bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dependence of the Flash-Induced Oxygen Evolution Pattern on the Chemically and Far Red Light-Modulated Redox Condition in Cyanobacterial Photosynthetic Electron Transport
Authors: Spiegel Susanne , Bader Klaus P.
Published: February 2015

Flash-induced photosynthetic oxygen evolution was measured in cells and thylakoid preparations from the coccoid cyanobacteria Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 and Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942 and from the filamentous cyanobacterium Oscillatoria chalybea. The resulting characteristic flash patterns from these cyanobacteria can be chemically altered by addition of exogenously added substances like CCCP, DCPiP and inorganic salts. Potassium chloride, manganese sulfate and calcium chloride affected the sequences by specific increases in the flash yield and/or effects on the transition parameters. Chloride appeared to exert the strongest stimulatory effect on the oxygen yield. In comparison to chloride, both manganese and calcium did not significantly stimulate the flash amplitudes as such, but improved the functioning of the oxygen evolving complex by decreasing the miss parameter α. Particular effects were observed with respect to the time constants of the relaxation kinetics of the first two flash signals Y1/Y2 of the cyanobacterial patterns. In the presence of the investigated chemicals the amplitudes of the first two flash signals (Y2 in particular) were increased and the relaxation kinetics were enhanced so that the time constant became about identical to the conditions of steady state oxygen flash amplitudes. The results provide further evidence against a possible participation of either PS I or respiratory processes to Y1/Y2 of cyanobacterial flash patterns. Dramatic effects were observed when protoplasts from Oscillatoria chalybea or cells from Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 and Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942 were exposed to weak far red background illumination. Under these conditions, Y2 (and to a smaller extent Y1) of otherwise unchanged flash sequences were specifically modified. Y2 was substantially increased and again the relaxation kinetics were accelerated making the signal indistinguishable from a Yss signal. From the mathematical fit of the sequences we conclude that S2 contributes to 10-20% of the S-state distribution (in comparison to 0% in the control). Thus, far red background illumination might represent a valuable means for photosynthetic investigations where high amounts of S2 are required like e.g. EPR measurements. In such experiments the corresponding EPR signals appeared substantially enhanced following far red preillumination (Ahrling and Bader, unpublished observations). Our results clearly show that the ‚controversial results‘ from parts of the literature suggesting the participation of different mechanisms (net oxygen evolution, inhibited uptake processes etc.) are not required to explain the flash-induced oxygen evolution in cyanobacteria: the seemingly ‚incompatible‘ conditions and conformations can be perfectly interconverted by different modulation techniques (chemicals, far red) of the respective redox condition within the water oxidation complex of photosynthesis
Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of Platinum(II) Complexes of 3-Aminocyclopentanespiro- 5-hydantoin and 3-Aminocycloheptanespiro-5-hydantoin
Authors: Kushev Daniel , Naydenova Emilya , Popova Julita , Maneva Liliana , Grancharov Konstantin , Spassovska Nadejda
Published: February 2015

Four new platinum(II) complexes of 3-aminocyclopentanespiro-5-hydantoin (acpsh) and 3-aminocycloheptanespiro-5-hydantoin (achpsh) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR and 1NMR spectra. The spectral analyses indicated a cis-square planar structure of the complexes with ligands coordinated via the NH2 group. The complexes were evaluated for in vitro cytotoxicity in murine erythroleukemia (MEL) cells, clone F4N, using cell-growth and macromolecular synthesis assay. The compounds, with exception of [Pt(NH3)(achpsh)Cl2] (IV), exhibited much lower cytotoxicity than that of cisplatin (DDP). Compound IV was nearly as cytotoxic as DDP. The new complexes exerted low antibacterial activity as assessed by seven bacterial strains
Effect of a Fungal Cu/Zn Superoxide Dismutase on the Cell-Mediated Immune Response in Graffi Tumor Bearing Hamsters
Authors: Toshkova Reneta , Ivanova Emilia , Angelova Maria , Dolashka Pavlina , Voelter Wolfgang
Published: February 2015

The antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC) of spleen lymphocytes, isolated fromhamsters with progressing myeloid Graffi tumor, was studied. The effect of the application of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase, isolated from the fungal strain Humicola lutea (HL SOD), before and during tumor transplantation on the lymphocyte ADCC was examined. Myeloid Graffi tumor cells as target cells were used. Antibodies from a rabbit hyper-immune anti-tumor Graffi cells serum, or from tumor-bearing hamsters serum were used in the test. The leukocyte adherence inhibition (LAI) in the presence of tumor antigenwas examined also during tumor progression.

ADCC of the spleen lymphocytes, determined by both, rabbit and hamster anti-tumor antibodies, decreased during tumor progression. The optimum treatment of the animals by HL SOD induced a 20-30% increase of lymphocyte cytotoxicity againstmyeloid Graffi tumor cells. Cytotoxicity in presence of tumor bearing hamsters serum was twofold lower as compared to that one determined in the presence of rabbit hyper-immune anti-myeloid Graffi tumor cells serum.

Leukocyte adherence inhibition (LAI) index in the presence of tumor antigen increased during tumor development in the groups of treated and untreated animals. The LAI indices of HL SOD-treated tumor-bearing hamsters were lower than that of untreated animals with tumors, what can be explained by a higher adherence ability of leukocytes induced by HL SOD treatment (in formula for calculation of LAI index the adherence value is in the denominator).

The results show the beneficial effect of HL SOD on the cell- mediated immune response of myeloid Graffi tumor bearing hamsters, what is probably due to the participation of the enzyme in the host’s oxidant-antioxidant balance
Clusterin Overexpression is Responsible for the Anti-apoptosis Effect in a Mouse Neuroblastoma Cell Line, B103
Authors: You Kwan-Hee , Ji Young-Mi , Kwon O-Yu
Published: February 2015

The functional role of clusterin in apoptosis was examined using flow cytometry. Clusterin cDNA was transfected into the mouse neuroblastoma cell line, B103, in order to determine if clusterin overexpression inhibits apoptosis. The increased clusterin expression level in the B103 cells tended to suppress the apoptotic index. This suggests an association of clusterin gene expression with apoptosis inhibition. These results support the conclusion that clusterin expression in B103 cells has an antiapoptotic influence
Comparative Analysis of the Composition of Flower Volatiles from Lamium L. Species and Lamiastrum galeobdolon Heist. ex Fabr.
Authors: Alipieva Kalina , Evstatieva Ljubka , Handjieva Nedjalka , Popova Simeon
Published: February 2015

The volatiles of fresh flowers from nine natural populations of four Lamium species and Lamiastrum galeobdolon were analyzed by GC/MS. 49 compounds, 43 of them new for Lamium and Lamiastrum, were identified. The studied samples showed similarity of the volatile profiles and dependence of the oil-composition on the collection site. Significant amounts of squalene were found in all samples. The presence of homological series of straight chain alkanes from C12 to C31 was shown. Phenethyl alcohol was found only in L. maculatum f. alba.
Volatile Composition of Jasonia glutinosa D. C.
Authors: Romero María Angeles González , Castillo Lucinda Villaescusa , Lanza Ana María Díaz , Bricio José María Arribas , Monzón Cristina A. Soria , Perucha Jesús Sanz
Published: February 2015

Using GC-MS the volatile composition of Jasonia glutinosa D. C., was studied by comparing two different methods for the isolation of a volatile fraction: distillation from the fresh plant in order to obtain the essential oil, and direct thermal desorption (DTD). Compared with essential oil extraction the main advantages of the DTD technique are the smaller sample amount required, and the increased range of volatile compounds which can be subsequently analysed by GC-MS.
The Anticancer Drug Cytarabine Does not Interact with the Human Erythrocyte Membrane
Authors: Suwalsky Mario , Hernández Pedro L. , Villena Fernando , Sotomayor Carlos P.
Published: February 2015

Cytarabine, an analog of deoxycytidine, is an important agent in the treatment of ovarian carcinoma, acute myeloid and lymphoblastic leukemia. Its mechanism of action has been attributed to an interference with DNA replication. The plasma membrane has received increasing attention as a possible target of antitumor drugs, where the drugs may act as growth factor antagonists and receptor blockers, interfere with mitogenic signal transduction or exert direct cytotoxic effects. Furthermore, it has been reported that drugs that exert their antiproliferative effect by interacting with DNA generally cause structural and functional membrane alterations which may be essential for growth inhibition by these agents. This paper describes the studies undertaken to determine the structural effects induced by cytarabine to cell membranes. The results showed that cytarabine, at a concentration about one thousand times higher than that found in plasma when it is therapeutically administered, did not induce significant structural perturbation in any of these systems. Therefore, it can be unambiguously concluded that this widely used anticancer drug does not interact at all with erythrocyte membranes.
Limonoids from Citrus reticulata
Authors: Khalil Ashraf T. , Maatooq Galal T. , El Sayed Khalid A.
Published: February 2015

The seeds of Citrus reticulata afforded the new limonoid derivative, isolimonexic acid methyl ether, in addition to the the previously isolated limonin, deacetylnomilin, obacunone and ichangin. The structure elucidation was achieved primarily through 1D and 2-D-NMR analyses. The marginal antimalarial activity of isolimonexic acid methyl ether is reported.
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids from Lithospermum canescens Lehm.
Authors: Wiedenfeld Helmut , Pietrosiuk Agnieszka , Furmanowa Miroslava , Roeder Erhard
Published: February 2015

Seven pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) have been isolated from Lithospermum canescens and their structures determined by spectroscopical methods. Besides the known lycopsamine, O7- acetyl-lycopsamine and O7-acetylintermedine four new PAs were found. Their structures are O7-(3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butanoyl)-O9-(+)-trachelanthoyl-heliotridine (= O7-(3-hydroxy-3- methyl-butanoyl)-rinderine = canescine), O7-(3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butanoyl)-O9-(D)-viridifloryl- heliotridine (= O7-(3-hydroxy-3-methyl-butanoyl)-echinatine = canescenine) and their O13-acetyl-derivatives (= acetylcanescine; acetylcanescenine).
Volatile Substances of the Green Alga Scenedesmus incrassatulus
Authors: Kambourova Roumena , Bankova Vassya , Petkov Georgi
Published: February 2015

Volatile substances of the green microalga Scenedesmus incrassatulus, cultivated in fresh and salt water, were studied. Cultivation in fresh water diversifies volatile secondary metabolites. Hydrocarbons and derivatives of the acetate pathway predominate when algae are grown in salt water; isoprenoids and aromatics are more abundant after fresh water cultivation.
Chemical Composition of Tipuana tipu, a Source for Tropical Honey Bee Products
Authors: dos Santos Pereira Alberto , Radler de Aquino Neto Francisco
Published: February 2015

Tipuana tipu (Benth.) Kuntze is a tree from the leguminosae family (Papilionoideae) indigenous in Argentina and extensively used in urbanism, mainly in Southern Brazil. The epicuticular waxes of leaves and branch, and flower surface were studied by high temperature high resolution gas chromatography. Several compounds were characterized, among which the aliphatic alcohols were predominant in branch, leaves and receptacle. Alkanes were predominant only in the petals and the aliphatic acids were predominant in stamen. In branches and leaf epicuticular surfaces, six long chain wax esters series were characterized, as well as lupeol and b-amyrin hexadecanoates.
Changes in Catecholamine Levels in Short Day-Induced Cotyledons of Pharbitis nil
Authors: Suzuki Masayuki , Mizoguchi Masaya , Yano Fumihiko , Hara Utako , Yokoyama Mineyuki , Watanabe Naoharu
Published: February 2015

We investigated the effects of catecholamine on flower-induction in P. nil (cv. Violet). GCSIM analysis identified dopamine for the first time in P. nil seedlings. Dopamine levels in the cotyledons did not show a significant change during the inducing dark treatment. The dopamine content of cotyledons exposed to various durations of darkness were 0.1-0.2 nmol/ g fresh weight. The same content was found when cotyledons were exposed to continuous light.
Three Highly Oxygenated Caryophyllene Sesquiterpenes from Pestalotiopsis sp., a Fungus Isolated from Bark of Pinus taeda
Authors: Magnan Rodrigo F. , Rodrigues-Fo Edson , Daolio Cristina , Ferreira A. Gilberto , Souza Antonia Q. L. de
Published: February 2015

A Pestalotiopis sp. was isolated from the trunk bark of Pinus taeda. The fungus was cultivated in liquid medium and produced three highly oxygenated caryophyllene sequiterpene derivatives, named pestalotiopsolide A, taedolidol and 6-epitaedolidol, respectively. The sesquiterpenes were isolated by silica gel based chromatographic procedures and their structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopic data.
Evaluation of Sage Phenolics for Their Antileishmanial Activity and Modulatory Effects on Interleukin-6, Interferon and Tumour Necrosis Factor-α-Release in RAW 264.7 Cells
Authors: Radtke Oliver A. , Foo Lai Yeap , Lu Yinrong , Kiderlen Albrecht F. , Kolodziej Herbert
Published: February 2015

A series of sage phenolics was tested for activity against a panel of Leishmania parasites and for immunomodulatory effects on macrophage functions including release of tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interferon (IFN)-like activities. For this, functional bioassays were employed including an in vitro model for leishmaniasis in which macrophage- like RAW 264.7 cells were infected with Leishmania parasites, an extracellular Leishmania growth-inhibition assay, a fibroblast-lysis assay for TNF-activity, a cell proliferation assay using IL-6 sensitive murine B9 hybridoma cells, and a virus protection assay for IFN-like activity. Whereas none of the test samples exhibited marked activities against extracellular Leishmania promastigotes (IC50 > 700 to > 2800 nм; > 500 μg/ml), caffeic acid, salvianolic acids K and L as well as the methyl ester of salvianolic acid I showed pronounced antileishmanial activities against intracellular amastigote stages within RAW cells (IC50 3-23 nм vs. 10-11 nм for the reference Pentostam®). Noteworthy, the phenolic samples showed no cytotoxicity against the host cells (IC50 > 600 to > 2200 nм; > 400 μg/ml). Tested sage phenolics activated Leishmania-infected RAW 264.7 for release of TNF ranging 22-117 U/ml and IL-6 ranging 3-42 U/ml. In contrast, their TNF- or IL-6-inducing potential in experiments with non-infected host cells was negligible. Furthermore, caffeic acid and salvianolic acid K induced a modest release of IFN-like activity (5-9 and 2-4 U/ml, respectively) as reflected by inhibition of the cytopathic effect of encephalomyocarditis virus on L929 cells. The results support the emerging picture that plant polyphenols may be credited for the profound healthbeneficial properties of various herbal medicines and agricultural products.
Starvation-Induced Impairment of Metabolism in a Freshwater Catfish
Authors: Tripathi Ghanshyam , Verma Priyanka
Published: February 2015

Starvation induced changes in citrate synthase (CS), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6-PDH), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), DNA, RNA, RNA/DNA ratio and protein were studied in the freshwater catfish Clarias batrachus. Starvation gradually decreased the activity of CS, G6-PDH and LDH in brain, liver and skeletal muscle of the freshwater catfish. The maximum reduction in these enzyme activities upto 35-45% was observed after 35 days of fasting. This shows substantial decline in aerobic and biosynthetic capacity during starvation period. DNA, RNA, RNA/DNA ratio and protein contents were also reduced from 40-67% which reflects reduction in an overall capacity of the protein synthesis. Starvation - induced macromolecular changes indicate impairment of metabolism in fish.
Iridoid Glucosides from Veronica pectinata var. glandulosa
Authors: Harput U. Sebnem , Nagatsu Akito , Ogihara Yukio , Saracoglu Iclal
Published: February 2015

A new highly oxygenated iridoid glucoside, urphoside B (1) was isolated from the Veronica pectinata var. glandulosa together with seven known iridoid glucosides, aucubin, catalpol, veronicoside, catalposide, verproside, amphicoside and 6-O-veratroyl catalpol. The planar as well as the stereo structures of the isolated compounds were determined by means of extensive 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy and confirmed by HR-Mass.
Cytotoxic Naphthoquinones from Roots of Lippia microphylla
Authors: Santos Hélcio S. , Costa Sônia M. O. , Pessoa Otília D. L. , Moraes Manoel O. , Pessoa Claudia , Fortier Sergio , Silveira Edilberto R. , Lemos Telma L. G.
Published: February 2015

A new prenylated naphthoquinone dimer named microphyllaquinone (1), a mixture of 6-methoxy- and 7-methoxy-naphtho[2,3-b]-furan-4,9-quinones (2a/2b) and tecomaquinone I (3), were isolated from roots of Lippia microphylla. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including detailed 1D and 2D (COSY, NOESY, HMQC, HMBC) NMR data. Unpublished 13C NMR data of 2a and 2b are reported. The in vitro cytotoxic activity of the isolated compounds was tested against five types of tumor cells.
Dacrymenone and VM 3298-2 - New Antibiotics with Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity
Authors: Mierau Viktor , Anke Timm , Sterner Olov
Published: February 2015

Two new antibiotic metabolites, dacrymenone (1) and VM 3298-2 (2), were isolated from fermentations of a Dacrymyces sp., and their structures were determined by spectroscopic techniques. Dacrymenone (1) is a new eremophilane sesquiterpenoid while VM 3298-2 (2) is a bis-enol ether between methyl pyruvate and 4,6-dihydroxycyclohexan-1,3-dione. Dacrymenone (1) shows weak antibacterial and antifungal activity while VM 3298-2 (2) exhibits cytotoxic and antifungal activities.
ʟ-5-Hydroxytryptophan: Antioxidant and Anti-Apoptotic Principle of the Intertidal Sponge Hymeniacidon heliophila
Authors: Lysek Nicola , Kinscherf Ralf , Claus Ralf , Lindel Thomas
Published: February 2015

The intertidal sponge Hymeniacidon heliophila which survives under intense sunlight contains the antioxidant amino acid l-5-hydroxytryptophan (ʟ-5-HTP) as major constituent. The content of ʟ-5-HTP was determined as (0.45 ± 0.23)% of the dry weight by quantitative NMR-spectroscopical analysis with an internal standard. Other known antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids or tocopherol derivatives were absent. Both the oxidation potential and the concentration of ʟ-5-HTP in H. heliophila correspond to the values observed for flavonoids being major antioxidants in plants. It was shown that ʟ-5-HTP suppresses UVinduced apoptosis in human monocytes at the same concentrations as it occurs in the sponge tissue.
Hydrogen Peroxide from the Oxidative Burst is Not Involved in the Induction of Taxol Biosynthesis in Taxus chinensis Cells
Authors: Lan Wen Zhi , Qin Wen Min , Yu Long Jiang , Yang Xi
Published: February 2015

In cell suspension cultures of Taxus chinensis, 40 mg/l fungal elicitor from Aspergillus niger and 20 μm HgCl2 elicited 5.7 and 3.6 mg/l taxol, which was a 9-fold and 5- fold increase vs. compared with the control, respectively. The fungal elicitor induced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation but HgCl2 did not, indicating that H2O2 was not necessary for enhancement of taxol induced by elicitor. Compared with the treatment with fungal elicitor alone, exogenous catalase, ascorbic acid, diphenylene iodonium and superoxide dismutase induced a 0.45, 0.4, 0.7 and 1.4-fold H2O2, but elicited taxol production, which was 0.98, 1.2, 1.1 and 0.9-fold, respectively, vs. non-treated cells. Elicitor-induced taxol production was not accorded with the amount of H2O2 production.
Pyrone Glycosides from Acosmium panamense (Benth.) Yacovlev
Authors: Wiedenfeld Helmut , Andrade-Cetto Adolfo
Published: February 2015

Besides caffeic acid three pyrones have been isolated from aquous bark extracts from Acosmium panamense and their structures were determined using spectroscopical methods. Besides the already described desmethylyangonine its O4′-mono as well as the di(1-6)glucoside are found the first time.
Two New 24-Isopropenyl-lanostanoids from Tillandsia brachycaulos
Authors: Cantillo-Ciau Zulema , Mena-Rejón Gonzalo J. , Quintero-Mármol Esther , Jiménez-Díaz Antonio , Quijano Leovigildo
Published: February 2015

The leaves of Tillandsia brachycaulos afforded two novel tetracyclic triterpenoids identified as (24S)-24-isopropenyl-29-nor-5α-lanosta-7-en-3β-ol (1) and (24S)-24-isopropenyl-29-nor- 5α-lanosta-7-en-3-one (2), in addition to the known isopimaric acid (3) and chlorogenic acid (4). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectral analysis, including homo- and heteronuclear correlation NMR experiments (COSY, ROESY, HMQC and HMBC) and by comparison with data in the literature. The antimicrobial and antifungal activities were studied. The compounds did not show significant activity.
Antiproliferative Effects of Several Compounds Isolated from Amburana cearensis A. C. Smith
Authors: Costa-Lotufo Letícia V. , Jimenez Paula C. , Wilke Diego V. , Leal Luzia Kalyne A. M. , Cunha Geanne M. A. , Silveira Edilberto R. , Canuto Kirley M. , Viana Glauce S. B. , Moraes Maria Elisabete A. , Moraes Manoel Odorico de , Pessoa Cláudia
Published: February 2015

Amburana cearensis a common tree found in Northeastern Brazil is widely used in folk medicine. The present work evaluated the cytotoxicity of kaempferol, isokaempferide, amburoside A and protocatechuic acid isolated from the ethanol extract of the trunk bark of A. cearensis. The compounds were tested for their cytotoxicity on the sea urchin egg development, hemolysis assay and 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay using tumor cell lines. Isokaempferide and kaempferol, but not amburoside A and protocatechuic acid, inhibited the sea urchin egg development as well as tumor cell lines, but in this assay isokaempferide was more potent than kaempferol. Protocatechuic acid was the only compound able to induce hemolysis of mouse erythrocytes, suggesting that the cytotoxicity of kaempferol and isokaempeferide was not related to membrane damage.
DNA Breaks Induction by Mimosine
Authors: Mladenov Emil , Anachkova Boyka
Published: February 2015

Mouse erythroleukemic F4 N cells were treated with mimosine, etoposide, Fe(II)-EDTA, and Cu(II) in the presence of ascorbate. DNA was isolated and subjected to agarose gel electrophoresis and the size and distribution of the DNA fragments produced by the agents were compared. With increasing concentration of Cu(II) the production of DNA fragments was increased without decrease of the average length of the fragments, and their sizes were similar to those produced by etoposide as expected for cleavage of DNA at the nuclear matrix attachments sites. In contrast, mimosine and Fe(II) produced fragments of random size and with the progression of the reaction the average length of the fragments decreased. These results indicate that mimosine cuts DNA in a random fashion, regardless of its higher order chromatin organization. A conclusion is drawn that the DNA fragments obtained after mimosine treatment are a result of mimosine-assisted, Fe(II) dependent Fenton-like reactions randomly cutting chromosomal DNA.
Chemical Constituents of Euphorbia marschalliana Boiss
Authors: Jassbi Amir Reza , Zamanizadehnajari Simin , Tahara Satoshi
Published: February 2015

Acetone extract of aerial parts of Euphorbia marschalliana collected from Iran has been subjected to different chromatography techniques for fractionation and purification. The stereo- structures of the myrsinol esters 15-O-acetyl-3-O-propionyl-5-O-butanoyl-7-O-nicotinoylmyrsinol (1) and 15-O-acetyl-3,5-O-dibutanoyl-7-O-nicotinoylmyrsinol (2) have been probed using ROESY spectroscopy and modified for the stereochemistry at C-6, C-12 and C-13. β-Sitosterol (3), 29-norcycloart-5-ene (4), 5,8-lanostadiene-3β-ol (5), 3β,24(S),25-trihydroxycycloartane (6), 3β,24(R),25-trihydroxycycloartane (7) and 24-methylenecycloartan-3β-ol (8) were identified for the first time in this plant.
Sesquiterpenes and a Phenylpropanoid from Cordia trichotoma
Authors: de Menezes Jane Eire S. A. , Machado Francisca Elane A. , Lemos Telma Leda G. , Silveira Edilberto R. , Filho Raimundo Braz , Pessoa Otília Deusdêni L.
Published: February 2015

Two new secondary metabolites, the phenylpropanoid 3-(2′,4′,5′-trimethoxyphenyl)propanoic acid (1) and the sesquiterpene (+)-1β,4β,6α-trihydroxyeudesmane (2) were isolated from the heartwood of Cordia trichotoma Vell., along with the known sesquiterpenes (D)-1β,4β,7α- trihydroxyeudesmane (3) and (+)-1β,4β,11-trihydroxyoppositane (4). Their structures were elucidated by means of spectroscopic data interpretation, mainly 1D and 2D NMR and mass spectrometry.
Secondary Metabolite Content in Fabiana imbricata Plants and in vitro Cultures
Authors: Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo , Jordan Miguel , Gerth André , Hormazabal Emilio , Tapia Alejandro A. , Wilken Dirk
Published: February 2015

A rapid in vitro propagation system leading to the formation of shoots, calli, roots, cell suspensions and plantlets was developed for the Andean medicinal plant Fabiana imbricata (Solanaceae). Massive propagation of shoots and roots was achieved by the temporary immersion system (TIS), morphogenesis and maintenance of cell suspensions by standard in vitro culture techniques. Oleanolic acid (OA), rutin, chlorogenic acid (CA) and scopoletin content in aerial parts of wild growing Fabiana imbricata plants as well as in plantlets regenerated in vitro, callus cultures, cell suspensions and biomass, obtained by the TIS system was assessed by HPLC.

On a dry weight basis, the OA content in the aerial parts of the plant ranged between 2.26 and 3.47% while in vitro plantlets, callus and root cultures presented values ranging from not detected up to 0.14%. The rutin content of the samples presented a similar trend with maxima between 0.99 and 3.35% for the aerial parts of the plants to 0.02 to 0.20% for plantlets, 0.12% for cell suspensions and 0.28% for callus. Rutin was not detected in the roots grown by the TIS principle. The CA and scopoletin content in the aerial parts of F. imbricata ranged between 0.22-1.15 and < 0.01-0.55%, respectively. In the plantlets, the concentration of CA was 0.29 to 1.48% with scopoletin in the range 0.09 to 0.64% while in the callus sample, the CA and scopoletin content were 0.46 and 0.66%, respectively. A very different result was found in roots grown by TIS, where both OA and rutin were not detected and its main secondary metabolite, scopoletin was found between a range of 0.99 and 1.41% with CA between of 0.11 and 0.42%.
Alkaloids in Bulgarian Pancratium maritimum L.
Authors: Berkov Strahil , Evstatieva Luba , Popov Simeon
Published: February 2015

A GC/MS analysis of alkaloids from leaves, bulbs and roots of Pancratium maritimum was performed. From the identified 16 alkaloids, 5 alkaloids were reported for the first time for this plant. Several compounds with pharmacological activity were found. Haemanthamine was main alkaloid in the leaves and bulbs whereas galanthane was found to be main alkaloid in roots.
New Steroidal Saponins from Rhizomes of Costus spiralis
Authors: da Silva Bernadete P. , Parente José P.
Published: February 2015

Two new steroidal saponins were isolated from the rhizomes of Costus spiralis Rosc. Their structures were established as (3β,25R)-26-(β-ᴅ-glucopyranosyloxy)-22-hydroxyfurost-5- en-3-ylO-d-apio-β-ᴅ-furanosyl-(1→2)-O-[α-ʟ-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→4)]-β-ᴅ-glucopyranoside (1) and (3β,25R)-26-(β-ᴅ-glucopyranosyloxy)-22-hydroxyfurost-5-en-3-yl O-ᴅ-apio-β-ᴅ-furanosyl-( 154)-O-[α-ʟ-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)]-β-ᴅ-glucopyranoside (2). Their structural identifications were performed using detailed analyses of 1H and 13C NMR spectra including 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques (DEPT, COSY, HETCOR and COLOC) and chemical conversions. The steroidal saponins were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity.
Cuticular Hydrocarbons of Heterotermes tenuis (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae): Analyses and Electrophysiological Studies
Authors: Batista-Pereira Luciane G. , dos Santos Márcio G. , Corrêa Arlene G. , Fernandes João B. , Arab Alberto , Costa-Leonardo Ana Maria , Dietrich Célia R. R. C. , Pereira Dilmar A. , Bueno Odair C.
Published: February 2015

Termites have become an important pest of Eucalyptus and Pinus reforestations, sugarcane and other cultures. An alternative for the control of this pest would be the use of attractive traps that take in account the social behavior of these insects. Diverse factors are important for the insects in the localization of the habitat and the choice of the food and specific odors can facilitate this. Studies referring to Heterotermes tenuis (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) are scarce. The objective of this work was to analyze the tergal cuticular extract of H. tenuis and determine the selectivity and sensitivity of its antennae to the components of this extract by electroantennography (EAG). The composition of the cuticular extract was determined by GC-MS analysis. The hydrocarbons found were restricted to linear alkanes, being most abundant C24 to C27 that comprises ca. 65% of the total. Olefins were not detected. EAG and behavioral test responses to the cuticular hydrocarbons were greater and significantly different from the control and the high selectivity of the antennae to the extract indicates its potential as chemical messenger. Cuticular hydrocarbons mixture is species-specific and can be used to identify a given taxon without the diagnostic castes, soldiers or imagoes. Difference in the composition appears to relate with the type of habitat of specie.
Evaluation of in vivo Biological Activity Profile of Isoorientin
Authors: Küpeli Esra , Aslan Mustafa , Gürbüz İlhan , Yesilada Erdem
Published: February 2015

Anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective activities of the known C-glycosyl flavonoid, isoorientin, were studied in rats and mice. For the anti-nociceptive activity assessment the p-benzoquinone-induced writing test, for the anti-inflammatory activity the carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model in mice, and for the gastroprotective activity the EtOH-induced ulcerogenesis model in rats were used. Isoorientin was shown to possess significant anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities at 15 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg doses, without inducing any apparent acute toxicity as well as gastric damage. However, the compound did not possess any significant gastroprotective activity against EtOH-induced ulcerogenesis.
Constituents of Quinchamalium majus with Potential Antitubercular Activity
Authors: Gu Jian-Qiao , Wang Yuehong , Franzblau Scott G. , Montenegro Gloria , Timmermann Barbara N.
Published: February 2015

Antitubercular bioassay-guided fractionation of the dichloromethane extracts of the above-ground biomass and roots of Quinchamalium majus led to the identification of six known constituents, betulinic acid (1), daucosterol (2), 5,7-dihydroxyflavone (3), oleanolic acid (4), (D)-2S-pinocembrin (5), and ursolic acid (6), for the first time in this species. Their chemical structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and chemical transformation methods. All of these compounds along with additional 11 analogues were evaluated for their antitubercular potential against Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a microplate alamar blue assay, and the primary structure-activity relationships (SARs) for 4 and 6 were discussed. In addition, all the isolates were tested for cytotoxicity against African green monkey Vero cells in order to evaluate for their selectivity potential.
Evaluation of the Oxidative Burst in Suspension Cell Culture of Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Janisch Kerstin , Schempp Harald
Published: February 2015

Plants respond to the attack of pathogens with the oxidative burst, a production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this work a cell culture suspension of Phaseolus vulgaris was used to investigate the oxidative burst triggered by a conidia suspension of different races of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. As a defence response of the cells a two-phase peak was observed with all used races of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, varying only in the produced amounts of hydrogen peroxide. Findings with additives such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) and catalase gave rise to the conclusion that more superoxide radicals were produced than be detectable with Amplex® Red as hydrogen peroxide. It is assumed that the conversion of the superoxide radical is spontaneous and not driven via a cell-derived superoxide dismutase. The addition of low-molecular cell wall components (ergosterol, glucosamine, galactosamine) showed clearly that compounds like this act as elicitors and thus are involved in triggering the burst. Furthermore, an evaluation of the metabolizing capacities of hydrogen peroxide of the suspension culture cells revealed the enormous capacity of the cells to detoxify this ROS.
Activity and Stability of Catalase in Nonionic Micellar and Reverse Micellar Systems
Authors: Gebicka Lidia , Jurgas-Grudzinska Monika
Published: February 2015

Catalase activity and stability in the presence of simple micelles of Brij 35 and entrapped in reverse micelles of Brij 30 have been studied. The enzyme retains full activity in aqueous micellar solution of Brij 35. Catalase exhibits “superactivity” in reverse micelles composed of 0.1 ᴍ Brij 30 in dodecane, n-heptane or isooctane, and significantly lowers the activity in decaline. The incorporation of catalase into Brij 30 reverse micelles enhances its stability at 50 °C. However, the stability of catalase incubated at 37 °C in micellar and reverse micellar solutions is lower than that in homogeneous aqueous solution.
Quantification of the Particle Method for Chemotactic Bioassay Using Peronosporomycete Zoospores
Authors: Takayama Tomohiko , Fukushi Yukiharu , Islam Md. Tofazzal , Tahara Satoshi
Published: February 2015

We estimated the amount of test solution absorbed by each Chromosorb W AW particle (60-80 mesh) using an isotopic technique to quantitate the particle method. 14C-Labeled standard compounds like carbendazim (MBC), 5-O-methylcochliophilin A, sucrose and pro- line were dissolved in several solvents, and Chromosorb carrier particles were treated with the solution to coat the particle with these test compounds. The ratios of the radioactivity of 5 μl of the test solution to that of 2 mg of carrier particles treated with the solution at some different concentrations were measured. It was found that each carrier particle holds approx. 3.8 nl of the test solution within a range of 2 x 10-3 to 1 x 10-7 ᴍ concentrations. Accordingly, it is now possible to widely use the particle method as a quantitative procedure to assay chemotaxis of Peronosporomycete zoospores.
Chemical Composition of the Essential Oils of Clausena lansium from Hainan Island, China
Authors: Zhaoa Jiayuan , Nana Peng , Zhong Yang
Published: February 2015

The essential oils of wild Clausena lansium collected in Hainan Island, China were extracted from leaves, flowers, sarcocarps and seeds, and then analyzed by using GC/MS. The main constituents of the essential oils were: β-santalol (35.2%), bisabolol (13.7%), methyl santalol (6.9%), ledol (6.5%) and sinensal (5.6%) in the leaves; β-santalol (50.6%), 9-octadecenamide (17.2%) and sinensal (4.1%) in the flowers; β-santalol (52.0%), α-santalol (15.5%), farnesol (5.2%) and sinensal (4.0%) in the sarcocarps; and phellandrene (54.8%), limonene (23.6%), and p-menth-1-en-4-ol (7.5%) in the seeds.
Volatile Components of Some Rutaceae Species
Authors: Ivanova Antoaneta , Kostova Ivanka , Navas Hernan Rodriguez , Villegas Juan
Published: February 2015

The volatile components of the aerial parts of Ruta graveolens and Haplophyllum suaveolens, as well as of leaves of Zanthoxylum limoncello, Z. panamense and Z. setulosum have been studied by GC/MS analysis.
Contents of 1,4-Benzoxazin-3-ones and 2-Benzoxazolinone from Stenandrium dulce (Nees)
Authors: Bravo Héctor R. , Copaja Sylvia V. , San Martín José
Published: February 2015

Secondary metabolites, DIBOA, HBOA, 7-OH-HBOA and BOA, were isolated and quantified from S. dulce (Nees), a native species in Chile belonging to the Acanthaceae family. The highest DIBOA and HBOA contents were determined in leaves (9.25 mmol kg-1 fr. wt) and root (6.81 mmol kg-1 fr. wt), respectively. Aglycones, 7-OH-HBOA and HBOA, were isolated together from root extracts of Acanthaceae species. Both, HBOA and 7-OH-HBOA should be direct precursors in the biosynthesis of DIBOA and DIMBOA, respectively.
Tetraenol, a Novel Sesquiterpenoid from the Relict Plant Tetraena mongolica in China
Authors: Shao Zhi-Yu , Zhang Yun-Hai , Li Ji-Ning , Jiang Ke-Ji , Kuai Ben-Ke
Published: February 2015

A novel furansesquiterpenoid, tetraenol, was isolated from a relict shrub plant, Tetraena mongolica, collected from the northern desert of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. The structure of the new compound was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis.
Coumarin Content and Physicochemical Profile of Mikania laevigata Extracts
Authors: Biavatti Maique W. , Koerich Cesar A. , Henck Carlos H. , Zucatelli Enderson , Martineli Fernanda H. , Bresolin Tania B. , Leite Silvana N.
Published: February 2015

The ‘guaco’ lianous herb Mikania laevigata, which is widespread in Southern Brazil, is traditionally used to treat bronchitis, asthma and cough.

This work investigates the influence of the extraction method, solvent:drug ratio, ethanol proportion, harvest season (summer or winter) and solvent heating on the physicochemical profile of the extracts (dry weight, density, pH) and the coumarin (1,2-benzopyrone) content determined by LC. Among the results obtained, it is observed that higher ethanol content increases the amount of coumarin in the extract. Leaves harvested in summer also produce an extract with a high coumarin yield. The most efficient method of extraction is percolation, independent of the solvent used.
Enhanced Hydrocarbon Biodegradation by a Newly Isolated Bacillus subtilis Strain
Authors: Christova Nelly , Tuleva Borjana , Nikolova-Damyanova Boryana
Published: February 2015

The relation between hydrocarbon degradation and biosurfactant (rhamnolipid) production by a new Bacillus subtilis 22BN strain was investigated. The strain was isolated for its capacity to utilize n-hexadecane and naphthalene and at the same time to produce surfaceactive compound at high concentrations (1.5 -2.0 g l-1). Biosurfactant production was detected by surface tension lowering and emulsifying activity. The strain is a good degrader of both hydrocarbons used with degradability of 98.3 ± 1% and 75 ± 2% for n-hexadecane and naphthalene, respectively. Measurement of cell hydrophobicity showed that the combination of slightly soluble substrate and rhamnolipid developed higher hydrophobicity correlated with increased utilization of both hydrocarbon substrates. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Bacillus subtilis strain that degrades hydrophobic compounds and at the same time produces rhamnolipid biosurfactant.
Oxygenated Bisabolane Fucosides from Carthamus lanatus L.
Authors: Mikhova Bozhanka , Duddeck Helmut , Taskova Rilka , Mitova Maya , Alipieva Kalina
Published: February 2015

The aerial parts of Carthamus lanatus (Asteraceae) afforded four new oxygenated bisabolane fucosides, 10-hydroperoxy-bisabola-2,11-diene 7-O-β-ᴅ-fucopyranoside, 11-hydroperoxy- bisabola-2,9-diene 7-O-β-ᴅ-fucopyranoside, 10-hydroxy-bisabola-2,11-diene 7-O-β-ᴅ-fucopyranoside and 11-hydroxy-bisabola-2,9-diene 7-O-β-ᴅ-fucopyranoside together with the known compounds α-bisabolol β-ᴅ-fucopyranoside, asperuloside, sitosterol 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside and stigmasterol 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside. Asperuloside appears to be the second representative of the iridoid monoterpene group found in the plant family Asteraceae, which until recently was considered to lack iridoids. The main constituent α-bisabolol fucoside exhibited noticeable antibacterial and cytotoxic activities.
Collagen from Diamondback Squid (Thysanoteuthis rhombus) Outer Skin
Authors: Nagai Takeshi
Published: February 2015

Collagens (acid-solubilized and pepsin-solubilized collagens) were prepared from diamondback squid outer skin and partially characterized. The yields of acid-solubilized and pepsin-solubilized collagens were about 1.3 and 35.6%, respectively, on a dry weight basis. Pepsin-solubilized collagen was heterotrimer with a chain composition of α1α2α3. The patterns of peptide fragments were different from that of porcine skin collagen. Denaturation temperature was 27.5 °C, about 10 °C lower than that of porcine collagen. The amino acid composition of pepsin-solubilized collagen from diamondback squid outer skin was similar to that from cuttlefish outer skin. This squid is big among squid species, and its skin is thick. It is clear that diamondback squid outer skin has a potential as an alternative source of collagen to bovine skin and bone. At present, collagen using aquatic materials such as skin (cod and a deep-sea fish) and scale (sea bream and anchovy) is the development stage in the related industries. Unless the problem of BSE infection in land animals is resolved aquatic materials as an alternative source of collagen will attract much attention in the cosmetic and medical fields.
Delayed Reproductive Death and ROS Levels in the Progeny of Irradiated Melanoma Cells
Authors: Tsoncheva Vania L. , Milchev Georgi I.
Published: February 2015

The cell death and survival of proliferating (clonogenic) cells were investigated in two human melanoma cell lines to assess the optimal conditions for preparation of apoptotic bodies from melanoma cells. After 50 J/m2 UVB+UVC the maximal levels of apoptotic cells assayed by Trypan blue staining, nucleosomal DNA fragmentation, MTT, and TUNEL tests were observed within 2-3 d of radiation. In 100 Gy gamma-irradiated cultures these apoptosis indicators were delayed for up to 3 weeks. In addition, clonogenic cells were observed only in exponentially growing cultures irradiated with UV at high cell density but not in gamma-irradiated cultures. The response of melanoma cultures after high UV radiation doses contrasted to the response in lethally gamma-irradiated cultures. UV-irradiated melanoma cultures were recovered within two weeks. Most of the clonogenic cells in the recovered colonies contained micronuclei. ROS levels determined by DCF fluorescence and a modified MTT test were also normalized obviously due to the extensive antioxidant defense system of melanoma cells.

UV radiation of tumor cells might be the preferential method for preparation of apoptotic bodies. The presence of clonogenic cells in the suspension of apoptotic bodies from melanoma cells used for pulsing of dendritic cells with tumor antigens might compromise this protocol for preparation of cell vaccines.
5-n-Alkylresorcinols from the Nitrogen-fixing Soil Bacterium Azotobacter chroococcum Az12
Authors: Zarnowski Robert , Suzuki Yoshikatsu , Zarnowska Ewa D. , Esumi Yasuaki , Kozubek Arkadiusz , Pietra Stanislaw J.
Published: February 2015

A mixture of five saturated 5-n-alkylresorcinol homologues was isolated from vegetative cells of the nitrogen-fixing soil bacterium Azotobacter chroococcum Az12. Their structures were established by spectrometry (1H NMR, EI-MS, FAB-MS, FAB-MS/MS) and chromatography (GC, TLC) means.
Chemical Composition of the Essential Oil of Elephantopus scaber from Southern China
Authors: Wanga Li , Jian Shuguang , Nan Peng , Zhong Yang
Published: February 2015

The essential oil of Elephantopus scaber, a famous medicinal herb from Yangjiang County in Southern China was analyzed for the first time using GC-MS. The major constituents were hexadecanoic acid (42.3%), isopropyl dimethyl tetrahydronaphthalenol (14.1%), β-sesquiphellandrene (8.3%), octadecadienoic acid (5.5%), and phytol (5.2%).
Liposomal Formulations from Phospholipids of Greek Almond Oil. Properties and Biological Activity
Authors: Malisiova Fotini , Hatziantoniou Sophia , Dimas Kostas , Kletstas Dimitrios , Demetzos Costas
Published: February 2015

The seeds of the almond tree [(Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D. A. Webb. (syn. Prunus amygdalus)] were collected in two different periods of maturity and were studied for their lipid content. The total lipids (TL) were extracted by the Bligh-Dyer method and the lipid classes have been isolated by chromatographic techniques and were analyzed by HPTLC coupled with a flame ionization detector (HPTLC/FID) and GC-MS. The oils were found to be rich in neutral lipids (89.9% and 96.3% of total lipids) and low in polar lipids (10.1% and 3.7% of total lipids) for the immature and mature seed oils, respectively. The neutral lipid fraction consisted mainly of triacylglycerides whereas the polar lipids mainly consisted of phospholipids. GC-MS data showed that the main fatty acid for both oils was 9-octadecenoic acid (oleic acid). The unsaturated fatty acids were found as high as 89.4% and 89.7%, while the percentage of the saturated fatty acids was found 10.6% and 10.3% for the immature and mature seed oils, respectively. Liposomes were prepared from the isolated phospholipids using the thin lipid film methodology, and their physical properties were characterized. Cytotoxicity was found absent when assayed against normal and cancerous cell lines. These new formulations may have future applications for encapsulation and delivery of drugs and cosmetically active ingredients.
Cytotoxic Activity of Halogenated Monoterpenes from Plocamium cartilagineum
Authors: Inés Concepcián de , Argandoña Victor H. , Rovirosa Juana , San-Martín Aurelio , Díaz-Marrero Ana R. , Cueto Mercedes , González-Coloma Azucena
Published: February 2015

Nine halogenated monoterpenes isolated from the red alga Plocamium cartilagineum have been evaluated for their cytotoxic effects on the tumor cell lines CT26 (murine colon adenocarcinoma), SW480 (human colon adenocarcinoma), HeLa (human cervical adenocarcinoma) and SkMel28 (human malignant melanoma) with several multidrug resistance mechanisms and the mammalian non-tumor cell line CHO (Chinese hamster ovary cells). The activities of these compounds were compared with those of the insecticide γ-hexachlorocyclohexane (lindane) due to chemical structure similarities. Compounds 1, 2, 3, and 5 exhibited selective cytotoxicity against colon and cervical adenocarcinoma cells. Interestingly, the effect of compound 3 was specific and irreversible to human colon adenocarcinoma SW480 cells, which overexpress the transmembrane P-glycoprotein often related to chemoresistance. None of the anti-tumor doses of these compounds was cytotoxic against CHO cells. Furthermore, analysis of cellular extracts after incubation with the test compounds and rotenone (positive uptake control) demonstrated the intracellular accumulation of 1, 2, 3, and 5.