The ability of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) to protect mice against gamma irradiation.

Ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) was tested as a protective agent against gamma irradiation in mice. The mice were exposed to 6 Gy gamma irradiation from a 60Co source, and were treated intraperitoneally with EEP, administered before and after their irradiation. While the non-treated mice expired within 12 weeks, the mice that received a series of EEP treatments survived the irradiation, and their leucocyte count as well as their spleens' plaque-forming activity returned to normal. It is suggested that an antioxidant and a free radical scavenger in the EEP are responsible for the radiation protective effect of the extract of this natural product.

The ability of ethanol extract of propolis to stimulate plaque formation in immunized mouse spleen cells.

Ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) is capable of increasing the number of plaque-forming cells in spleen cell population of immunized male BALB/c mice, demonstrating their ability to produce antibodies. The single EEP dose exerting the maximal plaque formation (a three-fold increase over control) is 500 micrograms/mouse. When this dose is repeated within 24 hours--the plaque-producing effect is even stronger, but further increases in the propolis dose or in the number of its administrations, have an inhibitory effect on the formation of the plaques. The time interval between administration of the EEP and the immunization process should not exceed 48 hours.

Life skill training: psychoeducational training as mental health treatment.

Fifty-four patients of a Veterans Administration Medical Center were assigned to either a life-skill training program that emphasized psychoeducational instruction and skill building or to a group counseling control condition. Subjects assigned to life-skill training were provided with 28 hours of instruction in interpersonal communication, purpose in life problem solving, and physical fitness/health maintenance. Control subjects received equal time engaged in psychiatric treatment that emphasized the analysis and exploration of personal problems, but with no direct coping skill training. Significant differences between the two groups were found on measures of interpersonal communication and meaningful purpose in life. Both groups received lower staff ratings on psychopathological behavior and demonstrated improvement on ratings of health and physical fitness upon completion of treatment. Twelve- and 24-month follow-up data that include rehospitalization rates are presented for each group.