Analyses of Mineral Content and Heavy Metal of Honey Samples from South and East Region of Turkey by Using ICP-MS

Development of Molecularly Imprinted Magnetic Amino Acid-Based Nanoparticles for Voltammetric Analysis of Lead Ions in Honey

Lead (Pb) is a hazardous metal that poses a significant threat to both the environment and human health. The presence of Pb in food products such as honey can pose a significant risk to human health and is therefore important to detect and monitor. In this study, we propose a voltammetric detection method using molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) electrodes to detect Pb (II) ions in honey. Pb (II) ion-imprinted amino acid-based nanoparticles with magnetic properties on a carbon paste electrode (MIP-CPE) were designed to have high sensitivity and selectivity towards Pb (II) ions in the honey sample. Zetasizer measurements, electron spin resonance, and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize magnetic polymeric nanoparticles. The results showed that the voltammetric detection method using MIP-CPE was able to accurately detect Pb (II) ions in honey samples with a low detection limit. The proposed method offers a simple, rapid, cost-effective solution for detecting Pb (II) ions in honey. It could potentially be applied to other food products to ensure their safety for human consumption. The MIP-CPE sensor was designed to have high sensitivity and selectivity towards Pb (II) ions in the honey sample. The results showed that the technique was able to deliver highly sensitive results since seven different concentrations were prepared and detected to obtain an R2 of 0.9954, in addition to a low detection limit (LOD) of 0.0912 µM and a low quantification limit (LOQ) of 0.276 µM. Importantly, the analysis revealed no trace of Pb (II) ions in the honey samples obtained from Cyprus.

Assessment of essential minerals and physico-chemical analysis of floral origins fresh honey produced by Apis mellifera

Abstract Honey is one of the best nutritious substances in the world, having different services in the body functions regulation. Ten elements (K, Na, Ca, Co, Cr, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se) from honey samples were analyzed from 80 different locations of Punjab and ten floras. The aim of the present study was to determine the quality and quantity of minerals and Physico-chemical analysis in honey. A flame photometer was used to measure the concentration of major minerals (K, Ca and Na). The concentration of micro minerals (Co, Cr, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb and Se) was analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer. The concentration of macro-elements obtained was as follow (in ppm): K (166-1732), Na (107-418) and Ca (07-99), while the concentration of microelements (in ppm) Co (1-2), Cr (>1), Mn (<1), Mo (1.818), Ni (1.911), Pb (<1) and Se (1.968). The most abundant minerals were potassium, calcium and sodium, ranging between 396-810.5, 17.5-640.63 and 169.88-238.62 ppm, respectively. However, the trace mineral elements of honey were obtained in the order of decreasing Se > Co > Ni > Pb > Cr > Mo > Mn. The findings showed that all the heavy metals like Co, Cr, Ni and Pb were present in trace amounts and close to International Honey Quality Standard. The result of given honey samples represented highest value of moisture (31.23%), color (80 mm pfund), pH (8.23), acidity (72.02 meq/kg), electrical conductivity (0.85 ms/cm) and ash contents (0.83%).

An efficient pretreatment method based on AgNPs-doped SnO2 photocatalyst for the accurate detection of heavy metals in organic-rich water samples

Humic acid (HA), the primary composition of natural organic matter (NOM) widely distributed in water and soil, can complex with heavy metal ions (HMIs), i.e., Cd(II) and Pb(II) in this study, which deters the accurate detection of HMIs using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). Hence, in this study, an efficient pretreatment method was proposed to restore the electrochemical signal of Cd(II) and Pb(II) by breaking the complexation based on AgNPs-doped SnO2 photocatalyst combined with LP/UV irradiation. Optimization of the key parameters for electrochemical signal restoration including pH for photolysis, AgNPs doping rate, photocatalyst dosage and photolysis time were performed to further elevating the accuracy in the proposed pretreatment method over 96.9% for Cd(II) and Pb(II) in 15 min. The effect of different HA concentrations on SWASV signal of Cd(II) and Pb(II) was also investigated adopting the optimal parameters. Then, the UV-vis absorption spectra, crystal structure, and the morphology of AgNPs-doped SnO2 photocatalyst were investigated to excavate the reasons behind the most excellent AgNPs doping rate to SnO2 in signal restoration. Moreover, the behavior of HA degradation and transformation under LP/UV irradiation was studied to investigate the mechanism of electrochemical signal restoration. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed method was testified by comparing detection results with ICP-MS results using real water samples extracted from aquaculture water.

Polysucrose hydrogel loaded with natural molecules/extracts for multiphase-directed sustainable wound healing

Natural molecules/extracts have numerous beneficial effects on wound healing processes which are challenged by appropriate use and non-toxic dosage. Polysucrose-based (PSucMA) hydrogels have been synthesized with in situ loading of one or more natural molecules/extracts namely Manuka honey (MH), Eucalyptus honey (EH1, EH2), Ginkgo biloba (GK), thymol (THY) and metformin (MET). EH1 presented low amounts of hydroxymethylfurfural and methylglyoxal compared to MH indicating that EH1 was not temperature-abused. It also showed high diastase activity and conductivity. GK was added to PSucMA solution along with other additives including MH, EH1 and MET and crosslinked to form dual loaded hydrogels. The in vitro release profiles of EH1, MH, GK and THY from the hydrogels followed the exponential Korsmeyer-Peppas equation, with a release exponent value of less than 0.5 indicating a quasi-Fickian diffusion mechanism. The IC50 values of these natural products using L929 fibroblasts and RAW 264.7 macrophages indicated that EH1, MH and GK were cytocompatible at relatively high concentrations compared to MET, THY and curcumin used as a control. MH and EH1 induced high IL6 concentration compared to GK. In vitro studies were modelled to mimic the overlapping wound healing phases using human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), macrophages and human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) in dual culture. HDFs showed a highly interconnected cellular network on GK loaded scaffolds. EH1 loaded scaffolds were seen to induce formation of spheroids which increased in number and size in co-culture studies. The SEM images of HDF/HUVEC seeded GK, GKMH and GKEH1 loaded hydrogels indicated formation of vacuoles and lumen structures. These results indicated that a combination of GK and EH1 in the hydrogel scaffold would accelerate tissue regeneration by acting on the four overlapping phases of wound healing.

Preliminary Evidence That Fiji Water Has Protective Effects against Aluminum Toxicity in Honey Bees (Apis mellifera)

Researchers have determined that bioavailable aluminum chloride (AlCl3) may affect honey bee behavior (e.g., foraging patterns and locomotion) and physiology (e.g., abdominal spasms). The purpose of these experiments was to determine if Fiji water reduces the impacts of AlCl3 toxicity in bees by measuring circadian rhythmicity (number of times bees crossed the centerline during the day and night), average daily activity (average number of times bees crossed the centerline per day), and mortality rates (average number of days survived) using an automated monitor apparatus. Overall, the AlCl3 before and after Fiji groups had significantly higher average daily activity and rhythmicity rates compared to their respective AlCl3 before and after deionized water (DI) groups. One of the AlCl3 before DI groups exhibited no difference in rhythmicity rates compared to its respective AlCl3 after Fiji group. Overall, these results suggest that Fiji water might exert protective effects against AlCl3. The AlCl3 groups paired with Fiji water had higher activity and rhythmicity levels compared to the AlCl3 groups paired with DI. It is important for researchers to continue to study aluminum and possible preventatives for aluminum uptake.

Advances in the Elemental Composition Analysis of Propolis Samples from Different Regions of Turkey by X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry

In this study, it was aimed to determine the elemental composition of 47 propolis samples collected from different regions of Turkey by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. According to the results, the most abundant elements in propolis samples were the Ca, K, and Si with the mean values as 1556, 1383, and 731 mg/kg, respectively. Additionally, there were high degrees of positive and strong correlations of Al with S (0.925) and Fe (0.926) and Ca with Mg (0.970). According to cluster analysis results, the Aegean, Marmara, and Mediterranean regions showed strong similarities, whereas Southeastern Anatolia propolis samples were remarkably different. The elements considered as toxic for human and environmental health such as Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, and W were at the trace amounts as < 10 mg/kg. When assuming 1 g raw propolis is consumed daily by a 60-kg adult, the analyzed propolis samples were not a source carrying the negative effects of these elements. However, they could be an indicator of environmental pollution.

Trace Elements and Heavy Metal Contents in West Algerian Natural Honey

Analysis of trace elements and heavy metals in honey is essential for honey quality and safety and also monitoring environmental pollution. This study aimed to evaluate the composition of thirty-seven honey samples of different botanical origins (14 multifloral and 23 unifloral) obtained from beekeepers located in the west region of Algeria. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) methods were used to determine the levels of 19 elements in honey (K, Na, Ca, Mg, Mn, Cu, Fe, Zn, V, Cr, Co, As, Ru, Rh, Cd, W, Pt, Au, and Pb). Ru, Rh, Pt and, Au were not detected in any of the tested honey samples. The most abundant minerals were K, Ca, Na, and Mg ranging within 153.00-989.00 mg/kg, 33.10-502.00 mg/kg, 13.30-281.00 mg/kg, and 20.80-162.00 mg/kg, respectively. Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu were the most abundant heavy metals while Pb, V, Cr, W, Co, and Cd were the lowest ones (<1 mg/kg) in the honey samples surveyed. Several honey types, lavender, rosemary, mild white mustard, thyme, milk thistle, carob tree, orange tree, Euphorbia, Eucalyptus, camphor, jujube tree, sage, and harmal, were studied, and the statistical analysis was carried out using principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) techniques to evaluate the data. The results showed that the analyses of mineral content were sufficient to determine the floral origin and their variability may be related to geochemical and geographical differences. On other hand, all elements detected were at levels below safe thresholds.

Formula Optimization and Physicochemical Characterization of Tempe Drink Powder

Tempe is chosen as the main ingredient of tempe drink powder (TDP) due to its protein digestibility, phytochemical compounds, as well as vitamins and minerals. Previous studies had been conducted to develop TDP formula. The commercial TDP formula showed that improvement of quality aspects needs to be done so the product has better physical and chemical characteristics. In order to optimize the TDP formula, the viscosity, water solubility index (WSI), water absorption index (WAI), sedimentation index (SI), proximate, antioxidant activity, isoflavone content, GABA content, and physicochemical properties were analyzed. The optimized formula was done using the mixture experiment optimization method with optimization d-optimal to obtain the best formula. The optimization result showed that the best formula proportion consisted of 70% (w/w) Tempe flour, 18.23% (w/w) maltodextrin and 1.77% (w/w) guar gum. The best formula was chosen due to having better chemical characteristics compared with the commercial TDP and commercial soy drink powder (SDP), with protein content of 42.61%, antioxidant activity of 58.36 mgAEAC/100g, daidzein and genistein isoflavones of each 48.18 and 140.06 mg/100g and GABA of 21.24 mg/g. Based on the physical characteristics, the optimum formula had a lower viscosity value (18.67 cP) and WAI (2.58g/g) as well as a higher SI value (10.18%) and WSI (9.70%) compared with the commercial TDP. The optimum TDP formula has fulfilled the quality requirements based on the Indonesian National Standard (SNI 7612:2011) regarding soy drink powder.

Relationships Linking the Element, Bioactive, Hydroxymethylfurfural, Color of Kars Honeys: a Chemometric Approach

Honey is a natural food substance considered among functional foods due to its positive effect on human health. Quality of honey is significantly influenced by environmental conditions and botanical origin. This study aimed to determine the element content in honey from Kars, Turkey, as well as the bioactive compounds and certain physicochemical and biochemical properties such as hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and color in a chemometric approach. In this study, a total of 41 local honey samples were analyzed. The levels of elements Al, As, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Zn, and Pb were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometer (ICP-OES). The mean concentrations of the elements in the samples were identified as 3.09, 0.64, 59.07, 0.02, 0.14, 0.17, 1.76, 9.32, 0.78, and 0.33 µg/g for Al, As, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Zn, and Pb, respectively. The mean bioactive compounds of the honey samples were determined as phenolic content (19.74 mg GAE/100 g), flavonoid content (4.47 mg CE/100 mg), and DPPH (49.08% inhibition). The HMF levels of all samples conformed to the honey standards of the Codex Alimentarius and Turkish Food Codex. HMF was not negatively correlated with the other color parameters except for the a* (redness or greenness) value. This study showed that clustering analysis (CA) and principal component analysis (PCA) are useful for distinguishing the originality of honey samples by using element content, bioactive properties, HMF, and color and were useful in defining the Kars honey type.

Evaluation of nutritional quality of complementary foods formulated from blends of Nigerian yellow maize (Zea mays), soybean (Glycine max) and crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

BACKGROUND

Plant-based complementary foods (CFs) supply insufficient amount of nutrients to meet recommended nutrient intakes for 6-23-month-old children. The present study determined the nutritional quality of CFs formulated from blends of Nigerian yellow maize (Zea mays), soybean (Glycine max) and crayfish (Procambarus clarkii). Three CFs were formulated; namely, maize flour (MF, 100:0% w/w), blends of maize and soybean flour (MSF, 72:28% w/w), and maize, soybean and crayfish flour (MSCF, 80:10:10% w/w). Nutritional quality was evaluated using analyses of chemical composition of CFs and of protein quality of complementary food diets. Data were compared by multivariate analysis of variance and significantly differentiated. Nine selected nutritional criteria were used to decide the CF that had best nutritional characteristics compared to MF and fortified wheat flour (FWMF).

RESULTS

Total scores obtained from the selected nutritional criteria ranked MSCF, with total score of 15, as the lowest and thus it was considered to have the most desirable nutritional characteristics compared to MF, MSF and FWMF, which had respective total scores of 31, 22 and 20.

CONCLUSION

Conclusively, MSCF may serve as a better alternative CF for MF, MSC and FWMF. The present study has produced a potential alternative cost-effective and adequate CF, formulated from crayfish (P. clarkii) supplementation of locally available blend of yellow maize (Z. mays) and soybean (G. max), for the poor human population, aiming to encourage the consumption of animal-sourced CF for alleviating the prevalence of childhood undernutrition. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Chemical Analysis and Quality Assessment of Honey Obtained from Different Sources

The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the quality of bee honey from different sources: beekeeper, local market and organic honey. Sensory analysis was performed and the water content, pH, acidity, protein content and total metal content (Cu, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Pb, Cd, Fe) were determined. The sensory analysis was carried out by a group of untrained panelists for quality assessment of honey. The metal content was determined by graphite atomic absorption spectrometry (GTAAS). Mineralization was carried out in a microwave digestion system, in a high-pressure polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) vessel, using a standard acid-digestion protocol. The results regarding the physico-chemical parameters showed that the honey samples were in accordance with the quality regulations for honey as a commercial product. The concentration of metals in the investigated honey samples varied in the order Cu > Cr > Pb > Fe > Ni > Mn > Co > Cd, the values being within the limits established by the EU Commission (No. 1881/2006). The variations observed in the evaluated parameters can be caused by the difference in plant species from which the honey comes, the harvesting period and the level of environmental pollutants. The Pearson correlations between the physico-chemical parameters and the metals indicate that water content (wc) is strongly negatively correlated with Cd and Ni, while pH is strongly positively correlated with Mn and Fe. Moreover, EC is strongly negatively correlated with Ni and Fe, and the Brix degrees are strongly positively correlated with Cd and Ni. Statistically significant positive correlation was found between Brix–Cd, Ni–Cd and Cu–Cr and a statistically significant negative correlation was detected between wc and Cd.

Multi-element Analysis of Honey from Amhara Region-Ethiopia for Quality, Bioindicator of Environmental Pollution, and Geographical Origin Discrimination

Honey is a widely utilized sweetener containing mainly sugars with many other minor ingredients such as metallic elements. The analysis aimed to develop a chemometric model for tracing the geographical origin, evaluating nutritional quality, assessing pollution effect, and searching for marker metals for the region's honey. Forty-seven honey samples were collected directly from the apiarists at seven administrative zones. The contents of 14 metals were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry after standard sample digestion. The findings showed us the major elements ranged from 24.8 to 1996 mg/kg of the honey sample with K > Ca > Na > Mg. The minimum and maximum values for the trace metals were 2.35 mg/kg and 163 mg/kg, respectively, in the order of Fe > Cr > Zn > Ni > Mn > Cu > Co. From this data, the region's honey has its own contribution as a source of major and trace elements. Furthermore, mean values for the toxic heavy metals were 0.57 to 1.85 for Pb, 1.03 to 1.21 for Cd, and 2.85 to 6.21 for As in mg/kg. Thus, the pollution level in the environment seems to be at an alarming rate. Using principal components analysis (PCA), the first four principal components explained 80.16% of the total variation. The region's honey was best classified into five major clusters using linear discriminant analysis (LDA) with an average discrimination power of 89.91%. The LDA sorting model was verified by the cross-validation method. The verification revealed that the model has 92.11% recognition power and 93.33% prediction ability.

Effects of Fertilization Approaches on Plant Development and Fertilizer Use of Citrus

Fertilization is an important part of citrus crop management. However, limited details are available about the fertilization approach on citrus plant development. A pot experiment for the fertilization approaches and fertigation levels were conducted in this study. Four fertilization approaches, namely, drip fertigation (DF), broadcast fertilization (CK+), hole fertilization (HF) and pour fertilization (PF) were tested. The fertigation level treatment included 100% (DF-337.5), 80% (DF-270), 60% (DF-202.5) and 40% (DF-135) fertilizer supply with DF, and the 100% fertilizer supply with broadcast fertilization were served as control (CK). The results showed that DF not only increased the absorptions of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) but also promoted citrus plant height, stem diameter and dry weight. In fruit quality, DF had the highest fruit total soluble solid (TSS) and titratable acidity (TA) contents. For fertilizer loss, DF had the lowest N and K leaching losses of 9.26% and 4.05%, respectively, and the lowest N and K runoff losses among the approaches. Isotopic tracing with 15N indicated that DF had the highest fertilizer use efficiency. Based on the analysis of fertigation levels, DF approach with 60% fertilizer reduction could improve citrus plant development. Therefore, DF promoted citrus plant growth and fruit quality by accelerating fertilizer utilization and impairing fertilizer loss. The fertilizer amount in citrus production could be reduced significantly using DF.

Determination of the geographic origin of 52 honey samples based on the assessment of anionic content profiling with a new algorithm using monolithic column-based micellar nano-liquid chromatography

In the present study, a new micellar nano LC-UV was, for the first time, reported for the separation and determination of five anions (chloride, nitrite, bromide, sulfate and nitrate) in 52 honey samples. Based on this approach, a graphene oxide-based monolithic column was prepared and applied for the samples. Various amounts of hexadecyltrimethyl-ammonium bromide (HTAB) in the mobile phase were used in order to optimize the separation conditions. The baseline separation was achieved using mobile phase with 25/75% (v/v) ACN/10 mM phosphate buffer at pH 3.4, while the amount of HTAB was optimized as 0.22 mM in the mobile phase. The whole method was validated and it leads to high sensitivity. The LOD values were found in the range of 0.02-0.22 µg/kg, while LOQ values were found in the range of 0.06-0.18 µg/kg. The method allowed to achieve sensitivity analyses of anionic content in 52 honey samples. All data were evaluated using a new algorithm for geographic origin discrimination. K-nearest neighbor algorithm (K-NN), cubic support vector classifier (K-DVS), and K-Mean cluster analysis were used for geographic origin discrimination of honeys. The accuracy of the whole model was calculated as 94.4% with the K-DVS method. The samples from five provinces were classified 100% correctly, while two of them were classified with one misclassification, with an accuracy of 89.9% and 83.3%, respectively. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The new platforms and advanced technologies are crucial for advanced food analysis. In this article, a novel methodology was attempted for the determination of geographic origin of 52 honey samples. In this sense, micellar nano LC technique with a homemade monolithic nano-column was, for the first time, applied for the anion analysis using a new algorithm.

Levels and health risk assessment of trace metals in honey from different districts of Bench Sheko Zone, Southwest Ethiopia

This study aimed to determine the levels and potential health risks posed by trace metals (Zn, Cu, Mn, Cd, Cr, and Pb) obtained in honey samples. The honey samples were from Sheko, Guraferda, Mizan Aman Town, Debub Bench, and Semien Bench in Bench Sheko Zone, Southern Ethiopia, and levels of trace metals were determined using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The levels of trace metals in honey samples across the provinces ranged as follows; Zn (1.78–4.02 mg/kg), Cu(1.85–2.35 mg/kg), Mn (0.75–1.25 mg/kg), Cd (0.011–0.038 mg/kg), Cr (0.25–0.55 mg/kg), respectively. The level of Pb was not detected in all honey samples. The levels of trace metals obtained were lower than the maximum permissible limit set by WHO/FAO. Limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were ranged from 0.00045 to 0.005 and 0.0015 to 0.016, for the tested metals, respectively. The estimated recoveries of the method were ranged from 92.66% to 103.00% showed a good agreement of accuracy. The EDI values (mg/kg) of the investigated trace metals in all honey samples were less than the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI). The values of the target hazard quotient (THQ) and the hazard index (HI) were less than unity. The target cancer risk (TCR) values of Cd in all honey samples showed the lowest carcinogenic risks with values ranged from 3.34E-07 to 1.27E-06. However, the TCR value of Cr in all honey samples ranged from 1.03E-05 to 2.43E-05 and was in the moderate range. The ∑TCR value of Cd and Cr ranged from 1.15E-05 to 2.37E-05 and 1.23E-05 to 2.55E-05 for male and female adults, respectively, and were found in the moderate range. Therefore, there was no serious non-carcinogenic and carcenogenic risks to human health from exposure to trace metals through the consumption of this honey.

Effects of Covid-19 pandemic lockdown and environmental pollution assessment in Campania region (Italy) through the analysis of heavy metals in honeybees

The Covid-19 outbreak had a critical impact on a massive amount of human activities as well as the global health system. On the other hand, the lockdown and related suspension of working activities reduced pollution emissions. The use of biomonitoring is an efficient and quite recent tool to assess environmental pollution through the analysis of a proper bioindicator, such as bees. This study set out to ascertain the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown on the environmental occurrence of eleven heavy metals in the Campania region (Italy) by analyzing bees and bee products. A further aim of this study was the assessment of the Honeybee Contamination Index (HCI) in three different areas of the Campania region and its comparison with other Italian areas to depict the current environmental pollutants levels of heavy metals. The results showed that the levels of heavy metals bioaccumulated by bees during the pandemic lockdown (T1) were statistically lower than the sampling times after Covid-19 restrictions and the resumption of some or all activities (T2 and T3). A comparable trend was observed in wax and pollen. However, bee, pollen, and wax showed higher levels of Cd and Hg in T1 than T2 and T3. The analysis of the HCI showed a low contamination level of the sampling sites for Cd and Pb, and an intermediate-high level as regards Ni and Cr. The biomonitoring study highlighted a decrease of heavy metals in the environmental compartments due to the intense pandemic restrictions. Therefore, Apis mellifera and other bee products remain a reliable and alternative tool for environmental pollution assessment.

Honey as an Adjuvant in the Treatment of COVID-19 Infection: A Review

Since ancestor times, honey has been used to promote human health due to its medicinal, and nutritious properties, mainly due to bioactive compounds present, such as phenolic compounds. The emergence of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, led to the pursuit of solutions for the treatment of symptoms and/or disease. Honey has proven to be effective against viral infections, principally due to its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that attenuate oxidative damage induced by pathogens, and by improving the immune system. Therefore, the aim of this review is to overview the abilities of honey to attenuate different COVID-19 symptoms, highlighting the mechanisms associated with these actions and relating the with the different bioactive compounds present. A brief, detailed approach to SARS-CoV-2 mechanism of action is first overviewed to allow readers a deep understanding. Additionally, the compounds and beneficial properties of honey, and its previously application in other similar diseases, are detailed in depth. Despite the already reported efficacy of honey against different viruses and their complications, further studies are urgently needed to explain the molecular mechanisms of activity against COVID-19 and, most importantly, clinical trials enrolling COVID-19 patients.

Heavy Metals in Honey Collected from Contaminated Locations: A Case of Lithuania

Honey, as a bioindicator, can be used to determine the level of pollution in the environment with selected pollutants, including heavy metals. Twelve locations were selected for experimental studies near the main sources of pollution: industrial sites, landfills, railways, and highways. The honey samples were burned to ash, and the heavy metals in ashes were determined using aqua regia digestion in the microwave digestion system. The concentration of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Ni) was determined using a Buck Scientific model 210 VGP atomic absorption spectrophotometer with a graphite furnace atomizer and an acetylene-air flame. These median amounts of heavy metals were found in the analyzed honey samples: 0.0030 mg/kg for Cd, 0.0179 mg/kg for Pb, 0.0317 mg/kg for Cr, 0.0999 mg/kg for Cu, and 0.0332 mg/kg for Ni. The obtained results were compared with honey samples research conducted in other countries. It is difficult to compare the level of heavy metal results found in honey from different countries, as the type of honey, soil composition, rainfall, air temperature, the plants from which it was harvested, its vegetation and flowering duration, and the degree of anthropogenic pollution in the area differ. The heavy metal content tested in honey was found to be low, except for the Pb content in one sample of honey, and did not pose a risk to human health. A statistical analysis including average, median, standard deviation, confidence intervals, and Spearman coefficients was performed for the evaluation of the relationships between the heavy metal quantities and the determination of the impact of pollution sources (transport and industry). The correlation analysis showed a strong negative correlation coefficient between heavy metals and distance (r = −0.593 to −0.204).

Analysis of Mercury Concentration in Honey from the Point of View of Human Body Exposure

Honey is a highly valued product due to its nutritional value, pro-health and healing properties. Pollutants from the environment penetrate into nectar, honeydew, pollen and next into bee products and can cause human exposure after ingestion. Mercury (Hg) is a toxic metal to living organisms. This is why it was important to determine the level of Hg in consumed honey.The aim of this manuscript is to analyse mercury concentration in honeys collected on the territory of Poland. A total of 108 samples of honey purchased in regional apiaries and hypermarkets were tested. The concentration of Hg was analysed in various types of honey (multifloral, honeydew, linden, goldenrod, acacia, buckwheat, rapeseed, sunflower, heather, dandelion, phacelia). The values of the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Estimated Weekly Intake (EWI) and % Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (% PTWI) were calculated. This allowed estimating the amount of Hg taken during consumption of the tested honeys.The concentration of Hg ranged from 0.01 to 1.71 µg/kg and was 0.43 µg/kg on average. A higher concentration of Hg, which was statistically significant, was recorded in honeydew honey, then in compound honeys. Honeys produced from one raw material had the lowest concentration of Hg. There were no significant differences in the concentration of Hg depending on the origin of honey. The calculations have shown that consumption of a portion (19 g) of the tested honey per week is safe for both adults and children according to the applicable standards.

Levels of trace elements and rare earth elements in honey from Jordan

Honey is a common sweetener in the Jordanian diet with an annual consumption of approximately one thousand tons, two-thirds of which are imported. It is believed that the elemental profile of honey is an indicator of safety and botanical and geographic origin. In the literature, there are a lack of studies concerning the levels of major and trace elements in honey in Jordan. A total of 46 elements, including 15 rare earth elements (REEs), were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in 18 monofloral and multifloral imported honey samples and 12 multifloral local samples. Regarding monofloral samples, Black Forest samples had the highest total metal content, while acacia samples had the lowest total metal content. Local multifloral honey had the largest Sr and total REE levels, while it had the lowest Mn levels. Very low levels of toxic elements were found in all samples, indicating the safety of honey in Jordan for human consumption. The results of this study showed that a large number of samples (> 100) and the application of advanced statistical models are required to discriminate between multifloral imported and local honey.

The investigation of biochemical and microbiological properties of four different honey types produced in turkey and the comparison of their effects with silver sulfadiazine on wound healing in a rat model of burn injury

Background

To determine and compare the effects of different honey types on wound healing in an animal model, with silver sulfadiazine as the standard treatment.

Materials and Methods

Five different groups were created with eight rats in each group. Partial-depth burns were created, and different types of honey and silver sulfadiazine were applied to the respective groups. Rats were monitored for 21 days, and wound cultures were obtained. Histopathological evaluation and cytokine analysis of final tissue samples were performed. In addition, the biochemical and microbiological analyses of the four types of honey used in the study were performed.

Results

Wound shrinkage comparisons showed that all four honey-treated groups (Bingöl, Konya, cotton, and citrus) performed better than the silver sulfadiazine group (honey groups, respectively, 86.86%, 84.72%, 89.61%, and 95.33% vs. control 82.90%). However, only citrus honey caused a significant difference in wound shrinkage rate when compared with other groups as well with control group (95.34% vs. 82.9%, P < 0.05). In tissues, all honey groups had higher cytokine (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1B, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) values compared with controls (P < 0.001). Honey analysis showed a significant inverse relationship between Fe (iron) and the number of diastases.

Conclusions

The results of this study support the role of honey in wound healing, due to its antibacterial and immunomodulatory effects. More studies are needed to identify the role of honey composition in wound healing.

Determination of the Ca, Mn, Mg and Fe in honey from multiple species of stingless bee produced in Brazil

Stingless Bees (SB) honey is a product used for different purposes, and it is worth highlighting the presence of metallic species, which can have a nutritional or toxic effect, depending on the metal present and/or the amount ingested. Therefore, the objective of this work was to quickly determine Fe, Mn, Mg and Ca in SB honey, using slurry sampling and FAAS of 88 honey samples from different regions of Brazil. The concentrations varied from < LOD to 364 µg g^-1 (Ca). The order for average concentration in the samples was Ca > Mg > Mn > Fe. Through the principal component analysis, it was verified that the SB honey analyzed in the present study has higher contents of the evaluated metals than the honey of the species Apis mellifera and SB honey from other Brazilian states. Theoretical calculation demonstrated that there is a little contribution of SB honey to human diet in relation to the metals, being more significative for Mn.

Selected Instrumental Techniques Applied in Food and Feed: Quality, Safety and Adulteration Analysis

This review presents an overall glance at selected instrumental analytical techniques and methods used in food analysis, focusing on their primary food science research applications. The methods described represent approaches that have already been developed or are currently being implemented in our laboratories. Some techniques are widespread and well known and hence we will focus only in very specific examples, whilst the relatively less common techniques applied in food science are covered in a wider fashion. We made a particular emphasis on the works published on this topic in the last five years. When appropriate, we referred the reader to specialized reports highlighting each technique's principle and focused on said technologies' applications in the food analysis field. Each example forwarded will consider the advantages and limitations of the application. Certain study cases will typify that several of the techniques mentioned are used simultaneously to resolve an issue, support novel data, or gather further information from the food sample.

Quality Evaluation of Light- and Dark-Colored Hungarian Honeys, Focusing on Botanical Origin, Antioxidant Capacity and Mineral Content

Melissopalynology, antioxidant capacity and mineral and toxic element contents were analyzed in eight types of Hungarian honeys. Based on color, two groups were distinguished: light honeys comprised acacia, amorpha, phacelia and linden honeys; while dark honeys included sunflower, chestnut, fennel and sage honeys, with 100 to 300 and 700 to 1500 mAU, respectively. The unifloral origin of each sample was supported using pollen analysis. The absorbance of honey correlated positively with antioxidant capacity determined by three different methods (TRC, DPPH, ORAC), and also with mineral content. The exception was the light amber linden honey with significantly higher K content and antiradical activity than other light honeys. The Mn, Zn and Fe contents were the highest in chestnut, sunflower and fennel honeys, respectively. The black meadow sage honey performed best regarding the content of other elements and antioxidant activity. The concentrations of several toxic elements were below the detection limit in the samples, indicating their good quality. The principal component analysis (PCA) revealed correlations between different antioxidant assays and minerals, and furthermore, confirmed the botanical authentication of the honeys based on the studied parameters. To our best knowledge, the present study is the first to provide a complex analysis of quality parameters of eight unifloral Hungarian honeys.

The Influence of Chemical Contaminants on the Physicochemical Properties of Unifloral and Multifloral Honey

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of antibiotic and pesticide residues on the physicochemical properties of unifloral and multifloral honey. The mineral elements content of honey was analyzed and correlated with antibiotic and pesticide residues, and a positive correlation was found between manganese and neonicotinoids. Potassium was found to be the most abundant mineral compound. Correlations were found between mineral content, color, and the content of antibiotic and pesticide residues of honey. In meadow honey, residues of antibiotics and pesticides were undetectable. In some of the other types of honey, the maximum residue limits regulated by European legislation were exceeded. Endosulfan residue was found in mint and rapeseed, honey with 0.42 and 5.14 ng/g, respectively. Neonicotinoids were found in 27% of the analyzed honey samples. Chloramphenicol was identified only in rapeseed honey, with concentrations ranging from 0.2 ng/g to 0.8 ng/g. Nitrofurans were found in 14%, and nitroimidazoles were found in 6% of the analyzed samples. According to EU legislation that is in force, the use of antibiotics in beekeeping is not allowed. The MRLs for neonicotinoids are 50 ng/g, and for coumaphos, the maximum limit is 100 ng/g. For the other pesticide residues, the maximum limit is 10 ng/g. The results of statistical analysis obtained using principal component analysis (PCA) showed a major difference in the levels of contamination of raspberry and meadow honey and the other types of honey.

The Quality Specialities in Turkiye's Honies for Apitherapy

Objectives

In this study, the content of the honey produced by the flora of Turkey', physical, chemical and biological research aimed at active properties.

Methods

Searched the database EMBASE/Pubmed and Turkish Medicine Index research article about Turkiye honeys' specialities.

Results

Different botanical sources were caused, different kinds of chemical compositions of the honeys. The amount of HMF, pH, moisture, and acidity are the chemical qulity criteria of the honey. Carbohydrates are seem the most important components of honey. The glycemic index of the consumed honey is important. Turkiye's honey quality seems apropiate for using apitherapy.

Conclusion

Honey is the most important product of beekeeping all over the world in terms of economy and health. Manufacturers of honey should be careful while producing honey. They should be avoided unhealty situations and they should be obey the rules. These rules are the basis for protecting our health by consuming bee products.

Elemental Composition and Associated Health Risk of Honey Obtained from Apiary Farms in Southeast Nigeria

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the levels of lead, selenium, arsenic, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, chromium, cadmium, and nickel in honey and their potential health risks to consumers, using standard protocols. The honey samples were obtained from apiary farms at nine different locations in southeast Nigeria. They were digested at optimal conditions and analyzed using a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Levels of the studied elements in the honey were found to vary relative to the sample source; however, all were below European Commission maximum permissible limits, with the exception of lead, whose level in some samples exceeded the recommended set limit. Estimated daily intakes of the elements via ingestion of the honey were all below the maximum permissible limit set by the European Food Safety Authority, with the exception of arsenic, whose values in some samples slightly exceeded the set limit. For all samples, estimated health risk values for the elements quantified were higher in children than in adults. The hazard quotient for arsenic, hence, the hazard index for the elements, indicated a significant risk (>1) for children for some of the honey samples studied. Arsenic was the major contributor to incremental lifetime cancer risk; its estimated value for children in all the honey samples exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) threshold limit (>1.0 × 10-4); hence, the total cancer risk values for the carcinogenic elements indicated an absolute unacceptable risk level for children based on EPA threshold limit.

HIGHLIGHTS

Honey as an indicator of long-term environmental changes: MP-AES analysis coupled with 14C-based age determination of Hungarian honey samples

Several studies show that the elemental content of honey entirely depends on the botanical and geographical origin, but the information is incomplete regarding its time-dependent composition changes. Twenty-six acacia and three honey samples with unknown botanical origin were collected between 1958 and 2018 and analysed for elemental composition by Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (MP-AES). The elemental analysis was coupled with independent dating method by Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) to confirm the calendar age of the honey samples and test the possibility of radiocarbon based dating of bee products, which has not been applied before. According to the analytical measurements and statistical analysis, we can conclude that the elemental composition shows change with time in the acacia honey during the last five decades. We have proven that honey preserves carbon isotopic and elemental information of its production time and thus can be applied as an environmental indicator (e.g. trace urban pollutants, precipitation, local industrial or agricultural emission) in reconstruction studies by analysing the non-degradable mineral content. Our results further show that acacia honey is a suitable material for radiocarbon dating, proved by the results compared to the atmospheric radiocarbon bomb-peak. The new approach presented for investigation of honey by radiocarbon-based age determination coupled with elemental analysis can be used in biological, dietary, archaeological or other multidisciplinary studies as well. Some samples show slightly depleted radiocarbon content. This could be an indication of local fossil CO₂ emission. Based on these depleted ¹⁴C results, honey could be used for atmospheric monitoring of fossil CO₂ urban or industrial hot-spots.

Multielemental characterization of honey using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry fused with chemometrics

Honey is considered a desirable ingredient in a range of different foodstuffs because of its nutrient and therapeutic effect. The honey characteristics mainly depend on the type of vegetation visited by the bees and the climatic conditions in which the plants are growing. Therefore, the purity, floral and geographical origin and authenticity are important factors influencing the overall perception of honey and honey-based products in terms of quality and price. An important parameter in this picture is the elemental composition of honey because it can be linked with the floral type of honey, floral plant density and the botanical origin of nectar and pollens. In this work, the concentration range variation of 18 elements (Al, As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, K, Pb, Sr, Ti, V and Zn) was investigated in four varieties of honey (linden, acacia, rape, and sunflower) originating from Romania, because the elemental profile of honey may give important information to differentiate its geographical and varietal origin for authenticity purpose. All the determinations were carried out by inductively coupled plasma quadrupole mass spectrometry (ICP-Q-MS). The most abundant minerals decreased in the following order: K > Ca > Mg > Na, having the mean values of 248.70, 59.97, 20.54 and 11.92 mg kg^-1 , respectively. The mineral content marks the differences in honey samples from different botanical origin and can be used as a tool for authentication purposes and also extends its applicability to assess the traceability of honey. Analysis of variance showed the preliminary relationships between the elements and samples. Further, the discrimination between different studied honey samples was achieved by principal component analysis (PCA). The multivariate analysis of the data allowed us to separate the honey samples into distinct groups according to their macroelement and microelement composition, emphasizing the origin of variation of element concentrations by honey type. Therefore, this approach might be potentially useful for the control of honey quality, origin or authenticity, and even to use the honey as environmental tracer.

Development of a Natural Product Rich in Bioavailable Omega-3 DHA from Locally Available Ingredients for Prevention of Nutrition Related Mental Illnesses

Objectives: Poor mental health remains a serious public concern worldwide. The most vulnerable individuals are children and adolescents in developing countries. Nutritional deficiency of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), have long been recognized as a major contributing factor for mental health illnesses. Provision of ready-to-use natural product rich in preformed Omega-3 DHA and EPA could address this problem. However, most commonly used products are expensive and contain less or no preformed Omega-3 DHA and EPA, making them less suitable for prevention of mental illnesses in resource-poor countries. The main objective of this study was to develop a natural product rich in preformed Omega-3 DHA and EPA from locally available ingredients.Methods: Linear programing (LP) was used to formulate a natural product rich in preformed Omega-3 DHA and other essential nutrients using locally available ingredients other than fish and dairy products. Laboratory analysis was then performed to validate the nutritional value of the LP-formulation using standard analytical methods. The relative difference between the LP tool calculated values, and the laboratory-analyzed values were calculated. Sensory testing was also done to evaluate consumer acceptance of the final product.Results: Optimal formulation contained about 220 mg of preformed Omega-3 DHA + EPA, enough to meet the RDI for children aged 2-10 years. The LP analysis further showed that the cost of the developed product is USD 0.15/100 g, which is 50% lower than that of Plumpy'nut. Laboratory analysis revealed similar results as that of LP at P = 0.05.Conclusions: These findings indicate that ready-to-use natural food rich in preformed DHA and EPA can be developed from locally available ingredients.

Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) as a Potential Bioindicator for Detection of Toxic and Essential Elements in the Environment (Case Study: Markazi Province, Iran)

Honeybees, due to their wide-ranging foraging behaviour, have great potentials for monitoring environmental quality. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to use honeybees as bioindicators for the detection of toxic and essential metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, and Fe) in the environment. Totally, 180 soil, plant (including root and aerial part), honeybees, and honey samples were collected from 12 sites within the main beekeeping and honey production regions in Markazi Province, Iran in 2016. After acid digestion of samples, the metal concentrations were measured by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometers. The translocation factor (TF), and bioconcentration factor (BCF) of metals were computed. The results showed that among the analyzed bee samples, Cd (mg kg^-1) was detected in amounts ranging from 0.01 to 2.35, Cr (mg kg^-1) ranged from 0.02 to 18.10, Cu (mg kg^-1) ranged from 2.00 to 39.11, and Fe (mg kg^-1) ranged from 163 to 1695. BCF and TF values obtained showed that the Astragalus gossypinus would have a great accumulation ability for Cd and Cr. The results indicated that honeybees could be used to detect the spatial patterns of metal contaminations in the environment they dwell in.

Investigation of some metals in honey samples from West Mediterranean region of Turkey

Analysis of elements content in honey is important for honey quality and safety and for monitoring of environmental pollution. The levels of 22 elements, aluminum (Al), barium (Ba), calcium (Ca), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), sodium (Na), lead (Pb), strontium (Sr), silver (Ag), bismuth (Bi), gallium (Ga), indium (In), lithium (Li), thallium (Tl) and zinc (Zn), were determined in 70 samples obtained from beekeepers located in the West Mediterranean region of Turkey. Determination of elements content was carried out using ICP-OES. Chromium, Co, Cd, Ag, Bi, In and Tl were not detected in any of the tested honey samples. The most abundant metal was K which has an overall average of 764.26 mg kg-1. Higher concentrations of Pb, Ni, Mg, Na, K and Mn were found in the samples obtained from Burdur compared to other provinces. The levels of Cu were statistically lower in Antalya in comparison to other regions. No significant differences were observed in Al, Zn, Fe, Sr, Ba, Ca and Ga levels between regions. The differences in the chemistry of honey samples collected from different regions may be due to geochemical soil composition and geographical differences. Their levels were below to the European limits and the honeys are safe for human consumption.

Novel association between apoptotic sperm biomarkers with seminal biochemical parameters and acetylcholinesterase activity in patients with teratozoospermia

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine whether the dysfunction of physiological apoptosis and specific seminal biochemical parameters could be associated with male infertility and sperm morphological defects.

STUDY DESIGN

Ejaculated sperm samples from sixty patients with isolated teratozoospermia and thirty fertile donors were analyzed. The proportion of both viable and dead spermatozoa expressing activated caspases was detected by fluorescence microscopy through the use of different specific carboxyfluorescein-labeled caspase inhibitors FLICA. The different stages of apoptosis in human were qualitatively and quantitatively determined by using the AO/EB fluorescent staining method. The levels of the seminal biochemical parameters (acetylcholinesterase (AChE), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase (CK), iron (Fe), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P)) were evaluated spectrophotometrically.

RESULTS

Patients with teratozoospermia showed significantly higher proportions of dead and live spermatozoa with activated caspases and spermatozoa in the late stage of apoptosis when compared to controls. Among the different studied biochemical seminal parameters, the rates of acetylcholinesterase activity, creatine phosphokinase, iron, and calcium were significantly increased in the patient group. However, the rate of phosphorus was significantly decreased. Interestingly, significant relationships were found between the studied biochemical and apoptotic biomarkers and the rates of atypical sperm forms with the incidences of head, mid-piece, and tail abnormalities. Furthermore, positive correlations were found between P, AChE, Fe, CK, and LDH with apoptotic markers.

CONCLUSIONS

These results emphasize the impact of apoptosis in the pathophysiology of teratozoospermia and suggest that seminal biochemical disturbance may arise such damage.

Toxic Metals and Trace Elements in Artisanal Honeys from the Canary Islands

Honey is a natural product made by honey bees from the nectar of flowers or secretions produced by other living plant parts. The metal content of the honeys is related to the levels of metals in the environment. Due to the importance of honey in the human diet and the increase of environmental pollution, it is necessary to determine the content of metals in honey to evaluate the toxicological risk derived from its consumption. The objective of this study was to determine the content of 20 metals (Al, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Pb, Sr, V, and Zn) in different samples of artisanal honey from the Canary Islands (Spain) in order to evaluate the dietary intake derived from the consumption of these honeys. A total of 161 samples of different types of Canary honey were analyzed by ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry). K (825 mg/kg) was the macroelement found in highest concentration, while B (4.25 mg/kg) was the trace element with the highest mean concentration. Al (3.33 mg/kg) was the most abundant toxic metal, followed by Pb (0.040 mg/kg) and Cd (0.002 mg/kg). A mean consumption of 25 g/day of honey mainly contributes to the recommended daily intake of Cu (1.34% adults) and K (0.67% adults). As regards the toxic metals, the contribution percentage to the TDI (tolerable daily intake) of Pb at 2.92% for adults is noteworthy. However, the consumption of honey does not imply a high intake of metals and, therefore, does pose a risk to the health of adult men and women.

Probabilistic health risk assessment of heavy metals in honey, Manihot esculenta, and Vernonia amygdalina consumed in Enugu State, Nigeria

Honey is a nutritive fluid product of bees with an array of pharmacological/medicinal effects. As a natural product from honeybees, honey is regarded to be safe and free from any contaminants. Cassava tuber (Manihot esculenta)-based meal, Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf soup), and honey are common local cuisine in Nigeria. This is a human health risk assessment of heavy metals associated with the consumption of honey (Apis mellifera scutellata), cassava (Manihot esculenta), and bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) in Enugu State, Nigeria. Concentrations of lead (Pb), Cd, As, Cu, Ni, Mn, Fe, Cr, and Fe in honey, soil, Manihot esculenta, and Vernonia amygdalina were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The principal component analysis (PCA) was performed as a factor reduction technique among 12 factors (3 locations against 4 sources of heavy metals). The mean concentration of metals in honey, soil, Manihot esculenta, and Vernonia amygdalina ranged from 0.001 to 4.28 mg kg^-1, from 0.0026 to 170.52 mg kg^-1, from 0.012 to 80.63 mg kg^-1, and from 0.0016 to 126.48 mg kg^-1, respectively. Pb showed the highest carcinogenic risk with values of 3.18E-04-1.43E-01 in Vernonia amygdalina and 1.69E-04-3.47E-04 in Manihot esculenta for adults and children, respectively. In honey, Cd showed the highest carcinogenic risk with values of 1.26E-02-1.07E-01. About 51.5% of total cancer risk (TCR) was below 1E-04. Consumption of honey, Vernonia amygdalina, and Manihot esculenta in some urban parts of Enugu may pose some adverse health effects.

DETERMINATION OF HONEY GEOGRAPHIC ORIGIN ACCORDING TO ITS ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION BY THE METHOD OF X-RAY FLUORESCENCE

The aim of the research was to determine features of the elemental composition of polyfloral honey from the Odessa region (Ukraine) by the method of x-ray fluorescence for using these features in the geographic marking of the region of honey origin. A choice of honey from the Odessa region is explained by its relatively good ecology, optimal maritime climate and enough motley grass resources for gathering nectar by bees. At the same time the Odessa region occupies the fourth place among regions – honey producers in Ukraine with a right to export honey beyond the country with specific weight 10 % from the total export of this product. 11 samples of fresh honey and 14 samples of honey, stored during one year were studied as to the content of 22 mineral elements. The elemental analysis of honey was realized on the energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescent spectrometer ElvaX Light SDD. Each sample was studied for 5 times. The obtained results were statistically processed by the standard methodology. The determination distinctness of mass shares of metals is no worse than 0,1 %. Limits of finding admixtures of heavy metals in the light matrix are no worse than 1 ppm. The studies were realized during 2016-2017. It has been established, that lyophilization of honey doesn’t essentially influence determination parameters of the elemental composition of honey by the method of x-ray fluorescence. The analysis of energy-dispersive spectrums of mineral elements determined that marker elements for honey from the Odessa region are Cl, K, Ca, that prevail among other studied mineral elements. There has been established the typical intensity of a signal of energy-dispersive spectrums for Cl, K, Ca of honey from the Odessa region that correspond to the following values: for fresh honey Cl from 27075 to 29429; K from 47 296 to 41 546; Ca from 7572 to 6928; for honey, stored during one year: Cl from 40383 to 37044; K from 43 589 to 42 591;Ca from 15495 to 10006. These parameters may serve as markers for honey from the Odessa region. At the same time the obtained results may be used for controlling the quality of natural honey by its element composition for identifying a geographic place of origin.

Nutrition marketing of honey: chemical, microbiological, antioxidant and antimicrobial profile

Honey and all bee products have very good biological and chemical properties. They have been used in medicine for a long time. In our study we evaluated twenty polyfloral honey samples, the first ten were commercial honeys from a selected supermarkets with country of origin indicated "blend of EU and non-EU honeys" and represented imported honey. The second ten honeys were from a local beekeepers (Nitra region) and represented the Slovak origin. The aim of the study were to analyze chemical, microbiological, antioxidant, antimicrobial profile of honey and recommend marketing strategies for honey producers by applying nutrition marketing. From chemical point of view, the study examined mineral profile of honeys, antioxidant properties as antioxidant activity, total polyphenols, flavonoid and phenolic acid content and from microbiological view the study evaluated a total count bacteria, coliform bacteria and microscopic filamentous fungi. Results of minerals showed that the most dominant element in commercial honeys is sodium (30 mg.100g-1) followed by calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. Iron, arsenic and selenium are present only in trace amounts. In local honeys the most dominant element is potassium (84.181 mg.100g-1) followed by calcium, phosphorus, sulfur and magnesium. The presence of hazardous heavy metals (cadmium, lead and chrome) was not detected in either of the samples. Moreover, antioxidant activity determined by the DPPH method was slightly higher in local polyfloral honeys and vice versa the content of total polyphenol, flavonoid and the phenolic acid content was slightly higher in commercial polyfloral honeys. From the microbiological point of view, the total count of bacteria was found only in commercial polyfloral honeys while local honeys were without detectable microorganisms. The best antimicrobial activity was found against gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli in both concentrations of honeys, and the local honeys reached better antimicrobial activity. All in all, honey has very good biological properties and mineral composition which opens opportunities for beekeepers to apply nutrition marketing and target new segments of consumers, e.g. sportsmen, people in convalescence, consumers following healthier lifestyle or seeking functional food. Moreover, educating consumers from a nutritional point of view will foster daily intake of honey and will increase annual consumption of honey in the future.

Association between heavy metal levels and acute ischemic stroke

Background

Few studies have examined the relationship between the amounts of heavy metal and stroke incidence. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between levels of heavy metals, including Pb, Hg, As, and Cd, in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

We selected patients with first-ever AIS onset within 1 week as our study group. Healthy controls were participants without a history of stroke or chronic disease, except hypertension. The serum levels of Pb, Hg, As, and Cd in participants in the experimental and control groups were determined. All participants received a 1-g infusion of edetate calcium disodium (EDTA). Urine specimens were collected for 24 h after EDTA infusion and measured for heavy metal levels.

Results

In total, 33 patients with AIS and 39 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The major findings were as follows: (1) The stroke group had a significantly lower level of serum Hg (6.4 ± 4.3 μg/L vs. 9.8 ± 7.0 μg/L, P = 0.032, OR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.81–0.99) and a lower level of urine Hg (0.7 ± 0.7 μg/L vs. 1.2 ± 0.6 μg/L, P = 0.006, OR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.11–0.68) than the control group. (2) No significant difference in serum Pb (S-Pb), As (S-As), and Cd (S-Cd) levels and urine Pb (U-Pb), As (U-As) and Cd (U-Cd) levels was observed in either group.

Conclusions

Our study found low levels of serum and urine Hg in first-ever patients with AIS, providing new evidence of dysregulated heavy metals in patients with AIS.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12929-018-0446-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.