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The purpose of this study is to compare the potentials to exhibit biologically active antioxidant actions between white rice (WR) and brown rice (BR) in in vitro assays and a cellular model. The Trolox equivalent (TE) per 1 mg ethanol extract of WR for the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay was slightly higher than that of BR, whereas the TE per 1 g whole WR was much lower than that for BR. This tendency was very comparable to those for the oxygen radical absorbance capacity and total polyphenol content. Both of the ethanol extracts also similarly suppressed the hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity and enhanced the gene expression of drug-metabolizing enzymes. Based on the α-tocopherol quantity, its contribution to the cytoprotective effect of the rice extracts is very limited. Taken together, the ethanol extract of WR might be a qualitatively, but not quantitatively, equivalent source of antioxidative phytochemicals to that of BR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the anti-stress effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) leaf extract (RLE) on restraint-stressed mice and found that RLE alleviated decreases in the number of intestinal goblet cells and amount of hepatic triglycerides. It also decreased the immobility time in the forced-swimming test and activation of microglia in the brain, suggesting that RLE has beneficial effects on stress-induced dysfunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the previously described anti-photoaging effect of the enzyme-processed Panax ginseng extract and Gastrodia elata extract, we hypothesized that the combination of the two extracts would have superior effect to protect human skin from UVB radiation. Besides, the mixture of active components isolated from herbal extracts, ginsenoside F2, and α-gastrodin was investigated on the photo-protective capability. The expression of aging-related markers including matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and procollagen type 1 was evaluated using ELISA kits. It was reported that the herbal extract at a Panax ginseng extract to Gastrodia elata extract ratio of 1:10 (w/w) and the compound mixture with equal proportion of ginsenoside F2 and α-gastrodin exhibited significant inhibition of MMP-1 and IL-6 production, and marked upregulation of procollagen type 1 formation. Thus, the combination of either the enzyme-processed herbal extracts or their active components would enhance the properties of prevention and treatment of UVB-induced skin damage. The reverse effect of EPG on the UVB-induced damage via inhibiting MMP-1 and IL-6 production and accelerating procollagen type 1 synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hot water extraction of D-arabinofuranosylvitexin from the raw leaves of commercially available Basella alba "Tsurumurasaki" and subsequent acidic hydrolysis was improved to be a procedure using a high-pressure steam sterilizer to afford vitexin. The amount was estimated to be 14.1 mg from 1 g of dry weight of the raw leaves, whose recovery was calculated to be 95% based on the estimated content of D-arabinofuranosylvitexin in B. alba raw leaves. The product was dehydratively cyclized between hydroxy groups on the carbohydrate and flavone skeletons under modified Mitsunobu reaction conditions in N,N-dimethylformamide to give chafuroside B, which is known to be a bioactive Oolong tea polyphenol. Through these transformations, 10.2 mg of chafuroside B could be semisynthesized from 1 g of dry weight of the raw leaves, and the efficiency was improved compared to that from the extraction from Oolong tea (3.4 μg from 1 g of dry weight). Chafuroside B, a bioactive C-glycosylated flavonoid was semisynthesized from hot water extract of Basella alba, a commercially available vegetable "Tsurumurasaki," via vitexin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is produced by Lactobacillus brevis using date residue fermentation. In this study, the GABA production method was improved, for which L. brevis strain JCM 1059T was the most efficient among the four L. brevis strains examined. This was presumably due to a difference in the expression level of the gene encoding glutamate decarboxylase that catalyzes GABA synthesis. GABA: gamma-aminobutyric acid [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant activity of Petasites japonicus flower buds cultivated in Tokushima, Japan, was examined in vitro and in vivo. The flower bud extracts were assayed using either oxygen radical absorbance capacity or 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. Antioxidants in the 80% ethanol extract were investigated using online high-performance liquid chromatography-DPPH and were identified as caffeic acid, 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid, fukinolic acid, 3,4-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, and 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Fukinolic acid was the most active compound based on its activity and abundance. Administering the extracts orally to ICR mice prior to iron injection significantly suppressed plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) production. Moreover, TBARS and triglyceride concentrations in the plasma of C57BL/6 mice fed with a high fat diet were also significantly decreased by the extract. The results suggest that antioxidative compounds in P. japonicus can be used in the management of oxidative stress. In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the antioxidant activity of Petasites japonicus Maxim. flower buds extracts [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) contain bioactive compounds that are known to exhibit antidiabetic effects via inhibition of α-glucosidase. However, information on the nonpolar components that exhibit antidiabetic activity is limited. Here, we report the isolation and structure determination of components with α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, which were obtained from the hexane extract of red kidney beans. Triacylglycerols (TAGs) were identified as the major components exhibiting inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. The chemical structure of TAGs was determined by a combination of GC-MS and UPLC-MS/MS. The primary TAGs identified were LnLnLn (trilinolenin) and LnLLn (1,3-dilinolenoyl-2-linoleoyl glycerol). The major fatty acids present in these TAGs were α-linolenic acid (ω-3) and linoleic acid (ω-6). These TAGs were also found to inhibit the α-glucosidase activity in a similar fashion as acarbose. These results suggest that TAGs have potency as antidiabetics and support the potential suitability of red kidney beans for diabetes treatment. The dominant lipophilic compound of red kidney bean were identified as triacylglycerol and known to have α-glucosidase inhibition activity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kuji amber is fossilized tree resin of the Late Cretaceous in Japan. In this study, new biological activities of ethanol extract of Kuji amber (EtOH ext.) and supercritical carbon dioxide fluid extract of Kuji amber (scCO2 ext.) were examined. Both EtOH ext. and scCO2 ext. inhibited melanin production in B16 mouse melanoma cells and promoted collagen production in human skin fibroblast SF-TY cells. The scCO2 ext. had more potent activity than that of EtOH ext. and may depend on the efficiency of the extraction. The main new biologically active compound in Kuji amber, kujigamberol had no activities against melanin production, however, it promoted collagen production at low concentrations. A biologically active compound having a different structure, spirolactone norditerpenoid, showed both the inhibition activity against melanin production and the promotion activity of collagen production in a dose dependent manner. EtOH ext. and scCO2 ext., which include both kujigamberol and spirolactone norditerpenoid, have not only anti-allergy activity, but also inhibit melanin production and promote collagen production. The extracts of Kuji amber had inhibition activity of melanin production and promotion activity of collagen activity, with almost the same activity as β-arbutin and L-ascorbic acid. Biologically active compounds were idetified as spirolactone norditerpenoid and kujigamberol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was undertaken to determine the effects of enzyme-treated Zizania latifolia (ETZL) and of its major compound tricin on skin photo-aging and to investigate the mechanisms involved. It was found ETZL and tricin suppressed matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) production and increased type I-procollagen production in UVB-irradiated human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Furthermore, ETZL and tricin significantly up-regulated the expressions of the antioxidant enzymes HO-1 and SOD1, reduced UVB-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) induction by ROS and thereby attenuated activator protein-1 (AP-1) expression. In addition, ETZL and tricin both reduced the phosphorylations of IκBα and IKKα/ß and κB blocked the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65. These results show that ETZL have skin protective effects against UVB and suggest tricin as major efficacious material in ETZL protecting skin photoaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of proanthocyanidins derived from Acacia (Acacia mearnsii) bark extract in healthy Japanese adult subjects experiencing uncomfortable skin symptoms. All subjects were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 33 each) using a computerized random-number generator. The subjects received either Acacia bark extract tablets or placebo for 8 weeks. Evaluations included water content in the stratum corneum, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), Skindex-16, dermatology life quality index (DLQI), visual analog scale for desire to scratch, and blood tests. At 4 weeks, the symptom/feeling score of DLQI, subjective symptoms related to uncomfortable skin, and the desire to scratch were significantly reduced in the intervention group than in the placebo group. At 8 weeks, the intervention group exhibited significantly lower TEWL on facial skin than that in the placebo group. In conclusion, the intake of Acacia bark extract tablets reduced TEWL and improved dry and uncomfortable skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sericin was extracted from three strains of ThaiBombyx morisilk cocoons (white shell Chul1/1, greenish shell Chul3/2, and yellow shell Chul4/2) by a high-pressure and high-temperature technique. The characteristics of sericin extracted from different fractions (15, 45, and 60 min extraction process) were compared. No differences in amino acid composition were observed among the three fractions. For all silk strains, sericin extracted from a 15-min process presented the highest molecular weight. The biological potential of the different sericin samples as a bioadditive for 3T3 fibroblast cells was assessed. When comparing sericin extracted from three silk strains, sericin fractions extracted from Chul4/2 improved cell proliferation, while sericin from Chul 1/1 activated Type I collagen production to the highest extent. This study allows the natural variability of sericin obtained from different sources and extraction conditions to be addressed and provides clues for the selection of sericin sources. Molecular and biological characters of sericin extracted from three strains of ThaiBombyx morisilk cocoons by a high-pressure and high-temperature technique. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this article, the author discusses a research related to properties of rice stem extracts obtained by using subcritical fluids. Topics discussed include rice stems were subjected to subcritical fluid treatment at 230 degree centigrade using ethanol or acetone at a dilution of 0-100 percent in water, obtained extracts were determined for their yield, carbohydrate content, and phenolic content, and rice generates one million dry tons of rice straw disposed of by soil incorporation.

The article focuses on a study related to the determination of the geographical origin of Kimchi extract taken from Korea and China. As per the study, biochemical compositions of kimchi were performed by -H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy and multivariate data analysis. The study mentions that Principal Component Analyses (PCA) discriminated between extracts prepared between two countries. The study concludes that metabolomics can be used in discrimination of food origins.

The article presents a study on the examination of the immunostimulation effects of yellowtail heart extracts. It is found out that extracts from the yellowtail heart improved IgM production by the human hybridoma HBSC5 cells and revealed the highest IgM production-stimulating activity on HBC4C5 cells. It says that purified tropomyosin from porcine muscle improved IgM production which shows that tropomyosin-4 is an immunostimulating substance in the yellowtail heart.

The article discusses a study which investigated the Elephantopus mollis K. and H.B. extract's inhibitory effect on melanogenesis in B16 murine melanoma cells. It reveals that the melanin content is reduced when treated with the extract and inhibition was followed by decreased expression of tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TRP1) and tyrosine (TYR). It notes that the extract decreases melanogenesis through downregulation of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) expression.

The article discusses a study which examines the enzymatic components of Chlorella vulgaris. Findings of the study reveal that a free flavin-dependent Fenton reaction was identified on its cell-free extracts. It also indicates that its N-terminal sequence was similar to aldo-keto reductase family enzymes since it displayed aldehyde reductase activity as well.

The article reports on the investigation of the tyrosinase inhibitory activity of ethanol extracts from medicinal and edible plants cultivated in Okinawa and identification of a water-soluble inhibitor from the leaves of Nandina domestica (ND) or heavenly bamboo. The ND extract showed potent activity. The inhibitor in the extract was purified by assay-guided fractionation to give a simple phenol glucoside.

The article discusses the results of a study examining the effect of giving isoflavone-rich fermented soy bean extract (FSBE) on the serum cholesterol concentrations of male and intact ovariectomized (OVX) female rats. The FSBE decreased the serum concentrations of the intact female and OVX rats. The FSBE had no effect on the male rats. Dietary FSBE increased the hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor gene expression of the intact female rats, but did not effect the OVX rats.

The article presents a study which investigated the hepatoprotective effect of purple potato extract (PPE) against D-galactosamine (GaIN)-induced liver injury in rats. PPE was administered once daily for 8 days and GaIN was injected 22 hours before the rats were killed. The results suggest that PPE has hepatoprotective effects against GaIN-induced hepatotoxicity through inhibition lipid peroxidation or inflammation in rats.

The article presents the study on the effects of passion fruit's rind extract in Japan. The research was done by observing a hypertensive rat medicated with methanol extracts from the fruit. The result showed that the systolic blood pressure has lowered after the administration. Hypothesis revealed that its extract has luteolin and aminobutyric acid which serves as vasodilators, hence, decrease blood pressure.

Examines the effects of dried bonito (katsuobushi) extracts and captopril, an angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, on rat isolated aorta. Effects of dried bonito extracts on the contractile response to norepinephrine or KCL in denuded aorta preparations isolated from rats; Comparison of the effects with those of captopril as a reference drug; Results suggesting that antihypersensitive mechanism of action induced by dried bonito involves direct action on vascular smooth muscle in addition to ACE-inhibitory activity.

Investigates whether black tea extract and its components, theaflavins, suppress aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) transformation in vitro. Confirmation that black tea extract strongly suppressed AhR transformation compared to green and oolong tea, although the catechin contents did not change significantly among the extracts; Isolation of four theaflavins as active compounds from black tea leaves; Indication that theaflavins inhibit the binding of 2,3,7,8-tetra-chlorodibenzo-p-dioxin to the AhR and also the binding of the transformed AhR to the specific DNA-binding site as putative mechanism.

Investigates the stimulation of melanogenesis by the hot water extract of adzuki beans (Vigna angularis) in cultured murine B16 melanoma cells and C3H mice. Indication that the distilled water fraction (WEx) can stimulate tyrosinase activity in cultured mouse B16 melanoma cells and hair color pigmentation in C3H mice; WEx stimulation of melanogenesis without inhibiting cell growth; Finding that WEx have pigmentation activity on hair color in C3H mice.

Details the design of a novel antioxidative system which can generate the volatile constituents in the gaseous phase form a rosemary extract. Evaluation of the gaseous antioxidative activities against both lipid peroxidation and cell death induced by nitrogen dioxide and ultraviolet radiation; Suggestion that the volatile constituents of a rosemary extract had antioxidative properties and that gaseous exposure antioxidant is a promising method for promoting health.

The article presents a study that analyzes the antibacterial activity of lactoperoxidase system mixed with edible Laminaria hot-water extract as a source of halide ions. The study is undertaken through collecting 12 samples of Laminaria japonica, Laminaria angustata, and Laminaria ochotensis that are subjected to assaying. The results of the study show that several extracts have higher bactericidal activity and higher OI concentration in the assay mixture after ultrafiltration.

The article presents a study regarding the inhibitory effect of a hot water extract of coffee silverskin (CS) on hyaluronidase. The study showed that CS extract, which is a by-product of the roasting procedure of coffee beans, have a high inhibitory effect against hyaluronidase. It also reveals the contribution of the higher-molecular-weight substance in CS extract to the inhibition of hyaluronidase.

The article discusses a study which examines the fatigue-alleviating effect of an ethanolic extract (RCE) from Rubus coreanus on mice through an adjustable-current swimming pool. Findings of the study reveal that the mice administered with 80% of RCE showed swimming time reduction of 20%. It concludes that RCE could alleviate fatigue through increasing antioxidative potential.

The article discusses a study which examines the thiosulfate oxidation activity of Hydrogenobacter thermophilus, a thermo-neutrophilic hydrogen-oxidizing bacterium. Findings reveal that the thiosulfate oxidation activity is temperature-dependent with optimum temperature at 60-degree Celsius. It also indicates that Sox genes are common even in thermo-neutrophilic environments.

The article presents a study which investigates on the carotenoid content of the fat-soluble extract found from persimmon peel. The study analyzes the carotenoids extracted from the peel by using LC-20A HPLC system with an ultraviolet (UV) detector. Results show that the extract obtained from the peel contained high concentration polyphenols and carotenoids and adds that water-soluble compounds can be removed during the extraction process when sugars are being removed from the concentration.

The article presents a study which revealed that the metabolic extract of pasuchaca (PsEx) will suppress blood glucose elevation after oral administration of sucrose, maltose and starch. The examination of the inhibitory effect of PsEx on maltase activity showed that PsEx inhibited mouse small intestine maltase activity. The inhibitory effect of PsEx might contribute to delay in carbohydrate digestion and lowering of the blood glucose level which leads to prevention and cure of diabetes.