Search Results (136)

Dodders (Cuscuta spp.; Convolvulaceae) are parasitic weeds that pose major challenges to agriculture due to their ability to infect a wide range of host plants, extract nutrients, and transmit pathogens. Their control is especially challenging because of the seed longevity, resistance to herbicides, and the capacity for vegetative regeneration. Mechanical methods such as hand-pulling or mowing are labour-intensive and often ineffective for large infestations. Chemical control is limited, as systemic herbicides often affect the host species equally, or even worse than the parasite. Current research is exploring biological control methods, including allelopathic compounds, host-specific fungal pathogens, and epiparasitic insects, though these methods remain largely experimental. An integrated approach that combines prevention, targeted mechanical removal, and biological methods offers the most promising path for long-term management. Continued research is essential to develop effective, sustainable control strategies while exploring possible beneficial uses of these complex parasitic plants. The present review aims to thoroughly summarise the existing literature, emphasising the most recent advances and discussing future perspectives. Full article

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) seeds, rich in triacylglycerols, have poor fatty acid-to-sugar conversion during storage, affecting longevity and vigor. Previous experiments have shown that the aging of safflower seeds is mainly related to the impairment of energy metabolism pathways such as glycolysis, fatty acid degradation, and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. The treatment with exogenous sucrose can partially promote the germination of aged seeds. However, the specific pathways through which exogenous sucrose promotes the germination of aged safflower seeds have not yet been elucidated. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism by which exogenous sucrose enhances the vitality of aged seeds. Phenotypically, it promoted germination and seedling establishment in CDT-aged seeds but not in unaged ones. Biochemical analyses revealed increased soluble sugars and fatty acids in aged seeds with sucrose treatment. Enzyme activity and transcriptome sequencing showed up-regulation of key enzymes and genes in related metabolic pathways in aged seeds, not in unaged ones. qPCR confirmed up-regulation of genes for triacylglycerol and fatty acid-to-sugar conversion. Transmission electron microscopy showed a stronger connection between the glyoxylate recycler and oil bodies, accelerating oil body degradation. In conclusion, our research shows that exogenous sucrose promotes aged safflower seed germination by facilitating triacylglycerol hydrolysis, fatty acid conversion, and glycometabolism, rather than simply serving as a source of energy to supplement the energy deficiency of aged seeds. These findings offer practical insights for aged seeds, especially offering an effective solution to the aging problem of seeds with high oil content. Full article

Nectar robbing typically reduces nectar availability to pollinators, damages flower structure, and/or induces secondary robbing. Consequently, it may reduce pollen deposition and seed set, increase pollination efficiency and outcrossing, and/or not affect reproduction in some species. However, spatiotemporal variations in nectar robbing and their effects on plant reproduction have received little attention. In this study, we assessed the effects of nectar robbing on floral visits, seed set, nectar volume and concentration, and flower longevity in two populations of Salvia castanea Diels (Lamiaceae) in the Himalayan region of Southwestern China in 2014–2020. We also examined whether one or a few visits by pollinators can result in the stigma receiving sufficient pollen to fertilize all ovules of S. castanea. We found that significant differences in the nectar robbing rate did not affect seed set in any of the years for either population of S. castanea. In the robbed and unrobbed flowers, nectar was consistently replenished every night at higher concentrations. Bagging, nectar robbing, and sufficient pollination did not affect flower longevity. Salvia castanea required only 5–10 pollen grains to achieve the maximum seed set. However, pollinators depositing more than 10 pollen grains after a single visit ensured a high seed set of >80%. Our results suggest that nectar availability, floral longevity maintenance, and sufficient pollen deposition mitigate the effects of nectar robbing on the reproductive success of S. castanea. These results are expected to further our understanding of plant–animal interactions and the ecological consequences of nectar robbing. Full article

The contents of glucosinolates and erucic acid clearly vary in Brassica napus seeds, but a few studies still focus on the effects of B. napus cultivars on the life table parameters of Myzus persicae. In this study, the life history parameters of M. persicae in six B. napus cultivars were examined at 25 ± 1 °C, 50 ± 10% RH, and a photoperiod of 14 h of light/10 h of dark under laboratory conditions. The results showed that significant differences exist in the life table parameters of M. persicae in six B. napus cultivars. The female fecundity, net reproductive rate, intrinsic rate of increase, finite rate of increase, and total longevity of M. persicae were higher in Xinong 18, Aiganyou 558, and Aiyouku 999. However, the intrinsic rate of increase in M. persicae was significantly lower in Zhongshuang 11 (r_m = 0.28 ± 0.006) and Mianxinyou 78 (r_m = 0.23 ± 0.007), suggesting the host-induced suppression of M. persicae population growth. Among all the cultivars mentioned above, Zhongshuang 11 and Mianxinyou 78 were recommended for planting for decreasing M. persicae population numbers. Additionally, more attention should be paid to Xinong 18, Aiyouku 999, and Aiganyou 558 to control M. persicae populations, and we conclude that Brassica napus cultivars affect the developmental duration and the population dynamics of M. persicae. Full article

The wild tomato (Solanum sisymbriifolium) is a globally distributed shrubby weed with both negative and positive impacts, including its invasive properties and the potential for pharmaceutical and traditional medicinal uses. Despite its ecological significance, the plant’s reproductive biology and pollination ecology remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the floral biology, pollination ecology, and plant reproduction of the weed species. Some flower traits, such as flowering intensity, flower display size, and pollen and ovule production, peaked during spring, summer, and the monsoon, while flower longevity and stigmatic receptivity were the longest in winter. The plant species was self-compatible (ISI = 0.02), heavily depended on pollinators (IDP = 0.72), and experienced minimal pollination limitation (D = 0.10) under open-pollination conditions. Flower visitors’ traits (e.g., abundance, diversity, and richness) were higher in the spring, summer, and the monsoon, and these were lower in winter. The vital pollination service was provided by Amegilla zonata, Ceratina binghami, Lasioglossum cavernifrons, Nomia (Curvinomia) strigata, Tetragonula pagdeni, Xylocopa aestuans, Xylocopa amethystina, Xylocopa fenestrata, and Xylocopa latipes. Reproductive success, as indicated by fruit and seed set, varied seasonally, being higher during the spring–monsoon period and lower in winter. These findings support effective management of this weed species and help conserve the associated bee populations. Full article

Seed germination, a pivotal stage in the plant life cycle, profoundly impacts crop growth and establishment. However, fluctuating environmental conditions like drought, salinity, severe temperatures, and heavy metal toxicity impede seed germination rates and seedling vigor. Seed priming is a pre-sowing seed treatment that involves the controlled hydration of seeds, proven to improve germination rate and stress resilience. It initiates pre-germinative metabolism, including enzyme activity, antioxidant accumulation, hormone modulation, and cellular repair, without radicle emergence. Recent advancements in seed priming, encompassing the application of nanoparticles, phytohormones, and beneficial microbes, have significantly broadened its potential. Despite its proven benefits, challenges such as reduced seed longevity post-priming and variability in species-specific responses remain. This paper revisits the principles and methodologies of seed priming, highlighting its physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms that enhance germination under stress conditions. Additionally, it addresses current challenges and future research directions for optimizing seed priming as a low-cost, eco-friendly approach to improve crop establishment under adverse environments, thereby supporting resilient and sustainable agriculture. Full article

A machine learning framework is developed to interpret vehicle subsystem status from sensor data, providing actionable insights for adaptive control systems. Using the vehicle’s suspension as a case study, inertial data are collected from driving maneuvers, including braking and cornering, to seed a prototype XGBoost classifier. The classifier then pseudo-labels a larger exemplar dataset acquired from street and racetrack sessions, which is used to train an inference model capable of robust generalization across both regular and performance driving. An overlapping sliding-window grading approach with reverse exponential weighting smooths transient fluctuations while preserving responsiveness. The resulting real-time semantic mode predictions accurately describe the vehicle’s current dynamics and can inform a model predictive control system that can adjust suspension parameters and update internal constraints for improved performance, ride comfort, and component longevity. The methodology extends to other components, such as braking systems, offering a scalable path toward fully self-optimizing vehicle control in both conventional and autonomous platforms. Full article

Seed deterioration is an inevitable process during storage, characterized by a gradual loss of germination capacity and eventual seed death, which poses challenges to seed longevity and the preservation of genetic resources. Understanding the molecular mechanisms driving seed aging and inherent resistance pathways, alongside developing innovative rejuvenation strategies for deteriorated seeds, is crucial for agricultural sustainability and germplasm banking. This review systematically examines (1) redox-regulated deterioration pathways involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) and macromolecular damage cascades, (2) anti-deterioration mechanisms mediated by the antioxidant system and macromolecular repair mechanisms, (3) genetic–epigenetic networks governing seed aging resistance, particularly ABA- and IAA-mediated signaling through ABI3/ABI5/LEC1 regulons, and (4) technological advances in seed priming that restore aged seeds via metabolic resetting and repair potentiation. By integrating multi-omics insights with physiological evidence, we propose a hierarchical model of seed deterioration and establish mechanistic links between priming interventions and longevity enhancement. These insights offer a theoretical framework for cultivating anti-deterioration crop varieties and developing seed longevity-enhancement technologies. Full article

This study investigated the effects of acid etching with grape seed extract (GSE)-modified etchants, varying phosphoric acid (PA) concentrations, on endogenous collagenolytic activity of etched dentin, adhesive–dentin (A/D) interfacial formation, and bond strength over time. Three PA concentrations (5%, 10%, and 20%) were combined with 2% GSE (5PA/GSE, 10PA/GSE, and 20PA/GSE) and compared to a control (CT) group using 32% PA gel (3M Universal Scotchbond etchant). Seventy-four caries-free human third molars were sectioned to expose dentin surfaces, which were etched and analyzed. In situ zymography with confocal laser microscopy was used to assess endogenous collagenolytic activity in etched dentin specimens. For A/D interfacial morphology and bond strength, etched dentin was bonded with Adper Single Bond Plus adhesive (3M ESPE) and composite buildup. The interfacial morphology of A/D specimens was evaluated using either Goldner’s trichrome staining under light microscopy after microtomy sectioning or scanning electron microscopy. A/D specimens were stored in either TESCA buffer or collagenase solution and tested immediately (IM) or at multiple time points over one year using the microtensile bond strength (μTBS) test. Data were analyzed by one- or three-way ANOVA followed by Games–Howell or Tukey’s tests (α = 0.05). GSE-modified etchants significantly reduced endogenous collagenolytic activity (p < 0.05). Although GSE-modified etchants resulted in thinner A/D interfaces, the bond strength remained unaffected (p > 0.05). Bond strength stability was prolonged up to one year with 5PA/GSE and 10PA/GSE (p < 0.001), while CT or 20PA/GSE showed significant degradation by 17 weeks (p < 0.01). Storage in the more aggressive collagenase solution did not further reduce the bond strength compared to TESCA buffer (p = 0.966). Acid etching with GSE-modified etchants effectively inhibits endogenous MMP-mediated collagenolytic activity. At 5% and 10% PA, this approach enhances the stability of the A/D bond strength, offering a promising modification for dentin bonding protocols. Full article

Hop latent viroid (HLVd), a 256-nucleotide RNA strand with complementary base-pairing and internal stem loop structures, forms circular or rod-shaped molecules within diseased plants. RT-PCR/RT-qPCR was used to assess HLVd transmission, spread and longevity. The viroid was detected in asymptomatic stock plants and in rooted vegetative cuttings, as well as in recirculated nutrient solution sampled from propagation tables and nozzles. Plant-to-plant spread through root infection in hydroponic cultivation was demonstrated. The viroid survived for 7 days and 4 weeks, respectively, in crushed leaf extracts (sap) or dried leaves/roots at room temperature. Following stem inoculation with infectious sap, HLVd was detected in root tissues within 2–3 weeks and in the foliage within 4–6 weeks. Plants grown under a 12:12 h photoperiod to induce inflorescence development showed more rapid spread of HLVd compared to 24 h lighting. The viroid was subsequently detected in inflorescence tissues, in trichome glands, in dried cannabis flowers and in crude resinous oil extracts. Anthers and pollen from infected male plants and seeds from infected female plants contained HLVd, giving rise to up to 100% infected seedlings. Artificially inoculated tomato and tobacco plants supported viroid replication in roots and leaves. Infected cannabis leaf and root tissues treated with UV-C for 3–5 min or temperatures of 70–90 °C for 30 min contained amplifiable HLVd-RNA. Infectious plant extract treated with 5–10% bleach (0.825% NaOCl) or 1000 ppm hypochlorous acid yielded no RT-PCR bands, suggesting the RNA was degraded. Meristem tip culture from HLVd-infected plants yielded a high frequency of pathogen-free plants, depending on the genotype. Full article

The long-term storage of forest tree seeds holds critical significance for ecological restoration, forest resource conservation, and the sustainable development of forestry. In the context of plant biodiversity conservation, enhancing seed storability to achieve efficient utilization has garnered widespread attention. Seed storability, as a complex quantitative trait, is influenced by the combined effects of intrinsic seed characteristics and external environmental factors. The complexity of this issue presents significant challenges in maintaining seed longevity, particularly in the conservation of seeds from endangered species. This review discusses the essential factors affecting seed storability and the main causes of seed aging. It emphasizes the roles of molecular mechanisms, including raffinose family oligosaccharide (RFO), heat shock protein (HSP), late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins, seed storage proteins (SSPs), and hormonal regulation, in modulating seed storability. Additionally, the evaluation criteria and methodologies for assessing seed storability are elaborated. The review highlights future research challenges, aiming to provide a comprehensive scientific foundation and practical guidance to improve seed storability. This will offer theoretical support for the sustainable management of forest resources. Full article

Seed longevity, which holds paramount importance for agriculture and biodiversity conservation, continues to represent a formidable frontier in plant biology research. While advances have been made in identifying regulatory elements, the precise mechanisms behind seed lifespan determination remain intricate and context-specific. This comprehensive review compiles extensive findings on seed longevity across plant species, focusing on the genetic and environmental underpinnings. Inter-species differences in seed lifespan are tied to genetic traits, with numerous Seed Longevity-Associated Genes (SLAGs) uncovered. These SLAGs encompass transcription factors and enzymes involved in stress responses, repair pathways, and hormone signaling. Environmental factors, particularly seed developmental conditions, significantly modulate seed longevity. Moreover, this review deliberates on the prospects of genetically engineering seed varieties with augmented longevity by precise manipulation of crucial genetic components, exemplifying the promising trajectory of seed science and its practical applications within agriculture and biodiversity preservation contexts. Collectively, our manuscript offers insights for improving seed performance and resilience in agriculture’s evolving landscape. Full article

Soybean seeds with similar germination rates may exhibit subtle differences in physiological quality, influencing field performance and storage longevity. This study used a shotgun proteomics approach to characterize the proteomic profile of two commercial soybean seed lots (higher- and lower-quality) during germination, aiming to identify biomarkers associated with vigor and deterioration. Proteins were analyzed across three germination phases: imbibition (Phase I, 0.5 h), metabolic activation (Phase II, 20 h), and radicle protrusion (Phase III, 51 h). A total of 777 proteins were identified, and of these differentially abundant proteins (DAPs), the following totals were detected: 12 in Phase I, 17 in Phase II, and 28 in Phase III. In Phase I, ribosomal proteins were more abundant in high-quality seeds, indicating efficient translation and preparation for germination. Conversely, in Phase III, low-quality seeds showed increased levels of storage proteins and stress-response proteins, including alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), heat shock proteins, and annexins, reflecting delayed germination and more deterioration. These findings highlight the dynamic nature of protein expression during germination and demonstrate the potential of proteomics to detect subtle differences in physiological quality. The identified biomarkers provide insights for seed quality assessment and offer practical applications for improving classification and management of commercial soybean seed lots. Full article

Vegetable oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids have been shown to improve animal health and enrich milk with functional fatty acids in various studies. This study investigates the effects of dietary supplementation with hemp seed oil (HSO), a native vegetable oil from the “longevity village” of Bama (Guangxi, China), on the milk performance, milk fatty acid composition, blood indicators, and rumen bacterial community of milk-producing buffalo. Seventeen healthy, four-year-old, crossbred, milk-producing buffaloes with the same parity (three), as well as similar body weights (BW = 580 ± 25 kg), number of days producing milk (DIM, 153 ± 10 d), and milk yields (8.56 ± 0.89 kg/d) were divided into three groups (n = 6, 5, and 6) and assigned to the following diets: (1) no HSO supplement (H0, n = 6), (2) a supplement of 100 g/d of HSO (H1, n = 5), and (3) a supplement of 200 g/d of HSO (H2, n = 6). The total experimental period was 42 days (including a 14-day adaptation period and a 28-day treatment period). The data were statistically analyzed by repeated measures analysis of variance. The results showed that compared to that of no HSO supplement group, the dry matter intake (DMI) showed a decreasing tendency (p = 0.06), while feed efficiency and rumen fermentation remained similar across all the groups (p > 0.05) with dietary HSO supplementation. Moreover, with dietary HSO supplementation, the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p = 0.05) and catalase (CAT) (p < 0.01) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (p = 0.02) contents in the serum were greatly increased, with the highest levels observed in the H2 group (increased by 1.16 U/mL, 1.15 U/mL, and 134.51 U/mL, respectively). In contrast, the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was significantly decreased with dietary HSO supplementation (p = 0.02) and was the lowest in the H1 group (decreased by 0.72 nmol/mL). The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) content in the blood showed an increasing tendency with dietary HSO supplementation (p = 0.09). Moreover, with dietary HSO supplementation, the proportions of C18:0 (p = 0.02), C18:1n9t (p = 0.02), C18:2n6c (p = 0.02), C18:3n3 (p < 0.01), C18:2n9c (p = 0.04), omega-3 (p = 0.02), and omega-6 (p = 0.02) were significantly increased, with the highest levels observed in the H2 group (increased by 5.29 g/100 g FA, 1.81 g/100 g FA, 0.55 g/100 g FA, 0.14 g/100 g FA, 0.75 g/100 g FA, 0.17 g/100 g FA, and 0.56 g/100 g FA, respectively). Additionally, rumen Acetobacter abundance was significantly affected by HSO addition (p = 0.03), with rumen Acetobacter abundance decreasing in the H1 group (by 0.55%) and increasing in the H2 group (by 0.73%). These results suggest that adding HSO to milk-producing buffalo diets does not affect feed efficiency or rumen fermentation, although it decreases the DMI. Meanwhile, it can improve the nutritional quality of milk, enhance the antioxidant status, and regulate blood lipid metabolism in milk-producing buffaloes. Full article

Echinops gmelinii Turcz. is a winter annual species of the Asteraceae family, distributed in sandy areas of northern China, and is crucial for wind avoidance and sand fixation. To understand the inter- and intra-annual population dynamics of E. gmelinii in its cold desert habitats, we conducted long- and short-term demographic studies to investigate the timing of germination, seedling survival, soil seed bank and seed longevity of natural populations on the fringe of the Tengger Desert. Cypselae (seeds) of E. gmelinii can germinate in both July and August, but this process is heavily affected by precipitation amount and timing. Early emerging seedlings died rapidly under the high temperature and drought stress, before completing their life cycle. Later emerging seedlings could survive to complete their life cycle due to more suitable conditions for plant growth. In short, seedling survival dynamics were affected by precipitation distribution, and the survival rates were low (<4%). In addition, we found that the high seed production (1328 seeds·m⁻²) of E. gmelinii depended mainly on the production of seeds by individuals rather than high plant density (35 individuals·m⁻²). The contribution of newly ripened seeds and soil seed banks to seedlings emergence was 57.7% and 42.3%, respectively. Thus, only a small amount of the newly matured seeds was depleted during the year. Only 23.6% of the annual seeds germinated, and the remainder accumulated in a persistent soil seed bank (seed longevity was ≥2 y). The amount and timing of precipitation distribution were the key factors affecting the population dynamics of E. gmelinii in our study area. This species can cope with the uncertain precipitation patterns though a “cautious” germination strategy, varying the timing of germination and forming a persistent soil seed bank. Full article