Search

Introduction: The marine environment is extremely complex and exerts strong evolutionary pressure often leading to the appearance of microbial strains with new metabolic competencies. Microorganisms in marine ecosystems are still largely unknown and should be explored and conserved for biodiversity preservation, possible ecosystem restoring, and other applications. Biodiversity conservation should become a basic ecological strategy of particular significance in relation to global change. In this context, the present research aimed at exploring the culturable mycobiota associated with the jellyfish Pelagia noctiluca, never studied before. In addition, the isolated strains were tested for potential application (antimicrobial activity and presence of genes related to the production of secondary metabolites). Methods: Five jellyfishes were collected in the coastal area of Giglio Island and processed to isolate epizoic fungi. The strains were identified using a polyphasic approach (morphological, physiological, and molecular) and their salt preference was also investigated. The antifungal and antibacterial activity were tested for each strain with agar plug diffusion test. The presence of some key genes related to the main pathways for the production of secondary metabolites in fungi, polyketide synthases (PKSs), and non-ribosomal peptide synthase (NRPSs), was also assessed. Results: A total of 164 isolates were obtained; after the dereplication, 40 morphotypes, and 23 species were identified. The phylogenetic analyses suggested the presence of new taxa belonging to Pleosporales: two new genera and species, and a new species of Tamaricicola. The detected mycobiota showed a relatively high diversity, if compared to other epizoic fungal communities. All isolated strains were marine fungi as confirmed by their salt preference and marked euryhalinism. The genes related to the two main pathways for the production of secondary metabolites in fungi, PKSs and NRPSs, were identified in four and nine strains, respectively. The antimicrobial activity was revealed in 70% of the strains, including the new taxa. The abundance of bioactive strains may be related to the potential involvement of epizoic fungi in host defense strategies. Moreover, these strains could show a high potential for further biotechnological applications particularly in the case of new taxa. All strains are maintained in culture collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms remain in water from various sources after desalination and other treatments, posing health risks. We explored alternative natural disinfection agents, focusing on grape seed extract (GSE). We collected local grape seeds in Saudi Arabia and analyzed their chemical components. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, we identified essential phytochemicals in the GSE, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Notably, the GSE was free from bacteria and heavy-metal contamination and rich in beneficial nutrient metals. We conducted qualitative analyses on local water and urine samples to detect bacterial infections, heavy metals, and minerals. To assess GSE's antibacterial potential, we performed molecular docking analysis. Our results reveal a strong binding energy between GSE and bacterial protein receptors, parallel to that of standard antibiotics. Additionally, the results of the laboratory pilot investigations align with those of computational analyses, confirming GSE's efficacy. Agar well diffusion tests demonstrated significantly greater zones of inhibition for the crude oil extract compared with both diluted GSE and the positive control against the bacteria detected in the water and urine samples. Furthermore, we identified contamination by four bacterial strains and heavy metals in water samples and female urine samples, highlighting the need for effective water disinfectants. GSE shows promise as a safe and potent natural water disinfectant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myristica fragrans Houtt leaves contain secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, terpenoids and alkaloids, which have antibacterial properties. At the nanoscale, the particles have a bigger surface contact area, resulting in increased amounts and solubility of the active chemical. This leads to a stronger antibacterial activity. This study aims to examine the influence of several chitosan variations on particle size, antibacterial properties and the form of nanoparticles produced from Myristica fragrans leaves ethanol extract. Ethanol extract was analyzed using the UV-Vis spectrophotometric method to quantify total flavonoid content. Nanoparticles were synthesized using the ionic gelation technique with several ratios of chitosan and sodium tripolyphosphate, specifically 8:1, 10:1 and 12:1. Nanoparticles were analyzed with a Particle Size Analyzer (PSA) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Agar diffusion test for bacteria germs using a paper backer. Myristica fragrans leaves ethanol extract was 50, 40 and 30 %, while nanoparticle extract was 5, 4 and 3 %. The overall flavonoid concentration in the QE/ethanol extract was 39.7252 ± 1.9596 mg. Antibacterial test results against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria and Myristica fragrans leaves extract limit inhibition area at 30 % (13.35 mm), 40 % (13.68 mm) and 50 % (13.93 mm) for Staphylococcus aureus and 30 (13.28), 40 (13.45) and 50 % (13.81 mm) for Escherichia coli. Myristica fragrans leaves extract chitosan nanoparticles included 3 (14.70), 4 (15.30) and 5 % (15.56 mm) for Staphylococcus aureus and 3 (14.60), 4 (14.65) and 5 % (15.05 mm) for Escherichia coli. Ionic gelation can create nanoparticles of Myristica fragrans leaves ethanol extract with chitosan and sodium tripolyphosphate. Myristica fragrans leaves nanoparticle ethanol extract exhibits better antibacterial activity than ethanol extract. Increasing chitosan concentration affects particle size. The ethanol extract of Myristica fragrans nanoparticle leaves showed slightly better antibacterial activity than the ethanol extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify the primary pathogenic bacteria responsible for the mortality of the Chinese giant salamander (Andriasd davidianus). A pathogenic bacterium was isolated from a diseased Chinese giant salamander exhibiting typical symptoms under aseptic conditions and then identified by morphological examinations, biochemical analysis, and the sequence analysis of bacterial 16S rRNA. Artificial infection testing was then conducted to determine the pathogenicity of the isolated bacteria strain. Drug susceptibility tests were conducted using the agar diffusion method. The isolated pathogenic bacteria, named DN-2, was successfully identified as Acinetobacter lwoffii. The artificial infection showed that the typical symptoms of the disease could be replicated as the ones originally occurred, and this bacterium exhibited high pathogenicity to the Chinese giant salamander. In the Chinese giant salamander, the median lethal dosage (LD50) of A. lwoffii DN-2 for A. davidianus was determined to be 4.63*104 CFU/g. Drug sensitivity testing showed that these bacteria were highly sensitive to erythromycin, gentamicin, neomycin, streptomycin, midecamycin, ciprofloxacin, piperacillin, florfenicol, doxycycline, carbenicillin, and sulfanilamide. In summary, A. lwoffii was identified as the primary pathogen responsible for the demise of A. davidianus. Our study first presents how these bacteria harm Chinese giant salamanders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep eutectic solvents have attracted considerable attention due to their economic and environmental benefits. This study investigates the role of reactive DESs in the synthesis of polyurethane coatings. DESs synthesized from Tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) as a hydrogen-acceptor and Poly (ethylene glycol) and Ascorbic acid (AA) as hydrogen-donors, were used as assistant platforms and reactive agents for the synthesis of new biodegradable crosslinked PU-coatings via a solvent-free process. Cured PUs were characterized by FTIR, DSC, TGA, and DMTA techniques, as well as gel-content, swelling-index, biodegradation, scratch, and hardness tests. The results show that these DESs have played a splendid multi-task role that acted as non-volatile solvents and reactive monomers as well. They also facilitated curing reaction, improved flexibility, biodegradability, swelling-index, and resistance to scratch of PU-based DESs compared to pristine PU. PU samples synthesized in the presence of [DES]PEG/TBAB (P2) and [DES]AA/TBAB (P3) showed increased flexibility and damping properties (78, 26 Shore D—0.9, 1.3 Tanδ), biodegradability (81%, 60%), swelling-index (105%, 150%) and scratch resistance (3.8, 4.5 N), by about 69%, 52%, 36%, 48%, and 26% compared to the control sample (P1), respectively. Agar diffusion tests showed antibacterial activity of PU-DESs against both Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. This research highlights DESs as promising platforms to enhance the properties of PU coatings for the creation of eco-friendly, high-performance antiseptic coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of nanoparticles as drug‐carrying systems in medicine has received much attention, and on the other hand, the use of plants with medicinal properties has advantages over synthetic drugs. This study aims to improve the antibacterial and anti‐biofilm properties of Euphorbia hebecarpa plant extract using chitosan nanoparticles. Extraction were performed using the modified maceration and methanol solvent. The agar disc diffusion method was carried out to investigate the antimicrobial effects and MIC at an optical density (OD) of 630 nm. The anti‐biofilm agent's influence was measured at OD 570 nm, and the metabolic activity of bacteria in the damaged biofilm was determined using triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. The nanoparticles were obtained by following the ionic gelation method and its characteristics were evaluated. Chitosan nanoparticles loaded with plant extract were found to be spherical shape with hydrodynamic diameter of 142 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.184, a zeta potential of +28.6 mV. It was determined that the loading capacity (% LC) and encapsulation efficiency (% EE) percentages were 33% and 40%, respectively. The diameter of the inhibition zone in the agar disc diffusion test for both bacteria using nanoparticles loaded with the extract increased compared with control groups. Also, at a concentration of 4 mg/mL of loaded nanoparticles, 49.33% of Escherichia coli biofilm and 62.7% of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm were destroyed. The data obtained from the tests performed in this study show that the use of Euphorbia plant extract in the form of chitosan nanoparticles can have more antimicrobial and anti‐biofilm effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae presents a significant public health threat and complicates antibiotic treatment for infections. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae in a clinical setting, analyze their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, and characterize both phenotypic and genetic determinants. A total of 507 non-duplicate clinical isolates of Enterobacterales were collected between 2019 and 2020, and third-generation cephalosporin resistance was screened by disk diffusion. Identification of K. pneumoniae was confirmed using biochemical tests and PCR with species-specific primers. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using disk diffusion, and phenotypic ESBL production was confirmed using the combined disk method. Multiplex PCR detected ESBL genes (blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M) and identified blaCTX-M groups. The genetic relatedness of ESBL-producing strains was assessed using the ERIC-PCR approach. Fitty-four isolates were confirmed as ESBL producers, all classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR). All ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates exhibited resistance to ampicillin and cefotaxime, with high resistance rates for ciprofloxacin (98.2%), azithromycin (94.4%), piperacillin–tazobactam (88.9%), and trimethoprim (83.3%). Genotypic analysis revealed blaCTX-M was present in 94.4% of isolates, blaSHV in 87%, and blaTEM in 55.5%. The blaCTX-M-1 group was the most prevalent, accounting for 96.1% of isolates. Co-harboring of blaCTX-M, blaSHV, and blaTEM occurred in 42.6% of isolates, with co-carrying of blaCTX-M, and blaSHV was observed in 23/54 isolates. The ERIC-PCR analysis revealed 15 distinct types, indicating high genetic diversity. These findings highlight the urgent need for ongoing monitoring to control the spread of ESBL among K. pneumoniae and emphasize the importance of early detection and appropriate antibiotic selection for effectively treating infection caused by these pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The swine production chain can be a reservoir of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli, which transfers resistance genes to other bacteria, serving as an important biomarker in the One Health approach. This study aimed to identify the frequency and antimicrobial resistance profile of E. coli in the swine production chain, assess the presence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL), and compare resistance profiles across different sample types. A total of 622 samples of swine carcasses from various points of the slaughter process (n = 400), swine feces (n = 100), commercial cuts (n = 45), environment (n = 67), and feces from employees (n = 10) of a pig slaughterhouse certified by the Federal Inspection Service, located in São Paulo state, Brazil, were collected. A total of 1260 E. coli isolates were obtained from the samples, with 73.6% of the samples testing positive. The agar disk diffusion test was performed with 10 different classes of antimicrobials. To confirm the production of ESBLs, the isolates were submitted to a double-disk synergism test using cefotaxime, ceftazidime, and amoxicillin with clavulanic acid. Of the total isolates, 80.71% were multidrug resistant. All ESBL-producing isolates were multidrug resistant and resistant to amoxicillin, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol. Isolates from human feces samples had less chance of being multidrug resistant than samples from other sources. The diversity of resistance profiles was verified in the samples, not clustering according to the sources, except for human feces isolates that clustered, evidencing lower antimicrobial resistance variability of these samples. Antimicrobial resistance is significantly present in the pork production chain, necessitating a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to effectively mitigate risks within the One Health framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of nanosilver in composite materials with two different matrices is related to the selection of antibacterial masterbatches, which has a profound impact on the antibacterial effectiveness of the composite materials. This study utilized ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA) and polypropylene (PP) as base materials to fabricate two types of nanosilver composite materials (C1‐EVA/PP and C2‐EVA/PPP) employing varying methods of antimicrobial masterbatches incorporation. Additionally, EVA‐Ag and PP‐Ag nanosilver composite materials were fabricated via melt blending, along with corresponding neat materials and blends (EVA, PP, and C0‐EVA/PP) for comparison. The study results indicate that the addition of nanosilver did not affect the functional groups of either the neat materials and the EVA/PP blends. SEM analysis revealed that nanosilver was dispersed unevenly in the C1‐EVA/PP substrate, while it was more uniformly distributed in the C2‐EVA/PP substrate. In the antibacterial test, the antibacterial rate of C2‐EVA/PP was higher than that of C1‐EVA/PP (56.0% vs. 40.0%). However, all silver‐containing composite materials did not exhibit antibacterial properties in the agar diffusion test. Additionally, nanosilver exhibited an induced crystallization effect on the PP phase of the C2‐EVA/PP composite material, increasing its Tc2 by 0.8°C. Compared with pure PP, the long period of PP‐Ag increased by 0.7 nm, and its impact resistance improved by 13.8%. By comparison, the long period of EVA‐Ag composite materials increased by only 0.2 nm compared to pure EVA. Both C1‐EVA/PP and C2‐EVA/PP composite materials showed 0.3 nm increase in long period compared to C0‐EVA/PP, with their impact resistance improving by 3.1% and 10.3%, respectively, compared to C0‐EVA/PP. The introduction of nanosilver increased the storage modulus, loss modulus, and apparent viscosity of EVA/PP blends. Optical performance analysis shows that nanosilver increases the internal haze of C1‐EVA/PPP by 60% while reducing the transmittance by 0.3%. The effect of nanosilver on the optical properties of C2‐EVA/PPP composites is relatively small. Therefore, this study provides theoretical guidance for the selection of processing methods for dual‐phase antibacterial materials. Highlights: Different antibacterial masterbatch impacts silver distribution in composites.The addition of nanosilver can improve the impact performance of materials.Two process methods were used to prepare low‐silver content composite materials.The antibacterial rate of C2‐EVA/PP is higher than C1‐EVA/PP (56% vs. 40%).This study guides the processing methods for dual‐phase antibacterial materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Microcins are antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with low molecular weight, which are produced by Enterobacterales and have broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity. Alternative approaches like AMPs could help conventional anticancer treatments to fight malignant cells. The present study endeavors to examine the antitumor activity of microcins isolated from different Enterobacterales strains. In total, 120 Enterobacterales isolates were examined after identification. Subsequently, the bacteria were subjected to an agar diffusion test to assess their antibacterial efficacy. Positive isolates were further examined for the presence of Mccj25 using PCR. The cytotoxic effects of isolates harboring the microcin gene were explored using quantitative real‐time PCR (RT‐qPCR) and the MTT test on breast cancer cells. In addition, the expression levels of BCL2 and STAT3 genes were evaluated, and apoptosis was quantified using flow cytometry. The repair rate of normal cells was determined using a scratch assay. The findings obtained from the phenotypic and biochemical assays have duly verified and established the categorization of the Enterobacterales. After conducting the agar diffusion test, a total of 25 isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae displaying inhibition zones were chosen as suitable specimens possessing AMPs. The analysis conducted on the expression of the Mccj25 gene within the aforementioned isolates indicated that Isolate 83 exhibited significant expression of the Mccj25 gene. The extract obtained from this isolate on the breast cancer cell line exhibited the most significant degree of toxicity after 48 h. Furthermore, the treatment of breast cancer cells with Isolate 83 showed that the rate of apoptosis was about 86%, and the expression of BCL2 and STAT3 genes decreased. Contrarily, it potentiated the reparative ability of nontumoral fibroblasts, supporting the in vitro safety toward normal cells and, at the same time, the selectivity against malignant ones. In summary, our results highlighted a significant growth suppression of breast cancer cells with an escalated rate of cellular demise via the apoptosis pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, snail mucus (SM) has become popular as an active ingredient in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. In turn, snail eggs (SEs) also seem to be a promising active compound, but the biological activities of SEs are significantly less known. Therefore, our preliminary study aimed to compare the biological activities of the SEs and SM of Helix aspersa Müller. The metabolomic analysis (LC–MS technique), determination of the antimicrobial activity (agar diffusion test, broth microdilution methods), antioxidant activity (ABTS assay), cytotoxicity assay (MTT), and proapoptotic properties (flow cytometry) of the SEs and SM were evaluated. It was found that the SEs and SM contain 8005 and 7837 compounds, respectively. The SEs showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus (MIC 12.5 mg/mL) and P. aeruginosa (MIC 3.12 mg/mL). The EC50 estimation of the antioxidant activity is 89.64 mg/mL and above 100 mg/mL for the SEs and SM, respectively. The SEs also inhibited the cell proliferation of cancer cell lines (HCT-116, MCF-7, HT-29) more strongly compared to the SM. The highest proportion of apoptotic cells in HCT-116 was observed. The reach composition of the compounds in the SEs and SM may be crucial for the creation of new cosmetic and pharmaceutical raw materials with different biological activities. However, further extended studies on the biological activities of H. aspersa-delivered materials are still necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The medicinal value of Centella asiatica leaf extract was evaluated as an alternative treatment. The chemical composition of the leaf extract was analyzed, and the biological activities were determined. High‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector (HPLC‐PDA) was used to identify the asiatic acid, madasiatic acid, and madecassic acid/Brahmic acid isolated from the ethanolic extract. The plant extract at 25 mg/disk was found to inhibit both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative pathogenic bacteria by the agar disk diffusion test. The MIC and MBC of the ethanolic extracts were better than those of the aqueous extracts. The ethanolic extracts showed antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria with MICs and MBCs ranging from 1.024 to 2.048 mg/mL and 2.048 to 4.096 mg/mL, respectively. The remarkable antibacterial activities were observed against S. mutans. The ethanolic extract at a concentration of 1/2 × MIC exhibited the inhibition effect on S. mutans biofilm formation like the activity of 0.2% chlorhexidine and significantly modified hydrophobicity of the bacterial cell surface. The effects were confirmed via molecular docking analysis. The binding affinities of asiatic acid, madecassic acid, and madasiatic acid with glucosyltransferase C (GtfC) of S. mutans exhibited superior strength in comparison with alpha‐acarbose and chlorhexidine. Moreover, the nitric oxide (NO) secretion of RAW247.6 cells was determined after treating the cells with concentrations of the extract. The C. asiatica ethanolic extract can inhibit the secretion of NO, which can inhibit the inflammatory process. The findings indicate the applications of the C. asiatica ethanolic extract as the alternative anti‐S. mutans agent and could be used for further formulation for the treatment and prevention of dental diseases and inflammatory injury in the oral cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our study, the biological activity of Hylocereus polyrhizus obtained from Türkiye was determined. Firstly, antimicrobial activity of methanol extracts obtained from H. polyrhizus against test microorganisms was determined by disc diffusion susceptibility assay, minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal or bactericidal concentration (MFC or MBC) tests. Then, viable cell counting against Limosilactobacillus fermentum MA-7 using the macro-dilution method was used to determine the probiotic-promoting effect of the fruit extracts. Finally, the photo-protective activity of the extracts and extract-cream mixtures was obtained spectrophotometrically. The inhibition zone diameter of the peel extract against the test microorganisms is in the range of 9.60-12.37 mm and the fruit extract is in the range of 7.85-12.00 mm. MBC values ranged from 40 µg/µl to 80 µg/µl in peel extract and between 10 µg/µl and >80 µg/µl in the fruit extract. The inhibition zone diameters of the extracts against probiotics were determined as 6.10 -10.25 mm. As a result of the viable cell count, the viability rate of L. fermentum MA-7 increased as the fruit methanol extract concentration and time increased. The photoprotective activities of the peel and fruit extracts were determined as 13.17 and 12.26. It was determined that the extracts increased sun protection factor (SPF) value of the cream. The results indicated that H. polyrhizus extracts may have potential for use in the nutraceutical products, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research was to investigate natural products for their potential against pathogenic microorganisms. Sabinene hydrate (SH), a monoterpenoid, is synthesised by numerous different plants as a secondary metabolite. At present, there is a lack of definite investigations regarding the antimicrobial activity of SH itself and its different isomers. The antimicrobial effects of commercially available SH (composed mainly of trans-isomer) were evaluated within a range of concentrations in three types of contact tests: solid and vapor diffusion and the macro-broth dilution method. Moreover, the effects of SH on the rate of linear growth and spore germination were also examined. Ethanolic SH solutions were tested against an array of microorganisms, including blue-stain fungi (Ceratocystis polonica, Ophiostoma bicolor, O. penicillatum), frequently originating from bark beetle galleries; three fungal strains (Musicillium theobromae, Plectosphaerella cucumerina, and Trichoderma sp.) isolated from a sapwood underneath bark beetle galleries (Ips typographus) on spruce (Picea abies) stems; Verticillium fungicola, isolated from diseased I. typographus larvae; two Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus), two Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa); five yeasts (Candida albicans, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Rhodotorula muscilaginosa), and two saprophytic fungi (Aspergillus niger and Penicillium notatum). In solid agar disc diffusion tests, Gram-positive bacteria exhibited greater susceptibility to SH than Gram-negative bacteria, followed by yeasts and fungi. The most resistant to SH in both the disc diffusion and broth macro-dilution methods were P. aeruginosa, A. niger, and Trichoderma sp. strains. Blue-stain fungi and fungi isolated from the Picea sapwood were the most resistant among the fungal strains tested. The minimum inhibition concentrations (MICs) generated by SH and determined using a disc volatilization method were dependent on the fungal species and played an important role in the development of microorganism inhibition. The two Gram-positive bacteria, B. subtilis and S. aureus (whose MICs were 0.0312 and 0.0625 mg/mL, respectively), were the organisms most susceptible to SH, followed by the Gram-negative bacterium, E. coli (MIC = 0.125 mg/mL) and two yeasts, C. albicans and C. kruei (MIC was 0.125 mg/mL and 0.25 mg/mL, respectively). C. parapsilosis (MIC = 0.75 mg/mL) was the yeast most resistant to SH. The investigation of antimicrobial properties of plant secondary metabolites is important for the development of a new generation of fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal infections become a serious problem, especially in developing countries. Antifungal drug classes that have developed shows some limitation due to poor selectivity, toxicity, and high resistance. Propolis is a natural resinous substance from flower buds, trees, and resinous exudates collected by bees. Propolis has several therapeutic properties such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral. This study explores antifungal activity of Ethanolic Extract of Propolis (EEP) Lombok against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, and Cryptococcus neoformans. Antifungal activity test were carried out with 2 different methods, agar diffusion and microdilution to see EEP Lombok's ability to inhibit fungal growth. In addition, this study analyzes phytochemical contents of Propolis Lombok by characterizing its substance and calculating the total phenolic content. The result shows the total polyphenol content of Lombok's EEP is around 222-278 mgGAE/g meanwhile total polyphenol content is 512-1100 mg QE/g. Based on the antifungal tests, propolis samples showed antifungal activity against C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, and Cryptococcus neoformans species. Propolis Lombok agar diffusion test showed an inhibition growth against C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. krusei. While for microdilution test, propolis extract only affects C. albicans, C. glabrata, and Cryptococcus neoformans growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper oxide (CuO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were synthesized by Pterocarpus santalinus leaf extract following the green method as a reducing and capping agent. Analytical methods like scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV-visible spectroscopy were followed for characterization of synthesized nanoparticles. Outcomes demonstrated that crystalline CuO and ZnO nanoparticles with distinct morphologies have successfully formed. The ability of metal oxide nanomaterials against the growth of Aspergillus niger fungus was tested by agar diffusion method on PDA plates. Pure culture of the isolated fungus from onions was used in this experiment. Fungal inoculum was prepared and spread on PDA plates and tested for growth inhibition with varying concentrations of CuO and ZnO nanoparticles using Disk Diffusion Method. A successful growth inhibition was identified in plates treated with CuO and ZnO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Faculty of Pharmacy of Ankara University / Ankara Üniversitesi Eczacilik Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Ankara University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, lactobionic acid (LBA) was incorporated into poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) by electrospinning. The antimicrobial effects of the nanofibers were tested using the agar diffusion method. Only the PVA formulations showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The PVA and PCL nanofibers containing LBA showed antioxidant activity ranging from 690.33 to 798.67 µM TEAC when tested by the ABTS method. The characterization of nanofibers was performed by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and mechanical analysis. The nanofibers showed a uniform morphology and their average diameters ranged from 295.5 to 2778.2 nm. The LBA addition induced a decrease in the enthalpy of fusion (ΔHm) of PVA and PCL nanofibers, while the Young's modulus was reduced from 20 to 10 MPa in PCL and PCL-LBA nanofibers, respectively. No relevant differences were observed between the FTIR spectra of the control nanofibers and the nanofibers containing LBA. All nanofibers presented hemolysis rate below 2%, thus can be considered as non-hemolytic materials. Further toxicological assessment was performed with the selected formulation PVA10 + LBA. The evaluations by mutagenicity assay, cell survival measurement, cell viability analysis and agar diffusion cytotoxicity test indicated that there are no significant toxic effects. Electrospun nanofibers PVA-LBA and PCL-LBA were successfully produced, showing good thermal and mechanical properties and non-toxic effects. Furthermore, the nanofibers showed antimicrobial activity and antioxidant activity. The findings of this study indicate that PVA and PCL electrospun nanofibers incorporating LBA are promising for use in packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to other drug discovery sources, traditional medicine has significantly contributed to developing innovative therapeutic molecules for preventive and curative medicine. The Baobab tree, also known as Adansonia digitata L., is significant in Africa due to its multitude of benefits and various parts that serve different purposes, providing economic support to rural communities. The analysis of a plant sample using Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy detected multiple functional groups, such as carboxyl and aromatic groups. Additionally, gas chromatography‐mass spectroscopy (GC‐MS) was utilized to identify various compounds present in the sample, including tetrachloroethylene and octyl ester. The results of different assays, such as α‐diphenyl‐β‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide, nitric oxide scavenging assays, and total antioxidant by thiobarbituric acid method (TBA) and ferric thiocyanate (FTC) method, demonstrated a substantial scavenging of free radicals and an effective antioxidant efficacy. The bark's antimicrobial activity was tested through agar diffusion, resulting in a range of zone of inhibition from 10.1 ± 0.36 mm to 20.85 ± 0.76 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value was observed to be approximately 0.625 µg/mL. The biofilm inhibition percentage ranged from 9.89% to 57.92%, with the highest percentage being 57.92%. The GC‐MS and FT‐IR studies revealed phytocompounds, which were then analyzed for their potential therapeutic properties. Computational studies were conducted on the phytocompounds against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and C2 kinase (antioxidant). The study concluded that the Adansonia digitata bark extract and its phytocompound have potential therapeutic efficacy against the target proteins. The best docking scores were about −7.053 kcal/mol and −7.573 kcal/mol for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and C2 kinase (antioxidant), respectively. The interaction patterns with the crucial amino acid residues elucidate the inhibitory efficacy of the phytocompounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this in vitro study was to develop calcium sulfate (CS)-based disks infused with an antimicrobial drug, which can be used as a post-surgical treatment modality for osteomyelitis. CS powder was embedded with 10% antibiotic, amoxicillin (AMX) or moxifloxacin (MFX), to form composite disks 11 mm in diameter that were tested for their degradation and antibiotic release profiles. For the disk degradation study portion, the single drug-loaded disks were placed in individual meshes, subsequently submerged in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and incubated at 37 °C. The disks were weighed once every seven days and analyzed via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. During the antibiotic release analysis, composite disks were placed in PBS solution, which was changed every 3 days, and analyzed for antibiotic activity and efficacy. The antibacterial effects of these sustained-release composites were tested by agar diffusion assay using Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) UA 159 as an indicator strain. The degradation data showed significant increases in the degradation of all disks with the addition of antibiotics. Following PBS incubation, there were significant increases in the amount of phosphate and decreases in the amount of sulfate. The agar diffusion assay demonstrated that the released concentrations of the respective antibiotics from the disks were significantly higher than the minimum inhibitory concentration exhibited against S. mutans over a 2–3-week period. In conclusion, CS-antibiotic composite disks can potentially serve as a resorbable, osteoconductive, and antibacterial therapy in the treatment of bone defects and osteomyelitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria can coordinate biofilm formation through antiquorum sensing and create a more effective defense mechanism. Therefore, strategies that inhibit biofilm formation and target the antiquorum sensing mechanism are needed to combat antibiotic resistance. This study was conducted to determine the antibiofilm and antiquorum sensing (anti-QS) effect of essential oils (EOs) obtained from Calendula officinalis L., Hypericum perforatum L. and Trachystemon orientalis (L.) G. Don. and also to calculate oxidative stress indices (OSI) by analysing oxidant and antioxidant capacity. Antibiofilm capacities of EOs against Escherichia coli were investigated by microplate method. Anti-QS activities were evaluated with the agar well diffusion test. The oxidant capacities of plant EOs, whose antioxidant value was determined with the Total Antioxidant Status kit (TAS), were also examined with the Total Oxidant Status kit (TOS), and the OSI were calculated from the ratio of the two. EOs of all three plants have strong antibiofilm and anti-QS effects. T. orientalis, which has 19 mm+ anti-QS effect, shows 93.11% biofilm inhibition effect and draws attention together with the other two plants used pharmacologically. EOs with low OSI levels are expected to have high phytotherapeutic efficacy. As expected, the EOs used are considered important components for their capacity to inhibit biofilm formation and the QS mechanism. This study constitutes the first step in using EOs as alternative agents for strategies that prevent the anti-QS mechanism and biofilm formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Microorganisms such as Enterococcus faecalis, Enterobacteriaceae, and Candida albicans are associated with persisting infections and can cause endodontic failure. The addition of herbal additives such as Triphala, Clove, and Activated charcoal to Calcium hydroxide enhances the microbial efficacy within the root canal. Aim: To evaluate and compare the anti-microbial efficacy of calcium hydroxide with various herbal additives against E. faecalis and C. albicans using Agar Diffusion Test (ADT) and Direct Contact Test (DCT). Materials and Methods: The present in-vitro study was conducted in Bangalore, Karnataka, between July 2023 and September 2023. Ethical clearance was obtained from the institution. Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and Mueller-Hinton Agar were prepared and used to culture C. albicans and E. faecalis, respectively. In each plate, four wells were filled with groups (n=10): Group-I: Nanocalcium hydroxide (NCH)+sterile distilled water, Group-II: NCH+Nanoparticle Clove, Group-III: NCH+Nanoparticle Triphala, Group-IV: NCH+nanoparticle activated charcoal. The plates were incubated at 37°C, and zones of inhibition around the wells were measured on the first, third, and seventh day. DCT was evaluated in Colony Forming Units (CFUs)/ml by adding each bacterial suspension to four groups and inoculating on blood agar plates. One-way ANOVA test followed by Tukey's post-hoc analysis was used to compare the mean Zone Of Inhibition (ZOI). Kruskal-Wallis Test followed by Mann-Whitney post-hoc test was used to compare the mean CFUs. Results: One-way ANOVA test showed that there was a significant difference in the mean ZOI between the four groups at p=0.005. The maximum mean ZOI against C. albicans was achieved by the combination of calcium hydroxide and clove with an average mean of 22.20±1.92 mm, 20±1.87 mm, and 17.20±2.28 mm on the 1st, 3rd, and 7th day, respectively. Calcium hydroxide with distilled water combination showed the highest mean ZOI against E. faecalis with an average mean of 18.20±0.84 mm on day 1, 17±1 mm on the 3rd and 7th day. The mean CFUs of E. faecalis and C. albicans showed a significant difference between the four groups at p<0.001. Conclusion: The addition of herbals to Calcium hydroxide increased anti-microbial activity against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted from June to October, 2022 at the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India to screen the thirty homeopathic drugs under in-vitro condition against the groundnut stem rot pathogen Sclerotium rolfsii. Bio-efficacy of homeopathic drugs was tested by agar well diffusion method to identify the potential drug against stem rot pathogen. In this method, notably, Chelidonium (88.88%) and Colchicum (82.21%) emerged as particularly potent, significantly inhibiting Sclerotium rolfsii mycelial growth and reducing sclerotial formation compared to the control, while Acidium phosphoricum showed a very low mycelial inhibition percentage (13.33%). Chelidonium exhibited the lowest sclerotia production (52), followed by Colchicum (62), compared to the control (400). Sclerotial initiation delayed in Arnica montana (18 days) and Thuja occidentalis (14 days), whereas in the control group, it occurred within six days. Early ooze formation from sclerotia was observed in treatments with Cina and Nux vomica (8 days), while it was delayed in Arnica montana (18 days). The cultural characteristics, such as mycelial pattern, sclerotial arrangement, and color of sclerotia, also changed among the treatments. Significant inhibition of sclerotial germination was observed, particularly with Chelidonium and Colchicum treatments at 15 and 20-minute durations. Chelidonium and Colchicum, shown significant antifungal properties against the groundnut stem rot pathogen. These findings suggest that, homeopathic drugs could potentially be used to manage stem rot in groundnut crop, reducing the reliance on chemical fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patient safety is seriously threatened by bacterial infections that spread through blood transfusions (TTBI). It has been noticed that a number of infectious viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens are involved as barriers to the patient's blood safety. This study aimed to determine the antibiotic resistance pattern of bacteria in the donors’ blood attending Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria. Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. A structured questionnaire was administered to 120 blood donors to obtain bio-demographic information and their blood was collected accordingly. The blood samples were processed using standard bacteriological analysis. The isolated bacteria was confirmed using standard biochemical tests. The identified bacteria were subjected to antibiotic testing using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results: Twenty-four 24(20.0%) blood samples were found contaminated with bacteria. The main bacteria isolates were Gram-negative organisms namely- Klebsiella oxytoca (20.8%), Citrobacter diversus (16.7%), Enterobacter aerogene (16.7%), Shigella sonnei (12.5%), Shigella dysentrae (4.2%), Morganella morganii (4.2%), Escherichia coli (4.2%) with only Staphylococcus aureus (20.8%) as Gram-positive bacteria. The prevalence rate of TTBIs was high within the age group 36-49 years 12(50.0%). Morganella morganii was (100%) resistance to all the antibiotics used in this study. Conclusions: the study revealed that, donors’ blood was contaminated with Gram-negative bacteria which are capable of causing sepsis and which may result in death. Therefore, it is recommended that screening for bacterial infections should be done routinely because of the threat it posed as seen in Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi state, Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria remain a global public health issue due to the barrier imposed by their outer membrane and their propensity to form biofilms. It is becoming imperative to develop new antibacterial strategies. In this context, this study aims to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of Origanum vulgare essential oil (OEO), alone and in combination with antibiotics, as well as its antibiofilm action against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative strains. OEO components were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and antibacterial activity was assessed using the agar diffusion test and the microdilution method. Interactions between OEO and antibiotics were examined using the checkerboard method, while antibiofilm activity was analyzed using the crystal violet assay. Chemical analysis revealed that carvacrol was the major compound in OEO (61.51%). This essential oil demonstrated activity against all the tested strains, with inhibition zone diameters (IZDs) reaching 32.3 ± 1.5 mm. The combination of OEO with different antibiotics produced synergistic and additive effects, leading to a reduction of up to 98.44% in minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). In addition, this essential oil demonstrated an ability to inhibit and even eradicate biofilm formation. These results suggest that OEO could be exploited in the development of new molecules, combining its metabolites with antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene oxide nanosheet (GO) is a multifunctional platform for binding with nanoparticles and stacking with two dimensional substrates. In this study, GO nanosheets were sonochemically decorated with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO) and self-assembled into a hydrogel of GO–ZnO nanocomposite. The GO–ZnO hydrogel structure is a bioinspired approach for preserving graphene-based nanosheets from van der Waals stacking. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) showed that the sonochemical synthesis led to the formation of ZnO crystals on GO platforms. High water content (97.2%) of GO–ZnO hydrogel provided good property of ultrasonic dispersibility in water. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopic analysis (UV–vis) revealed that optical band gap energy of ZnO nanoparticles (∼3.2 eV) GO–ZnO nanosheets (∼2.83 eV). Agar well diffusion tests presented effective antibacterial activities of GO–ZnO hydrogel against gram-negative bacteria (E. coli) and gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus). Especially, GO–ZnO hydrogel was directly used for brush painting on biodegradable polylactide (PLA) thin films. Graphene-based nanosheets with large surface area are key to van der Waals stacking and adhesion of GO–ZnO coating to the PLA substrate. The GO–ZnO/PLA films were characterized using photography, light transmittance spectroscopy, coating stability, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopic mapping (EDS), antibacterial test and mechanical tensile measurement. Specifically, GO–ZnO coating on PLA substrate exhibited stability in aqueous food simulants for packaging application. GO–ZnO coating inhibited the infectious growth of E. coli biofilm. GO–ZnO/PLA films had strong tensile strength and elastic modulus. As a result, the investigation of antibacterial GO–ZnO hydrogel and GO–ZnO coating on PLA film is fundamental for sustainable development of packaging and biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Employing natural plants as antibacterial agents is one strategy for combating the challenges of drug-resistant microorganisms. This research examines the antibacterial activity of methanolic Phyllanthus niruri (P. niruri) plant extract against Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis), Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), as well as its phytochemical components. Materials and methods: The antibacterial activity was evaluated utilising agar well diffusion, broth microdilution, and the streaking technique. The phytochemical compounds were identified via qualitative testing. Results: Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) revealed that the mean inhibition zone ranged between 48.00 mm and 9.33 mm. P. acnes had the highest level of inhibition (48.00±1.00 mm), whereas E. coli had the lowest (9.33±0.58 mm). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) suggested a concentration range between 1.95 mg/ml and 125 mg/ml. The extract's antibacterial activity indicated that gram-positive bacteria were more sensitive than gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, the plant extract contained alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenolics, tannins, saponins, and steroids. Conclusion: The findings of this investigation indicate that P. niruri extract might serve as a source of antibacterial agent in the development of alternative antibiotic medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biosurfactants are a class of amphipathic molecules that various microorganisms can produce. Biosurfactants are used as biopesticides and biocontrol agents because they have antimicrobial activity, especially as antifungal agents in several species of fungal pathogens such as Ganoderma boninense and Fusarium sp. that attack crops. This study aims to detect the biosurfactant activity of Bacillus sp. and its potential as an antifungal agent against the fungi Ganoderma boninense and Fusarium sp. Biosurfactants were produced in mineral salt medium (MSM) by harvesting cell-free supernatants. Screening of biosurfactant-producing isolates was carried out using an oil-spreading assay, a hemolysis assay, and an emulsification index. The antifungal activity of the isolates was then tested using the agar diffusion method. The LP04 isolate was closely related to Bacillus thuringiensis with a 99% similarity level. It has the potential to have biosurfactant activity, which is characterized by a positive result on the oil spreading assay test and has an emulsification index of 48.33±2.87%. The cell-free supernatants of the bacterial isolate were able to inhibit the growth of Ganoderma boninense and Fusarium sp. with growth inhibition rates of 51.11% and 56.92%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional detergent formulations contain either petroleum‐derived or synthetic chemicals. Hence, the replacement of these chemicals with natural products such as enzymes is considered a green technology. Among these enzymes, protease is renowned in detergent formulations. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore and characterize a new protease from Phytolacca dodecandra, because the plant is traditionally known for detergency purposes. Enzyme extraction was performed with Glycine/NaOH buffer, pH = 10.0. Gelatin hydrolysis and agar well diffusion tests were implemented as qualitative assays, whereas the enzyme assay technique was applied for the quantitative investigation of the new protease from plant extracts. The crude enzyme was partially characterized concerning temperature and pH tolerance, washing performance, detergent compatibility, and stability. The finding of this study revealed that Phytolacca dodecandra contains protease and is characterized by 1418.84 U/mL of enzyme activity, where 1 unit (U) of enzyme activity refers to the amount of enzyme required to liberate 1 μg of tyrosine/mL/min under the defined assay conditions. The enzyme showed maximum activity at pH 10.5 and 45°C. The enzyme was stable and maintained 99.52% activity at 40°C and 91.73% at pH 10.0 after 2 h pre‐incubation. The enzyme showed excellent wash performance and could potentially remove blood stains completely within 3 min. After 2 h of pre‐incubation the enzyme maintained 69.06% and 54.88% of its activity in the presence of Azzy and Sunlight, respectively. The enzyme maintained 71.99% of its residual activity after 60 days of storage. If further studies are conducted, all these properties of the newly investigated protease can make the enzyme applicable in detergent formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The glycopeptide vancomycin is the antimicrobial agent-of-choice for the treatment of severe non-gastrointestinal infections with members of Bacillus cereus sensu lato (s.l.). Recently, sporadic detection of vancomycin-resistant phenotypes emerged, mostly for agar diffusion testing such as the disc diffusion method or gradient test (e.g. Etest®) method. Results In this work, we were able to disprove a preliminarily assumed high resistance to vancomycin in an isolate of B. cereus s.l. using broth microdilution and agar dilution. Microscopic imaging during vancomycin susceptibility testing showed spreading towards the inhibition zone, which strongly suggested sliding motility. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis using RNA-Seq on the nanopore platform revealed several key genes of biofilm formation (e.g. calY , tasA , krsEABC) to be up-regulated in pseudo-resistant cells, substantiating that bacterial sliding is responsible for the observed mobility. Down-regulation of virulence (e.g. hblABCD , nheABC , plcR) and flagellar genes compared with swarming cells also confirmed the non-swarming phenotype of the pseudo-resistant isolate. Conclusions The results highlight an insufficiency of agar diffusion testing for vancomycin susceptibility in the B. cereus group, and reference methods like broth microdilution are strongly recommended. As currently no guideline mentions interfering phenotypes in antimicrobial susceptibility testing of B. cereus s.l. , this knowledge is essential to obtain reliable results on vancomycin susceptibility. In addition, this is the first report of sliding motility undermining accurate antimicrobial susceptibility testing in B. cereus s.l. and may serve as a basis for future studies on bacterial motility in susceptibility testing and its potential impact on treatment efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid growth of antimicrobial resistance is a major threat to human and animal health, and development of new drugs with effective microbicidal properties are in demand to the scientific communities. Cyanobacteria and medicinal plants inherit antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-cancerous and anti-inflammatory properties. In the current research, we investigated antibacterial potential of crude ethanolic extracts from marine microalgae (Chlorella sp. and Spirulina sp.) and medicinal plants (Aloe vera and Clinacanthus nutans) against pathogenic bacteria isolated from chicken, dog, fish, and shellfish. Bacteria including Salmonella sp., Aeromonas sp. and E. coli, Vibrio sp. Streptococcus sp. and Staphylococcus sp., were isolated through colony morphology, Gram staining and VITEK-2 tests. Antibacterial activity was determined by disc diffusion assay. Spirulina sp. showed the highest inhibition zone of 19.3±0.58 mm against Vibrio sp. compared to other treatments, whereas Chlorella sp. exhibited maximum inhibition zone of 11.41±0.65 mm against Staphylococcus sp., C. nutans had antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus sp. and E. coli with the maximum zone of inhibition (14.21±1.08 and 15.10±0.21 mm), whereas Aloe vera against E. coli and Vibrio sp. with significant inhibition zone of 14.04±0.90 and 15.36±1.11mm, respectively. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Chlorella sp. was found to be 20 mg/mL against all the test bacteria. Spirulina sp., Aloe vera, and C. nutans had MIC values ranging from 20-40 mg/mL. These findings highlight the antibacterial potential of native microalgae and medicinal plants against virulent bacteria that poses significant threats in poultry, canine and aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulpotomies and pulpectomies are the most common clinical approach for dental caries in the primary dentition. Reinforced zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) is an ideal material for filling in the pulp chamber after pulp therapies. The aim of this study was to assess the addition of Cloisite 5A nanoclay material to ZOE and evaluate its antibacterial properties. In this case–control study, the nanoclay nanoparticles were dissolved using a solvent (Eugenol) in different concentrations and their antibacterial properties were assessed using the agar diffusion test and biofilm analysis of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), and Escherichia coli (E. coli) in in vitro conditions using the AATCC 100 standards. The diameter of the inhibition zone was measured and assessed statistically using the SPSS software (Version 28, IBM, Chicago, IL, USA) with a significance level of 0.05. The antibacterial properties of the ZOE with nanoclay particles were significantly greater in comparison to the plain ZOE against E. faecalis, S. mutans, and E. coli. The inhibition zone against E. coli under the effect of the ZOE and nanoclay particles combined was significantly higher than that against E. faecalis and S. mutans. The current study showed that the addition of Cloisite 5A nanoclay particles can improve the antibacterial properties of ZOE significantly at certain concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the antibiotic resistance patterns and genetic factors associated with ExPEC strains isolated from UTI patients. Study Design: Cross sectional Study. Setting: Microbiology Lab in Lahore, Pakistan. Period: December 2021 to June 2022. Methods: A total of 300 urine samples were collected from patients with UTIs, sourced from various hospitals and labs. E. coli identification was confirmed using biochemical tests and the API 20 E standardized method. Results: Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the disc diffusion technique following CLSI guidelines. The findings revealed varying levels of resistance among the isolates. High resistance rates were observed for ampicillin (92.6%), amoxicillin (93.6%), ceftriaxone (88.9%), and ciprofloxacin (82.4%). Lower resistance rates were found for gentamycin (66%), meropenem (8.2%), tigecycline (4%), imipenem (12.4%), and colistin (0.0%). However, no significant association was detected between the AER gene and fluoroquinolone resistance. Conclusion: This study sheds light on the prevalence of antibiotic resistance in ExPEC strains causing UTIs. The high resistance rates to commonly prescribed antibiotics highlight the need for judicious antibiotic use and alternative treatment strategies. Moreover, the absence of a clear link between the AER gene and fluoroquinolone resistance suggests the involvement of other mechanisms in conferring resistance. Understanding the resistance patterns and genetic factors associated with ExPEC strains is crucial for devising effective treatment strategies and combating the growing problem of multi-drug resistance in UTIs caused by E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study set out to determine the effects of Salvia officinalis L., commonly known as sage, on the chemical composition of the essential oil, its free radical scavenging activity (IC50), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) value, and antimicrobial properties. According to the results of the GC-MS analysis, 3-thujen-2-one, (26,21%), (+)-2-bornanone (16.47%), and 1,8-cineole (15.09%) were the compounds with the highest percentage in the sage essential oil. In addition, the essential oil showed high antioxidant activity, providing an IC50 value of 5.507 ± 0.723 mg/ml and a FRAP value of 2.129 ± 0.136 mM/g. The findings of the agar disc diffusion test demonstrated that the highest inhibition zones were against Bacillus cereus NRRL B3711 and Bacillus subtilis PY79 bacteria, whereas the lowest antimicrobial effect was shown against Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19115 and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922. Similarly, sage essential oil showed the highest antimicrobial effect in the broth dilution test with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 2.94 mg/ml against Bacillus cereus NRRL B3711, while its effectiveness against Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, and Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 14028 bacteria was the lowest with a MIC value of 23.5 mg/ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work deals with the sol–gel synthesis of silica–poly (vinylpyrrolidone) hybrid materials. The nanohybrids (Si-PVP) have been prepared using an acidic catalyst at ambient temperature. Tetramethyl ortosilane (TMOS) was used as a silica precursor. Poly (vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) was introduced into the reaction mixture as a solution in ethanol with a concentration of 20%. The XRD established that the as-prepared material is amorphous. The IR and 29Si MAS NMR spectra proved the formation of a polymerized silica network as well as the hydrogen bonding interactions between the silica matrix and OH hydrogens of the silanol groups. The TEM showed spherical particle formation along with increased agglomeration tendency. The efficacy of SiO2/PVP nanoparticles as a potential antimicrobial agent against a wide range of bacteria was evaluated as bacteriostatic, using agar diffusion and spot tests. Combined effects of hybrid nanomaterial and antibiotics could significantly reduce the bactericidal concentrations of both the antibiotic and the particles, and they could also eliminate the antibiotic resistance of the pathogen. The registered prooxidant activity of the newly synthesized material was confirmative and explicatory for the antibacterial properties of the tested substance and its synergetic combination with antibiotics. The effect of new hybrid material on Crustacea Daphnia magna was also estimated as harmless under concentration of 0.1 mg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Lichens are complex symbiotic organisms that generate various bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic value. We investigated the chemical composition and bioactivity of the acetone extract of the Algerian lichen Physconia venusta (Ach.) poet. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical screening was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antibacterial activity was assessed against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enteritidis, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus subtilis using an agar diffusion test with the determination of the minimal inhibition concentration (MIC), while the antioxidant activity was determined using different chemical methods (DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, reducing power, superoxide anion scavenging, ß-carotene bleaching, and metal chelate). In addition, cytotoxic activity was tested using Artemia salina (Brine shrimp) bioassay. Results: The studied extract exhibited intense antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus with inhibition diameters of 28 ± 0.01 and 22 ± 0.01 mm, respectively, with a MIC value of 6.25 mg/mL and a selectivity index of 2.8. The obtained extract showed different antioxidant trends depending on the selected assay. GC-MS analysis revealed many secondary metabolites. Conclusion: P. venusta, a type of lichen, is a potential source of bioactive substances that could be used in pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garlic contains various components, such as allicin, ajoenes, and allyl sulfides, which are organosulfur compounds. It exhibits antimicrobial activities in all forms, including garlic powder, garlic extract, and garlic oil. Additionally, it exerts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antifungal effects. The drastic increase in drug-resistant organisms worldwide, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, has led to treatment failure in various infectious diseases. To overcome this issue, we aimed to assess the antibacterial activity of garlic extract against MRSA and explore its action mechanism against penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in this study. Mueller–Hinton agar was used for the agar well diffusion test. Moreover, bactericidal activity was determined using the Mueller–Hinton agar and spot tests. Molecular docking was performed using AUTODOCK to evaluate the PBP-binding ability of allicin. A wide zone of inhibition was observed for MRSA, and molecular docking revealed a strong interaction between PBP3 of S. aureus and allicin. Overall, our findings revealed the antibacterial activity of garlic extract against MRSA, a prevalent gram-positive coccus causing healthcare-associated infections. In addition to its affordability, the beneficial effects of garlic suggest its therapeutic potential for MRSA treatment in combination with cefoxitin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Malassezia species are common, clinically relevant, and lipid‐dependent yeasts of humans. They are also the leading causes of the dandruff problem of humans, and the azoles are used primarily in their topical and systemic treatment. Resistance to azoles is an emerging problem among Malassezia sp., which indicates the need of new drug assessments that will be effective against dandruff and limit the use of azoles and other agents in treatment. Among them, the efficacy of various combinations of piroctone olamine and climbazole against Malassezia sp. is highly important. Here, we assessed the efficacies of various piroctone olamine and climbazole formulations against Malassezia sp. in comparison with ketoconazole. Methods: A total of nine formulations were included in the study, where each formulation was prepared from different concentrations of piroctone olamine and climbazole and both. All formulations contained the same ingredients as water, surfactants, hair conditioning agents, and preservatives. Malassezia furfur CBS1878, Malassezia globosa CBS7874, and Malassezia sympodialis CBS9570 were tested for antifungal susceptibility of each formulation by agar diffusion method. Sizes of the inhibition zones were compared with standard medical shampoo containing 2% ketoconazole, and the data were analyzed by Dunnett's multiple‐comparison test. Results: For all Malassezia sp. strains, climbazole 0.5% and piroctone olamine/climbazole (0.1%/0.1% and 0.1%/0.5%) combinations were found to have the same effect as the medical shampoo containing 2% ketoconazole. Piroctone olamine/climbazole 1.0%/0.1% formulation showed the same efficacy as 2% ketoconazole on M. furfur and M. sympodialis, while 0.1%/0.5% formulation to only M. furfur. For M. globosa, none of the formulations tested were as effective as ketoconazole. Conclusion: The species distribution of Malassezia sp. varies depending on the anatomical location on the host. According to the results of this study, climbazole and piroctone olamine combinations seem to be promising options against the dandruff problem with their high antifungal/anti dandruff efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to compare the in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Sambucus williamsii and Sambucus pendula. The antimicrobial activity of the two plants was evaluated using the disc diffusion and minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) method against three Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus ATCC 11778, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 9327 and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 15313), four Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 15489, Psendomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Pseudomonas fluorescens KCCM 41443 and Salmonella typhimurium KCCM 11862) and one yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae IFO 1950). The tested ether and ethyl acetate fractions of ethanol extract from Sambucus williamsii showed significant antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas fluorescens; conversely, the ether fraction of Sambucus pendula leaf showed no clear zone formation against any tested bacteria. In general, the fractions of the two Sambucus species exhibited a lower MIC against tested Gram-negative bacteria than the tested Gram-positive bacteria. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging assay. The results showed that the half inhibitory concentration (IC50) for the ethanol extract of Sambucus williamsii was the lower value, which means the greater antioxidant activity. On the other hand, the IC50 value of the hot water extract of Sambucus pendula was the lower value. The richness of the total polyphenol contents of the two Sambucus implies their potential as raw material sources for the pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soft liners in dentures play a crucial role in enhancing patient comfort and preventing tissue irritation especially for patients with resorbed ridges. However, microbial colonization presents a challenge to their long-term effectiveness, particularly Candida albicans, leading to conditions like denture-induced stomatitis. Objective: To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and mechanical properties of heat cured soft liners incorporating plant extracts from Olea europaea and Ficus carcia, individually and synergistically. Patients and Methods: Extracts were obtained through Soxhlet extraction, and their antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans was determined using the broth microdilution method. Soft liner specimens were prepared with varying concentrations of the extracts and subjected to disk diffusion tests, shore A hardness measurements, and peel bond strength tests. Statistical analysis involved the use of one-way ANOVA and Dunnett tests. Results: Results demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity, with the synergistic mixture exhibiting the highest inhibition zone against Candida albicans. Moreover, the addition of such extracts led to increased shore A hardness, with the highest levels recorded for synergistic groups. The extracts also displayed a significant decrease in peel bond strength, indicating potential challenges in adhesive properties. These findings suggest that while individual extracts show promise in antimicrobial efficacy and mechanical reinforcement of soft liners, their combination may lead to compromised adhesive properties. Conclusion: The study contributes valuable insights into the development of antimicrobial soft liners reinforced with Olea europaea and Ficus carcia extracts, advancing dental materials towards improved patient outcomes and enhanced oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious diseases pose a formidable global challenge, compounded by the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Consequently, researchers are actively exploring novel antimicrobial compounds as potential solutions. This endeavor underscores the pivotal role of methods employed for screening and evaluating antimicrobial activity—a critical step in discovery and characterization of antimicrobial agents. While traditional techniques such as well-diffusion, disk-diffusion, and broth-dilution are commonly utilized in antimicrobial assays, they may encounter limitations concerning reproducibility and speed. Additionally, a diverse array of antimicrobial assays including cross-streaking, poisoned-food, co-culture, time-kill kinetics, resazurin assay, bioautography, etc., are routinely employed in antimicrobial evaluations. Advanced techniques such as flow-cytometry, impedance analysis, and bioluminescent technique may offer rapid and sensitive results, providing deeper insights into the impact of antimicrobials on cellular integrity. However, their higher cost and limited accessibility in certain laboratory settings may present challenges. This article provides a comprehensive overview of assays designed to characterize antimicrobial activity, elucidating their underlying principles, protocols, advantages, and limitations. The primary objective is to enhance understanding of the methodologies designed for evaluating antimicrobial agents in our relentless battle against infectious diseases. By selecting the appropriate antimicrobial testing method, researchers can discern suitable conditions and streamline the identification of effective antimicrobial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

aimani, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq Correspondence: Sonya Jamal Hamalaw, Sulaimaniyah, 46001, Iraq, Tel +9647705049108, Email [email protected] Purpose: Antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) mixture assessed against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), in addition to examining MgONPs varnish impact on the preservation of the tooth color and inhibition of methylene blue diffusion to the enamel. Methods: MgONPs mixture was prepared in deionized water (DW), absolute ethanol (E), and rosin with ethanol (RE), named varnish. The antibacterial and antibiofilm capacities of MgONPs mixtures were tested by agar well diffusion, colony-forming unit (CFU), and biofilm inhibition microtiter methods in triplicate and compared to sodium fluoride varnish (NaF) and chlorhexidine mouthwash (ChX). A spectrophotometer was used to record basic tooth color. The artificial demineralization was initiated for 96 h. Then, experimental materials were applied to the corresponding group, and 10-day pH cycles proceeded. Then, the color was recorded in the same ambient environment. The methylene blue diffusion was evaluated by staining the samples for 24 h. After that, the diffusion test was calculated by a digital camera attached to the stereomicroscope. Results: The agar well diffusion test expressed a significant inhibition zone with all MgONPs mixtures (p = 0.000), and maximum inhibition zone diameter associated with MgONPs-RE. The same finding was observed in the CFU test. Additionally, 2.5%, 5%, and 10% MgONPs-RE varnish showed strong biofilm inhibition capacity (p = 0.039) compared to NaF and ChX groups that inhibit biofilm formation moderately (p = 0.003). The study shows that the 5% MgONPs-RE varnish maintains basic tooth color with minimal methylene blue diffusion compared to NaF varnish (p = 0.00). Conclusion: Evaluating MgONPs as a mixture revealed antibacterial and antibiofilm capacity against S. mutans with a higher effect of MgONPs-RE varnish. Also, examining the topical effect of MgONPs-RE varnish on the preservation of the tooth color after pH cycle challenges and methylene blue diffusion to enamel confirmed the high performance of MgONPs-RE varnish at 5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diarrhea caused by Salmonella and Shigella species are the leading cause of illness especially in developing countries. These infections are considered as the main public health problems in children, including Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Salmonella and Shigella species in Sheik Hassan Yabere Referral Hospital Jigjiga, Eastern Ethiopia from August 05 to November 15, 2022. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 239 under-five children with diarrhea selected through a convenient sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to collect associated factors. A stool sample was collected and processed for the identification of Salmonella and Shigella species using MacConkey adar, Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate agar (Oxoid Ltd) and Biochemical tests. The antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of isolates was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. The data was entered into Epi-data version 4.6 and exported to the statistical package of social science version 22 for analysis. The association between outcome and independent variables was assessed using bivariate, multivariable, and chi-square and P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistical significance. Result: Overall prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella species was 6.3% (95% CI, 5.7–6.9%), of which 3.8% (95 CI, 3.2–4.4%) were Salmonella species and 2.5% (95% CI, 1.95-3%) were Shigella species. Unimproved water source (AOR = 5.08, 95% CI = 1.45, 17.25), open field (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.3, 5.03), rural residence (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.4, 7.5), Hand-washing practice (p = 0.001), and raw meat consumption (p = 0.002) were associated with occurrence of Salmonella and Shigella species. Salmonella and Shigella isolates were resistant to Ampicilin (100%). However, Salmonella isolates was sensitive to Norfloxacin (100%). About 22.2% and 16.7% of Salmonella and Shigella isolates were multi-drug resistant, respectively. Conclusion: Prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella species were lower than most studies done in Ethiopia. Hand-washing habit, water source type, Open field waste disposal habit, raw meat consumption and rural residence were associated with Salmonellosis and shigellosis. All isolated Salmonella were sensitive to norfloxacin. The evidence from this study underscores the need for improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) system and the imperative to implement drug susceptibility tests for the treatment of Salmonella and Shigella infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria belonging to the genus Micromonospora are recognized as microorganisms with the potential to be used in biotechnology processes, given their beneficial influence on plant growth and the biocontrol of phytopathogens. In this study, nineteen Micromonospora isolates originating from the root nodules of white clover plants were taxonomically assigned based on the phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene and four housekeeping genes. The antifungal properties of the bacteria against phytopathogenic Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium equiseti, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and Verticillium albo-atrum were tested with the agar plug test and the dual culture test. The ability to produce various metallophores was determined with the agar plug diffusion test on modified chrome azurol S (CAS) agar medium. International Streptomyces Project-2 medium (ISP2) broth amended with 0.2% L-tryptophan was used to indicate the bacterial ability to produce auxins. The strains belonging to M. tulbaghiae, M. inaquosa, and M. violae showed in vitro potential as antimicrobial agents against the tested fungi. M. inaquosa strain 152, M. violae strain 126, M. violae strain 66, and M. violae strain 45 were recognized as the most efficient metallophore producers. M. alfalfae strain 55 and M. lupini strain 5052 were identified as the most promising auxin compound producers and, therefore, show potential as plant-growth-promoting bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of phytochemicals with or without an experimental fluoride varnish against Porphyromonas gingivalis. Five phytochemicals, chrysophanol (CHR), emodin (EMO), anthrarufin (ANT), bavachalcone (BCC), and isobavachromene (IBC), were tested using agar diffusion, minimal inhibition concentration (MIC), and minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) assays. We also assessed the cell viability and cytotoxicity of phytochemicals. All phytochemicals showed clear inhibition zones in the agar diffusion test. The inhibition zones of all phytochemical-containing fluoride varnishes were similar to or larger than that of the positive control, excluding that of 1 mM EMO. With or without the fluoride varnish, BCC exhibited the lowest MIC and MBC levels. Cell viability was high in the presence of all phytochemicals except 200 μM EMO. In conclusion, BCC was most effective as a phytochemical alone, while all phytochemical-containing fluoride varnishes inhibited P. gingivalis growth without cytotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pseudomonas (P. aeruginosa) is a worrisome multidrug (MDR) or even extensively drug-resistant (XDR) nosocomial pathogen. Ceftolozane/tazobactam(C/T) and ceftazidime/avibactam (CAZ/AVI), novel combinations, were recently approved for the treatment of MDR Gram-negative pathogens. Objective: To assess the in vitro activity of C/T & CAZ/AVI and against MDR/XDR P. aeruginosa isolates, detect the synergistic activity of CAZ/AVI plus aztreonam (ATM) against metallo-ß-lactamase) MßL(producers and to determine the virulence profile of the studied isolates. Methods: Eighty P. aeruginosa strains were isolated from hospitalized patients and screened for their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern by disk diffusion test. Different resistance mechanisms; beta-lactam hydrolyzing enzymes (ESßLs, AmpC, and class A & B carbapenemases), biofilm production and efflux pump-mediated colistin resistance mechanisms were characterized by the corresponding phenotypic methods. Multiplex PCR verified some resistance (blaVIM, blaKPC, mcr-1 & mcr-2) and virulence (exoU and exoS) genes. We applied E-test strip superposition method to detect synergistic effect between CAZ/AVI and ATM. Results: 32.5% and 52.5% of P. aeruginosa isolates were recovered as MDR and XDR isolates respectively. The frequency of beta-lactamase production reached 12.5% for ESßLs, 46.25% for AmpC, 21.4% for class A and 55.4% for class B carbapenemases. About 81.3% and 63.7% of the isolates proved susceptibility to CAZ/AVI and C/T respectively. While only 36.3% were ATM susceptible. Interestingly, combined use of CAZ/AVI with ATM completely restored susceptibility among MßL strains. Conclusion: Synergistic combination of CAZ/AVI with ATM could be promising therapy against MDR/XDR P. aeruginosa infections with MßL production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial susceptibility tests, achieved through the use of antibiotic-impregnated disks in a suitable laboratory environment, are conducted to determine which antibiotics are effective against the bacteria present in the body of an infected patient. The Kirby–Bauer method, a type of disk diffusion antimicrobial susceptibility test, is currently widely applied in microbiology laboratories due to its proven effectiveness. In our study, we developed an algorithm that utilizes image processing techniques to detect the inhibition zones of bacteria. A certain color depth acts as the threshold for the inhibition zone, with its radius determined according to the size of the reference object. This approach facilitates the measurement of inhibition zones and employs machine learning and deep learning to categorize antibiograms, followed by determination of whether a bacterium on the disk is sensitive or resistant to the antibiotics applied. The focus of this research is creating an automated interpretation system for antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the disk diffusion technique, thus simplifying the measurement and interpretation of inhibition zone sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]