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This study aimed to investigate the impact of poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) and crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) on cassava starch-based film (CS), focusing on their structural, physicochemical, and antimicrobial properties. Three film types were analyzed: a control film (CS), a film with CS and PDADMAC (CS/PDADMAC), and films containing CS, CNC, and PDADMAC simultaneously (CS/CNC/PDADMAC). The opacity values were influenced (p < 0.05) by incorporating PDADMAC and CNC, decreasing film transparency. Furthermore, due to its hydrophilic characteristics, an increase in water vapor permeability (WVP) values of 86.57–111.6% was observed by incorporating PDADMAC and CNC compared to CS film, respectively. SEM revealed that all films had smooth surfaces without cracks. Furthermore, FTIR analysis confirmed chemical interactions between the film's constituent polymers. Notably, the tensile strength (TS) improved significantly with the addition of CNC, with a notable increase of 82.1% compared to the other films. Furthermore, the CS/CNC/PDADMAC film exhibited antiviral activity, inactivating 90–99.9% of the MHV-3 coronavirus within 1 and 1440 min of direct contact. This film also demonstrated effective inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. The film attains its antimicrobial effect through electrostatic interaction involving the quaternary ammonium groups of PDADMAC and the phospholipid membrane of the microorganism. Therefore, this study promotes an innovative approach to reduce the spread of pathogens through potential contamination on plastic film surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus aureus is a causative agent of nosocomial infections and its antibiotic-resistant strains give cause for concern. Solutions are being explored to improve treatment for these infections, including repositioning drugs such as statins and using nanoparticles with antimicrobial properties. This study evaluated the antimicrobial effects of simvastatin (SIM) and biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles (bio-AgNPs) in isolate form and in combination using assays of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), an in vitro biofilm model, and the association of antimicrobials against clinical strains of S. aureus. Bio-AgNPs showed a 53.8 ± 1.23 nm mean diameter and standard deviation, a 0.23 polydispersity index, and a −25.66 ± 2.19 mV mean potential and standard deviation. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of nanoparticles, and the presence of Ag0 and AgCl. S. aureus strains were sensitive to bio-AgNPs and SIM, showing 31.88–187.5 and 74.66–149.32 μM concentrations, respectively. The association assay showed 2.0 fractional inhibitory concentration indices (i.e., indifferent for clinical strains) and 0.32 values for the standard ATCC 29213 strain (synergy). Biofilm inhibition assays with isolated SIM and bio-AgNPs showed decreased biofilm formation 4× to ⅛ MICs concentrations, showing no synergism in association. These findings evince that simvastatin and bio-AgNPs at subinhibitory concentrations can serve as antimicrobial agents against S. aureus biofilm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Essential oils obtained from leaves of 29 medicinal plants commonly used in Brazil were screened against 13 different Escherichia coli serotypes. The oils were obtained by water-distillation using a Clevenger-type system and their minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) were determined by microdilution method. Essential oil from Cymbopogon martinii exhibited a broad inhibition spectrum, presenting strong activity (MIC between 100 and 500μg/mL) against 10 out of 13 Escherichia coli serotypes: three enterotoxigenic, two enteropathogenic, three enteroinvasive and two shiga-toxin producers. C. winterianus inhibited strongly two enterotoxigenic, one enteropathogenic, one enteroinvasive and one shiga-toxin producer serotypes. Aloysia triphylla also shows good potential to kill Escherichia coli with moderate to strong inhibition. Other essential oils showed antimicrobial properties, however with a more restricted action against the serotypes studied. Chemical analysis of Cymbopogon martinii essential oil performed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC–MS) showed the presence of compounds with known antimicrobial activity, including geraniol, geranyl acetate and trans-cariophyllene, which tested separately, indicated geraniol as antimicrobial active compound. The significant antibacterial activity of Cymbopogon martinii oil suggests that they could serve as a source for compounds with therapeutic potential. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: An optimization procedure using artificial neural networks was developed to determine the optimal combination of parameters, such as medium culture, initial pH, temperature and time of fermentation for maximal trypanocidal metabolites production by Aspergillus fumigatus. A data set of 81 experiments was carried out and an artificial neural network was trained to identify the optimal conditions for this process. Good correlation was obtained between the experimental and predicted values of lysis of the trypomastigote forms of Trypanosoma cruzi . The simulations of fermentation performance were undertaken on combinations of input variables and the highest level of activity against T. cruzi was obtained from the chloroform extract of the modified Jackson medium culture, initial pH of 6.0, incubated at 40°C for 144h. It displayed lysis of 95% of the trypomastigote forms of T. cruzi and the red blood cells remained normal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Essential oils and ethanolic extracts from the leaves and/or roots of 35 medicinal plants commonly used in Brazil were screened for anti-Candida albicans activity. The oils were obtained by water-distillation using a Clevenger-type system. Essential oils from 13 plants showed anti-Candida activity, including Aloysia triphylla, Anthemis nobilis, Cymbopogon martini, Cymbopogon winterianus, Cyperus articulatus, Cyperus rotundus, Lippia alba, Mentha arvensis, Mikania glomerata, Mentha piperita, Mentha sp., Stachys byzantina, and Solidago chilensis. The ethanol extract was not effective at any of the concentrations tested. Chemical analyses showed the presence of compounds with known antimicrobial activity, including 1,8-cineole, geranial, germacrene-d, limonene, linalool, and menthol. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Malassezia furfur is a yeast known as the etiological agent of seborrheic dermatitis. We evaluated the action of five different antimicrobials (amphotericin B, chloramphenicol, ketoconazole, fluconazole, and nystatin) on inhibiting biofilm formation and removing biofilm already formed by M. furfur. The assays were carried out using the microdilution method, and scanning electron microscopy images were used to analyze the biofilm structure. According to the results obtained, the percentage of inhibition was higher for chloramphenicol, followed by ketoconazole, nystatin, and amphotericin B. Regarding the eradication of the biofilm formed, the highest percentage was chloramphenicol, followed by ketoconazole and nystatin. Amphotericin B did not affect biofilm eradication, whereas fluconazole did not cause significant changes inhibiting or removing M. furfur biofilm. Therefore, except for fluconazole, all evaluated antimicrobials had inhibiting effects on the biofilm of M. furfur, either in its formation and/or eradication. Although the results achieved with chloramphenicol have been highlighted, further in vitro and in vivo studies are still needed in order to include this antimicrobial in the therapy of seborrheic dermatitis due to its toxicity, especially to the bone marrow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Simvastatin is an antilipidemic drug that has already demonstrated antibacterial activities on oral and non-oral microorganisms. Silver nanoparticles also exhibit antimicrobial properties, particularly for coating implant surfaces. In this study, we evaluated the effects of combining simvastatin with silver nanoparticles on the formation and viability of biofilms consolidated on titanium discs. Methods: Silver nanoparticles were first biosynthesized using the fungus Fusarium oxysporum and then characterized using Dynamic Light Scattering, X-ray Diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Species of Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus were used and tested using Minimum Inhibitory Concentration assays with concentrations of silver nanoparticles and simvastatin alone and in combination. Biofilm inhibition and viability tests were performed on titanium surfaces. Toxicity tests were also performed on Galleria mellonella moth larvae. Results: The silver nanoparticles had a spherical shape without the formation of aggregates as confirmed by Transmission Electron Microscopy. Dynamic Light Scattering revealed nanoparticles with an average diameter of 53.8 nm (±1.23 nm), a polydispersity index of 0.23 and a zeta potential of −25 mV (±2.19 mV). The silver nanoparticles inhibited the growth of the strains tested in the range of 0.001592 and 63.75, while simvastatin alone inhibited the growth of the same strains in the range of 3.125–62.5 µg/mL. The antibacterial activity test of the combination of the two substances showed a reduction in the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of about two to eight times, showing synergistic effects on Staphylococcus aureus and additive effects on Streptococcus oralis and Porphyromonas gingivalis. As for biofilm, sub-inhibitory concentrations of the combination of substances showed better antibacterial activity in inhibiting the formation of Streptococcus oralis biofilm, and this combination also proved effective in eradicating already established biofilms compared to the substances alone. The combination of silver nanoparticles and simvastatin showed low toxicity to Galleria mellonella moth larvae. Conclusions: The results presented indicate that the combination of the two substances could be an alternative for the prevention and reduction of biofilms on implants. These findings open up new possibilities in the search for alternatives for the treatment of peri-implant infections, as well as the possibility of using lower doses compared to single drugs, achieving the same results and reducing potential toxic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcuma longa L. (turmeric) leaf is a residual product during root harvesting operations. Traditionally, these leaves, are widely used in cooking, are aromatic and contain essential oil. The Brazilian production of turmeric is concentrated in the states of Goiás, Minas Gerais and São Paulo. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition of the senescent leaves of a germplasm bank containing 36 access in São Paulo, in order to select the best plants and to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the essential oils obtained from their senescent leaves. The essential oil content varied from 0.27 to 1.01% and 17 substances were identified, which represented 97% of the identified compounds. Of this total, the main compounds found in the essential oil were the monoterpenes (91 to 94.5%). The α-felandrene was the major compound (ranging from 20.7% to 31.1%), followed by p-cymene (19.2% to 30.8%), terpinolene (12.8% to 20.1%), 1,8-cineole (8.1% and 13.2%), limonene (4.2% to 5.2%), ß-pinene (2.4% and 4.8%), myrcene 2.4% to 3.4%), ß-pinene (1.6% to 3.1%) and d-3-carene (1.2% to 1.6%). The germplasm bank can be grouped into three distinct groups according to the chemical characteristics of the senescent leaves, each group 1,2 and 3 being represented randomly by the respective access 22, 30 and 10. The antimicrobial properties of the essential oil showed MIC 2 mg / mL for Enterococcus hirae, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dipteryx odorata and Dipteryx punctata are species native to the Amazonian, traded by extractivists to obtain coumarin. We aimed to analyze the presence of coumarin in the ethanolic extracts of leaves, branches and fruits of D. odorata and D. punctata and to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of these extracts against phytopathogenic fungi and bacteria of clinical interest. Chemical analyses were performed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). For the antifungal assays, the fungi used were Cercospora longissima, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, two isolates of Fusarium spp. and Sclerotium rolfsii, and the antibacterial assay was performed using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test with Burkholderia cepacia, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. In D. odorata seed extracts and in D. punctata husks, endocarps, and seeds, we identified 1,2-benzopyrone. D. odorata endocarp extracts and D. punctata seeds provided the greatest decrease in mycelial growth of the evaluated phytopathogens, showing promise as an alternative control. The husk and endocarp extracts of both species had a weak effect on E. coli. This research is the first to compare the different parts of species of the genus Dipteryx and to evaluate the use of husks and endocarps of D. punctata fruits to obtain coumarin. Chemical analyses used to quantify the compounds existing in the extracts, and tests with phytopathogens in vitro and in vivo are currently being carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, with multifactorial origins it affects areas of the skin with hair follicles and sebaceous glands that become clogged. Bacterial incidence aggravates treatment due to resistance to antimicrobial agents and production of virulence factors such as biofilm formation. Based on these information, this study aims to conduct in vitro evaluations of the antibacterial activity of essential oils (EOs), alone and in combination, against Propionibacterium acnes , Staphylococcus aureus , and Staphylococcus epidermidis in planktonic and biofilm forms. This study also assessed the anti-inflammatory potential (TNF-α) and the effects of EOs on the viability of human keratinocytes (HaCaT), murine fibroblasts (3T3-L1), and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). Of all EOs tested, 13 had active action against P. acnes , 9 against S. aureus , and 9 against S. epidermidis at concentrations of 0.125–2.0 mg/mL. Among the most active plant species, a blend of essential oil (BEOs) was selected, with Cymbopogon martini (Roxb.) Will. Watson, Eugenia uniflora L., and Varronia curassavica Jacq., the latter due to its anti-inflammatory action. This BEOs showed higher inhibition rates when compared to chloramphenicol against S. aureus and S. epidermidis , and higher eradication rates when compared to chloramphenicol for the three target species. The BEOs did not affect the cell viability of cell lines evaluated, and the levels of TNF-α decreased. According to these results, the BEOs evaluated showed potential for the development of an alternative natural formulation for the treatment of acne. • EOs were effective against P. acnes, S. aureus , and S. epidermidis. • BEOs outperformed chloramphenicol in biofilms of all three bacteria. • BEOs reduced TNF-α and was not cytotoxic to the evaluated cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The production of extracellular xylanase, β-xylosidase and α-l-arabinofuranosidase by the mesophilic fungus Penicillium janczewskii under submerged cultivation was investigated with different carbon sources. Optimization steps included studies of carbon source concentration, temperature of cultivation and initial pH of culture medium. The production of these enzymes was increased two times when cultures were supplemented with brewer’s spent grain at 2% concentration, pH 6.0 and carried out at 25°C. Under these optimized conditions were obtained xylanase activity of 15.19UmL−1 and 23.54Umgprot−1, β-xylosidase activity of 0.16UmL−1 and 0.25Umgprot−1 and α-l-arabinofuranosidase activity of 0.67UmL−1 and 1.04Umgprot−1. Brewer’s spent grain is a promising substrate for P. janczewskii growth and xylanolytic enzyme production, since it is the main by-product from the brewing industry, available in large amounts and at low-cost in many countries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bacterial pathogens cause significant economic losses in fish farms worldwide. The frequent use of antibiotics is a growing concern due to the adverse effects on human health and the environment. We evaluate the antibacterial activity of the Artemisia annua and its bioactive components against the Aeromonas hydrophila, Streptococcus agalactiae and Flavobacterium columnare, the main bacteria that affect fish culture. Bioactive components of the A. annua were obtained using an alcoholic extraction process, yielding 10.6% of dry material. The alcoholic extract of A. annua (ae‐Aa) bioactive compounds was fractionated, obtaining the fractions F1 + 2, F3, F4, F5 and F6. Artemisinin up to 10.0 mg.ml‐1 was ineffective in controlling studied bacteria. Microorganisms tested were all sensitive to ae‐Aa (MIC and MBC 0.40 to 2.50 mg.ml‐1). The ae‐Aa components F3, F4, F5 and F6 were also effective (MIC and MBC 0.015 to 2.00 mg.ml‐1). F3 showed the most effective antibacterial activity (MIC 0.015 to 0.5 mg.ml‐1 and MBC 0.015 to 2.0 mg.ml‐1). The ae‐Aa and its bioactive components presented efficacy to inhibit growth and eliminate bacterial pathogens and can be an alternative to synthetic antibiotics for farmed fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants are a potential source of active molecules and are environmentally safer and cheaper than synthetic antibiotics. Bioactive compounds of Artemisia annua have shown pharmacological activities and are used globally as a supplement. The present study tested whether dietary supplementation with alcohol extract of the plant A. annua (ae-Aa; patent BR10201902707) improves the health status of juvenile Nile tilapia and increases resistance to diseases when fish are challenged with the bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila. The experimental design was completely randomized with four experimental groups (0.0, 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5% ae-Aa in the diets) with five repetitions (12 fish per repetition/experimental unit). We assessed serum glucose and cortisol levels in plasma, leukocyte respiratory activity, total plasma protein, serum lysozyme levels, as well as the number of circulating red blood cells and fish leukocytes at the end of the 30 days of feeding (phase I) and 24h after exposure to bacteria (phase II). The levels of lipid peroxidation, catalase activity and glutathione S-transferase of fish were also analyzed. The supplementation of 0.5% of ae-Aa was sufficient to increase the respiratory burst of leukocyte and lysozyme activity, total plasma protein, blood thrombocytes, neutrophils and monocytes after bacterial challenge (P < 0.05), and minimized stress response with decreases in plasmatic glucose and cortisol, and reduction in lipid peroxidation levels (P < 0.05). Results of the present study suggest that ae-Aa as a dietary supplement has benefits, including supplementation with 0.5% A. annua extract for 30 days to minimize the stress response and modulate innate immunity in Nile tilapia, providing fish with greater resistance and disease protection. • Previous dietary supplementation of Artemisia annua alcohol extract enhanced innate immunity of the Nile tilapia. • Feed supplemented with Artemisia annua alcohol extract minimized stress response of the Nile tilapia. • The A. annua alcoholic oral suplementation increased the resistance of the fish challenged with A. hydrophila. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the novel development of quaternized cassava starch (Q-CS) with antimicrobial and antiviral properties, particularly effective against the MHV-3 coronavirus. The preparation of Q-CS involved the reaction of cassava starch (CS) with glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride (GTMAC) in an alkaline solution. Q-CS physicochemical properties were determined by FTIR, NMR, elemental analysis, zeta potential, TGA, and moisture sorption. FTIR and NMR spectra confirmed the introduction of cationic groups in the CS structure. The elemental analysis revealed a degree of substitution (DS) of 0.552 of the cationic reagent on the hydroxyl groups of CS. Furthermore, Q-CS exhibited a positive zeta potential value (+28.6 ± 0.60 mV) attributed to the high positive charge density shown by the quaternary ammonium groups. Q-CS demonstrated lower thermal stability and higher moisture sorption compared to CS. The antimicrobial activity of Q-CS was confirmed against Escherichia coli (MIC = 0.156 mg mL−1) and Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 0.312 mg mL−1), along with a remarkable ability to inactivate 99% of MHV-3 coronavirus after only 1 min of direct contact. Additionally, Q-CS showed high cell viability (close to 100%) and minimal cytotoxicity effects, guaranteeing its safe use. Therefore, these findings indicate the potential use of Q-CS as a raw material for antiseptic biomaterials. [Display omitted] • Quaternized cassava starch (Q-CS) has been successfully synthesized. • Q-CS showed notable antibacterial and antiviral activity against MHV-3 coronavirus. • Q-CS proved to be a promising biopolymer for producing antimicrobial materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, antioxidant, and antimicrobial starch-based biocomposite films reinforced with coffee husks (S/CH) were developed by incorporating either limonene (LM) (S/CH/LM) or its oligomer derivative, poly(limonene) (PLM) (S/CH/PLM), at different concentrations (5–10 % w / w of starch). Through a comprehensive assessment of film properties, morphology, and structure, a comparative analysis between the two additives was proposed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed some defects throughout the polymer matrix after additive incorporation. The tensile strength (TS) and modulus of elasticity (ME) showed a decrease upon the inclusion of both LM and PLM, while the elongation at break (E) increased. Notably, PLM exhibited outstanding antioxidant capacity, enhancing the films by 108 % over control samples. Additionally, at just 5 % concentration, PLM effectively inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli ATCC 11775 (35.33 ± 2.52 mm) and demonstrated an impressive UV–Vis barrier, comparable to the highest amount of LM incorporated. Therefore, this research highlights the potential of coffee husk-reinforced starch biocomposites with limonene-derived additives as a promising solution for food packaging applications. The comparative analysis sheds light on the advantages of using the PLM in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, contributing to the advancement of active packaging technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of chitosan based edible coating enriched with pequi peel extract (PPE) on quality and safety of tomatoes stored at 22 °C for 16 days were investigated. The addition of PPE into chitosan matrix reduced in 22% the weight loss and in 50% the total color variation. Concerning firmness and yeast and mold counts, similar improvements were observed for chitosan and chitosan-extract coatings, recording a delaying of the softening process in around 2 days and lowering in microbial counts to an estimated value of 1.5 × 103 CFU/g. The application of PPE alone showed effective in controlling fungal growth on tomatoes, by reducing in approximately 70% when compared to uncoated fruits. These results suggest that the combination of PPE with chitosan is suitable as an effective edible coating, improving fresh weight retention and reducing color change in tomatoes together with retaining the benefits of chitosan in delaying fungal growth. Practical applications Fungal diseases are one of the most common causes of tomatoes losses, making necessary the use of fungicides. Pequi peel extract has antifungal activity against some fungal pathogens of tomatoes and can be incorporated into chitosan-based edible coatings in order to avoid the development of fungal diseases and maintain the parameters related to quality during postharvest storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to design a particle using thyme ( Thymus vulgaris ) essential oil through complex coacervation. In vitro activity against bacteria and molds of free oil as well as the encapsulated oil was verified and then in situ assay was done. The free thyme oil presented high in vitro activity, with values below 0.50 mg/mL for almost all the microorganisms tested. Also, MIC values for the encapsulated oil was lower than for the free oil, probably due to the protective micro-environment promoted by the particle wall. The microparticles applied to cakes samples conferred protection against the volatilization of the encapsulated oil and promoted a minimum shelf life of 30 days without the use of synthetic preservatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogen agents, such as bacteria and virus, can contaminate plastic surfaces, particularly those used in food packaging. This study proposed to prepare a polyelectrolyte film with antiviral and antibacterial activity based on sodium alginate (SA) and poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC), a cationic polymer with sanitizing properties. In addition, the physicochemical properties of the polyelectrolyte films were also evaluated. The polyelectrolyte films showed continuous, compact, and crack-free structures. The FTIR analysis confirmed the ionic interaction between SA and PDADMAC. Adding PDADMAC significantly affected the mechanical properties of the films (p < 0.05), increasing the maximum tensile strength (from 8.66 ± 1.55 MPa to 18.1 ± 1.77 MPa). However, polyelectrolyte films showed higher water vapor permeability values due to the strong hydrophilicity of PDADMAC, representing a 43 % average increase compared with the control film. Also, thermal stability improved with the incorporation of PDADMAC. The selected polyelectrolyte film inactivated 99.8 % of SARS-CoV-2 after 1 min in direct contact with the virus, in addition to having an inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. Therefore, this study demonstrated the efficacy of using PDADMAC in the preparation of polyelectrolyte sodium alginate-based films with improvements in physicochemical properties and especially with antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. • A novel active polyelectrolyte film was prepared for packaging applications. • The polyelectrolyte film had good antibacterial and antiviral properties. • The polyelectrolyte films showed good thermal stability and mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mannosylerytrititol lipid nanoemulsions increased the antimicrobial and antioxidant capacity of essential oils. • Using Mannosylerytrititol lipid, particles with a diameter of 5 µm were obtained. • Thymus vulgaris, Lippia sidoides has synergic activity with Mannosylerytrititol lipids against Bacillus. Essential oils (EOs) are natural and effective agents for controlling microorganisms which cause biodeterioration and disease. However, their application is hampered/restricted due to hydrophobicity and rapid vaporization of these compounds. Encapsulation technology provides an effective approach to maintain EO stabilization and prevent the loss of volatile ingredients. Meanwhile, using a synthetic surfactant is seen as counter-productive; therefore, a natural biosurfactant is more reasonable and can potentially increase activity due to its other biological proprieties. This work aims to evaluate the mannosylerythritol lipid (MEL) biosurfactant combined with Thymus vulgaris , Lippia sidoides, and Cymbopogon citratus essential oil emulsions (O/W) and evaluate its antimicrobial and antioxidant capacity. The biosurfactant MEL demonstrated activity against Bacillus subtilis and Penicillium sp. After emulsification, the antimicrobial activity of Thymus vulgaris and Lippia sidoides was increased against Escherichia coli (500 µg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus (600 µg/mL), Bacillus subtilis (120 µg/mL), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1500 µg/mL) , Penicillium sp. (62.25 µg/mL), Aspergillus flavus (250 µg/mL), Fusarium oxysporum (100 and 250 µg/mL), and Candida albicans (125 and 250 µg/mL). We report that emulsions prepared with MEL have high inhibitory activity, maintain the active concentration, and increase antioxidant capacity by 7.33% (Thymus vulgaris), 13.71% (Lippia sidoides), and 3.15% (Cymbopogon citratus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors report extracellular mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by Phoma capsulatum, Phoma putaminum and Phoma citri. The AgNPs thus synthesised were characterised by UV-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Nanosight LM20 and transmission electron microscopy, which confirmed the synthesis of mostly spherical and polydisperse nanoparticles capped with proteins. The size of AgNPs was found in the range of 10-80, 5-80 and 5-90 nm with an average size of 31.85, 25.43 and 23.29 nm by P. capsulatum, P. putaminum and P. citri, respectively. Further, potential antimicrobial activity was reported against Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Salmonella choleraesuis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The lowest minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) (0.85 µg/ml) was reported for AgNPs synthesised from P. citri against S. choleraesuis. However, AgNPs synthesised from P. capsulatum showed the highest MIC (10.62 µg/ml) against S. choleraesuis, P. aeruginosa and E. coli (clinical isolate). The same MIC values (10.62 µg/ml) were also reported against P. aeruginosa and both clinical and standard isolates of E. coli for AgNPs synthesised from P. citri. It was also observed that all the silver nanoparticles showed remarkable antifungal and antibacterial activity against these tested pathogens as compared with the commercially available antifungal and antibacterial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors report extracellular mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by Phoma capsulatum, Phoma putaminum and Phoma citri. The AgNPs thus synthesised were characterised by UV–visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Nanosight LM20 and transmission electron microscopy, which confirmed the synthesis of mostly spherical and polydisperse nanoparticles capped with proteins. The size of AgNPs was found in the range of 10–80, 5–80 and 5–90 nm with an average size of 31.85, 25.43 and 23.29 nm by P. capsulatum, P. putaminum and P. citri, respectively. Further, potential antimicrobial activity was reported against Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Salmonella choleraesuis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The lowest minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) (0.85 µg/ml) was reported for AgNPs synthesised from P. citri against S. choleraesuis. However, AgNPs synthesised from P. capsulatum showed the highest MIC (10.62 µg/ml) against S. choleraesuis, P. aeruginosa and E. coli (clinical isolate). The same MIC values (10.62 µg/ml) were also reported against P. aeruginosa and both clinical and standard isolates of E. coli for AgNPs synthesised from P. citri. It was also observed that all the silver nanoparticles showed remarkable antifungal and antibacterial activity against these tested pathogens as compared with the commercially available antifungal and antibacterial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is growing interest in strategies for manipulating the gut microbiota of fish for beneficial communities to increase growth, improve lipid metabolism, stimulate the immune response, and improve the physiological state of the gut. We investigated the effects of diets supplemented with an alcoholic extract of Artemisia annua (ae-Aa) on gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota and intestinal morphology along with its effects on the growth performance of the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Juveniles were fed with ae-Aa supplementation (0.00, 0.10, 0.25, and 0.50% in the diets) for 30 days. The different ae-Aa supply levels affected bacterial interactions, resulting in a more complex network and increasing the proportion of positive correlations between bacterial groups. The different amounts of ae-Aa caused variations in specific bacterial abundance. The phyla Fusobacteriota and Bacteroidota were dominant in the intestinal microbiota in all experimental groups. The abundance of bacteria belonging to Fusobacteriaceae, Stenotrophomonas , and Clostridium correlated positively with protein efficiency, specific growth rate, weight gain, and final weight, while the opposite was observed for Acinetobacter. Diets supplemented with 0.25 and 0.5% of ae-Aa increased (p < 0.05) perimeter, height, and thickness of villi, crypt depth, villus:crypt ratio, and number of goblet cells in the intestine of Nile tilapia compared to control group. Nile tilapia supplemented with ae-Aa at all levels improved growth performance (weight gain, specific growth rate, and protein efficiency rate; p < 0.05) and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. The weight gain was about 21% better in supplemented fish with ae-Aa than unsupplemented ones. The ae-Aa supplementation of Nile tilapia for 30 days modulated the GI microbiota communities providing variations in specific bacterial abundance, affecting the bacterial interactions, resulting in a more complex, stable, and connected network while changing their intestinal morphology and improving the performance of the fish. • Alcoholic extract of Artemisia annua (ae-Aa) is a potential health-growth-promoter bioproduct. • The ae-Aa promotes positive correlations between bacterial groups of the fish gut microbiota. • Supplementation with ae-Aa improves feed efficiency and performance of Nile tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral candidiasis is an opportunistic fungal infection of the oral cavity with increasingly worldwide prevalence and incidence rates. Novel specifically-targeted strategies to manage this ailment have been proposed using essential oils (EO) known to have antifungal properties. In this study, we aim to investigate the antifungal activity and mode of action of the EO from Coriandrum sativum L. (coriander) leaves on Candida spp. In addition, we detected the molecular targets affected in whole-genome expression in human cells. The EO phytochemical profile indicates monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes as major components, which are likely to negatively impact the viability of yeast cells. There seems to be a synergistic activity of the EO chemical compounds as their isolation into fractions led to a decreased antimicrobial effect. C. sativum EO may bind to membrane ergosterol, increasing ionic permeability and causing membrane damage leading to cell death, but it does not act on cell wall biosynthesis-related pathways. This mode of action is illustrated by photomicrographs showing disruption in biofilm integrity caused by the EO at varied concentrations. The EO also inhibited Candida biofilm adherence to a polystyrene substrate at low concentrations, and decreased the proteolytic activity of Candida albicans at minimum inhibitory concentration. Finally, the EO and its selected active fraction had low cytotoxicity on human cells, with putative mechanisms affecting gene expression in pathways involving chemokines and MAP-kinase (proliferation/apoptosis), as well as adhesion proteins. These findings highlight the potential antifungal activity of the EO from C. sativum leaves and suggest avenues for future translational toxicological research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Neglected and underutilized edible species (NUS) are important food sources. • Optimization resulted in extracts with promising antioxidant capacities against ROS. • O. gratissimum extracts effectively inhibited S. Choleraesuis growth. • P. oleracea presented the most promising cytostatic effect against tumor cell lines. • O. gratissimum and E. foetidum inhibited nitrosation reaction. This study investigated the vitamin C content, total phenolic compounds (TPC), and the potential bioactivities (antioxidant, antiproliferative, antibacterial activities, and inhibition capacity against N -nitrosation) of seven neglected and underutilized species (NUS): culantro (Eryngium foetidum) , false roselle (Hibiscus acetosella) , roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) , tree basil (Ocimum gratissimum) , Barbados Gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata) , purslane (Portulaca oleracea), and tannia (Xanthosoma sagittifolium). Phenolic-rich extracts were obtained by a sequential optimization strategy (Plackett-Burman and Central Composite Design). O. gratissimum presented the highest TPC and X. sagittifolium the greater total vitamin C content. Overall, the plant extracts presented promising bioactive capacities, as scavenging capacity against HOCl, H 2 O 2 and ROO• induced oxidation. P. oleracea demonstrated the highest cytostatic effect against ovarian and kidney tumor cells. O. gratissimum effectively inhibited S. Choleraesuis growth. Maximum inhibition on n -nitrosation was showed by O. gratissimum and E. foetidum. These results highlight the studied NUS as sources of potential health-promoting compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]