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The possibilities of use of microbial phytase in maize/soybean meal diets for broilers from 21 to 42 days of age with different dietary total and available phosphorus (TP and AP) levels were investigated. A 22-day experiment was carried out on 240 Arbor Acres broilers of both sexes divided into six groups. The broilers were given diets with 0.43%, 0.23% or 0.10% AP, with or without phytase supplementation. During the experiment, health status and mortality, physical, chemical and morphological bone characteristics were investigated. Reduction of the mineral source of P from the diet increased mortality and health problems. Addition of phytase decreased mortality and alleviated negative effects of dicalcium phosphate exclusion. Histological, physical and chemical analysis of broiler tibia indicates that the extent and significance of changes depend on P deficiency and phytase addition. Phytase efficacy was greater in diets with a reduced level of dicalcium phosphate.

This study aimed to measure the total arsenic content deposited in the ovaries of three consecutive generations of mice. The animals were treated with two different concentrations to determine whether histological changes were caused in the ovaries. The control group of mice received tap water, whereas the experimental groups were given different concentrations of dissolved arsenic (III)-oxide. The arsenic content in the ovaries in both experimental groups increased with each generation. The highest content was recorded in the third generation of the second experimental group. Between the two experimental groups in each generation, significant differences in the average number of corpora lutea and ovarian follicles were identified. Arsenic caused structural changes in the ovaries in both experimental groups in all three consecutive generations.

Fish meat and fish products are usually considered as healthy foods, mostly because of their content of unsaturated fatty acids, which have a beneficial effect on human health. On the Serbian market, fish and shellfish are commonly present as fresh, frozen and canned, but not regulating and monitoring the existence of high levels of different chemical hazards can lead to human health problems. The aim of the present paper is to provide an overview of the contamination of fish and their products from the Serbian market with regard to the most significant chemical hazards. The following contaminants are considered: lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, copper, iron and zinc representing heavy metals and metalloids; endrin, aldrin, dieldrin, lindane, endosulfans, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its derivatives as the most significant organochlorine pesticides and; benzo(a)pyrene, benz(a)anthracene, benzo(b) fluoranthene and chrysene as four priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH4). Bearing in mind that there is no food, including fish and fish products, that does not contain harmful substances and various hazards, there is a need at national and lower

The concentrations of As, Cd, Hg, Ni and Pb were determined in fifteen sunflower honey samples collected from 9 locations in the Republic of Serbia during 2019. The elements were analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Mean levels of elements (mg kg-1) in all sunflower honey samples were as follows: 0.004 for As, 0.003 for Cd, 0.077 for Ni and 0.051 for Pb. The mercury content in all honey samples was below the detection limit of the applied method (< 0.001 mg Hg kg-1 honey). The lead level in all the examined honey samples was below maximum permissible value (0.10 mg kg-1). The highest values of elements (mg kg-1) were: 0.096 for Pb (in Kanjiža), 0.025 for As (Kikinda sample), 0.008 for Cd (Senta) and 0.125 for Ni in the honey originating from Svrljig. None of the 5 toxic elements analysed exceeded the maximum permissible level.

This study aims to obtain data on terrestrial radioactivity coming from naturally occurring (40K, 226Ra, 232Th, and 238U) and artificial (137Cs) radionuclides in surface soil (0-10 cm) of selected eighteen public-access urban areas in Kruševac city, Serbia, and to assess the corresponding health effects for citizens using those areas for recreational purposes. The specific activities of investigated radionuclides were analyzed using HPGe gamma-ray spectrometry. The mean specific activity of 40K, 226Ra, 232Th, 238U, and 137Cs was found to be 353, 39.8, 38.9, 41.0, and 5.9, respectively, in compliance with their values in other parts of Serbia and neighboring countries reported in similar researches. To evaluate the human health risk associated with radionuclides, conservative exposure assumptions and models recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency were employed taking into account three exposure routes: ingestion, inhalation of soil, and external irradiation. The absorbed gamma dose rate in the air due to natural radionuclides in soil was calculated. The calculated indices suggested that the radiation risk arising from natural and artificial radionuclides was not significant. The total excess lifetime cancer based on the 95 % upper confidence limit of the specific activities mean was calculated to be 5.89?10–6, lower than the tolerable risk for regulatory purposes (10–4). Among investigated radiation exposure pathways, external exposure was the most contributing one for the health risk. The results obtained for the city's parks and playgrounds suggested their safe use for recreational purposes from the radioecological point of view.

The health safety of honey includes the correctness in terms of the presence of different contaminants, which also implies the antibiotic residue. The presence of antibiotics in honey is prohibited, and methods of food analysis are prescribed in order to reliably determine antibiotics in food. In this paper the application of ELISA tests for determination of selected antibiotics and sulfonamides in honey is shown. The possibility of using four ELISA tests for the analysis of tetracyclines, streptomycines, chloramphenicol and sulfonamides was examined. Each test was evaluated after application on honey samples spiked with standard solution of a particular analyte. Samples were prepared according to the instructions of the ELISA test manufacturer referring to honey. Results of investigation of all ELISA tests, except for sulphonamides, have shown satisfactory accuracy (73-111%) and precision (14-16%). Recovery for sulfametoxypyridazin was low (40%), and for low tetracycline concentration was somewhat higher than acceptable (139%). The detection limits were in accordance with the limits given by the ELISA kit manufacturer and are also satisfactory in relation to the requirements of the legislation (0.075-3 μg/kg). The test kits can be used to screen the presence of tetracycline, chloramphenicol and streptomycin in the honey, taking into account the obtained validation parameters.

The possibilities to use microbial phytase in maize/soybean meal diets for broilers with different dietary total and available phosphorus (TP and AP) levels were investigated. A 21-day experiment was carried out on 300 Arbor Acres broilers of both sexes divided into six groups. The broilers were fed diets with 0.46%, 0.25% or 0.10% AP, with or without phytase supplementation. During the experiment, health status and mortality, performance and physical, chemical and morphological bone tissue characteristics were investigated. Total exclusion of a mineral source of P from the diet increased mortality and health problems. Addition of phytase decreased mortality and alleviated negative effects of dicalcium phosphate exclusion. Reduction of dietary TP and AP level induced lower body mass and daily gain and feed consumption, as well as higher feed conversion. However, by introducing phytase into diets negative effects of P reduction were, to some extent, alleviated. Physical, chemical and histological analysis of broiler tibia indicates that the extent and significance of changes depend on P deficiency and phytase addition. Phytase efficacy was greater in diets with a reduced level of dicalcium phosphate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 14 diverse herbal teas were examined, including: yarrow, basil, St.John’s wort, peppermint, horsetail, nettle, thyme, corn silk, hibiscus, marshmallow, chamomile, rosehip, heather and wild mint. The samples were prepared using the method of microwave digestion, and measurements were performed by the use of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (Cd, Hg, Pb, As, Sb); atomic absorption spectrometry (Mg); emission flame photometry (Ca, K, Na) and spectrophotometry (P). Intervals of variation (mg/kg) for macroelements were: Ca (2738-35399); P (1545-6264); Mg (1647-7816); Na (293-10629) and K (9683-33985), and for toxic elements: Cd (0.014-0.645); Hg (

Participation in interlaboratory comparison and proficiency testing schemes is important for laboratories to control the work quality. In this study, a sample of naturally contaminated maize was analyzed for the content of ochratoxin A (OTA) in three laboratories in Serbia. Participating laboratories used enzymatic immunoaffinity method (ELISA) for the determination of OTA and selection of the ELISA kit was free. Between-laboratory precision was acceptable as evidenced by Cochran’s C test. Moreover, z-scores for all three laboratories were z < ± 2, which is considered acceptable. Used OTA confirmation methods were thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), with fluorescence detector. The results of different methods were comparable. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR 031071 i br. OI 172042]

In this study, the investigation results of raw milk and animal feed samples from farms located around industrial areas and from rural areas in Serbia are presented. Various microelements and heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Fe, Pb and Cd) were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Mean concentration of Zn, Cu, Fe and Cd in raw milk were 5.94, 0.239, 2.034 and below 0.005 mg/kg, respectively. The mean lead concentration found in milk from a farm located near industrial area was 0.242±0.166 mg/kg (mean Pb concentrations for other four investigated farms were below 0.05 mg/kg). The obtained results indicate that particular attention should be paid to control of Pb residues in food, water and environment. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR 31084]

Mycotoxins, as secondary metabolic products of molds, are common contaminants of raw feed materials and compound feeds. Depending on the agro-meteorological and storage conditions, molds can contaminate grains and produce mycotoxins in the field, before and after harvest and during storage. Way of preventing animal mycotoxicoses and transfer of mycotoxins to humans through food chain is regular inspection on mycotoxicological feed safety. This paper presents the results of examination of aflatoxin, ochratoxin and zearalenone in 89 samples tested under laboratory conditions during a one year period. The analyses of types of samples, contamination, and their origin demonstrated the need for preventive control of mycotoxin content, primarily in grains. The results of testing the content of aflatoxin in milk indicate the existence of risks to human health. In order to protect humans and animals from mycotoxicological contamination, we propose the use of the system hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP), which has been proved to be an effective strategy in food safety control. The basic principles of HACCP approach in the production of feed and foodstuffs, as well as the compliance and harmonization of legislations with those in the European Union, in the field of mycotoxicological tests, are the best prevention against mycotoxin effects on health and economy. Implementation of HACCP system currently presents one of the basic preconditions for the export of our products and their placement on the European market.

Meat products play an important role in the modern diet. The production of cooked sausages comprises an important segment in the complex meat industry. Hot dogs are prepared according to production specifications and differences in the quality of products can therefore be expected. This paper presents a comparative analysis of chemical parameters in products of five different manufacturers at the Novi Sad market. Water content, fat, protein, sodium chloride, the relative protein content of connective tissue in meat protein (RCP) and ash were analyzed. The difference between the average contents of chemical quality parameters in hot dogs was examined. The average water content ranged from 56.29±3.30% to 61.44±4.08%. The average total fat content ranged from 17.60±3.07% to 20.66±4.65%. No statistically significant difference (p≥0.05) was detected in the fat content of the products of manufacturers D and B, as well as C and B. Between the average fat content of the producers E and D the difference in fat content was found to be p≤0.01. In all other cases, the difference between the average fat content was p≤0.001. The average total protein content in hot dogs ranged from 11.77±1.08% and 15.41±1.82. No statistically significant difference (p≥0.05) was detected between the average total protein content in hot dogs of manufacturers A and C. Between the average protein content of D and E meat manufacturers the statistically significant difference had a value of p≤0.01, and the average protein content in hot dogs of all other manufacturers had a significant difference (p≤0.001). The total protein content in all five manufacturers of hot dogs met the prescribed standard (10%). RCP content in the hot dogs of different producers ranged from 17.34±0.95% to 22.33±2.08%. No statistically significant difference (p≥0.05) was detected in the average contents of RCP in hot dogs of manufacturers D and E and A and B. but a statistically significant difference was detected (p≤0.001). between the average content of RCP in all other manufacturers of hot dogs. The average chloride content in hot dogs from different manufacturers ranged from 1.30±0.10% to 2.55%±0.16%. The average ash content in different hot dog producers ranged from 1.99±0.18% to 3.46±0.22%. The average content of chloride and ash in all five manufacturers was significantly different.

The content of selenium in basic broiler diets was 50 ± 10, 100 ± 10, 150 ± 10 and 250 ± 10 μgkg-1. At day 14, 28 and 42 tissue samples were collected. Dynamics and selenium deposits in blood, liver, muscle and heart were estimated in relation to the level of dietary selenium and age of broilers. When broilers were fed with diet containing 250 μgkg-1 Se, at day 42 the highest concentration of Se was in liver (570.8 ± 44.1 μgkg-1), blood (430.3 ± 46.5 μgL-1) and heart (237.5 ± 42.8 μgkg-1). At day 14, increase of dietary selenium content from 50 μgkg-1 to 250 μgkg-1 was followed by decrease of selenium deposits in heart: when broilers were fed with basic diet containing 50 μgkg-1 Se measured content of Se in heart muscle was 49.8 ± 15.6 μgkg-1 (99.6%) while in broilers fed with basic diet containing 250 μgkg-1 Se measured content of Se in heart was 147.2 ± 33.4 μgkg-1 (58.9%), respectively. The point of saturation as well as maximal concentration of selenium in liver was reached in period between fourth (556.7 ± 40.6 μgkg-1) and sixth (570.8 ± 44.1 μgkg-1) week of age. Also, feeding with basic diet containing 250 μgkg-1 Se the selenium blood level reached 162.8 ± 28.9 μgL-1 already at day 14 that represent 65.1% of dietary selenium.

Depending on the age and production category, cattle show different sensitivity towards certain mycotoxins. Microflora of the rumen degrades to a different degree and inactivates mycotoxins. In the work are presented the most important mycotoxicoses of cattle caused by fungal metabolites from the genera Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium. Poisoning of cattle in our area is most often caused by Zearalenone, Dioxinivalenol, T-2 toxin, Ochratoxin A and Aflatoxin, but in the work are also presented Fumonisin B1 and B2. The work also describes preventive possibilities and protection of animal health from the effects of mycotoxins.

The possibilities of use of microbial phytase in maize/soybean meal diets for broilers from 21 to 42 days of age with different dietary total and available phosphorus (TP and AP) levels were investigated. A 22-day experiment was carried out on 240 Arbor Acres broilers of both sexes divided into six groups. The broilers were given diets with 0.43%, 0.23% or 0.10% AP, with or without phytase supplementation. During the experiment, health status and mortality, physical, chemical and morphological bone characteristics were investigated. Reduction of the mineral source of P from the diet increased mortality and health problems. Addition of phytase decreased mortality and alleviated negative effects of dicalcium phosphate exclusion. Histological, physical and chemical analysis of broiler tibia indicates that the extent and significance of changes depend on P deficiency and phytase addition. Phytase efficacy was greater in diets with a reduced level of dicalcium phosphate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we evaluated the cumulative effects of arsenic (III) oxide on the number of mouse offspring over three consecutive generations and monitored changes in levels of the reproductive hormones, oestradiol and progesterone in female mice during the dioestrus phase of the cycle. The control group received water from the mains. In two experimental groups, mice were given drinking water containing dissolved arsenic (III) oxide at concentrations of 10.6 mg L-1 and 106 mg L-1, respectively. These concentrations represent the values converted from a human model to an animal model (mice) thus correspond to the arsenic content of the groundwater in the southern part of the Pannonian Basin, in the province of Vojvodina, in the Banat region, in particular in the town of Zrenjanin. The average number of newborn mice in both experimental groups decreased for three consecutive generations. The total arsenic content of day-old mice did not show significant differences between the experimental groups. Arsenic (III) oxide affected the reproductive hormone levels of female mice at both concentrations.

Honey's unique qualities should last for several years when properly stored. Therefore, it is up to manufacturers to choose the right shelf life for their product while also considering the product's nature. Physicochemical parameters (water content, electrical conductivity, free acidity, pH, ash, water-insoluble matter, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), sugar content and composition, and diastase activity) were analyzed in 24 samples of sunflower honey collected from several localities in Vojvodina, Serbia. Crystallization indices were also calculated. Furthermore, the impact of eighteen months of room temperature storage (22 ± 2 °C) in a dark place on selected physicochemical parameters (water, HMF, diastase activity, pH value, and free acidity) was investigated. The results of the initial test indicated that the tested samples of sunflower honey from Vojvodina is of good quality because the parameters under examination revealed results that were within the legal bounds of both national and European legislations. Eighteen months of storage at room temperature reduced diastase activity by 2 times, increased HMF content by about 17 times, and decreased the pH value of honey from a mean value of 3.66 to 3.56. The water content was relatively stable at 17.01% before storage and 16.29% after storage. The storage of sunflower honey did not have an impact on the free acidity.

The application of three simple and cost-effective technologies for ex situ remediation of the sediment of Begej River in Serbia is presented in this paper. In the first step, conventional electrokinetic treatment (EK) was carried out to reduce the amount of contaminated sediment and enhance the accumulation of metals. Subsequently, stabilization/solidification (S/S) treatment was applied to the remaining portion of polluted sediment to immobilize the accumulated metals. At the same time, the influence of accelerated carbonation on the effectiveness of the treatment was evaluated. The immobilizing agents used in this study included bio ash produced by combustion of wheat and soy straw mixture and bio ash derived from molasses incineration. After the treatments, the risk assessment was performed by using the sequential extraction procedure (SEP) and TCLP and DIN 3841-4 S4 leaching tests. The results obtained after the EK treatment revealed a reduction in the amount of polluted sediment to a half. Leaching tests and SEP performed on S/S mixtures after a 28-day maturation period indicated that accelerated carbonation decreased the mobility of critical metals, especially in wheat and soy straw mixtures. Moreover, based on the leaching tests, all prepared mixtures were categorized as non-hazardous and safe for disposal according to the relevant Serbian regulations. The newly developed method that combines EK and S/S treatments with the addition of accelerated carbonation produced reduced volumes of stabilized sediment which is safe for disposal.

The aim of this study was to determine the level of organochlorine (OC) pesticides in 57 samples of canned tuna and 31 samples of canned sardines in vegetable oil, collected from supermarkets in Serbia. OC pesticides α-HCH, β-HCH, δ-HCH, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), DDE, DDD, dielderin, endosulfane I, endosulfane II, endosulan sulfate, endrin, endrin ketone, heptachlor, heptachlor epoxide, lindane, aldrin, metoxichlor, cis-chlordane and trans-chlordane were determined using a GS-MS method. The highest concentrations (µg kg -1 , arithmetic means) in canned tuna were for δ-HCH (60.6 ± 97.0) and p, p´-DDT (55.0 ± 25.1), while the corresponding values in canned sardines were for δ-HCH (90.7 ± 102.7) and endosulfane II (78.0 ± 145.9). Mean level for the sum of endosulfans was above the maximum limit in canned sardines (85.0 µg kg -1 ). Also, dieldrin (39.7 µg kg -1 ) was measured above the ML.

A survey was undertaken to determine total fumonisins (FUMs) and deoxynivalenol (DON) in wheat and maize. Out of 75 wheat samples, 50.7% contained FUMs in the span from 27 to 614 ng/g, while 65.3% contained DON in the span from 64 to 1,604 ng/g. Out of 24 maize samples, contents of FUMs in one and of DON in three samples were above the maximal limit. This is the one of rare reports of the natural co-occurrence of FUMs and DON in wheat and maize, and the first report of their correlation in different wheat cultivars.