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

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

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

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

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

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

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