Month: December 2023
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Concrete, grounds for improvement
The use of coffee grounds in concrete enhances strength and sustainability. This breakthrough presents a solution that addresses concerns of building stability, such as those constructed with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
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Charles Darwin, BOTANIST(!)
Darwin and the art of botany brings together excerpts from Darwin’s 6 books dedicated to plant biology and illustrations of the 45+ plants that are highlighted. Topics covered include insectivorous plants, climbers, and orchids. Commentary places Darwin’s studies in the context of the botanical knowledge of the time, and updates…
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Plant carnivory round-up
Mr Plant Cuttings shares some of 2023’s carnivorous plants studies. Items include a fungus aiding digestion in sundews, mathematical modelling revealing different pitcher shapes capture diverse prey, and facultative carnivory in the liana Triphyophyllum peltatum activated by phosphorus deficiency. Plus, some insights into Venus’ fly trap.
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Dan’s the man, the orchid man
“Orchid” by Dan Torre is a detailed book about orchids featuring extensive consideration of their biology, discovery, representation in art and literature, human uses, and and conservation issues. Well-written by a true orchid enthusiast it’s a great read, and highly recommended.
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Can seaweed boost tobacco photosynthesis?
Researchers are working to increase photosynthesis efficiency in plants to support the growing global population. With insights into the structure of RubisCO in a red seaweed they have genetically-altered that enzyme in tobacco and improved its photosynthetic efficiency and enhanced its growth. It is anticipated that development of this approach…
Plant Cuttings 