PIF transcription factors link a neighbor threat cue to accelerated reproduction in Arabidopsis.

Changes in light quality indicative of competition for this essential resource influence plant growth and developmental transitions; however, little is known about neighbor proximity-induced acceleration of reproduction. Phytochrome B (phyB) senses light cues from plant competitors, ultimately leading to the expression of the floral inducers FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) and TWIN SISTER of FT (TSF). Here we show that PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORs 4, 5 and 7 (PIF4, PIF5 and PIF7) mediate neighbor proximity-induced flowering, with PIF7 playing a prominent role. These transcriptional regulators act directly downstream of phyB to promote expression of FT and TSF. Neighbor proximity enhances PIF accumulation towards the end of the day, coinciding with enhanced floral inducer expression. We present evidence supporting direct PIF-regulated TSF expression. The relevance of our findings is illustrated by the prior identification of FT, TSF and PIF4 as loci underlying flowering time regulation in natural conditions

Use of Baysian belief networks for dealing with ambiquity in integrated groundwater management

In integrated groundwater management, different knowledge frames and uncertainties need to be communicated and handled explicitly. This is necessary in order to select efficient adaptive groundwater management strategies. In this connection, Bayesian belief networks allow for integration of knowledge, for engaging stakeholders and for dealing with multiple knowledge frame uncertainties. This is illustrated for the case of the Upper Guadiana Basin, Spain, where Bayesian belief networks with stakeholder involvement were used for dealing with the ambiguities related to sustainable groundwater exploitation

Stable Inactivation of MicroRNAs in Medicago truncatula Roots

International audienceMicroRNAs are key regulators in the development processes or stress responses in plants. In the last decade, several conserved or non-conserved microRNAs have been identified in Medicago truncatula. Different strategies leading to the inactivation of microRNAs in plants have been described. Here, we propose a protocol for an effective inactivation of microRNAs using a STTM strategy in M. truncatula transgenic roots

The Western Mancha aquifer: data mapping to provide transparency to aid stakeholder participation and decision making

The paper presents a series of maps on the Western Mancha aquifer, an aquifer of 5,500 km 2, extending over an area of 41 villages in the region of La Mancha, in the central Spanish plateau. Maps were produced using cartograms, which highlight the differential groundwater use at the local level of the municipality, looking at equity and efficiency issues related to groundwater. The main purpose of the paper is to provide comprehensive, transparent and easily understandable mapping of groundwater use in a region where data is abundant but not necessarily consistent, clear or presented in an easily accessible or understandable format. The paper provides a meta-analysis in the form of maps of available data as a result of a large number of European research projects, national and European policy initiatives, but where a general multi-disciplinary and summative overview is still lacking. This mapping can contribute to decision making in public policy, as support for compliance with the European Union Water Framework Directive on good ecological status, in an area where there are competing, and in many ways incompatible, water demands between irrigation and wetlands. This analysis highlights that a spatially differentiated approach could provide win-win scenarios, i.e. intensive groundwater use and wetland protection