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Fallopia japonica (FJ), commonly known as Japanese knotweed, is now recognized as one of the most invasive plants in Europe and globally. Despite its widespread presence in Europe and its significant nectar production, there is currently limited scientific data on the unique unifloral honey derived from it. This study examines the physicochemical composition of Fallopia japonica honey (FJH) samples collected from various regions in Romania. Additionally, the nutritional and antioxidant profiles of FJH were assessed. The sensory analysis revealed a honey with a brown-caramel color and an intense flavor, characterized by fine, consistent crystals during crystallization. The results indicated that FJH has a high carbohydrate content (fructose: 35.12–40.65 g/100 g; glucose: 28.06–37.79 g/100 g); elevated electrical conductivity (387–692 µS/cm), diastase activity (9.11–17.01 DN), and acidity (21.61–42.89 meq/kg); and substantial total phenolic (89.87–120.08 mg/100 g) and flavonoid (18.13–39.38 mg/g) contents. These findings highlight FJH's favorable nutritional properties, aligning with the standard codex for honey. The antioxidant profile of FJH demonstrated strong DPPH and ferric reduction antioxidant power (FRAP) activities, comparable to those of buckwheat honey, underscoring its potential health benefits and commercial value. These results provide new insights into how this invasive plant can be harnessed as a valuable resource for sustainable beekeeping practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fallopia japonica (FJ), an invasive plant species known for its rich bioactive compounds, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Despite its significant beekeeping potential, this aspect of FJ remains underexplored. This research aims to investigate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of FJ plants and honey. Notably, this study is the first to identify individual phenolic compounds in both FJ plant tissues and FJ honey, highlighting resveratrol as a marker of FJ honey. The study tested inhibitory activity against seven bacterial strains: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Salmonella enteritidis, and the yeast Candida albicans. Disk diffusion and microdilution methods were used to assess antimicrobial activity, while the crystal violet staining test evaluated antibiofilm activity. Results showed that FJ plant tissues and honey exhibited strong inhibition, particularly against Gram-negative bacterial strains. The most significant inhibition of biofilm formation, by both FJ plant tissues and honey, was observed against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. A significant positive correlation was found between antimicrobial activity and individual polyphenols, especially resveratrol. The antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of FJ plant tissues and honey suggests promising applications in sustainable beekeeping. Further research is necessary to evaluate the bioactive compounds found in FJ honey and their health effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the suitability of three lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains—Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Apilactobacillus kunkeei—for use as probiotics in apiculture. Given the decline in bee populations due to pathogens and environmental stressors, sustainable alternatives to conventional treatments are necessary. This study aimed to assess the potential of these LAB strains in a probiotic formulation for bees through various in vitro tests, including co-culture interactions, biofilm formation, auto-aggregation, antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity, antibiotic susceptibility, and resistance to high osmotic concentrations. This study aimed to assess both the individual effects of the strains and their combined effects, referred to as the LAB mix. Results indicated no mutual antagonistic activity among the LAB strains, demonstrating their compatibility with multi-strain probiotic formulations. The LAB strains showed significant survival rates under high osmotic stress and simulated gastrointestinal conditions. The LAB mix displayed enhanced biofilm formation, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial efficacy against different bacterial strains. These findings suggest that a probiotic formulation containing these LAB strains could be used for a probiotic formulation, offering a promising approach to mitigating the negative effects of pathogens. Future research should focus on in vivo studies to validate the efficacy of these probiotic bacteria in improving bee health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates the impact of solid-state fermentation on bee-collected pollen using a consortium of Lactobacillus plantarum, Apilactobacillus kunkeei, and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Another aim is to compare the nutritional and bioactive properties of natural versus fermented pollen, focusing on macronutrient composition, pH, acidity, lactic acid content, and profiles of polyphenolics and flavonoids. Our results indicated significant enhancements in the contents of amino acids, suggesting improved protein content, alongside increases in polyphenolic and flavonoid contents post-fermentation. According to the heat mapping and cluster analysis, increased antioxidant and antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, particularly E. coli, were observed in the fermented bee-collected pollen samples, which may have been due to the accumulation of phenolic compounds (e.g., ellagic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside). Furthermore, significant positive correlations of the fermented bee-collected pollen samples with non-essential amino acids were recorded compared with the unfermented bee-collected pollen samples, which may have been due to the fermentation process and the conversion of proteins into free amino acids via proteolysis. Future research could explore the underlying mechanisms, the scalability of fermentation, its application in functional foods, and the health benefits of fermented bee-collected pollen in human diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed, Reynoutria japonica or Polygonum cuspidatum) is considered an extremely invasive plant worldwide and a bioindicator of heavy metals. Yet, its potential as a crop for honeybees is still underevaluated. This study employs atomic absorption spectrometry to quantitatively analyze the concentration of macro-elements, namely, calcium (Ca), potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg); micro-elements, such as copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se); and trace elements, i.e., cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) in different anatomic parts of Fallopia japonica (FJ) plants (roots, rhizomes, stems, leaves) and their traceability into honey. This research encompasses a thorough examination of samples collected from the northwestern and western part of Romania, providing insights into their elemental composition. The results showed that the level of trace elements decreases in terms of traceability in honey samples (Pb was not detected in any of the analyzed samples, while Cd had a minimum content 0.001 mg/kg), ensuring its quality and health safety for consumption. Moreover, the data generated can function as a valuable resource to explore the plant's positive eco-friendly impacts, particularly in relation to its honey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lately, there have been increasing efforts to stimulate the strategic role of the bees in biodiversity protection, in agriculture & horticulture. European Union (EU) has invested in the beekeeping sector in the last years by funding Farm to Fork strategy. The aim of this strategy is to protect them and preserve their contribution in sustainable environmental models. Biodiversity is decreasing by using intensive agriculture, chimization and automatization and consequently a decline in ecosystem services in many parts of the world, most representatives being pollination. Over the past three decades, there was an increasing in atmospheric temperature. Because of changes in plant flowering times patterns, the interaction between pollinators and their food sources is also affected. The challenges facing bee health have multiple sources, including poor nutrition due to less nectar source, heat stress resulting from global warming, agrochemicals used in agriculture, and pathogens becoming increasingly resistant to conventional treatments. However, thermal stress can negatively affect hive activity, which can affect foraging activity, immunocompetence, reproductive capacity, and the growth and development of bees. This, in turn, will affect pollination services and hive production overall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Royal jelly (RJ), a highly nutritious natural product, has gained recognition for its remarkable health-promoting properties, leading to its widespread use in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Extensive investigations have revealed that RJ possesses a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, anti-aging, and antibacterial activities. Distinctive among bee products, RJ exhibits a significantly higher water and relatively lower sugar content. It is characterized by its substantial protein content, making it a valuable source of this essential macronutrient. Moreover, RJ contains a diverse array of bioactive substances, such as lipids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, organic acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, and hormones. This review aims to provide an overview of current research on the bioactive components present in RJ and their associated health-promoting qualities. According to existing literature, these bioactive substances hold great potential as alternative approaches to enhancing human health. Notably, this review emphasizes the anti-inflammatory properties of RJ, particularly in relation to inflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Furthermore, we delve into the antitumor and antioxidant activities of RJ, aiming to deepen our understanding of its biological functions. By shedding light on the multifaceted benefits of RJ, this review seeks to encourage its utilization and inspire further investigation in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major challenges that global society is facing nowadays is finding sustainable and safe methods for crop growth and development. Besides the traditional crops cultivated worldwide (tomatoes, potatoes, lettuce, strawberries, etc.), there is a general trend in the exploitation of polyvalent plants. Mulberry (Morus spp.) faced no exception; with its undeniable proprieties, it became suitable not only to be used in the sericulture industry, but in the food chain, the pharma industry, and environmental safety. Spare parts of the plants can be used in a very wide range, starting from introducing mulberry leaves in supplements to increase the protein content of a meal to extracting biologically active compounds from fruits and roots to be used in phytotherapy. However, the outstanding proprieties of this plant come with some requirements related to space availability and watering; requirements that can be easily surpassed by using vertical farming methods, such as hydroponic, aeroponic, or aquaponic systems. The present paper aims to evaluate vertical farming techniques' applicability to mulberry propagation in a controlled environment and their prospects for a more sustainable and safer agricultural practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, there are a multitude of sources of heavy metal pollution which have unwanted effects on this super organism, the soil, which is capable of self-regulation, but limited. Living a healthy life through the consumption of fruits and vegetables, mushrooms, edible products and by-products of animal origin, honey and bee products can sometimes turn out to be just a myth due to the contamination of the soil with heavy metals whose values, even if they are below accepted limits, are taken up by plants, reach the food chain and in the long term unbalance the homeostasis of the human organism. Plants, these miracles of nature, some with the natural ability to grow on polluted soils, others needing a little help by adding chelators or amendments, can participate in the soil detoxification of heavy metals through phytoextraction and phytostabilization. The success of soil decontamination must take into account the collaboration of earth sciences, pedology, pedochemistry, plant physiology, climatology, the characteristics of heavy metals and how they are absorbed in plants, and in addition how to avoid the contamination of other systems, water or air. The present work materialized after extensive bibliographic study in which the results obtained by the cited authors were compiled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Royal jelly (RJ) has been one of the most widely used natural products in alternative medicine for centuries. Being produced by both hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands, RJ exhibits an extraordinary complexity in terms of its composition, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, polyphenols, vitamins, and hormones. Due to its heterogeneous structure, RJ displays various functional roles for honeybees, including being involved in nutrition, learning, memory, and social behavior. Furthermore, a wide range of studies reported its therapeutic properties, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, to name a few. In this direction, there is a wide range of health-related problems for which the medical area specialists and researchers are continuously trying to find a cure, such as cancer, atherosclerosis, or infertility. For the mentioned diseases and more, it has been proven that RJ is a key player in finding a valuable treatment. In this review, the great impact of RJ as an alternative medicine agent is highlighted, with a focus on its anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Moreover, we link it to its apitherapeutic potential by discussing its composition. Herein, we discuss a wide range of novel studies and present the latest research work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, we investigated the structural and biological properties of phosphate glasses (PGs) after the addition of V2O5. A xV2O5∙(100 − x)[CaF2∙3P2O5∙CaO] glass system with 0 ≤ x ≤ 16 mol% was synthesized via a conventional melt-quenching technique. Several analysis techniques (dissolution tests, pH, SEM-EDS, FT-IR, and EPR) were used to obtain new experimental data regarding the structural behavior of the system. In vitro tests were conducted to assess the antitumor character of V2O5-doped glass (x = 16 mol%) compared to the matrix (x = 0 mol%) and control (CTRL-) using several tumoral cell lines (A375, A2780, and Caco-2). The characterization of PGs showed an overall dissolution rate of over 90% for all vitreous samples (M and V1–V7) and the high reactivity of this system. EPR revealed a well-resolved hyperfine structure (hfs) typical of vanadyl ions in a C4v symmetry. FT-IR spectra showed the presence of all structural units expected for P2O5, as well as very clear depolymerization of the vitreous network induced by V2O5. The MTT assay indicated that the viability of tumor cells treated with V7-glass extract was reduced to 50% when the highest concentration was used (10 µg/mL) compared to the matrix treatment (which showed no cytotoxic effect at any concentration). Moreover, the matrix treatment (without V2O5) provided an optimal environment for tumor cell attachment and proliferation. In conclusion, the two types of treatment investigated herein were proven to be very different from a statistical point of view (p < 0.01), and the in vitro studies clearly underline the cytotoxic potential of vanadium ions from phosphate glass (V7) as an antitumor agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major progress has been made in cancer research; however, cancer remains one of the most important health-related burdens. Sericulture importance is no longer limited to the textile industry, but its by-products, such as silk fibroin or mulberry, exhibit great impact in the cancer research area. Fibroin, the pivotal compound that is found in silk, owns superior biocompatibility and biodegradability, representing one of the most important biomaterials. Numerous studies have reported its successful use as a drug delivery system, and it is currently used to develop three-dimensional tumor models that lead to a better understanding of cancer biology and play a great role in the development of novel antitumoral strategies. Moreover, sericin's cytotoxic effect on various tumoral cell lines has been reported, but also, it has been used as a nanocarrier for target therapeutic agents. On the other hand, mulberry compounds include various bioactive elements that are well known for their antitumoral activities, such as polyphenols or anthocyanins. In this review, the latest progress of using sericultural by-products in cancer therapy is discussed by highlighting their notable impact in developing novel effective drug strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calluna vulgaris, belonging to the Ericaceae family, is an invasive plant that has widely spread from Europe all across Asia, North America, Australia and New Zealand. Being able to survive in rigid soil and environmental conditions, it is nowadays considered to be of high nature-conservation value. Known for its nutritional and medicinal properties, C. vulgaris stands out for its varied physiochemical composition, spotlighting a wide range of biological activity. Among the most important bioactive compounds identified in C. vulgaris, the phenolic components found in different parts of this herbaceous plant are the main source of its diverse pro-health properties (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, chemoprotective, etc.). Nonetheless, this plant exhibits an excellent nectariferous potential for social insects such as honeybees; therefore, comparing the bioactive compounds observed in the plant and in the final product of the beehive, namely honey, will help us understand and find new insights into the health benefits provided by the consumption of C. vulgaris-related products. Thus, the main interest of this work is to review the nutritional profile, chemical composition and biological activities of the C. vulgaris plant and its related honey in order to encourage the future exploration and use of this health-promoting plant in novel foods, pharmacological products and apitherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Royal jelly (RJ) is one of the most valued natural products and is known for its health-promoting properties. Due to its therapeutic effects, it has been used in medicine since antiquity. Nowadays, several studies indicate that RJ acts as a powerful antimicrobial agent. Indeed, researchers shed light on its antioxidant and anticancer activity. RJ's biological properties are related to its bioactive compounds, such as proteins, peptides, phenolic, and fatty acids. The aim of this review is to highlight recent findings on RJ's main bioactive compounds correlated with its health-promoting properties. The available literature suggests that these bioactive compounds can be used as an alternative approach in order to enhance human health. Moreover, throughout this paper, we underline the prominent antibacterial effect of RJ against several target bacterial strains. In addition, we briefly discuss other therapeutic activities, such as antioxidative and anticancer effects, of this outstanding natural product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the medical area and beyond one of the most important biomaterials is the silk fibroin (SF) produced by the Bombyx mori L. silkworm. This outstanding biopolymer has received great attention from researchers due to its unique properties. Among them, the most important characteristic of SF is the high level of biocompatibility with the human organism. The biocompatibility, high mechanical strength, biodegradability and the biologically active properties have put SF in the spotlight, and thus numerous biomaterials have been developed. Furthermore, by using genetic engineering, biomaterials have been obtained that exhibit enhanced properties. In a wide range of studies, SF was used in order to develop sponges, hydrogels, nanospheres and films. By using SF-based biomaterials, tremendous progress has been made in tissue engineering and cancer therapy. In the specialized literature, various methods have been described regarding both extraction and processing of SF as a functional material. Moreover, SF-based biomaterials have been successfully obtained by using ecological methods of processing. Therefore, SF is considered to be the foremost green material. Silk fibroin (SF) is a natural protein (biopolymer) extracted from the cocoons of Bombyx mori L. (silkworm). It has many properties of interest in the field of biotechnology, the most important being biodegradability, biocompatibility and robust mechanical strength with high tensile strength. SF is usually dissolved in water-based solvents and can be easily reconstructed into a variety of material formats, including films, mats, hydrogels, and sponges, by various fabrication techniques (spin coating, electrospinning, freeze-drying, and physical or chemical crosslinking). Furthermore, SF is a feasible material used in many biomedical applications, including tissue engineering (3D scaffolds, wounds dressing), cancer therapy (mimicking the tumor microenvironment), controlled drug delivery (SF-based complexes), and bone, eye and skin regeneration. In this review, we describe the structure, composition, general properties, and structure–properties relationship of SF. In addition, the main methods used for ecological extraction and processing of SF that make it a green material are discussed. Lastly, technological advances in the use of SF-based materials are addressed, especially in healthcare applications such as tissue engineering and cancer therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to characterize raw honeys from different geographical origins in Romania, in respect of chemical composition, microbiological examination and evaluate their probiotic potential. The physico-chemical determinations were performed in APHIS-DIA Laboratory, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, using standard validated methods. Bacterial identification was performed for each sample and each colony type using Vitek® 2 Compact 15 system and PCR amplification using 16S rDNA bacterial universal primers (27F, 1492R), species being confirm by sequences analysis. In five raw honey samples, we have identified probiotic bacteria, such as: Bacillus mycoides, Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus velezensis. Generally, all honey samples meet the standard values for chemical composition. However, one sample having 7.44% sucrose was found to have also probiotics bacteria from the genus Bacillus because sucrose is a substrate for probiotics development. In conclusion, the Romanian raw honey can be a potential reservoir of probiotics, which confer a health benefit for consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria has prompted the development of alternative therapies, including the use of natural products with antibacterial properties. The antibacterial properties of Zantaz honey produced in the Moroccan Atlas Mountains against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus was evaluated and analyzed using chemometric tools. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against S. aureus were the lowest (112.5 ± 54.5 mg/mL), revealing that this species was most sensitive to Zantaz honey. P. aeruginosa showed an intermediate sensitivity (MIC= 118.75 ± 51.9 mg/mL), while E. coli was the most resistant to treatment (MIC = 175 ± 61.2 mg/mL). Content of monosaccharides, certain minerals, and phenolic compounds correlated with antibacterial activity (p < 0.05). Principal component analysis of physicochemical characteristics and antibacterial activity indicated that the parameters most associated with antibacterial activity were color, acidity, and content of melanoidins, fructose, epicatechin, methyl syringate, 4-coumaric acid, and 3-coumaric acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since ancient times, honey has been considered one of the most illustrious and esteemed natural products. Honey plays two key roles; specifically, it is an appreciated nutritional product, and also exhibits a wide range of beneficial properties for human health as a therapeutic agent. Furthermore, it has been shown that honey has valuable effects on the biological and physiological features of mulberry silkworms (Bombyx mori). Bombyx mori exhibits importance not only for the economy, but it also serves as an important biotechnological bioreactor for the production of recombinant proteins that have a great impact in the medical field and beyond. It also represents an important model organism for life sciences. In view of the fact that silk fibroin serves as a natural biopolymer that displays high biocompatibility with human organisms and due to honey's various and remarkable properties for human health, the two elements are currently used together in order to develop ideal biomaterials for a wide range of purposes. In this review, by discussing the applicability of honey on Bombyx mori and beyond, the importance of honey for life sciences and related fields is spotlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutritional and therapeutic aspects of natural products have gained more interest in recent years, owing to the importance that has been given to health and well-being. In this regard, honey represents an organic product whose high level of biologically active compounds and valuable nutrients have been extensively studied in order to prove its ability to provide an enhancement in health status. The use of honey in the process of healing or preventing certain diseases has been practiced throughout history and is now known as apitherapy. The aim of this review is to expand the knowledge and understanding towards the physicochemical characteristics of honey and the action of its main bioactive compounds towards health-beneficial properties (antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, etc.) for apitherapeutic purposes. Notwithstanding all the assets, the usage of honey for medical purposes encounters some limi-tations regarding the factors that may affect the therapeutic potential of honey in apitherapy that will be pointed out in this overview. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bombyx mori is one of the most studied species of Lepidoptera by the scientific community, being a permanent model organism especially for life sciences. Two major proteins named fibroin and sericin are found in silk thread used in the cocoon. Fibroin is widely used as a biomaterial due to the high biocompatibility, mechanical strength and biodegradability. Besides the great economic importance, over the past decade, Bombyx mori has received major attention as a bioreactor for large scale production of recombinant proteins. One of the greatest advantages of silkworms is the number of genes which are homologous to human genes, but also it is important to mention their short generation time and the rich genetic resource. In this article, we summarized a review of using the transgenic silkworm as a bioreactor to produce recombinant proteins. The recombinant proteins are currently used to optimize the biomaterials, which have a significant impact for the progress of human and veterinary medicine. For example, sericin hydrogels, containing human acidic fibroblast growth factor supporting wound healing, have been developed. Also, to improve cell adhesive properties, silk fibroin/hyaluronic scaffolds for human mesenchymal stem cell culture have been produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aimed to present the microscopic techniques used in botanical origin determination of honey samples, shortly melissopalynology. This technique is used for microscopic examination of pollen grains to determine the botanical origin of honey. It is known that a certain number of pollen grains must be recovered from sediment of honey solution, and the presence of small amounts of pollen may be related to falsification. Identification of pollen structure is generally made using light microscopy; phase contrast microscopy may be also used. Fluorescence microscopy is also a powerful method in palynology. Confocal laser scanning microscopy is effective in revealing the ultrastructure of pollen outer layer and shape of the pollen. The determination of the botanical origin of honey using palynology is based on the relative frequency of the pollen belonging to nectariferous plants. Honey is considered monofloral if the pollen from the sediment comes predominantly from a named botanical origin and overpasses 45% from the total count of pollen grains counted on the microscopic slide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few years, the honeybees faced a significant decline worldwide. Despite many biotic and abiotic stressors, one of the leading causes of honeybee colony loses is Varroa destructor, followed by Nosema spp.. Given the importance of honeybee in agriculture and a significantly increased resistance to treatments identified in Varroa destructor, a more sustainable method to counter this mite is needed. One of these sustainable methods is breeding for resistance to Varroa destructor. Due to the rising number of honeybee populations with potential resistance to Varroa destructor, a new promising breeding plan for natural selection was proposed. This breeding plan was adapted and implemented on a local population of honey bees in Transilvania, with the primary objective of obtaining resistant colonies to Varroa destructor. Development of these colonies was observed, and analysis of Varroa infestation level and Nosema spp. was performed to assess the health status of the population or the cause of mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the scientific community has been focused on developing feasible platforms to obtain recombinant proteins in order to meet the high demand. There is a wide range of bioreactors that are currently used for this purpose, as bacteria, yeast, mammalian, plant or insect cells. In this regard, decades of dedicated research have shown that the insect biotechnology field is showing the most promising results. In this direction, Bombyx mori exhibits a great potential as a bioreactor to produce target proteins as it possesses various advantages. As expression host, Bombyx mori cells provide optimal post-translational modifications and display a remarkable ability to produce in a short period a great amount of proteins. In this review we discuss progress and we highlight the potential of using transgenic Bombyx mori as a biotechnological platform to obtain both target proteins and to produce enhanced silk fibres. The versatility and the feasibility of transgenic Bombyx mori have been outlined by studies that reported the successful production of human proteins like adiponectin, animal proteins, virus-derived proteins and enhanced silk threads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bovine mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the udder that causes important economic losses in the animal breeding and dairy product industries. Nowadays, the conventional livestock antibiotic treatments are slowly being replaced by alternative treatments. In this context, the main aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of natural products in alternative treatment of bovine mastitis. Material and Methods: Two natural formulations with previously suggested in vitro antimicrobial effect were tested in vivo on mastitic cows. Animals with a positive diagnosis for mastitis (n = 20) were divided into three treatment groups: two groups (n = 8) were administered formulations of propolis, alcoholic extracts of Brewers Gold and Perle hops, plum lichen, common mallow, marigold, absinthe wormwood, black poplar buds, lemon balm, and essential oils of oregano, lavender, and rosemary designated R4 and R7 (differing only in the latter being more concentrated) and one group (n = 4) a conventional antibiotic mixture. In vivo efficacy of treatments was evaluated by somatic cell and standard plate counts, the treatment being considered efficacious when both parameters were under the maximum limit. Results: R7 was effective in the most cases, being therapeutically bactericidal in six out of eight cows, while R4 gave good results in three out of eight cows, and conventional antibiotics cured one out of four. Conclusion: These results suggest the possible therapeutic potential of these natural products in bovine mastitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey, a complex product made by bees, represents a rich natural source of simple carbohydrates. The characteristic flavor, health benefits, and high economic value of honey depend on its origin and production methods. Therefore, labels have been developed to recognize honey quality linked to origin or production method, in order to inform consumers about these specific determinants. This review aims to deepen the knowledge of honey quality linked to the origin and to present an overview of the literature concerning the methods to determine its authenticity. Legislative aspects and the general parameters required for honey generic quality are presented, as well as honey quality control methods with emphasis on the profiling determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of former research concerning the development of inbred lines in native silkworms breeds, established the technologic formation procedures and pointed out reduced values of inbreeding depression in the productive characteristics. The object of the present research aims are the identification and selection of the most productive inbred lines based on crossing with tester constant lines, namely the research of general combining capacity; establishing specific combining capacity by direct and reciprocal crossing and estimation of heterosis effect. The results of research emphasize that from those 14 inbreeding lines tested for combining capacity, 7 and 10 maternal lines and 3 paternal lines obtain heterosis results that demonstrate superior possibilities of turning into account the crossbreeding system in silkworms raising. The heterosis effect is obvious important foe shell weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver cations are the building blocks of silver based antimicrobial traditional therapies, which are known and used by man for centuries. However, when facing heavy metals, bacterial genetic plasticity can induce the development of adaptive mechanisms required for survival under such major microbe-associated stressors. Whether they act as part of the natural environment, polluted industrial sites or medical antimicrobial protocols, silver ions are systematically exerting a selection pressure on bacterial communities. Thus, sublethal doses of silver ions stimulate inter-bacterial genetic material exchange and the expression of chromosome or plasmid located genes, which encode proteins with biochemical capabilities to counteract their harmful effects. Depending on Gram stain corresponding traits, species and strains, bacteria interact with silver ions at both cellular envelope and internal structure levels. The continued spread of using silver-based materials in the recent years offered opportunities to discover novel antimicrobial strategies but equally induced an increase in bacterial resistance and adaptation against this chemical element. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) is a species with high economical and scientific value, acknowledged at international level, as well as at national level. The preservation of the Romanian sericulture patrimony was possible and it is possible trough projects implemented and supported by organizations such as FAO. Many studies, at national level, were performed with a focus on the evaluation of local breeds and hybrids, from economical and biotechnological perspectives. But, in order to offer recommendations to farmers interested in sericulture, a clear and concise evaluation and classification of the breeds and hybrids is needed. The main purpose of the current research is to attempt to implement a classification of the breeds and hybrids of the silkworm using a method called Evaluation Index Method that takes into consideration multiple economical and technological traits. The information obtained will result into a ranking based on the overall economical and technological value of the silkworm breeds and hybrids, information considered valuable for the interested farmer. The biological resources were offered by the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine from Cluj-Napoca. The biological and technological traits that were taken into consideration when applying the Evaluation Index Method are focused on: prolificacy (number of eggs/laying, hatching percentage), evaluation of the larvae (length, weight), duration of the larval period, evaluation of the raw silk cocoon and the dried silk cocoon (dimension, weight of the cocoon, weight of chrysalis, weight of the silk shell). The classification it is done based on the value of the Evaluation Index obtained for each selected breed and hybrid of silkworm. As the applied method takes into account a large number of selected economical and technological traits, a ranking of the analyzed breeds and hybrids was obtained. The breeds and hybrids with values of the EI index higher than 50 are considered to be valuable from economical and technological point of view. The information obtained from the obtained ranking of the silkworm breeds and hybrids, taking into account their adaptability capacity and productivity, can be marketed towards farmers interested in sericulture and in productive silkworm local breeds and hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientific studies show that the darker the honey, the higher its bio-active properties are. Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed) is an invasive plant, growing shrub reaching heights of 3 m. Flowering occurs in late summer, when small, greenish-white flowers develop in long panicles in the axils of the leaves. Plants are dioeciously with flowers intensely visited by the bees, the honey obtained from nectar of this plant being a mild-flavored version of buckwheat honey; dark in color, appearing dark red when held to light. The present study aim to determine the chemical composition of Japanese knotweed honey and also their bioactive properties derived from the chemical composition. Different physicochemical, gravimetric, spectrophotometric and chromatographic determinations were used in the study. Analyzed honey samples are very good sources of minerals, especially K and Na (1187-6196 mg/kg K and 58.8-68.8 mg/kg Na). Also high amounts of Ca were determined. High amounts of total polyphenols and flavonoids were determined in Japanese knotweed honey samples, from several western places of Romania. This could reduce the impact that Fallopia japonica invasive plant have on the habitat, and if this plant is kept under observation and far from the inhabited areas, it could be highly valuable for beekeepers and honey production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides supplying food for silkworm rearing, initiation of a mulberry plantation is an important business, which may bring important income in rural areas. Plants of the genus Morus are known to be a rich source of bioactive compounds from flavonoids and phenolic acids, compounds with known antioxidant and other benefic properties. The aim of the present study was the characterization of mulberry extracts (from leaves and fruits) regarding their chemical composition and determination of some bioactive properties of the mentioned matrices. Sugar profile, total protein and lipid content, total phenolics and flavonoids, mineral composition and aminoacid profile were determined. Mulberry leaves are important protein sources (being the principal feed for silkworm) and also important source of free aminoacids, including the essential ones. 25 free aminoacids (aa), were identified and quantified by internal standard method using LC-MS and EZ: faast Phenomenex kit. The main aa were alanine (144 mg/100g) and Gama-aminobutiric acid (153 mg/100g). The main minerals from mulberry extracts were: iron, zinc and calcium. Total identified simple sugars ranged between 8 and 13% and lipid content between 0.5 to 1.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper is one of the most used therapeutic metallic elements in biomedicine, ranging from antibacterial approaches to developing new complexes in cancer therapy. In the present investigation, we developed a novel xCuO∙(100 − x) [CaF2∙3P2O5∙CaO] glass system with 0 ≤ x ≤ 16 mol% in order to determine the influence of doping on the composition structure of glasses. The samples were characterized by dissolution tests, pH measurements, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), Scanning Electron Microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and afterward, their antitumor character was assessed. The glasses were mostly soluble in the aqueous medium, their dissolution rate being directly proportional to the increase in pH and the level of doping up to x = 8 mol%. FT-IR spectra of glass samples show the presence of all structural units characteristic to P2O5 in different rates and directly depending on the depolymerization process. SEM-EDX results revealed the presence of an amorphous glass structure composed of P, O, Ca, and Cu elements. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction assay showed strong cytotoxicity for tumoral cells A375 even in low concentrations for Cu-treatment. In contrast, the copper-free matrix (without Cu) determined a proliferative effect of over 70% viability for all concentrations used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transylvanian propolis is characterized through its physico-chemical properties and antioxidant activity. Samples taken into study showed a wide variability with regards to their chemical composition. Humidity level was very balanced, but wax content ranged between 15.43 % and 54.44 %. Extraction of resins from propolis with ethanol 70 % resulted within the range 41.96%-73.20% with a mean value of 61.72 ± 7.74%. Variations noticed within the flavonoid content of propolis are mainly attributable to the difference in the preferred regional plants collected by honeybees. IC50 values for the investigated propolis samples ranged between 0.44 mg/ml and 4.29mg/ml. The lowest IC50 value 0.44 mg/ml corresponding to sample P15 indicates a great antioxidant activity of the mentioned sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The robinia honey takes the first place, as preferences regarding honey consumption. Considering this, the concern of the producers for increasing the quantities to cover the needs on the market is permanently growing and rapid methods for quality control and adulteration detection are widely demanded by producers, processors, consumers and regulatory bodies. A first and essential step in any quality evaluation of honey is the identification of possible quality markers that can prove that Romanian robinia honey is a qualitative and competitive honey. Quality of honey depends on the plant source, the chemical composition of these plants as well, as on climatic conditions and soil mineral composition. We chose the main physicochemical quality parameters proposed by the European Directive concerning honey and by the International Honey Commission. The results obtained indicated good performance in terms of classification and prediction for both the European directive and IHC approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: One of the most powerful gene editing approaches is the CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)-Cas (CRISPR-associated) tool. The silkworm (Bombyx mori) has a great impact on the global economy, playing a pivotal role in the sericulture industry. However, B. mori came into the spotlight by representing one of science's greatest contributors, being used to establish extraordinary bioreactors for the production of target proteins and illustrating a great experimental model organism. Herein, we focus on progress made in the field of B. mori's genome manipulation by using CRISPR-Cas. In order to edit B. mori's genome, remarkable advances were made, such as exposing gene functions and developing mutant lines that exhibit enhanced resistance against B. mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV). We also discuss how CRISPR-Cas accelerated the fundamental investigation in B. mori, and beyond, thus highlighting the great potential of the insect's biotechnology in numerous scientific fields. CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)-Cas (CRISPR-associated) represents a powerful genome editing technology that revolutionized in a short period of time numerous natural sciences branches. Therefore, extraordinary progress was made in various fields, such as entomology or biotechnology. Bombyx mori is one of the most important insects, not only for the sericulture industry, but for numerous scientific areas. The silkworms play a key role as a model organism, but also as a bioreactor for the recombinant protein production. Nowadays, the CRISPR-Cas genome editing system is frequently used in order to perform gene analyses, to increase the resistance against certain pathogens or as an imaging tool in B. mori. Here, we provide an overview of various studies that made use of CRISPR-Cas for B. mori genome editing, with a focus on emphasizing the high applicability of this system in entomology and biological sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Known especially for its negative ecological impact, Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed) is now considered one of the most invasive species. Nevertheless, its chemical composition has shown, beyond doubt, some high biological active compounds that can be a source of valuable pharmacological potential for the enhancement of human health. In this direction, resveratrol, emodin or polydatin, to name a few, have been extensively studied to demonstrate the beneficial effects on animals and humans. Thus, by taking into consideration the recent advances in the study of Japanese knotweed and its phytochemical constituents, the aim of this article is to provide an overview on the high therapeutic potential, underlining its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, among the most important ones. Moreover, we describe some future directions for reducing the negative impact of Fallopia japonica by using the plant for its beekeeping properties in providing a distinct honey type that incorporates most of its bioactive compounds, with the same health-promoting properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, probiotics have attracted public attention and transformed the social perception of microorganisms, convening a beneficial role/state on human health. With aging, the immune system, body physiology, and intestinal microbiota tend to change unfavorably, resulting in many chronic conditions. The immune-mediated disorders can be linked to intestinal dysbiosis, consequently leading to immune dysfunctions and a cluster of conditions such as asthma, autoimmune diseases, eczema, and various allergies. Probiotic bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species are considered probiotic species that have a great immunomodulatory and anti-allergic effect. Moreover, recent scientific and clinical data illustrate that probiotics can regulate the immune system, exert anti-viral and anti-tumoral activity, and shields the host against oxidative stress. Additionally, microbiota programming by probiotic bacteria can reduce and prevent the symptoms of respiratory infections and ameliorate the neurological status in humans. This review describes the most recent clinical findings, including safe probiotic therapies aiming to medicate respiratory infections, allergies, cancer, and neurological disorders due to their physiological interconnection. Subsequently, we will describe the major biological mechanism by which probiotic bacteriotherapy expresses its anti-viral, anti-allergic, anticancer, and neuro-stimulatory effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) perform pollination service for many agricultural crops and contribute to the global economy in agriculture and bee products. However, honey bee health is an ongoing concern, as illustrated by persistent local population decline, caused by some severe bee diseases (e.g., nosemosis, AFB, EFB, chalkbrood). Three natural recipes are in development based on the bioactive compounds of different plants extract (Agastache foeniculum, Artemisia absinthium, Evernia prunastri, Humulus lupulus, Laurus nobilis, Origanum vulgare and Vaccinium myrtillus), characterised by HPLC-PDA. The antimicrobial activity of these recipes was tested in vitro against Paenibacillus larvae, Paenibacillus alvei, Brevibacillus laterosporus, Enterococcus faecalis, Ascosphaera apis and in vivo against Nosema ceranae. A mix of 20% blueberry, 40% absinthium, 10% oakmoss, 10% oregano, 10% Brewers Gold hops, 5% bay laurel and 5% anise hyssop extract showed the strongest antibacterial and antifungal activity. Combing several highly active plant extracts might be an alternative treatment against bee-disease-associated parasites and pathogens, in particular to replace synthetic antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive molecules from the class of polyphenols are secondary metabolites from plants. They are present in honey from nectar and pollen of flowers from where honeybees collect the "raw material" to produce honey. Robinia pseudoacacia and Helianthus annuus are important sources of nectar for production of two monofloral honeys with specific characteristics and important biological activity. A high-performance liquid chromatography–electro spray ionization–mass spectrometry (HPLC–ESI–MS) separation method was used to determine polyphenolic profile from the two types of Romanian unifloral honeys. Robinia and Helianthus honey showed a common flavonoid profile, where pinobanksin (1.61 and 1.94 mg/kg), pinocembrin (0.97 and 1.78 mg/kg) and chrysin (0.96 and 1.08 mg/kg) were identified in both honey types; a characteristic flavonoid profile in which acacetin (1.20 mg/kg), specific only for Robinia honey, was shown; and quercetin (1.85 mg/kg), luteolin (21.03 mg/kg), kaempferol (0.96 mg/kg) and galangin (1.89 mg/kg), specific for Helianthus honey, were shown. In addition, different phenolic acids were found in Robinia and Helianthus honey, while abscisic acid was found only in Robinia honey. Abscisic acid was correlated with geographical location; the samples collected from the south part of Romania had higher amounts, due to climatic conditions. Acacetin was proposed as a biochemical marker for Romanian Robinia honey and quercetin for Helianthus honey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The objective of this exploratory study was to investigate through a qualitative thematic analysis the reflections of six animal protection and wildlife conservation non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Romania regarding the development of the first specialized master's degree program in ethology and human-animal interaction in the country. The two research questions addressed in the study were (1) What are the needs of the participating NGOs that could be addressed by the first professional master's program in ethology and human-animal interactions in Romania? (2) What are the expectations regarding the roles of the graduates of the program on the collaboration with the NGOs in addressing common problems in the area of human-animal interactions in Romania? The qualitative content analysis of the written reflections allowed the identification of two themes, which provided us valuable insights regarding the curriculum offerings and the pedagogical strategies that could respond to the expressed expectations. The first theme refers to the concerns expressed by the representatives of the NGOs over the animal welfare and human-animal interactions in Romania, which included seven categories of codes: concerns over stray animals, lack of education of general population on animal welfare and interactions with animals, maltreatment of animals, human-animal conflicts, lack of professional specializations in ethology and human-animal interactions, concerns over common global issues, and concerns over national nature conservation. The second identified theme refers to the expectations regarding the roles of the graduates of the master's degree program, and it includes the following four categories: agents for change towards a responsible community, problem solvers, public policy-makers, and providers of competence-based expertise. This study aims to explore through a qualitative thematic analysis the reflections of six animal protection and wildlife conservation NGOs in Romania regarding the development of the first specialized master's degree program in ethology and human-animal interaction (EHAI), in relation to the identified needs based on their experience in the field, as well as their expectations in terms of collaboration with the graduates of such a program in addressing the common problems in the areas of animal welfare and human-animal interactions (HAIs). The qualitative content analysis of the written reflections allowed the identification of two themes, which provided valuable insights regarding the curriculum offerings and the pedagogical strategies that could respond to the expressed needs and expectations. The first theme included seven categories of concerns expressed by the NGOs over the animal welfare and HAIs in Romania, i.e., concerns over stray animals, lack of education of general population on HAI and animal welfare, maltreatment of animals, human-animal conflicts, lack of professional specializations in HAI, concerns over common global issues, and concerns over national nature conservation. The second theme refers to the expectations regarding the roles of the graduates of the EHAI master's program, and it includes four categories of codes: agents for change towards a responsible community, problem solvers, public policy-makers, and providers of competence-based expertise. The inclusion of Service-Learning as signature pedagogy in the EHAI program, in connection with the One Welfare approach, is discussed in relation to the needs expressed by the representatives of the NGOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propolis is a resinous mixture, made by the honeybees from substances collected from tree or other plant buds, plant exudates, or resins found in the stem, branches, or leaves of different plants. The geographical origin of propolis is given by plant sources from respective areas. Different studies have classified this bee product according to the vegetal material from the same areas. Poplar-type propolis has the widest spread in the world, in the temperate zones from Europe, Asia, or North America. The name is given by the main plant source from where the bees are collecting the resins, although other vegetal sources are present in the mentioned areas. Different Pinus spp., Prunus spp., Acacia spp. and also Betula pendula, Aesculus hippocastanum, and Salix alba are important sources of resins for "poplar-type" propolis. The aim of this review is to identify the vegetal material's chemical composition and activities of plant resins and balms used by the bees to produce poplar-type propolis and to compare it with the final product from similar geographical regions. The relevance of this review is to find the similarities between the chemical composition and properties of plant sources and propolis. The latest determination methods of bioactive compounds from plants and propolis are also reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bee Bread samples from Romania and India were analysed by microscopy and High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detection (HPLC/DAD) and compared with pollen from the correspondent taxa. The quantification of sugars, fructose/glucose ratio, total phenolics and flavonoids was also carried out. From the results was possible to identify Brassica and Eucalyptus samples that present similar HPLC/DAD profiles with the respective ultraviolet (UV) identification of the main compounds as Kaempferol-3-O-glycosides and Hydrocinnamic acid derivatives. The Fructose/Glucose (F/G) ratio and the total amounts of phenolics and flavonoids was in line with the prevalence of the specie identified. These coincident fingerprints gave the identification of the samples, as was previously proposed for bee pollens. This paper relates for the first time the achievement on the taxon carried out previously only for bee pollens. It was reported for the first time that this phenolic profile remains unchanged in the case of floral pollen (hand collected), bee pollen and bee bread. Despite the biochemical transformation that occurs during the fermentation of bee bread, it seems that these phenolic compounds are not affected and remain unchanged. Also, variables such as soil and climate do not seem to influence these compounds for the kind of samples under study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]