Significant Zone Of Inhibition Research Articles

Assessment of the Antimicrobial Efficacy and Mechanical Properties of Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) Incorporating Silver Nanoparticles In Varying Concentrations for Pediatric Dental Applications

ABSTRACT Background: Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is widely used in pediatric dentistry due to its fluoride-releasing properties and strong adhesion to tooth structure. However, enhancing its antimicrobial efficacy remains a challenge. Incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been proposed as a solution to increase the antimicrobial properties of GIC without compromising its mechanical strength. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the effects of integrating varying concentrations of AgNPs into GIC on its antimicrobial efficacy against common oral pathogens and its mechanical properties. Three concentrations of AgNPs (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% by weight) were evaluated. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar diffusion test against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Mechanical properties, including compressive strength and wear resistance, were measured using standardized tests. Thirty pediatric patients were randomly assigned to receive dental treatments using one of the three modified GIC formulations. Results: The GIC modified with 1% AgNPs demonstrated optimal antimicrobial activity, showing a significant inhibition zone increase of 25% against S. mutans and 20% against L. acidophilus compared to the control. The compressive strength of the GIC was maintained, with the 1% AgNP formulation achieving a compressive strength of 220 MPa, comparable to the control (215 MPa). Wear resistance slightly decreased as the concentration of AgNPs increased. Conclusion: The addition of 1% AgNPs to GIC significantly enhances its antimicrobial properties without adversely affecting its mechanical strength. This formulation holds potential for improving the effectiveness of pediatric dental restorations by reducing the risk of secondary caries.

Formulation and Production of Ethanol Extract Derived from Black Turmeric (Curcuma caesia Roxb) for use as an Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer Spray

Formulation and production of an ethanol extract derived from black turmeric (Curcuma caesia roxb) for use as an antibacterial hand sanitizer spray were successfully performed. The method used is the maceration method with 96% ethanol solvent. Formulation of rimpang kunyit hitam (Curcuma caesia roxb) ethanol extract was formulated into four formulas: without extract, 10%, 8%, and 6% ethanol extract. The results showed that the ethanol extract of black turmeric rhizome with the phytochemical screening method contained flavonoids and alkaloids, which had antibacterial activity. Formulation of rimpang kunyit hitam ethanol extract in hand sanitizer spray with a concentration of 10% has a more significant inhibition zone compared to other concentrations, namely 9.9 mm in Escherichia coli and 9.8 mm in Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.

Green approach of cobalt sulfide nanoparticles from novel red stigma of Crocus sativus and multifaceted biomedical advancement

The present study was based on green protocols for synthesizing cobalt sulfide nanoparticles using saffron stigma flower extract (Crocus sativus), as saffron is considered a potent traditional medicine. Furthermore, the novel cobalt sulfide (CoS) nanoparticles prepared by the green approach for the first time with saffron improved showed cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity, as well as significant antitumor activity of Hela, A549, and MCF 7 cells viz in vitro studies. The saffron-cobalt sulfide nanoparticles underwent characterization using various techniques which include the X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Advances in scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and the energy dispersive X-ray analysis spectroscopy. Both XRD, and FTIR confirmed the synthesis of pure cobalt sulfide nanoparticles. The resulting saffron-based cobalt sulfide nanoparticles exhibited a nanosphere structure, as confirmed by HRTEM, indicating the formation of nanosphere and microstructures. In vitro studies were conducted to assess the cytotoxicity and cell viability of Hela cells, A549, and MCF-7 cells. And, antibacterial studies were performed against various bacterial strains using different concentrations of cobalt sulfide nanoparticles derived from the red stigma of saffron (Crocus sativus) only the red stigma extract. The MTT assay analysis, cell viability, and morphological studies demonstrated the cytotoxic studies of the synthesized cobalt sulfide nanoparticles on cancer cells. The antibacterial test of the nanoparticles was also evaluated, revealing significant zones of inhibition (mm) against pathogens and cobalt sulfide nanoparticles using saffron extract, showcasing their potent cytotoxic, antibacterial, and antitumor activities with promising biomedical applications.

Synergistic Effect of Surface Hydrophobicity and <i>In-Vitro</i> Antimicrobial Activity of Polymeric Nano-Formulation in Textile Finishing

Fouling and damage of variety of surfaces including textile material is a global challenge. As textile wears next to the skin and health issues are more significant. Thus in an effort to address the issues related to textile surfaces damage, antimicrobial polymeric textile finishing was developed to impart antimicrobial functionalities to the textile fabric. The nanoprecipitation technique was done to synthesize antimicrobial polymeric nanoparticles and applied on to the cotton textile fabric via layer-by-layer self-assembled multilayers dip coating technique. The particle size and zeta potential of the nanoparticles was evaluated form dynamic light scattering analysis (DLS) as 216 nm and-11.2 mV. The antimicrobial polymeric finishing of cotton textile was done by alternate dip coating in polyelectrolytes and nanoformulation. The structural morphology and roughness of the resultant textile was studied by SEM and optical profilometery. While the surface hydrophobicity was found to increase with the number of bilayers coating of hydrophobic polymeric formulation as measured in term of contact angle θ. In-vitro antimicrobial activity was studied against gram negative E. coli and gram positive S. aureus with significant zone of inhibition against both strains. Thus surface hydrophobicity and antimicrobial activity of the textile fabric was synergistically achieved and have potential for biomedical and industrial application.

Synthesis and characterization of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3‐NPs) and analysis of their antimicrobial efficacy against selected pathogenic microbes

AbstractThis present paper assesses the chemical synthesis of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3‐NPs) using a modified sol–gel process. Aluminum nitrate and citric acid were heated to 180 °C until a gel was produced. After that, the dehydrated amorphous gel was sintered at 800 °C for 2 h. The formation of nano‐sized α‐Al2O3 particles was investigated using several characterized methodologies, encompassing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering, and X‐ray fluorescence (XRF). Then, the antibacterial and antifungal activity of synthesized nanoscale Al2O3 particles against pathogens like Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Trichophyton rubrum has been investigated. The successful synthesis of alumina nanoparticles has been validated by several analytical techniques. Nanoparticles of Al2O3‐NPs with a rhombohedral structure and an average crystallite size of 26 nm were revealed by XRD research. Their zeta potential was −8.65 mV, and their size distribution measured 68.6 nm in diameter. The elemental composition of sample was identified with the use of XRF, which indicates that the Al2O3‐NPs powder is quite pure. Furthermore, the antimicrobial experiment showed that the Al2O3‐NPs exhibited the greatest antibacterial efficacy, S. aureus, E. Coli, and T. rubrum exhibited significant inhibition zones with diameters of 13, and 15 mm, and a high inhibition percentage of 70% when exposed to 100 mg/mL of Al2O3 nanoparticles.

Antibacterial Efficacy of Tryptophan Coordinated Silver Nanoparticles Against E. coli: Spectroscopic and Microscopic Evaluation of Bacterial Cell Death.

The capability of conventional fluorescence spectroscopy and right-angled synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (SFS) was evaluated to quantify the antibacterial potential of chemically synthesized Tryptophan coordinated silver nanoparticles (Ag-TrpNPs). Silver nanoparticles have gained significant importance as a material of interest due to their diverse assemblies in the nanoscale range and their potent antibacterial activity. But due to toxicity of silver nanoparticles there is a dire need to coordinate these materials with some biocompatible and biodegradable molecules. The study has been focused on chemical synthesis of functional fluorescence nanomaterials based on Tryptophan molecules coordinated with silver nanoparticles (Ag-TrpNPs). The antibacterial activity of Ag-TrpNPs was assessed in bacteria due to their functional characteristics such as tuneability, biocompatibility, and bioavailability. We employed optical characterization techniques such as Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), fluorescence spectroscopy, and confocal microscopy to ensure the particles formation in aqueous suspension. DLS analysis confirmed the hydrodynamic size of the nanoparticles of approximately 100nm. SEM images revealed the spherical morphology and size distribution of the Ag-TrpNPs. Escherichia coli bacterial strains were used to assess the antibacterial efficacy of the Ag-TrpNPs using fluorescence spectroscopy and imaging. Initially, the agar well plate method was employed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the Ag-TrpNPs. The significant zones of inhibition of size 37mm at 500µg/mL and 27mm at 15.5µg/mL were reported which indicated the efficiency of Ag-TrpNPs from higher to lower concentration. Conventional and synchronous fluorescence spectra provided evidence of bacterial cell death in aqueous suspensions to ensure the interaction of Ag-TrpNPs with E. coli bacteria at different times and concentrations. SEM was employed to investigate the interaction mechanism between Ag-TrpNPs and bacterial cells. The images revealed cell wall disintegration, leading to the leakage of cellular contents, and eventually cell death occurred.

The Chitinous Skeleton of Ianthella basta Marine Demosponge as a Renewable Scaffold-Based Carrier of Antiseptics

The chitinous skeleton of the marine demosponge Ianthella basta exhibits a unique network-like 3D architecture, excellent capillary properties, and chemical inertness, making it highly suitable for interdisciplinary research, especially in biomedical applications. This study investigates the potential of renewable I. basta chitinous scaffolds for drug delivery and wound dressing. The scaffolds, characterized by a microtubular structure, were impregnated with selected commercially available antiseptics, including solutions with hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. Evaluations against selected clinical strains of bacteria, as well as fungi, demonstrated significant zones of growth inhibition with antiseptics such as brilliant green, gentian violet, decamethoxine, and polyhexanide. Notably, the antibacterial properties of these antiseptic-treated chitin matrices persisted for over 72 h, effectively inhibiting microbial growth in fresh cultures. These findings highlight the considerable potential of I. basta chitin scaffolds as sustainable, innovative biomaterials for controlled drug release and wound dressing applications.

Investigation of Biological Activity of Squamarina cartilaginea (With.) P. James Species Distributed in Türkiye

In this study, the methanol extract of Squamarina cartilaginea, a species distributed in Türkiye, was investigated for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and DNA protective effects. The chemical composition of the extract was elucidated through spectroscopic determination of total phenols, total flavonoids, and chromatographic quantification of usnic acid. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the disk diffusion method, revealing a significant zone of inhibition with a diameter of 17.5 mm against M. luteus and S. aureus. The antioxidant activity was evaluated through scavenging activities against DPPH and ABTS radicals, demonstrating a concentration-dependent potent scavenging activity against ABTS radicals. Cytotoxic activity was determined using the MTT method on DU-145 (Human Prostate Cancer Cell Line) and Colo 205 (Human Colon Cancer Cell Line) cell lines. The extract exhibited strong cytotoxic activity against the Colo 205 cell line, with a viability percentage of 33.16±2.01 at a concentration of 3.906 µg/mL. Furthermore, the S. cartilaginea extract demonstrated DNA protective activity on pBR322 plasmid DNA against UV and H2O2 exposure.

Biological activity and chemical characteristics studies of new oligomannose produced by Erwinia gerundensis

Natural polymers have attracted considerable attention in recent decades among scientists due to their potential therapeutic uses, particularly as antimicrobial and antitumor agents. In this research, novel EPSs were extracted from garlic rhizosphere bacteria. The antibacterial and antitumor activities of the polymer were evaluated through biological assays. The antibacterial activity was tested against gram-positive microorganisms (such as Listeria monocytogenes, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative organisms (such as Shigella sonnei and Escherichia coli). The most significant inhibition zone was observed with Listeria monocytogenes and S. typhi, measuring 35 mm, while the most miniature antibacterial effect was seen with Staphylococcus aureus at 23.67 mm.Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of the crude polymer was assessed using a broth medium with two strains of E. coli and Bacillus cereus. Electron microscope images displayed varying degrees of damage to bacterial cells in the treated broth. The antitumor activity was determined using the MTT test on colon carcinoma cells (HCT-116), hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG-2), and CaCO2 (intestinal carcinoma cells), with IC50 values of 188.86±6.17 µg/mL, 221.66±8.02 µg/mL, and 203.65±7.43 µg/mL, respectively, after 48 h. The bacteria responsible for polymer production were isolated from garlic plant rhizospheres and identified as Erwinia gerundensis CCASU-2024–69 through 16S rRNA sequencing. FTIR and NMR techniques determined the crude EPS's main components and functional groups, including carbonyl, carboxylic, methylene, and silanol. GC–MS analysis revealed 34 bioactive compounds, while HPLC analysis indicated that the EPS was a hetero-monosaccharide consisting of d-xylose, d-glucose, l-arabinose, ribose, and d-mannose. This research study represents the initial exploration into the exopolysaccharide derived from Erwinia gerundensis. To assess the interaction between the exopolysaccharide and the active sites of Bacillus cereus and E. coli, molecular docking experiments were conducted using five monosaccharides: d-xylose, d-glucose, l-arabinose, ribose, and d-mannose. The data obtained from the molecular docking analysis strongly correlates with the findings from biological studies.Furthermore, these highly active compounds exhibit a favorable proposed ADMET profile. This particular exopolysaccharide shows potential as a natural antibiotic and holds promise in treating gastrointestinal cancer. A comprehensive assessment of laboratory animals is essential before its potential use as a prebiotic in nutrition.

Antibacterial, antifungal, and phytochemical properties of Salsola kali ethanolic extract.

The research into the use of plants as plentiful reservoirs of bioactive chemicals shows significant potential for agricultural uses. This study focused on analyzing the chemical composition and potency of an ethanolic extract obtained from the aerial parts (leaves and stems) of Salsola kali against potato pathogenic fungal and bacterial pathogens. The isolated fungal isolates were unequivocally identified as Fusarium oxysporum and Rhizoctonia solani based on morphological characteristics and internal transcribed spacer genetic sequencing data. The antifungal activity of the extract revealed good inhibition efficacy against R. solani (60.4%) and weak activity against F. oxysporum (11.1%) at a concentration of 5,000 µg/mL. The S. kali extract exhibited strong antibacterial activity, as evidenced by the significant inhibition zone diameter (mm) observed in all three strains of bacteria that were tested: Pectobacterium carotovorum (13.33), Pectobacterium atrosepticum (9.00), and Ralstonia solanacearum (9.33), at a concentration of 10,000 µg/mL. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed the presence of several polyphenolic compounds (μg/g), with gallic acid (2942.8), caffeic acid (2110.2), cinnamic acid (1943.1), and chlorogenic acid (858.4) being the predominant ones. Quercetin and hesperetin were the predominant flavonoid components, with concentrations of 1110.3 and 1059.3 μg/g, respectively. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of many bioactive compounds, such as saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, diterpenes, and phytosterols. The most abundant compound detected was n-hexadecanoic acid, which accounted for 28.1%. The results emphasize the potential of S. kali extract as a valuable source of bioactive substances that possess good antifungal and antibacterial effects, which highlights its potential for many agricultural uses.

Optimization of Rhizoclonium hieroglyphicum extract for enhanced synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles using response surface methodology and its potential exploration in biological application.

The study investigates the potential of Rhizoclonium hieroglyphicum as a novel source for synthesizing nickel oxide nanoparticles (RH-NiONPs) and evaluates its biological applications. Phytochemicals in the algal extract serve as capping, reducing and stabilizing agent for nickel oxide nanoparticles. The process variables were optimized using BBD based RSM to obtain maximum RH-NiONPs. Characterization of RH-NiONPs using UV-Vis and FT-IR spectroscopy reveals the plasmon resonance peak at 340 nm and the functional groups responsible for reduction and stabilization. XRD confirmed the crystalline nature while the stability and size of the RH-NiONPs were determined by DLS and zeta potential. Toxicity assessments demonstrated the effect of RH-NiONPs against Vigna radiata, Allium cepa and Artemia salina was low. RH-NiONPs revealed significant zone of inhibition against the selected bacteria and fungi. The results of larvicidal activity showed that RH-NiONPs are toxic to 4th instar larvae of Daphnis nerii. Also, RH-NiONPs efficiently decolorized Reactive Violet 13 (92%) under sunlight irradiation and the experimental data well fits to Langmuir isotherm along with pseudo second order kinetic model. The thermodynamic studies enunciate the exothermic and non-spontaneous photocatalytic decolorization of reactive violet 13. Thus, the current study assesses the eco-friendly and cost-effective nature of RH-NiONPs along with its biological applications.

Fungal-mediated synthesis of copper nanoparticles for effective management of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae

Meeting the escalating demand for food presents a challenge, necessitating the inevitable use of chemical pesticides to ensure a sufficient level of food production. However, these pesticides, have drawbacks and can adversely affect non-target organisms and the environment. Nanoparticles for disease management offer a powerful solution, bringing numerous benefits such as enhanced efficacy, minimized pesticide use, reduced impact on the environment, etc. In the present study, the supernatant of two fungi, Fusarium verticillioides and Bipolaris maydis were used for copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) synthesis. A 5 mM CuSO4 solution was used as a precursor and the reaction was carried out at an optimized pH of 8.5 in dark conditions.The shift in the reaction mixture's colour from light blue to yellowish-green and reddish-brown with F. verticillioides and B. maydis supernatant, respectively, preliminarily confirmed particle size reduction. Characterization of fungal-mediated synthesized CuNPs (FM-CuNPs) using transmission electron microscope measured the size of 8.62-52 nm and 27.96 to 65 nm by employing F. verticillioides and B.maydis, respectively, with a spherical shape. Dynamic light scattering measured the hydrodynamic size of FM-CuNPs 141.8 nm and 170.2 nm with zeta potential of -19.5 mV and -22.5 mV, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the presence of functional groups such as amines, amides, and OH groups speculated to have a pivotal role in the reduction and stabilization of particle. Additionally, the in vitro evaluation efficacy of FM-CuNPs against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae exhibited a significant inhibition zone starting from 100 microgram ml (1.70 cm) as compared to control. The study demonstrates the -1 remarkable efficacy of FM-CuNPs synthesized for the first time using two aforesaid fungal species. . KEYWORDS :Bipolaris maydis, CuNPs, Fusarium verticillioides, Management, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae

Development and assessment of an anti-acne hydrogel formulation containing Moringa oleifera leaf powder

Introduction: The development of effective and natural treatments for acne is a significant focus in dermatological research. This study presents the formulation and evaluation of an anti-acne hydrogel containing Moringa oleifera leaf powder, known for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The hydrogel was prepared using a carbopol-based gel matrix, incorporating varying concentrations of Moringa oleifera leaf powder to determine the optimal formulation. The physicochemical properties, including pH, viscosity, spreadability, and stability, were assessed. Antimicrobial activity against Propionibacterium acnes, a common acne-causing bacterium, was evaluated using agar well diffusion method. Methodology: The formulated hydrogel exhibited desirable pH and viscosity suitable for topical application. Stability studies indicated that the hydrogel maintained its consistency and efficacy over a period of three months under different storage conditions. Antimicrobial tests demonstrated significant inhibition zones, confirming the hydrogel's potent antibacterial activity against P. acnes. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties were assessed using in vitro assays, showing a marked reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Result: In conclusion, the Moringa oleifera leaf powder-based hydrogel shows promise as an effective and safe topical treatment for acne, leveraging the natural therapeutic benefits of Moringa oleifera. Future studies will focus on large-scale clinical trials to further validate these findings.

Elaboration of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with star anise extract as a therapeutic system for lung cancer: Physicochemical and biological evaluation

The research study aimed to maximize the important medical role of star anise extract (SAE) through its loading on a widely available natural polymer (chitosan, Cs). Thus, SAE loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs) was prepared. The finding illustrated the formation of spherical particles of SAE loaded CsNPs as proved by transmission electron microscope (TEM). In addition, the average particle size of CsNPs and SAE loaded CsNPs are 131.8 ± 24.63 and 318.5 ± 73.94 nm, respectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed the presence of many spherical particles deposited on the surface of CsNPs owing to the deposition of SAE on the surface and encapsulated into pores of CsNPs. It also showed the presence of elements such as sodium, potassium, copper, magnesium, zinc, calcium, and iron, as well as the elements that accompanied with CsNPs: carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The extract was rich in bioactive components, such as anethole, shikimic acid, and different flavonoids, contributing to its medicinal qualities. The bioactive molecules in SAE were assessed by chromatographic analysis. Using the agar well diffusion test, the antibacterial qualities of CsNPs and SAE loaded CsNPs were evaluated against pathogenic bacteria linked to lung illnesses. The most significant inhibition zones showed that the SAE loaded CsNPs had the most antibacterial activity. The anticancer activity using MTT assay was used in the biological assessments to determine the cytotoxicity against the NCl-H460 lung cancer cell line. The results showed that CsNPs loaded with SAE considerably decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with the most significant anticancer impact by SAE loaded CsNPs. Furthermore, in vivo tests on lung cancer therapy revealed that when compared to other treatment groups, the SAE loaded CsNPs group showed the greatest reduction in tumor biomarkers and inflammation, as seen by decreased levels of Plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor protein 53 (p53), Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF- alpha), and fibronectin. Results concluded that these thorough characterizations, biological assessments, and antibacterial tests have confirmed the effective integration of SAE into CsNPs. Further, SAE loaded CsNPs could be a suitable option for various biomedical applications in tackling lung cancer and the inactivation of bacterial infection.

Development and evaluation of antimicrobial PVC-grafted polymer for enhanced paint applications.

Demand for antimicrobial paints is increasing globally due to the rising need to control microbial growth and reduce infection risks in various environments. This increased demand underscores the crucial role of advanced antimicrobial coatings in promoting health and safety. In this context, an innovative poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) grafted polymer with 1-(2-aminoethyl piperazine) (AEP) was prepared and studied in detail. In this study, the prepared polymer was characterized using FTIR and NMR spectroscopy to examine the polymer's chemical structure and employed TGA and DSC for thermal stability analysis. The antimicrobial activity of the grafted polymer was evaluated through the agar diffusion method and showed a significant inhibition zone of 21.6 mm for S. aureus, 16.3 mm for E. coli, 18.3 mm for M. smegmatis, and 20.3 mm for C. albicans at a lowest concentration of 12.5 μg mL-1. To assess surface characteristics, the PVC-g-AEP polymer was mixed with commercial paint and applied to a glass surface. SEM and AFM analysis showed a 5-times increase in porosity while maintaining visual aesthetics. Additionally, the paint displayed excellent stability against water, retaining around 90% of its antimicrobial activity even after 15 washes. This advanced polymer not only exhibits superior antimicrobial properties but also improves paint durability, setting a new benchmark for high-performance antimicrobial coatings and significantly advancing protective paint technology.

Starch-chitosan-Taro mucilage nanocomposite active food packaging film doped with zinc oxide nanoparticles – Fabrication, mechanical properties, anti-bacterial activity and eco toxicity assessment

In this research, a novel active food packaging material was developed by blending starch, chitosan, and plant-based mucilage with zinc oxide nanoparticles. The polymeric nanocomposite film, created by incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles into the mixture using a straightforward approach, was analyzed for its structural and functional attributes using FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TGA/DSC. These analyses revealed a robust interaction between the polymers' functional groups and the nanoparticles, forming a stable film. The film's mechanical properties, including tensile strength and Young's modulus, were high. It also showed reduced wettability and water solubility, enhancing water resistance. The biodegradability rate was 100 %. Antibacterial tests against Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. showed significant inhibition zones of 26 mm and 30 mm, respectively, demonstrating strong antibacterial effectiveness. The film's non-target toxicity was assessed through phytotoxicity experiments on Vigna angularis and soil nutrient evaluations, with no negative impact on plant growth or soil health observed. These results indicate that this nanocomposite is a safe, biocompatible option for food packaging.

Development of antibacterial and hydrophobic PVDF@ZnO coating on cotton fabrics by electrospinning method

Products with antimicrobial properties enhance personal comfort and hygiene by preventing bacterial infections. In this work, we developed an antibacterial and hydrophobic coating by combining zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles with poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) through the electrospinning method, aiming for an enhanced cotton surface for textile applications. Initially, ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized and integrated uniformly within the PVDF, characterized by various analytical techniques. This study highlights the coating's remarkable antibacterial activity, evidenced by a significant inhibition zone diameter of 18 mm against Staphylococcus aureus and its enhanced hydrophobicity, with a contact angle of 136°. Additionally, it was found that the Higuchi model could describe the diffusion release of ZnO from the PVDF coating. The obtained result allows us to conclude that applying the electrospinning method to fabric coatings opens new avenues in the design of functional textiles, particularly antibacterial ones, as proved in this paper.

Comparative Evaluation of Antifungal Efficacy of 3% Sodium Hypochlorite, 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate, Ozonated Water, Alum Water, and Normal Saline Solutions against Endodontopathogenic Microorganism, Candida Albicans: A Microbiological In Vitro Study.

To compare and evaluate the antifungal efficacy of 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) gluconate, 4 mg/mL ozonated water, and 2M alum water against Candida albicans (C. albicans). A total of 35 patients were selected from those attending the outpatient department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry at Santosh Dental College and Hospitals, Ghaziabad. Their salivary samples were taken and cultured on a Sabouraud's dextrose agar (SDA) plate. The antifungal efficacy of 3% NaOCl, 2% CHX gluconate, 4 mg/mL concentration of ozonated water, and 2M alum water was assessed against clinical strains of C. albicans with the help of agar well diffusion method. The microbial isolates were inoculated into 10 mL of sterile peptone water and incubated at 37°C for 8 hours. The cultures were swabbed on the surface of sterile Mueller-Hinton agar plates using a sterile cotton swab. Five wells of 6 mm diameter were punched in each Petri dish. Around 100 µL of each test solution was poured into the designated wells. Further, the plates were incubated in an upright position at 37°C for 24 hours. The antifungal activity of the test solutions was determined by measuring the diameter of the inhibition zone in mm produced against the Candida isolates, and means were calculated. It was observed that all test solutions used in this study were inhibitory against C. albicans but with a variation in the size of inhibitory zones. According to the means of the diameter of inhibitory zones for all test solutions, the 3% NaOCl represented the statistically significant largest average zones of inhibition against C. albicans, followed by 2% CHX when compared with the other two test solutions alum water and ozonated water. Ozonated water produced the smallest mean inhibitory zone. Sharma A, Naorem N, Srivastava B, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Antifungal Efficacy of 3% Sodium Hypochlorite, 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate, Ozonated Water, Alum Water, and Normal Saline Solutions against Endodontopathogenic Microorganism, Candida Albicans: A Microbiological In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(S-1):S17-S24.

Borneol essential oil: Enzyme-assisted extraction, inhibitory effect on Propionibacterium acnes, and study on acne treatment mechanism based on network pharmacology-molecular docking

Borneol essential oil (BEO), a plant essential oil derived from hydrodistillation of fresh branches and leaves of Cinnamomum camphora (L.). This study optimized cellulase and xylanase-assisted BEO, extraction using an orthogonal design. Additionally, it explored the inhibitory effects of BEO on Propionibacterium acnes and elucidated the anti-bacterial mechanisms via molecular docking. Furthermore, the acne treatment mechanism of BEO was investigated using network pharmacology-molecular docking. The findings indicated that the concentration of borneol in BEO was 2.34 times higher than that achieved through hydrodistillation. This enhancement was achieved by adding enzymes in a volume equivalent to 2 % of the raw material, followed by a 2-hour enzymolysis process conducted at 40℃. BEO exhibited a significant inhibition zone of 31.6±0.5 mm against Propionibacterium acnes. Molecular docking analysis revealed that six, three, and one chemical components in BEO exhibited molecular binding energies exceeding 5.00 kJ/mol with key target proteins involved in the pathogenesis of Propionibacterium acnes: deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I), dermatan sulfate (DsA1), and Christie, Atkins, Munch-Peterson (CAMP), respectively. This indicates a close relationship between the chemical components and the target proteins. Network pharmacology analysis identified 40 common targets between BEO and acne formation, from which 12 key targets were identified. Among these, ovarian steroidogenesis exhibited the highest degree of enrichment in the signaling pathway. These findings provide a scientific foundation for the development of acne treatment cosmetics utilizing BEO.

Improving Chitosan/PVA Electrospun Nanofibers Antimicrobial Efficacy with Methylene Blue for Effective <i>E. Coli</i> Inhibition Using Photodynamic Therapy

In view of the growing concern over the threat of antibiotic resistance and bacterial infections, this study evaluated the antimicrobial performance and characteristics of chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers incorporated with Methylene Blue (MB). Following the fabrication of chitosan/PVA nanofibers loaded with different MB concentrations via electrospinning, the samples were characterised through Field-emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and leaching tests. Finally, the antimicrobial inhibition level of the samples was assessed via the disc diffusion method. Based on the results, the MB-integrated chitosan/PVA nanofibers exhibited a nanoscale morphology, and the FTIR confirmed the presence of MB. The findings also established a positive correlation between the MB concentration and leaching intensity. Furthermore, the optimal antimicrobial efficacy against Escherichia coli was achieved by the chitosan/PVA/MB (5 wt.%) sample with a 2-min laser exposure, which recorded a significant inhibition zone of 8.65 mm. In conclusion, MB demonstrated potent antimicrobial properties against E. coli, suggesting its potential integration in electrospun nanofibers for combating bacterial infections via photodynamic therapy.