Flower Heads Research Articles

Influence of different plant growth retardants in Mexican lawn grass (Zoysia matrella) for reducing the mowing frequency and better visual qualities

Mexican lawn grass (Zoysia matrella) is a perennial mat-forming species suited for the landscaping industry due to its versatile adaptability. The pleasing appearance of the lawn grasses can be achieved through mowing at regular intervals to avoid a shabby appearance, which requires skilled persons and ends up with expensive operation. Under these circumstances, the experiment was intended with the commonly available growth regulators for their efficiency in the reduction of the mowing cycle without losing or hampering their visual quality attributes. The application of 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) produced a mean grass leaf length of 2.00 cm, which was remarkably lower than that of control (T9), i.e., 4.87 cm. The same pattern of growth was exhibited during the 45th and 90th days after spraying. The mean turf shoot length (7.80 cm) and root length (13.40 cm) were observed in the control plots, while the application of 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) produced 3.83 cm and 7.94 cm, respectively, determining its ability to hamper the growth of turf grass. The Z. matrella grass failed to produce flower heads by the application of 1.0% mepiquat chloride (T2), 0.5% chlormequat chloride (T3), 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4), 0.5% maleic hydrazide (T7) and 1.0% maleic hydrazide (T8). The control plots devoid of growth regulators initiate flower heads after 70 days. From the study, the application of 0.5% chlormequat chloride (T3) and 1.0% chlormequat chloride (T4) exerted a low level of thatch accumulation and no flower head formation was observed with maximal visual scoring, leading to the commercial expeditions for the turf industry.

Chemical Composition of Extracts from Various Parts of Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.) and Their Antioxidant, Protective, and Antimicrobial Activities

Tanacetum parthenium is a medicinal plant from the Asteraceae family that can be applied externally in the case of various skin diseases. The aim of the study was to perform a phytochemical analysis of hydroethanolic extracts from the aerial parts (herb), flower heads, and leaves of feverfew and to assess their biological properties. Hydrodistilled oils were analyzed using GC-MS. The chemical composition of the extracts was estimated using spectrophotometry and the HPLC method. Moreover, the extracts were evaluated to determine their antioxidant potential using DPPH and FRAP and measuring the intracellular level of ROS. The cytotoxicity of extracts toward keratinocytes and fibroblasts was also analyzed, as well as their antimicrobial properties against 12 microorganisms. The results of the research revealed that chrysanthenone and α-thujone were the dominant volatile compounds in the essential oil from the flowers, while camphor, trans-chrysanthenyl acetate, and camphene were predominant in the essential oil from the leaves and herb. The results of HPLC showed that the major polyphenol compounds present in the hydroethanolic extracts from various parts of T. parthenium were 3,5-dicaffeoyl-quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, and 3,4-dicaffeoyl-quinic acid. The extract from feverfew flowers was shown to have the highest content of total polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, as well as the highest antioxidant potential. In turn, the herb extract had the highest content of condensed tannins and terpenoids and exhibited the most effective antimicrobial properties against the 12 bacterial and fungal strains. Moreover, the hydroethanolic extracts from different parts of T. parthenium plants were shown to have a potent protective effect on skin cells. The present study supports the potential applications of Tanacetum parthenium in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

South Africa’s crowded cannabis market: identifying new market opportunities for Ilco Farming’s “green gold”

Learning outcomes Following a discussion of the case, students should be able to analyse competitive dynamics: provide an in-depth critical analysis of Ilco Farming’s microenvironment, using the structure–conduct–performance framework; evaluate strategic positioning: conduct a SWOT analysis of Ilco Farming’s medicinal cannabis business; and develop strategic approaches: propose actionable strategies that would provide effective solutions to the problem of constrained market conditions currently faced by Ilco Farming. Case overview/synopsis Coenie and Ilse Venter established Ilco Farming, a cannabis farm located in the Viljoenskroon district in the Free State province in South Africa, in 2021. From the beginning, they poured their hearts and souls into their new venture, which soon paid off. A few short months after Ilco Farming began operating, despite the presence of other large competitors, Ilco Farming supplied a large share of the domestic medicinal market with flower heads. But then an unexpected challenge presented itself. In March 2023, Ilco Farming was operating at only 23% (600 m2) of its production capacity of 2600 m2 and had considerable room for growth, the local market – at least the local legal market – for cannabis began to show signs of saturation. Coenie and Ilsa found themselves at the proverbial crossroads, grappling with the crucial decision of how to secure their farm’s future in the face of a fast-saturating local (legal) cannabis market and a thriving (illegal) black market. Coenie and Ilse refused to entertain the idea of going the black market route, as they were unwilling to risk losing their operating licence. They calculated that the farm would reach breakeven point within the next two years, with profits unlikely during this period. Should they persist with their current strategy of producing high-quality products and delivering a superior service in the hopes of growing their market share? Or should they consider other strategic options? Coenie and Ilse were sitting at their boardroom table having a cup of coffee and looking out of the window at Ilco Farming’s impressive SAHPRA- and GAP-approved warehouse and tunnels. “What should we do?” they both wondered. Complexity academic level The case study can be used in postgraduate courses in microeconomics (PGDIP/MBA) and agricultural economics (PGDIP/MBA). Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 5: International business.

Monitoring of Broccoli Flower Head Development in Fields Using Drone Imagery and Deep Learning Methods

For different broccoli materials, it used to be necessary to manually plant in a large area for the investigation of flower ball information, and this method is susceptible to subjective influence, which is not only time-consuming and laborious but may also cause some damage to the broccoli in the process of investigation. Therefore, the rapid and nondestructive monitoring of flower heads is key to acquiring high-throughput phenotypic information on broccoli crops. In this study, we used an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to acquire hundreds of images of field-grown broccoli to evaluate their flower head development rate and sizes during growth. First, YOLOv5 and YOLOv8 were used to complete the position detection and counting statistics at the seedling and heading stages. Then, UNet, PSPNet, DeepLabv3+, and SC-DeepLabv3+ were used to segment the flower heads in the images. The improved SC-DeepLabv3+ model excelled in segmenting flower heads, showing Precision, reconciled mean F1-score, mean intersection over union, and mean pixel accuracy values of 93.66%, 95.24%, 91.47%, and 97.24%, respectively, which were 0.57, 1.12, 1.16, and 1.70 percentage points higher than the respective values achieved with the DeepLabv3+ model. Flower head sizes were predicted on the basis of the pixel value of individual flower heads and ground sampling distance, yielding predictions with an R2 value of 0.67 and root-mean-squared error of 1.81 cm. Therefore, the development rate and sizes of broccoli flower heads during growth were successively estimated and calculated. Compared with the existing technology, it greatly improves work efficiency and can help to obtain timely information on crop growth in the field. Our methodology provides a convenient, fast, and reliable way for investigating field traits in broccoli breeding.

First Report of Puccinia leontodontis on Scorzoneroides autumnalis from Iceland

Scorzoneroides autumnalis, commonly known as fall dandelion or autumn hawkbit, is a perennial plant with branched stems and several flower heads with bright yellow florets. In September 2023, rust disease was observed on 25% of plants present in two areas of Iceland showing reddish-yellow spots on the older leaves of the basal rosette. Morphological characteristics and sequencing analysis identified the rust species as Puccinia leontodontis. Our analyses confirm that P. leontodontis and P. hieracii are different species distinguishable through DNA analyses and by host genera, despite previously being regarded as synonyms. To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. leontodontis in Iceland.

Cytotoxic Activity and Evaluation of In Vitro Release of Apigenin 7-O-Glucoside From the Topical Pharmaceutical Formulation Containing Matricaria recutita L. Flower Extract

The extracts from flower heads of Matricaria recutita L. have various biological effects, most notably anti-inflammatory. The most important flavonoid is apigenin, which is mostly found in the form of apigenin-7-O-glucoside. Apigenin-7-O-glucoside is assessed as a marker in Matricaria recutita L. extracts due to its anti-inflammatory effect. In this study, a new, cost-effective, and accurate HPLC-PDA method was developed and implemented for the quantification of apigenin-7-O-glucoside in liquid extracts of the flowers of Matricaria recutita L. grown in Türkiye (Bandırma/Balıkesir) and Türkiye (Arnavutköy/Istanbul) regions. The extraction solvent was ethanol 95.4% v/v (containing 0.12% sodium hydroxide, 0.22% sodium acetate). The apigenin-7-O-glucoside content of the extracts was detected. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extracts were analyzed. Since the extract prepared from the herb grown in Arnavutköy/Istanbul region has higher apigenin-7-O-glycoside, total phenolic and flavonoid contents, a topical cream containing this extract was formulated. An in vitro release test was performed for apigenin-7-O-glucoside to examine the pharmaceutical quality and performance of the cream compared to the reference cream. The test cream showed a faster release than the reference product. In addition, the physicochemical stability of the test product was monitored for 90 days. It is expected to be more effective than the reference product in in vivo studies due to the faster release of the test product. The cell viability profile and apoptotic effect of the extracts and the test cream were evaluated on fibroblast (CCD-1079Sk) and melanoma (SK-MEL-28) cell lines.

Monitoring of Larinus spp. (Coleoptera Curculionidae) infesting cardoon and development of a binomial sampling plan for the estimation of Larinus cynarae infestation level in Mediterranean conditions

The cultivation of cardoon, Cynara cardunculus var. altilis, for multi-purpose uses has increased substantially in recent decades. However, in some cardoon growing areas, the production of achenes is threatened by several insects, especially the weevils Larinus cynarae and Larinus scolymi. Due to the lack of specific monitoring and sampling programs for these pests, the aims of this work were to test the reliability of chromotropic traps for adult Larinus spp. monitoring and to develop binomial sequential sampling plans to assess the infestation level of L. cynarae in cardoon cultivations in a Mediterranean area. Field observations were conducted in two different cardoon growing areas in Sardinia (Italy) in 2019 and 2020. Purple- and red-colored cross-vane traps, placed at 1 m and 2 m above the ground, were utilized for monitoring Larinus spp. adults, and binomial sequential sampling plans were developed for L. cynarae based on the count of egg masses on flower heads for sample sizes of 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 flower heads. The purple traps at 2 m above the ground were effective in monitoring L. scolymi, whereas red and purple traps were ineffective in monitoring L. cynarae adults at both 1 m and 2 m above the ground. Among different binomial sampling plans, a sample size of 70 flower heads is needed to obtain reliable estimates of L. cynarae infestations at or above 25% of infested flowers. Our findings constitute a baseline for the development of an integrated pest management program for the control of Larinus spp. infestations in cardoon-growing areas in Mediterranean environment.

Agroprospecting of Biowastes: Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L. Cultivar Tema, Asteraceae) as Potential Source of Bioactive Compounds.

Artichokes (Cynara scolymus L.) are valuable foods, thanks to their health benefits, but they generate significant waste during their production, harvesting, and processing, which poses sustainability issues. This study applied an agroprospecting approach to convert Tema artichoke biowaste (TB) into valuable resources, starting from a global perspective of the production chain to the targeted applications based on chemical and biological analysis. The major TB was identified in the outer bracts of the immature flower heads, which were collected throughout the harvesting season, extracted, and analyzed. The most abundant compounds were phenolic acids including chlorogenic acid and caffeoylquinic derivatives. Among flavonoids, cynaroside was the most abundant compound. Multivariate analysis distinguished batches by collection period, explaining 77.7% of the variance, with most compounds increasing in concentration later in the harvest season. Subsequently, TB extracts were analyzed for their potential in wound healing and anti-aging properties. Fibroblasts were used to assess the effect of selected extracts on cell migration through a scratch wound assay and on cellular senescence induced by etoposide. The results show a significant decrease in senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity, γH2AX nuclear accumulation, and both p53 and p21 protein levels. Overall, this study ascribes relevant anti-skin aging effects to TB, thus increasing its industrial value in cosmeceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Sustainable experimental cultivation of the Greek endemic Helichrysum amorginum Boiss. and Orph.: Assessment of the total phenolic content at different flower harvest stages

Helichrysum amorginum Boiss. and Orph. constitutes a range-restricted, endemic species of Greece with known pharmaceutical potency. The current work presents the results of a targeted evaluation of the total phenolic content (TPC) of methanolic extracts of H. amorginum flower heads under cultivation conditions at three consecutive harvest stages in two separate cultivation locations across a period of two years (2018 and 2019). The harvested inflorescence tissue was assessed for TPC via the Folin–Ciocalteu method in three and four-year old H. amorginum individuals. Older plants, during the second evaluation year, generally showed higher flower TPC content throughout. The pooled analysis of the results indicated significant differences in TPC among samples of extracts prepared with plant material from different harvest stages with the early flowering stage (A) presenting higher TPC in both experimental cultivation locations (142.6-156 mg GAE g-1 extract on average among the two cultivation locations) followed by the full bloom stage (B) (139-145.7 mg GAE g-1 extract on average) and the late bloom or early post-anthesis stage (C) which showed the lowest TPC in all cases (130.3-131 mg GAE g-1 extract on average). The current results provide for the first-time basic information on the optimum inflorescence harvest stage during the prolonged flowering period of cultivated H. amorginum in terms of TPC. The proposed work can be incorporated into the establishment of a sustainable cultivation protocol for achieving polyphenol-rich extracts and ultimately contributes to the utilization of H. amorginum in the pharmaceutical/cosmetic sectors.

Taxon‐specific response of natural enemies to different flower strip mixtures

Abstract Flower strips are a prominent agri‐environmental scheme with the central objective to promote biodiversity and maintain associated ecosystem services. The promotion of natural enemies by increasing resource availability through flower strips is a promising approach for integrated pest management. In a 3‐year field study, two annual and two perennial flower strip mixtures, as well as a grass mixture, were tested regarding their attractiveness for natural enemies at three different study sites in Germany. Natural enemies were sampled annually in nine sampling rounds at a 10‐day rhythm using sweep netting and pitfall traps. To assess available floral resources, we estimated the species‐specific flower cover and classified species into flower types. Flower strip mixtures differed in their attractiveness to natural enemies. Treatment effects on arthropod activity density were most pronounced in the second and third year. Overall, perennial were more attractive than annual flower strip mixtures for most natural enemies, however, the response to flower strip mixtures varied significantly among taxa. For example, perennial flower strips showed a two‐ to fourfold increase of plant‐dwelling spider and parasitoid wasp activity density as well as higher numbers of juvenile stages of predatory bugs and rove beetles compared to annual flower strips. In contrast, annual flower strip mixtures showed the highest attractiveness for ground beetles. Moreover, different natural enemy taxa were associated with varying flower strip characteristics such as flower type proportion, herbivore availability and plant species richness. Synthesis and applications. We found taxon‐specific responses of natural enemies to different flower strips, which provide guidance for the floral composition of flower strips in order to maximize their effectiveness for natural pest control. We suggest the use of perennial mixtures with high proportion of flower heads (Asteraceae) and disk flowers (esp. Apiaceae, Rubiaceae, Brassicaceae) in particular, but also flag blossoms (Fabaceae) as these flower types were positively associated with several natural enemy groups. However, since we found mixed responses to flower types, specific flower strip composition will ultimately depends on its objective.

Conservation Prioritization of Orthoptera Assemblages on a Mediterranean Island

In response to the ongoing global extinction, conservationists must prioritize future conservation investments to ensure that such measures are biologically effective and economically viable. To propose an effective conservation plan for Orthoptera assemblages on Cyprus Island, we introduce the Standardized Conservation Index (StCI), a biodiversity index accounting for the conservation value (ci), presence, dispersal ability, endemism and conservation status of a species. We evaluated the effect of eleven environmental variables on StCI, ci, species richness and the Shannon–Wiener diversity index, using linear and generalized linear models. Species and environmental data were collected in 60 localities that were placed along four elevational zones and included seven habitat types. Our results revealed the importance of rural mosaics and forests for the conservation of Orthoptera. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index failed to show the importance of high-altitude forests. The Orthoptera species diversity was favored by flower heads and the soil humidity, while rock cover and high shrubs had a positive and negative effect, respectively, on the StCI and ci values. Our results underline the value of StCI in complementing traditional diversity indices, as a scale-independent index that can be used for different taxa to prioritize sites of conservation concern.

Bioactive Compounds, Health Benefits and Food Applications of Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and Artichoke By-Products: A Review

Cynara scolymus L. is an herbaceous plant originally from the western Mediterranean area, with Italy, Spain and France the main being producers. Both the edible flowering head and the by-products generated during processing (outer bracts, leaves and stem) are characterized by a high content of essential vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds. In particular, the leaves represent a great source of phenolic acids derived from caffeoylquinic acid or flavonoids such as luteonin and apigenin, while the head and stem contain a high content of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, especially inulin and pectins. Its high content of bioactive compounds provides artichoke a high antioxidant power due to the modulation effect of the transcription factor Nrf2, which may lead to protection against cardiovascular, hepatic and neurological disorders. The potential use of artichoke as a functional ingredient in the food industry may be promising in terms of improving the nutritional value of products, as well as preventing oxidation and extending the shelf-life of processed foods due to its antimicrobial activity. This review aims to provide an overview of the nutritional qualities of Cynara scolymus L. and its by-products, focusing on the possible health effects and potential applications in food products as a higher-value-added alternative ingredient.

Seasonal Incidence of <i>Helicoverpa armigera</i> on Sunflower

Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). the sunflower head borer, poses a significant threat as it can cause extensive damage by feeding on flower heads and seeds. Its presence can lead to yield losses. Effective IPM strategies are crucial to mitigate the impact of H. armigera infestations and ensure the profitability and sustainability. Monitoring pests is crucial for timely intervention and to minimize crop damage and optimize yields. The present field experiment was carried out during 2021 to study the seasonal incidence of H. armigera on sunflower. Result revealed that incidence of H. armigera was observed during 50th standard meteorological week which reached to peak during 7th SMW. However, it crossed the ETL during 4th SMW. In relation to weather parameters, H. armigera showed positive correlation with maximum temperature (r = 0.557*), while it was negative with evening relative humidity (r = - 0.605*). Further, multiple regression was carried out and it revealed that environmental factors influenced about 70.10% H. armigera incidence in sunflower.

The Dark Side of the pollen: BSA-seq identified genomic regions linked to male sterility in globe artichoke

Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus; 2n = 2x = 34) is a food crop consumed for its immature flower heads. Traditionally, globe artichoke varietal types are vegetatively propagated. However, seed propagation makes it possible to treat the crop as annual, increasing field uniformity and reducing farmers costs, as well as pathogens diffusion. Despite globe artichoke’s significant agricultural value and the critical role of heterosis in the development of superior varieties, the production of hybrids remains challenging without a reliable system for large-scale industrial seed production. Male sterility (MS) presents a promising avenue for overcoming these challenges by simplifying the hybridization process and enabling cost-effective seed production. However, within the Cynara genus, genic male sterility has been linked to three recessive loci in globe artichoke, with no definitive genetic mechanism elucidated to date. A 250 offsprings F2 population, derived from a cross between a MS globe artichoke and a male fertile (MF) cultivated cardoon (C. cardunculus var. altilis) and fitting a monogenic segregation model (3:1), was analyzed through BSA-seq, aiming at the identification of genomic regions/genes affecting male sterility. Four QTL regions were identified on chromosomes 4, 12, and 14. By analyzing the sequence around the highest pick on chromosome 14, a cytochrome P450 (CYP703A2) was identified, carrying a deleterious substitution (R/Q) fixed in the male sterile parent. A single dCAPS marker was developed around this SNP, allowing the discrimination between MS and MF genotypes within the population, suitable for applications in plant breeding programs. A 3D model of the protein was generated by homology modeling, revealing that the mutated amino acid is part of a highly conserved motif crucial for protein folding.

Aphid alarm pheromone mimicry in transgenic Chrysanthemum morifolium: insights into the potential of (E)-β-farnesene for aphid resistance.

(E)-β-Farnesene (EBF) serves as the primary component of the alarm pheromone used by most aphid pest species. Pyrethrum (Tanacetum cinerariifolium) exhibits tissue-specific regulation of EBF accumulation and release, effectively mimicking the aphid alarm signal, deterring aphid attacks while attracting aphid predators. However, cultivated chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium), a popular and economically significant flower, is highly vulnerable to aphid infestations. In this study, we investigated the high expression of the pyrethrum EBF synthase (TcEbFS) gene promoter in the flower head and stem, particularly in the parenchyma cells. Subsequently, we introduced the TcEbFS gene, under the control of its native promoter, into cultivated chrysanthemum. This genetic modification led to increased EBF accumulation in the flower stem and young flower bud, which are the most susceptible tissues to aphid attacks. Analysis revealed that aphids feeding on transgenic chrysanthemum exhibited prolonged probing times and extended salivation durations during the phloem phase, indicating that EBF in the cortex cells hindered their host-location behavior. Interestingly, the heightened emission of EBF was only observed in transgenic chrysanthemum flowers after mechanical damage. Furthermore, we explored the potential of this transgenic chrysanthemum for aphid resistance by comparing the spatial distribution and storage of terpene volatiles in different organs and tissues of pyrethrum and chrysanthemum. This study provides valuable insights into future trials aiming for a more accurate replication of alarm pheromone release in plants. It highlights the complexities of utilizing EBF for aphid resistance in cultivated chrysanthemum and calls for further investigations to enhance our understanding of this defense mechanism.

The First Study on Cultivating Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All.) for Its Flower and Essential Oil in Southeast Serbia

Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All.) is a perennial herbaceous medicinal plant species that has not yet been thoroughly researched in terms of the influence of growing conditions on its morphological characteristics, flower yield, and the content and quality of its essential oil (EO). The plant material was harvested in the subsequent two production years at three localities in Southeast Serbia, differing in soil type (Alluvial soil, Rendzina, and Calcomelanosol). Based on two-year average values, the best results were obtained from plants grown on Rendzina, including the yield of fresh flowers (1850.2 g/m2), the highest plant height (49.3 cm), the number of branches (4.1), leaves (11.6), and flower heads (3.6), the flower diameter (1.6 cm), and the essential oil content (1.6%). The major EO constituent obtained from the plants growing on Rendzina and Calcomelanosol was 3-methyl pentyl angelate (20.8% and 15.2%, respectively). In the EO obtained from the plants growing on Alluvial soil, the major EO constituent was isobutyl angelate (13.0%), while the content of 3-methyl pentyl angelate was close to it (12.2%). The outcomes of this study provide guidelines for further research related to the cultivation of a Roman chamomile genotype on various soil types in a hilly region of Southeast Serbia, where most cultivated plants cannot be grown.

STUDY OF THE PROCESS OF PLANT RAW MATERIAL EXTRACTION IN A STATIC-TYPE CAVITATION INLINE MIXER

Abstract. The flowering heads of calendula have a significant content of biologically active substances (BAS) with a wide range of pharmacological activities. Traditional methods for obtaining their aqueous extracts include maceration or percolation. However, these methods have significant drawbacks. The rational choice of equipment and the study of the influence of thermophysical conditions on the extraction process of specific plant raw materials to intensify mass transfer processes are relevant. The aim of the study is to investigate the transition of solid substances of calendula flowers into a soluble state in a flow cavitation mixer of a static type to intensify mass transfer processes in obtaining aqueous extracts. For the research, previously ground dry calendula flower heads, swollen in distilled water at a hydro module of 1:15 and reduced to 0,1-2 mm, were used. The work was carried out on an experimental cavitation mixer of the Venturi tube type with a variable cavitation reactor with a nozzle throat diameter ranging from 0,006 m to 0,12 m. The efficiency of extraction was determined by the amount of water-soluble substances, and the cavitation phenomenon was characterized by the cavitation number. Results: The overall design of the cavitation apparatus, the profile and geometric parameters of the nozzle, the flow parameters, as well as the properties of the plant material, significantly affect the hydrodynamic conditions and the development of cavitation effects during processing. The Venturi-type flow cavitation mixer used in the research showed high efficiency in processing mass transfer processes during the extraction of a water suspension of calendula flower heads. The results obtained indicate that the most significant impact of cavitation effects is observed at nozzle throat diameters of 0,08 m and 0,10 m, with cavitation numbers χ = 0,53 and χ = 0,84, respectively. In this case, the process duration can be limited to 60 seconds. The obtained conclusions are confirmed by microstructure studies.

Variations in epidermal trichomes of a mystic weed Parthenium hysterophorus L. from semi-arid regions of Barmer, Rajasthan (India).

The Asteraceae family of plants, which has 16,000-17,000 genera and 24,000-30000 species, is diverse and widely spread, notably in the tropics and subtropics. Asteraceae has capitula head bracket traits that are unique to this genus of plants. This study's goal was to identify the micro-morphological makeup of the trichomes in Parthenium hysterophorus L. Invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus L. is erect, short-lived fast-growing plant is found in hot areas and is known for its luxuriant growth. As the stem attains maturity, becomes harder. Mature stems are greenish and coated in tiny, soft hairs called hirustles. Later leaves are simple and deeply pinnatifid, while early leaves create a rosette habitat. Hundreds of tiny flower heads, or capitulum, are arranged in clusters at the apex of the branches. Trichomes are epidermal appendages that are frequently seen on the leaves, stems, and fruits of plants. There are two types of trichomes: glandular and non-glandular. The immature leaves and stem of Parthenium hysterophorus L. were cut into slices, the layers were removed, and the specimen was examined at X4, X10, X40, and X100 magnifications under light microscope. The sample was taken from the stem, which was located one to three centimeters from the tip. 14 different types of trichomes, including cylindrical, moniliform, simple uniseriate, non-glandular sessile, and palate types of glandular trichomes, are observed on the leaves, petiole, and stem of Parthenium hysterophorus L. These trichomes are primarily identified based on their structural differences. Trichomes are an important taxonomic tool for differentiating between species and genera. In respect to aridity, the study presents several new features that give future taxonomists a basic understanding of trichome diversity.

The hidden diversity of vascular patterns in flower heads.

Vascular systems are intimately related to the shape and spatial arrangement of the plant organs they support. We investigate the largely unexplored association between spiral phyllotaxis and the vascular system in Asteraceae flower heads. We imaged heads of eight species using synchrotron-based X-ray micro-computed tomography and applied original virtual reality and haptic software to explore head vasculature in three dimensions. We then constructed a computational model to infer a plausible patterning mechanism. The vascular system in the head of the model plant Gerbera hybrida is qualitatively different from those of Bellis perennis and Helianthus annuus, characterized previously. Cirsium vulgare, Craspedia globosa, Echinacea purpurea, Echinops bannaticus, and Tanacetum vulgare represent variants of the Bellis and Helianthus systems. In each species, the layout of the main strands is stereotypical, but details vary. The observed vascular patterns can be generated by a common computational model with different parameter values. In spite of the observed differences of vascular systems in heads, they may be produced by a conserved mechanism. The diversity and irregularities of vasculature stand in contrast with the relative uniformity and regularity of phyllotactic patterns, confirming that phyllotaxis in heads is not driven by the vasculature.

Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for the Extraction of Spilanthol from Acmella oleracea (L.) R.K.Jansen.

With a growing focus on green chemistry, the extraction of natural products with natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES), which are eutectic mixtures of hydrogen bond donors and acceptors, has become an ever-expanding field of research. However, the use of NADES for the extraction of spilanthol from Acmella oleracea (L.) R.K.Jansen has not yet been investigated. Therefore, in this study, 20 choline chloride-based NADES, and for comparison, ethanol, were used as green extraction agents for spilanthol from Acmella oleracea flower heads. The effects of time, water addition, and temperature on NADES extractions were investigated and analysed by HPLC-DAD quantification. Additionally, UHPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn results for dichloromethane extracts, as well as the isolation of spilanthol and other main constituents as reference compounds, are reported. The best green extraction results were achieved by choline chloride (ChCl) with 1,2-propanediol (P, 1:2 molar ratio, +20% water) at 244.58 µg/mL, comparable to yields with ethanol (245.93 µg/mL). Methylurea (MeU, 1:2, +20% water) also showed promising results as a hydrogen bond donor in combination with choline chloride (208.12 µg/mL). In further experiments with NADES ChCl/P (1:2) and ChCl/MeU (1:2), extraction time had the least effect on spilanthol extraction with NADES, while yield decreased with water addition over 20% and increased with extraction temperature up to 80 °C. NADES are promising extraction agents for the extraction of spilanthol, and these findings could lead to applicable extracts for medicinal purposes, due to their non-toxic constituents.