UMYU Journal of Microbiology Research

Optimization of Cellulase Activity by Aspergillus niger and Penicillium chrysogenum using Some Agricultural Wastes

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Cellulases are enzymes widely used in various manufacturing processes, yet their production faces challenges such as the high cost of raw materials, low product recovery due to microbial cell characteristics, and unfavorable growth conditions, all of which lead to increased costs of finished products. This study aimed to investigate the optimum physicochemical conditions that could enhance cellulase production by Aspergillus niger and Penicillium chrysogenum using agricultural wastes as substrates. Each fungal species was grown in a mineral salt medium containing paper, sugarcane bagasse, or wheat bran as the sole carbon source at various concentrations. Cellulase activity was found to be optimum at 5% w/v substrate concentration after 96 hours of incubation. Wheat bran supported the highest cellulase activity (5.36 IU for A. niger and 3.62 IU for P. chrysogenum) at pH 5 and a temperature of 30°C. In contrast, using paper as a substrate, the optimum enzyme activity was observed at pH 6, with a temperature range of 35°C for A. niger and 45°C for P. chrysogenum (1.28 IU and 1.26 IU, respectively). For sugarcane bagasse, the optimum pH for cellulase activity was 5, with P. chrysogenum showing higher activity (1.01 IU) at 40°C compared to A. niger (0.91 IU) at 50°C. However, cellulase activity using paper and sugarcane bagasse was significantly lower (p<0.05) than with wheat bran under these conditions. This study revealed that A. niger and P. chrysogenum are excellent cellulase producers under optimal conditions of 30°C and pH 5, using wheat bran at 5% concentration. These findings highlight their potential for large-scale cellulase production.

Prevalence of Malaria Parasites among Tuberculosis Patients Attending Specialist Hospital, Gombe State, Nigeria

Attahiru Adamu, Bashir Abdulkadir, Mukhtar G.L. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Malaria and tuberculosis (TB) are two of the most prevalent endemic infections in Nigeria. Thus, a study on the co-infection of malaria parasites with tuberculosis was undertaken among patients attending State Specialist Hospital Gombe between November, 2010 and March, 2011. A total of 203 blood samples comprising of 103 samples from confirmed AFB-positive patients and 100 from AFB-negative patients (control) were collected and analysed for the presence of malarial parasites. All the samples were subjected to blood film using Giemsa Staining Technique and viewed under oil immersion Microscopy. The prevalence of malaria parasites among AFB-positive and negative patients were found to be 33% and 31% respectively. Malaria parasites were most prevalent among patients aged 41-64 years (39.0%). Male patients had the highest prevalence of 17.5%, while females had a prevalence rate of 15.5%. The higher prevalence reported may be of significance in the light of recent data, showing that malaria infection may exacerbate TB. Thus, adequate measures should be taken to free TB patients from malaria infection.

A Survey for Human Papilloma Virus Infection among Women Attending Gynaecology Clinic of Jos University Teaching Hospital Jos, Nigeria

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is among the well-known causes of cervical cancer and it represents the third most common malignancy in women, however, surveillance data on its incidence rates are still needed in this part of the world. Accordingly, this study was conducted to determine the incidence of Human papilloma virus in sexually active women aged between 18 and 65 attending gynaecology clinic of Jos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria (In 2016) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits (Cusabio Biotech. USA). A total of 90 blood samples was collected and analyzed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Out of the samples, 28 (33.3%) were found to be positive for Human papilloma virus infection. The incidence of Human papilloma virus in relation to age shows that those in the age group 16-25 had the highest rate of occurrence of 45.8%, followed by age 36-45 (27.8%). Age groups 26-35, 46-55, and 56-65 years have 25.0% respectively. HPV incidence rate of 33.3% was found among women that are not single while 31.0% occurred among the married women. Women with diabetes had 50% incidence of HPV infection while 29.3% occurred among women without diabetes, equally HPV incidence rate of 37.5% occurred among women who had protected sex while 30.5% occurred among women that had unprotected sex. In conclusion, high incidence of HPV was detected among the study population, hence, it is recommended that HPV vaccination should be included in the routine immunization among the gynaecology services for sexually active women and regular pap smear screening should be made mandatory.

Potential Risk of Transmitting Escherichia coli O157:H7 through Some Vegetables Sold in Zaria Metropolis

Sulaiman, M. A., Musa, B., Paul, M., Aliyu, M.S., Tijjani, M. B. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study was designed to assess the potential risk of transmitting E. coli O157:H7 through vegetables. Suspensions (25g of vegetable in 225ml of distilled water) of 100 vegetables, 20 each of spinach, carrot, cabbage, lettuce, and tomatoes were separately cultured on Eosine Methylene Blue Agar (EMBA) for the viable count and isolation of E. coli. The isolates characterized biochemically as E. coli were sub-cultured on Sorbitol-MacConkey agar, which is selective for E. coli O157:H7. The efficacy of salt and vinegar in disinfecting the vegetables was examined on the E. coli O157:H7 isolates. Various concentrations of vinegar and salt were tested against E. coli O157:H7 using agar well diffusion method and tube dilution technique. The highest E. coli count was found in lettuce (22.0 x 10⁴ CFU/g), with carrot having the lowest E. coli count (8.0 x 10⁴ CFU/g). The prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 was 10% in spinach, 5% in tomatoes, and 0% each for cabbage, carrot, and lettuce. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were 12.5% (v/v) and 0.0125g/ml, and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were 50% (v/v) and 0.025% g/ml, for vinegar and salt, respectively. Vegetables were found to harbor pathogens like E. coli O157:H7. Salt and vinegar are good disinfecting agents in washing the vegetables.

Antibacterial Activity of Citrus sinensis (Orange) Peel on Bacterial Isolates from Wound

Abalaka, M. E., Bello, A. O. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The antibacterial activity of aqueous, ethanolic, and ethyl acetate extracts of Citrus sinensis against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was determined. This work aimed to discover the effects of orange peels extracts in the treatment of wounds contaminated by bacteria. Four different concentrations (50mg/ml, 100mg/ml, 150mg/ml, and 200mg/ml) of each extract were used against the test organisms. The test isolates demonstrated susceptibility to the varying concentrations of the crude extracts; this was evident in the different diameters of zones of inhibition displayed by the extracts. Staphylococcus aureus was the least susceptible to the various extracts at different concentrations. The aqueous extract showed a zone of inhibition of 7±0.0mm at 50mg/ml and 16±2.0mm at 200mg/ml against Escherichia coli; Pseudomonas aeruginosa at 7±0.0mm, 50mg/ml and 15±1.0mm at 200mg/ml; Klebsiella pneumoniae 6±0.0mm at 50mg/ml and 15±1.0mm at 200mg/ml. Ethyl acetate produced a zone of inhibition of 9±0.0mm and 19±1.0mm with Klebsiella pneumoniae at 50mg/ml and 200mg/ml; Escherichia coli at 8±0.0mm and 14±1.0mm at 50mg/ml and 200mg/ml respectively; Pseudomonas aeruginosa was susceptible to ethanol extract, giving zones of inhibition of 6±0.0mm and 14±0.0mm at the concentrations of 50mg/ml and 200mg/ml respectively. The result showed that the potency and efficacy of the orange peel extracts on the organisms that cause wound infection had different hierarchy of susceptibility among the test organisms. The crude extracts from orange peels may be used to disinfect wounds and probably lead to a cure if it can be properly refined.

Evaluation of Synergetic Activity of Honey and Ginger Extracts on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Idris, U. A., Tijjani, M. B., Aliyu, M. S. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted to determine the antimicrobial and synergistic activity of honey and ginger extracts on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Agar well diffusion method was used to determine susceptibility of the test organisms using honey and ginger extracts individually, and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations of the antimicrobial agents was measured using the tube dilution method. Different proportions of 10% v/v concentrations of the antimicrobials were mixed and their activity against the test organisms determined also using the agar diffusion method. The most active proportion was taken as the proportion with the widest diameter zone of inhibition. The MIC and MBC of the most active proportions on the different test organisms were then determined. Honey-ginger powder extract mixtures produced the highest inhibition compared to the use of honey or ginger extract individually. The zones of inhibitions produced by a mixture of ginger extract and honey each of 10% v/v concentration on both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and MRSA was higher than zones of inhibition by honey and ginger extract of the same concentration used individually. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the most active proportions of honey-ginger extract mixtures on both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and MRSA was 1.25% v/v while minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of the different most active proportions were 2.5% v/v for both of the test organisms.

Mycobiota and Aflatoxin Contaminations of Some Spices and Condiments Sold in Katsina Central Market, Nigeria

Haruna, M., Dangora, D.B., Khan, A.U., Saleh, A. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Spices and condiments get contaminated with fungi and aflatoxin due to poor agricultural and storage practices. A total of 42 dried, raw, powdered and processed samples representing fourteen different types of spices and condiments were randomly collected in new polythene bags from Katsina central market (Katsina town) and were screened for fungi and aflatoxin contaminations. These were Clove, African nutmeg, Ashanti pepper, Candlewood, Ethiopian pepper, Pineapple of the bush, Ginger, Garlic, Chillies, Kajiji, Thyme, Chilli powder (yaji), Curry, and Locust bean (Dadawa). Fungi was isolated on Potato Dextrose Agar by Agar plate method for dried and raw samples and Standard Dilution Plate method for powdered samples. Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used for aflatoxin determination. Ten fungal spp were isolated and identified as Aspergillus flavus, A. parasiticus, A. fumigatus, A. versicolor, A. niger, Mucor hiemalis, Rhizopus stolonifer, Phoma glomerata, Penicillium citrinum and Nigrospora sphaerica. Percentage occurrence of fungal species ranged from 1.8% for Nigrospora sphaerica to 35.7% for A. parasiticus. Eight out of 14 spices and condiments (57.1%) contained total aflatoxin ranging from 0.7–>20 µg/kg. Two of these (14.2%), namely clove (>20 µg/kg) and ginger (11.6 µg/kg), had aflatoxin levels above the maximum acceptable limit of 10 µg/kg set by the European Union and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and are therefore not safe for human consumption.

Gamma Globin Gene “Switch On” by Dietary Source of Short Chain Fatty Acids as a Therapy for the Management of Sickle Cell Anaemia in Patients Attending Federal Medical Centre Gusau, Zamfara State

Matazu, I. K., Abdullahi, A. S., Matazu, N. U., Muhammad, I., Abubakar, Z. S. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The effect of feeding Cow’s Milk butter as a nutritional source of short-chain fatty acids on the level of foetal haemoglobin (Hb F) in patients with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) was studied. A significant increase (P<0.05) was observed in the level of Hb F (1.0% to 2.5%) in all the patients treated with Cow’s Milk butter for a period of 6 months (180 days). An increase in the level of Hb F in the patients is an indication of molecular "switch on" of the gamma globin gene responsible for the production of gamma globin chain found in Hb F. Increase in production of Hb F can serve as a therapy for the management of sickle cell anaemia (SCA).

A Survey of Salmonella Species and their Antibiotic Susceptibility Profile from Selected Wells in Katsina State, Nigeria

Fatima Mukhtar, UmmuSalma Aliyu Saulawa, Mukhtar, G.L. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has estimated that 1.1 billion people globally lack basic access to drinking water resources, while 2.4 billion have inadequate sanitation facilities which accounts for many water-related acute and chronic diseases. The study was designed to search for the presence of Salmonella spp. from wells in Dan-musa, Mani, and Danja Local Government Areas of Katsina State. The distances of wells to pit latrines were measured at collection points. The organisms were detected and isolated by cultural methods using selective media and were subjected to a series of biochemical tests. They were sero-grouped using seroquick grouping reagents. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by the disk diffusion method. All the distances measured were below the set standard of 30 meters by WHO and the Nigerian Environmental Protection Agency. Dan-musa Local Government Area had the highest mean coliform counts of 20.7cfu/ml, while Danja had the least counts of 13.8cfu/ml. Out of the 300 well water samples collected, a total of 11 Salmonella strains were isolated belonging to three (3) different sero-groups (Group D, A, and B). Significant statistical association (p<0.05) was found between the occurrence of these bacterial isolates and the distance of wells to pit latrines. All the isolates were resistant to multiple classes of antibiotics, with the highest resistance to ceftazidime and cefuroxime, 100% each. However, the isolates were also sensitive to fluoroquinolones, chloramphenicol, and cefoxitin. The presence of these pathogenic bacteria from the well water samples analyzed connotes a serious health risk to consumers due to the threat of disease and antibiotic resistance. The study accentuates the need to set standards for siting wells away from pit latrines, provision of adequate potable water, and improved sanitation.

Hypothetical Protein from Aspergillus niger contains Chromate Reductase Motifs

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Chromate reductase is an enzyme that converts toxic and carcinogenic Cr⁶⁺ to non-carcinogenic and less soluble Cr³⁺. A hypothetical protein (ref. XP-001388504.1) from Aspergillus niger has been identified as chromate reductase using bioinformatics techniques. The techniques involved Clustal W alignment and Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). Using Clustal W alignment, the motifs VTPEYN and LKNAID were identified to be common among the different chromate reductase homologues aligned. The same motifs reappeared when the hypothetical protein was aligned with other chromate reductase homologues. The BLAST search also identified VTPEYN and LKNAID motifs on the A. niger genome, indicating the likelihood of the hypothetical protein being chromate reductase. The homologue was recovered as a putative chromate reductase gene encoded by an open reading frame of 2227 bp nucleotide sequence. These findings clearly demonstrate the hypothetical protein is likely to be chromate reductase.

Isolation and Characterization of MRSA from Locally Processed Meat Hawked in Gombe, Nigeria

Shamsuddeen, U., Puma, H. U. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Three types of locally processed meat products were collected from vendors across hawking points in Gombe town: stick meat (tsire) 30 samples, roasted meat (balangu) 30 samples, and dried meat (kilishi) 15 samples, making a total of 75 samples. Samples were taken to the Microbiology Laboratory of Gombe State University and analyzed for the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) through culturing, biochemical tests, and DNA analysis. The isolated Staphylococcus aureus were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility tests using standard antibiotics. The results showed that 13.33% of the total isolates were methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus as confirmed by the presence of mecA1, mecA2, and pvl genes by polymerase chain reaction. This is of great health importance to the public.

Effect of Fermented Dough on the Organoleptic Quality and Shelf-Life of Bread

Dashen, M.M., Edia-Asuke, U.A., Amapu, T.Y., Adesokan, D.M., Olugbodi, F.C. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study was carried out to determine the effect of fermented dough (sourdough) containing lactic acid bacteria on the organoleptic quality and shelf life of bread. Spontaneous fermentation of three commonly used wheat flours was carried out for 120 hours (5 days) at ambient temperature and 33°C. The average total lactic acid bacteria counts during dough fermentation were 2.0 x 10⁷, 1.8 x 10⁷, and 1.7 x 10⁷ cfu/g for flour A, B, and C fermented doughs, respectively. A total of seven Lactobacillus species were isolated: Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus sanfranciscensis, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus pontis, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Percentage overall acceptance of the experimental bread samples was highest (79.00%) in the bread samples with 20% fermented dough concentration. The highest minimum mold-free shelf life was 8 days in both the 15% and 20% fermented dough bread as compared to the control bread baked with yeast and commercially purchased bread. Finally, the use of fermented dough in bread production was found to improve the sensory quality and shelf life of bread.

The Prevalence of Trichuris trichiura Infection among Primary School Pupils in Dantube, Dawakin-Kudu Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria

Rabiu Adamu, Muhammad Haruna — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The prevalence of whipworm infection (Trichuris trichiura) among primary school pupils in Dantube, Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of Kano State, between August 2015 to January 2016, was studied. Of the 400 samples collected and examined, 101 (34.83%) were positive for single or multiple infections. The prevalence of the infection was significantly higher among males (75.25%, p-value 0.138) than females (24.75%, p-value 0.156) (p < 0.05). Children in the age group 4–6 years had the highest prevalence (43.66%) of whipworm infection, while those between the ages of 13–15 years had the least infection (6.25%). Children who defecate in the bush were more likely to be infected than those who use modern toilet facilities (R = 0.6). Analysis of responses from the questionnaire showed that parents’ occupation as civil servants (odds ratio = 4.381) and business owners (odds ratio = 3.147) had a strong relationship with the prevalence of the disease in the research area. Walking barefoot (odds ratio = 2.142), especially in areas where the soil remains damp and moist throughout the year, increased the risk of infection. Handwashing activities (odds ratio = 3.71) also had a statistically significant effect on the prevalence of the infection. Personal hygiene and public health enlightenment programs should be encouraged, particularly among school-aged children in the research area.

Occurrence of Bacteria and Yeast in Urinary Tract of HIV/AIDS Patients Attending Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Clinic at University of Jos Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the infections observed among HIV patients and is a cause of morbidity and hospitalization in HIV-positive individuals. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of urinary tract pathogenic bacteria and yeast among HIV-infected individuals attending the Anti-retroviral Therapy (ART) clinic in Jos, Nigeria. Mid-stream urine samples collected from 240 HIV-seropositive patients were cultured, isolates identified, and antibiotic susceptibility profiles determined using the agar disk diffusion technique (Kirby-Bauer). Out of the 240 samples screened, 39 (16.25%) had urinary tract infections (UTIs), and 33 (16.20%) had yeast infections. The distribution of bacterial isolates was as follows: Escherichia coli 12 (30.77%), Staphylococcus aureus 10 (25.64%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 4 (10.26%), Enterobacter sp. 4 (10.26%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus 3 (7.69%), Citrobacter freundii 2 (5.13%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 2 (5.13%), and Proteus mirabilis 1 (2.56%). Among the yeasts, Candida albicans showed the highest prevalence with 21 (63.64%), while non-albicans Candida sp. had 12 (36.36%). The age group 20–24 years had the highest prevalence with 1 (33.3%) case, while bacterial infection was not detected among those <19, 55–59, and ≥60 years. Females had a higher prevalence of 36 (17.60%) compared to males with 3 (8.33%). The antibiotic susceptibility patterns showed that gentamicin (10 µg), augmentin (20 µg), chloramphenicol (30 µg), ciprofloxacin (5 µg), and ofloxacin (5 µg) were more effective. The study revealed that uropathogenic bacteria and yeast were prevalent among HIV/AIDS patients. Routine screening for uropathogens should be incorporated into the management and care of HIV/AIDS patients in Nigeria.

A Retrospective Study of Multidrug Resistant Salmonella typhi in Nigeria

Oyedum, U.M., Kuta, F.A., Garba, S.A. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Multi-drug resistant Salmonella typhi are strains of S. typhi that can withstand the therapeutic effects of two or more antibiotics, mostly the first-line antibiotics, which include Chloramphenicol, Cotrimoxazole, Streptomycin, Tetracycline, Sulfonamides, Trimethoprim, and Ampicillin. This study was conducted to expose the detrimental effects of this issue (multi-drug resistance) among the majority of the population in Nigeria. Susceptibility tests using various antibiotics were carried out on Salmonella typhi isolated from various clinical samples in Nigeria. The data obtained from the states studied revealed that most of the Salmonella typhi isolates were 100% resistant to most of the first-line antibiotics. All S. typhi isolates in all the states studied were highly susceptible to Ciprofloxacin, except in Niger, where 90% of the isolates were resistant to this antibiotic. This study aims to create awareness about the menace of multi-drug-resistant Salmonella typhi and how the problem can be controlled through measures such as the production of new antibiotics and vaccines, the acquisition of modern health facilities and techniques for easy detection of multi-drug-resistant strains, and the development of adequate drug storage facilities.

Assessment of Micronutrients Content of Some Locally Consumed Tea samples in Kano

Abdullahi Balarabe Sallau, Maryam Abubakar, Tijjani Rufai Buhari — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Micronutrients are nutrients required for the normal metabolism of all life forms. Micronutrient content (Fe, Zn, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C) of some locally consumed tea samples (Black tea, green tea, cinnamon tea, Moringa tea, and mint tea) was investigated. Atomic absorption spectroscopy and spectrophotometric techniques were used in the analysis of the respective micronutrients. Descriptive statistics was used for analysis of results and showed that the aforementioned micronutrients are contained in the sampled teas except mint tea, which does not contain Zn at all. Vitamin A was found to be within the range of 0.21±0.01 – 0.83±0.01 ppb; vitamin C (0.83±0.01 – 6.82±0.05 ppm); Fe (1.99±0.01 – 9.99±0.14 ppm) and Zn (0.00 – 2.10±0.10 ppm). It can therefore be concluded that some of the aforementioned locally consumed tea samples contain micronutrient levels that fall within the range of the recommended daily need by humans, while others fall short of the range and therefore could be explored as part of the strategies to be considered in designing how to tackle micronutrient deficiency disorders.

Antibacterial Activities and Phytochemical Screening of Extracts of Flower of Azadiracthta indica (Neem) against Some Selected Clinical Isolates

Abdullahi, A., Nafiu, S.A., Ishaq, S.A., Alkali, Z. D., Lambu, Z. N. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A study on the phytochemistry and antibacterial effects of petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol extract of flower of Azadirachta indica on five clinical isolates viz: Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae was carried out using deep well agar diffusion and broth dilution methods. The results obtained showed that methanol flower extract possessed the highest antibacterial activity against P. mirabilis with an inhibition zone of 23mm at the concentration of 4000μg/ml. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the petroleum ether flower extract was 62.5μg/ml for all the test organisms while P. mirabilis, S. aureus, and K. pneumoniae had MIC value 62.5μg/ml with the exception of E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Methanol flower extract recorded 62.5μg/ml against P. mirabilis, S. aureus. While E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae had no MIC value across all the concentrations. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for the petroleum ether extracts was 125μg/ml, for chloroform extracts was 250μg/ml, and for methanol extracts was 62.5μg/ml. Phytochemical analysis of the flower extracts showed the presence of reducing sugars, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, resins, and saponins, in all the extracts. Petroleum ether flower extract (PFE) showed antibacterial activities against all the test organisms while Methanol flower extract (MFE) had antibacterial activities against only two test organisms.

Acute Toxicity (LD50) of Petroleum Ether, Ethanolic and Aqueous Stem Bark Extracts of Adansonia digitata on Albino Wister Rat

Abdulmalik, U., Magashi, A. M. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Adansonia digitata Linn. Commonly known as “Baobab” is a deciduous tree and belongs to the plant family called Bombacacea. The tree is mostly known for its exceptional height and may live for several hundred years. The bark tends to be smooth, ranging in colour from reddish brown to grey, being rough and wrinkly like elephant skin. Acute toxicity of petroleum ether, ethanolic and aqueous extract of stem bark of Adansonia digitata was carried out using albino Wister rat as animal models. This study was conducted to determine the acute toxicity level of the crude extracts using Albino Wister rats. The study was conducted in two phases. In phase I, three groups of three rats (3 per group) with weight range of 100 – 120g were administered with respective oral doses of 10 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg body weight of each extract. While the control groups were administered normal saline. These were observed 24 hrs and up to a period of 2 weeks. In second phase II, the dosage of each extract was increased to 1600 mg, 2900 mg and 5000 mg/kg body weight respectively for another three groups of one rat (1 per group). The control groups were administered normal saline. These were equally observed for toxicity signs namely salivation, brushing of the nose on the floor, isolation, weakness, sleeping, coma and possible deaths. The result shows that throughout the 2 weeks period, no mortality was observed in any of the test animal groups up to the highest dose of the extract tested. It is therefore concluded that administration of Adansonia digitata stem bark extract in rat may be safe up to a dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight. This may serve as a baseline data value for the development of ethnopharmacologically active substances with potential to be used as modern medicine.

Antimicrobial, In-vitro Free Radical Scavenging, Antioxidant Properties of Leaf, Bark and Root Extracts from Khaya senegalensis

Abalaka, M.E., Daniyan, S.Y., Akpor, O.B., Inyinbor, A.A. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Khaya senegalensis is a very important medicinal plant in the tropics and has been utilized for treatment purposes which centered around protozoan as well as bacterial diseases. The phytochemical analysis, antioxidant, free radical scavenging activities and antimicrobial properties of K. senegalensis were investigated using various modern and modified techniques. The plant has been shown to contain secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, saponins, tannins, cardiac glycosides, steroids and flavonoids which are thought to give the plant its medicinal values. The bark and root extracts of K. senegalensis demonstrated hydroxyl (with EC50 values of 278.23, 401.34) and DPPH scavenging activities (with EC50 values of 95.76, 107.43) and lipid peroxidation inhibition properties with EC50 values of 132.12, 157.65 respectively which are by far higher than the EC50 ((50% effective concentration)) values of ascorbic acid of 223.55, 76.11 and 86.22 respectively. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) is a radical and a trap ("scavenger") for other radicals. The zones of inhibition created around test organisms (both bacterial and fungal isolates) are reasonably comparable with standard antibiotics used as control. In most cases there was no significant difference (at p<0.05) between the standard and antibiotics and the extracts with zones of inhibition ranging from 12.2±0.02-22.5±0.01 for the extracts and 16.2±1.02-27.0±0.04 for standard antibiotics used in these experiments. The pharmaceutical world should take a very close and deep look at this tropical tree (Khaya senegalensis) once again with the aim of harnessing its enormous potentials as antimicrobial as well as antioxidant.

Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen among Out Patients Attending a Tertiary Hospital in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Uregwu Agnes Edia-Asuke, Zainab Abubakar, Sunday Asuke — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A survey was conducted amongst 100 randomly selected out-patients attending Nigerian Reference Hospital (44), Kaduna State, Nigeria, in order to ascertain the prevalence of Hepatitis B infection and the general knowledge of people about this highly infectious disease. Sera collected were tested for the presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using Wondfo Diagnostic rapid test Kit (Biotech co. Ltd., China). Questionnaires were also distributed to the subjects in order to ascertain their perception about the disease, and to obtain useful socio demographic information. Chi square test was used to ascertain statistical associations between important characteristics in the study population. A total of 12 out of the 100 patients tested positive to HBsAg, giving a prevalence of 12%. There was significant association between seropositivity of HBsAg and blood donation (p= 0.018, df= 1), and also immunization status (p= 0.0183, df= 1). The knowledge of HBV infection in the study population was generally poor and this may have accounted for the prevalence of 12% in the study population.

In vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Some Plant Essential Oils against Organisms Associated with Urinary Tract Infection and Roasted Meat

Shamsuddeen, U., Sheshe, K. I. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In search for alternative ways to control microbial infections, plant essential oils from clove, fenugreek, garlic, neem, eucalyptus and lemongrass were extracted using Soxhlet apparatus and petroleum ether as a solvent. Phytochemical screening of the oils/extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, reducing sugars, steroids, tannins, glycosides and triterpenoids. The oils/extracts were then evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial properties against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans of Urinary Tract Infection and meat (suya) origins using disc diffusion and broth dilution techniques. Essential oil from clove was found to have the strongest inhibitory effect being able to inhibit growth of all assayed organisms followed by lemongrass extract, garlic oil, eucalyptus extract and neem oil while essential oil from fenugreek showed no inhibitory effect against all organisms tested. Highest and lowest susceptibility to these oils/extracts was demonstrated by S. aureus (mean zone= 11.7mm) and E. coli (mean zone= 5.8mm) respectively. Organisms isolated from urine showed more resistance than those isolated from meat. The LC50 analysis of the oils/extracts showed relatively high cytotoxic effects against brine shrimps, (<100 ppm). Maximum mortalities took place at a concentration of 1000 ppm whereas least mortalities were at 10 ppm concentration, which means that lethality of the oils/extracts was concentration-dependant.

Phytochemical Screening and Antibacterial Activity of Mangifera indica Extracts

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Mangifera indica leaves are used for the treatments of various ailments in folklore medicine. This research was aimed to determine phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity of leaves extracts of Mangifera indica. Powdered leaves of Mangifera indica were extracted with water, ethanol and chloroform solvents via percolation method. The extracts were tested for antibacterial activity against clinical isolates of Salmonella Typhi, Salmonella Paratyphi A and Salmonella Paratyphi B using agarwell diffusion method. The extracts were further subjected to phytochemical tests for the presence of secondary metabolites using standard procedures. Results of the sensitivity test showed that highest zone of inhibition was observed in ethanolic extract with 13mm for S. Paratyphi A, 11mm for S. Paratyphi B, and 10mm for S. Typhi, followed by aqueous extract with 11mm for S. Paratyphi B and 10mm for S. Typhi. S. Paratyphi A, was resistant to both aqueous and chloroform extract of M. indica while S. Paratyphi B was only resistant to chloroform extract. Results of phytochemical screening indicated the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, tannins and phenols.

Evaluation of Some Biochemical Parameters in Haemolymph of Bulinus specie in Ajiwa Reservoir Katsina State, Nigeria

Usman, L. U., Adakole, J. A., Gadzama, I.M.K., Sama’ila, A. U. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Evaluation of some biochemical parameters was conducted in haemolymph of Bulinus sp in Ajiwa reservoir, Katsina state, Nigeria from September, 2014 to August, 2015. Four samples of Bulinus sp were collected at 5 different sampling locations every 3 months and were transferred into labelled plastic storage bottle and transported into laboratory for haemolymph extraction and analysis. Glucose, Aspartate amino transferase (AST) and Alanine amino transferase (ALT) were determined using standard methods, procedures and instruments. The mean value of the biochemical parameters are Glucose (36.28±1.76mg/dl), AST (19.21±0.24U/L) and ALT (13.91±0.62U/L). The level of the parameters were slightly increasing in the following order of magnitude; station 3 > station 2 > station 4 > station 1 and station 5 recorded the lowest value. Seasonal variation of the biochemical parameters were clearly observed in the Bulinus sp. Glucose, AST and ALT levels were higher during the wet season compared to dry season (45.83±1.83mg/dl to 27.49±0.93mg/dl), (24.61±0.16 to 13.80±0.13U/L) and (19.33±0.78 to 10.44±0.21U/L) respectively. This may be due to high influx of nutrients from the surrounding farm lands and other domestic activities like bush burning, washing clothes, bathing and cattle rearing within the vicinity of the reservoir. Alterations in these biochemical parameters (Glucose, AST and ALT) in the haemolymph, indicate disturbance of the oxidative carbohydrate and protein metabolism. Apart from evaluating energy content as biomarkers, this experiment shows how Bulinus sp undergoes metabolic alteration to overcome stress.

Microbiological and Nutritional Analyses of Soybean Cake (Awara) and Camel Milk Cheese (Chukwui) Local Snacks, Vended in Kano Metropolis- Nigeria

Idris, A., Dabo, N.T. P. — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A study on the microbiological and nutritional composition of soybean cake (Awara) and camel-milk cheese (Chukwui) vended in Kano metropolis was carried out between September 2014 and March 2015. Two hundred samples were subjected to microbiological evaluation using standard procedures. Selective media were used to isolate some specific pathogens, and antibiotic sensitivity profiles of the isolates were determined using the disc-diffusion method. Proximate analyses were also carried out on 50 representative samples using the Official Methods of Analysis of the AOAC. Results obtained indicated that soybean cake had mean aerobic mesophilic bacterial count of 1.37×10³ cfu/g, mean fungal count of 2.37×10⁴ cfu/g and mean coliform count of 17.65 cells/g compared to camel-milk cheese which had higher aerobic mesophilic bacterial count of 4.50×10⁴ cfu/g, mean fungal count of 5.93×10⁴ cfu/g and mean coliform count of 42.70 cells/g. Pathogenic bacteria isolated from the samples include Escherichia coli 13(50.00%), Staphylococcus aureus 8(30.77%) and Salmonella typhi 5(19.23%). S. aureus exhibited the highest antibiotic resistance compared to the other pathogens isolated. Proximate analysis revealed that soybean cake had higher mean percentages for moisture, protein, fat, fibre and ash than camel-milk cheese. The isolation of some pathogenic agents from these snacks points to a potentially negative implication on public health, suggesting the need for more hygienic vigilance in the preparation and handling of these snacks.

In vitro Assessment of Antibacterial Activity of Citrus aurantifolia Extracts

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Leaf extracts of Citrus aurantifolia were investigated for antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi, Salmonella Paratyphi A and Salmonella Paratyphi B using agar-well diffusion and gradient serial dilution methods. Phytochemical screening was conducted in order to detect secondary metabolites. The in vitro antibacterial activity of the extracts showed antibacterial activity against S. typhi and S. Paratyphi B. Water-soluble leaf extracts demonstrated a higher zone of inhibition (19mm) against S. Paratyphi A. S. typhi was found resistant to both water and chloroform soluble leaf extracts but sensitive to ethanolic leaf extracts at 50µm/ml concentration. Both S. Paratyphi A and S. Paratyphi B were found resistant to ethanolic leaf extract. The occurrence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, terpenoids and phenols in the aqueous leaf extracts of C. aurantifolia justifies its use in folklore medicine.