Abstract

---

This study was carried out to assess the microbial quality of herbal medicinal products being sold in Ota and its environs. A total of 24 bacterial isolates were identified from 32 herbal products purchased from 8 sellers in different parts of Ota. The total plate count (TPC) for bacteria in the herbal samples analysed ranged from 1.1 x 10 to 9.3 x 1OCFU/ml; while the total fungal count ranged from 1.2 x 10 to 9.8 x lOCFU/ml. The bacterial and fungal counts of the herbal products increased with the period of storage (24, 48, 96 hours). Bacteria! isolates obtained from this study belong to four genera; Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus. Sixty percent of the herbal products analysed were contaminated with Escherichia coli, 50% by Vibrio cholerae, 30% of Staphylococcus aureus, and 40% with Salmonella typhi. The antibiotic resistance and susceptibility patterns of the isolates showed 45% and 36% of Escherichia coli were resistant to ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin respectively; all the Staphylococcus aureus were susceptible to ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin; 80% of the Vibrio cholerae were resistant to ofloxacin; and 50% of the Salmonella typhi isolates were resistant to ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin. All the bacterial isolates recovered from herbal products in this study were resistant to cefuroxime, ampicillin, and ceftazidime. The result of this study revealed the need for adequate quality control measure to be put in place for herbal preparations used for commercial purpose in order to safeguard the health of the public.

Abstract

---

Microorganisms associated with commonly used cosmetics and effects of microgravity on most frequently isolated microorganism were investigated. The microorganisms isolated from the cosmetics were Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacillus cereus, Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus subtilis, Trichoderma piluliferum and Neocosmospora vasinfecta. Fifty percent of the cosmetics were contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, 31.82% contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 22.73% contaminated with Escherichia coli, 13.64% contaminated with Proteus mirabilis, 13.64% contaminated with Bacillus cereus, 9.09% contaminated with Proteus vulgaris, 4.55% contaminated with Bacillus subtilis, 13.64% contaminated with Trichoderma piluliferum and 9.09% contaminated with Neocosmospor avasinfecta. The S. aureus which was the most frequently isolated bacteria was subjected to microgravity condition. The S. aureus grown under stimulated microgravity condition exhibited resistance to antibiotic more than under earth gravity. The resistance of the 5. aureus to antibiotics tends to increase with increased in revolution per minutes (rpm) at which the bacterium was subjected.

Abstract

---

The present study was designed to characterize antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii from some selected hospital environments in Benin City, Nigeria. A total of sixty (60) wastewater samples (15 samples from each hospital) were collected from hospital drains in University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH); Health Centre (University of Benin); Central Hospital Benin and Faith Mediplex, Benin City between January and March 2014. Standard culture-based methods and biochemical approach were used for identification of the bacterial strains. Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the isolates were carried out using disc diffusion method. The mean cell density of heterotrophic bacteria ranged from 2.41xl06 ± 0.03 to 3.35xl07 ± 0.02 cfu/ml while the mean Acinetobacter species count ranged from 2.05x103 ± 0.01 to 7.55x104 ± 0.07 cfu/ml. Antibiotic-resistant profiles of the isolates revealed that 67/72 (93.06%) were resistant to amoxicillin (Penicillins), 62/72 (86.11%) were resistant to gentamycin (Aminoglycosides), 69/72 (95.83%) were resistant to ampiclox ([3-lactam/p-lactamase inhibitors); while 5/72 (6.94%) were sensitive to cefuroxime (Cephalosporin II) and chloramphenicol (Phenicols). Multidrug-resistant profile revealed that 33/72 (45%) of the isolates were resistant to PENR, GENR, APXR, AMXR, NALR, CHLR, PEFR, CXMR, TETR with multiple antibiotic-resistant index of 0.9. The findings from this study revealed A. baumannii in the hospital effluent were resistant to clinically relevant antibiotics. The multiple antibiotic-resistant index suggest a potential risk to public health and the surrounding communities.

Abstract

---

Modern and current models such as flow cell technology which enhances a non-destructive growth and inspection of the sessile microbial communities revealed a great understanding of biofilms. A continuous flow system was designed to evaluate possibility of biofilm formation by Escherichia coli DH5a on the stainless steel (type 304) under continuous nutrient supply. The result of the colony iorming unit (CFU) count shows that bacterial attachment and subsequent biofilm formation on stainless steel coupons with average surface roughness of 1.5 ± 1.8 urn and 2.0 ± 0.09 urn were both significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the stainless steel coupon with lower surface roughness of 0.38 ±1.5 urn. These observations support the hypothesis that surface profile is one of the factors that influence biofilm formation on stainless steel surfaces. The Scanning electron microscopy and Field emission scanning electron microscopy micrographs of the stainless steel coupons also revealed the attached Escherichia coli DH5a biofilm and dehydrated extracellular polymeric substance on the stainless steel surfaces. Thus the fabricated flow system represented a very useful tool to study biofilm formation under continuous nutrient supply.

Abstract

---

This work evaluates the chemical composition and antibiofilm potential of extracts from Allium sativum in the search for green and effective alternatives for overcoming menace of biofilms. The work evaluated the antimicrobial activity of the extracts against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration, inhibition of initial cell attachment as well as disruption of preformed biofilm. Phytochemical analysis of the plant extract was also carried out using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antimicrobial activity was investigated using the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration assay (MIC) as well as Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC). Allium sativum ethanol extract showed the highest antimicrobial activity against the test organisms with MIC and MBC values u 1 mg/ml. P. aeruginosa showed more susceptibility to the extracts in the antimicrobial activity test with MIC and MBC values of 0.09 mg/ml and 0.5 mg/ml respectively. However, it showed more resistance in the antibiofilm activity test with MBIC value of 1.0625 mg/ml. Allium sativum ethanol extract inhibited cell attachment by at least 50% against the two test organisms while the aqueous and methanol extracts showed no activity at the concentration tested. Disruption of preformed biofilms revealed that Allium sativum ethanol extract showed 50% inhibition against S. aureus but not P. aeruginosa. Antibiofilm potential and biosafety of bioactive compounds from Allium sativum reveals a prospective active principle that could be of use in biofilm associated menace.

Abstract

---

Study was carried out to determine the antibacterial potential of orange peels extracts against some isolated bacteria associated with tomato rot in Jos. Rotten ripe tomato fruits were aseptically collected from Terminus and Farin-gada markets of Jos metropolis. The plant extract was obtained from dried orange peels by Soxhlet extraction using n-hexane. Agar well diffusion method was used for the antibacterial susceptibility assay and accompanied by Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bacteriocidal Concentration (MBC) determination. The result showed the presence of seven bacterial (Klebsiella sp., Pseudomonas sp., Salmonella typhi, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Erwina sp. and Shigella sp.) isolates with Klebsiella sp. having the highest percentage of occurrence (22%) while Staphylococcus areushad the lowest percentage occurrence (5%). The result of the susceptibility of the antibacterial test showed Klebsiella sp. had the maximum zone of inhibition (8mm) at the concentration of 200mg/ml while Proteus sp.showed no zone of inhibition at the same concentration. The differences in the zones of inhibition by the different extract concentrations and the control on the isolates were statistically significant at P= 0.05 across the concentrations on the isolates as compared to the control. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration values showed that the extract had activity against Klebsiella sp. and Shigella sp.at 100 mg/ml and 200mg/ml respectively while only Klebsiella sp showed a Minimum Bacteriocidal Concentration of 200mg/ml. The result showed that orange peel extract was active but not effective against the tomato spoilage bacteria. Therefore, waste portions of the citrus fruits' peels could be a promising source of antimicrobial variables.

Abstract

---

This study on microorganisms associated with plantain sources was carried out in the Microbiological laboratory of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria. Plantain {Musa Paradisiacal) is a rhizomatous nutritional perennial crop used as a source of starchy staple for millions of people in Nigeria. The total heterotrophic bacterial count for sample sources in cfu/mL ranged from 68 x 105; 78 x 105 while coliform count was 3 x 10 ;4 x 10 in wet sample and dry sample respectively. The morphological and biochemical characterization of the isolates encountered was determined. The eleven bacterial species obtained from dry flour are categorized into specific bacterial groups including two Gram negative organism such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp., while the rest nine are Gram positive organisms including Bacillus cereus (3), Bacillus globisporus (3), Bacillus circulans (2) and Entcrococcus spp(l). In wet plantain sample sources, nine bacterial species were encountered. Only two are Gram negative (E. coli) while the rest seven isolates are Gram positive (including Enterococcus (2) one strain each of Bacillus circulans. Bacillus insolitus, Bacillus alcalophilus and Lactobacillus fennentum). The fungal species isolated during the study include Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicilliumchry sogenum, Saccharomyces cerevisae, Aspergillus fumigatus, Fusarium spp., Rhizopus stolonifer and Mucorspp. This study shows the prevalence of fungi in plantain and the microbial quality of plantain both in wet and dry state when consumed.

Abstract

---

This study examined multi-resistant Aeromonas spp. isolated from river and aquaculture water sources for determinants of resistant genes. These species can provide a reservoir for resistant genes capable of transfer to other water-borne and human pathogens. The isolates were confirmed with API 20NE. Resistance profiles of 206 Aeromonas isolates were determined for 11 antimicrobials by the Kirby-Bauer technique. PCR was used to determine the genetic determinants responsible for the ESBL phenotypes using primers for bIaTpjvi, blaSnv and blacrx beta-lactamase genes. Phenotypic expression of ESBL production was done by the double disk diffusion method and plasmid curing was effected with acridine orange. The Aeromonas spp. comprised of the following: Aeromonas hydrophilia/caviae, A. sobria and A. salmonicida. Isolates expressed high resistant rates (75-100%) to 63.6% of the antimicrobials and moderate resistant rates (53.3-60.0%) to 27.3% of the antimicrobials tested. There were also high occurrences of multiple resistances with 100% of the isolates being resistant to 2 or more anti'niorobials. Aeromonas spp. from river water expressed higher resistant rates than those from aquaculture water samples. Phenotypic screening for carriage or presence of ESBL gene showed that all the isolates tested positive for the presence of ESBL gene and were resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanate. Amongst the 13 isolates analysed for the 3 (3-lactamase genes, the blaTEM was most prevalent with 30.8% of isolates possessing it, while 23.1% and 7.7% possessed blaSHv, and blacrx respectively. Antimicrobial resistance profile, post curing, showed 38% and 100% of isolates remained ESBL producers and inhibitor resistant respectively. The study infers the presence and diversity of ESBL genes in Aeromonas spp. isolated from river and aquaculture water settings in Nigeria

Abstract

---

The present study evaluates the in-vitro antibacterial activities of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from two fermented cereal products - ogi and kunun-zaki, against organisms implicated in gastrointestinal tract infections. A total of fifteen (15) LAB strains with 5 each from white maize agi, yellow maize ogi, and kunun-zaki were isolated and characterized. The LAB strains were tested against 5 clinical pathogens. The highest zone of inhibition against Shigella (20.0mm) was shown by Lactobacillus helveticus YM0007 and L. casei YM2434 bothfrom yellow maize ogi while the lowest zone of 1.0mm was observed in L. lactis KN49 from kunun-zaki. Against Salmonella typhi, the highest zone of inhibition of 22.5mm was shown by L. fermentum WM4825 from white maize while the lowest zone of 1.0mm was observed in L. plantarum KN56. L. brevis WM4832 had the highest zone of 25.0mm against Escherichia coli while the lowest zone of 1.0mm was observed in L. lactis KN49 and L. brevis KN46. The highest zone of inhibition (20.0mm) against Enterococcus faecalis was observed in L. helveticus YM0007 while the lowest zone of 5.0mm was shown by L. casei KN39. Against Klebsiella sp., the highest zone of inhibition of 27.5mm was shown by L. casei WM4826 while the lowest zone of 4.0mm was observed in L. casei KN39. The highest production of lactic acid was observed in L. bulgaricus KN46. L. plantarum KN56 produced the highest amount of hydrogen peroxide while the highest amount of diacetyl was produced by L. lactis KN49. This study suggests that lactic acid bacteria found in ogi and kunun-zaki -coutd be useful in ameliorating gastrointestinal trtict infections.

Abstract

---

The antimicrobial properties of indigenous medicinal plants Azadirachta indica (Neem seeds), Vernonia amygdalina Linn (Bitter leaves), Ocimum gratissimumlinn (Scent leaves), Moringa oleifera seeds, Zingiber offtcinale(G\nger), Allium sativum (Garlic), Pterocapus santalinoides (Nturukpa) against Escherichia coli 0157:H7 isolated from cattle faeces using Cefixime-Pottasium Tellurite Sorbitol McConkey (CT-SMAC) Agar supplemented with 4 methyl umbelliferyl D-glucuronide (MUG) was investigated. The colourless white colonies on the selective medium were subjected to several biochemical tests and a confirmatory test using immunological latex reagent 0157:H7 antiserum to detect agglutination. Escherichia coli 0157:H7 isolates were subjected to the medicinal plants extracts using well-in-agar method. The susceptibility of Escherichia coli 0157:H7 isolates to the plants extracts revealed that Escherichia coli 0157:H7 were susceptible to Allium sativum clove (methanolic extract), Moringa oleifera seed (ethanolic extract), Vernonia amygdalina leaf (ethanolic extract) and Pterocarpus santalinoides leaf (Ethanolic extract) in varying degrees and their mean zones of inhibition were 9.8 ± 0.05mm, 8.93 *O.O.3mn.7.35 ± OO(Hmmand 6.0 ± 0.04mm respectively. Susceptibility of the isolates to the extracts were in the order Allium sativum>Moringa oleifera> Vernonia amygdalina>Pterocarpus santalinoides. Ethanol and methanol are the best solvents for the extraction of active constitutents of the plants used in the study. The demonstration of antimicrobial activity of crude extracts of A. sativum, P. santalinoides, V. amygdalina and M. oleifera extracts on Escherichia coli 0157:H7is an indication that these plants have antimicrobial properties and therefore are potential sources for drugs with better modes of action

Abstract

---

A preliminary investigation was carried out on the effect of certain plant leaves; Cola hispida, Mallotusoppositfoilus, Manihotesculenta and Newbouldia leavis on palm wine during storage. The leaves are used by traditional palm wine tappers and retailers in the south eastern Nigeria for the preservation of palm wine. Palm wine from Raphiaraphia and Elaensisguineensis were used in this study. The effect of these leaves on ethanol levels, pH and total yeast count in these wines were monitored at 0,24,48 and 72 hours after taping. Results showed that the levels of ethanol and total yeast counts peaked at 24 hours for the treated samples while that of the control peaked at 48hours. The samples treated with Manihotesculenta leaves revealed much higher ethanol levels than the controls. The pH of the untreated control samples at 72 hours showed a higher acidity than that of the treated samples. ANOVA however showed no significant difference in the parameters monitored for treated and control samples during the period. P< 0.05.This study revealed that these leaves can be used to preserve the quality and extend the shelf life of palm wine from Raphia raphia and Elaensis guineensis

Abstract

---

There is high demand for nutrients by exotic tree species due to their rapid growth rate. The decomposition of leaf litters of two plant species, Tectona grandis and Eucalyptus camaldulensis were investigated using litterbag study. Soil and leaf litters were collected from six sampling sites in each plantation designated as El - E6 for E. camaldulensis and Tl - T6 for T. grandis respectively. The collected samples were analyzed for their chemical properties using standard methods at day 1, 30 and 60 during the experimental period. Results showed that the decomposition rate in E. camaldulensis ranged from 0.00271 to 0.00571 while in T. grandis, decomposition rates ranged from 0.00824 to 0.01527. There was a general decrease in both foliar mass and chemical compositions while soil chemical and microbiological parameters increased, indicating nutrient release into the soil. Decomposition rates was higher in T. grandis than E. camaldulensis with ranges of 0.00824 - 0.01527 day"1 and 0.00271 - 0.00571 day" 'respectively, possibly due to the hard texture and waxy coating of E. camaldulensis. Significant difference was observed in their decomposition rates with a F-Value of 0.001. due to the difference in their s~il chemical properties. Carbon (IV) oxide evolution was highest on day 30 in both species. Analysis of variance revealed that soil carbon, carbon (IV) oxide evolution, pH, potassium and magnesium were significantly different between the sampling sites of each plantation. It is concluded from this study that site conditions determine to a large extent, the decomposition rate of leaf litter samples

Abstract

---

Extracts of Nicotiana tabacum were investigated for phytochemical constituents and antifungal activities against certain dermatophytes: Epidermophyton floccosum , Microsporum canis and Trichophyton rubrum . The alcohol extract was made using 95% ethanol and 95% methanol as extracting solvent in the ratio of 2:1. The hot water extract was made by boiling sample in distilled water. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, fats and oil, saponin, and tannins. Alkaloids were in appreciable quantities while cyanogenicglycosides were absent. The crude extracts were acidic and exhibited antifungal activity against all the test organisms. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of the extracts on the organisms varied between 7.8 and 62.5mg/ml. The treatments were significantly different at p=0. 05. The mode of action of the extracts varied with the test organisms. This study revealed antifungal effect of leaf extract of Nicotiana tabacum on Epidermophyton floccosum , Microsporum canis and Trichophyton rubrum

Abstract

---

"Ugba an indigenous Nigerian fermented food condiment is rich in substantial amount of protein, dietary fibre and minerals. Traditional processing method reduces the level of nutrients and minerals in the processed Ugba after long boiling. This study was therefore undertaken to determine the effects of processing methods on nutritional composition of Ugba. The control sample (CI) and the modified samples (Ps, Pwl, Pp2, Agl and Ogl) which were processed using 5 different cooking materials (adjuncts) were compared. The microorganisms isolated from Ugba sample were noted as to ascertain the organisms' involved in fermentation. Proximate analysis and mineral composition were carried out on the sample. The result showed an increase in protein, moisture and ash content and a decrease in carbohydrate, crude fat and crude fibre for the samples at 72hoursof fermentation. The sample after 72 hours fermentation contained an appreciable amount of calcium, potassium, sodium and zinc. Sample Agl had the highest amount of calcium (33.422) and zinc (2.44) while sample Ps had a little traces of lead (0.001) at 72 hours fermentation. It was also recorded for the sample, an increase in pH value and temperature. The result of the total viable counts were 2.60 x 109cfu/ml, 2.79 x 109cfu/ml, 2.68 x 109fu/ml, 2.61 x 109cfu/ml, 2.5 x 109cfu/ml and 1.97 x 109cfu/ml for samples CI, Ps, Pwl, Pp2, Agl and Ogl respectively after 72 hours fermentation. No mould growth was found in the unfermented and fermented Ugba slices for all the products. At the end of 72 hours fermentation, sensory evaluation test on a 9-point hedonic scale using a 27- member panel was carried out on the six samples, and the scores statistically analysed using analysis result from sensory assessment showed that the sample processed with Ash Ngu (Agl) was most preferred followed by sample Ps in terms of overall acceptability. At the end of the storage period, the oven dried ugba was able to retain some amount of microorganisms that was used as starter culture. The result of this study shows that sample Agi was most preferred by panellist and also had the highest amount of protein and calcium which is highly desired^o supplement the nutritional requirement of the populace.

Abstract

---

Samples were collected from one hundred and twenty second hand wears and inoculated into Sabouraud Dextrose Agar Petri dishes supplemented with 0.5mglml cyclohexamide and 0.05mg/ml chloramphenicol. The fungal isolates were tested for their ability to degrade keratin using modified hair-baiting technique and eight species of fungi were recovered. The organisms isolated belong to dermatophyte and non dermatophyte fungi. The non dermatophyte fungi accounted for 78% of the isolates and include Aspergillus niger(l2.2%), Aspergillus terms (4.9%), Aspergillus fumigatus (12.2%), Trichosporon asteroides (7.3%), Trichosporon cutaneum (9.7%), Geotrichum candidum (14.6%) and Penicilliumchry sogeneum (17.1%). Trichophyton tonsurans (22%) was the only dermatophyte isolated. Photomicrographs of the hair strands revealed perforations as a result of the ability of the fungi to degrade keratin. Most of the fungi have been implicated in human and animal mycoses and so pose public health problem. There is therefore, need for users of these second hand wears to disinfect them before use.

Abstract

---

The microbiological assessment of different species of apples (Granny smith, Red delicious and Gold rennette apples) sold in Owerri Metropolis, Imo Slate was carried out using standard microbiological procedures. Three species of apples were bought from four different vendors at different locations within Owerri. Total viable bacterial counts recorded ranged from 1.0 x 103cfu/g to 1.32 105cfu/g. Total coliform counts recorded ranged from 1.0 x 103cfu/g to 1.6 x 104cfu/g. Total fungal counts recorded ranged from 2.0 x 103cfu/g to 1.4 x 104cfu/g. Bacterial isolates from the apples were; Staphylococcus aureus 3(9.68%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 4(12.90%), Corynebacteriumspecies 8(25.81%). Bacillus species 5(16.13%), Proteus species 4(12.90%), Micrococcus species 5(16.13%) and Klebsiella species 2(6.45%). Fungal species isolated from the apples were; Penicilliumspecies 6(35.29%), Saccharomyces species 4(23.53%), Kluyveromycesspecies 3(17.65%) and Mucor species 4(23.53%).The prcsenceof pathogenic organisms on the fruits is of public health concern. The fruits should be properly washed before consumption.

Abstract

---

The microbiological assessment of different species of apples (Granny smith, Red delicious and Gold rennette apples) sold in Owerri Metropolis, Imo Slate was carried out using standard microbiological procedures. Three species of apples were bought from four different vendors at different locations within Owerri. Total viable bacterial counts recorded ranged from 1.0 x 103cfu/g to 1.32 105cfu/g. Total coliform counts recorded ranged from 1.0 x 103cfu/g to 1.6 x 104cfu/g. Total fungal counts recorded ranged from 2.0 x 103cfu/g to 1.4 x 104cfu/g. Bacterial isolates from the apples were; Staphylococcus aureus 3(9.68%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 4(12.90%), Corynebacteriumspecies 8(25.81%). Bacillus species 5(16.13%), Proteus species 4(12.90%), Micrococcus species 5(16.13%) and Klebsiella species 2(6.45%). Fungal species isolated from the apples were; Penicilliumspecies 6(35.29%), Saccharomyces species 4(23.53%), Kluyveromycesspecies 3(17.65%) and Mucor species 4(23.53%).The prcsenceof pathogenic organisms on the fruits is of public health concern. The fruits should be properly washed before consumption.

Abstract

---

Urinary Tract Infection is one of the most frequently seen medical complications in pregnancy. This study reports the prevalence of urinary tract infections among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in some selected hospitals in Anambra State, Southeastern Nigeria. The aim of this work was to determine the prevalence of urinary tract infection among the pregnant women, the trimester peak of infection and the antibiotic sensitivity of the isolated organisms. Microbiological analysis was performed on the urine samples obtained from 500 pregnant women aged 21 - 40 years. Standard questionnaires was used to obtain socio-demographic data from the pregnant women and data obtained was analysed statistically to determine the relationship between the variables and their significance. Cystine lactose electrolyte deficient agar, MacConkey and blood Agar were used to isolate the organisms where every specimen that yielded pure heavy growth of bacterial pathogens of >105 cfu/mL of urine was considered significant. These bacterial isolates were identified based on cultural morphology, microscopic, biochemical and molecular characterization. The results obtained showed that 101 (20.2%) pregnant women were infected and age bracket 26-30 years had the highest incidence of UTIs with infection rate of 31.7%. Pregnant women in their second trimesters were most infected with infection rate of 49.5%. Escherichia coli was the commonest isolated organism 71(70.3%), followed by Stapyloccocus aureus 26(25.7%) and Enterococcus feacalis 4(3.96%), with 30%, 65% and 100% bacterial sensitivity to gentamycin respectively. Gentamycin therefore was the most effective antimicrobial drug against the bacterial isohtes. All the isolates assessed for Escherichia coli, Enterococcus feacalis, and Staphylococcus aureus genes wer£ positive with the amplification of 16sRNA gene of these organism

Abstract

---

Due to increasing rate of antimicrobial drug resistance in recent years, this brought about research on use of natural plant for herbal medicine, by the use of Garcinia kola pericarp and the seed extract. The ethanolic extract shows a significant inhibition of growth against the tested bacteria (Klebsiella pneumoniall.OOmm,Escherichia coli 13.00mm, Staphylococcus aureus 10.00mm and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 10.00mm). The aqueous extract of both the seed and pericarp has no inhibiting action on all the bacteria and the fungi isolates (0.00mm). The pericarp has the highest zone of inhibition 17.00mm against the tested bacteria compared to the seed extract 4.00mm.The proximate analysis revealed that Bere seed (BS) has the highest percentage moisture content (13.05%), Oje pericarp (OP) has the highest protein content (11.37%), crude fibre (14.56%) and ash content (7.11%), Bere seed (BS) has the highest carbohydrate content (73.19%) and Oje seed with the highest crude fat (4.27%). Bere pericarp extract (BPE) contain alkaloids, saponin and phenol in an appreciable amount (+++). Oje pericarp extract (OPE) has the highest qualitative composition present in appreciable amount (+++) which are. (alkaloids, tannin, saponin, phenol and glycosides) likewise phlobatannin in BSE sample. The investigation demonstrated that plant has antimicrobial and greater inhibitory effect which makes it useful in folk and African traditional medicine for treatment of various ailments. The proximate composition reveals that Bere seed has the highest percentage of moisture content (13.05%), OP highest protein composition^ 1.37%X ash composition (7.11%7 and" crudefibre (14.56%), there was variation in the proximate composition.

Abstract

---

Phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activities of water, ethanol and methanol extracts of parts of Phyllanthusamarus plant were investigated. Qualitative results from the different extracts, showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins phenols, saponins and flavonoids. However, phenol was absent in ethanol seed extract, but present in other crude extracts obtained with water and ethanol. The percentage of alkaloids in the aqueous extracts of leaf, seed, stem and root showed that the quantity in seed (2.40 ±0.23) and leaf (2.23 ±0.15) were higher than those of stem (0.40±0.00) and root (1.68±0.00). The phytochemical constituents of ethanol extracts obtained from different parts of the plant varied. However, the quantity in root for the different phytochemical compounds considered were more than that present in the other parts of the plant, alkaloid(5-00±0.11), flavonoid (3.00±0.12); tannin(3.82±0.11) ; saponins (4.00±12) and phenols(2.40±0.12). The estimated quantity in crude methanol extracts of P. amarus parts showed that alkaloids present in root (5.00±0.11) was higher compared with the other parts; leaf (3.00±0.60), seeds (2.00±0.00); and stem(2.40±0.00). Except for stem where saponin as 1.40±0.23. The saponin content in other part were higher compared with-other phytochemicals. Water was the best extractant of saponin from root, while ethanol and methanol were better extractant of alkaloids from root. The crude extracts of Phyllanthusamarus plant parts were potent against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus strains. The aqueous extract of leaf produced the highest zone of inhibition against 25.00 ±1.67mm for E. coli strain 7.

Abstract

---

This work was aimed at ascertaining the antifungal potency of some antifungal drugs on fungal isolates from barbering equipment. Two hundred (200) samples were collected from barbering equipment pre and post sterilization. Samples were inoculated onto Sabouraud Dextrose Agar and incubated at room temperature for 5 7days.Subcultures were carried out to purify the isolates. One hundred (100) isolates belonging to six (6) genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Candida and Scedosporium were identified. Antifungal drugs fluconazole, ketoconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole and nystatin of known concentrations were screened in vitro on the isolates using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The isolates were resistant to fluconazole and griseofulvin. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) of the effective drugs ranged from 0.15625 to lOmg/ml and Minimum Fungicidal Concentrations (MFCs) from 1.25 to >20mg/ml. Nystatin had different MIC and MFC values. The effective drugs exhibited little activities on the isolates proving their ineffectiveness in treatment

Abstract

---

Strains of Staphylococcus aureus resistant to beta-lactamase stable antibiotics such as methicillin, oxacillin and cloxacillin, commonly called Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have become a serious public health concern worldwide. Nasal carriage is a major risk factor for infection with MRSA. In this study, nasal carriage rate of Cloxacillin resistant S. aureus was assessed among students of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. Nasal swabs were collected from 50 apparently healthy students and cultured on Mannitol salt agar for isolation of S. aureus. Coagulase positive S. aureus was isolated from 39 (78%) of the nasal swab specimens. The isolates were tested for their antibiotic susceptibility profile against Cloxacillin and seven other antibiotics using the disc agar diffusion method. Of the 39 S. aureus isolates, 32(82.1%) were resistant to Cloxacillin, giving a nasal carriage rate of Cloxacillin-resistant S. aureus of 64% among the students. Thirty seven (94.9%) and 35(89.7%) of the isolates were sensitive to Streptomycin and Gentamycin, respectively. The isolates exhibited various levels of resistance to other antibiotics, ranging from 33% to Chloramphenicol to 69.2% to Cotrimoxazole. The high level of resistance to Cloxacillin in this study should alert the public health authorities to ?he risk of infections with MRSA and the need to institute infection control measures to prevent outbreaks of MRSA related diseases both in healthcare settings and in community

Abstract

---

This study assessed the low incidence of ESBL detect and associated antimicrobial/antibiotic resistance from Enterobacteriaceae isolated from pigs. A total of twenty-six (26) isolates from the forty-five (45) faecal piggery samples studied were Gram negative bacteria which were further characterized using standard biochemical procedures as : Citrobacter freundii 7(26.9%), E. coli 5(19.2%), Klebsiella pneumonia 5(19.2%), Enterobacter aerogenes 2(7.7%), Salmonella spp. 6(23.1%), and Shigella spp. 1(3.9%). Antimicrobial susceptibility of these isolates to the following antibiotics: gentamicin (GEN) lOug, cefuroxime (CRX) 30 ug, ofloxacin (OFL) 5 ug, ceftazidime (CAZ) 30 ug, augmentin (AUG) 30 ug, cefixime (CXM) 5 ug, nitrofurantin (NIT) 30 ug, ciprofloxacin (CPR) 5 ug was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method; twelve (12) of the isolates showed resistance to two or more of the antibiotics. The major finding is the presence of multi-drug resistant E.coli and Klebsiella pneumonia to commonly used antibiotics such as augmentin, ceftazidime, cefixime, and cefuroxime. These multi drug resistant isolates were screened for possible ESBLs production using the double disc synergy test (DDST) and none was ESBL positive. Pig faeces do not pose a high risk of contamination with ESBL producing bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae group in the environment.

Abstract

---

Batch experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of nitrogen source on biodegradation of crude oil by hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria isolated from Eagle Island mangrove ecosystem of Niger Delta, Nigeria. The organisms were identified as Pseudomonas sp. MW3 and Bacillus sp. SD4. The ability of the organisms to solubilize crude oil was indicated by having emulsification index values of 62.1, 58.7, 60.6 and 61.2 % for crude oil, diesel, petrol and kerosene by Pseudomonas sp. MW3 and 61.4, 58.8, 59.4 and 60.3 % for crude oil, diesel, petrol and kerosene by Bacillus sp. SD4) respectively. After 15 days of incubation, the maximum total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) removal observed was 90.3 % regardless of treatments applied. Bushnell-Haas (BH) medium amended with urea showed 88.1 and 90.3 % TPH removal in both Pseudomonas sp. MW3 and Bacillus sp. SD4 cultures respectively. The lowest TPH removal (43.1 %) was observed in culture medium of Bacillus sp. SD4 supplemented with potassium nitrate. The high TPH removal in medium supplemented with implies that urea is an appropriate nitrogen source during bioremediation of crude oil contaminated sites.

Abstract

---

Aflatoxigenic molds are strains that produce aflatoxins. This study used yeast extract sucrose agar supplemented with 0.3% beta methyl cyclodextrin and 0.6% sodium desoxycholate to differentiate between aflatoxigenic and atoxigenic strains. ELISA and multiplex PCR techniques were also employed to assess aflatoxin production and detect key aflatoxin genes (aflR-1, omt-A, ver-1, nor-1). Isolates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, and 12 were identified as atoxigenic strains, showing negative results for polyphasic beige ring assay and ELISA. However, these same isolates presented expected DNA fragments with varied banding patterns (1, 2, and 3 bands), each with different profiles of the key genes. None of these non-aflatoxigenic isolates displayed a four-band pattern with the aflatoxin biosynthesis key genes. Isolates 1, 2, 3, 8, 11, and 12 showed two band patterns each, while isolates 4, 5, and 7 presented one band each. Isolate 6 exhibited three bands. Both the banding patterns had different profiIn contrast, isolates 9 and 10 were aflatoxigenic strains and consistently showed four amplified banding patterns with the aflatoxin biosynthesis key genes. Of the non-aflatoxigenic strain genes amplified, 50.0% displayed one profile with two DNA banding patterns. Furthermore, 66.7% of the two DNA amplification banding patterns showed varied profiles. Twenty percent (20.0%) of the non-aflatoxigenic strains showed one variable profile and one DNA amplification banding pattern. The aflatoxin key gene variable profiles were observed only in non-aflatoxigenic strains. Based on the key gene profiles, the nor-1 gene had the highest frequency of occurrence (73.3%), followed by ver-1 (53.3%), omt-A (40.0%), and aflR-1 (13.3%). The variable PCR amplification of key genes in non-aflatoxigenic strains could be valuable for determining the toxicological status of food products.