ABSTRACT
Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH● assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS●+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.
Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH● e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS●+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.
Subject(s)
Humans , Animals , Honey/analysis , Antioxidants , Phenols/analysis , Brazil , Coumaric AcidsABSTRACT
RESUMO O propósito deste estudo foi reportar as alterações oculares observadas após picada de abelha com ferrão retido na córnea. Destacamos o tratamento e o desfecho de uma lesão de córnea incomum e sua patogênese. Trata-se de relato de caso e revisão da literatura de lesões oculares por picada de abelha. Paciente do sexo feminino, 63 anos, procurou atendimento oftalmológico de urgência devido à picada de abelha na córnea do olho direito há 6 dias. Queixava-se de embaçamento visual, dor e hiperemia ocular. Apresentou acuidade visual de vultos no olho afetado. Ao exame, notaram-se hiperemia moderada de conjuntiva bulbar, edema corneano com dobras de Descemet e presença do ferrão alojado na região temporal, no estroma profundo da córnea. A paciente foi internada para ser abordada no centro cirúrgico sob anestesia geral. Durante a cirurgia, o ferrão teve que ser retirado via câmara anterior, mediante a realização de uma paracentese e uma lavagem da câmara anterior, com dupla via e solução salina balanceada. Ainda não existe na literatura um tratamento padrão na abordagem de pacientes com lesões oculares por picada de abelha, sendo importantes a identificação e o reconhecimento precoce de possíveis complicações que ameacem a visão.
ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to report the ocular changes observed after a bee sting with a stinger retained in the cornea. We show the treatment and outcome of an unusual corneal injury and its pathogenesis. This is a case report and literature review of ocular injuries caused by bee stings. A 63-year-old female patient sought emergency ophthalmic care because of a bee sting on the cornea of her right eye six days before. She complained of blurred vision, pain, and ocular hyperemia. She had glare sensitivity on visual acuity in the affected eye. Examination revealed moderate hyperemia of the bulbar conjunctiva, corneal edema with Descemet's folds and a stinger lodged in the temporal region, in the deep stroma of the cornea. The patient was admitted to the operating room under general anesthesia. During surgery, the stinger had to be removed via the anterior chamber, by performing a paracentesis and washing the anterior chamber with a double flushing and balanced saline solution. There is still no standard treatment in the literature for patients with eye injuries caused by bee stings, and early identification and recognition of possible sight-threatening complications is important.
Subject(s)
Humans , Female , Middle Aged , Bee Venoms/adverse effects , Corneal Edema/etiology , Eye Foreign Bodies/complications , Corneal Injuries/etiology , Insect Bites and Stings/complications , Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures/methods , Corneal Edema/diagnosis , Corneal Edema/physiopathology , Iridocyclitis , Eye Foreign Bodies/surgery , Eye Foreign Bodies/diagnosis , Corneal Injuries/surgery , Corneal Injuries/diagnosis , Slit Lamp Microscopy , Gonioscopy , Insect Bites and Stings/surgery , Insect Bites and Stings/diagnosisABSTRACT
Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.
Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Stingless bees are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions. In Indonesia, the distribution of stingless bees are grouped in three regions, namely Indo-Malayan, Wallacea, and Indo-Australian. Ten species of stingless bees have been recorded in Papua, seven of which are endemic. The Cycloop Mountains Nature Reserve (CMNR) is one of the conservation area in Papua, Indonesia, for flora and fauna. Unfortunately, the study of the diversity of stingless bees in Papua has been limited. Objective: To measure the diversity, nesting sites, nest entrance characteristics and nest architecture of stingless bees. Methods: Observation of the stingless bee nests in the nature reserves and in the residential areas used a road sampling method and information from local people, respectively. A total of 22 colonies were studied. Results: Two species of stingless bee were found, namely Tetragonula sapiens (Cockerell, 1911) and Heterotrigona (Platytrigona) planifrons (Smith, 1865). The current study showed new distribution records for T. sapiens and H. planifrons in the CMNR. The nesting site of T. sapiens was commonly found in house foundation, while that of H. planifrons was in coconut palm cavities. The nest entrance of T. sapiens varied, i.e., elliptical, oval, rounded, irregular, horizontally or vertically elongated. Meanwhile, the nest entrance of H. planifrons was vertically elongated. The brood cells of T. sapiens varied, i.e., vertical, horizontal, or semi-clusters, while in H. planifrons was layered vertically. Conclusions: Two species of stingless bees found, T. sapiens and H. planifrons, showed a new distribution records and T. sapiens was a dominant species in Papua. The nest entrance of the species varied in shape, color, and texture.
Introducción: Las abejas sin aguijón están muy extendidas en las regiones tropicales y subtropicales. En Indonesia, la distribución de las abejas sin aguijón se agrupa en tres regiones: Indo-Malayan, Wallacea e Indo-Australian. Se han registrado diez especies de abejas sin aguijón en Papua, siete de las cuales son endémicas. La Reserva Natural de las Montañas Cycloop (CMNR) es una de las áreas para la conservación de flora y la fauna en Papua, Indonesia. Desafortunadamente, el estudio de la diversidad de abejas sin aguijón en Papua ha sido limitado. Objetivo: Medir la diversidad, los sitios de anidación y describir la arquitectura y características de entrada al nido de las abejas sin aguijón. Métodos: Se observaron los nidos de abejas sin aguijón en reservas naturales y áreas residenciales, mediante el método de muestreo de caminos e información de la población local, respectivamente. Se estudiaron 22 colonias. Resultados: Se encontraron dos especies de abejas sin aguijón, Tetragonula sapiens (Cockerell, 1911) y Heterotrigona (Platytrigona) planifrons (Smith, 1865). Este estudio mostró nuevos registros de distribución de T. sapiens y H. planifrons en el CMNR. El sitio de anidación de T. sapiens se encontró comúnmente en los cimientos de las casas, mientras que el de H. planifrons estaba en las cavidades de las palmas de coco. La forma de la entrada al nido de T. sapiens varió: elíptica, ovalada, redondeada, irregular, alargada horizontal o verticalmente. Mientras tanto, la entrada al de H. planifrons se alarga verticalmente. Las celdas de cría de T. sapiens variaron, entre verticales, horizontales o semi-racimos, mientras que en H. planifrons eran verticales. Conclusiones: Se encontraron dos especies de abejas sin aguijón, T. sapiens y H. planifrons, que mostraron nuevos registros de distribución y T. sapiens fue una especie dominante en Papúa. La entrada al nido de las especies varió en forma, color y textura.
ABSTRACT
Se presenta el primer reporte de la abeja colectora de óleo Centris (Odontoxys) melanochlaena Smith, 1874 en Nicaragua. Esta especie se distribuye en varios países de Centroamérica y México, siendo este el primer reporte en el occidente de Nicaragua. Este registro contribuye al conocimiento del rango de distribución de esta especie, así como también incrementa la lista de especies de abejas nativas de Nicaragua.
The first report of the oil-collecting bee Centris (Odontoxys) melanochlaena Smith, 1874 in Nicaragua is presented. This species occurs in several Central American countries and Mexico, being this the first record from western Nicaragua. This record contributes to the knowledge of the distribution range of this species, as well as increases the list of native bees occurring in Nicaragua.
ABSTRACT
Bee stings usually result in mild allergic reactions; however, mass envenomation can cause severe complications such as rhabdomyolysis, hemolysis, shock, or multi-organ damage. Rhabdomyolysis can result in acute renal failure either by tubular obstruction by myoglobin casts or by direct cytotoxic injury. We present a case of a 12-year-old female child who presented with sudden onset anuria and hypertension following mass envenomation by bees. A renal biopsy was performed, the microscopic evaluation of which revealed tubular injury, with associated intratubular pigmented casts. The casts stained positive for myoglobin immunohistochemical stain, thus confirming a diagnosis of myoglobin cast nephropathy. The patient was given IV steroids and underwent seven sessions of hemodialysis, following which there was complete recovery of renal function.
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In this study, The usage of bee attracts like Bee-Q and Fruit Boost™ in the pollination of Cucumber was evaluated. The bee visitations on target crop ?owers were made for two weeks, followed by estimation of yield parameters. The different concentrations of Bee-Q and Fruit boost™ was evaluated to understand the honeybee visitation pattern of the target crop for improving pollination ef?cacy. The observations indicate that, Bee-Q at 12.5 g/l and Fruit boost at 0.5 ml/l of Cucumber plots meagerly attracted a number of bee foragers than the control plots. In addition, the plots sprayed with bee attractants marginally enhanced the fruits/plant, length and diameter fruits. The present investigation suggests that the bee attractants increases certain amount of bee visitation, in turn, leads to increase in fruits/plant, length and diameter of fruits on Cucumber
ABSTRACT
As abelhas africanas (Apis mellifera scutellata) foram introduzidas no Brasil na década de 1950 e, por acidente, cruzaram com outras subespécies de abelhas melíferas europeias. Isso proporcionou o surgimento de híbridos conhecidos atualmente como abelhas africanizadas, que possuem características de rusticidade e maior capacidade de enxamear. A Amazônia mostra potencial para o desenvolvimento da apicultura devido suas características e diversidade floral. Neste sentido, este estudo busca reunir produções científicas sobre apicultura na Amazônia brasileira nos últimos 22 anos, por meio da metodologia de revisão sistemática de literatura, o objetivo é mostrar como tal tema tem sido abordado nas pesquisas. Neste cenário as publicações têm se mostrado crescentes, o que demonstra a tentativa de alinhamento com a Iniciativa Internacional para a Conservação e Uso Sustentável dos polinizadores. Entretanto, os resultados apontam muitas lacunas na produção apícola como, por exemplo, a área de pesquisas higiênico- sanitárias sobre combate de parasitas nas colmeias. No âmbito socioeconômico, as deficiências são ainda mais evidentes pela falta de pesquisas sobre políticas de financiamento da atividade, análises da cadeia de valor entre outros temas. Diante da importância econômica, social e ambiental das abelhas é de suma importância o aprofundamento dos estudos acadêmicos sobre apicultura na Amazônia.(AU)
African bees (Apis mellifera scutellata) were introduced in Brazil in the 1950s and, by accident, crossed with other subspecies of European honey bees. This led to the emergence of hybrids today known as Africanized bees, which have characteristics of rusticity and greater swarming capacity. The Amazonia shows potential for the development beekeeping due to its characteristics and floral diversity. Thus, this study brings together scientific productions on beekeeping in the Brazilian Amazonia in the last 22 years, using the methodology of systematic literature review, the objective is to illustrate how this theme has been addressed in research. In this context, publications have been growing, which demonstrates the attempt to align with the International Initiative for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of pollinators. However, the results point to many gaps in bee production, such as the area of hygienic-sanitary research in combating parasites in hives. In the scope of socioeconomics, the deficiencies are even more evident by the lack of research on policies for financing the activity, analysis of the value chain, among other topics. Given the economic, social and environmental importance of bees, it is extremely important to deepen academic studies on beekeeping in Amazonia.(AU)
Las abejas africanas (Apis mellifera scutellata) se introdujeron en Brasil en la década de 1950 y, por accidente, se cruzaron con otras subespecies de abejas europeas. Esto propició el surgimiento de híbridos hoy conocidos como abejas africanizadas, que tienen características de rusticidad y mayor capacidad de enjambrar. La Amazonía muestra potencial para el desarrollo apícola por sus características y diversidad floral. Así, este estudio reúne las producciones científicas sobre la apicultura en la Amazonía brasileña en los últimos 22 años, utilizando la metodología de revisión sistemática de la literatura, el objetivo es ilustrar cómo este tema ha sido abordado en la investigación. En este contexto, las publicaciones han ido en aumento, lo que demuestra el intento de alinearse con la Iniciativa Internacional para la Conservación y Uso Sostenible de polinizadores. Sin embargo, los resultados apuntan a muchas lagunas en la producción apícola, como el área de investigación higiénico-sanitaria en el combate a los parásitos en las colmenas. En el ámbito de la socioeconomía, las deficiencias son aún más evidentes por la falta de investigación sobre políticas de financiamiento de la actividad, análisis de la cadena de valor, entre otros temas. Dada la importancia económica, social y ambiental de las abejas, es de suma importancia profundizar los estudios académicos sobre la apicultura en la Amazonía.(AU)
Subject(s)
Animals , Amazonian Ecosystem , Beekeeping/methods , BeesABSTRACT
@#Introduction: The increase of Type 2 diabetes mellitus has prompted numerous research toward finding an alternative to manage the disease through the oxidant-antioxidant balance, mainly through bioactive compounds in natural products. This study explored the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of phenolic-rich extract (PRE) from Stingless bee honey (SBH) (Heterotrigona itama) as therapeutic agent to restore the redox balance. Methods: The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and antioxidant assays of PRE and SBH, were determined to provide preliminary insight into the sample’s antioxidant properties, followed by high-performance liquid chromatography analysis of PRE. The antidiabetic potential of PRE and SBH were determined based on their inhibition against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. The cytotoxicity analysis of PRE was conducted on 3T3-L1 adipocytes and L6 muscle cells before the glucose uptake and cellular antioxidant analyses were performed on both cell lines, respectively. Results: PRE yielded higher TPC, TFC and antioxidant activities than SBH. The phytochemical profile of PRE comprises gallic acid, myricetin, kaempferol, epicatechin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, syringic acid, and cinnamic acid. The results from carbohydrate enzymatic inhibitory assays collectively suggested that PRE exhibited more robust antidiabetic activities than SBH. PRE showed good glucose uptake stimulating and reactive oxygen species scavenging effects in those cell lines. Conclusion: Overall, PRE from SBH showed higher carbohydrate enzymatic inhibition, glucose uptake, and protection against intracellular oxidative stress, primarily due to its high antioxidant content and may serve as an alternative therapeutic agent for managing T2DM.
ABSTRACT
Royal jelly (RJ) plays immunomodulatory role in humans. Further, role played by inflammasomes against hepatitis B virus (HBV) and involvement in its complications are well known. Here, we evaluated the effects of RJ on the relative expression of apoptosis associated with speck-like protein (ASC), node like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain containing 1 (NLRP1), NLRP3, S100 calcium binding protein A4 (S100A4), and S100A9, as the immune system-related molecules in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. RJ was administrated for 1 month (@1 g/day), to the patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. The relative expressions of ASC, NLRP1, NLRP3, S100A4 and S100A9 were evaluated using Real-Time PCR. The results showed that RJ increased the expression of ASC, but decreased the expression of NLRP1 in the patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. Relative expressions of NLRP3, S100A4, and S100A9 were not altered following treatment with RJ. There were no significant differences between men and women regarding the relative expression of the molecules. The results suggest that RJ can modulate immune responses via downregulation of NLRP1. The roles played by ASC in other pathways suggest that the upregulation of ASC could be associated with its immunomodulatory potential.
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Drug resistance, according to World Health Organization, is one of the most serious threats to public health. This makes antibiotics ineffective and reduces their therapeutic potential. One of the most prevalent multidrug-resistant bacteria is Staphylococcus aureus which is considered to be the most common pathogen and mortality factor in both hospital and non-hospital environments worldwide. Due to an unprecedented increase in reports of drug resistance in pathogens, and also due to adverse and severe side effects of drugs, there is an urgent need to redirect scientific efforts towards search for anti-oxidative natural substances and other alternative sources having therapeutic potential against microbes. Natural products such as propolis seem to exhibit most promising therapeutic potential against microorganisms. Thus, present study is focused on antioxidative potential of propolis in combination with standard antibiotics ampicillin and amoxicillin against S. aureus infected BALB/c mice. For this, mice were divided into seven groups, they were decapitated after suitable experimental periods, then their liver, kidney and spleen were excised from control and experimental groups, which were homogenized and then used for different biochemical estimations following the standard protocols. Results showed that S. aureus caused severe biochemical alterations by 5th day of infection that is, lipid peroxidation increased significantly (P <0.05), reduced glutathione level and activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, GR, GST) decreased significantly (P <0.05) in liver, kidney and spleen of S. aureus infected mice. Ethanolic extract of propolis at a dose of 250 mg/kg body weight of mice when used alone to treat S. aureus infection gave significantly good results by 15th day of treatment. Better results were observed when propolis was used along with antibiotics. The levels of antioxidant molecules and enzymes along with liver and kidney function enzymes were restored to near normal after 15 days of treatment. So it can be concluded that propolis along with antibiotics acts as a potent free radical scavenger and can be used as a potential therapeutic agent against staphylococcal infection.
ABSTRACT
Due to emerging drug resistance in pathogenic organisms, most of the second generation antibiotics are not effective in controlling the disease. As a consequence, the dosage and duration of drug intake has increased leading to drug induced toxicity and various side effects. A large number of natural products are being reported to ameliorate the toxicity and oxidative stress caused by antibiotics. Here, we explored the antioxidative potential of honey bee product propolis alone as well as in combination with antibiotics in Staphylococcus aureus infected BALB/c mice. For experimental design, mice were divided in to seven groups and decapitated after experimental period. Kidney was excised, homogenized and then used for different biochemical and histopathological estimations. Results observed after treatment with propolis and antibiotics were compared with those of S. aureus infected group. Results showed increase in lipid peroxidation, decrease in reduced glutathione levels and antioxidant enzymes such as; catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase. On the contrary, treatment with propolis, led to reduction in levels of LPO and increase in activities of antioxidant enzymes. Also, histopathology of kidney and all kidney function enzymes were restored to near normal.
ABSTRACT
Background: Bee pollen is a natural product collected and transformed by bees, intended for human consumption, given its nutritional and bioactive richness. The fundamental operation of adequacy is drying, which allows its preservation, avoiding chemical or microbiological degradation, typically using tray dryers with hot air that use electricity or fuel for heat generation. Solar drying is an alternative that uses radiation as an energy source. However, it should be ensured that this type of process guarantees the quality of the product while not degrading its properties and, therefore, maintaining its morphological integrity. Objective: to establish the effect of solar drying on bee pollen structure compared to the conventional cabin dehydration process. Methods: Bee pollen was dehydrated using two types of dryers: a solar dryer and a forced convection oven. The solar dryer operating conditions were an average temperature of 19-35 °C with a maximum of 38 °C and average relative humidity (RH) of 55 %. Cabin dryer operating conditions were a set point temperature of 55 ± 2 °C and 10 % RH average humidity. The morphologic and thermodynamic properties of dried bee pollen, such as phase transition enthalpy through Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), porosity and surface area through surface area analysis, and microscopic surface appearance by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), were measured. Results: The results showed dry bee pollen, both in the cabin dryer and solar dryer, did not suffer morphological changes seen through SEM compared to fresh bee pollen. Moreover, surface area analysis indicated the absence of porosity in the microscopic or macroscopic structure, demonstrating that solar or cabin drying processes did not affect the specific surface area concerning fresh bee pollen. Additionally, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) showed that endothermic phase transitions for dried bee pollen by cabin or solar dryer were at 145 °C and 160 °C, respectively. This can be mostly associated with free water loss due to the morphological structure preservation of the material compared to fresh bee pollen. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that solar drying is a reliable alternative to bee pollen dehydration as there were no effects that compromised its structural integrity
Antecedentes: El polen apícola es un producto natural recolectado y transformado por las abejas. La operación fundamental de adecuación del polen es el secado, lo que permite su conservación, evitando su degradación química o microbiológica, típicamente se utilizan secadores de bandejas con aire caliente que emplean electricidad o combustibles para la generación de calor. El secado solar es una alternativa que utiliza la radiación solar como fuente de energía. Sin embargo, se debe garantizar que este tipo de proceso asegure la calidad del producto a la vez que no degrade sus propiedades, manteniendo su integridad morfológica. Objetivo: Establecer el efecto del secado solar sobre la estructura del polen apícola en comparación al proceso convencional de deshidratación en cabina. Métodos: El polen de abeja se deshidrató utilizando dos tipos de secadores: secador solar y horno de convención forzada. Las condiciones de operación del secador solar fueron una temperatura promedio de 19-45 °C con un máximo de 38 °C y una humedad relativa (HR) promedio de 55 %. Las condiciones de operación del secador de cabina fueron una temperatura de referencia de 55 ± 2 °C y una humedad promedio de 10 % HR. Se midieron las propiedades morfológicas y termodinámicas del polen de abeja desecado, como la entalpía de transición de fase mediante calorimetría diferencial de barrido (DSC), la porosidad y el área superficial mediante análisis de área superficial y el aspecto microscópico de la superficie mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM). Resultados: Los resultados mostraron que el polen seco tanto en el secador de cabina como en el secador solar muestra que no sufrió cambios morfológicos vistos a través de Microscopía Electrónica de Barrido y en comparación con el polen fresco de abeja, además un análisis de sortometría indicó la ausencia de porosidad en la estructura microscópica y macroscópica, lo que indica que los procesos de secado solar o en cabina no tuvieron efectos sobre el área superficial específica con respecto al polen fresco de las abejas. En adición, los resultados de calorimetría diferencial de barrido (DSC) y análisis termogravimétrico (TGA) muestran que las transiciones de fase endotérmicas para el polen seco tanto en secado de cabina como solar fueron a 145 °C y 160 °C, que puede asociarse mayormente a la pérdida de agua libre, debido a la conservación de la estructura morfológica del material y en comparación al polen fresco. Conclusión: Estos resultados demuestran que el secado solar es una alternativa viable para la deshidratación del polen al no existir efectos que comprometan su integridad estructural
Subject(s)
Humans , Beekeeping , Pollen , Bees , Total Quality Management , DehydrationABSTRACT
Introduction: envenomation and deaths by bee stings have increased in all regions of Brazil. However, there are few epidemiological studies on them, especially in the states of northeastern Brazil. Objective: to determine the epidemiological characteristics of bee stings in the state of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil, from 2010 to 2019. Methodology: this is a descriptive and analytical epidemiological study conducted through a retrospective survey of secondary data provided by the database of the Notifiable Diseases Information System of the Ministry of Health. Results: between 2010 and 2019, a total of 7,979 cases were analyzed. Incidents were distributed in 356 municipalities, with the highest frequency in the regions of Agreste and Sertão da Bahia. Cases occurred in all months of the investigated years, with a greater occurrence in urban areas, affecting mainly adult men. The anatomical region of the body most affected by the sting was the head and most cases received medical care within 3 hours after the incident. Local manifestations were more frequent than systemic ones. The injuries were predominantly classified as mild and progressed to cure. Conclusions: the high number of cases and their extensive spatial distribution reveal that bee stings may be considered an emerging and neglected public health problem in the state of Bahia.
Introdução: os acidentes e os óbitos causados por picada de abelha têm aumentado em todas as regiões do Brasil. Contudo, existem poucos estudos epidemiológicos sobre acidentes com abelha, principalmente nos estados do Nordeste do Brasil. Objetivo:determinar as características epidemiológicas do acidente por picada de abelha no estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil, de 2010 a 2019. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico descritivo e analítico realizado por meio de uma pesquisa retrospectiva de dados secundários disponibilizados pelo banco de dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação do Ministério da Saúde. Resultados: entre 2010 e 2019, um total de 7.979 casos foi analisado. Os acidentes foram distribuídos em 356 municípios, com a maior frequência nas regiões do Agreste e do Sertão da Bahia. Os casos ocorreram em todos os meses dos anos investigados, com maior ocorrência em áreas urbanas, afetando principalmente homens adultos. A região anatômica do corpo mais atingida pela picada foi a cabeça e a maioria dos casos recebeu assistência médica até 3 horas após o incidente. As manifestações locais foram mais frequentes do que as sistêmicas. Os agravos foram predominantemente classificados como leve e progrediram para a cura. Conclusões: o elevado número de casos e a sua extensa distribuição espacial revelam que o acidente causado por picada de abelha pode ser considerado um emergente negligenciado problema de saúde pública no estado da Bahia.
Subject(s)
Humans , Animals , Male , Female , Infant, Newborn , Infant , Child, Preschool , Child , Adolescent , Adult , Middle Aged , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Young Adult , Bees , Insect Bites and Stings/epidemiology , Brazil/epidemiology , Epidemiologic Factors , Retrospective StudiesABSTRACT
RESUMEN En la actualidad existe un incremento en la tendencia al consumo de alimentos saludables. Uno de ellos es la miel de abeja, reconocida desde la antigüedad por sus propiedades medicinales. Resulta importante profundizar en la información relativa a la composición química de la miel y cómo la misma influye en sus propiedades biológicas. Para ello se realizó esta revisión, que ofrece información y análisis de las características fisicoquímicas de la miel, sus componentes bioactivos y los mecanismos de acción. Fueron utilizados valores de los estándares de calidad y de otros componentes, como vitaminas, minerales, enzimas, ácidos orgánicos, proteínas, flavonoides y ácidos fenólicos con alta actividad antioxidante. Se resumen aspectos principales de las características funcionales de la miel, que le aportan su potencial biológico, energético, antioxidante, antiséptico y modulador de la respuesta inmune, para la acción contra determinadas enfermedades y, fundamentalmente, en la actividad preventiva. Elementos de esta naturaleza brindan información que puede ser utilizada en la promoción de una buena salud y en el desarrollo de nuevas investigaciones.
ABSTRACT Currently there is an increase in the tendency of the healthy food consumption. One of them is bee honey, recognized since ancient times for its medicinal properties. It is important to deepen in information regarding to chemical composition of honey and how it influences on its biological properties. For that was carried out this review that offers information and analyzes physicochemical characteristics of bee honey, its bioactive components and action mechanisms. Values of quality standards and of other components, as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, organic acids, proteins, flavonoids and phenolic acids with high antioxidant activity were used. Main aspects of the honey functional characteristics are summarized. They give it their biological, energetic, antioxidant, antiseptic and immune response modulating potential for the action against certain diseases and, mainly, in the preventive activity. Elements of this nature provide information that can be used in the promotion of good health and in the development of new research.
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Background: Melittin has shown antiproliferative effects on tumor cells. Therefore, it comprises a valuable compound for studies on cancer treatment. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have reported melittin effects on bone metastasis. Herein, we propose an approach based on intrametastatic melittin injection to treat bone metastases in colorectal cancer. Methods: Following the characterization of melittin and antiproliferative tests in vitro, a single dose was injected through intrametastatic route into the mouse bone metastasis model. Following treatment, metastasis growth was evaluated. Results: A single dose of melittin was able to inhibit metastasis growth. Histological analysis showed necrosis and inflammatory processes in melittin-treated metastasis. Except by mild weight loss, no other systemic effects were observed. Conclusion: Our data suggest that melittin might be a promising agent for the future development of treatment strategies aiming to reduce the bone metastasis skeletal-related impact in colorectal cancer patients with bone metastasis.(AU)
Subject(s)
Animals , Bone and Bones , In Vitro Techniques , Colorectal Neoplasms , Neoplasm MetastasisABSTRACT
Objective:To investigate the predictive value of procalcitonin (PCT) in the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients after bee stings.Methods:A total of 105 bee stings patients admitted to Mianyang Central Hospital from May 2019 to August 2021 were enrolled and were divided into AKI group (37 cases) and non-AKI group (68 cases) according to the occurrence of AKI. Baseline demographic information [gender, age, body mass index (BMI), sting season, sting site, number of stings, underlying disease, clinical manifestations, and inflammatory factor levels] were collected and compared between the two groups. Logistic regression model was used to analyze the risk factors associated with the occurrence of AKI in bee stings patients. Pearson model was used to analyze the correlation between PCT and other indicators; the receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) were drawn to analyze the predictive value of each indicator on the occurrence of AKI in bee stings patients.Results:There were significant differences in age, number of bee stings, and vomiting after admission between the two groups of patients. The levels of serum creatinine (SCr), PCT, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were significantly higher in the AKI group than those in the non-AKI patients [SCr (μmol/L): 122.36±32.45 vs. 76.74±28.52, PCT (μg/L): 1.42±1.05 vs. 0.34±0.21, IL-6 (ng/L): 277.52±120.25 vs. 112.14±73.34, hs-CRP (mg/L): 7.64±3.26 vs. 3.01±2.13, all P < 0.05]. Serum PCT levels were positively correlated with serum SCr, IL-6, and hs-CRP levels in patients with AKI after bee stings ( r values of 0.486, 0.393, and 0.425, respectively; P = 0.002, 0.016, and 0.009, respectively). Multivariate Logistic analysis showed that age, SCr, PCT, IL-6, and hs-CRP were independent risk factors for AKI in patients with bee stings. The ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of age, SCr, PCT, IL-6 and hs-CRP for predicting AKI in patients with bee stings were 0.622 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) was 0.516 to 0.727], 0.722 (95% CI was 0.601 to 0.843), 0.869 (95% CI was 0.781 to 0.958), 0.739 (95% CI was 0.627 to 0.851) and 0.799 (95% CI was 0.700 to 0.900), respectively. The best cut-off value of PCT was 0.742 μg/L, the sensitivity was 75.70% and the specificity was 90.50%. Conclusions:The serum PCT level was significantly elevated in patients with AKI after bee stings, which is an independent risk factor for AKI after bee stings. Serum PCT level has better predictive efficacy for AKI after bee stings and can be used as a valid biomarker for clinical prediction.
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@#Introduction: This study investigated the combined effects of bee pollen and resistance training on aerobic capacity, muscular performance, antioxidant status, and bone metabolism markers among young men. Methods: Forty young men were randomly assigned into four groups: sedentary control (C), bee pollen supplementation (BP), resistance training (RT), and combined bee pollen supplementation and resistance training (BPRT) groups. Bee pollen was consumed by participants in BP and BPRT groups (1500 mg daily for eight weeks). Resistance training was performed thrice per week for eight weeks in RT and BPRT groups. Participants’ anthropometry, aerobic capacity, isokinetic muscular peak torque (strength), and average power were measured. Concentrations of serum total antioxidant status (TAS), serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and serum C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (1CTP) were determined. Results: After eight weeks of intervention, there was a significant decrease in 1CTP in BP group. In RT group, significant increases were observed in both muscular strength and power. In BPRT group, significant increases in both muscular strength and power, and a significant decrease in 1CTP were observed after 8 weeks. There were no significant changes in aerobic capacity, serum TAS, SOD, and ALP in all the study groups. Conclusion: Resistance training using dumbbells and elastic bands seemed to elicit beneficial effects on muscular strength and power, while bee pollen supplementation alone reduced the level of bone resorption marker. In addition, combining bee pollen with resistance training seemed to offer additive benefit in muscular strength and power.
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Abstract Background: Melittin has shown antiproliferative effects on tumor cells. Therefore, it comprises a valuable compound for studies on cancer treatment. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have reported melittin effects on bone metastasis. Herein, we propose an approach based on intrametastatic melittin injection to treat bone metastases in colorectal cancer. Methods: Following the characterization of melittin and antiproliferative tests in vitro, a single dose was injected through intrametastatic route into the mouse bone metastasis model. Following treatment, metastasis growth was evaluated. Results: A single dose of melittin was able to inhibit metastasis growth. Histological analysis showed necrosis and inflammatory processes in melittin-treated metastasis. Except by mild weight loss, no other systemic effects were observed. Conclusion: Our data suggest that melittin might be a promising agent for the future development of treatment strategies aiming to reduce the bone metastasis skeletal-related impact in colorectal cancer patients with bone metastasis.
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Abstract Background and aim: Stingless bee propolis, a resinous compound processed by mandibular secretion of stingless bees, is used for maintenance of hygiene and stability of beehives. Research on stingless bee propolis shows therapeutic properties attributed to polyphenols exhibiting antioxidative, antihyperglycemic and antiischemic effect. However, the cardioprotective effect of stingless bee propolis on diabetic cardiomyopathy is unknown. Methods: Adult male Sprague Dawley rats were randomised to five groups: normal group, diabetic group, diabetic given metformin (DM+M), diabetic given propolis (DM+P) and diabetic given combination therapy (DM+M+P) and treated for four weeks. Body weight, fasting blood glucose, food and water intake were taken weekly. At the end of experiment, biomarkers of oxidative damage were measured in serum and heart tissue. Antioxidants in heart tissue were quantified. Part of left ventricle of heart was processed for histological staining including Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stain for myocyte size and Masson's Trichrome (MT) stain for heart fibrosis and perivascular fibrosis. Results: Propolis alleviated features of diabetic cardiomyopathy such as myocyte hypertrophy, heart fibrosis and perivascular fibrosis associated with improvement in antioxidative status. Conclusion: This study reports beneficial effect of propolis and combination with metformin in alleviating histopathological feature of diabetic cardiomyopathy by modulating antioxidants, making propolis an emerging complementary therapy.