Diaporchalasins A-E, New Cytochalasins from the Endophytic Fungus Diaporthe sp. BMX12 Isolated from Aquilaria sinensis

Five new cytochalasins, diaporchalasins A-E (1-5), together with 14 known congeners (6-19) were isolated from the endophytic fungus Diaporthe sp. BMX12, which was isolated from the branches of Aquilaria sinensis. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses including high-resolution electron spray ionization mass spectrometry (HRESIMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Their absolute configurations were assigned by theoretical electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Compounds 11 and 12 featuring a keto carbonyl at C-21 displayed cytotoxicity toward K562, BEL-7402, SGC-7901, A549, and HeLa cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 4.4 to 47.4 μM.

Chemical constituents of the marine-derived fungus Acremonium sp. AN-13

Two new compounds named 3(S)-hydroxy-1-(2,4,5-trihydroxy-3,6- dimethylphenyl)-hex-4E-en-1-one (1) and acremonilactone (2), together with nine known compounds (3-11), were isolated from the fermentation broth of Acremonium sp. associated with marine sediments collected from South China Sea. NMR and HRESIMS spectroscopic analysis elucidated the structure of two new compounds. Compound 2 had characteristic rotary gate shape skeleton with a six-membered lactone. Compounds 1 and 9 showed DPPH radical scavenging activity with inhibition rates of 96.50 and 85.95% at the concentration of 0.5 mg/ml, respectively. Moreover, compounds 4, 6 and 11 showed definite antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538.

Anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory indole diterpenes from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium sp. ZYX-Z-143

Seven new indole-diterpenoids, penpaxilloids A-E (1-5), 7-methoxypaxilline-13-ene (6), and 10-hydroxy-paspaline (7), along with 20 known ones (8-27), were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium sp. ZYX-Z-143. Among them, compound 1 was a spiro indole-diterpenoid bearing a 2,3,3a,5-tetrahydro-1H-benzo[d]pyrrolo[2,1-b][1,3]oxazin-1-one motif. Compound 2 was characterized by a unique heptacyclic system featuring a rare 3,6,8-trioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane unit. The structures of the new compounds were established by extensive spectroscopic analyses, NMR calculations coupled with the DP4 + analysis, and ECD calculations. The plausible biogenetic pathway of two unprecedented indole diterpenoids, penpaxilloids A and B (1 and 2), was postulated. Compound 1 acted as a noncompetitive inhibitor against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) with IC50 value of 8.60 ± 0.53 μM. Compound 17 showed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 19.96 ± 0.32 μM. Moreover, compounds 4, 8, and 22 potently suppressed nitric oxide production on lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages.

Diverse ansamycin derivatives from the marine-derived Streptomyces sp. ZYX-F-97 and their antibacterial activities

Four new ansamycin derivatives, named 1,19-epithio-geldanamycin A (1), 17-demethoxylherbimycin H (2), herbimycin M (3), and seco-geldanamycin B (4), together with eight known ansamycin analogues (5-12) were isolated from the solid fermentation of marine-derived actinomycete Streptomyces sp. ZYX-F-97. The structures of new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis as well as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. All the compounds were assayed for their antibacterial activity. Among them, compounds 4, 8, and 12 exhibited remarkable inhibition against Listeria monocytogenes with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) values ranging from 8 μg·mL-1 to 64 μg·mL-1, and displayed moderate inhibition against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with MIC value of 64 μg·mL-1. Compounds 4, 8, 9, and 12 showed moderate inhibition activities against both Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis with MIC values ranging from 32 μg·mL-1 to 128 μg·mL-1.

Lanostane triterpenoids from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma amboinense

Lanostane-type triterpenoids are the main characteristic constituents in Ganoderma mushrooms. Phytochemical analysis on the ethanol extract of the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma amboinense led to isolation and identification of twelve previously undescribed lanostane triterpenoids (1-12). Their chemical structures were determined by HR-ESI-MS, IR, and NMR spectroscopic analysis, NMR calculation, as well as X-ray crystallography. All isolates were evaluated for the α-glucosidase inhibitory and anti-inflammatory activities. Compounds 1, 5, 6, and 11 showed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values ranging from 33.5 μM to 96.0 μM. Moreover, compound 12 showed anti-inflammatory activity with IC50 value of 21.7 ± 2.1 μM.

Diverse indole-diterpenoids with protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B inhibitory activities from the marine coral-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. ZF-104

Eight previously undescribed indole-diterpenoids named penerpenes O-V (1-8), together with seven known analogues (9-14), were isolated from the marine soft coral-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. ZF-104. Their structures including the absolute configurations of these compounds were assigned on the basis of spectroscopic data and ECD analysis along with quantum ECD and NMR calculations. Compounds 4 and 5 bear rare indolin-2-one units in their structures and 6 bears a reconstructed novel skeleton in which the indole ring and the terpenoid substructure are cleaved before they are reconnected through the nitrogen atom. Compounds 1, 2, 7, and 10 showed protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitory activities comparable to that of the positive control NaVO3.

Lanostane triterpenoids with anti-proliferative and PTP1B/α-glucosidase inhibitory activities from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma calidophilum

Twelve previously undescribed and four known lanostane triterpenoids were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma calidophilum. The structures of undescribed compounds, ganodecalones H-S (1-12), were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis as well as ECD and NMR calculations. Compound 4 showed significant inhibitory activity against human leukaemia cell line K562, gastric cancer cell line SGC-7901, and cervical cancer cell line HeLa with IC50 values of 13.10 ± 0.19, 17.26 ± 4.75, and 4.36 ± 0.58 μM, respectively. Compound 16 exhibited inhibitory potency against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and α-glucosidase with IC50 values of 30.2 ± 0.13 μM and 120.6 ± 0.14 μM, respectively. The binding sites and interactions of 16 with PTP1B and α-glucosidase were revealed using molecular docking simulations.

Actinoplanes maris sp. nov., isolated from marine sediment

A novel actinobacterium strain (M4I6^T) was isolated from marine sediment collected in Megas Gialos, Syros, Greece. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain M4I6^T was indicated as belonging to the genus Actinoplanes, with high similarity to 'Actinoplanes solisilvae' LAM7112^T (97.9 %), Actinoplanes ferrugineus IFO 15555^T (97.6 %), Actinoplanes cibodasensis LIPI11-2-Ac042^T (97.2 %) and Actinoplanes bogorensis LIPI11-2-Ac043^T (97.2 %). Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain M4I6^T showed that the strain formed a stable subclade with 'A. solisilvae' LAM7112^T. The cell wall of the novel isolate contained meso-diaminopimelic acid and the whole-cell sugars were xylose, glucose and ribose. The predominant menaquinones were MK-9(H₄), MK-9(H₂) and MK-9(H₈). The phospholipid profile comprised phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol mannosides and an unknown phospholipid. The major fatty acids (>5 %) were anteiso-C_16 : 0, iso-C_17 : 0, 10-methyl-C_16 : 0, C_15 : 0, iso-C_16 : 0 and C_17 : 0. Genome sequencing showed a DNA G+C content of 70.9 mol%. However, the low average nucleotide identity value, digital DNA-DNA hybridization and average amino acid identity values demonstrated that strain M4I6^T could be readily distinguished from its closest related species. Based on data from this polyphasic study, strain M4I6^T represents a novel species of the genus Actinoplanes, for which the name Actinoplanes maris sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is M4I6^T (=DSM 101017^T=CGMCC 4.7854^T).

Two new alkaloids from the endophytic fungus Schizophyllum sp. HM230 isolated from Vincetoxicum mongolicum Maxim

Endophytic fungi is an important source for the discovery of bioactive natural compounds. A chemical investigation of the ethyl acetate extract of the endophytic fungus Schizophyllum sp. HM230 derived from stems of the herb Vincetoxicum mongolicum Maxim led to isolation of five alkaloids, including two new compounds, schizophyllins M (1) and N (2), along with three known ones (3-5). The planar structures of two new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods including MS, 1D and 2D NMR. Their absolute configurations were determined by Mosher's method and comparison of the ECD data. All the isolates were evaluated for their cytotoxicity and antioxidant activities. Compounds 1-4 showed middle cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells with IC50 values range of 68.1 ∼ 87.32 μM. Compounds 1-5 displayed obvious antioxidant activity with the IC50 values range of 0.86 ∼ 5.78 mg/mL.

Antidiabetic lanostane triterpenoids from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma weberianum

Eight previously undescribed lanostane triterpenoids, ganodeweberiols A ∼ H (1-8), together with eighteen known compounds (9-26), were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma weberianum. The structures and absolute configurations of the new compounds were determined by extensive spectroscopic analysis, as well as NMR chemical shifts and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Compounds 2, 7, 12, and 14 showed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ values ranging from 35.3 μM ∼ 223.4 μM compared to the positive control acarbose (IC₅₀, 304.6 μM). Kinetic study indicated that the most potent compound 12 was a mixed type inhibitor for α-glucosidase. Molecular docking simulation revealed the interactions of 12 with α-glucosidase. Additionally, Compounds 3 and 6 inhibited glucagon-induced hepatic glucose production in HepG2 cells with EC₅₀ values of 42.0 and 85.9 μM, respectively. Further study revealed that compounds 3 and 6 inhibited hepatic glucose production by suppression glucagon-induced cAMP accumulation. Moreover, compounds 3 and 26 were active against HeLa cell line with IC₅₀ values of 17.0 and 6.8 μM, respectively.

Phenethoxy Derivatives with Anti-inflammatory Activities from the Betelnut Endophytic Trichoderma asperellum G10

Eight new phenethoxy derivatives, trichoasperellins A-H (1-8), were isolated from the endophytic fungus Trichoderma asperellum G10 isolated from the medicinal plant Areca catechu L. The structures of these compounds were elucidated from spectroscopic data, J-based configurational analysis, and Mosher's methods. Compounds 1-4 and 6-8 bear one or two multioxidized C₇ moieties with the same carbon skeleton. The carbon skeletons of compounds 6-8 are new, all containing three moieties connected via two acetal carbons similar to those of disaccharide glycosides. Compound 4 inhibited nitric oxide production with an IC₅₀ value of 48.3 μM, comparable to that of the positive control indomethacin (IC₅₀, 42.3 μM).

Humulane-Type Macrocyclic Sesquiterpenoids From the Endophytic Fungus Penicillium sp. of Carica papaya

Three new humulane-type sesquiterpenoids, penirolide A (1), penirolide B (2), and 10-acetyl-phomanoxide (3), together with three known compounds aurasperone A (4), pughiinin A (5), and cyclo(l-Leu-l-Phe) (6) were isolated from the endophytic fungus Penicillium sp. derived from the leaves of Carica papaya L. Their structures including their absolute configurations were determined based on the analysis of NMR and HRESIMS spectra, NMR chemical shifts, and ECD calculations. Compounds 2, 3, 5, and 6 significantly inhibited glucagon-induced hepatic glucose production, with EC₅₀ values of 33.3, 36.1, 18.8, and 32.1 μM, respectively. Further study revealed that compounds 2, 3, 5, and 6 inhibited hepatic glucose production by suppression of glucagon-induced cAMP accumulation.

Triterpenoids and meroterpenoids with α-glucosidase inhibitory activities from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma australe

Macrofungi Ganoderma is a valuable medicinal fungus resource for human health and longevity in China. In this study, ten undescribed compounds including seven lostane-type triterpenoids, ganodaustralic acids A ∼ G (1-7), one pair of meroterpenoid enantiomers, (-)-6'-O-ethyllingzhiol (8) and (+)-6'-O-ethyllingzhiol (9), and one polyhydroxylated sterol, 3-O-acetyl-fomentarol C (10), together with eight known compounds (11-18), were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma australe. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis as well as NMR and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Compounds 4, 8, 9, and 12 showed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ values in the range of 4.1-11.7 μM, which were superior to that of positive control acarbose (213 μM). Only compound 7 exhibited weak cytotoxicity against SGC-7901 cells.

Two new indole-diterpenoids from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium sp. KFD28

Two new compounds named epipaxilline (1) and penerpene J (2) were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium sp. KFD28. Their structures including absolute configurations were determined on the basis of spectroscopic methods and ECD analysis. Compounds 1 and 2 showed inhibitory activities against PTP1B with IC₅₀ values of 31.5 and 9.5 μM, respectively, and compound 2 also showed inhibitory activities against TCPTP with IC₅₀ value of 14.7 μM.

Cytotoxic Indole-Diterpenoids from the Marine-Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. KFD28

Four new indole-diterpenoids, named penerpenes K-N (1-4), along with twelve known ones (5-16), were isolated from the fermentation broth produced by adding L-tryptophan to the culture medium of the marine-derived fungus Penicillium sp. KFD28. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated extensively by 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS data spectroscopic analyses and ECD calculations. Compound 4 represents the second example of paxilline-type indole diterpene bearing a 1,3-dioxepane ring. Three compounds (4, 9, and 15) were cytotoxic to cancer cell lines, of which compound 9 was the most active and showed cytotoxic activity against the human liver cancer cell line BeL-7402 with an IC50 value of 5.3 μM. Moreover, six compounds (5, 7, 10, 12, 14, and 15) showed antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633.

Three New Quinazoline-Containing Indole Alkaloids From the Marine-Derived Fungus Aspergillus sp. HNMF114

By feeding tryptophan to the marine-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. HNMF114 from the bivalve mollusk Sanguinolaria chinensis, 3 new quinazoline-containing indole alkaloids, named aspertoryadins H–J (1–3), along with 16 known ones (4–19), were obtained. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by the analysis of spectroscopic data combined with quantum chemical calculations of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shifts and electron capture detector (ECD) spectra. Structurally, compound 3 represents the first example of this type of compound, bearing an amide group at C-3. Compounds 10 and 16 showed potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ values of 7.18 and 5.29 μM, and compounds 13 and 14 showed a clear activation effect on the ryanodine receptor from Spodoptera frugiperda (sfRyR), which reduced the [Ca²⁺]_ER by 37.1 and 36.2%, respectively.

[Study on chemical constituents from fruiting bodies of Ganoderma calidophilum]

Chemical constituents were isolated and purified from fruiting bodies of Ganoderma calidophilum by various column chromatographic techniques, and their chemical structures were identified through combined analysis of physicochemical properties and spectral data. As a result, 11 compounds were isolated and identified as(24E)-lanosta-8,24-dien-3,11-dione-26-al(1), ganoderone A(2), 3-oxo-15α-acetoxy-lanosta-7,9(11), 24-trien-26-oleic acid(3),(23E)-27-nor-lanosta-8,23-diene-3,7,25-trione(4), ganodecanone B(5), ganoderic aldehyde A(6), 11β-hydroxy-lucidadiol(7), 3,4-dihydroxyacetophenone(8), methyl gentiate(9), ganoleucin C(10), ganotheaecolumol H(11). Among them, compound 1 is a new triterpenoid. The cytotoxic activities of all of the compounds against tumor cell lines were evaluated. The results showed that compounds 1, 3, 4 and 6 showed cytotoxic activity against BEL-7402, with IC_(50) values of 26.55, 11.35, 23.23, 18.66 μmol·L~(-1); compounds 1 and 3-6 showed cytotoxic activity against K562, with IC_(50) values of 5.79, 22.16, 12.16, 35.32, and 5.59 μmol·L~(-1), and compound 4 showed cytotoxic activity against A549, with IC_(50) value of 42.50 μmol·L~(-1).

Asperpenes D and E from the fungus Aspergillus sp. SCS-KFD66 isolated from a bivalve mollusk, Sanguinolaria chinensis

Two new compounds named asperpenes D (1) and E (2) were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. SCS-KFD66. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic methods. Compound 2 represents the first natural product bearing a 2-substituted-5-oxo-4-phenyl-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylic acid skeleton. All the compounds were tested for enzyme inhibitory activity against AChE and α-glucosidase and DPPH radical scavenging activity, respectively. [Formula: see text].

Three new C21 steroidal glycosides isolated from Metaplexis japonica and their potential inhibitory effects on tyrosine protein kinases

Three new steroidal glycosides, metapregnoside A-C (II-IV), together with one known compound, byzantionoside B (I), were isolated from the fresh whole herb of Metaplexis japonica by using high-speed countercurrent chromatography and semi-preparative liquid chromatography. Their structures and relative configurations were elucidated by spectroscopic methods including 1D NMR, 2D NMR and HR-ESI-MS. The potential targets of compound I-IV were identified by virtual screening. And the potential inhibitory effects of these compounds on tyrosine protein kinases were compared by molecular docking. Byzantionoside B (I) was the first isolated compound from Metaplexis genus. The docking score of metapregnoside C (IV) was the highest. And the sugar chain residues at position C-20 in the pregn-4-en-3-one derivatives is the main factor affecting their docking scores on tyrosine protein kinases Fes/Fps.

Polyketides with quorum sensing inhibitory activity from the marine-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. ZF-79

Seven compounds were isolated from a marine-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. ZF-79, including three new polyketides (1-3), named asperochrins D-F, along with four known compounds 4-7. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic methods. All the compounds were tested for quorum sensing inhibitory (QSI) activity. Compounds 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6 exhibited QSI activity against Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 with MIC values of 50, 100, 50, 50, and 6.25 μM, respectively.

Biphenyl metabolites from the patchouli endophytic fungus Alternaria sp. PfuH1

Patchouli is a tropical medicinal and spice crop with high economic value, and the endophytic microorganism is also one of its important components and can provide new active compounds with medicinal use. In the present study, four new biphenyl compounds named 3-O-demethylaltenuisol (1), (-)-dialtenuisol (5) and (+)-dialtenuisol (6), and altertoxin VII (9), as well as six known related compounds, were isolated from the patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) endophytic fungus Alternaria sp. PfuH1. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated from spectroscopic data, ECD spectra analysis, and ECD calculations. Compounds 5 and 6 are a pair of dimeric axially chiral enantiomers. Compounds 2, 4, and 9 showed antibacterial activities against S. agalactiae with MIC values of 9.3, 85.3, and 17.3 μg/mL, respectively, and compound 4 also showed weak antibacterial activity against E. coli with MIC value of 128 μg/mL.

A rapid and practical prediction method for the Arizona solvent system family used in high speed countercurrent chromatography

Selecting the appropriate solvent system is the key to the successful separation of samples by using countercurrent chromatography. Although high-speed countercurrent chromatography has been widely used in the separation and preparation of natural products, the selection of a solvent system has always been a stumbling block to the application of high-speed countercurrent chromatography. In order to explore a rapid and practical prediction method to select countercurrent chromatography solvent system, five linear prediction models of the Arizona solvent system family (HEMW) was established by using fourteen compounds with different structures and five HPLC columns of different brands. And two different solvent system selection methods (The partition coefficient K of the target compound in the solvent system was in the range of 0.25 < K < 2.5) were proposed for targeted separation of compounds and multi-component separation in a complex sample respectively. The appropriate HSCCC solvent system of five known compounds was determined by a HPLC analysis and a shake flask test and the appropriate HSCCC solvent system of two Chinese herbal extracts was determined by a HPLC analysis to verify the prediction method. In this study, solid-liquid partition chromatography (HPLC) and liquid-liquid partition chromatography (HSCCC) were linked by polarity to simplify the screening process of solvent system. This method reduced the difficulty and workload of solvent system selection, which provided methods and ideas for more solvent system prediction models.

[Transmission routes of 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV)]

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019, it has demonstrated China's ability to identify unknown pathogens. At present, reports showed that the main transmission routes are respiratory droplets and indirect contact, other vertical transmission routes have yet to be confirmed. This review discusses the possible transmission routes of 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), based on currently research, the main transmission routes are respiratory droplets and indirect contact, fecal-oral might bepossible, while aerosol, tear (conjunctival) and mother-to-fetus still have yet to be confirmed, providing a reference basis for 2019-nCoV prevention and control and public protection.

Quinazoline-Containing Indole Alkaloids from the Marine-Derived Fungus Aspergillus sp. HNMF114

Seven new quinazoline-containing indole alkaloids (1-7) named aspertoryadins A-G, along with nine known ones (8-16), were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. HNMF114 from the bivalve mollusk Sanguinolaria chinensis. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated from spectroscopic data, X-ray diffraction analysis, ECD spectra analysis, and ECD calculations. Compound 1 bears an aminosulfonyl group in the structure, which is rarely encountered in natural products. Compounds 6, 7, and 13 exhibited quorum sensing inhibitory activity against Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 with MIC values of 32, 32, and 16 μg/well, respectively.

Indole-Diterpenoids with Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Inhibitory Activities from the Marine-Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. KFD28

Five new indole-terpenoids named penerpenes E-I (1-5), along with seven known ones (6-12), were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium sp. KFD28 from a bivalve mollusk, Meretrix lusoria. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated from spectroscopic data and ECD spectroscopic analyses. Compound 1 was assigned as an indole-diterpenoid with a unique 6/5/5/6/6/5/5 heptacyclic ring system. Compound 2 represents an indole-diterpenoid with a new carbon skeleton derived from paxilline by the loss of three carbons (C-23/24/25). Compound 3 contains an additional oxygen atom between C-21 and C-22 compared to paxilline to form an unusual 6/5/5/6/6/7 hexacyclic ring system bearing a 1,3-dioxepane ring, which is rarely encountered in natural products. Compounds 1, 2, 4, and 6 showed inhibitory activities against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) with IC₅₀ values of 14, 27, 23, and 13 μM, respectively.

Chemical study of the strain Cordyceps spp. from cell fusion between Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps cicadae

Chemical investigation on the cultures of the fungus Cordyceps spp., a strain from cell fusion between Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps cicadae, resulted in the isolation of 13 compounds including 2 new ones named 2-(5-(3-oxobutyl) furan-2-yl) acetic acid (1) and cordycepone (2). Their structures were elucidated from the analysis of 1D/2D NMR and CD data. Among them, compounds 1, 7-9, at a concentration of 50 μg/ml, showed weak inhibitory activity against AChE. Moreover, compounds 6, 9, and 11 showed moderate inhibitory activity against the nematode Panagrellus redivivus with mortality ratio of 79.0, 71.7, and 72.3% at 2.5 mg/ml, respectively.

Divergolides T⁻W with Apoptosis-Inducing Activity from the Mangrove-Derived Actinomycete Streptomyces sp. KFD18

Four new ansamycins, named divergolides T-W (1-4), along with two known analogs were isolated from the fermentation broth of the mangrove-derived actinomycete Streptomyces sp. KFD18. The structures of the compounds, including the absolute configurations of their stereogenic carbons, were determined by spectroscopic data and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds 1-4 showed cytotoxic activity against the human gastric cancer cell line SGC-7901, the human leukemic cell line K562, the HeLa cell line, and the human lung carcinoma cell line A549, with 1 being the most active while compounds 5 and 6 were inactive against all the tested cell lines. Compounds 1 and 3 showed very potent and specific cytotoxic activities (IC₅₀ 2.8 and 4.7 µM, respectively) against the SGC-7901 cells. Further, the apoptosis-inducing effect of 1 and 3 against SGC-7901 cells was demonstrated by two kinds of staining methods for the first time.

A phytochemical investigation of Stemona parviflora roots reveals several compounds with nematocidal activity

Twelve undescribed compounds including six phenanthrene derivatives (parviphenanthrines A-F), two stilbene derivatives (parvistilbines A-B), three esters (parviesters A-C), and one sesquiterpenoid (parvidiol A) were isolated from the roots of Stemona parviflora, together with twenty-two known ones. The structures of the undescribed compounds were elucidated based on the analyses of their spectroscopic data. The absolute configuration of parviphenanthrine A was determined by the quantum ECD calculations. Parviphenanthrines A and E, stemanthrene A, stilbostenin E, 4-hydroxy-benzenepropanol-α-benzoate, and (E)-4-hydroxycinnamic acid methyl ester showed nematocidal activity against Meloidogyne incognita with IC₅₀ values of 14.02 ± 0.32, 2.51 ± 0.13, 17.10 ± 0.65, 2.05 ± 0.07, 4.22 ± 0.31, and 1.07 ± 0.05 μM, respectively.

[Study on chemical constituents from fruiting bodies of Ganoderma australe]

Chemical constituents were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma australe by various column chromatographic techniques and HPLC method, and their chemical structures were identified through the combined analysis of physicochemical properties and spectral data. Meanwhile, their α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and anti-oxidative ability were evaluated. Seven compounds were isolated from G. australe and were identified as 6-methoxyl-cyclo-(Phe-Ile)(1), applanoxidic acid A methyl ester(2), ergosta-7,22 E-dien-3β-ol(3), cinnamic acid(4), 5α,8α-epidioxy-(20S,22E,24R)-ergosta-6,22-diene-3β-ol(5), 1-(3, 4-dihydroxyphenyl) ethanone(6), salicylic acid(7) and benzoic acid(8). Among the compounds, compound 1 was a new cyclic dipeptide. Compound 2 was a new lanosta natural product, and compounds 4, 6, 7 and 8 were obtained from G. australe for the first time. Moreover, compounds 4 and 8 exhibited α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with inhibition rates of 36.8% and 34.7%, and compounds 4, 7 and 8 had a certain activity in DPPH free radical scavenging activity with IC_(50) values of 0.168, 0.458 and 0.170 g·L~(-1), respectively. The DPPH radical scavenging rate of compound 1 was 41.1%.

[Anemia status of Chinese rural women of reproductive age in 2012]

Objective: To study the hemoglobin concentration, anemia status and its determinant factors among Chinese rural women of reproductive age in 2012. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. The data was obtained from the National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP). A total of 712 101 Chinese rural reproductive age women aged 21-49 years old who came from 193 counties of 30 provinces were included. The demographic characteristics were obtained from questionnaires. Hemoglobin concentration was measured using the cyanomethemoglobin method. The definition of anemia we used was recommended by World Health Organization, and was adjusted according to altitude level. The hemoglobin concentration level, the prevalence of anemia and its 95% CI was calculated. Determinant factors of anemia such as demographic characteristics and histories of pregnancy and miscarriage were analyzed using logistic regression. Results: In 2012, the level of hemoglobin concentration in Chinese rural women of reproductive age was (127.77±13.47) g/L, with the lowest in 21-24 years group, which was (127.54±13.54) g/L, and highest in 35-39 years group, which was (128.39±14.12) g/L. In terms of region, the hemoglobin concentration level was lowest in central south, which was (125.79±12.00) g/L, and highest in southwest, which was (129.91±14.37) g/L. The prevalence of anemia in Chinese rural women of reproductive age was 24.80%, with the highest seen in 21-24 years, which was 25.92% (95% CI: 25.74%-26.11%), and lowest in 30-34 years, which was 23.61% (95% CI: 23.37%-23.85%). The prevalence in northwest (28.31%, 95% CI: 28.01%-28.61%) was the highest among all regions, and the prevalence in east (20.88%, 95% CI: 20.68%-21.09%) was the lowest. Conclusions: The prevalence of anemia in Chinese rural reproductive age women was 24.80% in 2012. The anemia prevalence was higher among women who were young, had low educational level, and lived in northwest region.

Chemical Constituents of the Marine-Derived Fungus Aspergillus sp. SCS-KFD66

Five new compounds named asperpenes A-C (1–3), 12,13-dedihydroversiol (4), and methyl 6-oxo-3,6-dihydro-2H-pyran-4-carboxylate (5), along with 10 known compounds (6–15), were isolated from the fermentation broth of Aspergillus sp. SCS-KFD66 associated with a bivalve mollusk, Sanguinolaria chinensis, collected from Haikou Bay, China. The structures of the compounds, including the absolute configurations of their stereogenic carbons, were unambiguously determined by spectroscopic data, single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectral analysis, along with quantum ECD calculations. The growth inhibitory activity of the compounds against four pathogenic bacterial (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 1911, and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633), their enzyme inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase and α-glucosidase, and their DPPH radical scavenging activity were evaluated.

Helvolic Acid Derivatives with Antibacterial Activities against Streptococcus agalactiae from the Marine-Derived Fungus Aspergillus fumigatus HNMF0047

Streptococcus agalactiae is a hazardous pathogen that can cause great harm to humans and fish. In the present study, the known fungal metabolite helvolic acid (10), seven new helvolic acid derivatives named 16- O-deacetylhelvolic acid 21,16-lactone (2), 6- O-propionyl-6,16- O-dideacetylhelvolic acid 21,16-lactone (3), 1,2-dihydro-6,16- O-dideacetylhelvolic acid 21,16-lactone (4), 1,2-dihydro-16- O-deacetylhelvolic acid 21,16-lactone (5), 16- O-propionyl-16- O-deacetylhelvolic acid (6), 6- O-propionyl-6- O-deacetylhelvolic acid (7), and 24- epi-6β,16β-diacetoxy-25-hydroxy-3,7-dioxo-29-nordammara-1,17(20)-diene-21,24-lactone (9), and two known ones (1 and 8) were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Aspergillus fumigatus HNMF0047 obtained from an unidentified sponge from Wenchang Beach, Hainan Province, China. The structures and the absolute configurations of the new compounds were unambiguously elucidated by spectroscopic data and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectroscopic analyses along with quantum ECD calculations. In addition, the spectroscopic data of compound 1 are reported here for the first time, the configuration of C-24 of known compound 8 was revised based on comparison of its ROESY data with its C-24 epimer 9, and the absolute configuration of 8 was also determined for the first time. Compounds 6, 7, and 10 showed stronger antibacterial activity than a tobramycin control against S. agalactiae with MIC values of 16, 2, and 8 μg/mL, respectively.

Two new compounds from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma philippii

Two new compounds, philippin (1) and 3β,9α,14α-trihydroxy-(22E,24R)-ergost-22-en-7-one (2), were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma philippii. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of the spectroscopic technologies, including 1D and 2D NMR as well as MS. The bioassay of inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) showed compound 1 exhibited weak inhibitory activity against AChE.

Lanostane-type triterpenoids from the fruiting body of Ganoderma calidophilum

To search for active anti-cancer constituents in the fruiting body of Ganoderma calidophilum, we have successfully isolated four previously undescribed spiro-lactone lanostane triterpenoids (spiroganocalitones A-D), two previously undescribed lanostanoids (ganodecalones A and B) together with twenty-three known ones. The structures of the six previously undescribed compounds were elucidated based on 1D, 2D-NMR, and HRMS analyses. Ganoderone A showed moderate cytotoxic activity against K562, BEL7402, and SGC790 cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 7.62, 6.28, and 3.55 μM, respectively.

Chrodrimanins O-S from the fungus Penicillium sp. SCS-KFD09 isolated from a marine worm, Sipunculusnudus

Five new meroterpenoids, chrodrimanins O-S (1-5), as well as a known one (6), were isolated from the fermentation broth of Penicillium sp. SCS-KFD09 isolated from a marine worm, Sipunculusnudus, from Haikou Bay, China. The structures including the absolute configurations of the new compounds were unambiguously elucidated by spectroscopic data and ECD spectra analysis along with quantum ECD calculations. Among them, compound 1 represents the first example of an unusual trichlorinated meroterpenoid with an unique dichlorine functionality. Compounds 1 and 4-6 displayed inhibitory activity of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) with IC₅₀ values of 71.6, 62.5, 63.1, and 39.6μM, respectively, and showed no apparent activity against three tumor cell lines (A549, HepG2, and Hela) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) at 10μM.

Chrodrimanins K-N and Related Meroterpenoids from the Fungus Penicillium sp. SCS-KFD09 Isolated from a Marine Worm, Sipunculus nudus

Six new meroterpenoids, chrodrimanins K-N (1-4), including two uncommon chlorinated ones (1 and 2), and verruculides B2 (5) and B3 (6), as well as seven known ones (7-13), were isolated from the fermentation broth of Penicillium sp. SCS-KFD09 isolated from a marine worm, Sipunculus nudus, from Haikou Bay, China. The structures including the absolute configurations of the new compounds were unambiguously elucidated by spectroscopic data, X-ray diffraction analysis, and ECD spectra analysis along with quantum ECD calculations. In addition, the X-ray crystal structures and absolute configurations of two previously reported meroterpenoids, chrodrimanins F (9) and A (11), are described for the first time. Compounds 1, 4, and 7 displayed anti-H1N1 activity with IC₅₀ values of 74, 58, and 34 μM, respectively, while compound 5 showed weak inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus with an MIC of 32 μg/mL.

Chemical study of the fungus Psilocybe merdaria

Chemical investigation on the cultures of the fungus Psilocybe merdaria resulted in the first isolation of 10 compounds including two new ones 11,14-dihydroxylneoechinulin E (1) and (S)-4-(4-methylpent-3-en-1-yl)-butyrolactone (2). Their structures were elucidated from the analysis of 1D and 2D NMR and MS data. Among them, compound 7 showed inhibitory activity against AChE with 20% percentage at a concentration of 50 μg/ml.

Chemical constituents from the fruiting bodies of Amauroderma subresinosum

The chemical investigation on the fruiting bodies of Amauroderma subresinosum led to the isolation of 10 compounds including 2 new ones named amaurosubresin (1) and erythro(23,24)-5α,6α-epoxyergosta-8-ene-7-one-3β,23-diol (2). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy as well as MS. The bioassay of inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) of two new isolates exhibited definite inhibitory activity.

Nematicidal Stemona Alkaloids from Stemona parviflora

Eight new alkaloids, 3β-n-butylstemonamine (1), 8-oxo-3β-n-butylstemonamine (2), 3-n-butylneostemonine (3), 10-epi-3-n-butylneostemonine (4), 8-oxo-oxymaistemonine (5) protostemonine N₄-oxide (6), (19S)-hydroxy-21-methoxystemofoline (7), and parvistemonine A (8), were isolated from the roots of Stemona parviflora, together with 17 known alkaloids. The structures of the new alkaloids were elucidated based on a comprehensive spectroscopic data analysis. The absolute configurations of 1-4 were determined by the ECD exciton chirality method and quantum ECD calculations. Protostemonine (10) and stemofoline (12) showed strong nematicidal activity against Panagrellus redivevus, with IC₅₀ values of 0.10 and 0.46 μM, respectively.

Experimentally simulating quantum walks with self-collimated light

In self-collimated photonic crystal, periodically arranged air holes of sub-wavelength scale provide flattened equi-frequency curves perpendicular to the ΓM direction, which allow light or photons propagating in a quasi-uniform medium without diffraction. Here we for the first time experimentally simulate four-step single-photon discrete time quantum walks with classical light in such a photonic crystal chip fabricated on silicon-on-insulator. Similarities between theoretical expectations and experimental results are higher than 0.98. The functional area is compact and can be extended to construct more complicated linear quantum circuits.

Three new lanostanoids from the mushroom Ganoderma tropicum

Three new lanostanoid triterpenes--ganotropic acid (1), 3β,7β,15α,24-tetra- hydroxy-11,23-dioxo-lanost-8-en-26-oic acid (2) and 3β,7β,15α,28-tetrahydroxy-11,23- dioxo-lanost-8,16-dien-26-oic acid (3)--were isolated from the n-BuOH extract of the fruiting bodies of the mushroom Ganoderma tropicum. Their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, as well as HR-EI-MS data.

Lanostanoids with acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity from the mushroom Haddowia longipes

Nine lanostanoids, together with nine known ones, were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of the fruiting bodies of the mushroom Haddowia longipes. Their structures were elucidated as 11-oxo-ganoderiol D, lanosta-8-en-7,11-dioxo-3β-acetyloxy-24,25,26-trihydroxy, lanosta-8-en-7-oxo-3β-acetyloxy-11β,24,25,26-tetrahydroxy, lanosta-7,9(11)-dien-3β-acetyloxy-24,25,26-trihydroxy, lanosta-7,9(11)-dien-3β-acetyloxy-24,26-dihydroxy-25-methoxy, 11-oxo-lucidadiol, 11β-hydroxy-lucidadiol, lucidone H and lanosta-7,9(11),24E-trien-3β-acetyloxy-26,27-dihydroxy by analysing their 1D/2D NMR and MS spectra. In addition, bioassays of inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) of all compounds showed that thirteen compounds possessed inhibitory activity against AChE with the percentage inhibition ranging from 10.3% to 42.1% when tested at 100 μM.

Anti-HIV terpenoids from Daphne aurantiaca Diels. stems

Thirteen new sesquiterpenoids were isolated from the stems of Daphne aurantiaca diels. Some compounds showed definite anti-HIV activities.