MOSP - Macao Scientific Publishers

Research Article

Inhibition and control effects of the ethyl acetate extract of Trichoderma harzianum fermented broth against Botrytis cinerea

Guoliang Yin, Weimin Wang, Sha Sha, Lei Liu and Xiaoping Yu*

Abstract: Botrytis cinerea is a widespread parasitic fungus that infects many crops and reduces their productivity. Trichoderma harzianum, also a fungus, has been commercially used as a biofungicide to control B. cinerea. The spores of T. harzianum, currently used in the application, have some drawbacks such as efficacy affected by the environmental condition and sensitivity to chemical fungicides. Instead of using the living microbe, the extract from T. harzianum fermented broth may be applied to control B. cinerea. It was found that the extract could inhibit mycelial growth (EC50 = 13.6 mg/L), conidia germination (EC50 = 17.5 mg/L) and conidia production (EC 50 = 23.6 mg/L) of B. cinerea. In vitro, the extract showed excellent control effects on tomato grey mould caused by B. cinerea and the protective effect (EC 50=99.6 mg/L) was better than the therapeutic effect (EC50=135.8 mg/L). In pot experiments, the extract also showed persistent protective (EC50=99.0 mg/L at day 7 and EC 50 = 142.7 mg/L at day 15) and therapeutic (EC 50 = 195.0 mg/L at day 7 and EC 50 = 393.7 mg/L at day 15) effects over 15 days. This study showed that the extract was equivalent or superior to the commercial dicarboximide fungicide, procymidone. In conclusion, the ethyl acetate extract of T. harzianum fermented broth is effective in the treatment of tomato grey mould caused by B. cinerea.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Botrytis cinerea, fungicide, tomato grey mould, trichodermin, Trichoderma harzianum.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Isolation and characterization of Arthrobacter sp. HW08 capable of biodegrading swainsonine

Yan Wang, Yanchun Hu, Jianhua Wang*, Yongtao Yu, Yumin Song, Guodong Yang and Guoxia Geng

Abstract: The aim of this study was to isolate bacteria capable of degrading swainsonine, an indolizidine alkaloid in poisonous plants of Oxytropis and Astragalus. The bacterium HW08 was isolated and enriched from soil and its physiological and biochemical properties, 16S rRNA gene and the ability of swainsonine-degradation were investigated. The results showed that HW08 was a species of Arthrobacter sp. Under the optimized temperature (30°C) and pH value (7.0), HW08 (OD600 = 0.3) could degrade about 2 mg swainsonine in 5 ml degrading reaction within 4 h. In conclusion, HW08 would be a better potential candidate to be considered for SW-degrading in practice.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Locoweeds, Arthrobacter; swainsonine, biodegradation.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Bacterial species associated with soils contaminated with used petroleum products in Keffi town, Nigeria

M. D. Makut* and P. Ishaya

Abstract: This investigation was carried out to determine the bacterial flora of soils contaminated with used oil (petroleum products) in Keffi town. Pour plate method involving the use of serial dilutions was employed for the isolation of the bacteria. Soil samples from 10 different mechanic workshops in Keffi town were obtained and plated out on plate count agar, eosin methylene blue agar, brilliant green agar, desoxycholate citrate agar and mannitol salt agar to isolate the bacterial species from the soils contaminated with petroleum products. The bacterial species isolated were Pseudomonas sp., Streptococcus sp., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus sp., Klebsiella sp., Bacillus sp., Mycobacterium sp., Enterobacter aerogenes, Salmonella sp., and Micrococcus sp. The hydrocarbon substrates (petroleum products) used were petrol, kerosene, diesel and engine oil. Pseudomonas sp., Streptococcus sp., and Bacillus sp., were found to utilize all the four petroleum products as their sole source of carbon and energy. Staphylococcus sp., and Micrococcus sp., utilized petrol, kerosene and diesel, while Klebsiella sp., and Mycobacterium sp., utilized only petrol and diesel. Salmonella sp., E. aerogenes and E. coli did not utilize any of the test substrates (Petrol, kerosene, diesel and engine oil). The results of this study revealed that Pseudomonas sp., Streptococcus sp., and Bacillus sp., are the most versatile species of bacteria that could utilized petroleum products in the soil environment of Keffi. The investigation demonstrates that Pseudomonas sp., Streptococcus sp. and Bacillus sp. could be harnessed for use in bioremediation of land polluted with petroleum and petroleum products [...] Read More.

Keywords: Bacterial species, contaminated soils, used petroleum products, Keffi, Nigeria.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Morinda officinalis How enhances exercise endurance and possesses protective effects against oxidative stress of the rats after exercise

Zhang Dao-rong*, Wan Yu, Zu Jing, Zhan Jian-guo, Li Lei and Bai Jian-qing

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Morinda officinalis How (RMO) on exercise endurance capacity and exercise-related changes in lipid peroxidation. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were taken in the study, and the animals were divided into four groups (n = 8 per group) including one control group and three RMO administered groups (200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight). The RMO extracts were administered every day orally using intragastric tube for 30 days. Forced swimming test was performed with a weight corresponding to 3% body weight attached to the tail. Forced swimming time and biochemical parameters were measured. The result indicated RMO could enhance exercise endurance and possessed protective effects against oxidative stress of the rats after exercise. The study also revealed that RMO elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentrations, suggesting that RMO were able to up-regulate antioxidant enzymes to protect against oxidative stress- induced injury after exercise. In addition, RMO also possessed the ability to retard and lower the blood lactate produced after exercise.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Morinda officinalis How, endurance capacity, lipid peroxidation, exercise.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antimicrobial susceptibility of non-sorbitol fermenting Escherichia coli isolated from cattle feaces and milk samples

Joshua Orungo Onono*, Erastus Kiambi Kangethe and William Okelo Ogara

Abstract: The objective was to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of the non-sorbitol fermenting Escherichia coli colonies from cattle feaces and milk samples collected from Dagoretti division in Nairobi. A total of 285 feacal and 260 milk were collected from urban dairy farming households while non -dairy households provided 137 milk samples. The samples were used for culture and isolation of E. coli and the colonies isolated using standard microbiological methods. 23% (66) and 8.8% (23) of feacal and milk samples from urban dairy farming households had non sorbitol fermenting colonies, while 8.8% (12) of non-dairy farming household neighbours had non sorbitol fermenting colonies in milk samples. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns showed that isolates of E. coli were resistant to various antibiotics. There was a high percentage resistance to sulphamethoxazole in feacal samples isolates (14.4%), milk sample isolates (10%) from dairy farming household and milk sample isolates (11.7%) non-dairy households. The feacal isolates had a low resistance to ampicilin (1.4%), but the resistance in isolates from milk samples of urban dairy household (6.5%) and non-dairy household’s milk samples (7.3%) were high. The other antibiotics showed varied resistance pattern with feacal isolates having a high percentage resistance to tetracyclines (6.7%) while most bacterial isolates were susceptible to gentamicin. Multiple antibiotic resistances was observed in feacal sample isolates (6.7%), dairy farming household milk isolates (4.2%) and non- dairy farming household milk isolates (7.3%). Non-sorbitol fermenting E. coli colonies from cattle feaces and milk samples were resistant to most of the antibiotics tested and the higher percentage resistance to sulphamethoxazole, ampicilin and tetracyclines requires further investigation to isolate, identify and compare the genes responsible for development of resistance.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Non-sorbitol fermenting, Escherichia coli, urban dairy households, antimicrobial susceptibility.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

The changes of iron and zinc concentrations in heart and aortic tissues of rabbits fed on high fat diet during the progression of atherosclerosis

Mohamed Anwar K. Abdelhalim

Abstract: High level of serum triacylglycerol and cholesterol is an important risk factor for the progression of atherosclerosis. The severity of atherosclerosis can be markedly influenced by iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) overload or deficiency in aorta tissues of the rabbits. The changes of Fe and Zn in heart and aortic tissues of rabbits during the progression of atherosclerosis have not been well documented. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes of Fe and Zn in heart and aortic tissues of rabbits fed on high fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. The HFD group was fed a normal rabbit chow supplemented with 1.0% cholesterol plus 1.0% olive oil for a feeding period of 12 weeks. Fe and Zn concentrations were measured in two types of tissue from control and HFD rabbits using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The Fe concentration was significantly (p < 0.05) increased in HFD rabbits (Mean ± SE; heart: 10.52 ± 1.04 and aorta: 3.01 ± 2.61; n = 25 specimens) compared with control rabbits (Mean ± SE; heart: 8.41 ± 0.01 and aorta: 2.25 ± 0.37; n = 20 specimens). The Fe concentration was increased with percentage normalized changes of 25.09% in heart and 33.78% in aortic tissues of HFD rabbits compared with control rabbits while the Zn concentration was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased with percentage normalized changes of 14.39% in heart and 18.37% in aortic tissues of HFD rabbits compared with control rabbits. AAS was used to elucidate the changes of Fe and Zn in heart and aortic tissues of HFD rabbits compared with control rabbits. The findings of this study can be summarized as follows; percentage normalized change of increase of Fe was 25.09% in heart tissue accompanied by percentage normalized change of decrease of Zn 14.39% in heart tissue while percentage normalized change of increase of Fe was 33.78% in heart tissue accompanied by percentage normalized change of decrease of Zn 18.37% in aortic tissue. This study suggests that the increase in Fe concentrations in heart and aortic tissues may accelerate atherosclerosis through the production of free radicals while the decrease in Zn concentrations may act as a protective factor against atherosclerosis perhaps by reducing lesion Fe content. These results suggest that the changes in Fe and Zn concentrations in heart and aortic tissues of rabbits are closely related to the progression of atherosclerosis.[...] Read More.

Keywords: High cholesterol diet, iron, zinc, atherosclerosis, heart and aortic tissues, atomic absorption spectroscopy.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Detection and identification of Campylobacter spp. from retail raw chicken, turkey, sheep and goat meat in Ahvaz, Iran

Ebrahim Rahimi*, Hamid Reza Kazemeini, Saman Safaei, Karim Allahbakhshi, Manouchehr Momeni, Majid Riahi

Abstract: Campylobacter species are common bacterial pathogens causing gastroenteritis in humans worldwide and the consumption of poultry meats is suspected to be the leading cause of this illness. This study was therefore conducted to determine the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. from retail raw meats in Ahvaz, Iran. From July 2009 to February 2010, a total of 215 raw meat samples from chicken (n = 60), turkey (n = 50), sheep (n = 50) and goat (n = 45) were purchased from randomly selected retail outlets in Ahvaz, Iran and were evaluated for the presence of Campylobacter. Campylobacter spp. isolated from 60 of 215 meat samples (27.9%) examined. The highest prevalence of Campylobacter spp. was found in chicken meat (61.7%), followed by turkey meat (36.0%), sheep meat (6.0%) and goat meat (4.4%). The most prevalence Campylobacter species isolated from meat samples was Campylobacter jejuni (88.3%), the remaining isolates were Campylobacter coli (11.7%). All 60 Campylobacter strains identified as C. jejuni and C. coli were also positive by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Significantly higher prevalence rates of Campylobacter spp. (P < 0.05) were found in the meat samples taken in summer (44.1%). Furthermore, to ensure food safety, poultry meats must be properly cooked before consuming.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Campylobacter, raw meat, chicken, turkey, sheep, goat.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In vitro effects of four heavy metals on glyphosate utilization by some bacteria isolated from rice fields

Okpala N. Gloria* and A. N. Moneke

Abstract: The effect of heavy metals (zinc, cadmium, chromium and lead) at concentrations 50, 100 and 500 g/ml of the heavy metal salts on glyphosate utilization by some bacterial species isolated from rice fields were studied, the addition of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) to the glyphosate mineral salt medium used in growing the Acetobacter sp. significantly (P < 0.05) increased the rate of glyphosate utilization as indicated by the increase in the growth of the organism and could be attributed to easy uptake of the metal-glyphosate complex by the organism. The growth of Pseudomonas fluorescens was enhanced in the presence of zinc in the glyphosate medium, when compared to its growth in the medium without the heavy metals. This was followed by lead, cadmium and chromium, respectively.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Glyphosate herbicide, utilization, metal-glyphosate complex.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of raw commercial honeys from Nigeria on selected pathogenic bacteria

O. E. Agbagwa* and N. Frank - Peterside

Abstract: The antibacterial effect of eight unprocessed commercial honey sold in some local markets in Nigeria were investigated. These samples were selected to examine and compare their ability to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis. The test organisms were isolated from wound swabs of patients at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria. Agar diffusion method was employed to ascertain degree of sensitivity of the isolates to different honey samples. Different honey samples showed varying degrees of antibacterial activity. Excellent antibacterial activity was observed with respect to honey from northern Nigeria with zones of inhibition of 17.0 mm. Next to it was honey from southern, eastern and western Nigeria with zones of inhibition of 15.4, 13.5 and 11.6 mm, respectively. P. aeruginosa and P. mirabilis showed less antibacterial activity and can be regarded as being resistant to the inhibitory effects of honey. Investigated honey samples began to significantly inhibit microorganisms at 80 and 100% concentrations, demonstrating that commercial honey sold locally in Nigerian markets has lesser antibacterial effects on microorganisms.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Nigeria, antibacterial activity, honey, zone of inhibition.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

The osmoprotective effect of L-carnitine factor on the bacterial growth of Streptococcus agalactiae and Escherichia coli

Maras Meltem*, Akman Yildiz, Yula Erkan and Gökmen Tülin

Abstract: In response to osmotic stress, gram positive bacteria Streptococcus agalactiae and enterobacteria Escherichia coli accumulates compatible solutes from the medium, stress response systems may enable bacteria to adapt cellular response and survival systems to a variety of stress conditions. S. agalactiae and E. coli strains have a transporter for carnitine that can respond to osmotic stress by regulating its own activity. Brain heart infusion (BHI) broth medium with 1 mM L-carnitine was the medium with the highest growth to be observed. The growth of the E. coli strain was faster than the growth of S. agalactiae strain. S. agalactiae and E. coli are known as bacteria being hard to grow at the laboratory tests for making clinical diagnosis. The medium with L-carnitine factor used in laboratory tests accelerates the bacterial growth.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bacterial growth, carnitine, osmoprotectant, Streptococcus agalactiae, Escherichia coli.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Intestinal helminth infection and anaemia during pregnancy: A community based study in Ghana

S. E. Baidoo, S. C. K. Tay and H. H. Abruquah*

Abstract: Intestinal helminths are among the most common and widespread of human infections, contributing to poor nutritional status, anaemia and impaired growth. Anaemia and iron deficiency in pregnancy is a major public health problem in developing countries, but their causes are not always known. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and severity of anaemia and iron deficiency and their association with helminths, among pregnant women in the Ashanti region of Ghana. A cohort study was carried out in the Sekyere east district of the Ashanti region of Ghana. 108 pregnant women were followed until 5-10 weeks postpartum, during the period of December 2005 - November 2006. Haemoglobin and total serum iron concentrations were evaluated in venous blood samples and helminths infections were evaluated in stool samples in each trimester using standard methods. Of the 108 pregnant women, 54.9% were found to be anaemic. The highest prevalence of anaemia and low iron stores (57.4 and 32.4%, respectively) were found in the second trimester. Only 17.6% had evidence of helminths infection, with Necator americanus (hookworm) being the commonest (13.9%). There was a significant association between hookworm infection and low iron stores. The study concluded that hookworm infection is a strong predictor of iron status. These findings reinforce the need to provide anthelminthic therapy to infected women before conception as public health strategy in reducing the prevalence of hookworm infection in addition to providing nutritional and iron supplements to effectively control anaemia in pregnancy.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Intestinal helminth, anaemia, paragravids, primigravids.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Expression and characterization of the recombinant Trichoderma virens endochitinase Cht2

S. A. A. Al-Rashed, F. D. A. Bakar, M. Said, O. Hassan, A. Rabu, R. M. Illias and A. M. A. Murad*

Abstract: An endochitinase, Cht2, from Trichoderma virens UKM1 was expressed in the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris, and its biochemical properties were characterized. Both the cht2 gene and its cDNA have been cloned and sequenced, the endochitinase gene cht2 encodes 321 amino acids from an open reading frame comprised of an 1169 bp nucleotide sequence separated by three introns. Cht2 is predicted to be an extracellular enzyme due to the presence of a signal peptide of 20 amino acids. Cht2 cDNA was cloned into the pPICZaC expression vector under the regulation of a methanol-inducing promoter and transformed into P. pastoris X33. Expression in P. pastoris showed that the recombinant Cht2 was secreted into the culture medium with a protein size of approximately 35 kDa when induced with 0.5% methanol. Biochemical characterization of the partially purified enzyme showed a specific enzyme activity of 1.34 U/mg towards colloidal chitin at a pH of 6.0 and at a temperature of 35°C. The enzyme showed optimal activity at this pH and temperature and also showed higher affinity toward colloidal chitin in comparison to glycol chitin. It is stable in the pH range of 5.0 - 7.0 and in the temperature range of 30 - 55°C, where it retained more than 70% of its residual activity.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Endochitinase, Trichoderma virens, recombinant, characterization.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Analysis of early-stage infection risk factors after living donor liver transplantation in 25 children

Lan Liu*, Xuesong Peng, Lijuan Chu, Qian Liu, Juan Xiong, Chunmei Jing, Yongwu Xia and Yu Shi

Abstract: Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), which was first demonstrated in 1989, has now been widely used to cure many late-stage hepatic diseases and has achieved huge success, especially in the pediatric field. However, accumulated studies indicate that early-stage infection after LDLT is the main cause leading to its failure and the death of the patient. Here, we retrospectively analyzed 25 cases (from 2006 to 2009) of infections of children in our hospital, underwent LDLT and their correlated factors. To identify the factors most closely related to early stage infection, we categorized early stage infection levels as either mild, moderate or severe and we compared their related risk factors, including total length of stay in hospital (TLSH), length of stay in the intensive care unit (LSI), duration of catheterization (DC), length of pre-/post-operative antimicrobial agent application, length of immuno-suppressant agent application (LISA) and underlying diseases postoperatively. The results revealed the following. (i) Of 25 patients, 24 recipients were infected to various extents: 6 cases of mild infection, 14 cases of moderate infection and 4 cases of severe infection (one patient died). (ii) TLSH, LSI and durations of preoperative (DPAA) and postoperative (DPOAA) antimicrobial agent application were statistically different between the severe and moderate infection groups (P = 0.03 (TLSH), 0.004 (LSI), 0.003 (LAPP), 0.005 (DPOAA). (iii) Between the severe and mild infection groups, the TLSH (P = 0.016), LSI (P = 0.015), DAPP (P = 0.007) and DPOAA (P = 0.001) were also significantly different. (iv) In the case of LISA, only methylprednisolone (P = 0.01) and the calcineurin inhibitor ciclosporin A (P = 0.009) showed statistically significant differences between the moderate and mild infection groups. (v) Biliary atresia is the predominant underlying liver disease. (vi) In contrast to previous findings, there was no significant difference in DC among the three infection groups. (vii) Of all the 25 patients, 24 survive till now and the only one died was diagnosed as portal vein thrombosis (PVT) combined with high white blood count (>30 x 109/l) in venous blood. DPAA, DPOAA and biliary atresia are the risk factors most closely related to infection during liver transplantation in children, an observation worthy of future investigation. To avoid long term DPAA and long term DPOAA induced early severe infection, nosocomial infection control and drug resistant bacteria monitoring are worthy to be concerned after LDLT in children.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Living donor liver transplantation, risk factor, children.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Characterization of Enterococci isolated from Moroccan dairy products

Naoual Jamaly, Abdelaziz Benjouad, Roberta Comunian, Elisabetta Daga and Mohammed Bouksaim*

Abstract: Twenty three Enterococcus durans isolates collected from Moroccan dairy products were identified by species-specific PCR and their technologically relevant biochemical properties were studied. According to biochemical activities, the majority of the strains displayed weak acidification and autolysis activities in milk. In contrast, they showed high extracellular proteolytic activity. All isolates produced exopolysaccharides and most of them could metabolize citrate and tolerate a high concentration of nisin. Absence of vancomycin resistance and haemolytic activity may suggest the use of these isolates as adjunct starters in food fermentations process.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Enterococcus durans, Moroccan dairy products, species-specific PCR (Polymerase chain reaction), biochemical properties, adjunct starter cultures.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antimicrobial activity of propolis extract on bacteria isolated from nasopharynx of patients with upper respiratory tract infection admitted to Central Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria

E. A. Ophori* and E. C. Wemabu

Abstract: The study was aimed at determining the bacterial agents of the upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) and the susceptibility of isolates to propolis. Propolis extract was obtained by 70% ethanol and serial dilutions of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 10 µg/ml prepared. A total of 250 throat swabs were obtained from patients (age between 15 - 30 years) which were diagnosed with upper respiratory tract infection attending the central hospital, Benin City. Samples were collected between February and December, 2008 from 142 (56.8%) males and 108 (43.2%) females, inoculated on blood agar, eosin methylene blue agar and chocolate agar and incubated at 37°C for 24 - 48 h aerobically except for chocolate agar which was incubated microaerophically. The isolates were characterized by standard microbiological procedures. Of the 250 samples, 160 (64%) had positive cultures with Haemophilus influenzae having the highest prevalence (20.8%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (19.2%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (12.0%), Moraxella catarrhalis (10%), Streptococcus pyogenes (2%). The highest rate of isolates was from the age group of 15 - 18 years (91). This was significantly higher than other groups p > 0.05. M. catarrhalis and S. pyogenes were not isolated in age group 23 – 26. propolis antimicrobial activity revealed that all isolates were sensitive to propolis at all concentrations with K. pneumoniae and S. pneumonia having zones of inhibition of 32 and 30 mm respectively. The findings suggest that propolis is a very effective antimicrobial agent for the treatment and management of URTI caused by bacterial species.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Upper respiratory tract infection, minimum inhibitory concentration, propolis, bacteria, antimicrobial activity.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Mycoflora of stored â€œOfadaâ€ and â€œAbakalikiâ€ rice in Lagos and Ogun States, Southwestern Nigeria

Y. M. Somorin* and S. A. Bankole

Abstract: The presence of fungal contaminants in Ofada and Abakaliki rice varieties under storage in Lagos and Ogun States, Nigeria were examined. The fungal species isolated from the Ofada rice were Actinomycetes spp., Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus tamarii, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, Fusarium compacticum, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium proliferatum, Penicillium oxalicum, Rhizopus nigricans, Rhizopus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The Abakaliki rice was contaminated with A. flavus, A. niger, A. tamarii, F. compacticum, F. oxysporum, F. proliferatum, Penicillium citrinu, P. oxalicum, R. nigricans, R. oryzae and S. cerevisiae. A. niger (80%) was the predominant fungal species while Actinomycetes spp. (6.7%) was the least isolated. Some of these fungi are known to produce mycotoxins which have several health and economic implications. The presence of such species as seen in this study may show a potential risk of mycotoxin contamination in Ofada and Abakaliki rice varieties.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Fungi, contaminants, Ofada, Abakaliki, rice, mycotoxin, mycoflora.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Protective effect of Glycyrrhiza glabra polysaccharides against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in rats

Liang Renjie*, Shi Shidi and Sun Changsen

Abstract: The objective of the present study was to investigate potential of Glycyrrhiza glabra polysaccharides to offer protection against acute liver injury in rats. Rats were administered a single oral dose carbon tetrachloride (CCl4, 640 mg/kg b.w., 1:1 in groundnut oil) and sacrificed 7 days of post-treatment. Hepatic damage was assessed by employing biochemical parameters. Our results demonstrated that treatment of rats with G. glabra polysaccharides significantly prevented the increased activities of and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), ALP and LDH in serum. G. glabra polysaccharides treatment also restored CCl4-induced altered caspase-3, TGF- 1 and TGF- 1 mRNA. Our findings provide evidences to demonstrate that G. glabra polysaccharides treatment significantly offsets CCl4-induced liver injury in rats.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Glycyrrhiza glabra polysaccharides, rat, TGF- 1 mRNA, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), carbon tetrachloride.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Sequence analysis of the groEL gene and its potential application in identification of pathogenic bacteria

Hu Yushan, Luo Lei, Liu Weijia, and Chen Xiaoguang*

Abstract: This study aims to develop a rapid method for identifying pathogenic bacteria based on the sequence difference of pathogenic bacteria groEL gene. A pair of universal degenerate primers was designed to amplify the groEL genes of 34 major species of 16 genus’s of pathogenic bacteria. The conservation, variation and the interspecies phylogenetic relations of the groEL gene sequences were informatically analysed. Our results showed that the groEL gene fragments of the selected pathogenic bacteria could be amplified using the degenerate primer. The results of the sequence comparative study indicated that the groEL gene is characterized by conservation and variation, while the variation regions are distributed separately among the conserved regions, just like the mosaic. This conservation and variation coexistence of pathogenic bacteria groEL genes could provide a solid basis for the rapid identification of pathogenic bacteria and the development of a diagnostic microarray.[...] Read More.

Keywords: groEL, homology, phylogenesis.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Quantification of aflatoxin B1 in ready-to-use food thickeners in South-east geo-political zone in Nigeria

G. I. Okwu, Premila N. Achar* and Santosh K. Sharma

Abstract: A total of 150 ready to use food thickeners were randomly collected from various markets in both urban and rural settings. Four of the samples tested Achi (Brachystegia eurycoma), Akpalata ( Afzelia africana), Ofor (Detarium microcarpum), and Ukpo (Mucuna flagellipes) were contaminated with fungal flora. The most common and prevalent fungi observed on incubated powdered form of food thickeners on media, were the Aspergillus group namely Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus niger. Pure isolates of A. flavus and A. parasiticus from various food thickeners from open markets in Nigeria were screened for their potential to produce aflatoxin B1 (AFB 1) on agar media. Ultraviolet (UV) light, a standard procedure was used to differentiate the toxin from non-toxin form of Aspergillus species. Further, aflatoxin quantification was done using thin layer chromatography (TLC) followed by fluorometry. A. flavus was more prevalent than A. parasiticus in all samples. Toxin and non-toxin isolates were grouped as per bright greenish-yellow fluorescence (BGYF) presumptive test under UV light. The amounts of AFB1 from A. flavus isolates ranged between 0.94 to 3.83 µg/g of agar and all positive A. parasiticus ranged from 0.22 - 2.87 µg/g of agar. Analysis of food thickeners also revealed a high incidence and alarming levels of naturally produced aflatoxin. The levels of AFB1 ranged between 4.0 and 95 µg/g in various food thickeners tested. That the presence of aflatoxin in food thickeners poses a potential health threat to consumers in this part of Nigeria and elsewhere is discussed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Ready-to-use food thickeners, Aspergillus sp., aflatoxin B1, thin layer chromatography, fluorometry.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Isolation and partial characterization of a bacteriophage infecting the shrimp pathogen Vibrio harveyi

Parichat Phumkhachorn and Pongsak Rattanachaikunsopon*

Abstract: A bacteriophage infecting Vibrio harveyi was isolated from shrimp pond water, it was designated PW2. It infected all strains of V. harveyi but not other bacteria used in this study. The phage adsorption rate increased rapidly in the first 15 min of infection to 80% and continued to increase to 90% within 30 min of infection. The stability of phage PW2 was dependent on temperature and pH. It was inactivated by heating at 90°C for 30 min and by treating at pH 2, 3, 11and 12. From its one step growth curve, latent and burst periods were 30 and 120 min, respectively with a burst size of about 78 plaque-forming unit (pfu) per infected center. As analyzed by transmission electron microscopy, phage PW2 had an icosahedral head (50 ± 3.8 nm in diameter) with a noncontractile tail of 136 ± 6.2 nm long and 11 ± 0.5 nm wide and belongs to the Siphoviridae family. Six structural proteins (75, 60, 35, 30, 20 and 15 kDa) were detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, its genome was found to be double stranded DNA with an approximate size of 46 kb.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bacteriophage, shrimp, Vibrio harveyi.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Direct detection of Brenneria rubrifaciens by (polymerase chain reaction) PCR-based assay using rubrifacine synthetic gene

Shree Prasad Thapa, Chun Keun Lim, Sam Kyu Kim, Jun Mo Cho, Jang Hyun Hur and Duck Hwan Park*

Abstract: A rapid high-throughput, specific and sensitive (polymerase chain reaction) PCR-based assay coupled with DNA hybridization technique for the detection of deep bark canker (DBC) pathogen Brenneria rubrifaciens directly from mixed bacterial cells and in planta was developed. These result shows that the specific genetic markers have a powerful potential to detect B. rubrifaciens directly from crude samples at field conditions.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Brenneria rubrifaciens, deep bark canker, PCR (polymerase chain reaction), rubrifacine.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Fatty acid composition and properties of skin and digestive fat content oils from Rhynchophorus palmarum L. larva

Edmond Ahipo Dué*, Hervé César B. L. Zabri, Jean Parfait E.N. Kouadio and Lucien Patrice Kouamé

Abstract: Skin and digestive fat content (DFC) oils from Rhynchophorus palmarum L. larva (Curculionidae) were extracted and their physicochemical properties were characterized. Water content (0.41 %) of skin oil was higher than the amount of DFC (0.04 %). While, the lipid fraction of the skin (35.16%) was slightly lower than the DFC (49.05%). The fatty acid compositions of the both oils were determined. Results showed that the most abundant fatty acids in skin and DFC oils were palmitic and oleic acids. In both oils, oleic fatty acid showed the highest percentage of composition of 45.62 and 46.71% for skin and DFC, respectively with palmitic acid followed close by 39.87 and 40.44%, respectively. In this study, saturated fatty acids accounted for 45.06 and 44.97% of total fatty acids, for skin and DFC oils, respectively. Myristic, myristoleic, stearic and linoleic acids were also detected in the both oils. Physicochemical properties of skin and DFC oils respectively include: iodine index, 51.22 and 48.35; acid value, 4.72 and 2.21; saponification value, 189.22 and 198.26; unsaponifiable matter, 0.97 and 0.98; peroxide index, 6.90 and 0; oleic acidity, 7.76 and 0.568; vitamin A, 0 and 12.04 and refractive index, 1.45440 and 1.45424. Results suggested that Skin and DFC oils from R. palmarum L. larva could deserve further consideration and investigation as a potential new multi-purpose product for nutritional, industrial, cosmetic and pharmaceutical uses.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Fatty acids, digestive fat content, skin of larvae, oil, Rhynchophorus palmarum.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Purification and characterization of a laccase from the basidiomycete Funalia trogii (Berk.) isolated in Tanzania

Ferdinandi Patrick, Godliving Mtui*, Anthony Manoni Mshandete, Gunnar Johansson and Amelia Kivaisi

Abstract: A lignolytic basidiomycete fungus, Funalia trogii (Berk.), was isolated from decayed wood in coastal Tanzania and cultivated in submerged culture. Initially screened crude enzyme filtrate showed complete rhemazol brilliant blue - R (RBBR) decolorization 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline)-6-sulfonate and guaiacol oxidation after 7 days of incubation. The fungal filtrate had maximum laccase activity of 593 U/ml after 15 days of incubation. A laccase was purified by anion exchange and size exclusion chromatography to good purity as judged by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and isoelectric focusing (IEF). The isolated main component had a molecular weight of ca 58 kDa as determined by MS and an isoelectric point (pI) of 3.8. The optimal pH and temperature range for the purified laccase were 4.0 - 5.0 and 50 - 70 ºC, respectively, using 2, 6-dimethoxyphenol as a substrate.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Funalia trogii, laccase, anion exchange chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Enhancing antioxidant availability in grains of wheat plants grown under seawater- stress in response to microalgae extracts treatments

Hanaa H. Abd El-Baky

Abstract: This study investigated the antioxidant capacity and the levels of enhanced total carotenoids (TCAR), tocopherols (TOC) and phenolic (TPC) and protein (PC) contents in whole grains of wheat plants irrigated 10 and 20% (v/v) seawater (SW) in response to water extracts of microalgae Spirulina maxima (SME) and Chlorella ellipsoida (CEE) and exogenous plant growth enhancers of ascorbic acid (Vit. C) and benzyladinin (BA) treatments. Significant differences (P < 0.05) in amounts of TCAR (ranged 80 to 140 µg/g), TOC (ranged 50.4 to 115 µg/g), TPC (ranged 0.80 to 2.96 mg/g) and PC (ranged 9.34 to 13.79 %) in wheat grains among all treated plants were observed. The levels of their compounds increase related to irrigation-SW combined with algal treatments. The ethanolic extracts of grains of SW-stress plants treated with algal extracts exhibited high antioxidant capacity based on scavenging of DPPH and ABTS radicals than other samples. This activity remarked correlation with levels of antioxidant compounds present in these extracts. The electrophoretic profiles (SDS-PAGE fingerprint) of grains protein of treated samples exhibited similar pattern that in controls samples. It is concluded that the application of algal extracts to wheat plants irrigated SW lead to increase antioxidative components and protein content; hence consumption of these whole grains may render beneficial health effects.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Microalgae, antioxidant activity, phenolics, proteins, seawater.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Anti anaemic properties of Scoparia dulcis in Trypanosoma brucei infected rabbits

Orhue N. E. J*. and Nwanze E. A. C.

Abstract: A major feature of infection with trypanosomes is the development of anaemia. In this study, the effect of Scoparia dulcis ( Atiotiousha in Akoko-Edo) on Trypanosoma brucei induced anaemia was investigated in fifteen rabbits divided into three groups of n = 5 over a period of twenty eight days. Changes in Packed cell volume (PCV), Haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, Red blood cell count (RBC), Mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), Mean cell haemoglobin concentration, (MCHC) and Mean cell volume (MCV) were monitored over the period. The results obtained indicate that infection with T. brucei results in a significant decrease (p0.05) changes were observed in MCH, MCHC and MCV. However the severity of observed anaemia was significantly less pronounced (p[...] Read More.

Keywords: Scoparia dulcis, Trypanosoma brucei, Rabbits, PCV, Haemoglobin.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Toxic effects of aqueous stem bark extract of Cassia sieberiana on some biochemical parameters in rats

Direct ex vivo effects of herbal extracts on serum bilirubin in neonatal blood samples

Abstract: Herbal drug therapy is a common practice adopted in traditional and alternative medicine and has been used in the treatment of neonatal jaundice or hyperbilirubinemia from ancient times. This is done with the help of different herbal extracts and using different treatment methods. The knowledge of new possibilities and the fact that herbal drugs have been used in some communities for a long time, clarifies the importance of studying herbal drugs. Herbal drug therapies are used commonly which amplifies the need to evaluate the efficacy of these drugs. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of commonly used herbal drugs in neonatal jaundice, through in vitro techniques. In this study 0.5 cc (50 µg/ml) of different herbal extracts such as Chi corium intybus, Fumaria parviflora, Zizyphus jujuba and Alhagi pseudoalhgi, Purgative manna which were obtained through hydrochloric instillation and were added to 1 cc of neonatal serum with hyperbilirubinemia. Then the level of bilirubin was checked by diazo blank method. Among all of the herbal extracts, only Chi corium intybus demonstrated a lowering effect on indirect serum bilirubin. Although Chi corium intybus showed lower levels than the control group, but statistically there was no significant difference in direct bilirubin levels between these groups. Herbal drugs can decrease the bilirubin level through different mechanisms, such as increasing the activity of liver enzymes and decreasing the enterohepatic circulation. But the extract of the herb Chi corium intybus imposes its affect directly on bilirubin. Therefore further investigation is needed in order to separate the active agent in chi corium intybus.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Hyperbilirubinemia, Fumaria parviflora, Zizyphus jujuba, Chi corium intybus, Alhagi pseudoalhagi, Purgative manna.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Cholesterol concentration in different parts of bovine meat sold in Nsukka, Nigeria: Implications for cardiovascular disease risk

Chukwunonso E. C. C. Ejike * and Tufon N. Emmanuel

Abstract: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality globally. Reducing dietary fat and cholesterol intake is central to the reduction in the risk of CVD. In Nigeria and other developing countries, meat is a good source of protein and other nutrients, and its consumption is increasing. This study investigates the cholesterol concentration of ten parts of bovine meat – rib muscle, fore-limb muscle, hind-limb muscle, lungs, large intestine, small intestine, colon, liver, kidney and heart. Standard biochemical methods were used for all assays. The results show that cholesterol concentration was highest in the liver (6.5 ± 0.15 mg/g) and lowest in the large intestine (1.0 ± 0.01 mg/g). Organ meats had more cholesterol per 85 g serving than the daily recommendations of the American Heart Association. Considering that meat has some beneficial effects, we conclude that while bovine meat should not be avoided completely, its consumption (especially bovine organ meats consumption) should be minimized particularly by individuals and populations at risk of CVD and its co-morbid conditions.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bovine meat, cardiovascular disease, cholesterol concentration.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Mechanisms of arsenic toxicity and carcinogenesis

Obinaju, Blessing Ebele

Abstract: Industrialization has excessively modified the discharge and distribution of arsenic in the environment through natural and anthropogenic activities. Gastrointestinal tract, Lung and Dermal absorptions account for various adverse effects associated with arsenic toxicity. The knowledge of arsenic biotransformation holds the trivalent species (DMA3+ and MMA3+) accountable for most arsenic toxicity with mechanisms of action such as the inhibition of DNA replicating or repair enzymes, interference with tissue respiration and oxidative stress. There is information of transplacental arsenic carcinogenesis and arsenic disruption of endocrine activity but most of these mechanisms remain poorly understood. More importantly, the exact dose at which arsenic induces tumours in vivo is still a major research question and therefore necessitates more scientific investigation/ research.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Arsenic, toxicity, carcinogenesis.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Efficacy of defatted soy flour supplement in

Awadhesh Kumar Singh, Dattatreya Mahadev Kadam*, Mili Saxena and R. P. Singh

Abstract: Study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of defatted soyflour mix levels in Gulabjamun (sweet dessert comprised of fried milk balls dipped in sugar syrup) and its impact on the quality parameters. Soy flour was fortified in three levels (3.33, 6.66 and 9.99%) w/w to prepare different compositions of Gulabjamuns by replacing wheat-flour in control recipe. 10 g spherical shape balls were made using thoroughly mixed ingredients dough and these were deep -fried in oil before soaking in sugar syrup (50°Brix for 4 h) at 70°C. Standard methods were used to estimate protein and crude fat content in Gulabjamun. Significant effect of raw premixes, prior to sugar syrup dipping, was observed due to addition of defatted soy flour on protein and fat content. Protein content was decreased to 18.24% from 20.66% and fat content increased to 28.36 from 12.09% in deep-fried samples from raw premix. Hardness, cohesiveness, springiness/elasticity, gumminess and chewiness values were increased with the increase in the soy flour levels. Appearance, colour, texture, flavour and overall acceptability of the Gulabjamuns had improved with the addition of 3.33% soy flour and decreased there after.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Fat, fortification, Gulabjamun, protein, sensory attributes, soy flour, TPA.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antisickling property of Carica papaya leaf extract

N. O. A. Imaga*, G. O. Gbenle, V. I. Okochi, S. O. Akanbi, S. O. Edeoghon, O. V. Oigbochie, M. O. Kehinde and S. B. Bamiro

Abstract: Sickle cell disease (SCD) results from a mutation in the hemoglobin inside the red blood cells, where a glutamic acid at position 6 is replaced by a valine. Many phytomedicines have been identified as potential antisickling agents, stemming from reported usage as ethnomedicines by the local folk. This research examined methanolic leaf extracts of Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae) for possible in vitro antisickling and membrane-stabilizing activities involving the use of positive (p-hydroxybenzoic acid 5 mg/ml) and negative (normal saline) controls for the antisickling experiments and osmotic fragility test on Hbss red blood cells obtained from non- crisis state sickle cell patients. Fragiliograms indicated that the plant extract reduced hemolysis and protected erythrocyte membrane integrity under osmotic stress conditions. Pretreatment of SS cell suspensions with C. papaya leaf extract inhibited formation of sickle cells under severe hypoxia, with only 0 - 5% sickle cells at 40 min compared with untreated SS cell suspensions which had over 60% sickle cells. These results indicate the feasibility of C. papaya as an attractive potential candidate for SCD therapy.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antisickling, membrane-stabilizing, sickle cell disease, erythrocyte fragility, Carica papaya, toxicity profile.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Modulation of di- (2- ethylhexyl) phthalate induced hepatic toxicity by Apium graveolens L. seeds extract in rats

G. C. Jain,* Hemant Pareek, B. S. Khajja, Kusum Jain, S. Jhalani, S. Agarwal and Sameer Sharma

Abstract: In the present study, the hepatoprotective activity of methanolic extract of Apium graveolens L. (celery) seeds was tested against Di-(2- ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Oral administration of DEHP (1000 mg/kg b.wt/day) for 6 weeks in rats caused a significant increase in the levels of serum marker enzymes like serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatases (ALP) and the levels of total bilirubin and hepatic lipid peroxidation (TBARS). The levels of serum protein, hepatic glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid were decreased, administration of A. graveolens seeds extract (300 mg/kg b.wt./day p.o.) for 6 weeks results in a significant recovery of these biochemical parameters toward normalcy compared with the DEPC treated and control rats.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Apium graveolens, hepatic toxicity, di-(2- ethylhexyl) phthalate, hepatic marker enzymes.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Direct ex vivo effects of herbal extracts on serum bilirubin in neonatal blood samples

Seyed Hessamedin Nabavizadeh, Ozair-bin Majid and Amir Anushiravani*

Abstract: Herbal drug therapy is a common practice adopted in traditional and alternative medicine and has been used in the treatment of neonatal jaundice or hyperbilirubinemia from ancient times. This is done with the help of different herbal extracts and using different treatment methods. The knowledge of new possibilities and the fact that herbal drugs have been used in some communities for a long time, clarifies the importance of studying herbal drugs. Herbal drug therapies are used commonly which amplifies the need to evaluate the efficacy of these drugs. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of commonly used herbal drugs in neonatal jaundice, through in vitro techniques. In this study 0.5 cc (50 µg/ml) of different herbal extracts such as Chi corium intybus, Fumaria parviflora, Zizyphus jujuba and Alhagi pseudoalhgi, Purgative manna which were obtained through hydrochloric instillation and were added to 1 cc of neonatal serum with hyperbilirubinemia. Then the level of bilirubin was checked by diazo blank method. Among all of the herbal extracts, only Chi corium intybus demonstrated a lowering effect on indirect serum bilirubin. Although Chi corium intybus showed lower levels than the control group, but statistically there was no significant difference in direct bilirubin levels between these groups. Herbal drugs can decrease the bilirubin level through different mechanisms, such as increasing the activity of liver enzymes and decreasing the enterohepatic circulation. But the extract of the herb Chi corium intybus imposes its affect directly on bilirubin. Therefore further investigation is needed in order to separate the active agent in chi corium intybus.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Hyperbilirubinemia, Fumaria parviflora, Zizyphus jujuba, Chi corium intybus, Alhagi pseudoalhagi, Purgative manna.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Purification of human serum paraoxonase: A simple and rapid method

A. J. Mahadesh Prasad*, K. Kemparaju, Elizabeth A. Frank and Cletus J. M. D’Souza

Abstract: Paraoxonase/arylesterases (EC.3.1.8.2) is an enzyme found tightly associated with high density lipoprotein particle in serum. Because of its unique enzyme activity, antioxidant property and its role as an anti atherosclerotic molecule, various methods are used for its purification from human serum. Methods involved in its purification are elaborate and complicated. Also the yield and final activity are highly variable. Here, we report a 2 step method of purification involving affinity chromatography on cibacron blue sepharose followed by gel filtration on sephadex G50.The final preparation was 27.7 fold purified compared with the serum and gave a single band in SDS-PAGE by silver staining.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cibacron blue sepharose, paraoxonase, phenyl acetate, SDS-PAGE, silver staining.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effects of ethanolic and aqueous leaf extracts of Landolphia owariensis on the serum lipid profile of rats

Nwangwu Spencer C.*, Ike Francisca, Olley Misan, Oke James M., Uhunmwangho Esosa, Amegor, O. F. Ubaoji Kingsley and Nwangwu Udoka

Abstract: The lipid profile of normal adult male rats administered both ethanolic and aqueous leaf extracts of Landolphia owariensis (P. Beauv) were determined. The animals were distributed into two sets of four groups with five animals in each group. Each set had one group, which served as control while the other three groups in the two sets were administered different concentrations of the ethanolic and aqueous leaf extracts. The control groups were administered normal saline and the other groups’ 100, 200 and 300 mgkg-1 of the ethanolic and aqueous extracts respectively, twice daily for two weeks. The Total cholesterol (TC), Triacylglyceride (TAG), High Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol (HDL-C), Low Density Lipoprotein- Cholesterol (LDL -C), and Very Low Density Lipoprotein (VLDL) levels were determined in both sets by colorimetric methods. The ethanolic extract showed a marked reduction of 87.45% in LDL -C level with the 100 mgkg-1 dose, though effect of all the three concentrations were significant but depreciated with increase in concentration. Animals administered both the extracts at all three concentrations increased in their HDL-C levels, but effect was pronounced in 100 and 200 mgkg-1 with 15 and 150% increases respectively, in the aqueous extract group. There were dose-dependent reductions of TC levels, with the 100, 200 and 300 mgkg-1 with reduction of 40.78, 37.59 and 34.56% respectively, in ethanolic extracts. There were 50.55 and 55.33% reduction in 100 and 200 mgkg-1 of the aqueous extracts on TAG level. The results are indicative of the hypocholesterolaemic potentials of L. owariensis leaf extracts.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Aqueous extract, ethanolic extract, Hypocholesterolaemia, Landolphia owariensis.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of experimental Schistosomiasis mansoni infection on serum levels of iron, zinc and copper in the olive baboon (Papio anubis)

Mungatana N. W. K., Ngure R. M., Shitandi A. A.*, Mungatana C. K. and Yole D. S.

Abstract: Schistosoma mansoniasis is a disease of grave concern due to its high morbidity and mortality in parts of the world. This study aimed at providing insight into the pathogenesis of S. mansoniasis as an aid in the development of effective control methods. Iron, zinc and copper concentrations were spectro-photometrically measured in sequential serum specimens obtained from baboons throughout the course of acute S. mansoni infection, following curative treatment with praziquantel and following post-treatment challenge with a second cercarial infection. The initial infection resulted in a two-fold increase in copper concentrations by Day 102 post-infection. Iron concentrations fell to almost half of pre-infection concentrations by Day 123 post-infection, while those of zinc fell to a third of pre-infection concentrations by Day 81 post-infection. These changes were seen to recover several weeks following treatment, though pre-infection concentrations were never achieved. Haptoglobin, a sensitive bio-marker in the acute phase response of S. mansoni, was also measured at all sampling points. Haptoglobin changes were in concordance with those of the cations. The findings demonstrate that iron, zinc and copper are reactants in the acute phase response of S. mansoni in the nonhuman primate model, Papio anubis. Furthermore, these reactants are modulated in challenge infections and may be important in the immunopathology of the disease.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Acute phase response, Schistosomiasis mansoni, serum iron, serum zinc, serum copper.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effects of curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin on diabetes induced endothelial dysfunction

Natchaya Wongeakin, Pattarin Sridulyakul, Amporn Jariyapongskul, Apichart Suksamrarn and Suthiluk Patumraj*

Abstract: Diabetes- induced endothelial dysfunction has been well recognized for its underlining causes of oxidative stress. Therefore, several studies have worked on testing active antioxidant agents such as vitamin C and E against diabetes induced oxidative stress to preserve endothelial cells. In the present study, we assessed the effects of plant-derived antioxidant, curcumin and its analog, tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) and also its preventive qualities. Using an animal model, assessment for endothelial-dependent vasodilatation and the behavior of leukocytes were accomplished by using streptozotocin -induced diabetic rats and its mesenteric microcirculation parameters. The results indicated that both antioxidants, curcumin and THC, could significantly inhibit those abnormalities typically seen in endothelial dysfunctions (P < 0.05) in relation to their hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties. Unfortunately, curcumin has a poor absorption quality and as a result of this, a higher dose is needed to prevent abnormal endothelial functions. On the other hand, THC was found to be a more potent antioxidant and good therapeutic agent for diabetic patients in preventing diabetes vascular abnormalities.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Curcumin, tetrahydrocurcumin, endothelial dysfunction, diabetes.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Epidemiological and biochemical studies of human lymphatic filariasis and associated parasitoses in Oguta, South-Eastern, Nigeria

Okey A. Ojiako* and G. O. C. Onyeze

Abstract: Possible organ infections associated with human filariasis, helminthiasis and malaria in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, South-Eastern Nigeria were investigated. Blood, urine and stool samples were collected in appropriate containers from 200 male and female respondents aged 31 – 85 years. Parasitological studies were carried out on blood samples for malaria and/or microfilariae parasites while stool samples were tested for the presence of some intestinal parasites. The study showed a prevalence of intestinal protozoa (Entamoeba histolytica), Wuchereria bancrofti, the intestinal helminthes Ascaris lumbricoides and Hookworms. Biochemical parameters of liver integrity were also studied across the various infection cohorts among the respondents. Results obtained show that these parasitic infections depressed the hematological parameters relative to ‘normal’ respondents. Comparative biochemical analyses showed significant (p < 0.05) differences in some liver function parameters obtained for infected respondents relative to those not infected. There was also a positive correlation between age brackets with highest filarial infection (with no malarial co infection) and age groups with elevated markers of liver dysfunction. This study can be of immense diagnostic value in the clinical management of the filariases especially in malaria-endemic and resource-poor areas.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Filariasis, co-parasitoses, Nigeria, prevalence patterns, liver dysfunction.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effects of sodium ion and water hyacinth extract in the production of Curvularia pallescens in culture media

Okunowo Wahab Oluwanisola* and Ogunkanmi Liasu Adebayo

Abstract: An investigation was conducted on the pH, nutritional and cost benefit of the use of different substrates for the production of Curvularia pallescens Boedijn. The growth of the organism was examined at pH range between 5.5 and 8.6 and on different growth media, potato carrot agar (PCA), potato dextrose agar (PDA), sabouraud agar (SA), tap water agar (TWA), water hyacinth agar (WHA) and Czapek-Dox agar (ZA). Also, the growth of the organism was examined on different enrichment media “Czapek-Dox” with its sodium nitrate substituted with equal amount of different nitrogen sources (ammonium chloride, ammonium nitrate, glutamine and sodium glutamate). WHA produced significantly (P < 0.001) highest amount of mycelial growth (84.95 ± 0.05 mm) on day 6 than other media types. The spore concentration was highest, 6.6 E06 ± 3.33 E05 spores/ml with TWA. The colony size was significantly (P < 0.001) highest, 84.9 ± 0.1 mm on day 10 with sodium glutamate compared with other nitrogen sources. Spore count was only observed on ammonium chloride (1.67E06 ± 3.33E05 spores/ml), the optimal growth pH was 5.5. The cost of production of the organism per culture plate on WHA was 61.3 and 82% lesser than on PDA and SA respectively. The formulated water hyacinth agar medium appeared most economically feasible for the mycelial production of C. pallescens Boedijn.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Curvularia pallescence Boedjin, growth measurement, pH measurement.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of traditionally designed nutraceutical on stress induced immunoglobulin changes at Antarctica

P. Bansal*, R. Sannd, N. Srikanth and G. S. Lavekar

Abstract: This study was conducted to establish the effect of a traditionally designed nutraceutical on stress related changes in selected immunoglobulin levels in the body. The nutraceutical was prepared from different potent herbs described in Ayurveda using standard operative procedures and were tested for heavy metal and microbial load. Initially, 21 subjects were selected in addition to 7 volunteers for control group who did not consume nutraceutical. Sampling was done at zero days and at fortnightly intervals. The levels of selected immunoglobulin IgG, IgA and IgM were estimated with turbidity metric immunoassay at different time intervals. The concentration of immunoglobulin IgA was 146±15.96 at zero day stage. The levels of these immunoglobulins were lower at all stages as compared to the concentration at zero day in trial group subjects whereas the concentration was significantly higher (t stat.>t critic. at pt critic. at pt critic. at pt critic. at p[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rasayana, immunoglobulins, Withania somnifera, Tinospora cordifolia, Chlorophytum arundinaceum, Piper longum, Prunus amygdalus, Antarctica, stress.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Kinetics studies of protease in fermenting locust beans (Parkia biglobosa) and melon seed (Citrullus vulgaris)

C. Egwim Evans*, J. Yisa and P.O. Egwim

Abstract: Melon seed (Citrullus vulgaris) and locust bean (Parkia biglobosa) were separately subjected to a natural solid – substrate fermentation for 5 days. The peak of protease (P.I) production from the fermenting melon seeds was 48 h while that of the protease (P.II) from fermenting locust bean was 96 h. Both P.I and P.II demonstrated maximum activity at 40°C. The peak of activity for P.I was observed between pH 6.6 to 7.6, whereas for P.II, the optimum pH was 5.8. The Michaelis – Menten’s constant (KM) as well as the maximum velocity (VMax) of activity were 4.8 x 10-2 M and 3.43 x 10-2/s, and 5.8 x 10-2 M and 5.1x10-2/s for both P.I and P.II respectively. The work concludes that fermenting melon and locust bean seeds may be a cheap and alternative source of proteases for industrial processes.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Kinetics, protease, natural fermentation, locust bean, melon seed, alternative sources.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Utilization of enzymes in the production of liquid sugar from dates

Gamal A. El-Sharnouby * , Salah M. Al-Eid and Mutlag M. Al – Otaibi

Abstract: Date palm fruits Phoenix dactylifera cultivated in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were used for the production of high quality date syrup. This syrup is suitable for the manufacture of different food products. Date syrup was prepared from Reziz date (Soft variety) at different ratios of water/date (2:1, 2.5:1 and 3:1) . Pectinase and cellulase were used to obtain the maximum date syrup extraction. Data revealed that Reziz variety contained high total sugar content (about 83.51% on dry basis). The extraction rate of sugars increased as the water/flesh ratio increased. Also, the use of pectinase/cellulase gave the highest recovery of total soluble solids (65.6 to 70.7%) compared with control (50.5 to 56.30%). The resultant date syrups were evaluated for their physico-chemical charac-teristics and compared with cane syrup (Black honey). Results of the organoleptic evaluation proved that date syrup is considered to be highly desirable than cane syrup. Results indicate the possibility of employing pectinase/cellulase to produce concentrated date syrup from tamr fruits for use in food product development.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Date fruits, Reziz, date syrup, pectinase, cellulose, physico-chemical characteristics.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

D-3-hydroxybutyrate oxidation in mitochondria by D -3-Hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase in Tetrahymena pyriformis

Omar Akil, Zakaria El Kebbaj, Norbert Latruffe* and M’Hammed Saïd El Kebbaj

Abstract: Tetrahymena pyriformis a ciliated protozoan, is considered as a good indicator of water pollution. However its energy supply is poorly understood. This work was focused on the metabolism of hydroxybutyrate through the study of the membrane bound mitochondrial NAD+-dependent D-3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (EC. 1.1.1.30) (BDH), a ketone body catalysing enzyme involved in the interconversion of D-3- hydroxybutyrate to acetoacetate. Due to lack of informations, the physico-chemical properties and kinetic parameters of the enzyme were examined. The results are the following: 1) D-3-hydroxybutyrate is a good substrate for mitochondria. 2) The enzyme catalytic process follows a bi bi-ordered mechanism where the coenzyme binds first, then allowing the substrate linkage to the active site. 3) Two optimal pH values of 8 and 6.5 corresponding to D-3-hydroxybutyrate oxidation and to acetoacetate reduction respectively. On the other hand, pH changes affect the coenzyme binding to the active site. 4) The BDH activity was found strongly linked to submitochondrial vesicles indicating that the protozoan enzyme is membranous and could require lipids for its function as well as it is for the mammalian enzyme. Moreover, an optimal temperature (40°C) and a break appearing in the Arrhenius plot at 19°C were found. The break suggests a membrane lipid fluidity-dependency of BDH conformational change. 5) Several ligands of the active site including methylmalonate and succinate modulate the BDH activity and are competitive inhibitors toward D-3-hydroxybutyrate. 6) Divalent cations, Mg2+, Mn2+ and Zn2+ protect BDH against thermal inactivation. The protection is the strongest in the presence of Zn2+. Moreover, Ca2+ and Mg2+ are enzyme activators and modulate the substrate binding to the active site. On the other hand, EDTA, a chelating agent, inhibits the enzyme but prevents inhibition by substrate excess. This work provides new insights on the energy metabolism of T. pyriformis wild strain where D-3-hydroxybutyrate is a choice substrate where the properties of BDH have been established especially the activating role of non heavy divalent cations.[...] Read More.

Keywords: D-3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, ketone body, mitochondria, Tetrahymena pyriformis.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa anthocyanins on 2, 4-dinitrophenylhydrazine-induced hematotoxicity in rabbits

A. Ologundudu*, A. O.Ologundudu, I. A. Ololade and F. O. Obi

Abstract: In this study, the 2, 4-dinitrophenylhydrazine-induced biochemical and hematological changes in rabbits were examined under the administrative protocol of anthocyanin extract from Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces. Blood levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as red blood cell counts (RBC), white blood cell counts (WBC), packed cell volume (PCV) and hemoglobin (Hb) concentration were determined as indices of alteration and protection. Relative to control, 2, 4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2, 4-DNPH) treatment significantly decreased (P < 0.05) blood level of GSH and significantly increased blood MDA level .It also significantly (P < 0.05) decreased RBC counts, PCV and Hb but increased WBC counts. On the other hand treatment of rabbits with Hibiscus anthocyanin extract led to significant (P < 0.05) increase in blood GSH, RBC counts, PCV and Hb and a decrease in MDA and WBC counts. These findings indicate that anthocyanin extract from dried calyces of H. sabdariffa protects the blood against 2, 4-DNPH lipoperoxidative and hemolytic effects.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rabbit, Hibiscus sabdariffa , anthocyanin extract, 2,4 dinitrophenylhydrazine, reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde, complete blood count.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

The effect of allelic variation on forage quality of brown midrib sorghum mutants with reduced caffeic acid O-methyl transferase activity

R. K. Vogler, T. T. Tesso, K. D. Johnson and G. Ejeta*

Abstract: Sorghum brown midrib (bmr) mutants have reddish-brown vascular tissues in their leaves and stems as a result of changes in lignin content and subunit composition. Past research at Purdue University has generated a set of bmr sorghum mutants via chemical mutagenesis and established some to be allelic to each other. More recently, we identified additional spontaneous mutants in true breeding lines with marked phenotype and a range of agronomic characteristics. One such mutant, bmr-26, is of particular interest because it arose in a drought-tolerant sorghum line. Analysis of testcross hybrids between this spontaneous bmr mutant and the chemically induced mutants, bmr-6 and bmr-12, showed that the bmr-26 allele was allelic to bmr-12 and not to bmr- 6. Both the bmr-12 and the bmr-26 mutations significantly reduced lignin content in leaf, blade, sheath, stem, and panicle tissue. The effect of the mutation was relatively more severe in bmr- 12 than in bmr-26. The impact of the two mutations on cell wall composition in different tissues varied. The biggest effect of the bmr-12 mutation was in reduction of lignin in the sheath, whereas lignin content in panicles was more affected by the bmr-26 mutation. This suggested an allele-specific effect in tissue lignin reduction of these mutants. Cellulose and hemicellulose concentrations were also significantly higher in certain tissue types for both the induced and spontaneous mutants. Forage quality traits including percent NDF and ADF were significantly increased by both mutations. Improvement in in vitro dry matter digestibility as a result of the bmr-26 mutation was relatively small and was not proportional to the reduction in the lignin content.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Acid detergent fiber (ADF), bmr, brown midrib, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), lignin, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), Sorghum bicolor.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of 50 Hz electromagnetic fields on acid phosphatase activity

K. S. Prashanth*, T. R. S. Chouhan and Snehalatha Nadiger

Abstract: The effect of extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic field (EMF) (50 Hz 0.5 mT) on the activity of acid phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.2) was studied. In addition the factors affecting the enzyme activity such as the temperature, pH and substrate concentration were also investigated. The results show that ELF EMF have significant influence on enzyme activity. Upon EMF exposure Km increased from 0014 ± 0.005 to 0.040 ± 0.008 mM whereas Vmax increased from 0.991 ± 0.254 to 1.638 ± 0.345 µmol/min. Further studies can probably help in finding suitable applications for ELF based modulation of enzyme activity.[...] Read More.

Keywords: ELF EMF, acid phosphatase, enzyme activity.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Toxicological assessment of oral administration of some antisickling agents in rats

Oyewole, O. I.* and Malomo, S. O.

Abstract: This study investigated the toxicological effects of oral administration of hydroxyurea, tellurite and thiocyanate on some biochemical parameters in rats. The drugs were administered orally to rats daily at their therapeutic dose for 28 days after which some biochemical parameters were measured. All the drugs caused growth depression and significant elevation (P < 0.05) of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) while they also lowered serum albumin and total protein. Thiocyanate and tellurite significantly decreased activities of the three enzymes in the liver and kidney while hydroxyurea resulted in significant elevated activities. Tellurite significantly reduced serum concentrations of sodium ion and urea while it elevated serum potassium, creatinine and bilirubin. Hydroxyurea elevated serum urea and creatinine while it reduced bilirubin concentration. Thiocyanate significantly reduced (P < 0.05) serum bicarbonate and bilirubin. These results suggest that the drugs might be toxic at their therapeutic dose with thiocyanate exhibiting mildest toxicity followed by hydroxyurea.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Sickle cell disease, hydroxyurea, sodium thiocyanate, potassium tellurite

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antinociceptive properties of Trigonella foenumgreacum seeds extracts

A. Laroubi*, L. Farouk, R. Aboufatima, A. Benharref , A. Bagri and A. Chait

Abstract: Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (Leguminosae), known in Morocco as “Helba”, is used in folk medicine for its anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, cicatrizing activities and to treat various pain-related physiological conditions. In the present study, we attempted to verify the possible antinociceptive action of different extracts obtained from the seeds of this plant. Three experimental models were used (acetic acid, formalin, and hot-plate tests) in order to characterize the analgesic effect. The extracts significantly, and in a dose-dependent manner, reduced the pain induced by intraperitoneal injection of acetic acid. In the formalin test, the extracts, except ethyl acetate extract (Tfge), significantly reduced the painful stimulus but only in the early phase of the test. On the contrary, these extracts, except Tfge, were ineffective to increase the latency of licking or jumping in the hot plate test. These results suggest that the compounds present in the extracts activated both central and peripheral mechanisms to elicit the analgesic effect.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds, writhing test, formalin test, hot-plate test, nociception, mice, rats.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Regenerative action of Cochlospermum tinctorium aqueous root extract on experimentally induced hepatic damage in rats

Etuk E. U*, Francis U. U, Garba I

Abstract: The hepatoprotective effect of aqueous root extract of Cochlospermum tinctorium on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) on induced hepatic damage in rats was reported. The present study examined the curative action of the plant extract on experimentally induced hepatic damage in rats. Wistar rats were divided into normal control, induction control, extract and prednisolone treated groups. Hepatotoxicity was induced in rats by intraperitoneal administration of CCl4 (30% in olive oil) for 5 days. Treatment group received 200 mg/kg of extract post hepatotoxicity induction orally for 7 days. The animals were sacrificed on the 8th day, blood and hepatic tissue collected for liver function test and histopathological analysis respectively. Administration of carbon tetrachloride induced hepatic damage in the rats was evidenced by a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the blood clotting time, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (AP) and bilirubin as compared to the control. There was also a significant reduction in the serum total protein, serum albumin and reduced glutathione levels. Treatment with the extract reversed the values of all the biochemical parameters to near normal values in control. The histopathological reports collaborate with the biochemical analysis results. Oral administration of aqueous root extract of Cochlospermum tinctorium for 7 days has significantly reversed hepatic damage produced by CCl4 in wistar rats.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cochlospermum tinctorium, carbon tetrachloride, hepatotoxicity, wistar rats.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Peripheral blood and C-reactive protein levels (CRP) in chronic periodontitis

Balwant Rai, Jasdeep Kaur , Simmi Kharb, Rajnish Jain, S. C. Anand and Jaipaul Singh

Abstract: Evidence for a potential link between periodontal disease and coronary heart disease (CHD) has accumulated in recent years. C-reactive protein is potential marker of cardiovascular risk and associated with periodontal disease. CRP levels were analyzed in 26 periodontitis patients and 23 healthy controls along with hemoglobin, red blood cell count (RBC), leukocyte cell count (total and differential WBC), platelet count. Total WBC, neutrophil and platelet counts and CRP levels were raised significantly in periodontitis patients as compared to controls (p[...] Read More.

Keywords: C-reactive protein, WBC, RBC, thrombocyte, periodontitis, coronary heart disease.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Selected heavy metals and electrolyte levels in blood of workers and residents of industrial communities

Babalola O. O* and Babajide S. O

Abstract: The study focused on the determination of the levels of lead, cadmium, sodium and potassium in the blood of selected industrial workers (n = 36), residents of the neighboring communities (n = 36) as well as the residents of the communities further away from any industrial setting (which controls) (n = 12). The subjects were recruited from the granite served as the, ceramic and cement industries at Ewekoro, Abeokuta North and South Local government areas of Ogun state, Nigeria. The blood lead (BPb) and cadmium (BCd) were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, while blood sodium (BNa+) and potassium (BK+) were determined by flame photometry. The weight and height of all respondents were measured in addition to other information obtained through a structured questionnaire and their body mass indices computed. The mean BCd, BNa+ and BK+ for controls and the test subjects were not significantly different from each other. Significant difference was only observed in the level of BPb between the test and the control. This was also observed when comparing the mean of all the measurements in the blood of residents of the neighboring communities with that of the control subjects. These results revealed that workers and the residents of the neighboring communities are at the risk of lead poisoning to which they were exposed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Industrial communities, heavy metals level, electrolyte levels.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Toxicological effects of chlorpyrifos and methidathion in young chickens

Ojezele, Matthew Obaineh* and Abatan, Oluwole Matthew

Abstract: The objective of this work is assessment of the toxicological effects of the organophosphorus compounds (methidathion and chlorpyrifos) and the usefulness of some parameters as bioindicators. Haematology and serum biochemistry were assayed in 15 cockrels at random age of 4 - 6 weeks. The birds were randomly assigned to 3 oral (by mouth) pulse-dose treatments of 0, 3.5 mg/kg chlorpyrifos, and 7.5 mg/kg methidathion, respectively. Haematology and serum biochemistry were used as indices of toxicosis. Significantly (P < 0.05) reduced WBC, Neutrophils and Lymphocyte counts were observed in the groups of birds dosed with chlorpyrifos and methidathion. PCV, Hb, and RBC were significantly decreased by methidathion while chlorpyrifos caused a significant increase in these parameters. Results obtained in this study also showed that methidathion and chlorpyrifos caused significant decrease in the levels of ALP, ALT, TP, and ALB. While methidathion caused a significant decrease in the level of AST reverse is the case for chlorpyrifos with respect to AST. It was also observed that both organophosphates had no significant effect on the level of BIL. The study thus showed that the evaluated parameters can serve as useful bioindicators of the sub lethal exposure to organo-phosphorus compounds.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Biochemistry, chlorpyrifos, methidathion, bioindicators, cockrels, haematology.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

A study on the combined administration of chloroquine and insulin effect on serum transferases and phosphatases activity during increased dietary fat and calcium consumption

Ajani E. O.*, Salau B. A., Ezima E. N. , Oyefuga O. H. and Osineye P. O

Abstract: Previous studies reported on relationship between chloroquine administration, insulin and glucose homeostasis, but the role of dietary fat and the combined effect of the drugs on liver function have not been exploited. The present study was set up to investigate the effect of combined administration of insulin and chloroquine on serum transferase and phosphates activity during increased dietary fat and calcium consumption. Thirty (30) adult male albino rats randomly assigned into five (5) groups were used in the study. Group A was placed on normal diet (normal control); B (test control) C, D, and E were placed on an increased dietary fat and calcium. Drugs were administered as follows: group C, insulin (100 µg/kg body weight once daily); group D, chloroquine (Imarsel Chemical Co. Ltd., Chinon, Hungary, 15 mg/kg body weight) thrice weekly over a period of 12 weeks, and group E, chloroquine combined with insulin. All rats were sacrificed after 15 weeks treatment period. Blood was withdrawn and activities of the enzymes were determined. Combined administration of the drugs increased serum alanine amino transferase, aspartate transaminase and alkaline phosphate activity and decreased acid phosphatase activity. The result suggests that combined administration of insulin and chloroquine may result in hepatic injury particularly in individual whose dietary regimen includes increased fat and calcium.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Chloroquine, insulin, liver function, transaminases, phosphatases, dietary calcium, fat.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Efficacy of Dissotis rotundifolia on Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in rats

Abdullahi Mann*, Evans C. Egwim, Barnabas Banji, Nda-Umar Abdukadir, Mohammed Gbate, J. T. Ekanem

Abstract: The therapeutic potential of the crude extract of Dissotis rotundifolia was investigated in rats infected with Trypanosoma b. brucei. Animals were treated orally or intraperitoneally at 200, 600 and 800 mg/kg body weight. At 800 mg/kg, parasitemia was reduced by 66.7 and 78.4% after oral and intraperitoneal administration respectively. In vitro exposure of blood forms to high concentration (800 mg/kg) crude extract test resulted in complete paralysis or killing within 45 s of exposure. It is concluded that D. rotundifolia may contain antitrypanosomal constituents.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Efficacy, trypanosoma, parasitemia, Dissotis rotundifolia, antitrypanosomal activity.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Isolation and preliminary characterization of conophor nut (Tetracarpidium conophorum) lipase

Victor N. Enujiugha

Abstract: Lipase in oilseeds helps to hydrolyze the ester bonds of storage triacylglycerols. The crude lipase from the conophor nut (Tetracarpidium conophorum) was isolated and assayed via quantification of the free fatty acids liberated by the hydrolysis of the oilseed triacylglycerols. Optimum pH and temperature for the enzyme activity of the conophor nut lipase was pH 8.0 and at 30°C with substantial lipolysis at 80°C, underscoring the thermostability of the enzyme. The effects of different ions on the activity of the isolated lipase were examined. NaCl and EDTA inhibited activity by various degrees, while Ca2+ and Hg+ enhanced the enzyme activity. The results of the present study show that the lipase from conophor nut can favourably be exploited to complement existing lipase sources.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Conophor nut, lipase activity, temperature, pH.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Degradation of pyrimidine ribonucleosides by extracts of Aspergillus terreus

Osama M. Abdel-Fatah*, Maysa A. Elsayed and Ali M. Elshafei

Abstract: Cell-free extracts of nitrate- grown mycelia of Aspergillus terreus could catalyze the hydrolytic deami-nation of cytidine to uridine and ammonia followed by the hydrolytic cleavage of the N-glycosidic bond of the produced uridine to the corresponding base (uracil) and ribose. The same extracts could not catalyze the hydrolytic deamination of cytosine. Addition of inorganic arsenate to the reaction mixture containing cytidine or uridine did not affect the amount of ribose liberated indicating the absence of pyrimidine ribonucleosides phosphorylase in the extracts. Cytidine deaminase showed an optimum activity at pH 7.0 and 60°C and stability to high degrees of temperature. Uridine hydrolase activity was optimized at pH 8.0 and 55°C. Incubation of the extracts at 55°C for 60 min showed no effect on uridine hydrolase activity whereas incubation of the extracts at 60 and 70°C for different interval times caused a gradual decrease in activity and the enzyme lost its activity completely by incubation at 80°C for 15 min. Dialyzing the extracts showed no effect on cytidine deaminase activity and a decrease in uridine hydrolase activity. Addition of EDTA at a concentration of 5 x 10-3 M and 10-2 M caused an inhibition to the two enzymes activities. The presence of MgSO4 in the reaction mixture seems to activate greatly both enzymatic cytidine deamination (225 and 128% increases) and uridine hydrolysis (22 and 77% increases) at final concentrations of 5 x 10-3 M and 10-2 M respectively. However HgCl2 and CuSO4 were found to be potent inhibitors for both activities at the two concentrations.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Pyrimidine ribonucleosides, cytidine, uridine, cytidine deaminase, uridine hydrolase, Aspergillus terreus.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Lipid profile of a population of diabetic patients attending Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Clinic, Abuja

Ugwu, C. E*. , Ezeanyika, L. U. S., Daikwo, M. A. and Amana, R.

Advanced Journal of Microbiology Research Vol. 2017

Available online at http://internationalscholarsjournals.org/journal/ajmr

Full Length Research Paper

Lipid profile of a population of diabetic patients attending Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Clinic, Abuja

Ugwu, C. E¹*. , Ezeanyika, L. U. S.², Daikwo, M. A.¹ and Amana, R.¹

¹Department of Biochemistry, Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria.

²Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

Accepted 20 January, 2017

Abstr

This study was conducted to compare the lipid profile of diabetic patients and healthy controls. The lipid profiles and lipoprotein levels of 50 known diabetic patients and 50 healthy subjects were studied. Total cholesterol (TC), Triacylglycerols (TG), Low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were assayed for each group using standard biochemical methods. The mean TC, TG, and low density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were lower in the diabetics than in the control subjects though these were not significant (P > 0.05). The frequency of high TC level was higher in the diabetic group while the frequency of low HDL -C level was higher in the healthy controls. The prevalence of high TG and LDL-C were approximately equal in the two groups. The mean (±SD) HDL- C was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in males compared to the females for both diabetic and control groups. The better lipid profiles in the diabetic patients compared to the controls were apparently due to the regime of management of their condition.

Key words: Diabetes, lipid profile, Nigerians.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Structural changes of DHA- containing phospholipids by K+ and Na+ cations in nerve cell membranes

N.Khodayari, F.Mollaamin , M. Monajjemi

Abstract: Understanding the structure and dynamics of a docosa hexaenoic acid (DHA) containing phospholipid monomer within membranes is essential for recognizing the bilayer function in central nervous system. It has been recognized that the electrical impulses in nerve cells arise from the movement of electrical charges in the form of ions across the plasma membrane. In this study, we have modeled a novel DHA-containing phosphatidylcholine (PC) found in a marine single cell eukaryote, “Schizochytrium sp F26-b” and we were focused on understanding the physico-chemical nature of K+ and Na+ movement toward DHA-containing phospholipid through its structural changes. To know more about the temperature dependence of the structural stability of 1-pentadecanoyl-2-docosahexaenoyl-sn–glycerol-3-phosphocholin frequently calculations have been carried out at different biological temperatures and the plotted graphs of energy values at all employed temperatures have been analyzed. Our findings confirmed the usefulness of Quantum chemical calculations for determination of dynamics of a phospholipid and prediction of their biological activity in bio-membranes.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Docosahexaenoic acid-containing phospholipid, nerve cell membranes, K+ and Na+, Ab initio.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects of extract from Plumbago zeylanica

Kantha D. Arunachalam , P. Velmurugan and R. Balaji Raja*

Abstract: Plumbago species (Family-Plumbaginaceae) are one of the most important medicinal plants which are used for anti- inflammatory, antimicrobial diseases. Our work involves the study of anti inflammatory and cytotoxic effects of Plumbago zeylanica. The root of P. zeylanica extracted with methanol was used for determining the anti inflammatory effects. The methanolic extracts at 300 and 500 mg/kg produced 31.03 and 60.3% inhibition of acute inflammation, respectively, in Carrageenin induced raw paw oedema confirming that P. zeylanica roots are effective against acute inflammation. For the evaluation of cytotoxicity, the crude dichloromethane extract was subjected to silica gel column chromatography and 120 fractions were collected. Their structures were elucidated with the help of spectroscopic techniques. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was performed to determine the purity of gugultetrol-18-ferrulate in crude extract and the structure of betasitosterol and gugultetrol-18-ferrulate was identified using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analysis (1H and 13C NMR), Infra red and mass spectroscopy. The lethal concentration (LC50) value was observed for crude extract, betasitosterol, gugultetrol-18- ferrulate and it was found to be 90, 75 and 65 ppm, respectively. The use of Plumbago species as an effective anti inflammatory agent and its cytotoxic effects have been ascertained and proved.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Plumbago zeylanica, anti inflammatory, cytotoxicity, betasitosterol, gugultetrol-18-ferrulate, high performance liquid chromatography.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Comparative susceptibility of in vitro biofilm and planktonic cells of Staphylococcus aureus to antimicrobials

T. Mahami*, A. Adu-Gyamfi and C. Owulah

Abstract: This study evaluated the effect of frequently used veterinary wound antimicrobials for their efficacy in killing mature in vitro Staphylococcus aureus biofilms and inhibiting planktonic cells. The predictiveness of the minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) assay as a tool for antibiotic susceptibility testing was also assessed. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and MBEC of tetracycline, tetracycline-based commercial wound spray, silver nitrate, gentian violet, iodine tincture, sucrose and a laboratory mixture of sucrose and gentian violet were determined. Whereas low concentrations of all these antimicrobials except sucrose inhibited planktonic S. aureus, only silver nitrate eradicated the biofilm phenotype. Silver nitrate at a Ag+ concentration of 4 x MIC showed 100% efficiency of removal or 7.70-log reduction of S. aureus biofilm cells, 1% gentian violet gave a significant reduction (55% or 0.35- log, P = 0.046) and 120% sucrose in gentian violet also showed a significant percentage reduction of 89.71% (0.98-log, P = 0.001). However, 120% sucrose and 2% iodine tincture reduced biofilms insignificantly (28.26% or 0.14-log, P = 0.098) and (34.78% or 0.18-log, P = 0.065), respectively. Based on the national committee for clinical laboratory brake-points, S. aureus biofilms lacked sensitivity to tetracycline and the tetracycline base wound spray. In conclusion, the antibiofilm properties of Ag+ observed in this study may improve the success rate in treating clinical biofilm-associated S. aureus wound infections if the MBEC assay is applied to select appropriate concentrations.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus, biofilms, planktonic, antimicrobials, wound, infections.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In vitro effect of Melaleuca alternifolia and Eucalyptus globulus essential oils on mycelia formation by oral Candida albicans strains

Emira Noumi*, Mejdi Snoussi, and Amina Bakhrouf

Abstract: Several mechanisms can inhibit mycelium formation which is an essential step for Candida albicans virulence. In this study, two essential oils of Melaleuca alternifolia and Eucalyptus globulus were tested for their ability to inhibit the mycelium formed on Lee medium by oral C. albicans. Lee medium was added with different concentrations of M. alternifolia essential oil ranging from 0.156 to 10 mg/ml and from 0.039 to 10 mg/ml for E. globulus. The results obtained showed that 5/17 of C. albicans strains were strongly mycelium producers, nine strains were moderately mycelium producers and three isolates were unable to form hyphae after 2 h of incubation in the same medium. M. alternifolia essential oil has an antimycelial activity against C. albicans isolates than E. globulus essential oil. In fact, only 1/2 minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (0.312 mg/ml) of M. alternifolia was able to inhibit total mycelium in C. albicans isolate while 2 MIC (0.312 mg/ml) of the second essential oil was necessary to inhibit germ tube formation in the same strain.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Candida albicans, Melaleuca alternifolia, Eucalyptus globulus, mycelium, lee medium.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Combined effects of dry matter content, incubation temperature and final pH of fermentation on biochemical and microbiological characteristics of probiotic fermented milk

Gelareh Shafiee, Amir Mohammad Mortazavian*, Mohammad Amin Mohammadifar, Mohammad Reza Koushki, Abdorreza Mohammadi and Reza Mohammadi

Abstract: Combined effects of milk non-fat dry matter content (4, 8 or 12%), incubation temperature (37, 40 or 44°C) and final pH of fermentation (4.2 or 4.5) on biochemical and microbiological characteristics of probiotic fermented milk (Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5, Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12, and yogurt bacteria) during and immediately after fermentation were investigated. Treatments containing higher dry matter contents had slower pH and redox potential decline rates, faster acidity increase rate, longer incubation time and greater final titrable acidity. Treatments fermented at higher temperatures with lower final pH displayed longer fermentation time and greater final titrable acidity. Treatments with higher dry matter non-fat contents, lower incubation temperatures and higher final pH of fermentation possessed greater viability of probiotic bacteria. The concentration of lactic acid in treatments increased in parallel with the titrable acidity and the concentration of acetic acid were proportional to the viability of bifidobacteria.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bifidobacteria, fermented milk, Lactobacillus acidophilus, probiotic, viability.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Molecular prevalence for Bovine immunodeficiency virus infection in Iranian cattle population

Elahe Tajbakhsh*, Gholamreza Nikbakht Borujeni, Hassan Momtazan and Nour Amirmozafari

Abstract: Bovine immunodeficiency virus (BIV), a member of the family Retroviridae, is an infectious pathogenic lentivirus in cattle. Although, BIV induced cattle infections are reported in several countries of the world, its prevalence in Iran is not clearly known. In this investigation, we report the detection of proviral DNA sequence of BIV in 300 blood samples of cattle by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using oligonucleotiode primers specific for the gag gene region of the virus. Blood samples were taken from Chaharmahale Bakhtiary province. According to the PCR results, infection rate in the cattle population were 60%. This is the first report for the presence of BIV in cattle and sheep population of Chaharmahale Bakhtiary province, and the first evidence for sheep infection.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bovine immunodeficiency virus, cattle, Chaharmahale Bakhtiary province, Iran, PCR.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Correlation analysis of inhibin B, follistatin and activin A in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Shen ZongJi, Chen Xiao-Ping*, Wang WanXiang, Liu HongMei and Ren XinPing

Abstract: Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a term used to describe women who have a tendency, because of abnormal ovulation to develop multiple small cysts on their ovaries. In this study, we investigated the abnormal levels of serum inhibin B, follistatin and activin A in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Serum levels of inhibin B, follistatin and activin A on cycle day 3 were measured both in PCOS group and in controls (women with regular cycle). The difference between the two groups and relationship of inhibin B, follistatin and activin A with other sex hormone, body mass index (BMI), insulin and fast glucose were analyzed. Levels of serum inhibin B in PCOS were higher (P[...] Read More.

Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome, follistatin, activin, hyperinsulinemia.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Ballota acetabulosa

Basaran Dulger* and Alper Sener

Abstract: The ethanol extracts obtained from Ballota acetabulosa (L.) Benth (Lamiaceae) were investigated for their antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus ATCC 7064, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Stapylococcus aureus ATCC 6538P, Escherichia coli ATCC 10538, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 6899, Salmonella typhimurium CCM 5445, Psuedomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Debaryomyces hansenii DSM 70238, Kluyveromyces fragilis ATCC 8608 and Rhodotorula rubra DSM 70403 by disc diffusion method and micro dilution method. The extracts showed strong antibacterial activity against E. coli, with inhibition zones of 18.6 mm and with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of 16 (32) µg/mL, respectively. K. fragilis is among the most susceptible in the yeast cultures, with inhibition zone of 18.2 mm and with MICs and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) of 16 (32) µg/mL, respectively. Also, the extracts exhibited moderate activity in the other test of micro -organisms. The results demonstrate that the ethanol extract of the aerial parts of B. acetabulosa has significant activity and suggest that it may be useful in the treatment of infections.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Ballota acetabulosa, ethanol extract, antimicrobial activity.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Occurrence and pathogenicity of various pathogenic fungi on cucurbits from Kermanshah province, Iran

K. Chehri*, S. Abbasi, K. R. N. Reddy and B. Salleh

Abstract: Cucurbits ( Cucurbitaceae) are among the important plant families providing edible products to humans worldwide. It is known fact that various pathogenic fungi can attack the plants and cause diseases and resultantly yield losses. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the plant pathogenic fungi from cucurbit plants and to evaluate their pathogenicity on cucurbits. A total of 101 cucurbit samples infected with diseases were collected from different places in Kermanshah Province, Iran. From these samples 101 strains of various pathogenic fungi were isolated and identified through morphological characters. All strains were belongs to Fusarium oxysporum , Macrophomina phaseolina, Phytophthora melonis, Phytophthora drechsleri, Pythium aphanidermatum and two morphotypes of Fusarium solani species complex (FSSC). P. aphanidermatum and Phytophthora sp. strains were recovered from the samples collected from irrigated field, while Fusarium and M. phaseolina strains from rain fed field. All these pathogenic fungi were evaluated to study their pathogenicity on cucumber (Cucumis sativum) and honeydew melon (Cucumis melo) . P. melonis, P. drechsleri, F. oxysporum and P. aphanidermatum caused the damping off within 10 - 20 days on both plants tested. The stem rot symptoms were observed on the 7th day after inoculation of F. solani and M. phaseolina on both plants tested. The inoculated fungi were re-isolated from the diseased plants to prove the Koch’s postulates. This is the first comprehensive report on identity and distribution of major plant pathogenic fungi causing root and stem rots on cucurbits in west of Iran.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Root and stem rot, pathogenicity, cucurbits, Iran.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Prevalence of extended-spectrum b-Lactamases producing Aeromonas hydrophila isolated from stool samples collected in the Limpopo province, South Africa

J. N. Ramalivhana*, C. L. Obi and S. R. Moyo

Abstract: Aeromonas producing extended-spectrum ß- lactamases (ESBLs) have been reported in many countries, but there is no information on the prevalence of ESBL-producing clinical Aeromonas in South African. A total of 230 isolates of Aeromonas hydrophila were isolated from 660 stool samples and 709 water samples collected in different municipalities in Limpopo province, South Africa over a period of three month. Isolates were screened for the production of ESBLs by the double disk diffusion test and for AmpC production by assessing resistance to cefoxitin. blaSHV, blaTEM , blaCTX-M and blaCMY-2 were isolated from all ESBL-positive and cefoxitin-resistant isolates. Only 21 isolates were found to be ESBL producers. All 21 isolates were screened for the production of blaSHV, blaTEM, blaCTX-M and blaCMY-2 ESBLs. Only (1/21) was found to produce blaTEM 63 and blaCMY-2. All transconjugants were resistant to amoxicillin, piperacillin, the cephalosporins and aztreonam but remained susceptible to cefoxitin and imipenem. Crude extracts of ß-lactamase-producing transconjugants were able to reduce the diameters of inhibition zones around disks containing penicillin, but had no effect on such zones around cefoxitin, imipenem and amoxicillin-clavulanate disks. In conclusion, the occurrence of ESBLs in A .hydrophila emphasizes the importance of constant surveillance of clinical isolates to determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Extended-spectrum b-lactamases- Aeromonas hydrophilia , antibiotics , resistance.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Qualititative analysis of organically farmed pulse varieties using FTIR (fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy

Jyotsna Saurav, Neeraj Kumar, R. Balaji Raja*and D. Kantha Arunachalam

Abstract: Organic farming is increasing in proportion every year with almost all cash crops being produced by it. Pulses also can be produced using organic farming. Four different samples of moong dhal grown by conventional farming and organic farming were collected and analyzed qualitatively using FTIR (fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy. Samples were conventional moong dhal, cheaper and easily available in market, organic white, organic green leaf and organic green complete moong dhal have been taken. Peak difference was observed in two major areas in the composition confirming the presence of additional functional group. Peaks of wavelength 2498 cm-1 which was present in conventional moong dhal and 550 cm-1 present in organic green leaf moong dhal showed significant difference when compared with other wavelengths as they are absent in any other of the sample. The effect of organic farming in case of moong dhal seemed to make no significant difference in their composition in comparison with the moong dhal produced by conventional faming.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Moong dhal, farming, composition, ingredients, organic.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Susceptibility of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolated from animals and humans to tetracycline

Zoran Tambur*, Biljana Miljkovic-Selimovic, Radoje Doder and Zoran Kulisic

Abstract: Fifty five thermophilic Campylobacter spp. strains were isolated from cecum of broilers, cecum and colon of pigs and from human feces. The strains were identified as Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli. The more prevalent species in broilers and humans was C. jejuni and in pigs C. coli. In the framework of this study, sensitivity to tetracycline in isolated strains of C. jejuni and C. coli was tested by E-test. In 16 tested strains isolated from broilers, 56.25% were resistant to tetracycline. Resistance occured more frequent in C. coli strains (66.67%). In 15 strains of termophilic Campylobacter spp. isolated from pigs the percentage of resistant strains was 80%. Resistance was detected more often in C. coli (90.00%) isolates. The percentage of resistant C. jejuni strains from pigs was 60.00%. Resistance to tetracycline occurred in 29.17% of 24 thermophilic Campylobacter spp. strains isolated from humans. Generally, strains of thermophilic campylobacters, especially C. coli isolated in pigs are more frequent resistant to tetracycline than strains isolated in poultry and human. Therefore, attention should be directed to the tetracycline application monitoring in swine farming in order to prevent resistance appearance in animal strains and its subsequent spread to human strains.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, tetracycline, resistance.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Characterization and pathogenic evaluation of Bacillus thuringiensis isolates from West Azerbaijan province-Iran

Shahram Aramideh*, Mohammad Hassan Saferalizadeh, Ali Asghar Pourmirza, Mahmuod Rezazadeh Bari, Mansureh Keshavarzi and Mahdi Mohseniazar

Abstract: In order to find native strains of Bacillus thuringiensis, toxic to some agricultural pests, a survey was conducted in West Azerbaijan province. B. thuringiensis strains were isolated using acetate selection method with different concentrations. The morphology of crystals was studied using light microscopy. Bioassay tests were conducted on Culex pipiens (L.) as well as Pieris brassica (L.). Biochemical tests performed to identify the isolated strains. Based on the results, 48 B. thuringiensis strains were isolated from 740 samples. The best acetate concentration was determined as 0.25M (56.25%). Soil samples were the main source of B. thuringiensis (66%). Majority of strains (58%) had bipyramidal crystals. There was significant difference in toxicity to insects among B. thuringiensis isolates, 18.74 and 35.41% of the isolates were toxic to larvae of C. pipiens and P. brassicae, respectively, causing more than 50% mortality. B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki was the most common biochemical type (12 isolates = 25%). Results indicated that Bt isolates with insecticide activity could be used in integrated pest management to control agricultural and medical pests.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bacillus thuringiensis isolate, Culex pipiens, Pieris brassica, Insecticidal activity

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Partial characterization of extracellular xylanolytic activity derived from Paenibacillus sp. KIJ1

Inkyung Park and Jaiesoon Cho,*

Abstract: An Antarctic bacterial isolate was found to exhibit the extracellular xylanolytic activity. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the strain was named Paenibacillus sp. KIJ1. The maximum xylanase production was achieved by growing Paenibacillus sp. KIJ1 in media with 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose and 0.5% yeast extract, which were found to be the best sources of carbon and nitrogen, respectively. Optimal enzyme activity occurred at 50°C and pH 6.0. The xylanase was very specific for xylan with little or no activity on other carbohydrates and synthetic aryl-glycosides substrates. Enzyme activity was enhanced by Ca2+, Co2+, Zn2+, Cu2+ and Mn2+ and strongly inhibited by SDS. The KIJ1 xylanase may offer potential for use as a microbial feed additive.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Paenibacillus sp., antarctic, xylanase, xylan, microbial.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

An in vitro assessment of inhibitory effect of 16 strains of probiotics on the germination of Candida albicans

Huan Tang, Jiong Ren, Jing Yuan, Benhua Zeng and Hong Wei*

Abstract: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the antagonistic activity of probiotics isolated from products to germination of Candida albicans in vitro. The spent culture supernatant, live bacteria, heat-killed bacteria of 16 strains of probiotics and main bacterial short-chain fatty acids were applied to inhibit the germination of C. albicans in vitro by crystal violet-based germ tube assay. Neutral SCS of all the probiotcis evaluated in this research could decrease germination significantly and live bacteria of Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG, Lactobacillus plantarum LA, Lactobacillus johnsonii JCM1022, Bacillus Longum-2, Bacillus sub. and Bacillus lich could partially inhibit the conversion of yeast to germ. However, all the heat-killed bacteria failed to control the germ tube formation. Furthermore, only butyric acid blocked the conversion of yeast to hypha among all the SCFAs. These results suggest that L. rhamnosus LGG, L. plantarum LA and L. johnsonii JCM1022, B.Longum-2, Bacillus sub. and B. lich maybe potential strains to use as antifungal drugs and the inhibition seems to have direct correlation to the metabolites butyric acid.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Candida albicans, antifungal drugs, germ tube, probiotics, butyric acid.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Solid substrate fermentation and conversion of orange waste in to fungal biomass using Aspergillus niger KA-06 and Chaetomium Spp KC-06

Biniyam Yalemtesfa, Tesfaye Alemu and Amutha Santhanam*

Advanced Journal of Microbiology Research Vol. 2017

Available online at http://internationalscholarsjournals.org/journal/ajmr

Full Length Research Paper

Solid substrate fermentation and conversion of orange waste in to fungal biomass using Aspergillus niger KA-06 and Chaetomium Spp KC-06

Biniyam Yalemtesfa¹, Tesfaye Alemu² and Amutha Santhanam^3*

¹Debrezeit Agricultural Research Center, Debrezeit, Ethiopia.

²Department of Biology, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

³Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.

Accepted 2 June, 2016

Orange waste consisting of both peel and pulp is highly susceptible to hydrolysis by mixtures of cellulolytic and pectinolytic enzymes which give it potential as feedstock for biological conversion to value added products. Whereas the pulp is relatively rich in carbohydrate, the peel consists of 16.9% soluble sugars, 9.21% cellulose, 10.5% hemicellulose and 42.5% pectin as the most important components. Thus, Aspergillus niger (KA-06) and Chaetomium spp (KC-06) isolated from municipal waste were investigated for their ability to degrade orange waste under solid substrate fermentation (SSF). This study evaluated the influence of various fermentation parameters such as substrate concentration, initial moisture content, Nitrogen source supplementation, inoculum concentration, temperature and pH on the biodegradation of orange waste into protein enriched biomass using A. niger (KA- 06) and Chaetomium spp (KC- 06). The production of protein enriched biomass from orange waste as a substrate for the fermentation process was found to be optimized by moisture content of 40% and substrate concentration of 10 g with inoculum of 10⁶ to 10⁸spores/ml at 25^°C for both Chaetomium spp (KC-06) and A. niger (KA- 06). The maximum protein content of 39.64% was obtained with Chaetomium spp (KC-06) at inoculum load of 10⁸ spores/ml. A. niger (KA-06) give a protein yield of 31.7% with inoculum load of 10⁶ spores/ml. This research has demonstrated the potential for protein production from orange waste under solid substrate fermentation.

Keywords: Aspergillus niger, Chaetomium spp., orange waste, solid substrate fermentation.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Urinary tract infection among female students residing in the campus of the University of Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

O. O. Ojo and I. I. Anibijuwon

Abstract: Seven hundred and eighty (780) female students residing in the campus of the University of Ado Ekiti were examined for significant bacteria indicative of urinary tract infections. Analysis of their clean-voided, midstream urine revealed that 507 (65%) female students have significant bacteria, 146 (18.75%) indicated insignificant bacteria while 127 (16.25%) showed no growth. Fifty eight (58) bacterial isolates were obtained from samples positive for bacteria. 8 (13.8%) were sensitive to streptomycin, 7 (12.1%) to tetracycline, nitrofurantoin and ampicillin, while only 4 (6.9%) isolates were sensitive to dalacine. However, bacterial isolates obtained from this survey generally showed similar pattern of resistance to antibiotics. The fifty-eight (58) bacterial isolates were tentatively characterized into six genera. The frequencies of occurrence of the bacterial species are in the order: Escherichia coli (32.75%), Proteus sp. (17.25%), Klebsiella sp. (13.79%), Staphylococcus sp. (12.07%), Streptococcus sp. (8.63%) and Pseudomonas sp. (5.17%). However, 6 (10.34%) of the isolates were unidentified. Key word: Female student, university campus, bacteria, antibiotics, resistance.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Female student, university campus, bacteria, antibiotics, resistance.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In vitro antimicrobial activity of selected Ethiopian medicinal plants against some bacteria of veterinary importance

Yitbarek Habtamu, Tadesse Eguale*, Alehegne Wubete and Takele Sori

Abstract: Due to rapid development of resistance and high cost of the new generation antibiotics, lots of efforts are being made to discover new antimicrobial agents from different sources. In the current study aqueous and hydro-alcoholic extracts of leaves of Jasminium abyssinicum, Myrsine africana, Foenicum vulgare and aerial part of Leonotis ocymifolia were screened for antibacterial activity using agar well diffusion and broth dilution methods. Species of bacteria that cause various diseases in domestic animals namely, Escherichia coli, Pasteurella gallinarum , Manhaemia haemolytica, Salmonella gallinarum, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactae were used for investigation of antibacterial activity. Except for aqueous extract of L. ocymifolia, all of the plant extracts demonstrated remarkable antibacterial activity on most of the bacterial species tested. The three highest zones of inhibition was exhibited by aqueous extracts of M. africana against S. aureus (19.5 mm), J. abyssinicum against M. haemolytica (19 mm) and F. vulgare against P. gallinarium (19 mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) exhibited by the plants against test organisms varied from 10 - 1000 µg /ml. However, no plant extract has shown antibacterial effect against E. coli using both agar well diffusion and broth dilution methods at concentrations tested. Further detailed in vitro and in vivo evaluation of these medicinal plants should be carried out.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, bacterial isolates, antibacterial activities, extract types.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Intra-strain Variation of Lipopolysaccharides from Citrobacter freundii E9750 by in vitro Passages

Rosa E. Reyes,*, Hugo Ramírez Saad, Julia Pérez, Enrique Meléndez, Armando Navarro Chiharu Murata and Alejandro Cravioto

Abstract: The genus Citrobacter is closely related to Salmonella and Escherichia coli, and there are some serological cross-reactions existing among these species. These cross-reactivities are caused by O-specific polysaccharide antigens in the LPS, which contain similar epitopes. In some cross-reactive strains, O-specific polysaccharides exhibit structural homology. In order to determinate the frequency of intra-strain variation of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from Citrobacter freundii E9750 by in vitro passages at two different growth temperatures, isolates obtained from Citrobacter freundii E9750 in vitro passages at 37 and 42°C were analyzed for carbohydrate concentration, reactions to serological tests, and heterogeneity of lipopolysaccharides using SDS-PAGE. The genetic relatedness of the isolates was investigated using the PCR-RFLP profile of rfb and Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) profiles. Variation in expression of LPS was observed as a change in the concentration of carbohydrates. In addition, low reactivity with C. freundii E9750 O-antiserum, serological cross reactivity with S. senftenberg O-antiserum, and heterogeneity in electrophoretic mobility, were found. The PFGE and RFLP patterns of all isolates were indistinguishable from each other, including those that presented a serological reaction with the O -antigen sera from S. senftenberg. C. freundii E9750 NCTC isolated strains showed a high frequency in LPS variability. Analysis of the results suggested that heterogeneity was due to changes in the structure of the LPS carbohydrates. Since lipopolysaccharides are important factors in virulence and determine the basis for serotyping, the high frequency of intra-strain O-antigen heterogeneity in C. freundii E9750 is important.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Lipopolysaccharide, Citrobacter freundii, intra-strain variation, serological cross-reaction, O-antigen, SDS-PAGE, RFLP.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antibacterial potential of leaf extracts of Juniperus communis L. from Kumaun Himalaya

S.C. Sati and Savita Joshi*

Abstract: The sensitivity of five pathogenic multi drug resistant bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Erwinia chrysanthemi, Escherichia coli, Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Xanthomonas phaseoli) was tested against the crude leaf organic extracts (methanol, ethanol, chloroform and hexane) and aqueous extracts of a Kumaun Himalayan gymnospermous plant Juniperus communis (Cupressaceae), employing disc diffusion method. All the extracts of Juniperus communis were found effective by showing a mark zone of inhibition except aqueous extract. The hexane extract showed maximum inhibition against the test microorganisms (ZOI, 16 – 21 mm) followed by ethanol, methanol and chloroform extract (ZOI, 6 – 17 mm). The inhibitory activity of these extracts was found very effective as compared to Ampicillin (10 mcg) and Erythromycin (15 mcg) standard antibiotics which were used as positive control against these tested microorganisms.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Kumaun Himalaya, antibacterial activity, Juniperus communis, gymnosperm, crude extract, ampicillin, erythromycin.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Moulds on paintings in Serbian fine art museums

Jelena Vukojevi and Milica Ljaljevi Grbi*

Abstract: The main reasons of fungal expansion in museums are inadequate relative humidity and temperature and the spore’s germination can be controlled by regulation of these two factors. Numerous paintings, originated from 11 Serbian museums, were analyzed for presence of moulds. Samples from canvas, dyes and wooden frames with visual changes were subjected to the analysis. Species of genera Alternaria, Aspergillus, Aureobasidium, Cladosporium, Drechslera, Epicoccum, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Trichoderma, Ulocladium and Wardomyces were isolated and identified. Some of the found species are known as potential producers of lignocellulolytic enzymes and other destructive metabolites, as well as causative agents of human diseases.[...] Read More.

Keywords: icromycetes, paintings, dyes, fungal deterioration.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Microbiological impacts of produce water discharges in nearshore shallow marine waters near Chevronâ€™s Escravos tank farm, Nigeria

Chuma C. Okoro

Abstract: Microbiological and Physicochemical survey was undertaken in produced water and its receiving environment with the aim of verifying the likely impacts of produced water constituents on the immediate receiving marine near shore shallow environment. The sampling was carried out in two seasons, late wet season and late dry season. The results obtained indicate that the chemical constituents of the discharged produce water are capable of sustaining microbial growth and proliferation. Produce water from Escravos tank farm had relatively moderate concentrations of hydrocarbon utilizing microorganisms and sulphate reducing bacteria and the concentration of these organisms were much higher at the point of discharge of the produced water. Physicochemical analysis showed that Produce water had lower salinity and sulphate levels than the receiving marine water but the reverse was the case with the BOD, COD and Hydrocarbon constituents. The two seasons under investigation showed similar results. From the analytical data, it can be advanced that the impacts of produced water microbial flora on the receiving environment is limited to the vicinity of the discharge point of about 100 m in diameter and also to some extent up to a distance of 500 m upstream along the direction of flow of produced water discharges. It is expected that while the hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms plays a beneficial role of degrading and detoxifying abundant produced water hydrocarbons in the sediment and the surface water, Sulphate reducing bacteria might at the same time be playing a detrimental role of oxidizing certain organic compounds or hydrogen and reducing sulphate and other reduced sulphur compounds in the marine water and sediment to hydrogen sulphide which can be very toxic to bacteria, aquatic animals and man.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Produced water, sulphate reducing bacteria, hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Molecular detection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) among voluntary blood donor's HBsAg positive in shahrekord, Iran

Elahe Tajbakhsh*, Hassan Momtaz, Manouchehr Momeni and Sodabe Hamedi

Abstract: Hepatitis B virus, a common cause of viral hepatitis, consumes a large portion of health resources in developing countries. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevalence has been decreased dramatically in Iran population during the last decade, and now it is classified as having low endemicity for hepatitis B infection. Improvement of the people’s awareness about HBV risk factors, national vaccination program since 1993 for all neonates, and vaccination of high risk groups could be the cause of this decrease. In this investigation, we announce the detection of HBV- DNA sequence from 90 HBsAg positive blood donors in shahrekord by nested PCR, using specific primers of the surface antigen region of the HBV genome. Of the 11472 volunteer blood donors admitted to Shahrekord blood transfusion organization center in Iran during 2007 - 2008, 90 specimens were positive for HBsAg. From 90 HBsAg positive serum samples, 75 specimens were positive in PCR.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Blood donors, HBsAg positive, Hepatitis B, Iran, PCR, Shahrekord.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Screening and fermentation optimization of microbial lipid-producing molds from forest soils

Gao-Qiang Liu,*, Qin-Lu Lin, Xian-Chun Jin, Xiao-Ling Wangand Yan Zhao

Abstract: Sixty-one isolates including molds, yeasts and bacteria from the forest soils collected from Hunan Province, China were tested for their potentiality to accumulate microbial lipid as alternative sources for biodiesel production. The results showed that sixteen mold isolates were potential oleaginous microorganisms, among which, strain SCIM 3.009 was the best lipid producers, which may accumulate up to 50.4% of lipids in dry biomass. Further study showed that the components profile of the lipid from strain SCIM 3.009 had the similar characters to that of vegetable oil, abundant in low degree unsaturated long chain fatty acid (C18:1) and saturated long chain fatty acids (C16:0), suggesting the lipid is a potential source for biodiesel production. Based on the morphology and a commercial identification system, the strain SCIM 3.009 was found to be Thamnidium ctenidium. To enhance the lipid production by the strain, the fermentation parameters were optimized, the optimium conditions were as follows: glucose as carbon source with initial concentration 60 g/L, NH4NO3 as nitrogen source at 3.0 g/L, culture temperature was 30°C, initial pH = 6.5, culture volume was 50 mL in a 250 mL flask, agitation speed was 220 rpm. Results on verification of the optimium conditions in a 5 L stirred-tank bioreactor reveal that the strain accumulate up to 66.02% of lipids in dry biomass and the lipid yield significantly enhanced from 6.4 ± 0.39 to 13.6 ± 0.37 g/L, while biomass enhanced from 12.7 ± 0.72 to 20.6 ± 0.52 g/L.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Biodiesel, microbial lipid, oleaginous microorganism, strains screening, submerged fermentation.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Preliminary evaluation of wastewater effluents from two food companies in Nigeria

A. Osho*, O. O. Mabekoje and O. O. Bello

Abstract: Effluent samples from two top Nigerian food and beverage industries, swords food industry and 7-Up Bottling Company, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria were investigated for microbial loads, physiochemical properties and presence of heavy metals. While repeated sampling revealed two bacteria and a fungus from the effluents of 7-Up bottling company, 15 bacteria and 5 fungi were isolated from Swords foods Industry. The biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were equally higher in the effluent of sword food industry than that of 7-Up bottling company. Heavy metals analyses revealed Lead (4.83 and 6.75 mgl-1) Copper (3.80 and 3.93 mgl-1), Iron (3.10 and 3.45 mgl-1), Cadmium (7.20 and 8.10 mgl-1) and magnesium (5.68 and 9.38 mgl-1) in sword food industry while Lead (0.12 and 0.14 mgl-1), copper (1.20 and 1.22 mgl-1), iron (1.60 and 1.63 mgl-1), cadmium (0.10 and 0.09 mgl-1) and magnesium (1.10 and 1.20 mgl-1) were the concentrations in 7-Up bottling company. The conclusion was that, there is a high probability of polluting the environment by sword food industry as a result of discharge of untreated wastewater into the water body or soil that may lead to death of crops or reduction in crops yield, contamination of drinking water supplies and/or accumulation and dissemination of toxic chemicals that may further endanger ecosystems and threaten public health.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Microbial loads, heavy metals, physicochemical properties.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Adenovirus type 3 infections in camels in Sudan

K. S. Intisar, Y. H. Ali, A. I. Khalafalla, K. M. Taha and Mahasin E. A. Rahman

Abstract: The incidence of adenovirus type 3 infections in camels in Sudan was studied. Lungs of Camel with pneumonia lungs (n = 239) were collected from slaughter houses at four different areas in Sudan. Adenovirus type 3 antigen was detected in 1.3% of 239 tested camel lungs by the use of sandwich ELISA. Specimens from Northern (3.3%) and Central Sudan (1.2%) were found to be positives. Direct fluorescent antibody test (FAT) was used to confirm the adenovirus ELISA positives; all ELISA positives were found to be positive using FAT. Seroprevalence of adenovirus type 3 was investigated, camel sera (n = 260) were collected from the same areas in Sudan. Collected sera were examined for adenovirus antibodies using indirect ELISA. The overall detected seroprevalence was 90%; highest prevalence was in South Central (100%) then Western (94.3%) and Central Sudan (92.5%). The lowest seroprevalence was in Northern Sudan (80%). The most detected degree of positivity was +3 then +5. This represents the first report for the detection of adenovirus type 3 antigen and antibodies in camels in Sudan. It was noticed to cause pathologic effect in camel lungs.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Camel, Adenovirus 3, ELISA, Sudan.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Cloning and expression of C-terminal of Clostridium perfringens type A enterotoxin and its biological activity

Atieyeh Taherian Fard, Fariha Hasan, Mojgan Bandehpour , Nariman Mosaffa, Fatemeh Mashhadi Abbas, Abdul Hameed, Aamer Ali Shah and Bahram Kazemi*

Abstract: Pathogenic clostridia produce exocellular toxins that resemble lipoteichoic acid and are described as super antigens. These toxins stimulate T-cell receptor-carrying lymphocytes in peripheral blood and have been used to study immunodeficiency diseases and cancers. The CPE C -terminal region from one of the local type A strain was cloned in the pET32a vector its expression induced with IPTG. The expressed protein was purified by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography and tested for biological activity with Vero cells assay. This region of Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) has a predominant ligand-binding activity. In the present study, the biological activity of the C-terminal region of local purified CPE came under study with Vero cell assay, guinea pig skin test and mouse test to evaluate for future use as a therapeutic purpose. The result of this study showed that, the study’s local purified C -CPE had cytotoxic activity in Vero cells even at the minimum dilution of 0.625 ng after a 4-h incubation period. It caused transient increase in capillary permeability in guinea pigs. C- CPE did not have systemic effect on Balb/c mice. The use of the C-CPE peptide may provide a novel way to target drugs to Claudine-expressing cells.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cloning, gene expression, Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE), vero cells, nigrosin, guinea pig skin test, mouse test, Claudine.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In silico identification of MicroRNAs and their targets in diatoms

Yong Zhong Lu* and Jie Liu

Abstract: As one of the most successful groups of microalgae in the contemporary ocean, diatoms are of ecological, biotechnological and evolutionary significance. Recent research has revealed for the first time the presence of functional silencing machinery in diatoms. Nevertheless, no microRNAs (miRNAs) participating in their gene regulation have been reported. Based on the principle of sequence conservation, previous known plant miRNAs were blasted against the expressed sequence tag databases of the marine diatoms Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Thalassiosira pseudonana and according to a series of filtering criteria, 6 conserved miRNAs were identified and 5 potential target genes of them were subsequently predicted. Alignmental and phylogenetic analyses showed that the miRNA precursor sequences were unexpectedly poorly conserved and distantly related to other family members. Above all, the findings from this study will contribute not only to further research of miRNAs features and regulatory mechanisms in diatoms, but also to their evolutionary research by virtue of new molecular tools.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Diatom, microRNA, evolution, bioinformatics.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Prevalence and characterization of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase production in clinical isolates of Klebsiella spp.

Rashid Ramazanzadeh

Abstract: Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) are most prevalent in Klebsiella pneumoniae. This organism is frequently isolated from clinical specimens and can cause septicemia, pneumonia or urinary tract infection. We investigated a spread of Klebsiella spp. isolates producing ESBL in a university hospital of Sanandaj- Iran. Over one year period, a total of 48 K. pneumoniae isolates, were examined by double disk tests and PCR methods. Ten isolates were defined as ESBLs. The ESBL producer isolates was more resistant to selected antibiotics than ESBL negative isolates. The most frequent ESBL type was CTX-M. This is the first report of Klebsiella spp. isolates producing ESBL in Sanandaj hospitals. Production of ESBLs by K. pneumoniae is a widespread nosocomial problem. Knowledge about their prevalence is essential to guide towards appropriate infection control and antibiotic management strategies.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Extended-spectrum -lactamase (ESBL), hospital, Klebsiella spp.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Use of nitrous acid mutant of Aspergillus niger for citric acid production from local cane-molasses

Kabera Justin, Ugirinshuti Viateur and Mukantirenganya Prudentienne*

Abstract: In this study, the enhancement of citric acid production from local molasses was attempted by mutagenesis. A local stain of Aspergillus niger was isolated from lemon leaves and treated with nitrous acid. The obtained mutant and the wild type of A. niger were separately used for the bioconversion of the local molasses into citric acid. The molasses fermentation was carried out at 30°C in a stirred flask. The results showed that the mutant exhibited an increased efficiency for citric acid production when compared with the wild type. It produced 230.45 gl-1 of citric acid; two fold increase over the parent strain (105.67 gl-1), with higher sugar consumption by the mutant compared with the wild type. The maximum citric acid production levels were reached on the 9th day of fermentation by the mutant and the 10th day of fermentation by the wild strain. The mutant proved to be appropriate for citric acid production and waste material valorization in Rwanda. Also, this investigation showed itself to be one of ecofriendly technologies for Rwanda. So, the use of this technology should have impact on both the Rwanda economic development and environmental protection.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rwanda, Aspergillus niger, bioconversion, cane-molasses, citric acid, mutagenesis, mutant, nitrous acid.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Survival of free-living and plankton-associated Escherichia coli in the final effluents of a waste water treatment facility in a peri-urban community of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

Augustina N. Osode and Anthony I. Okoh*

Abstract: Escherichia coli remains a major threat in many places around the globe as a major causative agent of diarrhea and its reservoir in the estuarine environment may play an important role in the survival and transport of pathogenic strains. The final effluents of a peri-urban waste water treatment facility were assessed for surviving E. coli community as free-living or plankton-associated cells in relation to some physicochemical parameter for a year period. The free-living E. coli population densities varied from 0 to 3.13 × 101 cfu/ml, while the plankton- associated E. coli densities vary with plankton sizes as follows: 180 µm (0 - 4.30 × 101 cfu/ml), 60 µm (0 - 4.20 × 101 cfu/ml), 20 µm (0 - 5.00 × 101 cfu/ml). The seasonal variations in the E. coli densities among the plankton size categories were significant (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis suggested that the counts of E. coli correlated negatively with salinity (P < 0.001) and positively with temperature, pH, turbidity and dissolved oxygen (P < 0.001) in the final effluent. Target genes that encode pathogenicity for E. coli were successfully amplified by PCR. The study suggested that final effluents are a significant sources of pathogenic E. coli in the receiving watershed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Escherichia coli, free-living, plankton-associated, wastewater final effluent.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Comparative degradation of sawdust by microorganisms isolated from it

J. A. Lennox*, C. Abriba, Bello N. Alabi and F. C. Akubuenyi

Abstract: Microorganisms isolated from sawdust have been demonstrated to be effective in its degradation. Eight bacteria and eight fungi were isolated from wet decaying sawdust. These were tested for their capability to degrade sawdust. Among the bacteria, C ellulomonas sp. was found to be the most effective degrading agent based on its high percentage degradation (18.3%). This was followed by Micrococcus sp. (16.0%) and Pseudomonas sp. (14.6%), Cytophaga sp. and Bacillus sp. had the lowest percentage degradation of 0.2 and 7.7%, respectively. The fungi, Penicillium sp. had the highest percentage degradation of 14.3%, followed by Mucor sp. (13.3%) and Trichoderma sp. (9.5%). Asp. ergillus sp. and Absidia sp. had the lowest percentage degradation of 4.3 and 6.5%, respectively. This report shows that indigenous microorganisms possess the capacity to degrade sawdust.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Degradation, sawdust, utilizing, autochthonous microorganisms.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Impact of multi drugs resistant bacteria on the pathogenesis of chronic suppurative otitis media

Ihsan E. Alsaimary*, Ahmed M. Alabbasi and Jassim M. Najim

Abstract: One hundred twenty patients with chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) in Basrah, 65 (54.2%) males and 55 (45.8%) females, with male: females ratio (1.2:1) and 60 individual without otological problems as control group were included in this study, which done during the period between March 2009 and January 2010. This includes the collection of aural swab samples, culturing of samples, identification of causative agent’s species and antibiotic sensitivity. Gram’s negative bacteria were the commonest microorganism comprises (60%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was common causative agent (19.04%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (16.7%) and Klebsiella spp. (14.3%). Mixed infection was found in high percent (74%), in which P. aeruginosa and other microorganisms were more common. The antibiotic sensitivity pattern showed that P. aeruginosa was sensitive to Ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin +clavulanic acid and gentamicin, while other is appeared resistant, S. aureus was sensitive to ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin+clavulanic acid, erthomycin, cephalexine and it is resistant to penicillin and ampicillin, klebsiella species were sensitive to ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin +clavulanic acid, gentamicin, while resistant to tetracycline.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella spp., chronic suppurative otitis media, aural swab, antibiotic sensitivity, gram’s negative bacteria, otological.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Poliomyelitis eradication remains a challenge in Africa

Georges Anicet Dahourou,* and Souleymane Sawadogo,

Abstract: During the last two decade, twelve wild type 1 poliovirus genotypes have been characterized in Africa. Several distinct clusters have been identified within some of them and appeared to be segregated geographically. This distribution could represent newly emerging genotypes and independent sustained circulation of these lineages or cross border transmission between countries of a single genotype followed by a different natural evolution in each country. Concurrent circulation of more than one poliovirus genotype was seen in Nigeria, Togo, Central Africa Republic and South Africa. The present study which has generated a meaningful overview of the endemic circulation of wild type 1 poliovirus in Africa, could be a basis for further evaluation of the impact of mass vaccination campaigns on wild type 1 poliovirus.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Poliovirus; poliomyelitis, poliovirus, molecular epidemiology.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Distribution of pathogen in the Bohai sea in spring and summer

Peng Zaiqing*, Zhuang Zhixia, Huang Rongfu and Lu Zhiqiang

Abstract: The aquicultural pathogen Vibrio spp. is popular and harmful to mariculture animals and even resulted in human enterogastrtis. However, little is known about the abundance and distribution of marine pathogen in Bohai Sea. In the present study, the distributions of the typical pathogens, including Escherichia Coli, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio fluvialis and Vibrio harviyi, were investigated using protein micro array method from the Bohai Sea samples, which collected in spring and summer in 2005, respectively. The results showed that: (1) Temporally, the tested typical pathogens were more abundant in summer than in spring, as supported by the total pathogenic Vibrios averaged 3.05 × 104/L in spring while 2.48 × 105/L in summer; (2) Spatially, in summer, pathogenic Vibrios in Bohai Bay was 4.87, 10.52 and 7.15 times higher than that in Liaodong Bay, Laizhou Bay and Central Bohai Sea, respectively (p = 0.034, 0.013 and 0.012, respectively). (3) Total pathogenic Vibrios in coastal area was 4.68 times higher than that in central area (p = 0.0279 < 0.05), showing a decline trend in abundance. (4) All the pathogenic Vibrios varied between spring and summer, with greatest variance in V. fluvialis. Both V. parahaemolyticus and V. harveyi had no significant variances. Bohai Bay was heavily polluted and relatively not fit for mariculture. V. fluvialis dominated in Bohai Sea and was a possible major pathogen of vibriosis.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bohai sea, protein micro array, pathogenic Vibrio.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Genetic polymorphism at the leptin gene in Iranian Holstein cattle by PCR-RFLP

Ali Sharifzadeh* and Abbas Doosti

Abstract: Leptin is a protein, which involved intricately in the growth and metabolism of animals and which plays an important role in the regulation of feed intake, energy metabolism, growth and reproduction of cattle. We used the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique to screen for DNA polymorphisms of the leptin gene in 112 Iranian Holstein cattle (Bos taurus) in Karaj Animal Breeding Center. PCR was carried out between exon 2 (intron 2). A strategy employing polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify a 422 bp from semen DNA. Digestion of polymerase chain reaction products with Sau3AI revealed two alleles: allele A was 390, 32 fragments and allele B was 303, 88 and 32 (only 303 fragment visible on the gel). Three patterns were observed and frequencies were 60.71, 37.5 and 1.79% for AA, AB and BB, respectively. This polymorphism could be further evaluated for marker-assisted selection and developed PCR methodology would expedite screening for large numbers of animals required for such studies.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Leptin, polymorphism, restriction fragment length polymorphism.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antibacterial activity of cyanolichen and symbiotic cyanobacteria against some selected microorganisms

R. Shyam Kumar*, N. Thajuddin and C. Venkateswari

Abstract: Lichen (Collema auriforme) collected from Kolli Hills of Tamil Nadu, India and two symbiotic cyanobacteria (Aphanocapsa sp. NTK28, and Nostoc sp. NTK29) were taken for screening antibacterial activity. Alcohol and acetone were used as solvents for extraction of compounds from lichen and symbiotic cyanobacteria. Four clinical isolates of Pseudomonas sp., Escherischia coli, Klebsiella sp., and the Gram positive organism Staphylococcus sp. were used as test organisms. Solvent extracts of lichen showed antibacterial activity against three test organisms. Alcohol extract of lichen showed no inhibitory effect on Pseudomonas sp. Other organisms like E. coli, Klebsiella sp. and Staphylococcus sp. were highly susceptible to alcoholic extract even at low concentration. Solvent extracts (alcohol and acetone) of cyanobacteria did not show any significant effect on the selected bacterial strains.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Lichens, cyanolichens, cyanobacteria, antibiotic, antibacterial activity.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Production of bio-ethanol from Pectobacterium carotovorum induced soft rotten potatoes

Adarsha Ramesh, D. L. Asha and R. Balaji Raja*

Abstract: The potato is a tuberous crop that adapt readily to diverse climates. The potato contains vitamins and minerals that have been identified as vital to human nutrition as well as an assortment of phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and polyphenols. Pectobacterium carotovorum is the causative agent for the soft rot induced in potatoes across temperate and tropical regions. Production of ethanol from 10 potato cultivars which were rotten by soft rot (P. carotovorum induced) was effected. Ethanol yield of about 6 - 10 ml / 100 gm of potatoes was achieved. The effect of pH in the yield of ethanol was also determined in the ten cultivars by varying the levels of pH across the spectrum and it was found that pH had a considerable impact on bio-ethanol production. This method of ethanol production is easy and environmental friendly in nature.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Pectobacterium carotovorum, phytochemicals, carotenoids, polyphenols, potatoes.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Radioresistance analysis of Deinococcus radiodurans gene DR1709 in Escherichia coli

Shu Haiyan and Tian Baoming*

Abstract: Deinococcus radiodurans’ extraordinarily strong radiation resistance was attributed to its high Mn2+ content. DR1709 was one predicted Mn2+ transporter, but after it was disrupted, there were at least ten proteins whose expressions changed markedly, suggesting that the proteins which were expressed differently between the wild type and the mutant may play key roles in this bacterium’s radiation resistance, while DR1709 was only a switch to activate these proteins. To identify if this deduction was true or not, DR1709 was isolated from D. radiodurans and transformed into Escherichia coli BL21, whose genomic background is hugely different from that of D. radiodurans. Results showed that the transformed E. coli had higher resistance to and UV radiation than the original strain. After being treated with 150 Gy radiation, E. coli containing DR1709 had 70% survival fraction, while only 17% of the control cells can be found on LB plate. DR1709 had the ability to protect cells directly from being damaged by and UV radiations. E. coli containing DR1709 had higher Mn content than the initial strain. Although the transformed strain had higher survival than the original E. coli, its survival rate decreased with UV dose increasing. After being transformed with DR1709, E. coli BL21’s Fe content had not changed. DR1709 may be specific for Mn2+ and was not responsible for transporting Fe2+. Radiation resistance was controlled by multistep in D. radiodurans. Those genes whose expressions were different between the wild type and the DR1709-disrupted mutant were downstream of DR1709. These genes might also play some roles in radiation resistance, but such roles were much less than that played directly by DR1709.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Deinococcus radiodurans, DR1709, E. coli, Mn, radiation resistance.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Antibacterial screening of the root, stem and leaf extracts of Terminalia albida sc. elliot on selected pathogenic bacteria

S. M. Ayodele*, G. Alpheus and O. M. Iruaga

Abstract: The ethanol extracts of the root, stem and leaves of Terminalia albida were evaluated for their antibacterial activities using agar diffusion method to justify the ethno botanical uses of the plant parts by the traditional healers in Nigeria. The ethanol extracts of the root, stem and leaves were effective against the test bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis) at all the concentrations used (100 l- 500 mg/ml) . The root extract at 500 mg/ml is most effective against E. coli and K. pneumoniae, the stem extract at 500 mg/ml was most effective against P. aeruginosa and P. mirabilis while the leaves extract at 500 mg/ml was most effective against P. mirabilis. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) test of the root, stem and leaves extracts showed that the test organisms were inhibited at all concentrations. The root extract showed more inhibitory effect than the stem and leaf extracts. The results of this study validated the use of various parts of this plant in traditional medicine in many parts of Africa.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Terminalia albida, antibacterial screening, root, stem, leaves.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

A taurine phenolic compound (TPC) protect from AAP hepatotoxicity through involvement of Nrf2/ARE pathway

Qiu Feng* and He Xiao-Jing

Abstract: Oxidative stress is a main contributor to the hepatotoxic effects of acetaminophen, the Nrf2/ARE pathway has been characterized as an important endogenous mechanism for combating oxidative stress. Taurine plays various important roles in a large number of physiological and pathological conditions in human body, such as the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects. It proves that phenol compound has antioxidant effect through involvement of Nrf2/ARE pathway. The taurine phenolic compound (TPC) we synthesized belongs to phenolic compounds and we have reported that a TPC protect from AAP hepatotoxicity. We thus hypothesize the protective effects of TPC in an acute chemical model of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity through involvement of Nrf2/ARE pathway.[...] Read More.

Keywords: TPC, AAp, hepatotoxicity, Nrf2/ARE and hypothesis.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Manipulation of fermentation conditions on production of Tannase from agricultural by-products with Aspergillus oryzae

R. Paranthaman*, R. Vidyalakshmi, S.Murugesh and K. Singaravadivel

Abstract: Tannin acyl hydrolase is an industrially important enzyme that is mainly used in the food and pharmaceutical industry. As the range of applications of this enzyme is very wide, there is always a scope for novel Tannase with better characteristics, which may be suitable in the diverse fields of applications. The present work has been taken up with a view of exploring the possibilities of using agricultural by products as a source for the production of Tannase and optimizing conditions required to get maximum production. Aspergillus oryzae MTCC 634 was selected and optimized for Tannase enzyme production in solid state fermentation using cheaper sources of sugarcane baggase and rice straw. Tannase production has been evaluated using solid-state fermentation (SSF) at different temperatures, tannic acid, glucose concentration and substrate concentration and incubation time. Addition of tannic acid concentrations increased total activity of crude tannase (27.8 (U/gm/min). Optimum fermentation conditions of pH, temperature and incubation period for Tannase production were found to be 5.5 and 30°C at 72 h. In purification step, 60% ammonium sulphate fractionation 51.6 U/gm/min was found and maximum tannase activity of DEAE Sephadex colum chromatography purified sample was found to be 116.4 U/gm/min. Thus the present study proved that the fungal strain Aspergillus oryzae used is highly potential and useful for industrial productions of Tannase.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Tannase, tannic acid, fermentation, purification, rice straw powder and sugarcane baggase.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Isolation and identification of polystyrene biodegrading bacteria from soil

Naima Atiq*, Safia Ahmed, M. Ishtiaq Ali, Saadia Andleeb, Bashir Ahmad and Geoffery Robson

Abstract: With the increased production of municipal solid waste by the disposal of plastic materials, there is a need to develop new biodegradable materials and biodegrade existing plastic materials in daily use. Polystyrene and expanded polystyrene are commodity plastics that are extensively used in packaging and other applications. Six bacterial isolates were isolated from soil buried expanded polystyrene films showing adherence and growth with the polystyrene as a sole carbon source. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the film surface used for isolation showed extensive microbial growth. The preliminary screening of biodegradation capability was done by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for surface chemical changes and high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) for analysis of biodegradation products. Bacterial isolates NA26, NB6, NB26 showed the production of biodegradation products in the extracellular media indicating biodegradation process.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Polystyrene, bacteria, biodegradation, soil burial, FTIR.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Review

Desiccation tolerance in cyanobacteria

Nidheesh Dadheech

Abstract: All abiotic stresses adversely affect growth and development of cells. Direct effect of these factors results into condensation of nucleoid, crowding of cytoplasmic components, and increase in the Tm of membrane phase transition. Cells under prolonged exposure to these stresses, show pronounced effect on proteins, nucleic acids, and lipid membranes. Those that have developed mechanisms for acclimation only survive under unfavorable conditions. Bound water in both proteins and nucleic acids plays extensive role in tolerance to stress. Water stress proteins are most abundant proteins, in cynobacteria, accumulated in extracellular glycan sheath and releases during desiccation. Besides these, Histones-like DNA binding proteins maintain nucleoid organization and regulate DNA repair. Certain special enzymes “Repair Ligases” also provide tolerance to bacterial cells, under stress conditions especially desiccation. Number of chromosome copies per cell is also important to this act the lethal effect of stress. Membrane fluidity plays important role in temperature perception, which is mediated by Histidine Kinases, localized in plasma membrane. Fatty acid desaturases (enzyme) enhance degree of unsaturation of fatty acids in the plasma membrane that is inducing double bonds in fatty acids, as a consequence of which Des A gene is expressed (in low temperature stress). Cyanobacteria accumulate compatible solutes in response to increases external salinity. Tolerance increases from sucrose or trehalose to glucosylglycerol and glycinebetamine accumulating species. Na+/H+ antiporters are responsible for salt and pH regulation in Synechocystis. The present review combines and compares all the abiotic stress mechanisms including desiccation, temperature, pH and salinity. It also underlines the common mechanistic pathways in all the stress operating in cynobacteria as well as highlights the signaling molecules that play pivot role in tolerance for stress and that are common in different mechanisms.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cyanobacteria, desiccation, tolerance, mechanism, proteins, nucleic acids, membranes.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in Umuahia, Abia state, Nigeria

Ejikeme Nwachukwu* and Godwin Aguziendu Peter

Abstract: The prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections was investigated among individuals from age 16 years and above attending out patient clinic in Federal medical centre (FMC) and other hospitals in Umuahia. A total of two hundred and fifty individuals were examined. The examinations of the samples from the patients were done according to bacteriological and hematological standards. The overall prevalence of M. tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections was 21.6 and 14.0% respectively. The prevalence of patients with TB/HIV co-infections was 6.4%. Males have a higher TB/HIV prevalent rate (3.6%) than females (2.8%). There was no significant difference (P = 0.01) in prevalence of M. tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus infections among the sex group. There was also no significant difference between age groups for M. tuberculosis infections but there was a significant association between age and human immunodeficiency virus infections. M. tuberculosis and HIV infections were significantly high among the individuals with anemia (P = 0.01). All the individuals infected with M. tuberculosis and HIV had significantly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR > 51 mm/hr) (P = 0.01) . None of the individuals with M. tuberculosis and HIV infections had normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR 3 - 8 mm/hr). The highest rate of infection for both M. tuberculosis and HIV was among the age group 26 - 35 years. M. tuberculosis significantly caused more anemia (PCV, 20 - 25%) compared to HIV infection. HIV and M. tuberculosis infections are of public health importance and need effective control especially among the young age group. Key word: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Distribution of wild poliovirus genotypes in India

George Dahourou,*, Benjamin Samuel, and Radu Crainic

Abstract: In order to study the genetic relationships and epidemiological links between strains circulating in the Vellore region of India, 70 wild type poliovirus strains isolated from paralytic poliomyelitis cases were sequenced at the VP1-2A junction region of the viral genome. This showed that three genotypes of types 1 and 2 and four genotypes of type 3 poliovirus were circulating in India at least since 1985. Different clusters were identified within wild genotypes. This study demonstrates the endemic circulation and wide genetic variation of all three serotypes in Southern India. Knowledge of wild poliovirus distribution before NIDs beginning could be helpful for a critical monitoring of poliomyelitis control and further evaluation of the NIDs impact on wild poliovirus transmission in India.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Poliovirus, poliomyelitis, genotype, molecular epidemiology, eradication, surveillance.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Frequency and anti-biogram pattern of coagulase negative Staphylococcus in clinical specimens of Shahid Mohammadi Hospital in patients, Bandar-Abbas, Iran

Sedigheh Javadpour,*, Ehsan Karimi and Afsaneh Karmostaji

Abstract: Coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS), commonly known as a part of normal-biota of human body, have become predominant pathogens over the last decades. Due to the vast use of antibiotics for therapy or prophylaxis, those CoNS strains acquired in the hospitals have become resistant to various antimicrobial agents. This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from December 2007 to June 2008 on 5063 clinical samples. Identification of CoNS was performed by routine microbiological methods using gram staining, catalase and coagulase tests. Susceptibility of microorganisms to 14 antibiotics was determined by Disc Diffusion Method. Among 1573 positive cultures, 17.5% of isolates were CoNS. About 74% of isolates belonged to out patients and 26% of them were obtained from hospitalized patients. Most of CONs were isolated from internal (38.9%) and internal emergency wards (34.7%). Among different clinical samples, CoNS were mainly isolated from urine cultures (78.6%) in women. Vancomycin (100%) and Imipenem (94%) were found to be the most effective antibiotics. Ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin and aminoglycosides were effective antibiotics to combat CoNS in out patient department (OPD patients).[...] Read More.

Keywords: Coagulase negative staphylococci, inpatients, antibiogram pattern.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Isolation, identification and characterization of multiple enzyme producing actinobacteria from sediment samples of Kodiyakarai coast, the Bay of Bengal

P. Manivasagan*, S. Gnanam, K. Sivakumar, T. Thangaradjou, S. Vijayalakshmi and T. Balasubramanian

Abstract: A total of twenty nine strains were isolated from the Kodiyakarai coastal sediments (Bay of Bengal) and ten of them exhibited multiple enzyme activity. Of these, the best (GK-22) was selected based on zone formation (amylase, cellulase and protease) and its growth conditions were standardized for better production of multiple enzymes. Present study on production of multiple enzymes (amylase, cellulase and protease) by GK-22 showed higher enzyme levels at the end of the stationary phase after incubation for 72 h at pH 7.0. Maximum activity of amylase, cellulase and protease (84, 88 and 89 IU/ml, respectively) was obtained at pH 7.0, temperature 45°C, sodium chloride concentration 2%, carbon compound sucrose, nitrogen compound beef extract, amino acid L-asparagine for amylase and cellulase and L-tyrosine for protease. The multiple enzymes were purified by precipitation with ammonium sulphate and ion exchange chromatography and the SDS-PAGE showed a single band for the purified enzyme, with an apparent molecular weight of 80 (amylase), 66 (cellulase) and 97 KDa (protease). The strain, GK-22 which showed higher multiple enzyme activity was tentatively identified as Streptomyces alboniger. These findings suggest that the strain can effectively be used in large scale production of multiple enzymes for commercial purposes, after testing and ascertaining the strain’s capability in large scale fermentations.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Amylase, cellulase, protease, actinobacteria, Kodiyakarai, Streptomycetes alboniger.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Comparison of the effect of particulate materials and some osmoregulators on lactic fermentation of new local white cassava variety â€œBianbasseâ€ using both spontaneous and starter cultures

L. A. Adetunde* and A. A. Onilude

Abstract: The effects of particulate materials and osmoregulatators on lactic fermentation of cassava were determined on total dissolved loads of all the samples; the total reducing sugars of all samples, the microbial loads in all the samples, the percentage crude protein contents, crude fibres, crude fat/ether, ash, phytic acid and tannin. Sample A1 inoculated with varied concentrations of particulate materials had the highest total dissolved solid, total reducing sugar, lactic acid bacteria counts and total bacteria counts than sample B1 with varied concentrations of osmoregulator. There was corresponding increase in sample A2 and A3 compared to sample B2 and B3. Sample C which served as control had the lowest value in all at 24, 48 and 72 h of fermentation. Most of the samples that contained varied concentration particulate materials had higher values in their proximate analysis and nutritional analysis than samples that contained varied concentrations of osmoregulators. Sample C with neither particulate materials nor osmoregulator had the least values in all analysis.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Particulate materials, osmoregulatators, lactic fermentation, samples.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Bacteria associated with bovine dermatophilosis in Zaria, Nigeria

J. S. Dalis*, H. M. Kazeem, A. A. Makinde and M. Y. Fatihu

Abstract: A study was carried out to determine the type of bacteria associated with bovine dermatophilosis in Zaria, Nigeria. Skin samples obtained from two hundred and eleven cattle with skin lesions suspected to be dermatophilosis were processed for bacteriology. One hundred and sixty-seven (79.1%) samples were positive for Dermatophilus congolensis, while 44 (20.9%) were negative. Both D. congolensis-positive and D. congolensis-negative samples were processed for isolation of other bacteria and the data was analyzed using Chi square test. Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus spp, Corynebacterium spp., Escherichia coli, Proteus spp and Pseudomonas spp . were isolated from both D. congolensis-positive and D. congolensis-negative scabs. However, the rate of recovery of S. aureus from D. congolensis-positive cattle was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the rate of its recovery from D. congolensis negative cattle. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the occurrence of the other isolates in D. congolensis- positive and D.congolensis-negative cattle. It was concluded that S. aureus could be a major complicating factor in naturally occurring dermatophilosis of cattle. The need to investigate the role of bacteria particularly that of S. aureus in the development of bovine dermatophilosis was emphasized.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Dermatophilus congololensis, bovine skin, associated bacteria, Zaria, Nigeria.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Infection pathways of soft rot pathogens on Amorphophallus konjac

Jinping Wu, Ying Diao, Yucheng Gu and Zhongli Hu*

Abstract: With the rapid expansion of cultivated land, bacterial soft rot of konjac is more and more serious. The main pathogen is Erwinia carotovora subsp. carotovora. Some researchers think the natural openings and wounds are the main infection pathways on konjac. In this study, the infection pathways are investigated. From macro-observation, the soft-rot pathogens could not directly invade the intact corms, but it could invade the infected corms through the new rots. At the same time, bud scales, roots and wounded corms could be directly infected. From micro-observation, the epidermis of the corm had no stomas and lenticels, the stomas of the bud scales had no pathogens gathered around, and the pathogens broke down the infected roots and bud scales cells layer by layer. The results showed that soft rot pathogens invaded Amorphophallus konjac through the wounds and the growth of the organizations rather than the natural openings.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Amorphophallus konjac, bacterial soft rot, infection pathways.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Plant growth promoting activities of fluorescent pseudomonads associated with some crop plants

A. Suresh, P. Pallavi, P. Srinivas, V. Praveen Kumar, S. Jeevan Chandra and S. Ram Reddy*

Abstract: Fluorescent pseudomonads (FP), a major component of rhizobacteria, promote the plant growth through their multifarious activities. In the present investigations, 10 strains of fluorescent pseudomonads isolated from the rhizosphere soils of bajra (Pennisetum glaucum), jowar (Sorghum vulgare), rice (Oryza sativa) and maize (Zea mays) were screened for their plant growth promoting activity based on their ability to produce hydrogen cyanide (HCN), siderophores, proteases, indole acetic acid (IAA), broad spectrum antifungal activity against pathogenic fungi and phosphate solubilization. The results indicated that most of the isolates tested possess plant growth promoting traits. These isolates can be used as potential biofertilizers and also as biocontrol agents.[...] Read More.

Keywords: PGPR, indole acetic acid, hydrogen cyanide, protease, phosphate solubilization, antagonism.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Use of RT-PCR in diagnosis of infectious hematopoietic necrosis in rainbow trout hatcheries, Iran

Mehdi Raissy,*, Hasan Momtaz, Mahsa Ansari and Manouchehr Moumeni

Abstract: Distribution of Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis (IHN) was studied in rainbow trout fish farms in Chaharmahal and Bakhtyari Province which is a major trout culture region in Iran. Overall 150 suspected rainbow trout fry with less than 3 g body weight from 30 fish farms in Chaharmahal and Bakhtyari Province, Iran, were studied and fishes of 10 hatcheries (33.3% of all studied farms) found to be infected with IHNV. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was applied to the detection of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV). The product of 371 bp was amplified from the RNA extracts of infected organs of suspected fish. DNA sequencing of the PCR products demonstrated specificity of the amplification. The RT-PCR was found to be a simple, highly specific and sensitive method allowing diagnosis of IHN in a short time.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), IHN, rainbow trout.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Association among the Rv2629 gene, rpoB gene, RFP resistance and Beijing genotype in M. tuberculosis clinical isolates

Junxian Zhang, Xueqiong Wu*, Yourong Yang, Yan Zhuang, Bo Wang, Jianqin Liang, Yan Liang, Hongmin Li and Chuihuan Li

Abstract: Rifampin (RFP) is a major first-line anti-tuberculosis drug. The molecular assay currently used is the detection of rpoB gene mutations in M. tuberculosis. Recently, the Rv2629 191C allele was found to have a correlation with RFP resistance, and might become a valuable marker for the detection of RFP resistance or the Beijing genotype. We studied the association among the Rv2629 gene, rpoB gene, RFP resistance and Beijing genotype in 69 M. tuberculosis clinical isolates using DNA sequencing, conventional drug susceptibility and spoligotyping. The 191C allele was present in 92.8% (64/69) isolates. Of 29 RFP-sensitive strains, none exhibited any mutations in rpoB genes, only one strain (3.4%) was found to carry the 191A allele and 28 strains (96.6%) had the 191C alleles. Of 40 RFP-resistant strains, 30 (75%) strains had rpoB gene mutations, only 4 strains (10%) carried 191A alleles, and 36 strains (90%) exhibited 191C alleles. The 191C allele was also present in INH-sensitive, SM -sensitive or EMB-sensitive isolates. Spoligotyping analysis showed 8 distinct spoligotyping patterns. 81.1% (30/37) strains were divided into one big cluster, which had a characteristic of the Beijing genotype. Rv2629 191C allele was present in 93.3% (28/30) Beijing genotype strains, but also in non- Beijing genotype strains. These results indicate that high association is present between the ropB gene and RFP resistance. No association is present between the Rv2629 191C allele and RFP resistance, or between the Beijing genotype and RFP resistance.[...] Read More.

Keywords: M. tuberculosis, Rv2629, rpoB, rifampin resistance, spoligotyping.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Validation of RNA integrity from low yield experiments with Mycobacterium tuberculosis for downstream application in real time PCR

Prathna Ramchandra and A. Willem Sturm*

Abstract: RNA extraction from mycobacterial cells is more challenging than from any other cell type. We used the Trizol Reagent® with silica beads to disrupt cells of Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. This method requires minimum reagents and handling and therefore aids in maintaining RNA integrity. The efficiency of cell disruption by this method was verified by microscopic analysis of the lysate. The yield and purity were determined using the Nanodrop-1000. A total volume of 50 µl containing 224.7 ng/µL of RNA was obtained from 3.1 x 108 cells, grown under sub-optimal conditions. RNA was visualized using the gene genius optical system. A 6 week old undisturbed culture of M. tuberculosis H37Rv, gave an expression ratio of fdxA/16s of -2.094. This extraction method is suitable for use of RNA in quantitative experiments, even if the cell numbers from which the RNA is extracted are low.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Mycobacteria, RNA extraction, RNA purification, quantitation.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antibacterial effect of chlorine dioxide and hyaluronate on dental biofilm

F. Al-bayaty,*, T. Taiyeb-ali, M. A. Abdulla and F. Hashim

Abstract: The objective of this study is to investigate antimicrobial action of chlorine dioxide (ClO2) gel and hyaluronate gel (Gengigel®) on dental biofilm. Pooled supra and subgingival dental biofilm were obtained from healthy individuals and incubated aerobically and anaerobically. Plaque bacteria investigated including Streptococcus constellatus, Streptococcus mitis, Eikenella corrodens, Fusobacterium nucleatum, dental plaque pool samples (aerobic and anaerobic) and Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as internal control microorganisms. All bacteria were grown in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) broth and the clinical isolate strains were sub-cultured on BHI agar. Single pure colonies of bacteria were transferred into fresh BHI broth and incubated overnight. Bacterial counting was done using hemocytometer. Antibacterial activities were determined using bacteria grown on Mueller Hinton II agar and antimicrobial disc diffusion susceptibility testing with paper discs impregnated with ClO2 and Hyaluronate gels as well as by minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) test. Bacterial morphological alterations following treatment with ClO2 and Hyaluronate gels were viewed under Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) at 3500x, 10000 x and 20000x magnification. Positive results were obtained with disc diffusion technique whereby both agents exhibited antibacterial action against the microorganisms tested. ClO2 gel produced large diameter inhibition zones while Hyaluronate gel resulted in smaller diameter inhibition zones. In MIC test the lowest MIC value of ClO2 gel (0.02% w/v) was obtained for S. aureus, S. mitis and S. constellatus. The other bacteria and pool samples of dental biofilm indicated slightly higher MIC values (0.2% w/v) for ClO2 gel. However, MIC values for Hyaluronate gel could not be determined. Under SEM, ClO2 gel produced obvious alterations to the bacterial morphology while no changes were observed after treatment with hyaluronate gel. Chlorine dioxide gel demonstrated stronger and obvious antibacterial activity.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Chlorine dioxide gel, Gengigel®, dental biofilm.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Use of Scopulariopsis acremonium for the production of cellulase and xylanase through submerged fermentation

Loveleen Kaur Sarao*, Maninder Arora and V. K. Sehgal

Abstract: Production of cellulase and xylanase by Scopulariopsis acremonium through submerged fermentation was studied using shake flask cultivation media. The effect of process parameters such as effect of temperature, pH and inoculum size was investigated. The enzymes were partially purified using isopropanol and used for enzyme assays. The results indicated that the maximum cellulase and xylanase having an enzyme activity of 694.45 and 931.25 IU, respectively, were produced at 30°C incubation temperature. The pH optimum to achieve these enzyme activities was 5.5 with an inoculum size of 1 x 105 spores ml-1 of tween - 80. Cellulase was deactivated at 80°C while xylanase was deactivated at 70°C.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Scopulariopsis acremonium, cellulase, xylanase, submerged fermentation.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

The prevalence of group A rotavirus infection and some risk factors in pediatric diarrhea in Zaria, North central Nigeria

Pennap Grace* and Umoh Jerald

Abstract: Group A rotavirus cause infectious, severe and dehydrating diarrhea which have great impact on childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study was designed to investigate the disease burden and risk factors of rotavirus infection among children 1 - 5 years in Zaria, Nigeria. Stool samples were collected from 666 diarrheic children and 170 matched non -diarrheic controls and screened for rotavirus antigen by ELISA. Their socio-demographic information and clinical presentations were also noted. There was a 15.6 and 7.6% prevalence of rotavirus infections among the diarrheic and non-diarrheic children, respectively, with the peak of infection occurring between 1 – 6 months of age. The most common clinical features included dehydration (59.1%), fever and vomiting (41.3%), vomiting (34.6%) and fever (19.2%). Age, feeding regimen, and the presence of another person in the house with diarrhea were found to be risk factors for rotavirus diarrhea while gender and socioeconomic status were not. In view of the peak of infection in infants in the study area, rotavirus vaccine will be best administered in early infancy.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rotavirus, prevalence, risk factors, pediatric, diarrhea.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Protease and amylase enzymes for biofilm removal and degradation of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens bacteria

I. Phyllis Molobela*, T. Eugene Cloete and Mervyn Beukes

Abstract: Removal of biofilms is difficult. In industrial settings, both the inactivation and removal of biofilms are of huge concern. If only disinfection without the removal of attached biofilms occurs, the inactivated biofilm cells may provide an ideal environment for further adhesion and growth, resulting in a complex matrix. Microbial resistance to biocides and their negative environmental impact are the main reasons for finding alternative biofilm control strategies. Enzymes may offer such an alternative. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of commercial proteases and amylases on biofilms formed by Pseudomonas fluorescens. Biofilms were grown in diluted medium containing glass wool used as the attachment surface. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were extracted and EPS composition was determined. Protease (savinase, everlase and polarzyme) and amylase (Amyloglucosidase and Bacterial Amylase Novo) activity was tested on both biofilms and on extracted EPS. After testing enzymes, biofilm integrity was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. EPS composition consisted predominantly of proteins. Everlase and Savinase were the most effective enzymatic treatments on removing biofilms and degrading the EPS.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Biofilms, extracellular polymeric substances, Pseudomonas fluorescens, proteases, amylases.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Studies on major respiratory diseases of Camel (Camelus dromedarius) in Northeastern Ethiopia

Fekadu Kebede and Esayas Gelaye*

Abstract: A comparative serological test was carried out to identify the primary causative agent involved in the camel respiratory disease outbreak that occurred in Ethiopia. The samples were collected during and post outbreak time and analyzed for parainfulenza-3 and pasteurellosis. According to the result, parainfulenza-3 was found as a primary causative agent as 70.5% in outbreak and 6.8% in surveyed areas and there is a statistical significant variation observed between the outbreak and survey sera samples (P < 0.01). Manhaemiya hemolytica was involved as secondary bacterial complications. The association of parainfulenza-3 and pasteurellosis was also assessed and has shown that M. haemolytica A2 was a dominant serotype over others which account 50% in higher antibody titration ranging from 1:80 - 1:320 in outbreak samples. Camel respiratory diseases are still flaring up in various parts of the country and reports are coming year after year urging for an intervention measures. Further studies have been recommended on the epidemiology of the disease and the identification of the responsible pathogens and its serotypes to be involved for the development of vaccines.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Ethiopia, camel respiratory diseases, Manhaemiya hemolytica, parainfulenza-3, serotyping.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Characterization of physiologic races of sugarcane smut (Ustilago scitaminea) in Kenya

H. S. Nzioki, J. E. Jamoza, C. O. Olweny* and J. K. Rono

Abstract: Sugarcane smut disease caused by the fungus Ustilago scitaminea significantly reduces the yield and quality of sugarcane. The disease was first reported in Kenya in 1958, in Nyanza and Coastal provinces and currently occurs in all major sugarcane growing areas of Kenya. Planting resistant varieties is the main smut control measure in Kenya. Planting smut resistant varieties was made compulsory in Kenya in 1963. However, varieties previously confirmed resistant are now susceptible. Reports indicate that some varieties are resistant to smut in one zone and susceptible in another. An attempt was thus made to identify physiologic races of sugarcane smut in Kenya. Sugarcane smut teliospores were collected from the major sugarcane growing zones of Western Kenya in South Nyanza, Nyando, Mumias, Busia, Nzoia and west Kenya. A set of 11 sugarcane cultivars which had previously shown differential response to smut in Kenya and elsewhere were each artificially inoculated with a mixture of smut spores from each zone by dipping in a suspension of smut spores that contained 5 x 106 teliospores per ml. Susceptibility of the cultivars to smut was measured by recording the number of smut whips that appeared within 6 to 7 months after planting. The reaction of the cultivars to smut from the various zones varied from resistance to susceptible. Three cultivars were seen in smut reaction in two tests. The results suggested existence of smut races in Kenya.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Kenya, sugarcane smut, Ustilago scitaminea.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Improved mycoherbicidal activity of Fusarium arthrosporioides

Olubukola O. Babalola

Abstract: Fusarium arthrosporioides plus cellulase was evaluated on tomato root systems to ascertain whether cellulase, a cell wall degrading enzyme, could accelerate fungus infection of Orobanche aegyptiaca tubercles. Chopped mycelia alone (1.3 × 106 and 5.4 × 106 propagules ml-1) killed 17 and 37% of Orobanche tubercles, respectively while in the presence of cellulase (10 Uml-1) Orobanche tubercles mortality increased to 37 and 78%. Cellulase treatment alone was ineffective. Only a hypersensitive reaction (9% death) resulted in the absence of cellulase. The findings add to the commercial value of F. arthrosporioides as a potential mycoherbicide when sufficiently virulent.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Mycoherbicide, cellulase, Fusarium.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

CXC Chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) mediates multiple myeloma cell line (RPMI 8226) chemotxis via PLC 3, PI3K/AKT, RhoA, NFkB and ERK1/2

Gamal Badr

Abstract: In multiple myeloma (MM) blood-borne malignant plasma cells home to bone marrow (BM), where they accumulate in close contact with stromal cells. Nevertheless, the mechanisms responsible for MM cell chemotaxis are still poorly defined. In the present study we explored the mechanisms involved in the chemotaxis of RPMI 8226 cell line, RPMI 8226 cell line was found to express CCR3, CCR5, CCR9, CXCR3 and CXCR4, but these cells were migrated only towards CXCL12 (the ligand for CXCR4). To clarify the signaling pathways involved in the regulation of MM cell chemotaxis, we therefore analyzed the effect of various inhibitors targeting intracellular effectors proteins on the CXCL12-mediated RPMI 8226 chemotaxis using flow cytometry and western blot analysis. Using flow cytometry, we observed that the chemotaxis of RPMI 8226 cell to CXCL12 was completely abrogated by adding AMD (CXCR4 antagonist), PTX (G- protein coupled receptor inhibitor) and U73122 (phospholipase C beta; PLC inhibitor), moreover, CXCL12-mediated RPMI 8226 chemotaxis was partially inhibited by 1 µM wortmannin (WM, Class II PI3K inhibitor)), SH5 (AKT inhibitor), Y27632 (Rho-A inhibitor), SN50 (IkB inhibitor), PD98059 (ERK1/2 MAPK inhibitor) and Na3VO4 (phosphatase inhibitor). These results were further confirmed by using western blot analysis where we observed that triggering of CXCR4 by CXCL12 resulted in the activation of PLC 3, PI3K/AKT, RhoA, I B and ERK1/2. In conclusion, our results revealed that PLC 3, PI3K/AKT, RhoA, IKB and ERK1/2 are crucial effectors for CXCL12-mediating MM cell chemotaxis.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Multiple myeloma cell, chemokine, chemotaxis, flow cytometry, western blot.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Prevalence of enteropathogenic and lactic acid bacteria species in wara: A local cheese from Nigeria

T. E. Sangoyomi*, A. A. Owoseni and O. Okerokun

Abstract: Eight bacteria genera and yeasts were isolated from wara - a local soft cheese from Nigeria, the bacteria genera were made up of 76% lactic acid bacteria (LAB), 17% Enterobacteria and 7% Staphylococci. The LAB group was made up of the genera Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Streptococcus and Pediococcus with Lactobacillus being the most frequently occurring genus. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella and Enterobacter made up the Enterobacteria group. A protease enzyme produced by the E. coli was characterized. Its activity was found to be highest at 60°C and pH 5.4. The protease activity was highest at 5 mmol/l and was inhibited at 10 mmol/l concentration of EDTA.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Wara, lactic acid bacteria, Escherichia coli, protease.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Identification of Salmonella isolated from poultry by MPCR technique and evaluation of their hsp groEL gene diversity based on the PCR-RFLP analysis

J. Akbarmehr, T. Zahraei Salehi* and G. H. Nikbakht Brujeni

Abstract: The aim of this study was to isolate Salmonella from poultry and evaluation of their hsp groEL gene diversity by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis. In this research 58 strains of 3 different Salmonella serogroups (D1, B and C) were isolated from poultry farms of East Azarbayjan province of Iran by bacteriological and biochemical tests. For confirmation of Salmonella typhimurium and Salmonella enteritidis serovars multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied with four pairs of primers for S. typhimurium and three pairs of primers for Salmonella Enteritidis. PCR-RFLP analysis was carried out on the 1.6 kb groEL gene for evaluation of their hsp groEL gene diversity. The data generated by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (MPCR) method indicated that strains of S. enteritidis (serogroup D1) and S. typhimurium (serogroup B) were the most common isolates. Amplification of the groEL gene produced an identical profile for all the 58 Salmonella strains. Hae III restriction enzyme was used to restrict the groEL gene for PCR-RFLP analysis. Based on the results of this experiment digested groEL gene of the S. typhimurium strains produced four Hae III restricted bands between 150 - 850 bp and serovars belonging to S. enteritidis strains produced five Hae III restricted bands between 150 - 630 bp. Strains belonging to serogroup C produced a combination of five and four restricted bands similar to S. enteritidis and S. typhimurium respectively. This study showed that there were differences in the Hae III restriction sites within the groEL gene of strains belonging to serovars S. typhimurium and S. enteritidis but clear discrimination between the serovars of different Salmonella serogroups was not observed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Salmonella, poultry, polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism, groEL.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Variation in mitochondrial activity over the life cycle of Nadsonia fulvescens

W. Chantel Swart, W. J. Pieter van Wyk, H. Carolina Pohl and L. F. Johan Kock*

Abstract: The yeast Nadsonia fulvescens is characterized by a unique life cycle. After conjugation between the parent cell and the first bud, the zygote moves into a second bud formed at the opposite end of the parent cell. This second bud is then delimited by a septum and becomes the ascus. Usually one, rarely two spherical, brownish, spiny to warty ascospores are formed within the ascus giving rise to brown coloured colonies. Strikingly, no increased mitochondrial activity was observed in the ascus when compared to the vegetative cells as previously reported for many yeast. In this study, the parent cell and attached first bud showed increased mitochondrial activity when compared to the ascus. When anti-mitochondrial compounds were added, the mitochondrial activity was inhibited in the parent cell and attached first bud followed by the formation of less asci with ascospores (many not fully developed and white coloured giving rise to white colonies). We conclude that sufficient mitochondrial activity in the parent cell and first bud is necessary to produce enough energy for the formation of a proper ascus with brown coloured ascospore (s).[...] Read More.

Keywords: Asci, ascospore, life cycle, mitochondria, mitochondrial inhibitors, Nadsonia fulvescens.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Molecular typing of methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates at Ain Shams University Hospital, Egypt

H. I. Awadalla, I. A. Khalil, H. H. Bassim, M. N. Ahmed and L. M. Wahba

Abstract: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major nosocomial pathogen and it has been increasingly seen in community settings. The general objective of this study was to characterize by phenotyping and genotyping methods MRSA strains isolated from inpatients, outpatients and health care workers. Specimens were collected from patients in Ain Shams University hospitals. Genotyping is based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment-length polymorphism (RFLP), following Hae II digestion of the amplified part of the hyper variable region of mecA gene (mecA - HVR). The study included 51 phenotypically detected MRSA isolates by conventional methods. PCR revealed the presence of 50 mecA positive strains, whereas, one strain was genotypically mecA negative. PCR-RFLP revealed three different patterns (A, B and C) which were detected in the three tested groups in patients – outpatients and health care workers (HCWs) in variable percentages. Genotyping using PCR-RFLP of mecA -HVR can rapidly demonstrate and discriminate the relatedness of isolates in different hospital wards and also in the community. As the same genotypes (A, B and C) of MRSA were detected in both hospitals and communities as well as in HCWs, therefore it is impossible to decide where they originated.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, polymerase chain reaction, hospital acquired.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In vitro antimicrobial activity of extracts from Abarema cochliacarpos (Gomes) Barneby and J. W. Grimes

Nina Claudia Barboza da Silva*, Maria Apparecida Esquibel, Jaci do Espírito Santo Santos³, Mara Zélia de Almeida, Corine Silva Sampaio and Tânia Fraga Barros

Abstract: The usage of Abarema cochliacarpos (Mimosaceae) in traditional medicine by many communities in Brazil for diseases such as leucorrhea and dermatitis and as an antiseptic might indicate its antimicrobial activities. In order to assay in vitro antimicrobial activity, three extracts (hot aqueous extract, cold aqueous extract and methanol extract) from stem bark of A. cochliacarpos were tested against a panel of standard microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus ATTC 6835, Micrococcus luteus ATCC 9341, Escherichia coli ATCC 10536, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442, Salmonella choleraesuis ATCC 10708, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, Trichophyton mentagrophytes ATCC 9533 and Aspergillus niger ATCC 16404) and multiresistant clinical isolates (S. aureus MR 01, MR02 and MR03). The antimicrobial activity was evaluated through the disk diffusion method, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the micro dilution method. The results indicated that both aqueous extracts are active against gram-positive bacteria (M. luteus ATCC 9341, S. aureus ATCC 6835, and all clinical multiresistant samples) and against gram -negative bacteria (S. choleraesuis ATCC 10708). MIC values ranged between 5.0 and 15.62 µg/ml for gram-positive bacteria. The methanol extract gave a positive result only for gram-positive bacteria (ATTC standards M. luteus and S. aureus and all clinical multiresistant samples).[...] Read More.

Keywords: Abarema cochliacarpos, antimicrobial activity, gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, medicinal plant, traditional use.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Clinical isolating outer membrane protein pattern from Avian Escherichia coli of China

Zhang Tie*, Wang Chun-guang and Zhao Xing-hua

Abstract: The outer membrane protein (OMP) were extracted from38 strains of avian Escherichia coli which were isolated from the dead chickens of chicken breeding farms in 3 areas of Baoding, Qinhuangdao and Beijing by using ultrasonic cleaving and N- Lauroyl sarcosine sodium and OMP typing was done by SDS- PAGE to understand the genetic relationship of isolated strains from Avian pathogenic E. coli. There were 3 OMP types in these 38 strains of E. coli, in which, type OMP-1 was in common for 6 serotypes of isolated strains of O78, O 88, O2, O 18, O93 and O76, type OMP-abelonged to isolated strain of O76, OMP-b was found from all of the isolated strains of O93, O78, O88, O2, this indicated the identical serotype strain might belong to quite different OMP patterns and among isolated strains without any relationship in serotype could have the same OMP type. Among isolated strains with the same serotype strains might have genetic differentiation. And among the isolated strains of different serotypes, there might be the genetic relationship with different degree.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Avian Escherichia coli, outer membrane protein, O serotypes.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Core sampling test in large-scale compost cells for microorganism isolation

Ana Luisa V. Bitencourt, Marcelo A. Vallim, Daniela Maia, Rafael Spinelli, Renata Angeloni, Luciana Principal, Elisangela Souza and Renata C. Pascon*

Abstract: Composting is a process by which organic wastes are transformed into fertilizer, preventing excess organic matter accumulation. Microbes that carry out this transformation have application in biotechnology. Composting cell assembling is a complex process, it can reach several m3 of diverse materials. It is desirable a sampling methodology that allows the microbial analysis, however, this matter has not yet been approached by other researchers. In this work we tested soil auger to probe large-scale compost piles at the São Paulo Zoo, in São Paulo, Brazil. The criterion for auger selection was percentage loss of material and microbe isolation from samples.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Core sampling, compost, microorganism isolation, auger.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Investigation antibacterial activity of Streptomycetes isolates from soil samples, West of Iran

Ali reza Dehnad*, Laleh Parsa Yeganeh, Rouhollah Bakhshi, Ahad Mokhtarzadeh, SamadAbdi Soofiani, Ali Reza Monadi, Sevda Gasanova and Rahib Abusov

Abstract: In this research, our goal is to determine Streptomyces species with antimicrobial activity from some regions of Northwest of Iran. The future studies will be performed to investigate the type of antimicrobial agents. In order to achieve to this aim, soil sample collected were diluted and cultured in SCA medium. The Actinomycetes were isolated considering morphological characteristics in macroscopic and microscopic levels and examined for the microbial activity. The antimicrobial positive bacteria were selected for further biochemical and molecular studies. Through the molecular studies, 16srDNA gene of the each bacterium was amplified and digested using TaqI endonuclease. The handling of RFLP pattern of 16srDNAs was done using genedoc bioinformatics software to determine the strains of the bacteria. 150 isolated Actinomycete colonies, 12 different strains showed antimicrobial activity in which 11 strains belonged to the Streptomycetes and were known as different strains of the Streptomyces genus, we identified 11 Streptomyces strains from the mentioned regions of the northwest of Iran with high antimicrobial activity. To determine the antimicrobial agents further studies are needed. In this research, we tried to study the ability of the production of anti-microbial agents by Streptomyces species from some regions of Northwest of Iran. Our results led to the 12 isolates with the different ability to produce antibiotics.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Actinomycetes, antibiotics, antimicrobial activity, Iran, Streptomycetes.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Investigation of Demodex spp. in perinea areas and faces of young men visiting the urology policlinic

Haluk Soylemez, Ali Beytur, Ilhan Gecit, Ulku Karaman*, Ali Ozer and Sinan Calik

Abstract: It has been reported that types of Demodex can be transmitted to other people through close contact and they can play a pathogenic role in rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, micropapillary-pruritic dermatitis, and blepharitis. Types of Demodex are reported to be located in various places of human body. The purpose of the present study was to detect the presence of Demodex spp. in the samples taken from the faces and perinea areas of the young men using standardized surface skin biopsy (SSSB). Accordingly, samples were obtained using SSSB method from the faces and perinea areas of 200 men aged 19 - 34, which were then covered with entellan and sent to the parasitological laboratory. Demodex spp. was found in 42.0% of the samples taken from perinea area and in 83.0% of the samples taken from subjects’ faces, while Enterobius vermicularis was detected in two cases. One of the samples taken from was Demodex brevis, while the others were Demodex folliculorum. It was concluded that, given that species of Demodex can be found in perinea area under conditions of collective accommodation, specimens should be taken from patients consulting with pruritus or allergic reactions in order to diagnose the parasite, and treatment protocol should be planned according to the results of the analysis.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Demodex spp., facies, perinea and cheek.

2017, 16(1), 1-6;

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