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Centaurea thracica (Janka) Hayek is a plant common in southern Bulgaria. The inflorescences were collected during June and September 2021, while their seeds were obtained in September 2021. The chemical and lipid composition of the inflorescences during the vegetation process of the plant were established. A significant decrease in total proteins (from 8.7 to 7.4%), glyceride oils (2.0–1.7%), and ash (4.5–4.2%) content was observed, while the amount of carbohydrates (72.3–77.2%) and fibers (28.7–35.8%) increased. During the vegetation of the plant, the content of oleic and linoleic acids increased up to 2–3 times, while the level of palmitic acid decreased. The lipids from the seeds were rich in oleic (53.0%) and palmitic (36.2%) acids. The tocopherol content in the oils of the inflorescences during vegetation increased from 58 to 110 mg/kg, and the content in the oil from the seeds was 260 mg/kg. The phospholipid content decreased during vegetation, and differences were observed in the composition between the inflorescences and the seeds. The high content of oleic acid, linoleic acid, tocopherols, and phospholipids determine the nutritional and biological value of the oils isolated from Centaurea thracica, and contribute to their potential use in various directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article attempts to summarize the available data on wild edible macromycetes in the regions Strandzha and the Black Sea coast in connection with the clarification of ethnomycology. The total number of registered species of edible mushrooms for both areas is 105. The species Boletus caucasicus Singer ex Alessio; Boletus luridiformis Rostk. var. luridiformis and Laccaria bicolor (Maire) P.D. were noted only for the region of the Black Sea coast. The species composition, ecological-trophic structure and seasonality of edible mushrooms are briefly discussed. A list of 14 macroscopic edible fungi with conservation significance for the mycota of the two territories, assessed with the latest IUCN criteria, is given. Critically Endangered (CR) according to the Red List of fungi in Bulgaria and the Red Data Book of the Republic of Bulgaria was Boletus caucasicus Singer ex Alessio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracts from medicinal plants are widely used in the treatment and prevention of different diseases. Micromeria frivaldszkyana is a Balkan endemic species with reported antioxidant and antimicrobial characteristics; however, its phytochemical composition is not well defined. Here, we examined the metabolome of M. frivaldszkyana by chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ultra-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS-MS), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Amino acids, organic acids, sugars, and sugar alcohols were the primary metabolites with the highest levels in the plant extract. Detailed analysis of the sugar content identified high levels of sucrose, glucose, mannose, and fructose. Lipids are primary plant metabolites, and the analysis revealed triacylglycerols as the most abundant lipid group. Potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), and calcium (Ca) were the elements with the highest content. The results showed linarin, 3-caffeoil-quinic acid, and rosmarinic acid, as well as a number of polyphenols, as the most abundant secondary metabolites. Among the flavonoids and polyphenols with a high presence were eupatorin, kaempferol, and apigenin—compounds widely known for their bioactive properties. Further, the acute toxicity and potential anti-inflammatory activity of the methanolic extract were evaluated in Wistar rats. No toxic effects were registered after a single oral application of the extract in doses of between 200 and 5000 mg/kg bw. A fourteen-day pre-treatment with methanolic extract of M. frivaldszkyana in doses of 250, 400, and 500 mg/kg bw induced anti-inflammatory activity in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd hours after carrageenan injection in a model of rat paw edema. This effect was also present in the 4th hour only in the group treated with a dose of 500 mg/kg. In conclusion, M. frivaldszkyana extract is particularly rich in linarin, rosmarinic acid, and flavonoids (eupatorin, kaempferol, and apigenin). Its methanolic extract induced no toxicity in male Wistar rats after oral application in doses of up to 5000 mg/kg bw. Additionally, treatment with the methanolic extract for 14 days revealed anti-inflammatory potential in a model of rat paw edema on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd hours after the carrageenan injection. These results show the anti-inflammatory potential of the plant, which might be considered for further exploration and eventual application as a phytotherapeutic agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marrubium species have been used since ancient times as food additives and curative treatments. Their phytochemical composition and various pharmacological activities were the focus of a number of scientific investigations but no comprehensive metabolome profiling to identify the numerous primary and secondary metabolites has been performed so far. This study aimed to generate a comprehensive picture of the total metabolite content of two Marrubium species—M. peregrinum and M. friwaldskyanum—to provide detailed information about the main primary and secondary metabolites. In addition, the elemental composition was also evaluated. For this purpose, non-targeted metabolomic analyses were conducted using GC-MS, UPLC-MS/MS and ICP-MS approaches. Nearly 500 compounds and 12 elements were detected and described. The results showed a strong presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids and their glucosides, which are generally of great interest due to their various pharmacological activities. Furthermore, tissue-specific analyses for M. friwaldskyanum stem, leaves and flowers were carried out in order to outline the sources of potentially important bioactive molecules. The results generated from this study depict the Marrubium metabolome and reveal its dual scientific importance—from one side, providing information about the metabolites that is fundamental and vital for the survival of these species, and from the other side, defining the large diversity of secondary substances that are a potential source of phytotherapeutic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on the surface-active agents added during the cultivation process proved their effect on the synthesized bioproducts. The biosynthesis and accumulation of exopolysaccharide and biomass by Antarctic producer Cryptococcus laurentii AL65 were studied in submerged cultivation using different carbon sources in the culture medium added to a one-percent concentration (pentoses, hexoses and oligosaccharides). Sucrose was chosen as the most appropriate carbon source for the cell growth and extracellular polymer biosynthesis. Absorption of sucrose by a strain producer was monitored and the residual sugars were traced in the dynamics of the fermentation process. The effect of polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (Tween 80) on the cell growth and the accumulation of the synthesized biopolymer were studied for the first time with the Antarctic producer. The optimal increase in the amount of accumulated exopolysaccharide was recorded at a concentration of 6% Tween 80 at 24 h from the start of fermentation. The surfactant treatment contributed to an increase in the total amount of lipids in the cell, to the increased [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extracts obtained from different Betonica species have been shown to possess important biological properties. The present study aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity, antitumor and immunomodulatory potential of the endemic plant Betonica bulgarica (Lamiaceae) and thus, reveal new aspects of its biological activity. Methods: Methanolic extract obtained from inflorescences was analyzed for cytotoxicity against mammalian cell lines. The antitumor potential of the sample was determined using human cervical and lung adenocarcinoma cells (HeLa and A549). Programmed cell death-inducing effects against HeLa cells and peripheral blood lymphocytes, as well as immunomodulatory properties of the extract were determined by flow cytometry analysis. Results: The research results demonstrated that the extract has significant inhibitory potential against HeLa cells (mean IC50 value 119.2 μg/mL). The sample selectively induced apoptotic death in tumor cells. Cytotoxic effects towards mouse cell lines were detected following treatment with high concentrations of Betonica bulgarica extract (200 and 250 μg/mL). Twenty-four-hour ex vivo incubation of peripheral blood leucocytes in growth medium containing plant extract induced prominent effects in distinct immune cell populations. They included elevated levels of CD25+ and CD56+ T cells' lymphocytes, particularly CD4+CD25+ and CD8+CD56+ cells. Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that Betonica bulgarica inflorescence extract possesses potential beneficial antitumor and immunomodulatory activity and could serve as a source of bioactive compounds with biomedical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents data on some invasive and conservation-significant species in two protected areas of the Strandzha Nature Park - Protected Area "Marina Reka" and Protected Area "Silistar". There were monitored the protected species Pancratium maritimum, Calluna vulgaris, Daphne pontica, Ilex colchica, Rhododendron ponticum, Mespilus germanica, and Taxus baccata, as well as an invasive species - Amorpha fruticosa, whose population borders that of Pancratium maritimum. The projective coverage of species in the sample areas and the total projective coverage of the vegetation have been studied also measures for their protection have been indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study presents data on the anatomical characteristics of the leaf and stem in Marrubium friwaldskyanum and Marrubium peregrinum. The leaves in both species are amphistomatic with diacytic and anomocytic stomata. The leaf lamina shows differentiation of palisade and spongy tissue, and collateral vascular bundles. Non-glandular and glandular trichomes have been found on the epidermis of the leaves and stem. The non-glandular trichomes are unicellular linear and multicellular branched. Glandular trichomes are peltate, with a single-celled or two-celled structure. There is a difference between the two species in terms of the width of the epidermal cells of the stem, the thickness of the cortex, the thickness of the xylem and the phloem in the stem. The established differences in the anatomical features can be useful in future taxonomic studies within the genus Marrubium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study provides detailed information about Rumex kerneri Borbás in the flora of Bulgaria. The data about this species in the floristic literature is contradictory and uncompleted. The morphologically closely allied species R. cristatus DC. и R. patientia L. misleads in the determination of the species. Both species are used as a referent to establish the discrete morphological characters and metrics. The current study provides detailed information about pollen and fruit morphology, leaf epidermis, and karyology of Rumex kerneri Borbás in the flora of Bulgaria. The data about this species in the floristic literature is contradictory and uncompleted. The most reliable characters in the differentiation between R. cristatus are R. patientia the reduced number of flowers in a cluster of R. kerneri, the development of only one tubercle in the mature valves, and the abaxial surface of the leaf blade. Also, the pollen morphology (light and scanning electron microscopy) was confirmed in this study. The somatic chromosome number of the species 2n = 80 is also given. This is the first chromosome number for the taxon from Bulgaria and confirms the earlier reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floristic studies have been carried out in the Upper Thracian Lowland in 14 railway stations: Dimitrovgrad, Knizhovnik, Malevo, Maslinovo, Most, Stara Zagora, Yabalkovo, Uzundzhovo, Harmanli, Skobelevo, Karadzhalovo, Stalevo, Plovdiv and Haskovo during the period 2017 to 2019. A total of 267 species, 174 genera and 53 families of higher vascular plants were identified. Alien and invasive species make up for a relatively high percentage of 9.4% in the railway flora. This indicates that the railway network plays an important role in the penetration and further dispersal of alien species in Bulgarian. The long-distance spread of railway areas is most common with passing trains and people moving. The largest number of alien species were found at stations with more intensive movement of passengers and cargo, where maneuvers are performed, stay of freight trains, such as Dimitrovgrad, Haskovo, Plovdiv, Stara Zagora. The alien species found at several of the studied railway stations were: Convolvulus arvensis L., Erigeron canadensis L., Fallopia convolvulus (L.) Á. Löve, Amaranthus hybridus L., Amorpha fruticosa L. Individual plants of strongly invasive Ambrosia artemisifolia L. have been identified in the railway station in the Haskovo City. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As producers of biomass, cyanobacteria are a major part of the phytoplankton in a large number of water basins. Due to the cyanobacterial blooms and cyanotoxins produced, these organisms are recognized as a threat and ecological risk for water bodies. Released cyanotoxins may cause death of many organisms including birds and fish. Vaya Lake is the largest natural lake in Bulgaria. It is located on the Via Pontica migration route of birds between Europe and Africa. Since 2003, the lake has been declared as a "Wetland of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention. According to the literature data from 2002-2006, the Lake is defined as highly eutrophied due to strong anthropogenic pressure, but regular monitoring of the cyanobacterial blooms and presence of cyanotoxins after this period is missing. Taking into account the importance of this unique, protected ecosystem, our aim was to make a complete ecological assessment of the present state of Lake Vaya by using the phytoplankton, with an emphasis on cyanobacterial blooms and the presence of cyanotoxins. As results of the study, we 1) characterized the phytoplankton composition qualitatively and quantitatively; 2) evaluated the ecological status of the western and eastern part of the Lake; 3) identified the potential producers of cyanotoxins; 4) observed cyanobacterial blooms and discussed the influence of macrophytes on their spread; 5) measured the concentrations of the cyanotoxins MCs, CYL and STXs in water samples from both parts of the Lake. Our results indicated the need for continued observation of cyanobacterial composition, blooming and the presence of cyanotoxins in Lake Vaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Betonica bulgarica Degen et Neič. (syn. Stachys bulgarica Hayek) is a Bulgarian endemic plant included in Red Data Book of Bulgaria under the category "endangered". The aim of the present study is to provide data about the antimicrobial activity of B. bulgarica leaf, flower, seed, stem and root methanolic extracts against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Bacillus cereus, Aspergillus ochraceus 2002 IM-BAS, Fusarium moniliforme 394 FN-9, Fusarium graminearum 2294 IMI 155426 and Penicillium verrucosum 2003 NRRL F-143. Antimicrobial activity of the extracts was evaluated by agar well diffusion method. Root extracts of B. bulgarica exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against S. aureus and B. cereus with large zones of inhibition. All extracts demonstrated either low and statistically insignificant activity against E. coli or a lack thereof. As a whole, extracts of Ablanovo area (in Sinite kamani National Park) exerted the highest activity against S. aureus, B. cereus and E. coli. Leaf, flower, stem and root extracts of B. bulgarica showed either a lack of antifungal activity or low and statistically insignificant one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two-year study on the species composition of higher plants was conducted in three moisture zones in the Maritsa river valley, Bulgaria: "Rice-field Plovdiv", protected zone (PZ) "Rice-field Tsalapitsa" and protected area (PA) "Martvitsata Zlato Pole". The analysis was done, using the floristic methods. There were 154 species of vascular plants identified, which belong to 125 genera and 43 families. The highest floristic diversity was found for PA "Martvitsata Zlato Pole" - 74% of the total number of species found, followed by "Rice-field Plovdiv" (47%) and PZ "Rice-field Tsalapitza" (36%). The families Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae and Lamiaceae have the largest number of representatives. The total floristic composition of the three tested areas showed the predominance of dicotyledonous taxa. The comparative analysis of the biological types showed the prevalence of the perennial herbaceous plants, followed by the annual plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work presents a comparative anatomical study of the leaf epidermis of the Bulgarian endemic Micromeria frivaldszkyana (Degen) Velen. and Clinopodium vulgare L., belonging to the family Lamiaceae. In both species they occur diacytic and anomocytic stomatal type, while the indumentum is presented by multicellular, linear covering trichomes and multicellular, stacked glandular trichomes. The results obtained from the statistical data processing contribute to the distinction between the two species with respect to the peculiarities of the leaf epidermis. Taxonomically significant anatomical features for their determination are: number, width and length of stomata on the abaxial epidermis; width of on the adaxial epidermis; number, width and length of basic epidermal cells along both epidermis and thickness of upper and lower cuticle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Base on the national herbariums deposited in the country and some authors' collections, a review of the status of Asparagus species has been made. Information on ecology, height range and representation of Bulgarian species in herbarium collections is updated. The information is organized in a relational database, which is an important information resource and a starting point for future taxonomic and chorological studies. This study reveals the state of the art and summarizes the gaps and problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current status of a lake can be evaluated via monitoring based on biological quality elements. Reference aquatic flora communities reflect pristine situations that exist or would exist with no or very minor disturbances from anthropogenic pressure. Phytoplankton and macrophytes were studied in 10 national lake types (L1, L3, L4, L5, L7, L8, L11, L12, L13, L17). Type-specific taxa and groups character in reference and near reference conditions were described. Abiotic parameters (water chemistry) were also discussed. Descriptor species from 25 FGs were registered in phytoplankton communities in lakes in reference and near reference conditions. Dinoflagellates (L0) cryptomonads (Y) and various benthic/periphytic taxa (MP) were distributed in almost all lake types. Character descriptor species and FGs were reported for lake types L1 and L5. Motile mixotrophic dinoflagellates (L0) and cryptomonads (Y) had highest relative biovolume in ultraoligotrophic alpine lakes (L1) due to their ability to utilize effectively scarce trophic resources. Motile euglenoids (W1, W2), small-celled colonial Cyanobacteria (K), green algae and small cryptomonads (X1, X2), coccal green algae (J) and meroplanctonic diatoms (MP) dominated phytoplankton community in riverine marshes (L5). Recorded FGs from natural lakes were also common in and their analog among heavy modified water bodies: shallow lowland reservoirs L17. Phytoplankton communities of L13 (small and medium-size semi-mountain reservoirs in the Eastern Balkans) were more similar with those of L11 (large deep reservoirs) and mountain L1, L3. Further surveys are needed in order to classify specific features of phytoplankton communities in L3, L4, L7, L11 and L12. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A key table for species determination of the Bulgarian representatives from the genus Carduus was modified, basing on the findings from the biosystematical study. Taxonomic classification of C. nutans and C. thoermeri was assumed, and new floristic regions of distribution were found for six species. The species C. uncinatus was not confirmed for the Bulgarian flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic prokaryotes with cosmopolitan distribution. They are major producers of primary biomass and free oxygen in most of the freshwater and marine biomes on the planet. Under certain conditions of the environment, these organisms can evolve massively and cause the so-called "water blooms". Very often these blooms are toxic due to the ability of some cyanobacteria to produce dangerous toxins (cyanotoxins) with hepatotoxic, neurotoxic or dermatotoxic effects. This determines the cyanobacteria as an ecological risk for the aquatic ecosystems as well as a threat for the health of animals and humans. Climate changes also lead to an increase in the percentage of cyanobacterial blooms. Therefore, the investigation of the species composition of this group in the Bulgarian reservoirs, the tracking of the blooms frequencies as well as the assessment of their toxic potential is of great importance. Unfortunately, such data at this stage are scarce. This study presents data on the species composition and toxic potential of Cyanobacteria during the summer months of 2017 in five reservoirs (Batak, Dospat, Shiroka polyana, Golyam Beglik and Krichim dams) in the Western Rhodope Mountain. During the investigation period, except the representatives of Cyanobacteria, seven algal phyla (Chlorophyta, Bacillariophyta, Euglenophyta, Dinoflagellata, Cryptophyta, Chrysophyta and Xantophyta) were also found in the dams. The frequency and percentage of cyanobacteria were reported. A taxonomic list of the determined cyanobacterial species is given for each water body. In addition, a quantitative characteristic for each species (density and biomass) was performed. By using ELISA tests for cyanotoxins we have analyzed the presence of microcystins/nodularins (MCs/Nod) and saxitoxins (STXs). Cyanotoxins were found in four of the studied water basins - Dospat Dam, Batak Dam, Shiroka polyana Dam and Krichim Dam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The floristic composition of vascular plants of three moisture zones, along the river Maritsa - "Rice-field Plovdiv", protected zone (PZ) "Rice-field Tsalapitsa" and protected area (PA) "Martvitsata Zlato Pole", was described in terms of phytogeographic elements, biological spectrum, conservation value and anthropogenic impact. The predominant floristic elements in the three areas were European-Asiatic (Eur-As) and European-Mediterranean (Eur-Med). The biological spectrum was limited to 3 life forms: predominant Therophytes (Th), followed by Hemicryptophytes (H) and a small percentage - Phanerophytes (Ph). Fifteen of the identified species have conservation status and they are included in the "IUCN Red List of Threatened Species" with the category "least concern". The anthropogenic impact on the floristic composition of the three areas was expressed in the presence of a large number of weed, ruderal, alien and invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents data on the species diversity of medicinal plants on the territory of the Waterfall Canyon Eco-trail, part of the "Soskovcheto" Reserve (Western Rhodopes Mts. in South Bulgaria). Ninety-six species were recorded, grouped in 42 families - Apiaceae, Aristolochiacea, Aspidiaceae, Aspleniaceae, Asteraceae, Athyriaceae, Balsaminaceae, Betulaceae, Boraginaceae, Brassicaceae, Campanulaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Crassulaceae, Cupressaceae, Ericaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Fagaceae, Geraniaceae, Hypericaceae, Hypolepidaceae, Lamiaceae, Liliaceae, Orchidaceae, Oxalidaceae, Pinaceae, Plantaginaceae, Poaceae, Polygonaceae, Polypodiaceae, Primulaceaea, Pyrolaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, Rubiaceae, Salicaceae, Saxifragaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Thymelaeaceae, Urticaceae, Violaceae. Eighteen medicinal plant species were with conservation significance, including endemic, rare and protected species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria are unique prokaryotes, which are capable to perform oxygenic photosynthesis. Within these organisms, phycobilisomes (PBS) act as an antenna of the photosynthetic pigment apparatus. Phycobilisomes contain several phycobiliproteins (PBP): phycoerythrin (PE), phycocyanin (PC), allophycocyanin (APC) and phycoerythrocyanin (PEC). The application of phycobiliproteins in the biotechnology, food industry and medicine during the last years is rapidly increasing. The aim of our study was to assess the qualitative and quantitative content of phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, allophycocyanin and phycoerythrocyanin in 14 cyanobacterial strains kept in Plovdiv Algal Culture Collection (PACC) and 4 strains purchased from the Culture Collection of Autotrophic Organisms (CCALA). Our data demonstrated that three strains of Microcoleus autumnalis (PACC 5505, PACC 5522 and PACC 5527) have high potential to produce phycoerythrins (0.132, 0.201 and 0.136 mg/mL, respectively). Similarly, one Microcoleus autumnalis strain (PACC 5522) and one strain of Leptolyngbya boryana (CCALA 084) are suitable for biotechnological production of phycocyanins (0.051 and 0.264 mg/mL, respectively) as well as allophycocyanins (0.102 and 0.171 mg/mL, respectively). In addition, the data about the pigment content could be used as a biochemical marker for taxonomic purposes within the group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biodiversity of genus Carduus in Bulgaria is grossly under-studied with modern methods, which leads to unclear status of species and hampers the assessment of their habitats and conservation status. In this study, we used the variability of internal transcribed spacers (ITS) to investigate the biodiversity of Carduus species collected from different floristic regions of Bulgaria. Thirty-three samples were processed. Among the studied species, C. acanthoides exhibited the highest ITS variability (eight single nucleotide polymorphisms were found). High ITS variability was also found in C. crispus and C. hamulosus, demonstrating that some of the local Carduus species possesses unique genetic diversity, which can serve as source for future divergence of new forms and subspecies. For each species, unique nucleotides suitable as molecular taxonomy markers were identified. However, C. nutans and C. thoermeri displayed completely identical ITS sequences, which is in agreement with all ITS sequences of these species collected elsewhere in the world and deposited in the NCBI database. After careful analyses of both molecular and morphological data, we propose to restore C. nutans and C. thoermeri as one species with two subspecies. Namely, Carduus nutans subsp. nutans and Carduus nutans subsp. thoermeri. We recommend diameter of capitulum, length of peduncle, width of peduncle and width of bract as diagnostic features of taxonomic significance for distinguishing the two subspecies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study provides a comparative anatomical leaf analysis of Carduus nutans L. and C. thoermeri Wienm., which belong to the Asteraceae family. Bifacial leaf structure, anomocytic and anisocytic types of stomatal apparatus and two types of trichomes (multicellular covering and glandular) were found on the leaves of both species. The quantitative anatomical characteristics varied considerably, however; basing on the statistical analyses, the most significant characteristics for distinguishing the two taxa are: the number of stomata in the abaxial epidermis, the number of capitated glandular trichomes and the number of multicellular covering trichomes in the upper (adaxial) and lower (abaxial) epidermis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of the study was to investigate the natural habitats in the forest-free zone of Malusha Peak, located on the main watershed ridge of the Shipka part of the Central Balkan Mountain range, part of the protected area (PA) "Bulgarka" BG0000399 and PA "Central Balkan - Buffer" BG0001493. According to the EUNIS classification used for making the analyses, seven types of habitats were described in the studied area, including 5 grasslands, 1 shrubland and 1 rocky. According to Annex 1 of the Bulgarian Biological Diversity Act, Annex 1 of the Directive 92/43/EEC and the Red Book of Bulgaria, Volume 3, five of the habitats have a conservation status, among them 6110* Rupicolous calcareous or basophilic grasslands of Alysso-Sedion albi, being a priority for habitat conservation. The largest part of the studied area (about 95%) is occupied by the habitats E2.33 Balkan mountain hay meadows and E 4.438 Oro-Moesian calciphile stripped grasslands. The habitats Oro-Moesian calciphile stripped grasslands, as well as the H3.2A13 Balkan Range of the calcicolous chasmophyte communities, are characterized by a high degree of naturalness, relic origin and a large number of endemic plant species, which makes them particularly valuable for the studied area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents data on the species diversity of medicinal plants on the territory of the Municipality of Dospat (Western Rhodopes). 332 species were described, grouped in 75 families. The Asteraceae, Lamiaceae and Rosaceae families were represented by the largest species diversity, perennial herbaceous plants being predominant. There were 72 medicinal plant species of conservation significance, including endemic, rare and protected species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents data on the diversity of grass species in the region of the village of Mugla (the Western Rhodopes). One hundred forty-one species of higher plants belonging to 40 families were registered. (Apiaceae, Aspleniaceae, Asteraceae, Boraginaceae, Brassicaceae, Campanulaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Cistaceae, Cyperaceae, Dipsacaceae, Equisetaceae, Ericaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Gentianaceae, Geraniaceae, Gesneriaceae, Hypericaceae, Juncaceae, Lamiaceae, Lemnaceae, Liliaceae, Linaceae, Menyanthaceae, Oleacea, Onagraceae, Orchidaceae, Parnassiaceae, Plantaginaceae, Plumbaginaceae, Poaceae, Polygalaceae, Primulaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, Rubiaceae, Saxifragaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Valerianaceae and Violaceae). Their conservation status was presented, as well as medicinal plants [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports data on the diversity of bryophytes in the Bulgarka Nature Park. The registered 55 species belonged to 23 families and 46 genera. Six species were with conservation status; 2 were assessed as Not Evaluated. The main threats were assessed and measures towards bryophyte conservation were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents data on the diversity of freshwater algal flora on the territory of the Bulgarka Nature Park. One hundred ninety-four species, belonging to 11 divisions were identified. The conservation value of the identified species was assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanoprokaryotes are widespread organisms, which dominate in different water basins. In the present study, we have investigated the diversity of this group and related physicochemical parameters in 35 standing water basins in Bulgaria. We found 29 cyanoprokaryotic species, which belong to 13 genera from the orders Synechococcales, Spirulinales and Oscillatoriales. The frequency quotient of each species was calculated. Information about the distribution of the identified species and typology of the water basins is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of investigation is the region of peak Malusha, Kozyata Reka river and the adjacent territories. The studied area is located in the main watershed ridge of the Shipka divide of Central Balkan Range. Identified are 621 species of vascular plants belonging to 355 genera and 88 families. A description of the floristic composition is made. Attached is the so far compiled list of the identified plant species. A table is offered with the important plant species that occur within the mountain massif. Identified are 23 plant species with international protection status, subject to conservation in the Protected Zone Balgarka BG0000399 and Protected Zone Central Balkan - buffer BG0001493. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports data on the diversity of Pteridophyte of the “Bulgarka” Nature Park. Twenty-nine species belonging to the divisions Lycopodiophyta, Equisetophyta and Polypodiophyta were identified, including six new species to the park: Asplenium onopteris, Dryopteris dilatata, Equisetum palustre, Huperzia selago, Ophioglossum vulgatum and Polystichum lonchitis. Among the identified species the ferns were prevailing. Fifteen species were medicinal plants and eight species have conservation significance. The status of the populations and major threats to the habitats were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mentha (Nepetoideae, Lamiaceae) is a taxonomically complex genus consisting of 29 species and 11 different hybrids including a number of economically important species among them medical plants used for more than 250 years. Because of its high incidence of polyploidy, diverse morphology, high degree of chromosome number variations and interspecies hybridization, Mentha is considered to be a taxonomical challenge. In this paper, we describe cloning and sequencing of internal transcribed spacers (ITS) 1 and 2 of three mint species: Mentha aquatic L., Mentha longifolia L. (Huds) and Mentha piperita L., collected from natural habitats of Bulgaria. The applicability of ITS1 and ITS2 for molecular fingerprinting and further comparative studies, including the newly obtained ITS1 and ITS2 sequences, was tested in phylogenetic analysis of all eight Mentha species, found in Bulgarian flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the ground of "National methodological guidance for determination, management and monitoring of forests of high conservation significance" (2005), an observation was done about the condition and conservation values of the determine as a protected area plane-tree forest, in the land of Village Belastitsa, Minicipality Rhodopi. According to the twelve indicators, the status of P. orientalis population is good; as the low seed renovation capacity of the forest should be considered, because it would endanger its future condition and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a summary of the research related to the taxonomic composition, algal blooms and toxic potential of representatives from Cyanoprokaryota (Cyanobacteria, Cyanophyta) in the coastal waters of the Bulgarian Black Sea area. Main strands of the algal research, including Cyanoprokaryota, are presented in a chronological order. The taxonomic composition of cyanoprokaryotic microorganisms, their importance as a part from the algal flora of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and the main problems caused by this group organisms are discussed. This information could be used as a basis for future investigations related to the taxonomy, diversity, distribution and evaluation of the biological activity of cyanoprokaryotic species in the Black Sea and particularly in the Bulgarian coast area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polyphasic approach is the most progressive system that has been suggested for distinguishing and phylogenetically classifying Cyanoprokaryota (Cyanobacteria/Cyanophyta). Several oscillatorialean genera (Lyngbya, Phormidium, Plectonema, and Leptolyngbya) have problematic phylogenetic position and taxonomic state because of their heterogeneity and polyphyletic nature. To accurately resolve the phylogenetic relationship of some filamentous species (Nodosilinea bijugata, Phormidium molle, Phormidium papyraceum), we have performed phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene and the phycocyanin operon (PC-IGS) by using maximum-likelihood (ML) tree inference methods. These analyses were combined with morphologi-cal re-evaluation. Our phylogenetic analyses support the taxonomic separation of genus Nodosilinea from the polyphyletic genus Leptolyngbya. Investigated Nodosilinea strains always formed a coherent genetic cluster supported with a high bootstrap value. The molecular phylogeny confirmed also the monophyly of the Wilmottia group. In addition, data reveal that although P. papyraceum is morphologically similar to Wilmottia murrayi, this species is genetically distinct. Strains from the newly formed genus Phormidesmis and some Phormidium priestleyi strains were clustered in a separate clade different from the typical Phormidium species, but without strong bootstrap support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study presents data about the diversity and ecology of filamentous blue-green algae, found in the phytoplankton of 42 standing water basins in Bulgaria. We identified 9 species from Cyanoprokaryota, which belong to 5 genera from order Nostocales. Ecological characterization of the identified species has been performed. Data about the physicochemical parameters of the water basins are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria are prokaryotic organisms characterized by their ability to produce secondary metabolites with different biological activities. The aim of this work was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo toxicity of the cosmopolitan freshwater cyanobacterium H. kuetzingii. An extract from H. kuetzingii and cyanobacterial growth media were assessed for presence of intracellular and extracellular toxins by in vitro tests using primary cell cultures from mouse kidney and fibroblasts, cell lines A549 and 3T3, a fish cell line RTgill-W1 as well as by a traditional in vivo mouse bioassay. The presence of toxicity was compared with the ELISA and HPLC data for corresponding cyanotoxins. In vitro tests showed pronounced cytotoxicity of the cyanobacterium extract and growth medium in which H. kuetzingii released potential extracellular toxic compounds as the mammalian cells were significantly more sensitive to exposure compared to the fish cells. Histopathological analyses of the liver and kidneys of treated mice showed pathological changes such as leukocyte infiltration and necrosis, changes in the proximal and distal convoluted tubules, lack of differentiation of Bowman's space, enlarged Bowman's capsules and massive hemorrhages. ELISA and HPLC analyses confirmed the presence of saxitoxins and microcystins at low concentrations. In addition, the histological analyses suggest that H. kuetzingii produces other, yet unknown toxic metabolites. Monitoring efforts are therefore required to evaluate the potential hazard for the freshwater aquatic systems and possible public health implications associated with this cyanobacterium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ferns Asplenium ceterach L., Asplenium scolopendrium L. and Asplenium trichomanes L. have wide application in traditional medicine worldwide. However, the scientific research on their anticancer and antibacterial properties is insufficient. The present article aims to provide more information on this topic. Extracts derived from the aerial parts of A. ceterach, A. scolopendrium and A. trichomanes were examined using a panel of in vitro assays with different bacterial and mammalian cells. The cytotoxicity and anticancer activity of the samples were analyzed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and Trypan blue assays with three human (A549, FL, HeLa) and three murine (3T3, TIB-71, LS48) cell lines. Inhibitory effects on the growth of Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria were determined by the agar diffusion assay. Apoptosis-inducing properties of the extracts were analyzed by flow cytometry. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in extract-treated cells was investigated by ELISA. The obtained results demonstrate selective anticancer activity of all three Asplenium species. The extract from A. ceterach displayed the strongest inhibitory properties against human cervical cancer cells and bacterial cells. It induced a lower level of cytotoxicity against mouse cell lines, indicating a species-specific effect. The extract from A. trichomanes demonstrated better anticancer and antibacterial properties than the sample from A. scolopendrium. Further experiments linked the mechanism of action of A. ceterach extract with oxidative stress-inducing potential and strong proapoptotic potential against the cervical cancer cell line HeLa. A. trichomanes and A. scolopendrium extracts appeared to be potent inducers of necrotic cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study investigates the content of sugars, organic acids, phenolic acids and flavonoids, as well as antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Balkan-endemic Micromeria frivaldszkyana. Glucose was the most abundant sugar in the plant (2.77%), followed by fructose (1.18%) and galactose (0.82%). Eight organic acids were detected with quinic acid being in the highest content—556.3 mg/100 g DW. From the individual phenolic acids, rosmarinic acid was found in the most significant amounts (2040.1 ± 1.97 mg/100 g) and hesperidin was the major representative of flavonoids with content 131.2 ± 5.6 mg/100 g DW. The antioxidant activity of the plant was studied by six methods: 2,2′-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH)—286.4 ± 10.43 mM TE/g, 2,2′azinobis (3)-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS)—358.4 ± 10.4 mM TE/g, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)—388.0 ± 32.4 mM TE/g, cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC)—905.6 ± 19.2 mM TE/g, Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC)—3250.5 ± 208.1 µmol TE/g and Hydroxyl Radical Averting Capacity (HORAC)—306.1 ± 23.5 µmol GAE/g. In vitro antimicrobial activity against nine microorganism was evaluated but the extract displayed antimicrobial activity only against Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19111 with inhibition zone diameter 9 mm and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) 10 mg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Until now, the interest to plants from genus Scutellaria in Bulgaria has been focused mainly on the terpenes in them. The purpose of this study is to enrich the information on the composition of the Bulgarian Scutellaria species in terms of both polyphenolic content as well as primary metabolites such as mono-, oligosaccharides and organic acids. An aerial part of three Scutellaria species growing in four low mountain regions of Southern Bulgaria was used. The flavonoids scutellarin, baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, wogonoside, luteolin, chrysin and a caffeoyl phenylethanoid glycoside-verbascoside have been identified via HPLC in different extracts from Scutellaria altissima, Scutellaria albida and Scutellaria galericulata. The antioxidant activity of the extracts has been evaluated. The Scutellaria altissima from Mezek and Scutellaria galericulata from Parvenets we studied, which are the richest in flavonoids (represented mainly by baicalin, scutellarin and wogonoside), show the highest Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity. Hydroxyl Radical Averting Capacity of Scutellaria albida from Mezek and Scutellaria altissima from Bachkovo is the most pronounced, probably due to the content of scutellarin and luteolin and chrysin, respectively. Antioxidant activity of aqueous, methanolic and 70% and 96% ethanol extracts were also determined by the electrochemical method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that discussed a type of continuously operating, in-situ, remotely monitored sensor. Features of the chemical transduction element of the sensor; Experimental results; Conclusions.

Presents an abstract of the study 'Spin-Resolved Electron Spectroscopies of Epitaxial Magnetite (001),' by Kimberly A. Shaw, Eric Lochner, David M. Lind, Rebecca C. DiBari, Plamen Stoyanov and Brian Singer.