Native Tree Research Articles

Optimizing multiple ecosystem services in Eucalyptus plantations: Dual effects of intercropping and restoration

Mixed plantations of Eucalyptus with native tree species can effectively improve forest ecosystem services. However, the long-term effects and ratios of Eucalyptus-native tree species mixture on plant diversity in different plant layer, multiple ecosystem services, multiservice and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. To fill these gaps, a four-level intercropping gradient of Eucalyptus urophylla planted with eight native tree species (NS) was set up (i.e., 20%NS, 30%NS, 40%NS, 50%NS), monitored and compared with a monoculture E. urophylla plantation (EU) and a randomly mixed plantation (98%NS) in southern China. We calculated the multiple ecosystem services of the plantation and the multidimensional diversity (taxonomic diversity (TD), functional diversity (FD), and phylogenetic diversity (PD)) of different plant layers. The results showed that the long-term (13–15a) and short-term (1a) plantation communities were significantly different in multidimensional diversity in all three vertical plant layers. In the long-term, intercropping with more than 20% native trees significantly increased the multidimensional diversity in the tree layer, but not the shrub and herb layers, compared to the EU. Intercropping with 50% native trees significantly promoted biodiversity conservation service, ecosystem multiservice and synergistic relationships among ecosystem services over a decade. Both initial mixing ratio and naturally restored multidimensional diversity in shrub and herb layers influenced tree layer's multidimensional diversity, contributing to long-term multiple ecosystem services of mixed Eucalyptus-native tree species plantations. Our results highlighted the risk of applying short-term based diversity results in long-term strategy making for E. urophylla plantation, quantitatively explored the high explanatory power of plant functional and phylogenetic diversities on multiservice, and expanded understanding of the mechanisms of the triad, biodiversity-ecosystem service-ecosystem stability. To practice, intercropping 50% native trees was recommend for long-term optimizing multiservice restoration, including but not limited to biodiversity conservation, and the syngeneic development among ecosystem services of Eucalyptus plantations.

Woody species composition, structure and regeneration status of Alka forest Beyeda District, North Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, Northern Ethiopia

BackgroundEthiopia's varied geography, from the Simien Mountains to the Great Rift Valley, creates unique microclimates that support an incredible range of plant species. However, forests are declining due to the expansion of farmlands, settlements and overgrazing. Therefore, there is a need for extensive assessments to inventory woody species composition, structure and regeneration status of the Alka forest.MethodsA reconnaissance survey was carried out in February 2021 to obtain a general understanding of the research area and vegetation. The vegetation sampling was carried out via a systematic sampling technique. A total of 40 main plots, each measuring 20 m × 20 m and spaced 100 m apart, were placed along the marked transects at 50 m intervals to collect vegetation data. Five 2 m × 2 m subplots were laid out to collect vegetation data on the seedlings and saplings. Trees and shrubs with a DBH greater than 2.5 cm at breast height or 1.3 m above ground were measured via diameter tape in each plot, and their heights were recorded. Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed by using R statistical software version 3.4.0 to sort vegetation into vegetation community types.ResultsA total of 48 woody species within 37 families were identified. Among the total number of species, four were found to be endemic to Ethiopia. Fabaceae was the dominant family, followed by Asteraceae. Four types of plant communities were investigated in the Alka forest. Moreover, the densities of woody plant species for mature individuals, saplings and seedlings were 2556.875, 1633.125 and 1641.25 stem/ ha-1 respectively.This implies that the forest is categorized under fair regeneration status. Juniperus procera had the highest IVI value (24.24), followed by Hagenia abyssinica (12.073).ConclusionThe findings showed that the forest contain considerable numbers of woody plant composition in addition to endemic plant life. Families represented by only one species will be extinct from this forest if thorough conservation measures are not implemented. Through the government's "green legacy initiative," people will be encouraged to plant native tree species to lessen the number of natural forests in in situ conservation methods, and further investigations are needed to evaluate the soil seed bank in the Alka forest.

Development of a Machine Learning Natural Ventilation Rate Model by Studying the Wind Field Inside and Around Multiple-Row Chinese Solar Greenhouses

This paper experimented with a methodology of machine learning modelling using virtual samples generated by fast CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations in order to predict the greenhouse natural ventilation. However, the output natural ventilation rates using fast two-dimensional (2D) CFD models are not always consistent with the three-dimensional (3D) one for all the scenarios. The first contribution of this paper is a proposed comparative modelling methodology between two-dimensional and three-dimensional CFD studies, regarding its validity, especially when buildings are in rows. The results show that the error of the ventilation rate prediction could exceed 50%, if 2D models are not properly used. Subsequently, in those scenarios where the 2D and the 3D models had equal accuracy, nearly one thousand samples were generated using fast 2D CFD simulations to train a natural ventilation rate regression tree model. This model is efficient to deal with the combined effect of wind pressure and thermal gradients under various vent configurations, with only four necessary inputs. In addition, by analyzing the wind speed distribution contour of the outdoor wind field around the greenhouse rows, the optimal wind speed-measuring locations were determined to eliminate interference for predicting the natural ventilation rate.

Tapping line detection and rubber tapping pose estimation for natural rubber trees based on improved YOLOv8 and RGB-D information fusion

Tapping line detection and rubber tapping pose estimation are challenging tasks in rubber plantation environments for rubber tapping robots. This study proposed a method for tapping line detection and rubber tapping pose estimation based on improved YOLOv8 and RGB-D information fusion. Firstly, YOLOv8n was improved by introducing the CFB module into the backbone, adding an output layer into the neck, fusing the EMA attention mechanism into the neck, and modifying the loss function as NWD to realize multi-object detection and segmentation. Secondly, the trunk skeleton line was extracted by combining level set and ellipse fitting. Then, the new tapping line was located by combining edge detection and geometric analysis. Finally, the rubber tapping pose was estimated based on the trunk skeleton line and the new tapping line. The detection results from 597 test images showed the improved YOLOv8n’s detection mAP0.5, segmentation mAP0.5, and model size were 81.9%, 72.9%, and 6.06 MB, respectively. The improved YOLOv8n’s effect and efficiency were superior compared to other networks, and it could better detect and segment natural rubber tree image targets in different scenes. The pose estimation results from 300 new tapping lines showed the average success rate and average time consumed for rubber tapping pose estimation were 96% and 0.2818 s, respectively. The positioning errors in x, y, and z directions were 0.69 ± 0.51 mm, 0.73 ± 0.4 mm, and 1.07 ± 0.56 mm, respectively. The error angles in a, o, and n directions were 1.65° ± 0.68°, 2.53° ± 0.88°, and 2.26° ± 0.89°, respectively. Therefore, this method offers an effective solution for rubber tapping pose estimation and provides theoretical support for the development of rubber tapping robots.

Effects of Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth Attributes of the Endangered (Anisoptera scaphula Roxb.) Species

Anisoptera scaphula (Boilam), one of Bangladesh's tallest native tree species, plays a vital role in the Asian forest ecosystem. It is critically endangered and at high risk of extinction. This research, conducted from April 2022 to February 2023, examined the effects of pre-sowing treatments on seed germination and seedling growth. Seeds collected from a mother tree in Cox’s Bazar were subjected to four treatments: untreated (T0), soaked in water for 12h (T1), soaked and air-dried for 12h (T2), and soaked and air-dried for 24h (T3). Results showed T2 had the highest germination rate (84.2%) and fastest germination, while T0 had the lowest (52.3%). Seedlings from T2 also exhibited the greatest height (46.4 cm) and collar diameter (0.76 cm). Around 2000 seedlings are now ready for planting. These findings support large-scale seed production and regeneration efforts to mitigate the extinction risk of A. scaphula and restore its ecological role.

Carbon Footprint of Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) Value Chain in Misiones Province (Argentina)

Yerba mate (YM) is an important crop derived from the cultivation of the native tree Ilex paraguariensis in northeastern Argentina, used for the preparation of mate infusion, which is widely consumed in South America. This study aimed at assessing the environmental impact, namely of CO2 equivalent (CO2eq.) emissions, of the YM value chain while identifying environmental hotspots along the production chain, from nursery up to transport. A cradle-to-wholesale approach was carried out, considering as the main functional unit 1 kg of commercial YM produced in Misiones Province and transported to Buenos Aires, the largest YM market in the world. Primary data were gathered from representative nurseries and plantations of the region; processing and packaging data were collected from a local cooperative, while the assessment of the impact due to truck transport was performed considering a distance of 1200 km from Buenos Aires. All the processes were analyzed using LCA methodology following the guidelines outlined in the ISO 14044 regulation (EN ISO 14044); the GaBi software (Sphera Solution, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), updated to version 10.7.21.8, was used for process modeling, while the CML 2001 calculation method, updated as of the latest release in August 2016, was used to calculate the impacts. The results (1.24 kg CO2eq./kg. YM produced in Misiones and transported to Buenos Aires) show that the cultivation phase of YM has very little impact, while most of the emissions are related to the drying phase and the subsequent transportation from the production area to Buenos Aires.

Shelterbelt and Windbreak Research in Arid India: A Review of Research Advances and Future Directions

Shelterbelts and windbreaks play a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability, particularly in arid regions where harsh climatic conditions pose significant challenges to land use. In India, where a substantial portion of the landscape is characterized by dry, aridand semi-arid conditions, the strategic implementation of windbreaks can mitigate soil erosion, reduce evaporationand enhance microclimatic conditions for crops. Globally, research in this area has gained momentum as the impacts of climate change intensify, further exacerbating the vulnerabilities of these fragile ecosystems. In India, the technology was practiced diligently to control movement of sand dunesand to stop desertification extending further from the Thar desert. By integrating native tree species and adopting region-specific management practices, studies have shown that shelterbelts/ windbreaks can significantly improve soil fertility and crop yield, while also providing habitats for biodiversity and other ecosystem services. Furthermore, the socio-economic benefits for local communities, such as improved livelihoods and resilience against climatic extremes, underline the importance of windbreak research in these regions. This review aims to synthesize existing knowledge on windbreak and shelterbelt practices in India’s arid landscapes, highlighting successful cases, trends in research and potential pathways for future research. By examining the multifaceted benefits of these ecological structures, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of their role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing resilience in vulnerable communities and opening vistas for future research.

Unveiling Groundwater Potential in Hangu District, Pakistan: A GIS-Driven Bivariate Modeling and Remote Sensing Approach for Achieving SDGs

Sustainable groundwater development stands out as a contemporary concern for growing global populations, particularly in stressed riverine arid and semi-arid regions. This study integrated satellite-based (Sentinel-2, ALOS-DEM, and CHIRPS rainfall) data with ancillary lithology and infrastructure datasets using Weight of Evidence (WoE) and Frequency Ratio (FR) models to delineate Groundwater Potential Zones (GWPZs) in the Hangu District, a hydrologically stressed riverine region in northern Pakistan, to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ten key variables, including elevation, slope, aspect, distance to drainage (DD), rainfall, land use/land cover, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, lithology, and road proximity, were incorporated into the Geographic information system (GIS) environment. The FR model outperformed the WoE model, achieving success and prediction rates of 89% and 93%, compared to 82% and 86%. The GWPZs-FR model identified 23% (317 km2) as high potential, located in highly fractured pediment fans below 550 m, with gentle slopes (<5 degrees), DD (within 200 m), and high rainfall in areas of natural trees and vegetation on valley terrace deposits. The research findings significantly support multiple SDGs, with estimated achievement potentials of 37.5% for SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 20% for SDG 13 (Climate Action), 15% for SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 12.5% for SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and notable contributions of 10% for SDG 2 and 5% for SDG 3. This approach provides valuable insights for policymakers, offering a framework for managing groundwater resources and advancing sustainable practices in similar hydrologically stressed regions.

Habitat association and demographic rates for large tree species: implications for native tree species used in forestry

Exotic tree species, though widely used in forestry and restoration projects, pose great threats to local ecosystems. They need to be replaced with native species from natural forests. We hypothesized that natural forests contain large, fast-growing, dominant native tree species that are suitable for specific topographic conditions in forestry. We tested this hypothesis using data from a 50-ha forest dynamics plot in subtropical China. We classified the plot into the ridge, slope, and valley habitats and found that 34/87 species had significant associations with at least one topographic habitat. There were 90 tree species with a maximum diameter ≥ 30 cm, and their abundances varied widely in all habitat types. In all habitat types, for most species, rate of biomass gain due to recruitment was < 1% of its original biomass, and rate of biomass gain due to tree growth was between 1 and 5% of its original biomass. For most species, biomass loss due to tree mortality was not significantly different than biomass gain due to recruitment, but the resulting net biomass increment rates did not significantly differ from zero. The time required to reach a diameter of 30 cm from 1 cm diameter for Altingia chinensis in the slope habitat, for Quercus chungii and Morella rubra in the ridge habitat and for Castanopsis carlesii in all habitats could be as short as 30 years in our simulations based on actual distributions of tree growth observed in the forest. Principal component analyses of maximum diameter, abundance and net biomass increment rates suggested several species were worthy of further tests for use in forestry. Our study provides an example for screening native tree species from natural forests for forestry. Because native tree species are better for local ecosystems, our study will also contribute to biodiversity conservation in plantations.

Terrain's steepness governs sensitivity of urban oak forests to climate variability

Urban forests, vital for providing ecosystem services in cities, face challenges from climatic factors, particularly in heterogeneous urban environments. Kyiv, one of Europe’s largest and most populated cities, boasts a varied topography, with about 55 % of its area covered by forests, where Quercus robur predominates. In this study we investigate the sensitivity of Q. robur trees to climatic factors within Kyiv's urban forest, utilizing tree ring widths as a proxy. Employing dendrochronological approaches, we built nine site-mean ring-width chronologies and identified the growth pointer years and their frequency. Using moving windows in daily correlation analysis, we examined Q. robur response to climatic variations over the last 135 years. Additionally, linear mixed-effects models (LMMs) were applied to the site-specific characteristics such as slope steepness, altitude a.s.l., soil type, soil mechanical composition, soil pH, forest type and coefficient of soil saturated hydraulic conductivity, to identify which of them exert a significant influence on studied trees’ sensitivity to precipitation and temperature. Our results showed that the frequency of negative or positive pointer years in Q. robur growth coincides with extremely dry or wet years. The precipitation amount falling from the dormant period to the early growing season emerges as the key factor for Q. robur trees' radial growth. The trees' sensitivity to this factor was found to be significantly influenced by the slope steepness. Our findings contribute valuable insights into the complex interplay between urban heterogeneity, climatic factors, and the climatic sensitivity of Q. robur in urban areas. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of urban forests’ dynamics, proposing management strategies for slope stability, soil water retention, and natural tree regeneration.

Comparative efficacy of Knema retusa extract delivery via PEG-b-PCL, niosome, and their combination against Acanthamoeba triangularis genotype T4: characterization, inhibition, anti-adhesion, and cytotoxic activity.

Acanthamoeba spp. is a waterborne, opportunistic protozoan that can cause amebic keratitis and granulomatous amebic encephalitis. Knema retusa is a native tree in Malaysia, and its extracts possess a broad range of biological activities. Niosomes are non-ionic surfactant-based vesicle formations and suggest a future targeted drug delivery system. Copolymer micelle (poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(ɛ-caprolactone); PEG-b-PCL) is also a key constituent of niosome and supports high stability and drug efficacy. To establish Knema retusa extract (KRe) loading in diverse nanocarriers via niosome, PEG-b-PCL micelle, and their combination and to study the effect of all types of nanoparticles (NPs) on Acanthamoeba viability, adherent ability, elimination of adherence, and cytotoxicity. In this study, we characterized niosomes, PEG-b-PCL, and their combination loaded with KRe and tested the effect of these NPs on Acanthamoeba triangularis stages. KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL, KRe-loaded niosome, and KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL plus niosome were synthesized and characterized regarding particle size and charge, yield, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and drug loading content (DLC). The effect of these KRe-loaded NPs on trophozoite and cystic forms of A.triangularis was assessed through assays of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), using trypan blue exclusion to determine the viability. The effect of KRe-loaded NPs was also determined on A.triangularis trophozoite for 24-72 h. Additionally, the anti-adhesion activity of the KRe-loaded niosome on trophozoites was also performed on a 96-well plate. Cytotoxicity activity of KRe-loaded NPs was assessed on VERO and HaCaT cells using MTT assay. KRe-loaded niosome demonstrated a higher yielded (87.93 ±6.03%) at 286nm UV-Vis detection and exhibited a larger size (199.3 ±29.98 nm) and DLC (19.63±1.84%) compared to KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL (45.2 ±10.07 nm and 2.15±0.25%). The EE (%) of KRe-loaded niosome was 63.67 ±4.04, which was significantly lower than that of the combination of PEG-b-PCL and niosome (79.67±2.08). However, the particle charge of these NPs was similar (-28.2 ±3.68 mV and -28.5 ±4.88, respectively). Additionally, KRe-loaded niosome and KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL plus niosome exhibited a lower MIC at 24 h (0.25 mg/mL), inhibiting 90-100% of Acanthamoeba trophozoites which lasted 72 h. KRe-loaded niosome affected adherence by around 40-60% at 0.125-0.25 mg/mL and removed Acanthamoeba adhesion on the surface by about 90% at 0.5 mg/mL. Cell viability of VERO and HaCaT cells treated with 0.125 mg/mL of KRe-loaded niosome and KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL plus niosome exceeded 80%. Indeed, niosome and niosome plus PEG-b-PCL were suitable nanocarrier-loaded KRe, and they had a greater nanoparticle property to test with high activities against A. triangularis on the reduction of adherence ability and demonstration of its low toxicity to VERO and HaCaT cells.

Diverse and larger tree islands promote native tree diversity in oil palm landscapes.

In monoculture-dominated landscapes, recovering biodiversity is a priority, but effective restoration strategies have yet to be identified. In this study, we experimentally tested passive and active restoration strategies to recover taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity of woody plants within 52 tree islands established in an oil palm landscape. Large tree islands and higher initial planted diversity catalyzed diversity recovery, particularly functional diversity at the landscape level. At the local scale, results demonstrated that greater initial planting diversity begets greater diversity of native recruits, overcoming limitations of natural recruitment in highly modified landscapes. Establishing large and diverse tree islands is crucial for safeguarding rare, endemic, and forest-associated species in oil palm landscapes.

Pollen dispersal distance of Brazilian native tree species: a systematic review

Knowledge of the pollen dispersal distance (PDD) is crucial for delimitating the collection radius of subpopulations in seed collection areas used as germplasm sources for genetic breeding, conservation, and restoration projects. Some studies have reported the PDD of trees, but these are scattered throughout the literature. Therefore, the objective of this study was to systematically review and report as many PDDs as possible found in the literature on native Brazilian tree species. In the present study, we identified the most and least studied species, temporal trends in publications, geographic distribution of studies, mating systems, and pollinator types for each species. A systematic review protocol was established, and the search criteria were improved, resulting in 543 articles. Forty-four articles contained information on native species, and 319 PDD from 41 tree species were extracted. The most investigated species for pollen dispersal were Cariniana estrellensis (Raddi) Kuntze (Jequitibá-branco) and Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze (Araucária). The PDD values ranged from 9 m to 5229 m, averaging 543.9273 m. The five species with the highest average PDDs were Centrolobium tomentosum Guill. ex Benth. (Araribá), Swietenia macrophylla King (Mogno-brasileiro), Hymenaea courbaril L. (Jatobá), Dipteryx alata Vogel (Baru) and Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart. Ex-Hayne (Jatobá do Cerrado) at 3191 m, 1472 m, 1450 m, 1215.12 m, and 1086.81 m, respectively. Theobroma cacao L. and Ilex paraguariensis A.St.-Hil. had the shortest PDDs averages at 28 m and 15.9 m, respectively. This work provides a valuable PDD database that will expand the possibilities for new research and guide projects related to seed collection, forest restoration, germplasm conservation, and genetic breeding of native Brazilian trees.

Native trees are responsible for the high carbon density in urban natural area forests across eight United States cities

Abstract Urban natural area forests provide cities with crucial ecosystem services, including carbon storage and sequestration. Although previous work from a single city has suggested that urban natural area forests may be carbon‐rich and dominated by native species, it is unclear if that pattern is widespread. Indeed, little is known about the species composition and carbon storage in these green spaces, or how urban natural area forests compared with similar rural forests. Here, we use data collected by the Forests in Cities network to quantify carbon stored in urban natural area forests across 1852 plots in eight of the most populous US cities and examine patterns in woody vegetation carbon storage by tree species composition and size class. We also compare the carbon storage in these urban natural area forests to similar rural forests using USDA FS Forest Inventory and Analysis data. We found that urban natural area forests store between 214 and 267 Mg C ha−1, with the majority (on average 55%) in the above‐ground portion of live trees and shrubs. This carbon was primarily stored by native trees and increased with the proportion of native species, as native trees tended to be larger. The proportion of non‐native species was higher in smaller size classes. Overall, the woody vegetation carbon density in urban natural area forests was higher than similar forest types in rural settings, a phenomenon driven by the presence of more large trees. Synthesis and applications: Together these results demonstrate the importance of urban natural area forests as carbon‐dense ecosystems and havens for native tree species. However, because of the greater number of non‐native species in smaller size classes, these forests may also be at risk of transitioning away from native‐dominated systems. Therefore, greater monitoring efforts and increased management activities such as non‐native species removal will be crucial to maintaining the high carbon storage and health of these ecosystems.

Strengthening resilience: the role of institutions in facilitating local agricultural adaptation to the impact of climate change in Tanzania

Building resilience in areas susceptible to climatic hazards is widely recognised as a critical strategy. This article offers valuable insights into the contribution of institutions to supporting smallholder farmers in building resilience against the effects of climate change. Data for this article was collected from Manzase and Haneti villages in Chamwino district in Dodoma region, Tanzania. The study adopted a qualitative approach and deployed key informant interviews and focus group discussions for data collection. The result showed that institutions that operate in the villages under study which include agricultural extension agencies, Non-Governmental organisations, private companies and village governments, have played such roles as providing drought-resistant seeds, disseminating seasonal weather forecast information and supporting the establishment of income diversification activities to farmers. Furthermore, the institution facilitated agroforestry farming through natural tree regeneration and ensured access to crop markets and loans for farm inputs. These roles have contributed to reducing crop loss due to drought and rainfall unreliability, enhanced household income, and allowed households access to food during drought-induced crop failure. The study also revealed that institutional linkages are crucial in comprehensively addressing challenges faced by smallholder farmers, thereby building their livelihood resilience. This paper argues that strong institutional support is essential for farmers to build resilience against climate change.

Landscape structure influences the eukaryome of a folivorous-frugivorous primate

ABSTRACT Eukaryotes are important components of primate gut communities. Despite their role in the diversity and structure of the gut ecosystem, microbiome research has focused on the prokaryotic component of the gut community. While gut bacteria are shaped by host phylogeny and diet, these factors are known to have negligible effects on eukaryotic diversity, which is expected to be modulated by the characteristics of the habitat. We assess the influence of landscape composition and configuration on the eukaryome of black and gold howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya). We collected fecal samples from 10 independent social groups inhabiting small forest fragments or orchards enriched with native tree species and applied an 18S rRNA gene fragment metabarcoding approach to describe their eukaryotic communities. We used generalized linear models to assess the power of landscape metrics in predicting the richness, diversity, evenness, and phylogenetic diversity of the eukaryome. Most communities were dominated by Ascomycota, and it is likely that many of the reads had an environmental origin. Forest cover affected eukaryome richness positively and patch density showed a positive relationship with the Simpson’s diversity and Pielou’s evenness indexes. Howler monkeys living in landscapes with lower habitat coverage had a lower eukaryotic alpha-diversity in the fecal microbiome.

Comprehensive characterization of bioplasticizer from the Murraya koenigii leaves: From biomass to biomaterial for polymer composite applications

The world is moving toward sustainable products in almost all fields. As non-renewable resources are used and getting exhausted, the search for renewable, greener, and sustainable alternatives has become the most preferred option currently. Overall, polymer-based materials are used almost in all products for both in industrial and domestic purposes. One of the main additives used during the processing of any polymeric materials is plasticizers (PSs). Most of the PSs are toxic, which is not welcoming one in current situation. Bioplasticizers (BPs) have become a recent research study option focus to overcome this drawback. In this investigation, Murraya koenigii (MK), a native tree, was chosen for the extraction of BPs (MKBP) from its leaves (MKTL) and subjected to various analyses including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The presence of FTIR peaks showed the possibility of PS similarities with peaks at 1396 cm−1 and 1214 cm−1. XRD confirmed the crystallinity of the MKBP with a crystallinity index (CYI) of 92.4 % and the crystallite size of 0.033 µm. UV analysis resulted in a maximum peak at 358.41 nm. TGA reported the maximum degradation temperature of 377.3 °C. DSC analysis showed a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 68.89 °C. SEM analysis confirmed a high probability of blending with the extracted MKBP as the extract possessed a rough surface. AFM revealed the surface roughness that matched the SEM results.

Identification and Characterization of EIN3/EIL Transcription Factor Family Members in Pinus massoniana Lamb.

Transcription factors refer to types of proteins that perform significant functions in the process of gene expression regulation. The ethylene insensitive 3/ethylene insensitive 3-like (EIN3/EIL) family, functioning as significant transcription factors regulating ethylene, plays a critical role in the growth and development of plants and participates in the plant's response to diverse environmental stresses. Pinus massoniana is an excellent native tree with high economic and ecological value. However, the study of EIN3/EIL genes in gymnosperms, for instance, P. massoniana, is still relatively limited. In this research, four putative EIN3/EIL genes were identified in the transcriptome of P. massoniana. Bioinformatics analysis showed that PmEIL genes contain a highly conserved EIN3 domain and other structural features of acidic, proline-rich and glutamine-rich sites. The molecular evolution tree analysis demonstrated that the EIN3/EIL family was partitioned into three categories (A, B, and C), and the number, type, and distribution of conserved motifs grouped in one category were similar. The results of qRT-PCR indicated that the expression levels of PmEIL genes were markedly elevated in needles compared to other tissues. Through the analysis of expression patterns of the PmEIL genes under various stress treatments, it was found that the PmEIL genes could participate in plant hormone stimulation induction, osmosis, drought and other response processes. In addition, PmEIL is a nuclear localization protein. PmEIL1, PmEIL3, and PmEIL4 are transcriptional activators, while PmEIL2 is a transcriptional suppressor. This research provides a basis for further elucidating the function of EIN3/EIL transcription factors in growth, development and stress response of P. massoniana.

Impacts of invasive weed Chromolaena odorata on growth and development of threatened native tree Aegle marmelos under water stress conditions

Impacts of invasive weed <i>Chromolaena odorata</i> on growth and development of threatened native tree <i>Aegle marmelos</i> under water stress conditions

Potential of the Algerian pine tree bark for the adsorptive removal of methylene blue dye: Kinetics, isotherm and mechanism study

This study demonstrates the feasibility of Algerian native pine tree bark (NPTB) as a low-cost, sustainable adsorbent for methylene blue (MB) dye removal from wastewater. Characterization revealed a porous structure with a high surface area and abundant functional groups, ideal for adsorption. Batch experiments optimized conditions for maximum MB removal (99.47%) at pH 8, 55 °C, and 0.4 g NPTB dosage. Kinetic analysis confirmed pseudo-second-order kinetics and intraparticle diffusion, indicating chemisorption. The Freundlich isotherm model best described adsorption, with a monolayer capacity of 37.15 mg/g. Thermodynamic studies indicated the process was spontaneous, endothermic, and feasible at higher temperatures. The estimated cost of NPTB is $0.1376 USD/m³, and its low overall treatment cost makes it a promising and environmentally friendly alternative for wastewater treatment.