Introduction: The effect of storage conditions on the microbiological qualities of oils extracted from selected oilseeds was investigated. Oils were stored at room temperature, display condition and refrigeration temperature. The highest bacterial count was observed in Groundnut oil and soybean oil and the least in cashewnut oil with the oil stored under display condition having the highest count. On the contrary, cashewnut oil had the highest fungal count and soybean oil the least. The microbial profile of the associated organisms consists of Bacillus subtilis B. licheniformis, Proteus vulgaris, P. mirabilis, Aspergillus niger and Rhizopus spp. The slightly elevated microbial count of oils stored under display conditions in the present work seems to be suggesting that the use of antioxidants with antimicrobial property may be helpful in slowing down microbial growth and deteroration in the oils exposed to similar conditions in most Nigerian markets.
Introduction: Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merrill) is an important oriental crop whose agronomic characteristics were apparently well known in China before 2200 BC. It is a legume that grows in tropical, sub tropical and temperate climates.
Introduction: The effect of cassava starch and corn starch on the consumers` acceptability and shelf- stability of soy-yoghurt was investigated. Three batches of soy-yoghurt were prepared using corn starch, cassava starch and gelatin as stabilizers, while the fourth batch served as control. All the batches were organoleptically evaluated and stored at 6 ± 2°C for 16 days and were subjected to physical examination and chemical analyses such as pH, titratable acidity (TTA) and microbial counts. All the stabilizers prevent whey separation. A putrid/offensive odour developed in all yoghurt samples from the 8th day of storage; while gas production was observed in all stabilized soy-yoghurt samples. For both pH and TTA, there was significant difference (P<0.05) between all the treatments and the length of storage. Microbial counts increased within first four day of storage and this was followed by a decrease. Gelatin stabilized soy-yoghurt was rated best, followed by cassava starch stabilized soy-yoghurt. Result from the present study suggests cassava starch as a probable alternative stabilizer in soy-yoghurt production.
Introduction: Adelodun. Lawrence. Kolapo
13.18Augustine University Ilara-Epe, Lagos. Nigeria
Morenike Olayinka Sanni
10.05Ajayi Crowther University
Abstract
Gari and tapioca are storage-cupboard convenience foods obtained from the tubers of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz). They are important staples in Nigeria and many African countries where malnutrition is a major problem. Tapioca is a quick-cooking food made from partly gelatinized starch and gari is a fermented, roasted, granular food made from cassava pulp. Gari and tapioca are nutritionally inferior and need to be fortified. This paper reports the macro- and micronutrient profiles of soybean-fortified gari and tapioca. Gari and tapioca were fortified with soybean flour or soybean residue at 25% of dry weight. Standard methods were used for the determination of proximate parameters such as crude protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate and moisture content. All the samples were analyzed for phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, manganese, iron, copper and zinc. Unfortified tapioca had significantly lower (p < .05) proximate values (protein: 0.31%; fat: 0.17%; ash: 0.34%) than unfortified gari (protein: 1.50%; fat: 1.56%; ash: 1.35%). The fortification of both gari and tapioca significantly (p < .05) increased the contents of crude protein, phosphorus, fat, and ash as well as all the monitored macro- and micronutrients. These values (%) increased from 1.50-9.31, 0.06-0.11, 1.56-4.31 and 1.35-1.64 for gari-soybean fortified gari; and 0.31-12.56, 0.03-0.12, 0.17-5.45 and 0.34-1.41 for tapioca to soybean fortified tapioca respectively. Soybean flour increased the nutrient content of the fortified gari and tapioca compared to soybean residue. Data from this study suggest that both soybean flour-fortified tapioca and soybean flour-fortified gari are effective means of meeting the daily requirements of minerals, protein, and energy. Both soybean flour-fortified tapioca and soybean flour-fortified gari could be used to fight macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies, not only in Nigeria and other African countries where these two cassava products are staples, but also in other cassava-consuming developing nations.
Introduction: An increased use of fermented soybean (Glycine max L. Merill) as soyiru similar to iru (daddawa) from Locust beans - Parkia filicoidea will enhance nutrition. Soybeans are susceptible to fatty acid oxidation and peroxidative changes. Seed of soybean variety TGX 1440-2E were fermented using a standard 3-day procedure and the ensuing soyiru was stored for 14 days under ambient and refrigeration temperatures of 30±1 0C and 6±1 0C respectively. Proximate evaluation, pH, titratable acidity (TA), peroxide value (POV), Free fatty acids (FFA) and Ascorbic acid Antioxidant capacity (AEAC) were determined in triplicate. The proximate composition of soyiru was 6.07% crude fat, 15.97% crude protein (Nx6.25), 9.96% carbohydrate with 41.46 mg kg-1 reducing sugar, a dry matter of 35.6% corresponding to a moisture content of 64.4 %; 1.96 % crude ash and 1.64 % crude fibre. At ambient storage pH increased with reduction in TA, indicating alkaline fermentation while with refrigeration, pH decreased with increasing TA, underscoring acid fermentation. Carbohydrate content, reducing sugar content and FFA decreased with storage while moisture content and POV increased. AEAC increased from 140 to 290 mg100g-1 respectively with processing but decreased to 25 and 155mg 100g-1 respectively with ten days refrigeration and ambient storage. For both storage conditions, FFA content decreased while POV increased. A `house-fly test confirmed signs of approaching spoilage on the fourth day and sixth day of ambient and refrigerated storage, respectively. From these results, it seems that peroxidation is a key biochemical factor in spoilage of soyiru and that the product is perishable and should be used fresh.
Introduction: Many soy products have limited consumer acceptability in the Western hemisphere due to undesirable off-flavour. The possibility of enhancing the sensory attributes of soy yoghurt through the use of composite soymilk was investigated. The effect of using starter cultures from different sources on the chemical characteristics and consumer acceptability was also studied. Soy milk containing 0, 10 and 20% coconut milk were used in the production of soy yoghurt using commercially available yoghurt starter and starters isolated from naturally fermenting soy milk and cow milk. Chemical and sensory characteristics of soy yoghurts obtained were evaluated. The pH of the yoghurt premixes at the beginning of fermentation ranged between 6.25 and 6.45; after fermentation the values were between 4.81 and 5.51 with commercially available starter bringing about greatest pH reduction. Chemical compositions of obtained soy yoghurts were as follows: titratable acidity as %lactic acid (0.25-0.43%), crude protein (2.66-3.62%), fat content (0.13-0.89%), total solid content (7.91-9.06%). Variation in premix formulation had no significant (P>0.05) effect on the chemical composition of different soy yoghurts obtained. Addition of coconut milk to soy milk improved the sensory characteristics of soy yoghurts with the premix containing 10% coconut milk fermented with starter obtained from cow milk producing yoghurts with the best taste, aroma, and acceptability. Results from the present study have demonstrated a further way of enhancing soy yoghurt acceptability by the western 'palate'.
Introduction: This study was carried out to investigate the effect of ginger extract on peroxidation, free fatty acid and microbial load in stored soybean dawadawa
Introduction: Both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of phytochemicals and inorganics of the ethanolic extracts of three Nigerian chewing sticks, namely, Pseudocedrela kotschyi, Anogeissus leiocarpus and Terminalia glaucescens were investigated. Alkaloid, Glycoside, Steroid, Phenol, Tannin and Saponin were present in the three samples investigated. Anthraquinone was present in all the three samples except T. glaucescens. Fluoride was present in all the samples except P. kotschyi, while A. leiocarpus is the only sample that contained calcium. Fluoride ions ranged between 0.08 and 0.09%. Alkaloid varied between 0.42 and 1.46%, steroid between 0.10 and 0.19% and phenol between 1.55 and 1.80%. The amount of Tannin was between 0.01 and 1.70% while saponin ranged between 0.02 and 0.18% and glycoside between 0.14 and .15%. The amount of anthraquinone in P. kotschyi, and A. leiocarpus was 0.17%. The extracts of the three chewing sticks had no activity against Candida albicans. Extracts of A. leiocarpus and T. glaucescens showed appreciable bioactivities against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Results from the present study give some insights on the phytochemicals that could be responsible for the exhibited antimicrobial activities of the test chewing sticks; an information that would be pivotal to the development of herbal tooth paste.
Introduction: The effect of cassava starch and corn starch on the consumers' acceptability and shelf- stability of soy-yoghurt was investigated. Three batches of soy-yoghurt were prepared using corn starch, cassava starch and gelatin as stabilizers, while the fourth batch served as control. All the batches were organoleptically evaluated and stored at 6 ± 2°C for 16 days and were subjected to physical examination and chemical analyses such as pH, titratable acidity (TTA) and microbial counts. All the stabilizers prevent whey separation. A putrid/offensive odour developed in all yoghurt samples from the 8th day of storage; while gas production was observed in all stabilized soy-yoghurt samples. For both pH and TTA, there was significant difference (P<0.05) between all the treatments and the length of storage. Microbial counts increased within first four day of storage and this was followed by a decrease. Gelatin stabilized soy-yoghurt was rated best, followed by cassava starch stabilized soy-yoghurt. Result from the present study suggests cassava starch as a probable alternative stabilizer in soy-yoghurt production.
Introduction: Some functional properties were used to assess and compare biochemical deterioration in stored locust bean daddawa and soybean daddawa which are two popular fermented Nigerian condiments. The condiments were stored for 14 days at ambient temperature after the normal 72 h of fermentation and at 2 days interval assessed for pH, titratable acidity, free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide values (POV) as well as fat and water absorption capacities. The pH of both samples increased in the alkaline range, so also the titratable acidity. Peroxide values and FFA of the two condiments also increased significantly with storage, with those of soybean daddawa being significantly (p<0.05) higher. Water and fat absorption capacities of the fermented products decreased with storage. Differences recorded in values of fat absorption capacities was also significant (p<0.05). The implications of the recorded values of fatty acids, peroxidation and other functional properties monitored are discussed in relation to the perceived faster deterioration and poor acceptance soybean daddawa.
Introduction: Defatted ground nut, soybean and palm kernel cakes were stored for three months at ambient, refrigeration and display conditions. Samples were assayed for nutritive, aflatoxins and microbiological properties. Proximate parameters significantly (p<0.05) reduced with storage. Mineral composition reductions of 3.0-35.00%, 1.2-18.75% and 6.2-64.25% were observed for ambient, refrigeration and display condition storage respectively. There was a significant (p<0.05) increase in both bacterial and fungal counts with increased storage duration. Aflatoxin B1 contents of 21.65-49.26, 14.57-27.24 and 29.14-61.32 ?g/kg were detected in cakes stored at room, refrigeration and display condition respectively while the Aflatoxin B2 contents were 9.8514.13, 3.24-10.02 and 12.96-17.04 ?g/kg respectively. Proper storage/handling of feed ingredients should form a core component of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) of feed production in tropical countries. The regulatory agencies in these countries should enforce a revised GMP in order to guarantee a more healthy and productive populace.
Introduction: Solanecio biafrae (Olive and Hierne) C. Jeffrey (1986) (Family: Asteraceae), has synonyms Senecio biafrae Olive and Hierne (1877) and Crassocephalum biafrae (Olive and Hierne) S. Moore (1912). It is a perennial standent, underutilized African indigenous medicinal vegetable. It was first reported and published in Flora of Tropical Africa. Its common names varied from Gnanvule in Cote d'Ivoire to Worowo/bologi in Nigeria. It has alternate, simple, succulent, petiolated, and exauriculate leaves. Its propagation is vegetative by rooting of cuttings. However, there is no report on its propagation by seed. It is ubiquitous in cocoa plots in Nigeria, especially southwest; due to deliberate protection for economic revenue, but this has little-uncoordinated cultivation indication. These deliberately protected few are exposed to contamination by a chemical used for protecting cocoa plants. It is highly nutritive and rich in protein. It is also medicinally important as a galactagogue and for treatment of diabetes, high blood pressure, and infertility. It has biological activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. It also has traditional and cultural claims for initiation and rituals. Personal interviews and search of the available literature on S. biafrae in electronic peer-reviewed English journals using scientific databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was employed.
Introduction: The in vitro and in vivo assessment of antimicrobial activities of some commonly patronised toothpastes and mouth washes in Nigeria against some oral pathogens was carried out. The pathogens used include Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans. On the basis of a survey amongst two hundred people, seven toothpastes and three mouthwashes were selected for assessment. Different concentrations (50%, 25%, 12.5%, 6.25% and 3.175%) of the selected toothpastes and mouthwashes were prepared with sterile saline (0.9%); these and undiluted samples were used immediately for the in vitro testing using standard procedures. The in vivo study involved ten groups of people (a group per sample), with each group consisting of five volunteers. Mouth rinses were collected from the volunteers before and immediately after using the dental care product, as well as at 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes after initial mouthwash. Viable counts were carried out on the mouth rinses and results expressed as log cfu/ml. For the three organisms used, the in vitro growth inhibition was dependent on both the sample used and the concentrations tested.
Introduction: G R Oladimeji
Adelodun. Lawrence. Kolapo
13.18Augustine University Ilara-Epe, Lagos. Nigeria
Abstract
Studies were carried out to evaluate the proximate changes and microbiology of stored defatted residues of some oilseeds in Nigeria. Oilseeds studied include Melon (Colocynthis citrullus), Soybean (Glycine max), Cashew (Anacardium occidentale), Groundnut (Arachis hypogeae) and Coconut (Cocos nucifera). On a general note, the proximate parameters such as % protein, % ash, % ether extract, % carbohydrate and % moisture decreased in all the stored defatted residue, with melon residue recording the highest decrease(protein: 48.1 -42.1%; Ether extract: 19.2 -18.0%; Carbohydrate: 10.2 -9.6%) while coconut residue had the lowest decrease(protein: 19.9 -19.2%; Ether extract: 16.2 -15.8%; Carbohydrate: 28.6 -26.7%). There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in both the total bacterial count (TBC) and total fungal count (TFC) within the period of storage. On melon residue TBC increased from 10.51 log10 to 12.11 log10 cfu/g and TFC from 8.45 log10 to 10.17 log10 cfu/g. However on coconut residue TBC increased from 10.41 log10 to 11.48 log10 cfu/g while TFC increased from 8.41 log10 to 9.30 log10 cfu/g. Prominent organisms isolated include A. niger, Rhizopus spp, Bacillus. subtilis, B. licheniformis and Proteus mirabilis .The effect of proliferation of the isolated organisms on the storage qualities of these defatted residues may have been responsible for the reduction in the nutritive value of the stored residues. Results from these studies have revealed that the storage qualities of the defatted residue are time dependent.
Introduction: Abstract Objectives: This study focused on improving and diversifying the food and nutrition situation of low income families in the developing world by initiating the production of soy-corn milk and evaluating its quality and potential for acceptance. Methodology and Results: Soy-corn milk was produced from 75% soybean and 25% maize. Milk samples were analyzed for protein, moisture, ash, fiber and fat contents, microbiological assays and sensory attributes. The protein, fat, ash and total solid contents of soy-corn milk were 4, 4.14 1.23 and 12.2%, respectively while those of soymilk were 3.15, 3.42, 1.17 and 11.23%, respectively. Fortification of soymilk with corn did not produce any significant changes in the microbial count and profiles of soy-corn milk. However, adding maize to soybean for the production of soy-corn milk significantly (P<0.05) improved its taste, aroma, consistency and overall acceptability when compared with soymilk. Application of findings: Addition of maize to soybean for the production of soy-corn milk added value to the product through increased nutrient content and sensorial attributes. Being cheaper and readily available, increased adoption of soy-corn milk would increase milk availability to low-income families in the developing world.
Introduction: Abs t ra c t The possibility of enhancing the sensory attributes of soy yoghurt through the use of composite soymilk was investigated. The effect of using starter cultures from different sources on the chemical characteristics and consumer ac-ceptability was also studied. Soy milk containing 0, 10 and 20% coconut milk were used in the production of soy yoghurt using commercially available yoghurt starter and starters isolated from naturally fermenting soy milk and cow milk. Chemical and sensory characteristics of soy yoghurts obtained were evaluated. The pH of the yoghurt premixes at the be-ginning of fermentation ranged between 6.25 and 6.45; after fermentation the values were between 4.81 and 5.51 with commercially available starter bringing about greatest pH reduction. Chemical compositions of obtained soy yoghurts were as follo ws : t itratab le ac idit y as %lac tic ac id (0.25-0.43%), crude protein (2.66-3.62%), fat content (0.13-0.89%), total solid co nte nt (7.91-9. 06% ). Variation in premix formulation had no significant (P>0.05) effect on the chemical composition of different soy yoghurts obtained. Addition of coconut milk to soy milk improved the sensory characteristics of soy yoghurts with the premix containing 10% coconut milk fermented with starter obtained from cow milk producing yoghurts with the best taste, aroma, and acceptability. Results from the present study have demonstrated a further way of enhancing soy yo-ghurt acceptability by the western ‘palate’.
Introduction: ABSTRACT
Studies on phytochemical composition and antimicrobial activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts of roots and stems of Dichrostachys
cinerea against clinical isolates of Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus saprophyticus were carried out. The main
phytochemicals present in the stem and roots included alkaloids, saponins and tannins, with roots containing the greater share. Steroids
and cyanoglycoside were present in the stem. Both ethanol and aqueous extracts of the tested chewing stick inhibited the growth of all
three tested microorganisms. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between the inhibitory effect of the aqueous and ethanolic
extracts of the roots of D. cinerea on C. albicans. However, the ethanolic extract of the stem exhibited a significantly higher (P<0.05)
bioactivity than that exhibited by the ethanolic extract of the root. The pattern of inhibition of S. mutans and S. saprophyticus by the
extracts were similar. Solvent used in extraction did not produce any significant effect (P>0.05), but the stem extracts exhibited a
significant inhibition (P<0.05) compared to the root extract. Our results clearly show that D. cinerea is a potential candidate plant that
could be used in the development of a dentifrice.
Introduction: Abstract
Background. Gari and tapioca are storage-cupboard
convenience foods obtained from the tubers of cassava
(Manihot esculenta Crantz). They are important staples
in Nigeria and many African countries where malnutrition
is a major problem. Tapioca is a quick-cooking
food made from partly gelatinized starch and gari is a
fermented, roasted, granular food made from cassava
pulp.
Objective. Gari and tapioca are nutritionally inferior
and need to be fortified. This paper reports the macroand
micronutrient profiles of soybean-fortified gari and
tapioca.
Methods. Gari and tapioca were fortified with soybean
flour or soybean residue at 25% of dry weight. Standard
methods were used for the determination of proximate
parameters such as crude protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate
and moisture content. All the samples were analyzed for
phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium,
manganese, iron, copper and zinc.
Results. Unfortified tapioca had significantly lower
(p < .05) proximate values (protein: 0.31%; fat: 0.17%;
ash: 0.34%) than unfortified gari (protein: 1.50%; fat:
1.56%; ash: 1.35%). The fortification of both gari and
tapioca significantly (p < .05) increased the contents
of crude protein, phosphorus, fat, and ash as well as all
the monitored macro- and micronutrients. These values
(%) increased from 1.50–9.31, 0.06–0.11, 1.56–4.31 and
1.35–1.64 for gari-soybean fortified gari; and 0.31–12.56,
0.03–0.12, 0.17–5.45 and 0.34–1.41 for tapioca to
soybean fortified tapioca respectively. Soybean flour
increased the nutrient content of the fortified gari and
tapioca compared to soybean residue. Data from this
study suggest that both soybean flour-fortified tapioca
and soybean flour-fortified gari are effective means of
meeting the daily requirements of minerals, protein, and
energy.
Conclusions. Both soybean flour-fortified tapioca
and soybean flour-fortified gari could be used to fight
macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies, not only
in Nigeria and other African countries where these two
cassava products are staples, but also in other cassava consuming
developing nations.
Introduction: ABSTRACT
An assessment of phytochemical composition and antimicrobial activity of aqueous and ethanol extract of
root and stem of Terminalia glaucescens against clinical isolates of Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans and
Staphylococcus saprophyticus was carried out. Alkaloids, saponnins and tannins are the major phytochemicals
present, with the root containing a significantly (P<0.05) higher amount of these phytochemicals. Results obtained
showed that both ethanol and aqueous extracts of the tested chewing sticks had inhibitory effect on the growth of
clinical isolates. ANOVA test of data on the antimicrobial activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts on C. albicans
revealed that the solvent used in extraction procedure had significant effect (P<0.05) on the level of inhibition
observed. In addition, the root extracts exhibited a significantly higher inhibition on C. albicans compared to
the effect produced by the stem extract. The inhibitory effect of the extracts on Streptococcus mutans and
S. saprophyticus showed no significant difference (P>0.05) between extract concentration. The effect exhibited by
ethanol extract was significantly higher than that produced by aqueous extract. However, the length of incubation
produced no significant effect (P>0.05) on the degree of inhibition of S. mutans by the root and stem extracts.
Results from the present study have shown that T. glaucescens has great potential in dentifrice production.
Introduction: ABSTRACT
Studies on phytochemical composition and antimicrobial activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts of roots and stems of Dichrostachys
cinerea against clinical isolates of Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus saprophyticus were carried out. The main
phytochemicals present in the stem and roots included alkaloids, saponins and tannins, with roots containing the greater share. Steroids
and cyanoglycoside were present in the stem. Both ethanol and aqueous extracts of the tested chewing stick inhibited the growth of all
three tested microorganisms. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between the inhibitory effect of the aqueous and ethanolic
extracts of the roots of D. cinerea on C. albicans. However, the ethanolic extract of the stem exhibited a significantly higher (P<0.05)
bioactivity than that exhibited by the ethanolic extract of the root. The pattern of inhibition of S. mutans and S. saprophyticus by the
extracts were similar. Solvent used in extraction did not produce any significant effect (P>0.05), but the stem extracts exhibited a
significant inhibition (P<0.05) compared to the root extract. Our results clearly show that D. cinerea is a potential candidate plant that
could be used in the development of a dentifrice.
Introduction: bstract
Objectives: Yorghurt quality, as affected by combining cow milk with soy milk and using starters from different sources, was investigated. Methodology and Results: Premixes containing soy milk, cow milk and soymilk-cow milk (50:50) were used to produce yoghurt using commercially available starter cultures or cultures isolated from naturally fermenting soy milk and cow milk. Chemical and sensory characteristics of the yoghurts were evaluated. pH values of the yoghurt samples were between 4.10 and 4.94, titratable acidity varied between 0.15 -0.33%, crude protein content was 3.50 -12.40%, fat content between 0.13 -2.67% and the total solid content was between 8.24 -23.4%. Combining cow milk with soymilk significantly (P<0.05) increased the total solids, protein, ash, fat and carbohydrate contents of the yoghurt. Yoghurt from cow milk premixes was most preferred, while that from plain soymilk was least accepted. However, addition of cow milk to soymilk significantly (P<0.05) improved the sensory attributes of yoghurt produced from soymilk. Starter cultures isolated from cow milk gave better yoghurt irrespective of the starting premix. Conclusion and application of findings: The results demonstrate that soy yoghurt adoption could be enhanced by premix modification and that production of soy yoghurt with acceptable quality needs a careful selection of starter culture. If soy yoghurt could become more acceptable it could help to fight malnutrition and hunger in developing countries. Citation: Olubamiwa OO. and Kolapo AL, 2008. Production of yoghurts from cow and soy composite milk using starter cultures from different sources. Journal of Applied Biosciences 6: 158 – 163. Introduction The different types of food groups that are traditionally included in meals are milk, meat, vegetables, fruits, bread and cereals. Unfortunately, milk and its products hardly feature among the major food items consumed in developing countries (Ene-Obong, 2001), especially in the diets of low income families which consist mainly of starchy staples. Animal sources of proteins which could be used to compliment the starchy foods are expensive and out of reach for low income families (Obatolu et al., 2007). This poor state of access to nutritious food in developing countries is being addressed through efforts such as the Millennium Development Goals.
Introduction: An ethnobotanical survey was carried out in Ijebu – North Local Government Area of Ogun State to document the plant species used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia within the area. According to modern ethnobotanical practices, structurally designed questionnaires were administered to those with knowledge about these medicinal plants, and their responses were properly documented. A total of thirtyone (31) plant species from twenty-nine (29) genera and twenty-six (26) families were reported as useful in the treatment of the ailment. While Annonaceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, and Poaceae are all represented by two species, others are represented by only one. The recipes, methods of preparation and administration were also properly documented in this work. Ananas comosus and Garcinia kola were both useful in the preparation of at least two recipes, which is indicative of their importance in herbal and traditional medicine. This study suggests that further phytochemical and pharmacognostic studies should be conducted to ascertain the potencies of these medicinal plants.
Introduction: As part of a multidisciplinary approach to a revision of the genus Baphia a comparative study of the leaf epidermis of 78 taxa of this genus and related genera using the light and scanning electron microscopes was undertaken. Variation observed in cell shape, anticlinal cell wall pattern, cell size, cell wall thickness, trichomes, papillae, stomata complex and wax are discussed and their taxonomic implications if any are noted. Of necessity, several figures are presented to explain the variations in those characters mentioned above.
Introduction: The petiole anatomy of 79 specimens representing 64 species of Baphia has been examined. Anatomical characters of the petiole provide supporting evidence to be used in the infra-generic classification of the genus. They correspond to systematic groupings identified on other criteria, such as comparative morphology, palynology and phytogeography.
Introduction: The pollen grains of 104 specimens representing 60 species of Baphia have been examined using light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Ten pollen types are recognized, and some correlate broadly with groups of species identified by other characters. The systematic implications of the pollen morphological data are discussed. Two main trends in exine stratification are recognized. One involves extreme thinning of the endexine, the other, thickening of the endexine associated with a thinner ectexine and loss of the foot layer. We suggest that the extremes of both trends confer different responses to forces generated in harmomegathic movements.
Introduction: The genus Baphia Lodd, of the tribe Sophoreae of Leguminosae subfamily Papilionoideae is revised throughout its range in Africa and Madagascar. The 45 species recognised are keyed out, described and mapped, with appropriate bibliography, notes on ecology and distribution, and a list of collection numbers. The generic and infrageneric classification is discussed, together with an analysis of the ecology and phytogeography.
Introduction: Some selected staple foods: tubers, cereals, and legumes, grown, sold and consumed in Ijebu-North
Local Government area, Nigeria were evaluated for their iodine content using standard methods.
Among the tubers, Ipomea batata (sweet potatoe, red species) was observed to have the highest iodine
content (311.33±8.52 µgI) while the least iodine value of 88.97±1.31 µgI was recorded in Discovea
avenmensis (cocoyam). Among the cereals, maize was observed to have the highest iodine content
(100.96±3.50 µgI). When the iodine content of the legumes was compared, the highest was observed in
Glycine soja (soybean; 179.56±4.66 µgI) while the least was in Cucus melo (mellon; 29.84±1.21 µgI).
Result from our findings indicated that most of the staple foods contain high level of iodine
Introduction: Abstract: The relationship among five species of Acalypha Linn. (Euphorbiaceae) is described using phytochemical and quantitative morphological parameters based on herbarium and field collections. Preliminary phytochemical study revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins and cardenolides in the five species. These secondary metabolites might be responsible for the frequent use of these species of Acalypha in Traditional medicine. The results of the multivariate analyses (Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Cluster analysis) show that two of the nine quantitative parameters account for the differences among the taxa. A. hispida was found to be more closely related to A. fimbriata. A. hispida and A. wilkesiana share some resemblances. The affinity between A. ornata and A. fimbriata was stronger with 21.082 coefficient of agglomeration than the affinity between A. ornata and A. hispida with 1224.099 coefficient of agglomeration.
Introduction: The conservation of the genetic variability of the indigenous angiosperm community is a sine qua non.
A survey of indigenous angiosperm biodiversity of the Olabisi Onabanjo University permanent site was
undertaken. Plants collected were dried, poisoned and mounted on herbarium sheets, proper
identification and confirmation in recognized herbaria were carried out. A total number of one hundred
and thirty-eight (138) plant species belonging to fifty-five (55) families were collected. Of these, one
hundred and twenty-seven are dicotyledons and eleven are monocotyledons. Leguminosae is the
largest family with thirteen plants followed by Rubiaceae with eleven and Euphorbiaceae with nine
plants. Trees were found to have significantly contributed to the ecosystem with a total number of fiftyfour
species, while forty-three of shrubs were recorded, climbers ten, herbs twenty-eight, grasses and
sedges three. From this study it is obvious that the University permanent site is not only rich in plant
biodiversity but also very rich in socio-economic values. Consequently it is highly advisable that a
representative sample of this vegetation is protected for posterity so that all the indigenous
Introduction: The in-vitro antimicrobial evaluation of ethanol extracts of four species of Cola Schott & Endl. was done using human isolated strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus albus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger as test organisms. The assays were carried out by agar well diffusion, erythromycin and ketoconazole served as the control drugs. The leaf ethanol extracts of the plants were found to be more effective against the tested fungi than the bacteria at high concentrations. None of the extracts was active against Staphylococcus aureus. Plant extract of C. acuminata (P. Beauv.) Schott & Endl. and C. nitida (Vent) Schott & Endl. showed activity on S. albus at concentrations ranging from 10–150 mgml? having comparable diameters of zone of inhibition of 7.3±0.03–16.0±0.0 for C. acuminata and 10.0±0.0–19.0±0.0 for C. nitida. Also, these two species of Cola demonstrated activities on C. albicans and A. niger at concentrations ranging from 90–150mgml?1 with relatively close diameters of zone of inhibition. Only C. acuminata inhibited the growth of K. pneumoniae at the MIC of 90mgml?1 whereas, C. albicans was inhibited by C. acuminata, C. millenii K. Schum and C. gigantea A.Chev. at the MIC of 120mgml?1. Phytochemical screening of the four species of Cola showed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins and cardenolides in all the plants which apart from showing the probable closeness of the species could also be responsible for the observed activities. The antimicrobial property shown by the plant extracts is an evidence of the ethnomedicinal uses of the plants. The similarity observed in the phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial activities demonstrated by C nitida (Vent.) Schott & Endl., C. millenii and C.gigantea A. Chev. and C. acuminata suggest a probable closeness among these species. The results obtained in this study provide preliminary evidence of the chemotaxonomic significance
Introduction: Thirteen quantitative characters of the leaves, fruits, seeds and flowers were used in the study of eight
Senna Mill. species. The characters include leaflet length, leaflet width, leaflet length/width, Number of
leaflets, lamina length, petiole length, pedicel length, petal length, fruit length, fruit width, fruit
length/width, seed length and seed width. These characters were measured with the aid of a line ruler
and subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis. The results revealed that
three out of the thirteen characters employed contributed significantly in differentiating each of the
species from the other at 95% level of significance. The species have great similarities hence their
grouping under the same genus. Results also showed that Senna hirsuta (Linn.) H. S. Irwin and
Barneby and Senna sophera (L.) Roxb. are more closely related, Senna occidentalis (Linn.) Link, Senna
siamea (Lam.) H. S. Irwin and Barneby and Senna spectabilis (DC.) Irwin and Barneby all share some
resemblance while S. occidentalis is distantly related to S. sophera.
Introduction: A survey of the weed flora of the campus sites of the Olabisi Onabanjo University was undertaken. Several visits
were made to the disturbed and undisturbed vegetation of the sites for collection of weeds after which the weeds
were prepared in accordance with conventional herbarium practice. A total of seventy-three (73) weed
species belonging to twenty-seven (27) families were identified and found to be present within the area of study.
The family Poaceae seems to have the highest number of weed species (twelve) available within the area followed
by Asteraceae with ten (10) species. Amaranthaceae, Cyperaceae and Euphorbiaceae are also in abundance.
These weeds have been discovered to be useful, against the mindset of the uninformed that they are useless
or ‘vagabond’ plants. Medicinal uses as well as percentage occurrence of each family are presented. From this study
it is obvious that the University sites are not only rich in plant biodiversity but that the plants are also very rich
in socio-economic values. It is therefore advisable that these plants should be protected from going into extinction
so that all would not be lost due to developmental activities.
Introduction: Effect of processing on iodine content of some selected plants food was investigated. Results show
significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the iodine content of the processed food compared with the raw
forms. The iodine value of 658.60 ± 17.2 µg/100g observed in raw edible portion of Discorea rotundata
was significantly higher compared with the value of 448.60 ± 2.46, 248.60 ± 2.46 and 300.05 ± 5.66
µg/100g dry matter observed in the boiled yam, pounded yam and yam flour, respectively. The result
also indicates that the iodine value of 592.50 ± 8.22 µg/100g dry matter observed in the raw form of
cassava was higher when compared with that of garri (366.03 ± 3.82 µg/100g) and cassava flour (216.90
± 1.03 µg/100g dry matter). Similarly, raw Zea mays contain higher iodine (112.24 ± 0.42 µg/100g)
compared with boiled maize (79.44 ± 0.64 µg/100g dry matter) and fresh ogi (45.07 ± 1.24 µg/100g dry
matter). The result also indicates that raw Vigina uguicnlata and Arachis hypogea contain higher iodine
content (112.22 ± 0.22 and 119.62 ± 0.22 µg/100g dry matter, respectively) when compared with their
boiled forms (97.33 ± 1.53 and 83.12 ± 1.35 µg/100g, respectively). Results obtained in this study thus
indicate that processing significantly reduces iodine content of food products, hence consideration
must be given to different processing methods when accessing Iodine intake from different processed
foods
Introduction: Ethnobotanical survey of the plants used in the treatment of Haemorrhoids was carried out in
South-Western, Nigeria. The herbalists, herb sellers and traditionalists were interviewed by the
administration of questionnaires. From the survey, a total of 143 plant species belonging to 58
families were found to be useful for the treatment. The most prominent among these plant
families is the Leguminosae family with 22 species, an indication of the utmost importance of this
family in the cure of haemorrhoids. Other plant families include Euphorbiaceae (8),
Apocynaceae (6), Meliaceae, Compositae and Poaceae with 5 species each. In all, the
commonest species in the recipes are Senna alata Linn., Gongronena latifolium Benth, Axonopus
compressus Engl. & Diels, Anogeiessus leiocarpus (D.C) Guil. L & Per, Pteleiopsis suberosa
Engl. & Diels, Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schun & Thonn) Taub, Khaya spp and Allium spp. All the
plants identified in this work have been used severally by the herbalists and adjudged to be
efficacious.
Introduction: In the past few decades, there has been renewed interest on increase in intake of fruits and vegetables,
owing to their numerous beneficial effects. The present study provides preliminary data on the ability of
different fruits and vegetables grown and consumed in Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun
State, Nigeria to concentrate iodine in their tissues, given the same environmental conditions. Chemical
evaluation of iodine content of some selected fruits and vegetables, grown and consumed in the area
was carried out. Out of the six fruits assessed, Musa paradisca has the highest level of iodine (258.83 ±
11.43 µg / 100 g edible portion), while the least value was observed in Citrus paradis (2.43 ± 0.01 µg / 100
g edible portion). No significant variation (P ? 0.05) was observed in the iodine content of Citrus
aurumthifolia (27.38 ± 2.16 µg / 100 g edible portions) and Musa sapientum (19.79 ± 6.23 µg / 100 g edible
portions). The iodine contents of Carica papaya and Citrus paradis were not significantly different (P ?
0.05) from each other. Out of the twenty (20) vegetables assessed, the highest iodine value was
observed in Amaranthus hubridus (58.36 ± 1.88 µg / 100 g edible portion) and the least value was found
in Talinum triangulare (0.49 + 0.01 µg / 100 g edible portions). Our result indicates that few of the fruits
and vegetables grown and consumed in the Local Government Area have the ability to concentrate
enough iodine that can sufficiently meet the required daily allowance, thus, we advise that such fruits
may need to be consumed along with some other dietary sources in order to meet the daily requirement
for iodine. Furthermore, our result suggests that the ability of fruits and vegetables to concentrate
iodine in their tissues varies from one to another.
Introduction: The relationship among seven species of Indigofera (Leguminosae-Papilionoideae) is described using eight quantitative parameters based on both herbarium and fresh specimens
Introduction: The use of Traditional medicine in developed as well as developing countries as basis for the treatment of
many ailments has been in existence for thousands of years and there is no doubt that their importance
has been widely acknowledged. The present study points out the fact that, medicinal plants have
continued to play vital roles in the Nigerian healthcare sector, although traditional medical practitioners
have not been fully recognized. Findings from this study also showed that the government is yet to
adequately contribute positively to the conservation and sustainable use of these flora species. In general,
this paper examines previously published articles on medicinal plants in Nigeria, presents the uses of
some of these plants as earlier reported, discusses the challenges facing their availability and argues for
rational conservation methods to be employed on time.
Introduction: Anacardium occidentale is a local medicinal plant used in ethno medicine for the treatment of diarrhea, constipation,pain and inflammation. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of this plant parts were assessed for antiinflammatory and antibacterial activities using experimental animal model and agar disc diffusion methods respectively. Results show that the ethanolic extract of the plant were more efficacious than the aqueous extract in inhibiting the carrageenan induced paw oedema in rats in a non dose-dependent manner( P>0.05).No significant difference was found between the ethanolic extract of the leaves and bark (P>0.05). Also, the antibacterial activity was apparently higher in ethanolic extract than in aqueous extract for both leaves and barkwith the bark extract displaying a significantly (P<0.05) higher activity compared to the leaves extract. The results of this study therefore justify the use of this plant in the treatment of inflammation and bacterial infections.
Introduction: Background: Healthcare waste management is a major challenge, especially in primary health care facility.
This is because waste generated from this facility carries high potential for infections and injuries, yet not
many studies have been carried out on healthcare waste generated in the area studied. Inadequate management
of the waste may have serious consequences on public health. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing
healthcare waste management practices in primary healthcare facility, with a view to proffering practical
solutions to the associated problems.
Introduction: The foliar epidermal and phytochemical characteristics of Clitoria ternatea and Centrosema pubescens are
studied in this work. Results have revealed minor differences between the examined species. A microscopic
study has shown that both species are hypoamphistomatic, have irregular cells and simple trichomes on their
abaxial and adaxial surfaces. C. pubescens has more stomata, trichomes and epidermal cells than C. ternatea,
but its stomata and epidermal cells are smaller in size. The stomata index ranges between 5.1–21.0%. On
the other hand, a phytochemical analysis has shown little difference in the amount of bioactive compounds
present in both species, except for in the flavonoid content which was significantly different between the two.
Although phytosteroidal content in the two species is also not very significant, its presence may be linked to
the species medicinal value as an aphrodisiac
Introduction: The phytochemicals in the stem and root of Cissus populnea were examined. Specimens were collected
from New Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria and identified at the Forest Herbarium Ibadan (FHI). The stem and
root were air-dried, ground into fine powder and subjected to series of phytochemical screenings. Results
revealed that both plant parts contain alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins in large quantity. However,
the alkaloid content in the stem was the highest, with 49.8%. It was followed by flavonoids (15.4%), saponins
(12.8%) and tannins (11.6%). Similarly, there was also significant amount of flavonoids (39.5%), alkaloids
(26.7%), tannins (11.3%), and saponins (10.5%) in the root. While cardiac glycosides recorded the least
amount in the stem, phytosteroids had the least amount in the root. The occurrence and quantity of other
phytochemicals, as recorded in this study, also suggest that C. populnea may serve as a potential source of
useful drugs in the near future.
Introduction: Ethnobotanical survey of the plants used in the treatment of Diabetes mellitus was conducted in
some areas of South-Western Nigeria. The survey revealed the use of about 132 different plants
species belonging to 56 families in the treatment of Diabetes mellitus. Taxonomic practice of
specimen preparation for herbarium storage was performed for each of the plants and some
were deposited at the Elikaf herbarium of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye. The
identified plants have been confirmed to posses anti-diabetic properties. Prominent among them
are Senna alata Linn, Curculigo pilosa (Schumach & Thonn.) Engl, Cucurmeropsis mannii
Naudin, Anthocleista spp, Vernonia amygdalina Del and Allium spp. These species were found to
be very important and useful in the treatment of diabetes based on their frequency of occurrence
in the recipes obtained, although only few of the recipes are listed in this work. Most of these
plants are available in the area of study. A need for further scientific research based on the
findings of this work is needed and recommended so that adequate records of indigenous
methods of treating Diabetes mellitus can be kept for posterity, especially in the study area.
Introduction: Phytochemical analysis was conducted on the leaves of Cissus populnea Guill. & Perr., a plant
belonging to the family- Vitaceae/Ampelidaceae. The leaves were collected from New Bussa,
Niger State, Northern Nigeria, air-dried and ground into fine powder. The powdered leaves were
screened and results were properly recorded as observed. Results showed that the saponin
content was the highest with about 47.3%. This is followed by anthraquinones – 33.2% and
flavonoid – 6.48%. Although, results also showed that the cyanogenic glycoside content (3.65%)
is indicative of its poisonous property as the human body may not withstand this large amount at
a time, the small quantity of alkaloid – 2.49% (0.15±0.07mg/g) also suggests that it may be
harmless in some ways. This study, however, supports the fact that leaves of C. populnea contain
important compounds which may be useful in medicine, it also suggests that further research
should be conducted into the plant as a whole, since some of the phytochemicals may be very
dangerous to the human body whether consumed as vegetable or used as medicine.
Introduction: A morphometric study was performed on six Berlinia species of the Nigerian flora. Individual specimens deposited at Forest Herbarium Ibadan and University of Ibadan Herbarium formed the units of study. Twenty morphological characters were assessed and analyzed following conventional taxonomic practice. Results showed a close resemblance between B. craibiana and B. grandiflora, which share affinity with B. bracteosa and B. confusa, while B. coriacea appears to be distantly related. Species distribution studies revealed that B. grandiflora exists in savanna and forest regions while other members of the genus are found only in forest zones. While suggesting practical measures for conserving endangered Nigerian flora, we also recommend that further taxonomic studies be carried out on the genus Berlinia and its related allies to ascertain their placement within the Caesalpiniodeae.
Introduction: The proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and the prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in wastewaters are well-established factors that contribute to the reduced potency of antibiotics used in healthcare worldwide. The human health risk associated with the proliferation of ARB and ARGs need to be understood in order to design mitigation measures to combat their dissemination. Using the PCR analysis of genomic DNA, the prevalence of 41 ARGs active against the commonly used six classes of antibiotics was evaluated in 60 bacterial isolates obtained from pharmaceutical wastewaters in Nigeria. The ARGs most frequently detected from the bacterial isolates in each of the antibiotic classes under study include catA1 (58.3%); sulI (31.7%); tet(E) (30%); aac(3)-IV (28.3%); ermC (20%); blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaNDM-1 at 18.3% each; which encode for resistance to chloramphenicol, sulfonamides, tetracycline, aminoglycoside, macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin and ?-lactams and penicillins, respectively. Acinetobacter spp., accession number MH396735 expressed the highest number of ARGs of all the bacterial isolates, having at least one gene that encodes for resistance to all the classes of antibiotics in the study. This study highlights wide distribution of ARB and ARGs to the antibiotics tested in the wastewater, making pharmaceutical wastewater reservoirs of ARGs which could potentially be transferred from commensal microorganisms to human pathogens.
Keywords: antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs); antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB); pharmaceutical wastewater; tetracycline; aminoglycoside
Introduction: The development of new biofortified cassava cultivars, with higher micronutrient contents, offers great potential to enhance food and nutrition security prospects. Among the various constraints affecting cassava production are plant parasitic nematodes (PPN), especially root-knot nematodes. In this study, six popular biofortified cultivars were field-evaluated for their response to PPN in Nigeria. A field naturally infested with a diversity of PPN but dominated by root-knot nematodes was used. Application of the nematicide carbofuran significantly reduced PPN densities, and at harvest, no root galling damage was observed, compared with untreated plots, which had heavy galling damage. Plant height, stem girth, plant weight, marketable storage root number and weight were significantly lower for most cultivars in untreated plots. Percentage yield losses in the range of 21.3–63.7% were recorded from two separate trials conducted for 12 months each. Lower total carotenoid and dry matter contents were associated with higher PPN densities in some biofortified cultivars, resulting in a loss of as much as 63% of total carotenoid and 52% of dry matter contents. The number and weight of rotted storage roots were significantly greater in untreated plots across cultivars, reducing in-field and post-harvest storability. This study demonstrates that natural field populations of PPN can substantially affect yield, quality and nutritional value of released biofortified cassava cultivars
Introduction: Despite being the single largest cassava-producing country, yields in Nigeria remain consistently poor and among the lowest. Regionally, yields are also particularly low across Africa. Pests and pathogens, including plant-parasitic nematodes, play an important role in this current yield deficit. African countries are not only faced with the problem of food security but also that of nutritional deficiency, due to limited micronutrients in the diet. In this study, six biofortified cultivars were evaluated for their response to inoculation with approximately 30?000 root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) eggs in 30 l pots in Nigeria. All cassava cultivars proved highly susceptible to M. incognita infection after 6 months, with nematode reproduction factor ranging from 7.0 to 44.8. Galling was common on feeder roots and gall index scores were recorded between 4 to 5 (on a scale of 1-5 where 5 ? 100 galls). Meloidogyne incognita infection significantly reduced plant height, stem girth, fresh plant mass, fresh storage root number and storage root weight. Percentage yield loss of between 41.8-88.4% was recorded in M. incognita-infected plants compared with non-infected controls. Although M. incognita reduced storage root weight, it did not necessarily affect the nutritional quality (total carotenoid) or dry weight percentage of the biofortified cassava cultivars. Total carotenoid and dry weight contents of the control cultivar were similar to some of the biofortified cultivars. The high susceptibility of the biofortified cassava cultivars to M. incognita infection indicates that substantial yield losses are likely being experienced by farmers, as this nematode pest is prevalent across sub-Saharan Africa and the tropics.
Introduction: In this study, seven cassava varieties were evaluated for their response to infection by Meloidogyne
incognita in a pot experiment using 30-liter plastic pots. The cassava varieties - TMS 98/0505, TMS
01/1368, TMS 98/0510, TMS 30572, TME EB419, TMS 95/0289, and TMS 98/0581 were inoculated with
either 30,000 or 0 eggs of M. incognita in a 7 x 2 factorial experiment and grown for 6 months in sterilized
soil in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Data were collected on plant height, stem
girth, number and weight of root tubers, number of galls on feeder roots and tubers, number of juveniles
per gram feeder roots, and foliage weight. Root systems were scored for galling on 1-5 rating scale.
Assessment of plant tolerance to the root-knot nematode was based on gall index (GI) and tuber yield.
Assessment of plant resistance to the root-knot nematode was based on nematode reproduction factor (RF).
Galls were found on feeder roots and storage roots of infected cassava plants. Gall indices varied from 3
to 5 for infected roots. TME EB419 was tolerant to M. incognita with average tuber yield of 425 and 352
g/plant for inoculated and nematode-free cassava plants respectively, GI of 3.0 and an R of 2.6. Six of the
cassava varieties were susceptible and intolerant to M. incognita with RF between 1.2 and 6.0, GI ranging
between 4 and 5, and significant yield loss (P<0.05). Nematode infection (P<0.05) reduced plant height
and fresh tuber weight in the cassava varieties except for the tolerant TME EB419 variety.
Introduction: Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) has seldom received attention by nematologists because of the erroneous belief that it was too hardy to be significantly damaged by nematodes. In this study, cassava varieties (TMS 98/0505, TMS 01/1368, TMS 98/0510, TMS 30572, TME EB419, TMS 95/0289, and TMS 98/0581) from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture were evaluated for their field response to infection by Meloidogyne incognita and 10 other plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Cassava growth and yield were compared in naturally infested PPN plots treated with and without carbofuran (3 kg a.i./ha). Aphelenchoides, Tylenchus, Longidorus, Pratylenchus, Hoplolaimus, Rotylenchus, Helicotylenchus, Trichodorus, Xiphinema, Meloidogyne, and Scutellonema were identified in the soil. Infected plants were scored for galling (as a result of Meloidogyne infection only) on 1-5 rating scale. Carbofuran-treated plots had significantly (P? 0.01) lower final densities of Meloidogyne and other PPN, and no galls were observed on feeder roots. The majority of crop growth and yield improved in plots treated with carbofuran. Significantly fewer storage roots rotted, and yield of all the cassava varieties was significantly higher (4.05-6.10 kg/plot) in carbofuran-treated plots compared to untreated plots (2.33-4.95 kg/plot). The average tuber yield of the carbofuran-treated and untreated plots was 51.3 and 34.1 T/ha, respectively, and the difference was significant across varieties (TMS 01/1368 and TMS 30572). This work suggests that cassava production can be improved by controlling nematodes in the field.
Introduction: Phytate is an anti-nutritional agent in cereal foods, making nutritional and health problems in human. The gene responsible for the degradation of phytate has been identified in many bacterial species but not in lactic acid bacteria. The objective of this study was to isolate and characterize phy gene in lactic acid bacteria isolated from Ogi and Kunun-zaki.
Introduction: In Nigeria, pharmaceutical wastewaters are routinely disseminated in river waters; this could be associated with public health risk to humans and animals. In this study, we characterized antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and their antibiotic resistance profile as well as screening for sul1 and sul2 genes in pharmaceutical wastewater effluents. Bacterial composition of the wastewater sources was isolated on non-selective media and characterized by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the 16S rRNA genes, with subsequent grouping using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and sequencing. The antibiotics sensitivity profiles were investigated using the standard disk diffusion plate method and the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of selected antibiotics on the bacterial isolates. A total of 254 bacterial strains were isolated, and majority of the isolates were identified as Acinetobacter sp., Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus mirabilis, Enterobacter sp. and Bacillus sp. A total of 218 (85.8%) of the bacterial isolates were multidrug resistant. High MICs values were observed for all antibiotics used in the study. The result showed that 31.7%, 21.7% and 43.3% of the bacterial isolates harbored sul1, sul2, and Intl1 genes, respectively. Pharmaceuticals wastewaters are potential reservoirs of ARBs which may harbor resistance genes with possible risk to public health.
Introduction: Forge materials were combined to make silage and an in vitro digestion of the
silage was carried out to evaluate their effects on bacterial population. Ensiled Guinea
grass (Panicum maximum) together with Albizia saman pods samples were collected at
42 day post fermentation. A total of 40 isolates of lactic acid bacteria were identified
from the fermented core of the silage. The Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) isolates were
subjected to various pH and temperatures. Production of lactic acid by the LAB was
also determined. . From the in vitro fermentation, 25 bacteria were isolated from the
digest. The isolates of the LAB belong to the genera Lactobacillus. They were identified
as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus
coryniformis and five were Lactobacillus species that were not identified to their
species level. The rumen bacteria isolates other than LAB included the genera
Citrobacter, Alcaligenes, Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Proteus, Escherichia coli,
Serratia and eight were unidentified. During the in vitro digestion of the ensiled sample,
the rumen bacteria population increased between the hours of 18 and 36. Most of the
isolates had their optimum growth between pH 4.5 and 6.0 and temperature between
250
C and 400
C. The isolates Lactobacillus plantarum SL25 and the unidentified SL16
had the highest lactic acid production at 31.53g/l. Lactobacillus plantarum SL34 had
the lowest production of lactic acid at 11.72g/l. To control the ensiling process, improve
quality and to inhibit unwanted microorganisms, LAB can be used as an additive and
the ensiling conditions could be manipulated.
Introduction: This study reports the prevalence of typhoid fever caused by Salmonella typhi between genders. It further establishes the Salmonella titres that are not diagnostically significant but normal in the study population and the titre that could be used as presumptively diagnostic of typhoid fever. Blood samples were collected from 200 subjects; 82 males and 118 females; and examined for the presence and levels of Salmonella antibodies by Widal agglutination technique. Standard S. typhi and Salmonella paratyphi "O" and "H" suspension (ANTEC) were used as antigens. Of the 200 sera tested, agglutinins to S. typhi were most prevalent in male subjects accounting for 39% of the "O" antigens and 41.5% of "H" antigens at the various dilutions while in the 118 female subjects, 10.7% accounts for the "O" and 29.5% for the "H" antigens. There was a male preponderance (M/F 2:1). Since the positive sera with titres of ? ? ? ? 80 occurred in more than 5% of the samples, this study therefore suggests that such titres be regarded as normal among the communities studied while there should be a high index of suspicion of clinical infections in titres above 80 when a second serum is impractical. This will improve accurate diagnosis. Improving accurate diagnosis is the surest way to reverse the deteriorating health status of Nigerians. INTRODUCTION Salmonella typhi is a bacterium that causes typhoid fever (enteric fever). Typhoid fever is an acute, life-threatening febrile illness caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi (CDC, 2008). Typhoid fever is a global infection with a fatality rate of 10%. The disease is a cause for concern and a major public health problem in developing countries (Asia, Africa), especially in Nigeria due to poor sanitary conditions and lack of or inadequate potable water (Anita et al., 2002; Doughari, 2005). The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated an annual infectious rate of 21.6 million and approximate death rate of 600 000 with the highest percentage in Africa and Asia. (WHO, 2008). Typhoid (enteric) fever caused by S. typhi is an endemic disease in the tropic and sub-tropic and has become a major public health problem in developing countries of the world with an estimated annual incidence of 540 per 100,000. It is often encountered in tropical countries including Nigeria where they constitute serious sources of morbidities and mortalities. It is caused by S. typhi. Gram negative bacteria which are motile, though non-flagellate variants occur. Capsules are not formed. They are intestinal pathogens which comprises a species S. typhi which causes an enteric fever known as typhoid fever (Philip, 2000). S. typhi has somatic antigens and glycolipid microcapsule the VI or virulence antigen. Phage typing can distinguish different strains of the organism. Enteric fever caused by S. typhi is often
Introduction: This study examines and reports the prevalence of plasmodium species between gender of freshmen (first year
students) of Nnamdi Azikwe University, Akwa, South-Eastern, Nigeria. Blood film examination for malaria parasites in
200 (100.0%) freshmen; 82 (41.0%) males and 118 (59.0%) females was carried out over a 6-month period. Microscopic
examinations of both thick and thin blood films techniques were employed for this study. A high malaria parasite
prevalence rate of 80% was noted in these subjects. Of the 200 samples examined, 160 (80.0%) were Plasmodiumpositive. There was a female preponderance (F/M 2:1). A higher Plasmodium prevalence was recorded amongst
females 102 (86.4%) than in the males 58 (70.7%) and there was no significant increase in malaria infection rate in any
particular sex (P=0.05). Plasmodium falciparum was the most prevalent of all the other species. This study also shows
that a good percentage of people were infested by malaria with P. falciparum [134 (83.8%)] being the most prevalent
species, followed by P. malariae [14 (8.9%)], P. vivax [8 (5.0%)] and P. ovale [4 (2.5%)]. P. ovale was only found among
the female subjects and none was found among the male subjects. The findings of this study are of a practical impact,
with female subjects having the highest proportion of parasitic contamination. The higher prevalence of malaria
Plasmodium found in this study could be attributed to the stagnant drainage systems in the University, which created
favorable environmental conditions for the breeding of mosquitoes that act as vectors of malaria parasites and so this
enhances the proliferation of the Plasmodium. It could also be attributed to the effect of climatic features on vector
breeding and transmission. Wet season usually promote mosquito breeding. Also, the prevalence of P. falciparum could
be attributed to its ability to resist attack of most drugs that are commonly in use in the study area. However, there
should be a high index for the needs to take appropriate measures aimed at preventing malaria by intensifying efforts in
mosquitoes eradication program through operation roll back malaria in Africa, especially in Nigeria.
Introduction: This study examines and reports the prevalence of plasmodium species between gender of freshmen (first year
students) of Nnamdi Azikwe University, Akwa, South-Eastern, Nigeria. Blood film examination for malaria parasites in
200 (100.0%) freshmen; 82 (41.0%) males and 118 (59.0%) females was carried out over a 6-month period. Microscopic
examinations of both thick and thin blood films techniques were employed for this study. A high malaria parasite
prevalence rate of 80% was noted in these subjects. Of the 200 samples examined, 160 (80.0%) were Plasmodiumpositive. There was a female preponderance (F/M 2:1). A higher Plasmodium prevalence was recorded amongst
females 102 (86.4%) than in the males 58 (70.7%) and there was no significant increase in malaria infection rate in any
particular sex (P=0.05). Plasmodium falciparum was the most prevalent of all the other species. This study also shows
that a good percentage of people were infested by malaria with P. falciparum [134 (83.8%)] being the most prevalent
species, followed by P. malariae [14 (8.9%)], P. vivax [8 (5.0%)] and P. ovale [4 (2.5%)]. P. ovale was only found among
the female subjects and none was found among the male subjects. The findings of this study are of a practical impact,
with female subjects having the highest proportion of parasitic contamination. The higher prevalence of malaria
Plasmodium found in this study could be attributed to the stagnant drainage systems in the University, which created
favorable environmental conditions for the breeding of mosquitoes that act as vectors of malaria parasites and so this
enhances the proliferation of the Plasmodium. It could also be attributed to the effect of climatic features on vector
breeding and transmission. Wet season usually promote mosquito breeding. Also, the prevalence of P. falciparum could
be attributed to its ability to resist attack of most drugs that are commonly in use in the study area. However, there
should be a high index for the needs to take appropriate measures aimed at preventing malaria by intensifying efforts in
mosquitoes eradication program through operation roll back malaria in Africa, especially in Nigeria.
Introduction: The bacteriological examination of chronic osteomyelitis cases in Ile-Ife, revealed Proteus mirabilis as the predominant isolate encountered (23.1%). Staphylococci constituted 30.7% of the total bacterial isolates with Staphylococcus aureus accounting for only 10.2%. Other Gram-positive cocci cultured include, Staphylococcus spp (20.5%), coagulase negative staphylococci (CONS) (12.8%) and Streptococcus spp (1.2%). Gram-negative rods constituted 55.1% of the total isolates with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being 8.5%, Escherichia coli 5.1%, Citrobacter freundii and Salmonella spp 2.5% each. Antibiotic sensitivity test revealed all isolates to be multi-resistant to traditional antimicrobials, which is of epidemiologcal importance in treating cases of chronic osteomyelitis in this environment. The study suggests institution of aggressive therapeutic interventions to avert possible sequalae.
Introduction: The production of polygalacturonase during the deterioration of tomato fruits by Rhizopus arrhizus Fisher. was investigated. The enzyme was partially purified by a combination of ammonium sulphate precipitation, gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography. Optimum activity of the polygalacturonase was at 35 °C , pH 4.5 and the substrate concentration at half maximum velocity (km values ) for the hydrolysis of pectin by the polygalacturonase fractions (Da, Db and Ea ) were 3.8, 2.8 and 2.9 mg/ml. The enzyme was stimulated by Na+, K+, Ca²+ and Mg²+ but inhibited by EDTA, DNP and HgCI2. The enzyme was highly susceptible to heat, losing all its activity within thirty minutes of heating at 70 °C.
Introduction: Asymptomatic bacteriuria presents a considerable risk to the mother and may lead to onset of acute pyelonephritis in about 5% of pregnant women and also increase the risk of fetal mortality. Apart from one previous study, no other study has been carried out in this environment hence our study. The objectives are to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria amongst pregnant women in the three trimesters of pregnancy, to isolate and characterize the bacteria agents involved in this condition and recommend methods of reducing incidence and possible attendant sequalae. A descriptive study with purposive sampling carried out at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife Southwestern Nigeria between May 2000 and April 2001 examined two hundred and one consecutive pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic. This included women in the three trimesters of pregnancy. Those with urinary tract infections were excluded. Each subject was given a sterile universal bottle and requested to collect midstream urine. Each sample was plated onto Cystein-Lactose-Electrolyte-Deficient (CLED) medium and chocolate agar (CA). The major bacterial colonies were isolated and characterized employing standard bacteriologic methods. The prevalence rate was 26%. Staphylococcus aureus was predominant (43.8%), of which 68.8% were beta-lactamase producers. Forty six point six percent of total isolates were Gram-negative rods; Klebsiella pneumoniae (6.8%), Escherichia coli (4.5%), Citrobacter freundii (4.5%) and others. The study recorded a relatively high prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria. While the bacterial isolates were multi-resistant to drugs traditionally employed to treat uropathogens, they were relatively sensitive to nitrofuratoin in vitro. Because of the high prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria, we recommend routine screening for this condition in all antenatal clinics in this environment to reduce the incidence and probable attendant sequalae.
Introduction: Within ten days of incubation, freshly ripe tomato fruits (Ibadan local variety) obtained from a local market in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria had completely deteriorated and proteins which possessed cellulolytic activity were released. The enzyme was partially purified by a combination of ammonium sulphate precipitation, molecular exclusion chromatography and ion-exchange chromatography. The enzyme was stimulated to varying degrees by Ca++, Mg++, Na+ and K+ but was inhibited by ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid, 2, 4-dinitrophenol and mercuric chloride.
Introduction: The production of polygalacturonase during the deterioration of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) by Rhizopus arrhizus Fisher was investigated. The enzyme was partially purified by a combination of ammonium sulphate precipitation, gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography. Two peaks of absorption, with molecular weight estimates of approximately 166 000 Daltons and 60 260 Daltons were obtained.
Introduction: Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) fruits obtained from the local market in Sango Ota, Ogun State,
Nigeria were inoculated with Aspergillus niger from cultures grown in the laboratory and incubated
under appropriate conditions of temperature and moisture to initiate infection for seven days. Extensive
lesions and subsequent collapse of the tomato fruits inoculated with A. niger occurred within a week of
incubation. The uninoculated fruits retained the bright red color and remained firm throughout the
seven days. The pH and the probable implication of the results obtained from this research work can be
very useful in utilizing tomato fruits in tomato processing companies in Nigeria.
Introduction: Within eight days of incubation at room temperature (27oC), tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruits infected with Penicillium funiculosum Thom. had deteriorated. Extracts from the infected fruits exhibited cellulase activity. Uninfected fruits lacked cellulase activity. The enzyme was partially purified by a combination of gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography. On separation by molecular exclusion chromatography, two peaks of absorption with molecular weight estimates of 223,800 Daltons and 89,100 Daltons were obtained. Only the components of the peak with the lighter weight exhibited cellulase activity. The enzyme showed optimum activity at pH 4.5 and 40oC. Na+ ions and Ca++ ions stimulated enzyme activity while EDTA and Hg++ ions were inhibitory. The apparent km for the hydrolysis of carboxymethylcellulose was approximately 0.53 mgml-1. The occurrence of cellulase in tomato fruits infected with P. funiculosumThom. and its absence in uninfected fruits suggests a role of this enzyme in pathogenicity of the fungus. Cellulolytic components of the fruits are degraded, the fruits are deteriorated and lost to this post harvest pathogen. Knowledge of the conditions of growth of this fungus and properties of this enzyme will assist the farmer in optimizing production of these fruits and engaging the best conditions for preservation.
Introduction: Studies were carried out to determine the prevalence of malaria parasite infection among infants and children (0-12yrs) in Ota, Southwestern Nigeria between April and December 2008. The two hospitals used were Ota General Hospital and Covenant University Health Centre, Canaanland, Ota. Thick and thin films were made and stained using standard parasitological procedures. Structured Questionnaires were distributed to ascertain the age, sex, drugs or insecticides used and state of health of the subjects before recruiting them into the study. Overall, 215 (80.5%) of the 267 children investigated were found to have malaria infection. Age group (0-5 years) had the highest frequency rate of 84.7% with mean parasite density of 900 and the difference between the age groups was statistically significant (p<0.05). Children of illiterates from suburb villages had the highest mean parasite density of 850 with 78.1% prevalence rate. 20% of the children were given local herbs and 22% used orthodox medicine as prophylaxis. Only 18% used insecticide treated mosquito nets while 24% of the parents spray insecticides to prevent mosquito bites. There is therefore need for more awareness on effective use of drugs and Insecticide Treated bed nets in malaria hyperendemic regions.
Introduction: Studies were carried out on four different Species of wild mushrooms: Lentinus subnudus, Chlorophyllum molybditis, Marasmus species and Pleurotus tuberregium. The fungal species were analyzed for their nutritional compositions, biological and Structural characteristics. The fungal species were rich in proteins (amino acids) and carbohydrates. The fibres contained in the different species were also good sources of roughages. Moreover, their low acidity confirms their edibility. This study strongly recommends the commercialization of mushroom production as a means of additional source of protein requirements and income to the people in the developing economy of Nigeria.
Introduction: Tomato fruits infected by Aspergillus flavus Linn produced proteins with cellulolytic activity. The enzyme was partially purified by Ammonium Sulphate Precipitation, Gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography. Three peaks of absorption A, B and C were obtained. Peak B had Cellulase activity with molecular weight of approximately 30,200 Daltons while Peaks A and C lacked Cellulase activity. Elution of components of Peak B on CM Sephadex C-25 produced four peaks of absorption designated Ba, Bb, Bc and Bd. Only components of Peaks Bb and Bc possessed Cellulase activity. Purification folds of approximately 80 and 81 were obtained for components of Peaks Bb and Bc respectively for Cellulase of A. flavus. The apparent Km values for the hydrolysis of carboxymethylcellulose by A.flavus Cellulase fractions, Bb and Bc were approximately 16.7 and 15.4mg/ml respectively. The partially purified enzyme preparations obtained from A.flavus during the deterioration of tomato fruits caused tissue maceration and cellular death. This result can be very useful in splitting and solubilization of pectic substances and pathogenicity.
Introduction: Women form the largest percentage of sellers and buyers in markets all over the world. There are lots of benefits to be derived from guava (Psidium guajava Linn.) fruits but a large percentage of guava fruits produced annually are lost to pre harvest deterioration caused by microorganisms. Four fungal pathogens, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus sp., Fusarium sp., Penicillium sp. and yeast cells were found to be associated with pre-harvest deterioration of Guava (P. guajava Linn.) in Ota, Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. A. niger, Penicillium sp. and yeast cells were the most prevalent while Penicillium sp. was the most pathogenic, inducing a rot of 61 mm in diameter within seven days of incubation. The ash and moisture contents of the uninfected fruits were higher than that of the infected ones. The results of this present investigation could be utilized in juice making industries in Nigeria as well as for the local women who deal directly with the selling and buying of these fruits in our markets.
Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from an individual with acne. The isolate was Gram positive, spherical and in clusters, golden yellow on mannitol salt agar and non spore forming. Biochemical tests showed that it was unable to hydrolyze gelatin but able to ferment glucose, galactose and mannitol. It produced catalase and coagulase enzymes. It was able to utilize citrate as sole carbon source but was indole negative. It was Methyl Red positive and Voges-Proskauer negative. It was sensitive to gentamicin, tetracycline, amoxicillin, augmentin, chloramphenicol and sulphamethoxazole but resistant to ampicillin, erythromycin, cloxacillin, cotrimoxazole, streptomycin and penicillin.
Introduction: Microorganisms, especially bacteria are the major causes of spoilage in fresh fish. In the coastal areas of developing tropical countries where ambient temperatures are usually high and access to modern preservation and processing technologies is low, fish is often left under ambient conditions for long periods after capture, resulting in quality deterioration and spoilage with attendant increases in post harvest losses. This study was carried out to identify, characterize and estimate the number of colony forming units (CFU) of microorganisms associated with freshly slaughtered African catfish, Clarias gariepinus held at ambient temperatures. Microorganisms were isolated from the flesh, gills, guts, mouth and skin of fish samples at successive 6-hour intervals post-slaughter for 42 hours when the fish were adjudged spoilt by a 5-member trained assessment panel. Determination of viable bacterial count was carried out by introducing aliquots of three dilutions of samples into nutrient agar plates, incubating at 37oC for 24hrs and counting the number of CFU. Microorganisms were thereafter identified using colonial and morphological characteristics and biochemical tests. Organoleptic assessment of fish samples were carried out by a 5-man trained panel. Results showed that a total of eleven microorganisms of pathogenic and/or spoilage importance were isolated at various intervals from fish samples, including Acinetobacter spp, Bacillus subtilis, B. megaterium, Citrobacter freundii, Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, K. pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas lundensis and Staphylococcus aureus. Generally the number of CFU from various parts of fish increased significantly (P < 0.05) as time interval increased.
Introduction: A research work was carried out on diseased carrots obtained from the main Sango Ota market to isolate microorganisms associated with post harvest deterioration of carrots. Small portions (2 x 5mm) of the diseased parts of carrots were aseptically inoculated on Nutrient agar and Saboraud agar incubated at 37OC and 26OC respectively. The fungal species isolated were Aspergillus niger, Penicillium notatum, Mucor spp. and Fusarium spp. and they were identified using morphology and microscopy. The bacterial species isolated were Bacillus spp., Leuconostoc spp., Xanthomonas spp and Klebsiella spp and they were identified using microscopy, morphology and various Biochemical tests. Extracellular enzyme production was carried out on the isolates to test for their ability to elaborate Amylase and Protease. All the isolates except Aspergillus niger produced Amylase. Leuconostoc spp., Xanthomonas spp., Klebsiella spp. and Aspergillus niger elaborated Protease. The results of this present investigation with further studies on carrots can be utilized in carrot juice production which is not commonly available in Nigeria.
Introduction: Pectinase is used commercially in the clarification and extraction of fruit juice from different fruits. Green apples and Red apples obtained from the fruits section of a supermarket, Idiroko road, Ota were surface sterilized and inoculated with Aspergillus niger. The stock culture was subcultured on Sabouraud Dextrose agar plates and 72-hr-old culture of Aspergillus niger served as the inoculum. The fruits were incubated for twenty-five days at room temperature (25 °C). Control fruits were similarly treated except that sterile inoculum was used for the inoculation. Extracts from the inoculated fruits exhibited appreciable polygalacturonase activity while those from the uninoculated fruits possessed only traces of the enzyme activity. The polygalacturonase obtained after enzyme extraction was applied to freshly ripe apple fruits under controlled experimental conditions to investigate the role of polygalacturonase in the production of apple juice. The juice in the cylinder to which polygalacturonase was added was visually clearer and more than that with distilled water. The optimum temperature of incubation for the clarification of apple fruits with polygalacturonase obtained from apple fruits deteriorated by Aspergillus niger was 25 °C.
Introduction: Escherichia coli were isolated from water from two boreholes in Ile Ife, Osun state, Nigeria. This was an indication of faecal contamination. These strains of Escherichia coli were Gram negative short rods, Catalase positive, Methyl red positive, Voges Proskaeur negative. The strains could ferment glucose galactose, sucrose, lactose, mannitol and maltose with the production of acid and gas but could not hydrolyze starch. A particular strain was resistant to sulfamethoxazole, ampicillin, cotrimoxazole, cephaloridine, streptomycin, carbenicillin, sulfafurazole and tetracycline but sensitive to gentamicin, colistin, nalidixic acid, nitrofurantoin and colistin sulphate
Introduction: Studies were carried out to determine the antiplasmodial activity of crude n-hexane and ethanolic seed extracts of Moringa oleifera using cold extraction method. Twenty-four albino mice (Mus musculus) induced intraperitoneally with chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium berghei strain were divided into 4 groups and treated at three concentrations viz: 50, 100 and 200 ml/kg. Positive control was set up with chloroquine diphosphate while negative control was set up with olive oil. The mice models were treated for 72 h. For the ethanolic extract, a parasite inhibition rate of 61% was observed at concentration 50 ml/kg, 65% at concentration 100 ml/kg and 100% at concentration 200 ml/kg in day 3 after treatment. In n-hexane extract of the seeds of M. oleifera, plasmodial inhibition rate of 61% was observed at concentration 50 ml/kg, 70% at concentration 100 ml/kg and 97% at concentration 200 ml/kg after treatment for 72 h. A 100% inhibition rate was observed for mice treated with 25 mg/kg of standard chloroquine diphosphate after day 3 of treatment while parasitaemia increased from 48 on day 0 to 86 after day 3 for mice treated with olive oil. Overall, crude ethanolic extract of M. oleifera seed showed higher parasite inhibition activity than the crude n-hexane extract
Introduction: Background: Plasmodium falciparum the main causative agent of malaria is an important public health vector. With the use of PCR, its genetic diversity has been extensively studied with dearth information from Nigeria.
Methods: In this study, 100 P. falciparum strains merozoite surface protein 1( msp-1), merozoite surface protein 2 (msp-2) and Glutamate rich protein (Glurp) from Ogun State General Hospitals were characterized. The genetic diversity of P. falciparum isolates was analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism following gel electrophoresis of DNA products from nested polymerase chain reactions (PCR) of their respective allelic families KI, MAD 20, RO33 (MSP-1);FC27, 3D7 (MSP-2) and Glutamate rich protein respectively.
Results: Majority of the patients showed monoclonal infections while multiplicity of the infection for msp-1 and msp-2 were 1.1 and 1.2 respectively. The estimated number of genotypes was 8 msp-1 (4 KI; 3 MAD; 1 RO33) and 6 msp-2 (3 FC27; 3 3D7). 80% of the isolates coded for Glurp with allelic size ranged between 700 and 900 bp.
Conclusion: The allelic distributions however were similar to those previously reported in other endemic malaria countries. Future studies will be designed to include other malaria endemic regions of Nigeria such as the oil exploration regions.
Introduction: The resistance of human malaria parasites to antimalarial compounds has become of considerable concern, particularly in view of the shortage of novel classes of antimalarial drugs. One way to prevent resistance is by using new compounds that are not based on existing synthetic antimicrobial agents. Sensitivity of one hundred (100) P. falciparum isolates to chloroquine, quinine, amodiaquine, mefloquine, sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine, artemisinin, Momordica charantia (Ejirin,) Diospyros monbuttensis (Eegun eja) and Morinda lucida (Oruwo) was determined using the in-vitro microtest (Mark III) technique to determine the IC50 of the drugs. All the isolates tested were sensitive to Quinine, Mefloquine and Artesunate. Only 51% of the isolates were resistant to chloroquine, 13% to amodiaquine and 5% to sulphadoxine pyrimethamine respectively. Highest resistance to chloroquine (68.9%) was recorded among isolates from Yewa zone while highest resistance to amodiaquine (30%) was observed in Ijebu zone. Highest resistance to sulphadoxine and pyrimethamine was recorded in Yewa and Egba zones respectively. A significant positive correlation was observed between the responses to artemisinin and mefloquine (P=0.001), artemisinin and quinine (P=0.05), Quinine and mefloquine (P= 0.01). A significant negative correlation was observed between the responses to chloroquine and mefloquine (P=0.05). Highest antiplasmodial activity was obtained with the ethanolic extract of Diospyros monbuttensis (IC50 = 32 µg/ml) while the lowest was obtained from Morinda lucida (IC50 =250 µg/ml). Natural products isolated from plants used in traditional medicine, which have potent antiplasmodial action in vitro, represents potential sources of new antimalarial drugs.
Introduction: The widespread of drug resistant Plasmodium falciparum has led to a rise in malaria-associated mortality most especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Falciparum malaria was confirmed by microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood samples of patients who presented with fever in selected State Hospitals in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. Molecular methods were employed to detect the markers of resistance of P. falciparum to Chloroquine, sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine,and artesunate in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. DNA was extracted from patient blood using the QiaAmp DNA Blood Minikit extraction method. Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction followed by Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (PCR/RFLP) were used for the detection of P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (Pfcrt), P. falciparum multidrug resistance 1 (pfmdr1), P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (Pfdhfr), P. falciparum dihydropteroate synthase (Pfdhps) and P. falciparum sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium-dependent ATPase (SERCA) PfATPase6 genes. Pfcrt (K76T ) Pfmdr1 (mdr 1 ) Pfdhfr (S108N), and Pfdhps (K540E) resistant genes were detected among the isolates while resistant SERCAPfATPase6 gene which codes for artemisinin resistance was not detected in the population.
Introduction: Lycopene is the carotenoid which gives tomatoes and other red fruits their characteristic colour. It is one of the most powerful antioxidants and singlet oxygen quenching agents. It has been found to be of great medical importance with various anticancer effects and its ability to ameliorate several other medical conditions. Freshly ripe tomato fruits of the Roma vf variety and the Ibadan local variety were allowed to deteriorate after infection with a 96-hr-old culture of Aspergillus niger. Extraction of cell wall degrading enzymes produced during the deterioration process was carried out ten days after inoculation of the tomato fruits. The crude enzymes were precipitated using ammonium sulphate precipitation technique and employed in the extraction of lycopene from tomato peels. The yield of lycopene was 45.25mg/kg and 45.86mg/kg for enzymes extracted from the Roma vf and the Ibadan local varieties of tomato fruits respectively. This study established an improvement in lycopene extraction with crude preparation of cell wall degrading enzymes and compared the yield from the two enzymes obtained from the two most commonly available varieties of tomato fruits in Nigerian markets.
Introduction: The ability of microorganisms to cause grape (Vitis vinifera) fruit deterioration by production of pectinolytic and proteolytic enzymes to degrade the plant cell was carried out in the Microbiology laboratory of the Department of Biological Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. A bunch of grape fruit was purchased from a local market in Ikeja, Lagos, South West, Nigeria. These samples were allowed to rot for five days in a clear packaging bag. The grape samples were disinfected and cultured on nutrient agar and potato dextrose agar for bacterial and fungal isolates respectively. The morphological and microscopic characteristics of the isolates in combination with a series of biochemical tests were used to identify them. The isolates were tested for their ability to produce pectinolytic and proteolytic enzymes. Aspergillus sp, Mucor sp, Rhizopus sp., Micrococcus sp., and Bacillus sp. were the organisms isolated from this study. The results of this investigation revealed appreciable pectinolytic, and proteolytic enzymes by Aspergillus niger and Bacillus sp. These organisms can be utilized as good sources of industrial enzymes.
Keywords: Grape (Vitis vinifera) fruits; Pectinase, Protease, Fungal isolates and Bacterial isolate.
Introduction: Lycopene is the carotenoid which gives tomatoes and other red fruits their characteristic colour. It is one of the most powerful antioxidants and singlet oxygen-quenching agents. Lycopene has been found to be of great medical importance, having various anticancer effects and it is able to ameliorate several other medical conditions. Lycopene had also been found to be very useful in the food industry where it is used as food additives, colourant and functional food. Lycopene, has been the focus of considerable attention for its potential health benefits (Shi et al. 2002; Rao and Rao, 2004). Results from epidemiological and experimental studies support the view that lycopene may provide protection against cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer (Giovannucci, 2005; Omoni and Aluko, 2005). Lavecchia and Zuorro (2011) reported the growing demand for natural lycopene and therefore considerable interest has been directed to the possibility of obtaining lycopene from tomato processing waste. This growing demand for natural lycopene has led us to device an alternative means for the extraction of lycopene using enzymes.
Introduction: A total of forty samples of hand swabs obtained from female and male students' palms at Covenant University, Ota were studied and examined for the presence of S. aureus. The samples were inoculated on Mannitol Salt agar (MSA) and incubated at 37oC for 24h and 48h. Colonies which appeared yellow on MSA were subjected for further tests. Macroscopic examination indicated that the organism was Gram positive after the Grams staining technique and that they appeared in clusters and spherical (coccoid) in shape under the microscope. The isolates were characterized using several biochemical tests. The organism fermented Glucose, Lactose, and Sucrose with acid production without gas and Starch with gas production only. The isolates were susceptible to Ciprofloxacin, Gentamycin, Pefloxacin and Amoxycillin but resistant to Erythromycin, Ceftriazone and Cotrimoxazole antibiotics. The effect of hand treatments on the microbial flora of the palms were studied and washing of hands thoroughly with soap, water and using an alcohol based hand sanitizer can prevent the spread of staphylococcus skin infections.
Introduction: Quality drinking water is of basic importance to human physiology and man
’
s
continued existence depends much on its availability. Water samples from different outlets and
homes in Ado Odo - Ota Local Government, Ogun state, Nigeria were analyzed for their
microbiological and physiochemical properties. Total viable count was assessed by the pour plate
technique, while physiochemical evaluations was carried out using Standard Chemical Methods
such as pH analysis, physical appearances, Total Dissolved Solid (TDS), as well as tests for
chloride, sulphate, calcium, zinc and oxidizable substances. All the water samples were found to
harbor coliforms in numbers greater than the required World Health Organization (WHO) and the
Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) standards for water. The total viable counts for all the
water samples were generally high, exceeding the limit of 1.0 × 102
cfu/ml for water, while all the
samples tested passed the physicochemical tests except the test for chloride.
Introduction: In this investigation, a defined medium was inoculated with Candida albicans and Fusarium sp. Incubation was at 28oC. The composition of the medium was potassium dihydrogen sulphate, magnesium sulphate, calcium sulphate, hydrated iron sulphate, manganese sulphate, copper sulphate, zinc sulphate, thiamine, biotin, sodium nitrate (nitrogen source) and galactose (carbon source). Proteins which exhibited
Introduction: Studies were carried out on deteriorated apples obtained from the Just Rite supermarket, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria, to isolate microorganisms associated with post-harvest deterioration of apple (Malus domestica) fruits. The bacterial species were identified using microscopy, morphology and various biochemical tests while macroscopy and morphology was used to identify the fungi isolated. The ability of the isolate to elaborate extracellular amylase and protease were tested for. Results revealed Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus as the fungal species while the bacterial species isolated were Bacillus spp and Micrococcus spp. All the isolates except Aspergillus niger produced amylase in substantial amount. Micrococcus spp, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus produced protease. The results of this investigation if combined with further studies can be used in identifying organisms which could be used as a biological method in the control of apple pathogens.
Introduction: The resistance of human malaria parasites to anti-malarial compounds has become considerable concern, particularly in view of the shortage of novel classes of anti-malarial drugs. One way to prevent resistance is by using new compounds that are not based on existing synthetic antimicrobial agents.
Introduction: The effects of exposing juveniles of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) to two commonly used herbicides were studied over 8 weeks. Some fish biochemical parameters were evaluated over the period of the experiment. Fractionated concentrations of glyphosate (0.0265, 0.053 and 0.106 mg L-l) and paraquat (0.0035, 0.007 and 0.014 mg L-l) were administered to fish juveniles for eight weeks. These concentrations represent fractions of the 96 h LC50 which was determined in an earlier study. Antioxidant enzymes were analysed in the liver of the fish every fortnight. Comparing with the control, significant increases (p<0.05) in enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and in glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were observed. These parameters were however not all concentration and time dependent. The result revealed that the two herbicides caused changes in fish antioxidant enzymes, as such could be useful in forestalling the ecotoxic effects of similar chemicals in the environmental xenobiotics
Introduction: There are different varieties of Apple fruits which have resulted from natural cross-pollination involving different species. Apples are often eaten in a raw fresh form, sometimes baked or stewed for other uses. They have some beneficial purposes such as helping in preventing the growth of prostate cancer, improving bowel function and regulating blood sugar. The activity of enzymes is usually affected by factors such as temperature, pH, substrate concentration, and enzyme concentration. The effect of enzyme concentration on pectinase obtained from the deterioration of three different varieties of apple fruits by Aspergillus niger was therefore investigated. A 72-hours-old culture of Aspergillus niger subcultured onto fresh Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) plates was inoculated into three different varieties of fresh Apple fruits obtained from a Supermarket along Idiroko road, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. The fruits were surface sterilized, inoculated with the fungi and o incubated at room temperature of 27 C. They were monitored for complete deterioration over twelve days. Pectinase obtained from the deteriorated fruits was used in clarifying apple juice from the different varieties of apple fruits with different volume of enzyme. Equivalent volume of water was also treated in like manner. The same experiment was carried out for commercial pectinase in comparison with the laboratory-produced – pectinase was also more effective than the commercially produced enzyme. The result of this investigation will be very useful in the production of commercial pectinase obtained from fungal deterioration.
Introduction: This study was carried out to determine the growth and production of amylase by Aspergillus
chevalieri in a defined medium. A. chevalieri was grown in a synthetic medium containing starch as the sole carbon source. Culture filtrate exhibited amylase activity. Optimum enzyme activity was observed on the tenth day of incubation. The presence of NaCl and MgCl2 stimulated amylase activity while EDTA and HgCl2 in the reaction mixture caused a reduction in the activity of the enzyme. The activity of the enzyme was optimum at 35oC and pH 6.5. The amylase of Aspergillus chevalieri was heat labile, losing its activity completely after twenty minutes of heating at 70 oC. The amylase produced by this fungus is of significance in the brewing industry and pharmaceuticals. The observed properties would aid in preserving the enzyme and knowing optimum conditions for activity to assist in maximizing industrial output.
Introduction: Aspergillus niger is a saprophytic fungus existing ubiquitously in the soil and on decaying vegetation. Various researchers have reported Aspergillus niger as frequently responsible for postharvest decay of fresh fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, melons, onions and some vegetables. The fungus has been implicated in the deterioration of apple fruits with the production of Pectinolytic enzymes during the breakdown of the plant cell wall by microbial attack. The three varieties of apple (Malus domestica) fruits used for this work are commonly referred to as Red, Green and Yellow varieties from their physical appearance. The fruits were obtained from a grocery store along Idiroko road, Ota, Ogun State in Nigeria. The fruits were disinfected and inoculated with a 72-h-old culture of A. niger. Control fruits were inoculated with sterile inoculum. The fruits were incubated at room temperature of 27oC for twelve days. Extracts from the inoculated fruits exhibited appreciable polygalacturonase activity while those from the uninoculated fruits possessed only traces of the enzyme activity. The enzyme obtained from the deteriorated fruits and commercially produced pectinase were applied for the clarification of freshly ripe apple fruits under controlled experimental conditions at different temperatures (20oC, 25oC, 30oC, 35oC, 40oC and 45oC) to investigate the role of pectinase in the clarification of apple juice. The temperature of incubation had different effects on the three varieties of apple fruits studied. The volume of juice was more in the cylinders with the enzyme clarification at all temperatures than that with water. The optimum temperature was at 25oC for the three varieties green and red apples. The commercial pectinase produced more juice than the crude pectinase.
Introduction: The thermal and antimicrobial properties of air drying polyesteramide-urethanes (hybrid) synthesized from Thevetia peruviana (a tropical and underutilized ornamental shrub) seed oil (TPSO) were evaluated. Physico-chemical characterizations (such as hydroxyl value, iodine value, saponification value, refractive index, inherent viscosity) of the resins were carried out using standard procedures. The polyesteramide was synthesized by reacting N, N'- bis(2- hydroxyethyl) Thevetia peruviana (I-IETA) [a product of aminolysis of TPSO] with Isophoronediisocyanate (IPDI). FTIR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopic methods were used in structural .elucidation of the air dried hybrid urethanes. Antimicrobial activities as well as thermal stability (using TGA and DSC) of the coating films were evaluated. The SEM micrograph of the hybrid film and corrosion inhibitive test was also exa.rilined.
Introduction: This paper describes the antimicrobial and corrosion inhibitive properties of synthesized polyesteramide resin from Moringa oleifera seed oil (MOSO). N,N'-bis (2-hydroxyethyl) Moringa oleifera oil fatty amide (HEMA) was synthesized via aminolysis from MOSO. The fatty amide obtained from aminolysis (HEMA) undergoes polycondensation reaction with adipic acid to form polyesteramide (MOPEA). The synthesized polyesteramide resin was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), Carbon 13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) spectroscopic analyses and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Selected physico-chemical parameters of MOSO, HEMA and MOPEA were examined. Coating performance, thermal stability and antimicrobial properties of the cured resin (MOPEA) were evaluated.
Introduction: Chitinases are hydrolytic enzymes that break down the glycosidic bonds in chitin. The role of Chitinases in the
treatment and prevention of various diseases have been reported. They have been implicated in the human health care for the
treatment of fungal infections, in Asthma and in the control of mosquito which causes the deadly malaria disease accounting
for about 70% of infant mortality in Africa. Chitinase was obtained from chitinolytic bacteria inhabiting the skin and gut of
the African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus). Bacterial population Isolated from catfish was screened on colloidal-chitin agar
medium. The ability to produce Chitinase was determined by zones of hydrolysis produced after 96h of incubation at 37oC.
Isolation of chitinase was carried out with colloidal chitin as substrate in sodium phosphate buffer. Optimum conditions were
therefore ascertained at a temperature of 500C and a substrate concentration of 0.15g for chitinase produced by bacteria spp
(isolate code 17 and 36) while pH 5.5 was obtained for isolate code 36 and pH 6.0 for isolate code 17. The Michaelis –
Mentens constant (Km) which is also known as the dissociation constant is the substrate concentration at half maximum
velocity. Calculated from the Lineweaver-Burk plot, the apparent Km values for the hydrolysis of chitin by chitinolytic
bacterial isolate code 36 and isolate code 17 were approximately 0.09mg/ml and 0.007mg/ml respectively. Isolation of DNA
and PCR amplification carried out identified the bacteria as a member of the genus Bacillus. This study established that
species of Bacillus inhabiting the gut and skin of the African catfish can be used for Chitinase production in appreciable
quantity.
Introduction: Aspergillus niger is a soil saprobe and produces a wide array of hydrolytic and oxidative enzymes and cell wall degrading enzymes. An investigation on the various properties of partially purified polygalacturonase and cellulase enzymes extracted from tomato fruits deteriorated by Aspergillus niger was carried out in this study. The results obtained shows that temperature, pH and substrate concentration have a profound effect on enzyme activity. The molecular weights of the enzymes extracted also suggest that it may be species dependent
Introduction: There is a need for locally produced xylanase because of its vast importance and high cost of importation. Xylanase is used for many industrial processes such as for baking, bleaching paper pulp, bioethanol production and juice clarification. This study was therefore carried out to examine the potentials of tomato pomace as part of the growth medium for xylanase production. The objectives are to identify the specific activities of xylanase from the basal salt medium and the tomato pomace medium and to determine the Partial Purification of xylanase obtained from tomato pomace medium inoculated with A.niger This study isolated xylanase from A. niger on tomato pomace medium. The xylanase was partially purified and characterized. A. niger was obtained from deteriorated banana (Musa acuminata) fruit. A 72-h-old culture of A. niger was employed as the inoculum. It was inoculated onto Tomato pomace medium and a basal salt. Xylanase production was carried out after four days at room temperature (27 oC). Xylanase activity was determined by measuring the released reducing sugar (xylose). The specific activities of xylanase from the basal salt medium and the tomato pomace medium were 3.6 U/mg and 2.0 U/mg respectively. Partial purification of xylanase was by Ammonium sulphate precipitation. Optimum substrate concentration of 0.5mg/ml and a purification fold of 4.3 were obtained. The Michael is Menten constant (Km) from the Line-weaver burk plot was approximately 0.50mg/ml. This study established appreciable activity of xylanase from the A. niger used. It is therefore a potential organism for the utilization of tomato waste for xylanase production.
Introduction: Despite progress in the development of antibacterial agents, there are still special needs to find new antibacterial agents due to the development of multidrug resistance by bacteria and fungi.This study was conducted to investigate and compare the in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities of the methanolic and ethanolic extracts of the leaves of Chrysophyllumalbidum and Diospyrosmonbuttensis.Methanolic and ethanolic extracts of D. monbuttensis and C. albidum leaves were prepared using cold extraction method. Antimicrobial sensitivity testing was carried out using agar-well diffusion method against the following test organisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sp., Escherichia coli (Enteropathogenic), Klebsiellasp., Candida albicans and Aspergillusniger. Minimum inhibitory concentration of the extracts of D. monbuttensis and C. albidum leaves was determined using broth dilution method. S.aureus, Streptococcus sp., E. coli andKlebsiellasp. were sensitive to ethanolic leaf extract of C. albidum at 25, 50 and 100mg/ml respectively. Streptococcus sp.,E. coli (Enteropathogenic), Klebsiellasp. AndC. albicanswere sensitive to C. albidum at 25and 50mg/ml. A. niger showed resistance to both extracts at the different concentrations used. The MIC of the methanol and ethanol leaf extracts of D. monbuttensis and C. albidum against the test microorganisms ranged between 3.125 and 100mg/ml. This is indicative that D. monbuttensis and C. albidum leaf extracts can be used in the treatment of infections
Introduction: The soursop fruit and the entire soursop plant is associated with a lot of health benefits which includes the killing of cancer cells in cancer patients. The treatment of cancer with soursop has been reported to be accompanied with the risk of Parkinson’s disease while soursop juice is considered safe for consumption. The fruit had been associated with preharvest and postharvest deterioration caused by microorganisms and this reduces the total production of soursop fruit. The deterioration process is being accompanied with the production of cell wall degrading enzymes which has the advantage of being used for industrial purposes. One of the important uses of these enzymes is in the clarification of fruit juices. This review proposes the genetic modification of the genes coding for important microbial enzymes for the clarification of soursop juice for improved yield, taste, and colour.
Introduction: Two varieties of tomato fruits commonly available in Nigerian markets are the Roma VF and Ibadan local varieties of tomato fruits. The Roma VF fruits are oval in shape. It is a common type of cultivar in the Northern region of Nigeria and it is not susceptible to cracking. The Ibadan local variety of tomato fruits is a local variety commonly found on farmers fields in South-western region of Nigeria. They are highly susceptible to cracking. The Ibadan local variety was employed for this research. There are lots of benefits derived from the consumption of tomato fruits. The fruits can be made into tomato juice clarified with pectinases. Polygalacturonase is one of the pectinases used commercially in the clarification of fruit juice from different fruits. This study examined the production of polygalacturonase during the deterioration of tomato fruits by Aspergillus niger and the role of the purified polygalacturonase in the clarification of tomato juice. Tomato fruits of the Ibadan local variety were inoculated with mycelia discs containing spores of a 96-h-old culture of Aspergillus niger served as the inoculum. The organism from the stock culture was subcultured onto potato dextrose agar plates. The extraction of polygalacturonase after 10 days of incubation at 27 degrees C was carried out by homogenizing the fruits with liquid extractant using the MSE homogenizer after the deteriorated fruits had been chilled for 30 min inside a freezer. Control fruits were similarly treated except that sterile potato dextrose agar served as the inoculum. The effect of different temperature of incubation and different volume of enzyme on the tomato juice from the tomato fruits was investigated. Extracts from the inoculated fruits exhibited appreciable polygalacturonase activity. The juice with polygalacturonase was visually clearer and more voluminous than the juice treated with water for all parameters studied. The highest volume of juice was obtained after an incubation period of 30 min for the tomato fruits. The increase in juice yield can be attributed to the hydrolysis of pectin which releases the sap inside the cells of the pulp. The occurrence of polygalacturonase in tomato tissues infected by A. niger coupled with the trace amount in the non-infected tissues suggests that the enzyme is of fungal origin. The role of the polygalacturonase in the clarification process was established. This study will be very useful for industrial tomato juice production.
Introduction: Amylases are enzymes that act on starch, converting it into sugars by their catalytic activities. They are highly rated amongst enzymes because of their numerous applications in industries. Microorganisms are the best source of amylase and they are advantageous because they can easily be exploited to produce the enzyme, ?-amylase. This research work therefore, employed a strain of Rhizopus arrhizus fisher which was capable of growth on 1% flour medium for the production of ?-amylase within ten days of incubation. ?-Amylase activity was optimum on the 8th day of inoculation and was expressed as 933 U. The crude enzyme was partially purified by a combination of ammonium sulphate precipitation and dialysis. The activity of the partially purified enzyme was optimum at 30°C and pH 6.0. The enzyme was capable of degrading starch with an optimum activity expressed at 1.2 mg mL–1 concentration. It was stimulated by NaCl and CaCl2 but inhibited by P-chloromercuric benzoate and Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic Acid (EDTA). The enzyme was affected by heat with complete loss of activity within 10 min of heating at 70°C. Rhizopus arrhizus can therefore be suitably genetically modified and employed for the commercial production of ?-amylase.
Introduction: Salmonella and Plasmodium infections are major health challenges especially in regions where malaria is highly endemic. Studies were carried out to determine the incidence of co-infection of Salmonella spp and Plasmodium falciparum among subjects that present with fever at the Covenant University Health Centre and Ota General Hospital between September, 2011 and May, 2012. Salmonella infection was detected by comparing two diagnostic methods: serology and culture on the blood samples collected. Widal test was carried out by detecting the ‘O’ and ‘H’ antigens in the blood and the blood samples were cultured using Thioglycolate broth and Salmonella Shigella agar. Plasmodium infection was confirmed through microscopic examination of Giemsa stained thick and thin films of the same blood samples. Out of the 84 samples collected, 45.2% was positive for Salmonella and Plasmodium co-infection by Widal test with positive titre ? 1/80. Only 3.6% was confirmed for co-infection of Salmonella and Plasmodium Species when Salmonella infection was detected by culture. Among the 84 subjects 73.8% was positive for malaria alone and 67.9% for Salmonella infection alone. Laboratory confirmation of co-infection of malaria and Salmonella is essential to prevent wrong treatment and misdiagnosis.
Introduction: Rhizopus stolonifer is a fungus and one of the most common species of the genus Rhizopus. The organism has been a very important microbe used in the field of industrial microbiology. It has been used in the production of many hydrolytic and extracellular enzymes among which is the "-amylase. This enzyme has found various uses in the industry. Fruit juices are important sources of nutrients and they contain several important therapeutic properties that may reduce the risk of various diseases. An investigation on "-amylase extracted from soursop fruits deteriorated by R. stolonifer and the effect of the enzyme on soursop juice clarification was carried out in this study. The results obtained shows that the soursop juice with low concentration of extracted enzyme and less incubation time was more viscous and cloudy compared with the juice with high concentrations of amylase and higher incubation time which was clearer and less viscous. The results of this research will be very useful in soursop juice producing companies
Introduction: Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a measure of the dissolved oxygen consumed by microorganisms during the oxidation of reduced substances in waters and wastewaters. It is often used ambiguously in relation to Carbonaceous Oxygen Demand CBOD) which is the oxygen consumed during the oxidation of carbonaceous compounds to carbon dioxide (CO2and other oxidized end product. BOD is actually the sum of CBOD and NBOD where NBOD is the Nitrogenous Oxygen Demand which is the oxygen consumed during the oxidation of nitrogenous compounds (mainly NH to nitrates with nitrites being an unstable intermediate. The major difference between CBOD and NBOD is that there are two classes of bacteria believed to be responsible for the oxidation of reduced nitrogen. The BOD value of Sewage samples collected from Covenant University oxidation pond was therefore measured and the samples examined for the presence of Escherichia coli. The sewage samples collected from four points (starting point (A), two middle points (B, C), and end point (D) were inoculated on an Eosin Methylene Blue agar plates and the presence of E. coli was confirmed by the appearance of greenish metallic sheen colonies on the agar plates and biochemical Tests. The BOD of the effluent at the different points (A, B, C, D) respectively showed a reduction in microbial load. The ultimate CBOD was also estimated based on the BOD5 value which is based upon the exponential (first-order) nature of oxygen demand. This research describes the formulations of CBOD breakdown using simplified oxidation kinetics.
Introduction: The biochemical and physiological changes in the highly proteinous stored fermented African locust bean parkia biglobosa seeds were studied as well as the sensory evaluation. This study was carried out to improve the shelf life of this fermented protein based condiment, known as ‘Iru’ in Yoruba land. Major functional parameters were used to compare deterioration in stored fermented seeds. Bacillus subtilis was used as a starter culture and fermentation was carried out for 72 hours. Samples were dried to various moisture content. The dried condiments were stored for various days at room temperature in an air tight plastic container. At the end of each storage period, samples were and assessed for pH, titratable acidity (TA), peroxide value (POV) and % crude protein. There was an increase in pH, peroxide value and titratable acidity towards acidity, while the % crude protein decreased with storage. Total dryness of 0 % moisture content was achieved after 12 hours of drying, which made the stored condiment to last for more than 31 days.
Introduction: The quality of African locust bean seed fermented with three (3) different types of starter cultures were investigated. Freshly prepared Bacillus Subtilis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the mixture of the two starter cultures were used for the fermentation Parkia biglobosa seeds for five (5) days (120 hours). The proximate composition, sensory evaluation and physiological properties of the starter culture aided and naturally fermented samples were determined. Sample fermented with Bacillus subtilis increased the protein composition from 32 % to 52 %, Saccharomyces cerevisiae to 39 %, the mixture of the 2 microorganisms to 35 % while 40 % was obtained in the naturally inoculated sample. Fat, moisture and ash contents also increased in the same trend. However there was a decrease in crude fibre composition and total % carbohydrate of the substrate during fermentation. Sensory evaluation carried out for all the samples indicated that the use of bacillus subtilis as starter culture for the production of ‘Iru’ gave more acceptable products in all the tested parameters. However, products from Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the mixture were rated least.
Introduction: More than half of the world's population are exposed to malaria. Rapid diagnosis and proper treatment are the main aim of control programs in malaria endemic areas. This study was aimed at developing a non-invasive diagnostic method for detection of Plasmodium falciparum in human malaria.
Introduction: In this present investigation, an original and detailed empirical data on the transfer of heat in a tomato postharvest storage system was presented. No-load tests were performed for a period of 96 h. The heat distribution at different locations, namely the top, middle and bottom of the system was acquired, at a time interval of 30 min for the test period. The humidity inside the system was taken into consideration. Thus, No-load tests with or without introduction of humidity were carried out and data showing the effect of a rise in humidity level, on temperature distribution were acquired. The temperatures at the external mechanical cooling components were acquired and could be used for showing the performance analysis of the storage system
Introduction: Optimization of Fermentation Conditions for the Production of Protein Composition in Parkia biglobosa Seeds using Response Surface Methodology
Introduction: This review examines the unparalleled chemical and physical properties of ZnO nanoparticles and its hybrid forms. The influence of these multifunctional materials within the polymeric matrix of organic coatings was discussed. The scanning electron microscope is seen to provide relevant information about the dispersion of the hybrid and composite coating systems. This review provides concise information about the antimicrobial and thermal stability of composites.
Introduction: Tannase (Tannin acyl hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.20) is an enzyme produced in the presence of tannic acid by various filamentous fungi. They are produced principally by fungi of the genus Aspergillus and Penicillium. The enzyme is used in the food and beverage industry as a clarifying agent for wines, beers and fruit juices. In Africa, billions of dollars are expended yearly on the importation of commercial enzymes for the food and pharmaceutical industries and this increases the cost of production and the finished goods. This study was carried out to isolate tannase producing fungal species using Bambara nuts as a substrate in a bid to finding alternatives to the importation of tannase. Fresh Bambara nuts were collected from different locations in Nigeria. They were cleaned, sorted and intermittently moistened with water to encourage fungal growth for fourteen days. The different fungi obtained after fourteen days were inoculated onto Potato Dextrose Agar plates and incubated at 25°C for five days. Subculturing of fungal isolates was carried out to obtain pure cultures of isolates. Tannilytic activity (hydrolysis of tannin) of isolates was assessed by inoculating them in media containing tannin. The plates were incubated at 25°C for 2-5 days after which the plates were observed and zones of hydrolysis measured. A total of eighteen isolates were obtained. They were all members of the Aspergillus genus. 56% (10) of the isolates were able to degrade tannin acid with mean zone of hydrolysis of 39mm ±23.7 mm (Range 10-70mm). This study established members of the Aspergillus genus isolated from Bambara nuts as viable fungi for application in the production of tannase. This study adds to existing reports on fungal production of tannase.
Introduction: The use of enzymes as biological catalysts has gained increasing importance in industries. Although enzymes can be obtained from plant and animal origin, microbial enzymes have several advantages over enzymes derived from other sources. Due to the high cost of separation of enzymes from product, the instability of enzymes and reduced enzyme activity, several strategies are now been explored to develop immobilized enzymes. Immobilized enzymes have been produced by cell immobilization techniques. Immobilized enzymes have found several industrial applications where they provide the advantages of easy separation of the enzyme from the product, reuse of the enzyme, convenient handling, high stability under extreme physical and chemical conditions, being applicable for all types of reactors with varied interior design, and provides easier process control. However, despite these advantages, enzyme immobilization techniques continue to pose some challenges. These challenges notwithstanding, the development of industrial by-products based on immobilization techniques is very promising.
Introduction: Background and Objective: Pimples (acne) are small skin lesions or inflammations of the skin. The most common factor causing acne is the hormonal changes that occur during adolescent and teenage years. Antibiotics are becoming less effective in the treatment of pimples due to increasing concerns of antibiotic resistance. This study was therefore carried out to characterize the isolates from the pimples of Covenant University Students and to determine their antibiotics sensitivity pattern. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 swab samples were obtained from male and female students with obvious signs of pimples in Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. The samples obtained were cultured on Mannitol Salt Agar and incubated at 37EC. Pure isolates obtained were subjected to Gram staining and other biochemical tests for identification. The isolates were further subjected to antibiotics sensitivity tests using antibiotic dics. Results: Macroscopic examination indicated that the organisms were convex, smooth and shiny. Microscopic examination revealed that the isolates were positive after employing the Gram Staining technique and they appeared as grape-like clusters. Biochemical tests revealed that the isolates were Coagulase positive, Catalase positive, Urease positive, Citrate positive, Methyl-Red positive, Voges-Proskauer negative and negative upon starch hydrolysis. The sugar fermentation tests revealed that the isolates fermented Glucose, Maltose, Galactose, Sucrose and Lactose, respectively. The antibiotic susceptibility test showed that isolates were resistant to Cotrimazole, Cloxacillin, Erythromycin, Gentamycin, Augmentin, Streptomycin, Tetracycline and Chloramphenicol. Conclusion: The results therefore indicated that the isolates were Staphylococcus aureus and other staphylococci species. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics should be avoided to prevent the development of resistant strains of the Staphylococci genera and other pathogenic organisms.
Introduction: The present study described the use of percentage moisture left and salting as a preservative method in studying the shelf life of fermented Parkia biglobosa (African Locust bean seed) over a period of four weeks. Bacillus subtilis was used as starter culture in the fermentation of Parkia biglobosa to ‘Iru’. Fermented samples [Iru] were dried to various% moisture content and salt of various concentrations were added. Samples were stored for four weeks at room temperature in an air tight plastic container. Functional properties such as pH,% protein,% titratable acidity and peroxide value of the seeds were analyzed on weekly basis during the storage period. Protein concentration of the preserved samples varied with different drying time and% salt added. There was an increase in titratable acidity and peroxide values towards acidity during preservation.
Introduction: Amylases (EC 3.2.1.1) are cellwall degrading enzymes associated with the pathogenicity of microorganisms in the spoilage of tomato fruits. The use of amylase in many industries has made it very important to optimize production process to achieve maximum yields. Screening and partial purification of Amylase from Aspergillus niger isolated from tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruits was studied. Amylase producing fungi were isolated from fresh tomatoes kept at ambient temperature (28±1?C). Isolates were characterized on the basis of their morphological and cultural techniques. Partial purification of amylase was carried out by ammonium sulphate precipitation. The enzyme activity was determined and optimum conditions were obtained. The molecular weights of the crude and partially purified Amylase were determined by SDS PAGE method. A total of five isolates were obtained using basic screening technique for amylase activity, one of the isolates (Isolate code F2) exhibited maximum amylase activity. The fungi isolate code F2 was identified as Aspergillus niger. Optimum conditions for Amylase AMY F2 were ascertained at pH 6.0; temperature 30°C; substrate concentration of 0.3mg/ml, and time of heating of less than 10min. The molecular weights f the crude and partially purified Amylase AMY F2 were found to be 55kDa and 35kDa respectively by SDS PAGE method. Microorganisms had been an encouraging means of economical production of enzymes in large scale for the food and drug industry.
Introduction: Pectinases are a group of enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of pectin. Pectinase producing Aspergillus niger was obtained from a five-day old Eba (Cassava flakes). Response surface methodology was used for optimizing the process of the pectinase produced. Four independent variables which are, temperature, pH, substrate concentration and time of Heating at 70oC were used to optimize the significant correlation between the effects of the variables on pectinase production. A second-order polynomial was fitted to data and validated by ANOVA. The results revealed maximum pectinase production at pH 6.0, 50oC Temperature, 0.02% substrate concentration and the enzyme lost all its activity within 7 min of heating at 70oC. The study revealed that optimization of pectinase through RSM could improve the enzymatic characteristics and yield of the enzyme. The models used were highly significant with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.901
Introduction: The World Heal Organization (WHO) has identified malaria diagnosis as being pivotal to eradicating the disease by 2030 as stipulated in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The data presented here was obtained from outpatients of a hospital in the South Western Region of Nigeria from November 2016 to May 2017. The data contains malaria incidence amongst asymptomatic and symptomatic outpatients in the period under review. Malaria incidence was obtained using two diagnostic test kits, Bioline SD (HRP-2) and ACON (HRP-2/Aldolase) alongside Microscopy as gold standard. Specificity, Sensitivity and Kappa statistic of each test device is presented in the tables herewith. Data presented here could be used alongside other data sources to assess the state of malaria diagnostics.
Introduction: This paper examines the influence of poverty on housing in informal settlement. Housing ownership has become a paramount thing in Nigeria, due to high cost of rent. This has resulted in informal settlement and sustaining those buildings has become hectic as a result of poverty. This research work was carried out in order to highlight and examine the influence of poor housing on the health and behaviour of the residents in the study area. Data for the study were generated from both primary and secondary school sources, and were equally analyzed through Descriptive statistics. The sampling population was 250 respondents who are representative of the house heads. Findings from the study revealed that the area chosen for the study exhibit slum condition that has denied impact on the socio-economic lifestyles and the health of the residents, as well as the general outlook of the environment. The study then concludes that people should design and build their houses based on their income rather than hoping for a better future. The study also recommends public campaign, to educate the dwellers on the need for good building condition as well to know the danger of abusing their environment
Introduction: There have been reports of increasing development of drug resistance among human pathogens as well as undesirable side effects of certain antimicrobial agents.It is therefore necessary to search for new agents that are better, cheaper and without side effects for treating infectious diseases especially in developing countries. In this study, phytochemical composition and antimicrobial activities of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of leaves of Mangifera indica were investigated. Standard methods were employed to screen for the phytochemicals. Agar well diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of M. indica leaves against seven different clinical isolates namely:Stapylococcus aureus, Micrococcus virians, M. leteus, Escherichia coli, Klebsellia pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and a fungus, Candida albicans. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of active pharmacological components such as tannins, saponins, cardiac glycoside, flavonoid and alkaloids. Aqueous extract demonstrated a higher activity than the ethanolic extract. S. aureus showed highest sensitivity to the aqueous extracts with MIC 31.25mg/mL. Least sensitivity was observed in K. pneumoniae and Candida albicans with MIC 125mg/mL each in the two extracts.M. indica exhibited significant antimicrobial activity comparable to gentamicin which is used as control in this study.
Introduction: The production of tomatoes has experienced a huge rise over the years as a result of its economic, nutritional and cancer reduction importance. Despite the rapid advancement of technology in the past century, storage of tomato fruits remains a major problem experienced in the postharvest chain in most developing countries. This study gives a survey of the various causes of tomatoes postharvest losses, the different methods used in storage of the fruit over time and their limitations. It was found that the conventional methods used in tomatoes storage, improved its shelf life but was accompanied by some significant losses in quantity and quality. Hence, generating a need for a postharvest storage system taking into cognizance the optimum conditions required for the fruit storage. The development of a thermally controlled postharvest storage system with the sole purpose of increasing shelf life and minimize the rate of deterioration becomes inevitable.
Introduction: Amylases are one of the most important enzymes used in the industry. They are responsible for the hydrolysis of starch and glycogen. This research aimed to investigate the effect of cations (Ca2+ and K+) and chemicals (EDTA and HgCl2) on alpha amylase activity. Alpha amylase was produced by Aspergillus niger under submerged fermentation conditions in a basal salt medium. The enzyme was partially purified with activated carbon which gave a 1.57 purification fold. The effects of ethylene diamine tetratacetic acid (EDTA), mercuric chloride (HgCl2), Calcium ion (Ca2+) and Potassium ion (K+) on the partially purified enzymes were then investigated. The enzyme was inhibited to varying degrees by EDTA and HgCl2 with inhibition of approximately 62% and 52% occurred with 8mM of EDTA and HgCl2 respectively, but stimulated by Ca2+ and Potassium ion K+. Activated carbon partially purified alpha amylase produced by A. niger with a high yield. The cations and chemicals had varying effects on the enzyme.
Introduction: Amylases are one of the most important enzymes used in the industry. They are responsible for the hydrolysis of starch and glycogen. This research aimed to investigate the effect of cations (Ca2+ and K+) and chemicals (EDTA and HgCl2) on alpha amylase activity. Alpha amylase was produced by Aspergillus niger under submerged fermentation conditions in a basal salt medium. The enzyme was partially purified with activated carbon which gave a 1.57 purification fold. The effects of ethylene diamine tetratacetic acid (EDTA), mercuric chloride (HgCl2), Calcium ion (Ca2+) and Potassium ion (K+) on the partially purified enzymes were then investigated. The enzyme was inhibited to varying degrees by EDTA and HgCl2 with inhibition of approximately 62% and 52% occurred with 8mM of EDTA and HgCl2 respectively, but stimulated by Ca2+ and Potassium ion K+. Activated carbon partially purified alpha amylase produced by A. niger with a high yield. The cations and chemicals had varying effects on the enzyme.
Introduction: Dacryodes edulis is a versatile plant in many African countries, as its various parts are employed to treat several diseases. Like most plants used in traditional medicine, the possible mechanism by which D. edulis functions is still unknown. This study was designed to investigate the components of the plant seed with a view of justifying its use as traditional medicine.
Introduction: Dacryodes edulis is a versatile plant in many African countries, as its various parts are employed to treat several diseases. Like most plants used in traditional medicine, the possible mechanism by which D. edulis functions is still unknown. This study was designed to investigate the components of the plant seed with a view of justifying its use as traditional medicine.
Introduction: E. coli O157:H7 is a foodborne pathogen that constitutes a global threat to human
health. However, the quantification of this pathogen in food and environmental samples may
be problematic at the low cell numbers commonly encountered in environmental samples. In this
study, we used recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) for the detection of E. coli O157:H7,
real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for quantification, and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) for absolute
and accurate quantification of E. coli O157:H7 from spiked and environmental samples. Primer and
probe sets were used for the detection of stx1 and stx2 using RPA. Genes encoding for stx1, stx2, eae,
and rfbE were used to quantify E. coli O157:H7 in the water samples. Furthermore, duplex ddPCR
assays were used to quantify the pathogens in these samples. Duplex assay set 1 used stx1 and rfbE
genes, while assay set 2 used stx2 and eae genes. Droplet digital PCR was used for the absolute
quantification of E. coli O15:H7 in comparison with qPCR for the spiked and environmental samples.
The RPA results were compared to those from qPCR and ddPCR in order to assess the efficiency of the
RPA compared with the PCR methods. The assays were further applied to the dairy lagoon effluent
(DLE) and the high rate algae pond (HRAP) effluent, which were fed with diluted DLE. The RPA
detected was <10 CFU/mL, while ddPCR showed quantification from 1 to 104 CFU/mL with a high
reproducibility. In addition, quantification by qPCR was from 103
to 107 CFU/mL of the wastewater
samples. Therefore, the RPA assay has potential as a point of care tool for the detection of E. coli
O157:H7 from different environmental sources, followed by quantification of the target concentrations.
Introduction: Abstract
Background and Objective: A comparative study was carried out on the effect of phytohormone on seed germination, seedling vigour
and the phytochemical content of three cucurbits, which are Cucumis melo (L.), Lagenaria breviflora (Benth) and Citrullus lanatus
(Thunb). Phytochemical analysis of air-dried, powdered epicarp, mesocarp and seeds of the mature fruits were carried out, also the effects
of varying concentrations of indole acetic acid (IAA), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and gibberellic acid (GA3) on germination and seedling
vigour of these 3 cucurbits were investigated. The study is designed to obtain the inhibitory and the stimulatory effects of the
3 cucurbits used in this research. Materials and Methods: Treatments were arranged in 5 replicates and monitored for 16 days.
Experiments were carried out in 9 cm petri dishes in the laboratory. Data were subjected to two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at
p<0.05. Means were compared using LSD. Results: The study revealed that the mean percentage germination and seedling vigour
of Cucumis melo (C. melo) was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the control than in 100-500 ppm concentrations of GA3, IAA and NAA.
Phenol was not detected in the epicarp and mesocarp of C. lanatus and seeds of L. breviflora. However, concentrations of phenol detected
in the different parts of C. melo and Lagenaria breviflora (L. breviflora) (epicarp, mesocarp and seed) were not significantly different. The
concentrations of the phytochemicals were significantly (p<0.05) different among the epicarp, mesocarp and seeds of the cucurbits except
for alkaloid. However, concentrations of phenol detected in the different parts of C. melo and L. breviflora were not significantly different
(p>0.05). Tannin was not detected in the epicarp, mesocarp and seeds of the three cucurbits. Flavonoid was also significantly higher
(p<0.05) in the epicarp of C. melo and L. breviflora than in their mesocarp and seeds. Conclusion: Conclusively, effects of varying
concentrations of IAA, NAA and GA3 was not significant on the parameters studied. Phytochemicals were detected in the epicarp,
mesocarp and seeds of the cucurbits under investigation. This study revealed
Introduction: A comparative study was carried out on the nutritional contents of the seeds and fruits of Cucumis melo (L.),Lagenaria breviflora (Benth) and Citrullus lanatus (Thunb). Proximate composition, Vitamin C content and phytochemical analysis of air-dried, powdered epicarp, mesocarp and seeds of the mature fruits were also carried out using standard procedures. Data on nutritional and phytochemical characteristics were collected andsubjected totwo - way analysis of variance (ANOVA)at p<0.05. Means were compared using LSD.Total sugar and vitamins C were detected in the other parts of the fruits except the seeds in the three Cucurbits. Percentage dry matter, fat, ash and crude protein were significantly (p<0.05) higher in the seeds than in the epicarp and mesocarp. Crude fibre was highest in the epicarp for C. melo(1.75 0.13), L. breviflora (1.85 0.07)and C. lanatus (2.18 0.07).
Introduction: A comparative study was carried out on the phytochemical cotent of the seeds and fruits of Cucumismelo(L.),
Lagenariabreviflora(Benth) and Citrulluslanatus(Thunb). Phytochemical analysis of air-dried,
powderedepicarp, mesocarp and seeds of the mature fruits were carried out using standard procedures. Data
on phytochemical characteristics were collected andsubjected totwo - way analysis of variance (ANOVA)at
p<0.05. Means were compared using LSD. Phytochemicals such as glycosides, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids,
phlobatanin, anthraquinone and saponin were detected in the epicarp, mesocarp and seeds of the Cucurbits
under investigation.
Introduction: Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance associated with the spread of plasmid-encoded extended-spectrum
?-lactamase (ESBL) genes conferring resistance to third generation cephalosporins is increasing
worldwide. However, data on the population of ESBL producing E. coli in different animal sources
and their antimicrobial characteristics are limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate
potential reservoirs of ESBL-encoded genes in E. coli isolated from swine, beef, dairy, and poultry
collected from different regions of the United States using whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Three
hundred isolates were typed into different phylogroups, characterized by BOX AIR-1 PCR and tested
for resistance to antimicrobials. Of the 300 isolates, 59.7% were resistant to sulfisoxazole, 49.3%
to tetracycline, 32.3% to cephalothin, 22.3% to ampicillin, 20% to streptomycin, 16% to ticarcillin;
resistance to the remaining 12 antimicrobials was less than 10%. Phylogroups A and B1 were most
prevalent with A (n = 92, 30%) and B1 (87 = 29%). A total of nine E. coli isolates were confirmed
as ESBL producers by double-disk synergy testing and multidrug resistant (MDR) to at least three
antimicrobial drug classes. Using WGS, significantly higher numbers of ESBL-E. coli were detected
in swine and dairy manure than from any other animal sources, suggesting that these may be the
primary animal sources for ESBL producing E. coli. These isolates carry plasmids, such as IncFIA(B),
IncFII, IncX1, IncX4, IncQ1, CollRNAI, Col440I, and acquired ARGs aph(6)-Id, aph(300)-Ib, aadA5,
aph(30
)-Ia, blaCTX-M-15, blaTEM-1B, mphA, ermB, catA1, sul1, sul2, tetB, dfrA17. One of the E. coli isolates
from swine with ST 410 was resistant to nine antibiotics and carried more than 28 virulence factors,
and this ST has been shown to belong to an international high-risk clone. Our data suggests that
ESBL producing E. coli are widely distributed in different animal sources, but swine and dairy cattle
may be their main reservoir.
Introduction: Abstract: Pharmaceutical wastewaters are recognized as reservoirs of antibiotic resistance genes
(ARGs) and antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB), and also as hotspots for their horizontal gene transfer
(HGT) using mobile genetic elements. Our study employed the use of PCR analysis of metagenomic
DNA samples obtained from four pharmaceutical wastewaters using known primers to study the
prevalence of thirty-six ARGs and four MGEs active against the commonly used antibiotics in Nigeria.
The ARGs most frequently detected from the metagenomic DNA samples in each of the antibiotic
classes under study include tetracycline [tet(G)], aminoglycoside [aadA, strA and strB], chlorampheni-
col [catA1], sulphonamides [sulI and sulII], and ?-lactams and penicillins [blaOXA]. The ARGs showed
a 100% prevalence in their various environmental sources. The pharmaceutical facility PFIV showed
the highest concentration of ARGs in this study. The highest concentration for MGEs was shown by
pharmaceutical facility PFIII, positive for intl1, intl2, and IFS genes. This study highlights the wide
distribution of ARGs to the antibiotics tested in the wastewater, making pharmaceutical wastewater
reservoirs of ARGs which could potentially be transferred from commensal microorganisms to
human pathogens.
Introduction: There is increasing concern about the public health risks associated with routine and
indiscriminate use of antibacterial agents in raising livestock worldwide. Our study investigated the
antibiotics resistance of bacterial isolates obtained from four poultry farms located in a commercial
livestock farm settlement in Ilara-Epe, Lagos State, Nigeria. The antibiotic resistance pattern of readily
available and commonly used antibiotics against 92 bacterial strains isolated from the selected farms was
determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of
antibiotics for the bacterial isolates were determined by a standard two-fold serial broth microdilution
method using Mueller–Hinton broth. The results showed high resistance values to ampiclox (97.5%),
amoxicillin and zinacef (95.1%), augmentin (94.1%), and streptomycin (82.2%). Multiple drug resistance
(MDR) was observed for both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial isolates at 86.3% and 90.2%
respectively. Also, 24 (26.4%) of the bacterial isolates were completely resistant to all tested antibiotics in
the study. The majority of identified bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and
Micrococcus luteus. All the antibiotics used in this study showed high MICs values against the test
bacterial isolates. Our findings have added to existing evidence that poultry farms habour antibiotic
resistance bacteria (ARB). These ARB may pose a public health risk as they may be pathogenic to
humans and animals and also contribute to the flow of antibiotic resistance genes in the ecosystem. Hence,
there is the need to avoid the indiscriminate use of antibiotics in poultry farming, especially as growth
promoters.
Introduction: The aim of this work was to report on molecular identification and technological properties of the yeast flora isolated from spontaneously fermented cassava waste pulp. This was done with a view of obtaining yeast strains that could be used as a starter culture for the fermentation of cassava waste pulp. Molecular identification was based on the nucleotide sequence of the ITS region of the genomic DNA of the yeast isolates while the technological properties evaluated include linamarase (U/mL), gelatinase, and haemolytic activity; growth at pH 2.5 and tolerance to 2 % bile salt. All the representative five isolated yeasts were identified as Geotrichum silvicola KLP04 – KLP08. The isolates exhibited linamarase activity ranging between 3.3 and 4.2 with strain KLP04 having the highest value and strain KLP05 the least. None of the isolates demonstrated gelatinase and haemolytic activity except strain KLP08 which was partially haemolytic. All the examined yeasts exhibited good growth at pH 2.5, with strain KLP08 having the highest viable counts of 4.1 log10cfu/ml and strain KLP04 the least value of 3.5 log10cfu/ml after 72 h of growth. All the identified yeasts showed strain-specific tolerance to 2% bile salt with strain KLP04 having the highest viable count of 4.3 log10cfu/ml and strain KLP08 the least value of 2.2 log10cfu/ml at the end of 72 h of incubation. Based on all the examined technological properties, Candida silvicola KLP04 strain had the highest potential to be considered for starter culture for the fermentation of cassava waste pulp.
Introduction: The aim of this work was to report on molecular identification and technological properties of the yeast flora isolated from spontaneously fermented cassava waste pulp. This was done with a view of obtaining yeast strains that could be used as a starter culture for the fermentation of cassava waste pulp. Molecular identification was based on the nucleotide sequence of the ITS region of the genomic DNA of the yeast isolates while the technological properties evaluated include linamarase (U/mL), gelatinase, and haemolytic activity; growth at pH 2.5 and tolerance to 2 % bile salt. All the representative five isolated yeasts were identified as Geotrichum silvicola KLP04 – KLP08. The isolates exhibited linamarase activity ranging between 3.3 and 4.2 with strain KLP04 having the highest value and strain KLP05 the least. None of the isolates demonstrated gelatinase and haemolytic activity except strain KLP08 which was partially haemolytic. All the examined yeasts exhibited good growth at pH 2.5, with strain KLP08 having the highest viable counts of 4.1 log10cfu/ml and strain KLP04 the least value of 3.5 log10cfu/ml after 72 h of growth. All the identified yeasts showed strain-specific tolerance to 2% bile salt with strain KLP04 having the highest viable count of 4.3 log10cfu/ml and strain KLP08 the least value of 2.2 log10cfu/ml at the end of 72 h of incubation. Based on all the examined technological properties, Candida silvicola KLP04 strain had the highest potential to be considered for starter culture for the fermentation of cassava waste pulp.
Introduction: This study was aimed at exploiting the nutritive and preservative potentials of leafy vegetables on egg quality and shelf-life. 189 Lohman Brown Classic point-of-lay chickens at sixteen weeks with average weight of 1550-1620g were used in a 12-week feeding trials. The birds were allotted on weight equalization basis to seven feeding treatments (T1-T7). T1 was white maize without additive, T2 was yellow maize without additives while T3-T7 were white maize, fortified with synthetic yolk colourant (T3); fortified with Corchorus olitorius (T4); fortified with Talinum fruticosum (T5); fortified with Chromolaena odorata (T6); and fortified with a blend of Corchorus, Talinum and Chromolaena at 0.33% each (T7) respectively. Results obtained from this study showed that the dietary treatments had effects on the performance parameters. Chickens on T3 recorded the highest (P<0.05) Hen-day production followed by T1 and T7 with values ranging from 69.95-89.57%. Similar pattern was observed with Feed/dozen egg. Chickens on T2 had the heaviest egg (63.41 g) followed by T3 (59.45 g) and T1 (58.56 g). The pH values of eggs from T1, T2, T4 and T6 increased as the eggs age while it decreases in T3 and T7. The microbial load in eggs from chickens fed with T1 and T5 increased, T3 remain stable whereas eggs from T2, T4, T6 and T7 decreased with storage days. This study revealed that the blend of Corchorus, Talinum and Chromolaena can be used as alternative source of feed additive without deleterious effects on laying performance, quality characteristics and storage life.
Introduction: This study was aimed at exploiting the nutritive and preservative potentials of leafy vegetables on egg quality and shelf-life. 189 Lohman Brown Classic point-of-lay chickens at sixteen weeks with average weight of 1550-1620g were used in a 12-week feeding trials. The birds were allotted on weight equalization basis to seven feeding treatments (T1-T7). T1 was white maize without additive, T2 was yellow maize without additives while T3-T7 were white maize, fortified with synthetic yolk colourant (T3); fortified with Corchorus olitorius (T4); fortified with Talinum fruticosum (T5); fortified with Chromolaena odorata (T6); and fortified with a blend of Corchorus, Talinum and Chromolaena at 0.33% each (T7) respectively. Results obtained from this study showed that the dietary treatments had effects on the performance parameters. Chickens on T3 recorded the highest (P<0.05) Hen-day production followed by T1 and T7 with values ranging from 69.95-89.57%. Similar pattern was observed with Feed/dozen egg. Chickens on T2 had the heaviest egg (63.41 g) followed by T3 (59.45 g) and T1 (58.56 g). The pH values of eggs from T1, T2, T4 and T6 increased as the eggs age while it decreases in T3 and T7. The microbial load in eggs from chickens fed with T1 and T5 increased, T3 remain stable whereas eggs from T2, T4, T6 and T7 decreased with storage days. This study revealed that the blend of Corchorus, Talinum and Chromolaena can be used as alternative source of feed additive without deleterious effects on laying performance, quality characteristics and storage life.
Introduction: Background: The Sungbo Eredo Monument is an ancient public work with a system of defensive walls and ditches located in Eredo Local Council Development Area of Epe, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria. A huge section of the monument cuts through the Augustine University campus, forming two-sided vertical walls with a deep ridge in-between. The objective of this investigative study is to determine the microbial profile of soil samples from the monument in the University campus.
Introduction: Background: The Sungbo Eredo Monument is an ancient public work with a system of defensive walls and ditches located in Eredo Local Council Development Area of Epe, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria. A huge section of the monument cuts through the Augustine University campus, forming two-sided vertical walls with a deep ridge in-between. The objective of this investigative study is to determine the microbial profile of soil samples from the monument in the University campus.
Introduction: Background: The Sungbo Eredo Monument is an ancient public work with a system of defensive walls and ditches located in Eredo Local Council Development Area of Epe, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria. A huge section of the monument cuts through the Augustine University campus, forming two-sided vertical walls with a deep ridge in-between. The objective of this investigative study is to determine the microbial profile of soil samples from the monument in the University campus.
Introduction: Antibacterial Activity of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Fermented Cereal Products Against Organisms Implicated in Gastrointestinal Tract Infections.
Introduction: Lafun is one of the regularly consumed fermented cassava food in many parts of West Africa, though it is nutritionally inferior in terms of protein and mineral contents. In the present work, the possibility of nutritional enrichment of lafun by controlled fermentation of cassava root tuber using Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces boulardii was carried out. Three samples of lafun were produced using the two organisms as monoculture and mixed culture while the fourth sample that was obtained from spontaneous fermentation served as control. The pH and titratable acidity (TA) (mg lactic acid/g ) of the fermenting roots were measured at 0th and 72nd hour of fermentation. Standard methods were used for the determination of proximate parameters such as crude protein, ash, lipids, crude fibre, moisture content and carbohydrate. All samples were analysed for phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, manganese, iron, copper, and zinc. The pH changes observed for Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation (LPF), Saccharomyces boulardii fermentation (SBF), mixed culture fermentation (MCF) and spontaneous fermentation (SF) were from 6.2 to 4.3, 6.2 - 5.3, 6.1 - 4.6, and 6.2 - 4.9 respectively while the TA increased from 0.6 in all samples to 9.9, 3.6, 8.4 and 7.0 in LPF, SBF, MCF, and SF respectively. Lafun sample obtained from SBF had significantly higher (p < 0 .01) proximate values (protein: 1.70%; ash: 15.20%; crude fibre: 5.80%) than those obtained from SF (protein: 1.25%; ash: 12.42%; crude fibre: 1.41%), LPF (protein: 1.13%; ash: 2.26%; crude fibre: 3.14%), and MCF (protein: 1.60%; ash: 11.53%; crude fibre: 4.22%). Of all the four fermentation setups, SBF had the highest P (0.07%), Ca (0.80%), K (1.86%), Mn (10.39 ppm), Cu (4.42 ppm), and Zn(16.91 ppm) contents. This study shows a potential for nutritional improvement of lafun using Saccharomyces boulardii as starter culture.
Introduction: Lafun is one of the regularly consumed fermented cassava food in many parts of West Africa, though it is nutritionally inferior in terms of protein and mineral contents. In the present work, the possibility of nutritional enrichment of lafun by controlled fermentation of cassava root tuber using Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces boulardii was carried out. Three samples of lafun were produced using the two organisms as monoculture and mixed culture while the fourth sample that was obtained from spontaneous fermentation served as control. The pH and titratable acidity (TA) (mg lactic acid/g ) of the fermenting roots were measured at 0th and 72nd hour of fermentation. Standard methods were used for the determination of proximate parameters such as crude protein, ash, lipids, crude fibre, moisture content and carbohydrate. All samples were analysed for phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, manganese, iron, copper, and zinc. The pH changes observed for Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation (LPF), Saccharomyces boulardii fermentation (SBF), mixed culture fermentation (MCF) and spontaneous fermentation (SF) were from 6.2 to 4.3, 6.2 - 5.3, 6.1 - 4.6, and 6.2 - 4.9 respectively while the TA increased from 0.6 in all samples to 9.9, 3.6, 8.4 and 7.0 in LPF, SBF, MCF, and SF respectively. Lafun sample obtained from SBF had significantly higher (p < 0 .01) proximate values (protein: 1.70%; ash: 15.20%; crude fibre: 5.80%) than those obtained from SF (protein: 1.25%; ash: 12.42%; crude fibre: 1.41%), LPF (protein: 1.13%; ash: 2.26%; crude fibre: 3.14%), and MCF (protein: 1.60%; ash: 11.53%; crude fibre: 4.22%). Of all the four fermentation setups, SBF had the highest P (0.07%), Ca (0.80%), K (1.86%), Mn (10.39 ppm), Cu (4.42 ppm), and Zn(16.91 ppm) contents. This study shows a potential for nutritional improvement of lafun using Saccharomyces boulardii as starter culture.
Introduction: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts involved in Ogi production have been greatly studied. However, it is important to consider the technological roles of these organisms and their contribution to product quality and safety. LAB and yeasts were isolated from three varieties of Ogi and identified using biochemical characteristics and API 50CHL and API 20C AUX kits. Technological properties including acidification activity, production of ?-amylase, phytate degradation, tolerance to 2% bile salt and haemolytic activity were tested in the isolates. Fifteen isolates of LAB obtained included Lactobacillus brevi, L. casei and L. plantarum while the yeasts were Candida famata, C. gulliermondii, C. lusitaniae and Cryptococcus humicola. Isolates WML482 and YMY483 with ?pH of 1.62 and 2.10 respectively showed the most rapid acidification. Four isolates of LAB showed ?-amylase activity. The LAB and yeast isolates differed in their ability to degrade phytate but were all tolerant to 2% bile salt with the highest growth of 8.41 cfu/mL and 8.42 cfu/mL observed at 72 h in isolates RSL483 and YMY001 respectively. None of the isolates showed ?-haemolysis. The isolates from this study possess notable technological properties which position them as good starters for production of Ogi with better and safe qualities.
Introduction: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts involved in Ogi production have been greatly studied. However, it is important to consider the technological roles of these organisms and their contribution to product quality and safety. LAB and yeasts were isolated from three varieties of Ogi and identified using biochemical characteristics and API 50CHL and API 20C AUX kits. Technological properties including acidification activity, production of ?-amylase, phytate degradation, tolerance to 2% bile salt and haemolytic activity were tested in the isolates. Fifteen isolates of LAB obtained included Lactobacillus brevi, L. casei and L. plantarum while the yeasts were Candida famata, C. gulliermondii, C. lusitaniae and Cryptococcus humicola. Isolates WML482 and YMY483 with ?pH of 1.62 and 2.10 respectively showed the most rapid acidification. Four isolates of LAB showed ?-amylase activity. The LAB and yeast isolates differed in their ability to degrade phytate but were all tolerant to 2% bile salt with the highest growth of 8.41 cfu/mL and 8.42 cfu/mL observed at 72 h in isolates RSL483 and YMY001 respectively. None of the isolates showed ?-haemolysis. The isolates from this study possess notable technological properties which position them as good starters for production of Ogi with better and safe qualities.
Introduction: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts involved in Ogi production have been greatly studied. However, it is important to consider the technological roles of these organisms and their contribution to product quality and safety. LAB and yeasts were isolated from three varieties of Ogi and identified using biochemical characteristics and API 50CHL and API 20C AUX kits. Technological properties including acidification activity, production of ?-amylase, phytate degradation, tolerance to 2% bile salt and haemolytic activity were tested in the isolates. Fifteen isolates of LAB obtained included Lactobacillus brevi, L. casei and L. plantarum while the yeasts were Candida famata, C. gulliermondii, C. lusitaniae and Cryptococcus humicola. Isolates WML482 and YMY483 with ?pH of 1.62 and 2.10 respectively showed the most rapid acidification. Four isolates of LAB showed ?-amylase activity. The LAB and yeast isolates differed in their ability to degrade phytate but were all tolerant to 2% bile salt with the highest growth of 8.41 cfu/mL and 8.42 cfu/mL observed at 72 h in isolates RSL483 and YMY001 respectively. None of the isolates showed ?-haemolysis. The isolates from this study possess notable technological properties which position them as good starters for production of Ogi with better and safe qualities.
Introduction: Meloidogyne enterolobii is a highly polyphagous tropical species of root-knot nematode. It has been recorded causing major damage to a range of economically important crops and is increasingly recorded from new locations. Its morphological similarity and overlap of characteristics with other commonly occurring species, especially M. incognita, has confused its diagnosis using morphometrics. Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is an important crop across the tropics, including in Africa, where it is among the most important root and tuber crops for food security. Cassava can be heavily infected by root knot nematodes, which can incur heavy production losses. The main species known to affect cassava are M. incognita and M. javanica (Coyne and Affokpon 2018). With the exception of one report of M. enterolobii morphologically identified from cassava roots during a survey in Brazil (Rosa et al. 2014), there is no record with molecular confirmation of it infecting the crop. In the absence of any molecular or isozyme confirmation, diagnosis of M. enterolobii is difficult. In the current study, the species responsible for substantial galling damage on several cassava roots growing in Ibadan, Nigeria (7°22?39? N; 3°54?21? E), were diagnosed.