bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression and Localization of Bombyx mori V-ATPase 16 kDa Subunit c
Authors: Lü Peng , Chen Keping , Yao Qin , Gao Lu , Pan Ye , He Yuanqing , Huang Guoping , Wang Lin
Published: January 2015

V-ATPase plays a central role in lepidopteran midgut ion transport physiology, and lepidopteran midgut turned out to be a model tissue for the study of V-ATPase. In the present study, the 5’-RACE method is used to obtain the 5’-UTR of V-ATPase c subunit gene from Bombyx mori. Sequence analysis of the promoter region and 3’-UTR of V-ATPase c subunit gene revealed that the transcription of the V-ATPase c subunit gene may be regulated by multi-ways. RT-PCR analysis showed that B. mori V-ATPase c subunit mRNA expresses in the whole developmental stages of B. mori. We also constructed a transient vector to determine the subcellular localization of the B. mori V-ATPase c subunit, and the result demonstrated that it is located in the membrane and some specifi c regions of BmN cells. Real-time PCR analysis further indicated that the c subunit mRNA expression was upregulated signifi cantly at 24 and 72 h in the midguts of resistant B. mori larvae after being inoculated with B. mori nucleopolyhedrovirus, suggesting that it may be related to the immune response against virus infection.
Optimization of Solid-Phase Microextraction Sampling for Analysis of Volatile Compounds Emitted from Oestrous Urine of Mares
Authors: Mozūraitis Raimondas , Būda Vincas , Borg-Karlson Anna-Karin
Published: January 2015

The solid-phase microextraction (SPME) technique was applied and optimized for collection of volatile compounds emitted from oestrous urine of mares Equs cabalus L. (Perissodactyla, Equidae) for GC-MS analyses. Variables such as type of SPME fi bre, collection time of volatiles, and addition of salt were optimized to improve the sampling effi ciency in two aspects: extent and selectivity of absorption/adsorption of urine volatiles onto SPME fi bres. The data revealed that the number of volatiles and the total amount represented as quantitative peak areas of the compounds trapped on fi bres coated either with polydimethylsiloxane- divinylbenzene or with divinylbenzene-carboxen-polydimethylsiloxane were signifi cantly higher compared to those coated with polydimethylsiloxane, polyacrylate, and carbowax-divinylbenzene. The polydimethylsiloxane-divinylbenzene-type of fi bre coating was chosen for optimization of sampling time and effect of salt addition. Sampling periods lasted for 15, 30, 60, 120, and 240 min. The optimal collection time of volatiles from urine maintained at about 36 °C was 60 min, as the number of compounds detected with amounts suffi cient for quantifi cation did not differ signifi cantly from those trapped during longer collection periods. No signifi cant increase in total amount of volatiles trapped was registered after 120 min of sampling. Addition of 0.3 g NaCl to the 2-ml of samples shortened the collection period from 60 to 15 min during which almost all compounds were trapped. Addition of salt has a signifi cant effect at all sampling periods taking into consideration the total amounts of volatiles trapped. The total intensities increased about 8, 5, 3, 3, and 2 times at collection periods of 15, 30, 60, 120, and 240 min, respectively, when compare with the ones obtained from the urine samples with no salt addition. In oestrous mare’s urine, 139 ± 4 (average number ± standard deviation) volatile compounds suitable for quantitative analyses were detected compared to 45 compounds collected by the gas-tight syringe method.
Effect of Yeast Superoxide Dismutase Treatment on Some Mediators of Infl ammation during Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis in Mice
Authors: Stefanova Tsvetanka H. , Ratcheva Irena , Nikolova Nadya J. , Neychev Hristo O.
Published: January 2015

The superoxide radical (O2·̅), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitric oxide (NO) are pleiotropic infl ammatory mediators which play an important role in infl ammatory joint diseases. They are overproduced during rheumatoid arthritis and its experimental model - adjuvantinduced arthritis in rodents - and may be detected both systemically and intra-articularly. Their secretion is up-regulated by proinfl ammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-6 and TNF-α, and they are responsible for the destruction of joint tissue. In this work, the effect of superoxide dismutase (SOD) from a thermotolerant yeast strain, Kluyveromyces marxianus, on the production of proinfl ammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species was studied. Mice received three intraperitoneal injections of yeast SOD at a dose of 10 mg/ kg body weight (30,000 U/kg) on consecutive days starting on the day after arthritic induction. On days 3, 8 and 14 post induction peritoneal macrophages were isolated and both spontaneous and stimulated production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen metabolites were measured. Early in arthritic development yeast SOD treatment did not infl uence the O2·̅ production, but on day 14 both spontaneous and PMA-induced secretion were dramatically reduced. Spontaneous H2O2 release was inhibited on day 14, while PMA-stimulated production was decreased from the beginning of the arthritic development. Yeast SOD treatment effectively suppressed the spontaneous and recombinant mouse IFN-γ + LPS induced release of NO as well. Serum levels of proinfl ammatory cytokines, IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-6 and TNF-α, were also signifi cantly reduced. The obtained results show some of the mechanisms of action of SOD in reducing the severity of arthritic infl ammation. Besides direct inhibition of joint tissue destruction exogenous SOD substantially limits the existing positive feedback between secretion of reactive oxygen species and infl ammatory cytokine production.
Lack of Effect of RuvB-Like Proteins on DNA Damage Signaling Activation
Authors: Gospodinov Anastas , Anachkova Boyka
Published: January 2015

Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase is a central player in cellular response to DNA damage. Phosphorylation of the histone H2AX by ATM is required for the accumulation of repair proteins at the sites of double-strand breaks. Recently, it was reported that the histone acetyltransferase Tat interactive protein-60 (TIP60) is required to acetylate ATM prior to its activation. The RuvB-like proteins TIP48 and TIP49 are known to be necessary for the assembly and functional activity of the TIP60 acetyltransferase complex. In the present communication, we investigated the requirements of TIP48 and TIP49 for ATM activation by monitoring the cell cycle distribution and H2AX phosphorylation after irradiation of TIP48- and TIP49-depleted cells. We found that neither the cell cycle nor γ-H2AX were affected in TIP48- and TIP49-silenced cells, suggesting that the TIP60 chromatin modifi cation complex is not engaged in DNA damage signaling upstream of ATM.
Production of Recombinant Human Granulocyte Macrophage Colony- Stimulating Factor from Silkworm Bombyx mori Bm5 Cells
Authors: Jin Cho-Yi , Han Song-Yi , Kwon Kisang , Yun Eun Young , Kang Seok Woo , Goo Tae Won , Kim Seung-Whan , Yu Kweon , Kwon O-Yu
Published: January 2015

Using silkworm Bombyx mori Bm5 cells, we established a stable cell line expressing the human granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (hGM-CSF), which gets its name from the Bm5-hGM-CSF cell in which the glycoprotein of the hGM-CSF is secreted in the cell culture supernatant (CCS). It was demonstrated that secreted hGM-CSF had in vivo biological activity and the white blood cell (WBC) value increased two times that of the control. We expect to produce useful human recombinant glycoproteins from silkworm cultured cells for a low price and a large quantity
Radical Scavenging Activities of Heracleum aquilegifolium Wight (Apiaceae) Fruit Oils in vitro
Authors: Karuppusamy Subbiah , Muthuraja Gurunathan
Published: January 2015

The fruits of Heracleum aquilegifolium Wight (Apiaceae) were collected from Western Ghats of the Indian Peninsula. The essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation. The chemical composition of the essential oils was analysed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). β -Pinene (22.3%), 1,8-cineole (20.3%), and β-phellandrene (12.4%) were the main components of H. aquilegifolium fruit oils. The antioxidant properties of essential oils of H. aquilegifolium were examined by different procedures namely reducing power ability, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, nitric oxide radical scavenging activity, hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, superoxide anion scavenging activity, and metal chelating activity. The antioxidant activities were compared with those of synthetic antioxidants and standard drugs such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, curcumin, and quercetin. The study confirmed the possible antioxidant potential of essential oils tested with various in vitro antioxidant methods. The presence of monoterpenes in combination with other components in the oils could be responsible for the activity
Exogenous Salicylate Application Affects the Lead and Copper Accumulation Characteristics of Lemna gibba L.
Authors: Duman Fatih , Aksoy Ahmet , Ozturk Fatma , Erciyes Ahmet Ceylan
Published: January 2015

Previous studies have shown that salicylates can change the ion permeability of root cells. Therefore the possible effects of exogenous salicylate application on lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) accumulation and its protective role against DNA damage due to metal exposure in Lemna gibba were studied. L. gibba was exposed to 5, 10, and 25 μM Pb and Cu for six days in the presence and absence of sodium salicylate (SA) (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mM). At all concentrations tested, SA application decreased Pb accumulation. On the other hand, application of 0.5 mM SA increased Cu accumulation. SA did not reduce DNA damage resulting from Pb and Cu toxicity. In summary, SA may be useful for reducing Pb accumulation, and application of SA at 0.5 mM may be useful for the phytoextraction of Cu
Biotransformation of Some Steroids by Aspergillus wentii
Authors: Yildirim Kudret , Kupcu Ilknur , Gulsan Fatih
Published: January 2015

First steroid biotransformations performed by Aspergillus wentii MRC 200316 are reported. Testosterone (1) yields 6β-hydroxytestosterone (3) and 14α-hydroxytestosterone (4) while progesterone (2) yields 11α-hydroxyprogesterone (5).
Proteomic Analysis of Differentially Expressed Proteins Involved in BmNPV Resistance in the Fat Body of Silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Liu Xiaoyong , Chen Keping , Yao Qin , Xia Hengchuan
Published: January 2015

To investigate the mechanism of nucleopolyhedrovirus resistance of silkworm, we bred a near-isogenic silkworm line, designated BC9, from the parental resistant strain NB and the susceptible strain 306, that is resistant to infection by nucleopolyhedrovirus. Proteomic techniques were employed to search for candidate genes playing a role in the antivirus response, based on differential protein expression profiles in the fat bodies of these strains. Four proteins were identified, two of which are possibly related to energy metabolism, the third one may have a function similar to integrase, and the fourth one is completely novel. Thus, our strategy of the combined use of near-isogenic silkworm line and proteomic techniques is effective for discovering new genes in the antivirus response of insects
Expression, Purifi cation, and Characterization of Functional Recombinant Human Daintain/AIF-1 in Escherichia coli
Authors: Wang Wei , Huang Bin , Feng Zhi-Guo , Chen Xiao-Ping , Tang Win-Xin , Chen Zheng-Wang
Published: January 2015

Daintain/AIF-1 was identified from injured rat carotid arteries and porcine intestine in the mid 1990s. It is involved in autoimmune disorders, chronic rejection of allografts, gliomas, and breast cancer. Since it is convenient and economical to obtain such a peptide biologically, in this study, we describe the expression, purification, and characterization of recombinant human daintain/AIF-1 (rhdaintain/AIF-1). The backbone of vector pET32a, a high-level expression plasmid, was used to construct the pET32a-daintain/AIF-1 plasmid for daintain/AIF-1 expression in Escherichia coli. The recombinant daintain/AIF-1 protein was solubly expressed in the BL21 (DE3) strain and was purifi ed by Ni2+ affinity chromatography. After purification, the recombinant protein showed the expected size of 18 kDa on Tricine-SDS-PAGE gels which was further confirmed by Western blotting. A total of 34.0 mg of high purity (over 98%) rhdaintain/AIF-1 was obtained from 1 L culture. The recombinant peptide was able to increase blood glucose elimination rates and enhance the proliferation of human MCF-7 cells. These results suggest that biological activity of the recombinant peptide was preserved after purification
Current Results on Biological Activities of Lichen Secondary Metabolites: a Review
Authors: Molnár Katalin , Farkas Edit
Published: January 2015

Lichens are symbiotic organisms of fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. Lichen-forming fungi synthesize a great variety of secondary metabolites, many of which are unique. Developments in analytical techniques and experimental methods have resulted in the identification of about 1050 lichen substances (including those found in cultures). In addition to their role in lichen chemotaxonomy and systematics, lichen secondary compounds have several possible biological roles, including photoprotection against intense radiation, as well as allelochemical, antiviral, antitumor, antibacterial, antiherbivore, and antioxidant action. These compounds are also important factors in metal homeostasis and pollution tolerance of lichen thalli. Although our knowledge of the contribution of these extracellular products to the success of the lichen symbiosis has increased significantly in the last decades, their biotic and abiotic roles have not been entirely explored.
In vitro Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Flavonoids from Ailanthus excelsa (Roxb.) (Simaroubaceae) Leaves
Authors: Said Ataa , Tundis Rosa , Hawas Usama W. , El-Kousy Salah M. , Rashed Khaled , Menichini Federica , Bonesi Marco , Huefner Antje , Loizzo Monica Rosa
Published: January 2015

The present study aimed to investigate the chemical composition, and the antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of Ailanthus excelsa, a plant used in Egyptian traditional medicine. Chromatographic separation of a methanol extract of A. excelsa leaves yielded four fl avones, namely apigenin (1), apigenin 7-O-β-glucoside (2), luteolin (3), and luteolin 7-O-β-glucoside (4), and seven fl avonols, namely kaempferol (5), kaempferol 3-O-α-arabinoside (6), kaempferol 3-O-β-galactoside (7), quercetin (8), quercetin 3-O-α-arabinoside (9), quercetin 3-O-β- galactoside (10), and quercetin 3-O-rutinoside (11). The A. excelsa extract tested in different in vitro systems (DPPH and FRAP assays) showed significant antioxidant activity. The potential antiproliferative activity of the A. excelsa extract and isolated flavonoids against five human cancer cell lines such as ACHN, COR-L23, A375, C32, and A549 was investigated in vitro by the SRB assay in comparison with one normal cell line, 142BR. The extract exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against C32 cells with an IC50 value of 36.5 μg ml-1. Interesting activity against COR-L23 was found with 10 (IC50 value of 3.2 μg ml-1). Compounds 1 and 3 inhibited cell growth in both amelanotic melanoma and malignant melanoma cells.
Genotoxic Effect of Epirubicin in Mouse Bone Marrow in vivo
Authors: Sen Asuman K. , Karakas Emin , Bilaloglu Rahmi
Published: January 2015

The genotoxic effect of epirubicin, a semisynthetic anthracycline antibiotic which has been used as an anticancer drug, was investigated in vivo on bone marrow cells of Swiss albino mice using the micronucleus test. To determine the incidence of micronuclei, mice were injected intraperitoneally with the drug at single doses of 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg/kg body weight. Then, bone marrow was sampled 18, 24, 36, and 48 h after the treatment. Polychromatic and normochromatic erythrocytes were examined for the presence of micronuclei. Epirubicin significantly increased the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs) for all treatment periods compared with the negative control (P < 0.001). The frequency of MNPCEs increased with the dose, but at the highest dose used (which is considered to be quite toxic), the frequency of MNPCEs was rather lower. Epirubicin also decreased the ratio of polychromatic to normochromatic erythrocytes (PCE/NCE) for all sampling intervals, which is indicative of bone marrow cytotoxicity. It can be concluded from the present study that the anticancer drug epirubicin has genotoxic effects on mouse bone marrow cells.
Amylolytic Lactobacillus Strains from Bulgarian Fermented Beverage Boza
Authors: Petrova Penka , Emanuilova Milena , Petrov Kaloyan
Published: January 2015

The lactic acid fermentation is a worldwide method for cereal processing. Great diversity of fermented foods and drinks is produced with the participation of amylolytic lactic acid bacteria (ALAB). In the present study the ALAB content of the Bulgarian cereal beverage “boza” was investigated. Two strains, Bom 816 and N3, were found to possess significant amylolytic activity. The strains’ identification was based on genetic criteria, namely amplified ribosomal DNA restriction analysis (ARDRA) and sequencing of the 16S rDNA. The strain Bom 816 belongs to the species Lactobacillus plantarum and N3 to Lactobacillus pentosus, being the first amylolytic representative of this species.

Optimization of the media composition with starch as a sole carbon source was done. The starch hydrolysis was most efficient in medium containing 4 g/l yeast and 8 g/l meat extracts. Thus, L. plantarum Bom 816 consumed 14 g/l starch, while L. pentosus N3 consumed 17 g/l. The highest values of lactic acid reached were 9.5 g/l produced by Bom 816 and 5.5 g/l produced by N3. In the presence of yeast extract L. pentosus N3 formed 0.8 - 1 g/l succinic acid.

Both strains produced mainly cell-bound enzymes with amylase activity, at a pH optimum of 5.5, ranging from 3 - 4 to 21 U/ml for L. pentosus N3 and from 0.5 to 11.5 U/ml for L. plantarum Bom 816, in dependence of the assay conditions
Immune Responses in Mice after Immunization with Antigens from Different Stages of the Parasite Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Gaber Hanaa M. , Maghraby Amany S. , Ahmed Mohamed Bastawy , Ruppel Andreas , Bahgat Mahmoud M.
Published: January 2015

Mice responses to immunization with Schistosoma mansoni antigens were investigated. Priming with cercarial antigen preparation (CAP) induced significant (P < 0.05) IgM, IgG, IgG2a, IgG2b, and IgA increases, while booster caused a significant IgG1 increase. A soluble worm antigen preparation (SWAP) caused significant IgG elevation. Priming with soluble egg antigen (SEA) caused significant IgM and IgG2a increases, while booster induced significant IgM, IgG and IgA increases. CAP-immunized mice sera (IMS) recognized CAP peptides ranging from 23 - 78 kDa. SWAP-IMS recognized SWAP peptides ranging from 40 - 75 kDa. SEA-IMS recognized SEA peptides ranging from 33 - 101 kDa. The cross-reactive peptides among the 3 antigens were identified. CAP caused significant increases in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) CD4,8
+, B lymphocytes, CD8
+ thymocytes, CD4
+ T and B splenocytes. SWAP priming caused significant increases in MLNs CD4,8
+ thymocytes and B splenocytes. SWAP booster caused significant increases in MLNs CD8
+ T and B lymphocytes, CD4,8
+ thymocytes and CD4
+ T and B splenocytes. SEA caused significant increase in CD4
+ T cells.
On the Disruption of Cell Multiplication by Oscillating Electric Fields
Authors: Winterberg Friedwardt
Published: January 2015

This communication is a theoretical consideration explaining the benefits to reduce tumour growth in situ by interaction of ultrasound and strong magnetic fields. No documentation is presented.
A Bioactive Prodelphinidin from Mangifera indica Leaf Extract
Authors: Tawaha Khaled , Sadi Rasha , Qa’dan Fadi , Matalka Khalid Z. , Nahrstedt Adolf
Published: January 2015

A new trimeric proanthocyanidin, epigallocatechin-3-O-gallat-(4β→8)-epigallocatechin- (4β→8)-catechin (1), was isolated together with three known flavan-3-ols, catechin (2), epicatechin (3), and epigallocatechin (4), and three dimeric proanthocyanidins, 5 - 7, from the air-dried leaves of Mangifera indica. Their chemical structures were determined on the basis of 1D- and 2D-NMR spectra (HSQC, HMBC) of their peracetylated derivatives, MALDITOF- mass spectra, and by acid-catalyzed degradation with phloroglucinol. The isolated compounds 1 - 7 were in vitro tested for their inhibitory activities against COX-1 and COX-2. Compound 1 was found to have a potent inhibitory effect on COX-2, while compounds 1 and 5 - 7 exhibited moderate inhibition against COX-1.
N-Substituted Indole-3-imine Derivatives and their Amine Congeners: Antioxidant and Src Kinase Inhibitory Effects
Authors: Kılıç Zühal , Şener Fatma , İşgör Yasemin G. , Çoban Tülay , Ölgen Süreyya
Published: January 2015

Current evidences demonstrated that the activity of protein kinases can be controlled through oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and normalized by antioxidants. Recent studies with ROS, generated by mitochondria, suggested the potential signalling role of these species, where ROS, especially hydrogen peroxide, were proposed as membrane-related signalling components. The protein regulation by cellular redox states has shown that protein tyrosine kinase members, such as Src kinase and some of the members of the Src family kinases (SFKs), are proteins regulated by the cellular oxidation and reduction status. In this context, the oxidant or antioxidant potential of the synthetic Src kinase inhibitors previously synthesized and studied by our research group, such as N-substituted indole-3-imine and -amine derivatives, were investigated employing various acellular in vitro methods including microsomal NADPH-dependent inhibition of lipid peroxidation (LP), interaction of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and scavenging of superoxide anion radicals. Here, we report that some of the synthetic inhibitors designed for Src kinase target have both antioxidant and kinase inhibition properties.
Contribution of Mevalonate and Methylerythritol Phosphate Pathways to Polyisoprenoid Biosynthesis in the Rubber-Producing Plant Eucommia ulmoides Oliver
Authors: Bamba Takeshi , Murayoshi Michiko , Gyoksen Koichirou , Nakazawa Yoshihisa , Okumoto Hiroshi , Katto Hiroko , Fukusaki Eiichiro , Kobayashi Akio
Published: January 2015

The biosynthetic origin of isopentenyl diphosphate in the polyisoprenoid biosynthesis of the rubber-producing plant Eucommia ulmoides Oliver was elucidated for the fi rst time by feeding experiments using 13C-labeled isotopomers of (RS)-mevalonate, 1-deoxy-D-xylulose- 3,4,5-triacetate, 2C-methyl-D-erythritol-1,2,3,4-tetraacetate, and pyruvate. After 13C-labeled isotopomers were fed to the young seedlings, the polyisoprenoid fractions were prepared and analyzed by 13C NMR. The NMR data showed that the isoprene units of polyisoprenoid derived from isopentenyl diphosphate, which was biosynthesized using both mevalonate and 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate in E. ulmoides. It is assumed that the cross-talk of isopentenyl diphosphate, derived from both pathways, occurs during the biosynthesis of polyisoprenoid; therefore, it was observed in the formation of low-molecular weight isoprenoids.
Chilling Resistance of Phaseolus vulgaris and Brassica oleracea under a High-Intensity Electric Field
Authors: Cakmak Turgay , Dumlupinar Rahmi , Erdal Serkan
Published: January 2015

An electric field may have different effects on plant metabolism depending upon its application style and density, and environmental conditions. The effects of an electric field, low temperature, and their combinations on tissue vitality and some physiological variables regarding antioxidant responses of “bean” (Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. Gina) and “cole” (Brassica oleracea L. cv. Acephale) leaves were studied. Fifteen-day-old seedlings were exposed to an electric field (100 kV m-1) for 10 or 40 min prior to cold treatment. In both plant leaves, cold application caused statistically significant increments in total soluble protein levels and selected antioxidant enzyme activities such as catalase, peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities. However, tissue vitality and H2O2 levels did not change in “cole”, while tissue vitality decreased and H2O2 levels increased in “bean”. Electric field application itself did not cause any significant changes in “bean” and “cole” leaves. On the other hand, 40 min electric field application increased the deteriorative effect of cold in both plant species, while 10 min electric field augmented the chilling resistance by increasing the tissue vitality and antioxidant enzyme activities resulting in decreased H2O2 levels.
Extraction and Deproteinization of Mannan Oligosaccharides
Authors: Huang Gang , Yang Qin , Wang Zhong B.
Published: January 2015

Extraction of mannan oligosaccharides from the yeast cell wall and methods of deproteinization were studied. We extracted crude mannan oligosaccharides by the dilute alkali- Sevage method. The percentages of deproteinization and mannan oligosaccharide loss were compared as indexes using the Sevage method, trichloroacetic acid method, and hydrochloric acid method. The results showed that the hydrochloric acid method exhibited the highest percentage of deproteinization, but only a little higher percentage of mannan oligosaccharide loss than the other two methods.
Identification and Field Evaluation of the Female Sex Pheromone of the Sand Salix Carpenterworm, Holcocerus arenicola Staudinger (Lepidoptera: Cossidae)
Authors: Jing Xiaoyuan , Zhang Jintong , Luo Youqing , Zong Shixiang , Liu Peihua , Jia Junxian
Published: January 2015

Extracts of female sex pheromone glands of the sand Salix carpenterworm moth, Holcocerus arenicola, a serious pest of desert thicket, were analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Based on comparison of retention times and mass spectra of synthetic standards, four compounds were identifi ed as cis-7-tetradecen-1-ol (Z7 - 14:OH), cis-5-tetradecen-1-yl acetate (Z5 - 14:OAc), cis-7-tetradecen- 1-yl acetate (Z7 - 14:OAc), and cis-9-hexadecen-1-yl acetate (Z9 - 16:OAc) with the ratio of 24:39:100:43. Electroantennographic (EAG) analyses of these standard chemicals and their analogues showed that Z7 - 14:OAc elicited the largest male EAG response, followed by Z5 - 14:OAc and Z9 - 16:OAc. In fi eld trials, traps baited with either Z7 - 14:OAc or Z5 - 14:OAc captured males while Z7 - 14:OH-, Z9 - 16:OAc- or solvent-baited traps caught no males. Z7 - 14:OAc as a single component was signifi cantly more attractive than Z5 - 14:OAc alone. The combination of Z7 - 14:OAc and Z5 - 14:OAc showed an evidently synergistic effect and attracted much more males than the individual compounds in the field. Addition of Z7 - 14:OH to the blend of Z7 - 14:OAc and Z5 - 14:OAc enhanced slightly the trap catches. We conclude that the major components of the sex pheromone of H. arenicola are Z7 - 14:OAc and Z5 - 14:OAc. Currently, a triangle trap baited with the synthetic compounds Z7 - 14:OAc, Z5 - 14:OAc, and Z7 - 14:OH in a 1:0.4:0.25 ratio at 825 μg/trap dosage can be effectively used to monitor the H. arenicola population level and catch the males within the desert regions in China.
Antifungal Activities of Some Indole Derivatives
Authors: Xu Hui , Wang Qin , Yang Wen-Bin
Published: January 2015

Nine indole derivatives were evaluated in vitro against Fusarium graminearum, Alternaria alternata, Helminthosporium sorokinianum, Pyricularia oryzae, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumarinum, and Alternaria brassicae. Most of the compounds were found to possess antifungal activities. Especially compounds 2, 5, 8, and 9 exhibited broad-spectrum antifungal activities against the above-mentioned seven phytopathogenic fungi, and showed more potent activities than hymexazole, a commercial agricultural fungicide.
Alkaloid Accumulation in Different Parts and Ages of Lycoris chinensis
Authors: Mu Hong-mei , Wang Ren , Li Xiao-dan , Jiang Yu-mei , Peng Feng , Xia Bing
Published: January 2015

The galanthamine, lycorine, and lycoramine content of Lycoris chinensis was researched during development from young to old plants, i.e. in seeds, ten-day-old seedlings, threemonth- old seedlings, one-year-old seedlings, and perennial seedlings. Notably the alkaloid level reduced to its lowest content 10 days after seed germinating. Then the accumulation of galanthamine tended to increase with age, reaching a higher value in perennial seedlings. The production pattern of lycorine and lycoramine was found similar to that of galanthamine. Different plant organs were also evaluated for their galanthamine, lycorine, and lycoramine contents. Mature seeds had the highest content of galanthamine (671.33 μg/g DW). Kernels, seed capsules, and root-hairs were the main repository sites for galanthamine, lycorine, and lycoramine. The leaves were the least productive organs.
Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide on Alternative Pathway Respiration and Induction of Alternative Oxidase Gene Expression in Rice Suspension Cells
Authors: Xiao Man , Ma Jun , Li Hongyu , Jin Han , Feng Hanqing
Published: January 2015

The toxic effects of H2S on plants are well documented. However, the molecular mechanisms reponsible for inhibition of plants by H2S are still not completely understood. We determined the effects of NaHS in the range of 0.5 - 10 mM on the growth of rice suspension culture cells, as well as on the expression of the alternative oxidase (AOX) gene. AOX is the terminal oxidase of the alternative pathway (AP) and exists in plant mitochondria. The results showed that H2S treatment enhanced the AP activity. During the process of H2S treatment for 4 h, the AP activity increased dramatically and achieved the peak value at a concentration of 2 mM NaHS. Then it declined at higher concentrations of NaHS (5 - 10 mM) and maintained a steady level. The AOX1 gene transcript level also showed a similar change as the AP activity. Interestingly, different NaHS concentrations seemed to have different effects on the expression of AOX1a, AOX1b, and AOX1c. The induction of AOX expression by low concentrations of NaHS was inferred through a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-independent pathway. At the same time, rice cells grown in culture were very sensitive to H2S, different H2S concentrations induced an increase in the cell viability. These results indicate that the H2S-induced AOX induction might play a role in inhibiting the ROS production and have an influence on cell viability.
Selection of Lipase-Producing Microorganisms through Submerged Fermentation
Authors: Colla Luciane Maria , Lazzarotto Primaz Andreiza , Benedetti Silvia , Loss Raquel Aparecida , Lima Marieli de , Reinehr Christian Oliveira , Bertolin Telma Elita , Vieira Costa Jorge Alberto
Published: January 2015

Lipases are enzymes used in various industrial sectors such as food, pharmaceutical and chemical synthesis industries. The selection of microorganisms isolated from soil or wastewater is an alternative to the discovery of new species with high enzymes productivity and with different catalytic activities. In this study, the selection of lipolytic fungi was carried out by submerged fermentation. A total of 27 fungi were used, of which 20 were isolated from dairy effluent and 7 from soil contaminated with diesel oil. The largest producers were the fungi Penicillium E-3 with maximum lipolytic activity of 2.81 U, Trichoderma E-19 and Aspergillus O-8 with maximum activities of 2.34 and 2.03 U where U is the amount of enzyme that releases 1 μmol of fatty acid per min per mL of enzyme extract. The fungi had maximum lipolytic activities on the 4th day of fermentation.
Cloning and Expression Analysis of 1 L-myo-Inositol-1-phosphate Synthase Gene from Ricinus communis L.
Authors: Wei Wei , Dai Xiao , Wang Yong , Gou Chun-Bao , Chen Fang
Published: January 2015

A novel 1 L-myo-inositol-1-phosphate synthase (MIPS, EC 5.5.1.4) gene, designate rcMIPS, was cloned from Ricinus communis. It contained an open reading frame (ORF) of 1669 bp coding for a peptide of 510 amino acids with a molecular mass of 56 kDa. Sequence anaylsis showed high homology compared to other plant MIPS genes, because it contained typical domains owned by MIPS enzymes. The transcript levels of the rcMIPS gene in leaves, stems, and roots were examined after drought stress for 24, 48, and 72 h. The transcript levels in the leaves, stems, and roots increased significantly compared to the control. Results of the enzyme assay showed a significant correlation between the changes of enzyme activity and the transcript levels of the rcMIPS gene in different organs. Decreased relative water contents (RWC) and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in the leaves represented a stress response against drought stress. Our findings suggest that MIPS plays an important role in the defensive mechanisms of R. communis against drought stress.
Characterization of a Late Expression Gene of Bombyx mori Nucleopolyhedrovirus
Authors: Zhou Yang , Chen Keping , Yao Qin , Shen Hongxing , Liang Guiting , Li Xiaogang , Wang Nan , Li Yijia
Published: January 2015

Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) ORF5 (Bm5) is a gene present in many lepidopteran nucleopolyhedroviruses (NPVs), but its function is unknown. In this study, Bm5 was characterized. The transcript of Bm5 was detected 12 - 72 h post infection (p.i.). Polyclonal antiserum raised to a His-BM5 fusion protein recognized BM5 in infected cell lysates from 24 to 72 h p.i., suggesting that Bm5 is a late gene. Immunofluorescence analysis by confocal microscopy showed that the BM5 protein is localized primarily in the cytoplasm. Localization of BM5 in budded virion (BV) and occlusion-derived virion (ODV) by Western analyses demonstrated that BM5 is not a structural protein associated with BV or ODV.
n-Alkane Profile of Argemone mexicana Leaves
Authors: Bhattacharjee Indranil , Ghosh Anupam , Chowdhury Nandita , Chatterjee Soroj Kumar , Chandra Goutam , Laskar Subrata
Published: January 2015

An n-hexane extract of fresh, mature leaves of Argemone mexicana (Papaveraceae), containing thin-layer epicuticular waxes, has been analysed for the first time by TLC, IR and GLC using standard hydrocarbons. Seventeen long-chain alkanes (n-C18 to n-C34) were identified and quantified. Nonacosane (n-C29) was established as the n-alkane with the highest amount, whilst octadecane (n-C18) was the least abundant component of the extracted wax fraction. The carbon preference index (CPI) calculated for the hydrocarbon sample with the chain lengths between C18 and C34 was 1.2469, showing an odd to even carbon number predominance.
Tomato Bushy Stunt Virus (TBSV) Infecting Lycopersicon esculentum
Authors: Hafez El Sayed E. , Saber Ghada A. , Fattouh Faiza A.
Published: January 2015

Tomato bushy stunt virus (TBSV) was detected in tomato crop (Lycopersicon esculentum) in Egypt with characteristic mosaic leaf deformation, stunting, and bushy growth symptoms. TBSV infection was confirmed serologically by ELISA and calculated incidence was 25.5%. Basic physicochemical properties of a purified TBSV Egh isolate were identical to known properties of tombusviruses of isometric 30-nm diameter particles, 41-kDa coat protein and the genome of ∼ 4,800 nt. This is the first TBSV isolate reported in Egypt. Cloning and partial sequencing of the isolate showed that it is more closely related to TBSV-P and TBSVCh than TBSV-Nf and TBSV-S strains of the virus. However, it is distinct from the above strains and could be a new strain of the virus which further confirms the genetic diversity of tombusviruses.
Synthetic Lapachol Derivatives Relax Guinea-Pig Ileum by Blockade of the Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels
Authors: Cavalcante Fabiana de A. , Monteiro Fabio De S. , Martins Italo Rossi R. , Barbosa Ticiano P. , Camara Celso de A , Pinto Ângelo C. , Vargas Maria D. , Silva Bagnólia A. da
Published: January 2015

The present study was designed to further evaluate a possible spasmolytic activity of synthetic lapachol derivatives, norlapachol, α-norlapachone, β-norlapachone and hydro-hydroxy- norlapachol (HH-norlapachol), on guinea-pig ileum. In guinea-pig ileum, except for norlapachol, all naphthoquinones inhibited the phasic contractions induced by carbachol or histamine. Even when the ileum was pre-contracted with KCl, carbachol or histamine, all naphthoquinones induced relaxation, suggesting that these naphthoquinones could be acting on the voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV). As the tonic component this contraction is maintained mainly by the opening of the CaV, we hypothesized that these naphthoquinones might be acting on these channels. This hypothesis was confirmed by the observation that norlapachol (pD’2 = 4.99), α-norlapachone (pD’2 = 4.49), β-norlapachone (pD’2 = 6.33), and HH-norlapachol (pD’2 = 4.53) antagonized the contractions induced by CaCl2 in depolarizing medium nominally without Ca2+. As β-norlapachone was the most potent we decided to continue the study of its action mechanism. The fact that this naphthoquinone has inhibited the tonic contractions induced by S-(-)-Bay K8644 [EC50 = (1.6 ± 0.30) · 10-5 M] suggests that the Ca2+ channel involved belongs to the type L (CaV1.2). In addition, in the functional level, the spasmolytic effect of β-norlapachone does not involve participation of free radicals, since its curve of relaxation was unchanged in the presence of glutathione, an antioxidant agent.
Variation in Volatiles of Astragalus gombiformis Pomel
Authors: Teyeb Hassen , Zouari Sami , Douki Wahiba , Najjar Mohamed Fadhel , Neffati Mohamed
Published: January 2015

The essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation (Clevenger apparatus) from aerial parts of Astragalus gombiformis were analysed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). This study showed that the A. gombiformis essential oils are complex mixtures of important natural compounds, which varied qualitatively and quantitatively between cultivated and wild plants and between phenological stages of development. All analysed oils are characterized by the constant presence of phytol, 6,10,14-trimethyl-2-pentadecanone, 4-terpineol, and γ-terpinene. This study is the fi rst report on the chemical composition of essential oils from A. gombiformis and indicates that these oils should be more studied.
Synthesis of New 2-Substituted 6-Bromo-3-methylthiazolo[3,2-a]- benzimidazole Derivatives and their Biological Activities
Authors: Abdel-Aziz Hatem A. , Hamdy Nehal A. , Gamal-Eldeen Amira M. , Fakhr Issa M. I.
Published: January 2015

1-(6-Bromo-3-methyl-1,3-thiazolo[3,2-a]benzimidazol-2-yl)ethanone (2) was prepared by bromination at ambient temperature of 1-(3-methylthiazolo[3,2-a]benzimidazol-2-yl)ethanone (1). The structure of 2 was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The precursor 5 was synthesized by heating a mixture of acetyl 2 and bromine. Various 2-substituted 6-bromo-3-methylthiazolo[3,2-a]benzimidazoles containing 1,3-thiazole, 1,4-benzothiazine, quinoxaline or imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine moieties were prepared starting from bromoacetyl 5. Taken together from the biological investigations, 2, 5, and 7a were potent immunosuppressors against both macrophages and T-lymphocytes, and 7b, 11b, and 14 were potent immunostimulators towards both types of immune cells. The results also revealed that, among others, 2 and 14 were the most signifi cant inhibitors of LPS-stimulated NO generation, and that 5, 7a, and 7b had a weak radical scavenging activity against DPPH radicals. Moreover, 2, 5, and 7a had a concomitant strong cytotoxicity against colon carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Collectively, compounds 2, 5, and 7a are multipotent compounds with promising biological activities.
Anti-Inflammatory and Cytotoxic Activities of Chichipegenin, Peniocerol, and Macdougallin Isolated from Myrtillocactus geometrizans (Mart. ex Pfeiff.) Con.
Authors: Salazar Juan Rodrigo , Martínez-Vazquez Mariano , Cespedes Carlos L. , Ramírez-Apan Teresa , Nieto-Camacho Antonio , Rodríguez-Silverio Juan , Flores-Murrieta Francisco
Published: January 2015

The oleanane-type triterpene chichipegenin and the sterols peniocerol and macdougallin, isolated from Myrtillocactus geometrizans, showed anti-inflammatory activities in both the 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced mouse ear edema model and the carrageenan- induced rat paw edema model. All tested compounds inhibited the TPA-induced edema in a dose-dependent manner, with ED50 values less than or equal to that shown by indomethacin. Among them, peniocerol was the most active compound. However, only peniocerol and macdougallin reduced carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. On the other hand, peniocerol and macdougallin showed cytotoxicity against several human cancer cell lines. These results indicate that compounds isolated from M. geometrizans possess antiinflammatory and cytotoxic properties, and the presence of chichipegenin in the aerial parts could justify the medicinal uses attributed to the plant.
Nematicidal Activities of 4-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid and Oidiolactone D Produced by the Fungus Oidiodendron sp.
Authors: Ohtani Kouhei , Fujioka Shozo , Shimada Atsumi , Kimura Yasuo
Published: January 2015

Two nematicides, 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (4-HPA) (1) and oidiolactone D (2), were isolated from cultures of the fungus Oidiodendron sp., and their structures were identified by spectroscopic analyses. Compound 2 showed nematicidal activities against the root-lesion nematode, Pratylenchus penetrans, and the pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus. Compound 1 was also active against these two nematodes but to a lesser extent.
Radical Scavenging and Radiomodulatory Effects of Psoralea corylifolia Linn. Substantiated by in vitro Assays and EPR Spectroscopy
Authors: Arora Rajesh , Dhaker Atlar Singh , Sharma Jyoti , Chawla Raman , Gupta Damodar , Zheleva Antoaneta , Karamalakova Yanka , Kumar Raj , Sharma Raj K. , Sharma Ashok , Sultana Sarwat , Tripathi Rajendra P. , Sharma Rakesh K. , Gadjeva Veselina
Published: January 2015

The present study is the first report of the radiomodulatory effects of Psoralea corylifolia Linn. The extract (IBG-RA-26) prepared from P. corylifolia was chemically analysed by HPLC, LC-MS/MS and NMR. The total polyphenolic content of IBG-RA-26 was 0.287 mg/ ml of quercetin equivalents. IBG-RA-26 exhibited a dose-dependent increase in 2,2-diphenyl- 1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. It exhibited comparable (> 50%) site-specific and non-site-specific hydroxyl radical scavenging activity in higher concentration ranges (500 - 1000 μg/ml), while at lower concentrations (5 - 50 μg/ml) it exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher non-site-specific scavenging ability compared to site-specific activity. Nitric oxide scavenging activity of IBG-RA-26 (5 - 1000 μg/ml) increased in a concentrationdependent manner, while maximum superoxide ion scavenging ability (79%) was observed at 50 μg/ml. The electron donation potential of IBG-RA-26 was found to be higher than that of ascorbic acid at lower concentrations (up to 5 μg/ml). Analysis of the ability of IBGRA- 26 to protect membranes against γ-radiation, utilizing an artificial membrane system (liposome), revealed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA) as a function of the concentration of IBG-RA-26. Radiation-induced lysis of human erythrocytes was monitored and efficacy of IBG-RA-26 was tested in the concentration range 25 - 1000 μg/ml, with significant protective efficacy observed in the range 25 - 50 μg/ml. IBG-RA-26 rendered significant (p < 0.05) protection against radiation (0.25 kGy)-induced DNA damage. EPR spectroscopy was used to investigate the DPPH radical scavenging capacity of IBG-RA-26. IBG-RA-26 exhibited a good DPPH radical scavenging capacity in a concentration-dependent manner. By direct EPR spectroscopy we have also demonstrated the possible formation of free radical species in a solution of IBG-RA-26. The wide spectrum of radioprotective and antioxidant properties exhibited by IBG-RA-26 indicate that P. corylifolia has potential as a radiomodulatory agent.
Isolation of a Wild Morchella spp. Strain and the Effects of its Extract on Ethanol-Induced Gastric Mucosal Lesions in Rats
Authors: Wei Wei , Luo Xia , Zheng Linyong , Yu Mengyao , Jiang Nan , Xu Xiao-yan , Yang Zhi-rong
Published: January 2015

A Morchella spp. strain was isolated from a wild morel mushroom, and the effects of its mycelia extract on the ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions of rats were investigated in vivo. Sequence analysis of internal transcribed spacer suggested that this Morchella spp. strain (strain No. M1) was clustered together with M. conica in the phylogenetic tree. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased significantly compared to the control. However, the malondialdehyde (MDA) level and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity decreased significantly compared to the control. These results indicated that M1 is one member of M. conica and the protective effects of M1 extract against the ethanol-induced gastric lesions may be related to the increased SOD activity and decreased MDA level and MPO activity in rats.
Cloning and Characterization of a cDNA Encoding Type 1 Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase from Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Sun Li , Ouyang Chao , Kou Shanglong , Wang Shenghua , Yao Yunyi , Peng Tong , Xu Ying , Tang Lin , Chen Fang
Published: January 2015

A full-length cDNA encoding a putative diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT; EC 2.3.1.20) was obtained from sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seeds. The 1524-bp open reading frame of this cDNA, designated as HaDGAT1, encodes a protein of 507 amino acids with a molecular mass of 58.5 kDa showing high homology to DGAT1 enzymes of other plants. The protein characters, such as a predicted structure with a long N-terminal hydrophilic domain followed by 9 transmembrane domains, acyl-CoA-binding signature, diacylglycerol (DAG)-binding and putative endoplasmic reticulum retrieval motifs (ER-DIR), also indicated that HaDGAT belongs to the DGAT1 family. HaDGAT1 is expressed in all plant tissues especially in developing seeds. Expression of recombinant HaDGAT1 in yeast showed an 1.76-fold increase of total fatty acids, especially unsaturated fatty acids such as palmitoleic acid (enhanced by 86.6%) and oleic acid (enhanced by 81.6%).
Trypanocidal and Cytotoxic Effects of 30 Ethiopian Medicinal Plants
Authors: Nibret Endalkachew , Wink Michael
Published: January 2015

Trypanocidal and cytotoxic effects of traditionally used medicinal plants of Ethiopia were evaluated. A total of 60 crude plant extracts were prepared from 30 plant species using CH2Cl2 and MeOH. Effect upon cell proliferation by the extracts, for both bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei brucei and human leukaemia HL-60 cells, was assessed using resazurin as vital stain. Of all CH2Cl2 and MeOH extracts evaluated against the trypanosomes, the CH2Cl2 extracts from five plants showed trypanocidal activity with an IC50 value below 20 μg/mL: Dovyalis abyssinica (Flacourtiaceae), IC50 = 1.4 μg/mL; Albizia schimperiana (Fabaceae), IC50 = 7.2 μg/mL; Ocimum urticifolium (Lamiaceae), IC50 = 14.0 μg/mL; Acokanthera schimperi (Apocynaceae), IC50 = 16.6 μg/mL; and Chenopodium ambrosioides (Chenopodiaceae), IC50 = 17.1 μg/mL. A pronounced and selective killing of trypanosomes with minimal toxic effect on human cells was exhibited by Dovyalis abyssinica (CH2Cl2 extract, SI = 125.0; MeOH extract, SI = 57.7) followed by Albizia schimperiana (CH2Cl2 extract, SI = 31.3) and Ocimum urticifolium (MeOH extract, SI = 16.0). In conclusion, the screening of 30 Ethiopian medicinal plants identified three species with good antitrypanosomal activities and low toxicity towards human cells. Dovyalis abyssinica might be a promising candidate for phytotherapy of trypanosomiasis