In vitro evaluation of the effects of Viscum album homeopathic preparations on murine melanoma cells

Viscum album extract (VA) is a complementary treatment in cancer, with in vitro and in vivo cytotoxic effects on several tumor types when applied in phytochemical doses. However, highly diluted ethanolic homeopathic preparations' effects and mechanisms need further study. Aims:To assess the in vitro effects of highly diluted VA from the subspecies V. album abietis and V. album album at different potency levels in different dilution ratios on murine melanoma cells. Methodology:The VA mother tinctures (MT)from Abies alba (MTA) and Quercus robur (MTQ) were prepared with summer and winter samples, harvested in Switzerland. They were submitted to homeopathic ethanolic maceration and a subsequent dynamization process. MTA, MTQ and the following respective potencies were tested in B16F10 murine cells: 3x, 12x, 30x, 6cH, 12cH, 200cH, 2LM, 3LM, and 5LM. Dynamized water, dynamized and non-dynamized ethanol, and carboplatin were used as control groups. The mitochondrial activity and cell viability analysis were performed at 1, 24, 48, and 72 hours by in vitro incubation. MTA and MTQ harvested in summer, as well as 12x, 200cH and 5LM potencies were also tested to cell apoptosis and necrosis markers, reactive oxygens species (ROS) production, inflammatory cytokines profile, cell morphology, and migratory capacity. Results and discussion: MTA and MTQ induced a decrease in cell metabolism and higher cytotoxicity within 1 hour, with significant morphological changes and increased production of ROS and inflammatory cytokines. Both homeopathic dilutions 12x and 5LM showed an influence on cell metabolism, cell replication, and oxidative stress modulation with inflammatory cytokines, mitosis, and migration pattern changes. On the other hand, Quercus robur and Abies alba 200cH showed increased on cytotoxicity and ROS levels, respectively. Conclusion:The in vitro effects of Viscum album homeopathic solutions in melanoma cells highlight the promising antitumoral potential and reinforce the need for further research to better understanding their mechanisms of action.

Potencial dendroclimático del encino rojo, Quercus sideroxyla (Fagaceae) en México / Dendroclimatic potential of red oak, Quercus sideroxyla (Fagaceae) in Mexico

Resumen Introducción: Los estudios dendrocronológicos en México se han basado principalmente en las coníferas, mientras que las especies de madera dura han sido poco estudiadas. Este ha sido el caso del género Quercus, con una alta diversidad taxonómica en el país pero que no ha sido estudiado con fines dendrocronológicos, a pesar de los valores ecológicos y económicos de sus especies. Objetivo: En la presente investigación se determinó el potencial dendroclimático de Quercus sideroxyla en el noroeste de México, y su relación con variables climáticas como precipitación y temperatura. Métodos: La investigación se desarrolló en el estado de Durango en el ejido Chavarría Viejo en las coordenadas (23º43' N & 105º33' W), se recolectaron muestras de 5 a 7 cm en dos sitios bajo aprovechamiento forestal y se procesaron mediante técnicas dendrocronológicas convencionales. Resultados: Se desarrolló una cronología de ancho de anillo total, la cual se compuso por 30 muestras de 16 árboles para el período de 1917 a 2018 (101 años). Se obtuvieron valores de intercorrelación entre series de 0.43, de sensibilidad media de 0.36, relación señal-ruido de 3.53 y autocorrelación de primer orden (0.58). En cuanto a la relación clima-crecimiento, los valores de índice de ancho de anillo se correlacionaron con datos de la estación climática más cercana al sitio de estudio; donde la precipitación invierno-primavera (enero-mayo) fue la variable de mayor influencia en el crecimiento de la especie. Conclusiones: Con base en los parámetros dendrocronológicos se demuestra el alto potencial de la especie para ser empleada en estudios dendroclimáticos en la región, la respuesta de la especie a la precipitación es similar al de las coníferas con las que cohabita.

Abstract Introduction: Dendrochronological studies in Mexico have been mainly based on conifers, while hardwood species have been little studied. This has been the case of the genus Quercus, which has a high taxonomic diversity in the country but has not been previously studied for dendrochronological issues, despite the ecological and economic values of oak species. Objective: In the present investigation, the dendroclimatic potential of Quercus sideroxyla in Northwestern Mexico was determined, as well as its relationship with climatic variables such as precipitation and temperature. Methods: The research was carried out in the state of Durango, Chavarría Viejo with coordinates (23º43' N & -105º33' W). Samples of 5 cm to 7cm were collected in two sites under forest exploitation and processed by conventional dendrochronological techniques. Results: A chronology of total ring width was developed, which was composed of 30 samples from 16 trees for the period from 1917 to 2018 (101 years). Inter-series intercorrelation values of 0.43, mean sensitivity of 0.36, signal-to-noise ratio of 3.53 and first-order autocorrelation (0.58) were obtained. Regarding the climate-growth relationship, the ring width index values were correlated with data from the climatic station nearest to the study site, where winter-spring precipitation (January-May) was the variable with the greatest influence on the growth of the species. Conclusions: Based on the dendrochronological parameters, the high potential of the species that were used in dendroclimatic studies in the region has demonstrated that the response of the species to precipitation is similar to that of the conifers with which the Quercus sideroxyla shares its habitat with.

Antioxidative mechanism of Quercus infectoria gall aqueous extract against Candida albicans

Aims@#The effect of Quercus infectoria (QI) gall extract on the fungal expression of antioxidant defense enzymes of Candida albicans was studied in an effort to unravel its anti-fungal mechanism.@*Methodology and results@#Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), and time kill assays were conducted to analyse the antifungal activity of the extract against C. albicans. Total protein profiles of C. albicans were determined by SDS-PAGE and real-time PCR was used to quantify the genes expression level of superoxide dismutase (SOD1), catalase (CAT1) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX3) following treatment with aqueous QI gall extract. The MIC and MFC values of the extract against C. albicans were 8 mg/mL and 16 mg/mL respectively. Fungistatic and fungicidal activities of the extract were observed after 24 h at 1× MIC and 2× MIC from the time-kill assay. A lower total protein bands density of extract-treated C. albicans was visualized when compared to the untreated cells at concentrations of 1× MIC and 2× MIC. A significant reduction in the expression of GPX3 (p 0.05).@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#In conclusion, QI gall extract exerted an anti-Candida activity and it is apparently effective in downregulating the gene expression of GPX3 in C. albicans. Of note, the present findings elucidated a preliminary mechanism associated with the organism’s survival resilience which represents a key target for the development of anti-Candida agents in future.

Deep Neural Network-Based Concentration Model for Oak Pollen Allergy Warning in South Korea

PURPOSE: Oak is the dominant tree species in Korea. Oak pollen has the highest sensitivity rate among all allergenic tree species in Korea. A deep neural network (DNN)-based estimation model was developed to determine the concentration of oak pollen and overcome the shortcomings of conventional regression models. METHODS: The DNN model proposed in this study utilized weather factors as the input and provided pollen concentrations as the output. Weather and pollen concentration data were used from 2007 to 2016 obtained from the Korea Meteorological Administration pollen observation network. Because it is difficult to prevent over-fitting and underestimation by using a DNN model alone, we developed a bootstrap aggregating-type ensemble model. Each of the 30 ensemble members was trained with random sampling at a fixed rate according to the pollen risk grade. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed model, we compared its performance with those of models of regression and support vector regression (SVR) under the same conditions, with respect to the prediction of pollen concentrations, risk levels, and season length. RESULTS: The mean absolute percentage error in the estimated pollen concentrations was 11.18%, 10.37%, and 5.04% for the regression, SVR and DNN models, respectively. The start of the pollen season was estimated to be 20, 22, and 6 days earlier than that predicted by the regression, SVR and DNN models, respectively. Similarly, the end of the pollen season was estimated to be 33, 20, and 9 days later that predicted by the regression, SVR and DNN models, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the DNN model performed better than the other models. However, the prediction of peak pollen concentrations needs improvement. Improved observation quality with optimization of the DNN model will resolve this issue.

Distribución geográfica de angiospermas epífitas de la región terrestre prioritaria Cerros Negro-Yucaño, Oaxaca, México / Geographical distribution of epiphytic angiosperms of the priority terrestrial region of Cerros Negro-Yucaño, Oaxaca, Mexico

Resumen El conocimiento sobre la riqueza y la distribución de las plantas epifítas vasculares es aún incompleto en muchas áreas de México. Un ejemplo es la región terrestre prioritaria (RTP) Cerros Negro-Yucaño, que se ubica en el noroeste del estado de Oaxaca y pertenece a la región mixteca alta (Ñuu Savi Sukun, Ñuu vixi). Con base en la revisión de material de herbario en 12 colecciones institucionales mexicanas y en la recolección de especímenes en algunas localidades, principalmente cubiertas por bosque de encino, en 17 de los 18 municipios que incluye la RTP, se compilo un listado de las angiospermas epífitas. Se registró la presencia de 40 especies, distribuidas en 13 géneros y cinco familias; 28 taxa son endémicos de México y tres de ellos se conocen solamente de Oaxaca. Los géneros Tillandsia (18 spp.) y Peperomia (4) fueron los mejor representados en el área. El bosque de encino fue el tipo de vegetación en el cual se encontraron más epífitas (32 spp.) y también el intervalo altitudinal de 1 900 a 2 100 m (19 spp.). Plantas en floración de Artorima erubescens, Laelia albida, L. furfuracea y Prosthechea karwinskii, son utilizadas por pobladores de la región como ornamentales, durante las celebraciones religiosas de Día de Muertos y Semana Santa. Este impacto humano podría representar una amenaza para las poblaciones silvestres de estas especies en el futuro.(AU)

Abstract The knowledge on richness and distribution of epiphytic vascular plants is still incomplete in many areas of Mexico. An example is the terrestrial priority region (RTP) Cerros Negro-Yucaño, which is located in the Northwest portion of Oaxaca and belongs to the Mixteca Alta Region (Ñuu Savi Sukun, Ñuu Vixi). Based on herbarium material revision of 12 Mexican institutional collections and the collection of specimens in some localities, mainly covered by oak forest, in 17 of the 18 municipalities included in the RTP, we compiled a list of epiphytic angiosperms. The presence of 40 species, distributed in 13 genera and five families was recorded; 28 taxa are endemic to Mexico and three of them are only known from Oaxaca. The genera Tillandsia (18 spp.) and Peperomia (4) were the best represented genera in the area. Oak forest was the type of vegetation in which the most of the epiphytes were found (32 spp.), and also the altitudinal range between 1 900 and 2 100 m (19 spp.). Flowering plants of Artorima erubescens, Laelia albida, L. furfuracea, and Prosthechea karwinskii are used by the local people as ornamentals during the religious celebrations of Day of the Dead (Mexico) and Holly Week. This human impact might be a threat to the wild populations of these species in the future.(AU)

Characterization of odour-active volatiles and sensory analyses of roasted oak (Quercus humboldtii Bonpl) acorns, a coffee substitute / Caracterización de los compuestos activos olfativamente y análisis sensorial de los frutos tostados del roble (Quercus humboldtii Bonpl), como una bebida sustituta de café

Background: Oak acorns are roasted and grounded to produce a powder that is used to prepare a coffee substitute beverage. Objective: To identify the odour-active volatiles of the powder derived from roasted acorns of Quercus humboldtii and to perform a quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) of its appearance, odour, and taste. Methods: The odour-active volatiles of roasted oak acorn powder were extracted by SDE and analyzed by GC/MS and olfactory analyses (GC/O). Sensorial analyses of this beverage were done by QDA (Quantitative Descriptive Analysis). Results: Nineteen compounds were identified, showing acid, buttery/caramel, smoke/roasted, and fruity odour notes, which are common to those of roasted coffee. Ketones, aldehydes, aliphatic acids, furanic alcohols and pyrazines were identified as relevant for this coffee substitute beverage. The major volatile compounds were furfural, 5-methyl furfural, furfuryl alcohol, and 3-hydroxy-2-butanone, some of them related to the sugar breakdown by heating. Odour attributes characterized by QDA, were in agreement with those detected by GC-O (Gas Chromatography coupled to Olfactometry), but some off-taste notes were detected. Conclusions: The results of molecular sensory approach confirmed that this product resembles coffee; however, QDA analyses showed the presence of undesirable taste. More studies are needed in order to improve the taste quality of this coffee substitute.

Antecedentes: los frutos del roble se tuestan y muelen para producir un polvo que es empleado en la preparación de una bebida sustituta del café. Objetivos: identificar los compuestos volátiles activos olfativamente presentes en el polvo proveniente de los frutos tostados de Quercus humboldtii; así como llevar a cabo un análisis cuantitativo descriptivo (QDA) de la apariencia, olor y sabor de este polvo. Métodos: os compuestos volátiles activos olfativamente del polvo de los frutos tostados del roble se extrajeron por DES y se analizaron por CG-EM y análisis olfativo (CG-O). La caracterización sensorial de esta bebida sustituta de café fue realizada mediante el empleo de QDA. Resultados: se identificaron diecinueve compuestos y se evidenció la presencia de notas de olor como manteca/caramelo, ahumado/tostado y frutal, similares a las encontradas en el café tostado. Los componentes mayoritarios identificados para este sustituto de café fueron cetonas, aldehídos, ácidos alifáticos, alcoholes furánicos y pirazinas. Los compuestos mayoritarios detectados fueron furfural, 5-metil furfural, alcohol furfurílico y 3-hidroxi-2-butanona, algunos de ellos relacionados con la descomposición térmica de azúcares. Los atributos de olor caracterizados por QDA fueron similares a los detectados por CG-O, aunque se detectaron algunas notas de sabor desagradable. Conclusiones: los resultados del molecular sensory approach confirmaron que este producto se parece al café; sin embargo el QDA mostró la presencia de un sabor desagradable. Estudios adicionales son necesarios para mejorar la calidad del sabor de este sustituto de café.

Application of Quercus infectoria extract as a natural antimicrobial agent for chicken egg decontamination / Aplicación de un extracto de Quercus infectoria como agente antimicrobiano natural para la desinfección de huevos de gallina

Egg contamination with microbial pathogens is an enduring worldwide concern. Natural products are frequently recommended as ideal alternatives to substitute synthetic and chemical antimicrobials. Oak galls (Quercus infectoria) are aberrant growths on oak trees that have many medicinal and pharmaceutical applications. Q. infectoria extract (QIE) antimicrobial action was assessed against many microbial species, and used for eggshell decontamination. QIE antimicrobial activity was evidenced against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella Typhimurium and Candida albicans, using different assay methods. Disinfection of eggshell microbial contamination, by immersion in 1% QIE solution, sharply reduced total colony count, yeasts and molds, Enterobacteriaceae. E. coli and S. aureus were completely inhibited after 60min of immersion in QIE. QIE biochemical analysis revealed elevated contents of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The captured micrographs of S. aureus cells treated with QIE showed strong alterations in cell morphology; cells were entirely lysed and ruptured after 6h of treatment. QIE can be recommended as an effective and natural disinfectant for decontaminating eggshells from pathogenic microorganisms.

La contaminación de huevos con patógenos microbianos es un problema constante en todo el mundo. Con frecuencia se recomiendan diversos productos naturales como alternativas ideales para sustituir a los antimicrobianos sintéticos. Las agallas de roble (Quercus infectoria) son de crecimiento aberrante en los robles y tienen muchas aplicaciones medicinales y farmacéuticas. Se evaluó la acción antimicrobiana del extracto de Quercus infectoria (QIE) contra varias especies microbianas y también este se aplicó para la descontaminación de cáscaras de huevo. La actividad antimicrobiana del extracto de QIE se evidenció en relación con Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium y Candida albicans, utilizando diferentes métodos de ensayo. La inmersión de las cáscaras de huevo en extracto de QIE al 1% logró una fuerte reducción del recuento total de colonias, de levaduras y de mohos, y de miembros de Enterobacteriaceae. La inmersión durante 60 min inhibió completamente el desarrollo de E. coli y S. aureus. El análisis bioquímico del extracto de QIE reveló que este tiene un contenido elevado de compuestos fenólicos y de flavonoides. Se documentó mediante micrografías la presencia de grandes alteraciones en la morfología celular de S. aureus tras la exposición al extracto de QIE: las células se lisaron completamente y se rompieron después de 6h de tratamiento. El extracto de QIE se puede recomendar como un desinfectante eficaz y natural para descontaminar cáscaras de huevos de microorganismos patógenos.

Guild Patterns of Basidiomycetes Community Associated With Quercus mongolica in Mt. Jeombong, Republic of Korea

Depending on the mode of nutrition exploitation, major fungal guilds are distinguished as ectomycorrhizal and saprotrophic fungi. It is generally known that diverse environmental factors influence fungal communities; however, it is unclear how fungal communities respond differently to environment factors depend on fungal guilds. In this study, we investigated basidiomycetes communities associated with Quercus mongolica using 454 pyrosequencing. We attempted to detect guild pattern (ectomycorrhizal or saprotrophic fungal communities) by comparing the influence of geography and source (root and surrounding soil). A total of 515 mOTUs were detected from root (321) and soil (394) of Q. mongolica at three sites of Mt. Jeombong in Inje County. We found that patterns of diversity and community structure were different depending on the guilds. In terms of alpha diversity, only ectomycorrhizal fungi showed significant differences between sources. In terms of community structure, however, geography significantly influenced the ectomycorrhizal community, while source appeared to have a greater influence on the saprotrophic community. Therefore, a guild-based view will help to elucidates novel features of the relationship between environmental factors and fungal communities.

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.

Riqueza, distribución y estado de conservación de las especies de encino en Guatemala / Richness, distribution, and conservation status of the species of oak in Guatemala

Las especies del género Quercus son componentes estructurales de los bosques templados y semicálidos en Guatemala, así como la principal fuente energética en las zonas rurales del país. A pesar de su importancia aún se desconoce la riqueza, distribución y grado de vulnerabilidad de las especies. Por lo cual, se presenta una actualización del listado de especies para Guatemala, su distribución potencial y la evaluación del estado de conservación con base a los criterios utilizados para el listado nacional de especies amenazadas (LEA). Se registraron 29 especies de encinos, 12 corresponden a encinos blancos (Sect. Quercus) y 17 a encinos rojos (Sect. Lobatae), de los cuales Q. cortesii, Q. gulielmi-treleasei, Q. vicentensis, Q. xalapensis se citan por primera vez para Guatemala. Las especies con mayor número de registros son Q. sapotifolia (13%), Q. peduncularis (13%), Q. crassifolia (12%), Q. skinneri (7%) y Q. acutifolia (6.5%), correspondiendo a más del 50% de los registros. Los departamentos con mayor número de registros son Guatemala (177), Zacapa (155), Huehuetenango (134), Baja Verapaz (115) y Chiquimula (93); mientras que departamentos como Retalhuleu, Escuintla y Suchitepéquez presentan menos de 10 registros. En relación al estado de conservación, seis se ubicaron En Peligro Crítico, 22 en la categoría Amenazada y una en la categoría Vulnerable.

The species of the genus Quercus, commonly known as oaks, are important structural components of the forests in the region, as well as a primary source of energy in the rural areas of Guatemala. Despite their relevance, the richness, distribution and degree of vulnerability of the species, are still unknowing. Therefore, it presented an update of the list of species for Guatemala, its potential distribution and the assessment of the state of conservation based on the criteria used for the List of Threatened Species (LEA in Spanish). Twenty-nine species of oak were recorded, of which Q. cortesii, Q. gulielmi-treleasei, Q.vicentensis and Q. xalapensis are cited for the first time for Guatemala. The species with most number of records are Q. sapotifolia (13%), Q. peduncularis (13%), Q. crassifolia (12%), Q. skinneri. (7%) and Q. acutifolia (6.5%), that represent more than 50% of the records. The departments with the highest number of records are Guatemala (183), Zacapa (155), Huehuetenango (134) and Baja Verapaz (115), while departments such as Retalhuleu, Escuintla and Suchitepéquez present less than 10 records. Regarding the state of conservation, the species were evaluated using the methodology of the List of Threats Species of Guatemala, six species were Critically Endangered, 22 in the Threatened category and one in the Vulnerable category.

Contribución al conocimiento de los encinos (Quercus: Fagaceae) en los departamentos de Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz y Petén, Guatemala / Contribution to the knowledge of oaks (Quercus: Fagaceae) from the departaments of Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz and Petén, Guatemala

Las especies del género Quercus son de importancia ecológica y económica dentro de los bosques donde se desarrollan. Pueden encontrarse desde zonas cálidas y secas hasta selvas lluviosas. Estos bosques, también son reconocidos por presentar alto grado de endemismo y gran número de interacciones ecológicas. Sin embargo, en Guatemala las especies de encino han sido poco estudiadas y están fuertemente amenazadas; a pesar de poseer un alto potencial para aprovechamiento, manejo y uso en la restauración de ecosistemas. Este estudio se orientó hacia la actualización de la riqueza y distribución geográfica de las especies de encino para Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz y Petén, a partir de la revisión de registros en herbarios nacionales, bases de datos en línea de herbarios extranjeros y colectas de campo. Se registraron 19 especies de encinos en Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz y Petén, nueve especies más de las reportadas previamente, actualizándose los rangos de distribución departamental de 18 especies a excepción de Quercus sapotifolia Liebm. De las especies registradas, 16 se encuentran con algún grado de amenaza, según el Listado de Especies Amenazadas y listas rojas de UICN. También se identificaron vacíos de información acerca de la distribución de estas especies dentro de remanentes boscosos importantes en los departamentos evaluados. Se espera que a partir de este estudio se incrementen los esfuerzos por comprenden la riqueza y distribución de las especies de encino para Guatemala.

Quercus species represent one of the genera with ecological and economic importance within the forests where they develop, since these can be found from warm and dry zones to rain forests. Oak forests also exhibit high endemism levels and a large number of ecological interactions. However, oak species in Guatemala have been briefly studied, although they represent a genus highly threatened and with a high potential for use, handling and ecosystem restoration. This study was oriented towards the actualization of richness and geographical distribution of the oak species in Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz and Peten from reviewing records in National Herbariums, online databases of foreign Herbariums and field collection. A total of 19 oak species in Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz and Peten were recorded, nine more species of those previously reported, updating the departmental distribution ranges of 18 species except Quercus sapotifolia Liebm. Of the species recorded, 16 were listed with some degree of threat according to the national List of Threatened Species and the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Our results evidenced that the oak species were located in important forest remnants in all of the departments evaluated. It is expected from this study to increase the efforts to understand the oak species richness and species distributions patterns for Guatemala.

In vitro antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities of crude ethyle alcohole extract of Quercus brantii L. acorn and subsequent fractions / 中国天然药物

Cancer cell resistance to widely used chemotherapeutic agents is gradually developed. Natural products, mainly isolated from medicinal plants, have been considered as valuable sources for herbal anticancer drugs. The present study aimed to evaluate in vitro antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities of crude ethyle alcohole extract and four fractions of Q. brantii acorn. Crude ethyle alcohole extract of Q. brantii acorn was prepared and subjected to fractionation with different polarity. Subsequently, the extract and the fractions wereevaluated for their in vitro antiproliferative activity in two cancerous (Hela and AGS) and one normal (HDFs) cell lines using MTT [3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2ol) 2, 5 diphenyltetrazoliumbromide] assay. To determine whether the cytotoxicity of these compounds involved the induction of apoptosis, Hela cells were treated with IC50 concentrations of test compounds, stained with both propidium iodide (PI) and Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), and analyzed by flow cytometry. In vitro cytotoxicity assay showed that the cell viability was significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner following treatment with crude ethyle alcohole extract and Cholophorm and n-Butanol fractions. Based on the probit regression model, antiproliferative activities of crude ethyle alcohole extract, Cholophorm fraction, and n-Butanol fraction on Hela and AGS cells and HDFs cells were significantly different (P < 0.001). The results of flow cytometric analysis showed that crude ethyle alcohole extract and two fractions of Q. brantii acorn induced early apoptotic cell death. These findings suggest that crude ethyle alcohole extract and Cholophorm and n-Butanol fractions of Q. brantii acorn suppress the proliferation of cancer cells through induction of early apoptosis.

HPLC analysis of Phenolic Substances and Anti-Alzheimer's Activity of Korean Quercus Species

This study aimed to establish the quantitative method to analyze the content of peroxynitrite-scavengers belonging to polyphenols in six Korean Quercus species (Quercus mongolica, Q. dentata, Q. acutissima, Q. alienta, Q. serrata, and Q. variabilis) by HPLC. The twelve peroxynitrite-scavengers, flavanols (catechins: (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin, and (−)-epigallocatechin), flavonols (kaempferol and quercetin), flavonol glycosides (astragalin, quercitrin, and isoquercitrin), flavonol acylated glycosides (astragalin 6″-gallate and isoquercitrin 6″-gallate), gallic acid and its dimer (ellagic acid) were analyzed by HPLC. Further, anti-Alzheimer's activity was assayed in a passive avoidance testusing mice by measuring the retention latency (sec), the concentration of acetylcholine (ACh), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. Simultaneous analysis of the extracts of the six Quercus leaves was achieved on a Capcell C18 column (5 µm, 250 mm × 4.6 mm i.d.) with a gradient elution of 0.05% HAc and 0.05% HAc in CH₃CN. In the extract of Q. mongolica leaves, the content of gallic acid (32.53 mg/g), (+)-catechin (28.78 mg/g), (−)-epicatehin (22.03 mg/g), astragalin 6″-gallate (20.94 mg/g), and isoquercitrin 6″-gallate (44.11 mg/g) and peroxynitrite-scavenging activity (IC₅₀, 0.831 µg/ml) were high. This extract delayed the retention latency and inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity in scopolamine-induced memory impairment of mice, suggesting that it has anti-Alzheimer's activity.

Cross-Reactivity between Oak and Birch Pollens in Korean Tree Pollinosis

Oak and birch trees belong to Fagales order. Specific IgE to pollen allergens of both trees are frequently found in Korea pollinosis patients. Oak trees which comprise 40% of forest area are common in Korea. However, birch trees are sparse. We compared the allergenicity of pollen extracts of white oak, sawtooth and Mongolian oaks which are prevalent species in Korea, with the pollen extract of birch. The cross-reactivity of four pollen extracts was examined with pooled sera of 12 patients by ELISA, immunoblotting and CAP inhibitions. A protein of 17 kDa, putatively homologous to a major birch allergen Bet v 1, displayed strong IgE reactivity from white oak and sawtooth oak pollen extract but not from Mongolian oak pollen. Notably, a 23-kDa protein from sawtooth and white oaks showed strong IgE reactivity and inhibited by Bet v 1. IgE binding to white oak was inhibited a maximum of 94.6% by white oak, 93.4% by sawtooth oak, 83.2% by Mongolian oak, and 68.8% by birch. Furthermore, sawtooth oak, white oak, and Mongolian oak extracts were able to inhibit up to 78.5%, 76.6% and 67.3% of IgE binding to birch extract, while birch extract itself inhibited up to 94.3%. Specific IgE to Bet v 1 was inhibited a maximum of 79.1% by sawtooth oak, 77.4% by white oak, and 72.7% by Mongolian oak, while 81.5% inhibition was shown by birch. Bet v 1 was able to partially inhibit its homologous molecules from sawtooth oak and white oak in immunoblotting. Birch pollen extract was found to be cross-reactive primarily with Bet v 1-homologous allergen from oak pollens in Korea pollinosis patients. Considering the sparseness of birch tree in Korea, oak, especially sawtooth oak may be the main cause of tree pollinosis in Korea, rather than birch.

Identification of Epmedii Folium and its counterfeit leaf of Quercus variabilis / 中国中药杂志

Epmedii Folium is a commonly used traditional Chinese drug, and is beneficial for the "liver" and "kidney" s function in Chinese medicine. Recently, the origin of this drug is more complex. Most of the identification studies are emphasized on the species certified by the pharmacopoeia and other related species from the same genus of Epimedium, but few was emphasized on the counterfeit. In this paper, one counterfeit of Epmedii Folium, identified as the dried leaf of Quercus variabilis (Fam. Fagaceae), has been reported based on field investigation, comparing specimen of Epmedii Folium and Q. variabilis,using the macroscopic, microscopic and TmC methods. It is resulted that they could be identified clearly not only by the macroscopic features, such as the vein character and the tooth apex, but also by the microscopic features, such as the vascular bundles of the midrib, the non-glandular hair, the anticlinal wall of the epidermis cell and the calcium oxalate crystal. Furthermore their TLC chromatograms showed also difference. This study will give reference for the identification of Epmedii Folium and the related supervision and inspection work.

Yeast Associated with the Ambrosia Beetle, Platypus koryoensis, the Pest of Oak Trees in Korea

Oak tree death caused by symbiosis of an ambrosia beetle, Platypus koryoensis, and an ophiostomatoid filamentous fungus, Raffaelea quercus-mongolicae, has been a nationwide problem in Korea since 2004. In this study, we surveyed the yeast species associated with P. koryoensis to better understand the diversity of fungal associates of the beetle pest. In 2009, a total of 195 yeast isolates were sampled from larvae and adult beetles (female and male) of P. koryoensis in Cheonan, Goyang, and Paju; 8 species were identified by based on their morphological, biochemical and molecular analyses. Meyerozyma guilliermondii and Candida kashinagacola were found to be the two dominant species. Among the 8 species, Candida homilentoma was a newly recorded yeast species in Korea, and thus, its mycological characteristics were described. The P. koryoensis symbiont R. quercusmongolicae did not show extracelluar CM-cellulase, xylanase and avicelase activity that are responsible for degradation of wood structure; however, C. kashinagacola and M. guilliermondii did show the three extracellular enzymatic activities. Extracelluar CM-cellulase activity was also found in Ambrosiozyma sp., C. homilentoma, C. kashinagacola, and Candida sp. Extracelluar pectinase activity was detected in Ambrosiozyma sp., C. homilentoma, Candida sp., and M. guilliermondii. All the 8 yeast species displayed compatible relationships with R. quercus-mongolicae when they were co-cultivated on yeast extract-malt extract plates. Overall, our results demonstrated that P. koryoensis carries the yeast species as a symbiotic fungal associate. This is first report of yeast diversity associated with P. koryoensis.

Estratificación vertical de briófitos epífitos encontrados en Quercus humboldtii (Fagaceae) de Boyacá, Colombia / Vertical stratification of epiphytic bryophytes found on Quercus humboldtii (Fagaceae) from Boyacá, Colombia

Oak forest represents an ecologically important plant formation in Colombia, partly due to the large amount of epiphyte flora that harbors, especially non-vascular plants which have been poorly studied in Colombia. One of the biggest oak forests in the country is the one found in the Parque Natural Municipal “Robledales de Tipacoque” (PNMRT), in Boyacá, municipality of Tipacoque. The epiphyte bryoflora was evaluated in Q. humboldtii, using canopy climbing techniques and dividing the trees (25 individuals sampled) each into five layers (base, trunk, inner canopy, middle and outer canopy). A total of 365 samples were collected: 29% liveworts and 71% mosses. Hepatics represented 10 families, 16 genera and 26 species; mosses 11 families, 26 genera and 49 species. Considering the tree layers, the most diverse one was the base with 51 species, followed by the trunk with 43; in the canopy, the inner canopy was found the most diverse with 28 species, and was followed by the middle canopy with 18, and the outer canopy with 15. A species similarity index shows that the trunk and the middle canopy were the most closely related (0.42) in terms of species composition. The results showed that non-vascular plants were mostly found in lower layers (base and trunk), where the diversity was greater, richer (species number), and this might be caused by the microclimatic conditions in these places, such as higher humidity, lower light intensity and shade. Thus, some species are considered shade epiphytes (ombrophiles) because they are unique to these areas, like Bazzania gracilis and Taxilejeunea pterigonia, among others. Likewise, Jungermannia sp. is considered a sun epiphyte (heliophilous) because it is found only in the outer canopy. We concluded that Q. humboldtii could be considered as a potential host for the conservation of non-vascular epiphytes in Colombian forests. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (2): 719-727. Epub 2014 June 01.

Los bosques de roble representan una formación vegetal de importancia ecológica, debido a la cantidad de plantas epífitas que pueden llegar a albergar; estas han sido muy poco estudiadas en Colombia, especialmente las no vasculares. Para el país, uno de los robledales de mayor extensión es el Parque Natural Municipal “Robledaes de Tipacoque” (PNMRT), que se encuentra ubicado en Boyacá, en el municipio de Tipacoque. Se evaluó la brioflora epífita en Quercus humboldtii, mediante técnicas de ascenso a dosel y división de cada uno de los árboles (25 individuos muestreados) en cinco estratos cada uno (base, tronco, dosel interno, dosel medio y dosel externo). Se recolectaron en total 365 muestras, 29% pertenecen a hepáticas y 71% a musgos. Las hepáticas se distribuyeron en 10 familias, 16 géneros y 26 especies, mientras que los musgos se distribuyeron en 11 familias, 26 géneros y 49 especies. La base del árbol es el estrato con mayor diversidad de especies (51), seguida del tronco (43), mientras que en el dosel, la parte interna fue la más diversa con 28 especies, seguida del dosel medio con 18 y el dosel externo con 15. Los análisis de similitud muestran una baja relación entre los estratos, donde la mayor afinidad esta entre el tronco y el dosel medio con el 0.42. Los resultados muestran que las plantas no vasculares prefieren los estratos inferiores (base y tronco), donde la diversidad es mayor, debido a las condiciones microclimáticas que éstas zonas presentan, como mayor humedad, menor intensidad lumínica y sombra; además, algunas especies se consideran como epífitas de sombra (hombrófilas) al ser exclusivas de éstas zonas, como Bazzania gracilis y Taxilejeunea pterigonia, entre otras. El caso contrario, Jungermannia sp. Se considera epífita de sol (heliófila) al encontrarse únicamente en el dosel externo. Se concluye que Q. humboldtii puede ser un hospedero potencial para la conservación de epífitas no vasculares en bosques colombianos.

The Effect of Raffaelea quercus-mongolicae Inoculations on the Formation of Non-conductive Sapwood of Quercus mongolica

In Korea, mass mortality of Quercus mongolica trees has become obvious since 2004. Raffaelea quercus-mongolicae is believed to be a causal fungus contributing the mortality. To evaluate the pathogenicity of the fungus to the trees, the fungus was multiple- and single-inoculated to the seedlings and twigs of the mature trees, respectively. In both the inoculations, the fungus was reisolated from more than 50% of inoculated twigs and seedlings. In the single inoculations, proportions of the transverse area of non-conductive sapwood at inoculation points and vertical lengths of discoloration expanded from the points were significantly different between the inoculation treatment and the control. In the multiple inoculations, no mortality was confirmed among the seedlings examined. These results showed that R. quercus-mongolicae can colonize sapwood, contribute to sapwood discoloration and disrupt sap flows around inoculation sites of Q. mongolica, although the pathogenicity of the fungus was not proven.

Production of anticandidal cotton textiles treated with oak gall extract / Producción de tejidos de algodón con actividad anticandidiásica tratados con extracto de agallas de roble

Candida albicans, one of the most dreadful fungal pathogens threatening humans, could not be easily prevented. The anticandidal activity of oak gall extract, Quercus infectoria (QIE), was investigated as a potential natural alternative to synthetic and chemical fungicides. QIE anticandidal potentiality was confirmed using both qualitative and quantitative assays. Cotton textiles were treated with QIE and then evaluated as anticandidal fabrics. QIE-treated textiles had a potent anticandidal activity, which could completely inhibit the inoculated C. albicans cells. The durability of anticandidal activity in QIE-treated textiles almost completely disappeared after the fourth laundering cycle. QIE could be recommended, however, as a potent anticandidal agent for preparing antiseptic solutions and emulsions and as a finishing agent for manufacturing anticandidal disposable diapers and hygienic clothes.

Candida albicans es uno de los patógenos fúngicos más terribles que amenazan la salud humana, y su prevención no resulta sencilla. En este trabajo se investigó la actividad anticandidiásica del extracto de agallas de roble (Quercus infectoria extract; QIE) como una posible alternativa natural a los fungicidas sintéticos y químicos. El potencial anticandidiásico del QIE se confirmó mediante análisis cualitativos y cuantitativos. Se trató tejido de algodón de uso textil con QIE y se lo evaluó como tela anticandidiásica. Se verificó que dichos tejidos exhibían una potente actividad anticandidiásica y que podían inhibir completamente a células de C. albicans inoculadas. La actividad anticandidiásica, sin embargo, desapareció por completo después del cuarto ciclo de lavado. Se concluye que se podría recomendar QIE como un agente anticandidiásico potente para la preparación de soluciones antisépticas y emulsiones, y como un agente de acabado para fabricar pañales desechables y ropa de higiene con propiedades anticandidiásicas.

A New Record of Candida kashinagacola (Synonym Ambrosiozyma kashinagacola) from Galleries of Platypus koryoensis, the Oak Wilt Disease Vector, in Korea

The ambrosia beetle, Platypus koryoensis, is an economically important pest affecting oak trees in Korea. Candida kashinagacola was isolated from galleries of the beetle in oak wood and identified by analyses of morphology, physiological properties, and nucleotide sequence of the large subunit ribosomal DNA. This is the first report on Candida species associated with oak wilt disease vectored by the ambrosia beetle, Platypus koryoensis, in Korea.