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Diplonychus indicus, a tropical, skilled predatory water bug with a global distribution, has been studied for its predatory performance. In this study, a detailed account and a thorough assessment on the population dynamics, reproductive fecundity, and the various factors, viz., effect of space size, temperature, food deprivation, aquatic vegetation, competition, and prey density influencing the predatory performance of D. indicus have been portrayed. Over the course of a year, the population dynamics of D. indicus was observed in a permanent pond located in the Kanyakumari region of Tamil Nadu, Southern India. Except for temperature, D. indicus nymphs and adults, had a positive correlation with abiotic (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and rainfall) and biotic (Culex larvae) parameters. With regard to reproductive fecundity, on an average, 20 female individuals of D. indicus produced 1062 eggs, with a maximum hatching percentage of 88.3 at water temperatures of 25–26 °C, and an incubation period of 9.0 ± 0.35 days. The stadial duration of nymphs was 77.68 days, with the Ist stage being the shortest (5.2 ± 0.32 days) and the Vth stage the longest (34.22 ± 4.12). The IVth stage followed by the Vth stage had the highest rates of survival from egg to adult. The predatory performance of D. indicus nymphs evaluated based on the following factors, viz., space size, temperature, starvation, vegetation, competition, and prey density, are as follows. Maximum number of prey (Culex larvae) predated (411.20 ± 8.76) was in circular experimental glass container of 1 L volume space size; at a temperature of 25 °C (11.20 ± 0.30); after 24 h of starvation (558.26 ± 2.56); in 2.0 g density of aquatic vegetation (388.16 ± 2.32); with six competitors (2484.60 ± 8.10); and at 80 prey density (28.52 ± 1.02). The current study provides a critical insight into these variables that are crucial in the predatory performance of their prey, and are successful parameters in establishing a specific predator-prey interaction. This is a useful parameter for figuring out a specific predator-prey interaction in the wild. All the above mentioned factors will affect how well D. indicus performs as a predator in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• White acrylic paint pigment is slightly alkaline and foxing-resistant. • Acrylic-gesso-coated watercolor paper can be used as an anti-foxing backing. • Acrylic gesso coating is simple & cost-effective against foxing. One of the concerns of watercolor artworks on paper is the natural oxidation process of the paper, leading to the development of unsightly yellow-brown spots referred to as foxing. Historically, efforts to preserve watercolor pieces in museums, institutions, and private collections have relied on intricate and expensive techniques. Unfortunately, these methods are not practical for the broader community of artists and less affluent collectors. Furthermore, the introduction of foreign preservation materials, which can interact with the artwork's components, poses a risk to the original visual appeal. Consequently, watercolor art collections have lost some of their appeal compared to oil paintings on canvases. This study endeavors to offer an alternative, straightforward, and cost-efficient approach to safeguarding watercolor artworks created on high-quality watercolor paper, a type commonly used by typical watercolorists, making it a suitable candidate for this investigation. This approach also avoids introducing additional substances to the artwork. The protective technique involves the application of commercially available acrylic gesso to a fresh sheet of watercolor paper. This gesso-coated paper serves as a backing for framing and displaying the original watercolor artwork, without the need for any foreign preservation materials to be added to the artwork itself. To assess the effectiveness of this protection method, a comparison was made between the foxing tendencies of protected and unprotected paper artworks stored for a decade. These samples were subjected to various analytical techniques, including optical microscopy (OM), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FESEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results revealed that, when compared to untreated samples, rarely any foxing spots were observed on any of the treated samples, and both the oxidation and degradation of cellulose fibers were diminished. Additionally, the analysis showed that the acrylic gesso comprised inorganic components such as calcium carbonate (CaCO 3), dolomite (CaMg(CO 3) 2), rutile (TiO 2), and organic acrylics. The carbonates created a mildly alkaline environment, neutralizing the acidity in the paper. The titanium dioxides exhibited biocidal and fungicidal properties due to their photocatalytic characteristics. The acrylic component bound and dispersed the inorganic constituents, and the coating formed a less impenetrable barrier layer as indicated by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results. In addition to significantly improving the resistance of the paper to foxing, the methods outlined in this study are highly cost-effective and readily accessible to artists and collectors. Importantly, they do not involve the addition of any restoration materials to the original artworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiment carried out at the Entomology Instructional Farm, JNKVV-College of Agriculture Rewa, MP during rabi season 2018-19 revealed that incidence of the chickpea pod borer Helicoverpa armigera. Population range of pod borer during different weather weeks varied between 0.30 and 1.89 larvae/mrl (April 2nd week and March 2nd week respectively). Peak larval population of Helicoverpa armigera was recorded in 2nd week of March (11 standard weeks). A weak negative correlation was observed with the maximum relative humidity and minimum relative humidity correlation, -0.172 and -0.595 respectively and a non significant positive correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature and rainfall. The respective r was found to be 0.306, 0.391 and 0.269. In district Rewa, MP, India the insect-pests of chickpea and their natural enemies during rabi the total seven species was recorded in Chickpea in which six pests minor in nature and one major pest Chickpea pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera). Termite (Odontotermes obesus Ram.), White grub (Holotrichia consanguinea Bl.), Black aphid (Aphis craccivora Koch), Grasshopper (Chrotogonus trachypterus Blan.), Semilooper (Autographa nigrisigna L.), Cut worm (Agrotis ipsilon Huf.) are minor in nature. Seven natural enemies found during field investigation i.e. lady bird beetle (Chilomenes sexmaculata Fab.), lady bird beetle (Coccinella septempunctata L.), Praying mantis (Mantis religiosa), Dragon fly (Crocothemis servilia Drury), Campoletis parasitoid (Campoletis chlorideae Uch.), Indian mynah (Acridotheris tristis L.), King crow (Dicrurus macrocerus Vie.) in chickpea observed in low to medium population on the crop and to help in reduction of pest population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Universal stress proteins (USPs) are widely distributed and play crucial roles in cellular responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. These roles include regulating cell growth and development, cell motility, hypoxia responses, and ion sequestration. With the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events due to climate change, pathogens have developed different strategies to withstand environmental stresses, in which USPs play a significant role in their survival and virulence. In this study, we analyzed the importance of USPs in various organisms, such as archaea, plants, and fungi, as a parameter that influences their survival. We discussed the different types Of USPs and their role, aiming to carry out fundamental research in this field to identify significant constraints for better understanding of USP functions at molecular level. Additionally, we discussed concepts and research techniques that could help overcome these hurdles and facilitate new molecular approaches to better understand and target USPs as important stress adaptation and survival regulators. Although the precise characteristics of USPs are still unclear, numerous innovative uses have already been developed, tested, and implemented. Complementary approaches to basic research and applications, as well as new technology and analytical techniques, may offer insights into the cryptic but crucial activities of USPs in various living systems. Shows the different environmental stresses faced by plants and microbes and how they respond by generating stress proteins, which are enhanced when stressors trigger organisms and help the organism in stress tolerance and resistance and the pathogenesis of microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multispecies assemblages of Appalachian desmognathans have long intrigued ecologists seeking to understand the structure of ecological communities. Body size and life history in this group correlate with the moisture gradient from stream to forest, with large species being more aquatic and progressively smaller ones being ever more terrestrial. Since the work of N.G. Hairston, Sr. in the early 1980s, the prevailing hypothesis has been that predation and competition among desmognathans themselves have been the driving processes in the development and maintenance of the spatial organization along stream sides, with large, aggressive species forcing smaller ones to occupy less favorable terrestrial niches. Decades of research have confirmed that biotic interactions are important. However, evidence from recent studies has not agreed with the idea that biotic interactions are primary. Herein, I have concluded that the prevailing hypothesis fails to reconcile the currently available data. I have presented an alternative hypothesis that an abiotic factor, specifically the relative abundance of water, has been the primary force driving adaptation of species of Desmognathus longitudinally along moisture gradients by way of stream headwaters. Interspecific interactions, though important aspects of the current ecology of these species, are not the underlying drivers of spatial organization along the moisture gradient. I have further generated specific predictions that will enable this hypothesis to be tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 from the current 7.7 billion, which is going to significantly impact food availability. Therefore, current global agricultural production needs to be increased to feed the unconstrained growing population. The changing climatic condition due to anthropogenic activities also makes the conditions more challenging to meet the required crop productivity in the future. Potato is third most consumed staple food. The current cultivation and demand of potato is particularly more in developing countries with high levels of poverty, hunger, and malnutrition because it is cheap source of nutrition and easily available. Potato is severely infected by a number of diseases, insect pests, and abiotic environmental conditions. Amidst the backdrop of climate change, the situation is deteriorating. Projections indicate that the average potato productivity in India's primary potato-growing states, responsible for approximately 90% of the nation's total potato output, is expected to decline by 2.0% in the 2050s and a more substantial 6.4% in the 2080s. Therefore to develop tolerance in plants to cope with changing environmental condition is need of hour to feed the overgrowing population. In this review, we discussed the application of CRISPR to enhance the crop productivity and develop biotic and abiotic stress-tolerant in potato to face the current changing climatic conditions is also discussed. The review also sheds light on the future prospects of CRISPR/Cas technology for potato breeding, including potential challenges and opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants undergo deteriorating stress situations, which has an adverse effect on their overall growth, maturation, and development. To mitigate these situations plants undergo regulatory cellular mechanisms including epigenetic changes at both genomic as well as protein levels. Post-transcriptional as well as translational modifications of proteins enhance its dynamics and complexity along with orchestrating several cellular functions in response to external stimuli. One of the most crucial roles of Post Translational Modification is under the stress tolerance mechanisms in plants. PTM creates a fine-tuning between all regulatory networks and serves as a highly responsible phenomenon. Illustrative analysis of post-translational modification in various signaling pathways has generated new insight for designing crop cultivars towards better development with higher yield and increased tolerance. In this review, we have first introduced post-translational modification and their types. Later, we discussed the prevalent biotic-abiotic stress, plants adaptation to the stress response mechanism, and the participation of PTMs in these stress conditions to highlight better agricultural productivity.

In recent years, postbiotics have increased in popularity, but the potential relevancy of postbiotics for augmenting exercise performance, recovery, and health is underexplored. A systematic literature search of Google Scholar and PubMed databases was performed with the main objective being to identify and summarize the current body of scientific literature on postbiotic supplementation and outcomes related to exercise performance and recovery. Inclusion criteria for this systematic review consisted of peer-reviewed, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trials, with a population including healthy men or women >18 years of age. Studies required the incorporation of a postbiotic supplementation regimen and an outcome linked to exercise. Search terms included paraprobiotics, Tyndallized probiotics, ghost biotics, heat-killed probiotics, inactivated probiotics, nonviable probiotics, exercise, exercise performance, and recovery. Only investigations written in English were considered. Nine peer-reviewed manuscripts and two published abstracts from conference proceedings were included and reviewed. Supplementation periods ranged from 13 days to 12 weeks. A total of 477 subjects participated in the studies (n = 16–105/study) with reported results spanning a variety of exercise outcomes including exercise performance, recovery of lost strength, body composition, perceptual fatigue and soreness, daily logs of physical conditions, changes in mood states, and biomarkers associated with muscle damage, inflammation, immune modulation, and oxidative stress. Early evidence has provided some indication that postbiotic supplementation may help to support mood, reduce fatigue, and increase the readiness of athletes across several weeks of exercise training. However, more research is needed to further understand how postbiotics may augment health, resiliency, performance, and recovery. Future investigations should include longer supplementation periods spanning a wider variety of competitive athletes and exercising populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The growth and ornamental value of chrysanthemums are frequently hindered by aphid attacks. The ethylene-responsive factor (ERF) gene family is pivotal in responding to biotic stress, including insect stress. However, to date, little is known regarding the involvement of ERF transcription factors (TFs) in the response of chrysanthemum to aphids. Results In the present study, CmHRE2-like from chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium), a transcription activator that localizes mainly to the nucleus, was cloned. Expression is induced by aphid infestation. Overexpression of CmHRE2-like in chrysanthemum mediated its susceptibility to aphids, whereas CmHRE2-like-SRDX dominant repressor transgenic plants enhanced the resistance of chrysanthemum to aphids, suggesting that CmHRE2-like contributes to the susceptibility of chrysanthemum to aphids. The flavonoids in CmHRE2-like-overexpression plants were decreased by 29% and 28% in two different lines, whereas they were increased by 42% and 29% in CmHRE2-like-SRDX dominant repressor transgenic plants. The expression of Chrysanthemum-chalcone-synthase gene(CmCHS), chalcone isomerase gene (CmCHI), and flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase gene(CmF3’H) was downregulated in CmHRE2-like overexpression plants and upregulated in CmHRE2-like-SRDX dominant repressor transgenic plants, suggesting that CmHRE2-like regulates the resistance of chrysanthemum to aphids partially through the regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis. Conclusion CmHRE2-like was a key gene regulating the vulnerability of chrysanthemum to aphids. This study offers fresh perspectives on the molecular mechanisms of chrysanthemum-aphid interactions and may bear practical significance for developing new strategies to manage aphid infestation in chrysanthemums.

The Klaten Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia, is a leptospirosis endemic area. The purpose of this study is to spatially describe the abiotic and biotic environmental factors that contributed to the incidence of leptospirosis in the Klaten Regency in 2018. This was a descriptive observational with a cross-sectional approach conducted in the Klaten Regency, Central Java, in 2019 with 59 respondents. The results revealed that the percentage of abiotic environmental factors such as poor waste disposal facilities, poor gutter conditions, rivers < 200 m, and flooding history, namely 35.6%, 41.2%, 54.2%, and 6.8%, respectively. The highest leptospirosis cases occurred in April 2018, with 325 mm of rainfall, an average temperature of 27 °C, an average humidity of 82.3%, and an altitude of 100–200 MASL (79.7%). Meanwhile, biotic factors included rat nest existence (100%), having pets at risk (32.2%), and ≥three types of vegetation (79.7%). The main result confirmed that all leptospirosis cases had rat nests throughout the respondent’s house. This finding emphasizes the importance of rat pest control programs by establishing cross-sectoral collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and educating the public to also play a role in environmental cleanliness in controlling rats.

Natural radioactive concentration assessment was conducted on sediment, water, and biota obtained on Vaan and Koswari islands in the Tuticorin group of islands, Tamil Nadu, India. For biotic and abiotic components, radiation profiles such as gross alpha, beta, primordial radionuclide, polonium, and lead analyses were performed. The gross α and β range from BDL to 15.18 ± 1.7 Bq/kg and 40.43 ± 4.9 Bq/kg to 105.12 ± 11.7 Bq/kg, respectively. Primordial radionuclides were analyzed using Nal(TI)-based scintillator with PC-MCA, and the concentrations ranged from 13.43 ± 3.3 Bq/kg to 30.97 ± 9.6 Bq/kg with a mean of 21.31 ± 2.7 Bq/kg for 238U; for 232Th, the values ranged from 11.09 ± 2.6 Bq/kg to 33.55 ± 9.5 Bq/kg with an average value of 23.89 ± 3.7 Bq/kg; and for 40 K, the values are 93.33 ± 27.3 Bq/kg to 219.91 ± 39.6 Bq/kg with an average value of 148.27 ± 21.7 Bq/kg. The present study values are lesser than the world average values. 210Po and 210Pb concentrations with an average value were determined to be 33.13 Bq/L and 16.56 Bq/L, 47.55 Bq/L and 22.37 Bq/L in the water sample, and 50.437 Bq kg1 and 62.012 Bq kg1, 46.99 Bq/kg and 58.625 Bq/kg in sediments of Vaan island and Koswari island. The concentrations of 210Po and 210Pb of Pogonias cromis were 19.27 ± 1.5 Bq/kg and 8.27 ± 1.01 Bq/kg, Belonidae 28.54 ± 2.4 Bq/kg and 18.32 ± 2.3 Bq/kg, Lepisosteidae 18.68 ± 1.4 Bq/kg and 11.17 ± 1.8 Bq/kg. The committed effective dosage was determined to be 35.74–54.61 µSv/y for 210Po and 25.39–56.25 µSv/y for 210Pb, in which the 210Pb value is lower; however, the 210Po value is higher than the global average value. The annual committed effective dosage as well as the radiological hazard indices were assessed and found to be much below the global average and the recommended limit, respectively. This research provides an extensive analysis of natural background radiation and establishes a baseline report on the radiological profile of biotic and abiotic factors in the Tuticorin group of islands, namely Vaan and Koswari, in Tamil Nadu, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The growth and ornamental value of chrysanthemums are frequently hindered by aphid attacks. The ethylene-responsive factor (ERF) gene family is pivotal in responding to biotic stress, including insect stress. However, to date, little is known regarding the involvement of ERF transcription factors (TFs) in the response of chrysanthemum to aphids. Results: In the present study, CmHRE2-like from chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium), a transcription activator that localizes mainly to the nucleus, was cloned. Expression is induced by aphid infestation. Overexpression of CmHRE2-like in chrysanthemum mediated its susceptibility to aphids, whereas CmHRE2-like-SRDX dominant repressor transgenic plants enhanced the resistance of chrysanthemum to aphids, suggesting that CmHRE2-like contributes to the susceptibility of chrysanthemum to aphids. The flavonoids in CmHRE2-like-overexpression plants were decreased by 29% and 28% in two different lines, whereas they were increased by 42% and 29% in CmHRE2-like-SRDX dominant repressor transgenic plants. The expression of Chrysanthemum-chalcone-synthase gene(CmCHS), chalcone isomerase gene (CmCHI), and flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase gene(CmF3'H) was downregulated in CmHRE2-like overexpression plants and upregulated in CmHRE2-like-SRDX dominant repressor transgenic plants, suggesting that CmHRE2-like regulates the resistance of chrysanthemum to aphids partially through the regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis. Conclusion: CmHRE2-like was a key gene regulating the vulnerability of chrysanthemum to aphids. This study offers fresh perspectives on the molecular mechanisms of chrysanthemum-aphid interactions and may bear practical significance for developing new strategies to manage aphid infestation in chrysanthemums. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term postbiotic was defined by the International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) as "a preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host." Although the ISAPP definition is widely cited, some concerns were aired after publication, and alternative definitions of postbiotic, as well as different terms for inactivated microbes, have been previously suggested. This paper addresses questions about the ISAPP definition that have been raised in different forums, including scientific meetings, social media commentary and personal communications. We focus on the rationale, scope, wording, composition and commercial implementation, as well as what is expected of postbiotics regarding safety, efficacy, quantification and mechanisms of action. We hope that exploring these questions will further clarify the definition and its scope and support a common understanding of the concept of postbiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil invertebrates, a diverse and often inconspicuous component of terrestrial ecosystems, play a pivotal role in evaluating soil health and quality. As living organisms residing within the soil matrix, they are sensitive indicators of the environmental conditions and overall ecosystem dynamics, making them invaluable sentinels in the assessment of soil quality. This scientific endeavor seeks to expound upon the critical importance of employing a zoological approach for comprehensive soil quality evaluation. The utilization of soil invertebrates as bioindicators facilitates the assessment of both abiotic and biotic factors shaping soil quality. Their mobility allows them to respond to changing environmental conditions, while their small size renders them particularly sensitive to local variations. As agents of decomposition, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem stability, soil invertebrates play a major role in the sustainable development of agriculture and forestry practices. The application of a zoological perspective to soil quality assessment not only elucidates the complex web of interactions within soil ecosystems but also contributes to the advancement of sustainable agricultural and environmental practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term postbiotic was defined by the International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) as “a preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host.” Although the ISAPP definition is widely cited, some concerns were aired after publication, and alternative definitions of postbiotic, as well as different terms for inactivated microbes, have been previously suggested. This paper addresses questions about the ISAPP definition that have been raised in different forums, including scientific meetings, social media commentary and personal communications. We focus on the rationale, scope, wording, composition and commercial implementation, as well as what is expected of postbiotics regarding safety, efficacy, quantification and mechanisms of action. We hope that exploring these questions will further clarify the definition and its scope and support a common understanding of the concept of postbiotics.

Sugar beet is a crop with high sucrose content, known for sugar production and recently being considered as an emerging raw material for bioethanol production. This crop is also utilized as cattle feed, mainly when animal green fodder is scarce. Bioethanol and hydrogen gas production from this crop is an essential source of clean energy. Environmental stresses (abiotic/biotic) severely affect the productivity of this crop. Over the past few decades, the molecular mechanisms of biotic and abiotic stress responses in sugar beet have been investigated using next-generation sequencing, gene editing/silencing, and over-expression approaches. This information can be efficiently utilized through CRISPR/Cas 9 technology to mitigate the effects of abiotic and biotic stresses in sugar beet cultivation. This review highlights the potential use of CRISPR/Cas 9 technology for abiotic and biotic stress management in sugar beet. Beet genes known to be involved in response to alkaline, cold, and heavy metal stresses can be precisely modified via CRISPR/Cas 9 technology for enhancing sugar beet’s resilience to abiotic stresses with minimal off-target effects. Similarly, CRISPR/Cas 9 technology can help generate insect-resistant sugar beet varieties by targeting susceptibility-related genes, whereas incorporating Cry1Ab and Cry1C genes may provide defense against lepidopteron insects. Overall, CRISPR/Cas 9 technology may help enhance sugar beet’s adaptability to challenging environments, ensuring sustainable, high-yield production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an important cash crop and is widely grown on approximately 220 million thousand hectares around the globe. Pakistan is included in the top ten wheat-producing countries in the world. However, due to climate change and biotic and biotic stresses, wheat yield and quality are continuously compromising. Heat stress is a negative constraint on wheat production (it is anticipated to decrease by 6% for each degree increase in temperature) and quality characteristics. Specifically terminal heat stress is a more devastating factor, while the plant responds in a variety of ways to withstand heat stress, for instance, scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and osmotic adjustment. To, address the global food security challenges, it is essential to develop genetically superior heat-tolerant cultivars that can withstand heat stress with high yield per hectare. Achieving thermotolerance in wheat involves a multifaceted approach, incorporating various procedures such as screening, breeding utilizing existing wheat germplasm, molecular breeding techniques, genetic engineering methods, and the incorporation of genes from wild germplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the effect of phosphine fumigation treatments (two tablet/ton exposure for 24, 48, 72 hours; four tablet/ton exposure for 24, 48,72 hours; six tablet/ton exposure for 24, 48, 72 hours ) on the vitality of bread wheat grains cv. Giza 171 at different storage periods (fresh grains, 3, 6, and 9 months) using a complete randomized design with three replications at the laboratory of Prof. Dr. Youssef Mohamed Omar, Plant Protection Department, Agriculture Faculty, Assiut University during the period from 26 May 2022 to 3 March 2023. Grains of Giza 171 cv. were obtained from the Agronomy Department Farm, Agriculture Faculty, Assiut University. The obtained result showed that the tested storage periods had a highly significant effect on all studied traits. Thus, the maximum mean values of germination power (%), germination percentage (%), roots and shoot length (cm), and seedling dry weight (g) traits were recorded at the begging of storage then a gradual decrease occurred. In addition, treating wheat grains with phosphine at different doses for different periods gained a significant increase in all studied traits compared to the control treatment (without fumigation), while there were no noticeable differences between most of the phosphine treatments themselves were found. Therefore, we suggest under the conditions of this study, wheat grains could be treated with 2 tablets of phosphine for a period of 72 hours to reduce the dose and increase the exposure time which could reduce the harmful effects of excessive doses of phosphine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant non-specific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are small proteins capable of transferring phospholipids between membranes and binding non-specifically fatty acids in vitro. They constitute large gene families in plants, e.g., 83 in potato (Solanum tuberosum). Despite their recognition decades ago, very few have been functionally characterized. Here, we set out to better understand the function of one of the potato members, StnsLTPI.33. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we show that StnsLTPI.33 is expressed throughout the potato plant, but at relatively higher levels in roots and leaves compared to petals, anthers, and the ovary. We also show that ectopically-expressed StnsLTPI.33 fused to green fluorescent protein colocalized with an apoplastic marker in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves, indicating that StnsLTPI.33 is targeted to the apoplast. Constitutive overexpression of the StnsLTPI.33 gene in potato led to increased levels of superoxide anions and reduced plant growth, particularly under salt stress conditions, and enhanced susceptibility to Alternaria solani. In addition, StnsLTPI.33-overexpressing plants had a depleted leaf pool of pipecolic acid, threonic acid, and glycine, while they accumulated putrescine. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an nsLTP that is associated with enhanced susceptibility to a pathogen in potato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignification is a vital function in plants for improving tolerance against stressors. This article presents studies conducted on the relationship of wheat straw lignin with enhanced plant adaptation against lodging and stressors. Herein, we provide a thorough discussion of the chemical structure and lignin composition of straw and its alteration and uses. Lignin plays a critical role in withstanding harsh environments (biotic and abiotic). Resistance to accommodation in wheat also plays a critical role. Lignin can also produce several products, e.g., costly petroleum-based materials and other vital products, such as resins and composites, and new materials, such as biofuels and chemicals. In this study, wheat straw lignification analysis highlighted that lignin formation regulates cellulose and hemicellulose biosynthesis. In addition, the analysis showed considerable encouragement of lignin growth inside wheat straw and the formation of lignin interfaces, as for cellulose and hemicellulose. Wheat straw lignin is an important source of many essential bioactive moieties, particularly lignocelluloses, straw-based biofuels, and various chemicals. We also explored the molecular tools that influence lignin formation in wheat and the significant strides taken in broadening our understanding of nanotechnology tools. This knowledge could assist in the development of advanced wheat cultivars, increase lignin content, and strengthen feedstock efficiency, reducing the impact of other lignin-associated agronomic gains.

Flavescence dorée (FD) is a destructive phytoplasma disease of European grapevines. Spontaneous and cultivar-dependent recovery (REC) may occur in the field in FD-infected vines starting the year following the first symptoms. However, the biological underpinnings of this process are still largely unexplored. In this study, transcriptome sequencing (RNAseq), whole-genome bisulphite sequencing (WGBS) and metabolite analysis were combined to dissect molecular and metabolic changes associated to FD and REC in leaf veins collected in the field from healthy (H), FD and REC plants of the highly susceptible Vitis vinifera 'Barbera'. Genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism and stress responses were overexpressed in FD conditions, whereas transcripts linked to hormone and stilbene metabolisms were upregulated in REC vines. Accumulation patterns of abscisic acid and stilbenoid compounds analysed in the same samples confirmed the RNAseq data. In recovery conditions, we also observed the persistence of some FD-induced expression changes concerning inhibition of photosynthetic processes and stress responses. Several differentially expressed genes tied to those pathways also underwent post-transcriptional regulation by microRNAs, as outlined by merging our transcriptomic data set with a previously conducted smallRNAseq analysis. Investigations by WGBS analysis also revealed different DNA methylation marks between REC and H leaves, occurring within the promoters of genes tied to photosynthesis and secondary metabolism. The results allowed us to advance the existence of a "molecular memory" of FDp infection, involving alterations in the DNA methylation status of REC plants potentially related to transcriptional reprogramming events, in turn triggering changes in hormonal and secondary metabolite profiles.

Infections by the fungus Monilinia laxa, the main cause of brown rot in Europe, result in considerable losses of stone fruit. Herein, we present a comprehensive transcriptomic approach to unravel strategies deployed by nectarine fruit and M. laxa during their interaction. We used M. laxa-inoculated immature and mature fruit, which was resistant and susceptible to brown rot, respectively, to perform a dual RNA-Seq analysis. In immature fruit, host responses, pathogen biomass, and pathogen transcriptional activity peaked at 14-24 h post inoculation (hpi), at which point M. laxa appeared to switch its transcriptional response to either quiescence or death. Mature fruit experienced an exponential increase in host and pathogen activity beginning at 6 hpi. Functional analyses in both host and pathogen highlighted differences in stage-dependent strategies. For example, in immature fruit, M. laxa unsuccessfully employed carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) for penetration, which the fruit was able to combat with tightly regulated hormone responses and an oxidative burst that challenged the pathogen's survival at later time points. In contrast, in mature fruit, M. laxa was more dependent on proteolytic effectors than CAZymes, and was able to invest in filamentous growth early during the interaction. Hormone analyses of mature fruit infected with M. laxa indicated that, while jasmonic acid activity was likely useful for defense, high ethylene activity may have promoted susceptibility through the induction of ripening processes. Lastly, we identified M. laxa genes that were highly induced in both quiescent and active infections and may serve as targets for control of brown rot.

In recent years, postbiotics have increased in popularity, but the potential relevancy of postbiotics for augmenting exercise performance, recovery, and health is underexplored. A systematic literature search of Google Scholar and PubMed databases was performed with the main objective being to identify and summarize the current body of scientific literature on postbiotic supplementation and outcomes related to exercise performance and recovery. Inclusion criteria for this systematic review consisted of peer-reviewed, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trials, with a population including healthy men or women >18 years of age. Studies required the incorporation of a postbiotic supplementation regimen and an outcome linked to exercise. Search terms included paraprobiotics, Tyndallized probiotics, ghost biotics, heat-killed probiotics, inactivated probiotics, nonviable probiotics, exercise, exercise performance, and recovery. Only investigations written in English were considered. Nine peer-reviewed manuscripts and two published abstracts from conference proceedings were included and reviewed. Supplementation periods ranged from 13 days to 12 weeks. A total of 477 subjects participated in the studies (n = 16–105/study) with reported results spanning a variety of exercise outcomes including exercise performance, recovery of lost strength, body composition, perceptual fatigue and soreness, daily logs of physical conditions, changes in mood states, and biomarkers associated with muscle damage, inflammation, immune modulation, and oxidative stress. Early evidence has provided some indication that postbiotic supplementation may help to support mood, reduce fatigue, and increase the readiness of athletes across several weeks of exercise training. However, more research is needed to further understand how postbiotics may augment health, resiliency, performance, and recovery. Future investigations should include longer supplementation periods spanning a wider variety of competitive athletes and exercising populations.

Sugar beet is a crop with high sucrose content, known for sugar production and recently being considered as an emerging raw material for bioethanol production. This crop is also utilized as cattle feed, mainly when animal green fodder is scarce. Bioethanol and hydrogen gas production from this crop is an essential source of clean energy. Environmental stresses (abiotic/biotic) severely affect the productivity of this crop. Over the past few decades, the molecular mechanisms of biotic and abiotic stress responses in sugar beet have been investigated using next-generation sequencing, gene editing/silencing, and over-expression approaches. This information can be efficiently utilized through CRISPR/Cas 9 technology to mitigate the effects of abiotic and biotic stresses in sugar beet cultivation. This review highlights the potential use of CRISPR/Cas 9 technology for abiotic and biotic stress management in sugar beet. Beet genes known to be involved in response to alkaline, cold, and heavy metal stresses can be precisely modified via CRISPR/Cas 9 technology for enhancing sugar beet’s resilience to abiotic stresses with minimal off-target effects. Similarly, CRISPR/Cas 9 technology can help generate insect-resistant sugar beet varieties by targeting susceptibility-related genes, whereas incorporating Cry1Ab and Cry1C genes may provide defense against lepidopteron insects. Overall, CRISPR/Cas 9 technology may help enhance sugar beet’s adaptability to challenging environments, ensuring sustainable, high-yield production.

Understanding the impact of climate change on the vegetation cover in the past is crucial for predicting the future warming scenario and its consequences. The present study integrates biotic (palynological analysis) and abiotic proxy (sediment chemistry, clay mineral assemblages and grain size end member (EM) analysis) records in a chronologically constrained sedimentary sequence from the southeastern part of the Mahanadi River delta to reconstruct the hydroclimate since 2600 years. The Mahanadi delta sediments are primarily derived from felsic rock source possibly composed of granites or granulites. The dominance of herbaceous taxa, high aridity index and deposition of fine grain (EM1) sediment possibly suggest a relatively cold and dry climate in the study region during ~2600–2100 cal yr BP corresponding to the Iron Age Cold Period (IACP). Presence of diverse mangrove and tree taxa, deposition of coarser sediment (EM3) and relatively high abundance of secondary clay minerals possibly indicate high precipitation associated with the Roman Warm Period (RWP, ~2100–1800 cal yr BP). A decline in mangroves, dominance of herbaceous taxa and high deposition of fine grain (EM2) sediment from ~1800 to 1300 cal yr BP may indicate a relatively drier climate coinciding with the Dark Age Cold Period (DACP). High moisture index and an increased value of Rb/Sr during ~1300 cal yr BP may suggest a wet phase with the onset of the Medieval Climatic Anomaly (MCA) and later shifted to an arid climate during ~1100–800 cal yr BP. After ~800 cal yr BP, a sharp decline in all weathering indices and vegetation cover, dominance of illite indicates a relatively dry climate which could mark the Little Ice Age (LIA, ~800–300 cal yr BP). A small increase in the terrestrial flux, as well as the weathering indices after ~300 cal yr BP, may suggest the onset of recent warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents the results of a field trial performed in the eight-year orchard with the apple cultivar (Malus doestica): 'Fuji', 'William's Pride' and 'Pink Lady', on the rootstock M9. The experiment as a randomized block system included 18 apple trees (9 for each cultivar). Each plant was monitored and examined some bio-morphological parameters. At the same time monitoring and examining some abiotic factors (frozen, drought, hail wind) and biotic factors (pests, diseases, birds) through agrologic stations and sampling. By the results obtained we found that: abiotic factors we have identified drought damage caused by high temperatures and radiation, lack of rainfall and wind, while from biotic factors damage is caused by diseases, pests and birds. According to apple cultivars, the 'Fuji' cultivar suffered the greatest damage to productivity from two factors, abiotic (49.74% failure to achieve optimal fruit mass and 17% superficial burning of fruits) and biotic (56.24% birds, 9.93 scab and 4.33 others). 'Pink Lady' is damaged from biotic factor (43.17% failure to achieve optimal fruit mass and 36% superficial burning of fruits, 3.64% Cracking of fruits, and 1.64% fruit fall) whereas from biotic factors damage (19.2% birds, 23.8% scab, 10.07% codling moth and 4.8% apple sawfly). While 'William's Pride' has suffered the least damage (36.68% failure to achieve optimal fruit mass and 4.66% other physical damage) and biotic factor (12.4% fruit rot, 9.4% powdery mildew, 5.4% birds, 29% codling moth, 2.7% apple sawfly). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The structure of the critical zone (CZ) is a product of feedbacks among hydrologic, climatic, biotic, and chemical processes. Past research within snow‐dominated systems has shown that aspect‐dependent solar radiation inputs can produce striking differences in vegetation composition, topography, and soil depth between opposing hillslopes. However, far fewer studies have evaluated the role of microclimates on CZ development within rain‐dominated systems, especially below the soil and into weathered bedrock. To address this need, we characterized the CZ of a north‐facing and south‐facing slope within a first‐order headwater catchment located in central coast California. We combined terrain analysis of vegetation distribution and topography with soil pit characterization, geophysical surveys and hydrologic measurements between slope‐aspects. We documented denser vegetation and higher shallow soil moisture on north facing slopes, which matched previously documented observations in snow‐dominated sites. However, average topographic gradients were 24° and saprolite thickness was approximately 6 m across both hillslopes, which did not match common observations from the literature that showed widespread asymmetry in snow‐dominated systems. These results suggest that dominant processes for CZ evolution are not necessarily transferable across regions. Thus, there is a continued need to expand CZ research, especially in rain‐dominated and water‐limited systems. Here, we present two non‐exclusive mechanistic hypotheses that may explain these unexpected similarities in slope and saprolite thickness between hillslopes with opposing aspects. Plain Language Summary: Small differences in solar radiation and water availability between hillslopes facing opposite directions may lead to distinct vegetation and hillslope structures. However, more research is needed to understand the controls and extent of structural differences in the subsurface, especially in rain‐dominated landscapes. To investigate the physical and ecohydrologic characteristics between hillslopes that face opposite directions, we combined terrain analysis, soil pit characterization, geophysical surveys and hydrologic measurements taken from two hillslopes facing opposite directions. We found that the hillslope that faced north had higher oak tree density, and higher soil moisture than the hillslope that faced south. These observations match other published studies from a range of landscapes and climates in the northern hemisphere. However, contrary to expectations based on other studies, we found that the surface slope and weathered bedrock thickness were similar between the two hillslopes. Similarities in soil water at 50 cm and increased perched groundwater response on the hillslope that faces south suggest that how water moves within the hillslope and what water is available to plants may alter how rock breaks down. In addition, historic climate and water availability may be important to understand the present‐day hillslope structure. Key Points: Aspect‐dependent microclimatic and vegetative differences do not correspond to physical structure between hillslopesSimilar physical structure between hillslopes may be driven by various aspect‐dependent processes leading to similar material loss and productionA more comprehensive understanding of critical zone development requires integration of past and present biotic and climatic processes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]