Antimicrobial Properties Research Articles

A Comprehensive Study on Peppermint Oil and Cinnamon Oil as Nanoemulsion: Preparation, Stability, Cytotoxicity, Antimicrobial, Antifungal, and Antioxidant Activity.

Recent studies have shown that nanoemulsions prepared with essential oils have significant antimicrobial potential against multidrug-resistant pathogens due to increased chemical stability. Nanoemulsion also promotes controlled and sustained release, which increases their bioavailability and efficacy against multidrug-resistant bacteria. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity properties of cinnamon essential oil and peppermint essential oil as nanoemulsions compared to pure forms. For this purpose, analyses of the selected stable nanoemulsions were carried out. The droplet sizes and zeta potentials of peppermint essential oil nanoemulsions and cinnamon essential oil nanoemulsions were found to be 154.6±1.42 nm and -17.1±0.68 mV and 200.3±4.71 nm and -20.0±0.81 mV, respectively. Although the amount of essential oil used in nanoemulsions was 25% w/w, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were found to be more effective compared to pure essential oils. In cytotoxicity studies on the 3T3 cell line, both essential oil nanoemulsions showed higher cell viability than pure essential oils. At the same time, cinnamon essential oil nanoemulsions exhibited a higher antioxidant property than peppermint essential oil nanoemulsions and showed superiority in the antimicrobial susceptibility test conducted against four bacteria and two fungi. Cell viability tests determined that cinnamon essential oil nanoemulsions showed considerably higher cell viability compared to pure cinnamon essential oil. These findings indicated that the prepared nanoemulsions in the current study might positively influence the dosing regimen and clinical outcomes of antibiotic therapy.

Silk fibroin sponge impregnated with fish bone collagen: A promising wound healing scaffold and skin tissue regeneration.

In the present study, porous silk fibroin sponges (SFS) were prepared using silk fibroin (SF), fish bone collagen (FBC), and olive oil (OO). The study investigates the potential use of using this sponge as skin tissue regeneration. The sponge was characterized for its physicochemical, mechanical, antimicrobial, and drug release properties. An in vitro study was carried out using human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT). Biodegradation study using enzymatic method was carried out. The results showed that the mechanical properties such as tensile strength (23.40 ± 0.05 MPa), elongation at break (14.25 ± 0.02%), and water absorption (30.23 ± 0.01%) of the SFS were excellent, indicating promising performance. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays proved the biocompatible nature of the SFS. The SFS exhibited outstanding antibacterial properties against E. coli (4.72 ± 0.05 mm) and S. aureus (4.98 ± 0.07 mm). The developed SFS promote a promising solution for skin tissue regeneration and wound dressing.

Evaluation of the antibacterial and cytotoxic properties of TotalFill and NeoSEALER flo bioceramic sealers

Aim: Evaluation of the antibacterial and cytotoxic properties of TotalFill and NeoSEALER Flo bioceramic sealers compared to AH Plus resin sealer. Materials and Methods: Modified direct contact test was used on three sets of sealers: Freshly mixed sealers, sealers that were 1-day old, and sealers that were 7-day old. After 24 h of incubation, the colony-forming units were digitally counted using Promega Colony Counter after 30 and 60 min of exposure to Enterococcus faecalis. For cytotoxic effect evaluation, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2-5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was performed at three different time points: 24 h, 48 h, and 120 h after adding the sealer eluates to human gingival fibroblasts, to assess cell viability. Data were analyzed using mixed model analysis of variance followed by post hoc test. Results: TotalFill bioceramic sealer showed the highest bacterial reduction against E. faecalis throughout all intervals. AH Plus showed great antibacterial activity initially which reduced drastically after 7 days. All the sealers showed a reduction in their antibacterial activity with time. TotalFill and NeoSEALER Flo showed very high cell viability in contrast to AH Plus. Conclusion: TotalFill and NeoSEALER Flo demonstrate superior antimicrobial properties against E. faecalis which reduces with time. TotalFill and NeoSEALER Flo demonstrate acceptable biocompatibility against human gingival fibroblasts, which decreased over time.

Synthesis, Structure, and Antimicrobial Properties of New Cobalt(II) Complexes with 1-Propargylimidazoles

Abstract: Complexes of cobalt(II) chloride with 1-propargylimidazole, 1-propargyl-2-methylimidazole, and 1- propargylbenzimidazole ligands were synthesized and studied by FTIR spectroscopy and X-ray analysis. According to the X-ray analysis, the crystal molecules of compounds were connected by non-covalent interactions, such as halogen bonds and π-stacking. The nature and energy of coordination metal-ligand and noncovalent bonds for structures under study were estimated in the frame of QTAIM (Quantum Theory “Atoms In Molecules”). The antimicrobial activity of obtained cobalt(II) chloride complexes was evaluated in relation to microorganisms E. durans, B. subtilis, and E. coli. Complexes of 1-propargyl-2-methylimidazole and 1- propargylbenzimidazole with cobalt(II) chloride demonstrated high activity against E. coli and E. durans relatively and could be recommended as antimicrobial drugs.

Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of BenTooth: A natural product blend of burdock root, persimmon leaf extracts, and quercetin on periodontal disease

Periodontal disease represents a condition that exhibits substantial global morbidity, and is characterized by the infection and inflammation of the periodontal tissue effectuated by bacterial pathogens. The present study aimed at evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of BenTooth, an edible natural product mixture comprising burdock root extract, persimmon leaf extract and quercetin, against periodontitis both in vitro and in vivo. BenTooth was examined for antimicrobial properties and its impact on cellular responses related to inflammation and bone resorption. Its effects were also assessed in a rat model of ligature-induced periodontitis. BenTooth demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity against P. gingivalis and S. mutans. In RAW264.7 cells, it notably diminished the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2, as well as reduced interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels triggered by P. gingivalis-derived lipopolysaccharide. Furthermore, BenTooth inhibited osteoclastogenesis mediated by the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand. In the rat model, BenTooth consumption mitigated the ligature-induced expansion in distance between the cementoenamel junction and the alveolar bone crest and bolstered the bone volume fraction. These results present BenTooth as a potential therapeutic candidate for the prevention and remediation of periodontal diseases.

Influence of seasonality and habitat on chemical composition, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial properties of the Libidibia ferrea

Libidibia ferrea Mart, belonging to the Fabacee family, is a medicinal plant known for its biological properties and production of phenolic compounds. Previous studies reveal the biological activity of its phenolic constituents, making it very promising for the development of new medicines. Seasonality and geographic distribution of species can modify the production of secondary metabolites in Fabaceae species in terms of the preferentially activated metabolic pathways and, consequently, interfere with the medicinal properties of these species. Studying the influence of seasonality on the production of phenolic constituents is essential to establish conditions for “cultivation,” species collection, standardization, production, and safety in traditional medicine. This unprecedented study proposed to evaluate the influence of seasonal variations and habitat on the production of phenolic compounds and biological properties of the ethanolic extracts of the stem bark from L. ferrea, whose specimens were collected from the Caatinga and the Atlantic Forest, biomes of Brazil. Antimicrobial activity was determined by broth microdilution. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through a colorimetric assay using MTT. ABTS and DPPH radical reduction methods estimated antioxidant capacities. Folin-Ciocalteu and AlCl3 spectrophotometric methods quantified total phenolics and flavonoids, respectively. In turn, radial diffusion quantified tannin content. PCA score plot and HCA dendogram were obtained by multivariate analysis of 1H NMR data. The cytotoxicity against C6 glioma cells was observed only for Atlantic Forest extracts (EC50 = 0.13–0.5 mg mL−1). These extracts also showed selectivity against Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6633) [MICs 500–2000 μg mL−1], B. cereus CCT 0096) [MIC = 250 μg mL−1], Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) [MICs = 250–500 μg mL−1], S. epidermidis (ATCC 12228) [62.5–1000 μg mL−1], mainly to Staphylococcus sp. Caatinga extracts showed higher production of flavonoids and antioxidants in the summer [7.36 ± 0.19 μg QE mg−1 extract; IC50ABTS = 4.86 ± 0.05 μg mL−1], spring [5.96 ± 0.10 μg QE mg−1 extract; IC50ABTS = 5.96 ± 0.08 μg mL−1 ], winter [4.89 ± 0.25 μg QE mg−1 extract; IC50ABTS = 6.72 ± 0.08 μg mL−1 ]. Regarding habitat, two discriminating compound patterns in the studied biomes were revealed by NMR. The results indicated that the Caatinga biome offers better conditions for activating the production of phenolics [336.34 ± 18.1 μgGAE mg−1 extract], tannins [328.38 ± 30.19 μgTAE mg−1 extract] in the summer and flavonoids in winter, spring, and summer. The extracts that showed the best antioxidant activities were also those from the Caatinga. In turn, extracts from the Atlantic Forest are more promising for discovering antibacterial compounds against Staphylococcus sp and cytotoxic for C6 glioma cells. These findings corroborated the traditional use of L. ferrea bark powder for treating skin wounds and suggest the cytotoxic potential of these extracts for glioblastoma cell lines.

Tamarindus indica seed polysaccharide-copper nanocomposite: An innovative solution for green environment and antimicrobial studies

The purpose of this study was to synthesize ecofriendly nano-composite in which agricultural waste (seeds of Tamarindus indica) was used to synthesize tamarind seed polysaccharides (TSP) and its composite with copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) for the purpose of green and clean environment as well as reduction of green-house gases. Confirmation of extracted TSP, synthesized nanocomposite was carried out using FTIR, SEM, PXRD and EDX techniques. In FTIR analysis TSP gives a strong broad peak at 3331 cm−1 due to –OH group and in case of composite its intensity is reduced which might be due to the interactions between –OH and Cu+2 ions. SEM analysis gives that TSP have irregular and rough surface while Cu-NPs exhibited spherical morphology and composite showed clustering of spherical shape to rough surface. EDX analysis quantitatively represented copper having atomic ratio 0.57 % which confirms the synthesis of composite. Furthermore, synthesized composite demonstrated excellent antibacterial activity against gram-positive (S.aureus) and gram-negative bacteria (E.coli) even greater than standard medicine (ciprofloxacin). From this study it was revealed that agriculture waste can be utilized to make environment green as well as synthesized composite from agricultural waste seed also displayed excellent antimicrobial activities which directs that they can be utilized in medical field. This study aims to assess the antimicrobial properties of the nanocomposite, aiming to contribute to the development of effective antimicrobial agents. Through these objectives, the research seeks to bridge the gap between green technology and antimicrobial efficacy, offering a promising avenue for both environmental conservation and healthcare advancements.

Effect of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extracts on Mechanical and Antimicrobial Properties of Ganyong Starch Edible Films as Primary Packaging of Crabstick

Research has been conducted on the effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract addition in the combination of an edible film made from Ganyong starch, sorbitol and chitosan. This study aims to analyze whether this formulation can be used as a substitute packaging for crabsticks that have been using conventional plastic packaging. By using a variation of ginger extract concentrations of 0, 3%, 6% and 9% into 3 % Ganyong starch, 4 % sorbitol and 0.3 % chitosan (w/v). Mechanical characteristics were carried out in the form of tensile strength, elongation, young modulus, swelling, moisture content, thickness, and solubility test. Antimicrobial ability and DSC (Differential scanning calorimetry) for the thermal properties of the casted film were also conducted. Data was analyzed using One-way Anova SPSS version 29 with Turkey’s test. The addition of ginger extract to edible films based on Ganyong starch, sorbitol and chitosan can be used as primary packaging for crabsticks. The best formulation was found in the 6 % ginger extract variation with the results of swelling (95 %), moisture content (13 %), elongation (76 %), and antimicrobial properties of Escherichia coli (7.5 mm) and Bacillus cereus (6.9 mm). In addition, the melting temperature (Tm) of 6 % ginger extract concentration was also higher (134 °C), yet was not significantly different from the other variations. Therefore, this formulation has the potential as an alternative primary crabstick packaging. HIGHLIGHTS Preparation of edible film from 3 % Ganyong starch, 4 % sorbitol, 0.3 % chitosan with fixed concentration and 3 different variations of ginger extract concentration (0, 3, 6, and 9 %), respectively. Casting method of edible film as primary packaging of crabsticks Mechanical properties and antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli, gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, respectively The 6 % ginger extract variation showed better results with elongation (76 %), moisture content (13 %), swelling (95 %), and antimicrobial properties of coli (7.5 mm) and B. cereus (6.9 mm) GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Antioxidant, antibacterial, enzyme inhibition and fluorescence characteristics of unsymmetrical thiourea derivatives

A series of six unsymmetrical thiourea derivatives, namely 1-cyclohexyl-3-(pyridin-2-yl) thiourea (1), 1-cyclohexyl-3-(3-methylpyridin-2-yl)thiourea (2), 1-cyclohexyl-3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl) thiourea (3), 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-cyclohexylthiourea (4), 1-(3-methylpyridin-2-yl)-3-phenylthiourea (5), and 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-3-phenylthiourea (6), were successfully synthesized via reaction between different amines with isothiocyanates under a non-catalytic environment. Structural elucidation of compounds (1–6) was performed using FT-IR and NMR (1H and 13C) spectroscopy. The infrared spectra displayed characteristic stretching vibrations, while the 13C NMR chemical shifts of the thiourea moiety (CS) were observed in the range of 179.1–181.4 ppm. The antioxidative and antimicrobial properties of the compounds were assessed, as well as their inhibitory effects on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase were evaluated. In order to analyze the fluorescence characteristics of each compound (1–6), the excitation (λex) and emission (λem) wavelengths were scanned within the range of 250–750 nm, with the solvent blank serving as a standard. It was observed that when dissolved in acetone, toluene, tetrahydrofuran, and ethyl acetate, these compounds exhibited emission peaks ranging from 367 to 581 nm and absorption peaks ranging from 275 to 432 nm.

Antimicrobial activity and mechanism of chitosan-coated epsilon-poly-lysine nanoliposomes against Alicyclobacillus spp. in apple juice

Epsilon-poly-lysine (EPL), a natural cationic antimicrobial peptide, is widely used in food processing and preservation. However, when applied to fruit and vegetable juice, EPL can cause turbidity and precipitation, which reduces the antimicrobial properties and juice quality. As a colloidal delivery system, nanoliposome provides a novel insight into improve the activity of EPL. In this study, the antibacterial activity and mechanism of chitosan-coated EPL nanoliposomes (CS-EPLLP) against Alicyclobacillus spp. in apple juice were evaluated. It was found that the minimum inhibitory concentration of CS-EPLLP against the strains of A. acidocaldarius, A. fructus and A. acidoterrestris were in the ranges of 0.625–1.25 mg/L, while the minimum bactericidal concentration of CS-EPLLP against these strains in apple juice were 0.625–2.5 mg/L. Compared to A. fructus and A. acidoterrestris, A. acidocaldarius displayed a better resistance to CS-EPLLP. Meanwhile, the modification of chitosan can improve the bactericidal effect of EPL and EPL nanoliposomes. In addition, CS-EPLLP treatment can lead to the inactivation of bacteria cells by causing surface damage, destroying their membrane integrity, preventing the intracellular ATP synthesis, increasing intracellular protein leakage and cells membrane permeability. Furthermore, the addition of CS-EPLLP in the amounts of MBC had no significant effect on the color change, transmittance, centrifuge sedimentation rate and main volatile compounds of apple juice. The prepared CS-EPLLP and established method provides a new insight into the inactivation of bacteria in fruit juice.

Bio-functional properties and phytochemical composition of selected Apis mellifera honey from Africa

Globally, the demand for natural remedies such as honey to manage ailments has increased. Yet, the health benefits and chemical composition of African honeys are not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to characterise the bio-functional properties and the phytochemical composition of 18 Apis mellifera honeys from Kenya, Uganda, and Cameroon in comparison to the popular and commercially available Manuka 5+ honey from New Zealand. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay (DPPH-RSA) was used to determine the antioxidant property, whilst the agar well diffusion and broth dilution (Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC)) assays were used to determine antimicrobial property. Further, colorimetric methods were used for phytochemical analysis. Our results showed that honeys collected from Rift Valley region of Kenya (e.g. Poi, Salabani and Mbechot) and Western region of Cameron (e.g. Bangoulap) had the highest antioxidant (DPPH RSA of 41.52–43.81%) and antimicrobial (MIC (3.125–6.25% w/v) and MBC (6.25–12.5% w/v)) activities. Additionally, the total flavonoid (770–970 mg QE/100 g), phenol (944.79–1047.53 mg GAE/100 g), terpenoid (239.78–320.89 mg LE/100 g) and alkaloid (119.40–266.57 mg CE/100 g) contents reached the highest levels in these bioactive African honeys, which significantly and positively correlated with their bio-functional properties. The functional and phytochemical composition of these bioactive African honeys were similar to or higher than those of the Manuka 5+ honey. Furthermore, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of African honeys revealed 10 most prominent volatile organic compounds that contribute to their geographical distinction: triacontane, heptacosane, (Z)-9-tricosene, tetracosane, 6-propyl-2,3-dihydropyran-2,4-dione, octacosane, 1,2,4-trimethylcyclohexane, 1,3-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) benzene, 2-methylheptane and phytol. Overall, our findings suggest that some of the tested African honeys are natural sources of antimicrobial and antioxidant therapies that can be exploited upon further research and commercialized as high value honey.

Thymol, a Monoterpenoid within Polymeric Iodophor Formulations and Their Antimicrobial Activities.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an emanating threat to humanity's future. The effectiveness of commonly used antibiotics against microbial infections is declining at an alarming rate. As a result, morbidity and mortality rates are soaring, particularly among immunocompromised populations. Exploring alternative solutions, such as medicinal plants and iodine, shows promise in combating resistant pathogens. Such antimicrobials could effectively inhibit microbial proliferation through synergistic combinations. In our study, we prepared a formulation consisting of Aloe barbadensis Miller (AV), Thymol, iodine (I2), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Various analytical methods including SEM/EDS, UV-vis, Raman, FTIR, and XRD were carried out to verify the purity, composition, and morphology of AV-PVP-Thymol-I2. We evaluated the inhibitory effects of this formulation against 10 selected reference strains using impregnated sterile discs, surgical sutures, gauze bandages, surgical face masks, and KN95 masks. The antimicrobial properties of AV-PVP-Thymol-I2 were assessed through disc diffusion methods against 10 reference strains in comparison with two common antibiotics. The 25-month-old formulation exhibited slightly lower inhibitory zones, indicating changes in the sustained-iodine-release reservoir. Our findings confirm AV-PVP-Thymol-I2 as a potent antifungal and antibacterial agent against the reference strains, demonstrating particularly strong inhibitory action on surgical sutures, cotton bandages, and face masks. These results enable the potential use of the formulation AV-PVP-Thymol-I2 as a promising antimicrobial agent against wound infections and as a spray-on contact-killing agent.

Study of in vitro wear resistance and degradation properties of self-made treated medical magnesium alloys

Study of <i>in vitro</i> wear resistance and degradation properties of self-made treated medical magnesium alloys

Synthesis of new Ampicillin supported on Cr/Oxidized pectin supported on Ti bimetal–organic framework as an efficient antimicrobial and anticancer nanocomposite

To synthesize, develop and provide advanced materials with unique properties, in this study, new bimetal–organic framework nanocomposites using Titanium, chromium, oxidized petin and ampicillin were synthesized. With TGA/DTG, FT-IR, XRD, XPS, BET, and EDAX mapping, the structure of the newly synthesized compound was identified, and its structural features were reported. The thermal stability up to 200 °C, particle size of 82 nm and the specific surface area of 27.700 m2/g was from the specifications of the final product. Antimicrobial properties of different bacterial and fungal species and anticancer properties on breast cancer cells were evaluated. In biological evaluation, the synthesized nanocomposites have unique activity and was more effective than some commercial drugs. In antimicrobial activities, MIC was observed between 2–64 μg/mL and in anticancer properties IC50 of 183 μg/mL.

Green synthetic biomaterials: Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial properties of lichen-derived nanomaterials

The green synthesis of nanoparticles using lichen extracts offers a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods. Known for their medicinal properties, lichens can effectively reduce and stabilise metallic salts, providing an eco-friendly approach to producing nanomaterials with potential antimicrobial applications. In this study, the lichen Rhizoplaca chrysoleuca was utilised in the green synthesis of nanoparticles, successfully creating lichen-derived silver-zinc oxide (Ag–ZnO), silver-strontium oxide (Ag–SrO), and silver-nickel oxide (Ag–NiO) nanoparticles. Ultraviolet–visible absorption spectroscopy revealed that the characteristic light absorption of the NCs occurred within the range of 300–400 nm for each synthesis, and dynamic light scattering measurements indicated that the hydrodynamic diameters of the nanoparticles were below 100 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence of the constituent elements. Imaging with field-emission scanning electron microscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy showed that the nanoparticles had spherical shapes with dimensions measuring below 50 nm. X-ray diffraction analysis of the synthesised nanocomposite materials revealed the presence of Ag–ZnO (22 nm), Ag–SrO (48 nm), and Ag–NiO (21 nm) nanoparticles. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified functional groups in the nanoparticles, confirming their compositions, while thermogravimetric analysis determined the thermal decomposition temperatures of the NCs. The antibacterial efficacy of these materials was assessed, with Ag–ZnO (inhibition zone 11.0 mm) and Ag–NiO (inhibition zone 10.0 mm) showing significant effectiveness against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. In contrast, Ag–SrO (inhibition zone 6.5 mm) exhibited comparatively lower antibacterial activity. Additionally, the study highlighted the antifungal properties of Ag–NiO (inhibition zone 19.0 mm) and Ag–ZnO (inhibition zone 8.5 mm) nanomaterials. This research advances the understanding of lichen-based nanotechnology and its potential for developing sustainable antimicrobial solutions.

Development of Chlorhexidine-loaded Lipid Nanoparticles Incorporated in a Bioceramic Endodontic Sealer

IntroductionThis study aimed to assess BioRoot RCS (BR) incorporating liposomal chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) for its antibacterial activity, drug release capacity, and physicochemical properties. MethodsDrug release of CHX liposomal formulations in combination with BR was evaluated spectrophotometrically and through mathematical release models for 30 days. A selected combination was evaluated for antimicrobial properties against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm growth on human dentin. Cytotoxicity was assessed following the ISO 10993-5:2019 standard on days 1, 3, and 7. Physicochemical properties were evaluated through setting time, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, solubility, contact angle, and film thickness. ResultsFrom BR, liposomal CHX released up to 7-fold higher CHX than CHX solution (P < .05), following a triphasic drug release pattern compared to the CHX solution, which followed a quasi-Fickian diffusion. BR combined with a selected liposomal CHX completely inhibited E. faecalis biofilm growth compared to the combination of BR with CHX solution and the control group (P < .05). Liposomal CHX decreased the contact angle (P < .05) and solubility but increased cytotoxicity (P < .05) of BR, staying above the ISO threshold. None of the other physicochemical characteristics tested differed from BR (P > .05). ConclusionThis liposomal formulation improved CHX release from BR, enhancing the antibacterial effectiveness. It presents a promising approach for local antibiofilm therapy in endodontics without substantially altering the physicochemical characteristics of BR.

A multifunctional biogenic films and coatings from synergistic aqueous dispersion of wood-derived suberin and cellulose nanofibers

Here, biogenic and multifunctional active food coatings and packaging with UV shielding and antimicrobial properties were structured from the aqueous dispersion of an industrial byproduct, suberin, which was stabilized with amphiphilic cellulose nanofibers (CNF). The dual-functioning CNF, synthesized in a deep eutectic solvent, functioned as an efficient suberin dispersant and reinforcing agent in the packaging design. The nanofibrillar percolation network of CNF provided a steric hindrance against the coalescence of the suberin particles. The low CNF dosage of 0.5 wt% resulted in dispersion with optimal viscosity (208.70 Pa.s), enhanced stability (instability index of <0.001), and reduced particle size (9.37 ± 2.43 μm). The dispersion of suberin and CNF was further converted into self-standing films with superior UV-blocking capability, good thermal stability, improved hydrophobicity (increase in water contact angle from 61° ± 0.15 to 83° ± 5.11), and antimicrobial properties against gram-negative bacteria. Finally, the synergistic bicomponent dispersions were demonstrated as fruit coatings for bananas and packaging for strawberries to promote their self-life. The coatings and packaging considerably mitigated fruit deterioration and improved their freshness by preventing moisture loss and microbial attack. This sustainable approach is expected to pave the way toward advanced, biogenic, and active food packaging based on widely available bioresources.

Development and Microbiological Evaluation of Natural Diaper Rash (Diaper Dermatitis) Cream Formulations

Backround: Rosa damascena Mill, released into the environment as waste in rose products production facilities, contains antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiseptic phenolic components. It is the development of an effective natural cream formulation for baby diaper rash by taking advantage of the antimicrobial properties of rose pulp and adding natural ingredients (zinc oxide ZnO, natural oils, and beeswax). Material and Methods: The emulsification method was used to prepare diaper rash cream formulations. Rotational type viscosity determination was performed to examine the rheological behavior of the formulations. In selecting the optimum formulation, pH, viscosity, hydrophilic-lipophilic balance, and physical appearance of the product were considered. To examine its stability properties, its stability was examined in three different environments in line with ICH directives for 6months. The optimum DR-C-7 formulation was subjected to physicochemical and stability tests. Results: It was observed that the DR-C-7 formulation had a viscosity between 9,820 and 26,130 (Pa.s) in terms of rheological properties. As a result of the challenge test, no microbiological units were found. At the end of a 6-month stability study under different conditions, it was observed that it retained all its features. Conclusion: It was concluded that R. damascena pulp, which has important phenolic contents such as phenylethyl alcohol, flavonoids, and terpenoids, can be used for thick products such as diaper rash cream with its antioxidant antimicrobial properties.

Comparative Analysis of Antimicrobial Efficacy: Harnessing Cocos Nucifera Extracts in Novel Toothpaste Formulations

Natural resources, ranging from herbs like neem and clove to minerals like fluoride, are harnessed for their antimicrobial properties in oral care products. These resources provide sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals, offering effective yet eco-friendly solutions against oral microorganisms. The present study aims to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of two toothpaste formulations derived from the extracts of Cocos nucifera. Two toothpaste preparations were made from the pulp extracts of Cocos nucifera. Group 1 was prepared from milk extracted from freshly ground coconut pulp. The second extract was obtained by the lyophilization process. Both toothpaste formulations were then analyzed for their antimicrobial efficacy by assessing the zone of inhibition for the following oral pathogens; Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Candida albicans by agar well diffusion assay. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software. It was found that the toothpaste derived from the extracts of coconut milk had antimicrobial efficacy against S.mutans, S.aureus and C.albicans in the various dilutions tested and the toothpaste made from the lyophilized extract exhibited antimicrobial efficacy against P.aeruginosa in various dilutions. Toothpaste derived from the coconut milk extract demonstrated significant efficacy against tested oral pathogens, suggesting its suitability for incorporation into oral care products. Its antimicrobial properties highlight its potential for combating oral infections and enhancing oral hygiene routines. Further research and development could optimize its utilization in various dental formulations.

Exploring Swelling Behaviour of Chitosan-Based Hydrogels in Diverse Environmental Conditions

Hydrogels, versatile materials with diverse applications in biomedicine and beyond, have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties. Among these, chitosan-based hydrogels have emerged as promising candidates owing to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and antimicrobial properties. The hydrogels were synthesized through cross-linking of chitosan graft copolymers with N-vinylpyrrolidone and other vinyl monomers, as well as through thermal methods in situ. The impact of cross-linking agent concentration on gel fraction yield and cross-linking efficiency was examined. The results indicate that higher cross-linking densities lead to reduced swelling capacity as a result of a denser network structure. The swelling behaviour of chitosan-based hydrogels under various environmental conditions, including pH, temperature and ionic strength were also investigated. It is found that swelling behaviour varied among different hydrogel formulations, with natural and vinyl graft copolymers exhibiting increased swelling in acidic environments. Semi-synthetic copolymers containing hydrophobic groups showed relatively lower swelling across pH ranges. Additionally, swelling kinetics were studied, revealing equilibrium reached at different time intervals depending on temperature and hydrogel composition. Furthermore, the effect of glucose concentration on swelling behaviour was explored, demonstrating decreased swelling with increasing glucose concentration. Overall, this comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the swelling behaviour of chitosan-based hydrogels, essential for optimizing their performance in biomedical applications.