Rice G protein γ subunit qPE9-1 modulates root elongation for phosphorus uptake by involving 14-3-3 protein OsGF14b and plasma membrane H+-ATPase

Heterotrimeric G protein is involved in plant growth and development, while the role of rice (Oryza sativa) G protein γ subunit qPE9-1 in response to low-phosphorus (LP) conditions remains unclear. The gene expression of qPE9-1 was significantly induced in rice roots under LP conditions. Rice varieties carrying the qPE9-1 allele showed a stronger primary root response to LP than the varieties carrying the qpe9-1 allele (mutant of the qPE9-1 allele). Transgenic rice plants with the qPE9-1 allele had longer primary roots and higher P concentrations than those with the qpe9-1 allele under LP conditions. The plasma membrane (PM) H⁺-ATPase was important for the qPE9-1-mediated response to LP. Furthermore, OsGF14b, a 14-3-3 protein that acts as a key component in activating PM H⁺-ATPase for root elongation, is also involved in the qPE9-1 mediation. Moreover, the overexpression of OsGF14b in WYJ8 (carrying the qpe9-1 allele) partially increased primary root length under LP conditions. Experiments using R18 peptide (a 14-3-3 protein inhibitor) showed that qPE9-1 is important for primary root elongation and H⁺ efflux under LP conditions by involving the 14-3-3 protein. In addition, rhizosheath weight, total P content, and the rhizosheath soil Olsen-P concentration of qPE9-1 lines were higher than those of qpe9-1 lines under soil drying and LP conditions. These results suggest that the G protein γ subunit qPE9-1 in rice plants modulates root elongation for phosphorus uptake by involving the 14-3-3 protein OsGF14b and PM H⁺-ATPase, which is required for rice P use.     

Chemical composition and ultrastructure of the epicuticular wax in four mutants of Pisum sativum (L)

The action of mutations affecting the epicuticular wax of Pisum sativum has been investigated at the chemical and ultrastructural level. Upper and lower surfaces of the leaves were found to differ markedly in both ultrastructure and chemistry. Mutations affected primarily either the lower (wa, wb and wsp) or the upper surface (wlo), but some effects of all 4 genes could be seen on both surfaces. Specific biochemical lesions could be implied for wsp and wa but the chemical effects of wb and wlo were more diffuse. Generally a close relation between chemical composition and crystallite form of the wax was evident throughout the work.     

Effects of microclimate on daily flight activity ofSimulium arcticum Malloch (Diptera: Simuliidae)

Microclimate was found to affect the daily flight activity ofSimulium arcticum in a pasture situation in central Alberta, Canada. Vapour pressure, air temperature, light intensity, and wind gust velocity had the greatest correlation to flight activity. These variables were correlated to support the concept that they influence the energy and water balances of a black fly. Flight activity is a response of the black fly to alterations of its energy and water balances.     

中药灵香草及其混淆品种的比较鉴别

本文比较了中药灵香草Lysimachia foenum-graecum Hance及其混淆品种垂花香草Lysimaehia nutantiflora Chen et C.M.Hu的植物形态、药材性状以及茎、叶组织显微特征。指出垂花香草无灵香草特有的芳香。也无药用记载。应仔细区别,不宜混用。     

Combined second and third toe transfer

Historically, restoration of hand function following multiple digital amputation has been unsatisfactory. The evolution of digital reconstruction with toe transfer has enabled surgeons to reestablish prehension in these severely injured hands. A 4-year experience with 26 consecutive combined second and third toe transfers to replace missing adjacent fingers was reviewed in order to delineate the indications and technical considerations and to emphasize prevention of donor-site complications. Combined second and third toe transfer is reserved for adjacent finger amputations proximal to the digital web space with remaining fingers no longer than the small finger. Radial amputations are replaced with contralateral combined toe units, while ipsilateral toes are more ideal for ulnar amputations. Limited dorsal and plantar skin flaps extending only to the midpoint of the first and third digital web spaces allow for direct donor-site closure and uncomplicated healing. Maintenance of the plantar metatarsal arch by avoiding metatarsal shaft osteotomies or bone grafting-shortened metatarsals eliminates potential gait disturbances. When properly applied in selected patients, this single-stage microsurgical procedure can restore prehensile function, improve the appearance of the hand with multiple digital amputations, and preserve near-normal donor-foot function.