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Introduction: Antioxidants protect against free radicals. Objective: The aim of this work is to determine the influence of the composition of the plant raw material on magnitude and kinetics of interactions with free radicals of infusions obtained from a mixture of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) herbs and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) flowers. The composition of a complex plant raw material with strong antioxidative properties was searched. Material and Methods: The infusions were prepared from the mixtures of C. scolymus herbs and T. officinale flowers with weight ratio of the ingredients: 1:1, 2:1, and 1:2. The proportions of the ingredients in the examined mixtures were chosen to obtain the effect of the individual plant components on free radical interactions of the infusions from the complex material. Antioxidant properties were examined by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and the model DPPH free radicals. Results and Discussion: EPR spectra of DPPH free radicals decrease as a result of interactions with the examined plant infusions. The decrease of the EPR spectra was strongest and the weakest for infusions of complex plant raw material with the ratio of ingredients 2:1 and 1:1, respectively. Conclusions: All tested infusions of a mixture of artichoke (C. scolymus) herbs and dandelion (T. officinale) flowers, with ingredient weight ratios of 1:1, 2:1 and 1:2, quench free radicals. The character of kinetics of free radical interactions for the tested infusions are similar. An infusion of complex plant raw material with a 2:1 weight ratio of ingredients has the strongest effect on eliminating free radicals. An infusion with a 1:1 weight ratio of ingredients has the weakest ability to quench free radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raw materials obtained from the natural environment: of plant, mineral or animal origin, have been used for centuries in various regions. Cosmetology is a relatively young branch of science using therapeutic achievements of medicine, pharmacology, chemistry or phytotherapy. Numerous sources describe the composition and properties of raw materials produced by bees: honey, propolis, beeswax, royal jelly, bee pollen, bee venom and bee bread. Products of bee origin show a comprehensive effect of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer (cytotoxic - e.g. in the treatment of melanoma) of estrogenic nature. Their physicochemical properties are used in the production of cosmetics, dermocosmetics and colour cosmetics. Raw materials produced by these insects are a very valuable and rich source of active substances with proven medicinal properties, used both in conventional and folk medicine and - increasingly - in cosmetics. They can be safely used, excluding only individuals allergenic to bee products. In cosmetology, a holistic approach leads to the search for the most optimal methods of the maintenance of proper physiological state of human organism, thus delay ageing processes. Professional, but also everyday anti-ageing care, should be primarily focused on the use of products that have a beneficial effect on maintaining the function of the skin barrier, protecting the skin from free radicals, stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen and intracellular matrix. The cosmetics industry, in line with current trend focused on ecology and a healthy lifestyle, offers products containing natural raw materials, especially those of bee origin. The article presents a review of current literature published in last decade (2014-2024) available in scientific databases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Extracts from Thymus species have been widely studied due to their rich secondary metabolites and potential health benefits. This study focuses on the biological properties and secondary metabolites in Thymus vulgaris, Thymus algeriensis, and Thymus broussonettii. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore and quantify the secondary metabolites and evaluate the biological activities of extracts from different Thymus species. Methods: Phytochemical screening was performed to detect alkaloids, steroids, catechic tannins, flavonoids, saponosides, and tannoids. Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were measured using specific assays. The antioxidant activity was assessed through DPPH and ABTS assays. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were evaluated against various pathogens, including Bacillus subtilis and Coniophora puteana. Results: Thymus broussonettii showed the highest levels of polyphenols (144.301±2.688 mg EAG/g) and flavonoids (134.4±1.162 mgEQ/g). Thymus vulgaris exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity with DPPH IC50 = 4.136 ± 0.131 µg/ml and ABTS IC50=39.592±0.226 µg/ml. The extracts also demonstrated significant antibacterial and antifungal activities, particularly against Bacillus subtilis and Coniophora puteana, with minimal inhibition concentrations of less than 0.3 mg/ml. Conclusions: The study reveals the rich presence of secondary metabolites in Thymus extracts and their significant biological activities, including antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Thymus vulgaris and Thymus broussonettii, in particular, show promise as sources of bioactive compounds for further research and practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) fruits are rich in vitamin C, phenolics and other compounds shaping their high antioxidant profile. Natural-based antioxidants may inhibit degradation of pivotal biological macromolecules such as DNA, proteins and molecular membranes. Objective: The study aimed to assess the cornelian cherry extract effect on the inhibition of protein oxidation, which could help limit generation of the advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), that are responsible for inflammatory states. Methods: The protective effect was evaluated in in vitro model, in which albumin solution was exposed to oxidation stress in the presence of different doses of C. mas extract. The results were supported by characteristics of the extract under their total phenolic, total flavonoid and vitamin C content. Also, the antioxidant potential was validated using ABTS test (TEAC). Results: Observed was moderate inhibitory effect of the extract and antiradical activity against ABTS. However, both studied effects rather result from other bioactive compounds than the flavonoids. Conclusion: Cornelian cherry fruits has moderate potential to inhibit protein oxidation. However, the observed antioxidant effect rather depends on other compounds than the flavonoids and vitamin C. Nonetheless, the collected results could be helpful in future designing and development of plant-based agents inhibiting the formation of AOPPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zywnosc is the property of Polish Society of Food Technologists - Scientific Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate and compare the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of Ficus carica fruits and leaves as well to determine its phenolic profile. Methods: The antioxidant activity was analysed by in vitro lipid peroxidation assay, DPPH radical scavenging activity, ABTS assay, antioxidant potential assay, metal chelation and antidiabetic assayper formed using starch-iodine method. Results: The extract showed remarkable scavenging activities (44.6±2.1% and 77.0±1.6% in DPPH and ABTS assay, respectively), iron chelation (88.3±0.29%), reduction potential (83.11±0.30%) and antidiabetic activities (47.00±0.06% α-amylase inhibition). Administration of comparatively higher doses of extract also reduced lipid peroxidation (72.00±0.15% inhibition). HPLC analysis revealed the presence of quercetin, caffeic aid and gallic acid in F. carica fruit extract. Whereas, leaves of the plant showed the presence of pyrogallol and gallic acid. Conclusions: Thus, oxidative stress and diabetes could be prevented or at least delayed by dietary intake of Ficus carica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dermocosmetics (active cosmetics, functional cosmetics, cosmeceuticals) are preparations for external use, supporting pharmacotherapy of skin diseases during the active phase of the disease and in remission. They are also used for healthy skin (preventive) care. Historically, topical skin care products have been divided into cosmetics and drugs, as defined by the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act of 1938. A cosmetic was defined as "articles intended to cleanse, care, beautify and improve the appearance of the skin". Drugs were defined as "products intended to affect the structure or any function of the body, or products intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, mitigation, treatment or prevention of human diseases". Dermocosmetics (cosmeceuticals) remain cosmetics from a legal point of view, but they fill the gap between cosmetics and drugs. These products achieve a cosmetic effect with active substances however are not subject to drug regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Annales Horticulturae is the property of University of Life Sciences in Lublin and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Polish Nursing / Pielegniarstwo Polskie is the property of Poznan University of Medical Sciences Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Advances in Biochemistry / Postepy Biochemii is the property of Polish Biochemical Society / Acta Biochimica Polonica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Since the brain contains a large amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, consumes up to 20% of oxygen used by the whole body and exhibits low antioxidants activity, it seems to be especially vulnerable to oxidative stress. The most important antioxidant enzymes are superoxide dismutase (SOD), which catalyze the dismutation of superoxide anion to hydrogen peroxide, catalase (CAT), which converts toxic hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen, and glutathione peroxidase (Se-GSHPx), which reduces hydrogen peroxide and organic peroxides with glutathione as the cofactor. Among other detoxifying enzymes, the most significant is glutathione transferase (GST), which shows detoksyvarious catalytic activities allowing for removal of xenobiotics, reducing organic peroxides and oxidized cell components. One of the most important brain nonenzymatic antioxidants is reduced glutathione (GSH), which (individually or in cooperation with peroxidases) participates in the reduction of free radicals, repair of oxidative damage and the regeneration of other antioxidants, such as ascorbate or tocopherol. Glutathione as a cosubstrate of glutathione transferase scavenges toxic electrophilic compounds. Although the etiology of the major neurodegenerative diseases are unknown, numerous data suggest that reactive oxygen species play an important role. Even a small change in the level of antioxidants can leads to the many disorders in the CNS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Central European Agriculture is the property of Journal of Central European Agriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Polish Journal of Sports Medicine / Medycyna Sportowa is the property of Agencja Wydawnicza Medsportpress Sp. z o. o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by chronic airway inflammation. It is defined by the history of respiratory symptoms such as wheeze, shortness of breath, chest tightness and cough that vary over time and in intensity, together with variable expiratory airflow limitation. This disease is a serious global health problem, especially in developed countries. There exist many hypotheses which try to explain reason of asthma development. Epidemiologic studies suggest associations between dietary antioxidants and lipids, especially vegetable oils, and parameters of asthma. It has been hypothesized that decreasing antioxidant and vitamin D deficiency, and an excess of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) n -6 to n-3 contributes to the development of asthma and severity of its symptoms. It seems that the behavior of a proper diet can reduce the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stwardnienie rozsiane to choroba zapalno-demielinizacyjna ośrodkowego układu nerwowego o dotychczas nieznanej przyczynie. W przebiegu stwardnienia rozsianego następuje uszkodzenie osłonki mielinowej komórek nerwowych oraz śmierć neuronów i oligodendrocytów. W ostatnich latach zwrócono uwagę, że ogniwem łączącym proces zapalny z neurodegeneracją może być stres oksydacyjny, czyli przewaga tworzenia wolnych rodników nad ich eliminacją przez systemy antyoksydacyjne komórki. Udowodniono, iż stres oksydacyjny ma związek z patogenezą wielu chorób neurodegeneracyjnych, w tym choroby Parkinsona czy choroby Alzheimera. Wykazano także jego udział w patogenezie stwardnienia rozsianego. W związku z tym zwalczanie stresu oksydacyjnego stało się jednym z nowych celów terapeutycznych. W badaniach przedklinicznych i klinicznych oceniano skuteczność różnych substancji o właściwościach antyoksydacyjnych, m.in. polifenoli, witamin, kwasu α-liponowego czy ekstraktów z Ginkgo biloba, jako potencjalnych leków na stwardnienie rozsiane. Ich skuteczność w modelach zwierzęcych rzadko znajduje odzwierciedlenie w wynikach badań klinicznych, ale wybrane związki są obecnie w trakcie oceny klinicznej. W badaniach zarówno przedklinicznych, jak i klinicznych skuteczny okazał się fumaran dimetylu, zarejestrowany w 2013 roku do leczenia stwardnienia rozsianego. Mechanizm działania tego związku nie został jeszcze w pełni poznany. Wiadomo jednak, że pobudza on naturalny szlak antyoksydacyjny związany z czynnikiem transkrypcyjnym Nrf2, co prowadzi do redukcji nasilenia stresu oksydacyjnego.

Celem doświadczenia było porównanie zawartości składników odżywczych i aktywności antyoksydacyjnej kwiatów wybranych odmian piwonii chińskiej: ‘White Sarah Bernardt’, ‘Dr. Aleksander Fleming’ i ‘Karl Rosenfield’. W płatkach kwiatów oznaczono suchą masę, popiół ogółem, błonnik surowy, białko ogółem, chlorofile, cukry, kwasowość ogólną, kwas L-askorbinowy, karotenoidy ogółem, polifenole ogółem oraz aktywność antyoksydacyjną. Spośród porównywanych odmian ‘Karl Rosenfield’ charakteryzowała się największą wartością biologiczną kwiatów ze względu na ich znaczną suchą masę, dużą zawartość popiołu ogółem, polifenoli ogółem, karotenoidów ogółem, kwasu L-askorbinowego, błonnika surowego, białka ogółem, sacharozy, znaczną kwasowość ogólną oraz aktywność antyoksydacyjną w testach DPPH, ABTS i FRAP. Kwiaty odmiany ‘Dr. Aleksander Fleming’ zawierały istotnie najwięcej chlorofilu a i chlorofilu ogółem. Największą całkowitą zawartość cukrów ogółem, cukrów redukujących i stosunek cukrów ogółem do kwasowości oznaczono w kwiatach odmian ‘White Sarah Bernardt’ i ‘Dr. Aleksander Fleming’. Kwiaty odmian ‘Karl Rosenfield’ i ‘White Sarah Bernardt’ charakteryzowały się wysoką zawartością kwasu L-askorbinowego.

The widespread aging of societies results in the intensification of the development of neurodegenerative diseases associated with advanced age, including Parkinson's disease. Unfortunately, modern medicine is not able to unequivocally determine the etiopathogenesis of the disease, which is why no causative treatment can be given. According to the current state of knowledge, in the course of Parkinson's disease the substantia nigra pars compacta in the midbrain degenerates, leading to a decrease in dopamine levels in the patient's brain. This results in neurotransmission disturbances and the development of undesirable effects. Neurodegenerative changes are supposedly caused by the combination of various factors, including genetic factors, chronic inflammation, the interaction of toxins, disturbances in protein metabolism, and oxidative stress. The therapeutic possibilities associated with the administration of antioxidants, which could alleviate increased oxidative stress and contribute to the better quality of life of the patient, are considered. Taking into account the studies on numerous antioxidants, such as coenzyme Q10, B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin E and resveratrol, it cannot be unequivocally stated that this is an effective treatment, because experiments carried out on both humans and animals gave conflicting results. It is reasonable to say that antioxidant deficiencies should be avoided and the physiological levels should be sought, as this may be translated into significant health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All living cells participate in oxidation-reduction reactions, during which reactive oxygen species (ROS) are formed. Living organisms need them, although in a respectively low level, because they can react, modify and damage cell components. Oxidative stress is a condition of the organism, which is characterised by an imbalance between the rate of formation of free radicals, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the rate of their disposal by enzymes and antioxidants. Increased capillary permeability following burn injuries is caused by several mechanisms. Immediately after a burn injury, mastocytes release histamine which increases the activity of xanthine oxidase (XO). Xanthine oxidase plays an important role in the reperfusion of ischemic areas. It produces a superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide and reactive oxygen species. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) extend the area of issue damage: in particular by producing toxic byproducts, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and a hydroxyl radical (OH). Patients with burns usually present with an increased production of free radicals, which varies proportionally with the severity of the injury. There is a rapid increase in the production of free radicals and the lipid peroxidation process in severe burns. The oxidative stress has a clearly negative effect on the prognosis of patients with burns. It leads to cell membrane damage and contributes to the osmotic and oncotic disturbances. This in turn leads to a number of systemic complications. The results of antioxidant use in burn treatment are very optimistic. The authors of this study point out a significantly smaller fluid demand and shorter time of wound healing. Some authors have observed a significant decrease in mortality rate. All of them emphasise the shorter time of hospitalisation and the reduced number of infections. Antioxidant use significantly reduces the catabolism of proteins and fluid demand in the early post-traumatic period. It has also been shown to increase the concentration of microelements in blood serum and skin of the patients. It seems to be crucial, because as Berger et al. have proved, the administration of microelements leads to a reduction in broncho-pulmonary nosocomial infections. Research clearly indicates the beneficial effect of antioxidant supplementation and the authors suggest the inclusion of these substances in burn disease treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Folia Pomeranae Universitatis Technologiae Stetinensis Agricultura Alimentaria Piscaria et Zootechnica is the property of West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Environmental Medicine / Medycyna Środowiskowa is the property of Witold Chodzki Institute of Rural Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

During aging, the increased risk of neurodegenerative disease development is observed. One of the most common and most serious disorders is Alzheimer's disease manifested by the loss of nerve cell functions. In the course of the disease, extracellular senile plaques consisting of beta-amyloid and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles of hyper-phosphorylated tau protein are formed. As a result of aging, the repair potential of damaged nerve cells is reduced. Free radicals formed in excess generate augmented oxidative stress, which contributes to the damaging of biomolecules and the development of pathological changes. This mechanism is favored by a decrease in the efficiency of antioxidant enzymes and the deficiency of antioxidants, observed in aging organism. With age, the secretion of the pineal hormone melatonin, functioning as a biochemical biological clock, is significantly reduced. This compound has been proved to be a very effective antioxidant that plays a key role in protecting cells against excessive damage, especially in nervous tissue. Studies have shown that supplementation with exogenous melatonin can prevent oxidative stress-induced degeneration of neurons. Considering the action of melatonin and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, the idea of using the hormone supplementation in the prevention and alleviation of the effects of the disease seems to be extremely interesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celem badań była ocena zmiany parametrów biometrycznych i biochemicznych w kiełkach przeznaczonych do spożycia, rzodkiewki (Raphanus sativus L. subvar. radicula Pers.), w zależności od zawartości w podłożu jonów FeIII+. Doświadczenie przeprowadzono w kulturach wodnych, wypełnionych pełną pożywką Hoaglanda. Kombinacje stanowiły rośliny rosnące w pożywce Hoaglanda bez jonów FeIII+, pożywce zawierającej dodatek jonów FeIII+ w ilości 30 mg/l oraz 300 mg/l. W trakcie doświadczenia rośliny były oświetlane lampą sodową Son-T-Agro-400W, firmy Philips, o natężeniu promieniowania na poziomie 40 μE • m2 • s−1 PAR. Po 7 dniach dokonano pomiarów biometrycznych: długość pędu (cm), długość korzeni zarodkowych (cm) oraz pomiarów biochemicznych: aktywność enzymów antyoksydacyjnych (CAT, POX) i pojemność antyoksydacyjną. Zastosowane w doświadczeniu jony FeIII+ wpływają na zmianę aktywności enzymów oraz parametry biometryczne w kiełkach rzodkiewki (Raphanus sativus L. subvar. radicula Pers.).

Obserwowany obecnie wzrost zainteresowania kwiatami jadalnymi ma wiele przyczyn. Wśród najważniejszych wymieniane są m.in. wprowadzenie nowych technologii przetwarzania żywności, szybkiej logistyki oraz dystrybucji schłodzonych i dobrze zabezpieczonych produktów oraz starania producentów żywności wygodnej i funkcjonalnej o wzbogacenie oferty produktów o nowe, atrakcyjne towary. Kwiaty jadalne charakteryzuje wysoka atrakcyjność sensoryczna, na którą składają się ich kształt, barwa, smak i aromat, a przy tym silna aktywność antyoksydacyjna – potwierdzone obecnie naukowo występowanie w kwiatach jadalnych polifenoli (flawonoidy, kwasy fenolowe), karotenoidów, witaminy C oraz składników mineralnych i aromatycznych. Celem niniejszej pracy jest popularyzacja kwiatów jadalnych jako cennego źródła związków biologicznie czynnych, ważnych dla zdrowia człowieka i wykorzystywanych w produkcji żywności, medycynie, kosmetyce i aromaterapii. Przedstawiono charakterystykę wybranych rodzajów i gatunków roślin o kwiatach jadalnych: liliowiec ogrodowy, piwonia, pysznogłówka, goździk, wyżlin większy i kroplik ogrodowy.

Introduction: Ginkgo biloba L. is considered to be a valuable plant which exhibits antiradical activity, attributed to the content of polyphenols, terpenoids, vitamins, and other active substances. The leaf extracts are used for therapeutic purposes, commonly in the prevention of lifestyle diseases. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the alcohol extracts of ginkgo biloba dried leaves, fallen from trees, after the end of the growing season, which usually constitute waste material. Materials and methods: Raw plant material consisted of freshly harvested and dried leaves of ginkgo biloba. The extracts for analysis were prepared using a Soxhlet apparatus, a rotary shaker, as well as an ultrasonic bath. Methanol and ethanol were used as extraction solvents. Antioxidant activity (radical scavenging activity -- RSA%) was determined by the DPPH method, while the total polyphenol content was measured by the Folin--Ciocalteu method. Results: The antioxidant activity of dried ginkgo leaf extracts ranged from 37.69 ±1.97 to 92.85 ±0.28%. The highest values were found in 40% (v/v) ethanol extracts. Among the 70% (v/v) ethanolic extracts, the highest values of RSA were observed in the leaves extracted with a shaker (92.37 ±0.84%), whereas using 96% (v/v) ethanol as the solvent -- extracts were received in the Soxhlet apparatus (81.71 ±2.10%). The antioxidant potential of methanol extracts was also high, reaching the value of 89.25 ±0.54% for those obtained by using the shaker. The highest total phenolic content, of about 9.15 mg/g of material, was observed in samples extracted with 40% (v/v) ethanol in the Soxhlet apparatus. A positive correlation between the total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity of the analyzed samples was also demonstrated. Conclusions: Extracts of ginkgo biloba yellow leaves, collected after the end of the growing season, showed a high capability to scavenge free radicals, which suggests the possibility of using this waste material as a valuable source of antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Research Papers of the Wroclaw University of Economics / Prace Naukowe Uniwersytetu Ekonomicznego we Wroclawiu is the property of Uniwersytet Ekonomiczny we Wroclawiu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The large surface area of the skin, high metabolism and location at the border of two environments (external and internal) cause continuous production of free radicals within the skin. There are two mechanisms of skin photoaging. The first one involves UVA-induced production of reactive oxygen species. The second mechanism is based on a direct interaction of UVB with DNA and induction of damage in the DNA structure. One way by which UVA leads to skin aging is activation of the AP-1 transcription factor due to singlet oxygen, which is released by UV radiation. Antioxidants slow down oxidation leading to the formation of free radicals, or inactivate already formed free radicals, and thereby accelerate interruption of chain reactions. Moreover, photoprotection has a key role in combating photoaging and eliminating its effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Research Papers of the Wroclaw University of Economics / Prace Naukowe Uniwersytetu Ekonomicznego we Wroclawiu is the property of Uniwersytet Ekonomiczny we Wroclawiu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Wstęp: Jedną z przyczyn cukrzycy typu I jest uszkodzenie komórek b wysp Langerhansa przez proces immunologiczny, w przebiegu którego uwalniane z makrofagów reaktywne formy tlenu i cytokiny uszkadzają DNA. Działanie antyoksydacyjne mają m.in.: kwas askorbowy, b-karoten, a-tokoferol i nikotynamid. Cele pracy: Celem pracy była porównawcza ocena przebiegu klinicznego cukrzycy typu I w pierwszym roku jej trwania po zastosowaniu preparatów antyoksydacyjnych. Materiał i metody: W grupie 40 dzieci i młodzieży z nowo rozpoznaną cukrzycą zastosowano: w grupie A insulinę i dietę (n=13), w grupie B dodatkową suplementację witaminami A+E, C (n=14) oraz w grupie C suplementację witaminami A+E, C, PP (n=13). Analizę przeprowadzono po upływie 1, 3-4, 6-7, 12-13 miesięcy od momentu postawienia diagnozy. Wyniki: Remisję uzyskiwano najczęściej w grupie B: po 3-4 miesiącach u 13 (92,8%) osób vs. u 6 (46,1%) w grupie C i vs. u 2 (15,4%) w grupie kontrolnej. W ciągu kolejnych miesięcy remisję obserwowano: u 10 (71,5%) w grupie B, u 6 (46,1%) w grupie C i u 4 (30,8%) w grupie A. Po roku remisja występowała rzadziej: u 6 (42,5%) w grupie B, u 4 (30,7%) w grupie C i u 2 (15,4%) w grupie A. Zapotrzebowanie na insulinę początkowo po 3-4 tygodniach było zbliżone, a w kolejnych okresach niższe. Po upływie 3-4 miesięcy w grupie B wynosiło x - 0,28 j./kg na dobę (SD - 0,23) vs. x - 0,40 j./kg na dobę (SD - 0,24) w grupie C i x - 0,5 j./kg na dobę (SD - 0,17) w grupie A. W kolejnych okresach analizy nadal zapotrzebowanie było niższe w grupie suplementowanej witaminami A, E i C. Wyrównanie metaboliczne było we wszystkich grupach w poszczególnych okresach analizy podobne do wartości wskaźników gospodarki lipidowej, produktów reagujących z kwasem tiobarbiturowym, grup-SH glutationu i witaminą C. Wnioski: Dodatkowa terapia witaminami antyoksydacyjnymi przyczynia się do częstszego występowania remisji i mniejszego zapotrzebowania na insulinę, zwłaszcza w pierwszych miesiącach trwania choroby.

CNC proteins consist of Bach1, Bach2 and 4 homologous transcription factors: Nrf1, Nrf2, Nrf3 and p45NF-E2. Transcription factors belonging to this group of proteins play a crucial role in protection of cells against oxidative stress. Under physiological conditions, they remain in the cytoplasm in the inactive form or are degraded. However, in oxidative stress conditions, they are translocated to the nucleus, and bind to DNA in the ARE sequence. Consequently, there is transcription of genes encoding cytoprotective proteins, such as phase II enzymes, or low molecular weight antioxidant proteins (i.e., thioredoxin, ferritin, metallothionein) responsible for protecting cells from reactive oxygen species (ROS) action. The activity of transcriptional proteins depends directly on the redox state of the cell. ROS as second messenger signals, con¬trol inhibitors of cytoplasmic CNC proteins or potentiate the activity of kinases (MAPK, PKC, PI3K, PERK), leading to phosphorylation of transcription factors. This is conducive to trans¬location of these molecules into the nucleus and to formation of complexes that initiate the gene expression. Disorders of regulation of the activity of transcription factors belonging to the CNC proteins caused by gene mutations, epigenetic modifications or increased activity of p62, p21, or k-Ras, B-Raf and c-Myc oncogenes, induce changes in the level of ARE-dependent gene expression, which can lead even to the development of carcinogenesis. On the other hand, Nrf transcription factors, inducing the expression of antioxidants and enzymes responsible for the detoxification of xenobiotics, can be considered as a potential target of the action of chemopreventive factors in anticancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercetin is a plant flavonoid phytochemical exhibiting a broad spectrum of properties i.a. antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory. However, the effect of quercetin is not clear. This compound at low concentrations can stimulate proliferation of human cells, so it can be a potential drug in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and in high concentrations, it induces apoptosis thereby eliminating the infected or abnormal cells and can serve as a potential anticancer drug with wide clinical application. Action of quercetin can be explained by its interference with cellular enzymes, receptors, transporters and signalling system. Due to its widespread occurrence in the plant world, it is an integral component of the human diet. The dietary quercetin occurs most often in the form of β-glycosides connected mostly with rutinose, rhamnose and glucose. Depending on the nutritional habits, the daily intake of flavonoids, including quercetin, ranges from 3 to 70 mg. Epidemiological studies confirm an inverse correlation between the consumption of flavonoids and the incidence of lifestyle diseases and tumor formation. Published data indicate that consumption of foods rich in flavonoids reduces the risk of coronary heart disease. Thus, flavonoids - including quercetin - seem to be an interesting pro-health agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human organisms have many defence mechanisms able to neutralise the harmful effects of the reactive species of oxygen. Antioxidants play an important role in reducing the oxidative damage to the human organism. Carotenoids are among the strongest antioxidants. They have 11 coupled double bonds, so they can be classified as polyisoprenoids, show low polarity and can occur in acyclic, monocyclic or bicyclic forms. The carotenoids of the strongest antioxidant properties are lycopene, lutein, astaxanthin and β-carotene. Carotenoids with strong antioxidant properties have found wide application in medical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. These compounds are highly active against both reactive oxygen species and free radicals. Comparing β-carotene, astaxanthin and lycopene with other antioxidants (e.g. vitamin C and E), it can be concluded that these compounds have higher antioxidant activity, e.g. against singlet oxygen. Astaxanthin is a stronger antioxidant compared to β-carotene, vitamin E and vitamin C, respectively 54, 14 and 65 times. Carotenoids have a salutary effect on our body, making it more resistant and strong to fight chronic diseases. The purpose of this article is to review the literature concerning free radicals and their adverse effects on the human body and carotenoids, as strong, natural antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Elementology is the property of Journal of Elementology - issued by Polish Magnesium Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background. Lipid oxidation is a main problem during food processing, storage and consumption leading to losses of quality, stability, safety and nutritive value. Antioxidants have been used to prevent oxidation changes and off -- flavor development in food products. Aim of the research was to evaluate antioxidative effect of thyme ethanol extract on sunfl ower oil during its storage in different temperature conditions. Oil samples were stored in darkness at 4°C, 18°C, 38°C. Material and methods. Samples of thyme (thymus vulgaris) were purchased at a local pharmacy in Poznań, Poland and sunfl ower oil was acquired from a local supermarket. Thyme extract was characterized by total polyphenol content. Antioxidant activity was estimated with use of DPPH and ABTS radicals scavenging methods. Ethanol extract of thyme at 1% level was added to sunfl ower oil. Peroxide value (PV), anisidine value (AV), totox value (TxV) and fatty acids (FA) content were taken as parameters for evaluation of effectiveness of thyme extract in stabilization of sunfl ower oil. Results. High polyphenol content, DPPH and ABTS radicals scavenging activity of ethanol thyme extract were evaluated. Results from different parameters were in agreement with other researchers, suggesting the antioxidant effect of thyme on antioxidant stability. Results show that thyme extract prolonged stability of sunfl ower oil and it may be a potent antioxidant for its stabilization. Conclusions. Ethanol thyme extract may be used as a natural antioxidant to prolong stability of oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. An intensive development of the Fast Liquid Chromatography (FLC) has been recently observed. It makes possible to reduce time analysis and improve resolution as well as sensitivity. The aim of this study was to separate the chosen antioxidants optimization using the FLC method. Material and methods. The three various procedures for antioxidants analysis were compared. Mobile phases containing aqueous solution of formic acid, acetic acid, acetonitrile, and methanol were tested. Limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantifi cation (LOQ), linearity and repeatability of each procedures were determined. Results. Developed procedure enabled to separate all analytes and allowed to get low LOD levels and good repeatability. This procedure was used for antioxidants analysis in buckwheat and buckwheat products. Conclusion. Fast Liquid Chromatography allows to reduce time analysis and obtain good validation parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenols, plant secondary metabolites, are present in human diet and have been widely used for medical and cosmetic purposes. They possess beneficial features such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer and antibacterial activity. There is some evidence that these phytochemicals can improve wound healing. However, more and more data suggest that, under certain conditions, they can act in a different, often unpredictable way. Some investigations indicate that polyphenols, generally known as antioxidants, can exhibit pro-oxidant, and therefore cytotoxic, activity. Hence, the ability of phytochemicals to induce apoptosis of cancer cells and bacterial cell damage may be, at least partly, due to their prooxidant properties. Phytocompounds enter the body through the digestive system where they undergo metabolic processes that often change their chemical features. The gastrointestinal microbiome interacts with phytochemicals and influences their bioavailability and absorption in the gut. Except for biochemical changes of plant polyphenols in the host, the achievement of therapeutic concentration in vivo may be the main problem in the determination of their real efficacy. Ambiguous results of some studies demonstrate the need for the development of more accurate and standardized methods for the evaluation of polyphenols' properties. Better understanding of human body-polyphenol interactions is crucial for more effective use of these phytochemicals in disease prevention and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Common immune response of both T-helper type 1 and T-helper type 2 cells causes severe airway inflammation. This suggests the importance of the participation of cytokines produced by both subpopulations of Th lymphocytes and the activation of transcription factors in respiratory epithelial cells, as well as the activation of the nuclear factor κB in the pathophysiology of asthma. Increased activity of the immune system in asthma leads to increased shifting of the antioxidative-pro-oxidative balance in human organism in the direction of oxidation (oxidative stress) that may initiate or exacerbate inflammation. On the one hand, the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species is related to the severity of asthma, while on the other hand, the enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase) and nonenzymatic factors (glutathione, vitamin A, C and E and β-carotene) play an important role in the changes in the functioning of antioxidant defense. The antioxidative-prooxidative imbalance in asthmatics may lead to increase of the permeability of blood vessels, bronchial smooth muscle contraction, and increased mucus production by the glands of the respiratory system. Several therapeutic strategies to reduce oxidative stress and enhance antioxidant barrier in asthma have been proposed. Further studies on biomarkers of oxidative stress and the effectiveness of selected antioxidants in adjuvant therapy of asthma are needed to determine the optimum control of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Polish Journal of Sports Medicine / Medycyna Sportowa is the property of Agencja Wydawnicza Medsportpress Sp. z o. o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Melatonin was discovered 50 years ago in the pineal gland, but subsequent studies revealed that melatonin is also synthetized in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The secretion of melatonin in GIT is independent of the circadian rhythm and related to the food intake. Melatonin was demonstrated in the animal studies to protect the esophageal, gastric and intestinal mucosa from erosion and to accelerate ulcer healing. In addition, melatonin can prevent or attenuate the inflammatory conditions such as; acute pancreatitis, colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Preliminary studies in humans have shown that melatonin could protect gastric and duodenal mucosa from acute lesion induced by aspirin. In patients with gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), diet supplementation with melatonin resulted in the regression of reflux symptoms and attenuated the abdominal pain in patients with IBS. The mechanism of favorable action of melatonin is related to the unique property of this indoleamine to scavenge toxic hydroxyl free radicals, to activate antioxidative enzymes and to modulate the immune response. The reports from clinical studies show that melatonin could be a very promising therapeutic agent for co-treatment of gastrointestinal diseases such as; ulcers, GERD, or IBS with no significant side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oxidant/antioxidant imbalance constitutes an important element of the pathogenesis of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and the development of complications. Aim of the study: Evaluation of the efficacy of antioxidant vitamins (C, E) in the treatment of chronic pancreatitis patients. Materials and methods: From among 91 patients diagnosed with alcohol-induced CP, two subgroups were randomly isolated using a randomization code (group I, n=45; group II[*that's what the text and tables use], n=46). Standard treatment was applied to group 1. Group II patients were also administered vitamin C (2×200 mg per day) and vitamin E (2×150 mg per day) for 6 months. Assessment carried out at the onset of treatment and again after 6 months of observation concerned clinical symptoms (pain and weight), exocrine pancreatic secretion (measurement of stool elastase-1), endocrine pancreatic secretion (carbohydrate metabolism), and the concentrations of vitamins C and E in serum. Results: In group II, treatment with antioxidants (vitamins C and E) resulted in a considerable increase in the percentage of patients who did not suffer from stomach ache (31.4 vs. 68.8%, p=0.002), whose weight increased (48.6 vs. 90.6%, p=0.001), and whose exocrine pancreatic secretion (32.1 vs. 81.5%, p=0.001) and endocrine pancreatic secretion improved (10.5 vs. 47.0%, p=0.015). It was also discovered that acute pancreatitis episodes were significantly less frequent in group 11(9.4 vs. 31.4%, p=0.03). The mean concentration of vitamin C in group II was deficient and increased from 7.67 μmol/L (SD ±3.53) to a normal level of 24.84 μmol/L (SD ±11.98) (p=0.001) and the concentration of vitamin E increased from 11.33 μmol/L (SD ±3.11) to 26.4 μmol/L (SD ±9.01) (p=0.001). Conclusions: Administering antioxidants (vitamins C and E) may improve the treatment efficiency of CP patients, particularly by reducing pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ziemniak Polski is the property of Instytutem Hodowli & Aklimatyzacji Roslin - Panstwowym Instytutem Badawczym and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)