Physiochemical Characteristics Research Articles

Mineral pollutants and coliform contamination in groundwater pose health risks to consumers: a spatiotemporal study in a mining-impacted area

The presence of mineral pollutants, combined with bacterial contamination, has significantly impacted groundwater quality and led to various health-related issues in mining-impacted areas. Therefore, we measured the concentration of fluoride (F-), phosphate (PO43-), sulphate (SO42-), ammonium (NH4+), nitrate (NO3-), the total coliforms (TCs), and physiochemical characteristics in groundwater samples of South Khorasan, Eastern Iran. For this, we collected water samples from 100 wells in spring and autumn across this mining-impacted area. We then measured the concentrations of mineral pollutants and assessed their associated health risks to children and adults using the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) models and spatiotemporal zoning maps in ArcGIS. The concentrations of PO43-, NH4+, SO42-, NO3-, and F- were 0.70 ± 0.34, 0.82 ± 0.9, 175.45 ± 123, 15.26 ± 9.41, and 0.53 ± 0.68 mg/L in spring, and 0.71 ± 3.18, 4.68 ± 31, 306.72 ± 615.80, 19.30 ± 15.61, and 0.72 ± 0.65 mg/L in autumn, respectively. PO43-, NH4+, and SO42- exceeded both the World Health Organization (WHO) and EPA, but NO3- exceeded only EPA standards. TCs in both seasons exceeded the standards set by the EPA and WHO. The hazard quotient (HQ) values indicated non-carcinogenic risks for F⁻ and NO3⁻, while posing no risks NH4⁺ and PO43⁻ in both adults and children during autumn and spring.Hazard index (HI) was greater than 1 for all minerals in both children and adults in autumn and spring. No correlation was observed between mineral compounds and TCs in the study area, yet the water samples were highly contaminated by coliform with a significant risk to adults and children. In essence, both mineral pollutants and TCs potentially pose serious risks to human, and more efforts are required to improve the quality of water in this area.

Glatiramer Acetate Complexes CpG Oligodeoxynucleotides into Nanoparticles and Boosts Their TLR9-Driven Immunity.

Unmethylated cytosine-guanine oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG ODNs) have a storied history as agonists for Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9). CpG ODNs have shown promising antitumor effects in preclinical studies by inducing potent proinflammatory immune responses. However, clinical success has been hindered by inconsistent efficacy and immune-related toxicities caused by systemic exposure to CpG ODNs. We previously identified that glatiramer acetate (GA), an FDA-approved, lysine-rich polypeptide, could complex class B CpG into cationic nanoparticles which persist at the intratumoral injection site while mitigating the induction of systemic proinflammatory cytokines in mouse tumor models. To extend GA applications across subtypes of CpG ODN (class A, B, and C), we evaluated physiochemical properties and identified the immunological signaling of GA and its complexes with different classes of CpG ODNs. We compared the physiochemical characteristics of three types of GA-CpG nanoparticles, followed by assessments of cell uptake efficiency and endolysosomal trafficking. We then performed successive in vitro and in vivo assays to evaluate immunological discrepancies. Complexation with GA preserved the immunological activity of CpG ODN subtypes while encapsulating them into cationic spherical nanoparticles. GA improved the cellular uptake of CpG ODNs, generally increased retention in early endosomes, and amplified immunological responses. A subsequent in vivo experiment confirmed the achievement of potent tumor suppression while mitigating systemic immune-related toxicities. Together, these data help elucidate the noncanonical role of GA to serve as a nucleic acid delivery scaffold that can improve the efficacy and safety of CpG adjuvant for clinical cancer immunotherapy.

Formulation and evaluation of herbal shampoo

The main objective of these study is to evaluate and formulate herbal shampoo. Shampoo are one of the cosmetic products used in daily life. Synthetic preservatives and detergents have sometimes been the cause of adverse effects among consumers. A more radical approach in reducing the synthetic ingredients is by incorporating natural ingredients whose functionality is comparable with their synthetic ingredients. The ingredients used in formulation of Herbal Shampoo are Ficus Religiosa leaves (Powder), Hibiscus Leaves (Powder), Reetha (Powder), Shikakai (Powder), Aloevera, then prepared by mixing with each other and evaluated for its organoleptic and physio-chemical characteristics and performance tests in terms of wetting time test, pH, solid contents, surface tension, dirt dispersion, foam Stability, and Viscosity was performed. The combination of several such ingredient of herbal origin has made it possible to secure highly effective dry powder shampoo. The formulation at laboratory scale was done and evaluated for number of parameters to ensure its safety and efficacy The Formulated Herbal Shampoo was clear and good appealing. It demonstrated good froth stability, detergency, good cleansing, small bubble size, low surface strain, and execution of good conditioning property. The physicochemical evaluation of the formulated shampoo showed ideal results. However, to improve its quality, product performance, and safety, further development was required.

Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Acyclic Nucleosides and Their Therapeutic Applications.

DNA is commonly known as the "molecule of life" because it holds the genetic instructions for all living organisms on Earth. The utilization of modified nucleosides holds the potential to transform the management of a wide range of human illnesses. Modified nucleosides and their role directly led to the 2023 Nobel prize. Acyclic nucleosides, due to their distinctive physiochemical and biological characteristics, rank among the most adaptable modified nucleosides in the field of medicinal chemistry. Acyclic nucleosides are more resistant to chemical and biological deterioration, and their adaptable acyclic structure makes it possible for them to interact with various enzymes. A phosphonate group, which is linked via an aliphatic functionality to a purine or a pyrimidine base, distinguishes acyclic nucleoside phosphonates (ANPs) from other nucleotide analogs. Acyclic nucleosides and their derivatives have demonstrated various biological activities such as anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, anti-microbial, etc. Ganciclovir, Famciclovir, and Penciclovir are the acyclic nucleoside-based drugs approved by FDA for the treatment of various diseases. Thus, acyclic nucleosides are extremely useful for generating a variety of unique bioactive chemicals. Their biological activities as well as selectivity is significantly influenced by the stereochemistry of the acyclic nucleosides because chiral acyclic nucleosides have drawn a lot of interest due to their intriguing biological functions and potential as medicines. For example, tenofovir's (R) enantiomer is roughly 50 times more potent against HIV than its (S) counterpart. We can confidently state, "The most promising developments are yet to come in the realm of acyclic nucleosides!" Herein, we have covered the most current developments in the field of chemical synthesis and therapeutic applications of acyclic nucleosides based upon our continued interest and activity in this field since mid-1990's.

Interactive effect of biogenic nanoparticles and UV-B exposure on physio-biochemical behavior and secondary metabolism of Artemisia annua L

Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are key nanomaterials with unique physio-chemical characteristics and diverse applications. Their strong absorption potential and antibacterial activity make them useful for agriculture, medicine and other industries. AgNPs boost plant growth and metabolism, especially under stress. However, the combined effects of AgNPs and UV-B exposure on plants are unknown. To elucidate the interactive effects of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and exposure of ultraviolet B (UV-B) on plant growth and metabolic processes, this study assessed the response of Artemisia annua under controlled in vitro conditions. In total, eight sets of plants were used with the alone/combined treatment of AgNPs and UV-B. For this purpose, spherical and averaged ∼ 31.8 nm in size AaAgNPs were synthesized. The photosynthetic pigments were calculated maximum with the alone treatment of 0.5 mg L−1 AaAgNPs and combined treatment of 0.5 mg L−1 AaAgNPs with 3 h UV-B, respectively. The results evidenced that the co-exposure of AaAgNPs and UV-B led to a significant balance in ROS production of A. annua; as well as improved antioxidative enzyme activity. Fluorescence and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis indicated the enhancement of glandular trichomes (GT) area and density with the combined treatment of AaAgNPs and 3 h UV-B. In accordance with correlation between microscopic GT results, high concentration of artemisinin and up-regulation of related transcripts were found in A. annua plants treated with low concentrations of AaAgNPs and UV-B. Thus, it may be inferred that two distinct plant growth modulators, namely low-concentration biosynthesized AgNPs and short-term UV-B exposure, can enhance the physio-biochemical characteristics and production of secondary metabolites (specially artemisinin) in A. annua synergistically.

A New Winter Wheat Crop Segmentation Method Based on a New Fast-UNet Model and Multi-Temporal Sentinel-2 Images

Mapping and monitoring crops are the most complex and difficult tasks for experts processing and analyzing remote sensing (RS) images. Classifying crops using RS images is the most expensive task, and it requires intensive labor, especially in the sample collection phase. Fieldwork requires periodic visits to collect data about the crop’s physiochemical characteristics and separating them using the known conventional machine learning algorithms and remote sensing images. As the problem becomes more complex because of the diversity of crop types and the increase in area size, sample collection becomes more complex and unreliable. To avoid these problems, a new segmentation model was created that does not require sample collection or high-resolution images and can successfully distinguish wheat from other crops. Moreover, UNet is a well-known Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and the semantic method was adjusted to become more powerful, faster, and use fewer resources. The new model was named Fast-UNet and was used to improve the segmentation of wheat crops. Fast-UNet was compared to UNet and Google’s newly developed semantic segmentation model, DeepLabV3+. The new model was faster than the compared models, and it had the highest average accuracy compared to UNet and DeepLabV3+, with values of 93.45, 93.05, and 92.56 respectively. Finally, new datasets of time series NDVI images and ground truth data were created. These datasets, and the newly developed model, were made available publicly on the Web.

Micro-Nanoparticle Characterization: Establishing Underpinnings for Proper Identification and Nanotechnology-Enabled Remediation.

Microplastics (MPLs) and nanoplastics (NPLs) are smaller particles derived from larger plastic material, polymerization, or refuse. In context to environmental health, they are separated into the industrially-created "primary" category or the degradation derivative "secondary" category where the particles exhibit different physiochemical characteristics that attenuate their toxicities. However, some particle types are more well documented in terms of their fate in the environment and potential toxicological effects (secondary) versus their industrial fabrication and chemical characterization (primary). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR/µ-FTIR), Raman/µ-Raman, Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (H-NMR), Curie Point-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (CP-gc-MS), Induced Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), Field Flow Fractionation-Multiple Angle Light Scattering (FFF-MALS), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetry (TGA), Differential Mobility Particle [Sizing] (DMPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Scanning Transmission X-ray Microspectroscopy (STXM) are reviewed as part of a suite of characterization methods for physiochemical ascertainment and distinguishment. In addition, Optical-Photothermal Infrared Microspectroscopy (O-PTIR), Z-Stack Confocal Microscopy, Mueller Matrix Polarimetry, and Digital Holography (DH) are touched upon as a suite of cutting-edge modes of characterization. Organizations, like the water treatment or waste management industry, and those in groups that bring awareness to this issue, which are in direct contact with the hydrosphere, can utilize these techniques in order to sense and remediate this plastic polymer pollution. The primary goal of this review paper is to highlight the extent of plastic pollution in the environment as well as introduce its effect on the biodiversity of the planet while underscoring current characterization techniques in this field of research. The secondary goal involves illustrating current and theoretical avenues in which future research needs to address and optimize MPL/NPL remediation, utilizing nanotechnology, before this sleeping giant of a problem awakens.

The effect of Plantago major seed mucilage fortified with cell-free supernatant (CFS) of probiotic Lactococcus lactis NJ414 on extending shelf life and ensuring the safety of lamb meat slices stored at 4 °C

The present study was conducted to create a bioactive edible coating using Plantago major mucilage (PMM) and the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of probiotic Lactococcus lactis NJ414 to extend the shelf life and ensure the safety of lamb meat slices stored at 4 °C. The PMM+2%CFS coated slices showed a significant decrease in total viable count (8.14–5.48 log CFU/g), and psychrotrophic bacteria count (5.24–3.54 log CFU/g). Additionally, the pH value decreased from 5.93 to 5.71, the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reduced by 65%, and the peroxide value (PV) decreased by 60%. Moreover, PMM+2%CFS coated slices had higher hardness (68.87 N vs. 62.10 N), moisture content (67.57% vs. 64.35%), and overall acceptance (6.40 vs. 3.00) compared to the control. Adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS) and gaussian process regression (GPR) models were used to predict the population of microbial pathogens, physicochemical and sensory characteristics of coated lamb products based on three inputs including PMM (0% and 2%), CFS (0%, 1% and 2%), time (1, 3, 6 and 9 days). The result showed that artificial intelligence-based models, especially ANFIS (R2 > 0.99) are able to estimate the population of microbial pathogens, physiochemical and sensory characteristics.

Preparation and Evaluation of Polyethylene Glycol Conjugated Polyethylene Imine‐Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles for Paclitaxel Delivery to Cervical Cancer Cells

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to synthesize and characterize the therapeutic effect of paclitaxel‐loaded polyethylene glycol modified polyethylene imine‐coated iron oxide nanoparticles on cervical cancer cell line (HeLa cell). The physiochemical characteristics of nanocarriers were confirmed by using several methods including X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed the magnetic nanoparticles with size of 35 nm and excellent magnetic properties could load paclitaxel with capacity (16%) and encapsulation efficiency (80%) that has revealed pH‐dependent release behavior. The anticancer effects of nanoparticles were investigated using MTT assay. In comparison to free drug, paclitaxel‐loaded magnetic nanocarrier revealed more cytotoxicity against HeLa cell line and also resulted in an increased rate of apoptotic cancer cells, assessed by flow cytometry analysis. Furthermore, the developed magnetic nanocarrier showed suitable hemocompatibility which can be used in clinical applications.

Influence of Phosphoric Acid Activation on Physiochemical Characteristics of Activated Carbons and Their Performance as Supercapacitor

ABSTRACTWe investigate the influence of phosphoric acid (H3PO4) activation on physiochemical characteristics of activated carbons (ACs) as a function of number of activation steps such as two‐step and three‐step and impregnation ratio (IR). Scanning electron microscopy observations identified that different morphologies in the forms of graphene sheet‐like, nano‐granular, and flake‐like carbon structure in the cases of ACs. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed that successful incorporation of phosphorous group in the ACs by H3PO4 activation. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) profile exposed that irrespective of the activation method and IR, all AC samples showed narrow and sharp XRD crystalline peak along with the amorphous signals. Raman scattering analysis suggested that three‐step activation create more defective structure as compared to two‐step activation route. Nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm measurements indicated that upon fabricating ACs via three‐step and two‐step activation approach, around 6.5 times and 3‐fold enhancement in the value of surface area of ACs as compared to that of carbon before activation. In addition, higher the IR value, lower the textural properties of ACs. This study demonstrated that three‐step activation methodology is capable of generating highly porous AC when compared to two‐step activation route. Cyclic voltammetry analysis showed that for the electrode developed from AC that fabricated via three‐step activation, capacitance retention of 50% is achieved upon tuning the scan rate by 10 times. The same electrode exhibited the capacitance retention of 45% upon increasing the current density by 10 times. We have also compared the electrochemical performance of symmetric and asymmetric supercapacitors. Electrochemical capacitance retention of symmetric and asymmetric supercapacitors is determined to be 100% and 92% respectively after 1000 cycles at the current density of 1 A g−1. Based on the Ragone plot study, it is observed that the maximum energy density of 5 W h kg−1 and the maximum power density of 943 W kg−1 are attained for the case of symmetric supercapacitors. Asymmetric supercapacitor displayed improved energy density of 7.15 W h kg−1 and modest power density of 432 W kg−1.

Stimulative effect of chitosan with amino acid to enhance growth, essential oil, and some physiochemical characteristics of two Mentha cultivars

Background Mint plants (Mentha spp.) are a member of the Lamiaceae family and it has long been used in medicine. Its applications include carminative, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiemetic, diaphoretic, analgesic, stimulant, emmenagogue, and anticatarrhal. Adding chitosan to medicinal plants has a major role in the process of secondary metabolism, as its addition stimulates the production of chemical compounds or essential oils in the plant. Amino acids are one of the possible strategies for increasing agricultural productivity. They are organic nitrogen polymers that are used as the building blocks of proteins and enzymes. Objective This study aimed to determine how chitosan, in combination with or without the foliar application of amino acids, affected the growth and physiological traits of two cultivars of mint. Materials and methods Two pot trail investigation studies were carried out during the two consecutive seasons 2021 and 2022 under the natural conditions of the greenhouse of the National Research Center (NRC), Dokki, Giza, Egypt. To study the effect of two levels of chitosan (1.5 and 3.0 g/l with amino acid at rates of 50 and 100 mg/l) as foliar application on growth, essential oil, and some physiochemical characteristics of two Mentha (Mentha viridis and Mentha longifolia L.) cultivars. Results and conclusion The results show significant differences between two mint cultivars in the growth parameters of mint plants. Plants of M. viridis variety were characterized by the highest significant values of herb fresh weight, number of branches/plants, essential oil (%), flavonoid content, and protein %, while the M. longifolia variety was superior in plant height, herb dry weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids, total pigments, indole acetic acid, phenol, carbohydrates %, free amino acids, flavonoid, and proline contents. Using chitosan as foliar treatments at different concentrations with or without amino acid significantly increased all studied traits. The interaction between two cultivars and foliar treatments of high rates of chitosan and amino acid gave the maximum significant increase of plant height, photosynthetic pigments and indole acetic acid, phenol, protein, free amino acid, and proline contents as well as antioxidant activities (DPPH%).

Physicochemical Marker for Determination of Value-Adding Component in Over-Ripe Thai Mango Peels

Thailand is a prominent global producer of mangoes, providing a wide range of mango cultivars and dealing with the challenge of managing biomass. Thus, biorefining mango peel to extract valuable components has the potential to reduce organic waste and create a new revenue source for the mango processing sector. This study aims to examine the physiology, physiochemical, and chemical characteristics in peel of nine Thai mango cultivars, along with the relationship between their characteristics. The Thai mango cultivars Mahachanok, Chok anan, and Rad exhibited a yellow appearance, while the other six cultivars appeared yellow-green. However, the firmness of the fruit was directly correlated with the firmness of the pulp. A proximate composition study revealed that the predominant constituent of mango peel was carbohydrates, comprising up to 75% of its composition. This was followed by fibre, which accounted for up to 13%. The Nga mango had the highest levels of total phenolic content (220 mgGAE/g) and total flavonoid content (5.5 mgCE/g). The primary phenolic acids identified in Thai mango peel were epicatechin, caffeic acid, catechin, and gallic acid. The Mahachanok cultivar exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, as determined by the ABTS and DPPH assays, with values of 85.67% and 85.78%, respectively. This study demonstrated the connections between the physiochemical characteristics of mangoes and their chemical compositions in different cultivars, indicating the possibility of choosing particular cultivars for extracting targeted bioactive compounds. The multivariate analyses revealed that there was no correlation between the physiochemical and chemical profiles of mangoes. This study highlights the significance of mango peel as a valuable by-product that has significant environmental and economic ramifications for the mango processing industry.

Biotic Interactions Shape Soil Bacterial Beta Diversity Patterns along an Altitudinal Gradient during Invasion

Invasive plants have already been observed in the understory of mountain forests, which are often considered a safe shelter for most native plants. Microorganisms might be drivers of plant invasions. Nevertheless, the mechanisms determining variations in microbial community composition (beta diversity) during invasion along altitudinal gradients remain to be elucidated. Here, the elevational patterns and the driving ecological processes (e.g., environmental filtering, co-occurrence patterns, and community assembly processes) of soil bacterial beta diversity were compared between invasive and native plants on the Qinling Mountains. The species turnover dominated bacterial compositional dissimilarities in both invasive and native communities, and its contribution to total beta diversity decreased during invasion. Total soil bacterial dissimilarities and turnover exhibited significant binominal patterns over an altitudinal gradient, with a tipping point of 1413 m. Further analysis showed that the contributions of assembly processes decreased in parallel with an increase in contributions of co-occurrence patterns during the invasion process, indicating that species interdependence rather than niche partitioning is strongly correlated with the bacterial biogeography of invasive communities. Plant invasion affects the relative contributions of stochastic processes and co-occurrence interactions through the regulation of the physiochemical characteristics of soil, and ultimately determines compositional dissimilarities and the components of the bacterial community along altitudinal gradients.

Antimicrobial Peptide Octoprohibitin-Encapsulated Chitosan Nanoparticles Enhanced Antibacterial Activity against Acinetobacter baumannii

Background: This study focused on evaluating the physiochemical characteristics and antibacterial activity of Octoprohibitin-encapsulated CNPs (Octoprohibitin-CNPs) against Acinetobacter baumannii. Methods: Octoprohibitin was encapsulated into CNPs via ionotropic gelation with carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) and low molecular weight chitosan (CS). Octoprohibitin-CNPs were dispersed in phosphate-buffered saline and the release kinetic profile was determined. Then Octoprohibitin-CNPs were examined using field-emission transmission electron microscopy and physicochemical characterization was performed. Antibacterial activity of Octoprohibitin-CNPs against A. baumannii was evaluated. Biofilm inhibition and eradication assays were performed using the crystal violet (CV) staining-based method for biofilm quantification. Results: The average diameter, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and loading capacity of Octoprohibitin-CNPs were 244.5 ± 21.97 nm, +48.57 ± 0.38 mV, and 85.7% and 34.2%, respectively. TEM analysis imaging revealed that Octoprohibitin-CNPs are irregularly shaped, with fewer aggregates than CNPs. Octoprohibitin-CNPs exhibited a biphasic release pattern, characterized by an initial rapid phase followed by a sustained release over time, extending up to 93.68 ± 6.48% total release until 96 h. In vitro, Octoprohibitin-CNPs showed lower cytotoxicity compared to Octoprohibitin alone. Time-kill kinetic and bacterial viability reduction assays showed Octoprohibitin-CNPs exhibited slightly higher antibacterial activity against A. baumannii than Octoprohibitin. Conclusions: Octoprohibitin-CNP-treated A. baumannii exhibited higher levels of morphological deviation, increased membrane permeability, and the production of reactive oxygen species, as well as antibiofilm activity with greater biofilm inhibition and eradication than Octoprohibitin. These findings show that Octoprohibitin-CNPs perform better against A. baumannii compared to Octoprohibitin alone.

Abstract B010: Design of personalized neoantigen mRNA vaccines against breast cancer patients in Pakistan based on next-generation sequencing data

Abstract Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women in Pakistan, with an outrageous increase in the incidence and mortality rate. Because of decreased effectiveness and lower survival rates, there is an urgent need for developing novel, personalized vaccines with enhanced activity. The development of a personalized mRNA vaccine illustrates a promising approach to combating the prevalence of breast cancer. We used the whole exome sequencing (WES) data of Pakistani tumor samples to predict immunogenic neoantigens. The WES data was aligned to the GRCM39 reference genome using BWA. The genome analysis toolkit (GATK) was employed for variant calling to identify somatic mutations. Using immune-bioinformatics tools, we predicted cytotoxic CD8+ T cell epitopes and helper CD4+ T cell epitopes within the identified neoantigens and designed vaccines by assembling the fusion of CTL neoepitopes, helper sequences, and adjuvants together with linkers. The Insilco ImmSim algorithm was used to examine the immune responses of the vaccine. The vaccine design was further explored by checking its simulation effect on the immune system, its physiochemical characteristics, its binding to specific immune system molecules, and cloning into an appropriate vector. In addition, molecular docking, MD simulation, and binding free energies were performed to investigate the interaction mechanism between the construct vaccine and Toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR4, TLR7, and TLR9).By examining these factors, we aimed to ensure the vaccine's safety, stability, and ability to bind tightly to specific immune cells (class I MHC molecules), ultimately triggering a comprehensive immune response against breast cancer cells. Citation Format: Kayode Yomi Raheem, Muhammad Muddassar. Design of personalized neoantigen mRNA vaccines against breast cancer patients in Pakistan based on next-generation sequencing data [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B010.

Variation and Abundance of Resistant Starch in Selected Banana Cultivars in Uganda.

The physiochemical, structural, and molecular characteristics of starch influence its functional properties, thereby dictating its utilization. The study aimed to profile the properties and quantity of resistant starch (RS) from 15 different banana varieties, extracted using a combination of alkaline and enzyme treatments. Granular structure and molecular organization were analyzed using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The physiochemical and functional properties were also investigated. RS content ranged from 49% to 80% without significant relationship to amylose (AM) (r = -0.1062). SEM revealed significant microarchitectural differences on the granules potentially affecting granule digestibility. FTIR and chemometrics identified differences in the crystalline peaks, yielding varying degrees of the molecular order of the RS polymers that aid in differentiating the RS sources. Despite similar solubility and swelling profiles, the pasting profiles varied across varieties, indicating high paste stability in hydrothermal processing. Clarity ranged from 43% to 93%, attributed to amylose leaching. This study highlights that RS from bananas varies in quantity, structure, and functionality, necessitating individualized approaches for processing and utilization.

GC-MS profiling of the leaf extract of Garcinia pedunculata, molecular docking, ADME/drug likeness predictions and toxicity analysis

Medicinal plants have long been valued for their efficacy, cultural acceptance and lower side effects. Amidst rising concerns about multidrug-resistant bacteria, there is an increasing push to identify novel plant-based drugs with unique mechanisms of action. Garcinia pedunculata, commonly used as food and traditional medicine among tribal communities in North Eastern India, was investigated for its potential medicinal properties. The study involved analyzing the phytoconstituents of the methanolic leaf extract using GC-MS (Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry), which identified 30 compounds. These compounds were further evaluated through in silico studies, including drug-likeness assessments and molecular docking. Molecular docking results indicated that the compounds strongly interacted with Penicillin Binding Protein 4 (PBP4) of Staphylococcus aureus (S aureus), a well-known drug target. Notably, ethane-1,1-diol dipropanoate demonstrated favorable drug-like properties, meeting four out of five drug filters and exhibiting promising physiochemical characteristics, lipophilicity, solubility and pharmacokinetic profiles with minimal toxicity. This suggests its potential for development into novel antimicrobial formulations. Further research using animal models is underway to validate these findings in vivo.

Coupling of biochar and silicon for Phyto-management of Cd contaminated soil using Brachiariamutica

Contamination of soil with heavy metals is a threatening global environmental problem. With increasing urbanization, it is very important to design economical and environment-friendly mitigation measures to have pollutant free soil. Phytoremediation is an advancing technique to extract pollutants from soil to achieve eco-sustainability. This study aimed to investigate the combined impact of biochar and silicon on growth attributes of Brachiaria mutica grown in cadmium (Cd) contaminated soil. The biochar was prepared by co-pyrolysis of agricultural left-over biomass (rice husk, bamboo leaves and corn cob in a 1:1:1 ratio) and physio-chemical characters were studied by FTIR, SEM-EDX and proximate analysis. A pot study was conducted to evaluate the potency of biochar and silicon in lowering the Cd uptake by para grass grown under Cd spiked soil. Total 8 treatments were planned by taking 1 % and 2 % biochar with 0.01 % and 0.02 % silicon. The results have shown that treatment 8 (2 % biochar and 0.02 % silicon) exhibited maximum improvement in growth parameters such as shoot length by 2.64-fold and root length by 44.9 %, along with improving the antioxidant defense system of Para grass (CAT by 2-fold and POD by 56.4 %). Application of treatment 8 also decreased Cd concentration in the shoot and root by 48.8 % and 47.4 %, respectively. Treatment 8 was most effective in reducing CaCl2 extractable Cd in soil up to 56.1 %. Based on this data, treatment 8 was most effectual in suppressing Cd stress. Biochar produced from other agricultural waste material along with Si as inorganic amendment can be used to immobilize other toxic heavy metals at field level. Heavy metals immobilization potential of Si and biochar can be tested by harvesting other grasses and oil seed crop species.

PSXII-28 Physiochemical and nutritional characteristics of the newly developed value-added blended fat stimulated feed product in comparison with commercial protein and energy feeds

Abstract The objectives of this study were to determine physiochemical and nutritional characteristics of the newly developed value-added blended fat stimulated feed product (BFSFP) in comparison with commercial protein and energy feeds. The new value-added BFSFB with three-batch samples (BFSFP1, BFSFP2, BFSFP3) were developed. Barley grain (n = 3) and canola meal samples (n = 3) were obtained from Canadian Feed Research Center. Chemical composition and nutrient profiles were determined using standard feed analysis methods (e.g., AOAC, NRC-energy). The treatment design was a one-way structure. The experimental design was a CRD with feed treatments as a fixed effect. The data were analyzed using the Mixed model procedure of SAS. Tukey’s method was used for multi-treatment comparison. The results showed that compared with commercially available energy-rich and protein-rich feeds, the BFSFP had greater (P < 0.05) ether extract (EE) than both canola meal and barley grain [4.8 vs. 1.0, 1.6 % dry matter (DM), respectively]. It had decreased ash content than canola meal but greater than barley grain (P < 0.05). For protein chemical profiles, the BFSFP had less (P < 0.05) CP (31.0 vs. 41.6, 12.5%DM), SCP (4.9 vs. 9.1, 3.4% DM), and NPN (11.0 vs. 18.2, 9.2% CP) than canola meal but greater than barley grain. The BFSFP had greatest NDICP (2.6 vs. 0.9, 0.4%CP) and ADICP (0.14 vs. 0.30, 0.06%DM) than both canola meal and barley grain. For carbohydrate chemical profiles, the BFSFP had greater (P < 0.05) carbohydrate (58.1 vs. 50.4, 83.7%DM) and starch (4.5 vs. 1.3, 55.9%DM) than canola meal but less than barley grain. The BFSFP had greater (P < 0.05) NDF (42.9 vs. 28.6, 18.9%DM) and hemicellulose (27.7 vs. 10.5, 12.9%DM) than both canola meal and barley grain. The BFSFP had had less (P < 0.05) ADF (12.7 vs. 17.5, 5.7%DM) and ADL (3.0 vs. 8.0, 0.8%DM) than canola meal but greater barley grain. As to energy profle, the BFSFP had no significant difference in NE for lactation when compared with barley grain and canola meal (1.80 vs 1.93 vs. 1.69 Mcal/kg DM, P > 0.05). The BFSFP had similar in NE for growth (1.29 Mcal/kg DM) when compared with canola meal (1.29 vs. 1.20 Mcal/kg DM, P > 0.05) but less than barley (1.29 vs 1.42 Mcal/kg DM, P < 0.05). In conclusion, the newly developed blended fat stimulated feed product differed in physiochemical and nutritional characteristics in comparison with commercially available energy-rich and protein-rich feeds.

Analytical evaluation of oil and water obtained from demulsification of crude oil using cashew (<i>Anacardium occidentale</i>) nutshell liquid

The physiochemical characteristics of oil and water obtained from the demusifier treatment of crude oil using equal concentrations of Cashew nutshell liquid (CSNL) and a commercial grade demulsifier (DX077) were evaluated. Results obtained shows that basic sediment and water (BSW) of the crude after treatment with CSNL and DXO77 were 17.5 and 17.9 % respectively which was 0.4% apart. The total oil and grease (TOG) and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) of the produced water after treatment with CSNL were 24.4 and 21.7 mg/l respectively while results after treatment with DXO77 were 23.7 and 20.5 mg/l respectively. The TOG and TPH of the produced water after demulsifier treatment with CSNL and DX077 were within acceptable limit of < 30.0 mg/l as specified by Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR). Analyses of the same crude oil before demulsifier treatment gave a lower BSW of 9.50 % as well as an emulsion band of 16.2 % indicating improper oil/water separation. The TOG and TPH of the produced water before demulsifier treatment were 42.5 and 38.7 mg/l respectively which were above DPR specification. Disposal of produced water with high TOG and TPH into the environment can lead to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the ecosystem resulting in environmental pollution as well as other health hazards. Results obtained also show that the water density, pH, electrical conductivity, salinity and chloride of the produced water after demulsifier treatment with CSNL and DX077 were within DPR specification. Reinjecting produced water with high salinity, chloride and conductivity into the reservoir can reduce oil recovery especially from sandstone and carbonate reservoirs. CSNL proved to be an effective demulsifier and is preferrable to the synthetic demulsifier (DX077) because it is more environmentally friendly owing to its green nature.