Chemical composition effects onto antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of propolis collected from different regions of Turkey

Chrysin, apigenin, flavonoids, flavanones, naringenin, ethyl oleate, 3-4-dimethoxy-cinnamic acid and 9-octadecenoic acid were the predominant components of propolis samples collected from different regions of Turkey. The extracts of P3 from Denizli-Ba?karci, P5 from Denizli and P7 from Tekirda? had effective antibacterial activities on Gram-negatives. Chrysin, which has antibacterial activity, was found to be high concentration. The extracts of P3, P2B from Aydin and P6 from Konya had much more effective antibacterial activities on Gram-positives. The total antioxidant activity increased with the increasing amount of extracts added to linoleic acid emulsion. All doses of propolis ethanol extract displayed antioxidant activity.     

27. Fuente del Vaquero peat bog (Basque Country,Northern Iberian Peninsula,Spain)

Inhaled particle deposition sites must be identified to effectively treat human airway diseases. We have determined distribution patterns of a selected aeroallergen, ragweed pollen, among human extrathoracic (ET: i.e., oro-nasopharyngeal) regions and the lung. A predictive model validated by inhalation exposure data from human subjects was utilized. Deposition locations were primarily functions of 1. ragweed particle parameters (size: 14–20 μm, shape: spherical, and density: 1.14 g cm^-3) and 2. mode of breathing. In the general population, two styles of inhalation are prevalent: normal augmentors (NAs), and mouth breathers (MBs), their clinical definitions are based on intra-ET airflow divisions. For a NA-mode breathing, sedentary (10 L min^-1) adult, 88% of inhaled ragweed pollen was removed by the ET compartment and 7% collected within the lung. For a MB, the respective deposition efficiencies were 68% and 25%. To apply the model, we used a daily springtime ragweed pollen concentration of 300 grains m^-3 and an exposure time of 0.5 hour to calculate actual doses for the respiratory system. Under the stipulated conditions, a MB would inhale 45 pollen grains per day and 8 would be deposited in the lung; the value is 3 grains for a NA. Frequently, individuals with impaired respiratory functions are MBs in whom such pollen deposits are likely contributors to airway disease.     

Recent data about age at menarche in the biscay province (Basque Country, Spain)

Data on menarcheal age were collected by thestatus quo method on a sample of 808 schoolgirls (8–19 years of age), from the Margen Izquierda area of the Biscay province (Basque Country). Probit analysis provided a mean age at menarche of 12.5±0.05 years with a standard deviation of 1.0 years. The result was compared with data from other previous Basque studies and related to age at PHV of the same sample.     

Bluetongue virus serotype 1 outbreak in the Basque Country (Northern Spain) 2007-2008. Data support a primary vector windborne transport

Background

Bluetongue (BT) is a vector-borne disease of ruminants that has expanded its traditional global distribution in the last decade. Recently, BTV-1 emerged in Southern Spain and caused several outbreaks in livestock reaching the north of the country. The aim of this paper was to review the emergence of BTV-1 in the Basque Country (Northern Spain) during 2007 and 2008 analyzing the possibility that infected Culicoides were introduced into Basque Country by winds from the infected areas of Southern Spain.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We use a complex HYSPLIT (Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory) model to draw wind roses and backward wind trajectories. The analysis of winds showed September 28 to October 2 as the only period for the introduction of infected midges in the Basque Country. These wind trajectories crossed through the areas affected by serotype 1 on those dates in the South of the Iberian Peninsula. Additionally meteorological data, including wind speed and humidity, and altitude along the trajectories showed suitable conditions for Culicoides survival and dispersion.

Conclusions/Significance

An active infection in medium-long distance regions, wind with suitable speed, altitude and trajectory, and appropriate weather can lead to outbreaks of BTV-1 by transport of Culicoides imicola, not only over the sea (as reported previously) but also over the land. This shows that an additional factor has to be taken into account for the control of the disease which is currently essentially based on the assumption that midges will only spread the virus in a series of short hops. Moreover, the epidemiological and serological data cannot rule out the involvement of other Culicoides species in the spread of the infection, especially at a local level.     

Individual identification and distribution assessment of otters (Lutra lutra) through non-invasive genetic sampling: Recovery of an endangered species in the Basque Country (Northern Spain)

Non-invasive genetic techniques have proven to be cost-effective for monitoring and studying otter populations, largely due to the linearity of otter territories and the marking behavior of the species. After a severe decline, in the 60, the Eurasian otter is recovering in the Iberian Peninsula. However, the recovery pattern is not homogeneous and the species is still considered “Threatened” in many regions. During 2007–2010 a systematic non-invasive genetic sampling effort was carried out to determine the spatial distribution and to estimate the population size of an endangered otter population in northern Iberian Peninsula (Basque Country). Samples were identified to species level by sequencing a 226 bp mtDNA fragment prior to genotyping. Among the 132 obtained samples, 127 (98.4%) belonged to the study species, one sample was genetically identified as European mink (Mustela lutreola) and one as American mink (Neovison vison) while genetic species confirmation was not possible in the three remaining samples. These results provided novel and accurate data on species distribution, highlighting an overall increase of 25% in 10 × 10 UTM grids occupied by otter and a clear pattern of re-colonization upstream of the main rivers. All samples corresponding to otter were subsequently individually genotyped using a novel multiplex panel of 11 microsatellite markers and sexed by typing the sex-chromosome-related gene ZFX/ZFY. We obtained a complete individual genetic profile for 55 samples (genotyping success 43%), corresponding to 20 different individuals (11 females, 6 males, and 3 individuals of unknown gender). The mean otter density in occupied areas estimated to be 0.09 (0.06–0.12) individuals per river kilometer. The present study enabled us to obtain updated and relevant information about this elusive species’ distribution and population size, essential to define population status and to design successful and effective management and conservation programs.     

Seasonal succession of tintinnids in the Nervion River estuary, Basque Country, Spain

The seasonal succession of tintinnids was examined in the outerpart of the Nervión River estuary. Sampling was carriedout at monthly intervals from March 2000 to March 2002. In thisperiod, 21 species, belonging to 12 genera, were recorded, amongwhich Tintinnopsis was the most abundant genus, contributingup to 86% of the total ciliate abundance. The maximum abundancewas recorded in summer, with 7.4 x 10³ individuals L^-1 in July2001, while the lowest value occurred in winter. A significantand positive correlation was found between temperature and tintinnidabundance. Most of the species showed a distinct seasonal occurrenceand on this basis five different groups were differentiated.Two main changes in the species composition were recorded, onein March–April and the second in October–November.In this paper, the seasonal dynamics and the spatial distribution,as well as remarks on the morphology and ecology, of the mostimportant tintinnid species in the estuary are given.     

In vitro antimicrobial activity of a novel propolis formulation (Actichelated propolis)

AIMS: This study compared in vitro activities of Actichelated propolis (a multicomposite material obtained with mechano-chemichal activation) and of a hydroalcoholic extract of propolis. METHODS AND RESULTS: Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), determined by means of microdilution broth method, against five strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, Enterococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, showed a greater potency of Actichelated propolis (MIC range: 0.016-4 mg flavonoids ml(-1)) in respect to the hydroalcoholic extract (MIC range: 0.08-21.4 mg flavonoids ml(-1)). Concentrations of Actichelated propolis active against adenovirus, influenza virus, parainfluenza virus and herpes virus type 1 were at least 10 times lower than those of the hydroalcoholic extract. Preincubation of Strep. pyogenes and H. influenzae with subinhibitory concentrations of Actichelated propolis (1/4 and 1/8 x MIC) significantly reduced the number of bacteria that adhered to human buccal cells. CONCLUSIONS: Actichelated propolis has proven to possess antibacterial and antiviral activity higher than a hydroalcoholic extract, being also able to interfere on bacterial adhesion to human oral cells. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This new formulation of propolis showing better antimicrobial and physical characteristics could improve the application of propolis in respiratory tract infections.     

TheQuereus pubescens andQuereus faginea forests in the Basque Country (Spain): distribution and typology in relation to climatic factors

A comparative study is made in order to establish relationships between floristic and bioclimatic gradient. An east-west strip of about 200 Km in the inner area of the Basque Country has been chosen.Quercus faginea andQuercus pubescens forests have been studied. The climatic parameters of eight meteorological stations located within the area have also been analysed. The results obtained show the existence of four different forest types, which can be easily distinguished among themselves. They extend following the geographical longitude. The eastern ones can be related to a more continental character, the western ones to a more mediterranean one.

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Resumen Se realiza un estudio comparativo con objeto de establecer relaciones entre un gradiente florístico y el determinado por diversos parámetros climáticos. Para ello se han estudiado los bosques deQuercus faginea y Quercus pubescens en una franja este-oeste de unos 200 km de longitud, en la zona interior del área vasco-navarra. Se han analizado los parámetros climáticos de ocho estaciones meteorológicas localizadas, en su mayoría, dentro del área. El análisis fitosociológico de los bosques permite distinguir cuatro tipos que se pueden agrupar en dos asociaciones con dos subasociaciones cada una. Su distribución a lo largo de la longitud geográfica se correlaciona con un clima más continental hacia el este y más mediterráneo hacia poniente.

     

Aquatic Hyphomycete Communities Associated with Decomposing Alder Leaf Litter in Reference Headwater Streams of the Basque Country (northern Spain)

The community of aquatic hyphomycetes associated with decomposing alder leaf litter was studied during autumn-winter in nine headwater reference streams of the Basque Country (northern Spain). In order to study the spatial variability in composition and community structure, three streams from each of three different river basins were compared. The colonization dynamics and community changes throughout the decomposition process were also followed in three of the rivers (one per basin). The taxonomic richness and community structure of these fungi varied among rivers, including similar streams of a given watershed. However, neither species diversity nor total abundance was statistically related to environmental variables. Only the conidial production of two of the species, Flagellospora curvula and Lunulospora curvula appeared to be enhanced by nitrate availability in the water. The taxonomic richness and the reproductive activity (sporulation rate) were positively related to the leaf litter decomposition rate. The changes in conidial production along the process were similar for all the streams and helped explain leaf litter quality dynamics.     

Sub-state nationalism in Spain: primers and triggers of identity politics in Catalonia and the Basque Country

This article builds on recent attempts to explain divergent uses of sub-state nationalism to push for policies of assimilation or multiculturalism and drive popular support for independence. It analyses the dynamics of discourses and policies in Spain before, during and after peak times of identity politics to provide a more nuanced understanding of the conditions leading to the activation of identity-driven policies. Substantive ethnographic evidence is presented to explain recent alterations to national discourses of identity, surprising reversals of immigration policies, and the modulation of Catalan and Basque independence movements. The main finding is that both identity discourses and resulting policies depend on the affinity for identity politics at the sub-state level, and this affinity is in large part primed by the popular perception of how secure sub-state national identity is against the ‘official’ state narrative.     

River channelization effects on fish population structure in the Larraun river (Northern Spain)

As a consequence of the construction of the A-15 highway between 1991 and 1995, some modifications affecting the Larraun River (Navarra, North of Spain) were made. One of the most important effects was the channelization of a section of the river in the middle zone. Fish were caught by electrofishing in August of 1996 in the channelized reach, as well as in non-modified stretches upstream and downstream. Physical and chemical variables and shelter availability were also analyzed. The captured fish were measured (total length) and released into the river. We calculated the density, biomass, length distribution and diversity, comparing the obtained results from the different stretches. The number of species was higher in the lower zones of the river and diversity increased progressively downstream. The fish density in the channelized section was slightly lower than in the other two points. Also biomass in the channelized section was about a factor of 10 smaller than the calculated biomass in unaltered points. Moreover, in comparison with the unaltered sections of the river, in the channelized area a major decrease in the presence of fish larger than 150 mm was detected. The low shelter availability in the channelized section, lack of bank vegetation and alterations in the substratum could explain the observed variations in the length distribution, biomass and the lower value of the density of European minnow, Phoxinus phoxinus (Linnaeus, 1758).     

Evaluation of phenolic compounds in Brazilian propolis from different geographic regions

Chemometrics has been shown quite efficient to uncover relationships between chemical composition of a sample and its geographical origin. Forty propolis samples originated from the the South and South East of Brazil were analyzed by HPLC and 18 compounds of interest were studied which included: caffeic, p-coumaric and ferulic acids, and some of their derivatives, pinobanksin, a derivative of kaempferol and five phenolic compounds (assigned as 3-prenyl4-hydroxycinnamic acid (PHCA); 2,2-dimethyl-6-carboxyethnyl-2H-1-benzopyran (DCBE); 3,5-diprenyl-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (DHCA); compound E (still unknown) and 6-propenoic-2,2-dimethyl-8-prenyl-2H-1-benzopyran acid (DPB). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated three different groups of propolis samples, having the same typical chromatogram, evaluated by HPLC. Samples from the South East group were rich in derivatives of kaempferol. Samples from the South group I had a high content of DPB compound, but a low concentration of kaempferol derivatives and of DCBEN compound. Samples from the South group II were characterized by a high concentration of DCBEN, DHCA, p-coumaric and DPB compounds. Therefore, the identification of new compounds in Brazilian propolis can give, useful information about the plant sources of a given geographic region.     

Chemical compositions and antimicrobial activities of four different Anatolian propolis samples

Propolis means a gum that is gathered by bees from various plants. It is known for its biological properties, having antibacterial, antifungal and healing properties. The aims of this study were to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of four different Anatolian propolis samples on different groups of microorganisms including some oral pathogens and comparison between their chemical compositions. Ethanol extracts of propolis (EEP) were prepared from four different Anatolian propolis samples and examined whether EEP inhibit the growth of the test microorganisms or not. For the antimicrobial activity assays, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined by using macrodilution method. The MIC values of the most effective propolis (TB) were 2 microg/ml for Streptococcus sobrinus and Enterococcus faecalis, 4 microg/ml for Micrococcus luteus, Candida albicans and C. krusei, 8 microg/ml for Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Enterobacter aerogenes, 16 microg/ml for Escherichia coli and C. tropicalis and 32 microg/ml for Salmonella typhimurium and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The chemical compositions of EEP's were determined by high-temperature high-resolution gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The main compounds of four Anatolian propolis samples were flavonoids such as pinocembrin, pinostropin, isalpinin, pinobanksin, quercetin, naringenin, galangine and chrysin. Although propolis samples were collected from different regions of Anatolia all showed significant antimicrobial activity against the Gram positive bacteria and yeasts. Propolis can prevent dental caries since it demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against the microorganisms such as Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus and C. albicans, which involves in oral diseases.     

GC-MS analysis of propolis samples from two different regions of Turkey

Silylated ethanolic extract of two propolis samples from Kazan and Marmaris regions in Turkey were investigated by capillary GC-MS. The compounds were characterized by comparison with library searches. Twenty four compounds from Kazan samples were identified, eight of them were new for propolis. Eighteen compounds from Marmaris samples were identified, two of them were new for propolis.     

A genetically homogenous population of Fusarium circinatum causes pitch canker of Pinus radiata in the Basque Country, Spain

Pitch canker, caused by Fusarium circinatum, is a destructive disease of Pinus species and has recently been shown to represent a substantial threat to natural and commercial forests in northern Spain. The genetic diversity of F. circinatum in the Basque Country of Spain was assessed by characterising 96 isolates based on vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs), mating type assays, polymorphic DNA-markers and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analyses. For this purpose, F. circinatum isolates were collected from diseased Pinus radiata as well as from insects associated with this host. Overall, a low level of diversity was detected in the population. The isolates represented only two VCGs and they were all of the same mating type. AFLP analyses revealed three genotypes and polymorphic DNA-markers specific for F.?circinatum showed nine genotypes. The most common genotypes represented 97% of all isolates for AFLP analysis and 68% of isolates for the polymorphic DNA-marker sets. Over all, this indicates that pitch canker in the Basque Country of Spain is caused by a clonally propagating population of F. circinatum, typical of a recently introduced pathogen.     

Helminth parasites of the Eurasian badger (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Meles meles</Emphasis> L.) in the Basque Country (Spain)

The helminthological study of 26 Eurasian badgers (Meles meles L.) in the Basque Country (northern Spain) revealed the presence of two trematode (Euryhelmis squamula and Brachylaima sp.), three cestode (Atriotaenia incisa, Mesocestoides sp. and Taenia sp.) and five nematode (Aonchotheca putorii, Physaloptera sp., Molineus patens, Uncinaria criniformis and Strongyloides sp.) species. All 15 individuals analysed for Trichinella sp. were negative. The coprological analysis (flotation and migration) revealed the excretion of strongylid, capillariid and trematode eggs, and Crenosoma sp. and Angiostrongylus sp. larvae. No sex- or age-related differences were found in the parasite burden or egg and larvae excretion. A. incisa and M. patens abundances were positively correlated, both species being negatively correlated with badger weight. The presence of adults of U. criniformis and strongylid eggs in faeces was not independent. Badgers excreting Angiostrongylus larvae were in poorer condition than those not excreting.