bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CK2 Is Acting Upstream of MEK3/6 as a Part of the Signal Control of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK during Keratinocytes Autocrine Differentiation
Authors: Isaeva Antonia R. , Mitev Vanio I.
Published: January 2015

Protein kinase CK2 (formerly termed “casein kinase II”) is a ubiquitously in mammalian cells distributed Ser/Thr kinase, with global role in cell regulation. Although, the involvement of CK2 in cell signalling is vast-investigated, virtually nothing is known about its contribution to signal control of keratinocytes differentiation. Here we show that, in autocrine differentiating keratinocytes, inhibition of the CK2 activity induced by 4,5,6,7-tetrabromobenzotriazole (TBB) causes reciprocal changes in the activities of major signal transduction regulators of keratinocytes differentiation, i.e. ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK, without affecting their protein levels. The ERK1/2 activity is strongly suppressed, while the activity of p38 is increased. We have also found that the activity of upstream and specifi c for p38 MAPK kinase MEK3/6 is also stimulated by TBB. These original results clearly demonstrate the participation of CK2 in the signal transduction pathway controlling MEK3/6, p38 MAPK, and ERK1/2 in the used model system.
Composition of the Volatile Oils of Two Anthemis L. Taxa from Turkey
Authors: Kilic Omer , Kocak Alpaslan , Bagci Eyup
Published: January 2015

The essential oils of water-distilled aerial parts of Anthemis pseudocotula and Anthemis cretica subsp. pontica (Asteraceae) were analysed by GC-MS. As a result thirty-five and forty compounds were identified representing 93.1% and 89.0% of the oils, respectively. The main compounds of A. pseudocotula were 1,8-cineole (39.40%), camphor (9.36%), artemisiaketone (5.68%), filifolene (5.15%), and α-terpineol (4.69%), whereas β-caryophyllene (20.26%), azulene (14.98%), spathulenol (6.03%), and germacrene D (5.82%) were the major constituents of A. cretica subsp. pontica
Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Flavonols from Calotropis procera
Authors: Mohamed Mona A. , Hamed Manal M. , Ahmed Wafaa S. , Abdou Allia M.
Published: January 2015

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Phytochemical investigations of Calotropis procera leaves have led to the isolation of two new compounds: quercetagetin-6-methyl ether 3-O-β-D-4C1-galacturonopyranoside () and (E)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl-2-O-β-D-4C1-glucopyranoside)-methyl propenoate (4), along with eleven known metabolites: nine flavonol and two cinnamic acid derivatives. All metabolites were isolated for the first time from the genus Calotropis, except for 1 isolated previously from Calotropis gigantea. The structures were determined by spectroscopic methods (UV, ESI-MS, 1H, 13C NMR, 1H-1H COSY, HSQC, and HMBC). The radical scavenging activity of the aqueous methanol extract and compounds 8 - 13 was measured by the 1,1-diphenyl- 2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Cytotoxic screening of the same compounds was carried out on brine shrimps as well
Effects of Cleistanthins A and B on Blood Pressure and Electrocardiogram in Wistar Rats
Authors: Parasuraman Subramani , Raveendran Ramasamy , Selvaraj Raja J.
Published: January 2015

We have studied the effects of cleistanthin A and cleistanthin B, phytoconstituents isolated from the leaves of Cleistanthus collinus Roxb. (Euphorbiaceae), on blood pressure, electrocardiogram, and barium chloride-induced arrhythmia in Wistar rats. The two compounds were isolated by column chromatography and their identity was confirmed spectroscopically. A healthy, male Wistar rat was used to record the invasive blood pressure and electrocardiograph. The antiarrhythmic effects of cleistanthins A and B were studied using the barium chloride model. Both cleistanthin A and cleistanthin B showed a dosedependent hypotensive effect. Both compounds reduced the mean blood pressure significantly although the dose required for the effect was higher in the case of cleistanthin B. In the electrocardiogram, cleistanthins A and B significantly altered the electrical activity of the heart, the changes were transient and of no further consequence. Intravenous injection of 64 μg or more of cleistanthins A and B caused a sudden respiratory depression without affecting the electrocardiogram. Cleistanthins A and B did not display any antiarrhythmic effect against barium chloride-induced arrhythmia. In conclusion, both cleistanthin A and cleistanthin B exert a hypotensive effect and have no antiarrhythmic effect against barium chloride-induced arrhythmia in Wistar rats
Sez-6 May Play an Important Role in Neurite Outgrowth through the PKCγ Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Jun , Wu Youjun , Zhou Yang , Shao Zhihua , Kang Xuan , Ma Lin , Li Mengjie , Liu Lihong , Shi Hongjun
Published: January 2015

Seizure-related gene 6 (sez-6) was originally identified in a study of pentylenetetrazoletreated cortical neurons. Further studies on the structure and expression pattern suggested that Sez-6 may play an important role in neuronal development and function. In the present study, PC12 cells were used as a model to investigate the role of Sez-6 in neurite outgrowth. After a period of NGF treatment, the expression of Sez-6 in PC12 cells was increased. When Sez-6 expression was suppressed by the addition of an effective short hairpin RNA ( shRNA) plasmid, the neurite outgrowth was significantly inhibited. In addition, we detected the expression level of protein kinase Cγ (PKCγ), and found that the PKCγ protein level was reduced in the differentiated PC12 cells but increased in PC12 cells lacking Sez-6. Taken together, our results indicate that Sez-6 acts on the neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells likely through the PKCγ signaling pathways
Synthesis of Benzothiophene Carboxamide Derivatives and their Pharmacological Evaluation as Potent Antihypertriglyceridemic Agents in Rats
Authors: Abu Sheikha Ghassan , Hussin Buthina , Al-Hiari Yusuf , Al-Qirim Tariq , Shattat Ghassan
Published: January 2015

Benzothiophene carboxamide derivatives of aminobenzophenone, aminopyridine, aminobenzimidazole, and aniline derivatives (compounds 1 - 9) were synthesized and compounds 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9 tested in vivo for their hypolipidemic activity. Compounds 1 - 8 were prepared adopting the fusion process at 130 - 150°C between benzothiophene-2-carbonyl chloride and aminobenzophenones, aminopyridine, and anilines, respectively, and were obtained in high yield, while compound 9 was obtained from the reaction of benzothiophene acyl chloride with aminobenzimidazole in DMF at 160°C. At a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight compounds 6, 7, and 9 significantly reduced plasma triglyceride levels in Triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemic rats in comparison to control rats. Furthermore, they significantly increased high-density lipoprotein levels. It is therefore reasonable to assume that compounds 6, 7, and 9 may have a promising potential in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis
Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Laennecia schiedeana
Authors: Arciniegas Amira , Polindara Luis Angel , Pérez-Castorena Ana L. , García Ana María , Avila Guillermo , Villaseñor José Luis , de Vivar Alfonso Romo
Published: January 2015

The chemical study of Laennecia schiedeana afforded three sterols, five diterpenes, five flavonoids, three caffeoyl derivatives of quinic acid, and two triterpenes. Evaluation of the cytotoxic activity of the extracts and isolated metabolites showed that 15-methoxy-16-oxo- 15,16H-strictic acid was the most active compound [(15.05 ± 2.2) μg/mL against U-251 cells]. In antibacterial assays the acetonic extract of leaves was the only active extract exhibiting its highest effect against the multiresistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MIC 0.25 mg/mL). The anti-inflammatory activity observed was mild in the extracts and not relevant in the isolated compounds
Repellent and Insecticidal Activities of Melia azedarach L. against Cotton Leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd.)
Authors: Farag Mohamed , Ahmed Mohamed H. M. , Yousef Heba , Abdel-Rahman A.-H.
Published: January 2015

A crude acetone extract and oil of ripe fruits from Melia azedarach L. were evaluated against the 2nd and 4th instar larvae of Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Both oil and extract exhibited highly significant growth inhibition at all concentrations tested, while the oil of M. azedarach recorded higher insecticidal activity against both instars than the crude extract. GC-MS analysis of the oil revealed the presence of linoleic acid methyl ester, oleic acid methyl ester, and free oleic acid as the main components in addition to hexadecanol, palmitic acid, methyl esters of stearic acid and myristic acid. Fatty acids and their esters were not only the main constituents of essential oil from the ripe fruits of M. azedarach, but also mainly responsible for the insecticidal and growth inhibition activity against S. littoralis
Lipid Profiling of Synechococcus sp. PCC7002 and Two Related Strains by HPLC Coupled to ESI-(Ion Trap)-MS/MS
Authors: Montero Olimpio
Published: January 2015

The lipid profiles of Synechococcus sp. PCC7002 and two related 16S rDNA (99% identity) strains were established by a new method of high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Lipids were analysed in the positive and negative ionization mode, and fragmentation patterns are reported. No differences in the lipid profi le between the three strains could be observed, but the relative content of some species differed. Major lipid species were found to be 1-octadecatrienoyl- 2-hexadecanoyl-3-(6’-sulfo-α-D-quinovosyl)-sn-glycerol [SQDG (18:3/16:0)] and 1-octadecatrienoyl-2-hexadecenoyl-3-β-D-monogalactosyl-sn-glycerol [MGDG (18:3/16:1)]. Ten species of SQDG, six species of PG (phosphatidyl-glycerol), seven species of MGDG, and two species of DGDG (digalactosyl-diacyl-glycerol) were detected. A PG species (m/z 761) containing hydroxylinolenic acid or oxophytodienoic acid acyl ester (C18H32O3), and SQDG species containing C17:1 and C17:3 fatty acyl esters are reported for the first time in cyanobacteria. The method also allowed the separation of two pairs of closely related isobaric MGDG species (m/z 770 and m/z 772 in positive ionization)
Copper-Binding Peptides from Human Prion Protein and Newly Designed Peroxidative Biocatalysts
Authors: Kagenishi Tomoko , Yokawa Ken , Kadono Takashi , Uezu Kazuya , Kawano Tomonori
Published: January 2015

A previous work suggested that peptides from the histidine-containing copper-binding motifs in human prion protein (PrP) function as peroxidase-like biocatalysts catalyzing the generation of superoxide anion radicals in the presence of neurotransmitters (aromatic monoamines) and phenolics such as tyrosine and tyrosyl residues on proteins. In this study, using various phenolic substrates, the phenol-dependent superoxide-generating activities of PrP-derived peptide sequences were compared. Among the peptides tested, the GGGTH pentapeptide was shown to be the most active catalyst for phenol-dependent reactions. Based on these results, we designed a series of oligoglycyl-histidines as novel peroxidative biocatalysts, and their catalytic performances including kinetics, heat tolerance, and freezing tolerance were analysed
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activities of New Fatty Acid Esters of 20(S)-Protopanaxadiol
Authors: Li Ning , Huang Yuan , Xiao Wan , Li Xian , Li Pingya , Liu Jinping
Published: January 2015

In order to find new lead compounds with antitumour activies, thirteen new fatty acid esters of 20(S)-protopanaxadiol (PPD) were synthesized using oleoyl chloride or fatty acids and N,N’-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC). Their cytotoxic activities were tested using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] method, and the structure- activity relationships between the fatty acid esters of PPD and their cytotoxic activities are discussed.
Melanin Biosynthesis Inhibitory and Antioxidant Activities of Quercetin-3’-O-β-D-glucoside Isolated from Allium cepa
Authors: Arung Enos Tangke , Furuta Shoko , Ishikawa Hiroya , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Shimizu Kuniyoshi
Published: January 2015

In the course of searching for new whitening agents, we have found that the methanol extract of dried skin of Allium cepa shows potent melanin biosynthesis inhibitory activity in B16 melanoma cells. Bioassay-guided fractionation led to the isolation of quercetin-3’-O-β- D-glucoside (1) from the methanol extract of dried skin of A. cepa, which inhibited melanin formation in B16 melanoma cells with an IC50 value of 38.8 μM and mushroom tyrosinase with an IC50 value of 6.5 μM using L-tyrosine and 48.5 μM using L-dihydroxyphenylalanine as substrates, respectively. In addition, the antioxidant activity of 1 was evaluated in the oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay; it showed 3.04 μmol Trolox equivalents/mmol. 1 was shown to be a promising ingredient that could be useful for treating hyperpigmentation and for protecting against oxidative stress.
Preparation, Characterization, and Biotransformation of the Inclusion Complex of Phytosterols and Hydroxypropyl-β- cyclodextrin by Mycobacterium neoaurum
Authors: Wang Wenjun , Yu Longjiang
Published: January 2015

The inclusion complex of hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HBβCD) and phytosterols (PSs) was prepared and characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. Biotransformation of the inclusion complex of phytosterols and hydroxypropyl- β-cyclodextrin (PSs-HBβCD) by Mycobacterium neoaurum to 1,4-androstadiene-3,17-dione and 4-androstene-3,17-dione [AD(D)] was studied. The TGA and IR results indicated that the thermal stability of PSs was improved in the complex with HBβCD. Biotransformation improved the solubility of PSs in the aqueous medium a lot because the AD(D) production was increased remarkably compared with the control, but growth of the bacteria was inhibited in the presence of HBβCD. The optimal inclusion ratio, ultrasonic treating time, dosage, and time of addition of PSs-HBβCD complexe were found to be 2:1, 10 min, 1.5 g/30 ml medium, and 48 h after incubation, respectively. This inclusion technique not only increased the availability of the substrates for the microorganisms, but also the capability of these microorganisms to produce AD(D) from PSs.
Three-Dimensional Modelling of Honeybee Venom Allergenic Proteases: Relation to Allergenicity
Authors: Georgieva Dessislava , Greunke Kerstin , Arni Raghuvir K. , Betzel Christian
Published: January 2015

Api SI and Api SII are serine proteases of the honeybee venom containing allergenic determinants. Each protease consists of two structural modules: an N-terminal CUB (Api SI) or a clip domain (Api SII) and a C-terminal serine protease-like (SPL) domain. Both domains are connected with a linker peptide. The knowledge about the structure and function of Api SI and Api SII is limited mainly to their amino acid sequences. We constructed 3-D models of the two proteases using their amino acid sequences and crystallographic coordinates of related proteins. The models of the SPL domains were built using the structure of the prophenoloxidase-activating factor (PPAF)-II as a template. For modelling of the Api SI CUB domain the coordinates of porcine spermadhesin PSP-I were used. The models revealed the catalytic and substrate-binding sites and the negatively charged residue responsible for the trypsin-like activity. IgE-binding and antigenic sites in the two allergens were predicted using the models and programs based on the structure of known epitopes. Api SI and Api SII show structural and functional similarity to the members of the PPAF-II family. Most probably, they are part of the defence system of Apis mellifera
Characterization of the Fatty Acid Composition of Nannochloropsis salina as a Determinant of Biodiesel Properties
Authors: Mohammady Nagwa Gamal-ElDin
Published: January 2015

Nannochloropsis salina was cultured batch-wise to evaluate the potential of the alga to produce biodiesel. The cells were harvested at the end of the exponential growth phase when the concentration was 18 · 106 cells/mL culture. The growth estimated as dry weight from this cell number was (3.8 ± 0.7) mg/L. The lipid and triglyceride contents were 40% and 12% on a dry weight basis, respectively. The amount of the ratio triglycerides/total lipids was approximately 0.3.

The composition of triglyceride fatty acid methyl esters (biodiesel) was analysed by gasliquid chromatography and identified as: C14:0, C16:0, C16:1, C18:0, C18:1, C18:2, C18:3, C20:1, and C20:5. The ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acid contents was approximately 4.4. Additionally, the characterization of each individual fatty acid ester was discussed with regard to the fuel properties of biodiesel produced by the alga.
Antimicrobial Evaluation of Indole-Containing Hydrazone Derivatives
Authors: Shirinzadeh Hanif , Altanlar Nurten , Yucel Nihal , Ozden Seckin , Suzen Sibel
Published: January 2015

There has been an increasing importance of drug-resistant pathogens in clinical microbiological and antibacterial research. Indoles and hydrazone-type compounds constitute important classes of compounds in the search for effective agents against multidrug-resistant microbial infections. In this study a series of 1-methylindole-3-carboxaldehyde hydrazone derivatives were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial activities using the two-fold serial dilution technique against Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, methicillinresistant S. aureus isolate, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Candida albicans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the test compounds and the reference standards sultamicillin, ampicillin, fluconazole, and ciprofloxacin was determined. All compounds possessed a broad spectrum of activity having MIC values of 6.25 - 100 μg/ml against the tested microorganisms. Aromaticity and disubstitution of the phenyl ring with especially fluorine and chlorine atoms were found to be significant for the antimicrobial activity
Antileishmanial and Antitrypanosomal Activity of Triterpene Derivatives from Latex of Two Euphorbia Species
Authors: Mazoir Noureddine , Benharref Ahmed , Bailén María , Reina Matías , González-Coloma Azucena , Martínez-Díaz Rafael A.
Published: January 2015

The in vitro activity on Leishmania infantum promastigotes and Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes of 25 semisynthetic terpenoid derivatives has been evaluated. These compounds were obtained through chemical modifications of the major components of Euphorbia resinifera (α-euphol and α-euphorbol) and Euphorbia officinarum (obtusifoliol and 31-norlanosterol). Leishmaniasis and Chagas´ disease are major worldwide health problems. The drugs of choice for their treatment are still problematic in both cases, and therefore there is an urgent need to discover new drugs with high activity and low side effects. Natural products have become a key source of new drugs in the last years. The genus Euphorbia has been the subject of abundant phytochemical and pharmacological research because of its potential medical applications, but the antiparasitic effects of derivatives from plants of this genus are still unknown. Our results showed that 76% and 64% of the test compounds had antiparasitic effects on L. infantum and T. cruzi, respectively. The different activities on both parasites, especially their moderate effects on mammalian cells, indicate an interesting selective toxicity.
Antitumour and Antioxidant Activity of Some Red Sea Seaweeds in Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma in vivo
Authors: Ahmed Hanaa H. , Hegazi Muhammad M. , Abd-Allac Howaida I. , Eskander Emad F. , Ellithey Mona S.
Published: January 2015

1

The antitumour activities of extracts from the Red Sea seaweeds Jania rubens, Sargassum subrepandum, and Ulva lactuca were investigated in an in vivo mice model based on intramuscular injection of Ehrlich ascites tumour cells. In parallel, antioxidant activities were measured. Tumour marker levels, liver biochemical parameters, and hepatic oxidant/antioxidant status were measured to prove the anticancer and antioxidant nature of the algal extracts. Significant decreases in carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and α-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, activities of liver enzymes, levels of nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and an increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were recorded in groups treated with the algal extracts. Jania rubens was selected for phytochemical screening of its phytoconstituents. In addition, carotenoids, halides, minerals, lipoidal matters, proteins, and carbohydrates were studied. Furthermore, 7-oxo-cholest-5(6)-en-3-ol () and cholesterol (2) were isolated from the dichloromethane fraction.
Chemical Constituents of the Femoral Gland Secretions of Male Tegu Lizards (Tupinambis merianae) (Family Teiidae)
Authors: Martína José , Chamut Silvia , Manes Mario E. , López Pilar
Published: January 2015

In spite of the importance of chemical signals (pheromones) in the reproductive behaviour of lizards, the chemical compounds secreted by their femoral glands, which may be used as sexual signals, are only known for a few lizard species. Based on mass spectra, obtained by GC-MS, we found 49 lipophilic compounds in femoral gland secretions of male tegu lizards (Tupinambis merianae) (fam. Teiidae), including a very high proportion of carboxylic acids and their esters ranging between n-C8 and n-C20 (mainly octadecanoic and 9,12-octadecadienoic acids), with much less proportions of steroids, tocopherol, aldehydes, and squalene. We discuss the potential function of these compounds in secretions, and compare the compounds found here with those documented for other lizard species.
Antimicrobial Activity of New Phorbins from Jatropha curcas Linn. (Euphorbiaceae) Leaves
Authors: Villaseñor Irene M. , Cariño Flerida A.
Published: January 2015

The crude methanol extract of Jatropha curcas leaves exhibited activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Mycobacterium phlei, Candida albicans, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes but was inactive against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In a bioassay-directed fractionation, two new phorbins were isolated and analysed by spectroscopic methods. Isolate 1 was characterized as an analogue of pheophytin b with a phytyl moiety containing three double bonds which are at positions P2/P3, P6/P7, and P10/P11. Compound 2 was characterized as methyl pheophorbide a with 132-OH and 17- and 171-CH3 moieties. It is active against Serratia marcescens.
Absolute Configuration of Antifi brotic (+)-Episesamin Isolated from Lindera obtusiloba BLUME
Authors: Trowitzsch-Kienast Wolfram , Rühl Martin , Kim Ki Y. , Emmerling Franziska , Erben Ulrike , Somasundaram Rajan , Freise Christian
Published: January 2015

Fractionation of a 70% ethanolic extract from twigs of Lindera obtusiloba BLUME (Japanese spicebush, Tohaku) yielded fi ve fractions of different polarity. The antifi brotic activity within the chloroform phase was best assessed by an in vitro bioassay using rat hepatic stellate cell (HSC) proliferation and their autocrine transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) expression as sensitive fi brosis-associated read out. Chromatography of the chloroform extract on Sephadex LH-20 or liquid-liquid extractions yielded a crystalline compound as an active principle, which was identifi ed from NMR and ESI-MS analyses, its melting point, and its optical rotation as (7S,7´R,8R,8´R)-3,4:3´,4´-bis(methylenedioxy)-7,9´:7´,9-diepoxy-lignane [(+)-episesamin]. X-Ray diffraction confi rmed the structure and provided, for the fi rst time, directly its absolute confi guration. (+)-Episesamin blocked proliferation and the profi brotic autocrine TGF-β expression HSC without signifi cant cytotoxicity.
Identifi cation of an Algal Carbon Fixation-Enhancing Factor Extracted from Paramecium bursaria
Authors: Kato Yutaka , Imamura Nobutaka
Published: January 2015

The green ciliate Paramecium bursaria contains several hundred symbiotic Chlorella species. We previously reported that symbiotic algal carbon fixation is enhanced by P. bursaria extracts and that the enhancing factor is a heat-stable, low-molecular-weight, water-soluble compound. To identify the factor, further experiments were carried out. The enhancing activity remained even when organic compounds in the extract were completely combusted at 700 °C, suggesting that the factor is an inorganic substance. Measurement of the major cations, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+, by an electrode and titration of the extract resulted in concentrations of 0.90 mM, 0.55 mM, and 0.21 mM, respectively. To evaluate the effect of these cations, a mixture of the cations at the measured concentrations was prepared, and symbiotic algal carbon fixation was measured in the solution. The results demonstrated that the fixation was enhanced to the same extent as with the P. bursaria extract, and thus this mixture of K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ was concluded to be the carbon fixation-enhancing factor. There was no effect of the cation mixture on free-living C. vulgaris. Comparison of the cation concentrations of nonsymbiotic and symbiotic Paramecium extracts revealed that the concentrations of K+ and Mg2+ in nonsymbiotic Paramecium extracts were too low to enhance symbiotic algal carbon fixation, suggesting that symbiotic P. bursaria provide suitable cation conditions for photosynthesis to its symbiotic Chlorella.
Antifeedant and Insecticidal Effects of Mandelic Acid on the Brown Planthopper Nilaparvata lugens Stål
Authors: Jin Liang , Hao Pei-ying , Dong Sheng-zhang , Bian Ya-lin , Bian Ya-lin , Yu Xiao-ping
Published: January 2015

To study the effects of mandelic acid (MA) on the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, the survival rate and behaviour of BPH fed on an artifi cial diet with different dosages of MA was observed. The survival rate of BPH decreased with the increase of the MA concentration and feeding time. In contrast to the control, the survival rate of BPH 72 h after feeding decreased signifi cantly. Electrical penetration graph (EPG) data indicated that MA absorbed by the rice plant from Kimura B solution signifi cantly affected the feeding behaviour of BPH. At the concentrations of 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/ml, duration of the phloem ingestion of BPH decreased from 115.34 min (control) to 30.41, 7.63, and 0.36 min, respectively. Periods of xylem ingestion of MA-treated BPH were signifi cantly shorter than those of the control (50.44 min). Moreover, BPH spent more time walking around or being at rest on MA-treated rice plants, as well as in stylet activities. The GST (glutathione S-transferase) activity of BPH increased with the increasing MA concentration, while the GPX (glutathione peroxidases) activity did not change signifi cantly. The results indicate that MA has an antifeedant and insecticidal effect on BPH.
In vivo Impact of Monocrotophos on Biochemical Parameters of a Freshwater Fish during Subacute Toxicity and Following Cessation of Exposure to the Insecticide
Authors: Narra Madhusudan Reddy , Begum Ghousia , Rajender Kodimyala , Rao J. Venkateswara
Published: January 2015

In vivo toxicity of monocrotophos on key metabolites and enzymes of the protein metabolism was investigated in important tissues of the freshwater fish Clarias batrachus. Fish were exposed to 1/10 and 1/20 of LC50 concentration for 28 days. After 28 days of exposure, some fish were transferred to monocrotophos-free water and kept in the same for 21 days (recovery period) in order to study the recovery response. Total protein, amino acid, and ammonia contents were decreased in gill, kidney, liver, and muscle tissues, and recovery was slight at the end of 21 days of transfer of fish into freshwater. Urea and glutamine levels were elevated, except in kidneys, and recovered at the end of the recovery period. The activities of protease, transaminase, and phosphatase enzymes were elevated in all tissues during 28 days of exposure and at both concentrations. Recovery of the activity of enzymes was more significant at the lower concentration as compared to the higher concentration.
Antifouling Activities against Colonizer Marine Bacteria of Extracts from Marine Invertebrates Collected in the Colombian Caribbean Sea and on the Brazilian Coast (Santa Catarina)
Authors: Mora-Cristancho Jennyfer A. , Arévalo-Ferro Catalina , Ramos Freddy A. , Tello Edisson , Duque Carmenza , Lhullier Cintia , Falkenberg Miriam , Schenkel Eloir Paulo
Published: January 2015

The growth inhibition of 12 native marine bacteria isolated from Aplysina sponge surfaces, the shell of a bivalve, and Phytagel™ immersed for 48 h in sea water were used as indicator of the antifouling activity of the extracts of 39 marine organisms (octocorals, sponges, algae, and zoanthid) collected in the Colombian Caribbean Sea and on the Brazilian coast (Santa Catarina). Gram-negative bacteria represented 75% of the isolates; identified strains belonged to Oceanobacillus iheyensis, Ochrobactrum pseudogrignonense, Vibrio campbellii, Vibrio harveyi, and Bacillus megaterium species and seven strains were classified at genus level by the 16S rRNA sequencing method. The extracts of the octocorals Pseudopterogorgia elisabethae, four Eunicea octocorals, and the sponges Topsentia ophiraphidites, Agelas citrina, Neopetrosia carbonaria, Monanchora arbuscula, Cliona tenuis, Iotrochota imminuta, and Ptilocaulis walpersii were the most active, thus suggesting those species as antifoulant producers. This is the first study of natural antifoulants from marine organisms collected on the Colombian and Brazilian coasts.
Identification of the Sex Pheromone of Isoceras sibirica Alpheraky (Lepidoptera, Cossidae)
Authors: Zhang Jintong , Liu Hongxia , Zhao Wenmei , Liu Jinlong , Zong Shixiang
Published: January 2015

We discovered that extracts of the female sex pheromone gland of the carpenterworm moth Isoceras sibirica Alpheraky, a pest of Asparagus offi cinalis Linn., contained (Z)-7- tetra decen-1-ol (Z7 - 14:OH), (Z)-9-tetradecen-1-ol (Z9 - 14:OH), (Z)-7-tetradecenyl acetate (Z7 - 14:Ac), (Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate (Z9 - 14:Ac), and (Z)-9-hexadecadecenyl acetate (Z9 - 16:Ac). The average levels of the chemicals in a single sex pheromone gland of a calling moth were (0.71 ± 0.24) ng, (1.42 ± 0.44) ng, (4.36 ± 0.32) ng, (8.71 ± 0.26) ng, and (0.82 ± 0.38) ng, respectively. The electroantennography (EAG) analysis of these chemicals and their analogues demonstrated that Z9 - 14:Ac triggered signifi cantly the male EAG response. Traps with rubber septa lure impregnated with Z9 - 14:Ac (500 μg/septum), Z7 - 14:Ac (250 μg/septum), and Z9 - 16:Ac (50 μg/septum) were more effective in catching male moths than traps with other baits or virgin females. Addition of Z7 - 14:OH and Z9 - 14:OH to rubber septa did not enhance the effi ciency of the trap.
Chemical and Antiviral Study on Alkaloids from Papaver pseudocanescens M. Pop.
Authors: Istatkova Ralitsa , Nikolaeva-Glomb Lubomira , Galabov Angel , Yadamsuren Gerelt-Od , Samdan Javzan , Dangaa Selenge , Philipov Stefan
Published: January 2015

The phytochemical investigation of the aerial parts of Papaver pseudocanescens M. Pop. of Mongolian origin resulted in the isolation and structural elucidation of 8 alkaloids of the isoquinoline and promorphinane type. 8,14-Dihydroamurine, 8,14-dihydroflavinantine, and flavinantine are promorphinanes. Alborine, mecambridine, and mecambridine methohydroxide are retroprotoberberines. Amurensinine is an isopavine alkaloid and O-methylarmepavine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid. O-Methylarmepavine is a new alkaloid for the genus Papaver. Promorphinane-type alkaloids have been found for the first time in the species. All structures were established by physical and spectral analysis. As a first attempt to describe some of the biological activities of these alkaloids, the antiviral effect was tested against the in vitro replication of several viruses which belong to different taxonomic groups and represent significant human pathogens. Based on the results, the conclusion could be drawn that particular alkaloids from P. pseudocanescens possess selective antiviral effects against the replication of poliovirus 1 and human rhinovirus 14, two viruses from the Enterovirus genus of the Picornaviridae family.
Protective and Therapeutic Effects of Argyreia speciosa against Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats
Authors: Motawi Tarek K. , Hamed Manal A. , Hashem Reem M. , Shabana Manal H. , Ahmed Yomna R.
Published: January 2015

The protective and therapeutic effects of Argyreia speciosa Sweet (Convolvulaceae) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats were evaluated. Ethanolic and water extracts of the aerial plant parts (200 mg/kg body weight) were orally administered daily for seven days prior to or after ulceration with one oral dose of 1 mL absolute ethanol on 24-h empty stomachs. Rats were divided into eleven groups. Group 1 served as control. To groups 2 and 3 each extract was administered. Groups 4 to 6 received each extract or ranitidine (100 mg/ kg body weight) prior to ulcer induction. Groups 7 to 9 received each extract or ranitidine post ulcer induction. Groups 10 and 11 were gastric ulcerative rats after one hour and one week of ethanol induction. The evaluation was done through measuring ulcer indices: stomach acidity and volume, lesion counts, mucus, and prostaglandin E2 contents. Oxidative stress marker, i. e. malondialdehyde, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase, were estimated. Certain marker enzymes for different cell organelles, i. e. succinate and lactate dehydrogenases, glucose-6-phosphatase, acid phosphatase, and 5’-nucleotidase, were evaluated. The work was extended to determine the collagen content and the histopathological assessment of the stomach. Gastric ulcer exhibited a signifi cant elevation of the ulcer index, antioxidant levels, collagen content, and the marker enzymes. The water extract attenuated these increments and was more potent as a protective agent, while the ethanol extract exhibited stronger therapeutic potency. In conclusion, A. speciosa acted as antiulcer agent. More detailed studies are required to identify the compounds responsible for the pharmacological effect.
Accumulation of Tetracoumaroyl Spermine in Matricaria chamomilla during Floral Development and Nitrogen Deficiency
Authors: Eliašová Adriana , Poracká Veronika , Pal’ove-Balang Peter , Imrich Ján , Repčák Miroslav
Published: January 2015

The new natural polyamine conjugate 1N,5N,10N,14N-tetracoumaroyl spermine (tetracoumaroyl spermine) recently isolated from chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) flower heads is applicable for the treatment of several human disorders such as depression and anxiety. High variability in the level of tetracoumaroyl spermine is found in commercial tisanes. Accumulation of tetracoumaroyl spermine was tested during fl oral development, and nitrogen deficiency was chosen as its putative limiting environmental factor. It was observed that tetracoumaroyl spermine is present mainly in tubular flowers, reaching its maximal content during the 3rd phase of flowering when the corollae of tubular flowers start to open. The later observed decrease could result from a release of pollen that also contains a considerable amount of tetracoumaroyl spermine. It is likely that tetracoumaroyl spermine plays an important role in pollen development, and so, despite overall N-deficiency in the plants, tetracoumaroyl spermine is accumulated at the same or even higher rate than in the flowers of the N-sufficient control.
Major Biological Activities of the Skin Secretion of the Chinese Giant Salamander, Andrias davidianus
Authors: Guo Wentao , Ao Mingzhang , Li Wei , Wang Jianwen , Yu Longjiang
Published: January 2015

Amphibian skin can produce abundant secretion which contains many bioactive compounds. In this work, skin secretion of the Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) was obtained by mild electrical stimulation of the dorsal skin surface, and the main physiopathological properties of the secretion were described. Intraperitoneal administration of the skin secretion caused lethal effects in mice. Low doses of the skin secretion induced significant systemic and local effects like edema and nociception in mice. The activities of phospholipase A2 and proteolytic enzyme were likely related to the physiopathological activities observed. The work proved the complex toxic effects of the Chinese giant salamander skin secretion and provided clues to study its physiological function further.
Phenolic Constituents from Alchemilla vulgaris L. and Alchemilla mollis (Buser) Rothm. at Different Dates of Harvest
Authors: Duckstein Sarina M. , Lotter Eva M. , Meyer Ulrich , Lindequist Ulrike , Stintzing Florian C.
Published: January 2015

Acetone/water extracts from the leaves, including stalks, of Alchemilla vulgaris L. and A. mollis (Buser) Rothm. were investigated for their phenolic composition by liquid chromatography- tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). A total of 24 and 27 compounds were detected for A. vulgaris and A. mollis, respectively. Pedunculagin and agrimoniin, as described in earlier reports for A. vulgaris, as well as other monomeric and oligomeric ellagitannins such as sanguiin H-10, castalagin/vescalagin, and galloyl-bis-hexahydroxydiphenoyl (HHDP) hexose constituted the major phenolic fraction of both plant species. Also, gallic and chlorogenic acids were found in both extracts. Interestingly, catechin and a procyanidin trimer were detected only in A. mollis. The fl avonoid fraction comprised quercetin glucuronide as major compound in addition to several other quercetin glycosides. Most interestingly, a tentatively identifi ed kaempferol glucuronide and a methylated quercetin glucuronide were exclusively found in A. mollis. Finally, the overall phenolic fingerprints of both Alchemilla species, harvested in May and August, i.e. at the beginning and the end of the flowering period, were compared. A general accumulation of phenolic constituents was observed later in the year, especially with regard to the ellagitannins.
Norditerpenoid Alkaloids from Delphinium flexuosum Bieb.
Authors: Pırıldar Sevda , Ünsal-Gürer Çağlayan , Koçyiğit Mine , Zapp Josef , Kiemer Alexandra K. , Meriçli Ali H.
Published: January 2015

Delphiniflexine, a new norditerpenoid alkaloid, together with the three known norditerpenoid alkaloids methyllycaconitine, ajadine, and acoseptrigenine were isolated from the aerial parts of Delphinium flexuosum. The structure of delphiniflexine was established on the basis of 1H, 13C, DEPT, homonuclear 1H COSY, NOESY, HSQC, and HMBC NMR studies.
Antioxidant Activity of Ethanolic Fractions of Polish Propolis
Authors: Kurek-Górecka Anna M. , Sobczak Andrzej , Rzepecka-Stojko Anna , Górecki Michał T. , Wardas Maria , Pawłowska-Góral Katarzyna
Published: January 2015

There is a great variation in the chemical composition of propolis of different origins. Likewise, the method of its extraction has signifi cant impact on the content of biologically active compounds. Here we compared methods of propolis extraction for optimal antioxidant activities which were measured by means of β-carotene discolouration, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging, and 2,2’-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+) radical cation decolouration assays. In the extracts, the contents of polyphenols and fl avonoids were measured, and phenolic acids were identifi ed and quantifi ed by HPLC. A three-step extraction allowed obtaining large amounts of phenolic acids from propolis. The propolis fractions obtained had antioxidant properties comparable to those of α-tocopherol and butylated hydroxytoluene. Therefore, they may be used as effective natural antioxidants.
Antimicrobial Isothiocyanates from the Seeds of Moringa oleifera Lam.
Authors: Padla Eleanor P. , Solis Ludivina T. , Levida Ruel M. , Shen Chien-Chang , Ragasa Consolacion Y.
Published: January 2015

4-(α-L-Rhamnosyloxy)benzyl isothiocyanate (1) and 4-(4’-O-acetyl-α-L-rhamnosyloxy)- benzyl isothiocyanate (2) isolated from Moringa oleifera seeds were screened for their antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and for their antifungal activities against Candida albicans, Trichophyton rubrum, and Epidermophyton floccosum using the disk diffusion method. Isothiocyanates 1 and 2 were found active at the lowest inhibitory concentration of 1 mg/ml against all Grampositive bacteria tested (S. aureus, S. epidermidis, B. subtilis) and against the dermatophytic fungi E. floccosum and T. rubrum. Statistically signifi cant differences were found between the mean inhibition zones (IZ) of 1 and 2 and the standard drugs, ofl oxacin and clotrimazole. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values confi rmed the good antimicrobial activity of 1 and 2 against S. aureus, good to moderate activity against S. epidermidis, moderate activity against B. subtilis, and weak activity against E. floccosum and T. rubrum. The in vitro bactericidal effect of 1 and 2 against the Gram-positive bacterial strains tested is suggested by MBC:MIC ratios of 2:1.
Plant Growth Activities of Aspyran, Asperentin, and its Analogues Produced by the Fungus Aspergillus sp.
Authors: Kimura Yasuo , Shimomura Naomi , Tanigawa Fumiaki , Fujioka Shozo , Shimada Atsumi
Published: January 2015

Aspyran (1), a novel compound, and the known isocoumarin asperentin (2), also known as cladosporin, together with its analogues 3 - 6 were isolated from Aspergillus sp. and their structures established by spectroscopic methods including 2D NMR spectroscopy. The effects of 1 - 6 on plant growth were examined by bioassays using lettuce and rice seedlings. Compounds 1 and 3 promoted the root growth of the seedlings, while 2 and 5 were inhibitory. Compounds 4 and 6 did not show any effect on the growth of lettuce and rice seedlings, respectively.
Optimization of Soluble Organic Selenium Accumulation during Fermentation of Flammulina velutipes Mycelia
Authors: Ma Yunfeng , Xiang Fu , Xiang Jun , Yu Longjiang
Published: January 2015

Selenium is an essential nutrient with diverse physiological functions, and soluble organic selenium (SOS) sources have a higher bioavailability than inorganic selenium sources. Based on the response surface methodology and central composite design, this study presents the optimal medium components for SOS accumulation in batch cultures of Flammulina velutipes, i.e. 30 g/L glucose, 11.2 mg/L sodium selenite, and 1.85 g/L NH4NO3. Furthermore, logistic function model feeding was found to be the optimal feeding strategy for SOS accumulation during Flammulina velutipes mycelia fermentation, where the maximum SOS accumulation reached (4.63 ± 0.24) mg/L, which is consistent with the predicted value.
Isolation and Characterization of an Endosperm-Specific Promoter from Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Song Fei , Cui Cui-Ju , Chen Ling , Sun Yang-Liu , Wang Fei-Fei , Hussain Javeed , Li Yin , Wang Chen , Wang Cheng , Chen Ming-Jie , Wang Yue-Sheng , Yang Guang-Xiao , He Guang-Yuan
Published: January 2015

Genes coding for avenin-like proteins (ALP) represent a new family of wheat storage protein genes. To find a wheat endosperm-specific promoter, a 1644-bp fragment upstream of the ALP type-B gene (GenBank accession number JN622144) was isolated. The important promoter elements of the ALP type-B gene were ascertained through sequence analysis which revealed that this fragment contains the TATA and CAAT boxes, which are important elements in gene expression. A prolamin box containing an endosperm motif and a GCN4-like motif (GLM) is present at about 300 bp upstream of the translation start site. The promoter sequence has two ESP-like elements and one of them is followed by an RY motif with the nucleotides CATG overlapping. The RY motif is considered the core functional sequence in a promoter. In an attempt to confirm the promoter activity, a series of 5¢-deletions of the promoter were fused with the β-glucuronidase (GUS) gene, and the constructs were stably introduced into tobacco plants. GUS staining confirmed that the AVL type-B promoter is an endosperm-specific promoter in tobacco seeds. Quantitative analysis of GUS expression in transgenic plants showed that even the shortest 5’-deletion, i.e. a 290-bp promoter sequence within the prolamin box, was sufficient to drive GUS expression in the endosperm. The highest expression level was found in transgenic plants containing the 5¢-deletion vector construct pALP-8. This suggests that the ESP-like element overlapping with the RY motif may play a crucial role in the regulatory function of the promoter.
Phenological and Liver Antioxidant Profiles of Adult Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Exposed to Toxic Live Cyanobacterium (Microcystis aeruginosa Kceützing) Cells
Authors: Khairy Hanan M. , Ibrahim Marwa A. , Ibrahem Mai D.
Published: January 2015

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) constitute the greater part of the phytoplankton. Microcystis aeruginosa is amongst the most ubiquitously distributed cyanobacterial species, and almost invariably produces cyclic heptapeptide toxins called microcystins (MCs). The present study was designed to investigate the phenological and liver antioxidant profiles of the Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus chronically exposed to toxic live M. aeruginosa cells. Fish were grown in the absence and presence of M. aeruginosa in three different concentrations for seven days, and subsequently reared for another 30 days in the absence of the cyanobacteria. While cyanobacteria did not cause any fish mortality, there was a progressive development of yellowish discolouration in the livers of exposed fish. In the livers, the activities and levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glutathione (GSH), and lipid peroxidation products like malondialdehyde (MDA) were elevated in response to the concentration of M. aeruginosa. Moreover, DNA fragmentation and DNA-protein crosslinks were measured. These parameters can thus be considered potential biomarkers for the fish exposure to M. aeruginosa. The present study sheds light on cyanobacterial blooms like health, environmental, and economic problem, respectively.
Diterpenoid Alkaloids of Aconitum vulparia Rchb.
Authors: Kurtoğlu Sezin , Şen Burcu , Melikoğlu Gülay , Becker Hans , Zapp Josef , Kiemer Alexandra K. , Meriçli Filiz , Meriçli Ali H.
Published: January 2015

From the roots of Aconitum vulparia Rchb., collected in Prüm (Germany), a new norditerpenoid alkaloid, named alexhumboldtine, has been isolated along with the known norditerpenoid alkaloids lappaconitine, anthranoyllycoctonine, lycoctonine, puberaconitine, ajacine, and septentriodine. The structure of alexhumboldtine was established on the basis of 1H, 13C, DEPT, homonuclear 1H COSY, NOESY, HSQC, and HMBC NMR studies. From the aerial parts of the plant another norditerpenoid alkaloid, aconorine, has been isolated
Biological Activity of Novel N-Substituted Amides of endo-3- (3-Methylthio-1,2,4-triazol-5-yl)bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene-2- carboxylic Acid and N-Substituted Amides of 1-(5-Methylthio- 1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)cyclohexane-2-carboxylic Acids
Authors: Pachuta-Stec Anna , Kosikowska Urszula , Chodkowska Anna , Pitucha Monika , Malm Anna , Jagiełło-Wójtowicz Ewa
Published: January 2015

N-Substituted amides of endo-3-(3-methylthio-1,2,4-triazol-5-yl)bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene- 2-carboxylic acid and 1-(5-methylthio-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)cyclohexane-2-carboxylic acid were prepared by the condensation reaction of endo-S-methyl-N1-(bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene-2,3- dicarbonyl)isothiosemicarbazide and S-methyl-N1-(cyclohexane-2,3-dicarbonyl)isothiosemicarbazide with primary amines. The synthesized compounds were screened for their microbiological and pharmacological activities