Ferulic acid as major antioxidant phenolic compound of the Tetragonisca angustula honey collected in Vera Cruz - Itaparica Island, Bahia, Brazil / Ácido ferúlico como principal composto fenólico antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula coletado em Vera Cruz - Ilha de Itaparica, Bahia, Brasil

Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH● assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS●+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH● e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS●+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.

Effects of honey-lemon spray on recurrent aphthous stomatitis comparing to Triamcinolone ointment: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is recurrent and painful diseases of the oral mucosa that can be very painful and annoying despite their small size. There is no definitive cure for this disease and the usual treatments are mainly based on pain control. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of honey-lemon spray (mucotin) in the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Methods: This study is a randomized controlled clinical trial conducted in 2020 at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences on 46 RAS patients. The participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (mucotin) or control groups (Triamcinolone ointment) equally (23 patients in each group). Patients were evaluated for the severity of pain and ulcer size. Evaluations were performed on days 0, 2, 7 of the treatment using VAS. Data were analyzed using ANOVA statistical test. Results: The inner aspect of the lower lip was the most common site of RAS in the participants (48.8%) and the lowest site went for hard palate (2.4%). Four items including pain, burning sensation, necrosis area, and erythematous area were evaluated in both groups. There was no significant difference in all parameters before the treatment period (day 0). The mean pain score, burning sensation, necrosis, erythematous areas were not different in days 0, 2 and 7 between groups respectively (p=0.849, p=0.105, p=0.917, p=0.442). Conclusion: Honey-lemon spray (Mucotin) and topical corticosteroid have similar effects in RAS treating, So Mucotin can be used as the first line of treatment for RAS lesions. This herbal medicine has no side effects

Honey as a bioindicator of environmental organochlorine insecticides contamination / Mel como bioindicador de contaminação ambiental de inseticidas organoclorados

Abstract Honey is a suitable matrix for the evaluation of environmental contaminants including organochlorine insecticides. The present study was conducted to evaluate residues of fifteen organochlorine insecticides in honey samples of unifloral and multifloral origins from Dir, Pakistan. Honey samples (5 g each) were extracted with GC grade organic solvents and then subjected to Rotary Evaporator till dryness. The extracts were then mixed with n-Hexane (5 ml) and purified through Column Chromatography. Purified extracts (1μl each) were processed through Gas Chromatograph coupled with Electron Capture Detector (GC-ECD) for identification and quantification of the insecticides. Of the 15 insecticides tested, 46.7% were detected while 53.3% were not detected in the honey samples. Heptachlor was the most prevalent insecticide with a mean level of 0.0018 mg/kg detected in 80% of the samples followed by β-HCH with a mean level of 0.0016 mg/kg detected in 71.4% of the honey samples. Honey samples from Acacia modesta Wall. were 100% positive for Heptachlor with a mean level of 0.0048 mg/kg followed by β-HCH with a mean level of 0.003 mg/kg and frequency of 83.3%. Minimum levels of the tested insecticides were detected in the unifloral honey from Ziziphus jujuba Mill. Methoxychlor, Endosulfan, Endrin and metabolites of DDT were not detected in the studied honey samples. Some of the tested insecticides are banned in Pakistan but are still detected in honey samples indicating their use in the study area. The detected levels of all insecticides were below the Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) and safe for consumers. However, the levels detected can cause mortality in insect fauna. The use of banned insecticides is one of the main factors responsible for the declining populations of important insect pollinators including honeybees.

Resumo O mel é uma matriz adequada para a avaliação de contaminantes ambientais, incluindo inseticidas organoclorados. O presente estudo foi conduzido para avaliar resíduos de 15 inseticidas organoclorados em amostras de mel de origem unifloral e multifloral de Dir, Paquistão. Amostras de mel (5 g cada) foram extraídas com solventes orgânicos de grau GC e, em seguida, submetidas ao evaporador rotativo até a secura. Os extratos foram então misturados com n-hexano (5 ml) e purificados por cromatografia em coluna. Os extratos purificados (1μl cada) foram processados através de cromatógrafo gasoso acoplado a detector de captura de elétrons (GC-ECD) para identificação e quantificação dos inseticidas. Dos 15 inseticidas testados, 46,7% foram detectados enquanto 53,3% não foram detectados nas amostras de mel. O heptacloro foi o inseticida mais prevalente com um nível médio de 0,0018 mg / kg detectado em 80% das amostras, seguido por β-HCH com um nível médio de 0,0016 mg / kg detectado em 71,4% das amostras de mel. Amostras de mel da parede de Acacia modesta foram 100% positivos para heptacloro com um nível médio de 0,0048 mg / kg seguido por β-HCH com um nível médio de 0,003 mg / kg e frequência de 83,3%. Níveis mínimos dos inseticidas testados foram detectados no mel unifloral de Ziziphus jujuba da usina. Metoxicloro, Endosulfan, Endrin e metabólitos do DDT não foram detectados nas amostras de mel estudadas. Alguns dos inseticidas testados são proibidos no Paquistão, mas ainda são detectados em amostras de mel, indicando seu uso na área de estudo. Os níveis detectados de todos os inseticidas estavam abaixo dos Níveis Máximos de Resíduos (MRLs) e seguros para os consumidores. No entanto, os níveis detectados podem causar mortalidade na fauna de insetos. O uso de inseticidas proibidos é um dos principais fatores responsáveis pelo declínio das populações de importantes insetos polinizadores, incluindo as abelhas.

Variations in nutritional profile of honey produced by various species of genus Apis / Variações no perfil nutricional do mel produzido por várias espécies do gênero Apis

Abstract The medicinal attributes of honey appears to overshadow its importance as a functional food. Consequently, several literatures are rife with ancient uses of honey as complementary and alternative medicine, with relevance to modern day health care, supported by evidence-based clinical data, with little attention given to honey's nutritional functions. The moisture contents of honey extracted from University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore honey bee farm was 12.19% while that of natural source was 9.03 ± 1.63%. Similarly, ash and protein contents of farmed honey recorded were 0.37% and 5.22%, respectively. Whereas ash and protein contents of natural honey were 1.70 ± 1.98% and 6.10 ± 0.79%. Likewise fat, dietary fiber and carbohydrates contents of farmed source documented were 0.14%, 1.99% and 62.26% respectively. Although fat, dietary fiber and carbohydrates contents of honey taken from natural resource were 0.54 ± 0.28%, 2.76 ± 1.07% and 55.32 ± 2.91% respectively. Glucose and fructose contents of honey taken out from honeybee farm were 27% and 34% but natural source were 22.50 ± 2.12% and 28.50 ± 3.54%. Glucose and fructose contents of honey taken out from honeybee farm were 27% and 34% but natural source were 22.50 ± 2.12% and 28.50 ± 3.54%. Similarly, sucrose and maltose contents of farmed honey were 2.5% and 12% while in natural honey were 1.35 ± 0.49% and 8.00 ± 1.41% respectively. The present study indicates that such as moisture, carbohydrates, sucrose and maltose contents were higher farmed honey as compared to the natural honey. In our recommendation natural honey is better than farmed honey.

Resumo Os atributos medicinais do mel parecem ofuscar sua importância como alimento funcional. Consequentemente, várias literaturas estão repletas de usos antigos do mel como medicina complementar e alternativa, com relevância para os cuidados de saúde modernos, apoiados por dados clínicos baseados em evidências, com pouca atenção dada às funções nutricionais do mel. O teor de umidade do mel extraído da Universidade de Veterinária e Ciências Animais, fazenda de abelhas de Lahore, foi de 12,19%, enquanto o de fonte natural foi de 9,03 ± 1,63%. Da mesma forma, os teores de cinzas e proteínas do mel cultivado foram de 0,37% e 5,22%, respectivamente. Já os teores de cinzas e proteínas do mel natural foram de 1,70 ± 1,98% e 6,10 ± 0,79%. Da mesma forma, os teores de gordura, fibra dietética e carboidratos de origem cultivada documentados foram de 0,14%, 1,99% e 62,26%, respectivamente. Embora os teores de gordura, fibra alimentar e carboidratos do mel retirado dos recursos naturais fossem de 0,54 ± 0,28%, 2,76 ± 1,07% e 55,32 ± 2,91%, respectivamente. Os conteúdos de glicose e frutose do mel retirado da fazenda de abelhas foram de 27% e 34%, mas a fonte natural foi de 22,50 ± 2,12% e 28,50 ± 3,54%. Os conteúdos de glicose e frutose do mel retirado da fazenda de abelhas foram de 27% e 34%, mas a fonte natural foi de 22,50 ± 2,12% e 28,50 ± 3,54%. Da mesma forma, os teores de sacarose e maltose no mel cultivado foram de 2,5% e 12%, enquanto no mel natural foram de 1,35 ± 0,49% e 8,00 ± 1,41%, respectivamente. O presente estudo indica que os teores de umidade, carboidratos, sacarose e maltose foram maiores no mel cultivado em comparação ao mel natural. Em nossa recomendação, o mel natural é melhor que o mel de cultivo.

Variations in nutritional profile of honey produced by various species of genus Apis / Variações no perfil nutricional do mel produzido por várias espécies do gênero Apis

The medicinal attributes of honey appears to overshadow its importance as a functional food. Consequently, several literatures are rife with ancient uses of honey as complementary and alternative medicine, with relevance to modern day health care, supported by evidence-based clinical data, with little attention given to honey’s nutritional functions. The moisture contents of honey extracted from University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore honey bee farm was 12.19% while that of natural source was 9.03 ± 1.63%. Similarly, ash and protein contents of farmed honey recorded were 0.37% and 5.22%, respectively. Whereas ash and protein contents of natural honey were 1.70 ± 1.98% and 6.10 ± 0.79%. Likewise fat, dietary fiber and carbohydrates contents of farmed source documented were 0.14%, 1.99% and 62.26% respectively. Although fat, dietary fiber and carbohydrates contents of honey taken from natural resource were 0.54 ± 0.28%, 2.76 ± 1.07% and 55.32 ± 2.91% respectively. Glucose and fructose contents of honey taken out from honeybee farm were 27% and 34% but natural source were 22.50 ± 2.12% and 28.50 ± 3.54%. Glucose and fructose contents of honey taken out from honeybee farm were 27% and 34% but natural source were 22.50 ± 2.12% and 28.50 ± 3.54%. Similarly, sucrose and maltose contents of farmed honey were 2.5% and 12% while in natural honey were 1.35 ± 0.49% and 8.00 ± 1.41% respectively. The present study indicates that such as moisture, carbohydrates, sucrose and maltose contents were higher farmed honey as compared to the natural honey. In our recommendation natural honey is better than farmed honey.

Os atributos medicinais do mel parecem ofuscar sua importância como alimento funcional. Consequentemente, várias literaturas estão repletas de usos antigos do mel como medicina complementar e alternativa, com relevância para os cuidados de saúde modernos, apoiados por dados clínicos baseados em evidências, com pouca atenção dada às funções nutricionais do mel. O teor de umidade do mel extraído da Universidade de Veterinária e Ciências Animais, fazenda de abelhas de Lahore, foi de 12,19%, enquanto o de fonte natural foi de 9,03 ± 1,63%. Da mesma forma, os teores de cinzas e proteínas do mel cultivado foram de 0,37% e 5,22%, respectivamente. Já os teores de cinzas e proteínas do mel natural foram de 1,70 ± 1,98% e 6,10 ± 0,79%. Da mesma forma, os teores de gordura, fibra dietética e carboidratos de origem cultivada documentados foram de 0,14%, 1,99% e 62,26%, respectivamente. Embora os teores de gordura, fibra alimentar e carboidratos do mel retirado dos recursos naturais fossem de 0,54 ± 0,28%, 2,76 ± 1,07% e 55,32 ± 2,91%, respectivamente. Os conteúdos de glicose e frutose do mel retirado da fazenda de abelhas foram de 27% e 34%, mas a fonte natural foi de 22,50 ± 2,12% e 28,50 ± 3,54%. Os conteúdos de glicose e frutose do mel retirado da fazenda de abelhas foram de 27% e 34%, mas a fonte natural foi de 22,50 ± 2,12% e 28,50 ± 3,54%. Da mesma forma, os teores de sacarose e maltose no mel cultivado foram de 2,5% e 12%, enquanto no mel natural foram de 1,35 ± 0,49% e 8,00 ± 1,41%, respectivamente. O presente estudo indica que os teores de umidade, carboidratos, sacarose e maltose foram maiores no mel cultivado em comparação ao mel natural. Em nossa recomendação, o mel natural é melhor que o mel de cultivo.

Honey as a bioindicator of environmental organochlorine insecticides contamination / Mel como bioindicador de contaminação ambiental de inseticidas organoclorados

Honey is a suitable matrix for the evaluation of environmental contaminants including organochlorine insecticides. The present study was conducted to evaluate residues of fifteen organochlorine insecticides in honey samples of unifloral and multifloral origins from Dir, Pakistan. Honey samples (5 g each) were extracted with GC grade organic solvents and then subjected to Rotary Evaporator till dryness. The extracts were then mixed with n-Hexane (5 ml) and purified through Column Chromatography. Purified extracts (1μl each) were processed through Gas Chromatograph coupled with Electron Capture Detector (GC-ECD) for identification and quantification of the insecticides. Of the 15 insecticides tested, 46.7% were detected while 53.3% were not detected in the honey samples. Heptachlor was the most prevalent insecticide with a mean level of 0.0018 mg/kg detected in 80% of the samples followed by β-HCH with a mean level of 0.0016 mg/kg detected in 71.4% of the honey samples. Honey samples from Acacia modesta Wall. were 100% positive for Heptachlor with a mean level of 0.0048 mg/kg followed by β-HCH with a mean level of 0.003 mg/kg and frequency of 83.3%. Minimum levels of the tested insecticides were detected in the unifloral honey from Ziziphus jujuba Mill. Methoxychlor, Endosulfan, Endrin and metabolites of DDT were not detected in the studied honey samples. Some of the tested insecticides are banned in Pakistan but are still detected in honey samples indicating their use in the study area. The detected levels of all insecticides were below the Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) and safe for consumers. However, the levels detected can cause mortality in insect fauna. The use of banned insecticides is one of the main factors responsible for the declining populations of important insect pollinators including honeybees.

O mel é uma matriz adequada para a avaliação de contaminantes ambientais, incluindo inseticidas organoclorados. O presente estudo foi conduzido para avaliar resíduos de 15 inseticidas organoclorados em amostras de mel de origem unifloral e multifloral de Dir, Paquistão. Amostras de mel (5 g cada) foram extraídas com solventes orgânicos de grau GC e, em seguida, submetidas ao evaporador rotativo até a secura. Os extratos foram então misturados com n-hexano (5 ml) e purificados por cromatografia em coluna. Os extratos purificados (1μl cada) foram processados através de cromatógrafo gasoso acoplado a detector de captura de elétrons (GC-ECD) para identificação e quantificação dos inseticidas. Dos 15 inseticidas testados, 46,7% foram detectados enquanto 53,3% não foram detectados nas amostras de mel. O heptacloro foi o inseticida mais prevalente com um nível médio de 0,0018 mg / kg detectado em 80% das amostras, seguido por β-HCH com um nível médio de 0,0016 mg / kg detectado em 71,4% das amostras de mel. Amostras de mel da parede de Acacia modesta foram 100% positivos para heptacloro com um nível médio de 0,0048 mg / kg seguido por β-HCH com um nível médio de 0,003 mg / kg e frequência de 83,3%. Níveis mínimos dos inseticidas testados foram detectados no mel unifloral de Ziziphus jujuba da usina. Metoxicloro, Endosulfan, Endrin e metabólitos do DDT não foram detectados nas amostras de mel estudadas. Alguns dos inseticidas testados são proibidos no Paquistão, mas ainda são detectados em amostras de mel, indicando seu uso na área de estudo. Os níveis detectados de todos os inseticidas estavam abaixo dos Níveis Máximos de Resíduos (MRLs) e seguros para os consumidores. No entanto, os níveis detectados podem causar mortalidade na fauna de insetos. O uso de inseticidas proibidos é um dos principais fatores responsáveis pelo declínio das populações de importantes insetos polinizadores, incluindo as abelhas.

Impact of supplemental vitamins and natural honey for treatment of COVID-19: A review

Abstract The main aim of the paper is to assess whether vitamin C, vitamin D, and natural honey can be administered in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic for promising in line methods with recent evidence. Both systematic literature and clinical trial identification were conducted by searching various databases. A total 58 articles and 29 clinical trials were selected wherein 11 for vitamin C, 16 for vitamin D, and 2 for natural honey were identified for analysis. The high doses of vitamin C (i.e. '200 mg/kg body weight/day, divided into 4 doses') has been found to reduce COVID-19 lung damage, various flu infections. Additionally, the high doses of vitamin C can shorten around 7.8% stay in the intensive care unit. At the same time, vitamin D can effectively protect from lung injury and acute respiratory infections whereas vitamin D deficiency severely affects 75% of the institutionalized people (serum 25(OH) D < 25 nmol/L). Meanwhile, natural honey which contains proteins (0.1-0.4%); ash (0.2%); water (15-17%) has potential antiviral effects and the ability to improve immunity. Therefore, the administration of vitamins and honey is the promising evidence-based approach for reducing fatalities, saving lives, and bringing the COVID-19 pandemic to a rapid end. It is believed that the utilization of vitamin C, vitamin D, and natural honey with the current treatment may be effective in treating COVID-19-caused fatal complications such as pneumonia. Therefore, high-level clinical studies are required on COVID-19 to administrate the effects of vitamins and natural honey

Determinación de origen botánico y geográfico mediante estudios polínicos de mieles colectadas por Apis mellifera Linneo en el Departamento del Cauca, Colombia / Determination of botanical and geographical origin of Pollen samples of honeys collected by Apis mellifera Linnaeus in Cauca Department, Colombia

Introducción: Para la comercialización y mercadeo es importante determinar el origen botánico y geográfico mediante estudios polínico de mieles colectados por Apis mellifera (A. mellifera). Objetivo: efectuar un análisis polínico en muestras de mieles del departamento del Cauca, Colombia colectada por A. mellifera. Materiales y métodos. Las muestras de mieles fueron tomas en 11 apiarios durante 12 meses (2014-2015) en los municipios de Timbio, Totoró y Piendamó, se tomaron ejemplares de herbario de las plantas melíferas a 2Km a la redonda de los apiarios. Resultados. Se identificaron 110 tipos polínicos inmersos en las mieles, de los cuales la guayaba (Psidium guajava - Mirtaceae) con un 64% fue el tipo más frecuente para el municipio de Totoró, limpia dientes (Gouania polígama - Ramnaceae) con un 18,2% y 46% en Piendamó y Timbio, respectivamente. El resto de tipos polínicos se encuentran en menores proporciones. Conclusiones. Los análisis polínicos demuestran que las mieles colectadas durante la investigación se clasifican como poliflorales por la alta variedad de plantas cultivadas y silvestres que conservan y cultivan los apicultores del Cauca.

Introduction: For the commercialization and marketing of honeys it is important to determine the botanical and geographical origin through pollen studies of honeys collected by Apis mellifera (A. mellifera). Objective: to carry out a pollen analysis on honey samples from the department of Cauca, Colombia collected by A. mellifera. Materials and methods The honeys samples were taken in 11 apiaries during 12 months (2014-2015) to the municipalities of Timbio, Totoró and Piendamó. Moreover, specimens of herbarium were taken from melliferous plants at 2Km from the apiaries. Results: There were identified 86 pollen types immersed in honeys, of which in guava (Psidium guajava - Mirtaceae) with 64% was the most frequent type for the municipality of Totoró. Limpiadientes (Gouania polygama - Ramnaceae) with 18.2% and 46% in Piendamó and Timbio respectively. The rest of the pollen types were found in smaller proportions. Conclusion. The pollen analyses indicated that the honeys collected during the investigation are classified as polyfloral by the high variety of plants cultivated and wild that conserve and cultivate the beekeepers of Cauca.

Ulmoplus® increases FGF-2 expression and promote burn wound healing / Ulmoplus® incrementa la expresión de FGF-2 y promueve la cicatrización de heridas por quemadura

SUMMARY: The role of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) in the wound repair process has been described, particularly during the stimulation of angiogenesis in the proliferative phase. Ulmo honey (Eucryphia cordifolia) has demonstrated important bactericidal, fungicidal, antioxidant and healing properties. Ulmoplus®, a honey-based medicinal product, accelerates healing time and promotes fibroblast activation and collagen fiber production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of endogenous FGF-2 in burns treated with Ulmoplus® vs. the gold standard (hydrogel-tull), and Ulmo honey as the first step to clarifying the regulatory mechanism of this therapeutic option. 15 adult guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) were used, divided into three groups: C+: positive control treated with hydrogel-tull (gold standard); E1: experimental group treated with Ulmo; and E2: experimental group treated with Ulmoplus®. A deep uniform burn was made under anesthetic that covered 1 cm2 of the skin on the back of each animal. The daily treatments were administered with hydrogel-tull, Ulmo honey or Ulmoplus®, where appropriate. On treatment day 10 the biopsies were taken and processed for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. The immunolabeling was quantified through an integrated optical density (IOD) analysis, expressed as lum/ µm2 using the Image- ProPremier 9.1 software. The endogenous expression of FGF-2 was consistent with the stage of healing presented by the study groups, varying in its localization and IOD intensity. The E2 group presented a significantly higher IOD (60053.55 ± 59877.84 lum/µm2) than the C+ (p = 0.001) and E1 (p = 0.001) groups. Our findings indicated that the medicinal Ulmoplus® honey is effective at facilitating wound closing, and the promoter effect of FGF-2 expression accelerated the healing process compared to the treatments with hydrogel-tull (gold standard) and Ulmo honey.

RESUMEN: Se ha descrito el papel del factor de crecimiento fibroblaástico (FGF) en el proceso de reparación de heridas, particularmente durante la estimulación de la angiogénesis en la fase proliferativa. La miel de Ulmo (Eucryphia cordifolia) ha demostrado importantes propiedades bactericidas, fungicidas, antioxidantes y cicatrizantes. Ulmoplus®, un medicamento a base de miel, acelera el tiempo de cicatrización y promueve la activación de fibroblastos y la producción de fibras colágenas. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la expresión inmunohistoquímica del FGF-2 endógeno en quemaduras tratadas con Ulmoplus® frente al gold standard (hidrogel-tull) y miel de Ulmo como primer paso para esclarecer el mecanismo regulador de esta opción terapéutica. Se utilizaron 15 cobayas adultos (Cavia porcellus), divididos en tres grupos: C +: control positivo tratado con hidrogel-tull (gold standard); E1: grupo experimental tratado con Ulmo; y E2: grupo experimental tratado con Ulmoplus®. Se realizó una quemadura profunda uniforme bajo anestesia que cubrió 1 cm2 de la piel del lomo de cada animal. Los tratamientos diarios se administraron con hidrogel-tull, miel de Ulmo o Ulmoplus®, en cada caso. El día 10 de tratamiento se tomaron biopsias y se procesaron para análisis histológico e inmunohistoquímico. El inmunomarcaje se cuantificó mediante análisis de densidad óptica integrado (DOI), expresado como lum/µm2 utilizando el software Image-ProPremier 9.1. La expresión endógena de FGF-2 fue consistente con la etapa de cicatrización presentada por los grupos de estudio, variando en su localización e intensidad de DOI. El grupo E2 presentó una DOI significativamente mayor (60053,55 ± 59877,84 lum/µm2) que los grupos C + (p = 0,001) y E1 (p = 0,001). Nuestros hallazgos indicaron que la miel de uso médico Ulmoplus® es eficaz para facilitar el cierre de heridas, y el efecto promotor de la expresión de FGF-2 aceleró el proceso de curación en comparación con los tratamientos con hidrogel-tull (gold standard) y miel de Ulmo.

Structural elucidation, mechanism of action, antibacterial proficiency and synergistic forte of purified Euphorbia hirta whole plant extract against multi-drug resistant otitis media infection / Elucidación estructural, mecanismo de acción, competencia antibacteriana y fuerza sinérgica del extracto de planta entera de Euphorbia hirta purificado contra la infección por otitis media resistente a múltiples fármacos

This study investigated the antibacterial potential of Euphorbia hirtawhole plant extracts, honey and conventional antibiotics and their synergistic effects against selected multidrug resistant and typed bacterial strains associated with otitis media. E. hirtawhole plant extract was purified using column chromatography technique. The antibacterial assays of extracts were done using standard microbiological procedures. Protein, sodium and potassium ion leakage of the synergistic mixtures was determined using flame-photometry. At 100 mg/ml, acetone extracts presented highest inhibition against S. aureus (NCTC 6571) with 32 ± 0.83 mm zone of inhibition. The fractional inhibitory concentration indices displayed higher synergism in combination of plant extract, honey and ciprofloxacin against P. mirabilisat 0.02 compared to drug combination synergy standard (≤ 0.5). This work revealed augmentation of ciprofloxacin potency when combined with purified E. hirta acetone extract and honey and implies their high potential in the treatment of multidrug resistant infectionof otitis media.

Este estudio investigó el potencial antibacteriano de extractos de plantas enteras de Euphorbia hirta, miel y antibióticos convencionales y sus efectos sinérgicos contra cepas bacterianas seleccionadas multirresistentes y tipificadas asociadas con la otitis media. El extracto de la planta entera de E. hirtase purificó usando la técnica de cromatografía en columna. Los ensayos antibacterianos de extractos se realizaron utilizando procedimientos microbiológicos estándar. La fuga de iones de proteínas, sodio y potasio de las mezclas sinérgicas se determinó mediante fotometría de llama. A 100 mg/ml, los extractos de acetona presentaron la mayor inhibición contra S. aureus (NCTC 6571) con una zona de inhibición de 32 ± 0,83 mm. Los índices de concentración inhibitoria fraccional mostraron un mayor sinergismo en combinación de extracto de planta, miel y ciprofloxacina contra P. mirabilisa 0,02 en comparación con el estándar de sinergia de combinación de fármacos (≤ 0,5). Este trabajo reveló un aumento de la potencia de la ciprofloxacina cuando se combina con extracto de acetona purificado de E. hirtay miel e implica sualto potencial en el tratamiento de infecciones de otitis media resistentes a múltiples fármacos.

Evaluation of physic contamiants and contamination with coliforms, molds and yeasts of honey from the Northern Brazil / Avaliação de contaminantes físicos e contaminação com coliformes, bolores e leveduras de mel do Norte do Brasil

The Mercosur Technical Regulation for honey determines microbiological parameters for total coliforms and molds and/ yeasts, and absence of physical contaminants, of any nature. The purpose of this study was to verify the biological and physical contamin of Apis mellifera ligustica and Melipona fasciculata, commercialized in the northeastern region of the State of Pará, Brazil. The fourteen samples from informal trade of the municipalities of Bragança, Capanema, Nova Timboteua, São João de Pirabas, Salinas and Tracauateua were analyzed for the Most Probable Number of colifroms at 35ºC, Fungus and Yeast counts, besides the detection of dirt by Macro and Microscopy techniques. The results obtained from the microbiological analyzes were compared to the standard required by MERCOSUR, for coliforms. 57.14% of the samples were non-standard and ranged from <3.0 NMP/g to 20 NMP/g. The molds and/ yeast counts ranged from 1x10¹ CFU/g to 8.6x10² CFU/g, with atotal of 21.42% of the samples being in disagreement with the legislation. From the macroscopic analysis, it was observed that, although 50% of the samples did not present any apparent dirt, microscopically it was possible to observe dirt in 100% of the samples of honey analyzed, which is out of the standard required by the Brazilian legislation. This shows the low sanitary quality of honey commercialized in this region of the state of Pará.

O Regulamento Técnico do Mercosul para mel, determina parâmetros microbiológicos para coliformes totais e fungos e/leveduras, e ausência de contaminantes físicos, de qualquer natureza. A proposta do presente estudo foi verificar a contaminação biológica e física em méis de abelha das espécies Apis mellifera ligustica e Melipona fasciculata, comercializados na região Nordeste do Estado do Pará, Brasil. As amostras provenientes do comercio informal dos de municípios de, Bragança, Capanema, Nova Timboteua, São João de Pirabas, Salinas e Tracauateua, foram analisadas quanto a determinação do Número Mais Provável de coliformes a 35ºC, Contagem de Fungos e/leveduras, além da detecção de sujidades pelas técnicas de Macro e Microscopia. Os resultados obtidos a partir das análises microbiológicas foram comparadas ao padrão exigido pelo MERCOSUL, para coliformes, 57,14% das amostras encontravam-se fora do padrão variaram de <3,0 NMP/g a 20NMP/g. Já a contagem de fungos e/leveduras variou de 1x10¹ UFC/g a 8,6x10² UFC/g, no total de 21,42 % das amostras apresentaram-se em desacordo com a legislação. A partir da análise macroscópica observou-se que, embora 50% das amostras não apresentassem sujidades aparentes, porém microscopicamente foi possível observar a presença sujidades em 100% das amostras de méis analisadas encontrando-se fora do padrão exigido pela legislação Brasileira. Demostrando a baixa qualidade sanitária do mel comercializado nessa região do estado do Pará.

The longevity of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes is determined by carbohydrate intake / [A longevidade de mosquitos Aedes aegypti é determinada pela ingestão de carboidrato]

Aedes aegypti is the vector of several viral diseases. The main way to control these diseases is to fight the vector. Thus, it is necessary to breed mosquitoes in the laboratory in order to develop strategies to control these insects. In laboratories, different carbohydrates are used for feeding mosquitoes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the longevity and the weight of Ae. aegypti fed with different carbohydrates diets. As methods, 120 mosquitoes were distributed in insectaries and each group received a different diet, based on honey, dextrose or maltodextrin. To assess the longevity, survival analysis was performed using the Long Rank test and chi square test. To assess the weight, the dead insects were frozen and weighed at the end of the experiment. As results it was observed that mosquitoes fed with the honey, maltodextrin and dextrose diet lived on average 33, 35 and 47 days respectively. When weight was assessed, mosquitoes fed with honey weighed 125 ± (35.3) µg, while those fed with dextrose and maltodextrin weighed 225 ± (35.3) µg and 275 ± (35.3) µg respectively. The results show that the intake of dextrose and maltodextrin by Ae. aegypti adults increases their survival and their weight.(AU)

O Aedes aegypti é vetor de várias doenças virais. A principal maneira de controlar essas doenças é combatendo o seu vetor. Nesse sentido, é necessário criar esses mosquitos em laboratório, visando desenvolver estratégias de controle. Nos laboratórios, diferentes carboidratos são utilizados na alimentação de mosquitos. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar longevidade e peso de Ae. aegypti alimentados com diferentes fontes de carboidratos. Como método, distribuíram-se 120 mosquitos insetários. Cada grupo recebeu uma dieta diferente à base de mel, dextrose ou maltodextrina. Para avaliar a longevidade, a análise de sobrevida foi realizada pelo teste de Logrank e pelo teste de qui quadrado. Para avaliar o peso, os insetos mortos foram congelados e pesados ​​no final do experimento. Como resultado, observou-se que os mosquitos alimentados com a dieta à base de mel, maltodextrina e dextrose viveram em média 33, 35 e 47 dias, respectivamente. Com relação ao peso, os mosquitos alimentados com mel pesavam 125 ± (35,3)µg, enquanto os alimentados com dextrose e maltodextrina pesavam 225 ± (35,3)µg e 275 ± (35,3)µg, respectivamente. Os resultados mostram que a ingestão de dieta à base de dextrose e maltodextrina por Ae. aegypti adultos aumenta sua sobrevivência e seu peso.(AU)

Antagonistic activity of bacteria from wild honey against Colletotrichum musae, and testing of wild honey as biopesticide spray to control banana anthracnose

Anthracnose is a foliar and fruit disease caused by Colletotrichum spp. affecting a wide range of crops. Infection occurs early followed by quiescence in fruits, such as in banana, where chemical-based pesticides are used as a dependable fungal control for many years. There is an increasing need for a safe control and as implicated in the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 (RA 10068) in the Philippines. This scenario drove the use of alternative pest control such as the use of biologicals and natural products. In this study, seven bacteria were isolated from wild honey, produced by Apis mellifera, wherein four (BC2, BC3, BC6 and BC7) were found to be an effective antagonist against Colletotrichum musae in in vitro conditions. These bacteria were identified to belong to the genus Lactobacillus spp. (BC2, BC3, BC7) and Bacillus spp. (BC6) based on sugar utilization tests, morphological and cultural growth in PDPA. For the in vivo test, different dilutions of wild honey were used and it was found out that lower concentrations were effective as biopesticide spray to prevent anthracnose infection. Lastly, we report herewith the first isolation of bacteria with biological control potential from wild honey, and to apply the raw or natural product as biopesticide in postharvest fruits.

Análise da qualidade do mel de abelha comercializado com e sem inspeção na região de Brasília - DF, Brasil / Quality analysis of bee honey commercialized with and without inspection in Brasília - DF, Brazil

O mel de abelha é um produto de consumo relevante pela população devido aos seus fatores nutricionais e terapêuticos. A adulteração é um exemplo de como as características do mel podem ser afetadas, prejudicando os consumidores que desejam comprar produtos puros e de alta qualidade. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade físico-química do mel de abelha comercializado em Brasília, Distrito Federal. Foram obtidas 13 amostras de mel de abelhas: uma de um apicultor da região com certificação de produção (usada como controle negativo), seis de lojas de produtos naturais e hipermercados no centro de Brasília e seis de feira livre e pequenos estabelecimentos de uma região administrativa do Distrito Federal, das quais cinco não tinham o selo do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF) na embalagem. Também foi usada uma amostra comercial de xarope de glicose como controle positivo. Para verificar a adulteração, foram adotados os testes de Lund, Fiehe e Lugol, bem como as análises de pH, acidez titulável e umidade, para serem comparados com os parâmetros de qualidade do mel estabelecidos pela legislação vigente. As análises verificaram a qualidade dos méis comercializados com o selo SIF, com algumas ressalvas para a possível alteração de temperatura. Já as que não possuíam selo, apenas uma foi aprovada nos testes de qualidade, porém sua venda não é regularizada. A maioria das amostras analisadas apresentaram resultados consistentes com os padrões exigidos pela legislação vigente, com maiores irregularidades na comercialização de méis em feira livre, mostrando a necessidade de maior controle de qualidade e inspeção de produtos não certificados.(AU)

Bee honey is a product of relevant consumption by the population due to its nutritional and therapeutic factors. Tampering is an example of how honey characteristics can be affected and harming consumers who want to buy a high quality and pure product. This work aimed to evaluate the physicochemical quality of bee honey commercialized in Brasília, Federal District. Thirteen samples of bee honey were obtained: one from a certified local beekeeper (used as a negative control), six from natural products and hypermarkets in central Brasília and six from street fair and small establishments in one of the administrative region of the Federal District, of which five did not have the seal of the Federal Inspection Service (SIF) on the packaging. Also, a sample of commercial glucose syrup was used as positive control. To verify tampering, the Lund, Fiehe and Lugol tests were adopted, as well as the pH, titratable acidity and humidity analysis, to be compared honey quality parameters established by the current legislation. The analyzes verified the quality of the honeys sold with SIF seal, with some restraints for the possible temperature changes. As for those that did not have a seal, only one passed the quality tests, but its sale is not regularized. Most of the samples analyzed showed results consistent with the standards requirements of the current legislation, with greater irregularities in the marketing of honey in street fair, showing the need for greater quality control and inspection of non-certified products.(AU)

Manuka honey enhanced sensitivity of HepG2, hepatocellular carcinoma cells, for Doxorubicin and induced apoptosis through inhibition of Wnt/ß-catenin and ERK1/2

BACKGROUND: Recently, there is increasing awareness focused on the identification of naturally occurring anticancer agents derived from natural products. Manuka honey (MH) has been recognized for its biological properties as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. However, its antiproliferative mechanism in hepatocellular carcinoma is not investigated. The current study focused mainly on investigating the molecular mechanism and synergistic effect of anticancer properties of MH on Doxorubicin (DOX)-mediated apoptotic cell death, using two different p53 statuses (HepG2 and Hep3B) and one non-tumorigenic immortalized liver cell line. RESULTS: MH treatment showed a proliferative inhibitory effect on tested cells in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 concentration of (6.92 ± 0.005%) and (18.62 ± 0.07%) for HepG2 and Hep3B cells, respectively, and induced dramatic morphological changes of Hep-G2 cells, which considered as characteristics feature of apoptosis induction after 48 h of treatment. Our results showed that MH or combined treatments induced higher cytotoxicity in p53-wild type, HepG2, than in p53-null, Hep3B, cells. Cytotoxicity was not observed in normal liver cells. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of MH and Dox on apoptosis was evidenced by increased annexin-V-positive cells and Sub-G1 cells in both tested cell lines with a significant increase in the percentage of Hep-G2 cells at late apoptosis as confirmed by the flow cytometric analysis. Consistently, the proteolytic activities of caspase-3 and the degradation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase were also higher in the combined treatment which in turn accompanied by significant inhibitory effects of pERK1/2, mTOR, S6K, oncogenic ß-catenin, and cyclin D1 after 48 h. In contrast, the MH or combined treatment-induced apoptosis was accompanied by significantly upregulated expression of proapoptotic Bax protein and down-regulated expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein after 48 h. CONCLUSIONS: Our data showed a synergistic inhibitory effect of MH on DOX-mediated apoptotic cell death in HCC cells. To our knowledge, the present study provides the first report on the anticancer activity of MH and its combined treatment with DOX on HCC cell lines, introducing MH as a promising natural and nontoxic anticancer compound.

Molecular mechanisms in the process of re-epithelization in wound healing and the action of honey in keratinocytes / Mecanismos moleculares en el proceso de re-epitelización en cicatrización de heridas y la acción de la miel en queratinocitos

SUMMARY: The treatment of chronic wounds has become a public health issue in recent years mainly due to comorbidities associated with an older population and bacterial resistance. Honey has emerged as an alternative treatment for chronic wounds but lack of knowledge of its mechanism of actionin the treated tissue and low quality of evidence in clinical triads has distanced the medical community from honey as a possible treatment. One of the main processes that is altered in chronic wounds is re-epithelialization mediated by keratinocytes, where proliferation and migration processes are altered. Markers of proliferation, migration and activation of keratinocytes, such as adhesion molecules, growth factors, membrane receptors, signal translating proteins, transcription factors, microRNAs, among others are deregulated in this process. In general, honeys from different floral origins have a positive effect on markers of proliferation and migration in keratinocytes. In conclusion there are still few studies that focus on the molecular action of honey in keratinocytes and fail to report details on the honey used not allowing to achieve the same results.

RESUMEN: El tratamiento de heridas crónicas (HC) se ha vuelto un tema de salud pública en los últimos años, principalmente debido a comorbilidades asociadas a una población de mayor edad y a la resistencia bacteriana. La miel ha surgido como un tratamiento alternativo para HC pero la falta de conocimiento de su mecanismo de acción en el tejido tratado y de la baja calidad de la evidencia en triadas clínicas, ha distanciado a la comunidad médica de la miel como posible tratamiento. Uno de los principales procesos que se ve alterado en las HC es la re-epitelización mediada por queratinocitos, donde se ven alterados los procesos de proliferación y migración. Marcadores de proliferación, migración y activación de queratinocitos, como moléculas de adhesión, factores de crecimiento, receptores de membrana, proteínas traductores de señales, factores de transcripción, microARNs, entre otras, se ven desreguladas en éste proceso. De manera general las mieles de diferentes orígenes florales tienen un efecto positivo en marcadores de proliferación y migración en queratinocitos. En conclusión aún existen pocos estudios que se enfoquen en la acción molecular de la miel en queratinocitos y los pocos que existen fallan en la entrega de información en relación a la miel utilizada que pueda hacer reproducibles los resultados.

Efeito do extrato de Bidens pilosa L, Mel e pomadas homeopática e alopática na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas de ratos Wistar / [Effect of Bidens pilosa L, Honey extract and homeopathic and allopathic ointments on the healing of skin wounds of Wistar rats]

Cicatrização de ferida é um processo dinâmico, que tem por objetivo restaurar a continuidade do tecido lesionado. No entanto, em alguns casos, é necessário favorecer condições adequadas para viabilizar o processo fisiológico. Neste estudo foram utilizados ratos Wistar, divididos aleatoriamente entre cinco grupos, com 12 animais cada, sendo eles: grupo P (Bidens pilosa L.), grupo mel, grupo Co1 (pomada comercial alopática), grupo Co2 (pomada comercial homeopática) e grupo CT (controle). As lesões foram geradas por incisão com punch de 8mm, sendo tratadas diariamente de forma tópica. Foram eutanasiados quatro animais por grupo, no terceiro, sétimo e 14º dias do experimento, e o material coletado foi armazenado em formalina 10% e encaminhado para processamento histológico. Posteriormente, realizou-se a contagem de leucócitos mononucleares, fibroblastos e neovasos e avaliou-se a arquitetura de fibras colágenas. Os resultados da contagem foram analisados pela ANOVA, seguida pelo teste de Tukey (P<0,05). O modelo experimental proposto neste estudo demonstrou que todos os tratamentos apresentaram potencial cicatrizante, com exceção do mel. A aplicação tópica do creme do extrato de Bidens pilosa L. a 10% apresentou melhor perfil anti-inflamatório; a pomada alopática apresentou boa aderência à superfície da lesão e a pomada homeopática, grande potencial angiogênico, com menor tempo de cicatrização.(AU)

Wound healing is a dynamic process that aims to restore the continuity of injured tissue. However, in some cases it is necessary to favor adequate conditions to enable the physiological process. Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups with 12 animals each, namely: group P (Bidens pilosa L.), group honey, group Co1 (commercial allopathic ointment), group Co2 (commercial homeopathic ointment) and group CT (control). The lesions were generated by an 8mm punch incision and were treated topically daily. Four animals per group were euthanized on the 3rd, 7th and 14th day of the experiment and the collected material was stored in 10% formalin and sent for histological processing, after which mononuclear, fibroblasts and neovascular leukocytes were counted and collagen fiber architecture was evaluated. Counting results were analyzed by ANOVA, followed by Tukey test (p <0.05). The experimental model proposed in this study showed that all treatments had healing potential, except honey. The topical application of 10% Bidens pilosa L. extract cream showed the best anti-inflammatory profile; Allopathic ointment showed good adhesion to the surface of the lesion and homeopathic ointment showed great angiogenic potential with shorter healing time.(AU)

Validación clínica de enfermería en cicatrización de úlceras venosas con miel nativa chilena suplementada / Clinical validation nursing in healing of venous ulcers with supplemented Chilean native honey / Validação clínica de enfermagem na cicatrização de úlceras venosas com mel nativo chileno suplementado

El objetivo de este estudio longitudinal fue validar clínica y planimétricamente la cicatrización de úlceras venosas con un prototipo de miel médica suplementada, nativa de Chile. La cicatrización de la úlcera venosa, demanda recursos sanitarios y tiempo de enfermería. Las terapias naturales, como la miel, son consideradas cicatrizantes, siendo el enfermero/a el profesional encargado de incorporarlas en la gestión del cuidado de personas con heridas. Participaron 22 pacientes con úlceras venosas, de centros de salud de Padre las Casas, Chile, voluntarios del proyecto CORFO 13IDL2-2329, tratados con un prototipo médico de miel nativa con actividad antibacteriana y suplementada con antioxidantes. Se realizó seguimiento clínico y planimétrico de la disminución del área y perímetro, asociados al uso del producto bajo un protocolo de gestión del cuidado de enfermería. El análisis de imágenes fue con el Software ImageJ®, cuyos datos fueron sometidos a estadística no paramétrica con el Software IBMSPSS-21.0. La reducción del área y perímetro fueron estadísticamente significativos para las úlceras tipo 3 y 4, con una mediana de reducción de área de 95.41 % y 84.40 % para perímetro, ambos entre el segundo y tercer contraste de mediciones. Destacó también la mediana de días de cicatrización en úlceras tipo 4 con 124 días. Se concluyó que la aplicación de miel clínica y un protocolo de gestión del cuidado de enfermería, basado en un tratamiento multifactorial y un criterio uniforme de curación, demostraron reducción de las áreas y perímetros de cicatrización, con énfasis en el desbridamiento.

The objective of the longitudinal study was to validate clinically and planimetrically the healing of venous ulcers with a prototype of upplemented medical honey, native to Chile. Healing of venous ulcer requires health resources and nursing time. Natural therapies, such as honey, are considered healing, and the nurse is responsible for incorporating them in the management of the care of people with injuries. 22 patients with venous ulcers participated, from health centers of Padre las Casas, Chile, volunteers of the CORFO 13IDL2-2329 project, treated with a medical prototype of native honey, supplemented with antioxidants and certified antibacterial activity. Clinical and planimetric follow-up of the area and perimeter decrease, associated with the use of the prototype was carried out under a nursing care management protocol. The analysis of images was with the Software ImageJ® , whose data were subjected to non-parametric statistics with the Software IBMSPSS-21.0. The area and perimeter reduction were statistically significant for type 3 and 4 ulcers, with a median area reduction of 95.41 % and 84.40 % for perimeter, both between the second and third measurements contrast. It also highlighted the median number of days of healing in type 4 ulcers with 124 days. It was concluded that the application of clinical honey and a nursing care management protocol, based on a multifactorial treatment and a uniform cure criterion, demonstrated reduction of the areas and perimeters of healing, with emphasis on debridement.

O objetivo deste estudo longitudinal foi validar clínica e planimetricamente a cicatrização de úlcerações venosas com um protótipo de mel medicinal suplementado, nativo do Chile. A cicatrização da úlcera venosa exige recursos de saúde e tempo de enfermagem. As terapias naturais, como o mel, são consideradas cicatrizantes, e o enfermeiro é o profissional encarregado de incorporá-las ao gerenciamento do cuidado de pessoas com feridas. Participaram 22 pacientes com úlcerações venosas dos centros de saúde de Padre las Casas, Chile, voluntários do projeto CORFO 13IDL2-2329, tratados com um protótipo médico de Mel nativo com atividade antibacteriana e suplementado com antioxidantes. Foi realizado monitoramento clínico e planimétrico da área e diminuição do perímetro, associado ao uso do produto sob um protocolo de gerenciamento de cuidados de enfermagem. A análise das imagens foi realizada com o software ImageJ®, cujos dados foram submetidos a estatística não paramétrica com o software IBMSPSS-21.0. A redução de área e perímetro foi estatisticamente significante para as úlceras tipo 3 e 4, com uma redução mediana da área de 95,41% e 84,40% para o perímetro, ambos entre o segundo e o terceiro contraste da medida. Também se destacaram os dias medianos de cicatrização em úlceras tipo 4 com 124 dias. Concluiu-se que a aplicação do mel clínico e um protocolo de gestão da assistência de enfermagem, baseado em tratamento multifatorial e critério uniforme de cicatrização, demonstraram redução das áreas e perímetros da cicatrização, com ênfase no desbridamento.

Avaliação da qualidade físico-química e microbiológica de méis da cidade de Irati-PR / Evaluation of physical-chemical and microbiological quality of honey from Irati-PR

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a qualidade de méis do comércio informal da cidade de Irati – PR, Brasil e avaliar os riscos deste produto aos consumidores. As 12 amostras foram coletadas durante o verão de 2019 e avaliadas para aspectos físico-químicos de acidez total, pH, sólidos insolúveis, hidroximetilfurfural, atividade diastásica, umidade, reações de Fiehe, Lugol e Lund. E microbiológicas para verificar a presença de bolores e leveduras. A maioria das amostras (91,66%) apresentou alguma inconformidade com relação as características físico-químicas. Nas análises de umidade e Lugol nenhuma das amostras apresentou valores fora dos padrões exigidos pela legislação. Porém, 83,33% das amostras apresentaram valores acima dos estabelecidos para hidroximetilfurfural. Apesar dos resultados, recomenda-se mais atenção no que se refere às boas práticas de fabricação, desde o manejo com as abelhas até o beneficiamento do mel. E por apresentar elevado valor comercial está sujeito a adulterações, por isso é tão importante a inspeção deste produto. Trabalhos desta natureza auxiliam os profissionais a implementar e o monitorar continuamente todo processo de produção; os apicultores a garantir a permanência no mercado; os consumidores a ter informações; e a comunidade científica com dados de diferentes regiões.

The present work aimed to analyze the quality of honeys from the informal trade in the city of Irati – PR, Brazil and to evaluate the risks of this product to consumers. Twelve samples were obtained during the summer of 2019 and those evaluated for physical-chemical aspects of: total acidity, pH, insoluble solids, hydroxymethylfurfural, moisture, diastatic activity, Fiehe, Lugol and Lund reactions. Microbiological analysis was made to check presence of mold and yeast. Most samples (91.66%) presented some non-conformity regarding the physical-chemical characteristics. In the moisture and Lugol analyzes none of the samples presented values outside the standards required by the legislation. However, 83.33% of the samples showed values above those established for hydroxymethylfurfural. Despite the results, more attention is recommended with regard to good manufacturing practices, from handling with bees to the processing of honey. And because of its high commercial value, that’s why inspection of this product is so important. Researches like this helps professionals to implement and continuously monitor the entire production process; beekeepers to guarantee their permanence in the market; consumers to have information; and the scientific community with data from different regions.