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Drought is an environmental stress factor restricting the growth and productivity of plants. Sugar beet can acclimate to diverse types of abiotic stress, such as drought. Although many studies on response of sugar beet to drought stress have been conducted, the expressions of drought-responsive genes in sugar beet have rarely been comprehensively investigated. In this study, we performed a transcriptome analysis of leaf samples from water-controlled sugar beet seedlings. The clean reads were obtained and assembled into 21,749 unique genes. Among them, we identified 1,675 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). According to the findings of the Gene ontology (GO) analysis, "biological process", "metabolic process", "oxidation–reduction process" and "catalytic activity" were the most highly enriched GO terms. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that "biosynthesis of secondary metabolites", "metabolic pathways", "plant hormone signal transduction", and "protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum" were the four most highly enriched pathways. Drought stress significantly restrained dry mass and net photosynthetic rate of sugar beet. The expression levels of genes encoding homeobox-leucine zipper protein ATHB-12, berberine bridge enzyme-like 13, auxin response factor 5, and photosystem I subunit O were significantly altered under drought stress. In addition, 36 DEGs occurred with differential alternative splicing. Our findings provided new insights into the regulatory functions of genes related to drought resistance in sugar beet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve compounds, comprising of four new ones, 6β,7α-limondiol (1) and ethyl 19-hydroxyisoobacunoate diosphenol (2), N-benzoyl 3-prenyltyramine (9) and 9-O-methyl integrifoliodiol (12), were isolated from the twigs with leaves of Tetradium trichotomum. The structures were elucidated by analysis of MS, NMR, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds 1, 6, 8, 9 and 12 exhibited immunosuppressive activities in vitro against the proliferation of ConA-induced T lymphocytes and LPS-induced B cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aril paleness is a physiological disorder that might be related to genetics, climate, and orchard management, and is progressed to negatively influence the quality of pomegranates in Iran. The final fruits are not economically valuable for costumers and not exportable. Thus, the present research investigated the intensity of aril paleness disorder in different cultivars including Shisheh Kab, Malas-e-Saveh, and Malas-e-Yazdi cultivated in Birjand, Southern Khorasan, Iran. Treatments included spraying potassium sulfate concentrations of 0 (control), 3 and 5% at late summer (exactly at aril color change stage) on trees for two consecutive years. Fruit and aril weight, anthocyanins, and phenols significantly increased on treated fruit compared to control. Comparison among cultivars indicated that the lowest amounts of quality parameters were observed in Shisheh Kab. Considering the multiple variables that affect the severity of the aril paleness, attention to cultivar type, climate, and the use of nutritional elements based on the soil and leaf analysis was recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unregulated use and improper management of herbicides can cause negative effects on non-target species and promote changes in biological communities. Therefore, the current study is aimed at understanding morphoanatomical responses and effects on seedling development induced by the herbicides glyphosate and saflufenacil in Enterolobium contortisiliquum, a non-target tropical species. The plants were cultivated in a greenhouse and subjected to herbicides at doses of 0, 160, 480, and 1440 g a.e ha−1 for glyphosate, and 0, 25, 50, and 100 g a.i ha−1 for saflufenacil. We conducted visual and morphological assessments over 90 days post-application. Leaf samples were collected 12 days after the application for anatomical analysis, and we also performed a micromorphometric analysis of the leaf tissues. Biomarkers of phytotoxicity were identified in plants exposed to both herbicides, even at the lowest doses, including in leaves without visual symptoms. The main morphological alterations were the decrease in growth, stem diameter, and dry mass. Furthermore, the leaves and stems visually exhibited chlorosis and necrosis. Both herbicides triggered anatomical modifications such as significant changes (p < 0.05) in the thickness of leaf tissues, hypertrophy, cell collapse, and changes in epicuticular waxes. However, the alterations induced by glyphosate were more widespread compared to saflufenacil, encompassing alterations in the root system. We confirmed that the different mechanisms of action of each herbicide and the existence of an underground reserve system in this species are intrinsically linked to the morphological and developmental responses described. Our findings suggest that E. contortisiliquum could be a potential bioindicator species for these herbicides in the environment, even at concentrations lower than those typically recommended for field application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stomatal pores in leaves mediate CO2 uptake into the plant and water loss via transpiration. Most plants are hypostomatous with stomata present only in the lower leaf surface (abaxial epidermis). Many herbs, including the model plant Arabidopsis, have substantial numbers of stomata also on the upper (adaxial) leaf surface. Studies of stomatal development have mostly focused on abaxial stomata and very little is known of adaxial stomatal formation. We analysed the role of leaf number in determining stomatal density and stomatal ratio, and studied adaxial and abaxial stomatal patterns in Arabidopsis mutants deficient in known abaxial stomatal development regulators. We found that stomatal density in some genetic backgrounds varies between different fully expanded leaves, and thus we recommend using defined leaves for analyses of stomatal patterning. Our results indicate that stomatal development is at least partly independently regulated in adaxial and abaxial epidermis, as (i) plants deficient in ABA biosynthesis and perception have increased stomatal ratios, (ii) the epf1epf2 , tmm , and sdd1 mutants have reduced stomatal ratios, (iii) erl2 mutants have increased adaxial but not abaxial stomatal index, and (iv) stomatal precursors preferentially occur in abaxial epidermis. Further studies of adaxial stomata can reveal new insights into stomatal form and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutritional quality and yield of oats (Avena sativa) are often compromised by plant diseases such as red leaf, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Sugars Will Eventually be Exported Transporters (SWEETs) are newly identified sugar transporters involved in regulating plant growth and stress responses. However, the roles of SWEET genes in biotic stress responses remain uncharacterized in oats. In this study, 13 AsSWEET genes were identified across nine chromosomes of the oat genome, all of which were predicted to contain seven transmembrane regions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed four clades of AsSWEET proteins, with high homology to SWEET proteins in the Poaceae family. Collinearity analysis demonstrated strong relationships between oat and Zea mays SWEETs. Using subcellular localization prediction tools, AsSWEET proteins were predicted to localize to the plasma membrane. Promoter analysis revealed cis-acting elements associated with light response, growth, and stress regulation. Six AsSWEET proteins were predicted to interact in a network centered on AsSWEET1a and AsSWEET11. Gene expression analysis of two oat varieties, 'ForagePlus' and 'Molasses', indicated significant expression differences in several AsSWEET genes following infection with powdery mildew or leaf spot, including AsSWEET1a, AsSWEET1b, AsSWEET2b, AsSWEET3a, AsSWEET11, and AsSWEET16. These SWEET genes are potential candidates for disease resistance in oats. This study provides a foundation for understanding the regulatory mechanisms of AsSWEET genes, particularly in response to powdery mildew and leaf spot, and offers insights for enhancing oat molecular breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the present study is to analyze the phytochemicals, antioxidants, cytotoxic, analgesic and anti-diarrheal properties of the leaves of Stachyphrynium placentarium methanol extract as well as its dichloromethane soluble fraction using GC-MS technique. The leaves of the S. placentarium were extracted with methanol and designated as SPM. Phytochemicals investigation exhibited the presence of several important secondary metabolites. Antioxidants such as total phenolic content, flavonoids content, total antioxidant, reducing power capacity and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging assay SPM revealed non-significant antioxidant properties. The cytotoxicity study of the extract showed significant cytotoxicity (LC50 35.1093 µg/mL) compared to standard vincristine sulfate (LC50 0.482 µg/mL). Analgesic study of S. placentarium by hot plate model indicates both the doses exhibited significant central analgesic activity compared with the control. The maximum analgesic activity was observed at 90 min. SPM (500 mg/kg) is 60.21 %. SPM250 also showed a significant percentage of elongation or latency from 30 to 150 min 57.00, 59.64, 59.88, 58.07 and 53.71 %, respectively 30 min time interval. In the acetic acid writhing test, S. placentarium significantly outperformed the control and standard (SPM250 - 52.27 %, SPM500 - 34.09 and STD - 27.27 %), showing a significant increase in peripheral analgesic activity (p < 0.001). Antidiarrheal activity of SPM showed that SPM250 and SPM500 substantially decreased the feces in castor oil-induced diarrhea (p < 0.05). According to the study, the incidence and severity of diarrhea are significantly reduced by SPM500. Four chemicals are found in the dichloromethane-soluble portion of the methanol extract of S. placentarium leaves, according to GC-MS studies such as Octadecane, 6-methyl- (1.326 %), Dodecane (1.02 %), 1-Iodo-2-methylundecane (0.47 %), tetradecanoic acid 12-methyl, methyl ester (72.64 %). Tetradecanoic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory, anticancer, 5-reductase inhibitory, antioxidant, hemolytic and antifibrinolytic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diphenyl ether herbicide fomesafen is the main herbicide used to control Amaranthus retroflexus L. in soybean fields. However, the resistance of A. retroflexus to fomesafen in Heilongjiang Province is increasingly, significantly impacting soybean yields. Currently, there is no metabolomics research available on the resistance mechanism of A. retroflexus to fomesafen. In this study, the metabolomics analysis of leaf tissues from the fomesafen sensitive populations (SY) group, resistant populations (RY) group, and untreated (CK) group was performed. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Orthogonal Partial Least-squares Discrimination Analysis (OPLS-DA) results showed that the metabolite profile of the sample from RY group was closer to that from CK group. Kyoto Gene and Genome Encyclopedia (KEGG) enrichment analysis and topology analysis revealed that three main pathways are affected by fomesafen: biosynthesis of amino acids, arginine biosynthesis, and 2-oxocarboxylic acid metabolism. CK vs RY and SY vs RY share a common differential pathway: degradation of flavonoids. Therefore, degradation of flavonoids may be a specific pathway contributing to the resistance observed in the RY group. Further analysis using Support Vector Machine (SVM) revealed that 4-hydroxy-2-oxoglutaric acid, citrulline, and L-ornithine are key metabolites involved in conferring resistance of A. retroflexus after fomesafen treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal glucose is the principal macronutrient that sustains fetal growth. Prolonged exposure of the fetus to hyperglycemia from the early stages of pregnancy accelerates the maturation of the stimulus–secretion coupling mechanism in β cell autoimmunity, which leads to early hyperinsulinemia in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Nowadays, diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common medical complication of pregnancy, and among young women, the prevalence of overt diabetes and undiagnosed hyperglycemia is rising. Even though conventional medication is effective in treating DM, it is expensive and has harmful side effects. Herbal medicine will thus incorporate alternative therapy and be more effective and less toxic. Due to their bioactive components, olive leaves (Olea europaea) are frequently used medicinally; however, little is known about how this plant affects the immune system when it comes to diabetes. The current study used a pregnant mother rat model of alloxan-induced T1DM to examine the antidiabetic properties and embryonic safety of olive leaves. Forty adult female Sprague Dawley rats were split up into four groups as follows: nondiabetic, diabetic, olive, and diabetic-olive groups. All the mother rats were sacrificed on the 20th day of pregnancy, and fetuses were collected for further investigations. In diabetic pregnant mothers, fetuses had systemic modulation-negative effects. These effects were significantly reversed when the diabetic groups were supplemented with extracts from olive leaves. The findings showed that the olive leaf extract inhibits the diabetogenic effect mediated by alloxan with effective and protective systemic immunomodulation during embryonic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical investigation on the 80% EtOH extract of the leaves of Paederia scandens (Lour.) Merr. resulted into the isolation of three undescribed iridoid glycosides, 10-O-trans-p-coumaroyl-(4R,6R)-3,4-dihydro-3α-methylthiopaederoside (1), 10-O-trans-feruloyl-(4S,6R)-3,4-dihydro-2′-O-3α-paederoside (2), and 10-O-trans-caffeoyl-paederosidic acid ethyl ester (3). The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by spectral methods such as 1D and 2D (1H-1H COSY, HMQC, and HMBC) NMR spectroscopy, as well as high resolution mass spectrometry. The isolated compounds were tested in vitro for cytotoxic activity against five endocrine tumor cell lines. As a result, compound 1 exhibited some cytotoxicities against all the tested tumor cell lines with IC50 value less than 20.0 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xanthium is a genus of annual herbaceous plants that stands out within Asteraceae for being wind‐pollinated, diclinous monoecious, and bearing solitary pistillate flowers in peculiar spiny structures (burs). Xanthium sect. Acanthoxanthium is native to South America and characterized by the presence of trifurcate spines at the base of the leaves. Past taxonomic treatments of the section have been contradictory, some recognising up to six species, others reducing all to a single polymorphic species. Altogether, 42 samples of X. sect. Acanthoxanthium were analysed, the vast majority taken from herbarium specimens between 20 and 160 years old. We sampled multiple specimens of X. spinosum from throughout its broad range as well as those taxa with narrower distributions, covering the whole range of morphological variation in the section. When possible, we included types and original material. We used Hyb‐Seq techniques to obtain information from about 1000 single‐copy nuclear genes and complete plastomes. Phylogenomic data were submitted to coalescent‐based species delimitation approaches (SPEEDEMON). Additionally, we performed geometric morphometric analysis of leaf outlines. The results strongly support the identification of four lineages in the section favouring the acceptance of four of the hitherto described species, i.e., X. ambrosioides, X. argenteum, X. catharticum, and X. spinosum. These results were to some extent corroborated by morphometric analyses. While X. ambrosioides was well distinct from X. spinosum based on leaf morphology, such difference was not observed between X. spinosum and X. catharticum. However, X. catharticum differs from X. spinosum in its ecological requirements, being a species rather adapted to high‐mountain environments of the Neotropics. Intriguingly, X. argenteum – a taxon described from a single herbarium collection – was also inferred as a species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selecting the right rootstock is crucial for successful fruit production and managing both biotic and abiotic stresses in commercial fruit orchards. To enhance the resilience of peach orchards, this study evaluated the physiological and biochemical responses of Prunus spp. rootstocks , 'Flordaguard' and 'MP‐29,' under normoxia (sufficient oxygen content) or short‐term hypoxia (low‐oxygen content) and ambient or high temperature (40°C) in the root zone. Physiological responses measured were net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, intercellular CO2 concentration, water use efficiency, the leaf chlorophyll index, and the maximum potential quantum efficiency of photosystem II. The leaf concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, boron, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper were also analyzed. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants analyzed were superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, peroxidase (POD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity, proline content, glycine betaine content (GB), lipid peroxidation (LPO), superoxide (O2−) concentration, and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration. When subjected to root zone hypoxia or high temperature individually, 'MP‐29' performed better physiologically than 'Flordaguard'. However, when root zone hypoxia and high temperature were combined, 'MP‐29' performed better biochemically with enhanced antioxidant activity, osmolyte content, and nutrient absorption. Nutrient analysis of leaves revealed that 'MP‐29' had higher N, P, K, Ca, and B concentrations than 'Flordaguard'. Consequently, 'MP‐29' demonstrated greater tolerance to short‐term exposure to the combined effects of high root zone temperature and hypoxia. This research contributes to identifying a suitable rootstock within the Prunus genus able to withstand root zone conditions that often result from severe weather events commonly experienced in Florida and other parts of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resource utilization of tail vegetables has raised increasing concerns in the modern agriculture. However, the effect and related mechanisms of flue-cured tobacco leaves on the product quality, phytotoxicity and bacterially-mediated nitrogen (N) transformation process of tail vegetable composting were poorly understood. Amendments of high-dosed (5% and 10% w/w) tobacco leaves into the compost accelerated the heating process, prolonged the time of thermophilic stage, increased the peak temperature, thereby improving maturity and shortening composting duration. The tobacco leaf amendments at the 10% (w/w) increased the N conservation (TN and NH4-N content) of compost, due to the supply of N-containing nutrient and promotion of organic matter degradation by tobacco leaves. Besides, tobacco leaf amendments promoted the seed germination and root development of wild soybean, exhibiting the feasibility of composting product for promoting the growth of salt-tolerant plants, but no dose-dependent effect was found for tobacco leaf amendments. Addition of high dosed (5% and 10% w/w) tobacco leaves shifted the bacterial community towards lignocellulosic and N-fixing bacteria, contributing to increasing the compost maturity and N retention. PICRUSt 2 functional prediction revealed that N-related bacterial metabolism (i.e., hydroxylamine oxidation and denitrifying process) was enhanced in the tobacco leaf treatments, which contributed to N retention and elevated nutrient quality of composting. To the best knowledge, this was the first study to explore the effect of tobacco waste additives on the nutrient transformation and halophyte growth promotion of organic waste composting. These findings will deepen the understanding of microbially-mediated N transformation and composting processes involving flue-cured tobacco leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinity is a major limiting factor in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) yield in Xinjiang, China. Therefore, breeding soybean to tolerate highly saline soils is crucial to improve its yield. To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the response of soybean to salt stress, we performed a comparative transcriptome analysis of root and leaf samples collected from two local soybean cultivars. The salt-tolerant cultivar 'Xin No. 9' (X9) showed higher photosynthetic activity than the salt-sensitive cultivar 'Xinzhen No. 9' (Z9) under salt stress. In total, we identified 13,180 and 13,758 differential expression genes (DEGs) in X9 and Z9, respectively, of which the number of DEGs identified in roots was much higher than that in leaves. We constructed the co-expression gene modules and conducted Gene Ontology (GO) term and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. The results suggested there were distinct differences in the mechanisms of response to salt stress between the two soybean cultivars; i.e., the salt-tolerant cultivar X9 exhibited alterations in fundamental metabolism, whereas the salt-sensitive cultivar Z9 responded to salt stress mainly through the cell cycle. The possible crosstalk among phytohormone signaling, MAPK signaling, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, starch and sucrose metabolism, and ribosome metabolism may play crucial roles in the response to salt stress in soybean. Our results offered a comprehensive understanding of the genes and pathways involved in the response to salt stress in soybean and provided valuable molecular resources for future functional studies and the breeding of soybean varieties with enhanced tolerance to salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaf is not only the main site of photosynthesis, but also an important organ reflecting plant salt tolerance. Discovery of salt-stress-responding genes in the leaf is of great significance for the molecular improvement of salt tolerance in wheat varieties. In this study, transcriptome sequencing was conducted on the leaves of salt-tolerant wheat germplasm CH7034 seedlings at 0, 1, 6, 24, and 48 h after NaCl treatment. Based on weighted gene correlation network analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under salt stress, 12 co-expression modules were obtained, of which, 9 modules containing 4029 DEGs were related to the salt stress time-course. These DEGs were submitted to the Wheat Union database, and a total of 904,588 SNPs were retrieved from 114 wheat germplasms, distributed on 21 wheat chromosomes. Using the R language package and GAPIT program, association analysis was performed between 904,588 SNPs and leaf salt injury index of 114 wheat germplasms. The results showed that 30 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 15 DEGs were associated with salt tolerance. Then, nine candidate genes, including four genes (TaBAM, TaPGDH, TaGluTR, and TaAAP) encoding enzymes as well as five genes (TaB12D, TaS40, TaPPR, TaJAZ, and TaWRKY) encoding functional proteins, were identified by converting salt tolerance-related SNPs into Kompetitive Allele-Specifc PCR (KASP) markers for validation. Finally, interaction network prediction was performed on TaBAM and TaAAP, both belonging to the Turquoise module. Our results will contribute to a further understanding of the salt stress response mechanism in plant leaves and provide candidate genes and molecular markers for improving salt-tolerant wheat varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current research is to develop different Pharmacognostic and phytochemical analysis for the evaluation of leaf of this plant. Microscopy, Phytochemical analysis of leaf drug was performed and results were maintained. Phytochemical tests indicated the occurrence of flavonoids, tannins, steroids and phenols etc. The results obtained from standardization of leaf drug recognized the macro and microscopical parameters, physicochemical parameters. Therefore, these techniques are helpful for rapid recognition of crude drug. The outcome of the research study possibly will be helpful in setting investigative indices for the identification and grounding of a monograph of the plant drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influenced by the spreading route of Buddhism, palm leaf manuscripts in China are mostly distributed in Yunnan province and Tibet. The ink of palm leaf manuscripts from Yunnan province is left in the incisions, while the ink of palm leaf manuscripts from Tibet is written on the surface. The two inks have different compositions and application techniques, which may lead to varying degrees of flaking and ink loss. Application technique and ink composition are crucial for conservation measures. In this study, non-destructive analysis techniques including a portable digital microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) were undertaken to analyse the characteristics and preservation condition of inks applied with different techniques on palm leaf manuscripts. Morphologies indicated that the interaction of ink and support influence the type and extent of ink loss. FTIR and XRF results showed significant differences in ink composition between incised palm leaf manuscripts from Yunnan and surface-written manuscripts from Tibet. Manuscripts from different periods within the same region exhibited similarities in ink composition. This paper significantly contributes to understanding properties of inks, offering an essential reference for ink consolidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The classification of Mussaenda L. has been controversial due to the complex interspecific variation and hybridization within the genus. In order to explore the taxonomical significance of leaf venation characteristics between Mussaenda and its relative genera (Schizomussaenda Li and Psudomussaenda Wernham), and to provide data for the identification, development and utilization when they were regarded as the medical and garden plant resources, the leaf venation characteristics of 22 species of this group were observed by using the cleaning method. The cluster analysis was carried out based on the characteristics of leaf venation, and a classification key of the species was compiled. The results were as follows: (1) The characteristics of the leaf venation of Mussaenda and its relative genera had consistency, which were mainly reflected on that the primary veins were all pinnate, the frequency of inter-secondary veins was less than one per areolation, the angles between the major secondary veins and the midveins were acute, the tertiary veins were mostly penetrating, and the arrangement of the areolation were all irregular. (2) The characteristics of the leaf venation with taxonomic value among genera or species within genera included the type of major secondary vein venation type, the angle between major secondary vein and midvein, the major secondary vein spacing, the connection between major secondary vein and midvein, the existence of inter-secondary vein and intramarginal secondary vein, the penetration type of intercostal tertiary vein, the type of quaternary vein, the branching of freely ending veinlet, and the areole development. (3) According to the cluster analysis, 22 species of this group were clustered into 12 branches, and Schizomussaenda and Psudomussaenda were not clustered into one branch respectively, showing a relatively close genetic relationship. In conclusion, the leaf venation characteristics of Mussaenda and its related taxa can provide new information for the classification of the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C2 photosynthesis is a photosynthetic pathway in which photorespiratory CO2 release and refixation are enhanced in leaf bundle sheath (BS) tissues. The evolution of C2 photosynthesis has been hypothesized to be a major step in the origin of C4 photosynthesis, highlighting the importance of studying C2 evolution. In this study, physiological, anatomical, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical properties of leaf photosynthetic tissues were investigated in six non‐C4Tribulus species and four C4Tribulus species. At 42°C, T. cristatus exhibited a photosynthetic CO2 compensation point in the absence of respiration (C*) of 21 µmol mol−1, below the C3 mean C* of 73 µmol mol−1. Tribulus astrocarpus had a C* value at 42°C of 55 µmol mol−1, intermediate between the C3 species and the C2T. cristatus. Glycine decarboxylase (GDC) allocation to BS tissues was associated with lower C*. Tribulus cristatus and T. astrocarpus allocated 86% and 30% of their GDC to the BS tissues, respectively, well above the C3 mean of 11%. Tribulus astrocarpus thus exhibits a weaker C2 (termed sub‐C2) phenotype. Increased allocation of mitochondria to the BS and decreased length‐to‐width ratios of BS cells, were present in non‐C4 species, indicating a potential role in C2 and C4 evolution. Summary statement: Physiological, structural, and immunohistochemical analyses of leaf tissues indicate sub‐C2 and C2 character states occurring in Tribulus (Zygophyllaceae). These data reveal novel insights into the mechanisms by which photorespiratory CO2 refixation facilitates the evolution of C4 photosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical studies on cigar tobacco leaves led to the isolation of 18 ionone-type compounds, including previously undescribed cigatobanes E (1) and F (2). Additionally, compounds vomifoliol acetate (3), dehydrovomifoliol (4), 8,9-dihydromegastigmane-4,6-diene-3-one (5), 7α,8α-epoxyblumenol B (6), 3-oxoactinidol (12), and loliolide acetate (15), 4β-hydroxy-dihydroactinidiolide (17), were found in tobacco leaves for the first time. The structural elucidation of all compounds was accomplished through rigorous spectral analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that floriculture is very important for the world economic scenario. Nevertheless, the vase life of cut flowers is determined by a short time span. This study evaluated the spectral behavior during leaf degradation of lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) flower stems in the postharvest, in different preservative solutions, and estimating its leaf pigments by hyperspectral data. Lisianthus floral stems were subjected to preservative solutions with different concentrations of sucrose, glucose, phytohormones and deionized water. Leaves from these stems were collected every 4 days for further hyperspectral analysis. Spectra was determined in laboratory with a sensor collecting at the range of 350-2500 nm. In order to analyze the use of the spectra to detect the performance of the preservative solutions, statistical tests were used at each wavelength. Pigment prediction was assessed by the CAR/CLF ratio (Ratio between Carotenoids and Chlorophyll) from the spectral curves, using PLSR and RRMSE. The glucose-based solutions registered positive effects on the preservation of floral stems, especially at the dose of 180 g/L. The solutions based on sucrose and phytohormones registered similarities in the spectral curves among the doses, demonstrating equality in leaf preservation. The discriminant analyses demonstrated there was statistical difference in the spectral responses in the doses for each solution used. The CAR/CLF ratio had reasonable coefficients of 0.6 and RRMSE below 6.99%. The hyperspectral analyses presented a potential for the evaluation of leaf degradation in lisianthus floral stems in different pulsing solutions used in the postharvest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus depressa Hayata is a citrus cultivar grown in Japan and Taiwan. To assess the differences in genetic characteristics and volatile organic components (VOCs) in the leaves and edible parts of the fruits of 23 C. depressa accessions from different geographic origins, the tissues were analyzed using cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence markers and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. A phylogenetic cluster analysis demonstrated that Kagoshima accessions had a close genetic relationship with one another, with Okinawan "Izumi kugani-like" being the most distinct accession. The predominant volatiles in the leaves were γ-terpinene, p-cymene, limonene, and linalool. Multivariate analysis and volcano plots revealed distinct volatiles in the leaves of each cultivation region: piperitone and citronellal (Kagoshima); 5,9,9-trimethyl-spiro[3.5]non-5-en-1-one (Okinawa); and hexanal (Taiwan). Furthermore, the edible parts of Taiwanese fruits contained abundant amounts of monoterpenes, including linalool and 1,8-cineole. In contrast, Kagoshima and Okinawa accessions were rich in aldehydes and esters, respectively. In conclusion, the genetic and volatile profiles of 23 C. depressa accessions of different origins could be distinguished, and multivariate analysis suggested that C. depressa contains diverse VOCs depending on where it is cultivated. These findings demonstrate the exclusivity of C. depressa resources in each region, which could assist farmers and agro-industries in promoting food products derived from C. depressa fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selecting uniform and healthy seedlings is important to ensure that a certain level of production can be reliably achieved in a plant factory. The objectives of this study were to investigate the potential of non-destructive image analysis for predicting the leaf area and shoot fresh weight of lettuce and to determine the feasibility of using a simple image analysis to select robust seedlings that can produce a uniform and dependable yield of lettuce in a plant factory. To vary the range of the leaf area and shoot fresh weight of lettuce seedlings, we applied two- and three-day irrigation intervals during the period of seedling production and calculated the projected canopy size (PCS) from the top-view images of the lettuce seedlings, although there were no significant growth differences between the irrigation regimes. A high correlation was identified between the PCS and shoot fresh weight for the lettuce seedlings during the period of seedling production, with a coefficient of determination exceeding 0.8. Therefore, the lettuce seedlings were classified into four grades (A–D) based on their PCS values calculated at transplanting. In the early stages of cultivation after transplanting, there were differences in the lettuce growth among the four grades; however, at the harvest (28 days after transplanting), there was no significant difference in the lettuce yield between grades A–C, with the exception of grade D. The lettuce seedlings in grades A–C exhibited the anticipated yield (150 g/plant) at the harvest time. In the correlation between the PCS and leaf area or the shoot fresh weight of lettuce during the cultivation period after transplanting and the entire cultivation period, the R2 values were higher than 0.9, confirming that PCS can be used to predict lettuce growth with greater accuracy. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the PCS calculation from the top-view images, a straightforward image analysis technique, can be employed to non-destructively and accurately predict lettuce leaf area and shoot fresh weight, and the seedlings with the potential to yield above a certain level after transplanting can be objectively and accurately selected based on PCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Cinnamomum exhibits a rich variety of chemotypes and is an economically important essential oil (EO)-producing plant belonging to the family Lauraceae. Here, we aimed to explore the potential differences in the terpenoid (the principal components of EOs) biosynthesis pathways of different chemotypes at the molecular level in four Cinnamomum species—C. camphora var. linaloolifera, C. kanehirae, C. longipaniculatum, and C. micranthum. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed to elucidate the discrepancies in the chemical profiles and compositions of leaf EO terpenoids among the four Cinnamomum species. The results revealed significant variations in leaf EO yields. The main constituents of the leaf EOs from C. camphora var. linaloolifera and C. kanehirae were the acyclic monoterpene linalool, and those of C. longipaniculatum and C. micranthum were the monoterpene eucalyptol and the sesquiterpene β-caryophyllene, respectively. Furthermore, a comparative transcriptome analysis of the leaves from the four Cinnamomum species revealed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in terpene-related entries. Specifically, 42 and 24 DEGs were significantly enriched to the mevalonate (MVA)/2-methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathways and terpene synthase (TPS) activity, respectively. Most genes encoding proteins involved in the terpenoid precursor MVA and MEP pathways exhibited differential expression across the four species, which correlated with the distinct terpenoid profiles observed in their leaf EOs. Four acyclic monoterpene linalool synthase genes—Maker00024100, Maker00014813, Maker00014818, and Maker00018424—were highly expressed in C. camphora var. linaloolifera and C. kanehirae. A monoterpene eucalyptol synthesis gene, Maker00001509, was highly expressed in C. longipaniculatum, and a sesquiterpene β-stigmasterol synthesis gene, Maker00005791, was highly expressed in C. micranthum. These expression levels were subsequently validated through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). In conclusion, the combined results of the GC-MS and transcriptome analyses revealed a strong correlation between the metabolite content of the EOs and gene expression. This research contributes to a better understanding of the differences in terpene accumulation in various chemotypes of Cinnamomum at the molecular and mechanistic levels, laying a solid foundation for the cultivation of an ideal Cinnamomum variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice blast is one of the most devastating biotic stresses that limits rice productivity. The North Eastern Hill (NEH) region of India is considered to be one of the primary centres of diversity for both rice and pathotypes of Magnaporthe grisea. Therefore, the present study was carried out to elucidate the genetic basis of leaf and neck blast resistance under Meghalaya conditions. A set of 80 diverse genotypes (natural population) and 2 F2 populations involving resistant parent, a wildtype landrace, LR 5 (Lal Jangali) and susceptible genotypes Sambha Mahsuri SUB 1 (SMS) and LR 26 (Chakhao Poireiton) were used for association analysis of reported major gene-linked markers with leaf and neck blast resistance to identify major effective genes under local conditions. Genotyping using twenty-five gene-specific markers across diverse genotypes and F2 progenies revealed genes Pi5 and Pi54 to be associated with leaf blast resistance in all three populations. Genes Pib and qPbm showed an association with neck blast resistance in both natural and LR 5 × SMS populations. Additionally, a set of 184 genome-wide polymorphic markers (SSRs and SNPs), when applied to F2-resistant and F2-susceptible DNA bulks derived from LR 5 × LR 26, suggested that Pi20(t) on chromosome 12 is one of the major genes imparting disease resistance. Markers snpOS318, RM1337 and RM7102 and RM247 and snpOS316 were associated with leaf blast and neck blast resistance, respectively. The genotypes, markers and genes will help in marker-assisted selection and development of varieties with durable resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study designs, models, and compares microwave and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (MAE and UAE) methods for bioactive compounds from bael leaves, highlighting their advantages over conventional techniques in optimizing extraction efficiency. MAE achieved 45.50 ± 0.44 mg GAE/g, 11.41 ± 0.13 μg TAE/g, 0.29 ± 0.02 mg QE/g, 1.30 ± 0.09 mg diosgenin/g, and 80.40% ± 0.89% DPPH scavenging activity at optimized conditions (550 W microwave power, 2 min treatment time, and 26.74 mL solvent:BLP). However, UAE yielded 77.13 ± 0.62 mg GAE/g, 30.19 ± 0.18 μg TAE/g, 0.78 ± 0.02 mg QE/g, 1.09 ± 0.13 mg diosgenin/g, and 83.37% ± 0.80% DPPH scavenging activity at optimized conditions (32% amplitude, 18.5 min treatment time, and 40.9 mL solvent: BLP). Statistical analysis validated RSM model's accuracy, with UAE and MAE models achieving R² > 0.95 and low error values. UAE demonstrated superior efficiency in extracting bioactive compounds, reducing antinutritional components, and enhancing antimicrobial activity. FTIR and SEM confirmed higher phenolic content and greater cell disruption. These methods boost extraction efficiency, supporting the development of nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. Practical Application: The introduction of innovative extraction methods such as microwave and ultrasound assistance has developed the isolation of bioactive compounds from bael leaves, with wide‐ranging applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, food industries, and so forth. Significant findings reveal that optimized ultrasound and microwave extraction processes yield higher amounts of bioactive compounds and preserve thermolabile components, demonstrating strong potential for industry‐scale production. These advanced techniques efficiently extract compounds with potent antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties, developing novel drugs, nutraceuticals, skincare products, natural pesticides, and growth enhancers. The resulting extracts, rich in bioactive components, offer significant health benefits and robust antimicrobial activity, making them valuable ingredients for cutting‐edge products in healthcare and wellness. By leveraging the medicinal potential of bael leaves through modern extraction processes, researchers and industries can create functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics that meet the demand for natural, effective, and sustainable solutions. These innovations represent a significant leap in product development, emphasizing the importance of nature‐derived ingredients in addressing progressing consumer needs for health and well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panax notoginseng belongs to the long stemmed crop, and the harvesting of its stems and leaves is one of the important processes. Aming at the problems of high labor intensity and lack of mature harvesting equipment, based on the agronomic requirements of Panax notoginseng cultivation and the mechanical parameters of Panax notoginseng stems, a harvesting device for Panax notoginseng stems and leaves under the forest was designed, which mainly consisted of a control box, a frame, and a leaf cutting device. The overall size, cutting stroke, forward speed and cutting pair width of the device were determined, and the device structure was compacted, which met the requirement of harvesting. The design of key structural parameters for reciprocating cutters mainly included moving blade, fixed blade, crank connecting rod mechanism, blade protector, etc. The reciprocating cutter could meet the technical requirements while didn't damage seedlings and miss cutting Panax notoginseng stems and leaves. A kinematic analysis was conducted on the cutter, and it was determined that the cutting speed was 0.4~0.8 m·s-1, which ensured the cutting effect while also ensuring the stability and safety of the entire machine. A rigid flexible coupling simulation model of Panax notoginseng stem and cutting blade was constructed, and cutting blade simulation analysis was carried out with the maximum cutting force as evaluation index. Based on three factors and three levels test results, it was found that the factors affecting cutting from large to small were cutting angle, cutting speed and tool configuration. The reduction effect of blade shape on Panax notoginseng stem cutting force was determined, with triangular blade>trapezoidal blade>rectangular blade, The optimal parameter combination for the stem cutting blade of Panax notoginseng was cutting angle of 90.5°, triangular blade shape, and cutting speed of 0.52 m·s-1. At this condition, the maximum cutting force was 7.46 N, which met cutting requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pineapple plants needs to be nutritionally balanced to reach maximum productivity potential. Therefore, the most current parameters must be used, centered on plant nutritional status diagnosis methodologies developed through leaf chemical analysis, which consider the relationships between nutrients and take advantage of data from productivity monitoring and foliar diagnosis of crops. This study aimed to establish nutrient norms and sufficiency ranges for pineapple in the Triângulo Mineiro, MG, Brazil, using the Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System (DRIS). To achieve the proposed objectives, productivity data and chemical analysis of leaf tissue from 88 commercial farming plots of 'Pérola' pineapple, sampled between the 2018 and 2019 harvests, in the Triângulo Mineiro were used. The DRIS method was used to establish the norms and sufficiency ranges of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn. The average nutritional balance index (NBIm) did not correlate with productivity. However, the content of P, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn highly correlated with their respective nutritional indices. The sufficiency ranges and the adequacy levels of nutrients differed from the values established for pineapple in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Tanzania has rich medicinal plant (MP) resources, and most rural inhabitants rely on traditional healing practices for their primary healthcare needs. However, available research evidence on antimalarial MPs is highly fragmented in the country. Objective: This systematic review compiles ethnomedicinal research evidence on MPs used by tanzanians as antimalarials. Materials and methods: A systematic web search was conducted using various electronic databases and grey materials to gather relevant information on antimalarial MPs utilized by tanzanians. the review was per the Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRiSMA) statement. the data were collected from 25 articles, and MS excel software was used to analyse relevant ethnobotanical information using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 227 MPs belonging to 67 botanical families and 180 genera were identified. Fabaceae (15.9%) is the most frequently utilized family. the ethnobotanical recipes analysis indicated leaves (40%) and trees (44%) are the preferred MPs part and life form, respectively. Decoctions (67%) are the dominant preparation method of remedies. Of the recorded MPs, 25.9% have been scientifically investigated for antimalarial activities with positive results. However, 74.1% of MPs have no scientific records on antimalarial activities, but they could be potential sources of remedies. Conclusions: the study discloses a wealth of antimalarial MPs possessed by tanzanians and suggests a need for research to authenticate the healing potential of antimalarial compounds from the unstudied MPs. Additionally, it indicates that some of the presented MPs are potential sources for developing safe, effective and affordable antimalarial drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The compositional nutrient diagnosis—CND method is a standard tool for evaluating plant nutritional status. Adjustments are crucial to elevate accuracy. The effectiveness of such methodological refinements should be rigorously assessed through accuracy tests that are benchmarked against the prescient diagnostic analysis—PDA methodology. The objective of this investigation was to refine the CND technique for a more precise evaluation of N, P, and B nutrient status in cotton. The study’s database encompasses 144 data points pertaining to crop yield and foliar nutrient concentrations from cotton plantations in the Cerrado biome of Brazil. Subsequently, the CND norms were established through rigorous calibration. Three separate nutrient-dose trials, each featuring four levels of N, P and B, were carried out to assess plant true nutritional status. Adjustments were made to the nutrient responsiveness range—NRr (0.5 and 1.0), while yield response—YR were scrutinized at threshold levels (5% and 10%). The prerequisites for achieving high diagnostic accuracy were nutrient specific. For N, maximal accuracy was linked only to the YR parameter (YR = 10%). For P, the most precise outcomes were attained with a NRr = 0.5 and YI = 5%. For B, highest diagnostic accuracy when the NRr = 1.0 and YI = 10%. These insights highlight the need to fine-tune the CND method for reliable nutritional evaluations and cotton crop productivity optimization.

AbstractForestiera includes woody plants distributed from the United States to Ecuador, with a wide distribution in Mexico. However, basic knowledge about its biology and taxonomy is still limited. In the present study, a leaf morphometric analysis of the 14 Mexican Forestiera species, including F. neomexicana, was carried out to determine if leaf characters allow classifying the species and to evaluate if the inclusion of qualitative features in statistical analyses improves the fit of used methods. Four quantitative and four qualitative variables from herbarium specimens, were evaluated. A matrix was generated which was submitted to multivariate analysis, including Linear Discriminant Analysis and Random Forest. Results revealed that the species are correctly classified, with Random Forest being the method with the best classifying capacity. The most important variables to differentiate the species are the shape of the base, width and margin of the leaves. All species were classified as different entities including F. pubescens and F. neomexicana, currently considered synonyms, were classified by Random Forest as different entities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N)-fixing symbiosis is critical to terrestrial ecosystems, yet possession of this trait is known for few plant species. Broader presence of the symbiosis is often indirectly determined by phylogenetic relatedness to taxa investigated via manipulative experiments. This data gap may ultimately underestimate phylogenetic, spatial, and temporal variation in N-fixing symbiosis. Still needed are simpler field or collections-based approaches for inferring symbiotic status. N-fixing plants differ from non-N-fixing plants in elemental and isotopic composition, but previous investigations have not tested predictive accuracy using such proxies. Here we develop a regional field study and demonstrate a simple classification model for fixer status using nitrogen and carbon content measurements, and stable isotope ratios (δ15N and δ13C), from field-collected leaves. We used mixed models and classification approaches to demonstrate that N-fixing phenotypes can be used to predict symbiotic status; the best model required all predictors and was 80–94% accurate. Predictions were robust to environmental context variation, but we identified significant variation due to native vs. non-native (exotic) status and phylogenetic affinity. Surprisingly, N content—not δ15N—was the strongest predictor, suggesting that future efforts combine elemental and isotopic information. These results are valuable for understudied taxa and ecosystems, potentially allowing higher-throughput field-based N-fixer assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Recent droughts have strongly impacted forest ecosystems and are projected to increase in frequency, intensity, and duration in the future together with continued warming. While evidence suggests that tree diversity can regulate drought impacts in natural forests, few studies examine whether mixed tree plantations are more resistant to the impacts of severe droughts.Using natural variations in leaf carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) isotopic ratios, that is δ13C and δ15N, as proxies for drought response, we analyzed the effects of tree species richness on the functional responses of tree plantations to the pan‐European 2018 summer drought in seven European tree diversity experiments.We found that leaf δ13C decreased with increasing tree species richness, indicating less drought stress. This effect was not related to drought intensity, nor desiccation tolerance of the tree species. Leaf δ15N increased with drought intensity, indicating a shift toward more open N cycling as water availability diminishes. Additionally, drought intensity was observed to alter the influence of tree species richness on leaf δ15N from weakly negative under low drought intensity to weakly positive under high drought intensity.Overall, our findings suggest that dual leaf isotope analysis helps understand the interaction between drought, nutrients, and species richness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorophyll fluorescence is a well-established method to estimate chlorophyll content in leaves. A popular fluorescence-based meter, the Opti-Sciences CCM-300 Chlorophyll Content Meter (CCM-300), utilizes the fluorescence ratio F735/F700 and equations derived from experiments using broadleaf species to provide a direct, rapid estimate of chlorophyll content used for many applications. We sought to quantify the performance of the CCM-300 relative to more intensive methods, both across plant functional types and years of use. We linked CCM-300 measurements of broadleaf, conifer, and graminoid samples in 2018 and 2019 to high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and/or spectrophotometric (Spec) analysis of the same leaves. We observed a significant difference between the CCM-300 and HPLC/Spec, but not between HPLC and Spec. In comparison to HPLC, the CCM-300 performed better for broadleaves (r = 0.55, RMSE = 154.76) than conifers (r = 0.52, RMSE = 171.16) and graminoids (r = 0.32, RMSE = 127.12). We observed a slight deterioration in meter performance between years, potentially due to meter calibration. Our results show that the CCM-300 is reliable to demonstrate coarse variations in chlorophyll but may be limited for cross-plant functional type studies and comparisons across years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfalfa (Medicago L.) is a high-quality perennial leguminous forage with the advantages of salt tolerance, mowing tolerance, high protein content, and other economically valuable characteristics. As the sixth class of plant hormones, brassinosteroids (BRs) play indispensable roles in modulating a variety of plant growth, maturation, and environmental adaptation processes, thereby influencing vegetal expansion and development. Brassinosteroid signal kinases (BSKs) are key cytoplasmic receptor kinases downstream of the BR signaling transduction pathway, participating in plant growth, development, and stress regulation. However, the phylogenetic and expression pattern analyses of the BSK gene family among the five alfalfa species have rarely been reported; in this study, 52 BSK family members were found in the genomes of the five subspecies, and phylogenetic trees were constructed according to protein sequences, allowing us to categorize all BSKs into seven distinct groups. Domain, conserved motif, and exon–intron structural analyses showed that most BSK members were relatively conserved, except for MtBSK3-2, MtBSK7-1, and MtBSK7-2, which may be truncated members. Intra-species collinearity and Ka/Ks analyses showed that purifying selection influenced BSK genes during evolution; most of the cis-acting elements in the promoter region were associated with responses, such as light, defense, and stress, anaerobic induction, MeJA, and abscisic acid. Expression pattern analysis indicated that the majority of alfalfa genes exhibited downregulation after reaching a peak at 0.5 h after treatment with 250 mM NaCl, especially for MsBSK14, MsBSK15, MsBSK17, MsBSK19, and MsBSK21; meanwhile, MsBSK4, MsBSK7, and MsBSK9 increased and were highly expressed at 12 h, demonstrating significantly altered expression patterns under salt stress; furthermore, MsBSK4, MsBSK7, and MsBSK9 exhibited expression specifically in the leaves. qRT-PCR analysis confirmed the expression trends for MsBSK4, MsBSK7, MsBSK9, MsBSK14, MsBSK15, and MsBSK16 matched the transcriptome data. However, the trends for MsBSK17, MsBSK19, and MsBSK21 diverged from the transcriptome data. Our study may provide a foundation for further functional analyses of BSK genes in growth, development, and salt stress tolerance in alfalfa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moringa oleifera is widely grown throughout the tropics and increasingly used for its therapeutic and nutraceutical properties. These properties are attributed to potent antioxidant and metabolism regulators, including glucosinolates/isothiocyanates as well as flavonoids, polyphenols, and phenolic acids. Research to date largely consists of geographically limited studies that only examine material available locally. These practices make it unclear as to whether moringa samples from one area are superior to another, which would require identifying superior variants and distributing them globally. Alternatively, the finding that globally cultivated moringa material is essentially functionally equivalent means that users can easily sample material available locally. We brought together accessions of Moringa oleifera from four continents and nine countries and grew them together in a common garden. We performed a metabolomic analysis of leaf extracts (MOLE) using an LC-MSMS ZenoTOF 7600 mass spectrometry system. The antioxidant capacity of leaf samples evaluated using the Total Antioxidant Capacity assay did not show any significant difference between extracts. MOLE samples were then tested for their antioxidant activity on C2C12 myotubes challenged with an oxidative insult. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was added to the myotubes after pretreatment with different extracts. H2O2 exposure caused an increase in cell death that was diminished in all samples pretreated with moringa extracts. Our results show that Moringa oleifera leaf extract is effective in reducing the damaging effect of H2O2 in C2C12 myotubes irrespective of geographical origin. These results are encouraging because they suggest that the use of moringa for its therapeutic benefits can proceed without the need for the lengthy and complex global exchange of materials between regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) caused by Cercospora canescens is a formidable seed-borne disease and survives in crop debris or other host plants affecting mungbean cultivation. This study presents a comparative assessment of enzymatic activity assays and functional components in mungbean, focusing on the relationship of host plant and the pathogen, responsible for CLS. Comparative analyses were conducted between susceptible and resistant genotypes in both inoculated and uninoculated conditions to analyze defense-related activity like ascorbate peroxidase (APX), peroxidase (POD), lipid peroxidase (LPX), and catalase (CAT). In addition, C-based compounds including total phenols and flavonoids were analyzed through detached mungbean leaf method. The study further extended its analysis beyond leaves to other parts like pods, stems, and seeds. The host–pathogen relationship was investigated at various stages; control, 2 days after inoculation (DAI), 4 DAI, 6 DAI. At 6 DAI (T4), in the pods, the enzyme activity was 3.1-fold higher for ascorbate peroxidase, two-fold higher for peroxidase, and 1.8-fold higher for lipid peroxidase in case of susceptible genotype in contrast to mock inoculation (T1). For resistant genotype, the antioxidant activity at 6 DAI (T4) was 3.7-fold higher for ascorbate peroxidase, 2.73-fold higher for peroxidase, 1.8-fold higher for lipid peroxidase, and 2.7-fold higher for catalase compared to mock inoculation (T1). In pods, catalase activity was upregulated by 1.47-fold in resistant genotype and conversely, its activity was downregulated by 1.30-fold in pods of susceptible genotype at 6 DAI. Results indicate a positive regulation of catalase in pods of resistant genotype throughout infection period. These findings underscore the plant's ability to mount a well-coordinated defense response, involving multiple components of the anti-oxidative system. The sophisticated regulation of these defense mechanisms reflects the adaptability and resilience of mungbean plants against pathogen challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wire beam is a single-translation constraint along its axial direction. It offers many applications in compliant mechanisms, such as being a transmitting/decoupling element connected to a linear actuator and being a fundamental constitutive element to design complex compliant joints and mechanisms. It is desired to find an alternative leaf beam single-translation constraint to equal a wire beam in order to improve the manufacturability and robustness to external loading. In this paper, we propose and model a new single-translation constraint compliant module, I-shape leaf beam design, to compare with a corresponding L-shape leaf beam design reported in the literature. Two spherical (S) joints using three I-shape leaf beams and three L-shape leaf beams, respectively, are then analytically modeled and analyzed. Three key geometric parameters are adopted to thoroughly assess four performance indices of each S joint, including stiffness ratio, rotation radius error, coupling motion, and parasitic motion. It shows that the I-shape leaf beam-based S joint performance indices are generally 10 times better than those of the L-shape leaf beam-based S joint. For each S joint, the optimal parameters are found under the given conditions. Finally, experimental tests are carried out for a fabricated S joint prototype using the I-shape leaf beams, the results from which verify the accuracy of the proposed analytical model and the fabrication feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous chemical dengue control can cause vector resistance and environmental pollution. Developing natural larvicides (bio-larvicides) from plant toxins like white chicory, which can poison Aedes aegypti larvae, is necessary for a sustainable alternative. This study aimed to analyze differences in active ingredients in white chicory leaves (Brassica pekinensis L) as bio-larvicide against Aedes aegypti larvae. This study was a pure experiment using a post-testonly control design using 1,225 Aedes aegypti instar III larvae with extracts of alkaloid active ingredients, flavonoids, and concentrations of 0%, 24%, 34%, and 40% with 3 times replication. Data were analyzed using a probit test, one-way ANOVA, and Post Hoc LSD. The results showed the potential of active ingredients in white chicory leaves against the death of Aedes aegypti larvae (p-value = 0.000). The average percentage of larval mortality concentration was 24%, 34%, 40%, in alkaloids was 41%, 60%, 66%, and in flavonoids was 45%, 64%, 68%. The active ingredient of white chicory leaves can kill Aedes aegypti larvae with LC50 in 29% alkaloids and 27% flavonoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide variety of driver safety, comfort, and infotainment systems are available in modern cars, many of which rely on wireless connectivity. This article introduces a modified square-shape MIMO antenna designed for vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications. The design of the antenna operates for WiMAX, WirelssLAN, frequency bands which possess a compact size of 60 mm × 40 mm × 0.256 mm. The antenna utilizes modified square shape stubs and defected ground and achieves dual-band resonance by using circular shapes at the corners and a slot in the center position. The rectangular and circular slots enable resonance at 4.3 GHz & 5 GHz, and also has a low impedance matching with better radiation of omnidirectional patterns. It was determined that the MIMO antenna under consideration reaches a maximum gain of 6.5 dB and 4 dBi at 4.3 GHz and 5 GHz, respectively. When tested at theta = 30° and phi = 90°, this MIMO antenna shows very little backward radiation, exactly −5 dB. The authors have attained reliable communication by fine-tuning the structural parameters of the antenna to achieve the desired passband performance. Furthermore, virtually placing the antenna on a car model and analyzing its performance in a realistic scenario has enabled them to determine the antenna's effectiveness in real-world applications. The authors have also presented better simulation results. This approach provides experimental evidence of the antenna's performance and validates the results, ensuring the proposed antenna meets the required specifications. The article provides a robust analysis of proposed design of the antenna for vehicular communications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Background; Several plants with various chemical constituents have been widely explored for managing diabetes mellitus. One of the most common strategies is the inhibitors of the α-amylase and α-glucosidase, key regulatory enzymes in diabetes. This study aims to investigate the anti-diabetic activity of methanolic extract of Coccinia barteri leaves using in vitro α-amylase enzyme inhibition assay and in silico molecular docking study. Methods; The dried pulverized leaf of Coccinia barteri was extracted by maceration using methanol. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses of the powdered leaf extract were carried out using standard procedures. The extract was fractionated using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous methanol. In vitro anti-diabetic study of the different fractions and sub-fractions was investigated by α-Amylase Inhibition Assay. Sub-fractions of the ethyl acetate fraction of C.barteri leaf with the highest in vitro anti-diabetic activity were subjected to GC-MS analysis. The compounds detected by GC-MS were selected as ligands for α-amylase and α-glucosidase in the molecular docking study. Results; The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, steroids, flavonoids, and cyanide. Compared to the control drug, the ethyl acetate fraction of Coccinia barteri leaf gave a 2-fold lower IC50. GCMS chromatogram of the most active sub-fraction revealed the presence of 18 major compounds. Piperine showed good binding affinity (−6.9 kcal/mol) to α-amylase and displayed hydrogen bonding with ARG 344 and HIS 210, along with pi alkyl bonds with TRP 83, HIS 80, LEU 166, and LEU 232. For α-glucosidase, piperine and 2,4-di-tertbutylphenol surpassed the standard with binding energies of −7.1 kcal/mol and - 6.9 kcal/mol, respectively. Drug likeness and toxicity assessments confirmed adherence to Lipinski's rule, with both compounds showing non-mutagenic and non-tumorigenic properties. Conclusion; The ethyl acetate fraction of the Coccinia barteri leaf exhibits potential anti-diabetic activity, which may be attributed to the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, by its constituents, piperine and 2,4-di-tertbutylphenol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxus contorta (family Taxaceae) is a native plant of temperate region of western Himalaya. The current study investigated the effect of altitude on the phytochemical composition and mycorrhizal diversity, associated with distribution of T. contorta in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh, India. Quantitative phytochemical analysis of the leaf extracts indicated that alkaloid levels decreased with altitude, with the highest value in Himri's methanol extracts (72.79 ± 1.08 mg/g) while phenol content increased with altitude, peaking in Nankhari's methanol extracts (118.83 ± 5.90 mg/g). Saponin content was higher in methanol extracts (78.13 ± 1.66 mg/g in Nankhari, 68.06 ± 1.92 mg/g in Pabbas, and 56.32 ± 1.93 mg/g in Himri). Flavonoid levels were notably higher in chloroform extracts, particularly in Nankhari (219.97 ± 2.99 mg/g), and positively correlated with altitude. Terpenoids were higher in chloroform extracts at Himri (11.34 ± 0.10 mg/g) and decreased with altitude. Taxol content showed minimal variation between solvents and altitudes (4.53–6.98 ppm), while rutin was only detected in methanol extracts (1.31–1.46 ppm). Mycorrhizal spore counts in T. contorta's rhizosphere varied with altitude: highest at Himri (77.83 ± 2.20 spores/50 g soil), decreasing to Pabbas (68.06 ± 1.96 spores/50 g soil) and lowest at Nankhari (66.00 ± 2.77 spores/50 g soil), with 17 AMF species identified overall, showing significant altitudinal influence on spore density. The rhizosphere of T. contorta was shown to be dominated by the Glomus species. The rhizospheric soil of the plant was found to be slightly acidic. Organic carbon and available potassium content decreased contrasting with increasing available nitrogen and phosphorus with altitude. Correlation data showed strong negative links between organic carbon (−0.83), moderate positive for nitrogen (0.46) and phosphorus (0.414), and moderate negative for potassium (−0.56) with the altitude. This study provides a comprehensive insight into changes in phytochemical constituents, mycorrhizal diversity and soil composition of T. contorta along a range of altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: The research on plant leaf morphology is of great significance for understanding the development and evolution of plant organ morphology. As a relict plant, the G. biloba leaf morphology typically exhibits bifoliate and peltate forms. However, throughout its long evolutionary history, Ginkgo leaves have undergone diverse changes. Methods: This study focuses on the distinct "trumpet" leaves and normal fan-shaped leaves of G. biloba for analysis of their phenotypes, photosynthetic activity, anatomical observations, as well as transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. Results: The results showed that trumpet-shaped G. biloba leaves have fewer cells, significant morphological differences between dorsal and abaxial epidermal cells, leading to a significantly lower net photosynthetic rate. Additionally, this study found that endogenous plant hormones such as GA, auxin, and JA as well as metabolites such as flavonoids and phenolic acids play roles in the formation of trumpet-shaped G. biloba leaves. Moreover, the experiments revealed the regulatory mechanisms of various key biological processes and gene expressions in the trumpet-shaped leaves of G. biloba. Discussion: Differences in the dorsal and abdominal cells of G. biloba leaves can cause the leaf to curl, thus reducing the overall photosynthetic efficiency of the leaves. However, the morphology of plant leaves is determined during the primordia leaf stage. In the early stages of leaf development, the shoot apical meristem (SAM) determines the developmental morphology of dicotyledonous plant leaves. This process involves the activity of multiple gene families and small RNAs. The establishment of leaf morphology is complexly regulated by various endogenous hormones, including the effect of auxin on cell walls. Additionally, changes in intracellular ion concentrations, such as fluctuations in Ca2+ concentration, also affect cell wall rigidity, thereby influencing leaf growth morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compositional nutrient diagnosis—CND method is a standard tool for evaluating plant nutritional status. Adjustments are crucial to elevate accuracy. The effectiveness of such methodological refinements should be rigorously assessed through accuracy tests that are benchmarked against the prescient diagnostic analysis—PDA methodology. The objective of this investigation was to refine the CND technique for a more precise evaluation of N, P, and B nutrient status in cotton. The study’s database encompasses 144 data points pertaining to crop yield and foliar nutrient concentrations from cotton plantations in the Cerrado biome of Brazil. Subsequently, the CND norms were established through rigorous calibration. Three separate nutrient-dose trials, each featuring four levels of N, P and B, were carried out to assess plant true nutritional status. Adjustments were made to the nutrient responsiveness range—NRr (0.5 and 1.0), while yield response—YR were scrutinized at threshold levels (5% and 10%). The prerequisites for achieving high diagnostic accuracy were nutrient specific. For N, maximal accuracy was linked only to the YR parameter (YR = 10%). For P, the most precise outcomes were attained with a NRr = 0.5 and YI = 5%. For B, highest diagnostic accuracy when the NRr = 1.0 and YI = 10%. These insights highlight the need to fine-tune the CND method for reliable nutritional evaluations and cotton crop productivity optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to realize the accurate prediction of the water content of the tobacco under the re-roasting machine, a tobacco water content prediction model based on principal component analysis and BP neural network was proposed. First, principal component analysis was used to extract the most characteristic factors of water content of re-roasted tobacco, and the feature matrix was obtained. Then, the feature matrix was input into BP neural network to construct a prediction model including the feature matrix and the water content of tobacco under re-roasting. The simulation results showed that the proposed model presented significant prediction ability in the prediction of water content of re-baking tobacco, and the coefficient of determination reached 0.92. By using this method, we could assist in the optimization of the control parameters of tobacco re-baking and the improvement of the quality of re-baking tobacco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The iconic, palmately compound leaves of Cannabis have attracted significant attention in the past. However, investigations into the genetic basis of leaf shape or its connections to phytochemical composition have yielded inconclusive results. This is partly due to prominent changes in leaflet number within a single plant during development, which has so far prevented the proper use of common morphometric techniques.Here, we present a new method that overcomes the challenge of nonhomologous landmarks in palmate, pinnate, and lobed leaves, using Cannabis as an example. We model corresponding pseudo‐landmarks for each leaflet as angle‐radius coordinates and model them as a function of leaflet to create continuous polynomial models, bypassing the problems associated with variable number of leaflets between leaves.We analyze 341 leaves from 24 individuals from nine Cannabis accessions. Using 3591 pseudo‐landmarks in modeled leaves, we accurately predict accession identity, leaflet number, and relative node number.Intra‐leaf modeling offers a rapid, cost‐effective means of identifying Cannabis accessions, making it a valuable tool for future taxonomic studies, cultivar recognition, and possibly chemical content analysis and sex identification, in addition to permitting the morphometric analysis of leaves in any species with variable numbers of leaflets or lobes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]