Plant-assisted synthesis and characterization of MnO2 nanoparticles for removal of crystal violet dye: an environmental remedial approach

The current study is focused on the use of the Caryota mitis Lour. (Fishtail palm) flower extract as a reducing agent for the preparation of manganese dioxide (MnO₂) nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), four-phase infrared analysis (FT-IR), and x-ray diffraction (XRD) methods were used to characterize the MnO₂ nanoparticles. The nature of MnO₂ nanoparticles was revealed by an absorption peak at 590 nm in a spectrophotometer (A1000). Then, these MnO₂ nanoparticles were applied to decolorize the crystal violet dye. At 0.004% dye concentration, pH 4, and concentration of MnO₂ nanoparticles of 0.005 g/L at temperatures of 50 °C, the target dye was decolorized by 91.3%. Percent reductions in COD and TOC were found to be 92.1% and 90.6%, respectively. Finally, the dye decolorization pathway was proposed based on the experimental findings.

Alkanna tinctoria-based sustainable alkanin natural colorant for eco-dyeing of wool

The awareness of sustainability and widespread utilization of green technologies in textile dye houses are revolutionizing not only textile industries but related fields. The current study is concerned with ultrasonic (US)-assisted utilization of extracts of Alkanna tinctoria (a source of natural alkanin dye) for wool dyeing. The extracts are obtained in various media, and both extracts and wool fabrics have been  US treated for 15-60 min. Dyeing is performed by applying variable parameters and utilizing herbal-based extracts as a source of bio-mordant, hence improving the fastness rating and enhancing color strength. Good color strength and fastness ratings are obtained using irradiated extract at 4 pH when the US-treated wool fabric is dyed at 65 °C for 60 min before and after chemical and bio-mordanting. For comparative studies, chemical mordants are also employed. In contrast to chemical mordants, the bio-mordants have made the dyeing process more sustainable with good to excellent fastness rating.

Designing Novel Zn-Decorated Inorganic B12P12 Nanoclusters with Promising Electronic Properties: A Step Forward toward Efficient CO2 Sensing Materials

Gas sensing materials have been widely explored recently owing to their versatile environmental and agriculture monitoring applications. The present study advocates the electronic response of Zn-decorated inorganic B₁₂P₁₂ nanoclusters to CO₂ gas. Herein, a series of systems CO₂-Zn-B₁₂P₁₂ (E1-E4) are designed by adsorption of CO₂ on Zn-decorated B₁₂P₁₂ nanoclusters, and their electronic properties are explored by density functional theory. Initially, placement of Zn on B₁₂P₁₂ delivers four geometries named as D1-D4, with adsorption energy values of -57.12, -22.94, -21.03, and -14.07 kJ/mol, respectively, and CO₂ adsorption on a pure B₁₂P₁₂ nanocage delivers one geometry with an adsorption energy of -4.88 kJ/mol. However, the interaction of CO₂ with D1-D4 systems confers four geometries named as E1 (E _ad = -75.12 kJ/mol), E2 (E _ad = -25.89 kJ/mol), E3 (E _ad = -42.43 kJ/mol), and E4 (E _ad = -28.73 kJ/mol). Various electronic parameters such as dipole moment, molecular electrostatic potential analysis, frontier molecular orbital analysis, Q _NBO, global descriptor of reactivity, and density of states are also estimated in order to understand the unique interaction mechanism. The results of these analyses suggested that Zn decoration on B₁₂P₁₂ significantly favors CO₂ gas adsorption, and a maximum charge separation is also noted when CO₂ is adsorbed on the Zn-B₁₂P₁₂ nanocages. Therefore, the Zn-decorated B₁₂P₁₂ nanocages are considered as potential candidates for application in CO₂ sensors.

Investigation of the Physiochemical Properties of Beauty Soaps Available in Pakistan

This study is aimed to examine the quality of beauty soap bars available to the consumers in Pakistan. A range of soap bars manufactured by local small-scale manufacturers from Pakistan were analyzed for their physiochemical properties such as pH, foaming, total fatty substances, matter insoluble in alcohol, free fatty acids, total alkali and moisture contents. The quality of the Pakistani local soap brands was compared to that of imported soaps or those made by multi-national conglomerates. The products were examined following the national standards set by Pakistan standards and quality control authority (PSQCA). The results showed that pH and total alkali level in the local beauty soaps was ((9,40–9,75) ± 0,03) and ((0,100–0,120) ± 0,02). The values of other physiochemical properties were: total fat matter ((62–71) % ± 0,50) %), matter insoluble in alcohol ((15–21) % ± 0,32 %), free fatty acid ((0,05–0,275) % ± 0,01 %) and moisture content ((10–16) % ± 0,50 %). The results demonstrate that Pakistani locally made soap products showed a relatively low amount of total fatty matter as defined by PSQCA and are required to improve their quality in terms of total fat matter. The products made by multi-national companies were superior for most of the examined features.

Evaluation of structurally different benzimidazoles as priming agents, plant defence activators and growth enhancers in wheat

Priming is a valuable, facile and well-established technique used to enhance seed quality to achieve rapid germination, establishment of stress resistance and improvement of crop yields. Different natural and synthetic priming agents have been used for better crop performance and abiotic stress management. In this study, four different benzimidazoles were selected as priming agents and their comparative effects were evaluated on different biochemical attributes including total soluble protein, total oxidant status, MDA contents, antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD) and hydrolytic enzymes (protease, estrases) compared to control. Treatments with 2-thio-1-H-benzimidazole reduced total soluble proteins and increased total oxidant status significantly but no considerable effect was observed on other parameters. Priming with 2-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-H-benzimidazole considerably increased the total oxidant status and a little improvement was observed in total soluble proteins. Seeds primed with 1-H-benzimidazole showed a noticeable decrease in the protease activity while all other priming treatments were unable to induce any detectable change compared to control. The treatment with 2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-H-benzimidazole induced maximum reduction in MDA contents and POD activity. Moreover, all benzimidazole priming treatments reduced mean germination time, increased germination percentage and germination rate of wheat seeds.

Emerging Trends in Non-Interferon-Based Genotype-Specific Antiviral Agents: Pharmaceutical Perspectives

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) presents a serious global health threat. Initially, the health-care community mainly focused on interferon (IFN)-based therapeutic options to eradicate HCV, but with the passage of time, these applications became unsuitable due to some serious side effects related to the use of IFN. In recent years, research conducted on different phases of HCV's life cycle has opened a new gateway for the use of a direct-acting new generation of anti-HCV agents. Their safer and ultrarapid response has made possible the introduction of triple therapy and use of IFN-free therapeutic treatment strategies. However, the high cost of these successful therapies has raised serious concerns, particularly in low-income countries, and this has forced pharmaceutical scientists to explore more cost-effective IFN-free alternatives for the treatment of HCV. In this article, we have briefly summarized the latest data regarding the research and development of non-IFN-based antiviral agents. The studies mentioned in this article highlight the significance of non-IFN-based direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents. Economical alternative anti-HCV agents are expected to become available in the near future for better and more cost-effective treatments of HCV.

Synthesis of a Fluorescent Whitening Molecule and its Application to Wool Fibres

Aim and Objective:

Reactive dye molecules are commonly employed to dye or modify colour characteristics of wool fibres. Yellowness of wool fibres poses a challenge and here, we report synthesis of a reactive fluorescent molecule and its application to wool fibres to reduce yellowness of the wool fibre and improve its colour features.

Material and Methods:

The new molecule was based upon 7-amino-4-methylcoumarin (AMC) and 2,4,6- trichloro-1,3,5-triazine (TZT). The synthesis involved a two-step chemical reaction, initiated by the nucleophilic substitution of a chloro group on the triazine ring with the hydroxyl group of 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonic acid. The substitution of 2nd chloro group at triazine ring with the amino group of 7-amino-4-methylcoumarin resulted in a novel molecule with a monofunctional reactive chloro group (AMC-MCT molecule).

Results:

The new molecule was applied to the wool fibres using exhaust dyeing method. This exhibited a high exhaustion value; however low fixation and total efficiency values were observed for the new molecule. The resultant wool fibres exhibited fluorescence which shows that aminocoumarin fluorophore retained its fluorescence when incorporated in the new molecule. An assessment of the molecule for yellowness index in a controlled exposure to UV radiation suggested an improvement in whiteness of wool fibre.

Conclusion:

A novel aminocoumarin based fluorescent whitening molecule 2 has been synthesised and applied to the wool fibres. The new molecule continued to exhibit fluorescence after its application to the wool fibres. These results will encourage researchers to explore further possibilities for reactive whitening agent for wool fibres.

Synthesis, spectral and antimicrobial studies of amino acid derivative Schiff base metal (Co, Mn, Cu, and Cd) complexes

Amino acid derivative Schiff base was synthesized by reaction of leucine with salicyldehyde in basic medium. The Schiff base was used as a ligand which was reacted with Co, Mn, Cu and Cd metals in order to form the stable complexes. The synthesized ligand and metals complexes were characterized by using different spectroscopic tools i.e. FT-IR, Mass spectrometry and NMR. The percentages of different elements present in ligand molecule and complexes was confirmed by Elemental analyzer. All compounds including ligand and complexes were also engaged with different bacterial (Escheria coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subbtilis) and fungal strains (Alternaria alternate, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger) in order to check the inhibitory action of titled compounds. The results showed that the metal complexes have greater antimicrobial activities than ligand.

Characterization of Tween® Surfactants by MALDI TOF-MS and High Performance Liquid Chromatography in a Ternary Mobile Phase

Different hydrophobic and hydrophilic functionalities are produced in the reaction mixture of Tween® surfactants which affect the physiochemical properties of the final product. Only hydrophilic fractions and monoesters were separated in the binary mobile phase. MALDI TOF-MS of Tween® 40 revealed the identification of peaks separated in binary mobile phase (methanol-water). Liquid adsorption chromatography was performed on a gradient system on a SynergiTM fusion reverse phase column. Mobile phase composition used for this separation was a ternary phase gradient starting from 41 % methanol, 47 % acetone and going to 96 % acetone for the analysis time of 60 minutes. In the ternary mobile phase, gradient all the species such as polyethylene glycol, sorbitan and isosorbide ethoxylates, mono-, di- and triesters of sorbitan and isosorbide ethoxylates were well resolved in an of 60 minutes analysis time. The above separation mechanism can be employed for the analysis of polymeric multifunctional surfactant compositions.

Facile and Green Synthesis of Saturated Cyclic Amines

Single-nitrogen containing saturated cyclic amines are an important part of both natural and synthetic bioactive compounds. A number of methodologies have been developed for the synthesis of aziridines, azetidines, pyrrolidines, piperidines, azepanes and azocanes. This review highlights some facile and green synthetic routes for the synthesis of unsubstituted, multisubstituted and highly functionalized saturated cyclic amines including one-pot, microwave assisted, metal-free, solvent-free and in aqueous media.

Biochemical alterations in the leaves of different Desi and Kabuli type chickpea genotypes infected by phytoplasma

Objective:

Chickpea phyllody caused by phytoplasma occurs worldwide. However, the alterations in the host physiology and its associated biochemical components induced by the infection with phytoplasma in chickpea plant remain unknown.

Methods:

In present study, the changes in phenolic compounds, protein contents, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POX), catalase (CAT), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and chlorophyll contents were analyzed in phytoplasma-symptomatic and non-symptomatic plants of two Kabuli and three Desi type chickpea genotypes.

Results:

Total phenols were statistically at par in symptomatic plants of both Kabuli and one Desi (Bittle-98) genotype but significantly increased in genotype Aug-424 and decreased in C-727. Protein contents were significantly decreased in symptomatic plants of all genotypes except CM-2008. PAL activity was significantly increased in all Kabuli but decreased in all the Desi genotypes. POX activity was significantly increased in Noor-2009 and Aug-424 but decreased in CM-2008 and Bittle-98. PPO activity was increased in two genotypes but decreased in others. CAT activity and chlorophyll contents were decreased in all genotypes.

Conclusion:

The present finding indicates that phytoplasma causes non-specific, general stress response by interfering with host metabolism and photosynthesis. The study also provided significant insights for better understanding the mechanisms of chickpea plant response to phytoplasma.

Study of rust resistance genes in wheat germplasm with DNA markers

Wheat is a vital dietary component for human health and widely consumed in the world. Wheat rusts are dangerous pathogens and contribute serious threat to its production. In present study, PCR-Based DNA Markers were employed to check the rust resistance genes among 20 wheat genotypes and 22 markers were amplified. NTSYS-pc 2.2 was used to calculate genetic diversity and Nei and Li's coefficients ranged from 0.55 to 0.95. Cluster analysis was obtained using UPGMA (Unweighted Pair Group Method of Arithmetic Average) algorithm. Maximum no. of genes (23) was amplified from TW-760010 genotype whereas minimum no of genes (14) were amplified from TW-76005 genotype. The data gained from present study open up new ways to produce new varieties by breeding rust resistant germplasm to avoid the economic and food loss and varieties with improved characteristics.

Chemical composition, antioxidant activities and protein profiling of different parts of Allamanda cathartica

The phytochemical screening and protein profiling of Allamanda cathartica was performed. Biochemical analysis revealed that peroxidase (8730 ± 307 units/g), superoxide dismutase (181 ± 3.79 units/g), catalase (529 ± 28.9 units/g), protease (3598 ± 79.8 units/g), total phenolic contents (19,344 ± 657 μM/g), β-esterases (342 ± 46.5 units/g) and the total oxidant status were highest in the roots as compared to other plant parts. However, total soluble proteins (128 ± 1.54 mg/g), lycopene (5.70 ± 0.61 mg/g), chlorophyll a (161 ± 24.9 μg/g), total chlorophyll content (267 ± 34.3 μg/g) and total carotenoid content (12.4 ± 1.71 mg/g) were found to be highest in leaves. Moreover, total antioxidant capacity (5.43 ± 0.29 μM/g) detected by using ABTS method and α-esterase (714.580 ± 23.6 units/g) were highest in shoots. The protein profiling was performed using SDS-PAGE. In leaves, 13 peptides with molecular weight (M.wt.) from 27 to 168 kDa were detected while in shoots 10 peptides with M.wt. from 30 to 95 kDa were resolved. Similarly, in roots, 10 peptides of 30-880 kDa and in flower seven peptides of 30-88 kDa were detected.

Analysis of Insecticidal Azadirachta indica A. Juss. Fractions

As a result of chemical investigation on the ethanolic extract of fresh fruit coatings of Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (neem), twenty-seven compounds were identified in non-polar to less polar fractions which showed pesticidal activity determined by WHO method against Anopheles stephensi Liston. These identifications were basically made through GC-EIMS and were further supported by other spectroscopic techniques, including 13C NMR, UV and FTIR as well as retention indices. Thus sixteen n-alkanes, 1-16; three aromatics 2,6-bis-(1,1- dimethylethyl)-4-methyl phenol (17), 2-(phenylmethylene)-octanal (20), 1,2,4-trimethoxy-5- (1Z-propenyl)-benzene (27); three benzopyranoids 3,4-dihydro-4,4,5,8-tetramethylcoumarin (18), 3,4-dihydro-4,4,7,8-tetramethylcoumarin-6-ol (19), 1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethyl- cyclopenta[g]-2-benzopyran (22); one sesquiterpene methyl-3,7,11-trimethyl-2E,- 6E,10-dodecatrienoate (21); three esters of fatty acids methyl 14-methyl-pentadecanoate (23), ethyl hexadecanoate (24), ethyl 9Z-octadecenoate (25) and one monoterpene 3,7-dimethyl- 1-octen-7-ol (26) were identified. Except 6, 8, 24 and 25 all these compounds were identified for the first time from the pericarp and fifteen of these, 1-3, 7, 9, 10, 17-23, 26, 27, are hitherto unreported previously from any part of the tree. Although this tree is a rich source of various natural products, it is the first report of identification of mono- and sesquiterpenes 26 and 21 and a potent antioxidant, 17.

RNA-SSPT: RNA Secondary Structure Prediction Tools

The prediction of RNA structure is useful for understanding evolution for both in silico and in vitro studies. Physical methods like NMR studies to predict RNA secondary structure are expensive and difficult. Computational RNA secondary structure prediction is easier. Comparative sequence analysis provides the best solution. But secondary structure prediction of a single RNA sequence is challenging. RNA-SSPT is a tool that computationally predicts secondary structure of a single RNA sequence. Most of the RNA secondary structure prediction tools do not allow pseudoknots in the structure or are unable to locate them. Nussinov dynamic programming algorithm has been implemented in RNA-SSPT. The current studies shows only energetically most favorable secondary structure is required and the algorithm modification is also available that produces base pairs to lower the total free energy of the secondary structure. For visualization of RNA secondary structure, NAVIEW in C language is used and modified in C# for tool requirement. RNA-SSPT is built in C# using Dot Net 2.0 in Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 Professional edition. The accuracy of RNA-SSPT is tested in terms of Sensitivity and Positive Predicted Value. It is a tool which serves both secondary structure prediction and secondary structure visualization purposes.

Acetyl and butyryl cholinesterase inhibitory sesquiterpene lactones from Amberboa ramosa

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by a progressive memory loss that leads to a profound emotional disturbance in later stages. As no safe and effective drug is yet available for the treatment of AD, secondary metabolites from plants may be instrumental in meeting this challenge. Keeping in view this point we evaluated sesquiterpenes of medicinal plant Amberboa ramosa for their cholinesterase inhibitory activity.

RESULTS

Four sesquiterpene lactones have been isolated from the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of Amberboa ramosa. In which one compound Amberbin C (1) was found to be new while other three Amberin (2), Amberbin A (3), and Amberbin B (4) were previously reported ones. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using different spectroscopic techniques. Isolated compounds were tested for their inhibitory potential against acetyl cholinesterase and butyryl cholinesterase enzymes. All compounds showed excellent inhibitory activities against acetyl cholinesterase and butyryl cholinesterase.

CONCLUSIONS

A new sesquiterpene lactone has been isolated and fully characterized, the sesquiterpene lactones from Amberboa ramosa showed good inhibitory activities against acetyl cholinesterase and butyryl cholinesterase enzymes, this study indicated that sesquiterpene lactone can become interesting lead molecules in drug development against Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Chemical Constituents from the Stems of Morinda citrifolia Linn

Studies on the chemical constituents of the stems of Morinda citrifolia, Linn. have led to the isolation of two new compounds, morindicone (9-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4-methyl-3,10-anthracenedione, 1) and morinthone (4-methoxy-3-heptadecylxanthone, 2), as well as two known constituents, 1-hydroxy-2-methylanthraquinone (3) and 2-hydroxymethylanthraquinone (4). Their structures were elucidated by spectral analysis including 2D NMR techniques.

New anthraquinones from the stem of Morinda citrifolia Linn

Studies on the chemical constituents of the stem of Morinda citrifolia, Linn. have led to the isolation of two new compounds, morindicinone (=2-hydroxy-1,8-dimethoxy-7-methoxymethylanthraquinone, 1) and morindicininone (=4-hydroxymethyl-1,3-dimethoxyanthraquinone, 2), as well as two known constituents, 2-hydroxyanthraquinone (3) and 2-methoxyanthraquinone (4). Their structures were elucidated by spectral analysis including 2D-NMR techniques.

A new tetracyclic triterpenoid from the leaves of Azadirachta indica

A new tetracyclic triterpenoid zeeshanol [25,26,27-trinor-apotirucalla-(apoeupha)-6alpha-, 21-dihydroxy, 7alpha-acetoxy, 1,14,22-tri-en-3, 16-dione] (1) along with a known constituent desfurano-6alpha-hydroxyazadiradione (2) have been isolated from the methanolic extract of the leaves of Azadirachta indica. The structure and the relative configurations of 1 were determined by the spectroscopic method (1H- and 13C-NMR, IR, and MS) and 2D-NMR experiments.

Phytochemical studies on the seed extract ofPiper nigrumLinn

The petroleum ether extract of dried ground seeds of Piper nigrum Linn. and some column fractions of this extract were subjected to GC and GC-MS analysis, resulting in the identification of fourteen compounds (1-14) by using NIST Mass spectral search program 1998 and the Kovat's retention indices. Ten of the compounds (1, 2, 4-12) are reported for the first time from this plant. All the fractions showed insecticidal activity against the fourth instar larvae of Aedes aegypti and against the fourth instar larvae of Anopheles stephensi Liston, determined by the WHO method.

Insecticidal amides from fruits of Piper nigrum Linn

The petroleum ether and ethyl acetate fractions of dried ground seeds of Piper nigrum Linn. afforded sixteen compounds (1-16) including one new insecticidal amide, pipwaqarine (1) and six constituents (3,4,6,7,11,15) previously unreported from this plant. The structure of (1) has been elucidated through extensive 1D-, 2D-NMR spectral studies as, 1-[13-(3',4'-methylenedioxyphenyl)-2E,4E,12E-tridecatrienoyl]-N-isopentylamide, while those of known constituents through comparison of spectral data. 1 exhibited toxicity of 30ppm against fourth instar larvae of Aedes aegypti Liston determined by WHO method. A portion of petroleum ether fraction was also subjected to GC and GC-MS analysis resulting in the identification of three compounds (17-19) using the NIST Mass spectral search program 1998 and Kovat's retention indices. Two of these compounds, 17 and 18, are reported for the first time from this plant.

Piptigrine, a new Insecticidal Amide fromPiper NigrumLinn

A new insecticidal amide piptigrine (1) possessing highly extended conjugation was isolated from the dried ground seeds of Piper nigrum Linn. along with the known amides piperine and wisanine (hitherto unreported from this plant). The structure of 1 has been elucidated as 1-[9-(3',4'-methylenedioxyphenyl)-4E,6E,8E-nonatrienoyl]piperidine through extensive 1D- and 2D-NMR (COSY-45, NOESY, J-resolved, HMQC, HMBC and NOESY studies. The known compounds have been identified through comparison of their spectral data with those reported in literature. 1 exhibited toxicity of 15.0 ppm against fourth instar larvae of Aedes aegypti Liston.

Tetracyclic triterpenoids from the leaves of Azadirachta indica

Two new tetracyclic triterpenoids zafaral [24,25,26,27-tetranorapotirucalla-(apoeupha)-6alpha-methoxy-7alpha-acetoxy-1,14-dien-3,16-dione-21-al] (1) and meliacinanhydride [24,25,26,27-tetranorapotirucalla-(apoeupha)-6alpha-hydroxy,11alpha-methoxy-7alpha,12alpha-diacetoxy,1,14,20(22)-trien-3-one] (2) have been isolated from the methanolic extract of neem leaves along with two known constituents nimocinol and isomeldenin. Their structures and the relative configurations were determined by spectroscopic methods ((1)H and (13)C NMR, IR, and MS) and 2D NMR experiments.

New Insecticidal Amides from Petroleum Ether Extract of Dried Piper nigrum L. Whole Fruits

The petroleum ether extract of dried ground whole fruits of Piper nigrum L. afforded 20 compounds (1-20) including two new insecticidal amides named as pipnoohine (1), and pipyahyine (2), seven reported for the first time from this plant (12, 13, 15-17, 19, 20), and eleven known compounds (3-11, 14, 18). The structure of 1 has been elucidated as (2E,4E,12Z)-N-(4-methylpentyl)octadeca-2,4,12-trienamide and that of 2 as (2E,4E,11E)-12-(benzo[1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-N-(3-methylbutyl)dodeca-2,4,11-trien-amide through extensive ID-, 2D-NMR spectral studies and chemical reactions. The known compounds have been identified through comparison of their spectral data with those reported in literature. 1 and 2 exhibited toxicity at 35.0 and 30.0 ppm respectively against fourth instar larvae of Aedes aegypti L. by WHO method.

Isolation and Structure Determination of a Benzofuran and a Bis-Nor-Isoprenoid fromAspergillus NigerGrown on the Water Soluble Fraction ofMorinda CitrifoliaLinn. Leaves

The leaves of Morinda citrifolia, Linn. afforded a new benzofuran and a bis-nor-isoprenoid, blumenol C, hitherto unreported from this source. The structures of these have been elucidated as 5-benzofuran carboxylic acid-6-formyl methyl ester (1) and 4-(3'(R)-hydroxybutyl)-3,5,5, trimethyl-cyclohex-2-en-1-one (2) respectively through spectroscopic studies. The NMR data (including 1D, 2D techniques) and stereochemistry at C-3' of Compound 2 is also being reported for the first time.

Tetracyclic triterpenoids from the leaves of Azadirachta indica and their insecticidal activities

A new tetranortriterpenoid, meliatetraolenone [24,25,26,27-tetranor-apotirucalla-(apoeupha)-6alpha-O-methyl, 7alpha-senecioyl(7-deacetyl)-11alpha,12alpha,21,23-tetrahydroxy-21,23-epoxy-2,14,20(22)-trien-1,16-dione] (1) was isolated from the methanolic extract of fresh leaves of Azadirachta indica along with the known compound odoratone (3) which was hitherto unreported from this source. Their structures have been elucidated by spectral studies including 2D NMR. The insecticidal activities of 1 as well as those of odoratone (3) are reported. 1 and odoratone both showed mortality on fourth instar larvae of mosquitoes (Anopheles stephensi) with LC(50) values of 16 and 154 ppm, respectively.