bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of Glyphosate Resistance Gene Transfer from Roundup Ready® Soybean to Bradyrhizobium japonicum under Field and Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Isaza Laura Arango , Opelt Katja , Wagner Tobias , Mattes Elke , Bieber Evi , Hatley Elwood O. , Roth Greg , Sanjuán Juan , Fischer Hans-Martin , Sandermann Heinrich , Hartmann Anton , Ernst Dieter
Published: January 2015

A fi eld study was conducted at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center to determine the effect of transgenic glyphosate-resistant soybean in combination with herbicide (Roundup) application on its endosymbiont Bradyrhizobium japonicum. DNA of bacteroids from isolated nodules was analysed for the presence of the transgenic 5-enolpyruvylshikimate- 3-phosphate synthase (CP4-EPSPS) DNA sequence using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). To further assess the likelihood that the EPSPS gene may be transferred from the Roundup Ready® (RR) soybean to B. japonicum, we have examined the natural transformation efficiency of B. japonicum strain 110spc4. Analyses of nodules showed the presence of the transgenic EPSPS DNA sequence. In bacteroids that were isolated from nodules of transgenic soybean plants and then cultivated in the presence of glyphosate this sequence could not be detected. This indicates that no stable horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of the EPSPS gene had occurred under field conditions. Under laboratory conditions, no natural transformation was detected in B. japonicum strain 110spc4 in the presence of various amounts of recombinant plasmid DNA. Our results indicate that no natural competence state exists in B. japonicum 110spc4. Results from field and laboratory studies indicate the lack of functional transfer of the CP4-EPSPS gene from glyphosate-tolerant soybean treated with glyphosate to root-associated B. japonicum
Synthetic 3-Arylidenefl avanones as Inhibitors of the Initial Stages of Biofilm Formation by Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Budzyńska Aleksandra , Różalski Marek , Karolczak Wiesława , Szakiel Marzena Więckowska , Sadowska Beata , Różalska Barbara
Published: January 2015

The antimicrobial activity of twenty two synthetic flavonoids is reported. Among them three 3-arylideneflavanones, 2b, 2c, and 2i, were shown to be highly active against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and Enterococcus faecalis reference strains, with MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) values ranging from 4.68 μg/ml (14.3 μM) to 37.5 μg/ml (119.7 μM). The synergy of oxacillin and vancomycin with 2c, evaluated as fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) was shown (against planktonic culture of S. aureus A3 and E. faecium 138/09 clinical strains). The presence of 2c in the culture medium diminished the initial adhesion of bacteria to an abiotic surface. Such an effect resulted in a decrease in biofilm formation during prolonged culture. Unfortunately, 2c failed to eradicate the S. aureus mature biofilm which was already preformed, however, decreased the number of live biofilm cells. The biofilm of E. faecalis was more susceptible to the action of 3-arylideneflavanone 2c than the S. aureus biofilm. The finding that 3-arylideneflavanones are lipophilic, cause bacterial aggregation, and influence the integrity of membranes making them permeable to SYTO 9/propidium iodide dyes may implicate the cytoplasmic membrane as a target site for these compounds activity
A New Bibenzyl from Dendrobium secundum
Authors: Sritularak Boonchoo , Duangrak Natthacha , Likhitwitayawuid Kittisak
Published: January 2015

From the aerial parts of Dendrobium secundum, a new bibenzyl, namely 4,5,4’-trihydroxy- 3,3’-dimethoxybibenzyl, was isolated, along with four known compounds which included brittonin A, moscatilin, syringaresinol, and ferulic acid. All of these isolates showed appreciable DPPH free radical scavenging potential, except for brittonin A, which was devoid of activity.
Indole Alkaloids from Aspidosperma rigidum and A. schultesii and their Antiparasitic Effects
Authors: Reina Matías , Ruiz-Mesia Wilfredo , Ruiz-Mesia Lastenia , Martínez-Díaz Rafael , González-Coloma Azucena
Published: January 2015

Five oxindole alkaloids, three plumerane-type alkaloids, subtype haplophitine, and one aspidospermatane-type alkaloid, subtype tubotaiwine, were isolated from the medicinal plants Aspidosperma rigidum and A. schultesii. One compound was identified as the transoid conformer of 18-oxo-O-methylaspidoalbine which was not previously described. The antiparasitic activity of all compounds against Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania infantum and their non-specific cytotoxicity against mammalian cells were also determined.
Bioactivities of Triterpenes and a Sterol from Syzygium samarangense
Authors: Raga Dennis D. , Cheng Candice Louise C. , Lee Kate Catherine Ilona C. , Olaziman Wileen Zoe P. , Guzman Vernon Joseph A. De , Shen Chien-Chang
Published: January 2015

Cycloartenyl stearate (1a), lupenyl stearate (1b), sitosteryl stearate (1c), and 24-methylenecycloartanyl stearate (1d) (sample 1) from the air-dried leaves of Syzygium samarangense exhibited potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities at effective doses of 6.25 mg/kg body weight and 12.5 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Sample 1 also exhibited negligible toxicity on zebrafish embryonic tissues. There were incidences of mortality upon direct exposure of sample 1 to dechorionated embryos, but higher mortality and aberration were observed during intact chorion treatment.
Effect of Triterpenoids and Limonoids Isolated from Cabralea canjerana and Carapa guianensis (Meliaceae) against Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith)
Authors: Sarria André L. F , Soares Márcio S. , Matos Andréia P. , Fernandes João B. , Vieira Paulo C. , Silva M. Fátima das G. F. da
Published: January 2015

The activities of two triterpenoids, ocotillone and cabraleadiol, and four limonoids, methyl angolensate, 3-β-deacetylfi ssinolide, 7-deacetoxy-7-oxogedunin, and β-photogedunin, isolated from arillus of Carapa guianensis and fruits and seeds of Cabralea canjerana (Meliaceae), were evaluated against the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda. Gedunin was used as a positive control. 7-Deacetoxy-7-oxogedunin and β-photogedunin reduced the pupal weight as occurred with gedunin. Cabraleadiol, 3-β-deacetylfi ssinolide, and 7-deacetoxy-7-oxogedunin prolonged the larval phase similar to the control (gedunin) of approximately 1.2 days at 50.0 mg kg-1. The highest insecticidal activity was obtained for β-photogedunin.
A New Hepatoprotective Flavone Glycoside from the Flowers of Onopordum alexandrinum Growing in Egypt
Authors: Salama Maha M. , Ezzat Shahira M. , Sleem Amany A.
Published: January 2015

A bioactivity-guided fractionation of the ethyl acetate fraction of the flowers of Onopordum alexandrinum L. (Asteraceae) yielded a new flavonoidal glycoside designated as acacetin-7-O-galacturonide (9), alongside with nine known flavonoids; 6-methoxy-apigenin (hispidulin) (1), acacetin (2), apigenin (3), luteolin (4), kaempferol (5), eriodictyol (6), apigenin- 7-O-glucoside (7), luteolin-7-O-glucoside (8), and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (10). The compounds were assayed for their hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced hepatic cell damage in rats and free radical scavenging activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Compounds 4, 6, 9, and 10 have not been previously reported from flowers of O. alexandrinum L., and this is the first report of acacetin-7-O-galacturonide (9) in nature which has also shown significant hepatoprotective and free radical scavenging effects. The isolated compounds were identified using different spectroscopic methods (UV, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HMQC, HMBC, and COSY).
Citronellol Disrupts Membrane Integrity by Inducing Free Radical Generation
Authors: Kaur Shalinder , Rana Shivani , Singh Harminder Pal , Batish Daizy Rani , Kohli Ravinder Kumar
Published: January 2015

Citronellol, an oxygenated monoterpene, is found naturally in the essential oils of several aromatic plants and has been reported to exhibit growth inhibitory and pesticidal activities. However, its mechanism of action is largely unexplored. We investigated the effect of citronellol, which is lipophilic in nature on membrane integrity in terms of lipid peroxidation, conjugated dienes content, membrane permeability, cell death, and activity of the enzyme lipoxygenase in roots of hydroponically grown wheat. Citronellol (50 - 250 μM) caused a significant inhibition of root and shoot growth. Furthermore, exposure to citronellol enhanced the solute leakage, increased the malondialdehyde content and lipoxygenase activity, and decreased the conjugated diene content. This indicates that citronellol induces generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in lipid peroxidation and membrane damage. This was confirmed by in situ histochemical studies indicating cell death and disruption of membrane integrity. We conclude from this study that citronellol inhibits the root growth by ROS-mediated membrane disruption.
Do Cyanobacterial Lipids Contain Fatty Acids Longer Than 18 Carbon Atoms?
Authors: Iliev Ivan , Petkov Georgi , Lukavsky Jaromir , Furnadzhieva Sevdalina , Andreeva Rayna
Published: January 2015

Fatty acids of twelve species of cyanobacteria grown under different photoautotrophic conditions were studied and their composition was compared with literature data of many other species. We have come to the conclusion that the lipids of cyanobacteria do not contain fatty acids with a chain longer than 18 carbon atoms. In our opinion, omission of an analytical procedure, i.e. purification of fatty acid methyl esters before gas chromatography, leads to incorrect interpretation of the results. Absence or presence of fatty acids was suggested as a useful taxonomic marker and a proper diagnostic indicator in the commercial application of cyanobacterial biomass.
Fluorinated s-Triazinyl Piperazines as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Patel Rahul V. , Kumari Premlata , Chikhalia Kishor H.
Published: January 2015

A series of 1,3,5-triazine derivatives that contain 4-amino-2-trifl uoromethyl-benzonitrile, 8-hydroxyquinoline, and different piperazines as substituents at the carbon atoms of the triazine ring have been synthesized by a simple and efficient synthetic protocol. The chemical structures of the compounds were elucidated with the aid of IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The antimicrobial activity of the compounds was tested against seven bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 96, Bacillus cereus MTCC 619, Escherichia coli MTCC 739, Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 741, Klebsiella pneumoniae MTCC 109, Salmonella typhi MTCC 733, Proteus vulgaris MTCC 1771) and four fungi (Aspergillus niger MTCC 282, Aspergillus fumigatus MTCC 343, Aspergillus clavatus MTCC 1323, Candida albicans MTCC 183). The results indicate that some of the novel s-triazines have noteworthy activity in minimum inhibitory concentration as well as agar diffusion tests.
Methyl Jasmonate Elicitation Enhances Glycyrrhizin Production in Glycyrrhiza inflata Hairy Roots Cultures
Authors: Wongwicha Winida , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Shoyama Yukihiro , Putalun Waraporn
Published: January 2015

Hairy roots were induced by infecting stems and leaves of Glycyrrhiza inflata with Agrobacterium rhizogenes ATCC 15834. The optimization of growth and glycyrrhizin accumulation of G. infl ata hairy roots was studied. Sucrose (6%, w/v) was optimal for growth and glycyrrhizin accumulation in G. infl ata hairy roots. Effects of elicitors like chitosan, methyl jasmonate, and yeast extract on glycyrrhizin production were studied. Methyl jasmonate (100 μM) was most efficient in enhancing glycyrrhizin production up to almost 109 μg/g dry weight on day 5 of elicitation. These results indicate that application of elicitors can enhance the capacity of G. inflata hairy roots to produce glycyrrhizin.
Isolation of Eicosapentaenoic Acid-Producing Fungi from Soil Based on Polymerase Chain Reaction Amplification
Authors: Hu Jing-rong , Zhou Peng-peng , Zhu Yuan-min , Ren Liang , Yu Long-jiang
Published: January 2015

A method was developed for rapid screening and isolation of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-producing soil fungi through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. Genes coding for Δ6 fatty acid desaturase and Δ5 fatty acid desaturase were used as molecular markers for screening these EPA-producing fungi from soil. Three out of 65 soil fungi gave positive results through PCR amplification. Two out of these three strains were found to produce EPA when they had grown in 80 ml potato/dextrose liquid medium at (25 ± 1) °C for 144 h. The EPA yields were 215.81 mg l-1 and 263.80 mg l-1, respectively. The other positive strain was detected to produce arachidonic acid (AA). This study indicates that molecular detection of genes encoding Δ6 and Δ5 desaturases is an efficient method for primary screening of EPA- or its related polyunsaturated fatty acids (PuFAs)-producing fungi, which can improve the screening efficiency prominently
Polyphenolic Compounds from Flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn. and their Inhibitory Effect on Alkaline Phosphatase Enzyme Activity in vitro
Authors: Salib Josline Y. , Daniel Enas N. , Hifnawy Mohamed S. , Azzam Shadia M. , Shaheed Iman B. , Abdel-Latif Sally M.
Published: January 2015

Graded concentrations (0.1 - 100 mg/mL reaction mixture) of the methanolic extract of the flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn., its water-soluble fraction as well as compounds isolated from this fraction were tested for their inhibitory effect on alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity in vitro. Both the methanolic extract and its water-soluble fraction showed significant inhibitory effects on the enzyme activity in vitro. On screening the activity of the compounds isolated from the water-soluble fraction, its high inhibitory activity was attributed to the presence of quercetin-7-O-galactoside which showed a high potent inhibition of the enzyme activity reaching 100% at 100 mg/mL reaction mixture. Phytochemical investigations of the water-soluble fraction were also carried out and afforded ten polyphenolic compounds including two new natural compounds, namely kaempferol- 7-O-[6´´´-O-p-hydroxybenzoyl-β-D-glucosyl-(1≙6)-β-D-glucopyranoside] and scutellarein-6- O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside-8-C-β-D-glucopyranoside). The chemical structure of the isolated compounds was elucidated on the basis of chemical and spectral data.
Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory and Antinociceptive Properties of p-Cymene in Mice
Authors: Bonjardim Leonardo R. , Cunha Edisleide S. , Guimarães Adriana G. , Santana Michele F. , Oliveira Makson G. B. , Serafini Mairim R. , Araújo Adriano A. S. , Antoniolli Ângelo R. , Cavalcanti Sócrates C. H. , Santos Márcio R. V. , Quintans-Júnior Lucindo J.
Published: January 2015

We attempted to identify the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions of the monoterpene p-cymene. Firstly, behavioural screening was carried out to verify the influence of p-cymene [25, 50, and 100 mg/kg intraperitoneal (i.p.)] on the central nervous system (CNS) activity. The antinociceptive activity of p-cymene was evaluated by the acetic acidinduced writhing response, formalin, and hot-plate test, respectively. The leukocyte migration induced by injection of carrageenan was used to assess the anti-inflammatory activity. p-Cymene showed depressant activity on CNS after 4 h of treatment and also a possible action on the autonomous nervous system (ANS), mainly at the dose of 100 mg/kg (i.p.). It was found that p-cymene (50 and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the writhing responses induced by acetic acid. p-Cymene also decreased the licking time in the first and second phase, respectively, of the formalin test. The results of the hot-plate test showed that all doses of p-cymene increased significantly the latency time of the response to the thermal stimulus in both licking and jumping parameters. In addition, there was a significantly (p < 0.05) decreased leukocyte migration at all doses of p-cymene. The experimental data demonstrate that p-cymene possesses antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities
The Saponin-Rich Fraction of a Gymnema sylvestre R. Br. Aqueous Leaf Extract Reduces Cafeteria and High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Reddy Rama Manohar I. , Latha Pushpa B. , Vijaya Tartte , Rao Dattatreya S.
Published: January 2015

We examined the antiobesity effect of a saponin-rich fraction of a Gymnema sylvestre R. Br. aqueous leaf extract (SGE) using cafeteria and high-fat diet-induced obese rats for a period of eight weeks. SGE was orally administered at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight once a day to the treatment group. It significantly decreased the body weight, food consumption, visceral organs weight, and the levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins, very low-density lipoproteins, atherogenic index, glucose, and increased the levels of high-density lipoproteins. There was no significant difference with respect to all parameters of the study in case of normal (N) diet and N diet + SGE rats. In vitro, SGE inhibited the pancreatic lipase activity. The present study gave clear evidence that the SGE has a significant antiobese action, supporting its use in traditional medicine, and can be used as a substitute for synthetic drugs.
Flavonoids and Antioxidative Enzymes in Temperature-Challenged Roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Shuai Lingfei , Chen Shunqin , Huang Luqi , Qin Shuangshuang , Yang Zhaochun
Published: January 2015

The active compounds in the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, are mainly fl avonoids which have anti-inflammatory, antitumour, and anti- HIV activity, respectively. The increasing annual average temperature has rendered the S. baicalensis plants grown in some ancient producing regions no longer suitable for their medicinal usage. Hydrogen peroxide plays an important role in root responses to abnormal temperature in S. baicalensis. Baicalin and baicalein and antioxidative enzymes were anticipated to detoxify H2O2 in S. baicalensis. Here, we show that abnormal temperatures (10 and 40 °C) decreased the content of flavonoids as compared with the normal temperature (30 °C), and the transcripts of UDP-glucuronate:baicalein 7-O-glucuronosyltransferase and β-glucuronidase involved in the interconversion between baicalin and baicalein were affected by the 40-°C treatment. High temperature also increased the activities of catalase and peroxidase. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis revealed that the transcript levels of peroxidase 2, peroxidase 3, monodehydroascorbate reductase 2, and dehydroascorbate reductase were significantly increased under high-temperature conditions. The respective genes would be candidates for improvement of the adaptation of S. baicalensis plants to abnormal temperatures and for regulation of the contents of the active compounds.
Stable Transformation of Suspension-Cultured Glycyrrhiza inflata Batalin Cells with Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Authors: Li Yali , Li Shutao , Zhang Yu , Fu Chunhua , Yu Longjiang
Published: January 2015

A protocol for the efficient genetic transformation of licorice (Glycyrrhiza inflata Batalin) cells in suspension culture using Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated T-DNA delivery is described. G. inflata cells in suspension culture were infected with A. tumefaciens strain LBA4404 harbouring the binary vector pCAMBIA1303, which contains the β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene and a hygromycin resistance gene (hpt II), respectively, under the transcriptional control of the CaMV35S promoter. Optimal transformation effi ciency was achieved with an A. tumefaciens suspension having an OD600 of 0.4 and a period of 24 h of co-cultivation with 3-day-old cells in a medium supplemented with 200 μM acetosyringone. The transgenic cell lines have been maintained in suspension subculture for 5 months. PCR and Southern blot analyses confirmed the stable integration of transgenes into the G. inflata genome. The introduced genes had no discernable effect on cell growth or accumulation of total licorice fl avonoids in the transgenic cell lines. This study provides the basis for the development of transgenic G. inflata cells.
Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate (cAMP)-Induced Histone Hyperacetylation Contributes to its Antiproliferative and Differentiation-Inducing Activities
Authors: Yoo Seungwan , Lee Yong Gyu , Kim Ji Hye , Byeon Se Eun , Rho Ho Sik , Cho Jae Youl , Hong Sungyoul
Published: January 2015

Histone acetylation is linked to the control of chromatin remodeling, which is involved in cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. It is not fully understood whether cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), a representative differentiation-inducing molecule, is able to modulate histone acetylation as part of its anticancer activity. In the present study, we aimed to address this issue using cell-permeable cAMP, i.e. dibutyryl cAMP (dbcAMP) and C6 glioma cells. As reported previously, under the conditions of our studies, treatment with dbcAMP clearly arrested C6 cell proliferation and altered their morphology. Its antiproliferative and differentiation-inducing activity in C6 glioma cells involved upregulation of p21WAF/CIP, p27kip1, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and Cx43, as well as downregulation of vimentin. Furthermore, dbcAMP modulated the phosphorylation of ERK and Akt in a time-dependent manner and altered the colocalization pattern of phospho-Src and the actin cytoskeleton. Interestingly, dbcAMP upregulated the enzyme activity of histone acetyltransferase (HAT) and, in parallel, enhanced cellular acetyllysine levels. Finally, the hyperacetylation- inducing compound, sodium butyrate (NaB), a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, displayed similar anticancer activity to dbcAMP. Therefore, our data suggest that antiproliferative and differentiation-inducing activities of dbcAMP may be generated by its enhanced hyperacetylation function
Investigation on Anti-Inflammatory and Antiulcer Activities of Anchusa azurea Extracts and their Major Constituent Rosmarinic Acid
Authors: Kuruuzum-Uz Ayse , Suleyman Halis , Cadirci Elif , Guvenalp Zuhal , Demirezer L. Omur
Published: January 2015

This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and antiulcer activities of different extracts from the aerial parts and the roots of Anchusa azurea Miller var. azurea (Boraginaceae), as well as their major constituent, rosmarinic acid. The extracts were water (AWa, RWa) and methanol (AMe, RMe) extracts prepared from the aerial parts and the roots of A. azurea, respectively. The AMe extract was found to exert anti-inflammatory effects; so it was evaporated to dryness and the residue was dissolved in distilled water (AMeWa) and then further fractionated with n-hexane (AMeHe) and n-butanol (AMeBu). Anti-inflammatory activity was investigated in rats using carrageenan-induced acute inflammation, and antiulcer activity was investigated using indomethacin-induced gastric damage. The methanolic extract from the aerial parts, its n-butanol fraction, and rosmarinic acid, which was isolated from the n-butanol fraction of the AMe extract, showed signifi cant dose-dependent antiinflammatory activity. During the acute phase of inflammation, the anti-inflammatory activity of rosmarinic acid was comparable to that of ibuprofen. No antiulcer activity was observed. The experimental data demonstrate that A. azurea Miller var. azurea and rosmarinic acid display significant anti-inflammatory activity.
Antiadhesive Activity of Polysaccharide-Rich Fractions from Lithothamnion muelleri
Authors: Soares Cristiane M. , Malagoli Bruna G. , Menezes Gustavo B. , Pinho Vanessa , Souza Danielle G. , Teixeira Mauro M. , Braga Fernão C.
Published: January 2015

Red seaweeds are known sources of polysaccharides, some of which possess antiadhesive properties by inhibition of P-selectin-mediated leukocyte rolling. We here report the chemical composition and the antiadhesive activity of polysaccharide-rich fractions from the red alga Lithothamnion muelleri (Hapalidiaceae). The crude fractions enriched in polysaccharides B1 and B2 were obtained, respectively, by sequential extraction with 1% and 2% (w/v) Na2CO3 solution, at 60 °C. Fractionation of B1 and B2 by gel permeation chromatography afforded three polysaccharide-rich fractions each, whose compositions were characterized by chemical analysis (total contents of carbohydrates, proteins, sulfate, and uronic acid); their molecular weights were estimated by high-performance gel permeation chromato graphy (HPGPC). The antiadhesive activity of B1-derived fractions was assayed by visualizing lipopolysaccharides-induced leukocyte rolling under intravital miscroscopy. The intravenous injection of fractions B1a and B1b in mice, at the dose of 10 mg/kg body weight, reduced leukocyte rolling by approximately 90%; fucoidan (10 mg/kg body weight) employed as positive control induced a similar response. Therefore, the sulfated polysaccharides of L. muelleri deserve further evaluation as potential templates for the development of new anti-inflammatory agents.
Gas-Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Investigation of Tropane Alkaloids in Hyoscyamus albus L. from Morocco
Authors: Bazaoui Ahmed El , Bellimam My Ahmed , Lançar Ibn Toumert , Soulaymani Abdelmajid
Published: January 2015

Thirty-four alkaloids were identified in the organs of Hyoscyamus albus L. by gas-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (GLC-MS). Eight new compounds for the roots, eleven for the stems, twelve for the leaves, nineteen for the flowers, and seven for the seeds were detected. The alkaloids 5-(2-oxopropyl)-hygrine (8) and phygrine (20) are new for this species and 3-(hydroxyacetoxy)tropane (9), 6,7-dehydro-3-phenylacetoxytropane (15), 3-(2’-phenylpropionyloxy) tropane (17), 6,7-dehydro-3-apotropoyloxytropane (18), 3-(3’-methoxytropoyloxy)tropane (23), and aponorscopolamine (25) are described for the first time for the genus Hyoscyamus. Hyoscyamine was the main alkaloid in the plant organs
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Novel Benzoxazoles
Authors: Arisoy Mustafa , Temiz-Arpaci Ozlem , Kaynak-Onurdag Fatma , Ozgen Selda
Published: January 2015

A series of 2-(p-substituted-benzyl)-5-[[4-(p-chloro/fluoro-phenyl)piperazin-1-yl]ace tamido] -benzoxazoles were synthesized in need of new compounds for the fight against microbial pathogens. Their structures were elucidated by spectral techniques. These new derivatives, along with previously synthesized 2-(p-substituted-benzyl)-5-substituted-benzoxazoles, were evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activities against standard strains and drugresistant isolates in comparison with ampicillin, gentamicin sulfate, ofloxacin, vancomycin, fluconazole, and amphotericin B trihydrate. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each compound was determined by a two-fold serial dilution technique. The compounds were found to possess a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activities with MIC values of 32 - 256 μg/ml. Although standard drugs were more active against the pathogenes employed in this study, the activities of the new benzoxazoles and reference drugs against drug-resistant isolates of the microorganisms were largely similar
In vitro Antitumour Activity, Genotoxicity, and Antiproliferative Effects of Aminophosphonic Acid Diesters and their Synthetic Precursors
Authors: Kril Anton , Topashka-Ancheva Margarita , Iliev Ivan , Gerasimova Tsvetelina , Kraicheva Ivanka , Tsacheva Ivelina , Vodenicharova Elitsa , Troev Kolio
Published: January 2015

The Schiff bases N-furfurylidene-p-toluidine and N-(4-dimethylaminobenzilidene)- p-toluidine, and the recently synthesized aminophosphonic acid diesters p-[N-methyl- (diethoxyphosphonyl)-(2-furyl)]toluidine and p-[N-methyl(diethoxyphosphonyl)-(4-dimethylaminophenyl)] toluidine were tested for in vitro antitumour activity on six human epithelial cancer cell lines. The genotoxicity and antiproliferative activity of these compounds were tested in mice. The aminophosphonates showed high in vitro antitumour activity towards the breast cancer-derived cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231), the cervical carcinoma cell line (HeLa), and the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29). In addition, the Schiff base N-furfurylidene-p-toluidine significantly inhibited the growth of bladder carcinoma cells (647-V) and the hepatocellular carcinoma line HepG2, and U-shaped dose-response curves were observed after treatment of 647-V and MCF-7 cells. All studied compounds had a moderate genotoxic and antiproliferative activity in vivo
Biochemical Characterization of a Phospholipase A2 from Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida
Authors: Hsu Po-Yuan , Lee Kuo-Kau , Lee Pei-Shan , Hu Chih-Chuang , Lin Cheng-Hui , Liu Ping-Chung
Published: January 2015

Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida (Phdp) is the causative agent of fish photobacteriosis (pasteurellosis) in cultured cobia (Rachycentron canadum) in Taiwan. A component was purified from the extracellular products (ECP) of the bacterium strain 9205 by fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) and identified as a phospholipase. An N-terminal sequence of 10 amino acid residues, QDQPNLDPGK, was determined by mass spectroscopy (MS) and found to be identical with that of another Phdp phospholipase (GenBank accession no. BAB85814) at positions 21 to 30. The corresponding gene sequence of the phospholipase (GenBank accession no. AB071137) was employed to design primers for amplification of the sequence by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR products were transformed into Escherichia coli, and a recombinant protein product was obtained which was purified as a His-tag fusion protein by Ni-metal affinity chromatography. A single 43-kDa band was determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Phosphatidylcholine was degraded by this protein to lysophosphatidylcholine and a fatty acid. These products were characterized by thin-layer (TLC) and gas chromatography (GC), respectively, allowing the identification of the protein as a phospholipase A2. The recombinant protein had maximum enzymatic activity between pH 4 and 7, and at 40 °C. The activity was inhibited by Zn2+ and Cu2+, activated by Ca2+ and Mg2+, and completely inactivated by dexamethasone and p-bromophenacyl bromide. A rabbit antiserum against the recombinant protein neutralized the phospholipase A2 activity in the ECP of Phdp strain 9205 and the recombinant protein itself. The recombinant protein was toxic to cobia of about 5 g weight with an LD50 value between 2 and 4 μg protein/g fish. The results revealed phospholipase A2 as a fish toxin in the ECP of Phdp strain 9205.
Synthesis and Antifungal Activities of 2-(N-Arylsulfonylindol-3-yl)-3-aryl-1,3-thiazinan-4-ones
Authors: Qu Huan , Zhang Rui , Hu Ying , Ke Yazhen , Gao Zhinan , Xu Hui
Published: January 2015

4j

A series of 2-(N-arylsulfonylindol-3-yl)-3-aryl-1,3-thiazinan-4-one derivatives were synthesized and evaluated in vitro against seven phytopathogenic fungi, namely Fusarium graminearum, Alternaria solani, Fusarium oxysporium f. sp. vasinfectum, Alternaria brassicae, Valsa mali, Alternaria alternata, and Pyricularia oryzae. Among all derivatives, especially compound exhibited a potential antifungal activity against four phytopathogenic fungi.
Chemical Constituents from the Leaves of Aglaia odorata
Authors: Wang Dong-Xiao , Yang Shu-Min
Published: January 2015

1

A new dammarane triterpene, 3-acetoxy aglinin C (), and a new aglain, 10-oxo-aglaxiflorin D (2), along with five known compounds, 3 - 7, were isolated from the leaves of Aglaia odorata using chromatographic methods. The structures of 1 and 2 were determined on the basis of spectroscopic analyses. Bioactivities of 1 - 7 against AGZY 83-a (human lung cancer cell line) and SMMC-7721 (human liver cancer cell line) cells were determined.
Anticholinesterase Activity of Phenolic Acids and their Derivatives
Authors: Szwajgier Dominik
Published: January 2015

The ability of 36 phenolic acids and their derivatives to inhibit acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterase was studied. The most efficient acetylcholine inhibitors were: carnosic acid = gentisic acid > 3-hydroxy-4-methoxycinnamic acid = ethyl ferulate = ethyl vanillate = nordihydroguaiaretic acid > ethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate = methyl ferulate. The order of effectiveness towards butyrylcholinesterase was: carnosic acid > nordihydroguaiaretic acid = ethyl ferulate > salicylic acid > gentisic acid > rosmarinic acid = caftaric acid > homogentisic acid. The inhibitory activity was dependent on the number/position of OH or/and OCH3 groups attached to a phenol ring. It can be speculated that OCH3 substitution in the phenol ring can promote a higher antibutyrylcholinesterase activity (although not statistically confi rmed at p < 0.05). The presence of a CH=CH-COOH group had a highly favourable effect on the antiacetylcholinesterase activity compared with a CH2-CH2-COOH or a COOH group. Methyl and ethyl esters were more potent inhibitors than the corresponding free acids. The molecular weight of the compounds (in the range of M = 154.12 ~ 474 g/mol) played a minor role in this context.
New Method for the Determination of the Half Inhibition Concentration (IC50) of Cholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Kovářováa Markéta , Komersa Karel , Štěpánková Šárka , Pařík Patrik , Čegan Alexander
Published: January 2015

A new and simple analytical method is described for the determination of the IC50 values of the inhibitors of the hydrolysis of acetylcholine (ACh) or acetylthiocholine (ATCh) by cholinesterases. The method is based on monitoring the time course of the pH value during the uninhibited and inhibited reaction. It requires only a pH meter with a suitable pH measuring cell and a small thermostated stirred batch reactor. The method has been validated for twelve different types of cholinesterase inhibitors. The determined IC50 values are comparable to those obtained by independent, more complicated, and expensive methods (Ellman´s and pH-stat).
Analgesic and Anticonvulsant Activities of Some Newly Synthesized Trisubstituted Pyridine Derivatives
Authors: Salam Osama I. Abdel , Al-Omar Mohamed A. , Khalifa Nagy M. , Amr Abd El-Galil E. , Abdallah Mohamed M.
Published: January 2015

A series of novel pyridine carbohydrazide derivatives were synthesized from the reaction of 2-chloro-6-hydrazino-isonicotinic acid hydrazide with selected active reagents. All prepared compounds were tested as analgesic and anticonvulsant agents. The pharmacological screening showed that many of these compounds have good activities comparable to those of valdecoxib and carbamazepine as reference drugs
Chemical Composition of the Essential Oils of Variegated Pink-Fleshed Lemon (Citrus x limon L. Burm. f.) and their Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Hamdan Dalia , Ashour Mohamed L. , Mulyaningsih Sri , El-Shazly Assem , Wink Michael
Published: January 2015

The volatile secondary metabolites of essential oils from fruit peel and leaves of variegated pink-fl eshed lemon (Citrus x limon) were investigated using GLC and GLC-MS (gas-liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy). Altogether 141 compounds were identified and quantified, accounting for 99.59% and 96.33% of the total hydrodistilled peel and leaf oil, respectively. Limonene occurred in higher amounts in fruit peel (52.73%) than in leaf oil (29.13%). Neral (12.72%), neryl acetate (8.53%), ρ-menth-1-en-7-al (4.63%), β-pinene (6.35%), and nerol (4.42%) were the most abundant constituents in leaf oil, whereas γ-terpinene (9.88%), β-pinene (7.67%), geranial (4.44%), and neral (3.64%) dominated in the fruit peel oil. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitrypanosomal, and antimicrobial activities of the fruit peel essential oil were evaluated. The oil had a low antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of (26.66 ± 2.07) mg/ml as compared to the efficient antioxidant ascorbic acid [IC50 (16.32 ± 0.16) μg/ml]. The oil moderately inhibited soybean 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) with an IC50 value of (32.05 ± 3.91) μg/ml and had moderate antitrypanosomal activity [IC50 (60.90 ± 0.91) μg/ml]. In addition, moderate antimicrobial activities were detected against Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus capitis, Micrococcus luteus), one Gram-negative bacterium (Pseudomonas fluorescens), and yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida parapsilosis)
Chemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Galinsoga parvifl ora Cav. (Asteraceae) from Egypt
Authors: Mostafa Islam , El-Aziz Ehsan Abd , Hafez Samia , El-Shazly Assem
Published: January 2015

The phytochemical investigation of an aqueous ethanolic extract of Galinsoga parviflora Cav. (Asteraceae) resulted in the isolation and identification of eleven compounds namely: triacontanol, phytol, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, 7-hydroxy-β-sitosterol, 7-hydroxystigmasterol, β-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucoside, 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid, protocatechuic acid, fumaric acid, and uracil. Furthermore, 48 volatile constituents were identified in the hydrodistilled oil of the aerial parts. The ethanolic extract at a content of 400 mg/kg body weight (BW) exerted 87% reduction in the alanine aminotransferase enzyme level in cirrhotic rats compared with the standard silymarin (150 mg/kg BW) and also exerted a reduction in the blood glucose level equivalent to that of glibenclamide (5 mg/kg BW) in diabetic rats. The ethanolic extract, light petroleum and ethyl acetate fractions exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans. The ethyl acetate fraction showed strong antioxidant activity at a concentration of 150 mg/mL as compared with 0.1 M ascorbic acid. The cytotoxic effect against the MCF-7 cell line was found to be weak
Female Sex Pheromone Blends and Male Response of the Legume Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), in Two Populations of Mainland China
Authors: Lu Peng-Fei , Qiao Hai-Li , Luo You-Qing
Published: January 2015

The legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata (Lepidoptera: Crambidae; syn. M. testulalis), is a serious pantropical insect pest of grain legumes. Comparative studies of M. vitrata female sex pheromone components in two different geographic populations in China, Wuhan and Huazhou, confi rmed that (E,E)-10,12-hexadecadienal (E10,E12 - 16:Ald) and (E)-10-hexadecenal (E10 - 16:Ald) were present in variable ratios in all pheromone gland extracts of both populations. (E,E)-10,12-hexadecadienol (E10,E12 - 16:OH) was always detected in minor amounts using polar DB-WAX columns, but was never detected using medium-polar DB-17 columns for the two populations. E10 - 16:OH was not found in any of the M. vitrata sex pheromone gland extracts. The average ratios of E10 - 16:Ald, E10,E12 - 16:Ald, and E10,E12 - 16:OH in the pheromone gland extracts of populations from Wuhan and Huazhou were 79.5:100:12.1 and 10.3:100:0.7, respectively. Electrophysiological testing suggested that E10,E12 - 16:Ald elicited the highest male electroantennography (EAG) response, followed by E10,E12 - 16:OH and E10 - 16:Ald. Field-trapping tests with single synthetic sex pheromone lures showed that E10,E12 - 16:OH alone could not attract males, whereas E10,E12 - 16:Ald or E10 - 16:Ald alone attracted few males. Wuhan and Huazhou males were most attracted by lures containing E10 - 16:Ald + E10,E12 - 16:Ald + E10,E12 - 16:OH in doses of (80 + 100 + 10) μg and (10 + 100 + 10) μg, respectively, per vial. Males could discriminate between the blends that were most attractive to their own geographic population and those that were most attractive to the reference population. Our fi ndings suggest that geographic variation exists in the sex pheromone system of M. vitrata in China. The results are discussed with regard to the mechanisms underlying the sex pheromone variation
Post-saline infusion test aldosterone levels indicate severity and outcome in primary aldosteronism
Authors: Weigel Marianne , Riester Anna , Hanslik Gregor , Lang Katharina , Willenberg Holger S , Endres Stephan , Allolio Bruno , Beuschlein Felix , Reincke Martin , Quinkler Marcus
Published: January 2015

Objective

The saline infusion test (SIT) is widely used as a confirmatory test for primary aldosteronism (PA). SIT results are judged as follows: post-test aldosterone levels <50 ng/l exclude PA, whereas levels >50 ng/l confirm PA. We hypothesized that post-SIT aldosterone concentrations indicate the severity of PA and might predict outcome.

Design

The study includes 256 PA patients of the German Conn's Registry who prospectively underwent SIT. The data of 126 patients with complete follow-up of 1.2±0.3 years after diagnosis were analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups with post-SIT aldosterone levels of 50–100 ng/l (group 1; n=38) and of >100 ng/l (group 2; n=88).

Results

Patients in group 2 had a significantly shorter duration of hypertension (7.5 vs 11.7 years (median), P=0.014), higher systolic blood pressure (BP; 151±16 vs 143±17 mmHg, P=0.036), lower serum potassium (3.3±0.6 vs 3.5±0.4 mmol/l, P=0.006), higher 24-h urine protein excretion (7.4 vs 5.4 mg/dl (median), P=0.012), and were more often female (P=0.038). They showed more often unilateral disease (P<0.005) with larger tumors (14±10 vs 7±10 mm, P=0.021), underwent more often adrenalectomy (75% vs 37%, P<0.005), required a lower number of antihypertensive drugs after adrenalectomy (1.2±1.2 vs 2.5±1.4, P=0.001), had a faster normalization of urinary protein excretion (with medical treatment P=0.049; with Adx P<0.005) at follow-up, and more frequently underlying well-characterized mutation (P=0.047).

Conclusions

PA patients with post-SIT aldosterone levels of >100 ng/l have a more rapid development of PA caused more frequently by unilateral disease with larger aldosterone-producing adenomas. However, this group of patients may have a significantly better outcome following specific treatment.
The added value of color parameters in analyzing elastographic images of ultrasound detected breast focal lesions
Authors: Duma Maria Magdalena , Chiorean Angelica Rita , Feier Diana Sorina , Florea Madalina , Chiorean Marco , Rusu Georgeta Mihaela , Dudea Sorin Marian , Sfrangeu Silviu Andrei
Published: January 2015

Aims. The purpose of the study was to determine if the color quantitative analysis obtained on elastographic images of breast lesions could improve the benign-malignant differentiation, and also to identify some of the circumstances which would benefit most from such an analysis. Patients and methods. The study design was a longitudinal prospective one, all data being acquired between May 2007 and September 2008. The US device used: Hitachi 8500 EUB machine with elastography option. For suspicious breast lesions histopathology was obtained by means of percutaneous biopsy or post-surgery. Studied color parameters (numeric values): average color (red, green, blue), color dispersion, average intensity, average hue, hue dispersion. Calculus modality: Image Processing Version 1.3, a program developed in collaboration with the Technical University of Cluj Napoca. Results. Seventy-one (71) women were selected for the study. A hundred and six circumscribed breast lesions were detected by means of ultrasound in the studied group. Five color parameters were independently associated with the histological diagnosis (AvgBlue, AvgGreen and AvgRed; DispRed and DispIntensity) with AvgBlue parameter making the most important contribution (p<0.0001); the greater the values of AvgBlue (more than 92), the higher the chances of malignancy and the greater the values of AvgGreen (more than 88), the higher the chances for a benign lesion. Conclusion. High numeric values for Avg Blue (more than 92) would increase the probability of malignancy and thus recommend a more aggressive diagnostic management (biopsy), while high numeric values for AvgGreen (more than 88) would reassure the examiner to proceed conservatively with short interval or routine follow-ups.
POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION AS A DIAGNOSTIC TOOL FOR SIX SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS - PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Authors: Grad Alecsandra Iulia , Vica Mihaela Laura , Matei Horea Vladi , Grad Doru Lucian , Coman Ioan , Tataru Dumitru Alexandru
Published: January 2015

Background and aim. Sexually transmitted infections are a very frequent and under-diagnosed cause of illness worldwide. A high number of detection methods and a large range of specimens in which sexually transmitted infections can be determined are available at the moment. Polymerase chain reaction performed on first void urine offers the advantage of being non-invasive, self-collectable and has high sensitivity and specificity. We looked to determine the frequency of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.Methods. Six sexually transmitted infections were determined in the first void urine of 15 symptomatic and asymptomatic patients by polymerase chain reaction. We used “Epicenter MasterPure™ Complete DNA and RNA Purification Kit” for the DNA purification and “Seeplex® STD6 ACE Detection” for the DNA amplification. The results were examined in UV light.Results. A number of 5 patients had positive results for Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Sexually transmitted infections are more frequent in men between 27 and 40 years old.Conclusions. Polymerase chain reaction is a good diagnostic tool for sexually transmitted infections because it has a high sensitivity and specificity. Chlamydia trachomatis is the most frequent sexually transmitted infection, followed by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Theodor I. Preda Hospital from Craiova between the years 1870-1910
Authors: Dinu Elena-Steluta
Published: January 2015

One of the most important hospitals in Craiova, hospital Theodor I. Preda, was the result of private initiatives in health care. It was founded in 1870 by the Municipality of Craiova, according to the request expressed by Theodore I. Preda in his will. Until 1910 it worked in the homes of the donor and the money necessary for the activity came from leasing of  Stârcoviţa and Cearângul estates that belonged to Theodor I. Preda and were donated to the town hall in order to maintain the hospital that would bear his name. Thanks to the efforts of the city hall but also of accrued income, it was possible to put up another building. The new premises of the hospital, which was opened in 1910, allowed a better work and turned it into a modern hospital.
Coronary-Subclavian Steal: Case Series and Review of the literature
Authors: Marc Madalin , Iancu Adrian , Molnar Adrian , Bindea Dan
Published: January 2015

Coronary subclavian steal syndrome (CSSS) is a relatively uncommon entity, and its clinical spectrum is characterized by stable exertional angina and rarely as acute coronary syndrome. The diagnosis can be established easily by angiography. We report a case series of three patients with CSSS and acute coronary syndrome and we review the literature in the attempt to understand the nature of symptomatology and the mechanisms of ischemia in this condition. Our study raised some questions about the correct definition of this entity, the pathophysiology of coronary steal and the mechanisms of ischemia, in the setting of unstable angina and acute myocardial infarction.
TYPHUS EXANTHEMATICUS IN ROMANIA DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR (1940-1945) REFLECTED BY ROMANIAN MEDICAL JOURNALS OF THE TIME
Authors: Jeican Ionuţ Isaia , Botiş Florin Ovidiu , Gheban Dan
Published: January 2015

This article provides a picture of exanthematic Typhus in Romania during the Second World War: epidemiological aspects of this disease in the inner zone and in the zone of military operations, as well as information about the diagnosis, treatment andprophylaxis of the Typhus in our country during this period.
Amphibia, Anura, Bufonidae, Melanophryniscus devincenzii: first record for Brazil
Authors: Zanella Noeli , Busin Carmen Sílvia , Giusti Alexandre , Crestani Leonardo , Oliveira Renato S. de
Published: January 2015

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Amphibia, Anura, Bufonidae, Melanophryniscus krauczuki: geographic distribution map and first record for Paraguay
Authors: Brusquetti Francisco , Baldo Diego , Motte Martha
Published: January 2015

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