Search Results (211)

This study aimed to extract rice bran oil rich in γ-oryzanol from white (WB) and parboiled rice bran (PB) using ultrasound as a pre-treatment to supercritical fluid extraction (US + SFE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and conventional solvent extraction. PB oil exhibited superior quality compared to WB, with low free fatty acid (FFA) levels and higher γ-oryzanol content. PB oil extracted by US + SFE achieved a yield of 18.2 ± 0.4%, γ-oryzanol content of 1.53 ± 0.19 g 100 g⁻¹, and low FFA content (0.27 ± 0.01%), showing improved oil quality compared to SFE (yield 13.5 ± 0.3%, γ-oryzanol 1.13 ± 0.08%, FFA 0.55 ± 0.01%) and conventional extraction (yield 25.0 ± 1.3%, γ-oryzanol 2.03 ± 0.04%, FFA 1.12 ± 0.01%). The US + SFE oil also showed lower peroxide value (1.7 mEq kg⁻¹) and preserved fatty acid profiles containing palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids. US induced structural disruption in bran, enhancing oil release. Additionally, chitosan–gelatin nanoemulsions were developed to protect the extracted oil. Formulations exhibited droplet sizes of 119–352 nm, polydispersity indices below 0.3, and zeta potentials from –12.4 to 38.8 mV. Gelatin-based nanoemulsions maintained FFAs at 0.56 ± 0.2% and peroxide values at 4.71 ± 0.2 mEq kg⁻¹ over 90 days, demonstrating superior oxidative stability. These results highlight the potential of US and SFE combined with nanostructured delivery systems to valorize agro-industrial byproducts and develop stable, functional ingredients and drug carrier systems. Full article

The recycling of by-products from fish processing procedures has recently been attracting increased attention. In this study, three types of gelatin were isolated from grass carp skin, bone, and scales, named SKG, BG, and SCG, respectively, and their structural and functional characteristics were investigated. Compared with BG and SCG, SKG exhibited the highest extraction yield (18.30 ± 0.24%) and protein content (90.12 ± 0.21%) and the lowest ash content (1.50 ± 0.08%). Electrophoresis analysis revealed that SKG contained more α chains than BG and SCG. Fourier transform infrared spectra showed that the absorption peaks of gelatin were mainly positioned in amide band regions, whereas some of the triple helix structure was lost. More than 85% solubility was observed in all gelatin types with pH 3–10. Meanwhile, there was a higher gel strength in SKG (288.2 g) than in BG (270.2 g) and SCG (245.1 g). Furthermore, the water or oil absorption and emulsifying characteristics of SKG were also better than those of BG and SCG. The differences in functional properties between gelatin types appear to be related to protein distribution and composition. All the results indicate that grass carp skin is a material with the potential to extract gelatin with a higher yield and gel strength and better functional characteristics compared with bone and scales. Full article

The need for sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastic packaging has prompted interest in biodegradable biopolymer films. This study developed edible composite films using minimally refined chitosan from American lobster (Homarus americanus) shell waste combined with fish gelatin, glycerol, and sunflower oil. A Box–Behnken design within a response surface methodology (RSM) framework was used to investigate the effects of these formulation variables on ten key film properties, including mechanical strength, water sensitivity, barrier performance, and optical characteristics. High-quality empirical models (R² ≥ 0.88) captured nonlinear, synergistic, and antagonistic interactions among the components, revealing trade-offs between competing attributes. Simultaneous multi-response optimization identified balanced formulations suited to various food packaging needs, including perishable, fresh, and dry products. Experimental validation of selected formulations confirmed model predictions within 5% error under laboratory conditions. Up to 68% of the inhibition activity against Escherichia coli was retained in a few composite formulations when compared with neat chitosan films, thus supporting their potential for active packaging. The key highlight of the present work is the use of crude chitosan derived from lobster shell waste, a low-cost, sustainable alternative to highly purified commercial sources, demonstrating the practical viability of marine byproduct valorization. Overall, this study advances the development of high-performance, application-specific biopolymer films and highlights RSM as an effective tool for optimizing multifunctional edible packaging materials. Future work should focus on enhancing antimicrobial functionality, evaluating real-world performance, and assessing consumer acceptance to support industrial adoption. Full article

Amidst the urgent demand for sustainable alternatives to petrochemical plastics, this work incorporated oregano essential oil Pickering emulsion (AOPE; stabilizer: acetylated chitin nanocrystals (a-ChNCs)) into the gelatin matrix. Through precisely engineered hydrogen-bonding networks at the a-ChNCs/gelatin interface, achieved through the systematic optimization of AOPE concentration, a high-performance bio-based gelatin composite film (designated as GOP_X%) was developed. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance analysis confirmed that GOP_X% containing AOPE exhibited increased hydrogen bonding crosslink density. At an AOPE loading of 6% (GOP_6%), the composite film exhibited exceptional improvements compared with GOP_0%: elongation at break increased by 107%, toughness increased by 167.5%, water vapor permeability decreased by 73.6%, and oxygen permeability reduced by 85.3%. Additionally, antibacterial and antioxidant properties were markedly enhanced. The Pickering emulsion effectively mitigated the damage of ultraviolet radiation and thermal effects on the bioactive properties of oregano essential oil. Overall, the incorporation of AOPE imparted the gelatin composite film with exceptional mechanical properties, barrier properties, antioxidant activity, and antibacterial activity, extending the shelf life of grass carp fillets by 3 days during storage. This sustainable and eco-friendly active packaging film offers a promising strategy for designing active packaging materials. Full article

Hydrocolloids are essential additives in the food industry, serving as thickening or gelling agents due to their high-water absorption capacity and viscosity even at low concentrations. This study investigates hydrocolloids extracted from Dioscorea rotundata and evaluates the effects of solubilization conditions—acidic, neutral, and alkaline—on their physicochemical, technological, rheological, and pasting properties. The hydrocolloids present extraction yields of carbohydrates similar to those of commercial ones (higher than 80%), with the presence of carboxyl groups. The retention of water and oil was greater than 100% and 2% of the solubility. All samples present a non-Newtonian flow behavior type of shear thinning adjusted to the Cross model (R² > 0.90). The viscoelastic properties denote an elastic behavior ($G\prime$ > $G″$). Hydrocolloids began to gelatinize at the same temperature (70 °C); the viscosity of the samples increased rapidly. D. rotundata is a source of hydrocolloids for use in the food industry as a thickener or additive. Full article

In this study, the complexes (FG-P) based on fish gelatin (FG) and pectin (P) were prepared by a simple physical blending within a range of pectin concentrations (0–2%, w/v). The structure, interface, and emulsification properties of the obtained FG-P were analyzed. The binding between FG and pectin was dominated by electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding. Introducing pectin substantially increased the viscosity of FG-P. The water contact angle of FG-P gradually decreased with increasing pectin concentration. The highly interfacial viscosity and hydrophilicity of FG-P hindered the interfacial adsorption at the oil/water phase, thereby increasing the interfacial tension and phase angle. This was further manifested as an increase in the viscous modulus and a decrease in both the total modulus and elastic modulus. Despite the inhibition of interfacial adsorption, the unabsorbed FG-P was uniformly dispersed in the continuous phase to form a compact network structure, accompanied with improved rheological properties. Correspondingly, the emulsion precipitation phenomenon was effectively inhibited, and the stability of FG-P stabilized emulsions was improved with decreased droplet size. Full article

Background: Natural compounds such as fisetin have promising in breast cancer treatment, but their poor pharmacokinetics limit their therapeutic application. This study utilized a synergistic approach by combining fisetin-loaded Nigella sativa (N.S.) oil nanovesicles (FIS-NSs) and carbohydrate-based microneedles (FIS-NSs-MNs) to improve breast cancer management. Methods: Chemical composition of NS petroleum ether extract using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). FIS-NSs were prepared and characterized for particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and stability. These vesicles were embedded into gelatin, hyaluronic acid, and carboxymethyl cellulose microneedles. In vitro drug release, ex vivo permeation, cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells, and in vivo antitumor efficacy in Ehrlich tumor models were evaluated. Results: Optimized FIS-NSs displayed nanoscale size (190 ± 0.74 nm), low P.D.I (0.25 ± 0.07), high surface charge (+37 ± 0.57 mV), and high encapsulation (88 ± 0.77%). In vitro investigations showed sustained FIS release (~85% over 72 h), while ex vivo permeation showed higher absorption than free fisetin. Both FIS-NSs and FIS-NSs-MNs showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells, with lower IC₅₀ than free fisetin (24.7 µM). In vivo, FIS-NSs-MNs and tumor burden inhibition (~77%), reduced oxidative stress (54%), restored antioxidant defenses, and decreased inflammatory markers. Immunohistochemical analysis for caspase-3 showed apoptosis activation within tumor tissues. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that FIS administration via NS-MNs improves drug stability, penetration, and apoptotic activity, resulting in enhanced anticancer effects. This innovative nanovesicle–microneedle platform provides a non-invasive, effective, and patient-friendly approach for the effective treatment of breast cancer, with potential for broader applications in oncological nanomedicine. Full article

Fish gelatins are increasingly recognized as sustainable biopolymers for food, packaging, and biomedical applications; however, their functional performance often requires improvement. In this study, the effects of transglutaminase (TG) modification on the physicochemical and structural properties of trout (T) and sea bass (SB) gelatins were systematically investigated. TG treatment enhanced gel strength in a species- and concentration-dependent manner, with trout increasing from 100 g (control) to 108 g at 0.04% TG and SB reaching a maximum of 163 g at 0.01% TG. Rheological measurements confirmed improved viscoelastic behavior, particularly in trout samples (G′ > G″). Emulsifying activity was optimized at 0.02–0.04% TG in trout, while excessive cross-linking reduced interfacial activity; nevertheless, emulsion stability was improved in both species. Foaming capacity and stability reached 195% and 148%, respectively, in trout, whereas higher TG concentrations led to reductions in SB foaming performance. Scanning electron microscopy revealed denser and more homogeneous networks in TG-modified gels, correlating with their enhanced rigidity. Transparency remained high, while zeta potential shifted toward more negative values, indicating improved colloidal stability. FTIR, UV–Vis, and DSC analyses confirmed conformational rearrangements and thermal stabilization after cross-linking. Minor decreases in oil-binding capacity and slight color changes were also observed. Overall, TG cross-linking significantly enhanced the functional and structural properties of fish gelatins in a source-dependent manner, supporting their potential as versatile and sustainable biopolymers for diverse industrial applications. Full article

Breast tissue-mimicking phantoms are essential tools for validating microwave imaging systems designed for early breast cancer detection. In this work, we report the fabrication and comprehensive characterization of oil-in-gelatin phantoms emulating normal, benign, and malignant breast tissues. The phantoms were manufactured with controlled mixtures of kerosene, safflower oil, and gelatin, and their dielectric properties were experimentally evaluated using a free-space transmission method with a Vector Network Analyzer across the 100 MHz–10 GHz range. Results demonstrated significant contrast in permittivity and conductivity among the different tissue types, consistent with values reported in the literature. Long-term stability was confirmed for up to six months under controlled storage. Additional structural and thermal characterization was performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), providing insight into molecular composition and thermal response. The proposed method enables reproducible, low-cost, and stable phantom fabrication, offering reliable tissue models to support experimental validation and optimization of microwave-based breast cancer detection systems. Full article

Objectives: The current work aimed to formulate and optimize a self-emulsifying microemulsion drug delivery system (SEME) for acemetacin (ACM) to increase ACM’s aqueous solubility, improve oral bioavailability, and reduce gastrointestinal complications. Methods: Screening of components capable of enhancing ACM solubility was performed. Pseudo-ternary phase diagrams were performed to choose the optimal formulation ratio. The ACM-SEME formulation’s composition was optimized using D-optimal design. Oil, S_mix, and water percentages were used as independent variables, while globule size, polydispersity index, ACM content, and in vitro ACM release after 90 min were used as dependent variables. Also, thermodynamic stability and transmittance percentage tests were studied. Zeta potential was assessed for the optimized ACM-SEME formulation, which was then subjected to spray drying. The dried ACM-SEME was characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. The dried ACM-SEME formulation was filled into hard gelatin capsules and coated with Eudragit L100 to achieve pH-dependent release. Results: The antinociceptive activity of ACM-SEME was evaluated in vivo using Eddy’s hot plate test in rats, revealing a significant prolongation of the noxious time threshold compared to control groups. Ex vivo permeation studies across rat intestinal tissue confirmed the enhanced permeation potential of the ACM-SEME. Conclusions: It was concluded that the developed ACM-SEME system demonstrated improved physicochemical properties, enhanced release behavior, and superior therapeutic performance, highlighting its potential as a safer and more effective oral delivery platform for ACM. Full article

Hydrogels have emerged as promising biomaterials for oral tissue regeneration thanks to their high-water content, excellent biocompatibility, and ability to mimic native tissue environments. These versatile materials can be tailored to support cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, making them suitable for repairing both soft and hard oral tissues. When engineered from natural polymers and enriched with bioactive agents, hydrogels offer enhanced regenerative potential. Biopolymer-based hydrogels, derived from materials such as chitosan, alginate, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and gelatin, are particularly attractive due to their biodegradability, bioactivity, and structural similarity to the extracellular matrix, creating an optimal microenvironment for cell growth and tissue remodeling. Recent innovations have transformed these systems into multifunctional platforms capable of supporting targeted regeneration of periodontal tissues, alveolar bone, oral mucosa, dental pulp, and dentin. Integration of bioactive molecules, particularly essential oils, bio-derived constituents, cells, or growth factors, has introduced intrinsic antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant functionalities, addressing the dual challenge of promoting tissue regeneration while at the same time attenuating microbial contamination in the oral environment. This review explores the design strategies, material selection, functional properties, and biomedical applications in periodontal therapy, guided tissue regeneration, and implant integration of natural polymer-based hydrogels enriched with bioactive factors, highlighting their role in promoting oral tissue regeneration. In addition, we discuss current challenges related to mechanical stability, degradation rates, and clinical translation, while highlighting future directions for optimizing these next-generation bioactive hydrogel systems in regenerative dentistry. Full article

With rising living standards, consumer demand for fresher food continues to increase. Consequently, the development of multifunctional packaging materials that enable real-time freshness monitoring, delay spoilage, and ensure environmental sustainability has become a central research focus. The present study developed an antibacterial and pH-responsive smart packaging film, formulated from a κ-carrageenan/gelatin (CG) matrix. This film incorporated anthocyanins extracted from red onion skin (ROSA) and citronella essential oil encapsulated in β-cyclodextrin (OBDs) as functional additives, herein referred to as the CGR/OBDs composite film. The composite films exhibited strong pH sensitivity, ammonia responsiveness, color stability, effective barrier properties, and notable antioxidant activity (96.4% ABTS and 79.3% DPPH radical scavenging rates). The sustained release of citronella essential oil over approximately 40 h conferred excellent antibacterial performance, with inhibition rates of 94.8% against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and 91.6% against Escherichia coli (E. coli). Application in shrimp preservation further demonstrated an extended shelf life and real-time freshness monitoring through distinct colorimetric shifts. The findings highlight the potential of CGR/OBDs films as visual indicators for food freshness in intelligent packaging, offering a promising strategy to enhance food safety and reduce waste. Full article

In this study, an edible matrix consisting of sodium alginate, gelatin, zein, and gum arabic was combined with Cinnamomum burmannii essential oil (CBEO) to produce a natural, eco-friendly, and bioactive food packaging preservation film. After the CBEO was extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry, 55 chemicals were found, with the main ingredients being α-terpineol, borneol, and cinnamon aldehyde. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to extensively evaluate the preservative coating, which demonstrated bacteriostatic activity. When compared to the control at a 3% CBEO loading, the film effectively maintained color stability while extending the shelf life of Squaliobarbus curriculus filets by around 3 times. Furthermore, compared to the blank film, the film showed a 23.8% increase in tensile strength and a 23.59% improvement in light transmittance. These results show how CBEO-loaded edible films can enhance meat preservation and offer fresh perspectives on the creation of useful, biodegradable food packaging materials. Full article

A pH-responsive bilayer film was developed for real-time freshness monitoring and preservation of yellowfin seabream. The emulsified layer contained chitosan (CS) and flaxseed oil (FO), while the indicator layer comprised carrageenan (CAR), gelatin (GEL), grape seed anthocyanins (GSA), and curcumin (CUR). Optimization via response surface methodology determined the ideal formulation: CAR/GEL mass ratio 1.11:1, CS concentration 1.70%, and GSA/CUR dosage 53.99 mg/100 mL. The optimized film demonstrated superior mechanical properties (TS = 12.74 MPa, EAB = 68.24%), enhanced hydrophobicity (WVP = 1.21 × 10⁻¹¹ g·m⁻¹·s⁻¹·Pa⁻¹), and potent antioxidant activity (HRC = 92.35%). FTIR and SEM confirmed stable cross-linking and bilayer compatibility. Distinct color transitions (yellow → reddish-brown) occurred at different pH levels, correlating with fish spoilage indicators. During 25°C storage, the film effectively inhibited quality deterioration (TVB-N, TBARS, moisture loss, lipid oxidation) while extending shelf-life. Strong correlations were observed among TVB-N, TBARS, moisture (|r| > 0.97), and PUFAs’ spoilage contribution (r ≈ −0.99). This intelligent film enables dual-functionality: active preservation and visual freshness monitoring. Full article

In the present study, the effects of longan peel and seed on the quality of longan cake were determined, and the effects of longan peel extract (LPE) and longan seed extract (LSE) on the physicochemical properties of wheat starch were also measured. Furthermore, the phenolic profile and antioxidant activities of these extracts were observed. The results showed that both longan peel and seed could improve the color, texture, and volatile flavor compounds of longan cake. In addition, the properties of wheat starch, including gelatinization characteristics, thermogravimetric analysis, rheological properties, solubility, swelling power, water/oil-holding capacity and iodine binding ability, were all affected by LPE and LSE significantly. Both LPE and LSE had high contents of total phenols (LPE: 71.05 ± 2.57 mg/g, LSE: 78.49 ± 5.21 mg/g) and total flavonoids (LPE: 286.27 ± 6.04 mg/g, LSE: 423.21 ± 7.69 mg/g). Gallic acid, ellagic acid, and ellagic acid 4-O-α-l-arabinofuranoside were identified as the main phenolic compounds of LPE, while those of LSE were gallic acid, ellagic acid, ellagic acid 4-O-α-l-arabinofuranoside and (-)-epicatechin. Furthermore, LPE and LSE both exhibited good antioxidant activities to scavenge free radicals and showed high reducing power. All results suggest that longan peel and seed are rich in phenols and can improve the properties of starch so as to enhance the quality of starch product, which shows their potential application in food and chemical industries. Full article