Analytical Assessment of the Antioxidant Properties of the Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea L. Moench) Grown with Various Mulch Materials.

Antioxidants are added to foods to decrease the adverse effect of reactive species that create undesirable compounds that destroy essential nutrients and, therefore, lower the nutritional, chemical and physical properties of foods. This study was carried out to determine the antioxidant properties of flowers and plant stems with leaves of Echinacea purpurea grown with mulches of different colours and thicknesses. Coneflowers were grown in the Experimental Station of the Agricultural University in Kraków, Poland. The mulching materials used were black, green and brown colours of 100 g/m2 and 80 g/m2 density. In plant material, e.g., flowers or plant stems plus leaves the proximate analysis, the total polyphenol content and the ability to scavenge free radicals (ABTS, DPPH and FRAP) were determined. The results show that flower samples had a higher content of compound proteins, ash and phenolic compounds. The mulching colour and density did not affect the proximate analysis of the E. purpurea plant. Based on the result of this study, E. purpurea is a potential source of natural antioxidants and can be used to improve the antioxidant activity of various food products as well as in cosmetics within the pharmaceutical industry.

Basic Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activity and Selected Polyphenolic Compounds Profile in Garlic Leaves and Bulbs Collected at Various Stages of Development.

Garlic is commonly used as vegetable or spice and as a herb in folklore as well as traditional medicine in many countries. The current study aimed to compare the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and the content of selected polyphenolic compounds in cloves as well as leaves of winter garlic plants of the Harnas and Ornak cultivars, which are of Polish origin. Garlic was grown from cloves for three years (2018-2020) in the experimental field of the University of Agriculture in Krakow, Poland. The research material was harvested on three dates: May; June, unripe garlic plants; and in July, the plant at full maturity. The content of vitamin C in the fresh material was determined. The proximate analysis was determined in the freeze-dried plants of garlic, and the total carbohydrate content was calculated. The antioxidant activity and the content of selected polyphenolic compounds were also determined. Garlic cloves showed a higher content of dry matter, and total carbohydrates than the leaves of garlic plants. On the other hand, in the leaves, a significantly higher content of protein, total fat and ash were observed. Additionally, garlic leaves were characterised by a higher content of vitamin C, total polyphenols, and a higher antioxidant activity than garlic cloves. The leaves of young garlic plants from the May harvest were distinguished by a higher content of these compounds. The dominant phenolic compounds were catechin and epicatechin. The leaves of young plants can be a valuable source of bioactive substances, especially in early spring.

The Changes in Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) Herb under Storage and Different Drying Conditions: A Comparison with Other Species of Sage.

Studies on herb chia (Salvia hispanica L.) are very limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess how different drying methods and periods of storage affect the bioactive properties of the herb Salvia hispanica and to compare it with other species of sage (Salvia officinalis L. and Salvia sclarea L.). In fresh herbs, directly after drying (freeze-drying, natural drying, and drying at 30, 40, and 50 °C), and after storage (3, 6, and 12 months), the following analyses were performed: content of total carotenoids and total polyphenols, polyphenol profile (including 25 compounds), and antioxidant activity. Additionally, the basic chemical compositions of the herbs were analyzed. To the best of our knowledge, the content of total carotenoids and the quantitative polyphenol profile in Salvia hispanica and Salvia sclarea were evaluated for the first time. The obtained results showed that the barely investigated herb Salvia hispanica is rich in polyphenolic compounds and shows high antioxidant activity. In all the tested species, rosmarinic acid was the most abundant polyphenolic compound. The use of different drying methods allowed us to determine that freeze-drying was the most effective for preserving polyphenols and carotenoids. Long-term storage up to 12 months resulted in a gradual reduction in antioxidant activity and in the content of polyphenols and carotenoids.

Benefits of Anthocyanin-Rich Black Rice Fraction and Wood Sterols to Control Plasma and Tissue Lipid Concentrations in Wistar Kyoto Rats Fed an Atherogenic Diet.

Background: This study reports on the relative effects of administrating a cyanidin-3-O-glucoside-rich black rice fraction (BRF), a standardized wood sterol mixture (WS), and a combination of both to lower plasma and target tissue lipid concentrations in Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats fed atherogenic diets. Methods: Male WKY (n = 40) rats were randomly divided into five groups, which included a nonatherogenic control diet and atherogenic diets that included a positive control and atherogenic diets supplemented with BRF or WS, respectively, and a combination of both BRF + WS. Plasma and target tissue liver, heart and aorta cholesterol, and triacylglycerides (TAG) content were also measured. Results: Rats fed atherogenic diets exhibited elevated hyperlipidemia compared to counterparts fed nonatherogenic diets (p < 0.001); this effect was mitigated by supplementing the atherogenic diets with BRF and WS, respectively (p < 0.05). Combining BRF with WS to enrich the supplement lowered cholesterol similar to the WS effect (p < 0.05) and lowered TAG characteristic to the BRF effect (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Rats fed diets containing BRF or WS effectively mitigate the hypercholesterolemia and elevated TAG induced by feeding an atherogenic diet. The benefit of adding BRF + WS together is relevant to the lipid parameter measured and is target tissue-specific.

Effect of pulsed electric field treatment on shelf life and nutritional value of apple juice.

The aim of this study was to assess shelf life and nutritional value of apple juice, including the content of bioactive compounds, after pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment, taking into account different number of cycles: 4, 6, 8 (total 200, 300, and 400 pulses, respectively). Determination of vitamin C and polyphenols concentration, antioxidant activity as well as microbiological analysis were conducted immediately after PEF process and after 24, 48 and 72 h of storage. The results showed that PEF did not affect the content of bioactive compounds. PEF-treated juice did not show changes in the amount of vitamin C and total polyphenols during the storage for 72 h under refrigeration. PEF treatment was effective method for inactivation of a wide range of most common food spoilage microorganisms. PEF process can be used as an effective method of food preservation, allowing prolongation of shelf life and protection of nutritional value. This brings new opportunities for obtaining safe, healthy and nutritious food.

Intake of Vitamin C, ß-Carotene, and Polyphenolic Compounds by Children and Adolescents from Orphanages.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was analytical assessment of the concentration of selected antioxidants as well as total antioxidant capacity of daily diets of children and adolescents from orphanages in Krakow (Poland). METHODS: Daily diets of children and adolescents were collected in 4 seasons of the year from 7 orphanages located in Krakow. The concentrations of vitamin C, ß-carotene, polyphenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity were measured. RESULTS: The lowest content of vitamin C in diets of children and adolescents was measured in diets collected in autumn. The estimated average requirement (EAR) was in the range 49.0%-76.4%. In winter the content of this compound was significantly higher in daily diets (113.9%-192.0% coverage of EAR) compared to the level of this nutrient in daily diets from other seasons. The content of ß-carotene, lower than 50% of EAR value, calculated as the vitamin A equivalent, has been demonstrated in 4 orphanages in summer and in one in spring and autumn. The highest mean content of this antioxidant in daily diets was found in winter, when ß-carotene intake met recommendations in the range 131%-368%. The mean concentration of polyphenolic compounds per year was in the range 301.5-537.5 mg/person/day. It has been observed that diets during the winter and autumn generally provide higher amounts of polyphenols than in other seasons. The highest antioxidant activity was measured in diets collected during the winter season. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that the diets of children and adolescents should contain more fresh vegetables and fruits, which are good source of natural antioxidants.

The effects of peeling and cooking on the mineral content and antioxidant properties in carrots enriched with potassium iodate and/or selenite (Se(IV)) and selenite (Se(VI)).

Research covered six variants: control, unfertilized carrots and carrots fertilized with: KIO3, Na2SeO4, Na2SeO3, KIO3 and simultaneously with Na2SeO4, and fertilized with KIO3 and simultaneously Na2SeO3. Carrots enriched with iodate or selenite, or both iodate and selenite, were characterized by higher amount of these minerals. Changes to the content of micro- and macroelements, during the cooking time of the carrots, both in peeled and unpeeled carrots, did not head in the same direction (increase, decrease and no change). However, cooking an unpeeled carrot generally resulted in the increased content of polyphenol and carotenoids. On the other hand, cooking peeled carrots led to a decrease in the content of polyphenol and a general lack of change in carotenoid content in relation to the unpeeled cooked carrot. During cooking, the antioxidant activity of the carrot being assessed changed together with the direction of changes in polyphenol content but not in line with the direction of changes in carotenoids.

Assessment of the frequency of snack and beverages consumption and stimulants intake in children grown up in orphanages in Krakow.

BACKGROUND: Childhood is a particular period of life, when nutritional habits are emerging, so much attention should be paid to proper dietary habits, which become a nutritional pattern copied in the future. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate selected dietary habits and preferences in a group of children living in Krakow orphanages (supervising by the Social Welfare Centre in Krakow), by assessing the frequency of snacks and beverages consumptions as well as an intake of beverages with caffeine, alcohol and smoking cigarettes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Studies were performed in the years 2007-2008 in five orphanages located in Krakow. 181 children, 9 to 20 yrs of age, participated in this study. Assessment of dietary habits and preferences was performed based on anonymous questionnaire which included questions about snacking frequency, favorite and most frequently drank beverages without or with caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes smoking. RESULTS: The analysis of nutritional habits showed that the most popular high-calorie snacks were eaten by the youngest children. Children and adolescents asked for the most commonly consumed beverages indicated on fizzy drinks and fruits juice. Among the youngest children (9-12 years old), 5% reported drinking alcohol, 10% of boys smoked cigarettes, 10% of girls and 21% of boys drank coffee. Among the oldest respondents, about 35% declared drinking coffee, 39% girls and 65% boys declared smoking cigarettes, whereas drinking alcohol reported 22 and 38% subjects, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Results obtained in this study, indicate the necessity of intervention, consisting on running training courses and workshops of the assessed population, i.e. children, adolescents and instructing their educators.

Anthropometric assessment of the nutritional status of children and adolescents residing in selected Polish orphanages based on their energy intake and physical activity level.

BACKGROUND: Actions to the prevention of overweight and obesity should be first addressed to the youngest population and their parents, guardians as well as teachers. The major objectives of prevention and treatment of overweight and obesity programme should be focused on modification of nutritional habits and promotion of physical activity. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status, intake of energy and macronutrients as well as the physical activity of students from orphanages in Krakow. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Study was performed in 5 orphanages located in Krakow (Poland), which were under control of Social Welfare Centre in Krakow. The study involved 153 students, 67 girls and 86 boys, aged from 7 to 20 years. Nutritional status was assessed by anthropometric measurements. The protein and total fat content in diets was measured by chemical analyses and carbohydrates were calculated by difference. Physical activity level of children and adolescents was assessed by questionnaire. RESULTS: Over 80% of boys and about 90% of girls had a normal body mass. Students have spent their free time on additional physical activity from 1h 34 min/day to 5 h 12 min/day. They also have spent their free time on sedentary activities on average 4 h/day. Daily diets of students did not met recommendations for energy, carbohydrates and fats. Intake of protein was too high and exceeded the estimated average requirement even over three times. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the insufficient intake of fat and carbohydrates, students generally showed a proper BMI value. This suggests that excess intake of protein was used for maturation process and was additional source of energy. Reported additional physical activity was satisfactory.

Assessment of nutritional habits and preferences of children and adolescents brought up in Krakow's orphanages.

BACKGROUND: Proper nutrition can not only guarantee harmonious child's development, but can also protect against later development of diet-related diseases such as type-2 diabetes, obesity or cardiovascular diseases. Many diseases as well as disorders of intellectual development of a young people may result from the mistakes made in a period of an intense growth and maturing of a child. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess nutritional habits and preferences in subjects brought up in orphanages in terms of subjective evaluation of eating patterns, frequency of the meal consumption, and a concern about healthy life style. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study has been conducted to evaluate nutritional habits and preferences of 181 children aged 9-20, from orphanages in Krakow. Study was performed in 2007-2008 in 5 orphanages, which were under the control of Social Welfare Centre. Evaluation of nutritional habits and preferences was performed on the basis of an anonymous 8-question questionnaire adjusted to the respondent's age, which referred, among other, to questions about subjective assessment of eating patterns, frequency of meal consumption and the concern about healthy lifestyle patterns. RESULTS: About 75% of the examined population responded affirmatively to a question about subjective assessment of proper eating patterns; 80% female and 88% male respondents declared a regular consumption of meals. Daily diets of children in orphanages consisted usually from 5 or 4 meals (respectively 38 and 33% of affirmative responses); although, 5 meals were most often eaten by the youngest children. Furthermore, it has been revealed that milk and dairy products were consumed, on average, by 66% of respondents. On average, 76% of respondents reported everyday consumption of the lean meat, while 72% ate fish at least once per week. CONCLUSIONS: Results obtained in this study, identify the improper nutritional habits and indicate the necessity of intervention, consisting on training courses and workshops for children, adolescents and their teachers.

Chemical analysis of minerals content in daily diets of children and adolescents grown up in Krakow orphanages.

BACKGROUND: Numerous studies attest to the role that inappropriate food product groups in the human diet, including children and adolescents diet, leading to abnormal intakes of many important nutrients, such as minerals. OBJECTIVES: These studies were undertaken to assess the coverage of the recommended values for chosen minerals by 205 children and adolescents between the ages of 4 and 20 years, grown up in Krakow orphanages. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sodium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, calcium and potassium concentrations in 112 diets of children and adolescents from 7 selected orphanages in Krakow in every season of the year were performed using AAS method. Results obtained were compared to recommended standards in Poland. RESULTS: Intakes of calcium and potassium were usually too low whilst adequate levels of dietary magnesium and calcium were seen only for the youngest children. Recommended dietary levels of zinc were met in all cases and mostly also for iron and copper. Sodium intakes were however excessive. CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrates that regular a monitoring and adjusting of the diet is necessary for the assessed children and adolescents in order to correct dietary abnormalities.

Pigmented rice bran and plant sterol combination reduces serum lipids in overweight and obese adults.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the dietary effect of including pigmented rice bran with or without plant sterols on lipid profiles during energy restriction-induced weight loss in overweight and obese adults not taking cholesterol-lowering medication. In addition, the study examined the effect of intervention on biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation. METHODS: A group of 24 overweight and obese adults (age: 43 ± 6 years, body mass index 32 ± 1 kg/m(2), 18 females) were randomized to a 25% calorie-restricted diet containing either pigmented rice bran (RB) or the RB with addition of plant sterols (RB+PS) snack bars for 8 weeks. The individualized nutrient-balanced diet contained ∼70% of daily energy needs assessed from indirect calorimetry measured resting energy expenditure (EE) and physical activity-related EE assessed using accelerometry. Anthropometrics, blood pressure, blood lipids, glucose, urinary F2-isoprostanes, C-reactive protein, insulin, and leptin were measured at baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention. RESULTS: Participants lost approximately 4.7 ± 2.2 kg (p < 0.001). Weight loss was not significant between the RB+PS and RB group (p = 0.056). Changes in body fat corresponded to changes in body weight. Average decrease in total cholesterol was significantly higher in the RB+PS group than in the RB group (difference 36 ± 25 g/dL vs 7 ± 16 g/dL; p = 0.044). A similar pattern was observed for the decrease in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (difference 22.3 ± 25.2 g/dL vs 4.4 ± 18.9 g/dL; p = 0.062). Changes in systolic blood pressure, serum levels of leptin, and F2-isoprostanes were significant between baseline values and after 8 weeks on the diet in both groups (p < 0.05) but did not differ between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: A nutrient-balanced and energy-restricted diet supplemented with rice bran and plant sterols resulted in a significant decrease in total and LDL cholesterol in overweight and obese adults.

Relationship between the intake of energy and basic nutrients and the BMI values in group of children aged 10-12.

BACKGROUND: According to the WHO data in January 2007, 14 million children were overweight in the countries of the European Union. The problem of childhood obesity should be considered as one of the biggest challenges facing twenty- first century nutrition and pediatrics. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to show the correlation between energy, basic nutrients intake and BMI of school children aged 10-12 years, using Pearson's correlation coefficient. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 169 pupils (69 from Krakow and 100 from Skawina), aged 10-12, participated in these studies. The studies were approved by the Board of Education, school principals and the parents. On the basis of measurements of weight and height, body mass index (BMI) was calculated. 24 h dietary recalls were collected in the spring and autumn of 2006, for 4 selected days per week. RESULTS: Intake of energy, total carbohydrate and fat did not met requirements, but intake of protein was too high. Proper weight, based on BMI values in the population aged 10-12, were found in 74.9% of boys and 81.2% of girls. Deficiencies in body weight occurred in 4.2% and 3.4%, overweight in 15.6% and 10.0% while obesity in 5.3% and 5.4% of respondents. CONCLUSIONS: Inverse correlation was found between the implementation of standards for energy and BMI values of children. It was observed positive correlation between the consumption of total and animal protein and BMI value. KEY WORDS: children, underweight, obesity, BMI, nutrients, nutrition, Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Assessment of polyphenols, beta-carotene, and vitamin C intake with daily diets by primary school children.

The aim of this study was to analytically evaluate the daily intake of total polyphenols, ß-carotene, and vitamin C by 10- to 12-year-old children. Twenty four-hour dietary recalls were collected in spring and autumn 2006 from students in Krakow and Skawina (Malopolska region, Poland). The content of vitamin C, polyphenols, and ß-carotene was determined in reconstructed daily diets. Statistical analysis did not show any significant differences between the mean intake of measured compounds according to school location, gender, or season. Diets of children contained adequate amounts of polyphenols in relation to the recommended values. Intake of ß -carotene usually exceeded the recommended retinol equivalent; in contrast, vitamin C did not meet requirements. Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C is recommended.

Curly Kale (Brassica oleracea var. Sabellica L.) Biofortified with 5,7-Diiodo-8-quinolinol: The Influence of Heat Treatment on Iodine Level, Macronutrient Composition and Antioxidant Content.

Many disorders are a result of an inadequate supply of macronutrients and micronutrients in the diet. One such element is iodine. This study used curly kale (Brassica oleracea var. Sabellica L.) biofortified with the 5,7-diiodo-8-quinolinol iodine compound. The effect of the heat treatment on the chemical composition of the curly kale was studied. In addition, iodine bioavailability was evaluated in in vivo studies. Our investigation showed that iodine loss depends on the type of heat treatment as well as on the variety of kale. Curly kale biofortified with iodoquinoline had significantly higher iodine levels after thermal processing (steaming, blanching, boiling) than the vegetable biofortified with KIO3. Generally, steaming was the best thermal processing method, as it contributed to the lowest iodine loss in curly kale. The red variety of kale, 'Redbor F1', showed a better iodine stability during the heat treatment than the green variety, 'Oldenbor F1'. The thermal treatment also significantly affected the dry matter content and the basic chemical composition of the tested varieties of the 5,7-diI-8-Q biofortified kale. The steaming process caused a significant increase in total carbohydrates, fiber, protein and crude fat content ('Oldenbor F1', 'Redbor F1'), and antioxidant activity ('Oldenbor F1'). On the other hand, boiling caused a significant decrease, while steaming caused a significant increase, in protein and dry matter content ('Oldenbor F1', 'Redbor F1'). The blanching process caused the smallest significant decrease in ash compared to the other thermal processes used ('Oldenbor F1'). A feeding experiment using Wistar rats showed that iodine from the 5,7-diI-8-Q biofortified kale has a higher bioavailability than that from the AIN-93G diet. A number of promising results have been obtained, which could form the basis for further research.

The beneficial effects of Brassica vegetables on human health.

The products of plant origin are a rich source of biologically active substances, both nutritive and referred as anti-nutritive. A large group of these compounds are substances with antioxidant activity that fights against free radicals. In the family of Brassicaceae vegetables, Brassica, is the largest and most widely consumed a group of plants in Europe and all over the world. They are characterized by different levels of nutrients. However because of their large and frequent consumption, they may become a significant source of nutrients and bioactive compounds in the daily diet. The beneficial effects of Brassica vegetables on human health have been somewhat linked to phytochemicals. They prevent oxidative stress, induce detoxification enzymes, stimulate immune system, decrease the risk of cancers, inhibit malignant transformation and carcinogenic mutations, as well as, reduce proliferation of cancer cells. Brassica vegetables contain a lot of valuable metabolites, which are effective in chemoprevention of cancer, what has been already documented by numerous studies. Due to the presence of vitamins C and E, carotenoids and antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase, these vegetables are considerable source ofantioxidants, and due to the presence of polyphenols and the sulfur-organic compounds exert also antimutagenic action. Moreover, these vegetables are also rich in glucosinolates, which are unstable compounds and undergo degradation into biologically active indoles and isothiocyanates under the influence of enzyme presented in plant tissues- myrosynase. These substances through the induction of enzymatic systems I and II phase of xenobiotics metabolism may affect the elimination or neutralization of carcinogenic and mutagenic factors, and consequently inhibit DNA methylation and cancer development. Despite many healthy benefits upon eating of cruciferous vegetables, it has been also seen a negative impact of their certain ingredients on the human body.

[Frequency and preferences of consumption of high-fat products by students of catering school in Kraków]. / Czestotliwosc i preferencje spozycia produktów wysokotluszczowych przez uczniów zespolu szkól gastronomicznych w krakowie.

BACKGROUND: Dyslipidemia is one of the most important risk factors for atherosclerotic disease and may lead to coronary heart disease, obesity, type II diabetes and certain cancers. The choice of food and meals by adults is a large part determined by the dietary habits and knowledge acquired in earlier periods of life. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate frequency of consumption of food products containing fats among students of the Catering School in Kraków. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted with the participation of 140 students divided into two subgroups, depending on gender and age, in the autumn and winter season. During the studies a food frequency questionnaire containing question about frequency intake of selected groups of food products containing fats was used. This questionnaire was prepared at the Department of Human Nutrition Agricultural University of Kraków. RESULTS: A significant (P <0.05) effect of gender on preferences for the choice of milk, eating greasy food and the type of fat used for frying foods was found. Girls more often chose milk with reduced fat content compared to boys. It was observed that the fatty parts of food more often were eliminated by girls than boys. Girls more often than boys chose to fry foods oil or margarine, while boys more often used lard and bacon. Frequency of consumption offish or fish products, milk consumption preferences and eating fatty foods depended significantly (P <0.05) oon age. Older students less likely to eat the fish or fish products more often left fatty cuts compared to the younger students. Fatty milk was likely consumed by younger students, while fat free milk by older youth. CONCLUSIONS: It was found that the students of the Catering School, despite the acquired knowledge of nutrition, make many mistakes.

[Assessment of intake of minerals with daily diets by children aged 10-12 years from Malopolska region]. / Ocena pokrycia zapotrzebowania na skladniki minerlane przez dzieci w wieku 10-12 lat z regionu Malopolski.

BACKGROUND: Adolescence is a time of rapid growth and development of the organism. During intense growth and maturation changes taking place in the body, it cost higher demand for energy and nutrients including minerals. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the intake of sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper and manganese with daily diets by children aged 10-12 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Assessment of intake of mineral compounds from daily diets was conduced with using 24 hours recall. Data were collected in spring and autumn of 2006 in randomly selected primary schools in Krakow and Skawina. Average intake of minerals (Na, K, Ca, P, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn) with daily diets by respondents and the meeting of requirements was estimated with using the computer softwere Diet 2. RESULTS: In almost all cases intake of minerals with daily diets did not meet requirements. Daily dies of children did not met requirements for major minerals i.e. calcium and magnese, and for trace minerals copper, zinc, iron. Insufficient intake of calcium, while fully covering the demand for phosphorus, resulted in improper ratio these minerals in the diet (0.62 at the recommended, of 1). Intake of manganese and potassium fully covered demand, while the sodium and salt were taken in excess. CONCLUSIONS: To low intake of minerals compounds by children may increase the risk of development of diet non-communicable diseases.

N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may affect the course of COVID-19.

The highly infectious coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is a new coronavirus that has been spreading since late 2019 and has caused millions of deaths worldwide. COVID-19 continues to spread rapidly worldwide despite high vaccination coverage; therefore, it is crucial to focus on prevention. Most patients experience only mild symptoms of COVID-19. However, in some cases, serious complications can develop mainly due to an exaggerated immune response; that is, a so-called cytokine storm, which can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome, organ failure, or, in the worst cases, death. N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their metabolites can modulate inflammatory responses, thus reducing the over-release of cytokines. It has been hypothesized that supplementation of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids could improve clinical outcomes in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Some clinical trials have shown that administering n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids to critically ill patients can improve their health and shorten the duration of their stay in intensive care. However, previous clinical studies have some limitations; therefore, further studies are required to confirm these findings.

Newly crosslinked chitosan- and chitosan-pectin-based hydrogels with high antioxidant and potential anticancer activity.

Monoaldehydes, due to natural origin and therapeutic activity, have attracted great attention for their ability to crosslink chitosan hydrogels for biomedical applications. However, most studies have focused on single-component hydrogels. In this work, chitosan-based hydrogels, crosslinked for the first time with 2,3,4-trihydroxybenzaldehyde (THBA), were modified with pectin (PC), bioactive glass (BG), and rosmarinic acid (RA). All of these were not only involved in the crosslinking, but also modulated properties or imparted completely new ones. THBA functioned as a crosslinker, resulting in improved mechanical properties, high swelling capacity and delayed degradation and also imparted high antioxidant activity and antiproliferative effect on cancer cells without cytotoxicity for normal cells. Hydrogels containing PC showed enhanced mechanical strength, while the combination with BG gave improved stability in PBS. All hydrogels modified with BG exhibited the ability to mineralise in SBF. The addition of RA enhanced antioxidant and anticancer activities and promoting the mineralisation process.