Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

Search Results (146)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = microbial air contamination

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
29 pages, 1477 KiB  
Review
Bioinformation and Monitoring Technology for Environmental DNA Analysis: A Review
by Hyo Jik Yoon, Joo Hyeong Seo, Seung Hoon Shin, Mohamed A. A. Abdelhamid and Seung Pil Pack
Biosensors 2025, 15(8), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15080494 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 269
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has emerged as a transformative tool in environmental monitoring, enabling non-invasive detection of species and microbial communities across diverse ecosystems. This study systematically reviews the role of bioinformation technology in eDNA analysis, focusing on methodologies and applications across air, [...] Read more.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has emerged as a transformative tool in environmental monitoring, enabling non-invasive detection of species and microbial communities across diverse ecosystems. This study systematically reviews the role of bioinformation technology in eDNA analysis, focusing on methodologies and applications across air, soil, groundwater, sediment, and aquatic environments. Advances in molecular biology, high-throughput sequencing, bioinformatics tools, and field-deployable detection systems have significantly improved eDNA detection sensitivity, allowing for early identification of invasive species, monitoring ecosystem health, and tracking pollutant degradation processes. Airborne eDNA monitoring has demonstrated potential for assessing microbial shifts due to air pollution and tracking pathogen transmission. In terrestrial environments, eDNA facilitates soil and groundwater pollution assessments and enhances understanding of biodegradation processes. In aquatic ecosystems, eDNA serves as a powerful tool for biodiversity assessment, invasive species monitoring, and wastewater-based epidemiology. Despite its growing applicability, challenges remain, including DNA degradation, contamination risks, and standardization of sampling protocols. Future research should focus on integrating eDNA data with remote sensing, machine learning, and ecological modeling to enhance predictive environmental monitoring frameworks. As technological advancements continue, eDNA-based approaches are poised to revolutionize environmental assessment, conservation strategies, and public health surveillance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Biosensors and Biosensing)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4172 KiB  
Article
Vapor Phase Application of Thymus vulgaris Essential Oil to Control the Biodeteriogenic Fungus Alternaria alternata
by Francesca Bosco, Chiara Mollea and Davide Fissore
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8420; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158420 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 254
Abstract
In the present work, the antimicrobial efficacy of Thymus vulgaris essential oil (EO) was investigated on Alternaria alternata strain BNR; a paper biodeteriogen was used as a model for a contaminated library. The influence of EO volume and diffusion modality, treatment duration, and [...] Read more.
In the present work, the antimicrobial efficacy of Thymus vulgaris essential oil (EO) was investigated on Alternaria alternata strain BNR; a paper biodeteriogen was used as a model for a contaminated library. The influence of EO volume and diffusion modality, treatment duration, and inoculum age was evaluated in the vapor phase. In Petri dish screening, the influence of different EO volumes (5, 7.5, and 10 μL) on the microbial growth lag phase was investigated, and the growth inhibition period was established. The most effective treatment (10 μL EO) was then scaled up in a glass airtight container of 2650 cm3; a cold diffusion method was applied in order to quickly reach the maximum concentration of active compounds in the vapor phase. These tests demonstrated that EO efficacy is affected by the inoculum age and the contact time, and that the treatment should be performed as early as is feasible. A mycostatic effect was confirmed to be proportional to the utilized EO volume and independent from the treatment method. The information obtained in the present work will be applied to the set-up of an EO treatment in a library characterized by different levels of air contamination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosynthesis and Applications of Natural Products)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 562 KiB  
Article
Transforming Agri-Waste into Health Innovation: A Circular Framework for Sustainable Food Design
by Smita Mortero, Jirarat Anuntagool, Achara Chandrachai and Sanong Ekgasit
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6712; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156712 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 400
Abstract
This study addresses the problem of agricultural waste utilization and nutrition for older adults by developing a food product based on a circular design approach. Pineapple core was used to produce a clean-label dietary powder without chemical or enzymatic treatment, relying on repeated [...] Read more.
This study addresses the problem of agricultural waste utilization and nutrition for older adults by developing a food product based on a circular design approach. Pineapple core was used to produce a clean-label dietary powder without chemical or enzymatic treatment, relying on repeated rinsing and hot-air drying. The development process followed a structured analysis of physical, chemical, and sensory properties. The powder contained 83.46 g/100 g dietary fiber, 0° Brix sugar, pH 4.72, low water activity (aw < 0.45), and no detectable heavy metals or microbial contamination. Sensory evaluation by expert panelists confirmed that the product was acceptable in appearance, aroma, and texture, particularly for older adults. These results demonstrate the feasibility and safety of valorizing agri-waste into functional ingredients. The process was guided by the Transformative Circular Product Blueprint, which integrates clean-label processing, IoT-enabled solar drying, and decentralized production. This model supports traceability, low energy use, and adaptation at the community scale. This study contributes to sustainable food innovation and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 744 KiB  
Review
The Impact of Intraoperative Traffic and Door Openings on Surgical Site Infections: An Umbrella Review
by Jessica Drago, Sarah Scollo, Simone Cosmai, Daniela Cattani, Gloria Modena, Stefano Mancin, Sara Morales Palomares, Fabio Petrelli, Francesca Marfella, Giovanni Cangelosi, Diego Lopane and Beatrice Mazzoleni
Surgeries 2025, 6(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries6030061 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 311
Abstract
Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most common postoperative complications. Environmental factors, including intraoperative traffic and door openings in the operating room (OR), have been identified as critical contributors to microbial air contamination. Nurses play a pivotal role in managing these [...] Read more.
Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most common postoperative complications. Environmental factors, including intraoperative traffic and door openings in the operating room (OR), have been identified as critical contributors to microbial air contamination. Nurses play a pivotal role in managing these factors, directly influencing infection control practices. Methods: An integrative review was conducted to synthesize current evidence on the association between intraoperative traffic, door openings, and SSIs. A structured methodology was employed to identify, assess, and analyze the existing literature, with a specific focus on the nursing role in infection prevention. Results: Findings from a single-center prospective cohort study indicate that ORs with more than 10 personnel present exhibit a threefold increase in SSI risk [Relative Risk (RR) = 3.12; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.71–13.66] compared to ORs with fewer personnel. Additionally, every five door openings per procedure were associated with a significant increase in SSI incidence [Hazard Ratio (HR) = 2.00; 95% CI: 1.24–3.20, p = 0.005]. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of strict protocols to limit intraoperative traffic and unnecessary OR access. A multidisciplinary approach plays a crucial role in ensuring surgical safety and preventing SSIs by regulating OR access and adhering to infection control best practices. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2150 KiB  
Article
Resource Utilization Enhancement and Life Cycle Assessment of Mangosteen Peel Powder Production
by Alisa Soontornwat, Zenisha Shrestha, Thunyanat Hutangkoon, Jarotwan Koiwanit, Samak Rakmae and Pimpen Pornchaloempong
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6423; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146423 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 506
Abstract
In alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 13 (Climate Action), this research explores the sustainable valorization of mangosteen peels into mangosteen peel powder (MPP), a value-added product with pharmaceutical properties. Mangosteen peels are an [...] Read more.
In alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 13 (Climate Action), this research explores the sustainable valorization of mangosteen peels into mangosteen peel powder (MPP), a value-added product with pharmaceutical properties. Mangosteen peels are an abundant agricultural waste in Thailand. This study evaluates six MPP production schemes, each employing different drying methods. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is utilized to assess the global warming potential (GWP) of these schemes, and the quality of the MPP produced is also compared. The results show that a combination of frozen storage and freeze-drying (scheme 4) has the highest GWP (1091.897 kgCO2eq) due to substantial electricity usage, whereas a combination of frozen storage and sun-drying (scheme 5) has the lowest GWP (0.031 kgCO2eq) but is prone to microbial contamination. Frozen storage without coarse grinding, combined with hot-air drying (scheme 6), is identified as the optimal scheme in terms of GWP (11.236 kgCO2eq) and product quality. Due to the lack of an onsite hot-air-drying facility, two transportation strategies are integrated into scheme 6 for scenarios A and B. These transportation strategies include transporting mangosteen peels from orchards to a facility in another province or transporting a mobile hot-air-drying unit to the orchards. The analysis indicates that scenario B is more favorable both operationally and environmentally, due to its lower emissions. This research is the first to comparatively assess the GWP of different MPP production schemes using LCA. Furthermore, it aligns with the growing trend in international trade which places greater emphasis on environmentally friendly production processes. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 11397 KiB  
Article
Impact of Airflow Disturbance from Human Motion on Contaminant Control in Cleanroom Environments: A CFD-Based Analysis
by Abiyeva Guldana, Sayat Niyetbay, Arman Zhanguzhinov, Gulbanu Kassabekova, Dilyara Jartayeva, Kulyash Alimova, Gulnaz Zhakapbayeva and Khalkhabay Bostandyk
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2264; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132264 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 404
Abstract
The growing demands for sanitary regulations in medical facilities, particularly operating rooms, highlight the importance of ensuring high air quality and minimizing airborne hospital-acquired infections. Improperly designed ventilation systems may lead to contamination of up to 90–95% of patients, especially in light of [...] Read more.
The growing demands for sanitary regulations in medical facilities, particularly operating rooms, highlight the importance of ensuring high air quality and minimizing airborne hospital-acquired infections. Improperly designed ventilation systems may lead to contamination of up to 90–95% of patients, especially in light of evolving threats, such as COVID-19. This study focuses on enhancing the energy efficiency and performance of air conditioning and ventilation systems for cleanrooms, where air recirculation is not permissible. A novel energy-efficient direct-flow air treatment scheme is proposed, integrating a heat pump system with adjustable thermal output. A computational fluid dynamics CFD model of a clean operating room was developed to assess the impact of inlet air velocity on aerosol particle removal and airflow stabilization time. The model also considers the effect of personnel movement. The results supported optimized air distribution, reducing microbial contamination risks, with less than 10 CFU/m3, and improved thermal performance. The proposed system was evaluated for energy and cost efficiency compared to conventional setups. Findings can inform the design and operation of cleanroom ventilation in surgical environments and other high-tech applications. This research contributes to improving indoor air quality and reducing infection risks while enhancing sustainability in healthcare infrastructure. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 2910 KiB  
Review
Tyre Wear Particles in the Environment: Sources, Toxicity, and Remediation Approaches
by Jie Kang, Xintong Liu, Bing Dai, Tianhao Liu, Fasih Ullah Haider, Peng Zhang, Habiba and Jian Cai
Sustainability 2025, 17(12), 5433; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17125433 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1211
Abstract
Tyre wear particles (TWPs), generated from tyre-road abrasion, are a pervasive and under-regulated environmental pollutant, accounting for a significant share of global microplastic contamination. Recent estimates indicate that 1.3 million metric tons of TWPs are released annually in Europe, dispersing via atmospheric transport, [...] Read more.
Tyre wear particles (TWPs), generated from tyre-road abrasion, are a pervasive and under-regulated environmental pollutant, accounting for a significant share of global microplastic contamination. Recent estimates indicate that 1.3 million metric tons of TWPs are released annually in Europe, dispersing via atmospheric transport, stormwater runoff, and sedimentation to contaminate air, water, and soil. TWPs are composed of synthetic rubber polymers, reinforcing fillers, and chemical additives, including heavy metals such as zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) and organic compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD). These constituents confer persistence and bioaccumulative potential. While TWP toxicity in aquatic systems is well-documented, its ecological impacts on terrestrial environments, particularly in agricultural soils, remain less understood despite global soil loading rates exceeding 6.1 million metric tons annually. This review synthesizes global research on TWP sources, environmental fate, and ecotoxicological effects, with a focus on soil–plant systems. TWPs have been shown to alter key soil properties, including a 25% reduction in porosity and a 20–35% decrease in organic matter decomposition, disrupt microbial communities (with a 40–60% reduction in nitrogen-fixing bacteria), and induce phytotoxicity through both physical blockage of roots and Zn-induced oxidative stress. Human exposure occurs through inhalation (estimated at 3200 particles per day in urban areas), ingestion, and dermal contact, with epidemiological evidence linking TWPs to increased risks of respiratory, cardiovascular, and developmental disorders. Emerging remediation strategies are critically evaluated across three tiers: (1) source reduction using advanced tyre materials (up to 40% wear reduction in laboratory tests); (2) environmental interception through bioengineered filtration systems (60–80% capture efficiency in pilot trials); and (3) contaminant degradation via novel bioremediation techniques (up to 85% removal in recent studies). Key research gaps remain, including the need for long-term field studies, standardized mitigation protocols, and integrated risk assessments. This review emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing TWP pollution and offers guidance on sustainable solutions to protect ecosystems and public health through science-driven policy recommendations. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

39 pages, 7808 KiB  
Review
Sustainable Solutions for Plastic Waste Mitigation in Sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges and Future Perspectives Review
by Comfort Yeboaa, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Martha Noro Chollom and Sudesh Rathilal
Polymers 2025, 17(11), 1521; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17111521 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 1101
Abstract
The anthropogenic deployment of plastic waste, especially petroleum-based plastics with toxic hydrocarbons, presents a significant environmental and health threat in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Herein, the high demand and rapid plastic production, coupled with improper disposal and inadequate waste management, have led to widespread [...] Read more.
The anthropogenic deployment of plastic waste, especially petroleum-based plastics with toxic hydrocarbons, presents a significant environmental and health threat in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Herein, the high demand and rapid plastic production, coupled with improper disposal and inadequate waste management, have led to widespread contamination of air, water, and soil. Conventionally, plastic waste management, such as incineration and recycling, provides limited long-term solutions to this growing crisis. This necessitates urgent, sustainable, and eco-friendly remediation techniques to mitigate its far-reaching environmental implications. This comprehensive review focused on sustainable and eco-friendly techniques by exploring strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis of plastic waste management. Bioremediation techniques were found as potential solutions for addressing plastic waste in SSA. This paper examines advancements in physiochemical methods, the challenges in managing various plastic types, and the role of enzymatic and microbial consortia in enhancing biodegradation. It also explores the potential of genomic technologies and engineered microbial systems to convert plastic waste into valuable products, including bioenergy via bio-upcycling. These bioremediation strategies align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), offering a promising path to reduce the environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution in the region. This paper also considers future directions of integrating AI-powered recycling systems to facilitate the development of a circular economy in SSA. Additionally, this paper provides progress and future perspectives on bioremediation as a sustainable solution for plastic waste management in SSA. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

51 pages, 1411 KiB  
Review
Biological Treatments for VOC-Contaminated Off-Gas: Advances, Challenges, and Energetic Valorization Opportunities
by João R. Silva, Rosa M. Quinta-Ferreira and Luís M. Castro
Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4802; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114802 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 1134
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are major contributors to the burgeoning air pollution issue, predominantly from industrial areas, with well-documented environmental and health risks, which demand efficient and sustainable control policies. This review analyzes the current technological challenges and investigates recent developments in biological [...] Read more.
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are major contributors to the burgeoning air pollution issue, predominantly from industrial areas, with well-documented environmental and health risks, which demand efficient and sustainable control policies. This review analyzes the current technological challenges and investigates recent developments in biological treatment technologies for VOC-contaminated off-gases, including biofilters, biotrickling filters, and bioscrubber, as well as emerging technologies, such as bioaugmentation and microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Operational performance, economic feasibility, and adaptability to various industrial applications are assessed, alongside opportunities for integration with other technologies, including energy recovery technologies. Biological systems offer considerable advantages regarding cost savings and lower environmental impacts and enhanced operational flexibility, particularly when combined with innovative materials and microbial optimization techniques. Nevertheless, challenges persist, such as choosing the best treatment settings suited to different VOC streams and addressing biofilm control concerns and scalability. Overall, biological VOC treatments are encouraging sustainable solutions, though continued research into reactor design, microbial dynamics, and MFC-based energetic valorization is essential for broader industrial application. These insights cover advancements and highlight the continuous need for innovative prowess to forge sustainable VOC pollution control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosustainability and Waste Valorization)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 397 KiB  
Systematic Review
Impact of Microbial Load on Operating Room Air Quality and Surgical Site Infections: A Systematic Review
by Sofia Chiletzari, Anastasia Barbouni and Konstantinos Kesanopoulos
Acta Microbiol. Hell. 2025, 70(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/amh70020020 - 20 May 2025
Viewed by 2062
Abstract
Surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired infections worldwide, with significant clinical and economic implications. The aim of this review was to summarize the latest body of evidence on associations between microbial air load and SSIs. The [...] Read more.
Surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired infections worldwide, with significant clinical and economic implications. The aim of this review was to summarize the latest body of evidence on associations between microbial air load and SSIs. The systematic review was conducted using the revised Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA, 2020) method. Pubmed and Scopus databases were searched for the period 2014–2024. English language articles were searched for their reports on the microbial burden of operating room air and its association with surgical site infections. The present review includes a total of 36 articles related to microbial air load as an aggravating factor to air quality in the operating room and its association with SSIs. A direct correlation between microbial air load and the occurrence of SSIs was established through sampling methods and genetic analysis. A lack of consensus on the effectiveness of laminar air flow (LAF) systems was underlined, while temperature-controlled air flow seemed a promising alternative. One study found that each additional person in the operating room increases the number of bacterial colonies by 4.93 CFU/m3 while another did not find significant changes in air quality. More than 20 air changes per hour (ACH) appeared to have better results in improving the quality of the air in the operation room. Airborne microbial contamination is multifactorial, and for some of those factors, a revision of the guidelines seems necessary. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Next-Generation Sequencing methods show great promise for improving air quality in the future. This review calls for the implementation of international guidelines regarding air contamination limits in operating rooms and standardized air sampling methods, as well as further research for the efficacy assessment of air flow systems and emerging technologies based on AI in order to reduce the burden of SSIs and improve patient outcomes. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

6 pages, 5351 KiB  
Communication
A 3D Printed, Time-Resolved, Settle-Plate Air Sampler
by Jonathan E. Thompson
Hardware 2025, 3(2), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/hardware3020004 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 386
Abstract
A novel temporally resolved settle-plate air sampler was developed using 3D printing technology to improve upon traditional passive air sampling methods. Conventional settle plates provide cumulative measurements of particle or microbial loads over an entire sampling period, lacking the temporal resolution necessary to [...] Read more.
A novel temporally resolved settle-plate air sampler was developed using 3D printing technology to improve upon traditional passive air sampling methods. Conventional settle plates provide cumulative measurements of particle or microbial loads over an entire sampling period, lacking the temporal resolution necessary to identify specific contamination events. The described device integrates a petri plate within a 3D-printed housing featuring a narrow slit that exposes only a small portion of the plate to incoming particles. A rotary mechanism, driven by a mechanical clock motor, rotates the petri plate over 12 h, allowing for time-segmented sampling. Validation experiments demonstrated the device’s ability to accurately encode the temporal history of particle deposition using both aerosolized dyes and viable microbial spores. The device effectively correlated bioaerosol deposition with ambient wind conditions during outdoor sampling. The system is inexpensive (under USD 10), requires no specialized skills to assemble, and is compatible with existing settle plate methodologies. This innovation enhances the ability to conduct air quality assessments in critical environments, enabling data-driven decisions to mitigate contamination risks. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 5459 KiB  
Article
Next-Generation Eco-Friendly Hybrid Air Purifier: Ag/TiO2/PLA Biofilm for Enhanced Bioaerosols Removal
by Rotruedee Chotigawin, Bhuvaneswari Kandasamy, Paradee Asa, Tistaya Semangoen, Pravech Ajawatanawong, Sarun Phibanchon, Taddao Pahasup-anan, Surachai Wongcharee and Kowit Suwannahong
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4584; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104584 - 10 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 833
Abstract
Indoor air pollution poses a significant public health risk, particularly in urban areas, where PM2.5 and airborne contaminants contribute to respiratory diseases. In Thailand, including Chonburi Province, PM2.5 levels frequently exceed safety thresholds, underscoring the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies. To address [...] Read more.
Indoor air pollution poses a significant public health risk, particularly in urban areas, where PM2.5 and airborne contaminants contribute to respiratory diseases. In Thailand, including Chonburi Province, PM2.5 levels frequently exceed safety thresholds, underscoring the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies. To address this challenge, we developed a hybrid air purification system incorporating a bioplastic-based photocatalytic film of polylactic acid (PLA) embedded with titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles. For optimization, PLA films were functionalized with varying TiO2 concentrations and characterized using SEM, FTIR, TGDTA, and UV–Vis. spectroscopy. A 5 wt% TiO2 loading was identified as optimal and further enhanced with silver (Ag) nanoparticles to boost photocatalytic efficiency. The Ag/TiO2/PLA biofilm was fabricated via a compound pellet formulation process followed by blown film extrusion. Various compositions, with and without Ag, were systematically evaluated for photocatalytic performance. The novel customized hybrid air purifier developed in this study is designed to enhance indoor air purification efficiency by integrating Ag/TiO2/PLA biofilms into a controlled oxidation system. The air purification efficacy of the developed biofilm was evaluated through a controlled study on Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) removal under different treatment conditions: control, adsorption, photolysis, and photocatalytic oxidation. The impact of light intensity on photocatalytic efficiency was also examined. The photocatalytic oxidation of S. aureus was subjected to the first-order kinetic evaluation through mathematical modeling. Results demonstrated that the Ag/TiO2/PLA biofilm significantly enhances indoor air purification, providing a sustainable, scalable, and energy-efficient solution for microbial decontamination and pollutant removal. This innovative approach outperforms conventional adsorption, adsorption and photocatalytic oxidation systems, offering a promising pathway for improved indoor air quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Science)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6264 KiB  
Article
Edible Coating Based on Konjac glucomannan Loading Ocimum gratissimum Essential Oil for Postharvest Preservation of Orange
by Xiang Yu, Jingyu Zhu, Jintao Wu, Yuhang Cheng, Ya Gao, Yi Liu and Fatang Jiang
Polymers 2025, 17(9), 1217; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17091217 - 29 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 676
Abstract
Microbial contamination challenges have led to the development of active edible coatings for fruit preservation. Herein, a Konjac glucomannan (KGM) coating loaded with Ocimum gratissimum (OG) essential oil stabilized by pectin with superior resistance to air permeability, oxidation, and fungal, was prepared in [...] Read more.
Microbial contamination challenges have led to the development of active edible coatings for fruit preservation. Herein, a Konjac glucomannan (KGM) coating loaded with Ocimum gratissimum (OG) essential oil stabilized by pectin with superior resistance to air permeability, oxidation, and fungal, was prepared in situ on the surface of Mandarin oranges to enhance postharvest fruit quality. The results demonstrated that the KGM-pectin-OG (K-P-OG) 1.5 wt% coating exhibited good performance in terms of stability, adhesion, and wetting. Meanwhile, the coating had an ideal air permeability due to its compact and dense structure based on the good compatibility and interactions between the components. The oxygen permeability of the K-P-OG coating was 7.9 × (10−16 g·cm)/(cm2·s·Pa), which was six orders of magnitude lower than that of the KGM coating. The antioxidant, in vitro, and in vivo antifungal activities against Penicillium italicum of the coating were strengthened by the OG emulsion and mainly depended on its concentration. The storage results showed that the K-P-OG 1.5% coating extended the shelf life of Mandarin oranges by 8 days, reduced the weight loss rate by 13%, and increased the firmness and POD during storage by 24.14% and 100%, respectively, compared with the control group. These results demonstrate that K-P-OG can effectively maintain nutrient content and extend the storage time of Mandarin oranges by enhancing antioxidant capacity and inhibiting fruit respiration and microorganism growth. This study presents a strategy for developing edible coatings for postharvest fruit preservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 5883 KiB  
Article
Innovative Antibacterial Air Filters Impregnated with Photocatalytic MgFe2O4 Nanoparticles for Improved Microbiological Air Quality
by Abdelwahab Rai, Sara Oumenoune Tebbi, Chaima Ben Mahfoud, Maroua Bourbala, Reguia Boudraa, Abdelatif Amrane, Najeh Maaloul, Manuel Rendueles, Paula Oulego, Maymounah N. Alharthi and Lotfi Mouni
Catalysts 2025, 15(4), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15040365 - 8 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1260
Abstract
Over time, nanoparticles’ chemistry has shown exceptional ability to solve a wide range of problems in various fields, including the control of microbiological air quality in buildings. Herein, magnesium ferrite (MgFe2O4) was synthesized using coprecipitation, then characterized using X-ray [...] Read more.
Over time, nanoparticles’ chemistry has shown exceptional ability to solve a wide range of problems in various fields, including the control of microbiological air quality in buildings. Herein, magnesium ferrite (MgFe2O4) was synthesized using coprecipitation, then characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). MgFe2O4 nanoparticles were then assessed for their ability to inhibit Escherichia coli ATCC 8739 growth and airborne bacterial viability in a laboratory atmosphere through a direct air filtration system. The material showed strong inhibitory activity against E. coli by eliminating practically all viable cells in the tested suspensions after 1 h contact time in the presence of light. Finally, the prepared air filtration setup revealed that passing air bacteria through non-woven fabric filters impregnated with MgFe2O4 effectively eliminates them. Thus, only 1 colony-forming unit (CFU) was obtained from 36 L of filtered air, while a control filter (without MgFe2O4) allowed the passage of 2.6 × 105 CFU to the liquid medium. The obtained results initiate potential applications of MgFe2O4 nanoparticles in controlling microbiological indoor air quality (IAQ), especially in healthcare facilities where microbial resistance to antibiotics is the most notable, individuals are the most exposed, and contamination risks are the highest. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1376 KiB  
Article
Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Escherichia coli in Laying Hens: Slaughterhouse Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns
by Nihat Telli, Arife Ezgi Telli, Yusuf Biçer and Gamze Turkal
Antibiotics 2025, 14(4), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14040351 - 31 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1403
Abstract
Background: Laying hens, which are widely utilized for consumption and export in various regions, experience prolonged antibiotic exposure due to their longer lifespan, increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance and impacting the microbial environment of poultry slaughterhouses. Given the significance of extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing [...] Read more.
Background: Laying hens, which are widely utilized for consumption and export in various regions, experience prolonged antibiotic exposure due to their longer lifespan, increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance and impacting the microbial environment of poultry slaughterhouses. Given the significance of extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli in food safety, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of ESBL genes in E. coli isolated from a laying hen slaughterhouse in Konya, Turkey. Methods: Sampling was conducted using a convenient sampling approach, and a total of 150 samples were collected from a single slaughterhouse over six visits during both warm (June–August) and cold (January–March) seasons to evaluate seasonal variations. Samples were categorized into environmental sources (personnel, air, wastewater, eggs) and carcass-related sources (cloaca, carcasses at critical control points, final product). Classical cultural and molecular techniques and antimicrobial susceptibility tests were used for ESBL presence and gene characterization. For sequence analysis, the bidirectional Sanger Gene sequence analysis method was applied. Results: PCR-based detection identified 10 of the 17 isolates as E. coli by amplifying the uspA gene, and bidirectional Sanger sequencing further confirmed these isolates at the species level. The E. coli isolates were detected at various sampling areas, including personnel, carcasses after evisceration, and raw wastewater samples collected at different time points. In the multiplex PCR analysis, most ESBL isolates were positive for the blaCTX-M gene. The co-existence of blaTEM and blaCTX-M genes was detected in five samples. Additionally, three genes (blaSHV, blaCTX-M, and blaOXA) were identified in a carcass sample after evisceration. All ESBL-producing isolates harbored the blaCTX-M1 gene, and multiple antibiotic resistance was observed across all isolates. The presence of these genes was strongly associated with resistance to ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, aztreonam, cefepime, cefpodoxime, cefuroxime, and cephalothin, highlighting the critical role of blaCTX-M in driving the multidrug resistance patterns observed in this study. The highest resistance rate (80%) was observed in “personnel” and “carcass samples after evisceration”, while all isolates remained sensitive to carbapenems (imipenem and meropenem). Conclusions: Our findings highlight the importance of the laying hen slaughter line as a potential source of contamination with ESBL-producing E. coli, which poses significant implications for food safety and public health. These findings underscore the need for improved control measures to mitigate ESBL E. coli transmission in poultry processing and highlight the importance of optimizing antibiotic use strategies in laying hen farming. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop