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The present study illustrates the development of essential oils (EOs) formulation, and boneless chicken thigh samples were treated with the developed EOs formulation and gamma irradiation to increase the shelf life of treated chicken samples. The binary, tertiary, and quaternary combinations of EOs were developed by the broth dilution method and the fractional inhibitory concentration index. The tertiary combinations of EOs, Thyme + Cannelle + Oregano, showed the best result and exhibited additive (AD) effect against S. enterica, S aureus, and E. coli. The shelf life of the chicken sample increased by 3 days and 8 days when treated by Thyme + Cannelle + Oregano EOs and γ-irradiation, respectively. However, when chicken samples were treated with the combinations of EOs formulations and γ-irradiation, the shelf life of the chicken sample increased by 14 days. The results showed that the combination of EOs treatment with a low dose of γ-irradiation could be used to increase the shelf life of treated food. • FIC values of binary, tertiary, and quaternary combinations of EOs were determined. • Tertiary combinations of Thyme + Cannelle + Oregano EOs showed additive effect. • EOs formulation increased chicken shelf life by 3 days. • Treatment with γ-irradiation increased the shelf life of the chicken by 8 days. • The combination of EOs and γ-irradiation increased chicken shelf life by 14 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaline protease from Conidiobolus coronatus which is optimally active at pH 10 and 40°C finds application in leather and detergent industries as well as for recovery of silver from waste photographic films. The protease was immobilized in Ca-alginate, polyacrylamide gel and alkali treated waste fungal biomass (ATWFB). ATWFB was found to be most suitable among the matrices tested. Glutaraldehyde marginally increased the binding to ATWFB. Binding of protease to ATWFB seems to be through adsorption as confirmed by FTIR spectra. Though temperature optima of free and immobilized proteases were identical, optimum pH of the immobilized enzyme shifted to 11 from 10. Temperature stability of the protease increased after immobilization. Immobilized protease could be reused 3 times with marginal loss in activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reports in situ synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in pectin matrix using γ-irradiation at 2.5 and 5 kGy and preparation of antibacterial pectin-based nanocomposite films. The FE-SEM micrographs showed that the neat pectin film was smooth but became a little rough after forming AgNPs in the pectin films. The UV–visible spectroscopy analysis exhibited a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band about 430 nm confirming the formation of AgNPs in the pectin films. The Hunter color values of nanocomposite film changed after the formation of AgNPs. FTIR and thermogravemetric analysis results revealed no structural and thermal stability changes in the pectin films after the synthesis of AgNPs by γ-irradiation. However, mechanical properties and water vapor permeability of the composite films improved after AgNPs synthesis. The pectin-AgNPs nanocomposite films exhibited potent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium. The developed antibacterial pectin-based nanocomposite films incorporated with AgNPs using γ-irradiation have a potential to increase the shelf life of packaged food. [Display omitted] • Pectin-silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) films were prepared by solvent casting method. • AgNPs in pectin matrix was synthesized using γ-irradiation at 2.5 and 5 kGy. • UV–visible spectra showed a peak of AgNPs at around 430 nm. • The mechanical and barrier properties of film improved after AgNPs formation. • Pectin-AgNPs nanocomposite films exhibited strong antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Corn starch-based composite films were prepared by solvent casting. • Evaluated the effect of Thymus vulgaris essential oil (TEOs) and ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) on films properties • Addition of TEOs and EEP increased the flexibility and color properties of films. • Water vapor permeability, water solubility, and swelling ratio of films not changed by TEOs and EEP addition • Films with TEOs and EEP both showed synergistic antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study illustrates the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using tyrosine as a reducing agent and preparation of chitosan (CHI) based films by blending essential oils (EOs) and synthesized AgNPs. The prepared CHI-EOs-AgNPs composite films were used for the packaging of strawberries in the presence or absence of gamma irradiation. The composite films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, color property, tensile properties, and water vapor permeability. The scanning electron microscopy result showed the smooth surface of the composite films, whereas Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results exhibited a change in the structure of CHI after blending EOs and AgNPs. The flexibility of the composite films increased after the addition of EOs, but tensile strength increased after blending AgNPs. The water vapor barrier property of composite films has not changed upon blending EOs or AgNPs. The CHI-EOs-AgNPs composite films exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Aspergillus niger. The effects of packaging and γ-irradiation on the shelf life and quality of packaged strawberries during storage were evaluated by the weight loss, firmness, decay (%), color, anthocyanin, and total phenol content. All composite films exhibited lower weight loss than control samples, and γ-irradiation reduce the firmness and decay during 12 d of storage. [Display omitted] • Chitosan-based films were prepared by blending essential oils (EOs) & AgNPs. • CHI-based films showed strong antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria and fungus. • Strawberry were packaged with CHI-based films and treated with γ-irradiation. • Treating strawberry with films & γ-irradiation increased strawberries shelf life by 4 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current chemotherapy agents against various forms of leishmaniasis have some problems and side effects, including high toxicity, high cost, and the emergence of resistant strains. Here, we aimed to review the preclinical studies (in vitro and in vivo) on the anti-leishmanial activity of chitosan and chitosan-based particles against Leishmania spp. Methods: This study was conducted based on the 06-PRISMA guidelines and registered in the CAMARADES-NC3Rs Preclinical Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Facility (SyRF) database. Various English databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, EBSCO, ScienceDirect, and Scopus were used to find the publications related to the anti-leishmanial effects of chitosan and its derivatives and other pharmaceutical formulations, without a date limitation, to find all the published articles. The keywords included "chitosan", "chitosan nanoparticles", "anti-leishmanial", "Leishmania", "leishmaniasis", "cutaneous leishmaniasis", "visceral leishmaniasis", "in vitro", and "in vivo". The language for data collection were limited to English. Results: Of 2669 papers, 25 papers, including 7 in vitro (28.0%), 7 in vivo (28.0%), and 11 in vitro/in vivo (44.0%) studies conducted up to 2020 met the inclusion criteria for discussion in this systematic review. The most common species of Leishmania used in these studies were L. major (12, 48.0%), L. donovani (7, 28.0%), and L. amazonensis (4, 16.80%). In vivo, the most used animals were BALB/c mice (11, 61.1%) followed by hamsters (6, 33.3%) and Wistar rats (1, 5.5%), respectively. In vitro, the most used Leishmania form was amastigote (8, 44.4%), followed by promastigote (4, 22.2%), and both forms promastigote/amastigote (6, 33.3%). Conclusion: According to the literature, different types of drugs based on chitosan and their derivatives demonstrated considerable in vitro and in vivo anti-leishmanial activity against various Leishmania spp. Based on the findings of this review study, chitosan and its derivatives could be considered as an alternative and complementary source of valuable components against leishmaniasis with a high safety index. Nevertheless, more investigations are required to elaborate on this result, mainly in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supramolecular hydrogels are considered promising drug carriers in the tissue engineering field due to their versatile nature. Chitosan hydrogels without chemical cross-linkers have low cytotoxicity and good delivery capacity; however, they have lower mechanical properties for injectable hydrogel usage. In this study, we developed novel chitosan derivatives via click chemistry for fabricating supramolecular hydrogels with higher mechanical strength under mild conditions. The chitosan derivative was successfully synthesized by a sulfur fluoride exchange reaction, and the synthesized chitosan-mPEG/Pluronic-F127 (CS-mPEG/F127) interacted with α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) to form a supramolecular hydrogel via a host-guest reaction. The gelation dynamics, hydrogel properties, and bovine serum albumin (BSA) release could be modulated by the concentration ratio of chitosan-mPEG and F127. This supramolecular hydrogel is a promising protein releasing carrier candidate for long term regeneration therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7, one of the most severe human foodborne pathogens, can withstand several stresses, including some levels of γ-irradiation. In this study, the response of E. coli O157:H7 to a sensitization irradiation dose of 0.4 kGy was assessed using RNA-seq transcriptomic at 10 (t10) and 60 (t60) min post-irradiation, combined with an isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) proteomic analysis at 60 min post-irradiation. Several functions were induced by the treatment, such as base excision repair and nucleotide excision repair pathways; sulfur and histidine metabolism, and virulence mechanisms. Additionally, the sulA gene, coding for the cell division repressor, together with other genes involved in SOS response and repair mechanism (including recA , recN , recJ, recQ, mutM and uvrB) were up-regulated at t60. As the early response to irradiation stress (t10), dnaK, groEL, ibpA, sulfur metabolism genes, as well as those related to oxidative stress were up-regulated, while histidine biosynthesis genes were down-regulated. Acid stress, heat shock, UV resistance and several virulence genes, especially stx2A / stx2b which code for the Shiga toxins characteristic of O157:H7, were upregulated at 60 min post-irradiation. The treatment was also found to increase the levels of CysN, MutM, DinG and DnaC in the cells, proteins involved respectively in sulfur metabolism, base excision repair, recombinational DNA repair and chromosome replication. Our results provide insights into the resistance response of E. coli O157:H7 to a non-lethal irradiation dose. Our findings indicate that E. coli O157:H7 can resist to γ-irradiation through important modifications in genes expression and proteins profiles. Image 1 • Effect of gamma irradiation on the transcriptomics analysis of E. coli at 10 and 60 min after irradiation. • Effect of irradiation on iTRAQ proteomic analysis at 60 min post-irradiation was analyzed. • Cell division repressor genes up-regulated and histidine biosynthesis genes down-regulated at t60. • Sulfur metabolism genes and oxidative stress genes were up-regulated at t10 post irradiation. • Shiga toxins genes were upregulated at 60 min post-irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stored rice and rice products are prone to contamination by pathogenic fungi and bacteria such as Aspergillus niger, Bacillus cereus, and Paenibacillus amylolyticus. Treatment with antimicrobial essential oils (EOs) and irradiation are options to control spoilage organisms. Microbial samples with or without fumigation with an oregano/thyme EO mixture were irradiated at 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5 kGy for calculation of a D 10 value. The relative sensitivity was calculated as the ratio of D10 values for the irradiation plus oregano and thyme EO combination and irradiation alone treatments. In all cases, irradiation plus fumigation with the oregano and thyme EO mixture showed increased efficacy compared with irradiation alone. The relative sensitivity of γ-ray irradiation against A. niger was 1.22, 1.33, and 1.24 for radiation dose rates of 10.445, 4.558, and 0.085 kGy/h, respectively, however against B. cereus it was 1.28, 1.45, and 1.49, and against P. amylolyticus it was 1.35, 1.33, and 1.38, for respective γ-ray irradiation dose rates. The relative sensitivity of X-ray irradiation against A. niger, B. cereus, and P. amylolyticus was 1.63, 1.21, and 1.31, respectively, at the X-ray dose rate of 0.76 kGy/h. The results showed that the relative sensitivity of γ-ray irradiation was higher against the two bacteria than the fungus, whereas X-ray showed higher sensitivity against the fungus than the two bacteria. There was no consistent positive or negative relationship between dose rate and relative sensitivity. The results demonstrated the potential of an oregano and thyme EOs mixture as an antimicrobial agent and its efficacy to increase the radiosensitization of A. niger, B. cereus, and P. amylolyticus during γ-ray or X-ray irradiation treatments. • Microbial samples with or without essential oil (EO) were irradiated with X-ray and γ-ray. • Treatment with irradiation and EO showed higher efficacy than irradiation alone. • The relative sensitivity of γ-ray was higher against bacteria than the fungus. • The relative sensitivity of X-ray was higher against fungus than the bacteria. • No consistent positive or negative relationship between dose rate and relative sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The checkerboard method was used to study the potential interactions between eight essential oils (Basil, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, Mandarin, Oregano, Peppermint, Tea tree, and Thyme) when used as antibacterial agents against Bacillus cereus LSPQ 2872 and Paenibacillus amylolyticus ATCC 9995. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each essential oil (EO) and the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index for the binary combinations of essential oils (EOs) were determined. According to FIC index values, some of the compound binary combinations showed an additive effect; however, Thyme/Tea tree and Cinnamon/Thyme EOs exhibited a synergistic effect against P. amylolyticus and B. cereus, respectively. Cinnamon/Thyme EOs mixture exhibited no interactive effect against P. amylolyticus , but a synergistic effect against B. cereus. The combination of Oregano/Thyme EOs displayed the best antibacterial activity and showed a synergistic effect against B. cereus and P. amylolyticus bacteria. The Oregano/Thyme EOs mixture has potential application in food preservation to reduce the contamination of B. cereus and P. amylolyticus. • Eight essential oils (EOs) were used against Bacillus cereus and Paenibacillus amylolyticus. • Checkerboard method was used to study the interactions between active compounds. • Fractional inhibitory concentration index for the binary combinations of EOs were determined. • Thyme/Tea tree and Cinnamon/Thyme EOs exhibited synergistic effect against both bacteria. • Oregano/Thyme EOs displayed best antibacterial activity and showed synergistic effect against both bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Membrane based on chitosan, cellulose nanocrystals, and glycerol was developed. • Membrane was optimized for anti-Shiga toxin 2B antibody immobilization. • Cellulose nanocrystals (0.6 %) & chitosan (95/2500) enhanced immobilization efficiency. • Antibody immobilization optimized by fractional factorial and Box-Behnken designs. • Membrane has detection limit of log 1 CFU/mL Escherichia coli O157:H7. This work describes the development of membrane based on chitosan (CHI), cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), and glycerol (GLY), and optimization of the formulation for immobilization of monoclonal anti-Shiga toxin 2B antibody (mAnti-stx2B-Ab) for E. coli O157:H7 detection. The effect of CHI deacetylation degree & viscosity, CNCs and GLY concentrations on Anti-stx2B-Ab immobilization efficiency was evaluated. Fractional factorial and Box-Behnken designs were applied to screen the effects of compounds interactions and optimize their concentrations for detection of Anti-stx2B-Ab. The results demonstrated that the use of 0.6 % (w/v) CNCs improved significantly the Anti-stx2B-Ab immobilization and the level of signal detection. The detection limit of Escherichia coli O157:H7 by developed optimized membrane is 1 log CFU/mL. The time needed for detection of E. coli O157:H7 was only 4 h of enrichment compared to 24 h with conventional methods. The developed immobilization support has potential for future pathogen detection in food and biomedical samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eco-friendly antimicrobial nanoparticles were prepared by adsorbing metal ions to keratin nanoparticles (KNP) isolated from the chicken feather. The mean size of KNP determined by STEM and DLS was 47 ± 15 nm and 80.7 ± 8.3 nm, respectively. The KNP-Ag complex exhibited a larger negative surface charge (−28.2 ± 4.2 mV) than the KNP-Cu (−2.7 ± 0.9 mV) and KNP-Zn (−5.7 ± 1.3 mV) complexes. The FTIR results showed that the interaction of KNP and metal ions was different depending on the type of metal ion. EDX and XPS results revealed the presence of metal ions in KNP-metal ion complexes. Metal ion adsorption and desorption kinetics results showed that the silver binding to KNP was the highest among the metal ions tested, while the release rate was the slowest. The adsorption of cationic metal ions promoted the adhesion of KNP to bacterial cell and enhanced the killing effect for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Metal ion depletion test result revealed that the bactericidal activity of the KNP-metal ion complex was time-dependent due to the desorption of metal ions from the KNP core. The antimicrobial activity of the KNP-metal ion complex was dependent on the type of metal ions. The nanoparticle complex prepared by adsorbing antimicrobial metal ions on biodegradable core materials is likely to be used for the development of eco-friendly antimicrobial nanomaterials. Unlabelled Image • Keratin nanoparticles (KNP) were prepared from chicken feather. • KNP/metal ion complex were prepared using eco-friendly method. • Adsorption and desorption kinetics of metal ions on KNP were performed. • Time kill assay of KNP/metal ion complexes determined. • The KNP/metal ion complexes exhibited potent antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unprecedented worldwide spread of the Citrus greening disorder, called Huanglongbing (HLB), has urged researchers for rapid interventions. HLB poses a considerable threat to global citriculture owing to its devastating impact on citrus species. This disease is caused by Candidatus Liberibacter species (CLs), primarily transferred through psyllid insects, such as Trioza erytreae and Diaphorina citri. It results in phloem malfunction, root decline, and altered plant source-sink relationships, leading to a deficient plant with minimal yield before it dies. Thus, many various techniques have been employed to eliminate HLB and control vector populations through the application of insecticides and antimicrobials. The latter have evidenced short-term efficiency. While nucleic acid-based analyses and symptom-based identification of the disease have been used for detection, they suffer from limitations such as false negatives, complex sample preparation, and high costs. To address these challenges, secreted protein-based biomarkers offer a promising solution for accurate, rapid, and cost-effective disease detection. This paper presents an overview of HLB symptoms in citrus plants, including leaf and fruit symptoms, as well as whole tree symptoms. The differentiation between HLB symptoms and those of nutrient deficiencies is discussed, emphasizing the importance of precise identification for effective disease management. The elusive nature of CLs and the challenges in culturing them in axenic cultures have hindered the understanding of their pathogenic mechanisms. However, genome sequencing has provided insights into CLs strains' metabolic traits and potential virulence factors. Efforts to identify potential host target genes for resistance are discussed, and a high-throughput antimicrobial testing method using Citrus hairy roots is introduced as a promising tool for rapid assessment of potential treatments. This review summarizes current challenges and novel therapies for HLB disease. It highlights the urgency of developing accurate and efficient detection methods and identifying the complex relations between CLs and their host plants. Transgenic citrus in conjunction with secreted protein-based biomarkers and innovative testing methodologies could revolutionize HLB management strategies toward achieving a sustainable citrus cultivation. It offers more reliable and practical solutions to combat this devastating disease and safeguard the global citriculture industry. • Huanglongbing (HLB) poses a considerable threat to global citriculture. • HLB caused by Candidatus Liberibacter species and transferred by psyllid insects. • Pesticides, antimicrobial, transgenic plants, thermotherapy, etc. Can control HLB. • Combination of different techniques could revolutionize HLB management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Carrageenan-based wound dressing was prepared with SNP and GSE. • In vivo wound healing effect was tested using wounded Sprague-Dawley rats. • Mechanical strength, water swelling, and UV-barrier properties were improved. • The films exhibited strong antibacterial activity against S. epidermis and E. coli. • Carr/GSE/SNP3% film showed an excellent wound healing effect. κ-Carrageenan-based (Carr) functional wound healing hydrogel films were prepared by incorporating chitosan capped sulfur nanoparticles (SNP) and grapefruit seed extract (GSE). In vivo wound healing effect of the hydrogel films was tested using artificially wounded male Sprague-Dawley rats. The hydrogel film (Carr/GSE/SNP) showed higher mechanical strength, swelling ratio and ultraviolet barrier properties than the carrageenan film, but the water vapor permeability and water solubility were decreased. The hydrogel film showed antibacterial activity strong enough to destroy Staphylococcus epidermis and Escherichia coli within 3 h of incubation and showed high biocompatibility against mouse fibroblast (L929 cell lines). The hydrogel film (Carr/GSE/SNP3%) showed excellent wound healing effect (1.3% wound area after 2 weeks) compared to the control group (31% wound area after 2 weeks) through in vivo wound healing test. Histological examination showed the complete appearance of the healed epidermis. The Carr/GSE/SNP hydrogel films are most likely to be used for the treatment of full-thickness wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to optimize the parameters for the production of a stable nanoemulsion containing a mixture of essential oils (EOs) with a surfactant blend (Tween and Span 80) and assess its antimicrobial potency against spoilage bacteria and foodborne pathogens. The impact of a surfactant blend's hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) as well as surfactant:oil ratio was investigated based on the mean particle size (z-average) and polydispersity index (PDI). Results showed HLB value of 12 and a ratio of surfactant to oil at 0.75:1 exhibited an emulsion with the smallest z-average and PDI. Following this, a response surface methodology (RSM) employing central composite design (CCD) was utilized to formulate an optimal nanoemulsion using the microfluidization (MF) technique. The RSM revealed that the microfluidizer pressure of 15,000 psi and 5 cycles produces a z-average of 38.11 nm, PDI of 0.27, ζ-potential of 37.8 mV, and EE of 83.8%. The comparison between the experimental and anticipated results of the optimized nanoemulsion revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05). The optimal nanoemulsion displayed excellent stability during 30 days of storage at both 4 and 30 °C compared to 5 days for coarse emulsion. The nanoemulsion exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, showing minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the range of 0.019 to 0.156 µL/mL, surpassing the antimicrobial efficacy of the coarse emulsion, which had MIC values between 0.039 to 0.312 µL/mL. Thus, this study emphasized the efficacy of RSM design in developing an optimal nanoemulsion with enhanced antimicrobial properties using EOs, making it a promising natural food preservative. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research compares two coating techniques (dip-coating versus bar-coating) of poly(3-hydroxy butyrate- co -3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) on a biodegradable plastic sheet. A blend of 30% PHBV/70% poly (butylene adipate- co -terephthalate) (PBAT) with and without chain extender was explored as biodegradable plastic sheets, while PHBV coating was used to improve oxygen and water vapor barrier properties of the sheet without affecting the mechanical performance. The PHBV coating thickness was nominally 10-15 μm (dip-coating) and 25–35 μm (bar-coating). Comprehensive characterizations showed that a PHBV/PBAT/Joncryl (30 wt%/70 wt%/0.3phr) bar-coated with PHBV [coating weight: 10–15%] exhibited ~ 48% and ~ 53% improvement in water vapor and oxygen barrier, respectively as compared to the uncoated sheet (PHBV/PBAT/Joncryl (30 wt%/70 wt%/0.3 phr)). The water contact angle of the PHBV-coated (bar-coating) polymer blend sheet (PHBV/PBAT/Joncryl (30 wt%/70 wt%/0.3 phr)) was increased to 106.6 ± 3.53°, showed hydrophobic nature. However, the %elongation at break was reduced from 651.8 ± 69.1% to 196.4 ± 48.4% due to the increased PHBV content. On the other hand, PHBV dip-coating [coating weight: 5–10%] had little effect on the water vapor and oxygen barrier properties as well as the water contact angle, as compared to the uncoated sheet. However, the %elongation at break was reduced from 651.8 ± 69.1% to 501.3 ± 168.7%. These results showed the superiority of bar-coating, mainly due to the higher coating thickness and more uniform coating, over the dip-coating technique in this research. Overall, the PHBV-coated polymer sheet developed in this research can significantly contribute to flexible packaging applications that require good barrier performance against water vapor and oxygen permeation. [Display omitted] • Biodegradable plastic sheet was developed by compression moulding of PHBV/PBAT/Joncryl blend. • PHBV was coated on the biodegradable plastic sheet by two methods: dip-coating and bar-coating. • Thickness, weight and morphology of coating affected the final barrier and mechanical properties. • PHBV coating improved water vapor and oxygen barrier properties of biodegradable plastic sheet. • PHBV coating enhanced the water contact angle of biodegradable plastic sheet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect pests of stored products such as the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae can be controlled in bulk and packaged grains by ionizing radiation (γ-radiation or X-ray radiation) and plant essential oils, used in combination or alone, as an alternative to standard chemical fumigantion. Irradiation source and dose rate may be factors influencing the efficacy of plant essential oils. We evaluated the effects of γ-radiation at three dose rates (10.445, 4.558, and 0.085 kGy/h) and X-ray irradiation at two dose rates (0.76 and 0.19 kGy/h) in combination with Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules) or Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil (EO) on the short-term mortality of S. oryzae. Adult weevils on rice in sealed Petri dishes were fumigated with 10 μL EO applied to a sponge then irradiated with a dose of 100, 250, 500, or 750 Gy. The combined treatment of Eucalyptus or Tea tree EOs with γ-irradiation or X-ray irradiation increased the mortality by 3–6 times as compared to irradiation treatment alone. The LD 90 (predicted dose killing 90% of individuals) values for Eucalyptus EO plus γ-irradiation treated samples were 250.6, 252.8, and 522.4 Gy at dose rates of 10.445, 4.558, and 0.085 kGy/h, respectively, whereas the LD 90 values for Tea tree EO plus γ-irradiation were similar (250.1, 255.07, and 574.3 Gy) when treated at dose rate of 10.445, 4.558, and 0.085 kGy/h dose rates, respectively. The lowest dose rate of γ-irradiation had the lowest efficacy in the combined treatment for both EOs. For the combined treatment of Eucalyptus or Tea tree EO with X-ray irradiation, LD 90 values were 746.02 and 737.1 Gy with Eucalyptus EO and 632.03 and 615.5 Gy with Tea tree EO, at dose rates of 0.76 and 0.19 kGy/h, respectively. Overall, combined treatment LD 90 values were significantly higher (less effective treatment) for X-ray than for γ-irradiation. Unlike γ-irradiation, the dose rate of X-ray irradiation did not affect efficacy in the combined treatments. Gamma or X-ray irradiation and plant EOs such as Eucalyptus or Tea tree EOs applied alone or in combination, are effective insecticidal treatments. The synergistic effects of irradiation and EOs may be source and dose rate dependent. Our results showed that synergistic effects with EOs against S. oryzae in rice was more effective (lower LD 90 values) using higher dose rates of high energy γ-irradiation than at lower dose rates with either high energy γ-irradiation or low energy X-ray irradiation. • Effects of γ-radiation and X-ray with essential oil on the mortality of S. oryzae was studied. • Adult weevils on rice in Petri dishes were fumigated with 10 μL EO and then irradiated. • The combined treatment of EOs with irradiation increased the mortality by 3–6 times. • Combined treatment LD 90 values were significantly higher for X-ray than for γ-irradiation. • The synergistic effects of irradiation and EOs may be source and dose rate dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the development of a support membrane based on chitosan, cellulose nanocrystals and glycerol (m-CCG) for the antibody immobilization by a covalent crosslinking using glutaraldehyde. The chemical characterization of the support by FTIR showed that m-CCG formation process was stabilized by the formation of hydrogen bonding between each component of m-CCG and the reactive amine groups allowing the antibody immobilization on m-CCG via glutaraldehyde. Moreover, this immobilization on m-CCG was optimized by mathematics modeling approaches, and it exhibited robustness and predictable detection in presence of 0.6% of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), 0.5 g of CCG solution per well, after 2 h of antibody immobilization. Results also showed that CNCs (0.6% w / v) was the most important factor of the optimization. At this concentration, CNCs improve the resistance of m-CCG during the crosslinking treatment by a modification of the surface topography and the reinforcement of the tensile strength of m-CCG at >30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilized post-industrial wheat starch (biological macromolecule) for the development of poly(butylene adipate- co -terephthalate) (PBAT) based thermoplastic starch blend (TPS) and biocomposite films. PBAT (70 wt%) was blended with plasticized post-industrial wheat starch (PPWS) (30 wt%) and reinforced with talc master batch (MB) (25 wt%) using a two-step process, consisting of compounding the blend for pellet preparation, followed by the cast film extrusion at 160 °C. The effect of the chain extender was analyzed at compounding temperatures of 160 and 180 °C for talc-based composites. The incorporation of talc MB has increased the thermal stability of the biocomposites due to the nucleating effect of talc. Moreover, tensile strength and Young's modulus increased by about 5 and 517 %, respectively as compared with the TPS blend film without talc MB. Thermal, rheological, and morphological analyses confirmed that the use of talc in the presence of chain extender at a processing temperature of 160 °C has resulted in an enhanced dispersion of talc and chain entanglement with PBAT and PPWS than PBAT/PPWS blend and PBAT/PPWS/Talc composite films. On the other hand, at 180 °C, the talc-containing biocomposite with chain extender tended to form PPWS agglomerates, thereby weakening its material properties. • Post-industrial starch was upcycled by plasticizing it with glycerol and urea. • Cast extruded composites films were developed by adding 25 wt% talc. • Chain extender improved talc dispersion and compatibility. • Mechanical and thermal properties were improved for developed composites films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the application of a new support based on chitosan and reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (m-CCG) for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes p60 protein in sandwich ELISA. This support consists of biopolymer membrane optimized for the covalent immobilization of the specific monoclonal antibodies against the unique short peptide of eleven amino acids (PepD, QQQTAPKAPTE) of L. monocytogenes p60 protein (anti-PepD mAb). Using the optimized immobilization method of anti-PepD mAb on m-CCG (m-CCG + anti-PepD mAb), the detection of L. monocytogenes culture was improved by 17% in Tryptic soy broth and by 24% in Listeria enrichment broth containing 0.5% of dextrose (modified LEB) on m-CCG compared to standard ELISA support. Moreover, the evaluation of the selectivity of detection of L. monocytogenes by anti-PepD mAb immobilized on m-CCG allowed the absence of any cross-reaction between the support and the nine other bacteria commonly found in food environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antimicrobial activity of sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) was compared with elemental sulfur and sulfur-containing salts (sodium thiosulfate and sodium metabisulfite) against bacteria (Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus aureus) and fungi (Aspergillus flavus , Candida albicans) using the paper disc, broth microdilution, and time-kill assay methods. The results of the paper disc and MIC tests showed stronger antimicrobial activity of SNPs compared to the elemental sulfur and sulfur-containing salts. SNPs showed more potent activity against bacteria than fungi. Among the test microorganisms, E. coli (Gram-negative) was the most susceptible to SNPs, followed by S. aureus (Gram-positive), C. albicans (yeast), and A. flavus (mold). Scanning electron micrographs of microorganisms treated with SNPs showed different cell disruption patterns depending on the type of microorganisms. Image 1 • Chitosan-capped sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) were prepared by the reduction of sodium thiosulfate. • Antimicrobial activity of SNPs was compared with elemental sulfur and S-containing salts. • Agar diffusion, MIC/MBC(MFC), time-kill assay for bacteria and fungi were determined. • SNPs showed stronger antibacterial and antifungal activity than elemental S and S-salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores a new eco-friendly approach for developing bioactive gelatin films using UV-C irradiation-induced photo-crosslinking. Riboflavin, a food-grade photoinitiator, was selected at an optimal concentration of 1.25% ( w / w ) for crosslinking gelatin under UV-C exposure for 4 to 22 min. Physicochemical analyses revealed enhanced tensile strength, reduced water vapor permeability, and lower water solubility in films crosslinked for up to 13 min. FTIR analysis demonstrated significant molecular changes, confirming the formation of crosslinking connections in gelatin-riboflavin films. Antimicrobial nanoemulsion (NE) (0.5, 0.75, 1% v / v ) was incorporated into crosslinked films and applied to fresh beef. The 1% NE film exhibited the strongest antimicrobial effect, extending shelf-life by 20 days. In vitro release study confirmed Fickian diffusion behavior in the 1% NE film. This study also investigated the synergy between 1% NE film and three different types of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the microbiological and physicochemical properties of beef for 26 days. The best results were achieved with 1% NE film under MAP1 and MAP2, which preserved meat redness and prevented lipid oxidation, extending the shelf-life up to 26 days. Therefore, UV-C irradiation-induced crosslinked bioactive film combined with high-oxygen MAP offers a promising solution for prolonging the shelf-life of beef.

Over the past few years, microplastics (MPs) pollution in the marine environment has emerged as a significant environmental concern. Poor management practices lead to millions of tons of plastic waste entering oceans annually, primarily from land-based sources like mismanaged waste, urban runoff, and industrial activities. MPs pollution in marine environments poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health, as it adsorbs pollutants, heavy metals, and leaches additives such as plasticizers and flame retardants, thus contributing to chemical pollution. The review article provides a comprehensive overview of MPs pollution, its sources, and impacts on marine environments, including human health, detection techniques, and strategies for mitigating microplastic contamination in marine environments. The paper provides current information on microplastic pollution in marine environments, offering insights for researchers, policymakers, and the public, as well as promoting sustainable practices to protect the environment., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper. Declarations All authors have read, understood, and have complied as applicable with the statement on “Ethical responsibilities of Authors” as found in the Instructions for Authors and are aware that with minor exceptions, no changes can be made to authorship once the paper is submitted.”, (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Gelatin (Gel) based water-insoluble films with antimicrobial properties were developed by the green method using trans-cinnamaldehyde (TCA) and low-energy X-ray irradiation as dual crosslinkers. The Gel/TCA composite films (GTCF) were prepared at different pH (4, 6, 8, and 10) and crosslinked by incorporating 5 % (w/w, based on Gel) TCA and X-ray irradiation (350 kV and 11.4 mA) with doses of 0, 5, 10 and 15 kGy. The presence of TCA in GTCF forms dense, flexible, and strong films when exposed to X-ray irradiation. The GTCF at pH 6, incorporated with 5 wt% TCA and irradiated with 10 kGy X-ray, displayed the highest degree of crosslinking (DOC) (93.4 ± 3.4 %), tensile strength, excellent UV-barrier (> 99.9 %), antimicrobial (inhibitory capacity of >50 %), and water vapor permeability (4.1 ± 0.6 g.mm/m 2 .day. kPa), and low solubility in water (0.5 ± 0.3 %), and oxygen permeability. The GTCF, crosslinked with X-ray irradiation, has multifunctional properties and strong potential in the sustainable packaging industry to augment the shelf life of food and reduce food waste. To the best of our information, this is the first and novel report investigating the effects of pH on the properties of GTCF crosslinked with X-ray., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

This study looked at using modified camelina oil to develop sustainable coatings that could replace those derived from petroleum-based materials for use in packaging and other industrial sectors. Solvent-free synthesis of maleic anhydride grafted camelina oil (MCO) was carried out at two different temperatures (200 and 230 °C) to obtain sustainable hydrophobic coating materials for paper substrates. Maleic anhydride grafting of camelina oil was confirmed with attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared and NMR spectroscopic techniques, and up to 16% grafting of maleic anhydride was achieved, as determined by the titration method. MCO, obtained at different reaction temperatures, was coated onto cellulosic paper and evaluated for its hydrophobicity, mechanical, oxygen, and water vapor barrier properties. Scanning electron microscopy indicated the homogeneous dispersion of coating material onto the paper substrate. MCO-coated papers (MCO-200C paper and MCO-230C paper) provided a water contact angle of above 90° which indicates that the modified oil was working as a hydrophobic coating. Water vapor permeability (WVP) testing of coated papers revealed a reduction in WVP of up to 94% in comparison to the uncoated paper. Moreover, an improved oxygen barrier property was also observed for paper coated with both types of MCO. Analysis of the mechanical properties showed a greater than 70% retention of tensile strength and up to a five-fold increase in elongation at break of coated versus uncoated papers. Overall, the results show that camelina oil, a renewable resource, can be modified to produce environmentally friendly hydrophobic coating materials with improved mechanical and water vapor barrier properties that can serve as a potential coating material in the packaging industry. The results of this research could find applications in the huge paper packaging industries, specially in food packaging., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (© 2024 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.)

Heavy metal pollution in water bodies is a global concern. The prominent source of metal contamination in aqueous streams and groundwater is wastewater containing heavy metal ions. Elevated concentrations of heavy metals in water bodies can have a negative impact on water quality and public health. The most effective way to remove metal contaminants from drinking water is thought to be adsorption. A deacetylated derivative of chitin, chitosan, has a wide range of commercial uses since it is biocompatible, nontoxic, and biodegradable. Due to its exceptional adsorption behavior toward numerous hazardous heavy metals from aqueous solutions, chitosan and its modifications have drawn a lot of interest in recent years. Due to its remarkable adsorption behavior toward a range of dangerous heavy metals, chitosan is a possible agent for eliminating metals from aqueous solutions. The review has focused on the ideas of biosorption, its kinds, architectures, and characteristics, as well as using modified (physically and chemically modified) chitosan, blends, and composites to remove heavy metals from water. The main objective of the review is to describe the most important aspects of chitosan-based adsorbents that might be beneficial for enhancing the adsorption capabilities of modified chitosan and promoting the usage of this material in the removal of heavy metal pollutants., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

The production of polycarbonate, a high-performance transparent plastic, employs bisphenol A, which is a prominent endocrine-disrupting compound. Polycarbonates are frequently used in the manufacturing of food, bottles, storage containers for newborns, and beverage packaging materials. Global production of BPA in 2022 was estimated to be in the region of 10 million tonnes. About 65-70% of all bisphenol A is used to make polycarbonate plastics. Bisphenol A leaches from improperly disposed plastic items and enters the environment through wastewater from plastic-producing industries, contaminating, sediments, surface water, and ground water. The concentration BPA in industrial and domestic wastewater ranges from 16 to 1465 ng/L while in surface water it has been detected 170-3113 ng/L. Wastewater treatment can be highly effective at removing BPA, giving reductions of 91-98%. Regardless, the remaining 2-9% of BPA will continue through to the environment, with low levels of BPA commonly observed in surface water and sediment in the USA and Europe. The health effects of BPA have been the subject of prolonged public and scientific debate, with PubMed listing more than 17,000 scientific papers as of 2023. Bisphenol A poses environmental and health hazards in aquatic systems, affecting ecosystems and human health. While several studies have revealed its presence in aqueous streams, environmentally sound technologies should be explored for its removal from the contaminated environment. Concern is mostly related to its estrogen-like activity, although it can interact with other receptor systems as an endocrine-disrupting chemical. Present review article encompasses the updated information on sources, environmental concerns, and sustainable remediation techniques for bisphenol A removal from aquatic ecosystems, discussing gaps, constraints, and future research requirements., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized using zinc chloride and NaOH and they were incorporated to prepare PLA/ZnO NPs composite films. The SEM images showed that the ZnO NPs were cubical in shape with size ranged from 50 to 100 nm, and the PLA/ZnO NPs composite films were smooth and compact. The composite films exhibited strong UV-light barrier property with a slight decrease in the transparency. The thickness, tensile strength, and water vapor barrier property of the films increased significantly after incorporation of ZnO NPs. The TS of PLA films increased by 37.5%, but the WVP decreased by 30.5% from 3.11 × 10 -11 to 2.16 × 10 -11  g m/m 2 ·Pa·s when 0.5 wt% of ZnO NPs was incorporated. The composite films exhibited potent antibacterial activity against food-borne pathogenic bacteria, Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. The developed films were applied to the packaging of a minced fish paste and showed strong antibacterial function. The prepared composite films could be used as antibacterial and UV-light barrier films for food packaging and biomedical applications., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) were prepared using sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid, and the UV-visible spectrum showed the formation of nanoparticulate sulfur. The SNPs were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometer, transmission electron microscope (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The antibacterial activity and the cytotoxic effects of the SNPs on the human lung carcinoma (A549), mouse colon carcinoma (CT26), Caco-2, and human fibroblast (CCD-986sk) cells were tested. In addition, the inhibitory effect of the SNPs on the cancer cell migration was evaluated. The SNPs capped with chitosan (SNP2) exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. SNP2 also effectively inhibited the proliferation and migration of cancer cells with minimal toxic effect on normal cells. SNP2 therefore has potential for medical applications, including those used as antibacterial and chemotherapeutic agents., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

A functional biopolymer-coated paper was prepared by coating a ternary blend of the alginate, carboxymethyl cellulose, and carrageenan with grapefruit seed extract (GSE) for the substitute use of synthetic polymer-coated paper. The microstructure of the surface and cross-section of the coated paper analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) indicated that the biopolymer was compatible with the base paper and filled the pores of the porous fiber to make a smooth-surfaced coating paper. The properties of the biopolymer-coated paper, such as water and oil resistance, water vapor barrier, surface hydrophobicity, and mechanical properties, increased significantly compared with not only the base paper but also commercially used PE-coated paper. The blended biopolymer coating material exhibited strong antibacterial activity against food-borne pathogenic bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli, which were destroyed completely within 3 and 9 h, respectively. The packaging test for a minced fish cake packed with the biopolymer-coated paper showed the complete destruction of surface inoculated bacteria in 6-9 days. The biopolymer-coated paper showed a high potential for disposable food packaging applications to increase the shelf-life of packaged food., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Organosolv lignin was used as a reducing agent for the preparation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their incorporation into poly(lactide) (PLA) polymer to prepare composite films. The composite films were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, FE-SEM, FTIR, XRD, and TGA. The optical, mechanical, water vapor barrier, and antibacterial properties of the composite films were evaluated. The UV-vis spectra of films exhibited two characteristics peaks around 300 and 450nm attributed to lignin and AgNPs, respectively. XRD results indicated that the crystalline AgNPs had been formed. The transmission of light at 280nm decreased significantly after incorporation of lignin and AgNPs. FTIR results showed that there was no change in the chemical structure of PLA after incorporation of lignin and AgNPs. The mechanical and water vapor barrier properties of the composite films increased after lignin and AgNPs incorporation, The films containing AgNPs exhibited potent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)