Search

Transpiration (Et) in forests accounts for a significant fraction of evapotranspiration. However, because Et is influenced by meteorological factors and the physiological response of vegetation, developing an accurate model for predicting Et presents a challenge. In this study, we developed a model to estimate Et specific to cypress plantation forests using satellite remote sensing and sap flow data in Japanese cypress plantations composed of a single forest species. The contribution of Et to meteorological (Et base) and plant physiology (Et leaf) was determined using the decoupling index along with the surface temperature. Using the Forest Inventory (FI), in which the extent of growth of each species, including cypress, was surveyed and Land Remote Sensing Satellite imagery of the FI range was obtained, an index of activity estimation for cypress trees was developed. The sapwood area, which significantly influences Et, was calculated from the tree age obtained from FI or diameter at breast height and incorporated into the model. The developed model exhibited a high correlation of r = 0.74–0.88 with the measured Et. The antecedent precipitation index (API), which represents the wetness of the land surface, can be used to evaluate the confidence level and correction coefficient (if needed) of model estimates. When corrected by API, Et could be estimated with even higher accuracy (r = 0.76–0.89). The model developed in this study considers the physiological responses of vegetation and plant species, and the same approach can be used to develop models to estimate Et for other tree species. Additionally, our model uses reflectance at wavelengths close to visible light and surface temperature and can, therefore, be readily applied to other remote sensing methods, such as unmanned aerial vehicles and airborne methods. The model developed in this study can be used with FI data to estimate Et by tree species to provide detailed and accurate estimates of Et. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal contamination poses a significant threat to soil quality, plant growth, and food safety, and directly affects multiple UN SDGs. Addressing this issue and offering a remediation solution are vital for human health. One effective approach for immobilizing heavy metals involves impregnating cypress chips with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH) 2) to enhance the chemical adsorption capacity of the resulting woody charcoal. In the present study, un-treated cypress biochar (UCBC) and calcium-treated cypress biochar (TCBC), were introduced into pristine and contaminated soil, at rates of 3, 6, and 9% (w/w). Both BCs were alkaline (UCBC pH: 8.9, TCBC pH: 9.7) with high specific surface area, which improved the soil properties (pH, EC, and OM). Radish (Raphanus sativus) cultivated in pots revealed that both UCBC and TCBC demonstrated significant improvements in growth attributes and heavy metal immobilization compared to the control, with TCBC exhibiting superior effects. The TCBC surface showed highly active nanosized precipitated calcium carbonate particles that were active in immobilizing heavy metals. The application of TCBC at a rate of 9% resulted in a substantial reduction in Zn and Cu uptake by radish roots and shoots. In contaminated soil, Zn uptake by radish roots decreased by 55% (68.3–31.0 mg kg−1), and shoots by 37% (49.3–31.0 mg kg−1); Cu uptake decreased by 40% (38.6–23.2 mg kg−1) in roots and 39% (58.2–35.2 mg kg−1) in shoots. Uptake of Pb was undetectable after TCBC application. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted the potential of TCBC over UCBC in reducing heavy metal concentrations and promoting radish growth. Future research should consider the long-term effects and microbial interactions of TCBC application. [Display omitted] • To immobilize Zn, Cu, and Pb in soil, a novel biochar (TCBC) was prepared. • TCBC improved soil properties and radish growth attributes. • TCBC resulted in a substantial reduction in Zn, Cu, and Pb in radish roots and shoots. • Highly active nano-sized CaCO 3 particles in TCBC-immobilized heavy metals. • TCBC consistently outperformed UCBC in terms of immobilization properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Which traits provide post-drought growth resilience to trees and shrubs? • We answered this issue by analyzing 19 conifers from climatically contrasting sites. • Growth resilience was negatively related to plant height. • Resilience was positively related to (hydraulic diameter / cell-wall thickness). • Growth recovery was positively related to the growth responsiveness to climate. Warmer and drier climate conditions are negatively impacting conifers, which show different mechanisms to withstand drought stress including growth resilience. However, it is unclear which traits make trees and shrubs more resilient to drought in terms of growth recovery. We addressed this question by measuring and collecting from the literature several functional traits in 19 conifers of nine genera (Abies, Pinus, Pseudotsuga, Cedrus, Picea, Juniperus, Cupressus, Tetraclinis and Taxus) from three families (Pinaceae, Cupressaceae, Taxaceae) inhabiting sites of contrasting climate conditions in Spain. These traits were correlated with three growth resilience indices derived from ring-width data (Rt, resistance; Rc, recovery; Rs, resilience) with and without accounting for their phylogenetic signal. Growth resistance (Rt) was negatively related to plant height (r = -0.52, p = 0.04). Growth resilience (Rs) was negatively related to plant height (r = -0.93, p < 0.001) and leaf life span (r = -0.51, p = 0.03), but positively related to the thickness-to-span ratio (r = 0.80, p < 0.001). However, the relationship between Rs and leaf life span was not significant (p = 0.155) after accounting for phylogenetic signals. Lastly, growth recovery was positively related to the growth responsiveness to climate, assessed as the correlation between ring-width indices and water balance (r = 0.66, p = 0.002). Height and the thickness-to-span ratio, a surrogate of xylem resistance to cavitation, are linked to post-drought growth recovery in conifers subjected to seasonal dry conditions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The maximum ratio of stemflow (SF) to gross rainfall (GR) was 53.3% • SF/GR linearly increased with stand density. • SF increased with GR linearly on a 10-minute basis. • For intense rainfall the slope of the regression line for GR-SF became less steeper. • During heavy rainfall, the ratio of canopy interception to GR increased. Stemflow (SF) and gross rainfall (GR) were measured in two Japanese cedar stands with stand densities (SDs) of 5700 trees/ha and 9700 trees/ha. SF water was collected from four trees in each stand, and SF was derived by dividing the volume by the canopy area of the trees. In previous studies the highest SD for SF measurements in Japanese cedar and cypress was 2500 trees/ha with SF/GR of 23.3%. In this study SF/GR in the 5700-trees/ha and the 9700-trees/ha stands were 34.0% and 53.3%, respectively. Literature data together with the results of this study showed linear relationship between SF/GR and SD. In both cedar stands SF increased linearly with increasing GR on a rain event basis, however, a bending point in linearity that is defined as a threshold appeared for GR > 100 mm in the 9700-trees/ha stand, over which the slopes of the regression line became gentler. The 10-minute analyses also revealed the threshold and gentler slope of the regression line during intense rainfall. The threshold values were not constant but ranged from 4 to 8 mm/10 min. One of the causes of the threshold is splash droplets generated by raindrops hitting canopy and trunks, and another is SF water that breaks away from branches and stems. Both of them become throughfall (TF) and reduce rainwater allocated to SF during intense rainfall. The past measurements on TF and canopy interception (CI) conducted at the same site as this study showed the threshold, over which CI/GR increased. The existence of the threshold in CI/GR means some rainwater that was not allocated to SF but became TF evaporated as splashes before reaching the forest floor. Reduction in SF/GR influences rainfall partitioning in the stands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Application of environmentally friendly and economic catalyst. • CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc exhibited both adsorption behaviour and catalytic effect for E102 dye. • Combination of 19th Century's method and material of 21st Century. • Removal of E102 in foodstuffs, natural drinkable water and waste water samples. • Reusable nanocomposite catalyst synthesized from environmental natural sources. A new, green magnetic nanocomposite (MNc) was synthesized based on framework of Cypress arizonica (CA) leaves and then used as Fenton catalyst for removal of tartrazine (E102) in foodstuffs and industrial waste-waters. Characterization of the synthesized magnetic nanocomposite (CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc) was performed with IR, EDX, FESEM, XRD and pH pzc analyses. The average particle size and pH pzc of the CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc were determined to be 24.36 nm and 6.8, respectively. CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc was composed of C (15.08 %), Fe (51.86 %), O (31.80 %) and Ca (1.26 %) elements. The parameters effecting heterogeneous Fenton dye removal process including pH, catalyst amount, reaction time, H 2 O 2 and initial dye concentrations were investigated to achieve the best removal efficiency for E102. Under optimal conditions, the matrix effect was investigated, the reusability of CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc was tested, degradation products and mechanism were elucidated, and green analytical procedure index (GAPI) and analytical eco-scale (AES) of the proposed Fenton degradation process were evaluated. E102 removal values were obtained between 93 and 99 % in the applications of some foodstuffs, water samples and artificial model dye solutions. Proposed heterogeneous Fenton removal process with using CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc catalyst exhibited quantitative removal efficiency for E102. E102 concentrations between 5 and 50 mg/L were removed successfully. It was observed that the synthesized CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc material could be used at least 5 times to obtain quantitative removal values. The percent removal efficiency value decreased to 93 after five uses. Defined GAPI parameters and calculated AES scores indicated that the proposed CA-Fe 3 O 4 -MNc based heterogeneous Fenton degradation process could be considered that a valuable green removal method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composition of Calocedrus decurrens and Cupressus arizonica essential oils (CDEO and CAEO, respectively), their antifeedant activity on spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) larvae, as well as their antimicrobial activity on three Phytophthora species were investigated. In leaves of these two conifers from the Cupressaceae family, monoterpenes strongly dominated (90.5 and 85.0%, respectively), but their terpene profiles were different. The dominant compound of CDEO was δ -3-carene (49.5%), followed by myrcene (9.4%), terpinolene (8.6%) and α -pinene (7.0%). In CAEO, the most dominant compounds were limonene (23.3%) and α -pinene (20.5%), followed by umbellulone (12.0%) and terpinen-4-ol (9.5%). CDEO showed a strong antifeedant activity, while leaf discs treated with CAEO had phagostimulatory effect on spongy moth larvae. CAEO had no significant effect on relative consumption and larval growth rate, while CDEO reduced consumption and stimulated growth at the lowest EO concentration (0.05%). Both EOs significantly affected the growth of colonies of the Phytophthora species tested. At concentrations of 0.5% and 1%, a 100% inhibition was observed in almost all experimental groups, with the exception of P. plurivora on 0.5% CDEO. At a concentration of 0.1% inhibition rate varied from 15% in P. ×cambivora treated with CDEO to 90% in P. quercina treated with CAEO. These findings indicate that these two EOs could be used to control tree pests. [Display omitted] • δ -3-Carene dominated in Calocedrus decurrens essential oil (CDEO). • Limonene and α -pinene dominated in Cupressus arizonica essential oil (CAEO). • CDEO had an antifeedant and CAEO a phagostimulant effect on the spongy moth. • CDEO and CAEO inhibited the mycelial growth of Phytophthora species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective role of different auxins on adventitious roots (Ars) formation of stem cuttings relies on several factors including type of auxins, concentrations and the intermixing materials. In this study, bee honey (BH) was evaluated as a cofactor for maximizing the promoting effect of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) for better survival of propagated hard-to-root ornamental plants. To improve Ars morphogenesis of Cupressus macrocarpa L. var. Goldcrest, a greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of exogenous application of IBA intermixed with BH in comparison with talcum powder (TP) on morphological, biochemical, histoanatomical, and ultrastructural responses. Results indicated that 500 mg kg-1 IBA intermixed with BH (T 5) was the superior treatment for improving rooting percentage and root growth measurements. Exogenous application of T 5 led to maximize activities of polyphenol oxidase and catalase enzymes as well as total phenols content; however, it caused a sharp decline in peroxidase enzyme activity as compared with untreated cuttings. Additionally, this treatment decreased amounts of gibberellin, benzyl adenine, kinetin and abscisic acid, while the endogenous content of indole-3-acetic acid increased. Histoanatomical observations of stem cuttings treated with T 5 showed four prominent phases for adventitious root formation including: induction, initiation of meristemoids, root primordial formation and Ar elongation at 0–6th, 6-12th, 12-18th and 18-30th day after planting (dap). The Ar primordia evolved via two different developmental pathways: (i) indirect genesis (i.e., callus tissues) and (ii) direct genesis (e.g., cells in the inner bark, medullary rays and surrounding tissues). The time-course histoanatomical data of this study provide insights regarding the potential utilization of IBA intermixed with BH to improve Ar formation of several hard-to-root ornamentals. • Bee honey mixed with indole-3-butyric acid enhanced rooting performance. • Adventitious roots originated from medullary rays, cambium and callus tissues. • Bee honey mixed with indole-3-butyric acid stimulated antioxidants and auxins. • Indole-3-butyric acid and honey reduced the time of adventitious roots formation. • Indole-3-butyric acid at 500 mg kg-1 and bee honey was the superior treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to evaluate the impact of the volcanic atmosphere on the mechanical properties, modulus of elasticity (MOE), and rupture (MOR), of Cupressus lusitanica and Tectona grandis using structural size specimens in early stages of exposure with time series (3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, and 30 months. Despite the inter-sites' acid variables (SO 2 , pH, SO 4 2-), no significant differences in MOE-MOR were found. A climate-based model was successfully established to estimate structural-size specimen´s MOE in the early degradation stages. The main mechanical properties give a theoretical and practical framework to estimate the material performance of touristic natural facilities. • We proposed a climate-based model to estimate MOE in the early degradation stages. • The experimentally obtained MOE showed sinusoidal behaviour regardless of species/sites. • A Principal components analysis (PCA) describes the complex atmospheric system. • Despite the inter-site acidic difference species showed no significant differences in their mechanical performance (α0.05). • The material showed resistance to harsh volcanic environments during the study period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The prepared catalyst efficiency increased via sulfur and nitrogen doping. • N (0.75) , S (0.25) -CBC catalyst has an overpotential value of 117 mV. • N, S-CBC catalysts have excellent stability after the 50,000 sec. Developing highly efficient hydrogen evolution catalysts with low cost has been a big challenge in industrial applications. Herein, we developed non-metallic heteroatoms doped waste cypress biomass-derived biochar via a facile one-step pyrolysis route. By utilizing defect engineering and charge carriers facilitation, we have constructed appropriated defects with numerous charge carriers for manufacturing efficient catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER). Through N (0.75) , S (0.25)- CBC, we attained a low over-potential value of 122 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2 and minimized the Tafel slope value of 112 mV dec−1 in 1 M KOH solution for HER. Furthermore, it attained robust chemical stability of over 50,000 s without any degradation. Hence, this work provides a practical pathway to synthesize cost-effective, non-metallic heteroatoms doped efficient catalysts for hydrogen generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new neolignan and a new biphenylpropanoid isolated from the leaves of Cupressus funebris Endl. The type of biphenylepoxypropanes are rarely found in natural sources, we are fortunate to have obtained a pair of enantiomers and analyzed them by circular chromatography. The antioxidant experiments showed that due to the difference of the stereochemistry, the antioxidant activity of cis is significantly stronger than that of trans. A new neolignan, (-)-(7 S , 8 R)-3‑methoxy-4', 7-epoxy-8, 5'-neolignane-5, 9, 3', 9′-tetraol (1) and a new biphenylpropanoid, 1, 2-epoxy-1-(3', 4'-dihydroxyphenyl-)-3-(2'', 3'', 5''-trihydroxyphenyl-) propane (2), together with eight known compounds (3-10), were isolated from the 95% EtOH extract of the leaves of Cupressus funebris Endl. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods including NMR, circular dichroism (CD) spectra and comparison of the NMR data with reported in references. The antioxidant activities of all compounds were evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods. Compounds 2 (IC 50 : 33.98 ± 0.11 μM), 3 (IC 50 : 32.97 ± 0.63 μM), 8 (IC 50 : 32.07 ± 1.57 μM), and 9 (IC 50 : 33.30 ± 2.29 μM) showed stronger DPPH free radical scavenging activity than l -ascorbic acid (IC 50 : 64.31 ± 1.32 μM). Except for 4 , the other compounds showed ABTS radical scavenging abilities comparable to l -ascorbic acid (54.91 ± 1.18 μM) with the IC 50 ranged from 24.42 ± 1.78 μM to 138.70 ± 13.58 μM. Compound 3 (0.72 ± 0.02 mmol/g) showed the same ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) as l -ascorbic acid (0.83±0.02 mmol/g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fundamental understanding of the composition of archaeological wood stored under oxygen-limited environments, such as waterlogged sediments, is needed to inform preservation conditions of remains and to evaluate the validity of sediment and tree core-derived proxies of past environmental conditions. For this purpose, we determined chemical changes along the radial direction of archaeological (∼2000 yrs old) and modern (growth period 1948 to 2018 CE) wood of the Chinese swamp cypress (Glyptostrobus pensilis), an ethnobotanically important species in subtropical China, using conventional analytical pyrolysis (pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; Py-GC-MS), pyrolysis with in situ methylation (thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation; THM-GC-MS), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results showed 1) excellent preservation of the archaeological wood expressed by significant contributions of levoglucosan to the polysaccharides fingerprint after Py-GC-MS; 2) considerable chemical differences between archaeological and modern wood, i.e. archaeological wood samples yield relatively small proportions of lignin and large proportions of polysaccharides and terpenoids; 3) major differences in chemical characteristics of sapwood (more polysaccharides) and heartwood (more lignin). Furthermore, some tested decay proxies show large differences between sap- and heartwood (and are therefore of little value), yet the 4-acetylguaiacol/total guaiacol ratio (4AG/G; Py-GC-MS) of heart- and sapwood are similar, implying that this ratio is a more suitable proxy for decay assessment. Data comparison allowed to identify discrepancies and complementarities of Py-GC-MS, THM-GC-MS and FTIR for the characterization of different wood constituents and their preservation during long-term storage under waterlogged conditions. These results expand our understanding of the chemical composition of decomposing trunks of archaeological wood in general, and of G. pensilis in particular. [Display omitted] • Archaeological and modern Glyptostrobus pensilis wood analyzed by Py-GC-MS, THM-GC-MS and FTIR. • Post-depositional decay reflected by preferential decay of polysaccharides and preservation of lignin. • Clear evidence of lignin alteration in archaeological wood from parameters such as 4-acetylguaiacol/guaiacol. • Significant compositional differences between heartwood and sapwood influence potential decay proxies. • Application and cross-validation of multiple techniques recommended to identify pitfalls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cupressus sempervirens is a known traditional plant used to manage various ailments, including cancer, inflammatory and infectious diseases. In this investigation, we aimed to explore the chemical profile of Cupressus sempervirens essential oil (CSEO) as well as their antibacterial mode of action. The volatile components were characterized using gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). The results revealed remarkable antibacterial properties of EO derived from C. sempervirens. GC-MS analysis indicated that C. sempervirens EO characterized by δ -3-carene (47.72%), D -limonene (5.44%), β -pinene (4.36%), β -myrcene (4.02%). The oil exhibited significant inhibitory effects against a range of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 13048, Bacillus cereus (Clinical isolate), Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922. These inhibitory effects surpassed those of conventional antibiotics. Furthermore, the EO demonstrated low minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), indicating its bactericidal nature (MBC/MIC < 4.0). Time-kill kinetics analysis showed that CSEO was particularly effective at 2 × MIC doses, rapidly reduced viable count of B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa within 8 h. This suggests that the oil acts quickly and efficiently. The cell membrane permeability test further demonstrated the impact of CSEO on the relative conductivity of B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa , both at 2 × MIC concentrations. These observations suggest that EO disrupts the bacterial membrane, thereby influencing their growth and viability. Additionally, the cell membrane integrity test indicated that the addition of CSEO to bacterial cultures resulted in the significant release of proteins from the bacterial cells. This suggests that EO affects the structural integrity of the bacterial cells. Furthermore, the anti-biofilm assay confirmed the efficacy of CSEO as a potent anti-biofilm agent. It demonstrated the oil's ability to inhibit quorum sensing, a crucial mechanism for biofilm formation, and its competitive performance compared to the tested antibiotics. [Display omitted] • The GC-MS analysis of essential oil of CSEO showed a wide range of bioactive compounds. • CSEO exhibits bactericidal actvity against B. subtilis and P. aureoginosa. • CSEO reduced biofim formation B. subtilis and P. aureoginosa. • CSEO essential oil increases cell permeability and induce proteins release. • The antibacterial effect of CSEO essential oil depend on its concentration and time of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An outbreak of cattle abortion associated with the consumption of Hesperocyparis (Cupressus) macrocarpa and Cupressus arizonica needles has been reported in Uruguay. Twenty-five of 125 pregnant heifers in late-term pregnancy aborted after being introduced into a paddock containing numerous H. macrocarpa , C. arizonica and Casuarina cunninghamiana trees. There were no significant macroscopic or histological findings in the two fetuses analyzed. Abortifacient labdane acids were detected in the needles of H. macrocarpa (1.68%, D.W.) and C. arizonica (0.36%, D.W.) but none were found in C. cunninghamiana. • Hesperocyparis macrocarpa caused an abortion outbreak in cattle in Uruguay. • Abortifacient labdane acids were detected in needles of H. macrocarpa. • Cupressus arizonica also contains labdane acids but in small amounts. • Both trees may be an important cause of abortion in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The cypress pollen gibberellin-regulated protein (GRP), Cypmaclein, has been isolated for the first time. • Cypmaclein has a molecular mass very similar to that of the peach homolog Pru p 7. • The N-terminal region of cypmaclein shows low sequence identity with Pru p 7 and other fruit GRP. • Cypmaclein efficiently compete with Pru p 7 for binding to specific IgE. The presence in cypress pollen of an important allergen, belonging to the gibberellin-regulated protein (GRP) family, has been suggested for many years. However, it has never been isolated and sometimes the homologous peach allergen, Pru p 7, has been used as a surrogate to perform immunological investigations. The aim of this study has been the isolation and molecular characterization of the GRP contained in the Cupressus sempervirens pollen. This protein, named Cypmaclein, has been purified from the natural source using conventional biochemical methods consisting in different chromatographic separations. Cypmaclein has been identified by direct protein sequencing of the N-terminal region and of internal fragments of the molecule. In SDS-PAGE, its apparent molecular mass is slightly higher than that of Pru p 7. Nevertheless, the mass spectrometry experiments reveal that the exact molecular mass of Cypmaclein (6821.88 Da) is very close to that of Pru p 7 (6909.90 Da). Two regions of Cypmaclein have been sequenced providing 50% of its primary structure. A high overall sequence identity of Cypmaclein with all the analyzed GRP has been observed, although in the N-terminal region the high identity is limited to the homolog of Cryptomeria japonica. In circular dichroism experiments Cypmaclein produced a spectrum overlapping that of Pru p 7. However, the comparative analysis of Cypmaclein, Pru p 7 and Pun g 7 IgE reactivity revealed a behavior that was not completely overlapping, thus suggesting that the IgE epitopes are only partially shared. In single point highest inhibition achievable assays performed with the FABER test, Cypmaclein efficiently competed with the allergenic peach and pomegranate GRP in the binding of specific IgE of patients sensitized to Pru p 7. In conclusion, the natural cypress pollen GRP has been isolated for the first time, its structural features have been investigated and its cross-reactivity with Pru p 7 and Pun g 7 has been demonstrated. This protein is now available for further investigations aimed at understanding its clinical relevance in the allergy to cypress pollen. In addition, the prevalence of sensitization directly to Cypmaclein, and not limited to the homologs, can be defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2008 a rich accumulation of vertebrate bones and teeth was discovered in a small tributary drainage to Big Cypress Creek near the town of Hockley in Harris County, Texas. The fossils were recovered from sandy sediments of fluvial origin, interspersed with contemporaneous spring boil deposits, attributed to the Deweyville Formation and the recovered remains consist entirely of disarticulated and dissociated skeletal elements and teeth. Distinct stratigraphic horizons are limited in extent in the fossiliferous sections along the drainage, and the fossils are generally concentrated in close association with gravel lag deposits. Two radiocarbon dates on wood suggest that the fauna may have accumulated about 24,000 years ago but presence of spring deposits, association with lag deposits, and the aerial extent (approximately 125 m of exposed section along the length of the tributary) could indicate significant time averaging during the Rancholabrean (Bison occurs in the fauna). The unique faunal character of the site is emphasized by a single tooth of Mixotoxodon , a notoungulate mammal, that provides the first evidence of this taxon from the United States. The fauna is dominantly composed of herbivorous megafauna with two proboscideans (Mammuthus and Cuvieronius). Mammut americanum has not yet been found in the fauna. Isotopic analyses of the proboscideans and some of the other megafauna suggest that an open environment with scattered woodland habitat existed in southeastern Texas at the end of the last glacial period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Method to determine if different proteins can produce cross-reactions allergies. • Piezoelectric profiles of cypress and wheat have same relaxation profiles. • The voltages amplitudes depends on the type of proteins. • Proteins with same relaxation voltages have similar partial secondary structures. A novel method is proposed to determine whether two proteins from different sources can be, potentially, candidates for cross-reactions allergies. The cross-reaction allergies are usually based on the similarity, partial or total, of the amino acids sequences of both proteins; however, according to our results, the recognition between proteins from different sources is carried out at secondary structure level; at this level the local shape and the charge distribution, of these proteins have to be similar to share cross-reactions. The charge distribution controls, to some extent, the ionic transport in the electrolyte. The ionic transport in cypress and wheat samples was determined and compared each other, obtaining that the piezoelectric relaxation voltages were practically the same. Several samples from cupressus arizonica Cup a 1 and the triticum aestivum gli mRNA and triticum aestivum clone 175 glutenin (GluB3-2) mRNA were prepared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• FTNIR and chemometrics to detect natural viability of Hinoki seeds was investigated. • A model with minimum variables for viability detection was constructed with PLSDA and VIP. • This work showed over 95% model accuracy achieved for determination of viable Hinoki seeds. The use of Hinoki cypress for the formation of healing forest is gradually increased in South Korea, but the germination rate of these seeds is low, and viability determination by conventional methods is destructive and time-consuming. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential of Fourier transform infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy in determining the viable seeds of Hinoki cypress nondestructively. FT-NIR reflectance spectra for single seeds were collected in the range of 4000–10,000 cm−1 (1000–2500 nm), and a germination test was carried out to determine viability. To differentiate between viable and nonviable seeds, a multivariate classification with partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was developed. The best PLS-DA model assigned the seeds to their respective classes, with 97.7–99.2% and 94.4–95.4% accuracy in the calibration and validation sets, respectively. The PLS-DA Beta coefficient revealed the important wavelength to differentiate viable from nonviable seeds, which was attributed to changes in the chemical composition of the seeds, such as lipids and proteins, which might be responsible for the germination ability of the seeds. Variable importance of projection (VIP) was applied on the spectral data which reduced original variables from 1557 to 27. The developed VIP-PLS-DA model resulted into classification accuracy of 97.7% in calibration and 91.7% in the validation set, with maximum normalization data preprocessing method. In conclusion, the results demonstrate the potential of FT-NIR spectroscopy as a powerful nondestructive method for determination of viable Hinoki cypress seeds, which could be applied in the development of an online sorting technique for seed companies and nurseries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Magnetite was deposited on cypress wood preserved with heat or TiO 2. • Magnetic adsorbents were characterized by BET, XRD, FT-IR, pH pzc. • Wood preservation affected Q max , optimum pH, MSPE performance towards metals. • Three MSPE methods were optimized using the three magnetic adsorbents. • MSPE methods were applied on real waters, lake sediments, phosphate rock. Abstract The main objective of this work was to prepare magnetic adsorbents based on cypress wood (CW) that was pretreated by heating (HCW) or by deposition of TiO 2 (TiO2-CW). Three magnetic adsorbents were prepared: magnetic cypress wood (MCW), magnetic heat-treated cypress wood (MHCW) and magnetic titanium dioxide treated cypress wood (M-TiO2-CW). These were then used for adsorption and magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) of Co(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II). The adsorbents were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, BET, elemental analysis and pH pzc. Adsorption studies showed that CW can be used for extraction of Cu(II) and Zn(II) at pH10.6; TiO2-CW can be used for extraction of Cu(II) and Zn(II) at either pH 9.2 or 10.6; while HCW can be used for extraction of all the investigated metals at pH10.6. After magnetization of the adsorbents, it was found that at pH 9.2 any of the magnetic adsorbents can be used for extraction of all the investigated metals. Three MSPE procedures (using the three magnetic adsorbents at pH 9.2) were optimized and applied on real water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Accumulation of organic matter in cypress wetlands retains soil moisture. • Extensive soil saturation is needed to preserve wetland resilience. • Altered water balances that shift plant communities reinforce wetland degradation. • Soil moisture sampling may determine groundwater withdrawal impacts to wetlands. • Soil carbon isotopes indicate wetland plant community shifts to drier conditions. Abstract Groundwater pumping in west-central Florida has caused water table declines that disrupt hydroperiods and negatively impact already threatened, geographically isolated freshwater wetlands in this region. Currently, aboveground biological indicators are used to determine the health status of wetlands impacted by groundwater withdrawals, however some soil properties, such as organic matter content, are partly a function of the duration of saturation and could be used as additional indicators. Therefore, this study evaluated soil organic carbon and related soil properties for comparison with the biological indicators of wetland health status. Soil samples were taken from the top 30 cm of the land surface (i.e., bulk density, soil water content, nitrogen content, and carbon and nitrogen isotopic composition) within pond cypress (Taxodium ascendens) domes previously categorized by the local water management district using wetland health classifications of "healthy", "significantly changed", or "severely changed". Mean soil water content (w) was significantly higher in "healthy" wetlands as compared to "significantly changed" and "severely changed" sites, and "healthy" sites also tended to have lower bulk density and higher soil carbon and soil nitrogen content. This trend was most pronounced toward the center and lowest elevation of the wetland, presumably where soils remain saturated longest. Stable carbon isotope values (δ13C) of soil organic matter showed that "severely changed" sites exhibited more 13C-enriched values that arise from long term contributions of warm-season (C 4) grasses, consistent with the observed upland grasses encroaching into the most impacted wetlands. Notably, soil characteristics may be crucial for determining the resilience of wetlands, as one sampled "healthy" site contained comparably less soil organic matter, reducing the water holding capacity and leaving it more vulnerable to water table declines. These results suggest that extensive annual saturation of soils is required to maintain the cypress dome ecological community structure and preserve wetland health and resilience. Frequent monitoring of soil water may prove a convenient proxy for soil water retention properties and ecosystem health of wetlands in similar settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced analysis technologies cannot be applicable to structural characterization of solid residue from biomass hydrothermal liquefaction due to its insoluble characteristics in organic solution. In this investigation, the milled solid residue fractions were isolated from the solid residues producing during cypress hydrothermal liquefaction at 220, 260, and 300 °C. Their fractions structural characteristics were comparatively investigated by advanced analysis technologies such as liquid state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. Dichloroethane/ethanol insoluble fractions were firstly found during the liquefaction process at 260–300 °C and results showed that the fractions were the intermediate component of biomass carbonization and mainly produced from the re-polymerization reactions of lignin during hydrothermal liquefaction process. The presence of crosslinking reactions between carbon-carbon which lead to the formation of a highly crosslinked structure resulting in the formation of milled solid residue fractions, which made the fractions be not insoluble in dichloroethane/ethanol and have high thermal stable and molecular weight. Ether structures scission, de-methylation reactions, re-polymerization between carbon-carbon, and fragmentation of large molecular fractions have been occurred in lignin during hydrothermal liquefaction process. The result showed that characterization of milled solid residue fractions provided some new information of the mechanisms of biomass hydrothermal liquefaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chloroform extract of the Japanese cypress Chamaecyparis obtusa was found to kill PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cells preferentially in the nutrient-deprived medium without causing toxicity in the nutrient rich condition. Phytochemical investigation on this extract led to the isolation of a new sesquiterpene ( 1 ), together with the six sesquiterpenes ( 2 – 7 ) and a lignan ( 8 ). The isolated compounds were tested for their preferential cytotoxicity activity against five different human pancreatic cancer cell lines [PANC-1, MIA PaCa2, CAPAN-1, PSN-1, and KLM-1] by utilizing an antiausterity strategy. Among them, α-cadinol ( 2 ) was identified as the most active constituent. α-Cadinol ( 2 ) was found to inhibit the activation of Akt/mTOR pathway, and the hyperactivation of autophagy leading to preferential PANC-1 cell death during nutrient-starvation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a numerical multiscale model is made to show how the hierarchical structure of softwood affect its macroscopic viscoelastic properties. The performance of the model is demonstrated for two softwood species — Norway spruce and Japanese cypress, whose creep behavior has been characterized experimentally. The results show that by using the same transversely isotropic viscous properties of the cell wall for both species, it is possible to predict creep deformation relatively close to experimental creep measurements for both species. Assuming that the variability is larger on the microstructural level (density, cell-wall geometry, microfibril angle, composition of wood tissues) than on the cell-wall level, it is possible to predict the macroscopic creep behavior based on the microstructural parameters alone. Such predictions can potentially save cost and time, since creep characterization in all material directions is demanding. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas chlororaphis subsp. aureofaciens encompasses bacterial strains that effectively control phytopathogenic fungi through the production of the natural antibiotics named phenazines. In this work, the involvement of phenazine production in the interaction between the biological control agent P. chlororaphis subsp. aureofaciens M71 and the fungus Seiridium cardinale , a serious cypress pathogen, was investigated. Field trials were carried out to assess the role of phenazines in the control of S. cardinale in vivo . Results showed that P. chlororaphis subsp. aureofaciens M71 and 30-84, both able to produce phenazine-1-carboxylic acid (PCA), drastically reduced the canker development incited by S. cardinale . Conversely, strain M71b, a natural gacA mutant of P. chlororaphis subsp. aureofaciens M71, showed a decrease in PCA production and a reduction in controlling S. cardinale . These results were enforced by the reduction of canker size higher than 94% registered when 6 μg of pure PCA was directly applied on each cypress wound. Furthermore, PCA was detected in cypress plant tissues only when P. chlororaphis subsp. aureofaciens M71 was interacting with S. cardinale for 30 days. All these data support that the biological control of S. cardinale achieved by the application of P. chlororaphis subsp. aureofaciens M71 relies mainly on the ability of the bacterial strain to produce PCA in planta . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphology, anatomy and morphogenesis of seed cones in Cupressus vietnamensis are investigated at pollination time and maturity to fill the gaps in the knowledge of this taxon. The results clearly point out that the seed cones show all the features of a typical seed cone in Cupressus and do not show any pecular pattern. Unique features proposed to be exclusively developed in Cupressus vietnamensis and missing in seed cones of other species of Cupressus were not found. In fact, the seed cones of C. vietnamensis represent a small form of typical seed cones in Cupressus and are structurally identical to those of C. nootkatensis . The results clearly indicate that C. vietnamensis is a true Cupressus , although with conspicuously small seed cones. No reason was found to recognize of this taxon as being distinct from Cupressus . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants represent an enormous potential source of chemical derivatives with many therapeutic properties whose variability is modified by exogenous factors. The present research focused on the evaluation of the effects of solvents with different polarities (hydro-methanolic, hydro-ethanolic, hydro-acetonic, and aqueous) and the extraction methods: maceration extraction (ME), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) on the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total condensed tannins (TCT) in Cupressus sempervirens L., Juniperus phoenicea L., Mentha rotundifolia (L.) Huds, and Asphodelus microcarpus Salzm. & Viv. extracts. The toxicity by contact of the plant extracts obtained against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) adults was studied. The quantitative characterization revealed significant differences (p ˂0.05) in the secondary metabolites of the different extracts analyzed depending on the method and solvent used. The result of the contact test indicated that the hydro-acetonic extracts obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction exhibited the strongest insecticidal power with a corrected mortality of 59.25 ± 6.41% and 51.72 ± 11.54% for C. sempervirens L. and J. phoenicea L., respectively, and a mortality rate of 66.66 ± 5.77% was recorded for the hydro-methanolic extract of M. rotundifolia (L.) Huds. While in A. microcarpus Salzm. & Viv., the highest mortality rate (33.33 ± 7.07%) was registered in the hydro-acetonic extract obtained by maceration. The results show that there is a strong relationship between the efficacy of extracts as biopesticides and their abundance in biomolecules. • The plant extracts in this study revealed significant levels of phenolic compounds. • The contents of secondary metabolites depended on the extraction method and the solvent used. • The prepared extracts were identified as bio-insecticide against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) adults. • The correlation between the richness of the extracts in secondary metabolites and their insecticidal activity was determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The chloroplast genomes of six species of two Cupressus (C. duclouxiana and C. funebri) and four Juniperus (J. chinensis, J. gaussenii J. pingii and J. procumbens) were reported and comparatively analyzed. • Corroborated the accD of Cupressophytes have a tendency to expand in size and strongly supported a sister relationship between Cupressus and Juniperus. • Five regions were suggested as potential markers for identifying six cp genomes of Cupressus and Juniperus. Cupressaceae is a conifer family distributed around the world. Cupressus and Juniperus are the main genera of the Cupressaceae family and have important medicinal value. This leads to confusion between Cupressus and Juniperus due to similar morphologies. Here, the complete cp genomes of two Cupressus (C. duclouxiana and C. funebri) and four Juniperus (J. chinensis, J. gaussenii J. pingii and J. procumbens) were sequenced. The results revealed that the length of the cp genomes ranged from 126,996 bp to 129,959 bp, with 119 genes comprising 82 protein-coding genes, 33 transfer RNAs and 4 ribosomal RNAs. All chloroplast genomes of Cupressus and Juniperus lost whole IR regions, which is consistent with gymnosperm cp genome studies. In addition, the number of SSRs per species ranged from 54 to 73 and was dominated by mononucleotide repeats. In the six cp genomes of Cupressus and Juniperus , five highly divergent regions, including accD , accD-rpl2 , ycf1 , ycf2 and rrn23-rrn4.5 , can be used as DNA barcodes of interspecific relationships and potential genetic markers. We compared the gene selection pressures (C. chengiana as reference species), and 6 genes underwent positive selection, the majority of which were related to photosynthesis. Phylogenetic results showed that the monophyly of Cupressus and Juniperus supported most bootstrap support. Cupressus funebris and J. chinensis were resolved to be early diverging species within Cupressus and Juniperus , and the two genera were sister groups to each other. This research revealed a new understanding of the structural pluralism and phylogenetic relationships of Cupressaceae cp genomes. These results will facilitate comprehension of the complexity and diversity of conifer cp genomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the determination of 256 multiclass pesticides in cypress and lemon essential oils (EOs) by the way of liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC–ESI/MS/MS) analysis using the scheduled selected reaction monitoring mode (sSRM) available on a hybrid quadrupole linear ion trap (QLIT) mass spectrometer. The performance of a sample preparation of lemon and cypress EOs based on dilution or evaporation under nitrogen assisted by a controlled heating were assessed. The best limits of quantification (LOQs) were achieved with the evaporation under nitrogen method giving LOQs≤10 µg L −1 for 91% of the pesticides. In addition the very satisfactory results obtained for recovery, repeatability and linearity showed that for EOs of relatively low evaporation temperature, a sample preparation based on evaporation under nitrogen is well adapted and preferable to dilution. By compiling these results with those previously published by some of us on lavandin EO, we proposed a workflow dedicated to multiresidue determination of pesticides in various EOs by LC–ESI/sSRM. Among the steps involved in this workflow, the protocol related to mass spectrometry proposes an alternative confirmation method to the classical SRM ratio criteria based on a sSRM survey scan followed by an information-dependent acquisition using the sensitive enhanced product ion (EPI) scan to generate MS/MS spectra then compared to a reference. The submitted workflow was applied to the case of lemon EOs samples highlighting for the first time the simultaneous detection of 20 multiclass pesticides in one EO. Some pesticides showed very high concentration levels with amounts greatly exceeding the mg L −1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thinning results in more open-stand canopies and then immediately modifies the environmental factors that influence forest floor evaporation ( E f ). Thus, the changes in E f induced by thinning would play an important role in the forest water cycle, whereas few studies have reported this topic. This study analyzes the effect of strip thinning on E f , its spatial variation and identifies the factors influencing it in a Japanese cypress ( Chamaecyparis obtusa Endl.) plantation in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Strip thinning, which removed 50% of the stems, was conducted in a headwater basin during the period of October 11–November 5, 2011. The E f was monitored by weighing lysimeters before and after thinning. The daily E f was strongly correlated with the daily solar radiation ( R 2 = 0.62) followed by vapor pressure deficit ( R 2 = 0.41) below the canopy, whereas the soil water content had a poor effect on it in post-thinning. After thinning, the daily E f among the measuring points had no significant difference, indicating that the daily E f had a small spatial variation. This responded to the small spatial variability in the daily solar radiation under the canopy. Additionally, on an annual scale, thinning resulted in the daily mean E f increasing from 0.34 ± 0.23 to 0.68 ± 0.47 mm d −1 . The total E f increased by 97.6% from 124.0 to 245.0 mm. These findings indicate that E f composes a significant part of the forest water budget after thinning and emphasize the importance of E f measurements for management practices. This study also provides useful information for modeling the changes in hydrological processes at the forest floor and for evaluating the E f response to different management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of soil treatments (ST) [fertilized sand (control) vs. added amendments of 78 Mg ha −1 compost (1×), 156 Mg −1 compost (2×), 15 cm of topsoil (TS), and 1 × compost + TS]; and restored microtopography (MT; level, pit and mound) on young bald cypress [ Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich] tree growth in a created tidal freshwater wetland in southeastern Virginia. The crown class and position of each tree was classified according to the Kraft system ten years after establishment along with morphometrics of height (HT), trunk diameter at 10 cm above the soil surface (DIA 10), tree diameter at breast height (DBH at 1.3 m), and basal trunk swelling factor (D diff = DIA 10 − DBH). Additionally, competition effects of all planted and successional woody vegetation on the planted bald cypress were evaluated. There were no effects of soil treatments on the measured parameters, but there were strong overall experiment-wide effects of MT. Diameter at 10 cm (DIA 10) and basal swelling (D diff) were significantly ( P < 0.05) greater in pits while overall height ( p = 0.006) and DBH ( p = 0.033) showed an even stronger response. Differentiation of individual tree crown classes and position was readily observable by year 10 and trees growing in pits were more likely to be in dominant and co-dominant positions (Kraft classes 1 and 2). The lack initial soil treatment effects (topsoil and compost additions) was surprising, but indicates that the overall quality of the site hydrology and initial soil substrate was high and therefore, microtopographic influences were dominant over the 10-year period studied. The results indicate that bald cypress plantings in created wetlands in this region would benefit from installed microtopography and that soil amendments per se may be less important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by sports, this is the first study where waste table tennis bat cypress baseplates have been used as a carbon source in order to sustainably synthesize fluorescent carbon dots (FCDs). The prepared FCDs were suitable for bioimaging of the C2C12 muscle myoblasts, as well as in vivo bioimaging. The average particle size of the amorphous FCDs was ∼7.45 nm, whereas nitrogen-containing and oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface of the carbon structure were observed. The fabricated FCDs exhibit excellent water solubility, biocompatibility and photoluminescent (PL) properties, while the maximum PL intensity was found at 401 nm on the excitation wavelength at 334 nm with a fluorescence lifetime of 6.43 ns. On top of that, the FCDs displayed a wavelength-dependent emission over the 315–355 nm excitation window with an emission range of 385–405 nm, resulting in blue fluorescence emission. Furthermore, the synthesis mechanism of the FCDs was thoroughly explored. These attractive results indicate that sporting goods waste can also be an ideal alternative raw material for the development of fluorescence carbon dots. [Display omitted] • Novel carbon dots were easily obtained from table tennis bat cypress baseplates. • The fundamental synthesis mechanism of FCDs was discussed. • FCDs display good fluorescence properties and biocompatibility. • They are suitable for bioimaging both in C2C12 muscle myoblasts and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary We examined the effect of strip thinning on rainfall interception ( E i ) in a 32-year-old Japanese cypress plantation in central Japan. Strip thinning was conducted in the catchment in October 2011; that removed 50% of the stems. The gross precipitation ( P g ), throughfall ( TF ) and stemflow ( SF ) were monitored in a 12-m × 13-m plot before and after thinning. E i was calculated as the difference between P g and the sum of TF and SF . The interception processes were illustrated using the revised Gash model with quantifying interception parameters. The results showed that the Gash model successfully predicted E i on a rainy-season basis in both pre- and post-thinning periods. Thinning altered the interception components whereas the largest part during and after rainfall accounted for similar proportion in both periods. Additionally, after thinning, the annual TF rate was increased from 61.4% to 73.0%, whereas the annual SF rate was decreased from 9.8% to 6.1%, and the annual E i rate was decreased from 28.7% to 20.8%. The summarized findings of previous studies indicate that the degree of decline in the E i caused by thinning is related to P g and the thinning ratio. These results provide useful information for understanding the changes in interception processes induced by thinning, and for acquiring a more accurate forecast of the effects of forest management practices on water resources in the watershed. The response in rainfall partitioning to strip thinning can also help us to acquire an integrated understanding of the changes in canopy water balance under different forest practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic inheritance and epigenetic inheritance are significant determinants of plant evolution, adaptation and plasticity. We studied inheritance of restriction site polymorphisms by the f-AFLP method and epigenetic DNA cytosine methylation inheritance by the f-MSAP technique. The study involved parents and 190 progeny of a Cupressus sempervirens L. full-sib family. Results from AFLP genetic data revealed that 71.8% of the fragments studied are under Mendelian genetic control, whereas faithful Mendelian inheritance for the MSAP fragments was low (4.29%). Further, MSAP fragment analysis showed that total methylation presented a mean of 28.2%, which was higher than the midparent value, while maternal inheritance was higher (5.65%) than paternal (3.01%). Interestingly de novo methylation in the progeny was high (19.65%) compared to parental methylation. Genetic and epigenetic distances for parents and offspring were not correlated ( R 2 = 0.0005). Furthermore, we studied correlation of total relative methylation and CG methylation with growth (height, diameter). We found CG/CNG methylation (N: A, C, T) to be positively correlated with height and diameter, while total relative methylation and CG methylation were positively correlated with height. Results are discussed in light of further research needed and of their potential application in breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uranium and thorium isotopes were measured in cypress leaves, wheat grains and lettuce taken in the surroundings of the uranium conversion facility of Malvési (South of France). The comparison of activity levels and activity ratios (namely 238 U/ 232 Th and 230 Th/ 232 Th) in plants with those in aerosols taken at this site and plants taken far from it shows that aerosols emitted by the nuclear site (uranium releases in the atmosphere by stacks and 230 Th-rich particles emitted from artificial ponds collecting radioactive waste mud) accounts for the high activities recorded in the plant samples close to the site. The atmospheric deposition process onto the plants appears to be the dominant process in plant contamination. Dry deposition velocities of airborne uranium and thorium were measured as 4.6 × 10 −3 and 5.0 × 10 −3 m s −1 , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen from Japanese cedar ( sugi ) and cypress ( hinoki ) trees is responsible for the growing prevalence of allergic rhinitis, especially pollinosis in Japan. Previous studies have suggested that air pollutants enhance the allergic response to pollen in susceptible individuals. We conducted a time-stratified case-crossover study to examine the potential modifying effects of PM 2.5 and suspended particulate matter (SPM) on the association between pollen concentration and daily consultations for pollinosis. A total of 11,713 daily pollinosis cases (International Classification of Diseases, ICD-10, J30.1) from January to May, 2001–2011, were obtained from a clinic in Chiyoda, Tokyo. Daily pollen counts and the daily mean values of air pollutants (PM 2.5 , SPM, SO 2 , NO 2 , CO, and O 3 ) were collected from monitoring stations across Tokyo. The effects of pollen were stratified by the level of PM 2.5 and SPM to examine the interaction effect of pollen and particulate pollutants. We found a statistically significant interaction between pollen concentration and PM 2.5 /SPM. On days with a high level of PM 2.5 (> 95th percentile), an interquartile increase in the mean cumulative pollen count (an average of 28 pollen grains per cm 2 during lag-days 0 to 5) corresponded to a 10.30% (95%CI: 8.48%–12.16%) increase in daily new pollinosis cases, compared to 8.04% (95%CI: 7.28%–8.81%) on days with a moderate level of PM 2.5 (5th–95th percentile). This interaction persisted when different percentile cut-offs were used and was robust to the inclusion of other air pollutants. A similar interaction pattern was observed between SPM and pollen when a less extreme cut-off for SPM was used to stratify the effect of pollen. Our study showed the acute effect of pollen was greater when the concentration of air particulate pollutant, specifically PM 2.5 and SPM, was higher. These findings are consistent with the notion that particulate air pollution may act as an adjuvant that promotes allergic disease (i.e. pollinosis). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the effect of strip thinning on tree transpiration (Et) in a dense and mature Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa Endl.) plantation in central Japan. Strip thinning, which removed 50% of stems, was conducted in a headwater basin in October 2011. Xylem sap flow densities (Fd) were measured using thermal dissipation (Granier-type) sensors in a 156-m² plot before and after thinning. The canopy conductance (Gc) was calculated on the basis of Et values. The results revealed that the Fd at the outer xylem (0-20 mm) increased remarkably, whereas the Fd at the inner xylem (20-40 mm) had no significant change after thinning. Mean stand sap flow density (JS) values were higher in the post-thinning period than in the pre-thinning period, and the differences significantly increased with increasing vapor pressure deficit (VPD) values. Furthermore, the daily single tree Et increased, particularly in the small tree class. Unlike the daily tree Et, the daily stand Et decreased from 1.29 ± 0.60 to 1.00 ± 0.40 mm d-1 during the growing season or decreased from 1.23 ± 0.48 to 0.74 ± 0.42 mm d-1 on the annual scale. The total stand Et decreased by 23.0%, from 214.9 to 165.5 mm, during the growing season or decreased by 38.3%, from 441.0 to 272.1 mm, on the annual scale. Gc decreased after thinning, which implies lower stand Et and photosynthesis. Gc was primarily related to the VPD and would be an effective model to predict Et from these Japanese cypress plantations. This study provides useful information for understanding the Et responses at individual tree and stand levels to strip thinning and contributes to obtaining a thorough understanding of the change in tree water use under different management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cupressus sempervirens , Mentha pulegium oil and their combination presented an in vitro acaricidal and repellency effects against H. scupense. • Combination oil is the most toxic compared with plants in individual use. • Essential oils have the potential to be applied as substitute for synthetic acaricides in the management of H. scupense hard ticks. The adulticidal, larvicidal, and repellent effects of Cupressus sempervirens, Mentha pulegium , and their combination (C. sempervirens and M. pulegium) against Hyalomma scupense were investigated, as well as their putative mode of action. The evaluation on H. scupense was performed with the adult immersion test at concentrations ranging from 2.5–20 mg/mL and the larval packet test from 0.625 to 20 mg/mlL. The same concentrations were used for combined oils. Essential oils were obtained using hydrodistillation and then analyzed using GC–MS. The following major components were identified: α-pinene (56.89 %) and δ-3-Carene (15.61 %) for C. sempervirens, while pulegone (70.50 %) and cis-Menthone (18.26 %) for M. pulegium. At 20 mg/mL concentration, C. sempervirens had (94.40 %) acaricide action and inhibited the egg from hatching, however at 10 mg/mL, it had 100 % larvicidal activity. Adulticidal and larvicidal activities of M. pulegium oil reached to 87.19 % and 81.02 % respectively, at 20 mg/mL concentration. The highest acaricidal property against H. scupense was exhibited by combination oils with minimum LC 50 values of 1.76 mg/mL on adultes and 0.60 mg/mL on larvae. The repellent activities were 100, 95.80 and 100 %, at the 20 mg/mL concentration used in 6 h, for C. sempervirens, M. pulegium and mixture oil respectively. Our findings revealed that the mixture of C. sempervirens and M. pulegium, at the ratio 1:1 (v: v) of each oil, showed high synergistic effect (SF > 1) and the use of combination oil (C. sempervirens 50 %: M. pulegium 50 %) is more toxic against H.scupense. Furthermore, the volatile oils examined revealed significant inhibition of H.scupense acetylcholinesterase activity AChE. Based on the findings of the present framework, these essential oils have the potential to be applied as substitute for synthetic acaricides in the management of H.scupense bovine ticks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Salicylic acid (SA) and Cypress Leaf Extract (CLE) improve plant growth under salt stress. • CLE- and SA-pretreatment enhances antioxidant defence and photosynthetic capacity of salt-stressed zucchini seedlings as compared to the salt-stressed untreated seedlings. • CLE outperforms SA in augmenting these physio-biochemical processes under both salt stress and stress-free conditions. Exogenous ameliorants hold a great potential to strengthen endogenous plant defence under various environmental stresses, including salinity. The effects of Cypress Leaf Extract (CLE, as a biostimulant) and salicylic acid (SA) on growth, physio-biochemical and molecular responses of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L. cv. Kavili) seedlings under salt stress were investigated. Salt stress resulted in decreased photosynthesis activity and increased oxidative stress. However, CLE- and SA-pretreatment of salt-stressed seedlings enhanced their growth, photosynthetic capacity, antioxidant enzyme (SOD, CAT, APX, GPX, GR, and DHAR) activities and the contents of ascorbate, glutathione and proline as compared to the salt-stressed untreated seedlings. CLE- and SA-pretreatment also alleviated the salt stress-induced negative effects on CO 2 assimilation and significantly increased the activity of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco). Furthermore, CLE pretreatment also upregulated the expression of stress-inducible antioxidation-related genes (CuZnSOD2, CAT1, APX, GR, DHAR and PrxQ) in salt-stressed seedlings. Interestingly, CLE was found to outperform SA in augmenting these processes under both stress and stress-free conditions. Our study reveals that CLE-mediated enhancement of photosynthesis and antioxidative defence mechanisms plays a crucial role in the alleviation of salt stress, and thereby increasing salt tolerance and growth of zucchini plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Alkaline pretreatment could markedly enhance bio-oil yield. [•] Alkaline pretreatment could inhibit re-polymerization reactions. [•] Resulting solid/liquid mixture was divided into six lumps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] MSR was isolated from solid residue. [•] Re-polymerization reactions were the main reaction at 220–260°C. [•] The thermal stability of lignin side-chain in cypress has been investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Physical process of canopy interception loss remains to be explained. [•] Rainfall partitioning to interception was similar between the stands. [•] The rate of interception increased with rainfall intensity. [•] Observed amount of interception was greater than estimated amount of evaporation. [•] We suggest that splash droplets transport by canopy ventilation is the primary process of interception loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We test the impact of the nurse-plant syndrome on the rock phosphate solubilization. [•] Nurse plant pre-cultivation increases soil mycorrhizal infectivity and P solubilization. [•] This cultural practice could enhance the performances of afforestation programs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Canopy size derived from aerial data can estimate tree DBH with high correlation. • Non-linear trend of DBH-Canopy Size can be well delineated by using support vector regression (SVR). • Using multiple variables (tree height, canopy size) boosts the DBH estimation. • Utilizing the unmanned aerial system can effectively measure and estimate tree biophysical parameter. Observing Forest attributes using small, weighted unmanned aerial systems (UASs) is increasing interest to forest ecologists and managers. Here, we provide a comprehensive model for estimating the relationship between diameter at breast height (DBH) and crown size for Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), intending to promote the use of UAS-acquired data. Aerial images were processed using Structure from Motion software to develop ortho -mosaicked imagery for the study sites. We also measured the DBH and height of 196 individual trees at these same sites. Crown size, estimated from the orthoimagery, was compared with DBH using multiple functional models. Model fit estimates has ranged from R2 = 0.6403–0.7584 and root mean square error (RMSE) = 6.34 cm–5.20 cm (relative RMSE (rRMSE) = 17.83–13.44%). Including tree height as a predictor improved model fit of both linear and Support Vector Regression (SVR) model, where the best result in Adjusted R2 = 0.834 and RMSE = 4.25 cm (rRMSE = 11.30%) for the SVR model. This study suggests the potential for accurately surveying forest attributes through UAS remote sensing, which has important implications for forest monitoring and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Phosphorus release to ground or surface waters is commonly observed in wetlands that were restored on previously drained and farmed land, but the precise location of where the P is dissolved within the soil is unknown. This study compared the concentration of dissolved P in both the rhizospheres and soil matrix under saturated conditions. Experiments were conducted in rhizotrons (glass-walled boxes) which were filled with Ap horizon material from an Aeric Alaquod in a restored wetland. Phosphorus release was monitored from the rhizospheres of bald cypress roots (Taxodium distichum, L.), and an unplanted control representing the soil matrix. The rhizotrons were saturated for 120days, and soil water was collected twice monthly at three depths. Numbers of live and dead roots were determined monthly. Following saturation, vigorous root growth was observed near the surface (0 to 22cm depth) throughout the 120days saturation period, while up to 30% of the roots in the lower layer (41 to 59cm depth) died after 20days of saturation. Rhizosphere processes did not increase P concentrations in the soil solution compared to the matrix controls. In the top layer of the planted treatment dissolved total P concentrations were 3.5 times lower than matrix concentrations (peak DTP of 700–900μg P L−1””) due to oxygen loss by root aerenchyma. Significantly larger amounts of dissolved organic C and Fe2+ were found in the rhizospheres than the matrix. Dissolved total P concentrations in the rhizosphere were equal to DTP concentrations in the matrix during the first 54days of saturation, but lower than those of the matrix thereafter, most likely due to plant uptake. These findings indicate that under saturated conditions plant rhizospheres do not cause more P to be released to the soil water over that of the matrix, and may contain lower amounts of P than the soil matrix due to plant uptake. These results pertain to soils having an organic C concentration of at least 26gkg−1 or higher. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Separation of cellulose fibers (CFs) from woody biomass with minimal structural alteration using a “green” and efficient method was achieved by treatment with the ionic liquid (IL), [emim][OAc] (1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate) at 80°C for 1h. The IL was recovered by rinsing with water–acetone mixture prior to treatment of the wood with Trametes sp. laccase in the presence of 1-hydroxybenzotriazole as a mediator. IL pretreatment did not significantly change the chemical composition of the wood, but did alter its structure and rendered its surface more accessible to the enzyme. Treated and untreated samples were characterized by SEM, FTIR, XRD, TGA, and chemical methods. The cellulose content of the produced fibers was approximately 73.1% and the lignin content was 9.8%, much lower than the lignin content of 29.3% of the untreated wood. The cellulose fibers exhibited higher cellulose crystallinity and better thermal stability compared to untreated wood materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The lipid fraction of cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) seeds was extracted and analyzed for chemical and physical properties, i.e., fatty acid composition (GC–MS), acidity (as % of oleic acid), iodine value, triacylglycerol (TAG) composition (HPLC), saponification value, specific extinctions (K232 and K270), thermal profile (DSC), and tocopherol composition (HPLC). The oil''s fatty acid composition revealed the major fatty acids to be α-linolenic, linoleic, oleic, and palmitic acid (35.11, 25.08, 15.07, and 11.11%, respectively). γ-Tocopherol was the major tocopherol (80%) with the remainder being α- and δ-tocopherol. The polyunsaturated TAGs LLLn, LLnLn, LLL, and LnLnLn (L, linoleic and Ln, linolenic) were the oil''s major TAG components. The oil exhibited two thermal profile peaks, indicating two thermal structural transitions, one at low temperature (−28.34°C) with a 54.66J/g enthalpy and the other at high temperature (−13.41°C) with a 22.49J/g enthalpy. The oil showed high absorbance in the UV-B and UV-C ranges. The many positive characteristics observed here in this oil, as well as the favorable botanical properties of the tree, suggest that this oil could have important applications in non-food industries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Satellite hyperspectral data were used to construct empirical spectral indices related to the canopy structure of a Cordilleran Cypress (Austrocedrus chilensis) forest located in the Andes of central Chile. Measurements of tree diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height (TH) were performed for a set of plots located within a pure and unevenly aged stand of A. chilensis with moderate cover. Normalized difference vegetation indices (NDIs) related to DBH and TH were constructed from the corresponding hyperspectral data in Hyperion imagery. NDIs construction utilized the original spectral reflectance curve, its first derivative, and the continuum-removed reflectance in a two-step procedure that ranks NDIs based on their Spearman correlation with the response variable while controlling the false discovery rate. Several reflectance-based NDIs as well as a larger group of derivative-based NDIs were significantly related to DBH or TH (ρ >0.70). The NDIs most strongly related to the field variables were based on derivative bands located within the same spectral regions used by the broadband greenness index known as green normalized difference vegetation index. Most other significant NDIs used NIR bands, which are well-known for their sensitivity to foliage amount changes. The results obtained in this exploratory study mostly agreed with the spectral regions expected to be most sensitive to changes in the canopy structure of vegetation. Further research in other A. chilensis forests subject to different site and environmental conditions is needed in order to assess the applicability of the NDIs over a wider range of this endemic species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the present study, green synthesis of gold nanoparticles was reported using the aqueous extract of cypress leaves. The reduction of gold salt with the extract of cypress leaves resulted in the formation of gold nanoparticles. Effects of extract concentration and extract pH were investigated on the size of the nanoparticles. It was found that the average particle size of synthesized gold nanoparticles depends strongly on extract concentration and extract pH. FT-IR spectroscopy showed that bioorganic capping molecules were bound to the surface of particles. X-ray techniques confirmed the formation of gold nanoparticles and their crystalline structure. The inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy analysis displayed that the reaction progress is higher than 90% at room temperature. Gold nanoparticles were mostly spherical in shape along with some irregular shapes. Cypress is an evergreen plant and its leaves are easily available in all four seasons. Also, the rate of the reaction was high and it was completed in only 10min. For these reasons, this method is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Thus, it can be used in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles instead of chemical methods and other biosynthesis approaches. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: We examined the effect of forest thinning on runoff generation at plot and catchment scales in headwater basins draining a Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) forest. We removed 58.3% of the stems (corresponding to 43.2% of the basal area) in the treated headwater basin (catchment M5), and left the control catchment (M4) untreated. In both catchments, we monitored overland flow from hillslope plots and stream runoff from catchments at basin outlets over a 2-year pre-thinning period and a 2-year post-thinning period. Paired catchment analysis revealed that annual catchment runoff increased 240.7mm after thinning. Delayed runoff increased significantly, while quick runoff followed similar patterns in the pre- and post-thinning periods. Flow duration in the ephemeral channel in catchment M5 increased from 56.9% in the pre-thinning period to 73.3% in the post-thinning period. Despite the changes in hydrological responses at the catchment scale, increases in overland flow were not significant. The increased availability of water in the soil matrix, caused by decreased interception loss and evapotranspiration, increased base flow after thinning. Based on the summarized data of previous studies together with this study, the effects of forest thinning on increases in runoff were less than partial harvesting in which the managed areas were concentrated within a watershed. We demonstrated that the effect of forest thinning was strongly scale dependent, an important finding for optimizing water and forest management in forested watersheds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Continuous in situ measurements of methane (CH4) fluxes from intact leaves and trunk of Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa Sieb. et Zucc) were conducted in a temperate forest from August 2009 to August 2010. An automated closed-chamber system, which was used to evaluate CO2 exchange between the atmosphere and forest ecosystems, was coupled to a laser-based instrument to monitor CH4 concentrations. Temporal changes in CH4 concentrations from the foliage and trunk were measured at one-second intervals during chamber closure to determine CH4 fluxes between the leaf and trunk surfaces and the atmosphere. While recent studies have suggested that some plants emit CH4 under aerobic conditions, emission or uptake of CH4 in detectable amounts with our experimental system, by intact leaves or the trunk of C. obtusa, was not significantly observed throughout the measurement period. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Effects of reaction temperature, reaction time and water amount on the hydrothermal liquefaction of cypress, were studied in this paper. The reaction system was divided into gas lump, water-soluble oil lump, heavy oil lump, volatile organic compounds lump, and solid residue lump. Results showed that temperature was the critical parameter for 5-lump distribution in the cypress hydrothermal conversion process. The higher temperature and longer reaction time were not usually suitable for the production of bio-oil (water-soluble oil and heavy oil). The increase in the yields of gas and volatile organic compounds was also observed as temperature was increased. However, the yield of the volatile organic compounds increased first, and then decreased with the reaction time and the water amount. High amount of water led to high conversion and bio-oil yield. The FT-IR analysis of the solid residues showed that the major peaks of cypress diminished after 280°C. The GC–MS analysis showed that the volatile organic compounds, water-soluble oil and heavy oil comprised a mixture of organic compounds of 5–7, 5–10 and 7–26 carbons, respectively, which mainly included furfural, phenol, acids, furans and their derivatives. The WSO had similar elemental compositions but the HO had a higher content of carbon and a lower concentration of oxygen as compared to cypress. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]