This review is focused on the study of the effects of grape seed and skin extract (GSSE) on human health. GSSE contains high concentrations of important polyphenolic substances with high biological activity. This review is a summary of studies that investigate the effects of GSSE on diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and cancer, its neuroprotective effect, and its effects on the gastrointestinal tract and other health complications related to these diseases. The results of the studies confirm that the anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and pro-proliferative effects of “Vitis vinifera L.” seed extract reduce the level of oxidative stress and improve the overall lipid metabolism.

Quantification and evaluation of selected Arabica (Coffea arabica L.) coffee beans' shape and size was performed. Twenty different coffee types originating from 13 different countries were analyzed. The main dimensions for individual coffee types were quantified. Sphericity, as a useful parameter for the calculation of processing and handling operations, was also quantified and ranged from 0.006536 to 0.009452. Calculation of shape variability using elliptic Fourier descriptors showed relevant differences among individual coffee samples. A dominant importance and the relevance of length-to-width ratio were quantitatively confirmed. A simple mathematical formula describing coffee grain contour was used with a satisfying correlation coefficient. Applicability of the approach was shown on the calculation of curvature radius.

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