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Atmospheric concentrations of selected allergenic fungal spores in relation to some meteorological factors, in Timişoara (Romania)

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Abstract

Present investigation was undertaken to study the dynamics of relationships between atmospheric fungal spores and meteorological factors in western Romania. The airborne spore sampling was carried out by employing volumetric sampling. A total of nine meteorological parameters were selected for this investigation. During 2008–2010, it was found the same pattern of behaviour in the atmosphere for selected spore types (Alternaria, Cladosporium, Pithomyces, Epicoccum and Torula). The spores occurred in the air throughout the whole year, but maximum concentrations were reached in summer. Cladosporium and Alternaria peak levels were observed in June. Epicoccum peak value was found in September. The relationships between airborne spore concentrations and environmental factors were assessed using the analysis of Spearman’s rank correlations and multiple linear regressions. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed that maximum, minimum and mean temperature, and number of sunshine hours were strongly (p < 0.01) and directly proportional to the concentration of all analysed fungal spores. Negative and significant correlations were with daily mean relative humidity. The variance explained percentage by regression analyses varied between 30.6 and 39.6 % for Alternaria and Cladosporium airborne spores. Statistical methods used in this study are complementary and confirmed stable dependence of Alternaria and Cladosporium spore concentrations on meteorological factors. The climate change parameters either increased temperatures, changed precipitation regimes or a combination of both affected allergenic fungal spore concentrations in western Romania. This study demonstrates the need for investigations throughout the year, from month to month, regarding the correct interpretation of airborne spore relationships with meteorological parameters.

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  1. Department of Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Biology and Geography, West University of Timisoara, Pestalozzi Street, No. 16, 300115, Timisoara, Romania

    Nicoleta Ianovici

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Ianovici, N. Atmospheric concentrations of selected allergenic fungal spores in relation to some meteorological factors, in Timişoara (Romania). Aerobiologia 32, 139–156 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10453-016-9427-5

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