Effects of synergistic modification using alkalis and guar gum on the pasting, rheological, and microstructural properties of germinated highland barley starch gels

Germination treatment of highland barley enhances its nutritional value while weakening the starch gel properties. This study aims to enhance the characteristics of germinated highland barley starch (GBS) by exploring the synergistic effects of two alkalis (Na2CO3 and NaHCO3) and guar gum (GG) on GBS gel properties. The combined action of alkalis and GG significantly improved the peak viscosity, setback viscosity, and hardness compared with GG alone. The highest G' and G" reached 998 and 204 Pa at 0.4% Na2CO3 addition, which were increased by nearly 44% and 50%, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared spectral analysis revealed that the alkalis strengthened interaction forces, particularly with intensified absorption peaks at 3200-3700 cm-1 and 1550-1750 cm-1. The Na2CO3 and NaHCO3 reduced the spin-spin relaxation time (T2), resulting in a dense starch gel network. This study contributes to enhancing the market application of GBS and offers innovative insights for modifying other starches.

Isolation, structural characterization and biological activity evaluation of melanoidins from thermally processed cocoa beans, carob kibbles and acorns as potential cytotoxic agents

The aim of this study was to determine the chemical structure and biological activity of melanoidin fractions derived from cocoa beans, carob kibbles, and acorns roasted at different temperature-time conditions. The results showed that plant origin and roasting conditions had significant effects on the chemical composition, structural features, and morphology of melanoidins. All tested melanoidins exhibited significant antioxidant properties in three in vitro assays. In addition, they show significant in vitro anti-inflammatory activity by reducing lipoxygenase. The results from MTT assay showed that the all studied melanoidins had a cytotoxic effect against SW-480 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, the most pronounced activity was observed for acorn melanoidins. This is a unique finding, as the specific cytotoxic effect has not been reported for cocoa, carob and acorn melanoidins, and opens up a great opportunity to develop a potential novel cytotoxic agent against deadly colon cancer in the future.

Plant gums in Pickering emulsions: A review of sources, properties, applications, and future perspectives

Recently, there has been an increasing research interest in the development of Pickering emulsions stabilized with naturally derived biopolymeric particles. In this regard, plant gums, obtained as plant exudates or from plant seeds, are considered promising candidates for the development of non-toxic, biocompatible, biodegradable and eco-friendly Pickering stabilizers. The main objective of this review article is to provide a detailed overview and assess the latest advances in the formulation of Pickering emulsions stabilized with plant gum-based particles. The plant gum sources, types and properties are outlined. Besides, the current methodologies used in the production of plant gum particles formed solely of plant gums, or through interactions of plant gums with proteins or other polysaccharides are highlighted and discussed. Furthermore, the work compiles and assesses the innovative applications of plant gum-based Pickering emulsions in areas such as encapsulation and delivery of drugs and active agents, along with the utilization of these Pickering emulsions in the development of active packaging films, plant-based products and low-fat food formulations. The last part of the review presents potential future research trends that are expected to motivate and direct research to areas related to other novel food applications, as well as tissue engineering and environmental applications.

Influence of Curcuma Longa extract in citral addition on functional properties of thin films with triple-layer structure based on furcellaran and gelatin

In this study, we obtained triple-layer films based on furcellaran and gelatin, in which the middle layer was enriched with extract of Curcuma longa in citral. This newly developed material underwent a comprehensive characterisation process to identify significant improvements in its functional properties. Both SEM, XRD and FTIR analyzes indicated the formation of interactions not only between the components but also between the film layers. Notably, the incorporation of the natural extract led to a significant reduction in solubility, decreasing it from 74.79 % to 57.25 %, while enhancing thermal stability expressed as a melting point elevating it from 147.10 °C in the control film to 158.80 °C in the film with the highest concentration of the active ingredient. Simultaneously, the addition of this active ingredient resulted in decreased water contact angle (WCA) values, rendering the film more hydrophilic. The produced films exhibit great promise as packaging materials, particularly within the food industry, and the conducted research is marked by its forward-looking and developmental approach.

Antimicrobial polysaccharide hydrogels embedded with methyl-β-cyclodextrin/thyme oil inclusion complexes for exceptional mechanical performance and chilled chicken breast preservation

While hydrogels have potential for food packaging, limited research on hydrogels with excellent mechanical performance and antibacterial activity for preserving chicken breasts. Herein, we created antibacterial hydrogels by embedding methyl-β-cyclodextrin/thyme oil inclusion complexes (MCD/TO-ICs) into a polyvinyl alcohol matrix containing dendrobium polysaccharides and guar gum in varying ratios using freeze-thaw cycling method. The resulting hydrogels exhibited a more compact structure than those without MCD/TO-ICs, enhancing thermal stability and increasing glass transition temperature due to additional intermolecular interactions between polymer chains that inhibited chain movement. XRD analysis showed no significant changes in crystalline phase, enabling formation of a 3D network through abundant hydrogen bonding. Moreover, the hydrogel demonstrated exceptional durability, with a toughness of 350 ± 25 kJ/m3 and adequate tearing resistance of 340 ± 30 J/m2, capable of lifting 3 kg weight, 1200 times greater than the hydrogel itself. Additionally, the hydrogels displayed excellent antimicrobial activity and antioxidant properties. Importantly, the hydrogels effectively maintained TVB-N levels and microbial counts within acceptable ranges, preserving sensory properties and extending the shelf life of chilled chicken breasts by four days. This study highlights the potential of MCD/TO-IC-incorporated polysaccharide hydrogels as safe and effective active packaging solutions for preserving chilled chicken in food industry.

Pimobendan controlled release guar gum printlets: Tailoring drug doses for personalised veterinary medicines

Treating chronic heart diseases in dogs is challenging due to variations in mass within and between species. Pimobendan (PBD), a veterinary drug only, is prescribed in specific cases of chronic heart disease in dogs and is available on the market in only a few different doses. Furthermore, the therapy itself is challenging due to the large size of the chewable tablets and the requirement for twice-daily administration. The development of customised and on-demand PBD medicines by three-dimensional (3D) printing has been proposed to circumvent these disadvantages. In this study, we designed controlled-release flavoured printlets containing PBD. We evaluated the use of two natural polymers, guar or xanthan gums, as the main component of the printing inks. Guar gum showed the better rheological behavior and printability by semisolid extrusion. The printlets were produced in three different shapes and sizes to allow dose customisation. Guar gum printlets showed a PBD controlled release profile, regardless of their shape or size. Therefore, we have demonstrated a novel approach for controlling PBD drug release and tailoring the dose by employing a natural polymer to produce 3D-printed tablets. This study represents a significant step towards the development of 3D-printed guar gum controlled-release formulations for veterinary applications.

Starch microsphere silicon-boron crosslinker for low concentration hydroxypropyl guar gum based fracturing fluid

Hydroxypropyl guar gum (HPG) is a critical thickener to increase viscosity and lubrication to improve the water-based hydraulic fracturing efficiency. However, current crosslinkers require a large amount of HPG (>0.3 wt%) to form gel with sufficient viscosity, and high concentrations of HPG may cause adverse effects to the production and the environment. In this study, a novel starch microsphere silica‑boron crosslinker (SMSB) was developed using starch microspheres as a carrier and γ-aminopropyl triethoxy silane (KH550) as a modifier with an in-house method. Both the rheology and surface reactions of the SMSB-HPG crosslinking system were studied using multiple laboratory experiments and molecular dynamics simulation. The results showed that SMSB crosslinker caused multi-site cross-linking with low concentration (only 0.2 wt%) of HPG molecules, reducing the twisting of single molecular chain in the crosslinking system, enhancing the cross-linking strength between molecular chains, and making HPG molecular chains stretcher in the aqueous solution. The apparent viscosity and viscoelasticity of the HPG system were substantially higher than the organoboron crosslinker, and the temperature resistance of the SMSB-HPG crosslinking system was up to 140 °C. This study provides an alternative green crosslinker for more sustainable industrial applications and provides theoretical basis for the modification of biomaterials.

Synergistic impact of natural gums and crosslinkers on the properties of oilseed meals based biopolymeric films

The waste material utilization from available agricultural resources can be beneficial in the field of economic, social, and environmental well-being. One of the main industrial crops used to manufacture oil from oilseeds worldwide is agricultural waste, such as the cake made from oilseeds. In this study, de-oiled cakes are used to create biopolymeric films. Three widely accessible oilseed meals viz. flaxseed, soybean, and mustard were gathered, ground, and sieved. A film forming suspension of defatted meals along with natural gums (acacia and xanthan gum) and crosslinkers (citric acid and glutaraldehyde) were formed. The suspension was cast into petri dishes and dried to produce smooth and even films. The physical, functional, color, thermal and morphological properties of the oilseed meals-gums crosslinked biopolymeric film were evaluated and statistical analysis was performed. The solubility was found to be decreased and tensile strength was increased with the addition of citric acid and increase in tensile strength. There was significant difference observed in the values of elongation at break after addition of citric acid as crosslinker. The research shows how oilseed meals enriched with natural gum and crosslinkers may be converted into biopolymeric films, which can then be used in food packaging to lessen reliance on petroleum-based, non-biodegradable plastics.

A comparative study on the rheological properties of concentrated xanthan gum in combination with gum arabic or gum arabic-based emulsion

A goal of this study is to explore the difference in rheological properties of xanthan gum (XG)-based mixtures with gum arabic (GA) or GA-based emulsion (GAE). The stability of GAE was improved by thickening with XG. The intrinsic viscosity of all mixtures decreased as GA concentration increased, implying an XG conformational transition from the disordered to the ordered form. All mixtures except for an XG-GA mixture at 6.0 % GA attained a higher consistency index value than XG alone, indicating synergistic interactions between the components. At a high GA concentration (>3.0 %), the XG-GAE mixture showed higher relative apparent viscosity values than the XG-GA mixture. All mixtures except for an XG-GA mixture at 6.0 % GA showed higher elastic modulus and lower viscous modulus values than XG alone. Consequently, all mixtures showed lower tan δ values (0.26-0.30) than XG alone (0.31). Moreover, with a high GA concentration (>1.5 %), the XG-GAE mixtures achieved lower relative tan δ values than XG-GA mixture. These results indicate that XG formed a higher weak gel-like network with GAE than GA. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the interaction between XG and GA is influenced by conformational changes in the latter in both aqueous and emulsion systems.

Film-Forming, Moisturizing, and Sensory Properties of a Cosmetic Formulation Containing Tara Gum and Brazilian Berry Extracts

The development of cosmetic formulations with moisturizing and film-forming properties has been very important to help keep skin physiology and protection. In this context, this study aimed to develop a cosmetic formulation containing Tara gum and Brazilian berry extract and evaluate its physical-mechanical, film-forming, and sensory properties. A gel formulation was developed based on Tara gum added to Plinia cauliflora extract and was characterized by its spreadability profile and sensory properties. A clinical study was carried out with ten participants to evaluate the skin microrelief, stratum corneum water content, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin morphological characteristics by reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) before and after 2 h of application of the formulations. The formulation with Brazilian berry significantly decreased the work of shear parameter, which can be correlated with improved spreadability in the sensory analysis. The clinical study showed that both formulations improved skin hydration and reduced the TEWL. The RCM imaging analysis showed the visible film on the skin surface, a decrease in the size of furrows, an increase in the reflectance of the interkeratinocytes, and reflectance of the stratum corneum for both formulations. These results were more pronounced for the formulation containing Brazilian berry. The Tara gum in the gel formulation promoted the formation and visualization of a polymeric net on the stratum corneum surface, demonstrated by the images obtained from RCM. However, the formulation added with the Brazilian berry extract improved the skin microrelief, honeycomb pattern of the epidermis, and skin hydration in deeper layers of the epidermis.

Immature carob pods extract and its fractions prevent lipid metabolism disorders and lipoprotein-rich plasma oxidation in mice: A phytochemical and pharmacological study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Morocco carob fruits are used traditionally to treat hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and related diseases.

AIMS

This study was designed to evaluate the hypolipidemic activity of Ceratonia siliqua green pods extract and its fractions in Triton WR-1339 and high fat/cholesterol diet (HFCD) induced hyperlipidemia mice, as well as their ability to prevent lipoproteins oxidation in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was used to determine the phenolic composition of the immature carob pods extract (HWCE). Antioxidant activities were evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging test as well as MDA measurement in oxidized lipoprotein rich plasma. Plasma lipids, glucose and biliary total cholesterol, as well as lipids level in liver and feces, were analyzed. The acute oral toxicity was performed in mice single dosed with the HWCE at 2000 and 5000 mg/kg body weight.

RESULTS

HPLC analysis shows that gallic acid is the main phenolic compound in the HWCE. The acute oral toxicity assessment revealed that the HWCE is not toxic (LD50 is greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight). In the acute hypolipidemic study, mice treated with the HWCE and its fractions exhibited a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Importantly, immature carob aqueous extract was more effective in lowering mice hypercholesterolemia than its fractions. Indeed, mice fed the HFCD for 12 weeks showed a significant raise in plasma TC, TG and LDL-C, as well as in hepatic and fecal TC and TG levels. The HWCE at 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight significantly (P < 0.001) reversed the plasmatic levels of these lipid parameters, increased plasma HDL-C level, reduced hepatic lipids accumulation, but increased cholesterol level in the bile and fecal lipids excretion. The HWCE decreased also the atherogenic index, the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio and plasma glucose level after 12 weeks' experiment. On the other hand, the HWCE was more effective in preventing mice lipoprotein-rich plasma oxidation than its fractions, with a concentration-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

C. siliqua green fruits extract could be effective in preventing atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular complications through the inhibition of lipoprotein oxidation and cholesterol clearance.

Ag Nanoparticle Incorporated Guar Gum-Sodium Alginate-I-Carrageenan Tribiopolymer Blended Cloth Waste Lint Extracted Cellulose Nanocrystal Antimicrobial Composite Film

A biopolymer-based formulation for robust and active food packaging material was developed. This material consisted of a blend of three biopolymers (guar gum-sodium alginate-i-carrageenan) reinforced by cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) alongside the integration of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with varying sizes. The CNC utilized in this process was derived from cloth waste lint (CWL) generated from a household cloth dryer machine. This CNC synthesis underwent a series of solvent treatments to yield the CNC used in the composite. CNC and AgNPs were incorporated into the tribiopolymeric blend matrix to construct a nanocomposite film that showed excellent tensile strength (∼90 MPa). The nanocomposite film also exhibited antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Bacillus cereus MTCC 1272. In this report, it was demonstrated that the zone of inhibition against E. coli and B. cereus depends on the variation of size and amount of AgNPs inside the polymeric matrix. The practical applicability of such a film was also demonstrated by applying it to sliced bread and the enhancement of the shelf life of the raped bread was compared with a control. Thus, the guar gum-sodium alginate-i-carrageenan tribiopolymer blend with a cloth waste lint extracted cellulose nanocrystal composite film is antimicrobial, hence, an excellent candidate as an active packaging film.

Tamarind seed polysaccharide-guar gum buccal films loaded with resveratrol-bovine serum albumin nanoparticles: Preparation, characterization, and mucoadhesiveness assessment

Mucoadhesive films based on tamarind seed polysaccharide and guar gum (TSP-GG) were formulated for buccal delivery of resveratrol. Resveratrol-bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (Res-BSA) were prepared and dispersed in TSP-GG to improve its buccal mucoadhesiveness. The impregnation of Res-BSA induced the dense internal structures of TSP-GG and improved its strength and rigidity. Structural characterization showed that resveratrol existed in an amorphous state in the films containing Res-BSA, and hydrogen bonding was formed between Res-BSA and the film matrices. The films containing Res-BSA exhibited good uniformity in thickness, weight, and resveratrol content, and their surface pH was near neutral, ranging between 6.78 and 7.09. Increasing Res-BSA content reduced the water contact angle of TSP-GG (from 75.9° to 59.6°). The swelling and erosion studies indicated the favorable hydration capacity and erosion resistance of the films containing Res-BSA. Additionally, the addition of Res-BSA imparted enhanced ex vivo mucoadhesive force, in the range of 1.53 N to 1.98 N, and extended ex vivo residence time, between 17.9 h and 18.9 h, to TSP-GG. The current study implied that the composite systems of TSP-GG and Res-BSA may be a novel platform for buccal mucosal delivery of resveratrol.

Tannic acid crosslinked chitosan-guar gum composite films for packaging application

Chitosan (CH)-guar gum (GG) composite films crosslinked with tannic acid (TnA) were prepared by solution casting method. The films were then immersed in 5 % aqueous NH3 and dried again. They were characterized by IR spectroscopy, wide angle x-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. All the films were studied for physicochemical properties such as moisture content, swelling, solubility in water, water contact angle, water vapor permeability, opacity, tensile strength and antioxidant activity. The physicochemical and mechanical properties of films changed significantly when compared to CH as reflected by an increase in the amorphous domains of the films, a decrease in moisture content, swelling and solubility in water. The films turned hydrophobic with concomitant decrease in moisture content, swelling, water-solubility and exhibited improved UV absorption as well as mechanical strength, which in turn was dependent on the tannic acid concentration. These results along with enhanced antioxidant properties, UV absorption with no significant change in water vapor permeation compared to CH suggested that the films could find application in packaging applications.

Formulization and characterization of guar gum and almond gum based composite coating and their application for shelf-life extension of okra (Hibiscus esculentus)

The current novel study aims was to development and characterization of gum based (guar gum: almond gum) composite formulations with or without addition of oregano essential oils to extend the shelf life of okra at ambient condition. In this study, the optimized composite of guar gum: almond gum (75:25 V/V) prepared with addition of different concentrations (0.05, 0.1 and 0.15 % (V/V) of oregano essential oils to study their physicochemical, rheological, antimicrobial and particle size & zeta potential distribution. In addition, the effects of prepared edible coatings on shelf-life of okra vegetables were also investigated by assessing their postharvest quality attributes at ambient (23 °C) storage up to 7 days storage. The results revealed, increasing concentration of essential oils in composite coating significantly increased in pH, TSS, particle size, antimicrobial (Apergillus. niger, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus) activity respectively. Furthermore, the increasing EOs improved viscosity (n) and stability of the coatings matrix. In addition, the applications of guar gum (0.25 %): almond gum (0.5 %) composite ratio (75,25) with oregano essential oils exhibited excellent properties and potential to maintain the postharvest characteristics of okra throughout the storage period. The results of this study revealed that the addition of higher concentration (0.15 %) of essential oils in composite formulation of 75 % guar gum +25 % almond gum (03) showed higher value of pH (5.45), antioxidant activity (20.87 %), particle size (899.1 nm), zeta potential (-8.6 mV), polydispersity index (50.6 %) and higher antimicrobial activity against E.coli (19 mm), S. aureus (29 mm) and A. niger (35 mm) as compared to other formulations. Therefore, the lower composite formulation (01) with lower concentration (0.05 %) of oregano essential oil was found most effective formulation to maintain the shelf life of okra for up to 4 days as compared to other treated and control okra samples at ambient temperature by retarded the weight loss (12.74 %), maintained higher firmness (0.998 N), lower respiration rate (484.32 ml Co2/kg/h) respectively on 7 days of storage. The microbial load in the okra samples treated with different guar gum: almond gum composite showed lower microbial load in terms of total plate count and yeast & mold counts as compared to control samples. Samples treated with O3 coating showed lowest TPC (0.1 × 108 cfu/g) and YMC (6.63 × 106 cfu/g) followed by O2 (0.48 × 108 cfu/g, 7.9 × 106 cfu/g) and O1 (0.78 × 108 cfu/g, 9.45 × 106 cfu/g) respectively on 6rd day of storage, overall results indicated that the application of composite coating with different concentrations of oregano essential oils were effective to maintained postharvest shelf life of okra up to 4 days at ambient condition.

Guar gum as a microbially degradable component for an oral colon delivery system based on a combination strategy: formulation and in vitro evaluation

Oral colon delivery has widely been pursued exploiting naturally occurring polysaccharides degraded by the resident microbiota. However, their hydrophilicity may hinder the targeting performance. The aim of the present study was to manufacture and evaluate a double-coated delivery system leveraging intestinal microbiota, pH, and transit time for reliable colonic release. This system comprised a tablet core, a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) inner layer and an outer coating based on Eudragit® S and guar gum. The tablets were loaded with paracetamol, selected as a tracer drug because of the well-known analytical profile and lack of major effects on bacterial viability. The HPMC and Eudragit® S layers were applied by film-coating. Tested for in vitro release, the double-coated systems showed gastroresistance in 0.1 N HCl followed by lag phases of consistent duration in phosphate buffer pH 7.4, imparted by the HPMC layer and synergistically extended by the Eudragit® S/guar gum one. In simulated colonic fluid with fecal bacteria from an inflammatory bowel disease patient, release was faster than in the presence of β-mannanase and in control culture medium. The bacteria-containing fluid was obtained by an experimental procedure making multiple tests possible from a single sampling and processing run. Thus, the study conducted proved the feasibility of the delivery system and ability of guar gum to trigger release in the presence of colon bacteria without impairing the barrier properties of the coating. Finally, it allowed an advantageous simulated colonic fluid preparation procedure to be set up, reducing the time, costs, and complexity of testing and enhancing replicability.

Metallic-Polyphenolic Nanoparticles Reinforced Cationic Guar Gum Hydrogel for Effectively Treating Burn Wound

The development of injectable hydrogel dressings which are long-term moisturizing, easy-to-apply, and effectively inhibiting infection and inflammatory is essential to promote burn wound repairing. Herein, an injectable hydrogel with moisturizing, antibacterial, and anti-inflammation abilities via multiple reversible interactions between cation guar gum (CG) and metallic-polyphenolic nanoparticles (PA-ZnII NPs) is developed. Specifically, PA-ZnII NPs is formed by synergistic complexation of protocatechualdehyde (PA) and zinc ion (Zn2+ ), provides CGPZ hydrogel with plentiful reversible interactions to inhibit the loss of moist. By interacting with PA-ZnII NPs, the CGPZ hydrogel can provide enhanced moisturization for more than 3 days. Moreover, the CGPZ hydrogel can maintain good adhesion for a period of time with injection and self-healing capabilities due to reversible interactions between CG and PA-ZnII NPs. In addition, CGPZ hydrogel exhibits outstanding broad spectrum antibacterial performance, as its killing efficiency against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus is all greater than 99.99%. Importantly, compared with commercial dressing, the CGPZ hydrogel can promote wound healing faster by inhibiting tissue damage from dysregulated inflammation and accelerating neovascularization. It is believed that the moisturizing CGPZ hydrogel with antibacterial and anti-inflammation performance can serve as a promising dressing for the effective treatment of burn wound.

Development of guar gum reinforced calcium magnesium phosphate-based bone biocement

This study aims at developing a calcium magnesium phosphate-based bone biocement that combines a natural polymer and regenerative properties of bone bonding materials. The formulation of this biocement consists of oxidized guar gum, polydopamine, and calcium magnesium phosphate. The oxidized guar gum is easily soluble in water and has a slightly basic pH, unlike unmodified guar gum, thus allowing a homogenous paste to form in the alkaline environment of calcium magnesium phosphate. Three different oxidized degrees of guar gum were made, and the impact on the biocement properties was studied. The modified guar gum-reinforced biocement (OGG C2) displayed higher mechanical strength and lower degradation rates than OGG B1 and OGG A0. Furthermore, samples with polydopamine exhibited better results, thus, improving the already reinforced biocement. Morphological studies of the biocement displayed a highly porous structure with porosity varying among biocement containing different oxidized guar gum and polydopamine levels.

Tritrophic effects mediate host suitability for two parasitoids of the carob moth (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), infesting pistachio kernels

The carob moth, Ectomyelois ceratoniae (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), is an important pest of pistachio causing direct damage to nuts during ripening, and in storage. We examined the tritrophic effects of 5 pistachio cultivars, representing the full range of kernel suitability for E. ceratoniae, on 2 larval parasitoids, Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a gregarious, synovigenic, idiobiont, ectoparasitoid, and Venturia canescens Gravenhorst (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), a solitary, pro-ovigenic, koinobiont, endoparasitoid. The suitability of pistachio cultivars for development and reproduction of the 2 parasitoids was closely correlated, despite their divergent lifestyles and developmental patterns, and paralleled variation in kernel suitability for host larvae. Although kernels of the most resistant cultivar reduced demographic parameters of the parasitoids, the potential impact on numerical responses was minor. Successful biological control of carob moth within the vulnerable period of nut ripening will likely depend on the functional responses of earlier generations of adult parasitoids emerging from other fruit and nut crops, or those released in an augmentation program.

Exploring the potential of neem and tamarind gum as release retardants: Design and statistical optimisation of vildagliptin extended release matrix systems using D-optimal quadratic mixture design

Exploring the significant role of natural polymers in developing drug delivery systems has been a promising area of research interest. The current investigation uses a D-optimal quadratic mixture design to design and evaluate neem and tamarind gum-based vildagliptin extended-release matrix tablets. Studying the combination effect of gums is one of the major objectives. Initial screening studies were performed to select the factors and their levels. The variables selected at different levels in mg/tablet are neem gum, tamarind gum, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and lactose monohydrate. Based on the screening experiments with both gums, the polymer content of 165 mg was chosen as the highest level in the DOE. Nineteen runs were generated to screen the desired parameters as responses. The total weight of the formulation was kept constant at 275 mg. Time (hours) required for 50 %, 90 % and 100 % of drug release and tablet hardness were selected as the responses for each run. The wet granulation method was adopted, and the critical variables were optimised using the design of experiments following Design Expert software. Statistical analysis was conducted, and the optimised formulations were prepared and evaluated to compare with the predicted responses. Stability studies were performed for the optimised batches. Results indicated that the prepared batches met the compendial limits and confirmed the application of neem and tamarind gum in the development of extended-release tablets of vildagliptin for 24 h. An optimised formulation comprising of 16.52 mg of neem gum and 148.48 mg of tamarind gum with a hardness of 7.5-8.5 kp produced 50 %, 90 % and 100 % drug release in 12, 22 and 25 h.

Synthesizing pectin-crosslinked gum ghatti hydrogel for efficient adsorptive removal of malachite green

Pectin-crosslinked gum ghatti hydrogel (PGH) has been synthesized utilizing pectin and gum ghatti through an uncomplicated and inexpensive copolymerization method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM-elemental mapping), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization techniques have been employed to determine various structural, chemical and compositional characteristics of fabricated PGH. Three different weight ratios (1:1, 2:1, or 1:2 for pectin and gum ghatti, respectively) were employed to synthesize three distinct types of PGH. Swelling studies has been done to determine the best ratios for PGH fabrication. PGH has been assessed as an adsorbent for the removal of malachite green dye from aqueous solutions. The effects of PGH dosage (100-400 mg/L), dye concentration (10-160 mg/L), pH (2-9 pH), adsorption time (0-480 min), and temperature (25-55 °C) has been examined through batch solutions. According to Langmuir isotherm analysis, the maximum adsorption capacity is 658.1 mg/g. By using pseudo-second-order kinetics and the Freundlich adsorption isotherm, the adsorption process could be well explained. After five consecutive cycles, PGH had an adsorption percentage of 86.917 % for the malachite green dye. It is safe for the environment and may be used to remove malachite green (MG) dye from aqueous solutions.

Banana fibre-chitosan-guar gum composite as an alternative wound healing material

Bio-composites, which can be obtained from the renewable natural resources, are fascinating material for use as sustainable biomaterials with essential properties like biodegradable, bio-compatibility as well cyto-compatibility etc. These properties are useful for bio-medical including wound healing applications. In this study, fibre obtained banana pseudo stem of banana plant, which is otherwise wasted, was used as a material along with chitosan and guar gum to fabricate a banana fibre-biopolymer composite patch. The physiochemical properties of the patches were examined using Fourier Transformed Infra-red spectrophotometer (FT-IR), tensile tester, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), contact angle tester, swelling and degradation studies. We further demonstrated that a herbal drug, Nirgundi could be loaded to the patch showed controlled its release at different pHs. The patch had good antibacterial property and supported proliferation of mouse fibroblast cells. The study thus indicates that banana fibre-chitosan-guar gum composite can be developed into an alternative wound healing material.

Synergistic formulation approach for developing pea protein and guar gum enriched olive oil-in-water emulsion gels as solid fat substitutes: Formulation optimization, characterization, and molecular simulation

This study aimed to optimize the formulation of olive oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion gels by incorporating Pea Protein (PP) and Guar Gum (GG) as alternative options for solid fats. The optimum rheological (consistency index, apparent viscosity, recovery) and texture (firmness) properties of the emulsion gels were obtained using a mixture of 2 % PP, 1 % GG, 60 % Olive Oil (OO), and 37 % Water (W). The blend of PP2/GG1 showed the highest results for recovery and firmness, 111.27 % and 33.89 g, respectively. PP/GG blend emulsion gels exhibited higher absolute ζ-potential values, ranging between -72.3 and -77.4 mV. The polydispersity index (PDI) ranged from 0.185 to 0.535, with the most uniform distributions found in the PP/GG blend emulsion gels. Strong phase separation resistance indicated strong stability of PP-GG complex emulsion gels. Higher PP concentrations decreased emulsion oxidation. FTIR and XRD research showed that PP and GG interact strongly, indicating good compatibility. The free binding energy of the most stable configuration of the molecules was -6.8 kcal mol-1, indicating a high affinity. PP interacted with GG through 9 amino acid residues, with notable residues being Asp 224, Thr 235, Ala 332, Ile 334, and Arg 336, and their respective interaction distances ranged between 2.69 Å and 3.87 Å.

Sulfation of furcellaran and its effect on hemocompatibility in vitro

In this study, furcellaran (FUR) obtained from Furcellaria lumbricalis was firstly employed for sulfation via various methods, including SO3-pyridine (SO3∙Py) complex in different aprotic solvents, chlorosulfonic acid and sulfuric acid with a "coupling" reagent N,N'-Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. Structural characterization through FT-IR, GPC, XPS and elemental analyses confirmed the successful synthesis of 6-O-sulfated FUR derivates characterized by varying degrees of sulfation (DS) ranging from 0.15 to 0.91 and molecular weight (Mw) spanning from12.5 kDa to 2.7 kDa. In vitro clotting assays, partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), thrombin time (TT), and prothrombin time (PT) underscored the essential role of sulfate esters in conferring anticoagulant activity whereas FUR prepared via chlorosulfonic acid with DS of 0.91 reached 311.4 s in aPPT showing almost 4-fold higher anticoagulant activity than native FUR at the concentration 2 mg/mL. MTT test showed all tested samples decreased cell viability in a dose dependent manner while all of them are non-cytotoxic up to the concentration of 0.1 mg/mL. Furthermore, sulfated derivates deposited onto polyethylene terephthalate surface presented substantial decrease in platelet adhesion, as well as absence of the most activated platelet stages. These findings support the pivotal role of O-6 FUR sulfates in enhancing hemocompatibility and provide valuable insights for a comparative assessment of effective sulfating approaches.

Synergistic Effect of a Flavonoid-Rich Cocoa-Carob Blend and Metformin in Preserving Pancreatic Beta Cells in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats

The loss of functional beta-cell mass in diabetes is directly linked to the development of diabetic complications. Although dietary flavonoids have demonstrated antidiabetic properties, their potential effects on pancreatic beta-cell preservation and their synergistic benefits with antidiabetic drugs remain underexplored. We have developed a potential functional food enriched in flavonoids by combining cocoa powder and carob flour (CCB), which has shown antidiabetic effects. Here, we investigated the ability of the CCB, alone or in combination with metformin, to preserve pancreatic beta cells in an established diabetic context and their potential synergistic effect. Zucker diabetic fatty rats (ZDF) were fed a CCB-rich diet or a control diet, with or without metformin, for 12 weeks. Markers of pancreatic oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as relative beta-cell mass and beta-cell apoptosis, were analyzed. Results demonstrated that CCB feeding counteracted pancreatic oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant defense and reducing reactive oxygen species. Moreover, the CCB suppressed islet inflammation by preventing macrophage infiltration into islets and overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, along with the inactivation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB). As a result, the CCB supplementation prevented beta-cell apoptosis and the loss of beta cells in ZDF diabetic animals. The observed additive effect when combining the CCB with metformin underscores its potential as an adjuvant therapy to delay the progression of type 2 diabetes.

Fumigant toxicity of four essential oils against the carob moth Ectomyelois ceratoniae Zeller and the Mediterranean flour moth Ephestia kuehniella

Eucalyptus leucoxylon, Rosmarinus officinalis, berries, and leaves of Schinus molle essential oils were analysed using GC-MS techniques and assessed for their fumigant toxicity against adults, larvae, and eggs of Ectomyelois ceratoniae and Ephestia kuehniella. Results showed that E. leucoxylon contained Spathulenol, p-Cymene, and Cryptone as major compounds. GC - MS analyses showed that the major compounds of R. officinalis essential oil were 1,8-Cineole, Camphor, and α-pinene. I-Phellandrene, t-Muurolol, and Phellandrene were the major components of the S. molle leaves; while I-Phellandrene, Limonen, and δ-Cadinene were the major components of the S. molle berries. S. molle berries were the most efficient followed by R. officinalis against E. ceratoniae and E. kuehniella. The most effective tested essential oil against E. ceratoniae larvae was S. molle berries. Results on the ovicidal and larvicidal effects of the tested oils demonstrated that R. officinalis was the most effective essential oil against E. kuehniella eggs.

State-of-the-art advancement in tara gum polysaccharide (Caesalpinia spinosa) modifications and their potential applications for drug delivery and the food industry

In preference to synthetic or petroleum-based materials, current research in food and pharmaceutical industries has focused on the development of biodegradable and sustainable materials due to their low toxicity, and biocompatibility. In particular, the natural water-soluble polysaccharide tara gum (Caesalpinia spinosa) has been widely used as a food-grade and drug-delivery agent due to its biodegradability, and biocompatibility. Moreover, owing to its easily modifiable hydroxy groups, tara gum, and its derivatives have been employed as food packaging films and pharmaceutical materials. In the present critical review, facile grafting methods of tara gum are reviewed, and an up-to-date comprehensive application of tara gum polysaccharides revealed their uses in pH-sensitive food packaging. In addition, modified tara gum materials exhibited improved drug delivery applications with biocompatible properties. The non-toxic nature and non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic rheological properties as well as the synergistic behavior of tara gum with other polysaccharides explore its further industrial applications in several fields. Additionally, several approaches for improving tara gum for use as a stabilizer and thickener for food items, and monitoring food spoilage, have provided notable customized characteristics. In brief, its many advantages make tara gum polysaccharide a promising material for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Phenolic compounds profile of macerates of different edible parts of carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) using UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MSE: Phytochemical screening and biological activities

Locust bean pulp and gum extracts were prepared, and phytochemical tests based on color reactions and chromatographic analyzes were performed. A profile of seventy-six phenolic compounds was obtained by the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The main groups of phenolic compounds identified in the both extracts of Ceratonia siliqua L., were flavonoids, tannins and phenolic acids. Moreover, carob pulp and gum extracts were tested for their antimicrobial activity using disk diffusion tests which showed sensitivity of the different strains to the analyzed extracts at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of Ceratonia siliqua L. extracts was assessed by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl acid test, which confirmed stronger antioxidant properties in the case of the pulp extract. To sum up, carob pulp and gum extracts present promising alternatives to synthetic additives within the medicinal industry, serving as potential antioxidant agents and preservatives that combat bacterial contamination, thereby offering a more natural approach to enhancing product safety and efficacy.

Improved gastric residence time of famotidine by raft-forming drug delivery system using DOE

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the raft-forming suspension of famotidine as an anti-reflux formulation to improve the oral bioavailability of narrow absorption window drugs by enhancing gastric residence time (GRT) and preventing gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD).

METHOD

Various combinations of raft-forming agents, such as Tragacanth gum (TG), guar gum (GG), and xanthan gum (XG), were evaluated alongside sodium alginate (SA) to develop an effective raft. Preformulation studies and preliminary screening were conducted to identify the most suitable raft-forming agent, and GG was chosen due to its mucilaginous properties. The formulation was optimized using a 32 full factorial design, with the quantities of GG and SA as independent factors and apparent viscosity and in-vitro drug release (%) as dependent factors. The in vivo floating behavior study was performed for optimized and stabilized formulation.

RESULTS

Among the tested batches, F6 was selected as the optimized formulation. It exhibited desirable characteristics such as adequate raft weight for extended floating in gastric fluid, improved apparent viscosity, and a significant percentage of drug release at 12 h. A mathematical model was applied to the in-vitro data to gain insights into the drug release mechanism of the formulation. The stability of the suspension was assessed under accelerated conditions, and it demonstrated satisfactory stability. The formulation remains floating in the Rabbit stomach for more than 12 h.

CONCLUSION

It concludes that the developed formulation has enhanced bioavailability in the combination of GG and SA. The floating layer of the raft prevents acid reflux, and the famotidine is retained for an extended period of time in the gastric region, preventing excess acid secretion. The developed formulations are effective for stomach ulcers and GERD, with the effect of reducing acid secretion by H2 receptor antagonists.

Dietary fiber guar gum-induced shift in gut microbiota metabolism and intestinal immune activity enhances susceptibility to colonic inflammation

With an increasing interest in dietary fibers (DFs) to promote intestinal health and the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, there is a continued rise in the incorporation of refined DFs in processed foods. It is still unclear how refined fibers, such as guar gum, affect the gut microbiota activity and pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our study elucidated the effect and underlying mechanisms of guar gum, a fermentable DF (FDF) commonly present in a wide range of processed foods, on colitis development. We report that guar gum containing diet (GuD) increased the susceptibility to colonic inflammation. Specifically, GuD-fed group exhibited severe colitis upon dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) administration, as evidenced by reduced body weight, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and shortening of colon length compared to cellulose-fed control mice. Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory markers in both serum [serum amyloid A (SAA), lipocalin 2 (Lcn2)] and colon (Lcn2) and extensive disruption of colonic architecture further affirmed that GuD-fed group exhibited more severe colitis than control group upon DSS intervention. Amelioration of colitis in GuD-fed group pre-treated with antibiotics suggest a vital role of intestinal microbiota in GuD-mediated exacerbation of intestinal inflammation. Gut microbiota composition and metabolite analysis in fecal and cecal contents, respectively, revealed that guar gum primarily enriches Actinobacteriota, specifically Bifidobacterium. Guar gum also altered multiple genera belonging to phyla Bacteroidota and Firmicutes. Such shift in gut microbiota composition favored luminal accumulation of intermediary metabolites succinate and lactate in the GuD-fed mice. Colonic IL-18 and tight junction markers were also decreased in the GuD-fed group. Importantly, GuD-fed mice pre-treated with recombinant IL-18 displayed attenuated colitis. Collectively, unfavorable changes in gut microbiota activity leading to luminal accumulation of lactate and succinate, reduced colonic IL-18, and compromised gut barrier function following guar gum feeding contributed to increased colitis susceptibility.

Rheological properties and color indexes of ultrasonic treated aqueous solutions of basil, Lallemantia, and wild sage gums

This research aimed to analyze the impacts of sonication on the rheological properties and color indexes of aqueous solutions of Basil seed gum (BSG), Lallemantia seed gum (LSG), and Wild sage seed gum (WSG). The apparent viscosity (AV) of aqueous solutions of gums decreased with increasing shear rate (SR) from 12.2 s-1 to 134.5 s-1. Also, the AV (at SR = 61 s-1) of BSG, LSG, and WSG solutions reduced from 0.015 to 0.006 Pa.s, 0.023 to 0.010 Pa.s, and 0.009 to 0.004 Pa.s with enhancing the sonication time from 0 to 20 min, respectively. Various rheological equations were employed to fit the empirical values, and the findings confirmed that the Power law (PL) model was the best fit to explain the flow behaviour of these gums solutions. The consistency coefficient (k-index) of BSG, LSG, and WSG solutions significantly (p < 0.05) reduced from 0.108 to 0.017 Pa.sn, 0.143 to 0.033 Pa.sn, and 0.034 to 0.014 Pa.sn with increasing sonication time from 0 to 20 min, respectively. The flow behaviour index (n-index) of the gums solutions increased with increasing sonication time. By applying ultrasound, the lightness (L⁎) and blueness/yellowness (b⁎) indexes of the solutions were increased, and the greenness/redness (a⁎) index was reduced.

Polysaccharides gums in drug delivery systems: A review

For the drug delivery system, drug carriers' selection is critical to the drug's success in reaching the desired target. Drug carriers from natural biopolymers are preferred over synthetic materials due to their biocompatibility. The use of polysaccharide gums in the drug delivery system has received considerable attention in recent years. Polysaccharide gums are renewable resources and abundantly found in nature. They could be isolated from marine algae, microorganisms, and higher plants. In terms of carbohydrates, the gums are water-soluble, non-starch polysaccharides with high commercial value. Polysaccharide gums are widely used for controlled-release products, capsules, medicinal binders, wound healing agents, capsules, and tablet excipients. One of the essential applications of polysaccharide gum is drug delivery systems. The various kinds of polysaccharide gums obtained from different plants, marine algae, and microorganisms for the drug delivery system application are discussed comprehensively in this review paper.

Locust Bean gum-based hydrogels embedded magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles nanocomposite: Advanced materials for environmental and energy applications

This paper reports a simple method of designing and synthesizing magnetic iron oxide (IO) integrated locust bean gum-cl-polyacrylonitrile hydrogel nanocomposites (LBG-cl-PAN/IONP) by in situ mineralization of iron ions in a hydrogel matrix. A two-step gel crosslink method followed by co-precipitation method was used to prepare these novel hydrogels embedded with magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. The LBG-cl-PAN/IONP hydrogel nanocomposite (HNC) were tested in batch adsorption experiments for their ability to remove a cationic dyes, methylene blue (MB) & Methyl violet (MV), from aqueous solution. In order to analyze the LBG-cl-PAN/IONP HNC, FTIR, XRD, XPS, VSM, TEM, and EDX techniques were applied. Numerous operating parameters were studied, including the amount of adsorbent, the contact time, pH, temperature, the dye concentration, and the coexisting ion concentration. According to the Langmuir isotherm model, MB and MV had maximum monolayer adsorptive capacities of 1250 and 1111 mg/g, respectively. LBG-cl-PAN/IONP HNC controlled IONP oxidation as well as sustained adsorptive removal over a wide pH range (7-10). The key mechanism of adsorption consisted of electrostatic interaction and ion exchange. For successful use in successive cycles after regeneration using HNO₃ as eluent, the LBG-cl-PAN/IONP HNC can easily be reused. As a material, the LBG-cl-PAN/IONP HNC is a promising sorbent or composite material for removing toxic dyes from water, and therefore can be applied to enhance water and wastewater treatment technology. Additionally, we have briefly evaluated LBG-cl-PAN/IONP HNC for antibacterial and supercapacitor applications. According to our knowledge, this is the first report describing the use of LBG-cl-PAN/IONP HNC multifunctional efficacy as an excellent sorbent, antibacterial and electrochemical supercapacitor applications.

Development of a ghatti gum/poly (acrylic acid)/TiO2 hydrogel nanocomposite for malachite green adsorption from aqueous media: Statistical optimization using response surface methodology

The primary goal of this study is to prepare and characterize a ghatti gum/poly(acrylic acid)/TiO₂ (GG/poly(AA)/TiO₂) hydrogel nanocomposite for adsorption of the dye malachite green (MG) from the aqueous phase in a discontinuous system. A variety of approaches were used to investigate the structure, morphology, and thermomechanical characteristics of the synthesized hydrogel nanocomposite. Response surface methodology (RSM) was performed to analyze the impact of three processing parameters, namely adsorbent dosage, dye concentration, contact duration, and their interactions on MG dye adsorption capacity. Analysis of variance was used to assess the experimental findings, which revealed that the quadratic regression model was statistically acceptable. The integration of TiO₂ nanoparticles into the hydrogel matrix improved its thermal stability, mechanical strength, and performance in adsorbing MG dye from water. The kinetics and isotherm were evaluated, and the adsorption process was well fitted with pseudo-second order and Temkin isotherm models, respectively. Using the Langmuir equation, the maximum adsorption capacity at 45 °C within 50 min was calculated to be 2145 mg/g. Thermodynamic analysis at 25-45 °C revealed that the MG dye was spontaneously absorbed by the hydrogel nanocomposite. The prepared hydrogel nanocomposite demonstrated excellent reusability without a noticeable loss in MG dye adsorption capability for 6 cycles.

Lower Rate of Water Absorption of an Oral Rehydration Solution with Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum in Conscious Rats

The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the rate of water absorption of an oral rehydration solution containing partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) in the small intestine, which is the main site of water absorption when water is drunk. Seven-week-old male SD rats were employed. We prepared four types of an aqueous solution, i.e., containing mineral and sugar, containing PHGG, containing mineral and sugar and PHGG, or containing no additives. After 24 h of food and 4 h of water deprivation, the aqueous solutions were infused into the stomach of conscious rats on their hands using a syringe with a stomach sonde. We sampled the stomach and the small intestine with contents 8 min after the infusions. Causal effects were calculated using a Bayesian network. PHGG increased the residual amount of water in the gastro-intestine, which depends negatively on the absorption of water in the small intestine/the flow rate to the small intestine. The absorption of water in the small intestine depended positively on the flow rate to the small intestine, which depended negatively on the free water in the solutions. PHGG decreased water absorption in the small intestine by decreasing the free water in the aqueous solutions.

Construction of a double-responsive modified guar gum nanoparticles and its application in oral insulin administration

The use of intelligent insulin delivery systems has become more important for treating diabetes. In this study, a dual-responsive oral insulin delivery nanocarrier that responds to glucose and pH has been developed. First, the oleic acid hydrophobic modified guar gum (GG) was synthesized by the esterification reaction, and the γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) was coupled with GG by the amidation reaction. The obtained pH-responsive copolymer (γ-PGA-GG) was cross-linked by concanavalin A to obtain pH/glucose dual-responsive nanocarriers, and insulin was effectively loaded into the dual-responsive nanocarriers. The insulin-loaded nanoparticles can achieve effective pH and glucose responses, releasing insulin on demand. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated the dual-responsive nanoparticles can protect insulin against the pH changes in the digestive tract and deliver insulin into the body to exert a hypoglycemic effect. Moreover, the dual-responsive nanoparticles have significant potential to be employed for oral insulin delivery.

Inhibition of Th1 activation and differentiation by dietary guar gum ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Dietary fibers are potent modulators of immune responses that can restrain inflammation in multiple disease contexts. However, dietary fibers encompass a biochemically diverse family of carbohydrates, and it remains unknown how individual fiber sources influence immunity. In a direct comparison of four different high-fiber diets, we demonstrate a potent ability of guar gum to delay disease and neuroinflammation in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a T cell-mediated mouse model of multiple sclerosis. Guar gum-specific alterations to the microbiota are limited, and disease protection appears to be independent of fiber-induced increases in short-chain fatty acid levels or regulatory CD4⁺ T cells. Instead, CD4⁺ T cells of guar gum-supplemented mice are less encephalitogenic due to reduced activation, proliferation, Th1 differentiation, and altered migratory potential. These findings reveal specificity in the host response to fiber sources and define a pathway of fiber-induced immunomodulation that protects against pathologic neuroinflammation.

Utilisation of soybean post-production waste in single- and double-layered films based on furcellaran to obtain packaging materials for food products prone to oxidation

Single-layered films, based on furcellaran and protein hydrolysates from soybean bran (1st layer), were obtained. Moreover, a procedure for the preparation of double-layered films was developed, in which an ethanol extract from soybean bran was deposited onto the 1st layer. It was checked how the addition of the 2nd layer affects the functional properties of the film. The addition of the 2nd layer increased the thermal properties, modulus of elasticity and antioxidant activity, while decreases were noted for tensile strength and elongation at break parameters. The films were used as packaging materials for storing butter and the active films did not extend the quality of butter during storage, however, they behaved in the same way as synthetic films. Therefore they have the potential to be used as packaging material instead of a synthetic film.

Microwave assisted synthesis of guar gum based biopolymeric macromolecule optimized as a flocculant for mineral ore processing

The research endeavour to synthesize a novel, non-toxic, eco-friendly guar gum based biopolymeric macromolecule, [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] trimethyl ammonium chloride grafted guar gum (GG-g-P (MAETMAC)) that has been optimized as a flocculant for mineral ore processing. The synthesis was performed using non-radiation and microwave assisted technique to compare and ensure the superiority of the latter. The intended grafting of monomer[2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] trimethyl ammonium chloride on to the biological macromolecule (guar gum) was confirmed through standard physico-chemical characterization techniques namely X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible (UV-visible) spectroscopy, intrinsic viscosity study, etc. The flocculation efficacy of the synthesized novel graft copolymer was thoroughly investigated in kaolin, coal fine, and iron ore suspensions. We have explored a graft copolymer, [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] trimethyl ammonium chloride grafted guar gum that has not been studied yet to the best of our knowledge. To establish the superiority of the synthesized biomaterial, the flocculation study revealed that the best grade of the synthesized novel graft copolymer showed flocculation efficacy of 90 % in kaolin, 69 % in Iron ore, and 29 % in coal fine suspensions which was significantly higher than using alum as a coagulant which provided 36 % efficacy in kaolin, 29 % in iron ore and 10 % in coal fine suspensions.

Guar Gum/Ethyl Cellulose-Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone Composite-Based Quartz Crystal Microbalance Humidity Sensor for Human Respiration Monitoring

In this work, the guar gum (GG) and the electrospinned ethyl cellulose-polyvinyl pyrrolidone (EC-PVP) nanofibers were used as humidity-sensitive materials for fabricating a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, water contact angle test, and X-ray photoelectron spectra were used to characterize the synthesized GG/EC-PVP composite material, confirming its successful preparation and good hydrophilicity. The humidity sensitivity experiments were performed at room temperature. The GG/EC-PVP-coated QCM sensor has high sensitivity (55.72 Hz/%RH) and low hysteresis (2.8% RH) in a wide relative humidity range (0-97% RH), short response/recovery time (26/2 s), excellent selectivity, good repeatability, and stability. The combined action of hydrophilic groups and porous structure enhances the humidity sensitivity. The GG/EC-PVP sensor can be used to capture and measure typical breathing patterns in different human basic emotions due to its good performance. Furthermore, a lie-detector system was also designed for judging the lying through detecting the emotional breathing pattern of the subjects.

Metabolomics and chemometrics of seven aromatic plants: Carob, eucalyptus, laurel, mint, myrtle, rosemary and strawberry tree

INTRODUCTION

Arbutus unedo L. (strawberry tree), Ceratonia siliqua L. (carob), Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. (eucalyptus), Laurus nobilis L. (laurel), Mentha aquatica L. (water mint), Myrtus communis L. (common myrtle), and Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) are aromatic plants from the Mediterranean region whose parts and preparations are used for their nutritional properties and health benefits.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate and compare the metabolites profile, total phenol content (TPC), and antioxidant activity of plant leaves for their future use. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for metabolomics. Data comparison was performed by chemometrics.

METHODOLOGY

Polar and apolar extracts were analysed using untargeted GC-MS metabolomics followed by chemometrics (principal component analysis, heatmap correlation and dendrogram) to identify, quantify and compare the major organic compounds in the plants. Additionally, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used for the laurel polar extract to identify d-gluco-l-glycero-3-octulose whose presence was unclear from the GC-MS data. TPC and antioxidant assays were performed using classical methods (Folin-Ciocalteu, 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)) and correlated to the phytochemical profiles.

RESULTS

Forty-three metabolites were identified including amino acids, organic acids, carbohydrates, phenols, polyols, fatty acids, and alkanes. Eight metabolites (d-fructose, d-glucose, d-mannose, gallic acid, quinic acid, myo-inositol, palmitic and stearic acids) were in common between all species. d-Gluco-l-glycero-3-octulose (37.29 ± 1.19%), d-pinitol (31.33 ± 5.12%), and arbutin (1.30 ± 0.44%,) were characteristic compounds of laurel, carob, and strawberry tree, respectively. Carob showed the highest values of TPC and antioxidant activity.

CONCLUSION

GC-MS metabolomics and chemometrics analyses are fast and useful methods to determine and compare the metabolomics profiling of aromatic plants of food and industrial interest.

Experimental investigation on the high-pressure sand suspension and adsorption capacity of guar gum fracturing fluid in low-permeability shale reservoirs: factor analysis and mechanism disclosure

Guar fracturing technology has been considered as a kind of popular EOR technology, but the weak static suspension capacity becomes a challenge due to the poor temperature resistance and stability of guar fracturing fluid. The main goal of this investigation is to explore the effect of different factors on the high-pressure static sand suspension of guar gum fracturing fluid by a synthetic efficient nano-ZrO₂ cross-linker. In particular, a mechanism of static suspended sand of nano-ZrO₂ cross-linker is analyzed by microscopic simulation. The adsorption performance of guar fracturing fluid on the shale surface is also studied for analyzing the environmental pollution and damage of guar gum fracturing fluid to shale reservoirs after cross-linking in this investigation. The results obtained that the inclusion of a small content of nano-ZrO₂ cross-linker (0.4%) leads to an apparent increase of fracturing fluid viscosity and decrease in the falling quality of gravel (104 mPa·s and 0.3 g) compared to the classical cross-linker (63 mPa·s and 3.5 g). The lower adsorption capacity of guar fracturing fluid containing nano-ZrO₂ cross-linker on the shale surface means that it has a weaker pollution ability to the shale reservoir than the commercially available cross-linker. Meanwhile, the grid structure density formed by nano-cross-linker and guar gum is considered to be the key factor to significantly change the suspended sand capacity. The investigation of nano-cross-linker cannot only provide necessary theoretical technology and data support for the stability of water-based fracturing fluid, efficient sand carrying, and the development of water-based fracturing technology, but also effectively protect the underground shale reservoir.

Review of the effect of amylase-resistant dysphagia products on swallowing safety

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Thickened fluids are a widely utilised compensatory management strategy for people with impaired swallowing (dysphagia). Over recent years there has been a shift in practice to offer gum-based instead of starch-based products. A key marketing message has been that gum-based thickeners with amylase-resistant properties are superior in promoting 'safer swallowing'. This review sought evidence to evaluate the effect of amylase-resistant products on swallowing safety.

RECENT FINDINGS

No studies directly compared the effect of amylase-resistant products with usual care or products without amylase resistance. Five studies cited amylase-resistant properties and compared gum-based to starch-based dysphagia products or thin fluids. Swallowing safety was frequently judged subjectively with rating scales. Swallowing biomechanics were not included and clinically meaningful outcomes, such as incidence of aspiration pneumonia, were not reported. A scoping review of the grey literature found little evidence that amylase-resistant properties of dysphagia products were of significant concern to clinicians or patients.

SUMMARY

Despite references to the 'importance' of amylase-resistant properties of dysphagia products there is no evidence that this property improves swallowing safety. Further research is needed using objective and clinically meaningful outcome measures to allow clinicians and patients to make informed decisions for dysphagia management.

Adsorption-reduction of Cr(VI) onto unmodified and phytic acid-modified carob waste: Kinetic and isotherm modeling

Carob waste (CW) is an agro-biomass material abundant in nature with potential use for eco-friendly remediation. However, like many biomass-based adsorbents, it suffers from its low adsorption capacity for organic/inorganic pollutants. Therefore, modification using physical and/or chemical means is commonly applied to improve the adsorptive properties of biomass-based adsorbents. In this study, carob waste (CW) and carob waste functionalized with phytic acid (PA-CW), as an ecofriendly product, were applied for the first time for Cr(VI) elimination. Various methods were applied for the material characterization like Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA and DTG), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), specific surface area and porosity measurements. The results proved that both CW and PA-CW own appropriate features for efficient adsorption. Bach experiments revealed that the optimum parameters for Cr(VI) (100 mg/mL) removal at 25 °C were pH 2, 0.05 and 0.025 g as adsorbent dose for CW and PA-CW, respectively, over 120 min contact time. The kinetic of adsorption was well-described by the pseudo-second order model, whereas the isotherm modeling fitted well the modified Langmuir model. CW and PA-CW achieved respectively maximum adsorption capacities of 212.4 and 387.9 mg/g, which are among the highest values so far reported for biomass-based adsorbent materials. These results confirmed that CW and PA-CW could be alternative cost-effective adsorbents even for high concentrations of Cr(VI) in industrial wastewaters along with their reduction capacity.

Effectiveness of Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum in Reducing Constipation in Long Term Care Facility Residents: A Randomized Single-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) in improving constipation and reducing the use of laxatives among long term care facility (LTCF) residents.

DESIGN

A single-center, prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blinded parallel-group trial from September 2021 to November 2021.

SETTING

Four LTCF in Hong Kong.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-two LTCF residents with chronic constipation (mean age: 83.9±7.6 years, male 38%).

INTERVENTION

5g PHGG mixed with 200ml water per day for 4 weeks was given to intervention group participants. Control group received 200ml water for 4 weeks. Participants continued their usual as-needed laxative (lactulose, senna or dulcolax) on their own initiative.

MEASUREMENTS

Baseline measurements included age, gender, Charlson comorbidity index, Roackwood's Clinical Frailty Scale, body mass index and daily dietary fiber intake. Outcome measures were fecal characteristics assessed by Bristol Stool Form Scale, bowel opening frequency and laxative use frequency at baseline, first, second, third and fourth week of trial. Adverse events were measured. The study was registered on ClinicalTrial.gov; identifier: NCT05037565.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in bowel frequency and stool characteristics between the treatment group and control group. However, there was a significantly lower frequency of lactulose, senna, and total laxative use in the treatment group compared with controls in the third and fourth week. There was no significant difference in adverse effects between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that daily dietary fibre supplementation by using PHGG for 4 weeks in LTCF residents results in significantly less laxative use than placebo. It may be an effective way to reduce laxative dependence among older people living in LTCFs.

D-Pinitol-Active Natural Product from Carob with Notable Insulin Regulation

Carob is one of the major food trees for peoples of the Mediterranean basin, but it has also been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Carob contains many nutrients and active natural products, and D-Pinitol is clearly one of the most important of these. D-Pinitol has been reported in dozens of scientific publications and its very diverse medicinal properties are still being studied. Presently, more than thirty medicinal activities of D-Pinitol have been reported. Among these, many publications have reported the strong activities of D-Pinitol as a natural antidiabetic and insulin regulator, but also as an active anti-Alzheimer, anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory, and is also immune- and hepato-protective. In this review, we will present a brief introduction of the nutritional and medicinal importance of Carob, both traditionally and as found by modern research. In the introduction, we will present Carob’s major active natural products. The structures of inositols will be presented with a brief literature summary of their medicinal activities, with special attention to those inositols in Carob, as well as D-Pinitol’s chemical structure and its medicinal and other properties. D-Pinitol antidiabetic and insulin regulation activities will be extensively presented, including its proposed mechanism of action. Finally, a discussion followed by the conclusions and future vision will summarize this article.

Functionalized polymethyl methacrylate-modified dialdehyde guar gum containing hydrazide groups for effective removal and enrichment of dyes, ion, and oil/water separation

In the study, a novel polymethacryloyl hydrazone modified guar gum adsorption material (GSA) was prepared via condensation between polyhydrazide and dialdehyde guar gum. GSA exhibited an abundant porous structure, higher selectivity for cationic pollutants in high-concentration wastewater like methylene blue (MB), malachite green (MG) dyes, and Cu²⁺. Under optimized experimental conditions, the maximum equilibrium adsorption capacity of MB, MG, and Cu²⁺ were 1418.36 mg/g, 1375.58 mg/g, and 196 mg/g, respectively. Adsorption isotherms and kinetics were well fitted with the Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The thermodynamic analysis demonstrated that the adsorption process was endothermic, feasible, and spontaneous. Correspondently, the adsorption mechanism was explored by FTIR, SEM-EDS and XPS. The adsorbent was employed in disposing of local sewage water. Additionally, GSA successfully achieves efficient water/oil separation in different salt concentrations with a separation efficiency exceeding 99%.

Application of Guar Gum and its Derivatives as Green Binder/Separator for Advanced Lithium-Ion Batteries

Since their first commercialization in the 1990s,lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become an indispensible part of our everyday life in particular for portable electronic devices. LIBs have been considered as the most promising sustainable high energy density storage device. In recent years, there is a strong demand of LIBs for hybrid electric and electric vehicles to lower carbon footprint and mitigate climate change. However, LIBs have several issues, for example, high cost and safety issues such as over discharge, intolerance to overcharge, high temperature operation etc. To address these issues several new types of electrodes are being studied. Traditional binder PVDF is costly, difficult to recyle, undergoes side reactions at high temperature and cannot stabilize high energy density electrodes. To overcome these challenges, diiferent binders have been introduced with these electrodes. This minireview is focused on the application of guar gum as a binder for different electrodes and separator. The electrochemical performance of electrodes with guar gum has been compared with other binders.

Gums-based engineered bio-nanostructures for greening the 21st-century biotechnological settings

Naturally occurring plant-based gums and their engineered bio-nanostructures have gained an immense essence of excellence in several industrial, biotechnological, and biomedical sectors of the modern world. Gums derived from bio-renewable resources that follow green chemistry principles are considered green macromolecules with unique structural and functional attributes. For instance, gum mostly obtained as exudates are bio-renewable, bio-degradable, bio-compatible, sustainable, overall cost-effective, and nontoxic. Gum exudates also offer tunable attributes that play a crucial role in engineering bio-nanostructures of interest for several bio- and non-bio applications, e.g., food-related items, therapeutic molecules, sustained and controlled delivery cues, bio-sensing constructs, and so on. With particular reference to plant gum exudates, this review focuses on applied perspectives of various gums, i.e., gum Arabic, gum albizzia, gum karaya, gum tragacanth, and gum kondagogu. After a brief introduction with problem statement and opportunities, structural and physicochemical attributes of plant-based natural gums are presented. Following that, considerable stress is given to green synthesis and stabilization of gum-based bio-nanostructures. The final part of the review focuses on the bio- and non-bio related applications of various types of gums polysaccharides-oriented bio-nanostructures.

Understanding the microstructure, mineralogical and adsorption characteristics of guar gum blended soil as a liner material

Guar gum blended soil (GGBS) offers potentially advantageous engineering characteristics of hydraulic conductivity and strength for a soil to be used as a liner material. Characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope were used to examine the mineral composition, functional groups and morphological changes in the unblended soil (UBS) and GGBS. These characterization approaches are used to understand adsorption-associated mechanisms of Pb(II) removal. Batch adsorption tests were performed to evaluate the adsorption capacity of UBS and the GGBS with various proportions (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0%) of guar gum (GG) towards the removal of Pb(II) ions. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted by varying the pH, dosage of adsorbent, concentration of metal ions and contact time. The experimental results showed that the optimum removal of Pb(II) ions was high at a pH of 3.0 for all blends, and adsorption tests beyond 3.0 pH demonstrated a decline in adsorption performance. The maximum Pb(II) removal efficiency of 95% was obtained using the 2.0% GGBS. The isotherm model assessment for adsorption experimental data of Pb(II) showed the best fit for the Langmuir model on using GG. The present research demonstrated that the guar gum-treated blends exhibited potential Pb(II) ion adsorption properties and therefore can be used as sustainable liner material in sanitary landfills.