Search

Summary: Plant health is intricately linked to crop quality, food security and agricultural productivity. Obtaining accurate plant health information is of paramount importance in the realm of precision agriculture. Wearable sensors offer an exceptional avenue for investigating plant health status and fundamental plant science, as they enable real‐time and continuous in‐situ monitoring of physiological biomarkers. However, a comprehensive overview that integrates and critically assesses wearable plant sensors across various facets, including their fundamental elements, classification, design, sensing mechanism, fabrication, characterization and application, remains elusive. In this study, we provide a meticulous description and systematic synthesis of recent research progress in wearable sensor properties, technology and their application in monitoring plant health information. This work endeavours to serve as a guiding resource for the utilization of wearable plant sensors, empowering the advancement of plant health within the precision agriculture paradigm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of comprehensive studies in Arbakalir Lake and Charskii Hot Spring during the growing season in 2021, the physical and chemical parameters of water and the species and phytocenotic diversity of vegetation were studied. In the flora of water bodies, 56 taxa from seven divisions, of which 31 species belong to flowering plants, 22 species to macroalgae, and one species in each to bryophytes, horsetails, and lycophytes were identified. Two species are included in the Red Book, at both the federal and regional levels. Two species are classified as relict. The structure of the flora contains species of three ecotypes, of which 38 species (67.9%) belong to true aquatic plants. In the syntaxonomic structure of aquatic and coastal aquatic vegetation, 18 associations from 12 formations were identified. Based on factor analysis, the main factors influencing the distribution of phytocenoses are the water temperature, pH, mineralization, and the main cation, anion, and nutrient contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artemisia neosinensis is reported here as first distribution record for India from Jammu and Kashmir. The taxonomic identification of species was confirmed on the basis of protologue, type specimen, floral parts, i.e., marginal female florets and disc florets, phyllaries and achene characters. Detailed distribution map, description, taxonomic notes and photographic illustrations are provided to facilitate easy and correct identification of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganoderma Karst., a rot causing and lignin degrading genus of wild mushrooms exhibits remarkable variability in the basidiome morphology often leading to inconclusive species identification by conventional taxonomic procedure. Present study by making use of integrated morpho-anatomical and molecular approach of identification, recorded G. leucocontextum as a new addition to the wild mushroom flora of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a collection of abstracts from the Canadian Journal of Plant Pathology, covering a wide range of topics related to plant diseases and their management. The abstracts provide brief overviews of each study and its findings, offering valuable information for researchers and library patrons interested in plant pathology. Topics include the effects of biostimulants on lettuce growth, organic amendments for managing root-lesion nematodes in apple orchards, using high-throughput sequencing for pathogen surveillance in bees and pollen, identifying and characterizing viruses affecting blueberries, and various studies on agricultural topics such as scorch viruses in blueberries, NLR immune receptors in wheat, and greenhouse gas emissions in cropping systems. Other studies focus on apple replant disease, bio-surveillance methods for phytopathogens in grain and oilseed, fungal endophytes for managing apple replant disease, genetic diversity in clubroot, and identifying virulence factors in Plasmodiophora brassicae. Additional studies cover topics such as wheat resistance to Fusarium head blight, proteins facilitating virus infection in Arabidopsis, metabarcoding for monitoring crop-associated phytopathogens, antibacterial activity of maple leaf extracts, genetic mapping for stem rust resistance in barley, and the impact of row spacing and fungicide timing on leaf disease severity in spring wheat. The document also includes studies on crop disease monitoring, climate change and crop production, resistance to diseases, root system architecture, genomic regions associated with root system [Extracted from the article]

Dipsacus gmelinii is here reported as a new addition to the vascular flora of Bulgaria. It was recorded on Belene Island, in the Danube River. In the present paper, the species is described morphologically with an emphasis on carpomorphological characters. The distinctive differences from related species of the genus are also highlighted. Additionally, ecological conditions and floristic composition at the localities of the species, and phytosociological relationships of the communities in which it participates are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten new taxa of gymnosperms are added to the non-indigenous woody flora of Tunisia, after almost two decades of botanical surveys. Four of them (Cryptomeria japonica, Pinus brutia var. pityusa, Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca, Taxodium distichum var. distichum) are also new for the flora of North Africa. Pinus coulteri is here first reported for the Mediterranean Basin. Three genera (Cryptomeria, Pseudotsuga and Taxodium) are firstly recorded for the non-native vascular flora of Africa whereas two genera (Cedrus and Platycladus) are reported for the first time only for the woody flora of Tunisia. Brief descriptions together with filed photographs, global distributions and habitats at national scale are provided. Some taxonomic comments on their distinguishable features as well as updated keys are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new Checklist of mosses (Bryophyta) of Slovenia within current political boundaries comprises 669 species, 6 subspecies and 18 varieties. Additional 13 species are denoted by a question mark since reports are considered questionable. An alphabetically arranged tabular presentation of genera, species and lower taxa, also shows their presence in particular phytogeographical units of Slovenia. The records from the periods before and after 1959 are marked with different symbols. Each species has also new Red List status in Slovenia. The checklist includes the data from literature and the Herbarium LJU. Annotations to selected species give a critical evaluation of the literature and herbarium data. A list of taxa that should be excluded from the flora of Slovenia and the synonyms used in the floristic literature for Slovenia are also added. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the importance of molecular plant sciences in sustaining food security in the face of global climate change. It emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between plant science, physics, mathematics, and computer sciences to collect reliable information about plant biology and develop models that can predict interactions between genotype and environment. The article highlights the impact of abiotic and biotic stress on plants and the role of molecular biology in understanding stress resilience. It also discusses advancements in omics technologies, such as genomics and proteomics, for identifying genetic markers associated with stress tolerance. The article includes review papers on various topics, including plant responses to abiotic and biotic stress, methodology, and the detection and identification of specific plant species. Overall, the article provides valuable information for researchers in the field of molecular plant sciences and its applications in improving crop yields and food security. [Extracted from the article]

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of phytosterols (PS) and phytosterol esters (PSE) on C57BL/6 mice. Three groups of 34 six-week-old C57BL/6 mice of specific pathogen free (SPF) grade, with an average initial body weight (IBW) of 17.7g, were fed for 24 days either natural-ingredient diets without supplements or diets supplemented with 89 mg/kg PS or diets supplemented with 400 mg/kg PSE. Growth performance, blood biochemistry, liver and colon morphology as well as intestinal flora status were evaluated. Both PS and PSE exhibited growth promotion and feed digestibility in mice. In blood biochemistry, the addition of both PS and PSE to the diet resulted in a significant decrease in Total Cholesterol (TC) and Triglyceride (TG) levels and an increase in Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity. No significant changes in liver and intestinal morphology were observed. Both increased the level of Akkermansia in the intestinal tract of mice. There was no significant difference between the effects of PS and PSE. It was concluded that dietary PS and PSE supplementation could improve growth performance, immune performance and gut microbiome structure in mice, providing insights into its application as a potential feed additive in animals production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This text explores the concept of rapid adaptation in biological systems, focusing on the impact of factors such as population size, genetic drift, and fluctuating selection. It provides examples from studies on yeast populations and host-parasite interactions to illustrate these concepts. The text emphasizes the importance of understanding the influence of demographic processes and environmental conditions on rapid adaptation, highlighting the complex interplay between ecological and evolutionary processes. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the impact of different types of mycorrhizal symbiosis on the chemical composition of roots and leaves in temperate woody species. The study found that plants associated with ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungi had slower decomposition rates and exhibited chemical traits that suppress decomposition compared to plants associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. The study also suggests that mycorrhizal associations can influence plant defense responses and the abundance of defense-related phenolic compounds. Another study conducted at the University of Minnesota found that different plant-fungus combinations had significant effects on plant growth and chemical composition. However, the results may not be generalizable to other environmental settings. Another study found that mycorrhizal colonization generally improved plant growth and increased nitrogen content, but the effects on lignin and condensed tannins varied depending on the plant species and type of mycorrhizal fungi. The study also found that mycorrhizal colonization had different effects on lignin molecular composition in gymnosperms and angiosperms. Overall, mycorrhizal colonization can influence the chemical traits and lignin composition of plants, but more research is needed to understand the ecological implications. [Extracted from the article]

The traditional experimental practice have some disadvantages, so it can not meet the needs of the modern teaching reform to the experiment and practice. In order to cultivate students’ innovative spirit and practical ability, virtual simulation technology emerges. With the rapid development of computer and network technology, virtual simulation technology has been further promoted and applied. Field practice is an important means and measure of plant identification learning in botany course, which is restricted by many factors. The application of virtual simulation technology in the field practice of botany has increased students’ practical opportunities, enhanced students’ learning interest in experiments, strengthened students’ understanding and cognition of theoretical knowledge, which provided a new idea and a new teaching model for botany course. And a good experimental teaching effect was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of liverworts in the North Pacific is still poorly understood. Scapania umbrosa, which is rare in Asia, was first recorded during the study of the liverwort flora of the Commander Islands (the westernmost Aleutians). The results of the molecular genetic analysis not only confirmed that the specimen belonged to Scapania umbrosa but also demonstrated the genetic specificity of the discovered population in comparison with the European, Siberian, and Alaskan populations. The island population of Scapania umbrosa is likely a recently diverged isolate of the species. Previously reported data on the distribution of Scapania umbrosa in the Russian Far East from Kamchatka and Kunashir (VBGI Herbarium), as well as from Sakhalin and Southern Primorye (reported in GBIF), are based on misidentifications. Morphological descriptions, distinguishing characters, line drawings, and photographs of Scapania umbrosa based on the collected material are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The classification of species in the genus Pterocyclus has been a topic of concern, as they were initially considered members of Pleurospermum (Apiaceae) in the Flora of China. However, the intergeneric and infrageneric classifications of Pterocyclus and its allies, such as Hymenidium and Pleurospermum, have been controversial. To address these issues, we performed phylogenetic analyses using one nuclear marker (nrITS) from 167 accessions, including 137 species (including five species of Pterocyclus), and 105 plastid genes from 82 accessions representing 82 species (including five species of Pterocyclus) of Apiaceae. We used both maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches to deduce phylogenetic relationships of Pterocyclus and its allies. Furthermore, we conducted morphometric analyses that specifically targeted the mericarp morphology, and compared the structural differences in their plastid genomes. Based on these findings, we suggest the following revisions to the classification of Pterocyclus and its allies: (i) Pterocyclus should encompass five species (Pterocyclus angelicoides, Pterocyclus forrestii, Pterocyclus rotundatus, Pterocyclus tibeticus, and Pterocyclus wolffianus), all of which are all monophyletic and placed in the Komarovieae; (ii) Pterocyclus rivulorum shows both phylogenetic and mericarp morphological similarities to Hymenidium apiolens and Hymenidium dentatum, which belongs to the Hymenidium Clade, thus we provisionally transfer it to Hymenidium; (iii) Pleurospermum longicarpum is considered conspecific with Pterocyclus angelicoides based on morphological descriptions in the Flora Xizangica; (iv) we describe and illustrate Pterocyclus tibeticus as a new species; and (v) Pterocyclus wolffianus should be recognized as a valid species and not considered a synonym of Pterocyclus forrestii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the biodiversity and evolution of African flora. Africa is home to a diverse range of ecosystems and has a rich variety of vascular plants, with over 65,000 recorded species. However, the cataloging of African plant diversity is uneven, with some regions well-documented and others barely explored. The article also explores the biogeographic history of African plants, the role of fire in shaping the flora, and the impact of climate change on plant diversity. The authors emphasize the need for conservation efforts specific to Africa, as the processes that have shaped its flora differ from those in other parts of the world. They also highlight the gaps in our understanding of African plant diversity and call for further research and data collection. [Extracted from the article]

Background and Aims The quartz fields of the Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR) are arid and island-like special habitats, hosting ~142 habitat-specialized plant species, of which 81 % are local endemics, characterized by a rapid turnover of species between and among sites. We use several phylogenetic community metrics: (1) to examine species diversity and phylogenetic structure within and among quartz fields; (2) to investigate whether quartz field specialists are evolutionarily drawn from local species pools, whereas the alternative hypothesis posits that there is no significant evolutionary connection between quartz field specialists and the local species pools; and (3) to determine whether there is an association between certain traits and the presence of species in quartz fields. Methods We sampled and developed dated phylogenies for six species-rich angiosperm families (Aizoaceae, Asteraceae, Crassulaceae, Cyperaceae, Fabaceae and Santalaceae) represented in the quartz field floras of southern Africa. Specifically, we focused on the flora of three quartz field regions in South Africa (Knersvlakte, Little Karoo and Overberg) and their surrounding species pools to address our research questions by scoring traits associated with harsh environments. Key Results We found that the Overberg and Little Karoo had the highest level of species overlap for families Aizoaceae and Fabaceae, whereas the Knersvlakte and the Overberg had the highest species overlap for families Asteraceae, Crassulaceae and Santalaceae. Although our phylogenetic community structure and trait analyses showed no clear patterns, relatively low pairwise phylogenetic distances between specialists and their local species pools for Aizoaceae suggest that quartz species could be drawn evolutionarily from their surrounding areas. We also found that families Aizoaceae and Crassulaceae in Knersvlakte and Little Karoo were phylogenetically even. Conclusions Despite their proximity to one another within the GCFR, the studied areas differ in their species pools and the phylogenetic structure of their specialists. Our work provides further justification for increased conservation focus on these unique habitats under future scenarios of global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in agriculture for improving crop yields and reducing the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides remains a challenge. The goal of this work was to introduce Hyperfidelis, a geospatial software package that provides a comprehensive workflow that includes imagery visualization, feature extraction, zonal statistics, and modeling of key agricultural traits including chlorophyll content, yield, and leaf area index in a ML framework that can be used to improve food security. The platform combines a user-friendly graphical user interface with cutting-edge machine learning techniques, bridging the gap between plant science, agronomy, remote sensing, and data science without requiring users to possess any coding knowledge. Hyperfidelis offers several data engineering and machine learning algorithms that can be employed without scripting, which will prove essential in the plant science community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-resolution pollen record retrieved from dated sediments of the Khanka Depression has made it possible for the first time to reconstruct evolution of vegetation in the south of the Russian Far East that occurred during one of the coldest phase of MIS 2 – the Younger Dryas. The results of the spore-pollen analysis have shown that worsening of climate conditions between 18 200 and 15 500 cal yr BP that occurred after the first, slight warming during MIS 2, caused boreal flora plants, dominating in the south of Russian Far East, to spread again in the drier and colder climate comparable to the Gydan Stage of the Sartan Glaciation. Their distribution areas in the cold climate that differed significantly from the modern ones again started to shift to the south due to increasing cooling. The spruce and small-leaved forests, sparse larch and dwarf birch, alder and dwarf pine forests, and also sphagnum bogs dominated in the ecosystems of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Model species continue to underpin groundbreaking plant science research. At the same time, the phylogenetic resolution of the land plant tree of life continues to improve. The intersection of these 2 research paths creates a unique opportunity to further extend the usefulness of model species across larger taxonomic groups. Here we promote the utility of the Arabidopsis thaliana model species, especially the ability to connect its genetic and functional resources, to species across the entire Brassicales order. We focus on the utility of using genomics and phylogenomics to bridge the evolution and diversification of several traits across the Brassicales to the resources in Arabidopsis, thereby extending scope from a model species by establishing a "model clade." These Brassicales-wide traits are discussed in the context of both the model species Arabidopsis and the family Brassicaceae. We promote the utility of such a "model clade" and make suggestions for building global networks to support future studies in the model order Brassicales. This reviewt describes the power of generating genomic resources for entire phylogenetic orders of plants, thereby taking advantage of trait diversity that surpasses just a single species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In autumn, temperate herbs begin to senesce and gradually shed their litter. However, surprisingly large amounts of dead biomass remain standing, that is, marcescent. The consequences of marcescence for the decomposition of biomass once it finally reaches the soil are largely unknown.Here, we aimed to determine whether marcescence affects subsequent litter decomposition in the organic layer to such an extent that its mass loss and chemistry are distinguishable from those of directly shed biomass. We further aimed to disentangle the role of plant functional traits and groups (forbs vs. grasses) concerning the marcescence effect on decomposition.To this end, we sampled the living, marcescent and shed senescent biomass of 39 herbaceous plant species grown in a common garden experiment, determined plant functional traits and incubated the marcescent and shed plant tissues in the field in an allochthonous organic layer for 6 months. We determined the mass loss, C and N contents, chemical composition and microbial community structure of the decomposed tissues.Our results show that marcescent tissues decomposed more slowly than directly shed tissues (mass loss 37.3% vs. 63.2% for forbs, 43.5% vs. 45.5% for grasses), likely due to more favourable conditions for decomposition in the organic layer. These were reflected in a significantly higher microbial colonization of shed (~333 and 708 μg biomass C g−1 for forbs and grasses, respectively) than marcescent tissue (~189 and 543 μg biomass C g−1 for forbs and grasses, respectively) even after 6 months in the organic layer. Moreover, higher relative contributions of aliphatics and polyphenolics in shed tissues indicated a more advanced stage of decomposition. Notably, marcescent tissues of forbs, with a more complex growth architecture (being composed of stems [marcescent] and leaves [shed]), decomposed substantially more slowly than directly shed tissues. In contrast, differences in decomposition between marcescent and shed tissues of grasses, with a more uniform growth architecture, were substantially less pronounced.These findings highlight that marcescence in the temperate herbaceous flora can strongly affect litter decomposition and thus C and nutrient cycling through temperate ecosystems, but that the extent to which marcescence affects decomposition depends on plant functional group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the leaf-processing behavior of the Indian giant squirrel, Ratufa indica maxima, when feeding on Artocarpus leaves. The study reveals that the squirrel exhibits consistent preconsumptive food processing by selecting mature leaves, folding them, and removing the midrib before consuming the leaf blades. The consumption of young and mature leaves varies throughout the year, with mature leaves being consumed more during the post-monsoon phase. The authors suggest that this leaf-processing behavior may be a response to the high concentration of chemical defenses in the midrib and the avoidance of latex. They also discuss the potential influence of historical co-distribution and ecological pressures on dietary expansion and manipulation complexity. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the pollination of Oberonia japonica, a species of orchid, by gall midges. Orchids are known for their floral diversity, which is a result of their specialization to different animal pollinators. However, the pollination biology of many orchid species remains unknown. Dipteran insects, such as gall midges, are important pollinators of orchids, and studying their interactions with orchids can enhance our understanding of orchid floral diversity. The study observed gall midges pollinating O. japonica and found that they were effective pollinators. This is the most detailed observation of gall midge pollination in Orchidaceae reported to date. The article suggests that gall midge pollination may be more widespread in the Oberonia genus and highlights the need for further research on orchid-flower interactions with dipteran insects. [Extracted from the article]

Stalter, R.; Lonard, R.I., and Judd, F.W., 2024. Biological flora of sand dunes on the Atlantic coastline of North America: Ammophila breviligulata Fernald. Journal of Coastal Research, 40(3), 577–587. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. Ammophila breviligulata Fernald, American beachgrass, is a North American temperature zone rhizomatous species that is often the dominant species on foredunes and primary dune complexes of the mid-Atlantic United States and adjacent maritime Canadian provinces. Ammophila breviligululata is a pioneer dune-forming species that serves as an ecosystem engineer. It thrives in accreting sand environments and requires partial burial for robust growth. The taxon has low freshwater moisture requirements and tolerates high soil temperatures, moderate soil salinity, and salt spray. Caryopses production and seedling establishment are low. Asexual reproduction by rhizome proliferation and fragmentation is the primary mechanism of reproduction. The extensive rhizome/adventitious root matrix of American beachgrass is an important factor in stabilizing dunes and reducing dune erosion. This species grows rapidly, attains large size, and produces dense stands in dune complexes. Leaf endophytic fungi have been identified as enhancing belowground productivity. Pathogenic fungi and parasitic nematodes are major causes of loss of vigor and mortality. Ammophila breviligulata provides nutrition and cover for a variety of reptiles, birds, and mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our goal was to interrogate the idea that "mountain passes are higher in the tropics" by investigating ecological and biogeographic drivers of elevational range‐sizes patterns among equatorial flora. We used herbarium records for 60 species‐rich plant families, representing 18 535 species total, to estimate distributions over a 4500 m elevational gradient. For each family, we estimated the change in average range‐sizes with increasing elevation (i.e. Rapoport's rule, abbreviated as ERR) and quantified 15 metrics of familial richness distribution, evolutionary age, and biogeographic affiliation. We visualized covariation across families using phylogenetic principal components analysis (pPCA). We then evaluated how family‐level ERR slopes correlated with each metric individually, as well as when using multivariate techniques to reduce dimensionality. We hypothesized that if long term climate stability over millions of years promotes habitat specialization, then among taxa with longer‐term tropical affiliations, we would expect smaller range‐sizes within lowland forests, with greater range‐size expansion towards higher elevations, expressed as a positive ERR slope. Conversely, variation in growing conditions should promote larger, relatively consistent, range‐sizes at all sections of an elevational gradient, expressed as a neutral ERR slope. Our results support this corollary because of the dichotomy of ERR slopes observed in relation to the elevational distribution of richness and historical biogeographic positioning. We found that families with greater Sundaland endemism, or richness that was restricted to tropical lowland forests, had positive ERR slopes. Families with stronger Sahul affiliation, or montane centered richness, had shallower, neutral, or negative ERR slopes, as did clades with temperate origins. Families with Wallacea affiliation, broader latitudinal or elevational distributions, cosmopolitanism, greater richness, or older evolutionary age had mixed results. We conclude that the relative steepness of an ERR slope is an indicator of a taxonomic group's tolerance of habitat variation and vulnerability to contemporary climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement: It is important to recognize how our current understanding of plants has been shaped by diverse cultural contexts, as this underscores the importance of valuing and incorporating contributions from all knowledge systems in scientific pursuits. This approach emphasizes the ongoing bias, including within scientific practices, and the necessity of discussing problematic histories within spaces of learning. It is crucial to acknowledge and address biases, even within scientific endeavors. Doing so fosters a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. This article, while not comprehensive, serves as a starting point for conversation and an introduction to current work on these topics. Summary: In response to a global dialog about systemic racism, ongoing inequalities, appeals to decolonize science, and the many recent calls for diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, we draw on the narratives of plants to revisit the history of botany. Our goal is to uncover how exclusionary practices have functioned in the past and persist today. We also explore the numerous opportunities and challenges that arise in the era of information as we strive to establish a more inclusive field of botany. This approach recognizes and honors the contributions of historically marginalized groups, such as Black and Indigenous communities. We hope that this article can serve as a catalyst for raising awareness, fostering contemplation, and driving action toward a more equitable and just scientific community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Climate change is causing species distribution to shift across the globe. Lowland taxa are moving upslope with warming, while montane species face extinction. We tested the hypothesis that elevation controls the future distribution of plant species in the Brazilian Cerrado, home of 3.5% of the Earth's flowering plants (c. 5000 endemic species) in just 0.4% of the planet's land surface. Location: Cerrado region in Brazil. Methods: We estimated geographical range shifts of 7398 angiosperm species by 2040 using species distribution models (SDMs). We stacked the SDMs to derive the temporal variations of species richness and composition over the Cerrado. Results: Our results show that between 50 and 52% of the Cerrado flora will experience net range loss due to climate change. While montane species were more likely to lose range, range gain was more common among lowland taxa. We estimate that 68–73% of the Cerrado extent will face net species losses by 2040. Net species loss was more likely to occur below 743–798 metres above sea level. Virtually the entire Cerrado will experience some level of species replacement due to climate change and species turnover will intensify as elevation increases. Main Conclusions: Our findings suggest that upslope migration allows lowland plants to track climate change ('winners'), whereas montane taxa do not ('losers'). As species move upslope, lowlands become local extinction hotspots and mountains harbour novel plant assemblages. Therefore, elevation exerts a central role in shaping Cerrado flora responses to climate change and potentially the long‐term efficacy of conservation and restoration efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the upper boundary of tree cover in drylands, specifically in arid and humid savannas. The researchers use data from the BIODESERT survey to test predictions made by Holdo & Nippert. The results show that the upper boundary on tree cover increases with mean annual precipitation up to a certain threshold, and then declines beyond that threshold. The study supports the mechanisms proposed by Holdo & Nippert, but also identifies some differences in the observed patterns. The findings suggest that factors such as competition for water, light limitation, and grazing can influence tree cover in savannas, and that future global change scenarios may further modify these mechanisms. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the role of the WAK3 gene in Arabidopsis plants' immune responses to harpins, proteins produced by certain bacteria that activate plant defenses. The researchers used T-DNA insertion mutants to study WAK3 and found that it is essential for the necrosis and acquired resistance responses triggered by harpins. They also discovered that genetic variation in harpin perception may impact plant fitness. The study benefited from the use of the 1001 Genomes data, which eliminated the need for lengthy genetic mapping. This research provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of plant immune responses and its potential implications for crop protection. [Extracted from the article]

This article in the Journal of Fish Diseases examines the effects of the fungicide dimethomorph on various species of oomycetes, which are harmful to plants and animals, including humans. The study specifically focuses on three oomycete species that cause significant economic losses in agriculture and aquaculture. Through in vitro tests and scanning electron microscopy, the researchers found that dimethomorph inhibited the growth of the oomycetes and caused morphological changes in one species. The study suggests that more research is needed to fully understand these pathogens and develop effective treatments. [Extracted from the article]

Topical antimicrobials and antiseptics are used perioperatively to reduce the ocular surface bacteria flora (OSBF) that are involved in the development of post‐operative infectious complications. However, their effectiveness is still a controversial topic. This systematic review, performed according to the PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO, aims to provide an overview of the efficacy of the agents currently used in peri‐cataract surgery and ‐intravitreal injections (IVI) in lowering the OSBF. Although effective in lowering OSBF, perioperative topical antimicrobials are associated with the risk of resistance development, with no obvious additional benefit compared with topical antisepsis. Conversely, the effectiveness of topical antiseptics before cataract surgery and IVI is strongly supported. Based on the available evidence, perioperative antimicrobials are not recommended, whereas the perioperative use of antiseptics is strongly recommended as prophylactic treatment for lowering the infection due to OSBF. Post‐operative antimicrobials may be considered in eyes at higher risk for infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium diformate (KDF) and calcium diformate (CaDF) are organic acids that modulate growth performance, stress, and biochemical status. So, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of different levels of potassium diformate and calcium diformate on growth performance, stress markers, oxidant/antioxidant status, microbial flora, and some serum biochemical analytes in juvenile Beluga (mean weight: 34 ± 4.5 g). Juvenile Beluga fed control food or diet supplemented with different levels of KDF (1, 1.5, and 2 g/kg) and CaDF (1, 1.5, and 2 g/kg) for 60 days. The results showed that fish fed the 0.15% (1.5 g/kg) KDF showed the favorable growth value at 30 days and relatively less, 0.15% CaDF improved significantly (P < 0.05) fish growth performance following 60 days of application (P < 0.05). The results showed that dietary administration of KDF and CaDF significantly (P < 0.05) increased digestive enzymes. Moreover, elevated biochemical parameters were observed in H. huso fed KDF and CaDF supplemented the diet. Serum oxidant/antioxidant status was significantly (P < 0.05) improved in the KDF and CaDF treatments than the control group. Moreover, dietary administration of KDF and CaDF significantly (P < 0.05) decreased stress markers of H. huso after 60 days. The liver enzymes activities considerably altered in the KDF and CaDF groups compared with the control group after 60 days. Furthermore, dietary administration of KDF and CaDF significantly (P < 0.05) increased intestinal lactic acid bacteria (LAB) of H. huso after 60 days. Based on the results of this study, it appears that incorporating KDF and CaDF into the diet of H. huso can have positive effects on their growth performance and physiological response. The study found that a short-term use of 0.15% (1.5) g/kg of KDF for 30 days was the most effective in promoting growth. However, the potential use of 0.2% (2 g/kg) of KDF and 0.15% (1.5 g/kg) of CaDF for a longer period of 60 days may also be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moslae Herba (MH) can be used for both medicine and food and has a long history of medicine. MH has the effects of sweating and relieving the exterior, removing dampness and harmonizing, and is mainly used for colds caused by damp heat in summer. It is called "Xiayue Zhi Mahuang" in China. So far, 123 chemical compounds have been isolated and identified from MH, including flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, and other chemical compounds. Its chemical components have a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic sedation, antipyretic, immune regulation, insecticidal, and other effects. In addition, because of its aromatic odor and health care function, MH also has development and utilization value in food, chemical, and other fields. This paper reviewed the research progress of MH in botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology and provided a possible direction for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: An excessive carbohydrate content in diets can have a negative effect on fish growth. In this study, the effects of berberine supplementation in high-carbohydrate diets on the growth performance, glucose metabolism, bile acid synthesis, liver transcriptome, and intestinal flora of Nile tilapia were investigated. Conclusion: An appropriate amount of berberine can stimulate the synthesis of bile acids by changing the structure of the intestinal flora of tilapia, thus promoting glycolysis and inhibiting gluconeogenesis, then regulating the blood glucose, which is beneficial to the growth of tilapia. This provides the data to improve carbohydrate utilization in tilapia and support the development of high-carbohydrate diets in aquaculture. Berberine is an alkaloid used to treat diabetes. This experiment aimed to investigate the effects of berberine supplementation in high-carbohydrate diets on the growth performance, glucose metabolism, bile acid synthesis, liver transcriptome, and intestinal flora of Nile tilapia. The six dietary groups were the C group with 29% carbohydrate, the H group with 44% carbohydrate, and the HB1-HB4 groups supplemented with 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg of berberine in group H. The results of the 8-week trial showed that compared to group C, the abundance of Bacteroidetes was increased in group HB2 (p < 0.05). The cholesterol-7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and sterol-27-hydroxylase (CYP27A1) activities were decreased and the expression of FXR was increased in group HB4 (p < 0.05). The pyruvate carboxylase (PC) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activities was decreased in group HB4 (p < 0.05). The liver transcriptome suggests that berberine affects carbohydrate metabolic pathways and primary bile acid synthesis pathways. In summary, berberine affects the glucose metabolism in tilapia by altering the intestinal flora structure, enriching differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the bile acid pathway to stimulate bile acid production so that it promotes glycolysis and inhibits gluconeogenesis. Therefore, 100 mg/kg of berberine supplementation in high-carbohydrate diets is beneficial to tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal meningitis is a devastating disease associated with high mortality and neurological sequelae. Escherichia coli is the second most common cause of neonatal meningitis in full-term infants (herein NMEC) and the most common cause of meningitis in preterm neonates. Here, we investigated the genomic relatedness of a collection of 58 NMEC isolates spanning 1974-2020 and isolated from seven different geographic regions. We show NMEC are comprised of diverse sequence types (STs), with ST95 (34.5%) and ST1193 (15.5%) the most common. No single virulence gene profile was conserved in all isolates; however, genes encoding fimbrial adhesins, iron acquisition systems, the K1 capsule, and O antigen types O18, O75, and O2 were most prevalent. Antibiotic resistance genes occurred infrequently in our collection. We also monitored the infection dynamics in three patients that suffered recrudescent invasive infection caused by the original infecting isolate despite appropriate antibiotic treatment based on antibiogram profile and resistance genotype. These patients exhibited severe gut dysbiosis. In one patient, the causative NMEC isolate was also detected in the fecal flora at the time of the second infection episode and after treatment. Thus, although antibiotics are the standard of care for NMEC treatment, our data suggest that failure to eliminate the causative NMEC that resides intestinally can lead to the existence of a refractory reservoir that may seed recrudescent infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural hybridisation is now recognised as pervasive in its occurrence across the Tree of Life. Resurgent interest in natural hybridisation fuelled by developments in genomics has led to an improved understanding of the genetic factors that promote or prevent species cross‐mating. Despite this body of work overturning many widely held assumptions about the genetic barriers to hybridisation, it is still widely thought that ploidy differences between species will be an absolute barrier to hybridisation and introgression. Here, we revisit this assumption, reviewing findings from surveys of polyploidy and hybridisation in the wild. In a case study in the British flora, 203 hybrids representing 35% of hybrids with suitable data have formed via cross‐ploidy matings, while a wider literature search revealed 59 studies (56 in plants and 3 in animals) in which cross‐ploidy hybridisation has been confirmed with genetic data. These results show cross‐ploidy hybridisation is readily overlooked, and potentially common in some groups. General findings from these studies include strong directionality of hybridisation, with introgression usually towards the higher ploidy parent, and cross‐ploidy hybridisation being more likely to involve allopolyploids than autopolyploids. Evidence for adaptive introgression across a ploidy barrier and cases of cross‐ploidy hybrid speciation shows the potential for important evolutionary outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calf diarrhea is one of the main diseases affecting the growth and development of calves. Factors that cause diarrhea in calves include bacterial, viral, parasitic, and non-infectious factors. Bacterial diarrhea is one of the common causes of diarrhea in calves, and its mechanism is mainly due to the proliferation of bacteria after entering the intestine, destroying the balance of intestinal flora, and then causing serious damage to the intestinal mucosal barrier of calves. Chinese herbal medicine has the effect of regulating the intestinal flora, enhancing immune function, and reducing the diarrhea rate of calves. This article reviews the etiology of calf diarrhea and the research progress of Chinese herbal medicine treatment, so as to provide a reference for the clinical treatment of calf diarrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the multilayered regulation of plastids and mitochondria, which are essential organelles in plant cells. The genomes of these organelles have been difficult to study, but recent developments in genome editing tools are providing new opportunities for manipulation and exploration. The article includes reviews and original articles that cover topics such as organellar genome dynamics, post-transcriptional regulation, and further multilayered regulation. The authors hope that this research will lead to a better understanding of these organelles and advancements in plant science. [Extracted from the article]

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]

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]

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]

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]

An updated checklist numbering 1076 vascular plants is presented here, based on the progress in the floristic research over the past 20 years. Data on endemic species and species of conservation concern in the Rusenski Lom Valley is also presented. The first checklist of the Rusenski Lom River Valley's vascular flora, published in 2005, included 877 species. In the subsequent years, taxonomy and nomenclature of the taxa were continuously updated, which led to the enrichment of the list with about 200 new species records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a concise review of the floristic studies in Bulgaria since the first fragmentary notes by foreign travelers and researches (on the turn of the 18th century) and up to the publication of the Flora of Bulgaria by Nikolay Stoyanov and Boris Stefanov (1924-1925) a century ago. The book had stirred then a wide-ranging response and great interest among the European botanists. It was the first work of the kind on the interesting and rich flora of the northeastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. The Flora was also of great importance for the Bulgarian botanists for rendering a strong impetus to the development of floristic, phytogeographical, phytocoenological and other botanical studies in Bulgaria. By 1966, the Flora of Bulgaria by N. Stoyanov and B. Stefanov had undergone three supplemented and improved editions, while in its fourth edition (1966-1967) participated Boris Kitanov. It has retained its importance ever since for determination of the plant species occurring in Bulgaria. [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]

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]

The aim of this review is to provide a summary of the botany, phytochemistry and dermatological effects of Punica granatum (PG), with special emphasis on therapeutic mechanisms in various skin conditions. PG peel contains the highest levels of chemical compounds. Due to the high abundance of polyphenolic compounds, including phenolic acids, anthocyanins and flavonoids, exhibiting strong antioxidant properties, PG peel possesses significant health-promoting effects. Up until now, different parts of PG in the form of various extracts, fixed seed oil or individual active compounds have been investigated for various effects on skin conditions in in vitro and in vivo studies, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, chemoprotective and antiaging effects, as well as positive effects on striae distensae, skin repair mechanisms, erythema, pigmentation and psoriasis. Therefore, formulations containing PG active compounds have been used for skincare of diseased and healthy skin. Only a few effects have been confirmed on human subjects. Based on encouraging results obtained in in vitro and animal studies about the numerous substantial dermatological effects of PG active compounds, future perspectives should incorporate more in vivo investigations in human volunteers. This approach can aid in identifying the optimal concentrations and formulations that would be most efficacious in addressing specific skin conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]