboo as well as heavy tropical wood species used in construction. The overall specific strength properties of B. vulgaris were somewhat higher than and comparable to most timber species used in construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of seminal bamboo seedlings is considered not viable, being this the biggest limiting factor. The tissue culture and minicutting are efficient, but very costly techniques, which makes it necessary to search for alternative techniques, such as propagation through culm sections. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of three methods of vegetative propagation with segments of the culm of the species Bambusa vulgaris, B. variabilis, B. tuldoides and Dendrocalamus giganteus. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design, factorial scheme of four (4) species (Bambusa vulgaris, B. variabilis, B. tuldoides and Dendrocalamus giganteus) and three (3) methods of preparing the propagule (a single node, binodal propagule, and binodal propagule + H 2 O), with four replicates and plots of five propagules. The propagules were deposited in shallow pits kept in field conditions. At 45 days, the percentage of shoots was measured and analyzes of variance and Tukey were performed at 5% error probability. For D. giganteus, none of the methods of preparing the propagules proved to be efficient for their propagation. The species B. vulgaris, B. variabilis and B. tuldoides showed higher percentages of sprouting. The method of preparing propagules with a single node was more efficient for B. variabilis, B. vulgaris and B. tuldoides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bambusa is an economically and ornamental woody bamboo genus. The complete plastid genome of B. tulda was determined and analyzed in this study. The genome was 139,536 bp in length, including a large single copy region (LSC) of 83,091 bp and a small single copy region (SSC) of 12,893 bp, and two inverted repeat regions (IR) of 21,776 bp. The plastid genome contained 132 genes, which comprised 85 protein-coding genes, eight ribosomal RNA genes, and 39 transfer RNA genes.

Arthrinium phaeospermum is the major pathogen responsible for the significant stem disease "blight" in B. pervariabilis × D. grandis . The interacting proteins of the key pathogenic factor ApCtf1β , BDUbc and BDSKL1, have previously been obtained by two-hybrid, BiFC, GST pull-down yeast assays. However, the functions of these interacting proteins remain unknown. This study successfully obtained transgenic plants overexpressing BDUbc , BDSKL1 , and BDUbc + BDSKL1 via Agrobacterium-mediated gene overexpression. qRT-PCR analysis revealed significantly increased expression levels of BDUbc and BDSKL1 in the transgenic plants. After infection with the pathogenic spore suspension, the disease incidence and severity index significantly decreased across all three transgenic plants, accompanied by a marked increase in defense enzyme levels. Notably, the co-transformed plant, OE- BDUbc + BDSKL1 , demonstrated the lowest disease incidence and severity index among the transgenic variants. These results not only indicate that BDUbc and BDSKL1 are disease-resistant genes, but also that these two genes may exhibit a synergistic enhancement effect, which further improves the resistance to blight in Bambusa pervariabilis × Dendrocalamopsis grandis .

The low multiplication and ex vitro survival rates during acclimatization in the culture house limit the in vitro mass propagation of B. vulgaris. Several scientific studies have described the development of different protocols for bamboo; however, not all of them address the effects of these systems on plant morphology, physiology, and biochemistry in vitro. In this chapter, a complete and optimized protocol is described for plants propagated via organogenesis in temporary immersion systems. In addition, the morphophysiological and biochemical characterization of the plants as well as the survival rates of the obtained plants under ex vitro conditions are analyzed. The obtained results will be the basis for the development of a technology for in vitro propagation as an alternative for the production of plants of the species., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

An up-to-date information on aphid fauna (Hemiptera, Aphidoidea) of Vietnam based on literature data and original material is presented. The updated check-list of aphids includes 47 species, and also 15 species identified only to genus level. Protastegopteryx vietnamensis gen. nov., sp. nov. from Bambusa sp., collected in Ct Tin National Park (Dong Nai Province), is described. The species is illustrated and its biometric data is provided. The described aphid genus is closely related to Astegopteryx Karsch, 1890. The taxonomic position of the genus is discussed.

Bambusa multiplex has been broadly cultivated in China and has significant economical, ecological and ornamental importance. A canker on the culm of B. multiplex was first time discovered in 2015 in Shanghai, China. In this study, the fungal isolate XSZ‐1 isolated from the infected tissues was determined to be a pathogen of canker on the culm of B. multiplex by fulfilling Koch's postulates. The fungal pathogen was identified as Fusarium incarnatum based on the morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses with the sequences of ITS, TEF‐1α and RPB2. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a canker on the culm of B. multiplex caused by F. incarnatum worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Low cost and holocellulose rich bamboo was used for butanol production. • The yield of butanol production was observed 0.288 g/g reducing sugar. • Methyl viologen, C/N ratio and CaCO 3 had increased butanol yield by 30.89%. • Clostridium beijerinckii produced butanol 11.54 g/L form bamboo hydrolysate. Abstract Conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to energy is a transformational approach for addressing the escalating energy demand and environmental concerns along with waste management. In the present study, bamboo rich in holocellulose content (cellulose, 42.47 ± 2.3% (w/w) and hemicellulose, 20.10 ± 1.0% (w/w)) was used for biobutanol production. A concoction of laccases (as ligninolytic enzyme) and saccharolytic enzymes (cellulases and xylanases) were used in a single vessel for reducing sugar production from bamboo. Bamboo hydrolysate had glucose, xylose and cellobiose as reducing sugars which were used by Clostridium beijerinckii (ATCC 55025-E604) for ABE (acetone, butanol, and ethanol) production. C. beijerinckii utilized glucose, xylose and cellobiose efficiently and produced ABE when commercial sugars were studied individually. Process parameters studies showed that ABE yield was 0.35 g/g-sugar at 37 °C, pH 6.5, inoculum volume 12% v/v, inoculum age 18 h and fermentation time 60 h. Further optimization of C/N ratio, methyl viologen and CaCO3 Led to increase in the yield of butanol by 30.39%, w/v while the overall ABE yield was increased by 17.79%, w/v as compared to control (without use of C/N ratio, methyl viologen and CaCO3). The enzymes used for these studies are of high titer and produced indigenously utilizing cheaper substrates such as agroresidues under solid state fermentation. Moreover, overall process effectiveness is promising and attractive because of higher conversion efficiency, eco-friendliness and biodegradable nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different ages of Bambusa balcooa (bamboo) were treated and tested for grindability and combustion behavior in support of a co‐firing research program. The bamboo samples (1, 3, and 4+ years old) were subjected to thermal pre‐treatment methods, that is, torrefaction at 250 and 280°C and low temperature carbonization at 350 and 400°C to improve their combustion and physicochemical properties. The grindability of bamboo was improved by thermal treatment, indicated by an increase in HGI value. In all bamboo samples (1, 3, and 4+ years old), the grindability was found to be easier as the treatment temperature increased. The raw bamboo samples exhibited calorific values ranging from 17 to 18 MJ/kg and these increased to 25–30 MJ/kg, by torrefaction and carbonization. Both raw and thermally treated bamboo had higher reactivities, and lower ignition and burnout temperatures compared with that for coal during combustion. The carbonized 4‐year‐old bamboo forms appear to be more suited to, and possibly the preferred alternative source of fuel for, firing alone or co‐fired with coal in pulverized coal boilers such as those used in large scale power generation in South Africa. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1901–1907, 2018 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adult female and first-instar nymph of a new species of Discochiton Hodgson & Williams, 2018, Discochiton bambusae Choi & Lee sp. n. are described and illustrated. They were collected on the culms of Bambusa tulda (Poaceae: Bambusoideae) in Myanmar. The adult female has several unique morphological features, such as a large body, up to 15 mm long; legs much reduced; and sclerotized plates forming submedial bands or patches on the venter. Furthermore, the adult female has more marginal radial lines and stigmatic spines than are found in other Discochiton species. The first-instar nymph is also much larger than those of other Discochiton species, and is also distinct in having tibial setae, and a greater number of spiracular disc-pores and marginal setae compared to those of other species of Discochiton.

The young bamboo shoot of Bambusa oldhamii (green bamboo) has a good taste and is rich in nutrition and widely used in traditional Chinese cuisines. But the shoots flavor of Bambusa oldhamii changed from deliciously sweet to a little bitter when the shoots grew from underground to aboveground. In this paper, we explored the bitterness chemicals of the green bamboo shoot when growing from underground to aboveground using transcriptome and metabolome techniques. Finally, several bitter chemicals were mined out counting for the flavor transformation, such as Solanidine, Amygdalin, Salicin, Arbutin, and others. The transcription factor family of AP2/ERF plays the main role in key bitter chemical regulation via correlation analysis. Moreover, the pathway of Biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids might be the key pathway in the formation of the bitter chemicals in green bamboo shoot development., (© 2023. Springer Nature Limited.)

Zinc finger protein (ZFP) transcription factors play a pivotal role in regulating plant growth, development, and response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Although extensively characterized in model organisms, these genes have yet to be reported in bamboo plants, and their expression information is lacking. Therefore, we identified 21 B-box ( BBX ) genes from a transcriptome analysis of Bambusa pervariabilis × Dendrocalamopsis grandis . Consequently, multiple sequence alignments and an analysis of conserved motifs showed that they all had highly similar structures. The BBX genes were divided into four subgroups according to their phylogenetic relationships and conserved domains. A GO analysis predicted multiple functions of the BBX genes in photomorphogenesis, metabolic processes, and biological regulation. We assessed the expression profiles of 21 BBX genes via qRT-PCR under different adversity conditions. Among them, eight genes were significantly up-regulated under water deficit stress ( BBX4 , BBX10 , BBX11 , BBX14 , BBX15 , BBX16 , BBX17 , and BBX21 ), nine under salt stress ( BBX2 , BBX3 , BBX7 , BBX9 , BBX10 , BBX12 , BBX15 , BBX16 , and BBX21 ), twelve under cold stress ( BBX1 , BBX2 , BBX4 , BBX7 , BBX10 , BBX12 , BBX14 , BBX15 , BBX17 , BBX18 , BBX19 , and BBX21 ), and twelve under pathogen infestation stress ( BBX1 , BBX2 , BBX4 , BBX7 , BBX10 , BBX12 , BBX14 , BBX15 , BBX17 , BBX18 , BBX19 , and BBX21 ). Three genes ( BBX10 , BBX15 , and BBX21 ) were significantly up-regulated under both biotic and abiotic stresses. These results suggest that the BBX gene family is integral to plant growth, development, and response to multivariate stresses. In conclusion, we have comprehensively analyzed the BDBBX genes under various adversity stress conditions, thus providing valuable information for further functional studies of this gene family.

In this research study, Bambusa ssp, the utilized species of bamboo, was rendered into a more versatile construction material in the form of laminates. The laminated specimens were manufactured using simplified processing methods according to the ASTM D3039 and ASTM D143 standards. Polyvinyl acetate was the adhesive used between the 2-ply laminate. The mechanical properties of the specimens were evaluated through tensile, compressive and bending strength tests according to set standards on the Testometric M500-50AT Universal Testing Machine. The tensile strength of laminated bamboo was comparable to that of redwood, spruce, cedar and pine. The ratio of compressive strength of parallel to perpendicular fibers in compressive tests was in a close range to that of poplar, fir and pine. The correlation in compressive strength values between bamboo and wood confirmed the inherent anisotropic nature of both plant materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, soda lignin was extracted from Bambusa bambos using a soda pulping process, and interaction effects of pulping variables were statistically analyzed by the central composite design methodology. A statistical model predicted that the maximum recovery of soda lignin would be 104.6 mg/g of biomass in the following optimized process conditions: sodium hydroxide concentration (1.3% w/v), biomass concentration (10% w/v) and 150 min of pulping. The precipitated soda lignin was sequentially fractionated with organic solvents (chloroform, dichloromethane and n-butanol). The extracted soda lignin fractions, chloroform fraction (F1), dichloromethane (F2) and n-butanol (F3) were subsequently characterized by UV, FTIR, thermogravimetric analysis and 1H NMR spectral analysis. According to analytical characterization of lignin fractions, the molecular weight of lignin fractions increased gradually from fraction 1 to 3 and their polydispersity decreased dramatically compared with the unfractionated lignin. TG/DTG showed that the low molecular weight fractions generally have lower thermal stability. Functional group analysis results indicated that the guaiacyl unit content, molecular weight and thermal stability increased from F1 to F3, whereas the phenolic acid content significantly decreased. Solvent fractionation method to separate well defined structure of lignin molecules, which are likely having the extreme potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The topological structure of macromolecules of Pepper lignin isolated from bamboo stems is studied. The molecular properties of dilute lignin solutions in dimethylformamide are investigated by the methods of high-velocity sedimentation, translational diffusion, and viscometry. The molecular mass of fractions, the scaling coefficients of the Kuhn-Mark-Houwink equation, and the Tsvetkov-Klenin hydrodynamic invariant are determined. It is first shown that the lignin of bamboo stems belongs to the universal class of chaotically branched polymers, and the degree of branching of macromolecules is estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the effect of cashew nut shell liquid on the decay resistance of Bambusa vulgaris against brown rot fungi, white rot fungi and termite attack. The extraction of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) was done by using soxhlet extractor method. The treated bamboo samples were subjected to fungi and termite activities for a period of 12 weeks after which percentage preservative absorption and weight loss were assessed. A 3 x 5 factorial experiments in Complete Randomized Design (CRD) was adopted for the study. Data obtained were subjected to Analysis of Variance. The result obtained revealed that undiluted cashew shell nut liquid extract had the highest (22.70%) volume of preservative absorption by the bamboo, while diluted CNSL+kero (1:3) indicated the least quantity (10.95%) of bio preservative absorb by bamboo. The hot treatment technique enhances deep penetration and absorption of the preservative chemicals into the bamboo wood samples. Untreated bamboo wood had the highest weight loss (42.7%), followed by CNLE Extract (Undiluted) bamboo treated wood samples (15.7%) while solignum (undiluted) bamboo treated wood samples had the least weight loss of 13.0%. Bamboo wood treated with undiluted solignum chemical and subjected to brown rot fungi had the least weight loss (7.6%). The undiluted CNLE extract and untreated bamboo wood had a weight loss of 17.0% and 30.6%. The untreated bamboo wood subjected to white rot fungi had the highest weight loss (28.4%) while bamboo wood treated with undiluted solignum had the least weight loss of 12.6%, followed by samples treated with undiluted CNLE (15.6%). The statistical analysis further revealed that the preservative treatments had significant effects (p=0.001) on the weight loss observed on the bamboo wood, while the interaction between the agents of decay and the preservative treatments was not significantly different (p=0.778). The high termite susceptibility and fungal decay as revealed by the control (untreated) in this study showed that the bamboo wood is not durable, consequently, there is need for preservative treatment to extend its service life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo species have been promoted for utility in both biomass and pulp production because of their high productivity. However, some bamboo species are known to be problematic invaders. Our goal was to use a weed risk assessment (WRA) tool to evaluate and compare invasion risk of non-native running and clumping bamboo species, many of which are under consideration as paper pulp and bioenergy crops in the continental United States. WRAs were conducted for 18 running and 29 clumping bamboo species using a version of the Australian WRA modified for the U.S. We tested for differences in scores and the number of questions answered for clumping and running species, the relationship between the WRA score and the number of questions answered, and the questions that differentiated low and high-risk species. Overall, we found that running bamboo species present a significantly higher invasion risk than clumping species. Only one running bamboo species ( Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda ) was identified as low risk and one clumping species ( Bambusa bambos ) was high risk for invasion. History of invasiveness elsewhere, the ability to form dense thickets, and unintentional dispersal of viable rhizome pieces were associated with significantly greater predicted risk. Commercial applications of bamboo should focus on the use of low invasion risk clumping bamboo species to reduce the risk of escape and colonization of nearby natural areas. Further, bamboo-specific best management practices (BMPs) should be implemented to reduce the probability of invasion for species used in commercial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A diversion of raw material from wood to bamboo is necessary. In vitro culture of bamboo can be used to provide a high number of seedling. The aim of this study was to increase the multiplication of a high quality Bambusa balcooa as a wood alternative material. Part of plants used was the sterile axillary shoot. The explants were planted on MS0 medium for 2 weeks and later on multiplication medium MS+0.3 mg/l BAP + 0.3mg/l TDZ. The shoots obtained were fragmented into clusters (3-5 shoots) used for the next multiplication stage using five different medium formulas: (1) MS0; MS containing: (2) 0.1 mg/l BAP, (3) 0.3 mg/l BAP, (4) 0.1 mg/l BAP + 0.1 mg/l TDZ and (5) 0.3 mg/l BAP + 0.1 mg/l TDZ. The results showed that MS medium containing 0.1 mg/l BAP + 0.1mg/l TDZ was the best medium for B. balcooa propagation. The shoots produced from aforementioned medium had a better quality compared to the other medium. Forty days after planting, the average number of shoots in this medium was 14.25. MS medium containing 0.3 mg/l BAP + 0.1 mg/l TDZ produced the highest number of shoot but in lower quality. Rooting medium containing 10 mg/l IBA + 5 mg/l NAA produced 9-16 root in 8 weeks. Vermicompost was more prevalent for the acclimatization of B. balcooa compared to compost. The use of B.balcooa resulted in in vitro propagation as a substitute alternative for wood is expected to save the environment from illegal logging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo in its raw state is difficult to incorporate in complex structures due to its tubular shape. In this research article, a novel approach to connect bamboo was designed and evaluated in order to integrate sustainable material into modern structures. Several bamboo joints for culm connection were designed based on strength and durability under various loading capacity. The conceptual joints were manufactured and subjected to destructive testing on the Universal Testing Machine, Testometric M500-50AT. From the mechanical properties generated, final modifications and refinements were incorporated into the joint design. Self-drilling metal screw joints were found to be the strongest with a maximum resisting force of around 11 kN in compression and 10 kN in tension. Riveted joints were the second strongest joint, while tightening ring joints, the weakest among the three, could only resist a peak load of 747 N in tension. The joints, designed with metal fittings, proved to be more practical for utilization in assembly design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of cellulosic materials in the construction of low-rise housing in tropical climates has great potential. Bambusa blumeana (B. blumeana, J.A. and J.H. Schultes), the most abundantly available bamboo species in the Philippines, is a promising alternative material for the construction of cost-efficient buildings. However, to comply with municipal rules and regulations for construction, a comprehensive understanding of the organic raw material is needed to permit its application as a load-bearing structural member. In this study, the physical and mechanical properties of B. blumeana bamboo from a typical growth region of the Philippines were tested according to ISO 22157-1 (2004) and ISO 22157-2 (2004). The characteristic strength values of B. blumeana were as follows: compressive and tensile strengths parallel to the grain of 20 and 95 MPa, respectively; shear strength of 5 MPa, bending strength of 34.6 MPa, and the mean and fifth percentile modulus of elasticity of 13100 and 8600 MPa, respectively. Based on these results, a recommendation for permissible stresses for structural design was made in line with ISO 22156 (2004). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the supplementation of the MS culture medium with active chlorine and activated charcoal for the in vitro culture of Bambusa vulgaris. Lateral shoots were collected from field-cultivated plants to obtain explants, which consisted of nodal segments of 1-2 cm length, containing one axillary bud. The MS culture medium was supplemented with the following treatments: E1= 0.004 % v v-1 of active chlorine + 4 g L-1 of charcoal; E2= 0.004 % v v-1 of active chlorine; E3= 4 g L-1 charcoal and E4= control (no active chlorine and no charcoal). The percentage of oxidation, fungal and bacterial contamination, explant establishment, survival, sprout and adventitious rooting were evaluated every 21 d, during 63 d. The use of active chlorine reduced the fungal (28 %) and bacterial (38 %) contamination, being the treatment with the highest percentage of established explants (16 %), survival (68 %) and sprout induction (95 %) after 63 d. After 36 days from the beginning of the multiplication stage, some explants presented spontaneous rooting, without the application of plant growth regulators. An anatomical analysis of sprouts and roots revealed the presence of meristematic zones. Furthermore, it indicated that the emergence of adventitious roots occurred from the nodal region in association with axillary buds. Our results contribute toward the development of more efficient protocols for the in vitro propagation of B. vulgaris, from which we recommend using active chlorine for further assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need to boost livestock production in Nigeria calls for a provision of feed that is adequate in both quality and quantity as well as accessible to animals all year round. The quest to assess and exploit plants for their potentials in feeding livestock animals all year round necessitated this study. The phytochemical and nutritional composition of the leaves of Bambusa vulgaris and Artocarpus altilis were assayed. Phytochemical screening of the two plant leaves revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids and tannins. Terpenoids and steroids were absent in the two plants. Further phytochemical quantifications revealed B. vulgaris and A. altilis leaves contained alkaloids (10.64% and 14.80%), saponins (2.33 and 3.90%), flavonoids (4.60 and 3.70%), tannins (0.67 and 1.89 mg/100g) and phenol (0.23 and 1.89 mg/100 g) respectively. The proximate analyses revealed low moisture content (12.27% and 14.88%), crude protein (2.84 and 2.15%), moderate crude fat (6.00 and 6.91%) and high crude fiber (16.96 and 9.96%), ash (11.82 and 15.92%) and carbohydrate (50.12 and 50.19%) respectively. The leaves were equally rich in Ca, K, P, Mg with low Na. Similarly, the results show that leaves of the two plants investigated could provide dietary and medicinal needs of livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are few investigations on the potentials of bamboos in carbon storage and as carbon sink in African tropical rainforests, especially in Nigeria where there are no baseline data on this subject. The study assessed carbon stock of ~ 60 years old B. vulgaris stands in a regenerating secondary forest in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Destructive method was employed to assess aboveground biomass and for its carbon stored. Results showed that mean aboveground biomass was 257.82 t ha-1 with culm (210.75 t ha-1) significantly higher than twigs (35.59 t ha-1) and leaves (11.47 t ha-1). The mean carbon stored was 237.94 t C ha-1 of which 138.70 t C ha-1were stored in the aboveground biomass; 32.72 t C ha-1 in the belowground biomass and 66.52 t C ha-1 in the soil. It sequestered ~32.22 t C ha-1 yr-1 and stored carbon higher than some dominant tree species in the secondary forest, some Agroforestry system in Africa and most bamboo species in tropical and subtropical countries. Bamboo plantation should be considered in coastal regions to check the effect of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, the effects of Bambusa tulda on stem cells have not been thoroughly assessed. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of Bambusa tulda extract on the morphology and proliferative potential of human mesenchymal stem cells derived from the gingiva. The stem cells were cultured in a growth medium in the presence of Bambusa tulda methanolic extract (BBT) at concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 1%. Evaluation of cell morphology and cellular proliferation as well as immunofluorescent assays for collagen I were performed on days 1, 3, 5 and 7. Stem cells in the control group displayed a fibroblast-like morphology, and BBT treatment did not produce any noticeable morphological changes. However, application of 1% BBT produced a significant increase in cell proliferation. BBT, particularly at the concentration of 1%, also caused a noticeable increase of collagen I expression at day 1 and day 3. Based on these findings, it was concluded that BBT exerted beneficial effects on the proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells and enhanced collagen I expression at early time points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]