Investigating antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of liquid smoke and physical-chemical stability of bacon subjected to liquid smoke and conventional smoking.

Liquid smoke, an alternative to traditional wood burning smoking, enhances product value by imparting desirable characteristics such as aroma, flavor, and color. Furthermore, it contains components with inherent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This study compares the effects of liquid smoke and conventional smoking methods in bacon processing. Over a 90-day storage period at 22°C, physical-chemical stability, sensory attributes, and microbiological characteristics of the bacon were evaluated. The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of liquid smoke were assessed. Liquid smoke exhibited antioxidant activity, with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 0.19 mg/mL, indicating the concentration of the extract needed to inhibit 50% of DPPH (2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radicals. Moreover, it demonstrated antimicrobial effects against Escherichia coli, Salmonella choleraesius, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes, with a minimum bactericidal concentration ranging from 7.5% to 10%. Throughout the storage, bacon treated with liquid smoke showed no signs of rancid odor, supported by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values below 0.85 mg MDA/kg (where MDA is malondialdehyde). The utilization of liquid smoke yielded visually attractive bacon with enhanced color attributes, including a distinct yellow and red hue, as well as increased luminosity and brightness, surpassing the effects of traditional smoke. Remarkably, liquid smoke application significantly reduced processing time from 30 h to approximately 5 h, leading to substantial cost savings in the processing phase.

Advanced Dental Care: ß-Chitosan Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Targeting Cariogenic Microorganisms.

Introduction Dental caries, primarily caused by cariogenic microorganisms, remains a significant global health concern. ß-Chitosan, known for its biofilm-targeting properties, and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs), recognized for their potent antimicrobial effects, offer a promising approach for caries prevention and treatment. This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial properties of ß-Chitosan-derived ZnO NPs (ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs) against these pathogens. Methodology ß-Chitosan from fresh squid bones was isolated using demineralization and deproteinization methods. ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs were synthesized and characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to confirm their size, shape, and stability. Antibacterial efficacy(agar well plate method)was assessed through standardized assays, demonstrating significant inhibition of cariogenic bacteria. The results were represented as mean± standard deviation. The Kruskal-Wallis test with post hoc analysis (Mann-Whitney U test) was conducted for statistical analysis. Molecular docking studies (blind docking method) were conducted to elucidate the interactions between ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs and key bacterial enzymes involved in microbial genetic material synthesis, also known as dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH, PDB ID-2J0Y). Results The synthesized ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs exhibited well-defined characteristics verified by UV-vis spectroscopy and FTIR confirming their nanoparticulate nature and stability. The antimicrobial effects of Streptomycin (50 µg/mL) and ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs were compared across various microorganisms. ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs at 100 µg/mL consistently showed larger inhibition zones than Streptomycin and ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs at 50 µg/mL against Escherichia coli​​, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans.This suggests that ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs at a higher concentration have potent antimicrobial activity across a broad spectrum of pathogens, highlighting their potential as effective antimicrobial agents. Kruskal-Wallis test showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.001) for all microbes, and post hoc analysis (Mann-Whitney U test) confirmed the P-value was less than 0.05. Molecular docking studies indicated strong binding affinities between ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs and bacterial enzymes crucial for biofilm formation, suggesting inhibition of enzyme activity critical for bacterial virulence and survival. Conclusions This study highlights the synergistic potential of ß-Chitosan and zinc oxide NPs in combating dental caries. The synthesized ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs demonstrated effective antimicrobial activity against cariogenic microorganisms, attributed to their ability to disrupt bacterial metabolism and inhibit biofilm formation. Molecular docking analysis provided mechanistic insights into how ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs interact with bacterial enzymes, reinforcing their role in impeding biofilm development. Overall, the findings support using ß-Ch-ZnO-NPs as a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing and treating dental caries, leveraging their combined biofilm-targeting capabilities and antimicrobial effects.

Nanotechnology and Its Application in Dentistry: A Systematic Review of Recent Advances and Innovations.

Background: This study looks at the clinical applications of nanotechnology in dentistry, with an emphasis on implantology, preventive care, orthodontics, restorative dentistry, and endodontics. Methods: Following PRISMA criteria and registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD 564245), a PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science search was conducted for studies from January 2014 to April 2024. The criteria were English-language research on nanotechnology in dental coatings, with a focus on clinical trials and observational studies. The electronic database search yielded 8881 publications. Following the screening process, 17 records were selected for qualitative analysis. Results: Nanotechnology has revolutionized dentistry. In orthodontics, nanoparticles improve antibacterial characteristics, durability, and biocompatibility, lowering bacterial colonization and plaque. In preventative care, Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (CPP-ACP) combined with stannous fluoride (SnF2) and nano-sized sodium trimetaphosphate (TMPnano) substantially remineralizes enamel. Nanostructured surfaces in dental implants, particularly those containing calcium, improve osseointegration and stability. Nanoparticles in restorative dentistry improve composite and adhesive strength, aesthetics, and longevity. Conclusions: Nanotechnology improves dental materials and equipment, resulting in better treatment outcomes and increased patient comfort. Its integration provides more effective treatments, which improves dental care and patient outcomes. More research is needed to overcome present problems and expand nanotechnology's medicinal applications.

Some Highly Potent Nepalese Medicinal Plants with Antimicrobial Properties.

In recent years, microbial infections have emerged as a serious global health problem, necessitating the search for novel and effective treatments. Medicinal plants contain phytochemicals that can be used to prevent and treat various infections. Traditional medicinal practices have long relied on the healing properties of herbs, and Nepal is particularly rich in this knowledge. Bioactive compounds found in plants possess antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, making them a valuable resource for the fight against microbial infections. This review focuses on three medicinal plants native to Nepal, Amomum subulatum, Cymbopogon jwarancusa, and Cinnamomum glaucescens, which contain potent antimicrobial phytochemicals. The traditional uses, bioactive components, and biological activities of these plants are discussed, providing valuable insights into their potential as natural remedies to combat microbial infections.

Novel chitosan-based hydrogels as promising wound dressing materials with advanced properties.

Herein, four different grafted chitosans were synthesized by covalent attachment of glycine, L-arginine, L-glutamic acid, or L-cysteine to the chitosan chains. All products were subsequently permethylated to obtain their corresponding quaternary ammonium salts to enhance the inherent antimicrobial properties of native chitosan. In all cases, transparent hydrogels with the following remarkable characteristics were obtained: i) high-water absorption capacity (32-44 g H2O per g of polymer), ii) viscoelastic behavior at low deformations, iii) flexibility when subjected to deformations and iv) stability over long time scales. All the permethylated derivatives successfully inhibited 100 % of the growth of S. aureus. They also exhibited higher antimicrobial activity against E. coli than native chitosan. The structure of the chemically crosslinked products was more stable under external perturbations than that of the physically crosslinked ones. Between the chemically crosslinked products, the permethylated glutamic acid-grafted chitosan exhibited a noteworthy higher water absorption capacity with respect to that modified with cysteine, which makes it the most promising material for various industrial applications, including biomedical and food industries. Regarding biomedical applications, this derivative met the required physicochemical criteria for wound dressings, which encourages the pursuit of biological studies necessary to ensure the safety of its use for this application.

Promising potential effects of resveratrol on oral and dental health maintenance: a comprehensive review.

Resveratrol (RV-3, 5, 4'-trihydroxystilbene) is a natural compound found in plants like red grapes, berries, and peanuts, with promising effects on dental health. It helps strengthen tooth enamel by promoting remineralization, making the teeth more resistant to decay caused by acid-producing bacteria. RV also shields dentin, a vulnerable layer beneath the enamel, from erosion and sensitivity. Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce inflammation associated with dental conditions such as pulpitis and endodontic diseases. Moreover, RV's antimicrobial activity inhibits the growth of bacteria involved in dental plaque and biofilm formation, preventing their accumulation on the tooth surface. This contributes to a healthier oral environment and prolongs the lifespan of dental restorative materials. However, the research on RV's impact on dental health is in its early stages, and further studies are needed to confirm potential benefits. Important factors such as determining the optimal dosage, understanding its bioavailability, and assessing potential side effects require further investigation. This review focuses on the important role of RV in promoting dental health. It delves into various aspects, including its impact on root health, maintenance of the dental pulp, care for tooth enamel, effectiveness of dental restorative materials, and health of dentin.

How Does Domestic Cooking Affect the Biochemical Properties of Wild Edible Greens of the Asteraceae Family?

Wild edible greens are a key ingredient of the so-called Mediterranean diet and they are commonly used in various local dishes in their raw or processed form. Domestic processing of edible greens may affect their nutritional value and chemical profile. In this work, six wild species (e.g., Cichorium spinosum L. (S1); Centaurea raphanina subsp. mixta (DC.) Runemark (S2); Picris echioides (L.) Holub (S3); Urospermum picroides (L.) Scop. ex. F.W. Schmidt (S4); Sonchus oleraceus L. (S5); and S. asper L. (S6)) were assessed for the effect of domestic processing (boiling) on chemical composition and bioactivities. Concerning the chemical composition, glucose, oxalic acid, α-tocopherol, and α-linolenic acid were the most abundant compounds, especially in P. echiodes leaves. After decoction, mainly sugars, tocopherols, and oxalic acid were decreased. The species and processing affected the phenolic compounds content and antioxidant, cytotoxicity, and anti-inflammatory activities. Specific compounds were not previously detected in the studied species, while hydroethanolic extracts contained a higher total phenolic compound content. Hydroethanolic and aqueous extracts were effective towards a range of bacterial and fungi strains. Therefore, the consumption of leaves has health-promoting properties owing to the bioactive compounds and can be integrated into healthy diets. However, domestic cooking may affect the chemical profile and bioactivities of the edible leaves, especially in the case of free sugars and phenolic compound content where a significant reduction was recorded in leaves after decoction. On the other hand, domestic processing could be beneficial since it reduces the oxalic acid content in edible leaves, which is considered an antinutritional factor.

The Influence of Flavonoids with -Br, -Cl Atoms and -NO2, -CH3 Groups on the Growth Kinetics and the Number of Pathogenic and Probiotic Microorganisms.

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

Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticle by Cytobacillus firmus isolated from the river sediment with potential antimicrobial properties against Edwardsiella tarda.

The aquatic environment, independent of their host, is more favorable to pathogenic bacteria than the terrestrial environment. Consequently, pathogenic bacteria can reach very high densities around aquatic animals and can cause high mortality. The conventional approach, such as antibiotics, has minimal effectiveness. Additionally, due to the emergence of (multiple) resistance, their use is under intense scientific and public scrutiny. Hence, there is a need for the development of alternative control techniques, with an emphasis on prevention, which is likely to be more cost-effective. In this study, a potential bacterial strain Cytobacillus firmus was isolated from polluted river sediment and characterized using a comprehensive range of techniques including biochemical, 16S rRNA sequencing and antibiogram assay. The pathogenicity of the bacteria was tested in vivo on Labeo rohita fingerlings found as non-pathogenic. Further, the bacteria were found to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using AgNO3 as a substrate. The obtained AgNPs were characterized by various methods, including UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), and Transmission Emission Microscopy (TEM). The study found that the AgNPs were 20 nm in size on average. The antimicrobial activity of synthesized AgNPs was examined against the model freshwater pathogenic bacteria, Edwardsiella tarda and both the MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration) were 0.156 µM, while biofilm inhibition activity was also observed at 0.156 µM. The AgNPs showed no haemolytic activity at 0.313 µM. Our findings suggest that C. firmus mediated bacteriogenic AgNPs modulate the activity of common pathogenic bacteria E. tarda. The thoroughness of our research process gives us confidence in the potential of applying AgNPs in aquaculture as a considerable strategy to control the E. tarda infection.

Chitosan dual gel-like functionalized with flavonoid extract and cinnamaldehyde oil using dual cross-linking agents: Characterization, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects.

This study evaluated antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of chitosan gel (Cs-gel) functionalized with cinnamaldehyde oil (CN) and orange peel-derived flavonoid extract (Fs) using the ionic-gelation method. Results showed that the encapsulation efficiencies of CCF-9 and CCN were 83.14 ± 3.34 and 80.56 ± 1.17%, respectively. The interaction of CN or Fs on Cs-gel indicates the presence of H-bonding formation, as observed by UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR), and Raman-spectroscopy showed a good corroboration with Surflex-dock findings. Scanning electron microscopy also showed the integration that occurred between Cs and both ligands, which was further supported with X-ray diffraction and X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra. The textural properties of CCF-5 gel showed high hardness, chewiness, and gumminess values, indicating that the integration of Fs and CN altered the microstructure of Cs-gel. Chotison-functionalized based gels exhibited higher antioxidant abilities against DPPH and ABTS free radicals than Cs-gel. The CCF-9 gel showed a good inhibition value of 29.91 ± 1.22 and 93.61 ± 2.12% against Penicillium expansum and Alternaria westerdijkiae, respectively. Additionally, CCF-9 inhibition zones against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus cerues were 28.65 ± 0.05, 27.69 ± 0.04, and 26.16 ± 0.02 mm, respectively. These findings demonstrated the potential antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of functionalized chitosan gel indicating its potential as a bioactive additive for food preservation.

Antifungal activity of Myrrh gum resin against pathogenic Candida spp.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Medicinal plants have a long and significant history of being used for their healing properties. One famous example is Commiphora, which is mostly found in the southern part of Arabia. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a water-based extract obtained from two different varieties of myrrh in suppressing the proliferation of Candida spp. at different concentrations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The inhibitory activity of the aqueous extract of two different varieties of myrrh, commonly used in traditional medicine, was assessed against five pathogenic yeasts using the diffusion technique. Mass spectrum was used to analyze myrrh's chemical composition for antimicrobial effects. RESULTS: The aqueous extract of both tested species of myrrh (Commiphora myrrha and Commiphora molmol) showed inhibitory effects on all tested isolates. During the chemical examination of myrrh, it was noted that the material included 12 components known for their antimicrobial properties. The essential oil derived from two varieties of myrrh showed the most significant effects on Candida tropicalis (ATCC 66029), Candida guilliermondii (ATCC 6260), Candida laurentii (ATCC 18803), Candida neoformans (ATCC 66031), and Candida albicans (ATCC 14053). Analysis of chemical composition of the myrrh revealed 19 known components, of which 12 compounds have been proven by research to suppress the growth of microorganisms. CONCLUSIONS: C. myrrha and C. molmol aqueous extracts exhibit a promising antifungal effect against common Candida infections. The aqueous extracts present a variety of antimicrobial compounds; however, further research is necessary to elucidate the specific mechanisms of action of these compounds, and to evaluate their efficacy, toxicity and safety before considering their clinical application.

In vitro Assessment of the Antimicrobial Properties of Orthodontic Bonding Materials.

Background: Orthodontic bonding materials are extensively used in dentistry, but their antimicrobial properties are of growing concern due to the risk of biofilm formation and associated complications. Understanding the antimicrobial efficacy of these materials is crucial for maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, we evaluated the antimicrobial properties of various orthodontic bonding materials against common oral pathogens. Samples of bonding materials were prepared and exposed to microbial strains including Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Candida albicans. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using agar diffusion assays and microbial viability assays. Results: The tested orthodontic bonding materials exhibited varying degrees of antimicrobial activity. Material A showed a zone of inhibition of 12 mm against S. mutans, 8 mm against P. gingivalis, and 6 mm against C. albicans. Material B exhibited slightly higher antimicrobial activity with inhibition zones of 14 mm, 10 mm, and 8 mm against S. mutans, P. gingivalis, and C. albicans, respectively. Material C displayed the highest antimicrobial activity, with inhibition zones of 16 mm against S. mutans, 12 mm against P. gingivalis, and 10 mm against C. albicans. Microbial viability assays confirmed the efficacy of these materials in reducing microbial growth. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that orthodontic bonding materials possess varying degrees of antimicrobial properties. Material C exhibited the highest efficacy against the tested microbial strains. Incorporating antimicrobial agents into orthodontic bonding materials may contribute to the prevention of oral infections during orthodontic treatment.

Investigating the Effects of Various Root Canal Irrigation Solutions on Tissue Dissolution and Microbial Control.

Background: Both the mechanical cleansing effect and the irrigants' capacity to disintegrate tissue are necessary for irrigation to be successful. Strong antibacterial but not poisonous to the periapical tissues and increased pulp tissue dissolution irrigant are all desirable qualities in an irrigant. Aim: To assess and compare the antibacterial properties and pulp tissue dissolving activity of various irrigation solutions. Methods and Materials: A total of 240 human mandibular permanent premolar teeth that were extracted recently for periodontal or orthodontic reasons were used in this investigation. Following irrigation, blood agar plates were used to conduct colony-forming unit (CFU) counts of the microorganism breeding colonies. Next, log CFU was computed. Before evaluating the ability of the five distinct irrigants utilized in this investigation to dissolve the frozen pulp tissues, the tissues were first smashed into smaller pieces using a mallet. Results: The bacterial count after irrigation in category 1 (normal saline), category 2 (aqueous ozone), category 3 (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)), category 4 (chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX)), category 5 (super-oxidized water), and category 6 (sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)) was 6.08 ± 0.87 log CFU mL-1, 0.92 ± 0.89 log CFU mL-1, 4.15 ± 0.20 log CFU mL-1, 3.34 ± 0.46 log CFU mL-1, 0.21 ± 0.52 log CFU mL-1, and 0.00 ± 0.00 log CFU mL-1, respectively. Conclusion: NaOCl has maximum antimicrobial reduction and pulp tissue dissolution property.

Metakaolin-Based Geopolymers Filled with Industrial Wastes: Improvement of Physicochemical Properties through Sustainable Waste Recycling.

The increasing global demand for cement significantly impacts greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption, necessitating sustainable alternatives. This study investigates fresh geopolymer (GP) pastes incorporating 20 wt.% of five industrial wastes-suction dust, red mud from alumina production, electro-filter dust, and extraction sludges from food supplement production and from partially stabilized industrial waste-as potential replacements for traditional cement. Consistent synthesis methods are used to prepare the geopolymers, which are characterized for their physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties. Ionic conductivity and pH measurements together with integrity tests, thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), and leaching analysis are used to confirm the stability of the synthesized geopolymers. Fourier-transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is used to follow geopolymerization occurrences. Results for ionic conductivity, pH, and integrity revealed that the synthesized GPs were macroscopically stable. TGA revealed that the main mass losses were ascribable to water dehydration and to water entrapped in the geopolymer networks. Only the GP filled with the powder of the red mud coming from alumina production experienced a mass loss of 23% due to a partial waste degradation. FT-IR showed a red shift in the main Si-O-(Si or Al) absorption band, indicating successful geopolymer network formations. Additionally, most of the GPs filled with the wastes exhibited higher compressive strength (37.8-58.5 MPa) compared to the control (22 MPa). Only the GP filled with the partially stabilized industrial waste had a lower mechanical strength as its structure was highly porous because of gas formation during geopolymerization reactions. Despite the high compressive strength (58.5 MPa) of the GP filled with suction dust waste, the concentration of Sb leached was 25 ppm, which limits its use. Eventually, all samples also demonstrated effective antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus due to the alkaline environment and the presence of metal cations able to react with the bacterial membranes. The findings revealed the possibility of recycling these wastes within several application fields.

Effect of the Synergistic Interaction of Micro- and Nanostructures with Silver Ions on the Biocompatibility and Antimicrobial Properties of Ti-15Mo-2.5Ag.

Titanium and titanium alloys have the advantages of a low density and a close elastic modulus to natural bone, which can reduce the stress-shielding effect and become one of the first choices for human hard tissue replacement and repair. However, implant site infection is still one of the main reasons for implantation failure. In this paper, 2.5 wt % Ag element was added to Ti-15Mo to obtain a low modulus, and a surface anodization was applied to improve the surface biocompatibility. The elastic modulus, micromorphology, surface elemental valence, corrosion resistance, antimicrobial properties, and cytocompatibility were investigated by mechanical tests, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electrochemical tests, inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy, plate counting method, and cellular tests. The experimental results showed that the anodized Ti-15Mo-2.5Ag sample exhibited an elastic modulus of 79 GPa, a strong corrosion resistance, a strong antimicrobial ability of ≥99.99%, and good biocompatibility. It was demonstrated that the formation of Ag2O on the surface and Ag ion release improved the antimicrobial properties and that the structural synergism of silver ions with micro- and nanostructures played an important role in promoting the early spreading of cells and improving the cytocompatibility.

By-product hazelnut seed skin characteristics and properties in terms of use in food processing and human nutrition.

The hazelnut seed skins (HSS) are by-products from roasting or blanching hazelnuts without direct second utilization. The generation of HSS creates an economic and environmental problem. The object of the study was a comprehensive analysis of the properties for reuse of HSS. Water extraction of industrial HSS was applied (water with sonication of the HSS for 10 min at 90 â„ƒ). The extracts obtained were freeze-dried to facilitate analysis and future application. The HSS and their extracts were analysed. Polyphenols, antioxidants, allergens, antimicrobial properties and instrumental sensory analysis were examined. The total polyphenol content in the samples was 37.8-44.0 mg gallic acid equivalent g-1. Gallic acid was the major phenolic compound. The antioxidant capacity of the samples was 198.9-250.6 mg VCEAC g-1 (vitamin C equivalent) according to the ABTS method and 98.4-106.8 mg VCEAC g-1 in the DPPH method. The extracts inhibited all tested strains of pathogenic bacteria. Allergen content was reduced in HSS and the extracts. Instrumental sensory analysis showed differences between taste parameters and odour profile samples. HSS can be reused in food production as a bacteriostatic, antioxidant additive and sensory-creating factor due to various chemical compounds corresponding with taste and odour.

Deciphering trends in replacing preservatives in cosmetics intended for infants and sensitive population.

The present study aims to investigate the current trends in replacing conventional preservatives with multifunctional ingredients with antimicrobial properties for preservation of cosmetics for infants or sensitive population, to decrease their potential for contact dermatitis. We first reviewed the labels of cosmetics purchased from the Chinese market for conventional preservatives and multifunctional ingredients with antimicrobial properties, of which the actual contents were further quantified by chromatographic methods. We identified 7 traditional preservatives (phenoxyethanol, benzoic acid (salts), methylparaben, benzyl alcohol, sorbic acid (salts), propylparaben, and methylisothiazolinone), and 11 alternative ingredients with antimicrobial activities (ethylhexylglycerin, butylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, propylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, p-anisic acid, hydroxyacetophenone, pentylene glycol, decylene glycol, caprylhydroxamic acid, and aminomethyl propanol) in descending order of prevalence. The contents of all identified preservatives and ingredients were either below regulatory limits or in the range that is generally regarded to be safe. Further challenge with microorganisms indicated irrespective of the composition of preservation systems, product preservation could be compromised under test conditions. We conclude that multifunctional ingredients with antimicrobial properties in cosmetics have the potential to completely replace or significantly reduce the use of traditional preservatives while retaining comparative preservative efficacy. Future attentions may need to be shifted to the safety of those multifunctional ingredients with antimicrobial properties.

A pH-sensitive, renewable invisible orthodontic aligners coating manipulates antibacterial and in situ remineralization functions to combat enamel demineralization.

During invisalign treatment, as salivary proteins or glycoproteins fill the space between the teeth and the aligners, they can easily adhere to the teeth, forming an acquired cellular film on which bacteria are highly susceptible to colonizing, which in turn leads to the development of enamel white staining lesions (WSLs), one of the major complications of orthodontic treatment. Inhibiting the activity of cariogenic bacteria while promoting the remineralization of demineralized enamel is the key to preventing and treating WSLs. Currently, the drug commonly used in clinical practice for the treatment of WSLs is silver diamine fluoride, which, although it has both antimicrobial and remineralizing effects, suffers from problems such as pulpal irritation and tooth discoloration. In this study, based on the principle of coordination chemistry, copper ions and plant polyphenol tannins were assembled on invisible orthodontic aligners to form a metal-phenol network coating (TA-Cu MPNs), and zwitterionic sulfonamethyldopamine was introduced for bionic mineralization to obtain the multifunctional coating TA-Cu MPNs@ZDS@CaP (TZC). The coating exhibits acid-responsive release of Ca2+ and PO4 3-, and the decomposed CaP layer can be regenerated by a simple dipping method. The TZC coating strongly inhibits common cariogenic bacteria and their biofilms. In addition, the results of the in vitro mineralization experiment show that TZC-coated invisible orthodontic aligner treatment of demineralized enamel has significant remineralization effects. It is worth mentioning that the constructed coating has a durable antibacterial effect and can meet the service cycle of invisible orthodontic aligners. This study provides theoretical and experimental bases for the prevention or treatment of WSLs in invisible orthodontic treatment.

Osseointegrative and antimicrobial properties of graphene oxide nano coated dental implants: A systematic review.

Introduction: Osseointegration stands as a pivotal concept within the realm of dental implants, signifying the intricate process through which a dental implant integrates with the adjoining bone tissue. Graphene oxide (GO) has been shown to promote osseointegration, the process by which the implant fuses with the surrounding bone. The objective of this study was to assess the osseointegrative and antimicrobial properties of GO nano coated dental implants. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using electronic databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) to identify relevant studies published. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies that evaluated the effects of GO nano coating on osseointegrative and antimicrobial characteristics of dental implants. Studies not written in English and published before 2012 were excluded. Results: The initial search yielded a total of 127 potential studies, of which six met the inclusion criteria and five were included in the review. These studies provided data on GO nano coated dental implants and their osseointegrative and antimicrobial properties. All the included studies showed moderate risk of bias. None of the studies provided information related to sample size calculation or sampling technique. Discussion: The findings from the included studies demonstrated that GO nano coating had a positive impact on osseointegrative properties of dental implants. Enhanced bone-implant contact and increased bone density were observed in animals and humans receiving GO nano coated implants. Furthermore, the antimicrobial properties of GO nano coating were found to inhibit bacterial colonization and biofilm formation on the implant surface, reducing the risk of implant-associated infections. Conclusion: The findings indicate that GO nano coating holds promise in enhancing the success rate and longevity of dental implants. However, more studies with larger sample sizes, are needed to further strengthen the evidence and determine the long-term effects of GO nano coated dental implants.