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Linear low-density polyethylene (PE) containing an inclusion complex composed of [beta]-cyclodextrin and D-limonene (CD-lim) is proposed as an innovative food wrapping material with antimicrobial features. PE/CD-lim composites are prepared by conventional, high-volume processing, and the optical and mechanical properties of the developed formulations appear suitable for their use as food packaging materials. Compared to plain PE, the PE/CD-lim films have improved haze and UV-vis outcomes, but also decreased gloss values. Addition of CD-lim slightly increases water uptake, up to levels suitable for the foreseen application. It also allows to improve performance of PE as food packaging material, since the PE/CD-lim composites provide barrier to ultraviolet light, an added value for packaging of fatty acids-containing food items, whose shelf life is often limited by oxidation caused by UV light. Most importantly, PE/CD-lim composites exhibit significant antimicrobial properties against a wide range of microorganisms, including fungi and bacteria. Hence, PE films containing CD-lim display suitable properties to play a role as active food packaging films. Highlights * Development of polyethylene-based composites containing a natural filler * Composite films with enhanced antimicrobial and antifungal efficiency * Improved transparency to visible light and barrier to UV of the composites KEYWORDS antibacterial properties, composites, food packaging material, mechanical properties, polyethylene (PE), UV-vis spectroscopy, 1 | INTRODUCTION Nearly half of polymeric food containers and films are produced from various grades of polyethylene (PE), like high-density (HDPE), low-density (LDPE), and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). (1,2) [...]

The study assessed the health-promoting properties and the content of minerals in the bark of bird cherry (Prunus padus L.), which was then used as an ingredient in functional teas. The infusions were made with the use of Matricaria chamomilla L., Tilia cordata Mill., and Calendula officinalis L., and then combined with the bark in various proportions. The prepared infusions were tested for antioxidant activity, ability to reduce copper ions and iron ions, as well as the ability to scavenge hydroxyl radicals. In the next stage, the antimicrobial activity and the ability to inhibit the enzyme cycloxygenase-2 were assessed. Bird cherry bark contains a high potassium content of 19.457 ± 762 mg/kg d.m. In all the tests evaluating the antioxidant activity, infusions from the bark of bird cherry alone and with its 30% addition had the strongest properties. The analyzed infusions also have the ability to reduce Cu(ii) ions; they are active to reduce Fe(iii) ions and scavenge hydroxyl radical. The highest antimicrobial activity was found for teas with 20 and 30% bark, especially against Listeria monocytogenes (25.0–27.0 mm) (±3.0). The bark infusion was also found to have the highest inhibitory activity against cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) – 77.0%.

The pursuit of novel or modified substances based on a natural origin, like flavonoids, is essential in addressing the increasing number of diseases and bacterial resistance to antibiotics, as well as in maintaining intestinal balance and enhancing overall gut health. The primary goal of this research was to evaluate the impact of specific flavonoid compounds—chalcones, flavanones, and flavones—substituted with -Br, -Cl, -CH3, and -NO2 on both pathogenic and probiotic microorganisms. Additionally, this study aimed to understand these compounds' influence on standardized normal and pathologically altered intestinal microbiomes. 8-Bromo-6-chloroflavone 4′-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside and 8-bromo-6-chloroflavanone showed the most promising results as bactericidal agents. They significantly limited or inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria without adversely affecting the probiotic's growth. Digestion in vitro studies indicated that 6-methyl-8-nitroflavone and 8-bromo-6-chloroflavone positively modulated the gut microbiome by increasing beneficial bacteria and reducing potentially pathogenic microbes. This effect was most notable in microbiomes characteristic of older individuals and those recovering from chemotherapy or antibiotic treatments. This study underscores the therapeutic potential of flavonoid compounds, particularly those with specific halogen and nitro substitutions, in enhancing gut health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to compare the content of selected phytochemicals as well as the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of the leaves of Prunus padus L. and Prunus serotina L., as there is very little research on this subject in the literature. Therefore, it is used to deepen knowledge on this subject. In addition, an electrochemical test was also carried out, which was not yet available for the above plants. Antibacterial studies have also been deepened to include the analysis of new strains of bacteria and fungi, which has not been studied earlier. The water extracts of P. padus using the utra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) system showed a higher content of both phenolic acids and flavonols (651.77b ± 18.12 mg/100 g dw for acids and 3.85b ± 0.08 mg/100 g dw for flavonols, respectively). Ferulic and p-coumaric acids were the dominant polyphenols in leaves. Extracts from P. padus showed higher activity against DPPH radical, which was 6.62b ± 0.06 mg TE/1 g dw, as well as higher antioxidant capacity, measured using 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) cation radical (37.39b ± 3.81 mg TE/g dw). The higher antioxidant potential of P. padus was confirmed based on the oxidizing potentials of electroactive compounds present in them. Stronger inhibition against Enterococcus faecium and Klebsiella pneumoniae was found for P. padus, whereas P. serotina extract was more potent against Enterococcus faecium bacterium. It has been shown that P. padus can be an attractive raw material with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that can be used on a much wider scale in food technology than its current application.

The search for new substances of natural origin, such as flavonoids, is necessary in the fight against the growing number of diseases and bacterial resistance to antibiotics. In our research, we wanted to check the influence of flavonoids with chlorine or bromine atoms and a nitro group on pathogenic and probiotic bacteria. We synthesized flavonoids using Claisen–Schmidt condensation and its modifications, and through biotransformation via entomopathogenic filamentous fungi, we obtained their glycoside derivatives. Biotransformation yielded two new flavonoid glycosides: 8-amino-6-chloroflavone 4′-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside and 6-bromo-8-nitroflavone 4′-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside. Subsequently, we checked the antimicrobial properties of the aforementioned aglycon flavonoid compounds against pathogenic and probiotic bacteria and yeast. Our studies revealed that flavones have superior inhibitory effects compared to chalcones and flavanones. Notably, 6-chloro-8-nitroflavone showed potent inhibitory activity against pathogenic bacteria. Conversely, flavanones 6-chloro-8-nitroflavanone and 6-bromo-8-nitroflavanone stimulated the growth of probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus and Pediococcus pentosaceus). Our research has shown that the presence of chlorine, bromine, and nitro groups has a significant effect on their antimicrobial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linear low‐density polyethylene (PE) containing an inclusion complex composed of β‐cyclodextrin and d‐limonene (CD‐lim) is proposed as an innovative food wrapping material with antimicrobial features. PE/CD‐lim composites are prepared by conventional, high‐volume processing, and the optical and mechanical properties of the developed formulations appear suitable for their use as food packaging materials. Compared to plain PE, the PE/CD‐lim films have improved haze and UV–vis outcomes, but also decreased gloss values. Addition of CD‐lim slightly increases water uptake, up to levels suitable for the foreseen application. It also allows to improve performance of PE as food packaging material, since the PE/CD‐lim composites provide barrier to ultraviolet light, an added value for packaging of fatty acids‐containing food items, whose shelf life is often limited by oxidation caused by UV light. Most importantly, PE/CD‐lim composites exhibit significant antimicrobial properties against a wide range of microorganisms, including fungi and bacteria. Hence, PE films containing CD‐lim display suitable properties to play a role as active food packaging films. Highlights: Development of polyethylene‐based composites containing a natural fillerComposite films with enhanced antimicrobial and antifungal efficiencyImproved transparency to visible light and barrier to UV of the composites [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dermocosmetics are products intended for sensitive and problematic skin. They are a good solution for additional care of skin affected by conditions such as atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, or for couperose skin. The compounds of particular importance in the care of atopic skin include ceramides, ectoine, hyaluronic acid, vitamins A and E, as well as natural vegetable oils. The aim of this work was to develop a qualitative and quantitative approach and to investigate the characteristics of formulations such as a face cream, topical cream, body lotion, and cleansing foam dedicated to patients with atopic dermatitis. The finished cosmetic formulation was evaluated by performing formulation stability tests at different times and temperatures, together with packaging compatibility and organoleptic evaluation. Preservative tests were carried out to determine the efficacy of the preservative. In addition, dermatological and instrumental tests were done to verify the product properties. The newly developed cosmetic formulations showed good physical and chemical characteristics, typical of this type of product. They were also structurally and microbiologically stable during storage at various temperatures. Dermatological tests did not reveal any irritating or allergenic properties. The best data were obtained for the face cream--namely improvement of skin hydration by 21.88%, reduction of transepidermal water loss by 15.86%, alleviation of erythema by 15.77%, and of skin sensitivity by 17.20%. This work resulted in the preparation of innovative dermocosmetics to be used for atopic skin. The cosmetics have a unique composition and delicate formula, show high biofunctionality, and meet all the requirements for cosmetic products intended for marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of ionizing radiation on the physicochemical properties of panipenem in the solid-state was studied. In the first part of our studies, we evaluated the possibility of applying radiosterilization to obtain sterile panipenem. Spectroscopic (FT-IR, Raman), chromatography (HPLC and HPLC-MS) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) studies have shown that irradiation of panipenem with the 25 kGy, the dose required to achieve sterility, does not change the physicochemical properties of the studied compound. The antimicrobial activity of panipenem irradiated with the dose of 25 kGy was reduced for three species. It was confirmed that the decrease in antimicrobial activity might be related to the isomerization of panipenem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate changes in the solubility and antimicrobial efficacy of cefuroxime axetil (CA) when incorporated into cyclodextrin (CD). While choosing the CD, the validated in silico model was used. A theoretical model based on docking and molecular mechanics/generalized born surface area was validated using a curated dataset of API (active pharmaceutical ingredient)-CD stability constants. The library of commonly used cyclodextrins was virtually screened, indicating CA -hydroxypropyl-βCD (HPβCD) as the most thermodynamically favored system. Solid-state CA-HPβCD system was prepared and characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), and X-ray diffraction (XRPD) methods. The dissolution profiles of the CA and its cyclodextrin system were evaluated. Microbiological activity of the CA-HPβCD inclusion system was studied based on changes in minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values and related to ones of the pure CA. The theoretical model was successfully validated, obtaining an average correlation with experimental data R = 0.7. The dissolution study showed significantly improved dissolution profiles of CA-HPβCD compared to CA. HPβCD increases the antimicrobial efficacy of CA up to 4-fold compared to pure CA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the best sterilization methods for chemically unstable drugs, such as carbapenems, is irradiation. The chemical and physical properties of radiosterilized imipenem and cilastatin were analyzed using spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods. Unstable free radicals were presented in samples after irradiation; their mean lifetime was 142 ± 64 h. The antibacterial activity of cefozopran hydrochloride irradiated with a dose of 25 kGy changed for Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. Imipenem and cilastatin in the solid state are not resistant to radiation sterilization; therefore, this method cannot be used for sterilization of this compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The most important innovations in boethanol production in the last decade were: simultaneous saccharification and fermentation processes (SSF), high gravity fermentation, the use of new enzyme preparation able to hydrolyse native granular starch and construction of genetically modified strains of microorganisms able to carry out simultaneous production of hydrolytic enzymes and fermentation of C6 and C5 sugars. The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of ethanol fermentation using new type of amylolytic enzymes able to hydrolyse native corn starch in a SSF process. Material and methods. The simultaneous saccharification and fermentation of raw corn flour by fed-batch processes using Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain Red Star Ethanol Red and Stargen 001 enzyme preparation was performed. As experimental variable were investigated: fermentation temperature (35-37-40°C), rate of mash stirring (100 and 200 rpm), fermentation time (0-92 h) and dosage of corn flour (different portion and different time). Results. It was found that optimal temperature for fed-batch SSF process was 37°C at initial pH of 5.0. However, the yeast intensively fermented the saccharides also at 40°C. The fermentation stirring rate has significant effect on starch utilization and fermentation production. The prolongation of fermentation time over 72 h has no substantiation in additional ethanol production. In all experimental fermentations the level of produced organic acids was very low, significantly below toxic concentration for the yeast. Conclusions. It was stated that the use of new method of starch raw material preparation resulted in satisfied fermentation yield and allowed to reduce energy requirements for starch liquefaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progressive increase in bacterial resistance has caused an urgent need to introduce new antibiotics, one of them being oxazolidinones with their representative tedizolid. Despite the broad spectrum of activity of the parent tedizolid, it is characterized by low water solubility, which limits its use. The combination of the active molecule with a multifunctional excipient, which is cyclodextrins, allows preservation of its pharmacological activity and modification of its physicochemical properties. Therefore, the aim of the study was to change the dissolution rate and permeability through the model membrane of tedizolid by formation of solid dispersions with a cyclodextrin. The research included identification of tedizolid-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (tedizolid/HP-β-CD) inclusion complex by thermal method (Differential Scanning Colorimetry), spectroscopic methods (powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy), and molecular docking. The second part of the research concerned the physicochemical properties (dissolution and permeability) and the biological properties of the system in terms of its microbiological activity. An increase in the dissolution rate was observed in the presence of cyclodextrin, while maintaining a high permeation coefficient and high microbiological activity. The proposed approach is an opportunity to develop drug delivery systems used in the treatment of resistant bacterial infections, in which, in addition to modifying the physicochemical properties caused by cyclodextrin, we observe a favorable change in the pharmacological potential of the bioactives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrated the importance of fermentation broth pretreatment and dewatering by forward osmosis (FO) before keto carboxylic acid recovery. The most effective and profitable pretreatment procedure was a combination of centrifugation, ceramic ultrafiltration of molecular weight cut-off of 15 kDa, and ceramic nanofiltration of molecular weight cut-off of 450 Da. By applying the complex pretreatment and FO as a pre-concentration step of fermentation broth dewatering, the keto acid enrichment of two times was achieved for alpha-ketoglutaric acid and pyruvic acid. Extensive fouling analysis performed in this study confirmed that the proposed pretreatment procedure was sufficient to avoid severe fouling of the FO dewatering process. A techno-economic analysis of the proposed keto acid extraction scheme shown that by using FO for fermentation broth dewatering, the total capital investment was reduced and the payback time was shortened by 0.83 yr. [Display omitted] • FO fouling reduction & keto acid enrichment governed pretreatment selection. • The best pretreatment was a combination of centrifugation, UF, and loose NF. • Keto acid enrichment of 2 times was achieved by pretreatment and FO dewatering. • FO dewatering reduced capital investment & shortened the payback time by 0.83 yr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]