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Cucu AA, Urcan AC, Bobiș O, Bonta V, Cornea-Cipcigan M, Moise AR, Dezsi Ș, Pașca C, Baci GM, Dezmirean DS. Preliminary Identification and Quantification of Individual Polyphenols in Fallopia japonica Plants and Honey and Their Influence on Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activities. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1883. [PMID: 38999722 PMCID: PMC11244575 DOI: 10.3390/plants13131883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Fallopia japonica (FJ), an invasive plant species known for its rich bioactive compounds, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Despite its significant beekeeping potential, this aspect of FJ remains underexplored. This research aims to investigate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of FJ plants and honey. Notably, this study is the first to identify individual phenolic compounds in both FJ plant tissues and FJ honey, highlighting resveratrol as a marker of FJ honey. The study tested inhibitory activity against seven bacterial strains: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Salmonella enteritidis, and the yeast Candida albicans. Disk diffusion and microdilution methods were used to assess antimicrobial activity, while the crystal violet staining test evaluated antibiofilm activity. Results showed that FJ plant tissues and honey exhibited strong inhibition, particularly against Gram-negative bacterial strains. The most significant inhibition of biofilm formation, by both FJ plant tissues and honey, was observed against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. A significant positive correlation was found between antimicrobial activity and individual polyphenols, especially resveratrol. The antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of FJ plant tissues and honey suggests promising applications in sustainable beekeeping. Further research is necessary to evaluate the bioactive compounds found in FJ honey and their health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra-Antonia Cucu
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adriana Cristina Urcan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Otilia Bobiș
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Victorița Bonta
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mihaiela Cornea-Cipcigan
- Department of Horticulture and Landscaping, Faculty of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adela Ramona Moise
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ștefan Dezsi
- Faculty of Geography, Babeş-Bolyai University, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Claudia Pașca
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gabriela-Maria Baci
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Severus Dezmirean
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Cucu AA, Bobiș O, Bonta V, Moise AR, Pașca C, Cornea-Cipcigan M, Mărgăoan R, Dezsi Ș, Botezan S, Baciu ED, Giurgiu AI, Mălinaș A, Dezmirean DS. Unraveling the Physicochemical, Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties of the Honey Produced from the Fallopia japonica Plant. Foods 2024; 13:1959. [PMID: 38998468 PMCID: PMC11240986 DOI: 10.3390/foods13131959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Fallopia japonica (FJ), commonly known as Japanese knotweed, is now recognized as one of the most invasive plants in Europe and globally. Despite its widespread presence in Europe and its significant nectar production, there is currently limited scientific data on the unique unifloral honey derived from it. This study examines the physicochemical composition of Fallopia japonica honey (FJH) samples collected from various regions in Romania. Additionally, the nutritional and antioxidant profiles of FJH were assessed. The sensory analysis revealed a honey with a brown-caramel color and an intense flavor, characterized by fine, consistent crystals during crystallization. The results indicated that FJH has a high carbohydrate content (fructose: 35.12-40.65 g/100 g; glucose: 28.06-37.79 g/100 g); elevated electrical conductivity (387-692 µS/cm), diastase activity (9.11-17.01 DN), and acidity (21.61-42.89 meq/kg); and substantial total phenolic (89.87-120.08 mg/100 g) and flavonoid (18.13-39.38 mg/g) contents. These findings highlight FJH's favorable nutritional properties, aligning with the standard codex for honey. The antioxidant profile of FJH demonstrated strong DPPH and ferric reduction antioxidant power (FRAP) activities, comparable to those of buckwheat honey, underscoring its potential health benefits and commercial value. These results provide new insights into how this invasive plant can be harnessed as a valuable resource for sustainable beekeeping practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra-Antonia Cucu
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Otilia Bobiș
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Victorița Bonta
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adela Ramona Moise
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Claudia Pașca
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mihaiela Cornea-Cipcigan
- Department of Horticulture and Landscaping, Faculty of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rodica Mărgăoan
- Department of Animal Production and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ștefan Dezsi
- Faculty of Geography, Babeş-Bolyai University, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Sara Botezan
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ecaterina-Daniela Baciu
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru-Ioan Giurgiu
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Anamaria Mălinaș
- Department of Engineering and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Severus Dezmirean
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Pătruică S, Adeiza SM, Hulea A, Alexa E, Cocan I, Moraru D, Imbrea I, Floares D, Pet I, Imbrea F, Obiștioiu D. Romanian Bee Product Analysis: Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial Activity, and Molecular Docking Insights. Foods 2024; 13:1455. [PMID: 38790755 PMCID: PMC11119262 DOI: 10.3390/foods13101455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Bee products are considered true wonders of nature, used since ancient times, and studied even today for their various biological activities. In this study, we hypothesise that Romanian bee products from different origins (micro apiary products, lyophilised forms, commercial) exhibit distinct chemical compositions, influencing their biological activities. An LC-MS analysis revealed varied polyphenolic content patterns, with cumaric acid, ferulic acid, rosmarinic acid, and quercitine identified in significant amounts across all samples. Primary anti-inflammatory evaluation phases, including the inhibition of haemolysis values and protein denaturation, unveiled a range of protective effects on red blood cells (RBC) and blood proteins, contingent upon the sample concentration. Antimicrobial activity assessments against 12 ATCC strains and 6 pathogenic isolates demonstrated varying efficacy, with propolis samples showing low efficacy, royal jelly forms displaying moderate effectiveness, and apilarnin forms exhibiting good inhibitory activity, mostly against Gram-positive bacteria. Notably, the lyophilised form emerged as the most promising sample, yielding the best results across the biological activities assessed. Furthermore, molecular docking was employed to elucidate the inhibitory potential of compounds identified from these bee products by targeting putative bacterial and fungal proteins. Results from the docking analysis showed rosmarinic and rutin exhibited strong binding energies and interactions with the putative antimicrobial proteins of bacteria (-9.7 kcal/mol to -7.6 kcal/mol) and fungi (-9.5 kcal/mol to -8.1 kcal/mol). The findings in this study support the use of bee products for antimicrobial purposes in a biologically active and eco-friendly proportion while providing valuable insights into their mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pătruică
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului nr. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (S.P.); (D.M.); (I.P.)
| | - Suleiman Mukhtar Adeiza
- Faculty of Life Science, Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria 810107, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Anca Hulea
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.F.); (F.I.); (D.O.)
| | - Ersilia Alexa
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania (I.C.)
| | - Ileana Cocan
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania (I.C.)
| | - Dragos Moraru
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului nr. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (S.P.); (D.M.); (I.P.)
| | - Ilinca Imbrea
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Doris Floares
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.F.); (F.I.); (D.O.)
| | - Ioan Pet
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului nr. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (S.P.); (D.M.); (I.P.)
| | - Florin Imbrea
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.F.); (F.I.); (D.O.)
| | - Diana Obiștioiu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timișoara, Calea Aradului no. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.F.); (F.I.); (D.O.)
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Bora FD, Andrecan AF, Călugăr A, Bunea CI, Popescu M, Petrescu-Mag IV, Bunea A. Comprehensive Elemental Profiling of Romanian Honey: Exploring Regional Variance, Honey Types, and Analyzed Metals for Sustainable Apicultural and Environmental Practices. Foods 2024; 13:1253. [PMID: 38672925 PMCID: PMC11048993 DOI: 10.3390/foods13081253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated the mineral concentrations of 61 honey samples from eight Romanian regions, employing advanced techniques to assess 30 chemical elements. Potassium emerged as the dominant element, showcasing significant variations across geographical locations. Essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, and manganese maintained consistent levels, while zinc, copper, and chromium were present in smaller proportions. Critically, lead and cadmium levels exceeded established safety limits in some samples, suggesting potential environmental contamination. Additionally, elevated levels of lithium, strontium, nickel, and aluminum were detected, hinting at possible atmospheric pollution. These findings highlight the importance of regional analysis, as mineral content varied significantly between locations. Furthermore, correlation analysis revealed interdependencies among elements, suggesting shared environmental influences. Advanced statistical techniques like hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis effectively captured the impact of geographical origin on honey composition. These insights contribute valuable information for future efforts in honey quality control, traceability systems, and regulatory measures. By providing valuable insights into environmental influences on honey composition, this study informs future research endeavors and paves the way for the development of robust regulatory measures to ensure honey safety for consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Dumitru Bora
- Viticulture and Oenology Department, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania or (F.D.B.); (C.I.B.)
- Laboratory of Chromatography, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business for Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andreea Flavia Andrecan
- Fruit Growing and Pomology Department, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Anamaria Călugăr
- Viticulture and Oenology Department, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania or (F.D.B.); (C.I.B.)
| | - Claudiu Ioan Bunea
- Viticulture and Oenology Department, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania or (F.D.B.); (C.I.B.)
| | - Maria Popescu
- Equine Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Ioan Valentin Petrescu-Mag
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Bioflux SRL, 54 Ceahlău Street, Cluj-Napoca, 400488 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Doctoral School of Engineering, University of Oradea, 1 Universității Street, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Andrea Bunea
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
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Cucu AA, Pașca C, Cucu AB, Moise AR, Bobiş O, Dezsi Ș, Blaga Petrean A, Dezmirean DS. Evaluation of the Main Macro-, Micro- and Trace Elements Found in Fallopia japonica Plants and Their Traceability in Its Honey: A Case Study from the Northwestern and Western Part of Romania. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:428. [PMID: 38337961 PMCID: PMC10857060 DOI: 10.3390/plants13030428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed, Reynoutria japonica or Polygonum cuspidatum) is considered an extremely invasive plant worldwide and a bioindicator of heavy metals. Yet, its potential as a crop for honeybees is still underevaluated. This study employs atomic absorption spectrometry to quantitatively analyze the concentration of macro-elements, namely, calcium (Ca), potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg); micro-elements, such as copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se); and trace elements, i.e., cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) in different anatomic parts of Fallopia japonica (FJ) plants (roots, rhizomes, stems, leaves) and their traceability into honey. This research encompasses a thorough examination of samples collected from the northwestern and western part of Romania, providing insights into their elemental composition. The results showed that the level of trace elements decreases in terms of traceability in honey samples (Pb was not detected in any of the analyzed samples, while Cd had a minimum content 0.001 mg/kg), ensuring its quality and health safety for consumption. Moreover, the data generated can function as a valuable resource to explore the plant's positive eco-friendly impacts, particularly in relation to its honey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra-Antonia Cucu
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Calea Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-A.C.); (A.R.M.)
| | - Claudia Pașca
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Calea Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-A.C.); (A.R.M.)
| | - Alexandru-Bogdan Cucu
- National Institute for Research and Development in Forestry (INCDS) “Marin Drăcea”, 400202 Braşov, Romania;
| | - Adela Ramona Moise
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Calea Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-A.C.); (A.R.M.)
| | - Otilia Bobiş
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Calea Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-A.C.); (A.R.M.)
| | - Ștefan Dezsi
- Faculty of Geography, Babeş-Bolyai University, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Anamaria Blaga Petrean
- Department of Animal Production and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Calea Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Daniel Severus Dezmirean
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Calea Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-A.C.); (A.R.M.)
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Obiștioiu D, Hulea A, Cocan I, Alexa E, Negrea M, Popescu I, Herman V, Imbrea IM, Heghedus-Mindru G, Suleiman MA, Radulov I, Imbrea F. Boswellia Essential Oil: Natural Antioxidant as an Effective Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Agent. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1807. [PMID: 37891886 PMCID: PMC10603989 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12101807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The research aimed to determine the chemical composition, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity as well as the antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative and two fungal Candida ATCC strains of a commercial Boswellia essential oil (BEO) containing Boswellia carteri, Boswellia sacra, Boswellia papryfera, and Boswellia frereana. Additionally, molecular docking was carried out to show the molecular dynamics of the compounds identified from the essential oil against three bacterial protein targets and one fungal protein target. The major components identified by GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) were represented by α-pinene, followed by limonene. Evaluation of antioxidant activity using the DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl) method showed high inhibition comparable to the synthetic antioxidant used as a control. Oxidative stability evaluation showed that BEO has the potential to inhibit primary and secondary oxidation products with almost the same efficacy as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). The use of BEO at a concentration of 500 ppm provided the best protection against secondary oxidation during 30 days of storage at room temperature, which was also evident in the peroxide value. Regarding the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, the membrane lysis assay and the protein denaturation test revealed that even if the value of protection was lower than the value registered in the case of dexamethasone, the recommendation of using BEO as a protective agent stands, considering the lower side effects. Gram-positive bacteria proved more sensitive, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa presented different sensitivity, with higher MICs (minimal inhibitory concentration). Haemophilus influenzae demonstrated a MIC at 2% but with consecutive inhibitory values in a negative correlation with the increase in concentration, in contrast to E. coli, which demonstrated low inhibitory rates at high concentrations of BEO. The computational tools employed revealed interesting binding energies with compounds having low abundance. The interaction of these compounds and the proteins (tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase, DNA gyrase, peptide deformylase, 1,3-β-glucan synthase) predicts hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues, which are reported in the active sites of the proteins. Even so, compounds with low abundance in BEO could render the desired bioactive properties to the overall function of the oil sustained by physical factors such as storage and temperature. Interestingly, the findings from this study demonstrated the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of Boswellia essential oil against food-related pathogens, thus making the oil a good candidate for usage in food, feed or food-safety-related products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Obiștioiu
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.O.); (I.P.); (I.R.); (F.I.)
| | - Anca Hulea
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Ileana Cocan
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (E.A.); (M.N.); (G.H.-M.)
| | - Ersilia Alexa
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (E.A.); (M.N.); (G.H.-M.)
| | - Monica Negrea
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (E.A.); (M.N.); (G.H.-M.)
| | - Iuliana Popescu
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.O.); (I.P.); (I.R.); (F.I.)
| | - Viorel Herman
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Ilinca Merima Imbrea
- Faculty of Engineering and Applied Technologies, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Gabriel Heghedus-Mindru
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (E.A.); (M.N.); (G.H.-M.)
| | - Mukhtar Adeiza Suleiman
- Faculty of Life Science, Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria 810107, Kaduna State, Nigeria;
| | - Isidora Radulov
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.O.); (I.P.); (I.R.); (F.I.)
| | - Florin Imbrea
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania; (D.O.); (I.P.); (I.R.); (F.I.)
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Bora FD, Babeș AC, Călugăr A, Jitea MI, Hoble A, Filimon RV, Bunea A, Nicolescu A, Bunea CI. Unravelling Heavy Metal Dynamics in Soil and Honey: A Case Study from Maramureș Region, Romania. Foods 2023; 12:3577. [PMID: 37835231 PMCID: PMC10573013 DOI: 10.3390/foods12193577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The study examined soil and honey samples from the Maramureș region, assessing potentially toxic elements and their concentrations. The highest concentrations were found for (Cu), (Zn), (Pb), (Cr), (Ni), (Cd), (Co), and (As), while (Hg) remained below the detection limit. Samples near anthropogenic sources displayed elevated metal levels, with the Aurul settling pond and Herja mine being major contamination sources. Copper concentrations exceeded the legal limits in areas near these sources. Zinc concentrations were highest near mining areas, and Pb and Cd levels surpassed the legal limits near beehives producing acacia honey. Nickel and Co levels were generally within limits but elevated near the Herja mine. The study highlighted the role of anthropogenic activities in heavy metal pollution. In the second part, honey samples were analyzed for heavy metal concentrations, with variations across types and locations. Positive correlations were identified between certain elements in honey, influenced by factors like location and pollution sources. The research emphasized the need for pollution control measures to ensure honey safety. The bioaccumulation factor analysis indicated a sequential metal transfer from soil to honey. The study's comprehensive approach sheds light on toxic element contamination in honey, addressing pollution sources and pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Dumitru Bora
- Viticulture and Oenology Department, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (F.D.B.); (A.C.B.); (A.C.)
- Laboratory of Chromatography, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business for Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Anca Cristina Babeș
- Viticulture and Oenology Department, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (F.D.B.); (A.C.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Anamaria Călugăr
- Viticulture and Oenology Department, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (F.D.B.); (A.C.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Mugurel Ioan Jitea
- Department of Economic Sciences, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Adela Hoble
- Research Laboratory Regarding Exploitation of Land Improvement, Land Reclamation Systems and Irrigation of Horticultural Crops, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Răzvan Vasile Filimon
- Research Development Station for Viticulture and Winemaking Iași, 48 Mihail Sadoveanu Alley, 700490 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Andrea Bunea
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Alexandru Nicolescu
- Laboratory of Chromatography, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business for Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy “Iuliu Hațieganu”, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 23 Gheorghe Marinescu, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Claudiu Ioan Bunea
- Viticulture and Oenology Department, Advanced Horticultural Research Institute of Transylvania, Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (F.D.B.); (A.C.B.); (A.C.)
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Microbial Community Structure among Honey Samples of Different Pollen Origin. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12010101. [PMID: 36671302 PMCID: PMC9855004 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey's antibacterial activity has been recently linked to the inhibitory effects of honey microbiota against a range of foodborne and human pathogens. In the current study, the microbial community structure of honey samples exerting pronounced antimicrobial activity was examined. The honey samples were obtained from different geographical locations in Greece and had diverse pollen origin (fir, cotton, fir-oak, and Arbutus unedo honeys). Identification of honey microbiota was performed by high-throughput amplicon sequencing analysis, detecting 335 distinct taxa in the analyzed samples. Regarding ecological indices, the fir and cotton honeys possessed greater diversity than the fir-oak and Arbutus unedo ones. Lactobacillus kunkeei (basionym of Apilactobacillus kun-keei) was the predominant taxon in the fir honey examined. Lactobacillus spp. appeared to be favored in honey from fir-originated pollen and nectar since lactobacilli were more pronounced in fir compared to fir-oak honey. Pseudomonas, Streptococcus, Lysobacter and Meiothermus were the predominant taxa in cotton honey, whereas Lonsdalea, the causing agent of acute oak decline, and Zymobacter, an osmotolerant facultative anaerobic fermenter, were the dominant taxa in fir-oak honey. Moreover, methylotrophic bacteria represented 1.3-3% of the total relative abundance, independently of the geographical and pollen origin, indicating that methylotrophy plays an important role in honeybee ecology and functionality. A total of 14 taxa were identified in all examined honey samples, including bacilli/anoxybacilli, paracocci, lysobacters, pseudomonads, and sphingomonads. It is concluded that microbial constituents of the honey samples examined were native gut microbiota of melliferous bees and microbiota of their flowering plants, including both beneficial bacteria, such as potential probiotic strains, and animal and plant pathogens, e.g., Staphylococcus spp. and Lonsdalea spp. Further experimentation will elucidate aspects of potential application of microbial bioindicators in identifying the authenticity of honey and honeybee-derived products.
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Untargeted metabolomic analysis of honey mixtures: discrimination opportunities based on ATR-FTIR data and machine learning algorithms. Microchem J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2023.108458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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10
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Bratu IC, Igna V, Simiz E, Dunea IB, Pătruică S. The Influence of Body Weight on Semen Parameters in Apis mellifera Drones. INSECTS 2022; 13:1141. [PMID: 36555051 PMCID: PMC9785928 DOI: 10.3390/insects13121141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The quantity and quality of the honey bee drone semen have a significant determination on the performance of bee colonies. The existence of a smaller number of mature drones to participate in the mating of queens, as well as a sufficient number of drones but with poor quality semen can have serious implications for the productivity of bee colonies. Our study aimed to investigate the correlation between two body weight ranges of drones and semen parameters in the Buckfast honey bee, data that could be integrated into the optimization of instrumental insemination in been queens. Semen was collected from two groups of drones with different body weights (200−240 mg and 240−280 mg). Semen volume, semen concentration, motility, morphology and membrane integrity of spermatozoa were analyzed. The phenotype indicator related to body weight in correlation with the main semen parameters studied gives a weak influence or causality ratio. In drones with 240−280 mg body weight, a higher percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal morphology (>9.60%) was recorded, compared to drones with 200−240 mg body weight. The study reveals that a higher weight of honey bee drones is correlated with higher sperm concentration and total number of spermatozoa/ejaculate, with an increase in the percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioan Cristian Bratu
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Violeta Igna
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Eliza Simiz
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioan Bănățean Dunea
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Silvia Pătruică
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
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