Physicochemical Characteristics Research Articles

A Review on Nanostructured Lipid Carriers as Promising Drug Delivery Vehicle to Target Various Cancers via Oral Route: A Step towards “Chemotherapy at Home”

Abstract: Oral drug administration is largely preferred owing to enhanced patient compliance, convenience of self-intake of dose, non-invasiveness, and low manufacturing cost. Cancer is a condition that starts with aberrant cell division at an uncontrolled rate. The clinical effectiveness of many anticancer drugs is limited by their physicochemical characteristics and physiological circumstances in the GI tract. Nanostructured lipid carriers have the potential to enhance the bio-availability of anticancer drugs by entrapping them. The NLCs, by virtue of their nanosize and their biocompatibility, can bypass the first-pass metabolism and be taken up by M cells of Peyer’s patches to deliver the drug to the deeper tumours. The proposed review highlights the potential of NLCs in oral drug delivery for the management of various cancers. It discusses various strategies, method of preparation, mechanism of uptake, and their applications in the treatment of cancer via oral delivery. Further, it explains the recent advances and future perspectives.

Identification of Potential Lead Compounds against BCL-2 through In-silico Screening of Phytochemicals of Nigella sativa and Cuscuta reflexa for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Management

Significance of the study: In silico analysis is frequently used in physicochemical characterisation, the discovery and improvement of novel compounds with affinity to a target, and the elucidation of absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity features. Aim and Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of Nigella sativa and Cuscuta reflexa in targeting Bcl2-antiapoptotic protein in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma through in silico analysis. Materials and Methods: The present study was designed to formulate a drug against Oral Squamous cell carcinoma against the target protein Bcl-2. Protein Database (PDB) was used to select and analyse the protein. Based on the literature search, the original molecules selected were thymoquinone, tannin pyrogallol, Cuscutin, kaempferol, nigellicine and the ligand structures were obtained ZINC15 database. Target protein structure was recognised through Protein sequence from PB (Protein Data Bank). Swiss ADME was used for assessing the properties of the molecules. Twenty new molecules were identified from zinc pharmer and docking was done for all the 20 using Swiss dock. Binding energy was assessed and compared with the original molecules.ZINC73690300 and ZINC73690304 had better binding energy than that of original molecules. Both molecules can be potential candidates for Bcl2 inhibition to prevent OSCC. Results: ZINC73690300 and ZINC73690304 had better binding energy than that of the original molecules. Both molecules can be potential candidates for Bcl-2 inhibition to prevent OSCC. Conclusion: The present study evaluated the binding energy and bioavailability of the combined extract, thus attempting to predict the target ligand binding between the compounds in OSCC before attempting in vitro studies.-

The Role of AI in Drug Discovery.

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in drug discovery marks a pivotal shift in pharmaceutical research, blending sophisticated computational techniques with conventional scientific exploration to break through enduring obstacles. This review paper elucidates the multifaceted applications of AI across various stages of drug development, highlighting significant advancements and methodologies. It delves into AI's instrumental role in drug design, polypharmacology, chemical synthesis, drug repurposing, and the prediction of drug properties such as toxicity, bioactivity, and physicochemical characteristics. Despite AI's promising advancements, the paper also addresses the challenges and limitations encountered in the field, including data quality, generalizability, computational demands, and ethical considerations. By offering a comprehensive overview of AI's role in drug discovery, this paper underscores the technology's potential to significantly enhance drug development, while also acknowledging the hurdles that must be overcome to fully realize its benefits.

On Tautomerism and Amphoterism: An In-Depth Structural and Physicochemical Characterization of Ammeline and Some of Its Salts.

Ammeline is a simple, readily available, molecular compound, which has been known for nearly 200 years. Despite that, no proper structural characterization of ammeline has been conducted so far. For this reason, the prevalent tautomeric form of ammeline in the solid remained unknown to this date. In the course of this study, its crystal structure was finally established by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In this structure, ammeline is exclusively found as its 4,6‑diamino-1,3,5-triazin-2(1H)-one tautomer and adopts layered structure with an exceptionally high hydrogen bond density. Ammeline shows an interesting amphoteric behavior. Therefore, the synthesis and structural characterization of some of its salts were carried out to investigate the influence of the protonation degree on its molecular structure. In particular, the crystal structure of silver ammelinate monohydrate was solved as the first reported structure containing deprotonated ammeline. Moreover, the crystal structures of three different modifications of ammelinium perchlorate were elucidated and the transformation conditions between them were studied. Lastly, the crystal structure of ammelinediium diperchlorate monohydrate, containing unprecedented doubly protonated ammeline, was determined. The products' thermal behavior was studied by differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetric analysis. The perchlorate salts were additionally examined for their potential as insensitive high-energy-density materials.

On Tautomerism and Amphoterism: An In‐Depth Structural and Physicochemical Characterization of Ammeline and Some of Its Salts

AbstractAmmeline is a simple, readily available, molecular compound, which has been known for nearly 200 years. Despite that, no proper structural characterization of ammeline has been conducted so far. For this reason, the prevalent tautomeric form of ammeline in the solid remained unknown to this date. In the course of this study, its crystal structure was finally established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In this structure, ammeline is exclusively found as its 4,6‐diamino‐1,3,5‐triazin‐2(1H)‐one tautomer and adopts layered structure with an exceptionally high hydrogen bond density. Ammeline shows an interesting amphoteric behavior. Therefore, the synthesis and structural characterization of some of its salts were carried out to investigate the influence of the protonation degree on its molecular structure. In particular, the crystal structure of silver ammelinate monohydrate was solved as the first reported structure containing deprotonated ammeline. Moreover, the crystal structures of three different modifications of ammelinium perchlorate were elucidated and the transformation conditions between them were studied. Lastly, the crystal structure of ammelinediium diperchlorate monohydrate, containing unprecedented doubly protonated ammeline, was determined. The products’ thermal behavior was studied by differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetric analysis. The perchlorate salts were additionally examined for their potential as insensitive high‐energy‐density materials.

Structural and Property Characterizations of Dual-Responsive Core-Shell Tecto Dendrimers for Tumor Penetration and Gene Delivery Applications.

Core-shell tecto dendrimers (CSTDs) with excellent physicochemical properties and good tumor penetration and gene transfection efficiency have been demonstrated to have the potential to replace high-generation dendrimers in biomedical applications. However, their characterization and related biological properties of CSTDs for enhanced tumor penetration and gene delivery still lack in-depth investigation. Herein, we attempted to design three types of dual-responsive CSTDs for thorough physicochemical characterization and investigation of their tumor penetration and gene delivery efficiency. Three types of CSTDs were prepared through phenylborate ester bonds of phenylboronic acid (PBA)-decorated generation 5 (G5) poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers as cores and monose (galactose, glucose or mannose)-conjugated G3 PAMAM dendrimers as shells and thoroughly characterized via NMR and other techniques. We show that the produced CSTDs displayed strong correlation signals between the PBA and monose protons and similar hydrodynamic diameters, and possess dual reactive oxygen species- and pH-responsivenesses. The dual-responsive CSTDs were proven to have structure-dependent tumor penetration property and gene delivery efficiency in terms of small interference RNA for gene silencing and plasmid DNA for gene editing, thus revealing a great potential for different biomedical applications. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Neglected sludge solid phase in sludge pretreatment process: Physicochemical characterization and mechanism study of its role in anaerobic degradation

The low anaerobic digestion efficiency of the solid phase separated from pre-treated sludge indicates the need to explore other suitable resource utilization pathways for sludge solid phase. However, there is a lack of comprehensive and in-depth research on the physicochemical properties of sludge solid phase. This study comprehensively analyzes the characteristics of sludge solid phase and elucidates the mechanism of sludge solid phase in the anaerobic degradation of toxic wastewater. The results show that the surface free energy of sludge solid phase after different pre-treatments is mainly contributed by Lewis acid-base hydration free energy. The distribution of proteins on the surface of sludge solid phase plays a major role in the adhesion between sludge solid particles. Metal ions in the sludge solid phase are mainly present in the exchange state, followed by the carbonate state and the organics-bound state. The sludge solid phase obtained by sludge pH 12 + 150 °C treatment has the highest conductivity (1.36 mS/m) and capacitance (25.51 μF/g), mainly due to the presence of melanoidins in the sludge solid phase, which has similar semiquinone radicals to humic acids, thus increasing conductivity. The addition of sludge solid phase promotes an increase in cumulative methane production and rate of methane production. The sludge solid phase might play a role of an auxiliary carbon source acting as an adsorbent to buffer against toxicity inhibition and facilitate electron transfer. This study reveals the characteristics of sludge solid phase and its role in anaerobic digestion, providing theoretical guidance for finding suitable resource utilization pathways for sludge solid phase.

Antifouling nanoplatform for controlled attachment of E. coli

Biofouling is the most common cause of bacterial contamination in implanted materials/devices resulting in severe inflammation, implant mobilization, and eventual failure. Since bacterial attachment represents the initial step toward biofouling, developing synthetic surfaces that prevent bacterial adhesion is of keen interest in biomaterials research. In this study, we develop antifouling nanoplatforms that effectively impede bacterial adhesion and the consequent biofilm formation. We synthesize the antifouling nanoplatform by introducing silicon (Si)/silica nanoassemblies to the surface through ultrafast ionization of Si substrates. We assess the effectiveness of these nanoplatforms in inhibiting Escherichia coli (E. coli) adhesion. The findings reveal a significant reduction in bacterial attachment on the nanoplatform compared to untreated silicon, with bacteria forming smaller colonies. By manipulating physicochemical characteristics such as nanoassembly size/concentration and nanovoid size, we further control bacterial attachment. These findings suggest the potential of our synthesized nanoplatform in developing biomedical implants/devices with improved antifouling properties.

Graphitized Carbon-Supported Co@Co3O4 for Ozone Decomposition over the Entire Humidity Range.

Ground-level ozone (O3) pollution has emerged as a significant concern due to its detrimental effects on human health and the ecosystem. Catalytic removal of O3 has proven to be the most efficient and cost-effective method. However, its practical application faces substantial challenges, particularly in relation to its effectiveness across the entire humidity range. Herein, we proposed a novel strategy termed "dual active sites" by employing graphitized carbon-loaded core-shell cobalt catalysts (Co@Co3O4-C). Co@Co3O4-C was synthesized via the pyrolysis of a Co-organic ligand as the precursor. By utilizing this approach, we achieved a nearly constant 100% working efficiency of the Co@Co3O4-C catalyst for catalyzing O3 decomposition across the entire humidity range. Physicochemical characterization coupled with density functional theory calculations elucidates that the presence of encapsulated metallic Co nanoparticles enhances the reactivity of the cobalt oxide capping layer. Additionally, the interface carbon atom, strongly influenced by adjacent metallic Co nuclei, functions as a secondary active site for the decomposition of O3 decomposition. The utilization of dual active sites effectively mitigates the competitive adsorption of H2O molecules, thus isolating them for adsorption in the cobalt oxide capping layer. This optimized configuration allows for the decomposition of O3 without interference from moisture. Furthermore, O3 decomposition monolithic catalysts were synthesized using a material extrusion-based three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, which demonstrated a low pressure drop and exceptional mechanical strength. This work provides a "dual active site" strategy for the O3 decomposition reaction, realizing O3 catalytic decomposition over the entire humidity range.

Assessment of Physicochemical Characterization and Mineralization of Nanofibrous Scaffold Incorporated With Aspartic Acid for Dental Mineralization: An In Vitro Study

Assessment of Physicochemical Characterization and Mineralization of Nanofibrous Scaffold Incorporated With Aspartic Acid for Dental Mineralization: An In Vitro Study

Effect of Different Drying Techniques on Quality Attributes of Ready to Reconstitute (RTR) Coffee Mix

Coffee is one of the most ubiquitous and culturally significant beverages worldwide, transcending borders and influencing societies in myriad ways. Ready-to-reconstitute (RTR) coffee, often referred to as instant coffee, occupies a unique and significant niche in the global coffee market. In the present study, A mixture of Arabica to Robusta coffee beans in the ratio of 70:30 was found most suitable for manufacture of ready to reconstitute coffee mix. The concentrated coffee decoction prepared using this mixture is to be blended with concentrated milk (30%TS) in the ratio of 1:5 and dried using vacuum tray dryer, tray dryer and freeze dryer. The coffee mix is vacuum-dried at 30 to 45 degrees Celsius with a vacuum of 600 to 650 mm of Hg, gives better quality of dried product. The optimized final product has better rheological and physico chemical characteristics. In present study found that ready to reconstitute coffee mix has solubility in hot water 26.4 seconds and 2.74 minutes in cold water at 16◦C. The freeze-dried coffee mix powder exhibited reduced flowability 42.08 seconds compare to vacuum try dried and tray-dried coffee mix power that was 47.41 and 46.27 seconds respectively. Same as bulk density of freeze-dried powder (0.64 g/cm3) found lowest compare to vacuum tray dried (0.78 g/cm3) and tray dried (0.82 g/cm3) coffee mix powder.

Gallocin-derived Engineered Peptides Targeting EGFR and VEGFR in Colorectal Cancer: A Bioinformatic Approach.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment using time-saving and cost-effective targeted therapies with high selectivity and low toxicity drugs, is a great challenge. In primary investigations on Gallocin, as a most proposed factor in CRC pathogenesis caused by Streptococcus gallolyticus, it was surprisingly found that this bacteriocin has four α-helix structures and some anti- cancer sequences. The aim of this study was to determine the ability of Gallocin-based anticancer peptides (ACPs) against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular epidermal growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and the evaluation of their pharmacokinetics properties using bioinformatics approaches. Support vector machine algorithm web-based tools were used for predicting ACPs. The physicochemical characteristics and the potential of anti-cancer activity of Gallocin-derived ACPs were determined by in silico tools. The 3D structure of predicted ACPs was modeled using modeling tools. The interactions between predicted ACPs and targets were investigated by molecular docking exercises. Then, the stability of ligand-receptor interactions was determined by molecular dynamic simulation. Finally, ADMET analysis was carried out to check the pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity of ACP. Four amino acid sequences with anti-cancer potential were selected. Through molecular docking, Pep2, and Pep3 gained the best scores, more binding affinity, and strong attachments by the formation of reasonable H-bonds with both EGFR and VEGFR. Molecular simulation confirmed the stability of Pep3- EGFR. According to pharmacokinetic analysis, the ACPs were safe and truthful. Designed peptides can be nominated as drugs for CRC treatment. However, different in-vitro and in-vivo assessments are required to approve this claim.

Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles using Pelargonium Graveolens leaf extract: characterization and anti-microbial properties (An in-vitro study)

Background In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the level of attention devoted to exploring capabilities of nanoparticles, specifically gold nanoparticles AuNPs, within context of modern times. AuNPs possess distinct biophysical properties, as a novel avenue as an antibacterial agent targeting Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans. The aim of this study to create a nano-platform that has the potential to be environmentally sustainable, in addition to exhibiting exceptional antimicrobial properties against Streptococcus Mutans as well as Candida Albicans. Methods this study involved utilization of Pelargonium Graveolens leaves extract as a cost effective and environmentally sustainable approach for the green synthesis of AuNPs. Subsequently, physicochemical characteristics were assessed employing a variety of analytical methods, including as transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope, Zeta potential, Ultraviolet visible absorption spectroscopy, and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The antimicrobial efficacy against Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans was evaluated. Nanoparticles of various shapes, including hexagonal, spherical, semi-spherical, and triangular, were synthesized. These nanoparticles exhibited a mean particle size of 294nm and demonstrated low degree of aggregation. These nanoparticles exhibited long-term stability and were capable of facilely combining with diverse bioactive compounds. Results The study demonstrated that AuNPs which is synthesized by green methods display potent antimicrobial properties. Conclusion Utilization of Pelargonium Graveolens AuNPs may exhibit a promising potential as an antibacterial agent against Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans. Nanoparticles (NPs) have the potential to serve as a novel approach for addressing pathogen infections as well as for biomedical, dental and pharmaceutical purposes in the future.

Super absorbent polymers (SAP) in building materials: Application opportunities through physico-chemical and mechanical analysis

This paper shows the physicochemical and mechanical characterization of a new plaster material lightened with superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and reinforced with fibers. First, an experimental campaign has been conducted to determine the ideal quantity of sodium polyacrylate polymer (NaPA) to be added, analysing three water/plaster ratios and three different amounts of SAP. The aim is to achieve the maximum reduction in density and optimal mechanical resistance. Once this analysis was conducted, a 0.7 water/plaster ratio and 0.015 SAP/gypsum ratio were determined as the ideal mixture. With this, a complete characterization of the new material was conducted, also considering the incorporation of three different fibers. SAP addition led to a significant apparent density reduction in the new plaster compounds produced, reaching values up to 27 % lower than the reference samples. From those samples with fibers, kevlar and glass fiber got a better mechanical performance, always exceeding the limit values established by current regulations. In the same way, the incorporation of these superabsorbent polymers has managed to reduce the original plaster material thermal conductivity by up to 32 %, as porosity increased. Thus, it has been confirmed that the incorporation of superabsorbent polymers in the production of plaster compounds is a viable alternative to produce lightweight prefabricated elements within wide field of application for the design of new prefabricated elements.

Fabrication and characterization of Sb-doped MXene prepared by hydrothermal method for use as a sensing electrode for heavy metal detection

MXene, a two-dimensional material with favorable physicochemical characteristics, has demonstrated outstanding efficiency in a wide range of applications because of their superior properties, such as higher surface area and conductivity, and facile surface modification. In this study, antimony (Sb) doped MXenes were synthesized via a simple hydrothermal method, employing various Sb concentrations ranging from 5%w/w to 25%w/w. The successful preparation of the Sb-doped MXene (Sb@MXene) was confirmed by an X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. Physical morphologies examined through field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) depict the presence of Sb nanoparticles with the size of about 80 nm on the surface and interlayer of MXenes. The Sb@MXene composites demonstrated significant potential as electrochemical sensing materials for heavy metal detection. Both 5%Sb@MXene and 25%Sb@MXene composites were prepared as the screen-printed electrode (SPE) materials via drop-casting method to sense Pb2+, Cd2+, and Zn2+. The 25%Sb@MXene SPE show the highest sensitivity toward Pb2+(3.62 μA∙ppm‒1), Cd2+(2.53 μA∙ppm‒1), and Zn2+ (0.90 μA∙ppm‒1) solution, compared with that of 5%Sb@MXene SPE. This work not only demonstrates a simple preparation of Sb@MXene, but also applies the hybrid materials in electrochemical sensing application.

Chlorella vulgaris-mediated bioremediation of food and beverage wastewater from industries in Mexico: Results and perspectives towards sustainability and circular economy

The food and beverage industries in Mexico generate substantial effluents, including nejayote, cheese-whey, and tequila vinasses, which pose significant environmental challenges due to their extreme physicochemical characteristics and excessive organic load. This study aimed to assess the potential of Chlorella vulgaris in bioremediating these complex wastewaters while also producing added-value compounds. A UV mutagenesis treatment (40 min) enhanced C. vulgaris adaptability to grow in the effluent conditions. Robust growth was observed in all three effluents, with nejayote identified as the optimal medium. Physicochemical measurements conducted pre- and post-cultivation revealed notable reductions of pollutants in nejayote, including complete removal of nitrogen and phosphates, and an 85 % reduction in COD. Tequila vinasses exhibited promise with a 66 % reduction in nitrogen and a 70 % reduction in COD, while cheese-whey showed a 17 % reduction in phosphates. Regarding valuable compounds, nejayote yielded the highest pigment (1.62 mg·g−1) and phenolic compound (3.67 mg·g−1) content, while tequila vinasses had the highest protein content (16.83 %). The main highlight of this study is that C. vulgaris successfully grew in 100 % of the three effluents (without additional water or nutrients), demonstrating its potential for sustainable bioremediation and added-value compound production. When grown in 100 % of the effluents, they become a sustainable option since they don't require an input of fresh water and therefore do not contribute to water scarcity. These findings offer a practical solution for addressing environmental challenges in the food and beverage industries within a circular economy framework.

Physicochemical analysis of deterioration affecting the darkening of rock art in Maros-Pangkep, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

This study investigates the darkening processes affecting Maros-Pangkep rock art through a comprehensive multianalytical approach. We integrate in-situ color index measurements using Nix color Pro 2 with various physicochemical characterization techniques, including optical microscopy, XRF, SEM-EDS, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR. By examining microbial, geochemical, and anthropogenic factors on rock art pigment samples, we establish a clear correlation between the formation of blackish-gray layers and reduced chromaticity values, indicating a significant darkening process. The shift in pigment color from vibrant red or purple to a prevailing blackish-gray hue is attributed to surface accumulation. Surface morphology analysis reveals distinct blackish deposits and delicate white fibrous structures on darkened rock art. Elemental composition analysis demonstrates heightened blackish deposit formation and increased phosphorus content in darkened samples. SEM-EDS characterization exposes gypsum morphology, with filament-like structures prevailing in heavily darkened samples, highlighting the role of both geochemical and microbial factors in deposit layer formation. FTIR spectra results confirm the presence of gypsum minerals, which are attributed to the substrate minerals and/or mineral weathering product, and unveil the existence of organic compounds, indicating microbial activity. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy reveals the anthropogenic contribution, notably soot deposition produced by human activities, to the darkening of rock art. This study underscores the need for a holistic preservation approach addressing natural, human, and microbial impacts on cultural heritage sites. Further research is also needed to conduct cross-sectional stratigraphical analysis to understand the accurate mechanism of the deterioration process on the rock art. Moreover, excavation measures regarding the possible relationship of soot deposition with human activities are also important to be carried out at the sites.

Innovative Solution for Invasive Species and Water Pollution: Hydrochar Synthesis from Pleco Fish Biomass

In recent years, the invasive pleco fish has emerged as a global concern due to its adverse effects on ecosystems and economic activities, particularly in various water bodies in Mexico. This study introduces an innovative solution, employing microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization (MHTC) to synthesize hydrochar from pleco fish biomass. The research aimed to optimize synthesis conditions to enhance hydrochar yield, calorific value, and adsorption capacities for fluoride and cadmium in water. MHTC, characterized by low energy consumption, high reaction rates, and a simple design, was employed as a thermochemical process for hydrochar production. Key findings revealed that through response surface analysis, the study identified the optimal synthesis conditions for hydrochar production, maximizing yield and adsorption capacities while minimizing energy consumption. Physicochemical characterization demonstrated that hydrochars derived from pleco fish biomass exhibited mesoporous structures with fragmented surfaces, resembling hydroxyapatite, a major component of bone. Hydrochars derived from pleco fish biomass exhibited promising adsorption capacities for fluoride and cadmium in water, with hydrochar from Exp. 1 (90 min, 160 °C) showing the highest adsorption capacity for fluoride (4.16 mg/g), while Exp. 5 (90 min, 180 °C) demonstrated superior adsorption capacity for cadmium (98.5 mg/g). Furthermore, the utilization of pleco fish biomass for hydrochar production not only offers an eco-friendly disposal method for invasive species but also addresses fluoride and cadmium contamination issues, contributing to sustainable waste management and water treatment solutions. The resulting hydrochar, rich in solid fuel content with low pollutant emissions, presents a promising approach for waste management and carbon sequestration. Moreover, the optimized synthesis conditions pave the way for sustainable applications in energy production, addressing critical environmental and public health concerns. This research provides valuable insights into the potential of microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization for transforming invasive species into valuable resources, thereby mitigating environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.

Enhanced antibacterial and genoprotective properties of nanoliposomal Satureja hortensis L. essential oil

Nanoliposomes are drug delivery systems that improve bioavailability by encapsulating therapeutic agents. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of nanoliposomal (NL) formulation on enhancing the bioavailability of essential oil. The essential oil of Satureja hortensis (SHO) was encapsulated in nanoliposomes (SHNLs). Physicochemical characterizations of NL formulations (size, charge, polydispersity index [PDI]) were evaluated by dynamic light scattering technique. The nanoliposome encapsulation efficiency (EE) was calculated as 89.90%. The prepared bionanosystems demonstrated significant antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli ATCC 10536, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC as determined by the agar diffusion method and microdilution tests. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for SHNLs were found to be 5.187 µg/µL for E. coli and 2.59 µg/µL for both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. Importantly, despite the lower substance content, both SHNLs and SHO exhibited comparable antibacterial activity against all tested strains. Furthermore, in order to determine the toxicity profile and possible effects on DNA damage or repair both the genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of SHNLs were assessed using the cytokinesis-blocked micronucleus (CBMN) method in human lymphocyte cultures. The experimental data collectively indicate that the NL formulation of the S. hortensis essential oil enhances antibacterial activities and provides genoprotective effects against DNA damage. This highlights the significance of liposomal formulations of antioxidants in augmenting their biological activity. The results indicate that SHNLs can be a safe antibacterial agent for the pharmaceutical industry.

Urban Wastewater-Based Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Virus: A Two-Year Study Conducted in City of Patras, Greece.

Wastewater-based epidemiology, during the COVID-19 pandemic years, has been applied as a complementary approach, worldwide, for tracking SARS-CoV-2 virus into the community and used as an early warning of the prevalence of COVID-19 infection. The present study presents the results of the 2-year surveillance project, in the city of Patras, Greece. The purpose of the study was to monitor SARS-CoV-2 and implement WBE as an early warning method of monitoring Public Health impact. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 was determined and quantified in 310 samples using RT-qPCR assays. For the years 2022 and 2023, 93.5% and 78.7% of samples were found positive, respectively. Comparison of detection methods have been conducted to select the method with the highest recovery of the viral load. A seasonal variation of the virus was recorded, showing a recession in summer months confirming the country's epidemiological data as indicated by positive correlation of wastewater viral load with registered cases of COVID-19 infections during these years (p < 0.05) and moreover sealed with a significant negative correlation observed with Daily Average (p < 0.01) and Daily Maximum Temperature (p < 0.01). More research was carried out to elucidate a possible association of physicochemical characteristics of wastewater with viral load showing positive correlation with Chlorides (p < 0.01) advocating possible increased use of chlorine-based disinfectants and Electrical Conductivity (p < 0.01) indicates that wastewater during periods of increased infections is more heavily loaded with ions from chemical and biological pollutants. No correlation found with rainfall and physicochemical indicators, such as COD, BOD5, Total Phosphorus, Total Nitrogen, and Total Suspended Solids. According to the findings, WBE represents a useful tool in the management of epidemics based on an environmental approach and it can also shed light on the interacting parameters that capture Public Health since any infections that may lead to epidemics lead to a parallel change in the use of pharmaceuticals, antimicrobials, disinfectants, and microbial load in urban wastewater.