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Molecules, Volume 14, Issue 3 (March 2009) – 32 articles , Pages 904-1341

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283 KiB  
Article
Association Mechanism of S-Dinitrophenyl Glutathione with Two Glutathione Peroxidase Mimics: 2, 2¢-Ditelluro- and 2, 2¢-Diseleno-bridged b-cyclodextrins
by Ya-Qiong Hao, Xing-Chen Liu, Jun-Qiu Liu and Yu-Qing Wu
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 904-916; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030904 - 25 Feb 2009
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 11924
Abstract
Complex formation of the glutathione peroxidase mimics 2,2¢-ditelluro-bridged b-cyclodextrin (1) and 2,2¢-diseleno-bridged b-cyclodextrin (2), with S-substituted dinitrophenyl glutathione (3) were determined by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectroscopy in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Molecular mechanics (MM2) modeling calculations were used [...] Read more.
Complex formation of the glutathione peroxidase mimics 2,2¢-ditelluro-bridged b-cyclodextrin (1) and 2,2¢-diseleno-bridged b-cyclodextrin (2), with S-substituted dinitrophenyl glutathione (3) were determined by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectroscopy in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Molecular mechanics (MM2) modeling calculations were used to deduce a three-dimensional model for each complex. The dinitrophenyl (DNP) group of 3 appears to penetrate the cavity of b-cyclodextrin (b-CD) or 1, but it is located between the two secondary rims of 2. The complexes’ stability constants (Ks) from 19 to 37 °C, Gibbs free energy changes (DG° ), DH° and TDS° for 1:1 complexes of b-CD, 1 and 2 with ligand 3 as obtained from UV-Vis spectra were compared. The binding of 3 by the three cyclodextrin hosts generally decreased in the order of 1>2>b-CD. The binding ability of 3 by b-CD, 1 and 2 was discussed with regard to the size/shape-fit concept, the induced-fit interaction, and the cooperative interaction of the dual hydrophobic cavities. The binding ability of 1>2indicated that the length of linkage between two cyclodextrin units plays a crucial role in the interaction with 3. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selenium and Tellurium Chemistry)
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145 KiB  
Article
Total Syntheses of Telisatin A, Telisatin B and Lettowianthine
by Surachai Nimgirawath and Phansuang Udomputtimekakul
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 917-924; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030917 - 26 Feb 2009
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7952
Abstract
Treatment of 1-(2-bromoarylmethyl)-3,4-dihydroisoquinolines with oxalyl chloride and triethylamine gave 1-(2-bromophenyl)-5,6-dihydropyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinoline-2,3-dione derivatives, for example, 1-(2-bromophenyl)-5,6-dihydro-8,9-dimethoxypyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinoline-2,3-dione. Radical cyclisation of these derivatives with tributyltin hydride and 1,1-azobis(cyclohexanecarbonitrile) afforded telisatin A, telisatin B and lettowianthine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aporphines and Oxoaporphines)
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353 KiB  
Article
Essential Oil Composition and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) Sequence Variability of Four South-Croatian Satureja Species (Lamiaceae)
by Nada Bezić, Ivica Šamanić, Valerija Dunkić, Višnja Besendorfer and Jasna Puizina
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 925-938; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030925 - 27 Feb 2009
Cited by 74 | Viewed by 12991
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare the essential oil profiles of four South-Croatian Satureja species, as determined by GC/FID and GC/MS, with their DNA sequences for an internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA. A phylogenetic analysis showed that [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to compare the essential oil profiles of four South-Croatian Satureja species, as determined by GC/FID and GC/MS, with their DNA sequences for an internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA. A phylogenetic analysis showed that S. montana and S. cuneifolia, characterized by a similar essential oil composition, rich in the monoterpene hydrocarbon carvacrol, clustered together with high and moderate bootstrap support. On the contrary, S. subspicata and S. visianii, characterized by quite unique essential oil compositions, clustered together with the moderate bootstrap support. All four Croatian Satureja species clustered in one clade, separately from Macaronesian S. hortensis,although it had essential oil composition similar to that of S. montana and S. cuneifolia. This is the first report on the comparison between the phytochemical and DNA sequence data in Satureja species and useful contribution to the better understanding of interspecies relationships in this genus. Full article
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202 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Coumarins from the Roots of Ferulago campestris (Apiaceae)
by Adriana Basile, Sergio Sorbo, Vivienne Spadaro, Maurizio Bruno, Antonella Maggio, Nicoletta Faraone and Sergio Rosselli
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 939-952; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030939 - 27 Feb 2009
Cited by 205 | Viewed by 18015
Abstract
We report the isolation of several coumarins and the stereochemical assessment of some pyranocoumarins, as well as the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the three most abundant ones (grandivittin, agasyllin and aegelinol benzoate) isolated from the roots of Ferulago campestris collected in Sicily [...] Read more.
We report the isolation of several coumarins and the stereochemical assessment of some pyranocoumarins, as well as the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the three most abundant ones (grandivittin, agasyllin and aegelinol benzoate) isolated from the roots of Ferulago campestris collected in Sicily and of the hydrolysis product (aegelinol). Aegelinol and agasyllin showed antibacterial activity against nine ATCC and the same clinically isolated Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. At a concentration between 16 and 125 mg/mL both coumarins showed a significant antibacterial effect against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. In particular the ATCC strains Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella thypii, Enterobacter cloacae and Enterobacter earogenes (MIC = 16 and 32 mg/mL for aegelinol and agasyllin, respectively) were the most inhibited. Antibacterial activity was also found against Helicobacter pylori: a dose-dependent inhibition was shown between 5 and 25 mg/mL. The antioxidant activity of the coumarins was evaluated by their effects on human whole blood leukocytes (WB) and on isolated polymorphonucleate (PMN) chemiluminescence (CL), PMA-stimulated and resting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coumarins and Xanthones)
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239 KiB  
Communication
Two New Neolignans from Syringa velutina Kom.
by Xue-Song Feng, Yang Qu, Lei Xu, Da-Cheng Wang, Li-Jun Wu, Fan-Hao Meng and Ya-Ru Liu
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 953-958; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030953 - 27 Feb 2009
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 11851
Abstract
Two new neolignans, (7S,8R)-guaiacylglycerol-8-O-4′-sinapyl ether 9′-O-β-D- glucopyranoside (1) and (7S,8R)-syringylglycerol-8-O-4′-sinapyl ether 9′-O-β-D-gluco- pyranoside (2) were isolated from the leaves of Syringa velutina Kom.. Their structures were established by chemical properties and spectroscopic evidence. Full article
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169 KiB  
Article
Effect of [10]-Gingerol on [Ca2+]i and Cell Death in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
by Chung-Yi Chen, Yi-Wen Li and Soong-Yu Kuo
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 959-969; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030959 - 02 Mar 2009
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 15449
Abstract
The effect of [10]-gingerol on cytosol free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and viability is large unknown. This study examines the early signaling effects of [10]-gingerol on human colorectal cancer cells. It was found that this compound caused a slow [...] Read more.
The effect of [10]-gingerol on cytosol free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and viability is large unknown. This study examines the early signaling effects of [10]-gingerol on human colorectal cancer cells. It was found that this compound caused a slow and sustained rise of [Ca2+]i in a concentration-dependent manner. [10]-Gingerol also induced a [Ca2+]i rise when extracellular Ca2+ was removed, but the magnitude was reduced by 38%. In a Ca2+-free medium, the [10]-gingerol-induced [Ca2+]i rise was partially abolished by depleting stored Ca2+ with thapsigargin (an endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor). The elevation of [10]-gingerol-caused [Ca2+]i in a Ca2+-containing medium was not affected by modulation of protein kinase C activity. The [10]-gingerol-induced Ca2+ influx was insensitive to L-type Ca2+ channel blockers. At concentrations of 10-100 mM, [10]-gingerol killed cells in a concentration-dependent manner. These findings suggest that [10]-gingerol induces [Ca2+]i rise by causing Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum and Ca2+ influx from non-L-type Ca2+ channels in SW480 cancer cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phenolics and Polyphenolics)
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266 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic Content of Paederia foetida and Syzygium aqueum
by Hasnah Osman, Afidah A. Rahim, Norhafizah M. Isa and Nornaemah M. Bakhir
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 970-978; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030970 - 03 Mar 2009
Cited by 100 | Viewed by 14044
Abstract
The antioxidant activity of fresh and dried plant extracts of Paederia foetida and Syzygium aqueum were studied using β-carotene bleaching and the 2,2’-azinobis(3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical cation assay. The percentage of antioxidant activity for all extract samples using both assays was between 58 [...] Read more.
The antioxidant activity of fresh and dried plant extracts of Paederia foetida and Syzygium aqueum were studied using β-carotene bleaching and the 2,2’-azinobis(3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical cation assay. The percentage of antioxidant activity for all extract samples using both assays was between 58 and 80%. The fresh samples of both plants had higher antioxidant activity than the dried samples. The results of the β-carotene bleaching assay were correlated (R2 = 0.9849) with those of the ABTS assay. Full article
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270 KiB  
Article
Brominated Thiophenes as Precursors in the Preparation of Brominated and Arylated Anthraquinones
by Thies Thiemann, Yasuko Tanaka and Jesus Iniesta
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1013-1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031013 - 04 Mar 2009
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 11936
Abstract
Brominated anthraquinones can be synthesized directly from bromothiophenes when these are reacted with 1,4-naphthoquinones in the presence of meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid. The bromoanthraquinones are versatile building blocks in the preparation of arylated anthraquinones and of extended π-systems with interspersed anthraquinone units. Full article
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283 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant Activities of Extracts and Main Components of Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] Leaves
by Nan Wu, Kuang Fu, Yu-Jie Fu, Yuan-Gang Zu, Fang-Rong Chang, Yung-Husan Chen, Xiao-Lei Liu, Yu Kong, Wei Liu and Cheng-Bo Gu
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1032-1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031032 - 04 Mar 2009
Cited by 189 | Viewed by 21533
Abstract
Antioxidant activities of the aqueous and ethanol extracts of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] leaves, as well as petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water fractions and the four main compounds separated from the ethanol extract, i.e. cajaninstilbene acid (3-hydroxy-4-prenylmethoxystilbene-2-carboxylic acid), [...] Read more.
Antioxidant activities of the aqueous and ethanol extracts of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] leaves, as well as petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water fractions and the four main compounds separated from the ethanol extract, i.e. cajaninstilbene acid (3-hydroxy-4-prenylmethoxystilbene-2-carboxylic acid), pinostrobin, vitexin and orientin, were examined by a DPPH radical-scavenging assay and a β-carotene-linoleic acid test. In the DPPH system, the antioxidant activity of the ethanol extracts was superior to that of the aqueous extracts, with IC50 values were 242.01 and 404.91 µg/mL, respectively. Among the four fractions, the ethyl acetate one showed the highest scavenging activity, with an IC50 value of 194.98 µg/mL. Cajaninstilbene acid (302.12 µg/mL) and orientin (316.21 µg/mL) showed more efficient radical-scavenging abilities than pinostrobin and vitexin. In the β-carotene-linoleic acid test, the inhibition ratio (%) of the ethyl acetate fraction (94.13%±3.41%) was found to be the highest, being almost equal to the inhibition capacity of the positive control BHT (93.89%±1.45%) at 4 mg/mL. Pinostrobin (>500 µg/mL) and vitexin (>500 µg/mL) showed insignificant antioxidant activities compared with cajaninstilbene (321.53 µg/mL) and orientin (444.61 µg/mL). In general, the ethyl acetate fraction of the ethanol extract showed greater activity than the main compounds in both systems, such results might be attributed to the synergistic effects of the components. The antioxidant activities of all the tested samples were concentration-dependent. Based on the results obtained, we can conclude that the pigeonpea leaf extracts may be valuable natural antioxidant sources and are potentially applicable in both medicine and the healthy food industry. Full article
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293 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Photoluminescence Properties of Some Poly(ethylene glycol) – Supported Coumarin Derivatives
by Graziella Tocco, Carlo Maria Carbonaro, Gabriele Meli and Gianni Podda
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1044-1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031044 - 05 Mar 2009
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 12709
Abstract
The immobilization of some coumarin derivatives on modified poly(ethylene glycol)s is reported and the influence of the polymeric support on the photoluminescence activity of the compounds is discussed. Upon ultraviolet excitation, the derivatives showed coumarin - related emission properties whose peak position and [...] Read more.
The immobilization of some coumarin derivatives on modified poly(ethylene glycol)s is reported and the influence of the polymeric support on the photoluminescence activity of the compounds is discussed. Upon ultraviolet excitation, the derivatives showed coumarin - related emission properties whose peak position and efficiency depended on the loading of the polymer and on the mesomeric effects of the substituents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coumarins and Xanthones)
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105 KiB  
Article
Efficient One-Pot Synthesis of Indol-3-yl-Glycines via Uncatalyzed Friedel-Crafts Reaction in Water
by Mehdi Ghandi and Abuzar Taheri
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1056-1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031056 - 05 Mar 2009
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 10037
Abstract
The three component reaction of primary aliphatic amines, glyoxalic acid and indole or N-methylindole in water at ambient temperature affords indol-3-yl or N-methylindol-3-yl-glycine in almost quantitative yields. Full article
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238 KiB  
Article
Taiwanese Native Plants Inhibit Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Activity after Ultraviolet B Irradiation
by Yueh-Lun Lee, Mei-Hsien Lee, Hsiu-Ju Chang, Po-Yuan Huang, I-Jen Huang, Kur-Ta Cheng and Sy-Jye Leu
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1062-1071; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031062 - 06 Mar 2009
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 13693
Abstract
Medicinal plants have long been used as a source of therapeutic agents. They are thought to be important anti-aging ingredients in prophylactic medicines. The aim of this study was to screen extracts from Taiwanese plant materials for phenolic contents and measure the corresponding [...] Read more.
Medicinal plants have long been used as a source of therapeutic agents. They are thought to be important anti-aging ingredients in prophylactic medicines. The aim of this study was to screen extracts from Taiwanese plant materials for phenolic contents and measure the corresponding matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity. We extracted biological ingredients from eight plants native to Taiwan (Alnus formosana, Diospyros discolor, Eriobotrya deflex, Machilus japonica, Pyrrosia polydactylis, Pyrus taiwanensis, Vitis adstricta, Vitis thunbergii). Total phenolic content was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. MMP-9 activities were measured by gelatin zymography. The extracted yields of plants ranged from 3.7 % to 16.9 %. The total phenolic contents ranged from 25.4 to 36.8 mg GAE/g dry material. All of these extracts (except Vitis adstricta Hance) were shown to inhibit MMP-9 activity of WS-1 cell after ultraviolet B irradiation. These findings suggest that total phenolic content may influence MMP-9 activity and that some of the plants with higher phenolic content exhibited various biological activities that could serve as potent inhibitors of the ageing process in the skin. This property might be useful in the production of cosmetics. Full article
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117 KiB  
Article
Anti-hemorrhagic Activity of Four Brazilian Vegetable Species Against Bothrops jararaca Venom
by Catarine Massucato Nishijima Nishijima, Clenilson Martins Rodrigues, Marcelo Aparecido Silva, Mônica Lopes-Ferreira, Wagner Vilegas and Clélia Akiko Hiruma-Lima
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1072-1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031072 - 09 Mar 2009
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 14196
Abstract
Around 20,000 snakebites are reported annually in Brazil and 90% of them are inflicted by species of the genus Bothrops. Intravenous administration of antibothropic antivenom neutralizes the systemic actions, but it is of little effect on the reversal of local symptoms and [...] Read more.
Around 20,000 snakebites are reported annually in Brazil and 90% of them are inflicted by species of the genus Bothrops. Intravenous administration of antibothropic antivenom neutralizes the systemic actions, but it is of little effect on the reversal of local symptoms and often induces adverse reactions, a context that drives the search for complementary treatments for snakebite accidents. Vegetable extracts with a range of antiophidian activities constitute an excellent alternative. In this study, we investigated the anti-hemorrhagic effects of Mouriri pusa Gardn. (Melastomataceae), Byrsonima crassa Niedenzu (Malpighiaceae), Davilla elliptica St. Hill. (Dilleniaceae) and Strychnos pseudoquina St. Hil. (Loganiaceae) against Bothrops jararaca venom. The methanolic extracts from M. pusa (leaves), B. crassa (leaves) and D. elliptica (leaves) showed total neutralization capacity against local hemorrhages. The amenthoflavone and quercetin fractions from B. crassa and the flavonoids fractions (quercetin and myricetin) from M. pusa and D. elliptica also showed total neutralization capacity. We conclude that flavonoids derived from myricetin, quercetin and amenthoflavone play an important role in the anti-hemorrhagic potential of these Brazilian vegetables species against B. jararaca venom. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phenolics and Polyphenolics)
517 KiB  
Article
Structural Changes of Malt Proteins During Boiling
by Bei Jin, Lin Li, Guo-Qin Liu, Bing Li, Yu-Kui Zhu and Liao-Ning Liao
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1081-1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031081 - 09 Mar 2009
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 12419
Abstract
Changes in the physicochemical properties and structure of proteins derived from two malt varieties (Baudin and Guangmai) during wort boiling were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, SDS-PAGE, two-dimensional electrophoresis, gel filtration chromatography and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The results showed that both protein content [...] Read more.
Changes in the physicochemical properties and structure of proteins derived from two malt varieties (Baudin and Guangmai) during wort boiling were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, SDS-PAGE, two-dimensional electrophoresis, gel filtration chromatography and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The results showed that both protein content and amino acid composition changed only slightly during boiling, and that boiling might cause a gradual unfolding of protein structures, as indicated by the decrease in surface hydrophobicity and free sulfhydryl content and enthalpy value, as well as reduced α-helix contents and markedly increased random coil contents. It was also found that major component of both worts was a boiling-resistant protein with a molecular mass of 40 kDa, and that according to the two-dimensional electrophoresis and SE-HPLC analyses, a small amount of soluble aggregates might be formed via hydrophobic interactions. It was thus concluded that changes of protein structure caused by boiling that might influence beer quality are largely independent of malt variety. Full article
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197 KiB  
Article
Polyphenols with Antiulcerogenic Action from Aqueous Decoction of Mango Leaves (Mangifera indica L.)
by Juliana Aparecida Severi, Zeila Pinheiro Lima, Hélio Kushima, Alba Regina Monteiro Souza Brito, Lourdes Campaner dos Santos, Wagner Vilegas and Clélia Akiko Hiruma-Lima
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1098-1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031098 - 10 Mar 2009
Cited by 76 | Viewed by 20763
Abstract
This study was designed to determine the gastroprotective effect of a Mangifera indica leaf decoction (AD), on different experimental models in rodents. The administration of AD up to a dose of 5 g/kg (p.o.) did not produce any signs or symptoms of toxicity [...] Read more.
This study was designed to determine the gastroprotective effect of a Mangifera indica leaf decoction (AD), on different experimental models in rodents. The administration of AD up to a dose of 5 g/kg (p.o.) did not produce any signs or symptoms of toxicity in the treated animals, while significantly decreasing the severity of gastric damage induced by several gastroprotective models. Oral pre-treatment with AD (250, 500 or 1000 mg/kg) in mice and rats with gastric lesions induced by HCl/ethanol, absolute ethanol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or stress-induced gastric lesions resulted in a significant decrease of said lesions. Phytochemical analyses of AD composition demonstrated the presence of bioactive phenolic compounds that represent 57.3% of total phenolic content in this extract. Two main phenolic compounds were isolated, specifically mangiferin (C-glucopyranoside of 1,3,6,7-tetrahydroxyxanthone) and C-glucosyl-benzophenone (3-C-β-D-glucopyranosyl-4’,2,4,6-tetrahydroxybenzophenone). These findings indicate the potential gastroprotective properties of aqueous decoction from M. indica leaves. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phenolics and Polyphenolics)
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117 KiB  
Communication
Phosphotungstic Acid: An Efficient, Cost-effective and Recyclable Catalyst for the Synthesis of Polysubstituted Quinolines
by Minoo Dabiri and Sahareh Bashiribod
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1126-1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031126 - 12 Mar 2009
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 11625
Abstract
Phosphotungstic acid (H3PW12O40) was used as an efficient and recyclable catalyst for the synthesis of polysubstituted quinolines through the Friedländer condensation of 2-aminoarylketone with carbonyl compounds, which was achieved by conventional heating under solvent-free conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Assisted Synthesis)
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180 KiB  
Article
Ring-substituted 4-Hydroxy-1H-quinolin-2-ones: Preparation and Biological Activity
by Josef Jampilek, Robert Musiol, Matus Pesko, Katarina Kralova, Marcela Vejsova, James Carroll, Aidan Coffey, Jacek Finster, Dominik Tabak, Halina Niedbala, Violetta Kozik, Jaroslaw Polanski, Jozef Csollei and Jiri Dohnal
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1145-1159; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031145 - 13 Mar 2009
Cited by 56 | Viewed by 14004
Abstract
In the study, a series of twelve ring-substituted 4-hydroxy-1H-quinolin-2-one derivatives were prepared. The procedures for synthesis of the compounds are presented. The compounds were analyzed using RP-HPLC to determine lipophilicity and tested for their photosynthesis-inhibiting activity using spinach (Spinacia oleracea [...] Read more.
In the study, a series of twelve ring-substituted 4-hydroxy-1H-quinolin-2-one derivatives were prepared. The procedures for synthesis of the compounds are presented. The compounds were analyzed using RP-HPLC to determine lipophilicity and tested for their photosynthesis-inhibiting activity using spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) chloroplasts. All the synthesized compounds were also evaluated for antifungal activity using in vitro screening with eight fungal strains. For all the compounds, the relationships between the lipophilicity and the chemical structure of the studied compounds are discussed, as well as their structure-activity relationships (SAR). Full article
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184 KiB  
Article
Parabens as Agents for Improving Crocetin Esters’ Shelf-Life in Aqueous Saffron Extracts
by Luana Maggi, Manuel Carmona, Amaya Zalacain, Magdalena Martínez Tomé, María Antonia Murcia and Gonzalo Luis Alonso
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1160-1170; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031160 - 16 Mar 2009
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 15809
Abstract
The effect of parabens on the shelf-life of crocetin esters and picrocrocin in aqueous saffron solutions was studied. Degradation of saffron crocetin esters fits a first-order kinetics model, and the results indicated that the crocetin (β-D-glucosyl)-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) esters were more [...] Read more.
The effect of parabens on the shelf-life of crocetin esters and picrocrocin in aqueous saffron solutions was studied. Degradation of saffron crocetin esters fits a first-order kinetics model, and the results indicated that the crocetin (β-D-glucosyl)-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) esters were more stable than the crocetin di-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) esters regardless of whether trans and cis isomers were considered. Under all tested conditions both parabens gave good results, especially propyl paraben that showed a greater influence on the degradation rate constant, except for cis-crocetin di-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) ester and cis-crocetin (β-D-glucosyl)-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) ester. In presence of propyl paraben (200 mg/L), the half-life periods of trans-crocetin di-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) esterimproved considerably, up to four-fold. Special attention has been paid to the effect of propyl paraben on 46 saffrons with different crocetin ester contents. No differences were observed in terms of picrocrocin. By analysis of variance, it is noteworthy that there were differences between the mean content of crocetin esters for all analysed saffron, except for trans-crocetin (β-D-glucosyl)-(β-D-gentiobiosyl) ester. Full article
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348 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Properties of Piper ovatum Vahl
by Daniel Rodrigues Silva, Eliana Harue Endo, Benedito Prado Dias Filho, Celso Vataru Nakamura, Terezinha Inez Estivaleti Svidzinski, Amanda De Souza, Maria Claudia M. Young, Tânia Ueda-Nakamura and Diógenes Aparício Garcia Cortez
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1171-1182; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031171 - 16 Mar 2009
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 14253
Abstract
The chemical composition of the essential oil obtained from the leaves of Piper ovatum Vahl by hydrodistillation was analyzed by GC–MS. The main constituents found were δ-amorphene (16.5 %), cis-muurola-4(14),5-diene (14.29 %) and γ-muurolene (13.26%). The crude extracts and isolated compounds [...] Read more.
The chemical composition of the essential oil obtained from the leaves of Piper ovatum Vahl by hydrodistillation was analyzed by GC–MS. The main constituents found were δ-amorphene (16.5 %), cis-muurola-4(14),5-diene (14.29 %) and γ-muurolene (13.26%). The crude extracts and isolated compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activity. Hydroalcoholic extracts of different parts of Piper ovatum Vahl, essential oil and amides isolated from leaves were tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and Candida species. All extracts and amides were active against Bacillus subtilis and Candida tropicalis, including clinical strains. Essential oil was active against C. tropicalis. These amides showed an inhibitory effect on the adherence of C. tropicalis ATCC 28707 on cover glasses at 10 μg/mL, but did not show morphological alterations at the tested concentrations. Amides were identified as piperovatine and piperlonguminine, and showed MIC values of 15.6 and 31.2 μg/mL to B. subtilis and 3.9 μg/mL to C. tropicalis, and low toxic effects to Vero cells and macrophages. Full article
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182 KiB  
Article
Grandine A, a New Proaporphine Alkaloid from the Bark of Phoebe grandis
by Mat Ropi Mukhtar, Ahmad Nazif Aziz, Noel F. Thomas, A. Hamid A. Hadi, Marc Litaudon and Khalijah Awang
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1227-1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031227 - 23 Mar 2009
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 14134
Abstract
The stem bark of Phoebe grandis afforded one new oxoproaporphine; (–)-grandine A (1), along with six known isoquinoline alkaloids: (–)-8,9-dihydrolinearisine (2), boldine, norboldine, lauformine, scortechiniine A and scortechiniine B. In addition to that of the new compound, complete 1H- and 13C-NMR [...] Read more.
The stem bark of Phoebe grandis afforded one new oxoproaporphine; (–)-grandine A (1), along with six known isoquinoline alkaloids: (–)-8,9-dihydrolinearisine (2), boldine, norboldine, lauformine, scortechiniine A and scortechiniine B. In addition to that of the new compound, complete 1H- and 13C-NMR data of the tetrahydroproaporphine (–)-8,9-dihydrolinearisine (2) is also reported. The alkaloids’ structures were elucidated primarily by means of high field 1D- and 2D-NMR and HRMS spectral data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aporphines and Oxoaporphines)
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330 KiB  
Article
X-ray and Hydrogen-bonding Properties of 1-((1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol
by Augusto Rivera, Yorley Duarte, Diego González-Salas, Jaime Ríos-Motta and Guillermo Zaragoza
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1234-1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031234 - 23 Mar 2009
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 11128
Abstract
The solid state structure of 1-((1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol, C17H13N3O, shows that this Mannich base crystallizes forming intermolecular N···HO hydrogen bonds, rather than intramolecular ones. Factors contributing to this choice of hydrogen-bonding mode are discussed. The compound crystallizes [...] Read more.
The solid state structure of 1-((1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol, C17H13N3O, shows that this Mannich base crystallizes forming intermolecular N···HO hydrogen bonds, rather than intramolecular ones. Factors contributing to this choice of hydrogen-bonding mode are discussed. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic system, P21/c space group, with lattice constants: a = 11.7934(9) Å, b = 14.3002(14) Å, c = 8.4444(8) Å, β = 106.243(5) deg, V = 1367.3(2) Å3, Z = 4, F(000) = 576, R1 = 6.96%, wR2 = 11.4%. Full article
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105 KiB  
Article
Thermus thermophilus Strains Active in Purine Nucleoside Synthesis
by Marcos Almendros, José-Vicente Sinisterra Gago and José Berenguer Carlos
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1279-1287; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031279 - 24 Mar 2009
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 11768
Abstract
Several strains of Thermus thermophilus were tested in order to detect purine nucleoside synthase activity using pyrimidine nucleosides as the sugar-donor and adenine or hypoxanthine as bases. High productivity values (t =1 hr) were obtained while completely avoiding adenosine-deaminase degradation of the products. [...] Read more.
Several strains of Thermus thermophilus were tested in order to detect purine nucleoside synthase activity using pyrimidine nucleosides as the sugar-donor and adenine or hypoxanthine as bases. High productivity values (t =1 hr) were obtained while completely avoiding adenosine-deaminase degradation of the products. N-2-deoxy-ribosyltransferase activity is described for the first time in hyperthermophilic bacteria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nucleic Acids)
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247 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Herbicidal Activities of Novel 4-(4-(5-methyl-3-arylisoxazol-4-yl)thiazol-2-yl)piperidyl Carboxamides and Thiocarboxamides
by De-Jin Hu, Su-Fang Liu, Tong-Hui Huang, Hai-Yang Tu and Ai-Dong Zhang
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1288-1303; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031288 - 24 Mar 2009
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 11197
Abstract
A series of novel 4-(4-(5-methyl-3-arylisoxazol-4-yl)thiazol-2-yl)piperidyl carboxamides and thiocarboxamides were synthesized as potential lead compounds of inhibitors targeting D1 protease in plants. These compounds were designed on the basis of a D1 protease inhibitor hit structure identified by homology modeling and virtual screening. The [...] Read more.
A series of novel 4-(4-(5-methyl-3-arylisoxazol-4-yl)thiazol-2-yl)piperidyl carboxamides and thiocarboxamides were synthesized as potential lead compounds of inhibitors targeting D1 protease in plants. These compounds were designed on the basis of a D1 protease inhibitor hit structure identified by homology modeling and virtual screening. The syntheses of these compounds were accomplished via a four-step procedure including the isoxazole ring formation, a-bromination of acetyl group, thiazole ring formation, and carboxamide/thiocarboxamide attachment. The in vivo herbicidal activity tests show that most compounds possess moderate to good herbicidal activities. The enzyme activity of one compound against the native spinach D1 protease exhibits a competitive inhibition. The results suggest that these compounds are indeed potential inhibitors for targeting D1 protease in plants. Full article
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163 KiB  
Article
New Phenylethanoid Glycosides from the Fruits of Forsythia Suspense (Thunb.) Vahl
by Fu Nan Wang, Zhi Qiang Ma, Ying Liu, Ying Zhi Guo and Zhong Wei Gu
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1324-1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031324 - 25 Mar 2009
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 12922
Abstract
Forsythosides H-J (1-3), three new caffeoyl phenylethanoid glycosides (CPGs), were isolated from the fruits of Forsythia suspense (Thunb.) Vahl., together with six known phenylethanoid glycosides: Forsythoside A (4), Forsythoside F (5), Forsythoside E (6), 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)ethyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (7), phenethyl alcohol β-D-xylo-pyranosyl-(1→6)-β [...] Read more.
Forsythosides H-J (1-3), three new caffeoyl phenylethanoid glycosides (CPGs), were isolated from the fruits of Forsythia suspense (Thunb.) Vahl., together with six known phenylethanoid glycosides: Forsythoside A (4), Forsythoside F (5), Forsythoside E (6), 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)ethyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (7), phenethyl alcohol β-D-xylo-pyranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (8) and calceolarioside B (9). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic and chemical methods. Full article
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144 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial Activities of Dodonaea viscosa using Contact Bioautography Technique
by Muhammad Khurram, Murad Ali Khan, Abdul Hameed, Naz Abbas, Abdul Qayum and Humaira Inayat
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1332-1341; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031332 - 26 Mar 2009
Cited by 53 | Viewed by 12538
Abstract
The crude ethanolic extract and n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous fractions of Dodonaea viscosa were analyzed for antibacterial potential against four Gram positive bacteria: Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, and three Gram negative bacteria: Escherichia coli, [...] Read more.
The crude ethanolic extract and n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous fractions of Dodonaea viscosa were analyzed for antibacterial potential against four Gram positive bacteria: Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, and three Gram negative bacteria: Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Preliminary screening showed inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The thin layer chromatograms of the fractions were then subjected to contact bioautography, which showed inhibition zone at different Rf values against Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, indicating the presence of antibacterial components. The MIC of each fraction was determined through a 96-well micro-titer plate method. The non-viability of the organisms was ascertained by determining the MBC of the fractions. Full article
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Review

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368 KiB  
Review
Flavonoids with Gastroprotective Activity
by Kelly Samara De Lira Mota, Guilherme Eduardo Nunes Dias, Meri Emili Ferreira Pinto, Ânderson Luiz-Ferreira, Alba Regina Monteiro Souza-Brito, Clélia Akiko Hiruma-Lima, José Maria Barbosa-Filho and Leônia Maria Batista
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 979-1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14030979 - 03 Mar 2009
Cited by 291 | Viewed by 25756
Abstract
Peptic ulcers are a common disorder of the entire gastrointestinal tract that occurs mainly in the stomach and the proximal duodenum. This disease is multifactorial and its treatment faces great difficulties due to the limited effectiveness and severe side effects of the currently [...] Read more.
Peptic ulcers are a common disorder of the entire gastrointestinal tract that occurs mainly in the stomach and the proximal duodenum. This disease is multifactorial and its treatment faces great difficulties due to the limited effectiveness and severe side effects of the currently available drugs. The use of natural products for the prevention and treatment of different pathologies is continuously expanding throughout the world. This is particularly true with regards to flavonoids, which represent a highly diverse class of secondary metabolites with potentially beneficial human health effects that is widely distributed in the plant kingdom and currently consumed in large amounts in the diet. They display several pharmacological properties in the gastroprotective area, acting as anti-secretory, cytoprotective and antioxidant agents. Besides their action as gastroprotectives, flavonoids also act in healing of gastric ulcers and additionally these polyphenolic compounds can be new alternatives for suppression or modulation of peptic ulcers associated with H. pylori. In this review, we have summarized the literature on ninety-five flavonoids with varying degrees of antiulcerogenic activity, confirming that flavonoids have a therapeutic potential for the more effective treatment of peptic ulcers. Full article
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153 KiB  
Review
Laser Photolysis and Thermolysis of Organic Selenides and Tellurides for Chemical Gas-phase Deposition of Nanostructured Materials
by Josef Pola and Akihiko Ouchi
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1111-1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031111 - 12 Mar 2009
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 12813
Abstract
Laser radiation-induced decomposition of gaseous organic selenides and tellurides resulting in chemical deposition of nanostructured materials on cold surfaces is reviewed with regard to the mechanism of the gas-phase decomposition and properties of the deposited materials. The laser photolysis and laser thermolysis of [...] Read more.
Laser radiation-induced decomposition of gaseous organic selenides and tellurides resulting in chemical deposition of nanostructured materials on cold surfaces is reviewed with regard to the mechanism of the gas-phase decomposition and properties of the deposited materials. The laser photolysis and laser thermolysis of the Se and Te precursors leading to chalcogen deposition can also serve as a useful approach to nanostructured chalcogen composites and IVA group (Si, Ge, Sn) element chalcogenides provided that it is carried out simultaneously with laser photolysis or thermolysis of polymer and IVA group element precursor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selenium and Tellurium Chemistry)
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456 KiB  
Review
Current Status of Older and New Purine Nucleoside Analogues in the Treatment of Lymphoproliferative Diseases
by Tadeusz Robak, Anna Korycka, Ewa Lech-Maranda and Pawel Robak
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1183-1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031183 - 23 Mar 2009
Cited by 67 | Viewed by 17372
Abstract
For the past few years more and more new cytotoxic agents active in the treatment of hematological malignancies have been synthesized and become available for either in vitro studies or clinical trials. Among them the class of antineoplastic drugs belonging to the purine [...] Read more.
For the past few years more and more new cytotoxic agents active in the treatment of hematological malignancies have been synthesized and become available for either in vitro studies or clinical trials. Among them the class of antineoplastic drugs belonging to the purine nucleoside analogues group (PNAs) plays an important role. Three of them: pentostatin (DCF), cladribine (2-CdA) and fludarabine (FA) were approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of hematological malignancies. Recently three novel PNAs: clofarabine (CAFdA), nelarabine (ara-G) and forodesine (immucillin H, BCX-1777) have been synthesized and introduced into preclinical studies and clinical trials. These agents seem to be useful mainly for the treatment of human T-cell proliferative disorders and they are currently undergoing clinical trials in lymphoid malignancies. However, there are also several studies suggesting the role of these drugs in B-cell malignancies. This review will summarize current knowledge concerning the mechanism of action, pharmacologic properties, clinical activity and toxicity of PNAs accepted for use in clinical practice, as well as new agents available for clinical trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nucleic Acids)
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221 KiB  
Review
13C-NMR Data of Diterpenes Isolated from Aristolochia Species
by Alison Geraldo Pacheco, Patrícia Machado de Oliveira, Dorila Piló-Veloso and Antônio Flávio de Carvalho Alcântara
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1245-1262; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031245 - 23 Mar 2009
Cited by 54 | Viewed by 17016
Abstract
The genus Aristolochia,an important source of physiologically active compounds that belong to different chemical classes, is the subject of research in numerous pharmacological and chemical studies. This genus contains a large number of terpenoid compounds, particularly diterpenes. This work presents a compilation [...] Read more.
The genus Aristolochia,an important source of physiologically active compounds that belong to different chemical classes, is the subject of research in numerous pharmacological and chemical studies. This genus contains a large number of terpenoid compounds, particularly diterpenes. This work presents a compilation of the 13C-NMR data of 57 diterpenoids described between 1981 and 2007 which were isolated from Aristolochia species. The compounds are arranged skeletonwise in each section, according to their structures, i.e., clerodane, labdane, and kaurane derivatives. A brief discussion on the 13C chemical shifts of these diterpenes is also included. Full article
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205 KiB  
Review
Selenium as an Essential Micronutrient: Roles in Cell Cycle and Apoptosis
by Huawei Zeng
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1263-1278; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031263 - 23 Mar 2009
Cited by 166 | Viewed by 17798
Abstract
Selenium is an essential trace element for humans and animals, and selenium deficiency is associated with several disease conditions such as immune impairment. In addition, selenium intakes that are greater than the recommended daily allowance (RDA) appear to protect against certain types of [...] Read more.
Selenium is an essential trace element for humans and animals, and selenium deficiency is associated with several disease conditions such as immune impairment. In addition, selenium intakes that are greater than the recommended daily allowance (RDA) appear to protect against certain types of cancers. In humans and animals, cell proliferation and death must be regulated to maintain tissue homeostasis, and it has been well documented that numerous human diseases are directly related to the control of cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Thus, the elucidation of the mechanisms by which selenium regulates the cell cycle and apoptosis can lead to a better understanding of the nature of selenium’s essentiality and its role in disease prevention. This article reviews the status of knowledge concerning the effect of selenium on cell cycle and apoptosis Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selenium and Tellurium Chemistry)
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97 KiB  
Review
Gene Knockdowns in Adult Animals: PPMOs and Vivo-Morpholinos
by Jon D. Moulton and Shan Jiang
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1304-1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031304 - 25 Mar 2009
Cited by 91 | Viewed by 29231
Abstract
Antisense molecules do not readily cross cell membranes. This has limited the use of antisense to systems where techniques have been worked out to introduce the molecules into cells, such as embryos and cell cultures. Uncharged antisense bearing a group of guanidinium moieties [...] Read more.
Antisense molecules do not readily cross cell membranes. This has limited the use of antisense to systems where techniques have been worked out to introduce the molecules into cells, such as embryos and cell cultures. Uncharged antisense bearing a group of guanidinium moieties on either a linear peptide or dendrimer scaffold can enter cells by endocytosis and subsequently escape from endosomes into the cytosol/nuclear compartment of cells. These technologies allow systemic administration of antisense, making gene knockdowns and splice modification feasible in adult animals; this review presents examples of such animal studies. Techniques developed with PPMOs, which are an arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptide linked to a Morpholino oligo, can also be performed using commercially available Vivo-Morpholinos, which are eight guanidinium groups on a dendrimeric scaffold linked to a Morpholino oligo. Antisense-based techniques such as blocking translation, modifying pre-mRNA splicing, inhibiting miRNA maturation and inhibiting viral replication can be conveniently applied in adult animals by injecting PPMOs or Vivo-Morpholinos. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nucleic Acids)
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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

21 KiB  
Correction
Publisher's Note - Pagination Error, Molecules 2009, 14(3)
by Shu-Kun Lin
Molecules 2009, 14(3), 1134-1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules14031134 - 10 Sep 2009
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6091
Abstract
Publisher's Note added on 10 September 2009: There is a pagination error in Molecules 2009, 14(3) with pages 1134-1144 missing. Thus, pages 1134-1144 are taken as a blank pages. Full article
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