Carboxyl Methyl Cellulose Research Articles

Evaluation of the probiotic ability of Cellulolytic Bacillus subtilis SBMP4 (FSP20) isolated from waste-dump site in FIIRO, Lagos Nigeria

BACKGROUND: Current invention in the field of biotechnology includes research into the probiotic potentials of enzyme-producing bacteria species. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the probiotic ability of cellulolytic Bacillus subtilis SBMP4 isolated from waste dump site. METHODS: Isolated Bacillus species was screened for cellulolytic ability on carboxyl methylcellulose agar (CMCA), and hydrolysis efficiency was calculated. Probiotic ability of cellulolytic Bacillus species was carried out as follows: pathogenic potentials, bacteriocin producing ability, antibiotic susceptibility testing, gastric acid, and bile tolerance. Molecular identification was done by means of 16S rRNA gene sequencing, blast search analysis and phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS: Zone of clearance of 30 ± 2.08 mm on CMCA with hydrolysis efficiency of 114 % depicted the isolate’s cellulolytic potential. Bacillus subtilis SBMP4 showed γ-hemolytic phenotype with negative lecithinase activity. Antibacterial activity of bacteriocin observed against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 reference culture, had maximum inhibition zone of 14±1.0 mm at 72 hour of incubation. Substantial susceptibility towards 9 out of 10 commonly used antibiotics further depicted the isolate’s probiotic ability. Bacillus subtilis SBMP4 exhibited good gastric acid tolerance (pH 2.5) of 5.857 Log cycle/ml and good tolerance to 5 % and 10 % bile salt concentrations with 6.134 and 6.301 Log cycle/ml of viable bacteria cells. Molecular identification of the selected bacteria species revealed it to be Bacillus subtilis SBMP4 with RefSeq accession number NR_118383, showing maximum sequence similarity of 98%. CONCLUSION: Cellulolytic Bacillus subtilis SBMP4 possesses good probiotic ability and has the potentials of being applied as additive in livestock feeding to enhance overall productivity. KEYWORDS: Cellulolytic, Probiotic, CelA gene, Bacteriocin, Bacillus subtilis

Acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies of methanol extract of Trema orientalis (Linn) blume in albino wistar rats

BackgroundThe safety potential of the methanol extract of Trema orientalis (TOM) leaf was evaluated in albino Wistar rats using biochemical, haematological, and histological indices in both acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies. MethodsThe animals were managed following the National Institute of Health (NIH) stipulated protocols for handling laboratory animals. The weight of each animal was recorded upon arrival and monitored throughout the study. The animals were allowed to acclimatize for 14 days, after which they were reweighed and randomly distributed into four groups of three female rats (n=12) for acute toxicity studies. Group A was given distilled water, and Groups B, C, and D were given a single dose of 2000, 4000, and 5000 mg/kg bw TOM extract, respectively. On day 15, each animal was anaesthetized and then euthanized. For the sub-chronic toxicity study, animals were randomly distributed into five groups of eight female rats (n=40). They were dosed daily for 28 days. Group A (Negative control group) was given distilled water. Groups B, C, and D had 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg bw TOM extract and Group E (Vehicle control group) were given 0.25 % of sodium carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC). Five animals were anaesthetized and then euthanized on day 29, while three animals were kept for recovery evaluation for another two weeks without further administration of the extract. Ten organs were excised from each animal and weighed. The liver and kidney were processed for histopathological studies, while the blood samples were collected for biochemical and haematological assays. ResultsFrom acute toxicity studies, the LD50 value of TOM extract was estimated to exceed 5000 mg/kg bw via oral passage. From Sub-chronic toxicity studies, biochemical results showed a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in total protein, albumin, globulin, AST, ALP, and ALT in a dose-dependent manner. Histology of the liver and kidney tissues of all the animals except the kidney of the 800 mg/kg group had no visible lesions; this sets the safety dose for TOM at above 400 mg/kg but below 800 mg/kg. Recovery animals had significantly (p < 0.05) increased total protein, total bilirubin, and ALP and decreased albumin and direct bilirubin levels. ConclusionThis study reports the safety dose of TOM, a reputable medicinal plant extract. This is the first study reporting that the LD50 value of TOM extract exceeds 5000 mg/kg bw via oral passage.

Nutritional Changes in stored Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) as influenced by Silver Nanoparticles Coating

This study evaluated the influence of silver nanoparticle (AgNP) coating on the nutritional content of stored tomato fruits. Silver nanoparticles was fabricated via the green method of synthesis using ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves as reducing, capping and stabilizing agent. The antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated at various concentrations (10 – 100 ppm) against Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus paraciticus, Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium oxysporum. Silver nanoparticle coating was prepared from a mixture of silver nanoparticles, carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium caseinate with glycerol as plasticizer.

Designing of nematode egg parasitic fungus, Purpureocillium lilacinum, nanoemulsion for management of Meloidogyne incognita infection in tomato

Summary Purpureocillium lilacinum is a potent biocontrol agent against Meloidogyne spp. and various other plant-parasitic nematodes in crops. However, existing commercial formulations of P. lilacinum suffer from drawbacks like short shelf life and inconsistent performance in different environmental conditions. To address these issues, a new nano-formulation of P. lilacinum was developed and tested against Meloidogyne incognita infecting tomatoes. Initially, edible oil-based emulsions were prepared using probe ultrasonication, with 40 formulations screened and 14 selected for further testing. Seven of these emulsions remained stable at room temperature (28 ± 4°C) for 8 weeks, with stability assessed based on particle size, zeta potential, and particle shape using particle size analysis and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Among these, NE 8 (comprising 10 ml of 1% carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC), 1.25 ml of Tween 80 and 5 ml of sunflower oil) exhibited superior characteristics, with an average particle size of 226.6 nm, a zeta potential of −54.80 mV, and a spherical morphology under TEM examination. The P. lilacinum nanoemulsion formulation was produced by homogenising NE 8 emulsion and spores at a 1:1 ratio, ensuring efficient spore dispersion and encapsulation without loss of viability. In vitro tests demonstrated 100% immobility of M. incognita second-stage juveniles (J2) and 100% parasitism of eggs at a concentration of 5.0 ml l−1. Under glasshouse conditions, soil drenching with the nano-formulation at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 ml l−1 resulted in enhanced tomato growth and significant suppression of M. incognita populations in soil and roots, with increased egg mass parasitism. Bio-safety tests confirmed that P. lilacinum nano-formulation at concentrations of 0.25 ml l−1 and 5.0 ml l−1 had no harmful effects on the earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae.

Termite gut microbiome being a rich source of potential lignocellulolytic bacterial strains

A study was carried out to identify prospective cellulose degrading bacteria isolated from termite gut collected from various agriculture sites. Eight of the bacterial isolates displayed a very distinct zone of clearing on CMC (Carboxylmethyl cellulose) agar media after staining with 1% Congo red, indicating that they may have cellulose degrading ability. On a CMC agar plate, CRDB6 had the largest colony diameter (3.08 cm) as well as clear zone diameter (0.96 cm), however CRDB 1 has maximum cellulolytic activity (1.45 cm) followed by CRDB5 and CRDB6 (1.33 cm and 1.28 cm) respectively. CRDB3, CRDB4 and CRDB9 showed Gram negative reaction among crop residue degrading bacterial isolates, while the remainder showed Gram positive reaction. The morphological characteristics of the bacteria isolates, such as colony shape, elevation, margin, colour and opacity, differed. Isolates CRDB6 produced highest β-glucosidase activity (12.66 m L-1) followed by CRDB1 (12.20 mg m L-1) and CRDB5 (10.21 m L-1) in Luria broth culture. Indole acetic acid production (with tryptophan) was greater in CRDB1 (389.33 mg/ml), CRDB6 (356.9 m L-1) and CRDB3 (315.96 m L-1) while as P-solubilization potential was peaked in CRDB6 (2.41 m L-1) followed by CRDB4 (1.76 m L-1) and CRDB3. Overall, isolate CRDB6 exhibited the highest cellulolytic activity as compared to rest of the bacterial isolates. These results will help in preparing bacterial consortia for the management of crop residues.

Development and Effectual Evaluation of Gluten Free Multi Millet Pasta based on Nutritional, Sensory and Colour Characteristics

Background: Sorghum (Variety: Parbhani shakti) is India’s first bio-fortified sorghum with significantly higher iron and zinc content than regular sorghum. Today’s customers are expected to accomplish more than just feed their hunger and give them the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Methods: Present investigation was undertaken to develop gluten free multi millet pasta by using sorghum, pearl millet and finger millet with 1% carboxyl methyl cellulose and compared with wheat pasta for its nutritional and sensory properties. Pasta products were prepared with different formulations wheat (100% wheat flour) and sorghum, pearl millet and finger millet in the proportion of 90:5:5 (SPF1), 80:10:10 (SPF2), 70:15:15 (SPF3) and 60:20:20 (SPF4) and examined for pasta making potential. Result: Proximate composition of raw materials showed that wheat contains highest protein compared to sorghum, pearl millet and foxtail millet. Sensory evaluation results revealed that pasta made form sorghum, pearl millet and finger millet in the proportion of 90:5:5 (SPF1) was highly acceptable (Overall acceptability score 8.3) next to wheat pasta (Overall acceptability score 8.5).This study showed that highly nutritious gluten free pasta could be prepared with sorghum, pearl millet and finger millet in the proportion of 90:5:5 (SPF1) with 1% carboxyl methyl cellulose.

Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) Postharvest Organic Nutritional Conservation Employing Carboxyl Methylcellulose (CMC) Manufactured Out from Moringa Plant

The research concluded that the use of extracts of moringa leaves and moringa seed as an edible coating might help to preserve the shelf life and also the quality of Avocado. The cultivars that were focused on during this research were “Hass” and “Gem”. It may also reduce the risk of infection and inflammation in these cultivars. Methanolic and ethanolic moringa extracts were also examined for their antifungal properties. Shortly, 1% Carboxyl methylcellulose which is shown as CMC and 2% MLE which is Moringa Leaf Extract or MSE which is moringa seed extract, were combined. The fruit was either coated with either (MLE + CMC) or that of (MSE + CMC) and then it was kept at a temperature of 5.5°C and 95% relative humidity (RH) for a period of 21 days. The fruit was kept at ambient temperatures i.e. 21°C and 60% RH, after being refrigerated to approximate retailing conditions. Fruit firmness and postharvest quality indicators including ethylene production and respiration rate were analyzed. In relation to potato dextrose agarose which is shortened as PDA, both coatings were also evaluated for their effectiveness against the fungus which may spoil the fruit quality during postharvest opperations. Compared to uncoated fruit, the coated fruit was noticed to have less mass loss. Respiration rates were also observed to be decreased along with Ethylene production, in a contrast to the uncoated fruit. A. alternata and C. gloeosporioides were both inhibited by ethanol leaf extract by 43.60% and 42.90%, respectively. All pathogens exposed to coverings had damaged hyphal structures, while uncoated fruit had healthy hyphal structures. Stronger antibacterial activity was observed in ethanolic moringa leaf extracts as compared to the extracts that were derived from methanol. The outcomes of this research showed that carboxyl methylcellulose CMC containing moringa extract reduces illnesses in fruit. Throughout the postharvest supply chain, it also maintains the general quality of avocados. The shelf life of the avocado was remarkably increased. The avocado sector may eventually commercialize the moringa extracts combined with carboxyl methylcellulose, as a new organic edible covering.

Screening of Lactic Acid Bacteria for Silage Inoculant Candidate

Abstract Silage fermentation is generally assisted by lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The aim of this study was to screen selected LABs for silage inoculant. A total of 60 LAB isolates from the Indonesian Culture Collection (InaCC) were used in this study. Screening was carried out in an MRS broth medium using three different substrates, which were glucose, sucrose, and carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC). The supernatant from LAB cultures was tested for pH, lactic acid (LA) concentration, antimicrobial activity, and cellulolytic activity. The results of the screening obtained 4 LAB isolates to be used as silage inoculant. Three LAB isolates selected from the glucose substrate were Lactobacillus fermentum InaCC-B1024, Lactobacillus plantarum InaCC-B1028, and L. brevis InaCC-B1052. Lactobacillus fermentum InaCC B1024 has a pH, LA concentration, cellulolytic activity, and percentage inhibition of 3.71, 318.931 mM, and 0.806 U/mL, &gt; 95% antibacterial inhibition against B. subtilis, S. auerus, K. michiganensis, S. lloydii, and S. gallinarum, and &lt;35% antifungal activity against M. ramosissimus, A. flavus, F. oxysporum, and P. griseofulvum, respectively. L. plantarum InaCC-B1028 has a pH, LA concentration, cellulolytic activity, and percentage activity of 3.61, 318.833 mM, 0.866 U/ml, &gt; 95% antibacterial activity against B. subtilis, E. coli, M. luteus, S.auerus, K. michiganensis, S.lloydii, S. gallinarum, and &lt; 40% antifungal activity against M. ramosissimus, A. flavus, F. oxysporum, and P. griseofulvum, respectively. L. brevis InaCC-B1052 has a pH, LA concentration, cellulolytic activity, and percentage activity of 3.67, 301.676 mM, no cellulolytic activity, &gt; 95% antibacterial activity against E. coli, M. luteus, S. auerus, K. michiganensis, S. lloydii, S. gallinarum, and &lt; 25% antifungal activity against M. ramosissimus and A. flavus, respectively. One LAB isolate selected from sucrose was L. kimchii InaCC-B982. Its pH, LA concentration, cellulolytic activity, and percentage activity were 3.77, 285.5 mM, 7.288 U/mL, &gt; 95% antibacterial activity against E. coli, M. luteus, S. auerus, K. michiganensis, S. lloydii, S. gallinarum, and &lt;15% antifungal activity against M. ramosissimus, A. flavus, F. oxysporum, and P. griseofulvum, respectively. Based on the results, the four LABs could be used as silage inoculant candidates.

OBTAINING NANOCELLULOSE FROM BIOMASS AND STUDY OF THEIR PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES

This work describes the production of nanocellulose by removing lignin from biomass by the peroxide method in the presence of an H2SO4 catalyst and the study of its physicochemical properties. The structure of cellulose and modified nanocellulose was studied using Raman spectroscopy, IR (infrared) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and SEM (scanning electron microscopy). The resulting increase in the crystallinity of NFC (nanofibrous cellulose) was confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. This indicates that cellulose was associated with the removal of amorphous parts. As a result of X-ray diffraction, overlap on NFC radiographs occurred even in the area of intense lines. In the sample obtained by IR spectroscopy, the presence of groups (3413.12 cm−1; 2918.34 cm−1; 1373.30 cm−1; 617.52 cm−1) corresponding to the nature of NFC was detected. Strong absorption at 1429.8 cm−1 in the spectrum of CMC (carboxylmethylcellulose) revealed –COOH groups, indicating successful carboxylation of cellulose. The morphological surface, average particle size and structure of the samples were studied. As a result of a comparative analysis of morphological structures, an ordered filamentous structure of nanofibrous cellulose characteristic of fibers and a porous structure of CMC with a modified surface and uneven fibers were revealed. The developed method for producing modified cellulose from biomass does not require multi-stage processing compared to traditional methods and is safe for the environment. It has been shown that it is possible to obtain high-quality cellulose in one stage without the use of reagents containing sulfur and chlorine, high pressure and high water consumption.

Cycling performance of SiOx-Si-C composite anode with different blend ratios of PAA-CMC as binder for lithium sulfur batteries

Silicon (Si) -based materials have been identified as a potential alternative anode owing to their superior theoretical capacity compared to conventional graphitic carbon. Nevertheless, the huge volume change (approximately 300%) that occurs while cycling still hampers this system from 100% practical applications. Silicon-monoxide (SiOx)-based anode materials, on the other hand, are being explored extensively due to their unique properties such as high theoretical capacity, formation of Li2O and LiSiO4 during initial lithiation process that act as a natural volume buffer matrix to accommodate volume changes and formation of a stable solid electrolyte interphase layer, which improves the cyclability and capacity retention. Although poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVdF) is widely used as a binder, the weak van der Waals forces between PVdF and silicon-based particles fail to bind particles effectively, when substantial volume change occurs. Herein, we prepare a series of SiOx-Si-C electrodes with different binders poly (acrylic acid) (PAA), carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC) and their blends as binder. The prepared polymeric blends are subjected to thermal, morphological, mechanical and physico-chemical analyses. The Li/ SiOx-Si-C cell assembled with 100% PAA as binder delivered a discharge capacity of 1908 mAh g−1 on its first cycle and 724 mAh g−1 on its 100th cycle with a fade in capacity of 11.8 mAh g−1 per cycle. Upon the incorporation of CMC in the PAA blend the cycling performance was found to be poor. Among the various investigated compositions, the electrode with sole poly (acrylic acid) as a binder offers the highest discharge capacity and this is attributed to the high concentration of the functional (carboxylic) group which forms strong hydrogen bonds with - OH groups on the SiOx or carbon surface. The interfacial properties of the polymeric binders are thoroughly investigated by spectroscopies and electrochemical tests.Graphical abstract

Influence of hydrocolloids and flours on acoustic‐mechanical and microstructural properties of battered deep‐fat fried meat

SummaryThis study investigated the influence of hydrocolloid–flour mixtures on textural, structural, oil absorption and optical characteristics of batter‐coated fried meat. The batter coatings were formulated with corn, wheat and rice flours along with different hydrocolloids (methylcellulose, carboxyl methylcellulose, xanthan gum, locust bean gum, gum arabic). Textural and structural properties were assessed by acoustic‐mechanical and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Results showed that the addition of hydrocolloids improved crispiness and reduced oil content in fried products. Comparative performances of the hydrocolloids in improving crispiness were in decreasing order as gum arabic &gt; locust bean &gt; xanthan gum &gt; carboxyl methylcellulose &gt; methylcellulose. Textural properties of the hydrocolloids were interwoven with the flour type, where corn flour demonstrating better crispiness than wheat and rice flours. The crispiness of hydrocolloids added batter increased up to seven times than the control samples. The hydrocolloids were found to significantly influence (P ≤ 0.05) the appearance of battered meat formulated with corn and wheat flours. Hydrocolloids showed prominent effect on wheat flour‐based batter in terms of average pore area, whereas highest impact on corn flour regarding the number of pores formed.

Explorations about the correlation between biological changes of meninges in periodontitis mice and cognitive impairment via single-cell RNA sequencing

Objective: To clarify the potential correlation between biological changes of meninges in periodontitis mice and cognitive impairment by analyzing the biological changes of meninges in periodontitis mice using single-cell RNA sequencing. Methods: Thirty C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups by using random number table method (15 mice in each group). Mice in the control group were locally administered 2% carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC) without Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) on both buccal sides. A mixture of Pg W83 and 2% CMC was applied on both buccal sides in the experimental group mice three times a week, lasting for 16 weeks in total. The absorption of alveolar bone, locomotor activity and cognitive function, the activation of microglia and astrocytes in the cortex were observed and assessed. The mRNA expression levels of Occludin in meninges and brain were detected in two groups. Single-cell RNA sequencing data of meninges were processed by uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP). Differential genes expressions of endothelial cells were processed by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. In addition, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to verify the expressions of transcription activating factor 3 (Atf3) and apolpoprotein L domain-containing 1 (Apold 1). Results: Methylene blue staining found the distances of buccal and palatal cement-enamel junction-alveolar bone crest in experimental mice [(185.60±17.60), (206.90±13.37) μm] increased significantly compared with the control group [(135.33±9.57), (163.05±14.98) μm] (t=5.02, P=0.002; t=4.37, P=0.005). Open field experiment showed the total distance and average speed of mice in the experimental group [(971.88±164.57) cm, (3.25±0.55) cm/s] were not statistically significant compared with the control group [(914.24±278.81) cm, (3.05±0.93) cm/s] (t=0.65, P=0.525; t=0.65, P=0.520). The recognition index of the experimental group [(48.02±16.92) %] was lower than the control group [(66.27±17.90) %] (t=2.40, P=0.027) by novel object recognition tests. Compared with the control group [(63.56±11.88) %], the alternation of experimental group [(50.99±14.17) %] was significantly decreased in Y maze tests (t=2.33, P=0.030). Immunohistochemistry results showed microglia and astrocytes were activated in the cortex of experimental mice. Compared with the control group (1.02±0.25, 1.04±0.31), the relative mRNA expressions of Occludin decreased significantly in the meninges and brain of periodontitis mice, respectively (0.61±0.10, 0.64±0.20) (t=3.47, P=0.010; t=2.66, P=0.024). By single-cell RNA sequencing, meninges cells were divided into 11 types, such as endothelial cells, fibroblasts, immune cells and so on. Endothelial cells were the main cell types in meninges [the control group: 26.47% (1 589/6 004), the experimental group: 26.26% (807/3 073)]. Compared with the control group [5.56% (334/6 004)], the percentage of granulocytes increased in the periodontitis mice [11.65% (358/3 073)]. Using clustering analysis to further focus on endothelial cells, GO enrichment analysis revealed differential genes were mainly related to angiogenesis, cell adhesion, apoptosis and so on. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that differential genes were related to signaling pathways of interleukin-17, relaxin and so on. The relative mRNA expressions of Atf3 and Apold1 in meninges of periodontitis mice (0.42±0.24, 0.54±0.27) were significantly lower than the control group (1.03±0.26, 1.02±0.23) (t=3.88, P=0.005; t=3.02, P=0.017). Conclusions: The mice chronically infected with Pg W83 occurred memory impairment, neuroinflammation and changes of barrier function. In the meninges of periodontitis mice, there were infiltration of immune cells and down-regulation expressions of Atf3 and Apold1 by single-cell RNA sequencing. Meningeal immunity and changes of barrier function may play an important role in the cognitive impairment caused by periodontitis.

Modelling the Color and Microbial Properties of Canned Ngu by Response Surface Method

Background: Ngu is an African salad dressing used to improve the stability and shelf life of African salad. The aim of this study was to produce canned Ngu using three stabilizers at various concentrations, constant sterilization temperature, and varied sterilization times. Methods: Ngu (50 L) was prepared from potash using three stabilizers at various concentrations. A three-level factorial response surface design was applied to generate the experimental runs for the production of the canned Ngu. The Ngu emulsion was filled inside 250 ml bottle jars, sterilized at 121 oC at various times, and canned. The color of the canned Ngu was evaluated using the Comission Internationale de l'Eclairage color scale, and its microbiological attributes, Total Viable Count (TVC) and Total Fungal Count was determined with standard procedures. The effect of the stabilizers (Akparata, Ofo, and Carboxyl Methyl Cellulose), stabilizer concentration, and sterilization time on the color and microbial properties of the canned Ngu was assessed. The Statistical Software Design Expert version 8.0.7 was utilized for response surface analysis and derivation of model equation. Results: Increase in sterilization time increased the a* value and decreased the b* value of the canned Ngu. The quadratic effect of stabilizer, stabilizer concentration, and sterilization time indicated that the alteration of stabilizer from Carboxyl Methyl Cellulose to Akparata and then to Ofo increased the L* value, of the canned Ngu. An increase in the quadratic effect of stabilizer concentration increased the a* value but decreased the L* and b* values of the canned Ngu. However, the TVC and b* value of the canned Ngu reduced as the quadratic effects of the sterilization time increased. Conclusion: Total Fungal Count and TVC value of all the canned Ngu samples were within acceptable limits, ensuring the samples safe for human consumption.

Antimicrobial Assessment of Hand Sanitizers Formulated from Neem Leaf Extract (Azadirachta indica) and Coconut Shell Liquid Smoke

Abstract The widespread use of alcohol/ethanol-based hand sanitizers has raised concerns due to the concurrent issues of skin irritation, allergies, childhood poisoning risks, and the potential for bacterial resistance to antibiotics, which may disrupt the human digestive system. This study explores the potential of Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica) and liquid smoke as natural alternatives to alcohol-based antiseptics. The objective is to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of hand sanitizers containing Neem leaf extract and coconut shell liquid smoke against Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium. Hand sanitizers were prepared by mixing 4g of Neem leaf extract with varying quantities of coconut shell liquid smoke (labeled as A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5, corresponding to 0g, 1g, 3g, 5g, and 7g, respectively). distilled water was then added until the total volume reached 100 ml. The solution was then stabilized with 0.5g of Carboxyl Methyl Cellulose (CMC) and 10g of glycerin. Results indicate that formulations A1, A2, A3, and A5 exhibit moderate inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli, with inhibition zone diameters of 6.02 mm, 8.17 mm, 9.67 mm, and 9.11 mm, respectively. Notably, formulation A4 displays strong inhibitory activity (11.15 mm). For Salmonella typhimurium, formulations A4 and A5 demonstrate very strong antimicrobial properties with inhibition zones measuring 11.68 mm and 12.59 mm, respectively. These findings suggest that hand sanitizers comprising Neem leaf extract and liquid smoke possess the potential as environmentally friendly, natural antiseptics.

Styrax sumatranus J.J.Sm endophytes fungi and its potential as phosphate solubilizing and cellulose decomposition

Styrax sumatranus J.J.Sm is a plant from North Sumatra, which is widely used by community for religious rituals, medicines and it has economic value. Endophytic fungi are fungi that harbour inside the plant tissue without causing any negative effects to their host plant. Endophytic fungi isolated from the leaves and bark of Styrax sumatranus J.J.Sm. The aim of this research was to obtain endophytic fungi that have potential as phosphate solubilizing and cellulose decomposition. The bark and leaves of Styrax sumatranus J.J.Sm as a source of endophytic fungi were taken from Pandumaan village, Pollung District, Humbang Hasundutan Regency, North Sumatra. Test the potential of endophytic fungal as phosphate solubilizers using selective Pikovskaya media and as cellulose decomposition using carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC) media plus congo red 0.1%. Then calculate the phosphate solubility index and cellulolytic index. The result show that, of 20 isolates tested, there were 12 isolates that had potential as phosphate solubilizers and 12 isolates had potential as cellulose decomposition. Phosphate solubility index dan cellulolytic index obtained range from 2.10-2.44 and 0.22-0.55 respectively.

Carboxymethyl cellulose-based rotigotine nanocrystals-loaded hydrogel for increased transdermal delivery with alleviated skin irritation

Transdermal rotigotine (RTG) therapy is prescribed to manage Parkinson's disease (Neupro® patch). However, its use is suffered from application site reactions. Herein, drug nanocrystalline suspension (NS)-loaded hydrogel (NS-HG) employing polysaccharides simultaneously as suspending agent and hydrogel matrix was constructed for transdermal delivery, with alleviated skin irritation. RTG-loaded NS-HG was prepared using a bead-milling technique, employing sodium carboxylmethyl cellulose (Na.CMC) as nano-suspending agent (molecular weight 90,000 g/mol) and hydrogel matrix (700,000 g/mol), respectively. NS-HG was embodied as follows: drug loading: ≤100 mg/mL; shape: rectangular crystalline; crystal size: <286.7 nm; zeta potential: −61 mV; viscosity: <2.16 Pa·s; and dissolution rate: >90 % within 15 min. Nuclear magnetic resonance analysis revealed that the anionic polymers bind to RTG nanocrystals via charge interaction, affording uniform dispersion in the matrix. Rodent transdermal absorption of RTG from NS-HG was comparable to that from microemulsions, and proportional to drug loading. Moreover, NS-HG was skin-friendly; erythema and epidermal swelling were absent after repeated application. Further, NS-HG was chemically stable; >95 % of the drug was preserved up to 4 weeks under long term (25 °C/RH60%), accelerated (40 °C/RH75%), and stress (50 °C) storage conditions. Therefore, this novel cellulose derivative-based nanoformulation presents a promising approach for effective transdermal RTG delivery with improved tolerability.

Isolation and molecular characterization of cellulase-producing bacteria from waste dump site

Cellulases are collections of extracellular enzymes and a complex mixture of enzyme proteins with various specificities. Cellulases work together to hydrolyze glycosidic bonds and generate monomers of glucose for fermentation. This investigation aims to isolate and molecularly characterize Bacillus species with cellulolytic ability. Bacillus species were isolated from soil samples retrieved from a dump site and screened for cellulolytic ability on carboxyl methylcellulose (CMC) agar. The percentage hydrolysis efficiency of isolates was determined and cellulase produced was quantified using CMC assay method. Biochemical identification was by Analytical Profile Index (API) Kit 50CHB/20E and API web software while molecular characterization employed 16S rRNA gene sequencing and blast search analysis. Bacillus megaterium (FSP1) and Bacillus zanthoxyli (FSP4) exhibited their cellulolytic potentials by presenting zones of clearance of about 21 ± 2.08 and 7 ± 1.00 mm on CMCA with hydrolysis efficiency of 250 and 600 % respectively. Quantification of crude cellulase revealed cellulase activity of 85 and 74μmol/ml for both bacteria species. Biochemically, the cellulolytic bacteria were identified as Bacillus megaterium (FSP1) and Bacillus zanthoxyli (FSP4) while molecularly, they were identified as Bacillus megaterium 14581 (FSP1) and Bacillus zanthoxyli 1433 (FSP4) with Reference Sequence (RefSeq) accession numbers NR_116873 and NR_164882, and showing maximum sequence similarity of 99 and 96 % respectively. Results obtained from this investigation, suggests that both bacteria species characterised, possesses good cellulolytic ability and hence can be utilized for the production of the enzyme cellulase which has a wide range of industrial application.

Modification of bentonite with black cotton soil and carboxyl methyl cellulose for the enhancement of hydraulic performance of geosynthetic clay liners

ABSTRACT Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) are mostly used as flow barriers in landfills and waste containments due to their low hydraulic conductivity to prevent the leachate from reaching the environment. The self-healing and swell-shrink properties of soft clays (expansive soils) such as bentonite enable them as promising materials for the GCL core layers. However, it is important to modify their physico-chemical properties in order to overcome the functional limitations of GCL under different hydraulic conditions. In the present study, locally available black cotton soil (BCS) is introduced in the presence of an anionic polymer named carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as an alternative to bentonite to enhance the hydraulic properties of GCL under different compositions. The modified GCL is prepared by stitching the liner with an optimum percentage of CMC along with various percentages of BCS mixed with bentonite. Hydraulic conductivity tests were performed on the modified GCL using the flexi-wall permeameter. The results suggest that the lowest hydraulic conductivity of 4.58 × 10−10 m/s is obtained when 25% of BCS is blended with bentonite and an optimum 8% CMC and further addition of BCS results in the reduction of the hydraulic conductivity.

Uses of Microorganisms in The Recovery of Oil and Gas

Microscopic organisms are the only single-celled organisms proposed for the advancement of techniques for Estimation of Oil Recovery (EOR) because they have numerous desirable properties, including a simple structure and an unsustainable growth rate when supplied with vital nutrients, resulting in the release of metabolic chemicals like Aerosols, acids, minimum lubricants, surfactants, and polymers. Clostridium acetobutylicum was isolated from intensive rice cultivation soil and has the ability to use polysaccharides such as starch and carboxylmethyl cellulose to produce biobutanol, while Desulfovibrio hydrocarbonoclasticus was isolated from marine sediment in Iraq and grows in anaerobic synthetic seawater medium with the addition of a trace element solution. These bacteria can also withstand difficult conditions High salinity, high pressure, and high temperature play roles and contribute to underground geological formations. An aqueous mixture of nutrients, Clostridium acetobutylicum, Desulfovibrio hydrocarbonoclasticus, and molasses with nutrient and bacterial spore injection into a reservoir. As a result, these microorganisms are capable of considerable catalytic reactions. production of a diverse spectrum of products (biosolvents, bioacids, biogases, and biosurfactants) from relatively simple nutritional compounds, multiply vigorously under favourable conditions, and have resulted in increased oil release from reservoir rock. The well began producing 70 days after the medication was started. 80 to 90 days after the injection began, relatively brief polyunsaturated fats, Carbon dioxide, and residues of ethanol, 1-butanol, and acetone were detected. Because of their highly resistant endospores, Clostridium are the most ideal of the several microbes used in MEOR (Microbial enhanced oil recovery). Desulfovibrio strains capable of producing biosurfactants in situ, which are beneficial to the MEOR process, are also valuable. Nutrients are often supplied as fermentable carbs to promote microbial metabolism.

Recent Advances in Polymer Nanocomposites: Unveiling the Frontier of Shape Memory and Self-Healing Properties-A Comprehensive Review.

Shape memory and self-healing polymer nanocomposites have attracted considerable attention due to their modifiable properties and promising applications. The incorporation of nanomaterials (polypyrrole, carboxyl methyl cellulose, carbon nanotubes, titania nanotubes, graphene, graphene oxide, mesoporous silica) into these polymers has significantly enhanced their performance, opening up new avenues for diverse applications. The self-healing capability in polymer nanocomposites depends on several factors, including heat, quadruple hydrogen bonding, π-π stacking, Diels-Alder reactions, and metal-ligand coordination, which collectively govern the interactions within the composite materials. Among possible interactions, only quadruple hydrogen bonding between composite constituents has been shown to be effective in facilitating self-healing at approximately room temperature. Conversely, thermo-responsive self-healing and shape memory polymer nanocomposites require elevated temperatures to initiate the healing and recovery processes. Thermo-responsive (TRSMPs), light-actuated, magnetically actuated, and Electrically actuated Shape Memory Polymer Nanocomposite are discussed. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of interactions involved in SMP and SHP nanocomposites and examines their behavior at both room temperature and elevated temperature conditions, along with their biomedical applications. Among many applications of SMPs, special attention has been given to biomedical (drug delivery, orthodontics, tissue engineering, orthopedics, endovascular surgery), aerospace (hinges, space deployable structures, morphing aircrafts), textile (breathable fabrics, reinforced fabrics, self-healing electromagnetic interference shielding fabrics), sensor, electrical (triboelectric nanogenerators, information energy storage devices), electronic, paint and self-healing coating, and construction material (polymer cement composites) applications.