Maintenance of quality of eggs submitted to treatment with propolis extract and sanitizers

This study aimed to evaluate the internal and microbiological quality of eggs submitted to different types of shell treatments. One hundred and forty-four fresh red eggs were distributed in a scheme of 4 treatments (no washing; washing and immersion in chlorine; washing and immersion in peracetic acid; and washing and spraying of propolis extract) x 5 storage periods (7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days), stored at 25°C, in each period 6 eggs per treatment were analyzed. The parameters to assess were: weight loss; shell weight; yolk weight; albumen weight, yolk diameter; yolk height; albumen height and Haugh unit (HU). The microbiological quality of eggs was evaluated at 35 days through analysis for aerobic mesophilic bacteria, thermotolerant coliforms, Staphylococcus spp., Salmonella spp. and molds and yeasts. The treatment with propolis extract was the only effective one to maintain the high HU quality of the eggs until 21 days of storage at 25°C and was effective against microbiological contamination of all bacterial groups. The results presented showed greater effectiveness of the propolis extract for maintenance of internal and microbiological quality of eggs, it can be an alternative product to chemical sanitizers.(AU)

Inhibitory activities of propolis, nisin, melittin and essential oil compounds on Paenibacillus alvei and Bacillus subtilis

Background: Natural products represent important sources of antimicrobial compounds. Propolis and compounds from essential oils comprise good examples of such substances because of their inhibitory effects on bacterial spores, including bee pathogens. Methods: Ethanol extracts of propolis (EEP) from Apis mellifera were prepared using different methods: double ultrasonication, double maceration and maceration associated with ultrasonication. Together with the antimicrobial peptides nisin and melittin, and compounds present in the essential oils of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), assays were carried out on one Bacillus subtilis isolate and Paenibacillus alvei (ATCC 6344) against vegetative and sporulated forms, using the resazurin microtiter assay. Synergism with all the antimicrobials in association with tetracycline was verified by the time-kill curve method. Potassium and phosphate efflux, release of proteins and nucleic acids were investigated. Results: EEPs showed the same MIC, 156.25 µg/mL against B. subtilis and 78.12 µg/mL against P. alvei. The peptides showed better activities against B. subtilis (MIC of 12 µg/ mL for melittin and 37.50 µg/mL for nisin). Antimicrobials showed similar inhibitory effects, but cinnamaldehyde (39.06 µg/mL) showed the best action against P. alvei. Melittin and nisin showed the greatest capacity to reduce spores, regarding B. subtilis there was a 100% reduction at 6.25 and 0.78 µg/mL, respectively. Concerning P. alvei, the reduction was 93 and 98% at concentrations of 80 µg/mL of melittin and 15 µg/ mL of nisin. EEPs showed the highest effects on the protein release against B. subtilis and P. alvei. Nucleic acid release, phosphate and potassium efflux assays indicated bacterial cell membrane damage. Synergism between antimicrobials and tetracycline was demonstrated against both bacteria. Conclusion: All antimicrobials tested showed antibacterial activities against vegetative and sporulated forms of P. alvei and B. subtilis, especially nisin and melittin. Synergism with tetracycline and damage on bacterial cell membrane also occurred.(AU)

Consumo de produtos apícolas no Piauí durante a pandemia da Covid-19 / Consumption of bee products during the Covid-19 pandemic in Piaui

Objetivou-se investigar o consumo dos produtos apícolas no estado do Piauí durante a pandemia da COVID-19. Para tanto, a coleta de dados deu-se de forma remota por meio de formulário online disponibilizado via Whatsapp e Instagram. A amostragem foi estratificada considerando-se as quatro mesorregiões do Piauí e o gênero dos participantes e para tal, foi utilizada a Calculadora Survey Monkey. Após a estratificação, a pesquisa abrangeu 392 participantes. Observou-se que 85,46% dos entrevistados afirmaram ter o hábito de consumir produtos apícolas, relacionando-o principalmente ao potencial nutricional que apresentam (24,78%). Em relação ao consumo durante a pandemia, 79,34% afirmaram estarem utilizando os produtos apícolas, sendo o mel o produto mais consumido (59,16%), em seguida, mel e própolis (26,04%) e a própolis unicamente (4,82%). Sobre a utilização referente à COVID-19, verificou-se que 23,47% e 3,21% dos entrevistados relacionou o uso à prevenção ou tratamento da doença, respectivamente. No geral, foi verificado um aumento de 37,24% no consumo dos produtos apícolas durante a pandemia, porém a maioria dos participantes (52,05%) não soube afirmar o quanto.(AU)

The aim was to investigate the use of bee products in Piaui state during the COVID-19 pandemic. To that end, data were collected remotely via an online form sent on WhatsApp and Instagram. Sampling was stratified considering the four mesoregions of Piaui and the sex of the participants using the Survey Monkey calculator. After stratification, the study contained 392 participants. A total of 85.46% of the interviewees reported regularly consuming bee products, primarily (24.78%) due to their nutritional potential. During the pandemic, 79.34% used bee products, honey being the most consumed (59.16%), followed by propolis honey (26.04%) and propolis alone (4.82%). With respect to COVID-19-related use, 23.47% and 3.21% of the subjects related consumption for disease prevention and treatment, respectively. In general, there was a 37.24% increase in the consumption of bee products during the pandemic, but most of the participants (52.05%) did not know the extent of the increase.(AU)

Urban and connected: a profile of the 21st century stingless beekeeper / Urbano e conectado: um perfil do meliponicultor do século XXI

Bees are responsible for pollination, which is an important ecosystem service. They also provide the production of honey, pollen or saburá, propolis, among other products. The breeding of native bees has been growing, because of the particular characteristics of each species and its products. Therefore, the objective was to know the profile of this breeder, called meliponicultor. Then, a semi-structured questionnaire was used, widely publicized on social networks, in April and May 2020. This was attended by 718 Brazilian and foreign breeders of native bees, of which 80.3% practice the activity as a hobby, most beginners in the activity, with the main objective of leisure and family consumption of honey. Over 80% keep bees in meliponaries in urban areas. Among the products, the swarm is the most commercialized, with species that are easy to handle, less defensive and adapted to the region being preferred. Swarms are also acquired through bait, rescue and division. The bees are created in boxes of different materials, the main one being wood and the tools are easily found in the commerce, as well as easy to improvise. Beekeepers reported concerns about deforestation, increasing urban areas, fires, global warming, pesticides, pest attacks and theft. Digital media was cited as the main source of information, followed by books and close people. The creators also stated that they do not trust 100% the information that reaches them, regardless of the source.(AU)

As abelhas são responsáveis por um valioso serviço ecossistêmico, a polinização, fornecendo ainda a produção de mel, pólen ou saburá, própolis, entre outros. A criação de abelhas nativas vem crescendo, impulsionada pelas características particulares de cada espécie e de seus produtos. Logo, objetivou-se conhecer o perfil deste criador, chamado de meliponicultor seus interesses e motivações, bem como suas fontes de informação e sobre a dinâmica econômica dessa atividade na atualidade. Para isso utilizou-se um questionário semiestruturado, amplamente divulgado nas redes sociais, nos meses de abril e maio de 2020. Este contou com a participação de 718 criadores brasileiros e estrangeiros, dos quais 80,3% praticam a atividade por hobby, maioria iniciantes na atividade, tendo como principal objetivo o lazer e o consumo familiar do mel. Mais de 80% mantém as abelhas em meliponários em áreas urbanas. Dentre os produtos, o enxame é o mais comercializado, sendo preferidas espécies de fácil manejo, pouco defensivas e adaptadas à região, sendo os enxames também adquiridos através de iscas, resgate e divisão. A criação é realizada em caixas de diversos materiais, sendo o principal a madeira e as ferramentas são facilmente encontradas no comércio, bem como, de fácil improvisação. Os criadores citaram preocupações com desmatamento, aumento das áreas urbanas, queimadas, aquecimento global, agrotóxicos, ataque de pragas e furtos. Os meios digitas foi citado como a principal fonte de informações, seguidos por livros e pessoas próximas. Os criadores apontaram ainda que não confiam 100% nas informações que chegam até eles, independente da fonte.(AU)

Supering Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera, Apidae) beehives impairs honey production and biomarker genes

For honey production, beekeepers add one or more supers to the hives to allow honeybees to store their products. However, the increase in hive space can affect the social and health organization in the colony, promoting stress. This study assessed the management of honey production, physicochemical honey properties, population development, and forages immune system gene expression patterns to be used as biomarker for monitoring beekeeping welfare. The treatments comprised 40 beehives divided in four treatments. Treatment 1 - control, supers added according to storage necessity. Treatments 2, 3, and 4 presented two, three, and four supers at the beginning of the experiment, respectively. T1 presented greater honey production (39.4 % increased). No difference in open brood area in the colonies was observed and honey properties and only T2 showed closed brood area higher than the other treatments. Foragers from T4 showed higher catalase and defensin gene expression at the middle-end experiment. Thus, the increasing internal space at the beginning of honey season can affect honey production and immune system of foragers. Catalase and defensin can be used as biomarkers for monitoring honey production welfare.

Supering Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera, Apidae) beehives impairs honey production and biomarker genes

For honey production, beekeepers add one or more supers to the hives to allow honeybees to store their products. However, the increase in hive space can affect the social and health organization in the colony, promoting stress. This study assessed the management of honey production, physicochemical honey properties, population development, and forages immune system gene expression patterns to be used as biomarker for monitoring beekeeping welfare. The treatments comprised 40 beehives divided in four treatments. Treatment 1 - control, supers added according to storage necessity. Treatments 2, 3, and 4 presented two, three, and four supers at the beginning of the experiment, respectively. T1 presented greater honey production (39.4 % increased). No difference in open brood area in the colonies was observed and honey properties and only T2 showed closed brood area higher than the other treatments. Foragers from T4 showed higher catalase and defensin gene expression at the middle-end experiment. Thus, the increasing internal space at the beginning of honey season can affect honey production and immune system of foragers. Catalase and defensin can be used as biomarkers for monitoring honey production welfare.

Percepção a respeito do consumo de mel no estado de Roraima / Perception about honey consumption in the state of Roraima

Existem poucos estudos na região norte do Brasil a respeito do consumo de mel. Portanto nesta pesquisa objetivou-se avaliar a percepção da população quanto ao consumo de mel no Estado de Roraima. Foi elaborado e aplicado no ano de 2021, um questionário via online pelo site Survio, contendo 340 respondentes no total. Em relação ao perfil socioeducacional dos entrevistados, 43% (145/340) pertenciam à faixa etária de 21 - 30 anos, 65% (221/340) eram do sexo feminino e o ensino superior incompleto foi o nível de escolaridade com maior percentual de respondentes 39,4% (134/340). Quanto ao consumo constatou-se que 45% (153/340) dos entrevistados raramente consomem mel e quando questionado sobre os motivos que os levariam a deixar de consumir mel, o preço 35% (110/316) seguido de saúde 34% (107/316) foram os motivos com maiores números de respondentes. Para 77% (273/340) dos entrevistados o mel possui função de alimento. Com relação à propaganda, 75% (255/340) informaram que nunca viram propaganda de incentivo ao consumo de mel. A pesquisa demonstrou que o consumo de mel no Estado de Roraima apresenta baixa frequência, quando comparado com outros estados do país, como da região sul. Há a necessidade de incrementar melhorias nas ações de incentivo ao marketing, influenciando no aumento do consumo do mel, pois trata se de um importante produto de origem animal que deveria estar mais presente na mesa do consumidor, sempre considerando produtos de qualidade comprovada por meio dos serviços de inspeção, reduzindo riscos à saúde do consumidor.

There are few studies in the northern region of Brazil regarding honey consumption. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the perception of the population regarding the consumption of honey in the State of Roraima. An online questionnaire was prepared and applied in 2021 through the Survio website, containing 340 respondents in total. Regarding the socio-educational profile of the interviewees, 43% (145/340) belonged to the age group of 21 - 30 years, 65% (221/340) were female and incomplete higher education was the level of education with the highest percentage of respondents 39.4% (134/340). Regarding consumption, it was found that 45% (153/340) of respondents rarely consume honey and when asked about the reasons that would lead them to stop consuming honey, the price 35% (110/316) followed by health 34% (107 /316) were the reasons with the highest number of respondents. For 77% (273/340) of the interviewees, honey has a food function. Regarding advertising, 75% (255/340) reported that they had never seen advertising encouraging the consumption of honey. The research showed that the consumption of honey in the State of Roraima has a low frequency when compared to other states in the country, such as the southern region. There is a need to increase improvements in marketing incentive actions, influencing the increase in honey consumption, as it is an important product of animal origin that should be more present on the consumer's table, always considering products of proven quality through the inspection services, reducing risks to consumer health.

Standardization of resazurin use in susceptibility testing of natural products against yeasts in planktonic cells and in biofilms formation

Natural products, such as the ethanolic propolis extract (PE), have been shown to be a safe and effective therapeutic alternative for the treatment of fungal skin and nail diseases. However, the presence of the resin and the physicochemical characteristics of the extract sometimes difficult the reading and determination of breakpoints of the in vitrotests, evidencing the need for alternatives that facilitate the reading. The present study aimed to standardize the use of resazurin in tests of susceptibility of PE with planktonic yeast cells and biofilm forms. The antifungal activity of PE was determined by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and we observed that, for all Candida spp. tested, the most reproducible MIC results were obtained when resazurin was placed after 24 hours of incubation and remained more 24 hourswith yeasts plus PE. For encapsulated yeasts, there was no dye reduction and color transition. Resazurin was also used for the evaluation of minimal biofilm inhibitory concentration and minimal biofilm eradication concentration and it was metabolized and reproducedthe action of PE on Candida biofilms. In addition, microdilution checkerboard plates were made with the dye, which assisted reading the result of the interaction between PE and nystatin. We observed that the resin, the color and the turbidity of the PE slightly changed the color of the resazurin in high concentrations of the extract and did not impair the reading. Therefore, the resazurin standardization tests were proven to be efficient and grounds that it should be used as an auxiliary methodology for reading and interpretation of the susceptibility tests for non-encapsulated yeasts with natural products, which form turbidity or precipitation, such as propolis.

Standardization of resazurin use in susceptibility testing of natural products against yeasts in planktonic cells and in biofilms formation

Natural products, such as the ethanolic propolis extract (PE), have been shown to be a safe and effective therapeutic alternative for the treatment of fungal skin and nail diseases. However, the presence of the resin and the physicochemical characteristics of the extract sometimes difficult the reading and determination of breakpoints of the in vitrotests, evidencing the need for alternatives that facilitate the reading. The present study aimed to standardize the use of resazurin in tests of susceptibility of PE with planktonic yeast cells and biofilm forms. The antifungal activity of PE was determined by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and we observed that, for all Candida spp. tested, the most reproducible MIC results were obtained when resazurin was placed after 24 hours of incubation and remained more 24 hourswith yeasts plus PE. For encapsulated yeasts, there was no dye reduction and color transition. Resazurin was also used for the evaluation of minimal biofilm inhibitory concentration and minimal biofilm eradication concentration and it was metabolized and reproducedthe action of PE on Candida biofilms. In addition, microdilution checkerboard plates were made with the dye, which assisted reading the result of the interaction between PE and nystatin. We observed that the resin, the color and the turbidity of the PE slightly changed the color of the resazurin in high concentrations of the extract and did not impair the reading. Therefore, the resazurin standardization tests were proven to be efficient and grounds that it should be used as an auxiliary methodology for reading and interpretation of the susceptibility tests for non-encapsulated yeasts with natural products, which form turbidity or precipitation, such as propolis.(AU)

Experimental study of amniotic membrane or topical propolis on induced cutaneous wound healing in Wistar rats / Estudo experimental do uso da membrana amniótica e da própolis tópica na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas induzidas em ratos Wistar

The study of propolis and the amniotic membrane as alternatives to promote the acceleration of healing has grown considerably. These products have shown to be easy to use, have bactericidal or bacteriostatic action and are affordable. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the action of the amniotic membrane of bitches and propolis in the healing of surgical wounds. To evaluate the efficacy of these methods the time for conclusion of the healing process of both groups was compared with a control group. In addition, the inflammatory response of each group was also evaluated to identify which alternative method could induce a better response in the healing process compared to the control group. For this purpose, 27 animals, Rattus norvegicus, variety Wistar, were used. Rats were separated into 3 groups with 9 animals each. Group I represented the 25% alcoholic propolis solution; Group II, Amniotic membrane; Group III was Control group. Wounds were assessed macroscopically for the lesion area, and microscopically for the histological quality of each wound layer and the intensity of inflammation and collagen deposition. After the macroscopic analysis, it was observed that there were no statistical differences among the 3 groups (p> 0.05) relevant to accelerate the healing process in terms of presence of inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, collagen, neovascularization, granulation tissue and re-epithelialization.

O estudo da própolis e da membrana amniótica como alternativa para promover a aceleração da cicatrização vem crescendo bastante, numa tentativa de buscar métodos alternativos para cicatrização de feridas que apresentem fácil utilização, ação bactericida ou bacteriostática e tenha custo acessível. Com o presente estudo objetivou-se avaliar a ação da membrana amniótica de cadelas e da própolis na cicatrização de feridas cirúrgicas, comparando o tempo no processo de cicatrização com o grupo controle e a resposta inflamatória de cada um, de maneira a identificar qual método alternativo induzirá melhor res-posta no processo de cicatrização em comparação ao grupo controle. Para tanto, foram utilizados 27 animais, Rattus norve-gicus, variedade Wistar, separados em três grupos com nove animais cada, sendo Grupo I – solução alcoólica de própolis a 25%; Grupo II – Membrana amniótica de cadelas; Grupo III – Grupo controle. As feridas foram avaliadas macroscopica-mente quanto à área da lesão, e microscopicamente quanto à qualidade histológica de cada leito da ferida e à intensidade de inflamação e deposição de colágeno. Após a análise macroscópica, constatou-se que não houve diferenças estatísticas (p>0,05) relevantes para acelerar o processo cicatricial, quanto a presença de células inflamatórias, fibroblastos, colágeno, neovasculari-zação, tecido de granulação e reepitelização, perante os tratamentos alternativos e o grupo controle no processo de cicatrização.

Experimental study of amniotic membrane or topical propolis on induced cutaneous wound healing in Wistar rats / Estudo experimental do uso da membrana amniótica e da própolis tópica na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas induzidas em ratos Wistar

The study of propolis and the amniotic membrane as alternatives to promote the acceleration of healing has grown considerably. These products have shown to be easy to use, have bactericidal or bacteriostatic action and are affordable. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the action of the amniotic membrane of bitches and propolis in the healing of surgical wounds. To evaluate the efficacy of these methods the time for conclusion of the healing process of both groups was compared with a control group. In addition, the inflammatory response of each group was also evaluated to identify which alternative method could induce a better response in the healing process compared to the control group. For this purpose, 27 animals, Rattus norvegicus, variety Wistar, were used. Rats were separated into 3 groups with 9 animals each. Group I represented the 25% alcoholic propolis solution; Group II, Amniotic membrane; Group III was Control group. Wounds were assessed macroscopically for the lesion area, and microscopically for the histological quality of each wound layer and the intensity of inflammation and collagen deposition. After the macroscopic analysis, it was observed that there were no statistical differences among the 3 groups (p> 0.05) relevant to accelerate the healing process in terms of presence of inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, collagen, neovascularization, granulation tissue and re-epithelialization.(AU)

O estudo da própolis e da membrana amniótica como alternativa para promover a aceleração da cicatrização vem crescendo bastante, numa tentativa de buscar métodos alternativos para cicatrização de feridas que apresentem fácil utilização, ação bactericida ou bacteriostática e tenha custo acessível. Com o presente estudo objetivou-se avaliar a ação da membrana amniótica de cadelas e da própolis na cicatrização de feridas cirúrgicas, comparando o tempo no processo de cicatrização com o grupo controle e a resposta inflamatória de cada um, de maneira a identificar qual método alternativo induzirá melhor res-posta no processo de cicatrização em comparação ao grupo controle. Para tanto, foram utilizados 27 animais, Rattus norve-gicus, variedade Wistar, separados em três grupos com nove animais cada, sendo Grupo I solução alcoólica de própolis a 25%; Grupo II Membrana amniótica de cadelas; Grupo III Grupo controle. As feridas foram avaliadas macroscopica-mente quanto à área da lesão, e microscopicamente quanto à qualidade histológica de cada leito da ferida e à intensidade de inflamação e deposição de colágeno. Após a análise macroscópica, constatou-se que não houve diferenças estatísticas (p>0,05) relevantes para acelerar o processo cicatricial, quanto a presença de células inflamatórias, fibroblastos, colágeno, neovasculari-zação, tecido de granulação e reepitelização, perante os tratamentos alternativos e o grupo controle no processo de cicatrização.(AU)

Anti-inflammatory activities of arthropod peptides: a systematic review

Peptides obtained from different animal species have gained importance recently due to research that aims to develop biopharmaceuticals with therapeutic potential. In this sense, arthropod venoms have drawn attention, not only because of their toxicity but mainly for the search for molecules with various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the present study is to gather data available in the literature on new peptides derived from arthropod species with anti-inflammatory potential. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies on peptides from arthropods that display anti-inflammatory activity were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The bibliographic research started in 2020 and searched papers without a limit on the publication date. The articles were analyzed using a search string containing the following terms: "Peptides" and "Anti-inflammatory", in combinations such as "Ant", "Bee", "Wasp", "Crab", "Shrimp", "Scorpion", "Spider", "Tick" and "Centipedes". Besides, a search was carried out in the databases with the terms: "Peptides", "Antitumor", or "Anticancer", and "Arthropods". Articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria totalized 171, and these served for data extraction. Additionally, the present review included anti-inflammatory peptides with anticancer properties. Peptides with confirmed anti-inflammatory activity were from insects (ants, bees, and wasps), crustaceans (shrimp and crabs), arachnids (scorpions, spiders, and ticks), and centipedes. These arthropod peptides act mainly by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines as analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Some showed significant antineoplastic activity, working in essential cellular pathways against malignant neoplasms.(AU)

Anti-inflammatory activities of arthropod peptides: a systematic review

Peptides obtained from different animal species have gained importance recently due to research that aims to develop biopharmaceuticals with therapeutic potential. In this sense, arthropod venoms have drawn attention, not only because of their toxicity but mainly for the search for molecules with various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the present study is to gather data available in the literature on new peptides derived from arthropod species with anti-inflammatory potential. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies on peptides from arthropods that display anti-inflammatory activity were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The bibliographic research started in 2020 and searched papers without a limit on the publication date. The articles were analyzed using a search string containing the following terms: "Peptides" and "Anti-inflammatory", in combinations such as "Ant", "Bee", "Wasp", "Crab", "Shrimp", "Scorpion", "Spider", "Tick" and "Centipedes". Besides, a search was carried out in the databases with the terms: "Peptides", "Antitumor", or "Anticancer", and "Arthropods". Articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria totalized 171, and these served for data extraction. Additionally, the present review included anti-inflammatory peptides with anticancer properties. Peptides with confirmed anti-inflammatory activity were from insects (ants, bees, and wasps), crustaceans (shrimp and crabs), arachnids (scorpions, spiders, and ticks), and centipedes. These arthropod peptides act mainly by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines as analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Some showed significant antineoplastic activity, working in essential cellular pathways against malignant neoplasms.(AU)

Healing of skin wounds in rats: influence of low-level laser therapy, alone or combined with natural products

Background: A great variety of natural products have been evaluated for the skin wound healing due to anti-inflammatory,antioxidant and antibacterial activities, and procollagen synthesis, of which may be mentioned the honey and propolis. Inturn, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is considered an important tool in the treatment of skin wounds, because of ability toraise the ATP production, to stimulate the microcirculation, and formation of new blood vessels. Therefore, this study aimedto assess the influence of LLLT, alone or combined with natural products, in the healing of excisional skin wounds in rats.Materials, Methods & Results: One hundred twenty-six male Wistar rats, aged 14 weeks, were randomly divided intoseven groups (n = 18 per group) according to wound treatments: G1 (negative control): 0.9% saline solution; G2 (positive control): allantoin + zinc oxide ointment; G3: LLLT; G4: mixture of honey + 5% propolis hydroalcoholic solution;G5: LLLT + mixture of honey + hydroalcoholic solution of 5% propolis; G6: LLLT + honey in natura; G7: LLLT + 5%propolis hydroalcoholic solution. Six rats from each group were euthanized on the 7th, 14th, and 21th postoperative days.Macroscopic and histological evaluations of wound healing were performed. A decrease in wound area occurred in allgroups, but in general G4 had the higher reduction and G1 and G3 had the lower reductions. These findings correspondedto the percentage of wound contraction, since the largest contraction was G4 and the lowest contractions were G1 andG3. Histological analysis showed no significant difference among groups...

Healing of skin wounds in rats: influence of low-level laser therapy, alone or combined with natural products

Background: A great variety of natural products have been evaluated for the skin wound healing due to anti-inflammatory,antioxidant and antibacterial activities, and procollagen synthesis, of which may be mentioned the honey and propolis. Inturn, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is considered an important tool in the treatment of skin wounds, because of ability toraise the ATP production, to stimulate the microcirculation, and formation of new blood vessels. Therefore, this study aimedto assess the influence of LLLT, alone or combined with natural products, in the healing of excisional skin wounds in rats.Materials, Methods & Results: One hundred twenty-six male Wistar rats, aged 14 weeks, were randomly divided intoseven groups (n = 18 per group) according to wound treatments: G1 (negative control): 0.9% saline solution; G2 (positive control): allantoin + zinc oxide ointment; G3: LLLT; G4: mixture of honey + 5% propolis hydroalcoholic solution;G5: LLLT + mixture of honey + hydroalcoholic solution of 5% propolis; G6: LLLT + honey in natura; G7: LLLT + 5%propolis hydroalcoholic solution. Six rats from each group were euthanized on the 7th, 14th, and 21th postoperative days.Macroscopic and histological evaluations of wound healing were performed. A decrease in wound area occurred in allgroups, but in general G4 had the higher reduction and G1 and G3 had the lower reductions. These findings correspondedto the percentage of wound contraction, since the largest contraction was G4 and the lowest contractions were G1 andG3. Histological analysis showed no significant difference among groups...(AU)

Experimental evaluation of intra-abdominal adhesions comparing two different intraperitoneal meshes and the effect of a natural anti-inflammatory product on their formation

Purpose: In laparoscopic incisional hernia repair, meshes with a tissue-separating barrier are positioned intraperitoneally. Despite this property, the close contact between mesh and viscera involves a risk of adhesion formation. Some natural products, such as red propolis (RP), could reduce these adhesions owing to their anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to compare two different intraperitoneal meshes with respect to their characteristics of adhesion formation, histological findings and evaluate the role of RP in the development of these adhesions. Methods: 40 Wistar rats received placement of two different meshes (Symbotex and Dynamesh IPOM) on peritoneum. The animals were divided into two groups: control group (mesh) and treatment group (mesh and RP). After 7 and 14 days, 20 animals of each group underwent midline laparotomy to determine the adhesions and histological characteristics. Results: Out of the 40 animals, there were two deaths in the test group and two in the control group. All animals in both groups developed adherence to the mesh. At postoperative day (POD) 7, two Symbotex meshes presented firm adhesions and at POD 14, two Dynamesh meshes had firm adhesions as well. The comparison between the meshes under the effect of RP in relation to the control group showed no statistical difference. Conclusions: Both meshes showed intraperitoneal adhesions in all evaluated samples with similar results on the characteristics of adhesions. RP showed no effect on the incidence or gradation of intraperitoneal adhesions with the mesh.(AU)

Chemical characterization and in vitro antimicrobial activity of honeybee propolis and Scaptotrigona jujuyensis geopropolis against tomato pathogenic bacteria / Caracterização química e atividade antimicrobiana in vitro de própolis de abelhas e de geoprópolis de Scaptotrigona jujuyensis contra bactérias patogênicas do tomate

The antimicrobial activity of four concentrations of hydroalcoholic extracts from honeybee propolis and Scaptotrigona jujuyensis geopropolis was screened in vitro against five tomato pathogenic bacteria. The agar-well diffusion method was used and the tested bacteria were Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis, Xanthomonas gardneri, Xanthomonas vesicatoria, Pseudomonas corrugata, and Pseudomonas mediterranea. The main chemical characteristics of propolis and geopropolis, including the polyphenol profile through HPLC-DAD, were also determined. Geopropolis raw sample presented higher values of moisture (7.78%), waxes (50.79%) and ashes (3.69%) than propolis (4.59%, 31.16% and 2.42% respectively). The total polyphenol content and the dry extract were higher in propolis hydroalcoholic extract (3.83 mg eq galic acid mL-1 and 7.87%, respectively) than in the extract of geopropolis (0.16 mg eq galic acid mL-1 and 0.15%, respectively). Chromatographic analysis confirmed the presence of caffeic acid, quercetin, 1,5,7-trihydroxy-flavanone, apigenin, pinobanksin, chrysin, pinocembrin, and galangin in both extracts. The antimicrobial assay showed significant differences between the hydroalcoholic extract activities, as well as between the sensitivity of the tested bacteria. Propolis hydroalcoholic extract dilutions had an inhibitory effect over four of the five tested bacteria, while geopropolis hydroalcoholic extract dilutions were only effective against C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis, and to a lesser extent. The sequence of bacteria sensitivity to propolis treatments was: C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis > X. gardneri > X. vesicatoria > P. corrugata. Pseudomonas mediterranea was not sensitive to any of the hydroalcoholic extracts. The antimicrobial activity of both extracts was dose-dependent where the most concentrated treatments were the most effective (15.0 mg mL−1 of geopropolis and 78.7 mg mL−1 of propolis dry extract, respectively). The polyphenol content and the HPLC-DAD profile of the hydroalcoholic extracts disclosed differences in chemical composition that helped to explain the outcomes of the in vitro assay. These results are a contribution to the characterization of bee bioactive products, specifically to propolis and geopropolis. This study indicates the likelihood of using propolis as a non-conventional strategy to control tomato bacterial diseases.(AU)

A atividade antimicrobiana de quatro concentrações de extratos hidroalcoólicos de própolis de abelha e de geoprópolis de Scaptotrigona jujuyensis foi avaliada in vitro contra cinco bactérias patogênicas do tomate. Foi utilizado o método de difusão em ágar e as bactérias testadas foram Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis, Xanthomonas gardneri, Xanthomonas vesicatoria, Pseudomonas corrugata, e Pseudomonas mediterranea. As principais características químicas da própolis e da geoprópolis, incluindo o perfil de polifenóis por meio de HPLC-DAD, foram também determinados. A amostra bruta de geoprópolis apresentou mais altos valores de umidade (7,78%), ceras (50,79%) e cinzas (3,69%) do que a amostra de própolis (4,59%, 31,16% e 2,42%, respectivamente). O conteúdo de fenólicos totais e do extrato seco foi superior no extrato hidroalcoólico de própolis (3,83 mg eq ácido gálico ml-1 e 7,87%, respectivamente) do que no extrato hidroalcoólico de geoprópolis (0,16 mg eq ácido gálico ml-1 e 0,15%, respectivamente). A análise cromatográfica confirmou a presença de ácido cafeico, quercetina, 1,5,7-tri-hidroxi-flavanona, apigenina, pinobaksina, crisina, pinocembrina, e galangina em ambos os extratos. O ensaio antibacteriano mostrou diferenças significativas entre as atividades dos extratos hidroalcoólicos assim como entre a sensibilidade das bactérias testadas. As diluições do extrato hidroalcoólico de própolis tiveram efeito inibitório sobre quatro das cinco bactérias testadas enquanto as diluições do extrato hidroalcoólico de geoprópolis foram eficientes somente contra C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis e em menor extensão. A sequência de sensibilidade das bactérias aos tratamentos com própolis foi: C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis > X. gardneri > X. vesicatoria > P. corrugata. Pseudomonas mediterranea não foi sensível a nenhum dos extratos hidroalcoólicos. A atividade antibacteriana de ambos os extratos foi dependente da dose, sendo que os tratamentos com maior concentração foram os mais efetivos (15,0 mg mL-1 de geoprópolis e 78,7 mg mL-1 de própolis, extrato seco, respectivamente). O conteúdo de polifenóis e o perfil HPLC-DAD dos extratos hidroalcoólicos mostraram diferenças na composição química, as quais podem ajudar a explicar os resultados do ensaio in vitro. Estes resultados contribuem para a caracterização de produtos bioativos de abelhas, especificamente própolis e geoprópolis. O presente estudo indica a possibilidade de usar própolis como uma estratégia não-convencional para controlar doenças do tomate causadas por bactérias.(AU)

The influence of collection methods and pluviometry on bee pollen productivity in the Caatinga / Influência do método de coleta e da pluviometria na produtividade de pólen apícola na Caatinga

In order to maximize bee pollen collection in the hives, management of colonies of Africanized bees (Apis mellifera L.) must respect harvest intensity and the species biological aspects and implement innovations that optimize production. Accordingly, this study set out to compare the bee pollen productivity between two different pollen trap models and the productivity in the use of one or two pollen traps in the hive. The following treatments were applied: a front-mounted trap fitted at the hive entrance, a top-mounted pollen trap above the hive, and two one front-mounted and one top-mounted pollen traps on the same hive. All of the colonies were subjected to all of the treatments to circumvent the colonys effect on productivity results. The front-mounted pollen trap indicated the highest bee pollen productivity, and the colonies only needed one pollen trap to demonstrate productive potential in the Caatinga.(AU)

O manejo aplicado em colônias de abelhas africanizadas (Apis mellifera L.) para maximizar a coleta de pólen apícola nas colmeias, deve prezar pela intensidade da colheita, respeitar os aspectos biológicos da espécie e implantar inovações que otimizem esta produção. Para otimizar a colheita deste produto apícola, objetivou-se com este trabalho comparar a produtividade de pólen apícola obtida por dois modelos de coletores, bem como a produtividade utilizando-se quantidades diferentes (um ou dois) de coletores na colmeia. Os tratamentos aplicados foram os seguintes: um coletor frontal localizado no alvado da colmeia; um coletor tipo melgueira localizada acima do ninho; dois coletores concomitantemente, sendo um coletor frontal e um coletor tipo melgueira. Todas as colônias passaram por todos os tratamentos para evitar o efeito da colônia sobre os resultados de produtividade. O coletor de pólen tipo frontal foi o mais indicado para a maior produtividade de pólen apícola e as colônias necessitaram somente de um coletor de pólen para expressarem o potencial de produção na Caatinga.(AU)

Impact of entomopathogenic nematodes on Africanized honey bees Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) workers / Impacto de nematoides entomopatogênicos sobre operárias de Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Africanizada

Africanized honey bee populations (Apis mellifera L.) have been decreasing mainly due to the intense use of synthetic insecticides associated with pollution and climate change. To minimize these impacts on the environment and bee populations, the use of biological control agents has been intensified. These products are generally safer for non-target insects, such as bees, which are important pollinating insects. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of entomopathogenic nematodes on the longevity of the Africanized honey bee A. mellifera workers. Seven treatments were used: Heterorhabditis amazonensis, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Heterorhabditis indica, Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiae, and Steinernema rarum, at a concentration of 40 infective juveniles per cm² (IJs/cm²), and a control in which autoclaved distilled water was used. Two bioassays were performed: 1) spraying nematodes on the workers and 2) spraying nematodes on glass plates, in which the bees remained for two hours. Each treatment consisted of five replicates with 20 bees each. Bees were kept in cages of PVC (20 × 10 cm) covered with a voile fabric and provided pieces of cotton soaked in water and Candy paste. The cages were kept in a climatized room (27 ± 2 °C temperature, 60 ± 10% relative humidity, and 12 h photophase) and the mortality was evaluated from 12 to 240 hours. In bioassay 1, the three treatments with nematodes of the genus Steinernema reduced the longevity of the workers (103.9, 96.3, and 99.6 h) when compared to treatments with Heterorhabditis (149.7, 126.8, and 134.7 h), of which, only H. amazonensis (149.7 h) did not differ from the control (166.0 h). In bioassay 2, all treatments reduced the longevity of honey bees (155.4 to [...].

As populações de abelhas africanizadas (Apis mellifera L.) vêm diminuindo devido, principalmente, ao intenso uso de inseticidas sintéticos. Desde modo, o emprego de agentes de controle biológico tem-se intensificado de forma a minimizar este impacto no ambiente. Estes produtos são, de modo geral, mais seguros aos insetos não-alvos, como as abelhas que são importantes insetos polinizadores. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos de nematoides entomopatogênicos utilizados para controle de insetos pragas, sobre a longevidade de operárias de A. mellifera africanizada. Foram utilizados sete tratamentos: Heterorhabditis amazonensis, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Heterorhabditis indica, Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiae e Steinernema rarum, na concentração de 40 juvenis infectantes por cm² (JIs/cm²), e como testemunha água destilada autoclavada. Para isso foram realizados dois bioensaios: 1) Pulverização dos nematoides sobre as operárias e 2) Pulverização dos nematoides em placas de vidro, nas quais as abelhas permaneceram por duas horas em contato. Cada tratamento foi composto por cinco repetições com 20 abelhas cada. As abelhas foram mantidas em gaiolas de PVC (20x10cm) cobertas com tecido voile e fornecidos pedaços de algodão embebido em água e pasta Candy. As gaiolas foram mantidas em sala climatizada (27 ± 2 °C, U.R. 60 ± 10%, fotofase de 12h) e a mortalidade avaliada de 12 até 240 horas. No bioensaio 1 os três tratamentos com nematoides do gênero Steinernema reduziram a longevidade das operárias (103,9; 96,3 e 99,6 horas) quando comparados aos tratamentos com Heterorhabditis (149,7; 126,8 e 134,7 horas). Entretanto, dentre estes apenas H. amazonensis (149,7 horas) não diferiu da testemunha (166,0 horas). No bioensaio 2, todos os [...].

The influence of collection methods and pluviometry on bee pollen productivity in the Caatinga / Influência do método de coleta e da pluviometria na produtividade de pólen apícola na Caatinga

In order to maximize bee pollen collection in the hives, management of colonies of Africanized bees (Apis mellifera L.) must respect harvest intensity and the species biological aspects and implement innovations that optimize production. Accordingly, this study set out to compare the bee pollen productivity between two different pollen trap models and the productivity in the use of one or two pollen traps in the hive. The following treatments were applied: a front-mounted trap fitted at the hive entrance, a top-mounted pollen trap above the hive, and two one front-mounted and one top-mounted pollen traps on the same hive. All of the colonies were subjected to all of the treatments to circumvent the colonys effect on productivity results. The front-mounted pollen trap indicated the highest bee pollen productivity, and the colonies only needed one pollen trap to demonstrate productive potential in the Caatinga.

O manejo aplicado em colônias de abelhas africanizadas (Apis mellifera L.) para maximizar a coleta de pólen apícola nas colmeias, deve prezar pela intensidade da colheita, respeitar os aspectos biológicos da espécie e implantar inovações que otimizem esta produção. Para otimizar a colheita deste produto apícola, objetivou-se com este trabalho comparar a produtividade de pólen apícola obtida por dois modelos de coletores, bem como a produtividade utilizando-se quantidades diferentes (um ou dois) de coletores na colmeia. Os tratamentos aplicados foram os seguintes: um coletor frontal localizado no alvado da colmeia; um coletor tipo melgueira localizada acima do ninho; dois coletores concomitantemente, sendo um coletor frontal e um coletor tipo melgueira. Todas as colônias passaram por todos os tratamentos para evitar o efeito da colônia sobre os resultados de produtividade. O coletor de pólen tipo frontal foi o mais indicado para a maior produtividade de pólen apícola e as colônias necessitaram somente de um coletor de pólen para expressarem o potencial de produção na Caatinga.