Gluten-Free Cereals and Pseudocereals as a Potential Source of Exposure to Toxic Elements among Polish Residents.

BACKGROUND: Nutritional food quality plays a crucial role in maintaining human health. However, food and drinking water, along with occupational exposure, are the main routes of exposure to toxic elements for humans. The main aim of this study was to determine the content of As, Cd, Pb and Hg in naturally gluten-free grains and products made from buckwheat, millet, maize, quinoa and oat. The safety of consumption of the products tested was also assessed. METHODS: The contents of As, Cd and Pb were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). To measure Hg, an atomic absorption spectrometry method (AAS) with the amalgamation technique was applied. To assess the level of consumption of the tested products, an online survey was conducted. To estimate health risk, three indicators were used: the target hazard quotient (THQ), cancer risk (CR) and hazard index (HI). The research material obtained 242 different samples without replications. RESULTS: The highest average content of As, Cd, Pb and Hg were observed for the following groups of products: oat (10.19 µg/kg), buckwheat (48.35 µg/kg), millet (74.52 µg/kg) and buckwheat (1.37 µg/kg), respectively. For six samples, exceedance of established limits was found-three in the case of Cd and three of Pb. Due to the lack of established limits, As and Hg content of the tested products was not compared. Generally, no increased health risks were identified. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the obtained results, the consumption of gluten-free cereals and pseudocereals available on the Polish market seems to be safe. However, there is a great need to establish maximum levels of the toxic elements, especially As and Hg in cereal products in European legislation.

Nuts as a Dietary Enrichment with Selected Minerals-Content Assessment Supported by Chemometric Analysis.

Nuts used as a snack and meal accompaniment supply plant protein and fatty acids that are beneficial for human health; however, they can also provide minerals. The aim of this study was to determine the content of selected elements that are often deficient in the diet (calcium, potassium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc) in nuts and determine whether they can be used to supplement deficiencies in the diet. In this study, we analyzed 10 types of nuts (n = 120 samples) that are consumed and available for sale in Poland. The content of calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc was determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry method, and flame atomic emission spectrometry was used for determination of potassium contents. The highest median calcium content was found in almonds (2825.8 mg/kg), the highest potassium content in pistachio nuts (15,730.5 mg/kg), the highest magnesium and selenium contents in Brazil nuts (10,509.2 mg/kg and 4348.7 µg/kg, respectively), and the highest zinc content in pine nuts (72.4 mg/kg). All the tested nuts are a source of magnesium, eight types of tested nuts are a source of potassium, six nut types are a source of zinc, and four nut types are a source of selenium; however, among the tested nuts, only almonds can be considered a source of calcium. Moreover, we found that selected chemometric methods can be useful in the classification of nuts. The studied nuts are valuable products that can be used to supplement the diet with selected minerals and can therefore be labelled as functional products crucial for disease prevention.

Consumption of Food Supplements during the Three COVID-19 Waves in Poland-Focus on Zinc and Vitamin D.

Food supplements (FS) are a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, or other ingredients with nutritional or other physiological effects. Due to their easy availability, widespread advertising, and sometimes low price, increased consumption of this group of preparations has been observed. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and intake of FS during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland, with particular reference to FS containing zinc and vitamin D. It was noted that both of the above ingredients were used significantly more often by people with higher education (59.0%), with a medical background or related working in the medical field (54.5%), and/or exercising at home (60.1%). Preparations containing vitamin D were used by 22.8% of the respondents in the first wave, 37.6% in the second wave, and 32.9% in the third wave. To sum up, we showed the highest consumption of vitamin and mineral supplements, and preparations containing zinc and vitamin D were taken significantly more often by people with higher medical and related education. This indicates a high awareness of health aspects and the need for preventive measures in these groups.

Chemical Composition and Protective Effect of Young Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Dietary Supplements Extracts on UV-Treated Human Skin Fibroblasts in In Vitro Studies.

Young barley seems to be a promising material for use as nutricosmetic due to the presence of many biologically active compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Hordeum vulgare L. extracts on human skin fibroblasts exposed to ultraviolet radiation B (UVB) radiation. Analysis of the chemical composition showed a predominance of 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid. The quality assessment showed that young barley preparations have high total polyphenolic content (TPC) and favourable total antioxidant status (TAS). They also contain antioxidant elements such as zinc, copper, and selenium. Furthermore, the analyzed products were found to be safe in terms of toxic elements (lead, cadmium and mercury) and lack of cytotoxic effect of young barley extracts on cells. In vitro bioactivity assays showed that young barley extract increased the survival rate and accelerated the migration of fibroblasts in research models with UVB radiation. The application of both extracts caused an increase in DNA biosynthesis, and in the number of cells arrested in S phase. Moreover, an inhibitory effect of the tested extracts on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) was observed. The results indicate that young barley extracts, due to protective as well as restorative effect, could potentially be used in the production of nutricosmetics and skin care products.

Dietary Habits, Selenium, Copper, Zinc and Total Antioxidant Status in Serum in Relation to Cognitive Functions of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease.

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the neurodegenerative process and can impair cognitive functions. In the prevention of Alzheimer's disease (AD), an adequate consumption of dietary antioxidants may be a major factor. The objective of the study was to estimate selenium (Se), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and total antioxidant status (TAS) in the serum of patients with AD in relation to their cognitive functions and dietary habits. A total of 110 patients (aged 54-93 years) with early or moderate AD, as well as 60 healthy people (aged 52-83 years) were studied. The severity of the disease was assessed using the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scale. Food-frequency questionnaires were implemented to collect the dietary data. The concentrations of Se, Cu and Zn in the sera were determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry method. TAS was estimated spectrophotometrically using ready-made kits (Randox). Significantly lower concentrations of Se, Zn and TAS, and higher Cu:Zn ratio in the serum of patients with AD, compared to healthy people, were observed. A low correlation between the MMSE score and TAS in the serum of AD patients and significantly higher MMSE values in patients with TAS above the reference range were also noted. In patients with serum Cu concentration above the norm, significantly lower MMSE values were found. Selected dietary habits such as the frequency of consumption of various food products had a significant impact on the concentration of the assessed parameters in the serum of people with AD.

Estimation of Selected Minerals in Aortic Aneurysms-Impaired Ratio of Zinc to Lead May Predispose?

The objective of this study was to estimate the content of copper, zinc, selenium, cadmium, and lead in the tissue of patients with aortic aneurysms. Molar ratio of Cu/Zn and antioxidant micronutrients to toxic elements was also calculated. A total of 108 patients: 47 with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), 61 patients with thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), and a control group of 20 abdominal aortic (AA) and 20 thoracic aortic (TA) wall samples from the deceased were studied. The concentrations of mineral components in the tissue samples were determined by the AAS method. The average concentration of Cu in the aortic wall of patients with TAA was significantly lower than in the aortic wall samples of healthy people. The mean concentration of Zn in the aortic wall of patients with AAA and TAA was significantly lower than in the control group samples. Cu/Zn ratio was significantly higher in AAA patients than in control group which indicates a greater role of oxidative stress and inflammatory process in this type of aneurysm. The concentration of Se was significantly decreased in TAA patients compared with the control group; in turn, the concentration of Pb was increased in this group of patients. We observed significantly lower Cu/Pb ratio in TAA patients than in control group, whereas Zn/Pb ratio was significantly lower comparing with control samples in both types of aneurysms. In the examined aneurysms, we have shown the differences in concentrations of mineral components compared with the control tissues. The Zn concentration was decreased in both AAA and TAA samples. Impaired ratio of Zn to Pb may predispose to aortic aneurysms.

Mushrooms as potential therapeutic agents in the treatment of cancer: Evaluation of anti-glioma effects of Coprinus comatus, Cantharellus cibarius, Lycoperdon perlatum and Lactarius deliciosus extracts.

Cancer incidence rates are on the increase worldwide. The most common brain cancer in adults is glioblastoma. Currently available treatment modalities are limited and natural products such as mushrooms could enhance them. Apart from nutritional value, mushrooms are an excellent source of bioactive compounds and therefore could be used to treat various disorders. The aim of the study was to assess the anti-glioma potential of selected mushrooms on U87MG, LN-18 glioblastoma and SVGp12 normal human astroglial cell lines. The materials were Cantharellus cibarius, Coprinus comatus, Lycoperdon perlatum and Lactarius delicious. Aqueous, 70 % ethanol or 95 % ethanol extracts from mushrooms were used for analysis including assessment of antioxidant activity by DPPH assay, cell viability by MTT assay, DNA biosynthesis by thymidine incorporation assay, activity of metalloproteinase by gelatin zymography and cell cycle assay by flow cytometry. Mushroom extracts influenced the viability and DNA biosynthesis of cancer cells. Activity of ethanol mushroom extracts was stronger than that of aqueous extracts. Anti-glioma mechanism consisted in inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis associated with arrest of cells in subG1 or G2/M phase of cell cycle, and inhibition of metalloproteinases activity. Among investigated mushrooms, L. deliciosus and C. comatus showed the greatest anti-glioma potential.

Chemical composition of Polish propolis and its antiproliferative effect in combination with Bacopa monnieri on glioblastoma cell lines.

Propolis and Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. (Brahmi) are natural products that contain many active substances and possess anticancer properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition of Polish propolis extract (PPE) by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), B. monnieri extracts (BcH, BcS) by high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector and mass spectrometry coupled with electrospray ionization (LC-ESI-MS) and finally determine its anti-proliferative potential combined with BcH and BcS in glioblastoma cell lines (T98G, LN-18, U87MG). The antiproliferative activity of PPE, BcH, BcS and their combination (PPE + BcH) was determined by a cytotoxicity test, and DNA binding was determined by [3H]-thymidine incorporation. Flavonoids and phenylpropenoids were the main components of PPE. BcH and BcS samples were also successfully analyzed. Their main constituents were saponins such as bacoside A3, bacopaside II, X and bacopasaponin C and its isomer. The inhibitory effects on the viability and proliferation of the tested glioma cells observed after incubation with the combination of PPE and BcH were significantly stronger than the effects of these two extracts separately. These findings suggest that propolis in combination with B. monnieri shows promising anticancer activity for the treatment of glioblastoma. However, further studies are still required.

Vitamins in Alzheimer's Disease-Review of the Latest Reports.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, and the aging of the population means that the number of cases is successively increasing. The cause of the disease has not been established, but it is suggested that many factors affect it, including nutritional aspects. As part of the work, the PubMed database has been searched, beginning from 2005, for terms related to key nutritional aspects. A diet rich in antioxidant vitamins can improve the cognitive functions of patients. Thanks to an adequate intake of B vitamins, homocysteine levels are reduced, which indirectly protects against the development of the disease. A properly balanced diet, as well as the use of appropriate supplementation, can contribute to improving the clinical condition of patients with AD.

Impact of Brewing Methods on Total Phenolic Content (TPC) in Various Types of Coffee.

Coffee is a widely consumed beverage, both in Europe, where its consumption is highest, and on other continents. It provides many compounds, including phenolic compounds. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of various brewing methods on the total phenolic content (TPC) in the infusion. Research material comprised commercially available coffees: Instant Arabica and Robusta, freshly ground Arabica and Robusta (immediately prior to the analysis), ground Arabica and Robusta, decaffeinated Arabica, and green Arabica and Robusta. The following preparation methods were used: Pouring hot water over coffee grounds or instant coffee, preparing coffee in a percolator and using a coffee machine. Additional variables which were employed were water temperature (90 or 100 °C) and its type (filtered or unfiltered). In order to determine the impact of examined factors, 225 infusion were prepared. Total phenolic content was determined by the spectrophotometric method using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and the obtained results were expressed in mg gallic acid (GAE) per 100 g of brewed coffee. The highest value was obtained for 100% Arabica ground coffee prepared in a coffee percolator using unfiltered water at a temperature of 100 °C: 657.3 ± 23 mg GAE/100 g of infusion. High values were also observed for infusions prepared in a coffee machine, where the highest TPC value was 363.8 ± 28 mg GAE/100 g for ground Arabica. In turn, the lowest TPC was obtained for Arabica green coffee in opaque packaging, brewed with filtered water at a temperature of 100 °C: 19.5 ± 1 mg GAE/100 g of infusion. No significant effect of temperature and water type on the TPC within one type of coffee was observed. Due to its high content of phenolic compounds, Arabica coffee brewed in a coffee percolator should be the most popular choice for coffee drinkers.

Comparison of Zinc, Copper and Selenium Content in Raw, Smoked and Pickled Freshwater Fish.

The aim of the study was to assess the zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and selenium (Se) content in freshwater fish from Poland. Selected species of raw, smoked and pickled fish were evaluated by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The concentration of Zn, Cu and Se in the examined fish ranged from 1.5 to 49.9 mg/kg, 0.01 to 2.8 mg/kg and 30.9 to 728.2 µg/kg, respectively. One serving of every fish product covered the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of Zn by 5.38-65.0%, of Cu by 0.42-11.4% and of Se by 12.3-198.6%. A cluster analysis allowed us to distinguish European eel (raw and smoked) based on the Zn content. Additionally, based on the Cu and Se content, pickled common whitefish was differentiated from other species and types of fish products. The discriminant analysis model of smoked fish enabled their classification with a 70% accuracy. Regarding Zn, all forms of the European eel as well as raw and smoked vendace can be considered a source of this element. None of the tested fish can be considered a source of Cu. All products are safe for human consumption with regard to the Zn and Cu content. Almost each form of every species of fish can be considered a source of Se. However, the Se content should be monitored in smoked and pickled common whitefish, pickled bream and pickled vendace.

The two faces of Coprinus comatus-Functional properties and potential hazards.

Mushrooms have been used for centuries not only as food but also in traditional medicine as a source of components with pro-health activity. One of them is Coprinus comatus (O.F.Müll.) Pers. also called shaggy mane, chicken drumstick mushroom, or lawyer's wig. In Asian countries, C. comatus (CC) is approved as edible mushroom and often cultivated for consumption, whereas in many other countries, although it is widespread, it is unrecognized and not used. In this review, for the first time, we discussed about the composition related to functional properties as well as the potential risks associated with consumption of CC by reviewing scientific literature. The information has been collected in order to get to know this species thoroughly. Various studies show many of the physiological activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, antiandrogenic, hepatoprotective, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, antiobesity, antibacterial, antifungal, antinematode, and antiviral. Besides positive physiological properties, CC has also negative features, for example, skin reactions in patients with dermatitis and atopic predisposition, risk of confusion with poisonous mushrooms, quick autolysis after collection, and contamination of toxic elements.

Anti-proliferative and anti-migration effects of Polish propolis combined with Hypericum perforatum L. on glioblastoma multiforme cell line U87MG.

BACKGROUND: Propolis and Hypericum perforatum L. are natural products which contain many active compounds and have numerous beneficial effects, including an antitumor effect. Gliobmastoma multiforme (GBM) is a common primary brain tumor with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. In this study, the effect of propolis (EEP) combined with H. perforatum L. (HPE) on glioblastoma cell line U87MG was investigated for the first time. METHODS: Anti-proliferative activity of EEP, HPE and their combination (EEP + HPE) was determined by a cytotoxicity test, DNA binding by [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation and cell migration assay. Anti-metastatic properties in U87MG treated with EEP, HPE and EEP + HPE were estimated on cells migration test (scratch assay) and metalloproteinases (MMP2 and MMP9) secretion (gelatin zymography). RESULTS: Combination of HPE and EEP extracts was found to have a time- and dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the viability of U87MG cells. This effect was significantly higher (p < 0.05) when compared to these two extracts applied separately, which was confirmed by the significant reduction of DNA synthesis and significantly higher mitochondrial membrane permeabilization. A significant decreasing in migration cells and in pro-MMP9 and pro-MMP2 secretion in U87MG cells were demonstrated after exposure to combination of EEP (30 µg/ml) with HPE (6.25 µg/ml). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the combination of ethanolic extract from propolis and ethanolic extract of fresh-cut H. perforatum L. was proved the ability to reduce invasiveness of glioma cells through the inhibition of MMP2 and MMP9 secretion and suppression of cell migration. It has a more potent anti-proliferative effect on U87MG glioma cell line compared to using propolis and H. perforatum L. separately. Further studies are required to verify whether the examined extracts can activate apoptotic pathways.

Propolis changes the anticancer activity of temozolomide in U87MG human glioblastoma cell line.

BACKGROUND: Propolis is a honey bee product which contains many active compounds, such as CAPE or chrysin, and has many beneficial activities. Recently, its anti-tumor properties have been discussed. We have tested whether the ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) interferes with temozolomide (TMZ) to inhibit U87MG cell line growth. METHODS: The U87MG glioblastoma cell line was exposed to TMZ (10-100 µM), EEP (10-100 µg/ml) or a mixture of TMZ and EEP during 24, 48 or 72 hours. The cell division was examined by the H3-thymidine incorporation, while the western blot method was used for detection of p65 subunit of NF-κB and ELISA test to measure the concentration of its p50 subunit in the nucleus. RESULTS: We have found that both, TMZ and EEP administrated alone, had a dose- and time-dependent inhibitory effect on the U87MG cell line growth, which was manifested by gradual reduction of cell viability and alterations in proliferation rate. The anti-tumor effect of TMZ (20 µM) was enhanced by EEP, which was especially well observed after a short time of exposition, where simultaneous usage of TMZ and EEP resulted in a higher degree of growth inhibition than each biological factor used separately. In addition, cells treated with TMZ presented no changes in NF-κB activity in prolonged time of treatment and EEP only slightly reduced the nuclear translocation of this transcription factor. In turn, the combined incubation with TMZ and EEP led to an approximately double reduction of NF-κB nuclear localization. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that EEP presents cytotoxic properties and may cooperate with TMZ synergistically enhancing its growth inhibiting activity against glioblastoma U87MG cell line. This phenomenon may be at least partially mediated by a reduced activity of NF-κB.