Search

Rumex lunaria is an endemic shrub of the Canary Islands, which is colonizing the Timanfaya National Park (TNP) in Lanzarote. Whether the arrival of R. lunaria to Lanzarote has been natural or by human intervention is still a matter of debate. To address this question, 100 specimens of R. lunaria were collected from the seven main Canary Islands, and genetic analysis of four chloroplast DNA loci were performed, covering a total length of 4809 nucleotide positions. Multiple alignments revealed 49 nucleotide substitutions, which define 30 different haplotypes. Island-specific haplotypes were found in Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma and Gran Canaria, with the greatest diversity found in the first island. Interestingly, the unique haplotype detected in El Hierro is shared with almost all plants from Lanzarote (95%), including all individuals sampled in the TNP. The most frequent haplotype present in Gran Canaria was detected in only one sample from Lanzarote (5%). These results were corroborated by a robust phylogenetic analysis, which supports the hypothesis of a common origin of R. lunaria populations from El Hierro and the vast majority of those from Lanzarote. In addition, this study rules out the genetic singularity of the R. lunaria specimens that are colonizing the TNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an HPLC-DAD method with high separation efficiency, detection sensitivity, and selectivity was developed and validated for the simultaneous qualitative and quantitative determination of anthraquinones (aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, and physcion) in Rumex acetosella L. and Rumex crispus L. plants collected at different regions and times. Optimal method conditions were determined by studying different mobile phases, mobile phase compositions, flow rates, column, column temperatures, injection volume, and wavelength of the compounds. Validation studies were carried out to prove the validity of the developed method. The correlation coefficients for all compounds were found to be in the range of 0.9991–0.9997, and the calibration curves were linear in the concentration range of 0.1–1.0 μg/mL. The limits of detection and quantification values were calculated in the range of 0.014–0.017 and 0.017–0.057 μg/mL, respectively. The developed and validated method indicated that it is effective and suitable for determining aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, and physcion in extracts of Rumex plants. In addition, the antioxidant activities of the plant extracts were determined using the Cupric Ion Reducing Antioxidant Capacity and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil radical assays, revealing their antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rumex nervosus is abundant in East African and Arabian countries, and is used in curing gastrointestinal diseases as well as in wound healing. The current study intends to assess Rumex nervosus aqueous extract's anti-inflammatory benefits compared to its nanoparticles on rat paw edema and its gastric mucosal protection against ulceration. Materials and methods: In-vitro cytotoxicity effects and antioxidant activity of Rumex nervosus nanoparticles versus aqueous extract were studied, followed by a pilot in vivo pharmacological study to determine the suitable dose of nanoparticles that would be used in the safety and efficacy studies in comparison with the aqueous extract. Its protective effects on arthritis and soft tissue inflammation were studied in rat paw edema and gastric ulcer models. Rumex nervosus extract (250 and 500 mg/kg) and nanoparticles (3.3 and 6.6 mg/kg) were given to four groups of rats orally before induction of paw oedema with subplantar 0.2 ml (1% w/v) formaldehyde or gastritis with oral ethanol 1 ml (70%), besides negative, positive control and reference groups. Results: Paw volumes and gastric ulcer indices, as well as the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant parameters (kappa β, Paraoxonase1, and Malondialdehyde) that were measured in sera showed a marked reduction in groups treated with high doses of Rumex nervosus extract, and nanoparticles. Histopathologic and histochemical assessment of the stomachs confirmed the other investigations. All results were significant compared to positive control untreated groups. Conclusions: Most studies demonstrated Rumex nervosus's protective anti-inflammatory benefits with the superiority of large doses of nanoparticles, offering a promising natural solution for low cost against inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has long been hypothesised that introduced species can evolve to become better competitors, which in turn will enable some of them to become invasive. The evolution of increased competitive ability hypothesis (EICA) gives a possible answer for why some introduced plants become invasive by stating that they can escape natural coevolved enemies (pests, pathogens and herbivores) in their new environment, thus allowing them to shift resource allocation from producing expensive chemical defences, towards a higher growth rate and competitive ability. In order to test if there is evidence for increased competitive ability in introduced populations, we examined the performance of three Rumex species (R. obtusifolius, R. crispus and R. conglomeratus, Polygonaceae) from their native (United Kingdom) and introduced ranges (New Zealand), when grown alone and in competition with a conspecific from the same or a different provenance. Based on the predictions of EICA, we hypothesised that plants from the introduced provenance would: (i) have a faster growth rate and a larger biomass at harvest; and (ii) would perform better in competition with a conspecific from the native provenance than one from the introduced provenance. Intraspecific competition reduced biomass by as much as 50%. However, contrary to expectations, we found no difference between the performance of plants from native and introduced provenances when grown in direct competition with each other. Plant performance when grown with a conspecific from the same provenance was similar to performance when paired with one from a different provenance, showing that there was no provenance effect. These results were consistent for all three Rumex species. Our findings contradict the predictions of the EICA hypothesis suggesting that other factors are needed to explain the success of Rumex species in New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A leaf spot disease was observed on red veined sorrel (Rumex sanguineus) growing in a commercial greenhouse in northern NSW, Australia, in July 2021. Cercospora rumicis was found in association with the leaf spot and was identified morphologically and by sequencing two gene regions, histone-3 (HIS) and calmodulin (CAL). Koch's postulates were fulfilled through pathogenicity tests, including the inoculation of potted plants and a detached leaf assay. This is the first report of Cercospora rumicis in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outcomes of weed biological control projects are highly variable, but a mechanistic understanding of how top-down and bottom-up factors influence the success of weed biological control is often lacking. We grew Rumex obtusifolius, the most prominent native weed in European grasslands, in the presence and absence of competition from the grass Lolium perenne and subjected it to herbivory through targeted inoculation with root-boring Pyropteron spp. To explore whether the interactive effects of competition and inundative biological control were size-dependent, R. obtusifolius was planted covering a large range of plant sizes found in managed grasslands. Overall, competition from the grass sward reduced aboveground biomass and final root mass of R. obtusifolius about 62- and 7.5-fold, respectively, and increased root decay of R. obtusifolius from 14 to 58%. Herbivory alone increased only root decay. However, grass competition significantly enhanced infestation by Pyropteron spp. and, as a consequence, enhanced the impact of herbivory on aboveground biomass and final root mass. The synergistic effect was so strong that R. obtusifolius plants grown from initially smaller roots did no longer develop. Inoculating R. obtusifolius with Pyropteron species in grasslands should be further pursued as a promising inundative biological control strategy in the weed's native range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide water sources continue to be polluted daily by various additives, of which dyestuffs are a significant contributing factor. In the present study, Rumex Crispus L. (RCL) was used as a biomass bio-adsorbent, and the adsorption of methylene blue on RCL was investigated. RCL was characterized using Brauner–Emmett–Teller, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. The effects of the RCL amount (0.5–6 g/L), initial pH (3–10), concentration (40–200 mg/L), contact time (0–60 min), and temperature (293–313 K) on adsorption activities were investigated, and the point of zero charge value of the adsorbent was determined. Thermodynamic studies have shown that adsorption occurs spontaneously and exothermically (ΔG0 = − 2.19 to − 0.72 kJ/mol, ΔH0 = − 23.8 kJ/mol, ∆S0 = − 0.074 kJ/mol). Pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, intraparticle diffusion, and Elovich kinetic models were tested, and the kinetic data were examined. The kinetic data showed that the pseudo-second-order kinetic model was the best fit (R2 = 0.999). Tests were conducted using Langmuir and Freundlich models from the isotherm studies. Our data showed good agreement with the Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.998). The maximum adsorption capacity of the RCL monolayer was determined as 50 mg/g according to the Langmuir isotherm model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential for malachite green dye saturated effluent to severely affect the environment and human health has prompted the search for effective treatment technologies. Thus, this study was conducted with the goal of developing activated carbon from Rumex abyssinicus for the adsorptive removal of malachite green dye from an aqueous solution. Unit operations such as drying, size reduction, impregnation with H3PO4, and thermal activation were used during the preparation of the activated carbon. An experiment was designed considering four main variables at their respective three levels: initial dye concentration (50, 100, and 150 mg/L), pH (3, 6, and 9), contact period (20, 40, and 60 min), and adsorbent dosage (0.05, 0.01, and 0.15 g/100 mL). Optimization of the batch adsorption process was carried out using the Response Surface methodology's Box Behnken approach. The characterization of the activated carbon was described by SEM for surface morphology with cracks and highly porous morphology, FTIR for multi-functional groups O–H at 3506.74 cm−1 and 3290.70 cm−1, carbonyl group stretching from aldehyde and ketone (1900–1700 cm−1), stretching motion of aromatic ring C=C (1543.12 cm−1), stretching motion of –C–H (1500–1200 cm−1), vibrational and stretching motion of –OH (1250.79 cm−1), and vibrational motion of C–O–C (1049.32 cm−1), pHpzc of 5.1, BET for the specific surface area of 962.3 m2/g, and XRD for the presence of amorphous structure. The maximum and minimum dye removal efficiencies of 99.9% and 62.4% were observed at their respective experimental conditions of (100 mg/L, 0.10 mg/100 mL, pH 6, and 40 min) and (100 mg/L, 0.15 mg/100 mL, pH 3, and 20 min), respectively. Langmuir, Freundlich, Toth, and Koble-Corrigan models were used to evaluate the experimental data, in which Koble-Corrigan model was found to be the best fit with the highest value of R2 0.998. In addition to this, the kinetic studies were undertaken using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, intraparticle diffusion, and Boyd models, and as a result, the pseudo-second-order model proved to have a better fit among the kinetic models. The kinetics and isotherm analysis revealed that the nature of the adsorption to be homogenous and monolayer surfaces driven by chemosorption. Furthermore, the thermodynamics study revealed the nature of adsorption to be feasible, spontaneous, and endothermic. On the other hand, the reusability study depicted the fact that the adsorbent can be utilized for five cycles with a negligible drop in the removal efficiencies from 99.9 to 95.2%. Finally, the low-cost, environmentally benign, and high adsorption capacity of the adsorbent material derived from Rumex abyssinicus stem could be used to treat industrial effluents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental pollution and human health impacts associated with the discharge of massive dye-containing effluents necessitate a search for cost-effective treatment technology. Therefore, this research work is conducted with the objective of investigating the potential of Rumex abyssinicus-derived activated carbon (RAAC) for the adsorption of Brilliant Blue Reactive (BBR) dye from aqueous solutions. Chemical activation with H3PO4 followed by pyrolysis was used to prepare the adsorbent. Characterization of the developed adsorbent was done using proximate analysis, pH point of zero charge (pHpzc), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The experimental design and the effect of independent variables including pH (2, 6, and 10), initial dye concentration (50, 100, and 150 mg/L), adsorbent dosage (0.05, 0.1, and 0.15 g/100 mL), and contact time (20, 50, and 80 min) were optimized using the response surface methodology (RSM) coupled with Box Behnken design (BBD). The analysis results revealed the exitance of high specific surface area of 524 m2/g, morphological cracks, and the presence of multiple functional groups like –OH, C=C, alkene, and amorphous structure. Maximum removal efficiency of 99.98% was attained at optimum working conditions of pH 2, contact time of 50 min, dye concentration of 100 mg/L, and adsorbent dosage of 0.15 mg/100 mL, reducing the pollutant concentration from 100 to 0.02 mg/L. Evaluation of the experimental data was done using Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Sips isotherm models, in which the Langmuir model was found to be the best fit with the experimental data at R2 0.986. This shows that the adsorbent surface is homogeneous and mono-layered. Furthermore, the kinetic study confirmed that the pseudo second-order model best describes the experimental data with R2 = 0.999. In general, the research work showed that the low cost, environmental friendliness and high adsorption capabilities of the activated carbon derived from Rumex abyssinicus could be taken as an effective nt for the removal of BBR dye from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many manuscripts in institutions that preserve and exhibit cultural heritage such as museums, galleries, and libraries. These manuscripts are of great value because of their witnessing to the past and the historical and cultural significance they have accumulated. In addition to the organic nature and the natural aging of the paper, which is generally used as the primary carrier material in these objects, other materials used in the manuscripts are an obstacle to their preservation and reaching future generations. In this study, the 62-volume animal encyclopedia, which is known to be written in the name of animals, plants, and Islamic science at the end of the fifteenth century (1487–1501) and added to an Ottoman Library, was examined analytically. A total of 40 samples consisting of paper, ink, dye, and leather samples were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC–DAD). After all, information on material characterization and deterioration product(s) was obtained. As a result of the analysis, vanillic acid, and its derivatives due to the natural aging of the paper and chrysophanic acid and its derivatives caused by fungi, which are the result of unfavorable environmental factors, were determined. It was concluded that the ink used in the manuscripts was iron-gall ink. In addition, it was determined that madder, weld, buckthorn, redwood, rhubarb, or dock plants were used as dyestuffs in paper and leather samples. Also, it was deduced that the leather samples were tanned with the vegetable tanning method using tannins. Since tannic acids were determined in the dyestuff analysis of three paper samples with ink, elemental analysis was performed on black ink by scanning an electron microscope with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX). As a result of this analysis, the element of iron has been detected and it has been confirmed that the black ink is iron-gall ink. It is inevitable that this study will guide conservation experts in restoration and conservation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to their native range, non-native plants often experience reduced levels of herbivory in the introduced range. This may result in reduced pressure to produce chemical defences that act against herbivores. We measured the most abundant secondary metabolites found in Rumex spp., namely oxalates, phenols and tannins. To test this hypothesis, we compared native (UK) and introduced (NZ) provenances of three different Rumex species (R. obtusifolius, R. crispus and R. conglomeratus, Polygonaceae) to assess whether any significant differences existed in their levels of chemical defences in either leaves and roots. All three species have previously been shown to support a lower diversity of insect herbivores and experience less herbivory in the introduced range. We further examined leaf herbivory on plants from both provenances when grown together in a common garden experiment in New Zealand to test whether any differences in damage might be consistent with variation in the quantity of chemical defences. We found that two Rumex species (R. obtusifolius and R. crispus) showed no evidence for a reduction in chemical defences, while a third (R. conglomeratus) showed only limited evidence. The common garden experiment revealed that the leaves analysed had low levels of herbivory (~ 0.5%) with no differences in damage between provenances for any of the three study species. Roots tended to have a higher concentration of tannins than shoots, but again showed no difference between the provenances. As such, the findings of this study provide no evidence for lower plant investments in chemical defences, suggesting that other factors explain the success of Rumex spp. in New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Rumex alpinus is a native plant in the mountains of Europe whose distribution has partly been affected by its utilization as a vegetable and medicinal herb. The distribution of micro and risk elements in its organs is not well-known. The study examined the safety of consuming R. alpinus from the Krkonoše Mountains, the Czech Republic, and the Alps (Austria and Italy). Methods: We determined the total and plant-available content of Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Al, As, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Cd in the soil and the total content in organs of R. alpinus. Results: The uptake and distribution of elements by plants were characterized by bioaccumulation (BF) and translocation (TF) factors. The level of elements accumulation by R. alpinus is considerably different, depending on local geological substrates and environmental conditions. Rumex alpinus has considerable tolerance to Zn, Cu, As, Cr, Ni, with an easy accumulation strategy. High Al and Cd content in belowground biomass (rhizome) indicate a defensive mechanism for them. Although the aboveground biomass (emerging, senescent, mature leaves, petiole) has some degree of accumulation of risk elements, the results showed that R. alpinus is an excluder. Conclusion: Rumex alpinus does not accumulate risk elements in organs (leaf and petiole) that are consumed based on the permissible limit according to World Health Organization (2001) and can therefore be used without concern. Caution must, therefore, be taken when consuming these plant parts in heavily contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haldane's rule (HR, impairment of fertility and/or viability of interracial hybrids) seems to be one of few generalizations in evolutionary biology. The validity of HR has been confirmed in animals, and more recently in some dioecious plants (Silene and Rumex). Dioecious Rumex hastatulus has two races differing in the sex chromosome system: Texas (T) and North Carolina (NC), and T × NC males showed both reduced pollen fertility and rarity—two classical symptoms of Haldane's rule (HR). The reduced fertility of these plants has a simple mechanistic explanation, but the reason for their rarity was not elucidated. Here, we measured selected physiological parameters related to the antioxidant defense system in parental races and reciprocal hybrids of R. hastatulus. We showed that the X-autosome configurations, as well as asymmetries associated with Y chromosomes and cytoplasm, could modulate this system in hybrids. The levels and quantitative patterns of the measured parameters distinguish the T × NC hybrid from the other analyzed forms. Our observations suggest that the rarity of T × NC males is caused postzygotically and most likely related to the higher level of oxidative stress induced by the chromosomal incompatibilities. It is the first report on the physiological aspects of HR in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xylella fastidiosa is a generalist phytopathogen transmitted by several polyphagous species of sharpshooters. This bacterium is responsible for plum leaf scald disease (PLS), the main phytosanitary barrier for the culture in Brazil. As an aggravating factor, weed species present in orchards can be related to the epidemiology of the disease as a source of inoculum for the pathogen. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the natural infection by X. fastidiosa in weed species present in plum orchards with a high incidence of PLS in two producing regions of Brazil, as well as to determine the colonization capacity by three sequence types (STs 26, 67 and 71) of X. fastidiosa isolated from plum trees. A total of 12 prevailing weed species were collected, nine of which (Bidens pilosa, Lepidium ruderale, Lolium multiflorum, Plantago major, Parthenium hysterosphorus, Raphanus sativus, Rumex sp., Solanum americanum and Vernonia sp.) tested positive by PCR for X. fastidiosa infection. From these, L. ruderale and L. multiflorum had the highest infection rates of 70% and 90% in root and leaf samples of L. ruderale, respectively, and 100% in leaf samples of L. multiflorum. Mechanical inoculation allowed systemic infection of the bacteria in B. pilosa, L. ruderale, R. sativus and S. americanum. Our results indicate that several weed species in plum orchards are hosts of representative STs of X. fastidiosa that infect plum, and might play a role in the spread of the pathogen to plum trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important staple foods consumed in many countries of the world. It is mostly consumed in developing countries where different chemical fertilizers are used to improve the productivity of the crop plant. In the present study, endophytic actinomycetes isolated from Rumex dentatus were identified morphologically and by scanning electron microscopy. Butyl isobutyl phthalate (BIBP) was isolated from the root endophyte Streptomyces sp. JR9 using column chromatography and HPLC methods. The compound was tested for its effect on rice seed germination. BIBP, extracts, and isolates were evaluated for their plant growth effect on rice in a growth chamber. Isolates were also screened in vitro for phosphate solubilization activity and enzyme production. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and BIBP produced in extracts were quantified and detected using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS) methods, respectively. BIBP was found to increase the germination of rice seeds by 6 to 12% in treated samples and displayed potent effect at lowest concentration (0.437 µM). Both the compound and the extract depicted significant increases in almost all growth parameters at lowest concentration of 0.125 µg/mL and 62.5 µg/mL, respectively. BIBP also increased significantly shoot length, fresh root, fresh shoot, and dried shoot weight at high concentrations and was more potent than the standard phytohormone IAA. HPLC quantification showed 7.952 µg/mg and 0.371 µg/mg of IAA in extracts of Streptomyces sp. JR9 and the stem endophyte Streptomyces sp. KS3, respectively. IAA containing extract of JR9 increased significantly most growth parameters at lowest concentration (125 µg/mL). The extract of KS3 depicted significant increases in almost all growth parameters at high concentration (500 µg/mL). Our investigation showed that streptomycetes isolated from R. dentatus and BIBP are potent growth promoting agents and can be used in agriculture as bio-fertilizer to improve the growth and productivity of rice. Key points: • Butyl isobutyl phthalate (BIBP) isolated from endophytic Streptomyces sp. JR9 is a potent rice seed germination activator and promotes significantly the growth of rice • Isolated endophytes showed the ability to produce enzymes and phytohormone IAA • Isolates enhanced significantly the growth of rice [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interspecific hybridization has been suggested to occur frequently in Rumex (Polygonaceae). Several hypothesized combinations of parental species of hybrids based on their intermediate morphology have been suggested in the genus, but few of them have been phylogenetically tested. We analyzed nuclear and chloroplast DNA sequence data of a putative natural hybrid between Rumex crispus and Rumex obtusifolius from Korea to confirm its hybrid status and to determine the maternal parent. Analysis of the nuclear DNA pgiC region revealed that R. crispus and R. obtusifolius have contributed to the nuclear genome of the putative hybrids. The haplotype distribution pattern inferred from the combined sequence data set of five chloroplast DNA regions (matK, rbcL-accD IGS, trnK-rps16 IGS, ycf6-psbM IGS and psbA-trnH IGS) indicated bidirectional hybridization events between R. crispus and R. obtusifolius. This paper provides the first molecular evidence for interspecific hybridization between R. crispus and R. obtusifolius. In addition, our findings strongly suggested that Korean populations of Rumex japonicus have a hybrid origin, and R. crispus may represent one of the parental taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rumex vesicarius (RV) is an edible wild annual plant, and it is reported that it contains a good source of minerals, protein, and ascorbic acid. Several studies have indicated the anti-liver damage, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of the RV plant. There are currently no reports regarding the effect of RV on fertility. Therefore, this study focuses on the impact of RV water seed extracts on mice fertility. RV plants were collected, and water seed extracts were prepared; 50 mg/kg body weight (BW) of this was then injected into the mice (male and female) using an oral feeding tube 5 days before mating (group I) or during caging of the females with the males for 1 week to detect their fertility rate. In the different female groups, no significant difference between their BW and their newborn's BW in the treated and control groups was found. Female fertility, pregnancy, and offspring rates showed some variation within each female group and between the different female groups. In comparing the fertility and offspring rate between the different groups, there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between groups I and III females and between groups I and IV females, while the other groups showed no significant differences. In contrast, the other groups showed no significant differences. Regarding the impact of the water seed extract on males, the BW was approximately the same in control and treated males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Polygonaceae weed, Rumex dentatus L. grows in association with wheat, mustard and potato, while Polygonum glabrum Willd. grows in association with rice in India. Both larvae and adults of Galerucella placida Baly (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) voraciously consume these weeds. Applications of synthetic herbicides to control weeds are harmful to the environment including beneficial organisms. We propose to find volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from both weeds causing attraction of the biocontrol agent, G. placida, in order to attempt to use the insect as a biological weed control. Behavioral responses of G. placida towards volatile blends characteristic of undamaged (UD), insect-damaged (ID), jasmonic acid-treated (JA) or mechanically-damaged (MD) plants were conducted by Y-tube olfactometer bioassays. Cuminaldehyde was predominant in VOCs of UD R. dentatus, ID P. glabrum, and both JA and MD R. dentatus and P. glabrum. Geraniol was predominant in VOCs of UD P. glabrum, while 1,3-diethylbenzene predominated in VOCs of ID R. dentatus. Females were more attracted towards volatile blends of ID plants compared to UD or JA plants. Females did not show attraction towards volatile blends of JA plants. We identified two bioactive synthetics blends, one comprised of seven compounds – 16.65 µg 1,3-diethylbenzene, 10.72 µg acetophenone, 6.52 µg 2,6-(E,Z)-nonadienal, 2.46 µg 1-nonanol, 4.19 µg decanal, 9.86 µg 4-ethylacetophenone and 3.34 µg 1-hexadecene dissolved in 25 µl CH2Cl2 and the other containing five compounds – 2.50 µg 2-octanol, 6.84 µg limonene, 0.64 µg dodecane, 6.63 µg 4-ethylacetophenone and 0.24 µg geranyl acetone dissolved in 25 µl CH2Cl2. These two blends of volatile compounds could be used to attract the biocontrol agent during early vegetative period of these two weeds, which could lead to eradication of weeds from crop fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pseudometallophyte Rumex acetosella L. occupies habitats with normal and high soil concentrations of zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), and copper (Cu). It remains unclear if the plants respond to the toxic metals by altering their morphology and increasing the resilience of their cells. We compared plants growing on soils contaminated with Zn/Pb (populations Terézia, Lintich), or Cu (populations Špania Dolina, Staré Hory), with those from non-contaminated soil (Dúbravka) in Slovakia, and analysed leaf structure, physiology, and metal contents by light and electron microscopy, element localization by energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) in scanning electron microscope, and by specific fluorescence dyes. In control population, the epidermis of the amphistomatic leaves of R. acetosella contained capitate glandular trichomes, consisting of four head (secretory), two stalk, and two basal cells. The ultrastructure of secretory cells revealed fine wall ingrowths bordered by plasma membrane protruding into the cytoplasm. The metallicolous populations had higher contents of Zn and Cu in the epidermal and glandular cells, and a higher density of both stomata and trichomes. Extensive cell wall labyrinth was present in the trichome secretory cells. Their abnormal number and elevated metal contents might indicate effects of heavy metals, especially of Cu, on mitosis and cell plate formation. Differences in leaf physiology were indicated by significantly higher cytoplasmic tolerance to Zn and Cu in metallicolous populations and by structural properties of glandular heads suggesting secretion of toxic metals. Our findings are suggestive of plant reactions to metal stress, which facilitate the populations to occupy the metal-contaminated sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we used a sequential method of synthesis for gold–silver bimetallic nanoparticles with core@shell structure (Au@AgNPs). Rumex hymenosepalus root extract (Rh), which presents high content in catechins and stilbenes, was used as reductor agent in nanoparticles synthesis. Size distribution obtained by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) gives a mean diameter of 36 ± 11 nm for Au@AgNPs, 24 ± 4 nm for gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and 13 ± 3 nm for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The geometrical shapes of NPs were principally quasi-spherical. The thickness of the silver shell over AuNPs is around 6 nm and covered by active biomolecules onto the surface. Nanoparticles characterization included high angle annular dark field images (HAADF) recorded with a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis Spectroscopy, Zeta Potential, and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) show that nanoparticles are stabilized by extract molecules. A growth kinetics study was performed using the Gompertz model for microorganisms exposed to nanomaterials. The results indicate that AgNPs and Au@AgNPs affect the lag phase and growth rate of Escherichia coli and Candida albicans in a dose-dependent manner, with a better response for Au@AgNPs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rumex abyssinicus (RA) is one of indigenous plants to Ethiopia having traditional values during butter refinement in rural areas. This paper presents a comparative study of the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of RA sample extract to that of Zingiber officinale (ZO) and Curcuma longa (CL). Methods: Phytochemical screening tests were, first, done using different confirmatory tests prior to quantitative determinations. Quantitative determinations were then conducted—the total phenolic content by the Prussian blue method, total flavonoid content by the aluminum colorimetric assay, and antioxidant activity by the reducing power assay and the cyclic voltammetry technique. Results: All of the samples showed positive tests, with different intensities, for the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, glycosides and tannins, but not for alkaloids. The total phenolic content, the total flavonoid content and the antioxidant activities of RA (in mg/100 g dry weight) were found to be 319.208 ± 15.997, 113.252 ± 1.702 and 45.632 ± 2.026, respectively. On the other hand, both oxidation and reduction peaks were observed in the cyclic voltammetry analysis of the herbs, showing a quasi-reversible redox process of their phenolic compounds. The determination of the inhibition zones (in mm) of ethanol extract of RA was found to be 20.33 ± 0.58, 21.67 ± 0.58, 19.17 ± 0.29, 18.17 ± 0.29, and 21.67 ± 0.58 against Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Shigella flexneri bacteria strains, respectively. Conclusion: The substantial antioxidant and antibacterial activities of RA compared to ZO and CL indicate that the traditional use of the herb to refine butter and keep it safe longer without rancidity formation and other traditional medicinal practices can be attributed to both its antioxidant and antibacterial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was planned to explore the bioaccumulation potential of 23 plant species via bioaccumulation factor (BAf), metal accumulation index (MAI), translocation potential (Tf), and comprehensive bioconcentration index (CBCI) for seven heavy metals (cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, iron, manganese, and zinc). The studied plants, in the vicinity of ponds at Sahlon: site 1, Chahal Khurd: site 2, and Karnana: site 3 in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Punjab (India), were Ageratum conyzoides (L.) L., Amaranthus spinosus L., Amaranthus viridis L., Brassica napus L., Cannabis sativa L., Dalbergia sissoo DC., Duranta repens L., Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants, Ficus infectoria Roxb., Ficus palmata Forssk., Ficus religiosa L., Ipomoea carnea Jacq., Medicago polymorpha L., Melia azedarach L., Morus indica L., Malva rotundifolia L., Panicum virgatum L., Parthenium hysterophorus L., Dolichos lablab L., Ricinus communis L., Rumex dentatus L., Senna occidentalis (L.) Link, and Solanum nigrum L. BAf and Tf values showed high inter-site deviations for studied metals. MAI values were found to be more substantial in shoots as compared with that of roots of plants. Maximum CBCI values were observed for M. azedarach (0.626), M. indica (0.572), D. sissoo (0.497), and R. communis (0.474) for site 1; F. infectoria (0.629), R. communis (0.541), D. sissoo (0.483), F. palmata (0.457), and D. repens (0.448) for site 2; D. sissoo (0.681), F. religiosa (0.447), and R. communis (0.429) for site 3. Although, high bioaccumulation of individual metals was observed in herbs like C. sativa, M. polymorpha, and Amaranthus spp., cumulatively, trees were found to be the better bioaccumulators of heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rumex crispus (curled dock) and Rumex obtusifolius (broad leaved dock) are among the most problematic temperate zone perennial weeds of arable crops, abundant in a wide variety of conditions. Their root fragments, created during routine agricultural practices, are known to regenerate. Regeneration from two fragment weights and from different parts of the upper root and taproot was measured and compared between the species, in a winter field trial. A second field trial, which spanned winter into the following late spring, considered the effects of increasing the planting depths of root fragments. Biometric measures in both trials were above ground dry weight, leaf area, the number of shoots produced and below ground root fresh weight. From the first trial, total emergence was low in both species (31% in R. crispus and 37.5% in R. obtusifolius), tailed off quickly and only occurred from the upper or mid-root sections, with significant differences in emergence between species and the root fragment section, but not fragment starting sizes. The likelihood of plants emerging was significantly higher in R. obtusifolius and from the top root fragment section, growth from the root mid-section only occurred in R. obtusifolius. Root fragment starting weight made no significant difference. Rumex obtusifolius produced significantly less above ground dry weight, leaf area and shoots than R. crispus. More shoots were produced from larger root fragments in both species. In the winter to early summer trial both species showed weak early regeneration, which quickly tailed off, with R. crispus emerging in significantly greater numbers than R. obtusifolius. Notably, emergence resumed strongly the following spring-early summer in both species. Increasing soil depth was related to a significant decrease in emergence and impacted on all biometrics similarly, except fresh root weight which increased at moderate planting depths before tailing off. These findings confirm the potential for vegetative regeneration of both species, contribute to our understanding of factors influencing their regrowth and highlight key differences between them which can be used to improve control practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorrel (Rumex acetosa L.) is a perennial, dioecious herb occupying a variety of habitats. Sorrel has been utilized as a wild gathered plant for thousands of years and as a cultivated plant for centuries. Primarily roots but also other tissues have been used in folk remedies since ancient times. In recent investigations, different phytochemical and pharmacological activities of Rumex have been analyzed, and many bioactive compounds have been detected. Sorrel is also a tasty plant and its leaves are a good source of macronutrients and micronutrients. However, the presence of high levels of oxalic acid reduces the bioavailability of some minerals, especially calcium, when using uncooked plant parts. Further investigations on different sorrel compounds are needed to show their true effect. It is beneficial that sorrel is easily propagated and there are no serious insect or disease problems. A few types of R. acetosa seeds are presently available commercially, including wild types and a few cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work explored the characterization, antioxidant and protective effects of edible Rumex roseus on erythrocyte oxidative damage induced by methomyl in mice. In a preliminary in vitro study, luteolin and ferulic acid were detected, using HPLC–DAD, as the most abundant phenols; Rumex roseus extract showed also a promising antioxidant effect. In the in vivo experiment, mice were subjected to methomyl intoxication demonstrating a significant decrease in red blood cells, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels coupled by a significant increase in bilirubin, LDH, osmotic fragility, reticulocyte and white blood cells number. Erythrocyte specific alterations were also detected as sphercytosis, schistocytosis, dacryocytosis and Howell-jolly bodies; these features are characteristic of a normocytic normochromic regenerative anemia. The oxidative status was also altered, showing a significant increase in malondialdehyde concentration, GSH level and SOD activity while CAT and GPx activities significantly decreased. All the above-cited alterations showed signs of reversal when mice received the methanolic extract of Rumex roseus. The present data suggest that Rumex roseus could be classified as a novel functional food due to its dual role; further to being traditionally used as a flavor food, it was proven by the present work that the new Rumex was capable to alleviate mice erythrocyte oxidative stress known as one of the most critical health issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rumex confertus is known to be one of the most serious invasive weed species infesting meadows, pastures and ruderal lands throughout the Central Europe. Rumex confertus was grown in pot experiments using 8 soil types at 5 concentrations of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Based on harvest data, the variables, seedlings emergence, root: shoot (R: S) ratio, N and P concentration, chlorophyll content, Relative Colimitation Index (RCI) and dry matter allocation to plant components, were determined. N and P addition stimulated the growth of plants in different soils, as reflected by a significant increase in seedling growth parameters such as total plant biomass and shoot biomass. Across all soil types, emergence of seedlings was negatively affected by very high N, but positively affected by increased P availability. This study indicates that Dystric Arenosol, Entic Podzol, Brunic Arenosol and Calcaric Leptosol are unfavorable for R. confertus growth, excluding R. confertus completely. Moreover, evidence suggests that plant growth is limited by both N and P, therefore R. confertus could be controlled by reducing available N and P content in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rumex nepalensis (Nepal Dock) is an Indian traditional medicinal herb of the Western Himalayas. During a survey in 2013, typical begomovirus-like symptoms were observed on naturally grown R. nepalensis in the Bandla region of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India. PCR-based detection identified a bipartite begomovirus and a betasatellite in all the symptomatic plant samples. Complete sequence characterization established their identity as tomato leaf curl Palampur virus (ToLCPalV) and cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite (CLCuMuB), respectively. Infectious clones of the virus and betasatellite were agro-infiltrated on both natural (R. nepalensis) as well as experimental (Nicotiana benthamiana) hosts. At 25 days post infiltration (dpi), N. benthamiana developed typical virus symptoms in DNA-A + DNA-B and DNA-A + DNA-B + CLCuMuB-infiltrated plants, whereas the plants infiltrated with DNA-A alone did not show any diseased phenotype. However, in combination with CLCuMuB, mild symptoms were observed. Agro-infiltrated R. nepalensis plants did not show visible symptoms in any of the above combinations. PCR and Southern blot analysis confirmed the replication and systemic spread of ToLCPalV and CLCuMuB in both R. nepalensis and N. benthamiana infiltrated plants. The present report shows R. nepalensis as a new natural host of the bipartite ToLCPalV associated with CLCuMuB. It also demonstrates the efficient trans-replication compatibility of CLCuMuB by a bipartite ToLCPalV in both of its natural and experimental hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, 13 different extracts were investigated which are grown in the region of Erzurum. Objective: The aim of this study was to screen various plant extracts that are known and used for medicinal purposes such as Ferula communis L., Rumex patientia L., Gundelia tournefortii L., Rheum ribes L., Asphodeline taurica, Polygonum arenastrum, Allium schoenoprasum L., and Ferula orientalis L. Materials and methods: Medicinal parts of plants such as leaves, flowers, and stems were investigated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity assays: Centaury and Blackthorn. Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antimicrobial properties were also determined. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were investigated by the microdilution method and the agar diffusion method respectively. Results: Accordingly, the results of the Rheum ribes L. plant have the highest antioxidant activity among all analyses made. But in almost all antioxidant analysis methods, the lowest antioxidant activity was found in Ferula orientalis L. According to the antibacterial analysis applied, it was found that the plant extracts were generally more effective on yeast strains than the test bacteria used; that is, most of the plants have antifungal effect. Conclusions: Due to their antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, the extracts of these plants might be used as natural sources in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some plants have high antioxidant properties that can improve the damage to the tissues of the body. Rumex alveollatus L. is proposed to contain flavonoids, a group of antioxidants that exert their protective effects against free radicals. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a factor that damages the liver. This study was carried out to explore the protective effects of Rumex alveollatus L. on the liver damage induced by CCl4 in mice. In this experimental study, 30 male mice (35 ± 4) were divided into five groups, each with six mice. The negative control group was administered 0.5-ml olive oil; positive control group was administered 2-ml/kg CCl4 plus olive oil at 1:1 ratio for 4 days, and the experimental groups were administered 2 ml/kg CCl4 and Rumex alveollatus L. extract at 150, 300, and 450 mg/kg for 4 days. All administrations were done intraperitoneally. Twenty days later, blood samples were taken from the heart, and liver serum enzymes (ALT, AST, and ALP) were measured. After sacrificing the samples, liver samples were fixed in formalin to prepare the histological sections. Then, factors such as liver volume, hepatocytes, sinusoids, central veins, portal vein, bile duct, and hepatic artery were measured. Rumex alveollatus L. extract (450 mg/kg) reduced the serum level of all three liver enzymes (p < 0.05). At this dose, the volume of sinusoids, hepatocytes, and bile duct decreased significantly (p < 0.05), but the volume of portal vein and central vein increased significantly (p < 0.05). Rumex alveollatus L. extract has protective effects against CCl4-induced damages in the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The translocation hypothesis regarding the origin of the XX/XY1Y2 sex chromosome system was tested with reference to the F1 hybrids between two chromosomal races of Rumex hastatulus. The hybrids derived from reciprocal crossing between the Texas (T) race and the North Carolina (NC) race were investigated for the first time with respect to the meiotic chromosome configuration in the pollen mother cells, pollen viability, and sex ratio. A sex chromosome trivalent in the NC × T males and two sex chromosome bivalents in the T × NC males were detected. The observed conjugation patterns confirmed the autosomal origin of the extra chromosome segments occurring in the North Carolina neo-sex chromosomes. Decreased pollen viability was found in the T × NC hybrid in contrast to the NC × T hybrid and the parental forms. Moreover, only in the T × NC hybrid sex ratio was significantly female-biased (1:1.72). Thus, Haldane's rule for both male fertility and male rarity was shown in this hybrid. According to the authors' knowledge, R. hastatulus is just the second plant with sex chromosomes in which Haldane's rule was evidenced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rumex nervosus, common weed plant in Sarawat Mountains, Saudi Arabia, belongs to family Polygonaceae and usually used as traditional herbal medicines. In the current study, R. nervosus plants dissected into roots, stems, leaves, and flowers that collected from seven locations in Aseer region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The antimicrobial activity of methanol and n-hexane extracts was investigated against three pathogenic bacterial strains and one pathogenic fungus by using agar well-diffusion method. The phytochemicals and vitamins content present in the methanol extracts was investigated by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results revealed that all extracts showed significant activity against tested microbes. Methanol extracts demonstrated the highest degree of antimicrobial inhibition activity as compared with n-hexane extracts. The root extracts exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against the tested microbes. The GC-MS and HPLC indicated the presence of numerous phytochemicals in the different parts of R. nervosus as well as a set of vitamins including vitamins B1,B2,B12, and folic acid. In conclusion, the present study showed that methanol and n-hexane extracts of all parts of R. nervosus could be used as promising alternative drugs to treat bacterial and Candida spp. infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional weed management systems have produced many harmful effects on weed ecology, human health and environment. Biological control of invasive weeds may be helpful to minimize these harmful effects and economic losses incurred to crops by weeds. In our earlier studies, plant antagonistic bacteria were obtained after screening a large number of rhizobacteria for production of phytotoxic substances and effects on wheat and its associated weeds under laboratory conditions. In this study, five efficient strains inhibitory to broad-leaved dock and non-inhibitory to wheat were selected and applied to broad-leaved dock co-seeded with wheat both in pot trial and chronically infested field trial. Effects of plant antagonistic bacteria on the weed and infested wheat were studied at tillering, booting and harvesting stage of wheat. The applied strains significantly inhibited the germination and growth of the weed to variable extent. Similarly, variable recovery in losses of grain and straw yield of infested wheat from 11.6 to 68 and 13 to 72.6% was obtained in pot trial while from 17.3 to 62.9 and 22.4 to 71.3% was obtained in field trial, respectively. Effects of plant antagonistic bacteria were also evident from the improvement in physiology and nutrient contents of infested wheat. This study suggests the use of these plant antagonistic bacteria to biologically control infestation of broad-leaved dock in wheat under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of reducing nitric oxide (NO) in Rumex K-1 leaves on the photoprotection of photosystem II (PSII) under high temperature with strong light. Reducing the content of NO in Rumex K-1 leaves significantly aggravated the PSII photoinhibition and net degradation of D1 protein under high temperature with strong light, but not under high temperature in the darkness. The reduction of NO remarkably inhibited the electron transport of PSII in the leaves under high temperature and strong light, which resulted in an increase in excitation pressure and an over-accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The over-accumulation of ROS further damaged PSII. However, when the synthesis of D1 protein was inhibited, the D1 protein content and PSII activity were no longer influenced by reducing NO content in the leaves. The reduction of NO in leaves decreased the activities of ROS scavenger enzymes after treatment with high temperature and strong light for 2 h, which enhanced the over-accumulation of ROS to damage photosynthetic apparatus severely. All of these results suggest that NO was involved in the synthesis of D1 protein. Maintaining physiologically appropriate NO content in leaves will alleviate net degradation of D1 protein under high temperature with strong light to keep photosynthetic electrons flowing smoothly, which mitigates the accumulation of ROS in photosystems to avoid damage to the photosynthetic apparatus. Therefore, NO plays an important role in maintaining higher PSII photosynthetic performance under high temperature with strong light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of copper and nickel ions at concentrations of 1, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L on morphometric and pigment indicators of the seedlings of narrowleaf water-plantain Alisma gramineum and seashore dock Rumex maritimus was studied. It was found that the pigment characteristics were more sensitive to nickel and copper than the morphometric characteristics. It was noted that copper started to be toxic at relatively low concentrations and lead to a significant degradation of the pigment complex compared with nickel. An inverse correlation was found in seedlings between metal concentrations in the medium and chlorophyll a (Chl a). It was shown that the synthesis of chlorophyll a was inhibited by metal salts more strongly than by chlorophyll b and carotenoids, and seedlings of seashore dock were more resistant to the action of the factors studied than seedlings of the narrowleaf water-plantain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rumex obtusifolius is a troublesome weed especially in organically managed grasslands. Manual weeding is commonly used for R. obtusifolius control, but its effectiveness and effect on plant species composition in upland grassland has never been investigated. Therefore the aim of our study was to reveal the effect of manual weeding by digging out R. obtusifolius taproots to depths of 5 or 15 cm, either once or twice, in: (i) presence of R. obtusifolius plants; (ii) plant species composition. Additional treatments were grazed and unmanaged grassland (both without digging out R. obtusifolius taproot). Digging out taproots twice, to 15 cm, reduced the presence of R. obtusifolius significantly. Grazing without digging out taproots was the treatment that was most favourable for R. obtusifolius plants. Manual weeding had no significant effect on species richness. The empty spaces after plant removal were filled by nutrient-demanding species ( Poa pratensis, Poa trivialis, Festuca pratensis and Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens and Taraxacum sp.). On unmanaged grassland the number of R. obtusifolius plants decreased, species richness was reduced, but this allowed the spread of other tall weedy species ( Urtica dioica, Galium album and Elytrigia repens). Digging out taproots to a depth of 15 cm, performed twice, can be an effective method for R. obtusifolius control in organically managed grasslands, as this procedure eliminated the majority of R. obtusifolius plants. However, the use of this weeding method over large areas of grassland is limited due to time-consuming and hard physical work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observations in nature and in captivity revealed that Altica brevicollis feeds on Corylus avellana* l., A. lythri on Epilobium l., Aphthona czwalinae on Euphorbia l., A. nigriscutis on the inflorescence envelope of Euphorbia glareosa, Cassida nebulosa on Chenopodium l., C. nobilis on Atriplex l., C. panzeri on Lactuca tatarica* l., C. rubiginosa on Carduus* l., C. vibex on Centaurea* l., C. viridis on Lycopus l., Chaetocnema breviuscula on Chenopodium l., Cheilotoma musciformis on Rumex l., Chrysolina limbata russiella on Plantago lanceolata l., Ch. marginata on Achillea millefolium l., Ch. sturmi on Glechoma hederacea l., Clytra laeviuscula on Salix l., C. quadripunctata on l. of Salix and Rumex, Colaphus hoeftii on l. and f. of Sisymbrium loeselii*, Crioceris duodecimpunctata and C. quatuordecimpunctata on Asparagus officinalis l., Cryptocephalus apicalis on Artemisia l., C. bipunctatus on Trifolium pratense f., C. cordiger on Rosa l., C. laetus on f. of Taraxacum serotinum and Inula, C. quatuordecimmaculatus on Genista tinctoria l., C. schaefferi on Ulmus l., C. sericeus on Salvia l. and Cichorium intybus f., C. violaceus on Taraxacum officinale f., C. virens on Salvia l., Derocrepis rufipes on Trifolium pratense l., Entomoscelis adonidis on l. of Adonis vernalis and f. of Brassicacea, Epitrix pubescens on Solanum dulcamara l., Chrysochus asclepiadeus on Vincetoxicum l., Galeruca pomonae on Arctium* and Salvia* l., Galerucella aquatica on Rumex l., G. calmariensis on Lythrum salicaria* l., G. lineola on Salix l., G. luteola on Ulmus pumila* l., G. pusilla on Epilobium l., Gastrophysa polygoni on Polygonum aviculare and Rumex l., Hypocassida subferruginea on Convolvulus* l., Labidostomis pallidipennis on Salix l., Leptinotarsa decemlineata on Hyoscyamus niger l., Lilioceris merdigera on Polygonatum and Convallaria majalis l., Longitarsus anchusae on Cynoglossum officinale l., L. lycopi on Glechoma hederacea l., L. nigrofasciatus on Scrophularia nodosa l., L. obliterates on Salvia verticillata and S. nemorosa l., L. pellucidus on Convolvulus arvensis l., Phaedon armoraciae on Veronica beccabunga* and V. longifolia* l., Phyllotreta procera on Reseda lutea l., Podagrica menetriesi on Althaea officinalis l., Prasocuris phellandrii on l. of Ranunculus sceleratus*, Cirsium* and Lycopus*, Psylliodes affinis on Solanum dulcamara l., P. attenuates on l. of Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus, P. dulcamarae on Solanum dulcamara l., P. reitteri on Phalaroides arundinacea l., Pyrrhalta viburni on Viburnum opulus l., and Smaragdina affinis on Salix l. The host plant is marked with an asterisk if the larvae of the respective leaf-beetle have been reared to adults. Abbreviations: l.-leaves, f.-flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxalate in some plants is toxic to vertebrates and causes kidney failure. In the present study, we investigated on the metabolic effectiveness of gamma ray irradiation to seeds of Rumex obtusifolius, which are known to accumulate high level of soluble oxalate, to lower oxalate accumulation in leaves. Reduced rate of germination, discoloration of cotyledons, and deformed true leaves were observed by elevated irradiation. Metabolome analysis of primary metabolites using capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry showed a decrease in oxalate contents in the leaves of plants from gamma ray-irradiated seeds. Moreover, organic acids such as malate and 2-oxoglutarate also decreased, whereas amino acids such as glutamate and glutamine increased. These results indicated that seed irradiation by gamma rays leads to dynamic changes in metabolic pathways as well as plant growth/development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate effects of diesel and kerosene on seed germination and seedling growth among coastal wetland plants to select species that can be used for the restoration and revegetation of oil-polluted habitats. Tests on 51 species were performed in Petri dishes containing 0 %, 6 %, 12 %, and 18 % diesel, 20 %, 40 %, and 60 % kerosene; each treatment combination was replicated five times with 20 seeds in each Petri dish. All dishes were held in a growth chamber with 20°C day of 12 h/15°C night of 12 h in 80 % humidity for 20 days for calculating the germination percentage, seedling weight, and seedling vitality. The germination percentage of Rumex stenophyllus decreased significantly in diesel and kerosene treatments. The weights of seedlings treated with diesel and kerosene either increased or decreased in comparison with controls depending on the species. Vitality percentage values were high for seedlings of Chenopodium ficifolium. Thus, herbaceous plant responses to oil treatments are species-specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant increase in summer temperatures has been observed for the period 1996-2011 in Poznań, Poland. The phenological response of four weed taxa, widely represented by anemophilous species ( Artemisia spp., Rumex spp. and Poaceae and Urticaceae species) to this recent climate warming has been analysed in Poznań by examining the variations in the course of airborne pollen seasons. Pollen data were collected by 7-day Hirst-type volumetric trap. Trends in pollen seasons were determined using Mann-Kendall test and Sen's slope estimator, whereas the relationships between meteorological and aerobiological data were established by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Significant trends in pollen data were detected. The duration of pollen seasons of all analysed taxa increased (from +2.0 days/year for Urticaceae to +3.8 days/year for Rumex), which can be attributed to a delay in pollen season end dates rather than earlier start dates. In addition, the intensity of Artemisia pollen seasons significantly decreased and correlates with mean July-September daily minimum temperatures ( r = −0.644, p < 0.01). In contrast, no significant correlations were found between temperature and characteristics of Rumex pollen seasons. The results of this study show that observed shifts in weed pollen seasons in Poznań, i.e. longer duration and later end dates, might be caused by the recorded increase in summer temperature. This influence was the strongest in relation to Artemisia, which is the taxon that flowers latest in the year. The general lack of significant correlations between Rumex and Urticaceae pollen seasons and spring and/or summer temperature suggests that other factors, e.g. land use practices, could also be partially responsible for the observed shifts in pollen seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Powdery mildew infections seem to suppress the growth and spread of this weed in natural habitat. Keywords: Chamothecia; Noxious weed; Polygonaceae EN Chamothecia Noxious weed Polygonaceae 403 403 1 02/24/22 20220201 NES 220201 I Rumex japonicus, i although indigenous to East Asia, is regraded as a noxious weed in Korea. [Extracted from the article]

An optimised method for enhanced in vitro shoot multiplication of Rumex vesicarius (Polygonaceae)—a branched succulent herb—was achieved. The in vitro seed pre-treatment with 4% urea was able to show 95% seed germination on MS medium within 2 weeks of culturing. In vitro shoot bud induction from shoot tip explants was best in the presence of 2 mg L−1 kinetin on Murashige and Skoog medium (MS medium), wherein 8.3 shoots/explants were observed. Shoot elongation was found to be high (3.75 ± 0.5 cm) in 2 mg L−1 BA comprising medium. The transfer of micro-shoots on to MS medium comprising 1.5 mg L−1 IBA and 1% activated charcoal (w/v) supported efficiently in vitro rooting (2.5–4.0 cm) in 3–4 weeks. Upon hardening, 70% rooted plants survived under greenhouse conditions. Though friable callus was produced on MS medium-containing 2 mg L−1 BA followed by 3 mg L−1 BA, no organogenesis was noticed. The ascorbic acid content of 78.62 ± 0.25 mg 100 g−1 FW was recorded in callus cultures grown on medium supplemented with 2 mg L−1 BA, and it is 1.74-fold more compared to normal ex vitro leaves of the same age. In vitro raised plant leaf showed 1.98-fold more ascorbic acid (89.42 ± 0.18 mg 100 g−1 FW) to that of ex vitro leaves. The total phenolic content was found to be 60 mg in callus as compared to 610 mg (per 100 g GAE FW) of ex vitro leaves. The major phenolic compounds quantified were synergic, chlorogenic, ferulic, and generic acids, respectively. This optimised protocol will facilitate to pursue scale-up studies for in vitro ascorbic acid production and also to further investigate the kinetics of biosynthetic pathway genes involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alien species expand their distribution by transportation network development. Hybridization between alien species Rumex obtusifolius and closely related native vulnerable species R. longifolius was examined in a mountain tourist destination in central Japan. The three taxa were morphologically identified in the field. Stem height and leaf area were greater in R. longifolius than R. obtusifolius; hybrids were intermediate between the two Rumex species. R. longifolius and the hybrids grew mainly in wet land and the river tributary; R. obtusifolius grew mainly at the roadside and in meadows. Hybrid germination rates of pollen and seeds were much lower than for the two Rumex species. Clustering analysis showed the three taxa each formed a cluster. Most hybrids were F1 generation; the possibility was low of introgression into the two Rumex species by backcross. This study clarified that (1) hybridization occurred between R. obtusifolius and R. longifolius because they occurred together in a small area, but grew in different water habitat conditions, and (2) hybridization was mostly F1 generation because hybrid pollen and seed fertility was low. However, we need caution about introgression into R. longifolius by R. obtusifolius in this area because of the slight possibility of F2 generation and backcrosses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]