Published Articles

Abstract: Leafy vegetables harbour microorganisms and may serve in vehicle transmission of diarrhoea causing Escherichia coli. This study investigated the antibiotics susceptibility of E. coli from six (6) leafy vegetables retailed in the two major markets around Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State. The E. coli were isolated using defined substrate technique (DST) and characterized by morphological, biochemical and molecular techniques. Their antibiotic susceptibilities were tested using Kirby-Bauer’s disc diffusion method. Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index was determined for the isolates and the vegetables. Eighteen (18) strains of Escherichia coli were isolated, and their identities were confirmed by molecular characterization using DNA PCR technique. Eight (8) of them were on vegetables from Ipetu Ijesa market and ten (10) on vegetables from Owena Ijesa market. E. coli was found most frequently on Amaranthus hybridus and Solanecio biafrae (50% of samples) and least frequently on Talium triangulare (10% of samples). Vegetables from Owena Ijesa market generally haboured higher E. coli populations than vegetables from Ipetu Ijesa market. All E. coli strains isolated had MAR index greater than 0.2, and two of them had MAR index of 1.0. Telfairia occidentalis from Owena market had the highest MAR index (0.9) however, the two markets had similar MAR index (0.6). The presence of multidrug-resistant E.coli strains on retailed vegetables portends a serious challenge in managing infections due to consumption of the fresh vegetables and highlights the need to properly decontaminate fresh leafy vegetables before consuming them.
Keywords: Leafy vegetable, Escherichia coli, MAR Index, Market

Abstract: As people spend most of their time in enclosed surroundings, concerns about microbiological contaminants such as bacteria, fungus, and viruses in the air are critical. This study assessed the microbiological quality of indoor environment of major Departments ata Medical center in Umuahia, Abia State. Settled plate method was adopted, using three (3) 8.5 cm diameter Petri dishes containing different culture media for bacteria and fungi. Samplings plates of Nutrient agar, Blood agar (BA) and Sabouraud dextrose agar (NA, BA, and SDA) were exposed at about 3 meters apart. The result showed that the bacterial load in the Intensive Care Department (ICD), Postnatal Department (PN), and Emergency Department (ED) was higher in the morning hours than in the afternoon hours, with mean values of 2.40×10⁴ CFU/m³, 2.85×10³ CFU/m³, and 2.85×10³ CFU/m³, respectively. The control sample had the lowest load in the morning (1.45 CFU/m³) and the highest load in the afternoon (2.36 CFU/m³).Fungi load observed in ICD and ED was higher in the morning and lesser in the afternoon, with a mean value of 6.85×10³ CFU/m³ and 5.89×10³ CFU/m³, respectively. In PN, fungi load was higher in the afternoon, and lower in the morning with a mean value of 2.19×10³ CFU/m³. The control sample had the lowest load at 2.19 CFU/m³ in the morning and 2.56 CFU/m³ in the afternoon. Public health requires constant investigation of the aero-microbiological contamination of indoor air. It is recommended that natural ventilation through proper windows and doors be upheld.
Keywords: Bacteria, Fungi, Indoor microbiological quality, Medical Center

Abstract: Rhizopus species from potato, millet and soil samples were isolated and screened for their ability to produce enzyme amylase. Potato and millet were dried, grinded and the samples including soil were serially diluted and spread plated (0.1ml) on sterile potato dextrose agar (PDA) platesincubated at 35°C for 5days. Colonies were repetitively sub-cultured in order for pure cultures. Fungi Rhizopus was macroscopically and microscopically identified based on standard procedures. Rhizopus species were screened using agar plate method at which hydrolysis zones were observed and measured in millimeter (mm) by meter rule. Enzyme was quantified by solid state fermentation (SSF) during which wheat bran (the substrate/medium) and time (96hrs) was used for production. For enzyme extraction, the mixture of fermented medium and tween 80 (0.1%) was shaken by rotary shaker, squeezed by muslin cloth and filtered through filter paper (Whatman No. 1). For enzyme activity determination; crude extract of enzyme was mixed with starch, Sodium Chloride (NaCl) and phosphate buffer and the mixture was incubated in a water bath for 30mins at 40°C, DNSA was added to stop the reaction, heating the mixture again for 5mins after which distilled water was added and the absorbance 540nm was taken using spectrophotometer. About three (3) Rhizopus species were isolated from millet including R. microsporus, R. nigricans, and Rhizopus specie with zone of hydrolysis 31.0, 28.6 and 28.2mm and their enzyme activity 76, 52 and 48% respectively. Subsequently, only four (4) Rhizopus species were isolated from soil.They includeR. oryzae, R. americanus, R. oligosporus and R.nigricans with hydrolysis zone 27.4, 25.3, 25.0, 22.0mm in diameter and enzyme activity 50, 45, 46 and 36% respectively.Similarly, about three (3) Rhizopus species were isolated from potato.They includeR. oligosporus, and two (2) Rhizopus species with zone of hydrolysis 22.8, 20.7, 19.5mm and enzyme activity 40, 38 and 29% respectively. This reveals fungi Rhizopus can be isolated from varied raw food sources and soil with strain R. microspores isolated from millet having greater potential of producing this amylase enzyme.
Keywords: Rhizopus, Screening, amylase and Production

Abstract: Plasmodium falciparum malaria accounts for up to 80% of malaria cases worldwide, and by far the most important malaria parasite in Africa and it is responsible for over 90% of all malaria cases in Nigeria, with varied symptoms. The risk of malaria infection varies widely according to geographical region, seasons, environment and socio-economic status. This study examined the relationship between socioeconomic status (household income),occupation, malaria preventive measures utilisation and prevalence of malaria due to P. falciparum among symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in parts of Kaduna Metropolis. A total of 1000 venous blood samples comprised of 500 each from the two study populations were collected in selected hospitals and National Blood Bank. P. falciparum detection and identification was carried out on thick and thin blood films respectively. Also the parasite density (parasitaemia) was determined. The result showed that 34.70% of all the individuals examined were infected by P. falciparum. Infection was significantly higher in females (44.66%) than in males (29.19%) (P<0.05), and influenced significantly by age and gender in both individuals (P<0.05).High prevalence was observed among symptomatic individuals without occupation (47.7%), low and medium income household and among medium income asymptomatic individuals. No significant association was observed between age and parasitaemia in both groups (P>0.05),In conclusion, despite reduction in malaria prevalence, adequate utilisation of combined protective measures and improve economic conditions will help in further reducing the prevalence of P. falciparum infection.
Keywords: Prevalence, P. falciparum infection, Socio-economic status, Symptomatic, Asymptomatic Individuals.

Abstract: The aim of the study was to assess the effects of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) on the Body Mass Index (BMI) and Cluster of Differentiation (CD4) cell counts of Human immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive individuals attending one of the health institutions in Nigeria. A total of 150 HIV patients were recruited for the study of which 112(74.7%) participants were undergoing HAART while 38(25.3%) were not on HAART. Their BMI and the CD4 counts were determined using standard methods. The result revealed that administration of HAART has no significant effect on the BMI and the CD4 cell counts of the HIV patients recruited for the study. However, the age of the patients on HAART was found to be significantly associated with the CD4 cell counts with those aged 25yrs and below having a higher CD4 cell count of 600.50±272.52cells/mm3 compared to other age groups (p<0.05). This study has shown that the age of the HIV patients may influence the effectiveness of HAART in the management of the infection
Keywords: HIV, HAART, BMI, CD4 cell counts

Abstract: The Amsel criteria and Nugent score are common diagnostic methods for BV and efforts continue to establish which method is superior. The study was a prospective cross-sectional study which compared the diagnosis of BV using the Amsel criteria and Nugent score. Participants were 316 consenting antenatal clinic attendees in the second trimester. All participants had two high vaginal swab samples collected which were analyzed using both Amsel criteria and Nugent score. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20.0 and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Among the 316 study participants, the prevalence of BV was 24.1% with Nugent score and 15.5% with Amsel criteria. Also, post-treatment BV persistence rate was 25.0% with Nugent score and 11.8% with Amsel criteria. Nugent score was superior to Amsel criteria for the diagnosis of BV (χ²=74.764, P0.001). Among 76 women diagnosed BV positive by Nugent score, 36(47.4%) were diagnosed by Amsel criteria while among 240 women diagnosed BV negative with Nugent score, 14(5.8%) were diagnosed as positive by Amsel criteria. Nugent score had a higher sensitivity (93.3% vs. 80.4%), lower specificity (92.1% vs. 94.2%), higher positive (94.0% vs. 72.0%) and negative (90.0% vs. 85.0%) predictive values, lower false positive (2.0% vs. 5.8%) and false negative rate (15.0% vs. 52.6%) and higher accuracy (94.0% vs. 82.9%) compared to Amsel criteria. In conclusion, Nugent score offers an advantage over Amsel criteria in the diagnosis of BV in pregnancy, thus it should be the preferred diagnostic method.
Keywords: Bacterial vaginosis, Nugent score, Amsel criteria, vaginal discharge

Abstract: This study was aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activities of different solvent extracts of seeds of Garcinia kola (Clusiacea) on some pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The seed was extracted using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, honey, and vinegar as solvents. The in vitro antimicrobial activities of the extracts on Candida albicans, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923) were assayed using the disc diffusion method. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC), and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) were evaluated using standard microbiological techniques. Phytochemical components of all the solvent extracts were determined and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) of the organic solvent extracts were further analysed. All the extracts exhibited varying degrees of concentration-based antimicrobial activities against the tested pathogens. The plant exhibited varying degrees of MIC/MFC with values ranging from 100 mg/mL (for n-Hexane extract against E. coli ATCC 25922) for organic solvents, followed 50 µg/mL obtained for honey extract (against E. coli ATCC 25922) and the least MIC value (12.5 µg/mL) was obtained for ethyl acetate (against S. aureus ATCC 25923 and C. albicans, respectively), the combination of solvent extract (against C. albicans) and vinegar (against E. coli ATCC 25922and C. albicans, respectively). The maximum MBC value was obtained for n-Hexane extract (100 µg/mL) and Honey extract (50 µg/mL) against E. coli ATCC 25922, while the least MBC value (25 µg/mL) was obtained for the combination of solvent extracts against S. aureus ATCC 25923 and C. albicans, respectively. Maximum MFC (50 µg/mL) was obtained for n-Hexane, vinegar, and the combination of solvent extracts and the least was n-Hexane. Saponin, tannin, phenolic, flavonoid, coumarin, anthocyanin, steroid, glycosides, triterpenes, phlobatannins amino acids, and alkaloids were randomly present in all the solvent extracts. The HPLC detector measured 13 compounds in the n-hexane extracts, 3 of which were identified at different concentrations Luteolin (96.94 mg/mL), Apigenin (4.43 mg/mL) and quercetin (4.06 mg/mL). A total of 14 compounds were detected in the ethyl acetate extracts, 6 of which were identified as Gallic acid (25.65 mg/mL), theobromine (17.31), caffeic acid (17.02), catechin (16.09), quercetin (8.99), and epicatechin (11.08 mg/mL). This study provides information on the antimicrobial activities and components of G. kola seeds. Also, it contributes to the development of alternative therapeutic agents against the pathogens tested in this study.
Keywords: Clusiacea, G. kola, Luteolin, Phlobatanin, Theobromine

Abstract: Medical wastes generated within the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri between the months of April to July, 2019 were evaluated for fungal load. Material wastes divided into sharps, laboratory, infectious and general wastes were collected from the Physicians’ offices, wards and laboratory for a period of 16 weeks. They were weighed using a standard weighing balance and their weights ranged between 0.06kg to 1.92kg. The fungi present in the medical wastes were determined using standard mycological methods. The fungi isolated from the waste samples were Candida albicans having a frequency of 13(34.21%), followed by Aspergillus fumigatus and Mucor with 6(15.79%), each. Aspergillus flavus had 5(13.16%), Penicillium marneffei and Candida tropicalis had 3(7.89%), while Candida glabrata had the least occurrence of 2(5.62%). The laboratory wastes had the highest fungal load than any of the other medical wastes analyzed with 34.90% of the total isolates followed closely by the infectious wastes having 31.58%. Sharps contained 26.32% and general wastes had the least percentage of 7.89%. So, adequate care should be taken in the handling of these medical wastes to avoid the spread of these fungal organisms which will go a long way in reducing the spread of nosocomial infections.
Keywords: fungal load, medical wastes, Owerri, Imo State

Abstract: Many bacteria species have been reported to develop resistance to antibiotics commonly prescribed for respiratory tract infections. This study aims to search for natural products for remedy of this problem and also to validate the claim by locals in the use of Achornea cordifolia in the treatment of respiratory tract infections. Isolation and identification of bacteria isolates were carried out using standard microbiological methods and MicroGen identification kits. Cold maceration extraction method was employed for the extraction of ethanol and aqueous extracts of Alchornea cordifolia leaves. Agar well diffusion and agar dilution methods were employed to determine the zone of inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of the extracts respectively. The result showed that out of 180 samples from throat (68), ear swabs (57) and sputum (55) collected from patients with respiratory tract infection in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria, Nigeria, 208 isolates were obtained. Seventeen (17) bacteria species were identified as; Staphylococcus aureus (7), Streptococcus spp. (5), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (2), Klebsiella pneumoniae (2), and Escherichia coli (1). The two extracts showed broad spectrum activity but the aqueous extract had larger zones of inhibition ranging from 11.5mm - 32.5mm and lower M.I.C and M.B.C values ranging from 5 mg/ml – 20 mg/ml. The aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts of Alchornea cordifolia was found to possess antibacterial activity against isolates from patients with respiratory tract infection in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria, Nigeria.
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Abstract: Propolis (bee glue) is a sticky dark-colored material that honeybees collect from plants and use in the hive, which contains higher amounts of bioactive components. The study was aimed at evaluating phytochemical constituents and antibacterial activity of propolis extract against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Phytochemical analyses of the extract were carried out using qualitative and quantitative procedures. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were isolated and identified using Bergy’s manual of determinative bacteria. Evaluation of the antibacterial activity of extracts was carried out using the agar well diffusion method. The result of antibacterial activity showed that Escherichia coli had the higher zone of inhibition in ethanolic extract than in aqueous at the concentration of 50mg/ml and 25mg/ml (18.5±0.17 and 10.0±0.17), (4.0±2.67 and 3.3±0.89) respectively, the higher the concentration the higher the zone of inhibition. The result of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, steroids, and cardiac glycosides in ethanolic extract while anthraquinone was not detected. While quantitative phytochemical screening revealed that phenolic compounds had the highest absorbance followed by flavonoids and tannins. The ethanolic extract of propolis can be an alternative material for treating skin and wound infection
Keywords: Anthraquinone, Phytochemicals, Propolis, and Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract: Isolation and identification of fungi associated with sun dried okra (Abelmoshus esculentus) sold in some selected parts of Abuja, Federal Capital Territory was investigated. Various fungi isolates were sub-cultured until pure cultures were obtained using pour plate technique. Determination of the pH and moisture content of the sun dried okra was carried out. The pH the samples ranged from 5.83 to 6.90, Kwali and Bwari council areas had the highest with 6.90, while Abaji council had the least with 5.83. Moisture content of Okra samples from Gwagwalada council was recorded as the highest with 18.62%, while samples from Abaji council had the least moisture content of 11.80. Fungal count across the council areas indicated Bwari had the highest with 2.0 x 10⁵CFU/mg, while the lowest fungi count occur in Kwali with 6.0 x 10²CFU/mg. The mould species identified in all the samples include; Aspergillus flavus 13(27%), Aspergillus fumigatus 9(18.4%), Aspergillus niger 6(12.5%), Mucor spp 4(8.3%), Fusarium spp 4(8.3%), Aspergillus sydowii 3(6.25%), Aspergillus ustus 3(6.25%), Aspergillus candidus 2(4.2%), Penicillum spp 2(4.2%), Saccharomyces spp 1(2.1%) and Clasdoporum carrionii 1(2.1%). Fungi isolated from Okra in this study could pose serious public health risk if consumed with time. Therefore, safety precautions should be employed in the processing and sun drying of Okra to avoid its contamination.
Keywords: Okra, pH, Moisture content, Fungi isolates.

Abstract: Pectinases are group of enzymes which causes the degradation of pectin. Pectinases are of environmental and industrial importance due to their biotechnological and commercial potentials in waste water treatment, brewing industries, textile industries, food industries and paper industries among others. The present study was aimed at characterization and partial purification of pectinase produced by Aspergillus niger using banana peel as carbon source under submerged fermentation (SmF) system. Fungi were isolated from fruit wastes dump sites using standard microbiological technique. The isolates were characterized morphologically and microscopically before subjecting them to screening for pectinolytic ability using standard methods. Molecular identifications were carried out on the isolate with the best pectinolytic ability. Fermentation parameters optimized to increase pectinase activity include; incubation period, salt supplements, additional carbon source, inoculum sizes, pH, moisture contents and temperature using standard methods. The isolate with the best pectinolytic ability was identified as Aspergillus niger strain AH1 with GenBank accession number MK811422. The crude pectinase obtained were partially purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, dialysis and gel filtration chromatography methods. Maximum pectinase activity of 575.37±0.67 U/mg/min/ml was obtained at day 3 of incubation, with addition of salt supplements, in the presence of sucrose as additional carbon source, 2 ml of 1 × 10⁶ spores ml^-1 of Aspergillus niger, pH 6, 100 ml moisture contents, and temperature of 50⁰C. The specific activity increased with 1.38 fold while recovery yield was 8.94 %. The study confirmed that the isolated Aspergillus niger strain AH1 can produced maximum pectinase at optimized fermentation parameters and could be explored for pectinase production.
Keywords: Fruit wastes; Aspergillus niger; optimization; pectinase activity; purification

Abstract: Although, there are reports of soil ingestion by wildlife (geophagy), but reasons for action remained elusive. A predominant hypothesis posits geophagy as source of medication for wildlife. This hypothesis albeit tested on different soils, but has sparsely been documented for termite mound soil (TMS). This study compared antibacterial susceptibility of aqueous leachates of four geophagic TMS1-4 from different sources with controls; a composite sample of forest soil (C1) and an aqueous solution of streptomycin sulphate (C2), against predominant human-wildlife pathogens; Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli(E. coli) and Salmonella typhi (S. typhi). All TMS1-4 and C1-2 exhibited range of 1.33±0.58 to 8.25±2.87 inhibition zones (IZ) against all tested pathogens. While TMS2 (5.00±1.00) and C2 (5.00±1.00) gave similar IZ against S. typhi, C2showed significant highest IZ (8.25±2.87) againstE. coli. The exhibition of IZ in all TMS supports medication hypothesis. Hence, wildlife of the study area may be consuming TMSs for self-medication. Further studies may be needed to investigate properties of TMS responsible for exhibition of IZ.
Keywords: Antibiotics,Geophagy, Hypothesis, Pathogens and Termite mound soil.

Abstract: Palm wine is the collective name for a group of alcoholic beverages produced by the natural fermentation by indigenous microorganisms of the sap obtained from various tropical plants of the Palmae family. The aim of this study was to determine the growth and physiological properties of yeast isolates from palm wine samples. Fifty (50) palm wine samples were aseptically collected in sterile bottles from different locations within Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. The samples were cultured by spread plate method on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar and Glucose Yeast Agar. Four (4) yeasts: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Saccharomyces globosus(top fermenters) and Saccharomyces carlsbergensis and Saccharomyces uvarum (bottom fermenters) were isolated. The four isolates were subjected to temperature, copper Sulphate (CuSo₄), pH, ethanol, Sodium Metabisulfite tolerance and flocculation tests. Saccharomyces cerevisiae and uvarum were top fermenting while Saccharomyces carlsbergensis and globosus were bottom-fermenting. S. cerevisiae was found in all samples while S. uvarum had the least occurrence (40%). From the temperature tolerance test, S. cerevisiae, had the highest temperature tolerance (42^oC) while S. uvarum recorded the least temperature tolerance (39^oC). Some of the isolates demonstrated flocculation ability and were positive in fermentative and assimilation test for some sugars. Three of the yeast isolates grew slightly at pH 2.0 while S. uvarumdid not grow at pH 2.0. All the yeasts grew very well at pH 6.0. At ethanol concentration less than 10% (≤ 10% v/v), all the isolates except S. uvarum recorded slight growth while none grew at 19% ethanol concentration. CuSo4 tolerance result showed that moderate growths for each yeast at 1.0g/l, slight growth at 2.0g/l and no growth at 3.0g/l. All the yeasts grew at 0.01% - 0.02% concentration of Sodium metabisulfite while only S. cerevisiae and S. globosus had slight growth at 0.04%. S. carlsbergensis and S. uvarums how no growth at 0.04% and none of the isolates grew at 0.05%. Sucrose was the most suitable sugar from all the yeasts. S. cerevisiae had the highest CO₂ production capacity of the four isolates. The result showed the ability of the yeasts to adapt to various physiological parameters. It is recommended that harnessing palm wine as yeast sources of any use both domestically and industrially should be encouraged.
Keywords: Growth, microorganism, palm wine, physiological study, yeasts

Abstract: The human microbiome has been said to play an important role in disease development and overall health of the host which is affected by the different practices of the individuals ranging from the abuse of drugs, use of certain cosmetics, poor hygiene and a lack of preventive measure for infection which tend to alter the normal state and function of the microbiome. This study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of microbial isolates and the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of these isolates from the nose, armpit and ear of students in selected faculties of Rivers State University. A total of 30 samples were collected at random using sterile swab sticks from selected body parts of students, including male and female and subjected to standard microbiological methods. A total of 42 isolates with the following genera Staphylococcus spp, Corynebacteriumspp, Klebsiella spp, Haemophilus spp and Moraxella spp were isolated. Staphylococcus spp has the highest prevalence (69%: 47.62%: 25%) in both males and females in the armpit, nose and ear respectively. This was followed by Corynebacterium spp with a prevalence of (19.05%; 23.08%: 0%) from the nose and armpit respectively with no occurrence from the ear. Haemophilus spp had the least prevalence, and occurred only in the ear samples. The organisms were more prevalent in females (50%) than in males (16.7%). The Results of the susceptibility pattern showed that Moraxella catarrhalis, Haemophilus spp and Klebsiella pneumonia were 100% resistant to Ampiclox. Generally, all the organisms were highly susceptible to Levofloxacin (100%)> Gentamycin (100%) > Azithromycin (100%) and Ofloxacin (100%). Indiscriminate use of antibiotics should be discouraged and be personal hygiene encouraged.
Keywords: Antibiogram, Body parts, Microbiome, Prevalence, Students

Abstract: Currency is one of the most potential vehicles in the transmission of pathogens. This study was designed to isolate, identify, and determine the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of bacterial pathogens isolated from different denominations of Naira notes. A total of sixty Naira note samples ranging from N100.00 to N1000.00 were randomly collected from meat vendors at the International and Kpirikpiri market, Abakaliki, Nigeria. Collected samples were analyzed using standard microbiological procedures. Antibiotic susceptibility test was done using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Results showed that bacterial counts ranged from 1.2 x 10³ cfu/mL to 2.3 x 10⁴ cfu/mL for N1000.00 and N100.00 Naira notes respectively. The bacteria isolated in this study were Escherichia coli (27.7%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (16.7%), Klebsiella species (16.7%), Salmonella species (22.2%), and Staphylococcus aureus(16.7%). The Gram-negative isolates (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella species, and Salmonella species) were highly resistant (75% -100%) to cefotaxime, ceftazidime, and ertapenem but susceptible (25% - 100%) to fluoroquinolones. Interestingly, S. aureus isolates were completely susceptible (100%) to gentamicin and amikacin but with a resistance percentage of 33.3% to oxacillin. This study has demonstrated that Naira notes are potential vehicles in the transmission of bacterial pathogens from person to person. From the foregoing, citizens are therefore advised to wash their hands regularly with soap and water after handling Naira notes.
Keywords: Antibiotics, Naira notes, Resistance, Susceptibility

Abstract: Today, mobile phone (MP) due to its great benefits has become an indispensable tool for people from all and sundry irrespective of profession, social status or location. However, MP can also serve as habitat for pathogenic bacteria. This study was aimed at isolating bacterial contaminants from mobile phones of some pharmacy students in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria and to determine the antibiotics susceptibility pattern of such bacterial isolates. Twenty swabs were obtained from the MPs of 20 volunteered students, using standard biochemical methods of analysis, specific bacterial isolates were identified. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out using Kirby Bauer disc agar diffusion method. The resistance pattern of the isolates was determined using descriptive statistical analysis. Multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) was also determined. A total of 35 bacterial isolates were gotten which were: S. aureus 19 (54.3%), E. coli 11 (31.4%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 3 (8.6), Streptococcus spp 2 (5.7%). The greatest activity was observed with the quinolones especially pefloxacin while the isolates were highly resistant to beta lactam antibiotics; 85.7% of the isolates had MARI greater than 0.2. All the MPs sampled were contaminated with pathogenic bacteria and showed high level of resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics. This might be an indication that antibiotics are being misused or abused. As much as possible, exchange of MPs between individuals should be avoided to limit the level of transmission of bacterial contaminants through MPs.
Keywords: Antibiotics, Bacteria, Contaminants, and Mobile phones.

Abstract: Spices are rich sources of bioactive moleculesand play crucial role in health maintenance and promotiondue to theirhealth-enhancing properties. The in vitro antimicrobial activitie of Cinnamomum verum and Curcuma longa extracts was investigated against multidrug resistant bacteria using agar well diffusion method. The phytochemical analysis of both extracts showed the presence of saponins, tannins, glycoside, alkaloids, flavonoids and terpenoids which were confirmed by GC-MS data that identified the major constituents to be aromatic, phenolic, saturated, mono-unsaturated fatty acids and bioactive compounds with useful therapeutic properties. The findings revealed that Curcuma longa and Cinnamomum verum methanolic and aqueous extracts had significant (P<0.05) antibacterial activities against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus spp. and Escherichia coli (6.00±0.00 – 18.0±0.12mm zone of inhibitions). However, the antimicrobial activities of Curcuma longa methanolic extractagainst the multi drug resistant (MDR) pathogens at the various concentrations were found to be higher than the antimicrobial activity observed in other extracts used in the study. The combination of Cinnamomum verum and Curcuma longa extracts at various concentrations (i.e., 80:20; 60:40, 50:50, 40:60 and 20:80) had an antagonistic effect on the antibacterial activity of the extracts compared to the antibacterial activity of individual spices. The present study indicated that Curcuma longa and Cinnamomum verumwith remarkable antimicrobial properties could be applied to improve existing drugs or to create new agents against MDR bacteria.
Keywords: Antimicrobial, Cinnamon, Pathogens, Phytochemical, Spices, and Turmeric

Abstract: The search for local alternatives to barley for brewing has been a major concern to stakeholders in the beer industry in Nigeria and Africa. One of such alternative and which can be sustained is the use of Sorghum and cassava as raw materials. This research work was aimed at investigating the possibility of producing lager beer using a blend of sorghum and hybrid yellow cassava (IBA 070593 and IBA 070539). The two yellow cassava varieties were blended with the sorghum malt at ratio 0:100 (control), 20:80, 30:70, 40:60 and 50:50. Fermentation was carried out for duration of 10 days and samples analyzed every 2 days interval. Parameters analyzed were yeast count, pH, total soluble sugars, alcohol content and sensory evaluation using standard procedures. The results showed that the formulation ratio of 20:80 had the highest yeast count and alcohol content of 286.7 ± 2.60 × 10¹² cfu/ml and 6.78 ± 0.41 % respectively, while the least values of 247.3±1.76×10¹² cfu/ml and 3.63 ± 0.49 % were from 50:50 ration.Sensory evaluation showed that overall acceptability of 8.00 ± 0.05 was from 20:80 ration while the least of 7.30 ± 0.13 was from 40:60. The study revealed that the hybrid of yellow cassava blended with sorghum can be a favourable raw material for beer production.
Keywords: Beer, Cassava, Sorghum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Alcohol content

Abstract: Hepatitis B virus is highly infectious and a major global health problemas it causes chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.The study was carried out to assess and compare the prevalence of HbsAb among Nigerian and Indian students of Jodhpur national university India, in an effort to identify the vulnerable individuals and enlighten the public about the danger and risk factors associated with the sero negative status of HbsAb individuals. Total of 202 samples were studied using enzymes linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Antibody index was obtained and result wasanalyzed according to standard procedure. Result shows that 37/202 (18.32%) of the total subjects were positive to HbsAb. High prevalence of 23/101 (22.77%) HBsAb was found among Indian students while only 14/101 (13.86) of Nigerians werefound to be positive. Also,17/69(24.64%) of total females students werepositive while 20/133 (15.03%) of the male students were positive. Studentsaged17-22 years had high prevalence of HbsAb (22.44%) followed by those aged 23-28years(17.39%), 29-34years(11.11%) then 35 years andabove with (0%) prevalence. According to vaccination status 25/68 (36.76%) of vaccinated subjects were positive while only 12/134 (8.95%)were positive for non-vaccinated. 37/194 (19.07%) of unmarried students were positive while among 8 married students none of them waspositive.Additionally, 33/169 (19.52%) of the individuals that live in urban area were HbsAb positive while only 4/33 (12.12%) of those living in rural area were positive. This research clearly shows that Indian students have high prevalence of HbsAb than Nigerian students, due to the fact that majority of students tested positive already vaccinated with hepatitis B vaccine and majority of them were Indians. Total of 18.32% prevalence of HbsAb among the subjects also questioned the effectiveness of hepatitis B vaccination program in both two countries. Therefore there is need for health promotion awareness campaign to educate the general public about importance of HBV vaccination.
Keywords: Antibodies, Hepatitis B, Seroprevalence, Vaccination

Abstract: : In controlling E. coli infections antibiotics that were once effective are now ineffective due to the bacteria acquired resistance to these antibiotics. This research is carried out to characterize and identify Escherichia coli isolated from edible cockle (Senilia senilis) by molecular methods and screened for the presence of bla_TEM gene that confer resistance to Extended spectrum β-Lactam antibiotics. The study was carried out from January to June 2020 at the Department of Microbiology, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria and the E. coli isolates were subjected to multiple antibiotic susceptibility test using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and resistant isolates were screened for the presence of the resistance gene bla_TEM). This screening was carried out via the process of DNA extraction, quantification, amplification of the gene using appropriate primer and agarose gel electrophoresis which showed the DNA extracts that had bla_TEM genes when amplified. Forty (40) E. coli were isolated and identified culturally and molecularly from Senilia senilis. Results showed the presence of bla_TEM gene in 5 out of the eight (8) isolates screened for bla_TEM gene. Results also revealed that 52.5% of isolates had MAR index greater than 0.2 indicating high source of contamination where antibiotics are often used. Molecular characterization via sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene of the Seven (7) most resistant isolates confirmed that the isolates were strains of Escherichia coli. This study demonstrated the resistance ability of E. coli and the main factor behind its resistance. Further investigation into antimicrobial resistance is recommended for the administration of drugs most especially for the treatment of food-mediated E. coli infections.
Keywords: bla_TEM, Escherichia coli, Molecular Characterisation, Resistant genes and Senilia senilis

Abstract: Antibiotics, either produced by microorganisms or formulated synthetically have a dynamic attribute of inhibiting Growth or completely suppressing the toxic effect of microorganisms. This study aimed to compare the antibacterial strength of three common antibiotics: Ciprofloxacin, Gentamycin and Erythromycin against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosaand Staphylococcus aureusisolated from clinical samples such as Nasal swab, wound swab, urine and high vaginal swab.The sensitivity test was carried out using the Disc diffusion method. A total of 25 isolates were obtained from these samples after culturing. Of the 25 isolates, 5(20%) yielded pseudomonas aeruginosa, 10(40%) yielded Staphylococcus aureusand Escherichia coli respectively. Gentamycin demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity against the test organisms with 100% activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 90 and 70% activity against E. coli and S. aureus. It was followed by ciprofloxacin which had 60 and 70% activity against E. coli and S. aureusrespectively. Erythromycin was the antibiotic with the least activity, but it showed higher activity (80%) than ciprofloxacin (40%) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Therefore gentamycin is a better choice of antibacterial therapy against infections causedbyE. coli, P. aeruginosaand S. aureus.It exhibited the highest antibacterial effect on these organisms than the other antibiotics tested
Keywords: Analysis, Antibacterial strength, Broad spectrum, antibiotics, clinical isolates.

Abstract: Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC), is among the most important pathogens infecting children worldwide and one of the main causes of diarrhoea. EPEC infection is often under diagnosed during routine microbiological analysis, especially in resource constrained settings and therefore the use of serological and molecular test could help to determine the distribution of EPEC and its clinical significance. The study was carried out to investigate the occurrence of EPEC as a cause of diarrhoea in children younger than 5years of age and to detect their virulence genes. During the study period, a total of 280 faecal specimen from children with diarrhoea and 20 from healthy children were collected and screened for E.coli using biochemical tests. The confirmed E. coli isolates were serologically tested with EPEC polyvalent and monovalent antisera to detect EPEC serotypes. The EPEC serotypes were screened for the presence of the attaching and effacing (eaeA) and bundle- forming pilus (bfpA), gene by PCR assay. Furthermore, antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of the EPEC serotypes were determined by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. The isolates were also screened for Extended Spectrum βeta-lactamase (ESBL) production by double disc synergy. The study revealed that EPEC was detected in 19 (6.7%) of the test samples but negative in the control group. The EPEC serotype O55: K59 (B5), had the highest frequency of occurrence. The bfpA and eaeA genes were detected in 31.6% and 15.7% of the EPEC isolates respectively. Typical EPEC (eaeA+, bfpA+) was detected in one isolate, while atypical EPEC was detected in seven isolates. The antimicrobial susceptibility revealed that EPEC isolates were highly resistant to ampicillin (100%), tetracycline (84.2%), and trimethoprim (89.4%) but were sensitive to ciprofloxacin (95%), ceftriaxone (84.2%), ceftazidime (79.0%) and amoxicillin-clavulanate (79.0%). Three (3) isolates were found to produce ESBL. The investigation including the use of serotyping and molecular technique, are necessary to allow precise identification and epidemiological study of these pathogens. Multidrug resistant EPEC can be associated with infantile diarrhoea
Keywords: Enteropathogenic E.coli, Typical EPEC, Atypical EPEC, Bundle- forming pilus, Intimin, Diarrhoea

Abstract: Fermented maize (Ogi) is a traditional porridge prepared from maize, sorghum or millet grains majorly used as important weaning food for infants in West Africa but poor in protein content. “Ugba” is a protein based fermented food condiment obtained from the seeds of the African oil bean (Pentaclethra macrophylla) and used to complement the nutritional content of soups and sauces. The aim of this study was to assess the bacteriological and nutritive quality of complementary food made from fermented maize fortified with varying levels (100:00, 90:10%, 80:20%, 70:30%, 60:40% and 50:50%) of ugba blends. The physicochemical properties, bacteriological quality, proximate composition and sensory parameters of the samples were analysed using standard methods. The pH of the fortified ogi decreased steadily from 4.8 to 4.2 with a corresponding increase in titratable acidity from 0.75 to 1.3. The bacterial isolates included; Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Micrococcus luteus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Lactobacillus species and Proteus mirabilis. The nutritional values of the fortified product were significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to fermented maize (control) and increased steadily with increase level of ugba blends of 10% to 50%. The results revealed that fortified ogihad high protein content (8.75% ± 0.18 for 50%), fiber (1.47% ± 0.12 for 50%), fat (5.40% ± 0.04 for 50%) and ash content (1.77% ± 0.10 for 50%). Based on the findings of the study, fortifying fermented maize (ogi) with ugba would promote the nutritional quality of ogi and provide a readily available and affordable weaning diet for infants.
Keywords: Fermented maize, fortified, bacteria, standards, ugba

Abstract: This research was conducted to determine the prevalence of rotavirus and Cryptosporidium parvum co-infection among children with acute gastroenteritis in Zaria, Nigeria. A total of 340 diarrhoeic stool samples and 32 age matched control of children aged 0-60 months were screened for the presence of C. Parvum and rotavirus antigen using ELISA. Out of 340 diarrhoeic samples screened, 11(3.0%) samples were positive for both C. Parvum and rotavirus antigens (co-infection) and 329 (96.76%) were negative for the coinfection. Rotavirus was exclusively positive in 73(20%) samples while C. Parvum was exclusively positive ein 28(8%) samples. Total of 260(70%) samples were negative for the two pathogens. Of (3%) co-infection detected, 8(4%) were among 199 males and 3(1.7%) were among 173 females children studied. Age of the patients (p=0.028), source of drinking water (p=0.036), not exclusive breast feeding (p=0.014), weaning at early infancy (p=0.010) were some of the risk factors associated with the co-infection.
Keywords: Prevalence, Rotavirus, Cryptosporidium parvum, Children, Gastroenteritis, Zaria

Abstract: Helicobacter pylori, a leading cause of gastritis, peptic ulcers, and other gastritis-related diseases in both developed and developing countries, is a significant public health concern in developed and developing countries, with a disproportionately high burden in economically developing countries due to poor sanitation. This study aims to isolate and determine the seroprevalence of H. pylori among patients attending two Mission hospitals in Umuahia, Abia State. Samples of blood and stool were collected from ninety patients. The blood was collected aseptically from the antecubital vein using a sterile disposable syringe and needles and allowed to clot for antibody detection using H. pylori strip kit (Helicobacter pylori Ab Rapid test (Cassette Germany). The isolation of H. pylori from the stool samples was done by inoculating onto blood and chocolate agar plates and then incubated in a microaerobic atmosphere at 37⁰C for 5 days. Identification was based on typical colony morphology, characteristics appearance on gram staining and positive urease, oxidase and catalase tests. A high prevalence of 23.33% was observed in this study. Gender was not significantly associated with H. pylori infection (X²=0.1517, p=0.3712). The highest incidence was observed in the age group 16-26(38%) while the least was recorded with those of 49years and above 3(14.4%). There was no significant association of age with the prevalence of H. pylori infection (p=0.661). More cases of H. pylori infection was observed with patients from the rural area (16.67%). Out of the 90 participants suspected of having peptic ulcer, 23.33% of them had ulcer that was caused by H. pylori Out of the 21 ulcer patients cause by H. pylori 16 (76.2%) were both seropositive and culture positive to H. pylori while 5 (23.4%) were only seropositive. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was low among patients with peptic ulcer attending the two mission hospitals. In order to lessen the disease's impact, health education on transmission channels and risk factors for H. pylori infection is emphasized in this line.
Keywords: Helicobacter pylori infection, peptic ulcer, prevalence.

Abstract: Pathogenic Mycobacterium infection has been on increasing concern and a threat to public health especially in developing countries like Nigeria. A cross sectional study was carried out at Kano abattoir in Kano State in the Sahel part of Northern Nigeria. The aim of the study was to determine the Prevalence and detectMycobacterium tuberculosis complex in Goats Slaughtered at Kano Abattoir, based on Post-mortem meat inspection for TB-like lesions, culture, acid-fast staining, and TB Ag MPT64 SD-bioline. A total of 500 slaughtered goats were examined during post-mortem meat inspection, out of which 27 have gross TB lesions with an overall prevalence of 5.4%. The males were 11 with a prevalence of 5.8%, while females were 16 with a prevalence of 5.1%. The chi-squire (×2) test of significance based on sex shows the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The 27 gross TB lesions obtained/sampled, were subjected to culture, acid- fast staining and SD-bioline in which 5(38.5%), 5(41.7%) and 3((42.9%) males were culture, acid-fast stain and SD-bioline positive respectively while on the other hand 8(61.5%), 7(58.3%) and 4(57.1%) females were culture, acid-fast stain and SD-bioline respectively. The study highlighted the importance of tuberculosis in Goats and its public health implications and calls for prompt action towards controlling the disease in goats in Kano abattoir and Nigeria in general.
Keywords: Prevalence, Isolation Mycobacterium species, Goats

Abstract: Plesiomonas sp is a facultative anaerobic, gram negative, oxidase positive, nonsporing, motile bacilli, that has been implicated in food and water borne diseases. This experiment was conducted to determine the incidence of this bacteria in catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) sold in selected markets in Lagos State. A total number of 64 samples (fish) were collected from different locations between the months of August and September, 2018. 10g from each sample was serially diluted in 90 ml of sterile distilled water and 1 ml from 10-3 dilution was inoculated in duplicate on solidified inositol brilliant green bile agar. Plateswere incubated at 35°C for 24-48hr. Isolates were Identified based on culturalcharacteristics, Gram staining and biochemical characterization. The total viable count showed that catfish from location D (Iyana-Iba market) had the highest microbial load of 9.2×10⁴ cfu/g while the lowest microbial load for catfish was recorded in location B (Igando market) with 1.0×10⁴ cfu/g. The highest and lowest microbial load for tilapia samples were observed in location G (Oyingbo market) with 2.5 ×10⁴ cfu/g and 0.7×10⁴ cfu/g respectively. Antibiotics susceptibility test conducted showed that most of the isolates were multi-drug-resistant with multiple antibiotic resistance index above 0.2 risk limit. Hemolysis test also revealed varying zones of clearing confirming their ability to produce hemolysin. Plesiomonas sp is an organism of concern because of its ability to cause intestinal infections and could be a public health threat if ignored.
Keywords: Plesiomonas sp, seafood and antibiotic resistance.

Abstract: Production and proximate analysis of Ogiri condiment from Melon, Castor oil, Pumpkin and Watermelon seeds were carried out usingSolid Sate Fermentation(SSF). Six (6)bacteria genera identified as Staphylococcus spp, Klebsiella spp, Bacillus spp, Lactobacillus spp, Escherichia coli and Serretia species and three fungi: Aspergillus niger, Rhodotorula spp and Rhizopus stolonifer were isolated from fermenting seeds. These isolates were recovered during the fermentation, but at the end of the fermentation, only Bacillus and Lactobacillus species were isolated from the Ogiri condiments. The pH of the Melon seed at the beginning of the fermentation was 5.5 while that of the Ogiri at the end of fermentation was 6.4.Ogiriproducedfrom castor oil seed has the highest moisture content (10.84 ± 0.05), Water melon had highest crude protein (38.32 ± 0.10), Melon has highest crude fat (44.86 ± 0.50), watermelon recorded the highest value in Ash content (6.36 ± 0.11), Castor oil seed has the highest crude fibre(10.17 ± 0.05) and highest carbohydrate value (45.98 ± 0.04). The Ogiri condiments were found to be free from pathogens and spoilage organismsand also rich in nutrients such as protein and minerals. The Ogiri condiments could be good substitutes for animal proteins in rural areas where animal proteins are scarce.
Keywords: Fermentation, microorganisms, Ogiri, proximate analyses, substrates