Search

The general objective of this work was to isolate from yoghourts cultured strains of lactobacilli with potential for use as probiotics in poultry farming. Three yoghourts were cultured to see the presence of lactobacilli in the Rogosa agar base culture medium. It was found that only one yoghourt (number 1) showed the growth of lactobacilli. This yoghourt was immediately selected for further cultivation. Afterwards, the Lactobacillus strains were isolated and fortified under CO2 and then inoculated into a solution of peptone water, which constituted inoculums to be administered to an experimental group of poultry. Another group served as controls. Pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli were also administered to both groups (experimental and control, each comprising five hens). The results showed significant weight gain from the experimental group (positive effect on immunity) and freedom from disease after an incubation period (inhibitory effect of the lactobacillus strains on the Escherichia coli strains), whereas the control group showed less weight gain than the experimental group and development of colibacillosis after an incubation period. The positive effects of the Lactobacillus strains observed on the poultry of the experimental group proved the ecological role of these microorganisms in improving the health of the poultry by inhibiting the effects of pathogenic Escherichia coli strains. This suggests reassuring prospects for the reduction of antibiotic use in both human and animal care.

The general objective of this work was to isolate from yoghourts cultured strains of lactobacilli with potential for use as probiotics in poultry farming. Three yoghourts were cultured to see the presence of lactobacilli in the Rogosa agar base culture medium. It was found that only one yoghourt (number 1) showed the growth of lactobacilli. This yoghourt was immediately selected for further cultivation. Afterwards, the Lactobacillus strains were isolated and fortified under CO2 and then inoculated into a solution of peptone water, which constituted inoculums to be administered to an experimental group of poultry. Another group served as controls. Pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli were also administered to both groups (experimental and control, each comprising five hens). The results showed significant weight gain from the experimental group (positive effect on immunity) and freedom from disease after an incubation period (inhibitory effect of the lactobacillus strains on the Escherichia coli strains), whereas the control group showed less weight gain than the experimental group and development of colibacillosis after an incubation period. The positive effects of the Lactobacillus strains observed on the poultry of the experimental group proved the ecological role of these microorganisms in improving the health of the poultry by inhibiting the effects of pathogenic Escherichia coli strains. This suggests reassuring prospects for the reduction of antibiotic use in both human and animal care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many antimicrobial compounds have been seeking to protect the human body against pathogenic microbial infections. In recent times, there has been considerable growth of pathogens resistant to existing drugs due to the inappropriate use of antibiotics. In the present study, bacteria isolated from the honey of stingless bees native to the Amazon called Scaptotrigona aff. postica and Apis mellifera were used to determine their potential antimicrobial properties and characterize the medium cultivated with isolated bacteria. The results showed inhibition of nine isolates. Among these isolates, SCA12, SCA13, and SCA15 showed inhibitory activity similar to that of vancomycin, which was used as a positive control. The SCA13 strain obtained the best results with antimicrobial extract against the tested pathogens; the species was identified as Enterococcus faecalis, and its lyophilized extract was characterized by temperature, pH, and trypsin, in which they showed antimicrobial activity. This work shows that bacteria isolated from the stingless bee honey, Scaptotrigona aff. postica, have the potential to produce antimicrobial substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study is to the total phenolic compound determination, as well as the in vitro evaluation of methanolic and ethanolic extracts antimicrobial activity of the medicinal plant Mentha rotundifolia L. against pathogenic strains. The Follin-Cioacalteu method was used to determine the total polyphenols, while the flavonoids were estimated according to the colorimetric method with aluminum chloride. In addition, the determination of condensed tannins is performed by the vanillin method. The antimicrobial activity is tested on five pathogenic bacterial strains, two of which are Gram-negative (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853), three Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus ATCC 11778, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Micrococcus leutus ATCC 4698), and one yeast (Candida albicans ATCC 26790), by the diffusion on solid medium and microdilution methods. The ethanolic extract of round leaf mint from the Bechar region is very rich in polyphenols and flavonoids (401.75 ± 0.32 mg GAE/g, 549.75 ± 1.23 mg QE/g) compared to the methanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts of this plant from the Sidi-Bel-Abbes region. The results of the obtained well method showed that all bacterial strains exhibited sensitivity to the ethanolic extract of Mentha rotundifolia L. from the Bechar region, with inhibition zones up to 21,67 ± 0,57 mm and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) varying between 06.25 mg/ml and 100 mg/ml, The effect of the other extracts on the tested strains was less significant, the methanolic extract was the least effective. These results demonstrate that the Mentha rotundifolia L. ethanolic extract has a great potential of secondary metabolites with antimicrobial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli threaten public health due to their virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, the virulence of this bacterium varies by region depending on environmental conditions, agricultural practices, and the use of antibiotics and disinfectants. However, there is limited research on the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant E. coli in agriculture. Therefore, this research aimed to determine the antibiotic resistance of E. coli isolated from the Honeydew melon production system in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. Thirty-two E. coli strains were isolated from 445 samples obtained from irrigation water, harvested melons, the hands of packaging workers, boxes, and discarded melons. The resistance profile of the E. coli strains was carried out to 12 antibiotics used in antimicrobial therapeutics against this bacterium; a high level of resistance to ertapenem (100%) was detected, followed by meropenem (97%), and ampicillin (94%); 47% of the strains were classified as multidrug-resistant. It was possible to identify the prevalence of the extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBLs) gene blaTEM (15.6%), as well as the non-ESBL genes qepA (3.1%) and aac(6′)lb-cr (3.1%). The E. coli strains isolated from irrigation water were significantly associated with resistance to aztreonam, cefuroxime, amikacin, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. Irrigation water, packing workers' hands, and discarded melons showed a higher prevalence of antibiotic-resistant, ESBL, and non-ESBL genes of E. coli strains in a farm and packing facility of Honeydew melon in Hermosillo, Sonora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wine has long been under the view of researchers to test it for prospective benefits to human health. Many recent studies have claimed how moderate consumption of wine, can be beneficial for us. The aim of this study was to assess antagonistic activity and probiotic potential of the LAB strains, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus hilgardii and Lactobacillus plantarum, isolated from wine against pathogenic bacteria. The antimicrobial activity was detected with disc diffusion method against five species of Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli CCM 3988, Klebsiella pneumoniae CCM 2318, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica CCM 3807, Shigella sonei CCM 1373, Yersinia enterocolitica CCM 5671 and five Gram-positive bacteria: Bacillus thuringiensis CCM 19, Enterococcus faecalis CCM 4224, Listeria monocytogenes CCM 4699, Stapylococcus aureus subsp. aureus CCM 2461, Streptococcus pneumonia CCM 4501. These results showed antagonistic activity and probiotic potential of pathogenic bacteria isolated from wine. The cell free supernatants (CFS) from Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus hilgardii and Lactobacillus plantarum inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Background: Mouthwashes are antiseptic solutions and produce anti-inflammatory properties against periodontal infections in humans. Several in-vitro studies have been performed against virulent strains, as evidenced by an appropriate knowledge about their quality, effectiveness and safety in this research. This study is designed to test the antimicrobial effects and evaluation of mouthwashes against pathogens involved in dental caries and oral infections. Methodology: Rinse solution (Mouthwash) has been developed by three different formulations. Anti-caries solutions were applied and checked against virulent bacterial and fungal pathogens. The antimicrobial effectiveness was identified using the agar well diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Results: Chemisol showed potential killing activity and a zone of inhibition against pathogens ranging in 21-30 mm, which comparatively have higher zones than biosol and herbisol. Biosol also indicated efficacy within 11-13 mm zone of inhibition against Salmonella typhi ATCC-14028, Salmonella enterica ATCC-6017 resistant to herbisol and chemisol. Moreover, biosol exhibited greater MIC against most microorganisms at direct concentration and 1:10 dilution compared to herbisol and chemisol. Conclusion: The significant difference observed in the antimicrobial activities of herbal, herbal & allopathic combination and allopathic dental washes against pathogenic strains. This study concluded that proper gargling with mouth wash solutions reduces the risk of life-threatening strains from fecal water & food.

Many antimicrobial compounds have been seeking to protect the human body against pathogenic microbial infections. In recent times, there has been considerable growth of pathogens resistant to existing drugs due to the inappropriate use of antibiotics. In the present study, bacteria isolated from the honey of stingless bees native to the Amazon called Scaptotrigona aff. postica and Apis mellifera were used to determine their potential antimicrobial properties and characterize the medium cultivated with isolated bacteria. The results showed inhibition of nine isolates. Among these isolates, SCA12, SCA13, and SCA15 showed inhibitory activity similar to that of vancomycin, which was used as a positive control. The SCA13 strain obtained the best results with antimicrobial extract against the tested pathogens; the species was identified as Enterococcus faecalis, and its lyophilized extract was characterized by temperature, pH, and trypsin, in which they showed antimicrobial activity. This work shows that bacteria isolated from the stingless bee honey, Scaptotrigona aff. postica, have the potential to produce antimicrobial substances.

Pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli threaten public health due to their virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, the virulence of this bacterium varies by region depending on environmental conditions, agricultural practices, and the use of antibiotics and disinfectants. However, there is limited research on the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant E. coli in agriculture. Therefore, this research aimed to determine the antibiotic resistance of E. coli isolated from the Honeydew melon production system in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. Thirty-two E. coli strains were isolated from 445 samples obtained from irrigation water, harvested melons, the hands of packaging workers, boxes, and discarded melons. The resistance profile of the E. coli strains was carried out to 12 antibiotics used in antimicrobial therapeutics against this bacterium; a high level of resistance to ertapenem (100%) was detected, followed by meropenem (97%), and ampicillin (94%); 47% of the strains were classified as multidrug-resistant. It was possible to identify the prevalence of the extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBLs) gene blaTEM (15.6%), as well as the non-ESBL genes qepA (3.1%) and aac(6′)lb-cr (3.1%). The E. coli strains isolated from irrigation water were significantly associated with resistance to aztreonam, cefuroxime, amikacin, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. Irrigation water, packing workers’ hands, and discarded melons showed a higher prevalence of antibiotic-resistant, ESBL, and non-ESBL genes of E. coli strains in a farm and packing facility of Honeydew melon in Hermosillo, Sonora.

Abstract In this study, we aimed to investigate for the first time antimicrobial and antimutagenic activities new two Schiff bases, obtained from a primary amine (p-toluidine, o-toluidine) and an aldehyde (Helicin). Synthesized compounds characterized with elemental analysis, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry. 1H-13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Antimutagenic activity was evaluated by micronuclei assay. Antimicrobial activity of Schiff bases have been demonstrated against pathogenic four Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus cereus) and four Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudumonas aeroginosa, Salmonella typhi H, Brucella abortus, Escherichia coli) and two yeasts (Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae). The results showed that both Schiff bases have antimutagenic activity. Especially, high concentration (20 µM) of (E)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-(2-((p-tolylimino)methyl)phenoxy)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3,4,5-triol (Compound I) and (E)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-(2-((o-tolylimino)methyl)phenoxy)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3,4,5-triol (Compound II) have strong antimutagenic activity against aflatoxin B1. On the other hand, both of studied compounds were found effective against pathogenic bacteria and yeasts. Compound I exhibited more activity against P. aeroginosa, S aureus, S.typhi H and C. albicans comparable to Compound II and standard antibiotics. Additionally, Compound II showed better inhibitory activity than Compound I against Candida albicans and Br. Abortus. Therefore, these compounds can be used in phytotherapeutic due to theirs antimutagenic and antimicrobial activities.

Background: Probiotics are live microorganisms which are beneficial bacteria that are normal flora of the digestive system which, in determined amounts, show beneficial effects on host health, and can balance gastrointestinal microflora. Digestive tract diseases such as diarrhea are one of the major causes of child mortality in developing countries. Different pathotypes of Escherichia coli cause diarrhea that affects children, therefore reduction of these colonization strains in humans or animals can decline gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the antimicrobial effect of probiotic bacterial strains isolated from different natural sources against 4 pathotypes of pathogenic E. coli using disk and well diffusion methods. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2013 to July 2014 on Martyr Chamran University in Ahwaz city. A total of 13 probiotic colonies isolated from 20 samples of traditional dairy products including yogurt, cheese and milk, and 20 samples of vegetables including carrots and cabbages (red and white), of which 5 isolates were selected to determine the antimicrobial effect against 4 Escherichia coli pathotypes, randomly. The antimicrobial effect was evaluated using two methods: disk diffusion and well diffusion tests and measuring growth inhibition zones of probiotics against 4 pathotypes of pathogenic E. coli. Results: Obtained results showed growth inhibition effects of all 5 probiotic strains against Escherichia coli pathotypes in both used methods. But in comparison Lactobacillus plantarum had higher growth inhibitory effects in both methods. Conclusion: results of this study demonstrated high antimicrobial effect of probiotic bacteria against pathogenic Escherichia coli strains. It indicated a positive and beneficial role of probiotics in human health and prevention of illness.

Introduction: Cardamom, also known as Elettaria cardamomum, a venerated perennial herb like the "Queen of Spices" belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. She holds various pharmacological activities due to its phytochemicals it contains such as; phenols, tannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, sterols. Methods: The study included the determination of the chemical composition of Elettaria cardamomum ethanolic extract (EEC) by HPLC/UV and evaluated their antimicrobial potential against ten pathogenic reference strains using two complementary techniques: the method of diffusion from solid discs and the determination of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC). Results: The results obtained from chemical identification of the EEC showed the presence of polyphenolic acids (rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, etc.) and many flavonoids (kaempferol, chrysin, galangin, pinocembrine, quercetin, etc.). The results of the antimicrobial effect showed that the extract reacted positively on almost all the microbial strains tested. The EEC extract significantly inhibited the growth of microbial strains, with a broader antimicrobial spectrum with extensive action with inhibitory zones between 8 and 33 mm in diameter. Thus, this extract revealed a dose-dependent antimicrobial activity on these microbial strains used. However, the inhibitory potential of the cardamom extract was variable compared to their MIC ranging from 6.25 to 12.5 mg of dry extract/mL. Therefore, the strains least susceptible to EEC are Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. Conclusion: This activity is due to the phenolic compounds produced by the EEC extract. This extract can be used for the development of plant medicines against microbial infections and fungal infestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The microbial infections represent a real public health problem with considerable individual and economical consequences. Their surveillance has become, in recent decades, an essential element of any program to control these infections. Aim: In this study, we estimated the prevalence and frequencies of some microbial infections amongst the Bechar's community (Algeria). Methods: The microbiological analyzes of various pathological samples namely : urine and vaginal discharge, pus, nipple discharge, originally sampled from throat, otitis discharge and effusion liquid, have been carried out in the medical analysis laboratory of Bechar for seven months. Results: The obtained results showed that out of 1458 samples, 506 cases were positive (34.7 %), for some infections, there is a relationship correlation between the infections' frequency and their prevalence with the age and gender of patients, as factors; which the female gender presents 74.7 % of positive cases, a sex-ratio less than 1; besides, the most affected population is aged between 25 and 39 years old. The isolated microbial species, which are the most incriminated agents responsible for the studied infections, were mainly Escherichia coli with an isolation frequency of 87.15 %, followed by coagulase-positive Staphylococci CoPS (5.13 %), Streptococcus sp (3.16 %), fungal species Candida albicans (1.58 %), Coagulase-negative Staphylococci Co NS (1.18 %). However, less than 2 % of infectious agents were recorded for the bacterial strains P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae and Enterococcus sp. Conclusion : This study can provide a platform for an effective prevention strategy and can be useful for epidemiological prediction with a decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rauwolfia serpentina (R. serpentina), belonging to the family Apocynaceae, is a renowned medicinal herb for its different pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative characteristics. This study has done a comparative assessment of the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activity of R. serpentina aqueous leaf extract (RSALE) with encapsulated gold nanoparticles (R-AuNPs). The R-AuNPs are prepared so that they are significant in size, monodispersed, and extremely stable. Their characterization was done by numerous parameters, including UV-visible spectroscopy (528 nm), transmission electron microscopy (~17 d. nm), dynamic light scattering (~68 d. nm), and zeta-potential (~−17 mV). Subsequently, a potent antibacterial activity was depicted via RSALE and R-AuNPs when examined by disc diffusion against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The obtained zones of inhibition of RSALE (100 mg/mL) were 34 ± 0.1, 35 ± 0.1, 28.4 ± 0.01, and 18 ± 0.01, although those of R-AuNPs (15 mg/mL) were 24.4 ± 0.12, 22 ± 0.07, 20 ± 0.16, and 17 ± 0.3 against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 8114), and Streptococcus pyogenes (ATCC 19615), respectively. However, no zone of inhibition was obtained when tested against Proteus vulgaris (MTCC 1771). Furthermore, the obtained MIC values for Staphylococcus aureus were 0.91, 0.61, and 1.15 mg/mL; for Escherichia coli, 0.79, 0.36, and 1.02 mg/mL; for Bacillus subtilis 0.42, 0.27, and 0.474 mg/mL; and for Streptococcus pyogenes, 7.67, 3.86, and 8.5 mg/mL of pure RSALE, R-AuNPs, and Amoxicillin (control), respectively, incorporating that R-AuNPs have been shown to have a 1.4-fold, 2.1-fold, 1.5-fold, and 1.9-fold enhanced antibacterial activity in contrast to pure RSALE tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Proteus vulgaris, respectively. Additionally, an enhanced antioxidant potential was detected in R-AuNPs compared to RSALE evaluated by the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picryl Hydrazyl Radical Scavenging (DPPH) Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The determined IC 50 values of RSALE and R-AuNPs were 0.131 ± 0.05 and 0.184 ± 0.02 mg/mL, and 0.110 ± 0.1 and 0.106 ± 0.24 mg/mL via the FRAP and DPPH assays, respectively. In addition, the anti-cancer activity against the human cervical cancer (Hela) cell line was evaluated, and the MTT assay results revealed that R-AuNPs (IC50 88.3 µg/mL) had an enhanced anti-cancer potential in contrast to RSALE (171.5 µg/mL). Subsequently, the findings of this study indicated that R. serpentina leaves and their nanoformulation can be used as a potent source for the treatment of the above-mentioned complications and can be used as a possible agent for novel target-based therapies for the management of different ailments.

In recent years, we have witnessed a considerable growth in number of strains resistant to antibiotics. Therefore, research on new antimicrobial components that might be used for development of new-generation drugs is currently very important. We have studied antibiotic activity of Bacillus safensis, Bacillus endopheticus, Bacillus subtilis strains, isolated their bacteriocins, and evaluated their properties. The study was carried out in the scientific research institute for biotechnology, Kemerovo Institute of Food Science and Technology, in the city of Kemerovo. Strains of microorganisms were isolated from vegetables grown in Krasnodar region, namely, samples of Manas onions, Big Beef tomatoes, and Capia bell peppers. Antibiotic activity of the strains was evaluated in liquid nutrient medium. All test strains demonstrated some level of antimicrobial activity which varied from 18 to 91%. We established minimum inhibitory concentrations for the isolated strains based on measured optical density; MIC for Bacillus safensis was 1.5*106 CFU/сm3, for Bacillus endopheticus, 1.5*106 CFU/сm3, for Bacillus subtilis, 1.5*106 CFU/сm3. We then isolated respective bacteriocins and purified them by HPLC method. During disk diffusion tests, bacteriocin preparations proved active against Micrococcus luteus strain. Molecular weight was determined by PAGE electrophoresis. Molecular weight of bacteriocins varied from 3.6 through 4.21 kDа. Isolated bacteriocins were proved to belong to the lantibiotics class.

Wine has long been under the view of researchers to test it for prospective benefits to human health. Many recent studies have claimed how moderate consumption of wine, can be beneficial for us. The aim of this study was to assess antagonistic activity and probiotic potential of the LAB strains, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus hilgardii and Lactobacillus plantarum, isolated from wine against pathogenic bacteria. The antimicrobial activity was detected with disc diffusion method against five species of Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli CCM 3988, Klebsiella pneumoniae CCM 2318, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica CCM 3807, Shigella sonei CCM 1373, Yersinia enterocolitica CCM 5671 and five Gram-positive bacteria: Bacillus thuringiensis CCM 19, Enterococcus faecalis CCM 4224, Listeria monocytogenes CCM 4699, Stapylococcus aureus subsp. aureus CCM 2461, Streptococcus pneumonia CCM 4501. These results showed antagonistic activity and probiotic potential of pathogenic bacteria isolated from wine. The cell free supernatants (CFS) from Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus hilgardii and Lactobacillus plantarum inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] This pioneering study aims to address the paradox of the highly regarded Kinnow mandarin fruit, whose valuable peels have been considered undesired remnants from industrial fruit juice production. The study proposes the utilization of these discarded peels to synthesize ecologically safe gold nanoparticles (K-AuNPs) through a one-pot method. The objectives of this research are to synthesize K-AuNPs using an ecologically safe single-step approach, utilizing discarded Kinnow mandarin fruit peels, and to assess their antibacterial and antidiabetic potential. The validation of K-AuNPs involved various techniques including UV–visible spectroscopy, TEM, DLS, and zeta-potential investigations. The antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis was compared to levofloxacin and Kinnow mandarin aqueous peel extract (KAPE). Furthermore, the anti-diabetic efficacy was evaluated through α-amylase and α-glucosidase experiments, comparing K-AuNPs to pure KAPE and the standard inhibitor acarbose. The results confirmed the successful synthesis of K-AuNPs from KAPE, as evidenced by UV-spectral profiles (527 nm), TEM micrographs (∼21 d. nm), dynamic light scattering (65 d.nm), and zeta-potential (-12 mV). The K-AuNPs demonstrated a superior zone of inhibition and lower MIC values against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis , surpassing levofloxacin and KAPE alone. Additionally, the K-AuNPs exhibited potent anti-diabetic efficacy, outperforming both pure KAPE and acarbose at a lower dosage. To sum up, the process of producing K-AuNPs utilizing Kinnow mandarin peel extracts demonstrates a powerful antibacterial and antidiabetic remedy sourced from previously discarded materials. These findings signify a significant leap forward in the domain of natural product exploration, with the potential to fundamentally reshape modern healthcare approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work is emphasised on the bio‐fabrication of silver and gold nanoparticles in a single step by a microwave‐assisted method using the leaf extract of Synedrella nodiflora as both reducing and stabilising agent. The synthesised nanoparticles are highly stable and show surface plasmon resonance peak at 413 and 535 nm, respectively, for silver and gold nanoparticles in UV–Vis spectrum. The functional group responsible for the reduction of metal ions were obtained from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The crystalline nature of nanoparticles with face‐centred cubic geometry was confirmed by the X‐ray diffraction and selected area electron diffraction patterns. The morphology and sizes of the silver and gold nanoparticles were obtained from transmission electron microscopy images. The nanoparticles exhibit effective antimicrobial activities against various pathogenic strains. These antimicrobial properties were analysed by employing agar well diffusion method. The nanoparticles show significant antioxidant properties, and it was determined using 2, 2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl assay. The nanoparticles also show potent catalytic activity in the degradation of anthropogenic pollutant dyes Congo red and eosin Y by excess NaBH4. Thus, the current study demonstrates the potential use of S. nodiflora as a reducing and stabilising agent for the synthesis of silver and gold nanoparticles and their relevance in the field of biomedicine and catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Probiotics are live microorganisms which are beneficial bacteria that are normal flora of the digestive system which, in determined amounts, show beneficial effects on host health, and can balance gastrointestinal microflora. Digestive tract diseases such as diarrhea are one of the major causes of child mortality in developing countries. Different pathotypes of Escherichia coli cause diarrhea that affects children, therefore reduction of these colonization strains in humans or animals can decline gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the antimicrobial effect of probiotic bacterial strains isolated from different natural sources against 4 pathotypes of pathogenic E. coli using disk and well diffusion methods. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2013 to July 2014 on Martyr Chamran University in Ahwaz city. A total of 13 probiotic colonies isolated from 20 samples of traditional dairy products including yogurt, cheese and milk, and 20 samples of vegetables including carrots and cabbages (red and white), of which 5 isolates were selected to determine the antimicrobial effect against 4 Escherichia coli pathotypes, randomly. The antimicrobial effect was evaluated using two methods: disk diffusion and well diffusion tests and measuring growth inhibition zones of probiotics against 4 pathotypes of pathogenic E. coli. Results: Obtained results showed growth inhibition effects of all 5 probiotic strains against Escherichia coli pathotypes in both used methods. But in comparison Lactobacillus plantarum had higher growth inhibitory effects in both methods. Conclusion: results of this study demonstrated high antimicrobial effect of probiotic bacteria against pathogenic Escherichia coli strains. It indicated a positive and beneficial role of probiotics in human health and prevention of illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research study focuses on biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) for the first time from silver acetate employing methanolic root extract of Diospyros assimilis. The UV–Vis absorption spectrum of biologically synthesised nanoparticles displayed a surface plasmon peak at 428 nm indicating the formation of Ag NPs. The influence of metal ion concentration, reaction time and amount of root extract in forming Ag NPs by microscopic and spectral analysis was thoroughly investigated. Structural analysis from transmission electron microscopy confirmed the nature of metallic silver as face‐centered cubic (FCC) crystalline with an average diameter of 17 nm, which correlates with an average crystallite size (19 nm) calculated from X‐ray diffraction analysis. Further, the work was extended for the preliminary examination of antimicrobial activity of biologically synthesised Ag NPs that displayed promising activity against all the tested pathogenic strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of transition metal complexes of Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) with (Z)- 4-(1-((2-carboxycyclohexa-2,4-dien-1-yl)imino)-ethyl)[bis(η 5 -cyclopenta-1,3-dien-1-yl)]iron (HL) mixed with 1,10-phenanthroline (Phen.) have been synthesized and successfully characterized using various spectrochemical techniques: elemental analyses, molar conductance, IR, 1 H NMR, mass spectroscopy, SEM, thermal analysis (TG/DTG), MOE, biological and anticancer activities. The molecular structures of the HL ligand and its Fe(III) complex were determined by SEM studies. HL ligand acts as a bidentate ligand and coordinates to metal ion center via deprotonated carboxylate oxygen atom and azomethine nitrogen. Also, 1,10-phenanthroline acts as a neutral bidentate ligand coordinates to the metal ion center via two nitrogen atoms. Additionally, mixed ligand complexes were screened against pathogenic antibacterial and antifungal strains: two Gram (+) bacteria; Streptococcus pneumoniae and Bacillis subtilis , two Gram (−); Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli and four fungi; Aspergillus fumigatu , Syncephalastrum racemosum , Geotricum candidum and Candida albicans . The breast cancer cell line MCF7 anticancer activity was studied and a moderate result was the main observation. Molecular docking studies of the HL ligand and its mixed Fe(III), Ni(II) and Cu(II) metal complexes with 1,10-phenanthroline showed the nature of binding energy, H-bond and hydrophobic interactions with the crystal structure of: Tyrosine kinase auto-inhibitor (PDB: 1T46 ), Staphylococcus aureus nucleoside (PDB: 3Q8U ), Human papillomavirus (HPV) pro-apoptotic tumor suppressor (PDB: 4XR8 ) and breast cancer mutant oxidoreductase (PDB ID: 3HB5 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles has lured the world from the chemical and physical approaches owing to its rapid, non‐hazardous and economic aspect of production mechanism. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesised using petal extracts of Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis. The AgNPs displayed characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak at around 421 nm having a mean particle size of 76.25 ± 0.17 nm and carried a charge of −41 ± 0.2 mV. The X‐ray diffraction patterns displayed typical peaks of face centred cubic crystalline silver. The surface morphology was characterised by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies confirmed the surface modifications of the functional groups for the synthesis of AgNPs. Furthermore, the synthesised AgNPs displayed proficient antimicrobial activity against pathogenic strains of Vibrio cholerae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rauwolfia serpentina (R. serpentina), belonging to the family Apocynaceae, is a renowned medicinal herb for its different pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative characteristics. This study has done a comparative assessment of the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activity of R. serpentina aqueous leaf extract (RSALE) with encapsulated gold nanoparticles (R-AuNPs). The R-AuNPs are prepared so that they are significant in size, monodispersed, and extremely stable. Their characterization was done by numerous parameters, including UV-visible spectroscopy (528 nm), transmission electron microscopy (~17 d. nm), dynamic light scattering (~68 d. nm), and zeta-potential (~−17 mV). Subsequently, a potent antibacterial activity was depicted via RSALE and R-AuNPs when examined by disc diffusion against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The obtained zones of inhibition of RSALE (100 mg/mL) were 34 ± 0.1, 35 ± 0.1, 28.4 ± 0.01, and 18 ± 0.01, although those of R-AuNPs (15 mg/mL) were 24.4 ± 0.12, 22 ± 0.07, 20 ± 0.16, and 17 ± 0.3 against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 8114), and Streptococcus pyogenes (ATCC 19615), respectively. However, no zone of inhibition was obtained when tested against Proteus vulgaris (MTCC 1771). Furthermore, the obtained MIC values for Staphylococcus aureus were 0.91, 0.61, and 1.15 mg/mL; for Escherichia coli, 0.79, 0.36, and 1.02 mg/mL; for Bacillus subtilis 0.42, 0.27, and 0.474 mg/mL; and for Streptococcus pyogenes, 7.67, 3.86, and 8.5 mg/mL of pure RSALE, R-AuNPs, and Amoxicillin (control), respectively, incorporating that R-AuNPs have been shown to have a 1.4-fold, 2.1-fold, 1.5-fold, and 1.9-fold enhanced antibacterial activity in contrast to pure RSALE tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Proteus vulgaris, respectively. Additionally, an enhanced antioxidant potential was detected in R-AuNPs compared to RSALE evaluated by the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picryl Hydrazyl Radical Scavenging (DPPH) Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The determined IC 50 values of RSALE and R-AuNPs were 0.131 ± 0.05 and 0.184 ± 0.02 mg/mL, and 0.110 ± 0.1 and 0.106 ± 0.24 mg/mL via the FRAP and DPPH assays, respectively. In addition, the anti-cancer activity against the human cervical cancer (Hela) cell line was evaluated, and the MTT assay results revealed that R-AuNPs (IC50 88.3 µg/mL) had an enhanced anti-cancer potential in contrast to RSALE (171.5 µg/mL). Subsequently, the findings of this study indicated that R. serpentina leaves and their nanoformulation can be used as a potent source for the treatment of the above-mentioned complications and can be used as a possible agent for novel target-based therapies for the management of different ailments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cannabis sativa (hemp) is a source of various biologically active compounds, for instance, cannabinoids, terpenes and phenolic compounds, which exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. With the purpose of expanding the auxiliary application of C. sativa in the field of bio-nanotechnology, we explored the plant for green and efficient synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)., Methods and Results: The nanoparticles were synthesized by utilizing an aqueous extract of C. sativa stem separated into two different fractions (cortex and core [xylem part]) without any additional reducing, stabilizing and capping agents. In the synthesis of AuNPs using the cortex enriched in bast fibers, fiber-AuNPs (F-AuNPs) were achieved. When using the core part of the stem, which is enriched with phenolic compounds such as alkaloids and cannabinoids, core-AuNPs (C-AuNPs) and core-AgNPs (C-AgNPs) were formed. Synthesized nanoparticles were character-ized by UV-visible analysis, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infrared, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight. In addition, the stable nature of nanoparticles has been shown by thermogravimetric analysis and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Finally, the AgNPs were explored for the inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli biofilms., Conclusion: The synthesized nanoparticles were crystalline with an average diameter between 12 and 18 nm for F-AuNPs and C-AuNPs and in the range of 20-40 nm for C-AgNPs. ICP-MS analysis revealed concentrations of synthesized nanoparticles as 0.7, 4.5 and 3.6 mg/mL for F-AuNPs, C-AuNPs and C-AgNPs, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the presence of flavonoids, cannabinoids, terpenes and phenols on the nanoparticle surface, which could be responsible for reducing the salts to nanoparticles and further stabilizing them. In addition, the stable nature of synthesized nanoparticles has been shown by thermogravimetric analysis and ICP-MS. Finally, the AgNPs were explored for the inhibition of P. aeruginosa and E. coli biofilms. The nanoparticles exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration values of 6.25 and 5 µg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration values of 12.5 and 25 µg/mL against P. aeruginosa and E. coli , respectively., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

GO with -OH, -CHO, -CO, -COOH, and epoxide groups is considered more suitable than other commonly used materials for biomedical applications. The presence of -CO, -CHO, and -OH groups renders the easy functionalization of GO by biomolecules and drugs. Therefore, in this study, we designed a multifunctional GO-Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposite and investigated its bactericidal activity against different bacterial strains with an evaluation of percentage inhibition. Our results revealed the potential of GO-Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposites as an effective bactericidal, which can be used for dynamic applications in medical devices and food and other industries., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.