Fibroblast screening for chaperone therapy in beta-galactosidosis

We performed screening of beta-galactosidase-deficient fibroblasts for possible chemical chaperone therapy using N-octyl-4-epi-beta-valienamine (NOEV) in patients with GM1-gangliosidosis and Morquio B disease (beta-galactosidosis). Fibroblasts were cultured with NOEV for 4 days and beta-galactosidase activity was measured. Mutation analysis was performed simultaneously. Two separate criteria were set for evaluation of the chaperone effect: a relative increase of enzyme activity (more than 3-fold), and an increase up to more than 10% normal enzyme activity. Among the 50 fibroblast strains tested, more than 3-fold increase was achieved in 17 cell strains (34%), and more than 10% normal activity in 10 (20%). Both criteria were satisfied in 6 (12%), and either of them in 21 (42%). Juvenile GM1-gangliosidosis was most responsive, and then infantile GM1-gangliosidosis. This enhancement was mutation-specific. We estimate that the NOEV chaperone therapy will be effective in 20-40% of the patients, mainly in juvenile and infantile GM1-gangliosidosis patients. A molecular design may produce mutation-specific chaperone compounds for the other disease phenotypes. This cellular screening will be useful for identification of human patients with beta-galactosidase deficiency for chaperone therapy to be started in the near future.

Preventive effects of cyclohexenonic long-chain fatty alcohol on diabetic cystopathy in the rat

In this study, we investigated the preventive effect of n-hexacosanol on diabetes-induced bladder dysfunction in the rat. Diabetes was induced in 8-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats by administering an injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg, i.p.). The rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (age-matched control rats, diabetic rats without treatment with n-hexacosanol, and diabetic rats treated with n-hexacosanol (2 and 8 mg/kg, i.p. every day)) and maintained for 4 weeks. The serum glucose and serum insulin levels were determined, and the functions of bladder were estimated by voiding behavior, cystometric, and functional studies to carbachol and KCl. Furthermore, we examined possible diabetic induced histological changes in these rats. Treatment with n-hexacosanol did not alter diabetic status including body mass, bladder mass, and serum glucose and serum insulin levels, but significantly improved the maximum contraction pressure of the detrusor and residual urine volume in cystometric studies and Emax values to carbachol in functional studies in a dose-dependent manner. Diabetes induced bladder smooth muscle hypertrophy, which tended to be ameliorated by treatment with n-hexacosanol in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with n-hexacosanol did not alter the diabetic status, but significantly improved diabetic cystopathy in a dose-dependent manner.

Effect of bcl-2 overexpression in mice on ovotoxicity caused by 4-vinylcyclohexene

The occupational chemical 4-vinylcyclohexene (VCH) destroys small preantral ovarian follicles in mice following repeated daily dosing. The cell survival gene bcl-2 is thought to protect against follicular death during embryogenesis because primordial follicle numbers in newborn bcl-2 overexpressing (OE) mice are greater than in wild-type (WT) controls. Thus, this study was designed to determine if overexpression of bcl-2 protects against VCH-induced follicle loss during embryonic development. Pregnant bcl-2 OE or WT mice were dosed (p.o.) daily with VCH (500 mg/kg) or sesame oil (vehicle control) on days 8-18 of pregnancy. Ovaries were collected from moms and female pups on pup postnatal day (PND) 8. Nonpregnant OE and WT females were also treated with VCH (500 mg/kg p.o.) or vehicle and evaluated in the same manner. As previously reported, ovaries from PND8 OE female pups contained 50% more primordial follicles than WT pups (P < 0.05). Unlike WT pups, relative to vehicle controls, in utero exposure to VCH resulted in a reduction in primordial (25% of control), primary (38% of control), and secondary (33% of control) follicles in ovaries of OE pups (P < 0.05). VCH had no significant effect on follicle numbers in OE or WT moms. Conversely, in nonpregnant adults, VCH did not affect WT mice but caused loss of primordial (55% of control), primary (51% of control), and secondary (69% of control) follicles in OE mice (P < 0.05). These results demonstrate that bcl-2 overexpression does not protect against, but instead increases susceptibility to VCH-induced follicle loss in transplacentally exposed or in nonpregnant mice.

Inhibition of RecBCD enzyme by antineoplastic DNA alkylating agents

To understand how bulky adducts might perturb DNA helicase function, three distinct DNA-binding agents were used to determine the effects of DNA alkylation on a DNA helicase. Adozelesin, ecteinascidin 743 (Et743) and hedamycin each possess unique structures and sequence selectivity. They bind to double-stranded DNA and alkylate one strand of the duplex in cis, adding adducts that alter the structure of DNA significantly. The results show that Et743 was the most potent inhibitor of DNA unwinding, followed by adozelesin and hedamycin. Et743 significantly inhibited unwinding, enhanced degradation of DNA, and completely eliminated the ability of the translocating RecBCD enzyme to recognize and respond to the recombination hotspot chi. Unwinding of adozelesin-modified DNA was accompanied by the appearance of unwinding intermediates, consistent with enzyme entrapment or stalling. Further, adozelesin also induced "apparent" chi fragment formation. The combination of enzyme sequestering and pseudo-chi modification of RecBCD, results in biphasic time-courses of DNA unwinding. Hedamycin also reduced RecBCD activity, albeit at increased concentrations of drug relative to either adozelesin or Et743. Remarkably, the hedamycin modification resulted in constitutive activation of the bottom-strand nuclease activity of the enzyme, while leaving the ability of the translocating enzyme to recognize and respond to chi largely intact. Finally, the results show that DNA alkylation does not significantly perturb the allosteric interaction that activates the enzyme for ATP hydrolysis, as the efficiency of ATP utilization for DNA unwinding is affected only marginally. These results taken together present a unique response of RecBCD enzyme to bulky DNA adducts. We correlate these effects with the recently determined crystal structure of the RecBCD holoenzyme bound to DNA.

Contact formation dynamics: Mapping chemical bond formation between a molecule and a metallic probe

We present a study that maps out chemical bond formation between a Pt-inked probe and a single 1,3-cyclohexadiene (1,3-CHD) molecule on Si(100). By separating the mechanical and electronic contributions to the current during the approach to contact, we show that there are significant forces between the probe and the C=C of the molecule and we track the relaxation of the molecule, the emergence of a chemical bond feature in the LDOS, and the quenching of specific molecular vibrations during bond formation.

Analysis of hop acids and their oxidized derivatives and iso-alpha-acids in beer by capillary electrophoresis-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

This study investigates the applicability of on-line coupling of capillary electrophoresis with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (CZE-ESI-MS) for the separation and characterization of alpha- and beta-acids and oxidized hop acids from crude extracts of different hop varieties. CZE-ESI-MS with negative-ion electrospray ionization proved to be a suitable technique for the determination of these types of natural compounds and their oxidized derivatives. The CZE parameters (pH, concentration, and buffer type) and ESI-MS parameters (nature and flow rate of the sheath liquid, nebulizer pressure, drying gas flow rate, temperature, and compound stability) were optimized. The optimized method provides the potential for a fast qualitative determination of hop acids and their oxidation compounds. The method was also applied to the determination of iso-alpha-acids in beer.

Dual modality imaging of a novel rat model of ovarian carcinogenesis

Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women, in part because of the limited knowledge about early stage disease. We develop a novel rat model of ovarian cancer and perform a pilot study to examine the harvested ovaries with complementary optical imaging modalities. Rats are exposed to repeated daily dosing (20 days) with 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) to cause early ovarian failure (model for postmenopause), and ovaries are directly exposed to 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) to cause abnormal ovarian proliferation and neoplasia. Harvested ovaries are examined with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and light-induced fluorescence (LIF) at one, three, and five months post-DMBA treatment. VCD causes complete ovarian follicle depletion within 8 months after onset of dosing. DMBA induces abnormal size, cysts, and neoplastic changes. OCT successfully visualizes normal and abnormal structures (e.g., cysts, bursa, follicular remnant degeneration) and the LIF spectra show statistically significant changes in the ratio of average emission intensity at 390:450 nm between VCD-treated ovaries and both normal cycling and neoplastic DMBA-treated ovaries. Overall, this pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of both the novel animal model for ovarian cancer and the ability of optical imaging techniques to visualize ovarian function and health.

Sonochemical epoxidation of cyclohexene in R-CN/H2O2 system

Cyclohexene is efficiently epoxidized by the R-CN/H2O2 system under ultrasonic irradiation. Different nitriles can be used to generate in situ the oxidizing peroxycarboximidic acids. Reduction of the organic solvent quantities and their replacement by water also gives good results.

Sonochemical cycloadditions in ionic liquids. Lessons from model cases involving common dienes and carbonyl dienophiles

This contribution describes a series of sonochemical cycloadditions involving either cyclopentadiene or 1,3-cyclohexadiene with carbonyl dienophiles in an imidazolium-based ionic liquid as reaction medium. In general, ultrasound does effectively improve these processes in terms of higher yields and/or shorter reaction times when compared with the corresponding silent reactions. Stereoselectivities, however, remain practically unaffected by sonication. The role of ionic liquids under ultrasonic activation is also discussed.

The synthesis of L-carvone and limonene derivatives with increased antiproliferative effect and activation of ERK pathway in prostate cancer cells

Thirty-one novel derivatives of carvone, carveol, and limonene were designed and synthesized using L-carvone as a starting material via chlorination, nucleophilic substitution, and reduction. The structures of these derivatives were characterized by MS and 1H NMR. The antiproliferative effect was evaluated in human prostate cancer LNCaP cells. L-carvone, L-carveol, and L-limonene were weak cell growth inhibitors and introduction of 4-(2-methoxyphenyl)piperazine to carvone, carveol or limonene significantly increased their antiproliferative effect. The antiproliferative effect was correlated with ERK activation and p21(waf1) induction.

Combined Behavioral and c-Fos Studies Elucidate the Vital Role of Sodium for Odor Detection

Salt, known as taste quality, is generally neglected in olfaction, although the olfactory sensory neurons stretch into the salty nasal mucus covering the olfactory epithelium (OE). Using a psychophysical approach, we directly and functionally demonstrate in the awake rat for a variety of structurally diverse odorants that sodium is a critical factor for olfactory perception and sensitivity, both very important components of mammalian communication and sexual behavior. Bathing the olfactory mucus with an iso-osmotic sodium-free buffer solution results in severe deficits in odorant detection. However, sensitivity returns fully within a few hours, indicating continuous mucus production. In the presence of sodium in the mucus covering the OE, all odorants induce odorant-specific c-Fos expression in the olfactory bulb. Yet, if sodium is absent in the mucus, no c-Fos expression is induced as demonstrated for n-octanal. Our noninvasive approach to induce anosmia in mammals here presented--which is fully reversible within hours--opens new possibilities to study the functions of olfactory communication in awake animals.

Olfactory sensitivity for enantiomers and their racemic mixtures--a comparative study in CD-1 mice and spider monkeys

Using a conditioning paradigm, the olfactory sensitivity of six CD-1 mice for the enantiomers of carvone and of limonene as well as for their racemic mixtures was investigated. With all six stimuli, the animals significantly discriminated concentrations <or=0.1 ppm (parts per million) from the odorless solvent, and with five of the six stimuli, the best-scoring animals were even able to detect concentrations <or=1 ppb (parts per billion). Five spider monkeys tested in parallel were found to detect the same stimuli at concentrations <1 ppm, and with two of the stimuli, they were also able to discriminate concentrations <1 ppb from the solvent. The results showed 1) both CD-1 mice and spider monkeys to have a well-developed olfactory sensitivity for the stimuli tested, with no systematic difference in performance between species; 2) the effect of chirality on detectability of the enantiomers to be substance specific; 3) no systematic effect of the presence (carvone) or absence (limonene) of a functional carbonyl group on detectability of the enantiomers; and 4) that spider monkeys detected the racemic mixtures of both carvone and limonene at lower concentrations compared to the unmixed compounds, whereas the mice failed to do so. These findings lend support to the growing body of evidence suggesting that between-species comparisons of the relative size of olfactory brain structures do not allow us to reliably predict olfactory sensitivity. As mice and spider monkeys are thought to share a similar number of functional olfactory receptor genes, the findings further suggest that differences in the relative abundance of chiral-specific olfactory receptor types might account for the observed difference in mixture additivity at threshold level between the two species. These threshold data may provide useful information for the choice of adequate stimulus concentrations in electrophysiological or imaging studies of the olfactory system or investigations of the discriminative abilities of mice and spider monkeys.

A model study toward the total synthesis of N-deacetyllappaconitine

[reaction: see text] A model study leading to the preparation of the AEF rings of N-deacetyllappaconitine is described. The conjugate addition to the alpha-alkyl cyclohexenone 10 proceeded with high diastereocontrol. The Mannich cyclization of 16 to 4 was accomplished by heating with Rexyn-300 and Na(2)SO(4).

Radical cyclization approach to spirocyclohexadienones

Cyclization of an aryl radical at the ipso position of a p-O-aryl-substituted acetamide or benzamide generates oxindoles or quinolones bearing spirocyclohexadienone rings. This versatile reaction is applied to formal syntheses of the vasopressin inhibitor SR121463A and aza-galanthamine.

Semi-quantitative immunohistochemical analysis of male rat-specific alpha2u-globulin accumulation for chemical toxicity evaluation

We purified male rat urinary alpha(2u)-globulin, prepared the antibody in rabbits, and improved an immunohistochemical detection method using this antibody for male rat-specific alpha(2u)-globulin accumulation appearing as hyaline droplets in the kidneys. Our prepared antibody reacted specifically with alpha(2u)-globulin in both immunohistochemical and Western blotting analyses, furthermore, and the graded immuno-reactivities on the slide were well associated with computational image analyzing results. Using this method, we retrospectively analyzed the renal sections from the toxicity studies of 12 nephrotoxic chemicals, which had already been conducted under the Japanese Existing Chemicals Survey Program. We demonstrated that the hyaline droplets induced by treatment with 10 chemicals (1,4-dibromobenzene, dicyclopentadiene, 3,4-dimethylaniline, 1,4-dicyanobenzene, tetrahydrothiophene-1,1-dioxide, 1,3-dicyanobenzene, acenaphthene, 3,4-dichloro-1-butene, 3a,4,7,7a-tetrahydro-1H-indene and 3,5,5-trimethylhexan-1-ol) were directly associated with alpha(2u)-globulin accumulation. This immunohistochemical method is convenient for applying, even retrospectively, paraffin sections from general toxicity studies and could be useful for qualifying male rat-specific hyaline droplets consisting of alpha(2u)-globulin and renal risk in humans.

Diels–Alder/thiol–olefin co-oxygenation approach to antimalarials incorporating the 2,3-dioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane pharmacophore

A Diels-Alder/thiol-olefin co-oxygenation approach to the synthesis of novel bicyclic endoperoxides 17a-22b is reported. Some of these endoperoxides (e.g., 17b, 19b, 22a and 22b) have potent nanomolar in vitro antimalarial activity equivalent to that of the synthetic antimalarial agent arteflene. Iron(II)-mediated degradation of sulfone-endoperoxide 19b and spin-trapping with TEMPO provide a spin-trapped adduct 25 indicative of the formation of a secondary carbon centered radical species 24. Reactive C-radical intermediates of this type may be involved in the expression of the antimalarial effect of these bicyclic endoperoxides.

Influence of ozone-limonene reactions on perceived air quality

This study conducted short-term assessments of perceived air quality (PAQ) for six different realistic concentrations of ozone and limonene, separately or together, in room air. The impact of filtration and the influence of the ozone generation method were also examined. The evaluations were made in four identical 40 m3 low-polluting test offices ventilated at 1.4 h(-1) or in two identical 30 m3 stainless-steel chambers ventilated at 1.9 h(-1). Concentrations of ozone, total volatile organic compounds and size-fractionated particles were continuously monitored in each experiment. The results indicate that, for each of the six conditions, the PAQ was poorer when ozone and limonene were present together compared with when only ozone or only limonene was present. In the test offices a correlation was observed between the number of secondary organic aerosols produced by a given ozone/limonene condition and the sensory pollution load for that condition. The particles themselves do not appear to be the primary causative agents, but instead are co-varying surrogates for sensory offending gas-phase species.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Although the health consequences of long-term exposures to the products of ozone-initiated indoor chemistry remain to be determined, we judge that the sensory offending nature of selected products provides an additional reason to limit indoor ozone levels. Devices that emit ozone at significant rates should not be used indoors. Ozone-filtration of make-up air should also be beneficial in mechanically ventilated buildings located in regions that repeatedly violate outdoor ozone standards. Additionally, the use of limonene containing products should be curtailed during periods when indoor ozone levels are elevated.

Evaluation of the antitussive effect of stigma and petals of saffron (Crocus sativus) and its components, safranal and crocin in guinea pigs

The antitussive activity of Crocus sativus stigma and petal extracts and its components, safranal and crocin, was evaluated using the nebolized solution of citric acid 20% in guinea pigs. The extract and agents were injected intraperitoneally. The ethanolic extract of C. sativus (100-800 mg/kg) and safranal (0.25-0.75 ml/kg) reduced the number of cough. The ethanolic and aqueous extracts of petal and crocin did not show antitussive activity.

Regioselective single and double conjugate additions to substituted cyclohexa-2,5-dienone monoacetals

[reaction: see text]. A series of quinone monoacetals bearing electron-withdrawing groups was treated with diethyl malonate and other bifunctional nucleophiles in the presence of KO-t-Bu in THF. Reactions of ethyl 3-nitropropionate or diethyl malonate resulted in single conjugate addition adducts. When ethyl acetoacetate was used as a nucleophile, bridged bicyclic products were obtained in good yields. The regiochemistry of conjugate addition was dependent on the quinone monoacetal substitution.

Fluorescent properties of pentamethine cyanine dyes with cyclopentene and cyclohexene group in presence of biological molecules

A series of pentamethine cyanine dyes with cyclohexene or cyclopentene group in polymethyne chain, assumed as DNA groove-binders, were studied as fluorescent probes for nucleic acids as well as for native and denatured proteins. It was revealed that the presence of methyl or dimethyl substituent in 5 position of the cyclohexene group hinders the formation of dye-DNA fluorescent complex, while the methyl substituent in 2 position leads to the increasing of the dye-DNA complex fluorescence intensity. The dyes SL-251, SL-1041, and SL-1046 containing methyl group in the 2 position of the cyclic group, are reported as bright DNA-sensitive dyes. The study of the dyes DNA-binding specificity demonstrated significant AT-preference that points to the groove-binding interaction mode. At the same time, the dyes SL-251, SL-377, and SL-957 with the 2-methyl substituted cyclohexene group were shown to be sensitive fluorescent dyes both for nonspecific (in SDS presence) proteins detection and for native BSA.

Lipolytic effects of citrus peel oils and their components

This study was conducted to determine the lipolytic effects of eight kinds of citrus peel oils and their components. All of the citrus peel oils revealed lipolytic effects on olive oil model solution ranging from 10.9 to 73.8%. Hakyul (Citrus natsudaidai Hayata) showed the highest lipolytic effect (73.8%), followed by yuza (Citrus junos Sieb. ex Tanaka, 68.1%) and lemon (Citrus limonium, 63.4%), and their effects were comparable with or stronger than that of 5 mM raspberry ketone (p < 0.05). Among 17 authentic compounds relating to citrus peel oils, octanal (78.6%) showed the highest lipolytic effect, followed by gamma-terpinene (76.3%), limonene (75%), terpinen-4-ol (70.7%), nerol (69.9%), p-cymene (67.7%), and geranyl acetate (67.2%), and their effects were stronger than that of 5 mM raspberry ketone (p < 0.05). Ethyl acetate, alpha-pinene, myrcene, citronellal, linallyl acetate, and citronellol exhibited poor lipolytic effect in the model solution. Lipolytic effect was found to be high when the oils included a higher content of gamma-terpinene and p-cymene. Limonene showed potential lipolytic effect, and its effect is likely to be enhanced by the presence of gamma-terpinene and p-cymene. It is considered that monoterpene hydrocarbons consisting of one or two double bonds would have stronger lipolytic effect than those having three double bonds.

Effect of duration of dosing on onset of ovarian failure in a chemical-induced mouse model of perimenopause

OBJECTIVE

Repeated daily dosing with 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) causes gradual ovarian failure in mice. As a result, the animal undergoes ovarian failure, but retains residual ovarian tissue. The purpose of this study was to use a mouse model to regulate the induction of a period analogous to perimenopause in women.

DESIGN

Female B6C3F1 mice (28 days old; n = 8) were dosed daily for 10 or 20 days with VCD (160 mg/kg/d) or sesame oil. The animals were evaluated for reproductive function on days 10, 20, 35 after the onset of dosing, and on the day of follicle depletion. Each animal was killed at the specified time points, and ovaries, uteri, and plasma were collected.

RESULTS

VCD reduced (P < 0.05) the number of primordial (by 93.2%) and primary (by 85.1%) follicles after 10 days of dosing, whereas essentially all primordial and primary follicles were lost (P < 0.05) after 20 days of dosing. The average time to ovarian failure was on day 135 for 10-day-dosed mice and on day 52 for 20-day-dosed mice. Follicle-depleted mice in both groups had decreased (P < 0.05) ovarian and uterine weights. Circulating follicle-stimulating hormone levels were increased (P < 0.05) on day 44 after the onset of dosing in 10-day-dosed mice and on day 35 in 20-day-dosed mice.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that ovarian failure can be caused by VCD more rapidly if repeated daily dosing occurs for a longer period. Thus, the length of time leading up to ovarian failure (model for perimenopause) can be adjusted by varying the length of exposure.

Ionizing radiation-induced destruction of benzene and dienes in aqueous media

Pulse radiolysis with spectrophotometric and conductometric detection was utilized to study the formation and reactions of radicals from benzene and dienes in aqueous solutions. The benzene OH adduct, *C6H6OH, reacts with O2 (k = 3 x 10(8) L mol(-1) s(-1)) in a reversible reaction. The peroxyl radical, HOC6H6O2*, undergoes O2*- elimination, bimolecular decay, and reaction with benzene to initiate a chain reaction, depending on the dose rate, benzene concentration, and pH. The occurrence of the chain reaction is demonstrated in low-dose-rate gamma radiolysis experiments where the consumption of O2 was monitored. 1,4-Cyclohexadiene, 1,4-hexadiene, and 1,4-pentadiene form OH-adducts and undergo H-abstraction by O*- radicals. The OH-adducts react with O2 to form peroxyl radicals. These peroxyl radicals, however, do not undergo unimolecular O2*- elimination but rather decay by second-order processes, which lead to subsequent steps of O2*- elimination.

Asymmetric synthesis of hydrobenzofuranones via desymmetrization of cyclohexadienones using the intramolecular Stetter reaction

Dearomatization of phenols followed by oxidation affords cyclohexadienyloxyacetaldehydes, which produce hydrobenzofuranones via asymmetric intramolecular Stetter reaction in good to excellent yield. Quaternary as well as up to three contiguous stereocenters may be formed in good to excellent enantioselectivities and high diastereoselectivities.

Changes in membrane fatty acids composition of microbial cells induced by addiction of thymol, carvacrol, limonene, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol in the growing media

Major active compounds from essential oils are well-known to possess antimicrobial activity against both pathogen and spoilage microorganisms. The aim of this work was to determine the alteration of the membrane fatty acid profile as an adaptive mechanism of the cells in the presence of a sublethal concentration of antimicrobial compound in response to a stress condition. Methanolic solutions of thymol, carvacrol, limonene, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol were added into growth media of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Brochothrix thermosphacta, and Staphylococcus aureus strains. Fatty acid extraction and gas chromatographic analysis were performed to assess changes in membrane fatty acid composition. Substantial changes were observed on the long chain unsaturated fatty acids when the E. coli and Salmonella strains grew in the presence of limonene and cinnamaldehyde and carvacrol and eugenol, respectively. All compounds influenced the fatty acid profile of B. thermosphacta, while Pseudomonas and S. aureus strains did not show substantial changes in their fatty acid compositions.

A new approach to promoting sluggish Diels-Alder reactions: dihapto-coordination of the diene

The cycloaddition between 1,3-cyclohexadiene and various enones and enals (methyl vinyl ketone, ethyl vinyl ketone, methacrolien) is accomplished at room temperature in yields ranging from 51 to 68% without the use of Lewis acids, high pressures, or microwave reactors. This normally sluggish cyclization is accomplished by precoordination of the diene to a pi-basic molybdenum complex. The eta2-bound metal is thought to promote a Michael reaction between the uncoordinated portion of the diene and the enone, and the resulting enolate then closes to form the cycloalkene product. The organic cycloadduct is removed by oxidation with air or with silver triflate in nearly quantitative yield. For more sterically hindered enones (e.g., mesityl oxide) and for methyl acrylate, the desired outcome requires the use of BF3.OEt2, and yields are significantly lower (15-35%)

Comparative toxicity of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil and blends of its major constituents against Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) on two different host plants

Bioassays of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil and blends of its major constituents were conducted using host-specific strains of the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, on bean and tomato plants. Two constituents tested individually against a bean host strain and five constituents tested individually against a tomato host strain accounted for most of the toxicity of the natural oil. Other constituents were relatively inactive when tested individually. Toxicity of blends of selected constituents indicated a synergistic effect among the active and inactive constituents, with the presence of all constituents necessary to equal the toxicity of the natural oil.

The A/T-specific DNA alkylating agent adozelesin inhibits Plasmodium falciparum growth in vitro and protects mice against Plasmodium chabaudi adami infection

There is an urgent need for new anti-malarial drugs to combat the resurgence of resistance to current therapies. To exploit the A/T richness of malaria DNA as a potential target for anti-malarial drugs we tested an A/T-specific DNA synthesis inhibitor, adozelesin, for activity against Plasmodium falciparum in vitro and Plasmodium chabaudi adami in mice. Adozelesin is a DNA alkylating agent that exhibits specificity for the motif A/T, A/T and A. In P. falciparum 3D7 cultures, adozelesin acts as a powerful inhibitor of parasite growth (IC(50) of 70 pM) and is equally potent at killing the drug-resistant strains FCR3 and 7G8. Using a real-time PCR assay, we show that treatment with adozelesin in vitro results in damage of P. falciparum genomic DNA. In synchronized cultures, adozelesin exhibits a concentration-dependent effect on parasitemia and on the development of parasites through the asexual cycle. In asynchronous cultures, parasites arrest at all stages of the asexual cycle suggesting that adozelesin exerts other anti-parasitic effects in addition to inhibiting DNA replication. These anti-parasite effects are irreversible since cultures exposed to adozelesin for more than 6h fail to recover upon removal of the drug. Furthermore, adozelesin is very effective at suppressing malaria infection in vivo; growth of P. c. adami DK in mice was highly impaired by a single injection of adozelesin (25 microg/kg) at 4 days post-infection. These results demonstrate that adozelesin irreversibly blocks parasite growth in vitro and suppresses parasite infection in vivo, suggesting that A/T-specific DNA damaging agents represent a new class of compounds with potential as anti-malarials.

The inhibition of Candida albicans by selected essential oils and their major components

Many volatile oils are known to possess antifungal properties and are potentially applicable as antimycotic agents. By studying the efficacy of essential oils against different pathogenic mycetes, we have evaluated the in-vitro inhibiting activity of some essential oils and their main constituents against a strain of Candida albicans. Sixteen commercial essential oils and forty-two pure constituents (alcohols, aldehydes, ketons, phenols and hydrocarbons), were tested by using a semisolid agar antifungal susceptibility (SAAS) method. Gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy analyses of the oils tested were performed. The essential oils of Origanum vulgare, Satureja montana, Mentha piperita, Cinnamomum verum, Cymbopogon flexuosus showed maximum inhibitory activity (MIC = 500 ppm) after 7 days. According to the results of the examination of pure constituents, beta-phellandrene proved to be the most interesting component among cyclic monoterpenic hydrocarbons as it showed a strong activity (MIC = 50 ppm). The most active of phenols was carvacrol (MIC 100 ppm). The open-chain alcohol 1-decanol was the most active of alcohols at 50 ppm. Finally, among aldehydes, a strong activity was shown by trans-cynnamaldehyde (MIC 50 ppm).

Flavour retention and release from protein solutions

This paper briefly presents the main results obtained up to now on protein-flavour binding and release in relation with flavour perception. Among the food proteins, beta-lactoglobulin is the most extensively studied for its binding properties, which involve both hydrophobic and hydrogen binding. Recent developments using molecular modelling and Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship confirmed the existence of two different binding sites for flavour compounds on beta-lactoglobulin. During the aroma release process in the mouth, not only free aroma compounds are released but also those reversibly bound by the protein, pointing out the fact that flavour perception is only affected if strong binding occurs.

Accelerated ovarian failure induced by 4-vinyl cyclohexene diepoxide in Nrf2 null mice

Genetic and biochemical analyses have uncovered an essential role for nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in regulating phase II xenobiotic metabolism and antioxidant response. Here we show that Nrf2 protects against the ovarian toxicity of 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) in mice. Nrf2-/- female mice exposed to VCD exhibit an age-dependent decline in reproduction leading to secondary infertility accompanied by hypergonadotropic hypogonadism after 30 weeks of age. VCD is shown to selectively destroy small ovarian follicles, resulting in early depletion of functional follicles. Treatment with VCD induces apoptotic death in cultured cells and in ovarian follicles, suggesting apoptosis as a mechanism of follicle loss. Loss of Nrf2 function blocks the basal and inducible expression of microsomal epoxide hydrolase, a key enzyme in the detoxification of VCD, and increases the oxidative stress in cells that is further exacerbated by VCD. Foxo3a, a repressor in the early stages of follicle activation, displays reduced expression in Nrf2-/- ovaries, causing accelerated growth of follicles in the absence of exposure to exogenous chemicals. Furthermore, Foxo3a is degraded through the 26S proteasome pathway in untreated cells and is induced by VCD via both Nrf2-dependent transcription and protein stabilization. This study demonstrates that Nrf2 serves as an essential sensor and regulator of chemical homeostasis in ovarian cells, protecting the cells from toxic chemicals by controlling metabolic detoxification, reactive oxygen species defense, and Foxo3a expression. In addition, these findings raise the possibility that exposure to environmental or occupational ovotoxicants plays a role in the premature ovarian failure commonly associated with infertility and premature aging in women.

Chemical composition of volatiles in Sardinian myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) alcoholic extracts and essential oils

The chemical composition of the volatile fraction of myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) alcoholic extracts and essential oils from leaves and berries collected in different places in Sardinia (Italy) was studied. A simple and rapid liquid-liquid extraction method was used to isolate volatile compounds from myrtle alcoholic extracts followed by GC and GC-MS analysis allowing the detection of 24 compounds. The volatile fraction was characterized by the terpenes fraction corresponding to that of the essential oils and by a fatty acid ethyl esters fraction. The variation during extraction of the volatile fraction in alcoholic extracts of berries and leaves was evaluated. Essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation, and the yields were on average 0.52 +/- 0.03% (v/w dried weight) and 0.02 +/- 0.00% for leaves and berries, respectively. The essential oils were analyzed by GC and GC-MS, and a total of 27 components were detected, accounting for 90.6-98.7% of the total essential oil composition. Strong chemical variability depending on the origin of the samples was observed. The major compounds in the essential oils were alpha-pinene (30.0 and 28.5%), 1,8-cineole (28.8 and 15.3%), and limonene (17.5 and 24.1%) in leaves and berries, respectively, and were characterized by the lack of myrtenyl acetate.

Characterization of volatile compounds of Mezcal, an ethnic alcoholic beverage obtained from Agave salmiana

Commercial mezcals (white, white with worm, rested, rested with worm, and aged) produced from Agave salmiana were analyzed by solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS). Thirty-seven compounds were identified, and nine of them were classified as major compounds of mezcal (MCM). Saturated alcohols, ethyl acetate, ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate, and acetic acid form the MCM group. Minor compounds of mezcal group include other alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, large chain ethyl esters, organic acids, furans, terpenes, alkenes, and alkynes. Most of the compounds found in mezcals in this study are similar to those present in tequilas and other alcoholic beverages. However, mezcals contain unique compounds such as limonene and pentyl butanoate, which can be used as markers for the authenticity of mezcal produced from A. salmiana.

Migration modelling from food-contact plastics into foodstuffs as a new tool for consumer exposure estimation

One important aspect within the European Union's public healthcare is the exposure of consumers to undesirable chemicals in the diet. Food-contact materials (FCM) are one potential contamination source and therefore of particular interest for food exposure assessment. On the other hand, scientific investigations concerning the migration potential and behaviour of food-packaging materials have demonstrated that diffusion in and migration from FCM are foreseeable physical and, in principle, mathematically describable processes. Because of this situation and the current state-of-the-art in migration science, a research project was initiated within the 5th Framework Programme of the European Commission. This project, with the acronym 'FOODMIGROSURE' (European Union Contract No. 'QLK1-CT2002-2390') started on 1 March 2003, was due to last 3 years and had the participation of nine European project partners (see the project website: www.foodmigrosure.org). The aim of the project was to extend currently existing migration models (which have been demonstrated to be applicable for less complex matrices such as food simulants) to foodstuffs themselves. In this way, the project aims to provide a novel and economic tool for estimation of consumer exposure to chemicals migrating from food-contact plastic materials under any actual contact conditions. In addition, the project aims to increase knowledge of the mechanisms of diffusion of organic compounds in foodstuffs and provide data on the partitioning effects between FCM and foods. Today the latter aspect is increasingly regarded as a fundamental influence parameter for migration into foods. Based on the project achievements, a much better scientific basis is available to allow scientifically appropriate amendments of European Union Directive 85/572/EEC as well as to support further developments with the so-called Plastics Directive 2002/72/EC. The paper introduces the project and presents an overview of the project work progress.

Crocetin esters, picrocrocin and its related compounds present in Crocus sativus stigmas and Gardenia jasminoides fruits. Tentative identification of seven new compounds by LC-ESI-MS

Crocetin esters present in saffron (Crocus sativus L.) stigmas and in Gardenia jasminoides Ellis fruit are the compounds responsible for their color. Of the fifteen crocetin esters identified in this study, five new compounds were tentatively identified: trans and cis isomers of crocetin (beta-D-triglucoside)-(beta-D-gentibiosyl) ester, trans and cis isomers of crocetin (beta-D-neapolitanose)-(beta-D-glucosyl) ester, and cis crocetin (beta-D-neapolitanose)-(beta-D-gentibiosyl) ester. The most relevant differences between both species were a low content of the trans crocetin (beta-D-glucosyl)-(beta-D-gentibiosyl) ester, the absence of trans crocetin di-(beta-D-glucosyl) ester in gardenia, and its higher content of trans crocetin (beta-D-gentibiosyl) ester and cis crocetin di-(beta-D-gentibiosyl) ester. With the same chromatographic method it was possible to identify, in a single run, ten glycosidic compounds in saffron extracts with a UV/vis pattern similar to that of picrocrocin; among them, 5-hydroxy-7,7-dimethyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3H-isobenzofuranone 5-O-beta-D-gentibioside and 4-hydroxymethyl-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohexen-2-one 4-O-beta-D-gentibioside were tentatively identified for the first time in saffron. Of these ten glycosides, only the O-beta-D-gentibiosyl ester of 2-methyl-6-oxo-2,4-hepta-2,4-dienoic acid was found in gardenia samples, but it was possible to identify the iridoid glycoside, geniposide.

Recent female mouse models displaying advanced reproductive aging

Reproductive senescence occurs in all female mammals with resultant changes in numerous body functional systems and several important features may be species-specific. Those features that appear to parallel human menopause and aging include general similarity of hormone profiles across the menopausal transition, progression to cycle termination through irregular cycles, declining fertility with age, disturbances in thermogenesis, age-related gains in body weight, fat distribution and disposition towards metabolic syndrome. Structural and hormonal changes in the brain and ovary play a critical role in determining the onset of reproductive senescence. The short life span of rodents such as mice (compared to humans) and the ability to generate specific and timed gene deletions, provide powerful experimental paradigms to understand the molecular and functional changes that precede and follow the loss of reproductive capacity. In theory, any manipulation that compromises ovarian function either partly or totally would impact reproductive events at various levels followed by other dysfunctions. In this article, we provide an overview of three mouse models for the study of female reproductive aging. They are derived from different strategies and their age related phenotypes have been characterized to varying degrees. The follitropin receptor knockout (FORKO) mouse, in its null and haploinsufficient state as well as the dioxin/aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) knockout mouse, serve as two examples of single gene deletions. A third model, using administration of a chemical toxicant such as 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) in the adult state, produces ovarian deficiencies accompanied by aging changes. These will serve as useful alternatives to previously used radical ovariectomy in young adults. It is anticipated that these new models and more that will be forthcoming will extend opportunities to understand reproductive aging and resolve controversies that abound on issues related to benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy or other modalities for improving quality of life.

Modulatory effect of interleukin-1β on rat isolated basilar artery contraction

An increased level of cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been detected around the site of stroke. However, the effect of IL-1beta on the basilar artery has received little attention. We evaluated the effects of IL-1beta on the contractile response of rat isolated basilar artery by measuring isometric tension change. IL-1beta (10 ng/ml) and phenylephrine (0.1 nM) markedly enhanced U46619 (30 and 100 nM)-induced basilar artery contraction. The IL-1beta-mediated potentiation was partly suppressed by zinc protoporphyrin (3 microM) and was abolished by tetrodotoxin (TTX, 100 nM), (-)-perillic acid (1 microM), PD98059 (0.3 microM), SB203580 (1 microM) and prazosin (1 microM). Our data suggest that IL-1beta (10 ng/ml) causes an enhancement of U46619-mediated basilar artery contraction that probably involves TTX-sensitive neuronal release of an alpha1-adrenoceptor agonist and activation of p42/p44 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases/p21(ras) pathways.

Limonene GP1/PG organogel as a vehicle in transdermal delivery of haloperidol

Penetration enhancers are a classical means for improving transdermal drug delivery (TDD). Enhancers permeate into the skin and reversibly decrease the barrier resistance. Basically, our aim is to formulate a transdermal gel containing an appropriate enhancer for a controlled drug release. Terpenes, namely limonene, linalool and cineole, in propylene glycol (PG) were first investigated in vitro for their capacity to enhance the percutaneous release of an anti-psychotic drug, haloperidol (HP). Relative to oxygenated linalool and cineole, hydrocarbon limonene was more effective as a skin enhancer; it increased human skin permeability and decreased lag time. Limonene was thus incorporated in an organogel comprised of gelator GP1 and PG. This skin-friendly gel in a transdermal patch could act as a long-acting formulation that delivers HP at a sustained percutaneous rate. The microscopic framework of the organogel is a branched network of interlocking fibres. Varying the gelator content modulates the fibre density and gel stiffness, and presents different degrees of resistance to drug diffusion on the vehicle side. Rheological and permeation studies demonstrated that an increase in gelator concentration increased gel moduli and decreased drug flux simultaneously. The rheology of the gel matrix influenced drug release rate in a manner described by several experimentally-derived correlations.

Odorant responses of olfactory sensory neurons expressing the odorant receptor MOR23: a patch clamp analysis in gene-targeted mice

A glomerulus in the mammalian olfactory bulb receives axonal inputs from olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) that express the same odorant receptor (OR). Glomeruli are generally thought to represent functional units of olfactory coding, but there are no data on the electrophysiological properties of OSNs that express the same endogenous OR. Here, using patch clamp recordings in an intact epithelial preparation, we directly measured the transduction currents and receptor potentials from the dendritic knobs of mouse OSNs that express the odorant receptor MOR23 along with the green fluorescent protein. All of the 53 cells examined responded to lyral, a known ligand for MOR23. There were profound differences in response kinetics, particularly in the deactivation phase. The cells were very sensitive to lyral, with some cells responding to as little as 10 nM. The dynamic range was unexpectedly broad, with threshold and saturation in individual cells often covering three log units of lyral concentration. The potential causes and biological significance of this cellular heterogeneity are discussed. Patch clamp recording from OSNs that express a defined OR provides a powerful approach to investigate the sensory inputs to individual glomeruli.

Experimental and Computational Investigation of the Uncatalyzed Rearrangement and Elimination Reactions of Isochorismate

The versatile biosynthetic intermediate isochorismate decomposes in aqueous buffer by two competitive pathways, one leading to isoprephenate by a facile Claisen rearrangement and the other to salicylate via elimination of the enolpyruvyl side chain. Computation suggests that both processes are concerted but asynchronous pericyclic reactions, with considerable C-O cleavage in the transition state but relatively little C-C bond formation (rearrangement) or hydrogen atom transfer to the enolpyruvyl side chain (elimination). Kinetic experiments show that rearrangement is roughly 8-times more favorable than elimination. Moreover, transfer of the C2 hydrogen atom to C9 was verified by monitoring the decomposition of [2-(2)H]isochorismate, which was prepared chemoenzymatically from labeled shikimate, by (2)H NMR spectroscopy and observing the appearance of [3-(2)H]pyruvate. Finally, the isotope effects obtained with the C2 deuterated substrate are in good agreement with calculations assuming pericyclic reaction mechanisms. These results provide a benchmark for mechanistic investigations of isochorismate mutase and isochorismate pyruvate lyase, the enzymes that respectively catalyze the rearrangement and elimination reactions in plants and bacteria.

Feeding response to host and nonhost compounds by males and females of the spruce bark beetle Ips typographus in a tunneling microassay

Research on host selection by bark and wood boring insects has concentrated on flight orientation behavior. Less is known of the factors that govern the steps successive to host landing. Here, we discuss chemical factors involved in host acceptance by bark beetles and a new microassay. Adult males and females of Ips typographus were offered an artificial diet treated with various concentrations of different plant-derived compounds (host terpenes and nonhost compounds) in a no-choice mode. Beetles were tested individually in a glass tube for 4 hr, and the length of feeding was measured and compared to a control (diet with only solvent). The first effect was diet rejection, especially when nonhost compounds were tested at high concentrations. Most compounds reduced feeding, in proportion to concentration. Females fed more readily than males after addition of both host and nonhost compounds. Diet removal was significantly affected by all the tested factors (sex, compound, dose) as well as by their interactions. With increased concentrations, males were more responsive than females to antifeedants, as all compounds (except juglone) showed clear sex differences of diet consumption. 3-Octanol, 1-hexanol, and a Green Leaf Volatile (GLV)-blend (three C6 alcohols) showed the strongest antifeedant effects, which started at a low dose (0.1%) and had a low Effective Dose 50 (ED50, 0.3-1%). In contrast, host monoterpenes, limonene and alpha-pinene, inhibited feeding at high doses (10-30%) only, with ED50 > 10%. The highest Antifeedant Indexes were shown by verbenone, carvone, and 1-hexanol (AFI = 0.90-1.00). Both host and nonhost compounds inhibited feeding at some concentration. No significant stimulation of feeding by any host compound at concentrations reported in the literature as optimal were found, with the possible exception of alpha-pinene at low concentrations in females.

Application of Two-Stage Biofilter System for the Removal of Odorous Compounds

Biofiltration is a biological process which is considered to be one of the more successful examples of biotechnological applications to environmental engineering, and is most commonly used in the removal of odoriferous compounds. In this study, we have attempted to assess the efficiency with which both single and complex odoriferous compounds could be removed, using one- or two-stage biofiltration systems. The tested single odor gases, limonene, alpha-pinene, and iso-butyl alcohol, were separately evaluated in the biofilters. Both limonene and alpha-pinene were removed by 90% or more EC (elimination capacity), 364 g/m3/h and 321 g/m3/h, respectively, at an input concentration of 50 ppm and a retention time of 30 s. The iso-butyl alcohol was maintained with an effective removal yield of more than 90% (EC 375 g/m3/h) at an input concentration of 100 ppm. The complex gas removal scheme was applied with a 200 ppm inlet concentration of ethanol, 70 ppm of acetaldehyde, and 70 ppm of toluene with residence time of 45 s in a one- or two-stage biofiltration system. The removal yield of toluene was determined to be lower than that of the other gases in the one-stage biofilter. Otherwise, the complex gases were sufficiently eliminated by the two-stage biofiltration system.

Impact of humidity on the ozone initiated oxidation of limonene, delta3-carene, and alpha-pinene

The effect of water on the initial secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation from gas-phase ozonolysis of limonene, delta3-carene, and alpha-pinene (-3 and approximately 1.5 x 10(11) molecule cm(-3) reacted) has been investigated in a flow reactor at controlled relative humidity (RH), temperature (298 +/- 0.4 K), and reaction time (270 +/- 2 s). Low amounts of terpene converted minimize the impact of secondary reactions. A comparison of the SOA formation from the three terpenes was made for initial rate of reactions being around 7.5 x 10(8) and 15 x 10(8) molecule cm(-3) s(-1). The most efficient species in producing SOA was limonene, while alpha-pinene was the least efficient. The results showed that an enhancement in water vapor concentration (<2-85% RH) caused an increase in both integrated mass (M10-300nm) and total number (N10-300nm). The effect on number and mass were a factor of 2-3 and 4-8, respectively. Physical water up-take can partly explain the increase in mass, but not the observed increase in number. Therefore it was concluded that the increase in water concentration must, by a gas-phase reaction, produce more low volatility product(s).

Microorganism Screening for Limonene Bioconversion and Correlation With RAPD Markers

The use of microorganisms for biotransformations of monoterpenes has stimulated the biotechnological market. Aiming at the highest efficiency in the process of strains screening, the application of molecular biology techniques have been proposed. Based on these aspects, the objective of this work was to select different strains able to convert limonene using fermentative process and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The results obtained in the fermentative screening, from 17 strains tested, pointed out that four microorganisms were able to convert limonene into oxygenated derivatives. The RAPD study showed a polymorphism of 96.02% and a similarity from 16.02 to 51.51%. Based on this it was possible to observe a high genetic diversity, even among strains of same species, concluding that the RAPD was not able to correlate the genetic characteristics of the microorganism with the results obtained from the biotransformation process.

Headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method for the identification of cosmetic ingredients causing delamination of packagings

A headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) method using a 75 microm Carboxen polydimethylsiloxane fibre was used to identify volatile compounds of cosmetic formulations responsible for causing loss of adhesion between layers of multilayer packagings. To obtain the sample, the sachet with the product was kept in an oven at 40 degrees C in order to favour the migration of the aggressive compounds to the inner layers. Then the sachet was manually delaminated and the aluminium/polyester and polyethylene layers were analysed. The cosmetic product was also analysed by HS-SPME-GC-MS. Several compounds used in the cosmetic industry such as perfumes or fixing agents were detected in the inner layers of the laminated material, showing the migration of them through the layer in contact with the product (polyethylene). Phenoxy ethanol, beta-linalool, menthol and p-propenylanisole are suspected to be responsible for the loss of adhesion. In order to provide a complete overview of the cause of the aforementioned phenomenon, the packaging material was exposed to the cosmetic products in order to measure the decrease of the adhesion strength with time. It was observed that the product with a higher phenoxy ethanol concentration caused a higher loss of adhesion strength. The results obtained showed that this method is suitable for identifying aggressive compounds in cosmetic products, as well as for giving prior information about which products may be problematic for packaging in sachets.

Synthesis and antiproliferative activity of A-ring aromatised and conduritol-like steroidal compounds

A simple approach to aromatization of steroidal quinols and epoxyquinols using a catalytic amount of TMSOTf is reported. Beside acetylation of the angular OH, the acid-catalyzed (TfOH) dienone-phenol rearrangement occurred affording "para" products, or in the case of blocked position 4, the acetoxy group 1,2-migration leads to the formation of "meta" products. Using epoxyquinol derivative as a substrate, the acetoxy group elimination was observed, followed by acid-catalyzed epoxy-ring opening and subsequent double bond migration, giving as a final product Delta(9,11)A-ring aromatized compounds. Synthesis of conduritol-like compounds and structure confirmation by X-ray crystallography of the precursor of steroidal conduritol is also described. In addition, the results of extensive antiproliferative screening against a panel of 60 cancer cell lines are presented.

Kinetic mechanism for predicting secondary organic aerosol formation from the reaction of d-limonene with ozone

A semi-explicit mechanism of d-limonene was developed and tested against experimental results obtained from large outdoor Teflon film chambers at the University of North Carolina (UNC) smog chamber facility. The model couples gas-phase reactions with partitioning processes and possible particle-phase reactions. The model not only tracks the gas-phase ozonolysis reaction of d-limonene, but also provides a reasonable prediction of the secondary aerosol mass production under different conditions. Limononaldehyde was the major identified product, followed by limona-ketone, referred to here as keto-limonene, keto-limononaldehyde, limononic acid, and keto-limononic acid. Identified particle-phase products accounted for about 60% of the observed particle mass in the initial stages of the reaction. Model sensitivity was tested and discussed with respect to effects of temperature, humidity, water uptake, and reactant concentrations.