The Siberian pine growth dynamics in Altai Mountains, China / A dinâmica de crescimento do pinheiro siberiano nas montanhas de Altai, China

Climatic factors play an essential role in the growth of tree ring width. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the correlation between climatic variables and tree-ring growth characteristics of Pinus sibirica in Altai mountains, northwestern China. This study being is first of its kind on climate growth analysis of Pinus sibirica in northwestern China. The study showed great potential to understand the species growing under the specific climatic conditions. Total of 70 tree cores collected from three sites in the sampling area, out of which 63 tree cores considered for this study. The effect of climatic variables which was studied include precipitation, temperature and PDSI. Our results showed that Tree Ring Width chronology has a significantly positive correlation with the late winter (March) temperature and significant negative correlation with the July temperatures. A significant correlation was observed with the late summer precipitation whereas no significant relation found with the Palmer Drought Severity Index. These significant correlations with temperature and precipitation suggested that this tree species had the potential for the reconstruction of the past climate in the area.

Fatores climáticos desempenham papel essencial no crescimento da largura dos anéis das árvores. Neste estudo, objetivou-se avaliar a correlação entre variáveis climáticas e características de crescimento de anéis de árvores de Pinus sibirica nas montanhas de Altai, noroeste da China. Este estudo é o primeiro desse tipo na análise do crescimento climático de Pinus sibirica no noroeste da China. O estudo mostrou grande potencial para entender as espécies que crescem sob as condições climáticas específicas. Total de 70 testemunhos coletados em três locais na área de amostragem, dos quais 63 testemunhos considerados para este estudo. O efeito das variáveis climáticas estudadas incluem precipitação, temperatura e PDSI. Nossos resultados mostraram que a cronologia da Largura do Anel da Árvore tem uma correlação significativamente positiva com a temperatura do final do inverno (março) e uma correlação negativa significativa com as temperaturas de julho. Uma correlação significativa foi observada com a precipitação do final do verão, enquanto nenhuma relação significativa foi encontrada com o Índice de Severidade de Seca de Palmer. Essas correlações significativas com a temperatura e precipitação sugeriram que esta espécie de árvore tinha o potencial para a reconstrução do clima passado na área.

Habitat selection by Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) in Siran and Kaghan Valleys, Pakistan / Seleção de habitat pelo urso-negro asiático (Ursus thibetanus) nos vales Siran e Kaghan, Paquistão

Asiatic black bear is present in variety of habitats like broad-leaves and coniferous forests, extending form sea level to 4300m elevation and change their habitat for food purpose seasonally. The present study was conducted at Kaghan and Siran Valleys, District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan to assess habitat of black bear. Line transect method was used for observation of bear signs. Twelve meter circular radius plots were selected for the concern vegetation’s i.e. (trees, shrubs and herbs) and three to six plots were placed in each transect. At the result of sign survey, thirteen different categories of bear signs were recorded and encounter rate was calculated for each sign. A total of 1858 signs were observed during field surveys. Total (81%) coniferous species were recoded among trees, with the highest appearance of Pinus wallichiana (34.22%) and Spruce spp (27.76%), similarly broad leaves trees (18.56%) were also recoded from habitat plots. Most of the signs were encountered in bushy areas, whereas high number of Viburnum Spp (60.29%) was present. It is indicated that black bear prefers blend of Coniferous Trees, Viburnum and Ferns Species; probably because these plants provide enough food, protection, and meticulous shelter because more than 80% of habitat composed of these three species. Currently habitat destruction and increase in human population are the up-growing issues for wild animals (especially Asiatic black bear), which is highly sensitive to such problems. High levels of conservation efforts are recommended for the protection of black bear habitat and to avoid human interference in their territory.

O urso-negro asiático está presente em uma variedade de habitats, como folhas largas e florestas de coníferas, estendendo-se do nível do mar até 4.300 m de altitude e mudando seu habitat para fins alimentares sazonalmente. O presente estudo foi conduzido nos vales Kaghan e Siran, distrito de Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão, para avaliar o habitat do urso preto. O método de transecto linear foi usado para a observação de sinais do urso. Parcelas de raio circular de 12 m foram selecionadas para a vegetação de preocupação, ou seja, árvores, arbustos e ervas, e 3 a 6 parcelas foram colocadas em cada transecto. No resultado da pesquisa de sinais, 13 categorias diferentes de sinais de urso foram registradas e a taxa de encontro foi calculada para cada sinal. Um total de 1858 sinais foi observado durante os levantamentos de campo. O total (81%) de espécies de coníferas foi recodificado entre as árvores, com maior aparecimento de Pinus wallichiana (34,22%) e Spruce spp (27,76%); árvores de folhas largas (18,56%) também foram recodificadas em parcelas de habitat. A maioria dos sinais foi encontrada em áreas com arbustos, enquanto um alto número de Viburnum spp (60,29%) estava presente. É indicado que o urso-negro prefere a mistura de árvores coníferas, espécies de viburnos e samambaias; provavelmente porque essas plantas fornecem alimento suficiente, proteção e abrigo meticuloso porque mais de 80% do habitat é composto por essas três espécies. Atualmente, a destruição do habitat e o aumento da população humana são questões crescentes para os animais selvagens, especialmente o urso-negro asiático, que é altamente sensível a esses problemas. Altos níveis de esforços de conservação são recomendados para a proteção do habitat do urso-negro e para evitar a interferência humana em seu território.

Pine nanocellulose and bacterial nanocellulose dressings are similar in the treatment of second-degree burn? experimental study in rats / Os curativos de nanocelulose de pinus e nanocelulose bacteriana são semelhantes no tratamento da queimadura de segundo grau? estudo experimental em ratos

ABSTRACT Background: Despite all the advances in medicine and the wide variety of dressings available, the treatment of burn wounds still represents an important medical challenge. The pinus cellulose membrane dressing is a biomaterial with characteristics similar to those of bacterial cellulose, but with lower cost. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of pinus nanocellulose membrane on healing of deep second degree burns in rats and compare with Membracel®. Method: Thirty male Wistar rats were submitted to deep second degree burn in dorse, with boiling water at 97o C for 20 s, generating a 314 mm² area wound. The animals were distributed in three dressing groups (n=10): group 1 - simple gauze; group 2 - bacterial cellulose membrane (Membracel®); and group 3 - pinus cellulose membrane. They were evaluated for 20 days to verify clinical condition, macro and microscopic appearance and wound contraction. Results: All of them remained clinically well with no differences in weight. Crusts were observed in group 1, and none in groups 2 and 3. Regarding to scar contraction, groups 2 and 3 were similar, better than group 1. Microscopic analysis showed predominance of advanced healing degree in groups 1 and 3, and initial in group 2. Mature collagen was predominant in all groups. Conclusion: The pinus nanocellulose membrane is effective in the treatment of experimental second degree burn in rats and its effectiveness is similar to that of the bacterial nanocellular membrane.

RESUMO Racional: Apesar de todos os avanços da medicina e da grande variedade de curativos disponíveis, o tratamento das queimaduras ainda representa importante desafio médico. O curativo de membrana de celulose de pinus é biomaterial com características semelhantes à de celulose bacteriana, mas de menor custo. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da membrana de nanocelulose de pinus na cicatrização de queimaduras profundas de segundo grau em ratos e comparar com a Membracel®. Método: Trinta ratos Wistar machos foram submetidos à queimadura profunda de segundo grau em dorso, com água fervente a 97o C por 20 s, gerando lesão de 314 mm². Os animais foram distribuídos em três grupos de curativos (n = 10): grupo 1 - gaze simples; grupo 2 - membrana de celulose bacteriana (Membracel®); e grupo 3 - membrana de celulose de pinus. Eles foram avaliados por 20 dias para verificar o quadro clínico, aspecto macro e microscópico e a contração da ferida. Resultados: Todos permaneceram clinicamente bem, sem diferenças de peso. Crostas foram observadas no grupo 1 e nenhuma nos grupos 2 e 3. Em relação à contração da cicatriz, os grupos 2 e 3 foram semelhantes, melhores que o grupo 1. A análise microscópica mostrou predomínio de grau de cicatrização avançado nos grupos 1 e 3, e inicial no grupo 2. O colágeno maduro foi predominante em todos os grupos. Conclusão: A membrana de nanocelulose de pinus é eficaz no tratamento de queimaduras experimentais de segundo grau em ratos e sua eficácia é semelhante à da membrana nanocelular bacteriana.

Antiproliferative activity of biomass extract from Pseudomonas cedrina

Background: The study of plant-associated microorganisms is very important in the discovery and development of bioactive compounds. Pseudomonas is a diverse genus of Gammaproteobacteria comprising more than 60 species capable of establishing themselves in many habitats, which include leaves and stems of many plants. There are reports of metabolites with diverse biological activity obtained from bacteria of this genus, and some of the metabolites have shown cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines. Because of the high incidence of cancer, research in recent years has focused on obtaining new sources of active compounds that exhibit interesting pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties that lead to the development of new therapeutic agents. Results: A bacterial strain was isolated from tumors located in the stem of Pinus patula, and it was identified as Pseudomonas cedrina. Extracts from biomass and broth of P. cedrina were obtained with chloroform:methanol (1:1). Only biomass extracts exhibited antiproliferative activity against human tumor cell lines of cervix (HeLa), lung (A-549), and breast (HBL-100). In addition, a biomass extract from P. cedrina was fractioned by silica gel column chromatography and two diketopiperazines were isolated: cyclo-(L-Prolyl-L-Valine) and cyclo-(L-Leucyl-L-Proline). Conclusions: This is the first report on the association of P. cedrina with the stems of P. patula in Mexico and the antiproliferative activity of extracts from this species of bacteria against human solid tumor cell lines.

Avaliação pré-clínica dos efeitos profiláticos do extrato de Pinus pinaster (Pycnogenol®) sobre a deposição cutânea de hemossiderina / Pre-clinical evaluation of the profilatic effects of Pinus pinaster extract (Pycnogenol®) on skin hemosiderin deposits

Introdução: A escleroterapia é o método mais utilizado para o tratamento de varizes dos membros inferiores tendo como complicação mais comum o aparecimento de manchas hipercrômicas na região tratada. O Pycnogenol® é conhecido há muito tempo como um flebotônico, anti-inflamatório e despigmentante da pele. Estudos já comprovaram a eficácia deste fármaco na prevenção e no tratamento da hiperpigmentação pós-inflamatória. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia do extrato de Pinus pinaster (Pycnogenol®; EPP) na prevenção de depósitos de hemossiderina em cultura de pele humana submetida a estresse inflamatório. Métodos: Fragmentos de pele humana foram estimulados com interleucina 1 alfa (IL-1a) para indução de uma resposta inflamatória e, concomitantemente, tratados com EPP para posterior avaliação histológica e semi-quantificação de hemossiderina. Resultados: A avaliação histológica dos fragmentos de pele expostos à IL-1alfa; revelaram uma densidade de hemossiderina 26,6% maior em comparação ao grupo controle. Por outro lado, os fragmentos de pele incubados concomitantemente com EPP mostraram reduções significativas na deposição de hemossiderina quando comparados ao grupo somente expostos ao microambiente inflamatório. Conclusões: Os resultados apresentados neste estudo apontam para um importante efeito do EPP (Pycnogenol®) na prevenção do acúmulo de hemossiderina originado pelo estresse inflamatório semelhante ao processo pós escleroterapia.

Introduction: Sclerotherapy is the most widely used method for the treatment of varicose veins of the lower limbs. The most common complication is the appearance of hyperchromic spots in the treated region. Pycnogenol® has long been known as a phlebotonic, anti-inflammatory and skin depigmenting drug. Studies have already proven the efficacy of this drug in the prevention and treatment of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of Pinus pinaster extract (Pycnogenol®; PPE) in the prevention of hemosiderin deposits in human skin culture submitted to inflammatory stress. Methods: Fragments of human skin were stimulated with interleukin 1 alpha (IL-1 a) to induce an inflammatory response and, concurrently, treated with PPE for further histological evaluation and hemosiderin semi-quantification. Results: The histological evaluation of skin fragments exposed to IL-1 alpha revealed a 26.6% higher hemosiderin density compared with the control group. Moreover, skin fragments incubated concomitantly with PPE showed significant reductions in hemosiderin deposits when compared with the group only exposed to the inflammatory microenvironment. Conclusions: The results presented in this study showed an important effect of PPE (Pycnogenol®) in the prevention of hemosiderin accumulation caused by inflammatory stress similar to the post-sclerotherapy process.

Efeitos dos picnogenol® na doença aterosclerótica crônica / Effects of picnogenol® on chronic atherosclerosis

A doença aterosclerótica crônica (DAC) é uma condição bastante prevalente em nosso meio e uma das principais doenças cardiovasculares ligadas ao envelhecimento. Dentre as opções terapêuticas adjuvantes, o Picnogenol ®, extrato da casca do Pinus pinaster, tem sido alvo de estudo em decorrência de função antioxidante, anti-inflamatória e antiplaquetária. Este artigo é uma revisão narrativa, cujo objetivo é avaliar o uso do Picnogenol® como opção terapêutica da DAC. Os estudos incluídos foram pesquisados nas bases de dados: PubMed, Scielo, The Cochrane Library, Scopus e LILACS, sendo excluídos, considerando suas restrições para avaliação terapêutica, os relatos de caso e séries de caso com n ≤ 5. Como resultado, os estudos têm apontado vantagens do uso Picnogenol® no tratamento da DAC, assim como de outras doenças cardiovasculares, porém, o número de pesquisas ainda é pequeno (principalmente ensaios clínicos) e há importantes limitações de tamanho amostral, o que dificulta sua atual recomendação na prática clínica

Chronic atherosclerosis is a highly prevalent condition and one of the main cardiovascular diseases linked to the aging process. Among the adjuvant therapeutic options, Pycnogenol® (Pinus pinaster bark extract) has been studied because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet functions. This article is a narrative review aimed at evaluating the use of Pycnogenol® as a therapeutic option in the treatment of chronic atherosclerosis. The studies included were obtained from the following databases: PubMed, Scielo, The Cochrane Library, Scopus and LILACS. Case reports and case series with n≤5 were excluded due to their restrictions for therapeutic evaluation. As a result, the studies have indicated advantages in the use of Pycnogenol® in the treatment of chronic atherosclerosis as well as other cardiovascular diseases. However, the number of studies is still small (particularly clinical trials), and there are important sample size limitations, which restricts its current recommendation in clinical practice

Pine ( Pinus densiflora ) needle extract could promote the expression of PCNA and Ki-67 after partial hepatectomy in rat

Abstract Purpose To investigate the effects of pine needle extract (PNE) on the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67 during liver regeneration induced by 70% partial hepatectomy (PH) in rat. Methods Forty-eight male rats (SD, 7 weeks) had surgery (70% PH). They were randomly divided into two groups. PH + PNE group was only provided PNE diluted in water (10%) for drinking and PH group was provided water from 5 days before surgery to the time of sacrifice. PNE was made by pressing and filtering. Animals were sacrificed at 12h, 24h, 36h, 60h, 84h, 168h after PH, respectively. The expressions of PCNA and Ki-67 were determined as proliferation indices. Results Immunohistochemistry turned out to increase the expression of PCNA and Ki-67. PCNA expression of PH+PNE group increased up to twice of that of PH group. Western blot also seemed to increase the PCNA expression. These results indicated the promotion of cell proliferation in liver tissue and hepatic regeneration. Conclusions Pine needle extract stimulates the expression of some mitotic proteins during liver regeneration induced by 70% PH in rats. It suggests that administration of pine needle extract could accelerate the liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy.

Molecular and Morphological Confirmation of Three Undescribed Species of Mortierella from Korea

Three fungal isolates designated as CNUFC-YR329-1, CNUFC-PTS103-1, and CNUFC-PTS2-1 were discovered during a survey of fungal diversity of the order Mortierellales from freshwater and pine tree rhizosphere soil samples in Korea. The strains were analyzed morphologically and phylogenetically based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (LSU) of ribosomal DNA gene sequences. Based on their morphology and phylogeny, the three isolates were identified as Mortierella elongata, M. horticola, and M. humilis, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, M. elongata, M. horticola, and M. humilis, belonging to an undiscovered taxon, have not been previously described in Korea.

3-Carene, a Phytoncide from Pine Tree Has a Sleep-enhancing Effect by Targeting the GABA(A)-benzodiazepine Receptors

3-Carene, a bicyclic monoterpene, is one of the major components of the pine tree essential oils. It has been reported that, in addition to its known properties as a phytoncide, 3-carene has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anxiolytic effects. We have previously demonstrated that α-pinene, the major component of pine tree, has a hypnotic effect through GABA(A)-benzodiazepine (BZD) receptors. However, a hypnotic effect of 3-carene has not been studied yet. Here, we report that oral administration of 3-carene increases the sleep duration and reduces sleep latency in pentobarbital-induced sleep test. 3-Carene potentiates the GABA(A) receptor-mediated synaptic responses by prolonging the decay time constant of inhibitory synaptic responses. These enhancing effects of 3-carene are reproduced by zolpidem, a modulator for GABA(A)-BZD receptor, and fully inhibited by flumazenil, an antagonist for GABA(A)-BZD receptor. The molecular docking of 3-carene to the BZD site of GABA(A) protein structure, suggests that 3-carene binds to the BZD site of α1 and ϒ2 subunits of GABA(A)-BZD receptor. These results indicate that, similar to α-pinene, 3-carene shows a sleep-enhancing effect by acting as a positive modulator for GABA(A)-BZD receptor.

Respuesta del crecimiento de Pinus oocarpa a variables climáticas en Chiapas, México / Growth response of Pinus oocarpa to climatic variables in Chiapas, Mexico

Resumen Los estudios dendrocronológicos se utilizan para reconstruir algunas variables climáticas; en México, estos estudios se han centrado en los bosques templados del centro y del norte, donde los árboles presentan anillos anuales bien definidos. Pocos estudios se han llevado a cabo en la parte sur del país, donde el crecimiento anual del anillo no se identifica fácilmente y, por lo tanto, esto hace que la datación se dificulte. Se analizó el potencial dendrocronológico de Pinus oocarpa para la reconstrucción de variables climáticas en la porción noroeste de Lagunas de Montebello, Chiapas. Empleando un muestreo selectivo se recolectaron 65 núcleos de incremento de 34 árboles. Aunque las muestras presentaron una alta frecuencia de anillos falsos (8 a 60 %), se logró fechar 30 muestras de 22 árboles (46 %) mediante técnicas dendrocronológicas estándar y el desarrollo de cronologías de anillo total, madera temprana y madera tardía para un período de 91 años (1925-2015). Se encontró una influencia significativa de la precipitación media y de la temperatura media máxima y mínima del período 1961-2004 sobre el crecimiento anual de P. oocarpa. Los resultados muestran que la precipitación inviernoprimavera (enero-mayo) fue la más importante para el crecimiento del anillo anual de la especie. Sin embargo, la correlación más alta se observó entre la precipitación de primavera (marzo-mayo) y la cronología de la madera temprana (r = 0.719, P < 0.05). La cronología de la madera temprana también mostró potencial para reconstruir la temperatura mínima (marzo a mayo) (r = 0.732, P < 0.05), mientras que la cronología de madera tardía registra potencial para reconstruir la temperatura máxima (septiembreenero) (r = 0.714, P < 0.05). Estos resultados muestran que P. oocarpa puede emplearse para reconstruir variables climáticas en los trópicos mexicanos. Se recomienda explorar nuevas áreas con árboles más viejos a fin de aumentar la extensión de las cronologías y reconstruir los registros climáticos varios siglos en el pasado.(AU)

Abstract Dendrochronological studies are used to reconstruct some climatic variables; in México these studies have focused on central and Northern temperate forests where trees present well defined annual rings. Few studies have been carried out in the Southern part of the country where annual ring growth is not easily identified and thus makes cross-dating problematic. We analyzed the dendrochronological potential of Pinus oocarpa Schiede for reconstructing climatic variables in the Northwest portion of Lagunas de Montebello, Chiapas. We used a selective sampling approach and collected 65 increment cores from 34 trees. While our samples showed a high frequency of false rings (8 to 60 %), we were able to date 30 samples from 22 trees (46 %) using standard dendrochronological techniques and developed total chronologies for total ring width, earlywood, and latewood for a period of 91 years (1925-2015). We found a significant influence of mean precipitation and mean maximum and minimum temperature over the annual ring growth of P. oocarpa in the period 1961-2004. Our results show that winter-spring precipitation (January-May) was the most important for the species' annual ring growth. However, we found the highest correlation between spring (March-May) precipitation and the earlywood chronology (r = 0.719, P < 0.05). The earlywood chronology also showed potential for reconstructing minimum temperatures (March to May) (r = 0.732, P < 0.05), while the latewood chronology had the potential for reconstructing the maximum temperature (September to January) (r = 0.714, P < 0.05). These results showed that P. oocarpa can be used to reconstruct climatic variables in the Mexican tropics. We recommend that new areas with older trees should be explored in order to increase the depth of chronologies and reconstruct climate records several centuries into the past.(AU)

Chemical constituents of essential oils from three Vietnamese species of Pinus / Constituyentes químicos de los aceites esenciales de tres especies Vietnamitas de Pinus

This paper reports the chemical composition of essential oils obtained from Pinus dalatensis Ferré, Pinus kwangtungensis Chun ex. Tsiang and Pinus armandii subsp. xuannhaensis L.K. Phan. The oils were studied by gas chromatograpgy (GC) and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The main constituents of P. dalatensis were the terpene hydrocarbons namely α-pinene (38.2%), ß- pinene (25.3%), ß-myrcene (11.0%) and ß-caryophyllene (10.5%), while α-cedrol (19.2%) was the only significant compound of P. armandi subsp. xuannhaensis. P. kwangtungensis showed ß-pinene (26.3%), α-pinene (18.0%), limonene (16.1%) and ß-myrcene (10.4%) as the dominant compounds. The volatile constituents of P. dalatensis and P. armandi subsp. xuannhaensis are being reported for the first time.

En este artículo se reportan los constituyentes químicos de los aceites esenciales de Pinus dalatensis Ferré, Pinus kwangtungensis Chun ex. Tsiang y Pinus armandii subsp. Xuannhaensis L.K. Phan que se analizaron mediante cromatografía de Gases (GC) y por Cromatografía de Gases acoplada a la Espectrometría de Masas (GC-EM). Los principales constituyentes de P. dalatensis fueron los hidrocarburos terpénicos, a saber, α-pineno (38.2%), ß-pineno (25.3%), ß-mirceno (11.0%) y ß-cariofileno (10.5%). Por otro lado, α- cedrol (19.2%) fue el único compuesto significativo de P. armandi subsp. Xuannhaensis mientras que el aceite de P. kwangtungensis estuvo dominado por ß-pineno (26.3%), α-pineno (18.0%), limoneno (16.1%) y ß-mirceno (10.4%). Los constituyentes volátiles de P. dalatensis y P. armandi subsp. xuannhaensis se informa por primera vez.

Screening and Evaluation of Streptomyces Species as a Potential Biocontrol Agent against a Wood Decay Fungus, Gloeophyllum trabeum

Two-hundred and fifty-five strains of actinomycetes isolated from soil samples were screened for their antagonistic activities against four well-known wood decay fungi (WDF), including a brown rot fungus, Gloeophyllum trabeum and three white rot fungi Donkioporia expansa, Trametes versicolor, and Schizophyllum commune. A dual culture assay using culture media supplemented with heated or unheated culture filtrates of selected bacterial strains was used for the detection of their antimicrobial activity against four WDF. It was shown that Streptomyces atratus, S. tsukiyonensis, and Streptomyces sp. greatly inhibited the mycelial growth of the WDF tested compared with the control. To evaluate the biocontrol efficacy of S. atratus, S. tsukiyonensis, and Streptomyces sp., wood blocks of Pinus densiflora inoculated with three selected Streptomyces isolates were tested for weight loss, compression strength (perpendicular or parallel to the grain), bending strength, and chemical component changes. Of these three isolates used, Streptomyces sp. exhibited higher inhibitory activity against WDF, especially G. trabeum, as observed in mechanical and chemical change analyses. Scanning electron microscopy showed that cell walls of the wood block treated with Streptomyces strains were thicker and collapsed to a lesser extent than those of the non-treated control. Taken together, our findings indicate that Streptomyces sp. exhibits the potential to be used as a biocontrol agent for wood decay brown rot fungus that causes severe damage to coniferous woods.

Influence of Ectomycorrhizal Colonization on Cesium Uptake by Pinus densiflora Seedlings

Radionuclides were deposited at forest areas in eastern parts of Japan following the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant incident in March 2011. Ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungi have important effects on radiocaesium dynamics in forest ecosystems. We examined the effect of colonization by the EM fungus Astraeus hygrometricus on the uptake of cesium (Cs) and potassium (K) by Pinus densiflora seedlings. Pine seedlings exhibited enhanced growth after the EM formation due to the colonization by A. hygrometricus. Additionally, the shoot Cs concentration increased after the EM formation when Cs was not added to the medium. This suggests that A. hygrometricus might be able to solubilize Cs fixed to soil particles. Moreover, the shoot K concentration increased significantly after the EM formation when Cs was added. However, there were no significant differences in the root K concentration between EM and non-EM seedlings. These results suggest that different mechanisms control the transfer of Cs and K from the root to the shoot of pine seedlings.

Transferencia de nutrientes y crecimiento de Pinus greggii Engelm. inoculado con hongos comestibles ectomicorrícicos en dos sustratos / Nutrient transfer and growth of Pinus greggii Engelm. inoculated with edible ectomycorrhizal mushrooms in two substrates

La ectomicorriza es una simbiosis mutualista de enorme importancia en la producción de árboles de valor forestal. Uno de los criterios de selección de hongos ectomicorrícicos de gran interés es su comestibilidad, por la importancia económica, ecológica y cultural de los hongos comestibles ectomicorrícicos como un producto forestal no maderable. En este estudio se evaluó el efecto de la inoculación con los hongos comestibles ectomicorrícicos, Laccaria laccata, Laccaria bicolor y Hebeloma leucosarx, en el crecimiento y el contenido nutricional de Pinus greggii, crecido en un sustrato experimental, o en un sustrato comercial enriquecido con un fertilizante de liberación lenta. Dos años después de la siembra, se observaron diferencias en el crecimiento aéreo y radical y en el contenido de macro- y micronutrientes entre plantas inoculadas y no inoculadas, independientemente de la especie fúngica y del sustrato utilizado. Las plantas crecidas en el sustrato comercial tuvieron mayor crecimiento y contenido de nutrientes; sin embargo, sus porcentajes de colonización fueron menores que los de plantas crecidas en el sustrato experimental. Existieron diferencias en la transferencia de nutrientes a la parte aérea de las plantas inoculadas, al comparar entre las especies fúngicas implicadas. Se observó transferencia de Ca por L. laccata, de Na por L. bicolor y de Mn por H.leucosarx en el sustrato experimental. La selección de sustratos constituye un factor clave en la producción de plantas ectomicorrizadas y las tres especies de hongos comestibles ectomicorrícicos evaluados tienen un potencial relevante para la micorrización controlada de P. greggii.

An ectomycorrhiza is a mutualistic symbiosis of paramount importance in forestry and tree production. One of the selection criteria of ectomycorrhizal fungi that has currently gained importance is their edibility due to the economic, ecological and cultural relevance of edible ectomycorrhizal mushrooms as a non-timber forest product. The effect of the inoculation with three edible ectomycorrhizal mushrooms: Laccaria laccata, Laccaria bicolor y Hebeloma leucosarx, which are widely sold in Mexico, on the growth and nutrient contents of Pinus greggii grown in an experimental substrate and a commercial substrate enriched with a slow-release fertilizer, was evaluated. Two years after sowing, differences in terms of shoot and root biomass and macro and micronutrient contents between inoculated and non-inoculated plants, were recorded independently of the fungal species and the substrate. Despite the fact that plants grown in the commercial substrate had higher growth and nutrient contents, their ectomycorrhizal colonization percentages were smaller than those of the plants grown in the experimental substrate. The differences in the nutrient transfer to the inoculated plant shoots among the evaluated fungal species were recorded. Ca mobilization by L. laccata, Na by L. bicolor and Mn by H. leucosarx were observed in the plants growing in the experimental substrate. It has been demonstrated that the selection of substrates constitutes an important factor in the production of ectomycorrhizal plants and that the three evaluated species of edible ectomycorrhizal mushrooms have an enormous potential in the controlled mycorrhization of P. greggii.

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using pine pollen and evaluation of the antifungal efficiency

Background: Nanoparticles have been applied to medicine, hygiene, pharmacy and dentistry, and will bring significant advances in the prevention, diagnosis, drug delivery and treatment of disease. Green synthesis of metal nanoparticles has a very important role in nanobiotechnology, allowing production of non-toxic and eco-friendly particles

Objectives: Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles [AgNPs] was studied using pine pollen as a novel, cost-effective, simple and non-hazardous bioresource. The antifungal activity of the synthesized AgNPs was investigated in vitro

Materials and Methods: Biosynthesis of AgNPs was conducted using pollen of pine [as a novel bioresource] acting as both reducing and capping agents. AgNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. In evaluation for antifungal properties, the synthesized AgNPs represented significant in vitro inhibitory effects on Neofusicoccum parvum cultures

Results: Pine pollen can mediate biosynthesis of colloidal AgNPs with an average size of 12 nm. AgNPs were formed at 22[degree]C and observed to be highly stable up to three months without precipitation or decreased antifungal property. AgNPs showed significant inhibitory effects against Neofusicoccum parvum

Conclusion: The first report for a low-cost, simple, well feasible and eco-friendly procedure for biosynthesis of AgNPs was presented. The synthesized AgNPs by pine pollen were nontoxic and eco-friendly, and can be employed for large-scale production. The nanoparticles showed strong effect on quantitative inhibition and disruption of antifungal growth

Knowledge and attitudes of students and dentists about the use and cementation of intra-radicular posts / Conhecimentos e atitudes de estudantes e dentistas sobre o uso e cimentação de pinos intrarradiculares

Objectives: The aim of the study was assess the knowledge and attitudes of students and dentists about the use and cementation of intra-radicular posts. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study interviewed 150 students and 150 dentists in the city of Pelotas (Brazil). A questionnaire containing questions regarding restorative choice in teeth with large coronal destruction, level of confidence for the use of post and resin cement, function of intra-radicular posts and social-demographic characteristics was applied. Data were analysed using descriptive analysis and associations were tested through logistic regression using 95% confidence intervals. Results: The analysis showed that students presented an odd to choose prefabricated posts 127% greater than the dentists for anterior teeth, 105% greater to choose self-adhesive resin cement and 46% greater to choose conventional resin cement. Considering posterior teeth, students presented an odd to choose prefabricated posts 40% smaller than the dentists and an odd 51% greater to choose conventional resin cement. Conclusion: The formation level (students or dentists) was directly related to clinical choices of the interviewed. The use of prefabricated posts seems to be related to the location of the tooth in the arch, with pre-fabricated posts being more indicated for anterior teeth. Use of pre-fabricated posts in teeth with large coronal destruction is accepted in the literature. However, dentists are still not confident to use of pre-fabricated fiber posts especially in posterior teeth with large coronal destruction. (AU)

Objetivo: o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o conhecimento e as atitudes dos alunos e dentistas sobre o uso e cimentação de pinos intra-radiculares. Material e Métodos: este estudo transversal entrevistou 150 estudantes e 150 dentistas na cidade de Pelotas (Brasil). Foi aplicado um questionário contendo perguntas sobre a escolha restauração em dentes com grande destruição coronária, nível de confiança para o uso de pinos e cimento resinoso, função dos pinos intra-radiculares e características sociodemográficas. Os dados foram analisados utilizando análise descritiva e as associações foram testadas através de regressão logística usando intervalos de confiança de 95%. Resultados: A análise mostrou que os alunos apresentaram uma chance para escolher pinos pré-fabricados 127% maior que os dentistas para dentes anteriores, 105% maior para escolher cimento resinoso autoadesivo e 46% maior para escolher o cimento resinoso convencional. Considerando os dentes posteriores, os estudantes apresentaram uma chance para escolher os pinos pré-fabricados 40% menor do que os dentistas e uma chance 51% maior para escolher o cimento resinoso convencional. Conclusão: O nível de formação (estudantes ou dentistas) está diretamente relacionado às escolhas clínicas dos entrevistados. O uso de pinos pré- fabricados parece estar relacionado à localização do dente no arco, com pinos pré-fabricados sendo mais indicados para os dentes anteriores. O uso de pinos pré-fabricados em dentes com grande destruição coronária é aceito na literatura. No entanto, os dentistas ainda não estão confiantes para o uso de pinos pré-fabricados de fibra, especialmente em dentes posteriores com grande destruição coronária. (AU)

Characteristics of airborne pollen in Incheon and Seoul (2015–2016)

BACKGROUND: Pollen allergens are one of the main contributors to the development and/or aggravation of allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and asthma. OBJECTIVE: An examination of the airborne pollen in residential areas should be conducted to aid the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases. METHODS: Airborne pollen samples were collected from 2 sites in Incheon and 2 in Seoul from 2015 to 2016. RESULTS: The highest monthly concentration of airborne pollen was observed in May and September each year. Pollen from 32 families and 50 genera was identified over the 2 years; of these, Pinus spp. showed the highest pollen concentration (41.6%), followed by Quercus spp. (25.3%), and Humulus spp. (15.3%), the latter of which had the highest concentration among weed pollen. The total pollen concentration was significantly higher in Incheon than in Seoul (p = 0.001 in 2015, p < 0.001 in 2016) and higher in 2016 than in 2015. The concentrations of pollen from weed species (Cupressaceae, Humulus spp., Artemisia spp., Ambrosia spp., and Chenopodiaceae) and grass species (Gramineae) were significantly higher (p < 0.001) than those from tree species. Pollen was distributed from February to November. The first pollen identified in both regions in each year was Alnus spp. Overall, the total concentration of Quercus spp., Betula spp., Humulus spp., Artemisia spp., Ambrosia spp., and Chenopodiaceae pollen increased significantly over the 2 years. CONCLUSION: Region-specific differences exist in the pollen of major allergenic plants. Continuous monitoring of pollen is thus essential for management of pollen-related allergic disorders in each region.

What deters plant colonization in a tropical pine plantation? / ¿Cuáles son los factores que limitan la colonización vegetal en una plantación de pino tropical?

AbstractPine plantations in the tropics are often employed to recondition eroded slopes from mudslides, as the Pinus caribaea plantation that shields the Universidad Simón Bolívar campus in Caracas (Venezuela). However, mismanagement of this plantation has led to its rapid degradation. The best option to maintain the protective service is to restore the plantation and direct its successional trajectory towards the neighbouring montane forest. Through experimental manipulation, we aimed to determine which factors block secondary succession and to investigate their effects. Within the experimental constraints imposed by the plantation small area, we analysed the effects of light and fertility limitation, litter accumulation and access to seed on plantation restoration. Light availability was manipulated by clearing and thinning three 800 m2 main plots. Fertilization and litter removal was applied to sub-plots within the light plots. Soils were analysed, microclimate was monitored and, for four years, stem density, species richness and basal area were tallied. Our results showed that light accessibility was the main factor deterring the successional trajectory of the plots, with varying grades of interaction with the sub-treatments. By the end of the fourth year, the cleared plot showed the largest responses in all traits (triplicating stem density and basal area and >20 times higher species richness). The main colonizers were Croton megalodendron, Ocoteafendleri, and Clusia spp. all dominant trees in the nearby native forest. We concluded that the results of this pioneer study, showed that small clearings, repeated in 3-4 year cycles are appropriate for similar restoration schemes. This procedure would create a mosaic of vegetation patches at different successional stages while protecting the slopes from erosion and increasing local biodiversity. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (2): 461-471. Epub 2016 June 01.

ResumenEn los trópicos, las plantaciones de pino se emplean comúnmente para proteger laderas erosionadas. Este es el caso de la plantación de Pinus caribaea que resguarda el campus de la Universidad Simón Bolívar en Caracas (Venezuela) de los deslaves de lodo. Sin embargo, el inadecuado manejo de la plantación está conduciendo a su rápido deterioro. La opción más adecuada para mantener el papel protector de la plantación es la restauración dirigida hacia una sucesión similar a la del bosque montano vecino. Mediante manipulaciones experimentales nos proponemos determinar cuáles son los factores que bloquean la sucesión secundaria e investigar sus efectos específicos. Dentro de las limitaciones impuestas por el reducido tamaño de la plantación y su rol protector, aquí analizamos los efectos de la reducida radiación solar y fertilidad del suelo, la acumulación de acículas de pino y el acceso a la fuente de semillas para la restauración. La disponibilidad de radiación solar se varió cortando y entresacando los pinos de parcelas de 800 m2. Los tratamientos de fertilidad y la remoción de acículas (por fuego y manualmente) se realizaron en subparcelas replicadas dentro de las parcelas principales. Los suelos se analizaron fisicoquímicamente, se monitoreo el microclima y, durante 4 años, se censó la densidad, el área basal y la riqueza de especies de los elementos leñosos en las parcelas. Los resultados muestran que el acceso a la radiación solar fue el factor principal que influyó sobre la colonización y crecimiento de nuevos individuos en las parcelas con diversos grados de interacción con los sub-tratamientos. Al finalizar el cuarto año, la parcela totalmente deforestada mostró las respuestas más elevadas (tres veces superior en cuanto a densidad y área basal y hasta veinte veces mayor en cuanto a riqueza de especies) comparada con las parcelas control y parcialmente deforestada. Las principales especies leñosas colonizadoras fueron: Croton megalodendron, Ocotea fendleri y Clusia spp., todas ellas dominantes en el bosque montano vecino. Concluimos que este estudio pionero muestra que el aclareo total de parcelas pequeñas, repetido en ciclos de 3-4 años es apropiado para proyectos de restauración similares. Así se obtendría un mosaico de vegetación en diferentes estadios sucesionales que mantienen el papel protector de la cubierta vegetal e incrementando la biodiversidad local.