bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Evaluation of Compacting Process for Base Materials using Lab Compaction Methods
Authors: Jia Xiaoyang , Hu Wei , Polaczyk Pawel , Gong Hongren , Huang Baoshan
Published: March 2019

Precise characterization of the compactability of aggregates and soils in the laboratory has always been a challenge to pavement technologists. The present study investigated compactability of aggregates and soils through the comparison of three laboratory compaction methods, the Superpave Gyratory Compactor, the Marshall impacting hammer, and a vibratory compacting machine. Accelerometers were attached to the Marshall impacting hammer and a laboratory scale vibratory compactor to capture the dynamic response of soils and aggregates during compaction. The results from this comparative experiment indicated that there was a consistent relationship between the stiffness of soils and aggregates and the dynamic responses from impaction and vibration, which can be used to better characterize the compactability of different paving materials through laboratory testing.
Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Mathematics Instruction for English Learners in Multitiered Support Systems: PLUSS Enhancements
Authors: Sanford Amanda K. , Pinkney Christopher J. , Brown Julie Esparza , Elliott Cameron G. , Rotert Emily N. , Sennott Samuel C.
Published: March 2019

This study examined the impact of linguistic and cultural enhancements to evidence-based mathematics instruction within a multitiered support system for English learners. The study employed a single subject changing criterion design for four fourth-grade students who were English learners with or at risk of a learning disability diagnosis in mathematics. Dual dependent variables were mathematics vocabulary acquisition and application in story problems. Student performance on identifying the correct mathematics vocabulary words when given the definition was measured across baseline and four phases of intervention. Students were also assessed on their ability to complete story problems that contained the target vocabulary. At each phase of the intervention, students showed an increase in performance on both vocabulary words correctly identified and story problems correctly completed. Implications for practice and future directions for research are discussed.
Inquiry Into Graduate Attributes: Reviewing the Formal and Informal Management Curricula
Authors: Allen Dee , Simpson Colin
Published: March 2019

This article is aimed at any departmental faculty or head of school in charge of conducting curriculum review and presents a holistic approach based on Appreciative Inquiry and recently used by a University Business School in the Southwest of England. As a future-facing or strength-based approach, our Inquiry into Graduate Attributes brought together students, academics, employers, and employment consultants to agree on the most desirable generic attributes of business management graduates 5 years into the future, and to propose changes to course content, assessment, and cocurricular activities in line with these. The Inquiry into Graduate Attributes approach provides a methodological model for integrating the expectations of different stakeholder groups while acknowledging the various ways in which understandings of knowledge and outcomes are related to disciplinary epistemology. For researchers interested in the use of Action Research in the process of curriculum review, this article presents a relatively novel use of an applied Appreciative Inquiry technique, which we hope will initiate a broader conversation around the dynamics and reflective practices of curriculum design.
Deltoid-Spring Ligament Reconstruction in Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity With Medial Peritalar Instability
Authors: Brodell James D. , MacDonald Ashlee , Perkins James A. , Deland Jonathan T. , Oh Irvin
Published: March 2019

Background:

A spring ligament tear is commonly present in advanced stages of adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD). Previous anatomic studies have demonstrated that the superficial deltoid ligament blends with the superomedial spring ligament, forming the tibiocalcaneonavicular ligament (TCNL). Adding allograft TCNL reconstruction to osseous correction has been suggested to augment medial peritalar stability in advanced AAFD with large spring ligament tears. We aimed to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of TCNL reconstruction for flexible AAFD with medial peritalar instability.

Methods:

Fourteen feet in 12 patients who underwent osseous and TCNL reconstructions for advanced AAFD (stage IIB with large spring ligament tears or stage IV) were recruited for the study. The mean postoperative follow-up was 24 (range, 12-33) months. Pre- and postoperative clinical outcomes were assessed by the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), SF-36, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). Correction of forefoot abduction and the sagittal arch were measured from pre- and postoperative weightbearing radiographs.

Results:

The FAAM Activities of Daily Living improved from 69.3 to 90.1 ( P = .001). The SF-36 Physical Function (PF) and Pain subscales both improved significantly (39.4 to 87.8 and 44.6 to 93.1, respectively, P < .001 for each). The PROMIS PF improved from 38.2 to 46.8 ( P = .002) and the PROMIS Pain Interference (PI) from 62.6 to 50.1 ( P = .003). Radiographic measures showed an improved anterior-posterior (AP) talo–first metatarsal angle of 24.7 to 11.8 degrees ( P < .001) and talonavicular coverage angle of 47.4 to 23.1 degrees ( P < .01). An improved Meary’s angle of 29.7 to 12.5 degrees ( P < .001) and a calcaneal pitch angle of 11.7 to 16.9 degrees ( P = .14) were noted in the lateral view.

Conclusion:

Considering the anatomic characteristics of the deltoid-spring ligament complex, TCNL reconstruction may play a significant role in maintaining peritalar stability when performed with osseous correction. Deltoid-spring ligament (TCNL) reconstruction is a viable surgical option for those with advanced stage AAFD with medial peritalar instability that leads to improved functional and radiographic outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
The Use of a Stimulus Control Transfer Procedure to Teach Motivation-Controlled Mands to Children With Autism
Authors: Ward Karen D. , Shukla Mehta Smita
Published: March 2019

Social participation of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in natural environments can be enhanced by teaching them to communicate spontaneously, at least in situations where they have the motivation to access specific items or activities by controlling the amount of access for these stimuli. The purpose of this study was to determine if mand training, using a stimulus control transfer procedure would promote acquisition and generalization of mands for specific activities or objects evoked by motivating operations. Measurement variables included the frequency of motivation controlled (MO) versus multiply controlled mands during discrete trial training on a variety of verbal operants. Using a concurrent multiple baseline design across participants, visual analysis indicated that MO mands for out-of-view items increased substantially with generalization across targets, staff, and environments for three of the four participants. One participant did not respond to intervention to the same extent as others.
The Use of Janus Kinase Inhibitors in Vitiligo: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Relke Nicole , Gooderham Melinda
Published: March 2019

Vitiligo is a common acquired depigmenting disorder characterized by the development of white macules and patches due to the loss of melanocytes. Patients with vitiligo can be stigmatized by society, making the disease a source of psychological stress that can considerably affect quality of life. The goal of vitiligo treatment is to obtain skin repigmentation in the majority of cases, and less commonly to depigment the remaining normal skin. There is no consistent, long-term, durable therapy for vitiligo for all patients, highlighting the unmet need for new safe and effective therapies to control this disease. Recently, JAK inhibitors have been explored as a promising novel treatment option in vitiligo. The JAK and signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathway is an attractive therapeutic target because IFN-γ–dependent cytokines produced through this pathway have been implicated in the pathogenesis of disease. This literature review describes vitiligo pathophysiology, explains the usefulness of the JAK inhibitors for treatment, and summarizes published case reports, case series, and open-label studies. Research outlined here shows JAK inhibitors in patients with vitiligo have a favorable safety profile and effectively produce repigmentation of lesions, especially with concomitant ultraviolet exposure. Additional studies are required to confirm efficacy, establish safety, and investigate durability of repigmentation.
The Stereoselective Synthesis of the Nonnatural Enantiomers of Communiols A-C. A Stereochemical Correction
Authors: Murga Juan , Falomir Eva , Carda Miguel , Marco J. Alberto
Published: March 2019

A stereoselective synthesis of the nonnatural enantiomers of the fungal metabolites communiols A-C is reported. A stereochemical misassignment has been corrected and the absolute configurations of the natural products have been unambiguously established.
8-Oxoadenine, 9-Methyl-8-Oxoadenine, and Trihydroxylated Sterols from a Far Eastern Thorectidae Sponge
Authors: Makarieva Tatyana N. , Guzii Alla G. , Dmitrenok Andrei S. , Dmitrenok Pavel S. , Krasokhin Vladimir B. , Stonik Valentin A.
Published: March 2019

8-Oxoadenine (1) was found as a main secondary metabolite of a far-eastern Thorectidae sponge. In addition, a related minor compound, 9-methyl-8-oxoadenine (2), was isolated for the first time as a natural product, along with the previously known 3-methyladenine (3). Two known trihydroxylated sterols of the Δ7 series (4, 5) were also identified. Structural identification of 1–5 was carried out by analysis of spectroscopic data.
Translational Investigation of Turmeric for Arthritis Treatment: A Review of Lessons Learned
Authors: Funk Janet L , Timmermann Barbara N
Published: March 2019

Turmeric rhizome has been used for centuries to combat inflammation, including joint inflammation in arthritis. However, scientific evidence of efficacy and mechanism of action and a systematic evaluation of the biological activity of turmeric components for the treatment of inflammation have been lacking. This review will summarize the results of recently published studies that we have conducted to address each of these specific areas of inquiry using an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis.
Lipoxygenase Inhibitory Activity of Boropinic Acid, Active Principle of Boronia Pinnata
Authors: Curini Massimo , Epifano Francesco , Genovese Salvatore , Menghini Luigi , Ricci Donata , Fraternale Daniele , Giamperi Laura , Bucchini Anahi , Bellacchio Emanuele
Published: March 2019

Boropinic acid and other natural prenyloxycinnamic and benzoic acids were easily synthesized in high yield by a two-step sequence from the corresponding p-hydroxy aromatic acids and were assayed for radical scavenging activity using the DPPH test and for inhibition of enzymatic lipid peroxidation mediated by soybean 5-lipoxygenase. Compared to other acids and to known antioxidant compounds like BHT, Trolox and ascorbic acid, boropinic acid was far more active in the lipoxygenase test (IC50 = 7.6 ng/mL, p < 0.05). The recorded inhibition value suggested that boropinic acid acted as an enzyme inhibitor rather than a mere radical or peroxide scavenger. This hypothesis was confirmed by studying the interaction between boropinic acid and soybean 5-lipoxygenase by molecular modelling techniques.
Volatiles of the Inflorescences of the Madeiran Orchids, Goodyera macrophylla Lowe and Gennaria diphylla (Link) Parl. and Their Role in Pollination
Authors: Fernandes Francisco M. , Figueiredo A. Cristina , Barroso José G. , Pedro Luís G. , Wilcock Christopher C. , de Carvalho Miguel A. A. Pinheiro
Published: March 2019

Goodyera macrophylla, considered a rare endemic, and Gennaria diphylla are two native terrestrial Orchidaceae species that can be found mainly in Madeiran Laurisilva. The volatile compounds contributing to the floral scent of these two Madeiran orchids were analysed and compared for the first time. The volatiles, isolated by distillation-extraction in a Likens-Nickerson-type apparatus, and those extracted by headspace sorption, were analysed by GC and GC-MS. The main volatile components isolated by distillation-extraction were γ-terpinene (13%) and n-nonanal (11%) in G. macrophylla and n-octacosane (19%) and n-heptacosane (13%) in G. diphylla. The main volatile components isolated by headspace sorption were p-cymene (21%), α-pinene (15%) and linalool (14%) in G. macrophylla and cis-arbusculone (28%) and lilac alcohol (26%) in G. diphylla. The importance of the volatiles in the pollination of these orchids is discussed.
Chemical and Biological Studies of the Essential Oils of Micromelum hirsutum
Authors: Diep Pham Thi Minh , Pawlowska Agata Maria , Cioni Pier Luigi , Nghi Do Huu , Huong Le Mai , Van Minh Chau , Braca Alessandra
Published: March 2019

Essential oils of the branches and leaves, flowers, and fruits of Micromelum hirsutum (Rutaceae) collected in Vietnam were investigated. Essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC and GC/MS techniques. Essential oils yields were 0.07%, 0.125%, and 0.22% (w/w), respectively, and in each oil 43, 49, and 37 components were identified, comprising 86.0, 86.3, and 96.4% of the total amount, respectively. All the essential oils were screened for antimicrobial activity, showing positive results against various strains of bacteria and fungi. The essential oil of the flowers was also found to have cytotoxic effect against three cancer lines by in vitro assay.
Chemical Composition, Insecticidal Effect and Repellent Activity of Essential Oils of Three Aromatic Plants, Alone and in Combination, towards Sitophilus Oryzae L. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Ngassoum Martin B. , Tinkeu Leonard S. Ngamo , Ngatanko Iliassa , Tapondjou Leon A. , Lognay Georges , Malaisse François , Hance Thierry
Published: March 2019

Essential oils of aromatic plants with insecticidal properties are nowadays considered as alternative insecticides to protect stored products from attack by insect pests. A combination of some of these plants in the granaries is a current practice in certain localities of northern Cameroon. The aim of the present work was to analyze the impact of the combinations of the essential oils of Vepris heterophylla (Rutaceae), Ocimum canum, and Hyptis spicigera (both Lamiaceae), the three most used local aromatic plants because of their insecticidal activity and their repellent effect on Sitophilus oryzae. The present work revealed that these plants are rich in monoterpenoids. The GC/MS analyses have shown that monoterpenoids represented 65.5% for H. spicigera, 92.1% for O. canum and 47.0% for V. heterophylla. The crude essential oil of O. canum was the most insecticidal with a LD50 of 42.9 ppm. The most repellent effect was obtained by a combination of the essential oils of H. spicigera and O. canum, with a repellent percentage at 77.5%. These results suggest a suitable strategy for pest management of stored products.
Two New Alkylated Piperidine Alkaloids from Western Honey Mesquite: Prosopis glandulosa Torr. var. torreyana
Authors: Samoylenko Volodymyr , Dunbar D. Chuck , Jacob Melissa R. , Joshi Vaishali C. , Ashfaq Mohammad K. , Muhammad Ilias
Published: March 2019

Prosopis glandulosa Torr. var. torreyana (L. Benson) M. C. Johnston root bark, collected in Texas, yielded two new alkylated piperidine alkaloids, namely 3-isocassine (1) and N-methyl-3-isocassine (2), together with the previously reported N-methylcassine (3). In addition, the alkylated piperidinyl indolizidine alkaloid juliprosopine (4) was isolated from the leaves of the same plant. The structures and stereochemistry of compounds 1–4 were determined from 1D and 2D NMR data, including COSY, HMQC, HMBC and NOESY experiments, and ESI-HRMS. Juliprosopine (4) demonstrated antimicrobial activities against a panel of microorganisms, including potent antifungal activities against Aspergillus fumigatus.
Colletinin A and 2,2″-Diepicolletinin A: Two New Bisflavan-3-ols from Rhododendron Collettianum
Authors: Ahmad Viqar Uddin , Ullah Farman , Hussain Hidayat , Dujardin Gilles , Martel Arnaud , Green Ivan Robert
Published: March 2019

Two new bisflavan-3-ols, named colletinin A (1) and 2,2″-diepicolletinin A (2) have been isolated from Rhododendron collettianum. Their structures were determined by means of 1D and 2D NMR analysis, aided by HREIMS data. The relative configuration was determined by means of 1H-1H NOESY correlation but the absolute configuration could not be established.
Cruzain Inhibition by Terpenoids: A Molecular Docking Analysis
Authors: Ogungbe Ifedayo V. , Setzer William N.
Published: March 2019

A molecular docking analysis has been carried out using monoterpene and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and triterpenoids that have shown enzyme inhibitory activity as ligands for the cysteine protease cruzain. The binding energies of the docked ligands roughly correlate with their inhibitory activities. The orientations of the docked ligands are consistent with a mechanism whereby these hydrophobic compounds dock into a hydrophobic pocket near the active site, thereby blocking binding of the protein target to the protease.
Cancer Chemopreventive Potential of Humulones and Isohumulones (Hops α- and Iso-α-acids): Induction of NAD(P)H:Quinone Reductase as a Novel Mechanism
Authors: Bohr Gregor , Klimo Karin , Zapp Josef , Becker Hans , Gerhäuser Clarissa
Published: March 2019

Phytochemical analysis and chemopreventive testing of a special “α-/β-acid free” hops extract led to the identification of isohumulones (hops iso-α-acids) as potent inducers of NAD(P)H:quinone reductase (QR) activity. CD values (concentrations required to double the specific activity of QR in Hepa1c1c7 cell culture) were in the range of 1.3 to 10.2 μg/mL, with CD value of trans-isohumulone < cis-isoadhumulone < cis-isocohumulone < cis-isohumulone (+ trans-isoadhumulone). Humulones (hops α-acids) were equally active with CD values of 3.4 to 7.6 μg/mL. However, these activities were accompanied by cytotoxicity. Cohumulinone and humulinone, oxidation products of co- and n-humulone, were inactive. We further identified isohumulones as potent inhibitors of lipopolysaccharide-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity in Raw264.7 cell culture, with IC50 values of 5.9 – 18.4 μg/mL. Humulones and humulinones were inactive at concentrations < 20 μg/mL. These results indicate that isohumulones, which are considered as the most abundant class of polyphenols in beer, should by further investigated for chemopreventive efficacy in animal models.
Chemical Composition and Bioactivity of Pleiogynium timorense (Anacardiaceae)
Authors: Sayed Eman Al , Martiskainen Olli , Sinkkonen Jari , Pihlaja Kalevi , Ayoub Nahla , Singab Abd-El Naser , El-Azizi Mohamed
Published: March 2019

A liquid chromatography-diode array detection-electrospray ionization mass spectrometric (HPLC–PDA-ESI/MS/MS) method was used for the analysis of the phenolic composition of the ethanolic extract obtained from the leaves of Pleiogynium timorense (DC.) Leenh. Twenty compounds were detected and tentatively characterized. In addition, further phytochemical investigations of the extract resulted in the isolation of twelve major phenolic compounds. Evidence of the structures of these compounds was obtained based on the interpretation of the UV, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and DQF-COSY spectral data. The antioxidant effect of the ethanolic extract was examined in vitro using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH.) and super oxide anion radical scavenging assays. DPPH. radical scavenging activity was observed for the extract, with an IC50 of 21.9 μg/mL, while its super oxide anion scavenging activity was less pronounced, with an IC50 of 123.5 μg/mL The ethanolic extract showed significant hypoglycemic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study suggests that the ethanolic extract of Pleiogynium timorense is a potential source of antioxidant compounds, relatively non-toxic, and have possible beneficial health effects.
Antimicrobial Coumarins from the Stem Bark of Afraegle paniculata
Authors: Tsassi Valerie Beatrice , Hussain Hidayat , Meffo Bouberte Yemele , Kouam Simeon F. , Dongo Etienne , Schulz Barbara , Green Ivan R. , Krohn Karsten
Published: March 2019

Eight compounds were isolated from the stem bark of the plant Afraegle paniculata. One of them, a dimethyl ether of S-trans-marmin (1), is reported as a new natural product. The structures were determined by comprehensive analyses of their 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic and HREIMS data. The remaining seven known compounds, identified by comparing their spectroscopic data with those reported in the literature, were S-trans-marmin (2), psoralene (3), bergaptene (4), imperatorin (5), 2-(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-3-hydroxymethyl-2,3-dihydro-1,4,5-trioxaphenanthren-6-one (6), xanthoxyletin (7), and β-sitosterol glucopyranoside. Preliminary studies indicated that compounds 2, 3, 5, and 7 showed potent antibacterial, fungicidal, and algicidal properties, while 6 showed only moderate algicidal property.
Anticancer Activity of Andrographolide Semisynthetic Derivatives
Authors: Menon Vidya , Bhat Sujata
Published: March 2019

Andrographolide 1, a diterpene lactone of Andrographis paniculata, displays in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity against breast cancer models and mouse myeloid leukemia (M1) cells. In the present study, we report the semi-synthesis of andrographolide derivatives and their in vitro activity against A549 (ATCC) (NSCL cancer) cell line. Amongst the derivatives tested, compounds 3- 5 displayed maximum activity, with IC50 values of 22-31 μg/mL.
Impact of Cruciferous Phytoalexins on the Detoxification of Brassilexin by the Blackleg Fungus Pathogenic to Brown Mustard
Authors: Pedras M. Soledade C. , Snitynsky Ryan B.
Published: March 2019

The biotransformation of brassilexin, a potent phytoalexin produced by brown mustard (Brassica juncea L.), in the presence of various cruciferous phytoalexins was investigated. An important group of isolates of the fungal species Leptosphaeria maculans (Laird 2 and Mayfair 2), which is virulent to brown mustard, but not to canola, was used in this investigation. Brassilexin was detoxified by the fungus, but none of the phytoalexins seemed to affect substantially the rate of brassilexin detoxification; after 12 h of incubation, the amounts of brassilexin remaining in culture were as low as in controls, except in co-incubations with cyclobrassinin and sinalexin, which afforded intermediates that in solution oxidized spontaneously to brassilexin.
Cytotoxic Activity of Quassinoids from Eurycoma longifolia
Authors: Miyake Katsunori , Li Feng , Tezuka Yasuhiro , Awale Suresh , Kadota Shigetoshi
Published: March 2019

Twenty-four quassinoids isolated from Eurycoma longifolia Jack were investigated for their cytotoxicity against a panel of four different cancer cell lines, which includes three murine cell lines [colon 26-L5 carcinoma (colon 26-L5), B16-BL6 melanoma (B16-BL6), Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC)] and a human lung A549 adenocarcinoma (A549) cell line. Among the tested compounds, eurycomalactone (9) displayed the most potent activity against all the tested cell lines; colon 26-L5 (IC50 = 0.70 μM), B16-BL6 (IC50 = 0.59 μM), LLC (IC50 = 0.78 μM), and A549 (IC50 = 0.73 μM). These activities were comparable to clinically used anticancer agent doxorubicin (colon 26-L5, IC50 = 0.76 μM; B16-BL6, IC50 = 0.86 μM; LLC, IC50 = 0.80 μM; A549, IC50 = 0.66 μM).
Two New Glycosides from Conyza bonariensis
Authors: Zahoor Aqib , Siddiqui Imran Nafees , Khan Afsar , Ahmad Viqar Uddin , Ahmed Amir , Hassan Zahid , Khan Saleha Suleman , Iqbal Shazia
Published: March 2019

Studies on Conyza bonariensis (L.) Cronq. led to the isolation of two new glycosides trivially named as erigeside E and F (1–2), along with two new source compounds; benzyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (3) and 2-phenylethyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (4). Compounds 1, 3, and 4 are aromatic glycosides, while compound 2 is an alkyl glycoside. Their structures were elucidated through mass spectrometric, and 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopic techniques, including 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HMQC, HSQC and HMBC.
Chemical Constituents of the Soft Coral Sarcophyton Infundibuliforme from the South China Sea
Authors: Sun Xue-Ping , Wang Chang-Yun , Shao Chang-Lun , Li Liang , Li Xiu-Bao , Chen Min , Qian Pei-Yuan
Published: March 2019

One new cembrane diterpenoid, named sarcolactone A (1), along with five known compounds (2–6) were isolated from the soft coral Sarcophyton infundibuliforme collected from the South China Sea. The structure of sarcolactone A (1) was elucidated by comprehensive analysis of spectral data, especially 2D-NMR spectra (1H-1H COSY, HMBC and NOESY). All the compounds were evaluated for their brine shrimp lethality and antifouling activities.
Cytotoxicity of 9,11-Dehydroergosterol Peroxide Isolated from Ganoderma Lucidum and its Target-related Proteins
Authors: Cui Ya-Jun , Guan Shu-Hong , Feng Li-Xing , Song Xiao-Yi , Ma Chao , Cheng Chun-Ru , Wang Wen-Bo , Wu Wan-Ying , Yue Qing-Xi , Liu Xuan , Guo De-An
Published: March 2019

The cytotoxicty of 9,11-dehydroergosterol peroxide (DHEP) isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum on HeLa cells was studied. DHEP treatment for 48 h inhibited the proliferation of HeLa human cervical carcinoma cells with an IC50-value of 8.58 ± 0.98 μM. Morphological changes of DHEP-treated cells indicated that DHEP induced apoptosis in HeLa cells. To identify the cellular targets of DHEP, two-dimensional electrophoresis analysis was performed to compare the protein expression profiles of DHEP-treated cells with that of control cells. Proteins altered in expressional level after DHEP exposure were identified by MALDI-TOF MS/MS. The cytotoxic effect of DHEP was associated with regulated expression of 6 proteins. Stathmin 1 might be an important target-related protein of DHEP. The regulation of stathmin 1 by DHEP treatment was also confirmed by Western blotting.
Phenolic Compounds in Leaves of Alchornea Triplinervia: Anatomical Localization, Mutagenicity, and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Calvo Tamara R. , Demarco Diego , Santos Fabio V. , Moraes Helen P. , Bauab Taís M. , Varanda Eliana A. , Cólus Ilce M. S. , Vilegas Wagner
Published: March 2019

Phenolic compounds are produced by secretory idioblasts and hypodermis, and by specialized cells of the epidermis and chlorenchyma of leaves of Alchornea triplinervia. Phytochemical investigation of these leaves led to the isolation of the known substances quercetin, quercetin-7- O-β-D-ghicopyranoside, quercetin-3- O-β-D-glucopyranoside, quercetin-3- O-β-D-galactopyranoside, quercetin-3- O-α-L-arabinopyranoside, amentoflavone, brevifolin carboxylic acid, gallic acid, and methyl gallate from the methanolic extract, and stigmasterol, campesterol, sitosterol, lupeol, friedelan-3-ol, and friedelan-3-one from the chloroform extract. In studies of antibacterial activity and mutagenicity, the methanolic extract showed promising activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC=62.5 μg/mL) and was slightly mutagenic in vitro and in vivo at the highest concentrations tested (1335 mg/kg b.w.).
7-O-Methylvariecolortide A, a New Spirocyclic Diketopiperazine Alkaloid from a Marine Mangrove Derived Endophytic Fungus, Eurotium Rubrum
Authors: Li Dong-Li , Li Xiao-Ming , Proksch Peter , Wang Bin-Gui
Published: March 2019

A new spirocyclic diketopiperazine alkaloid, namely, 7- O-methylvariecolortide A (1), together with recently reported known compounds variecolortides A-C (2–4), were isolated and identified from the liquid fermentation cultures of Eurotium rubrum, an endophytic fungus that was isolated from the inner tissue of the stems of the mangrove plant Hibiscus tiliaceus. The structures of these compounds were determined by extensive analyses of their spectroscopic data.
Volatiles from Steam-distilled Leaves of Some Plant Species from Madagascar and New Zealand and Evaluation of Their Biological Activity
Authors: Costa Rosaria , Pizzimenti Francesco , Marotta Francesca , Dugo P. , Santi Luca , Mondello Luigi
Published: March 2019

Steam-distilled aerial parts of Ravensara Aromatica and Cinnamomum camphora from Madagascar and Leptospermum scoparium from New Zealand have been subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis by means of GC techniques. This allowed the elucidation of conflicting data present in the available literature for these species. Also, the biological activity in vitro was evaluated by measuring MICs and GIZs.
Application of Mixture Analysis to Crude Materials from Natural Resources (III)[1]: NMR Spectral Studies to Analyze Chalcones from Angelica keiskei
Authors: Fukuda Eriko , Baba Masaki , Uesawa Yoshihiro , Kamo Osamu , Arifuku Kazunori , Tsubono Koji , Okada Yoshihito
Published: March 2019

This study presents the application of the NMR-based analyses, DOSY and ROSY, to the chalcones, xanthoangelol (1) and 4-hydroxyderricin (2) from Angelica keiskei. We investigated whether virtual separation and structural information from each compound can be obtained. DOSY displays spectra of (1) and (2) in one dimension and diffusion spectra in the other. And the 1H slice spectra were analyzed in detail by comparison with authentic samples previously isolated from the same material. The resulting ROSY spectrum clearly showed two distinct peaks in the 1H T1 dimension. Each slice of the ROSY spectrum along the 13C dimension contains over-lapped signals, which are difficult to assign at this time.

The result of our experiments shows that DOSY and ROSY are very useful as methods for various kinds of mixture analyses to crude natural materials.
Inhibition of cPLA2 and sPLA2 Activities in Primary Cultures of Rat Cortical Neurons by Centella asiatica Water Extract
Authors: Defillipo Patrícia P. , Raposo André H. , Fedoce Alessandra G. , Ferreira Aline S. , Polonini Hudson C. , Gattaz Wagner F. , Raposo Nádia R. B.
Published: March 2019

Leaf extract of Centella asiatica has been used as an alternative medicine for memory improvement in the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine for a long time. Although several studies have revealed its effect in ameliorating the cognitive impairment in rat models of Alzheimer's disease, the molecular mechanism of C. asiatica on neuroprotection still remains unexplained. In this study, we investigated the effects of C. asiatica water extract on activity of subtypes of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) in primary cultures of rat cortical neurons and quantified by HPLC a possible molecule responsible for the activity. The cPLA2 and sPLA2 activities were inhibited in vitro by asiaticoside present in the water extract of C. asiatica. This extract may be a candidate for the treatment of neurodegenerative processes because of its pharmacological activity in the brain and its low toxicity, as attested by its long popular use as a natural product.
Larvicidal Activity of Isoflavonoids from Muellera Frutescens Extracts Against Aedes Aegypti
Authors: Nirma Charlotte , Rodrigues Alice M S. , Basset Charlie , Chevolot Lionel , Girod Romain , Moretti Christian , Stien Didier , Dusfour Isabelle , Eparvier Véronique
Published: March 2019

The biological activity of extracts from the leaves, bark and roots of Muellera frutescens, an Amazonian ichtyotoxic plant, were evaluated to find new environmentally safe insecticides. The n-hexane extracts of bark, leaf, and root showed a strong toxic activity against Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae. Bioguided fractionation of the bark extract led to the isolation of seven isoflavonoids (12a-hydroxyelliptone, elliptone, (-)-variabilin, rotenone, rotenolone, tephrosin and deguelin). Rotenone and deguelin are responsible for the larvicidal activity of the plant. M. frutescens leaves contain up to 0.6%, w/w, deguelin. These results justify the traditional ichtyotoxic use of M. frutescens. The leaves contain a relatively high proportion of deguelin and, therefore, can be considered as a renewable source of this environmentally friendly insecticidal isoflavonoid.
Efficient Counter-Current Chromatographic Isolation and Structural Identification of Two New Cinnamic Acids from Echinacea Purpurea
Authors: Lu Ying , Li JiaYin , Li MiLu , Hu Xia , Tan Jun , Liu Zhong Hua
Published: March 2019

Two new cinnamic acids, 2- O-caffeoyl-3- O-isoferuloyltartaric (3), and 2, 3-di- O-isoferuloyltartaric acid (5), along with three known caffeic acids, cichoric acid (1), 2- O-caffeoyl-3- O-feruloyltartaric acid (2) and 2- O- caffeoyl-3- O-p-coumaroyltartaric acid (4), have been successfully isolated and purified from Echinacea purpurea. In this study, we investigated an efficient method for the preparative isolation and purification of cinnamic acids from E. purpurea by high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC). The separation was performed using a two-phase solvent composed of n-hexane-ethyl-acetate-methanol-0.5% aqueous acetic acid (1:3:1:4, v/v). The upper phase was used as the stationary phase and the lower phase as the mobile phase, with a flow rate of 1.6 mL/min. From 250 mg of crude extracts, 65.1 mg of 1, 8.3 mg of 2, 4.0 mg of 3, 4.5 mg of 4, and 4.3 mg of 5 were isolated in one-step, with purities of 98.5%, 97.7%, 94.6%, 94.3%, and 98.6%, respectively, as evaluated by HPLC-DAD. The chemical structures were identified by electro spray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and one- and two-dimensional NMR spectra. HSCCC was very efficient for the separation and purification of the cinnamic acids from E. purpurea.
30-Normedicagenic Acid Glycosides from Chenopodium Foliosum
Authors: Nedialkov Paraskev T. , Kokanova-Nedialkova Zlatina , Bücherl Daniel , Momekov Georgi , Heilmann Jörg , Nikolov Stefan
Published: March 2019

Two new glycosides of 30-normedicagenic acid, namely 3- O-[ β-D-glucuronopyranosyl methyl ester]-2 β,3 β-dihydroxy-30-noroleane-12,20(29)-diene-23,28-dioic acid 28- O-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester, and 3- O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-2 β,3 β-dihydroxy-30-noroleane-12,20(29)-diene-23,28-dioic acid, together with the known 3- O-β-glucopyranosyl-2 β,3 β-dihydroxy-30-noroleane-12,20(29)-diene-23,28-dioic acid 28- O-β-glucopyranosyl ester, and 3- O-β-glucuronopyranosyl-2 β,3 β-dihydroxy-30-noroleane-12,20(29)-diene-23,28-dioic acid 28- O-β-glucopyranosyl ester were isolated from the aerial parts of Chenopodium foliosum Asch. The structures of the compounds were determined by means of spectroscopic methods (1D and 2D NMR, UV, IR) and HRMS-ESI. The compounds were tested for cytotoxicity on three leukemic cell lines (BV-173, SKW-3, HL-60). In addition, the saponins showed moderate stimulatory effects on interleukin-2 production in PHA/PMA stimulated Jurkat E6.1 cells.
Differential Expression of Benzophenone Synthase and Chalcone Synthase in Hypericum Sampsonii
Authors: Huang Lili , Wang Hong , Ye Hechun , Du Zhigao , Zhang Yansheng , Beerhues Ludger , Liu Benye
Published: March 2019

cDNAs encoding Hypericum sampsonii benzophenone synthase (HsBPS) and chalcone synthase (HsCHS) were isolated and functionally characterized. Differential expressions of HsBPS and HsCHS were monitored using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In the vegetative stage, HsBPS was highly expressed in the roots; its transcript level was approx. 100 times higher than that of HsCHS. Relatively high transcript amounts of HsBPS were also detected in older leaves, whereas the youngest leaves contained higher transcript amounts of HsCHS. In the reproductive stage, maximum HsCHS expression was detected in flowers, the transcript level being approx. 5 times higher than that of HsBPS. The inversed situation with a 10-fold difference in the expression levels was observed with fruits. High transcript amounts for both proteins were found in roots.
Chemical Constituents of the Leaves of Dracaena thalioides
Authors: Yokosuka Akihito , Sekiguchi Atsushi , Mimaki Yoshihiro
Published: March 2019

Two new furostanol bisdesmosides (1 and 2) and seven known compounds (3-9) were isolated from the leaves of Dracaena thalioides (Agavaceae). The structures of the new compounds were determined on the basis of spectroscopic data and the results of hydrolytic cleavage. The isolated compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic activity against HL-60 human promyelocytic leukemia cells. Compound 5, a glyceroglycolipid-related compound assigned as (2 S)-1- O-linoleoyl-3- O-β-D-galactopyranosylglycerol, was found to induce apoptotic cell death in HL-60 cells with an IC50 value of 25.8 μM.
Inhibitory Activity of Benzophenones from Anemarrhena asphodeloides on Pancreatic Lipase
Authors: Jo Yang Hee , Kim Seon Beom , Ahn Jong Hoon , Liu Qing , Hwang Bang Yeon , Lee Mi Kyeong
Published: March 2019

Pancreatic lipase is a key enzyme for lipid absorption by hydrolysis of total dietary fats. Therefore, inhibition of pancreatic lipase is suggested to be an effective therapy in the regulation of obesity. The EtOAc-soluble fraction of Anemarrhena asphodeloides rhizomes significantly inhibited pancreatic lipase activity as assessed using porcine pancreatic lipase as an in vitro assay system. Further fractionation of the EtOAc-soluble fraction of A. asphodeloides led to the isolation of a new benzophenone glycoside, zimoside A (1), together with the eleven known compounds iriflophenone (2), 2,4′,6-trihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (3), foliamangiferoside A (4), (2,3-dihydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)(4-hydroxyphenyl)-methanone (5), 1,4,5,6,-tetrahydroxyxanthone (6), isosakuranetin (7), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (8), 4-hydroxyacetophenone (9), vanillic acid (10), tyrosol (11) and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (12). Among the isolated compounds, 3, 5 and 10 showed significant inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity.
Cellulose Contents of Some Abundant Indian Seaweed Species
Authors: Siddhanta Arup K. , Kumar Sanjay , Mehta Gaurav K. , Chhatbar Mahesh U. , Oza Mihir D. , Sanandiya Naresh D. , Chejara Dharmesh R. , Godiya Chirag B. , Kondaveeti Stalin
Published: March 2019

Crude cellulose as well as α- and β-celluloses were estimated in thirty-four seaweed species of fifteen orders of Chlorophyta, Phaeophyta and Rhodophyta of Indian waters. The greatest yields of crude cellulose and α-cellulose were obtained from Chaetomorpha aerea (approx. 20.0% and 18.5%, respectively), and of β-cellulose (approx. 3.1%) from Caulerpa imbricata. The lowest crude cellulose, and α-and β-contents were recorded for the calcareous red alga Liagora indica (approx. 0.90%, 0.70% and 0.10%, respectively). There was little variation in cellulose content among the brown algae, while wide variations in the yields were found in the green and red algae. The present work contributes to the repertoire of 67 Indian seaweed species studied to now for their cellulose contents in our laboratory. The combined studies highlight that Chaetomorpha aerea, Acrosiphonia orientalis, Caulerpa taxifolia, Sargassum tenerrimum, Hydroclathrus clathratus and Gelidiella acerosa possess relatively high (>10%) cellulose contents, which could be of potential utility.
Alkaloids from the Roots and Leaves of Stichoneuron halabalensis and their Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activities
Authors: Ramli Rosdayati Alino , Lie Wilford , Pyne Stephen G.
Published: March 2019

A study of the hitherto unreported Stichoneuron halabalensis Inthachub led to the characterization of the known compounds (+)-α-tocopherol and ( R)-(+)-goniothalamin; four known Stemona alkaloids, bisdehydoxystemoninine A (1), stemoninine (2), sessilistemonamine C (3) and sessilistemonamine A (4); and three new alkaloids, stichoneurine C (5), D (6) and E (7). The structures of these compounds were determined on the basis of their spectroscopic data. Alkaloid 7 showed significant inhibitory activity against electric eel acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (IC50 5.90±0.084 μM), while goniothalamin and compounds 1 and 2 showed significant inhibitory activities against human AChE (IC50 7.24±0.52, 5.52±0.13 and 3.74±0.09 μM, respectively).
In Vitro Inhibitory Effects of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract and Its Major Components on Chemiluminescence and Chemotactic Activity of Phagocytes
Authors: Vongsak Boonyadist , Gritsanapan Wandee , Wongkrajang Yuvadee , Jantan Ibrahim
Published: March 2019

The ethanol extract of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves and its major constituents, crypto-chlorogenic acid, quercetin 3- O-glucoside and kaempferol 3- O-glucoside, were investigated on the respiratory burst of human whole blood and isolated human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) using a luminol-based chemiluminescence assay. The chemotactic migration of PMNs was also investigated using the Boyden chamber technique. The ethanol extract demonstrated inhibitory activities on the oxidative burst and the chemotactic migration of PMNs. Quercetin 3- O-glucoside, crypto-chlorogenic acid, and kaempferol 3- O-glucoside, isolated from the extract, expressed relatively strong inhibitory activity on the oxidative burst of PMNs with IC50 values of 4.1, 6.7 and 7.0 μM, respectively, comparable with that of aspirin. They also demonstrated strong inhibition of chemotatic migration of PMNs with IC50 values of 9.5, 15.9 and 18.2 μM, respectively. The results suggest that M. oleifera leaves could modulate the immune response of human phagocytes, linking to its ethnopharmacological use as an anti-inflammatory agent. The immunomodulating activity of the plant was mainly due to its major components.
Antimicrobial Constituents and Synergism Effect of the Essential Oils from Cymbopogon citratus and Alpinia galanga
Authors: Tadtong Sarin , Watthanachaiyingcharoen Rith , Kamkaen Narisa
Published: March 2019

From the fresh leaf sheathes of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and rhizomes of galanga (Alpinia galanga) light yellow and colorless oils, respectively, were obtained by hydrodistillation and microwave assisted extraction (MAE) in yields of 0.24% and 0.03%, and 0.11% and trace (w/w), respectively. By GC/MS analysis, five major constituents were identified in lemongrass oil, E-citral, Z-citral, β-myrcene, selina-6-en-4-ol, and cis-ocimene, and five in galanga oil, 1,8-cineole, phenol 4-(2-propenyl)-acetate, dl-limonene, α-pinene, and α-terpineol. Three major components of the combined lemongrass and galanga oils (ratio 7:3, 1:1, 3:7) were 1,8-cineole (46.3%, 31.5%, 19.3%), E-citral (12.8%, 22.7%, 32.8%) and Z-citral (8.5%, 15.2%, 21.6%). The MICs of lemongrass and galanga oils were: against Staphylococcus aureus 0.5% and 4%, v/v, against Pseudomonas aeruginosa 40% and >40%,v/v, against Streptococcus bovis 0.25% and 0.5%, v/v, and against Candida albicans 0.25% and 0.5%, v/v. Citral (from lemongrass oil) gave greater potentiation than 1,8-cineole (from galanga oil). The combination profiles of galanga oil with lemongrass oil (volume ratios 3:7, 1:1, and 7:3) were tested against the four pathogenic microorganisms. Synergistic activity was best noted for only one ratio (volume ratio 3:7) as the Σfic< 1 against all tested microorganisms. The present investigation provides evidenc that the utilization of two essential oils in combination should be assessed for synergistic antimicrobial activity in order to reduce their minimum effective dose.
Styryllactones and Acetogenins from the Fruits of Goniothalamus macrocalyx
Authors: Trieu Quy Hung , Mai Huong Doan Thi , Pham Van Cuong , Litaudon Marc , Gueritte Françoise , Retailleau Pascal , Schmitz-Afonso Isabelle , Gimello Olinda , Nguyen Van Hung , Chau Van Minh
Published: March 2019

Two new styryllactones, macrocalactone (1) and 3-deoxycardiobutanolide (2), were isolated from the fruits of Goniothalamus macrocalyx Ban (Annonaceae), together with seven known compounds including four acetogenins, annonacin (3), solamin (4), isoannonacin (5), trans-murisolinone (6), and three other compounds, 7-acetylaltholactone (7), β-caryophyllene-8R,9R-oxide (8) and 2-(2′-hydroxytetracosanoylamino)-octadecane-l,3,4-triol (9). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic and MS analysis. The absolute configuration of I was determined by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The structures of the acetogenins were confirmed by liquid chromatography coupled to a hybrid quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometer, using post-column lithium infusion. The results were compared with the fragmentation obtained with a hybrid linear trap-orbitrap mass spectrometer. Compound 7 had cytotoxicity against KB, HepG2, Lu, and MCF7 cell lines with IC50 values of 13.1, 23.7, 26.3 and 60.2 μM, respectively, whereas annonacin (3) was selectively active against KB cells (IC50 value of 6.5 μM). The discovery of 3-deoxycardiobutanolide (2) from the fruits of this plant revealed that G. macrocalyx could be a valuable natural resource to obtain this compound as it has been previously reported to have a significant cytotoxicity against different cancer cell lines, especially HL-60 cells.
Essential Oil Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Vismia macrophylla Leaves and Fruits Collected in Táchira-Venezuela
Authors: Buitrago Alexis , Rojas Janne , Rojas Luis , Velasco Judith , Morales Antonio , Peñaloza Yonel , Díaz Clara
Published: March 2019

Hydrodistillation of Vismia macrophylla Kunth (Hypericaceae) leaves (L) and fruits (F) yielded 1.3%, v/w, and 5.6%, v/w, of essential oil, respectively. GC and GC-MS analyses showed the presence of twenty-four (96.4%, L) and thirty-one (96.6%, F) components, respectively. Major compounds identified in the leaf oil were γ-bisabolene (44.4%) and β-bisabolol (14.9%), while those in the fruit oil were germacrene-D (12.1%), δ-cadinene (10.7%) and γ-bisabolene (22.3 %). Oil obtained from the fruits of V. macrophylla showed antibacterial activity against Gram-positive (S. aureus ATCC 25923 and E. faecalis ATCC 29212) as well as Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli ATCC 25922), with MIC values ranging from 150 μL/mL to 740 μLmL. Oil obtained from leaves were active only on the Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus (100 μLmL) and E. faecalis (500 μLmL), but also showed antiyeast activity against Candida albicans CDC-B385 and C krusei ATCC 6258 (600 μL/mL, each).
Two Novel Spirostene Glycosides from Selaginella chrysocaulos and their Chemotaxonomic Significance
Authors: Kunert Olaf , Swamy Rumalla Chidananda , Kumar Bobbala Ravi , Rao Achanta Venkata Narasimha Appa , Nandi Owi Ivar , Schuehly Wolfgang
Published: March 2019

During an investigation of the Indian heterosporous fern Selaginella chrysocaulos, two novel C28 spirostene monosides, chrysocauloside A and B were identified. Chrysocauloside A (1β,3β-dihydroxy-20 S,22 R-spirost-5-ene-1-yl β-D-glucopyranoside) and chrysocauloside B (1β,3β-dihydroxy-20 S,22 R-spirost-5-ene-1-yl β-D-galactopyranoside) are O-glycosylated at C-1 and each bear a methyl group at C-24 and C-25. Spectroscopic (NMR) and MS data for the new compounds are given and the taxonomic significance of the occurrence of spirostenes in the group of Lycophyta is discussed.
Chemical Composition and Larvicidal Activity of Greek Myrtle Essential Oils against Culexpipiens bio type molestus
Authors: Koutsaviti Aikaterini , Lignou Irene , Bazos Ioannis , Koliopoulos George , Michaelakis Antonios , Giatropoulos Athanassios , Tzakou Olga
Published: March 2019

Fresh leaves of Myrtus communis collected from different localities in Greece, were subjected to hydrodistillation and the oils obtained were analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The analyses showed mainly quantitative differences, with the monoterpenes myrtenyl acetate, α-pinene, 1,8-cineole, and linalool, along with limonene, dominating the majority of the analyzed Myrtle oils. The evaluation of the larvicidal activity of the samples against Culex pipiens biotype molestus mosquito showed that all tested samples exhibited moderate to weak toxicity, with cultivated M. communis subsp. communis oil being the most active.