Antimicrobial activity of n-6, n-7 and n-9 fatty acids and their esters for oral microorganisms

Phytochemical characterization of Thevetia peruviana (lucky nut) bark extracts by GC-MS analysis, along with evaluation of its biological activities, and molecular docking study

Thevetia peruviana (T. peruviana; Family: Apocynaceae), commonly known as Lucky Nut, is a traditionally and medicinally important plant, and the barks of the plant are traditionally used as anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antibacterial remedies. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate bioactive phytochemicals and in-vitro biological activities from the bark of T. peruviana using methanolic (TPM) and dichloromethane (TPD) extracts. The GC-MS analysis showed the presence of 54 and 39 bioactive compounds in TPM and TPD, respectively. The TPM extract has a higher level of total polyphenolic contents (TPC: 70.89 ± 1.08 and 51.07 ± 0.78 mg GAE/g extracts, while TFC: 56.89 ± 1.16 and 44.12 ± 1.76 Qu.E/g extracts for TPM and TPD, respectively). Herein, the results of antioxidant activities were also found in correlation with the total polyphenolic contents i.e., depicting the higher antioxidant potential of TPM compared to TPD. The significant inhibitory activities of extracts were observed against tyrosinase (TPM; 59.43 ± 2.87 %, TPD; 53.43 ± 2.65 %), lipoxygenase (TPM; 77.1 ± 1.2 %, TPD; 59.3 ± 0.1 %), and α-glucosidase (TPM; 71.32 ± 2.44 %, TPD; 67.86 ± 3.011 %). Furthermore, in comparison to co-amoxiclave, the antibacterial property against five bacterial strains was significant assayed. The compounds obtained through GC-MS analysis were subjected to in-silico molecular docking studies, and the phyto-constituents with maximum binding scores were then subjected to ADME analysis. The results of in-silico studies revealed that the binding affinity of several phyto-constituents was even greater than that of the standard inhibitory ligands. ADME analysis showed bioavailability radars of phyto-constituents having maximum docking scores in molecular docking. The results of this study indicated that T. peruviana has bioactive phytochemicals and therapeutic potential and may provide a basis for treating metabolic disorders (inflammatory diseases like rheumatism and diabetes), bacterial infections, and skin-related problems.

Compounds isolation from Syzygium cumini leaf extract against the Vibrio species in shrimp through bioassay-guided fractionation

This study was conducted to isolate and identify the bioactive compounds from the ethanolic extract of Syzygium cumini leaf against Vibrio species through a bioassay-guided fractionation. The ethanol extract was exposed to silica gel chromatography followed by reversed phase HPLC to isolate the most effective fraction against V. parahaemolyticus. Using further UHPLC-orbitrap-ion trap mass spectrometry, five compounds were isolated with broad-spectrum potency against a range of Vibrio species viz. V. parahaemolyticus, V. alginolyticus, V. harveyi, V. vulnificus and V. anguillarum. The IC50 values for the compounds ranged from 8 to 48 µg/mL against the most sensitive species V. vulnificus and 58 to >400 µg/mL against V. alginolyticus. The results of the toxicity tests demonstrated that the compounds were not harmful for shrimp. The study's findings indicate that S. cumini leaf extract may contain bioactive molecules that are able to be substituted for antibiotics to treat vibriosis in shrimp farming.

Development and Evaluation of a Stable Oil-in-Water Emulsion with High Ostrich Oil Concentration for Skincare Applications

This study investigates the development of an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion enriched with a high concentration of ostrich oil, recognized for its abundant content of oleic acid (34.60 ± 0.01%), tailored for skincare applications. Using Span and Tween emulsifiers, we formulated an optimized emulsion with 20% w/w ostrich oil and a 15% w/w blend of Span 20 and Tween 80. This formulation, achieved via homogenization at 3800 rpm for 5 min, yielded the smallest droplet size (5.01 ± 0.43 μm) alongside an appropriate zeta potential (-32.22 mV). Our investigation into the influence of Span and Tween concentrations, types, and ratios on the stability of 20% w/w ostrich oil emulsions, maintaining a hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLB) of 5.5, consistently demonstrated the superior stability of the optimized emulsion across various formulations. Cytotoxicity assessments on human dermal fibroblasts affirmed the safety of the emulsion. Notably, the emulsion exhibited a 52.20 ± 2.01% inhibition of linoleic acid oxidation, surpassing the 44.70 ± 1.94% inhibition observed for ostrich oil alone. Moreover, it demonstrated a superior inhibitory zone against Staphylococcus aureus (12.32 ± 0.19 mm), compared to the 6.12 ± 0.15 mm observed for ostrich oil alone, highlighting its enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial properties and strengthening its potential for skincare applications. The optimized emulsion also demonstrates the release of 78.16 ± 1.22% of oleic acid across the cellulose acetate membrane after 180 min of study time. This successful release of oleic acid further enhances the overall efficacy and versatility of the optimized emulsion. Stability assessments, conducted over 6 months at different temperatures (4 °C, 25 °C, 45 °C), confirmed the emulsion's sustained physicochemical and microbial stability, supporting its promise for topical applications. Despite minor fluctuations in acid values (AV) and peroxide values (PV), the results remained within the acceptable limits. This research elucidates the crucial role of emulsification in optimizing the efficacy and stability of ostrich oil in skincare formulations, providing valuable insights for practical applications where stability is paramount.

New insights into changing honey bee (Apis mellifera) immunity molecules pattern and fatty acid esters, in responses to Ascosphaera apis infection

Monitoring of metabolite changes could provide valuable insights into disturbances caused by an infection and furthermore, could be used to define the status of an organism as healthy or diseased and define what could be defensive elements against the infection. The present investigation conducted a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for haemolymph of larval honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) infected with the fungal pathogen Ascosphaera apis in comparison with control haemolymph non-infected insects. Results revealed that the pathogen caused a general disturbance of metabolites detected in the haemolymph of the honey bee. The majority of metabolites identified before and after infection were fatty acid esters. The disease caused an elevation in levels of methyl oleate, methyl palmitate, and methyl stearate, respectively. Further, the disease drove to the disappearance of methyl palmitoleate, and methyl laurate. Conversely, methyl linolelaidate, and ethyl oleate were identified only in infected larvae. A high reduction in diisooctyl phthalate was recorded after the infection. Interestingly, antimicrobial activities were confirmed for haemolymph of infected honey bee larvae. In spite of the presence of some previously known bioactive compounds in healthy larvae there were no antimicrobial activities.

Boesenbergia rotunda and Its Pinostrobin for Atopic Dermatitis: Dual 5-Lipoxygenase and Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitor and Its Mechanistic Study through Steady-State Kinetics and Molecular Modeling

Human 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) are potential targets for suppressing pruritic skin inflammation in atopic dermatitis (AD). In addition, Staphylococcus aureus colonization and oxidative stress worsen AD skin conditions. We aimed to investigate anti-inflammatory activity, using 5-LOX and COX-2 inhibitions, and the anti-staphylococcal, and antioxidant potentials of several medicinal plants bio-prospected from traditional medicine related to AD pathogenesis. Essential oils and hexane fractions were prepared and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Boesenbergia rotunda hexane extract displayed anti-Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 10 µg/mL) and antioxidant activities (IC50 = 557.97 and 2651.67 µg/mL against DPPH and NO radicals, respectively). A major flavonoid, pinostrobin, was further nonchromatographically isolated. Pinostrobin was shown to be a potent 5-LOX inhibitor (IC50 = 0.499 µM) compared to nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA; IC50 = 5.020 µM) and betamethasone dipropionate (BD; IC50 = 2.077 µM) as the first-line of AD treatment. Additionally, pinostrobin inhibited COX-2 (IC50 = 285.67 µM), which was as effective as diclofenac sodium (IC50 = 290.35 µM) and BD (IC50 = 240.09 µM). This kinetic study and molecular modeling showed the mixed-type inhibition of NDGA and pinostrobin against 5-LOX. This study suggests that B. rotunda and its bioactive pinostrobin have promising properties for AD therapy.

Effects of Silybum marianum L. Seed Extracts on Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) Bacteria

Wound infections became a great challenge, especially after the emergence of bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Medicinal plants can be the source of alternative antibacterial agents effective against multi drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. This research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different Silybum marianum seed extracts in fighting MDR bacteria that infect wounds. First, thirty purified bacterial cultures obtained from superficial, infected wounds were subjected to antibiotic sensitivity tests. The selected MDR isolates were then used to test the antimicrobial effects of different S. marianum seed extracts. The most potent extract was evaluated for its impact on the ultrastructure of the cells of sensitive bacterial isolates using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The bioactive ingredients of this extract were analyzed by means of gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Then, in-silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties were predicted for the main components. The results indicated that four out of 30 bacterial isolates were considered MDR bacteria. Primary morphological features of colonies, secondary (automatic) identification using the Biomerieux Vitek 2 System, and 16S rRNA sequencing of the four isolates confirmed that they represent Staphylococcus aureus, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. Among different extracts of S. marianum seeds, ethanol extract showed the strongest inhibitory effect on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values between 9.375 and 1.172 mg/mL. However, at concentrations four times higher, this extract was unable to kill bacterial cells, indicating that it had a bacteriostatic effect on the tested MDR strains. TEM revealed denaturation and distorted cell ultrastructure in S. aureus and S. maltophilia after exposure to ethanol extract. In addition, GC-MS analysis of the ethanol extract identified nine compounds known to have important biological activities, and ADMET analysis showed good drug-likeness for two of these compounds. Consequently, S. marianum seeds could be a good source of alternative bacteriostatic agents effective against MDR bacterial strains that cause wound infections.

Antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of extracts from sponge-associated bacterial endophytes

Sponges forms association with many bacteria that serve as sources of new bioactive compounds. The compounds are produced in response to environmental and nutritional conditions of the environment that enable them to protect their host from colonization. In this study, three sponge bacterial endophytes were isolated, identified, and subjected to solvent extraction processes. The identified bacteria are Bacillus amyloquifaciens, Bacillus paramycoides, and Enterobacter sp. The bacteria were cultured in two different fermentation media with varying nutritional composition for the extraction process. The extracts were evaluated for antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against microfouling bacteria and the chemical composition of each extract was analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The extract from the endophytes shows varying antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against the tested strains. Several compounds were detected from the extracts including some with known antibacterial/antibiofilm activity. The results showed variations in activity and secondary metabolite production between the extracts obtained under different nutritional composition of the media. In conclusion, this study indicated the role of nutrient composition in the activity and secondary metabolites production by bacteria associated with sponge Also, this study confirmed the role of sponge bacterial endophytes as producers of bioactive compounds with potential application as antifouling (AF) agents.

Integrated metagenomics and metabolomics analysis reveals changes in the microbiome and metabolites in the rhizosphere soil of Fritillaria unibracteata

Fritillaria unibracteata (FU) is a renowned herb in China that requires strict growth conditions in its cultivation process. During this process, the soil microorganisms and their metabolites may directly affect the growth and development of FU, for example, the pathogen infection and sipeimine production. However, few systematic studies have reported the changes in the microbiome and metabolites during FU cultivation thus far. In this work, we simultaneously used metagenomics and metabolomics technology to monitor the changes in microbial communities and metabolites in the rhizosphere of FU during its cultivation for one, two, and three years. Moreover, the interaction between microorganisms and metabolites was investigated by co-occurrence network analysis. The results showed that the microbial composition between the three cultivation-year groups was significantly different (2020-2022). The dominant genera changed from Pseudomonas and Botrytis in CC1 to Mycolicibacterium and Pseudogymnoascus in CC3. The relative abundances of beneficial microorganisms decreased, while the relative abundances of harmful microorganisms showed an increasing trend. The metabolomics results showed that significant changes of the of metabolite composition were observed in the rhizosphere soil, and the relative abundances of some beneficial metabolites showed a decreasing trend. In this study, we discussed the changes in the microbiome and metabolites during the three-year cultivation of FU and revealed the relationship between microorganisms and metabolites. This work provides a reference for the efficient and sustainable cultivation of FU.

A Medium Chain Fatty Acid, 6-hydroxyhexanoic acid (6-HHA), Protects Against Obesity and Insulin Resistance

Obesity, a worldwide health problem, increases the risk for developing metabolic diseases such as insulin resistance and diabetes. It is well recognized that obesity-associated chronic inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of systemic metabolic dysfunction. Previously, we revealed an anti-inflammatory role for spent culture supernatants isolated from the oral commensal bacterial species Streptococcus gordonii (Sg-SCS). Here, we identified that 6-hydroxyhexanoic acid (6-HHA), a medium chain fatty acid (MCFA), is the one of the key components of Sg-SCS . We found that treatment of 6-HHA in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) significantly reduced HFD-mediated weight gain which was largely attributed to a decrease in fat mass. Systemically, 6-HHA improves obesity-associated glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Furthermore, administration of 6-HHA suppressed obesity-associated systemic inflammation and dyslipidemia. At the cellular level, treatment of 6-HHA ameliorated aberrant inflammatory and metabolic transcriptomic signatures in white adipose tissue of mice with diet-induced obesity (HFD). Mechanistically, we found that 6-HHA suppressed adipocyte-proinflammatory cytokine production and lipolysis, the latter through Gαi-mediated signaling. This work provides direct evidence for the anti-obesity effects of a novel MCFA, which could be a new therapeutic treatment for combating obesity.

KEY POINTS

Hydroxyhexanoic medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are dietary and bacterial-derived energy sources, however, the outcomes of using MCFAs in treating metabolic disorders are diverse and complex. The MCFA 6-hydroxyhexanoic acid (6-HHA) is a metabolite secreted by the oral bacterial commensal species Streptococcus gordonii; here we investigated its role in modulating high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysfunction. In a murine model of obesity, we found 6-HHA-mediated improvement of diet-mediated adiposity, insulin resistance and inflammation were in part due to actions on white adipose tissue (WAT).6-HHA suppressed proinflammatory cytokine production and lipolysis through Gi-mediated signaling in differentiated white adipocytes.

Modulation of physicochemical properties and antimicrobial activity of sodium alginate films through the use of chestnut extract and plasticizers

Due to the growing demand for robust and environmentally friendly antimicrobial packaging materials, biopolymers have recently become extensively investigated. Although biodegradable biopolymers usually lack mechanical properties, which makes it inevitable to blend them with plasticizers. The purpose of this study was to investigate plasticization efficiency of bio-based plasticizers introduced into sodium alginate compositions containing chestnut extract and their effect on selected film properties, including primarily mechanical and antibacterial properties. The films were prepared by the casting method and sodium alginate was cross-linked with calcium chloride. Six different plasticizers, including three commercially available ones (glycerol, epoxidized soybean oil and palm oil) and three synthesized plasticizers that are mixtures of bio-based plasticizers, were used to compare their influence on the film properties. Interactions between the polymer matrix and the plasticizers were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphological characteristics of the films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Thermal properties, tensile strength, elongation at break, hydrophilic, and barrier properties of the obtained films were also determined. To confirm the obtaining of active films through the use of chestnut extract and to study the effect of the proposed plasticizers on the antibacterial activity of the extract, the obtained films were tested against bacteria cultures. The final results showed that all of the obtained films exhibit a hydrophilic character and high barrier effect to oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapor. In addition, sodium alginate films prepared with chestnut extract and the plasticizer proposed by us, showed better mechanical and antimicrobial properties than the films obtained with chestnut extract and the commercially available plasticizers.

Characterization and bioactivities of M. arvensis, V. officinalis and P. glabrum: In-silico modeling of V. officinalis as a potential drug source

In current study the pharmaceutically active herbs was used against coccidiosis, caused by a protozoan: Eimeria, lead to $ 3 billion loss annually. The aqueous and methanolic extracts of whole plants were applied in-vitro to assess sporulation inhibition (spi) assay and calculated the inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀). For in-vivo study 9 groups of 14 day old broiler chicks were infected with Eimeria tenella and three groups were treated different concentrations of methanolic extracts of Verbena officinalis and Polygonum glabrum post infection. The mean weight gain, oocyst count, diarrhea, biochemical tests, hematology, and histopathology of all groups were analyzed. The herbs were characterized by antioxidant assay, phytochemical screening, Fourier transmission and infrared (FT-IR), Ultra Violet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and Gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The GC-MS identified phyto-compounds of V. officinalis were docked with S-Adenosyl methionine (SAM) synthetase. The in-vitro study revealed that V. officinalis and P. glabrum have minimum IC₅₀ of 0.14 and 12 mg/ml respectively. The in-vivo experiment showed that V. officinalis had significantly high anticoccidial potential with significant hematological profile like drug treated controls. The histology of treated chicks also showed recovery in the studied tissues. The antioxidant assay showed that V. officinalis have 4.19U/mg Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and 33.96 µM/mg Glutathione (GSH) quantities. The chemical characterization confirmed the presence of large number of organic compounds, however Flavonoids found only in V. officinalis, which suggests the anticoccidial potential of V. officinalis because flavonoids as antagonist of thiamine (Prinzo, 1999), because it promotes the carbohydrate synthesis required. Strychane, 1-acetyl-20a-hydroxy-16-methylene has best binding of with target protein with lowest binding score (-6.4 Kcal/mol), suggests its anticoccidial potential in poultry.

Formulation and evaluation of a novel herbal trio gel containing flax seed extract, carbopol and carboxymethyl cellulose

It is of interest to formulate and evaluate herbal trio gel containing brown flax seed extract, carbopol, and carboxymethyl cellulose and to assess the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory activity along with quality analysis using SEM and FTIR. The brown flax seeds were grinded into a fine powder and supercritical fluid was prepared which was mixed with CMC and carbopol. The formulation was checked for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory activity, surface characteristics with SEM and FTIR. The results revealed that the activity of the trio gel was efficacious in hampering the growth of black pigmented anaerobes. The highest zone of inhibition for novel herbal trio gel was recorded at 100 µL measuring 14mm and for the standard chlorhexidine gel it was recorded at 100 µL measuring 23mm in diameter. The results proved that the zone of inhibition of novel herbal trio gel had a decent difference to that of standard chlorhexidine gel. The anti-inflammatory activity showed significant activity at 20 µL which accounted for 53% for the novel herbal trio gel and for the standard diclofenac gel it showed highest activity at 20 µL which accounted for 60%. However, there was not much difference between the herbal trio gel and standard diclofenac gel. SEM observations revealed that the components used in formulation of this trio gel have been bonded well to each other and exhibited appreciable surface characteristics. The lattice of the trio gel has been very well exhibited in SEM analysis. FTIR revealed high peaks showing the different components present in the trio gel. Within the limitations of the study, the results of our study concluded that novel herbal trio gel containing Linum usitatissimum extract, sorbitol, and carboxymethyl cellulose could be an efficient economic primeval substitute that is non-toxic, natural, and structured for clinical application.

Phytochemical composition, bioactive properties, and toxicological profile of Tetrapleura tetraptera

The use of medicinal plants has gained renewed wide popularity in Africa, Asia, and most parts of the world because of the decreasing efficacy of synthetic drugs. Thus, natural products serve as a potent source of alternative remedy. Tetrapleura tetraptera is a medicinal plant with cultural and traditional significance in West Africa. In addition to the plant being commonly used as a spice in the preparation of traditional spicy food for postpartum care it is also widely used to constitute herbal concoctions and decoctions for treatment of diseases. This review aimed to provide an up-to-date information on the ethnomedicinal uses, pharmacological activities and phytoconstituents of T. tetraptera. Preclinical studies regarding the plant's toxicity profile were also reviewed. For this updated review, literature search was done on PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley, and Google Scholar databases using the relevant keywords. The review used a total of 106 papers that met the inclusion criteria from January 1989 - February 2022 and summarised the bioactivities that have been reported for the rich phytoconstituents of T. tetraptera studied using various chemical methods. Considering the huge report, the review focused on the antimicrobial and antiinflammatory activities of the plant extracts and isolated compounds. Aridan, aridanin and several bioactive compounds of T. tetraptera have shown pharmacological activities though their mechanisms of action are yet to be fully understood. This study also highlighted the influence of plant parts and extraction solvents on its biological activities. It also presented data on the toxicological profile of the plant extracts using different models. From cultural uses to modern pharmacological research the bioactive compounds of T. tetraptera have proved effective in infectious disease management. We hope that this paper provided a robust summary of the biological activities and toxicological profile of T. tetraptera, thus calling for more research into the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic activities of natural products to help combat the growing threat of drug resistance and provide guidelines for their ethnomedicinal uses.

Effects of Plant-Derived Glycerol Monolaurate (GML) Additive on the Antioxidant Capacity, Anti-Inflammatory Ability, Muscle Nutritional Value, and Intestinal Flora of Hybrid Grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus♂)

In a context where the search for plant-derived additives is a hot topic, glycerol monolaurate (GML) was chosen as our subject to study its effect on grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus♂). Seven gradient levels of GML (0, 600, 1200, 1800, 2400, 3000, and 3600 mg/kg) were used for the experiment. Based on our experiments, 1800 mg/kg GML significantly increased the final body weight (FBW) and weight gain rate (WGR). GML increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA). Adding 1800 mg/kg GML also significantly increased the levels of lauric acid (C12:0) (LA), n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PFA), and the n-6 PFA-to-n-3/n-6 ratio, while significantly decreasing the levels of saturated fatty acids (SFA). Dietary supplementation with GML significantly inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory factors and reduced the occurrence of inflammation. GML improved intestinal flora and the abundance of beneficial bacteria (Bacillus, Psychrobacter, Acinetobacter, Acinetobacter, Stenotrophomonas, and Glutamicibacter). It provides a theoretical basis for the application of GML in aquafeed and greatly enhances the possibility of using GML in aquafeed. Based on the above experimental results, the optimum level of GML in grouper feed is 1800 mg/kg.

Evaluation of wiping edible sesame oils in the oral cavities of hospitalised older patients who resist oral hygiene management

Context

One of the causes of aspiration pneumonia is poor oral hygiene. We need care methods that caregivers can quickly, safely and inexpensively implement for convalescents with inadequate self-care. Edible sesame oil containing sesamin or sesaminol has already been shown to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth and have a vasodilating effect.

Aims

The aim of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of using edible sesame oils for oral hygiene management.

Settings and Design

This study evaluates an oral hygiene management method using two types of sesame oils in elderly hospitalised patients resistant to oral hygiene management.

Methods and Material

The inpatients received oral care for 90 days. In the intervention groups, nurses brushed and wiped the oral cavity with roasted sesame oil (RSO) or sesame salad oil, while in the control group, care with tap water alone and brushing were done. Bacteria and Candida counts from tongue swabs, water content from the tongue's surface and cheek mucosa, oral health assessment tool (OHAT) and cytology of the cheek mucosa were assessed every 30 days before and after the intervention.

Results

RSO showed a tendency to reduce the number of bacteria and Candida. There was an improvement in the OHAT scores with both oils. The water content or cytology was not changing.

Conclusions

Sesame oils may improve oral hygiene and maintain health in older patients.

Valorization of Soy Lecithin by Enzyme Cascade Reactions Including a Phospholipase A2, a Fatty Acid Double-Bond Hydratase, and/or a Photoactivated Decarboxylase

A huge amount of phospholipids or lecithin is produced as a byproduct in the vegetable oil industry. However, most are just used as a feed additive. This study has focused on enzymatic valorization of lecithin. This was exploited by enzymatic transformation of soy lecithin into lysolecithin liposomes, including functional free fatty acids, hydroxy fatty acids, hydrocarbons, or secondary fatty alcohols. One of the representative examples was the preparation of lysolecithin liposomes containing secondary fatty alcohols [e.g., 9-Hydroxyheptadec-11-ene (9) and 9-heptadecanol (10)] by using a phospholipase A2 from Streptomyces violaceoruber, a fatty acid double-bond hydratase from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and a photoactivated decarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis NC64A. The engineered liposomes turned out to range ca. 144 nm in diameter by dynamic light scattering analysis. Thereby, this study will contribute to application of functional fatty acids and their derivatives as well as valorization of lecithin for the food and cosmetic industries.

Antibacterial activity and chemical characterization of almond (Prunus dulcis L.) peel extract

In this study, almond skin of Prunus dulcis L. variety Casteltermini was characterised for its chemical composition and for the inhibitory activity towards food associated microorganisms belonging to pathogenic (Salmonella Enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytgenes), spoilage (Pseudomonas poae and Brochotrix thermospacta) and useful (Levilactobacillus brevis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) groups. The n-hexane extract of P. dulcis skin, investigated by GC-MS, evidenced linoleic, palmitic, and oleic acids as the main abundant compounds. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 33862 growth was strongly limited by n-hexane extract and the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) was 25.5 mg/mL. These results highlight the potential of almond by-products as food bio-preservatives as well as pharmaceutical products.

Resolvin E1's Antimicrobial Potential Against Aggregatibacter Actinomycetemcomitans

Background

Microorganisms along with host response play a key role in the development of periodontal and peri-implant infections. Advanced periodontal and peri-implant diseases are most likely associated with bacterial plaques that trigger host immune response and eventually lead to the destruction of the attachment apparatus and bone loss around a tooth or a dental implant. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans had the highest association with peri-implantitis. Resolvin E1 (RvE1) is part of the specialized pro-resolving lipid mediator family biosynthesized from omega-3, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Although RvE1 is an established anti-inflammatory agent, it was found that its application as a treatment or as a preventive drug had an indirect effect on the subgingival microbiota of both rats and rabbits with experimental periodontitis.

Aim

The aim of this study is to evaluate the direct antimicrobial effect of RvE1 on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans bacteria.

Materials and Methods

The study comprised three groups that underwent minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. The first group was tested with the RvE1 working concentration of 5 ug/ml, the second group was tested with ethanol (EtOH), 10% as the working concentration, and the final group was diluted in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as the positive control. Optical density (OD600) was used for the comparison of bacterial growth among the tested groups. The experiment was conducted in three biological replicates. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and results were analyzed by using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post-hoc Bonferroni using a minimum level of significance (P-value) of 0.05.

Results

Minimum inhibitory concentration was 1.25 μg/ml and 5% for RvE1 and EtOH, respectively. RvE1's mean optical density (OD600) was 0.156 ± 0.021 and was significantly lower compared with all the other groups (P-value < 0.01). The EtOH group (mean OD600 0.178 ± 0.013) and the PBS group (mean OD600 0.1855 ± 0.022) did not reveal a significant difference (P-value = 0.185).

Conclusion

RvE1 demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against A. actinomycetemcomitans with an MIC of 1.25 μg/ml. The RvE1 group showed significantly lower bacterial growth compared to the EtOH and PBS groups.

Tamjanika, a Balkan native variety of Vitis vinifera L.: Chemical characterization, antibacterial, and anti-dermatomycosis potential of seed oil

This study was designed to explore functional food properties of edible seed oil obtained from Tamjanika seeds—autochthonous grape variety of Balkan Peninsula. In order to accomplish our goals, seed oil was isolated by Soxhlet apparatus and chemically characterized regarding fatty acids, carotenoids, tocopherols, and tocotrienols. Antimicrobial activity of the isolated oil was tested by microdilution method. For that purposes, six bacterial species were used, belonging to human infectious agents and food contaminants. Furthermore, the activity of the oil was investigated against clinical isolates of dermatomycetes. Our study has shown that oil of Vitis vinifera L. Tamjanika variety was an abundant source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (81.43%) with predominant linoleic acid. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of carotenoid lutein (0.15 mg/100 g). The seed oil was rich in tocotrienols (85.04 mg/100 g) predominating over tocopherols (8.37 mg/100 g). The oil possessed microbicidal activity against all the tested microbes. Bacteria were more sensitive to the effect of the oil (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] 7.7–15.4) when compared with oil effect on tested dermatomycetes (MIC 20–40). Our investigation has shown for the first time that grape oil could be active against wide spectrum of bacteria and clinically isolated dermatomycetes. The significance of this study lies in the fact that it pointed out the functional food properties of grape seed oil that was fully chemically characterized.

Topical use of hyperoxygenated fatty acids decreases surgical site infection in patients following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

To date, the topically effect of hyperoxygenated fatty acids (HOFA) on the control of surgical site infection (SSI) is still unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of topical application of a HOFA solution on the umbilical trocar site after laparoscopic cholecystectomy on SSI. The occurrence of trocar site incisional hernia (TSIH) was also analyzed.

METHODS

A prospective, double-blind, randomized trial was conducted in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, who also presented at least one of the following associated risk factors for SSI and TSIH such as Body Mass Index (BMI) above 30 kg/m², Diabetes Mellitus (DM), age over 65 years and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Patients were randomly allocated to topical application of a HOFA solution (HOFA arm) or saline physiological solution (non-HOFA arm) during closure of the umbilical trocar site with a polypropylene mesh. SSI was the primary outcome. TSIH was also assessed as a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

103 patients were included, 51 (49.5%) in the HOFA group and 52 (50.5%) in the non-HOFA group. SSI rate was significantly lower in the HOFA group in comparison with the non-HOFA group (19.6% vs. 3.8%; p = 0.028). TSIH rates were similar in both groups (3.8% vs. 2%). Multivariate analyses showed that only HOFA decreased significantly SSI rate.

CONCLUSION

Topical application of a HOFA solution at the umbilical trocar site after laparoscopy cholecystectomy decreased SSI rate.

Serial Extraction Technique of Rich Antibacterial Compounds in Sargassum cristaefolium Using Different Solvents and Testing their Activity

Background:

Sargassum cristaefolium, as one of the brown seaweeds locally found in Indonesia, is extracted using the serial technique employing different solvents.

Methods:

S. cristaefolium powder (50 mesh) was extracted with three different solvents, including hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. S. cristaefolium powder residue was dried prior to serial re-extraction using different solvents. Three serial extracts were obtained and named as 1-stage extract, 2-stage extract, and 3-stage extract. Besides, a single-step extract (i.e., extraction using only methanol) was produced to be compared with three serial extracts in antibacterial activity tests (against E. coli and S. aureus). The three serial extracts were detected for their antibacterial compounds using GC-MS, LC-HRMS, and FT-IR.

Results:

The 3-stage extract exhibited the highest extraction yield. On S. aureus, the inhibition zone in all extracts was not significantly different. On E.coli, the highest inhibition zone (5.42±0.14 mm) was of the 3-stage extract; indeed, it was higher than both antibiotic and a single- step extract. Antibacterial compounds, such as phenol, 9-Tricosene(Z)-, palmitic acid, and oleamide, were present in all extracts. Other antibacterial compound types, both the 1-stage and 2-stage extracts, contained 7 types, whilst the 3-stage extract contained the most types (11 types). Particularly, hexyl cinnamic aldehyde, betaine and several cinnamic aldehyde groups were detected only in the 3-stage extract comprising the dominant area. The carboxylic acid groups were detected in all extracts to confirm the fatty acid structure.

Conclusions:

The serial extraction technique could produce the 3-stage extract which exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity and contained the richest antibacterial compounds.

Surface Functionalization of Ureteral Stents-Based Polyurethane: Engineering Antibacterial Coatings

Bacterial colonization of polyurethane (PU) ureteral stents usually leads to severe and challenging clinical complications. As such, there is an increasing demand for an effective response to this unmet medical challenge. In this study, we offer a strategy based on the functionalization of PU stents with chitosan-fatty acid (CS-FA) derivatives to prevent bacterial colonization. Three different fatty acids (FAs), namely stearic acid (SA), oleic acid (OA), and linoleic acid (LinA), were successfully grafted onto chitosan (CS) polymeric chains. Afterwards, CS-FA derivatives-based solutions were coated on the surface of PU stents. The biological performance of the modified PU stents was evaluated against the L929 cell line, confirming negligible cytotoxicity of the developed coating formulations. The antibacterial potential of coated PU stents was also evaluated against several microorganisms. The obtained data indicate that the base material already presents an adequate performance against Staphylococcus aureus, which slightly improved with the coating. However, the performance of the PU stents against Gram-negative bacteria was markedly increased with the surface functionalization approach herein used. As a result, this study reveals the potential use of CS-FA derivatives for surface functionalization of ureteral PU stents and allows for conjecture on its successful application in other biomedical devices.

The ketogenic diet: its impact on human gut microbiota and potential consequent health outcomes: a systematic literature review

Aim

This systematic review examined the diet's impact on the human gut microbiota to identify potential consequent health outcomes.

Background

The extreme macronutrient profile of the ketogenic diet (KD) instigates compositional shifts in the gut's microbial community.

Methods

In this systematic literature review, an evidence-based and methodical approach was undertaken, which involved systematic searches of the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), PubMed and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases, generating a total of 263 relevant research papers. Following the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight papers were deemed suitable for inclusion. These papers were critically appraised using a checklist tool adapted from the National Institute of Care and Excellence (NICE). The findings were analysed using a simplified thematic analysis.

Results

The results provide strong evidence for a persistent reduction in Bifidobacterium abundance following KD adherence. A reduced abundance of key Firmicutes butyrate-producing bacteria was found to be a likely impact, although two studies with extended intervention periods indicate this may be time-limited. Studies investigating short-chain fatty acids (SCFA's) indicate KD reduces total faecal SCFA's, acetate, and butyrate.

Conclusion

Changes to microbial communities resulting from KD adherence are potentially detrimental to colonic health. The persistent reduction in Bifidobacterium abundance was concerning, with obesity, type-2 diabetes, and depression highlighted as potential consequent risks. For nutrition and healthcare professionals, the findings emphasize the importance of considering KDs microbial effects and resulting health implications at an individual level.

Synergistic Impact of Bioactive Byproduct Extract Leads to Anti-Fusarium and Anti-Mycotoxin Secretion

Fruit byproducts are considered a high source of bioactive molecules, which possess antioxidant activities. These antioxidants play principal functions in mycotoxin reduction. This study aimed to evaluate crude mandarin byproduct extract for its chemical interaction with fungal growth and suppression of mycotoxin production, and to illustrate whether the impact was regarding individual molecules or a synergistic antioxidation process. Extract contents were analyzed for their phenolic, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. The fatty acid composition and volatile components were determined using the GC apparatus. The influence of the extract evaluated versus the standard phenolics of trans-ferulic and hesperidin were evaluated. The liposome technique was applied to prevent the antioxidant properties of the bioactive extract. The anti-mycotoxigenic effects of the liposomal and non-liposomal extract were determined in fungal media against the standard phenolics. The results manifested ferulic (235.54 ± 3.34 mg/100 g) and hesperidin (492.11 ± 1.15 mg/100 g) as high phenolics in the extract. Limonene was the main volatile (67.54 ± 1.74%), as well antioxidant activities determined in considerable values. The crude extract recorded efficiency as an anti-Fusarium agent, but less than the standard hesperidin applied in fungal media. The bioactive extract recorded possessed a reduction influence on mycotoxin production. The impact may be joining with its fungal inhibition or its component activity with the active groups on the mycotoxin molecule. The formation of liposomal extract enhanced its efficacy in mycotoxin reduction. This enhancement may illustrate its protective properties for antioxidant components of the bioactive extract.

GC-MS Analysis and Biomedical Therapy of Oil from n-Hexane Fraction of Scutellaria edelbergii Rech. f.: In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Approach

The current study aimed to explore the crude oils obtained from the n-hexane fraction of Scutellaria edelbergii and further analyzed, for the first time, for their chemical composition, in vitro antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and in vivo anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities. For the phytochemical composition, the oils proceeded to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and from the resultant chromatogram, 42 bioactive constituents were identified. Among them, the major components were linoleic acid ethyl ester (19.67%) followed by ethyl oleate (18.45%), linolenic acid methyl ester (11.67%), and palmitic acid ethyl ester (11.01%). Tetrazolium 96-well plate MTT assay and agar-well diffusion methods were used to evaluate the isolated oil for its minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC₅₀), and zone of inhibitions that could determine the potential antimicrobial efficacy's. Substantial antibacterial activities were observed against the clinical isolates comprising of three Gram-negative bacteria, viz., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and one Gram-positive bacterial strain, Enterococcus faecalis. The oils were also effective against Candida albicans and Fusarium oxysporum when evaluated for their antifungal potential. Moreover, significant antioxidant potential with IC₅₀ values of 136.4 and 161.5 µg/mL for extracted oil was evaluated through DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl) and ABTS assays compared with standard ascorbic acid where the IC50 values were 44.49 and 67.78 µg/mL, respectively, against the tested free radicals. The oils was also potent, inhibiting the α-glucosidase (IC50 5.45 ± 0.42 µg/mL) enzyme compared to the standard. Anti-glucosidase potential was visualized through molecular docking simulations where ten compounds of the oil were found to be the leading inhibitors of the selected enzyme based on interactions, binding energy, and binding affinity. The oil was found to be an effective anti-inflammatory (61%) agent compared with diclofenac sodium (70.92%) via the carrageenan-induced assay. An appreciable (48.28%) analgesic activity in correlation with the standard aspirin was observed through the acetic acid-induced writhing bioassay. The oil from the n-hexane fraction of S. edelbergii contained valuable bioactive constituents that can act as in vitro biological and in vivo pharmacological agents. However, further studies are needed to uncover individual responsible compounds of the observed biological potentials which would be helpful in devising novel drugs.

The Ethyl Acetate Extract of the Marine Edible Gastropod Haliotis tuberculata coccinea: a Potential Source of Bioactive Compounds

The phylum Mollusca represents one of the largest groups of marine invertebrates. Nowadays, molluscan shellfish belonging to the classes Bivalvia and Gastropoda are of commercial interest for fisheries and aquaculture. Although bioactive properties of bivalve molluscs have been widely investigated and several dietary supplements have been brought to the market, the bioactive potentialities of marine gastropods are poorly documented. The present study investigated the bioactive properties of tissue extracts derived from Haliotis tuberculata coccinea, or "European abalone," an edible abalone species distributed in the Mediterranean Sea and the northeast Atlantic Ocean. A bioactive organic compound-rich extract was obtained using ethyl acetate as extracting solvent. It showed antimicrobial activity towards the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis strain RP62A, the emerging multi-drug-resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia D71 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538P, being the most sensitive strain. It also showed anthelmintic activity, evaluated through the toxicity against the target model helminth Caenorhabditis elegans. In addition, the ethyl acetate extract demonstrated a selective cytotoxic activity on the cancer cell lines A375, MBA-MD 231, HeLa, and MCF7, at the concentration of 250 µg/mL. The fatty acid composition of the bioactive extract was also investigated through FAME analysis. The fatty acid profile showed 45% of saturated fatty acids (SAFA), 22% of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and 33% of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The presence of some biologically important secondary metabolites in the extract was also analysed, revealing the presence of alkaloids, terpenes, and flavonoids.

Bioactive Molecules of Mandarin Seed Oils Diminish Mycotoxin and the Existence of Fungi

Mandarin is a favorite fruit of the citrus family. Mandarin seeds are considered a source of nontraditional oil obtained from byproduct materials. This investigation aimed to assess the biomolecules of mandarin seeds and evaluated their antimycotic and antimycotoxigenic impact on fungi. Moreover, it evaluated the protective role of mandarin oil against aflatoxin toxicity in cell lines. The two types of extracted oil (fixed and volatile) were ecofriendly. The fatty acid composition, tocopherol, sterols, and carotenoids were determined in the fixed oil, whereas volatiles and phenolics were estimated in the essential oil. A mixture of the two oils was prepared and evaluated for its antimicrobial impact. The reduction effect of this mixture was also investigated to reduce mycotoxin secretion using a simulated experiment. The protective effect of the oil was evaluated using healthy strains of cell lines. Fixed oil was distinguished by the omega fatty acid content (76.24%), lutein was the major carotenoid (504.3 mg/100 g) and it had a high β-sitosterol content (294.6 mg/100 g). Essential oil contained limonene (66.05%), α-pinene (6.82%), β-pinene (4.32%), and γ-terpinene (12.31%) in significant amounts, while gallic acid and catechol were recorded as the dominant phenolics. Evaluation of the oil mix for antimicrobial potency reflected a considerable impact against pathogenic bacteria and toxigenic fungi. By its application to the fungal media, this oil mix possessed a capacity for reducing mycotoxin secretion. The oil mix was also shown to have a low cytotoxic effect against healthy strains of cell lines and had potency in reducing the mortality impact of aflatoxin B₁ applied to cell lines. These results recommend further study to involve this oil in food safety applications.

Neoteric approach for peanuts biofilm using the merits of Moringa extracts to control aflatoxin contamination

Aflatoxigenic fungi and aflatoxins are still a principal challenge that threatened peanut production, marketing, and handling. This study aimed to face the problem using bioactive materials, which reduce fungi and mycotoxin contamination, Moringa extracts may be suitable for solving this challenge. Also, the study was compared the extracts of leaves and oil-free seeds. Fresh leaves and seeds were collected, dried, and milled, while oil was collected by cold pressing. The extracts were evaluated for total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants, the oil contents of fatty acids, tocopherol, and sterols were determined. An emulsion for protecting peanuts compositing of leaves extract carried by Moringa oil, and commercial emulsifier. Leaves extract evaluation reflected distinct properties of its fibers, total phenols, and flavonoids. It was recorded a microbial inhibition of bacteria and fungi. The values ​​for both minimal inhibition and fungicidal concentrations were recorded at 3.2 mg/mL and 490 μg/L, respectively. For oil, it showed a unique content, as oleic acid was the main fatty acid, with an affinity between palmitic and behenic in their ratios. Also, oil was recorded by high contents of alpha-tocopherol and Δ7-Campesterol, with 1.166 mg/kg oil as total sterols content. The leaves extract has also a unique capacity to inhibit toxigenic fungi. By applying the composite emulsion for peanut coating, results expressed a high CFU-count inhibition when it was inoculated by A. flavus strain compared to the control.

Valorisation of Organic Waste By-Products Using Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) as a Bio-Convertor

One third of food produced globally is wasted. Disposal of this waste is costly and is an example of poor resource management in the face of elevated environmental concerns and increasing food demand. Providing this waste as feedstock for black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) has the potential for bio-conversion and valorisation by production of useful feed materials and fertilisers. We raised BSFL under optimal conditions (28 °C and 70% relative humidity) on seven UK pre-consumer food waste-stream materials: fish trimmings, sugar-beet pulp, bakery waste, fruit and vegetable waste, cheese waste, fish feed waste and brewer’s grains and yeast. The nutritional quality of the resulting BSFL meals and frass fertiliser were then analysed. In all cases, the volume of waste was reduced (37–79%) and meals containing high quality protein and lipid sources (44.1 ± 4.57% and 35.4 ± 4.12%, respectively) and frass with an NPK of 4.9-2.6-1.7 were produced. This shows the potential value of BSFL as a bio-convertor for the effective management of food waste.

Anticariogenic activities of Libidibia ferrea, gallic acid and ethyl gallate against Streptococcus mutans in biofilm model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Brazil, ethnopharmacological studies show that Libidibia ferrea (Mart. ex Tul.) L. P. Queiroz is commonly used in folk medicine as an antifungal, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. In the Amazon region, the dried fruit powder of L. ferrea are widely used empirically by the population in an alcoholic tincture as an antimicrobial mouthwash in oral infections and the infusion is also recommended for healing oral wounds. However, there are few articles that have evaluated the antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens in a biofilm model, identifying active compounds and mechanisms of action.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-adherence activities of the ethanolic extract, fractions and isolated compounds (gallic acid and ethyl gallate) of the fruit and seed of L. ferrea against Streptococcus mutans. The inhibition of acidicity/acidogenicity and the expression of the S. mutans GTF genes in biofilms were also evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Cell Adhesion (MICA) were evaluated with ethanolic extract (EELF), fractions, gallic acid (GA) and ethyl gallate (EG) against S. mutans. Inhibition of biofilm formation, pH drop and proton permeability tests were conducted with EELF, GA and EG, and also evaluated the expression of the GTF genes in biofilms. The compounds of dichloromethane fraction were identified by GC-MS.

RESULTS

This is the first report of shikimic, pyroglutamic, malic and protocatechuic acids identified in L. ferrea. EELF, GA and EG showed MIC at 250 μg/mL, and MBC at 1000 μg/mL by EELF. EELF biofilms showed reduced dry weight and acidogenicity of S. mutans in biofilms. GA and EG reduced viable cells, glucans soluble in alkali, acidogenicity, aciduricity and downregulated expression of gtfB, gtfC and gtfD genes in biofilms. SEM images of GA and EG biofilms showed a reduction of biomass, exopolysaccharide and microcolonies of S. mutans.

CONCLUSIONS

The ethanolic extract of fruit and seed of L. ferrea, gallic acid and ethyl gallate showed great antimicrobial activity and inhibition of adhesion, reduction of acidogenicity and aciduricity in S. mutans biofilms. The results obtained in vitro validate the use of this plant in ethnopharmacology, and open opportunities for the development of new oral anticariogenic agents, originated by plants that can inhibit pathogenic biofilm that leads to the development of caries.

Reused Plant Fried Oil: A Case Study with Home-Made Soaps

The study aimed to analyze the possibility of waste frying oil utilization in home-made soap production. Soaps were made from unheated and fried rapeseed, sunflower and palm oils that had total polar material (TPM) values up to 24%. Physicochemical and microbial analyses were performed on produced samples to check their quality. The hardness increased with the degradation level of rapeseed and palm oils, and opposite findings were obtained for sunflower-made soaps. The highest malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were recorded for sunflower oil-made samples, with the maximum of 6.61 µg/g, and the lowest for the palm oil-made samples, with the maximum of 0.94 µg/g. The antimicrobial assessment showed no significant (p > 0.05) differences between control soap samples and soaps made of oils with the highest TPM value. Gram-positive bacteria (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: MRSA) were the most sensitive chosen microorganisms, compared to Gram-negative bacteria and yeasts. The obtained results did not show exact differences between experimentally produced soap samples from fried or not fried oils; these findings highlight the potential of home-made soap production from this byproduct.

Phytochemical Analysis of Diplazium esculentum Reveals the Presence of Medically Important Components

Background:

Diplazium esculentum is found throughout Asia growing along with water channels and is used for many purposes. In India, the rhizomes are used to control insects and pests while the young fronds are used as a vegetable and salad. But very few reports on phytochemicals of young fronds and its anti-oxidant activity is available.

Objective:

The present study was undertaken to assess the antioxidant, antimicrobial and phytochemical analysis of D. esculentum.

Methods:

Proximate analysis was done according to the standard protocol while antioxodant and antimicrobial activity was performed by DDPH. and well diffusion method respectivity. Phytochemical analysis was performed by GC-MS.

Results:

The present study revealed that the young fronds of D. esculentum contain high amount of carbohydrate followed by protein, crude fibre, and fat. The free radical scavenging activity of methanolic extract was 87.93 ± 0.3% reduction, which shows it have potential antioxidant activity. The antioxidant property may be contributed by the presence of phytochemicals such as Phosphoric acid, phytol, 2,6,10-Trimethyl,14 ethylene-14-pentadecene, Hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, Pentadecanoic acid, Stigmasta-5,22-dien-3-ol, acetate, (3.beta.). It showed promising antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and B. subtilis. The antimicrobial activity may be due to the presence of Phytochemicals such as beta-Ocimene, 2,6,10-Trimethyl,14 ethylene-14-pentadecene, 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, BIS(2-Methylpropyl)ester, Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, 1-Heneicosanol, Phytol, 5,8,11,14- Eicosatetraenoic acid, methyl ester(all Z), 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, Ergost-5-en-3-ol, (3.beta), Stigmasta-5,22-dien-3-ol, acetate, (3.beta.), stigmast-5-EN-3-OL, (3.beta).

Conclusion:

From the present study, it can be deduced that D. Esculentum is a rich source of medically important phytochemicals. Further work is required, so that these phytochemicals can be explored in the management of various chronic diseases.

High-Fat Diets Led to OTU-Level Shifts in Fecal Samples of Healthy Adult Dogs

High fat diets have been reported to negatively affect the microbiota in both mice and humans. However, there is a lack of studies in canine models. The variation among the gastrointestinal (GI) tract anatomy/physiology and typical diet compositions of these animal species may lead to vastly different results. Due to the large inclusion rate of dietary fat in pet food, it is critical to understand its effects in a canine model. Therefore, the study objective was to report the effects of high fat, low carbohydrate diets on the fecal microbiota in healthy adult dogs. Eight adult beagles were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments within each 15-day period of a replicated 4x4 Latin Square design. Diets contained 32% (T1), 37% (T2), 42% (T3), and 47% (T4) fat. T2, T3, and T4 were created by adding increasing levels of canola oil to T1, a commercially manufactured canned canine diet, which served as the control diet. Fresh fecal samples were collected during the last 5 days of each period for microbial analysis. DNA was extracted from fecal samples and paired-end 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was performed using the Illumina MiSeq platform. When comparing whole microbial communities using PERMANOVA, no significant differences were observed among treatments (P = 0.735). Individual OTUs were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with fixed effects of diet and room, and the random effects of period and animal. Out of the 100 most abundant individual OTUs, 36 showed significant differences in abundance based on treatment (q < 0.05). Overall, OTUs assigned to genera related to fat digestion increased while OTUs assigned to genera involved in carbohydrate digestion decreased. In conclusion, the microbial community adapted to dietary intervention without jeopardizing the health of the animals, evaluated by body condition score, fecal characteristics, and blood parameters.

Development and properties of endodontic resin sealers with natural oils

OBJECTIVES

To synthesize and evaluate the physicochemical, antimicrobial, and cytocompatibility properties of experimental resin-based endodontic sealers containing butia or copaiba natural oils.

METHODS

Experimental groups contained butia (Butia capitata) at 0.5 % (B0.5), 1 % (B1), 2 % (B2), and copaiba (Copaifera spp.) at 0.5 % (C0.5), 1 % (C1), and 2 % (C2). The control group contained no added oils (experimental material, EM) and the commercial group was a methacrylate-based resin material (RealSeal™, SybronEndo Corporation, Orange, CA, USA). Degree of conversion, film thickness, setting time, flow, water sorption and solubility, and radiopacity were measured. Meanwhile, antimicrobial (modified direct contact test) and cytotoxicity assays of the experimental groups and controls were performed. One-way ANOVA was used to determine the effect of the independent variable (material) on the degree of conversion, film thickness, radiopacity, flow, setting time, water sorption and solubility, and cytotoxicity. For antimicrobial assays, data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Ŝidák's test.

RESULTS

The experimental groups containing natural oils showed higher values of degree of conversion, and lowest water sorption and solubility. EM, B0.5, B1, B2, and RS showed similar film thicknesses. The flow values were statistically similar in all groups. The experimental groups showed adequate cell compatibility. Copaiba oil at 2% increased the antimicrobial effect after 1 and 24 h (p < 0.05). The incorporation of butia or copaiba resulted in a slight modification in some physicochemical properties of the experimental resin sealers.

CONCLUSION

Novel resin sealers containing natural oils are a promising alternative for endodontics, because of their good physicochemical properties, antimicrobial effects, and cytocompatibility when compared to a commercially available sealer.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Endodontic sealers containing butia or copaiba had satisfactory cytocompatibility, antimicrobial effects, and adequate physicochemical properties.

Evaluation of Antiviral, Antibacterial and Antiproliferative Activities of the Endophytic Fungus Curvularia papendorfii, and Isolation of a New Polyhydroxyacid

An endophytic fungus isolated from Vernonia amygdalina, a medicinal plant from Sudan, was taxonomically characterized as Curvularia papendorfii. Ethyl acetate crude extract of C. papendorfii revealed an important antiviral effect against two viral pathogens, the human coronavirus HCoV 229E and a norovirus surrogate, the feline coronavirus FCV F9. For the last one, 40% of the reduction of the virus-induced cytopathogenic effect at lower multiplicity of infection (MOI) 0.0001 was observed. Selective antibacterial activity was obtained against Staphylococcus sp. (312 µg/mL), and interesting antiproliferative activity with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) value of 21.5 ± 5.9 µg/mL was observed against human breast carcinoma MCF7 cell line. Therefore, C. papendorfii crude extract was further investigated and fractionated. Twenty-two metabolites were identified by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and two pure compounds, mannitol and a new polyhydroxyacid, called kheiric acid, were characterized. A combination of spectroscopic methods was used to elucidate the structure of the new aliphatic carboxylic acid: kheiric acid (3,7,11,15-tetrahydroxy-18-hydroxymethyl-14,16,20,22,24-pentamethyl-hexacosa-4E,8E,12E,16,18-pentaenoic acid). Kheiric acid showed an interesting result with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 62.5 µg/mL against meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Hence, endophytes associated with medicinal plants from Sudan merit more attention, as they could be a treasure of new bioactive compounds.

Salmo salar fish waste oil: Fatty acids composition and antibacterial activity

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Fish by-products are generally used to produce fishmeal or fertilizers, with fish oil as a by-product. Despite their importance, fish wastes are still poorly explored and characterized and more studies are needed to reveal their potentiality. The goal of the present study was to qualitatively characterize and investigate the antimicrobial effects of the fish oil extracted from Salmo salar waste samples and to evaluate the potential use of these compounds for treating pathogen infections.

METHODS

Salmo salar waste samples were divided in two groups: heads and soft tissues. Fatty acids composition, and in particular the content in saturated (SAFAs), mono-unsaturated (MUFAs) and Polyunsaturated (PUFAs) fatty acids, was characterized through GC/MS Thermo Focus GC-DSQ II equipped with a ZB-5 fused silica capillary tubes column. The antimicrobial activity of the salmon waste oils was evaluated through the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration assay and the antibiotics contamination was determined by Liquid Chromatography with tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. All experiments were done at least in triplicate.

RESULTS

GC/MS analysis has shown the specific fatty acid composition of the salmon waste oils and their enrichment in MUFAs and PUFAs, with special reference to omega-3, -6, -7, -9 fatty acids. Furthermore, our study has highlighted the antimicrobial activity of the fish waste oil samples against two Gram+ and Gram- bacterial strains.

CONCLUSIONS

These data confirm that the fish waste is still quantitatively and qualitatively an important source of available biological properties that could be extracted and utilized representing an important strategy to counteract infective diseases in the context of the circular economy.

Dietary Supplementation of n-3 LCPUFAs Prevents Salmonellosis in a Murine Model

Salmonellosis is a world-wide epidemic, and n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) possess various health benefits. This study is aimed to investigate the preventive effects of n-3 LCPUFAs against Salmonella infection. By pretreatment with n-3 LCPUFAs, but not n-6 LCPUFAs, the survival rate of the infected mice was increased. Further studies showed that n-3 LCPUFAs significantly increased the fecal contents of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). The cytokine expression in the liver and production in serum were both modulated by n-3 LCPUFAs into an anti-inflammatory profile against infection. Moreover, the changes in gut microbiota by n-3 LCPUFAs favored the host against pathogens, closely related to the modified SCFA production and immune responses. In conclusion, n-3 LCPUFAs prevented Salmonella infection through multiple mechanisms, especially by the interaction with gut microbiota and host immunology. Our results suggested great perspectives for n-3 LCPUFAs and their related products to control the prevalence of Salmonella, a most predominant food-borne pathogen.

Enhancement of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Salvia miltiorrhiza Roots Fermented with Aspergillus oryzae

The roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza are known to exhibit antioxidant and antibacterial activities. To improve the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of S. miltiorrhiza roots, the roots were fermented with Aspergillus oryzae at 25 °C for 3 weeks. The non-fermented (SME) and fermented (SMBE) roots of S. miltiorrhiza were extracted with 70% ethanol, respectively, and then fractionated with organic solvents. By fermentation, total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as antioxidant activity of SMBE, were increased by about 1.2 to 1.3 times compared with those of SME. The antibacterial activity of SMBE was also twice as high as that of SME. The antibacterial activity of SMBE against Bacillus cereus was lower in the n-hexane and chloroform fractions, but higher in the ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions, compared with those of SME. These results indicate that the bioactive components of S. miltiorrhiza roots exhibiting antibacterial activity were converted to more polar compounds by fermentation of A. oryzae. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and LC-MS analyses of SME and SMBE demonstrate that these changes are due to the acylation of dihydrofuran-2(3H)-one, dealkylation of 4-methylbenzene-1,2-diol and 4-ethylbenzene-1,2-diol, and esterification of hexadecanoic acid and (9Z, 12Z)-octadec-9,12-dienoic acid during fermentation.

Untargeted metabolomic profiling of Sphagnum fallax reveals novel antimicrobial metabolites

Sphagnum mosses dominate peatlands by employing harsh ecosystem tactics to prevent vascular plant growth and microbial degradation of these large carbon stores. Knowledge about Sphagnum-produced metabolites, their structure and their function, is important to better understand the mechanisms, underlying this carbon sequestration phenomenon in the face of climate variability. It is currently unclear which compounds are responsible for inhibition of organic matter decomposition and the mechanisms by which this inhibition occurs. Metabolite profiling of Sphagnum fallax was performed using two types of mass spectrometry (MS) systems and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR). Lipidome profiling was performed using LC-MS/MS. A total of 655 metabolites, including one hundred fifty-two lipids, were detected by NMR and LC-MS/MS-329 of which were novel metabolites (31 unknown lipids). Sphagum fallax metabolite profile was composed mainly of acid-like and flavonoid glycoside compounds, that could be acting as potent antimicrobial compounds, allowing Sphagnum to control its environment. Sphagnum fallax metabolite composition comparison against previously known antimicrobial plant metabolites confirmed this trend, with seventeen antimicrobial compounds discovered to be present in Sphagnum fallax, the majority of which were acids and glycosides. Biological activity of these compounds needs to be further tested to confirm antimicrobial qualities. Three fungal metabolites were identified providing insights into fungal colonization that may benefit Sphagnum. Characterizing the metabolite profile of Sphagnum fallax provided a baseline to understand the mechanisms in which Sphagnum fallax acts on its environment, its relation to carbon sequestration in peatlands, and provide key biomarkers to predict peatland C store changes (sequestration, emissions) as climate shifts.

Antiviral activity of five filamentous cyanobacteria against coxsackievirus B3 and rotavirus

Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) and rotavirus (RV) are pathogens of some chronic human diseases. The aim of this study was to determine in vitro antiviral activity of some cyanobacteria against RV and CVB3 infections. Five cyanobacteria were collected from Egypt, identified, and analyzed biochemically. Then, the inhibition of the cytopathic effect of RV and CVB3 viruses by cyanobacterial extracts was examined. Methanol extract of the cyanobacterial isolates showed high antiviral activity against CVB3 with Therapeutic index (TI) of 50.0, 30.0, 27.6, 16.6, and 20.0 for Leptolyngbya boryana, Arthrospira platensis, Nostoc punctiforme, Oscillatoria sp., and Leptolyngbya sp., respectively. The extracts reduced CVB3 titers comparing to 50% tissue culture infectious doses (TCID₅₀) with values 3.25-5.75 log₁₀ of TCID₅₀. Moreover, extracts of A. platensis, and Oscillatoria sp. exhibited high antiviral activity against RV with TI values of 45 and 42.5, respectively, and a reduction in virus titers by 5.75 log₁₀ and 5.5 log₁₀ of TCID₅₀, respectively. Extracts of L. boryana, Leptolyngbya sp., and N. punctiforme had a moderate to low antiviral activity against RV with TI ranging between 2.8 and 7, respectively, and a reduction in virus titers between 0.5 log₁₀ and 1.5 log₁₀ of TCID₅₀, respectively. This study concluded that extracts of five cyanobacterial isolates possess a potent antiviral effect against CVB3 and RV, making them promising sources of new safe antiviral drugs.

The antibacterial effect of sonication and its potential medical application

Introduction: Recent applications of ultrasonic probes include cataract removal and tennis elbow treatment. Early data support the use of ultrasonic probe debridement in the treatment of recalcitrant diabetic foot ulcers. No data are available concerning the potential antibacterial properties of the clinical grade, lower energy ultrasound probes. We investigated the effect of a clinically available ultrasonic debridement probe with respect to bacterial viability.

Methods: A commercially available Tenex sonication machine with a Tx1 probe was used for this study. Three bacterial strains, aerobic and anaerobic, were investigated, G-negative (Porphyromonas gingivalis) and G-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus gordonii). These bacteria were cultured and tested with sonication for varying lengths of time (10, 30, 60, and 120 s). The tested bacterial samples were plated, the number of colonies on each plate counted, and the anti-bacterial effect was calculated. Statistical analysis was conducted using a one-way analysis of variance.

Results: Sonication exhibited a significant time-dependent antibacterial effect. Statistically significant anti-bacterial effect was observed in all three species tested. When comparing the kill rate between the control and 120 s of sonication; S. gordonii had a 34% kill rate, S. aureus had a 60% kill rate, and P. gingivalis had a 64% kill rate. When comparing control to all of the time intervals tested, S. aureus kill rate was statistically significant at all times, S. gordonii was statistically significant at all times above 10 s, and P. gingivalis was only statistically significant at 120 s.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that a clinically available ultrasonic probe has an antibacterial effect against a wide spectrum of gram-positive, gram-negative, aerobic and anaerobic bacterial species. This may partially explain the dramatic healing of long-standing recalcitrant diabetic ulcers debrided with this device and may have a place in treating pathologies with bacterial mechanisms.

Influence of Chemical Modifications of Polyhydroxyalkanoate-Derived Fatty Acids on Their Antimicrobial Properties

Sugar esters are bioactive compounds derived from renewable resources. They consist of a sugar moiety with attached non-polar part – usually a fatty acid. These compounds find uses in cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries as surfactants due to their physicochemical and antimicrobial activities. In this study we have produced fatty acids for sugar ester synthesis from bacterially derived polyesters, namely polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). We have developed methodology to decorate PHA monomers with a fluorinated moiety. With aid of biocatalysis a series of glucose esters was created with unmodified and modified PHA monomers. All synthesised compounds showed moderate antimicrobial activity.

Antibacterial and antibiotic modifying activity evaluation of ruminants' body fat used as zootherapeutics in ethnoveterinary practices in Northeast Brazil

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Northeast Brazilian ethnoveterinary studies associated with the medicinal use of zootherapies have shown that ruminants' body fat such as sheep (Ovis aries), goats (Capra hircus) and cows (Bos taurus) are used in diseases affecting domestic animals.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the fixed oils from these ruminants in isolation and in association with antibiotics.

RESULTS

Ovis aries (OFOA), Capra hircus (OFCH) and Bos taurus (OFBT) fixed oils were extracted using a Soxhlet apparatus with hexane as the solvent. Through the use of gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) the methyl esters from the ruminants' fixed oils were obtained and the fatty acids present in these oils were indirectly determined. The OFOA, OFCH and OFBT antibacterial and antibiotic modifying activities against standard and multi-resistant bacterial strains were carried out using the broth microdilution test. The fixed oils from these species did not present antibacterial activity when tested in isolation, obtaining Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MICs) values ≥ 1024 μg/mL. However, when associated with antibiotics, OFBT and OFCH showed a synergistic activity for the Amicacin, Amoxicillin, Norfloxacin and Oxytetracycline antibiotics.

CONCLUSION

The OFOA promoted a synergistic action for the same antibiotics with the exception of Norfloxacin.