Biotechnology Journal International

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https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/151208

Chief Editors: Prof. Viroj Wiwanitkit, Prof. Marek Malecki, Prof. Yifan Dai and Prof. Kuo-Kau Lee
ISSN: 2456-7051

Frequency: Quarterly

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.journalbji.com/index.php/BJI

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Effect of Gestation and Season on the Haematological and Biochemical Parameters in Domestic Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).
(2011-04) AL-Eissa, M S
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of gestation and season on the haematological and biochemical parameters in domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) to improve the conditions of breeding and conservation in Saudi Arbia. For this study. 30 nonpregnant and 30 pregnant rabbits on day 24 to 26 of gestation were examined. The animals weighed between 2.6 and 3.6 kg and were 1.8-2.6 years old. Blood samples were collected from pregnant and non–pregnant rabbits in January (winter season), April (spring season), July (summer season) and October (autumn season) for analyzing hematological and biochemical parameters. It was revealed for the study that the value of hematological parameters i.e., erythrocyte, leukocyte, lymphocyte numbers and haemoglobin concentrations of pregnant rabbits were significantly (p<0.05) decreased compared with non-pregnant rabbit. Whereas, mean corpuscular volume was significantly (p<0.05) increased in pregnant rabbits compared with non-pregnant ones. The value of biochemical parameters i.e., total protein, albumin, triglyceride, cholesterol, calcium, and phosphorus were significantly (p<0.05) decreased in pregnant rabbits compared with non-pregnant. Whereas, glucose level was significantly (p<0.05) increased in pregnant rabbits compared with non-pregnant rabbits. Most of hematological parameters significantly (p<0.05) decreased in July. In contrast only few significant changes recorded in biochemical parameters. In conclusion, the rabbits suffer of heat stress during summer season and this causes deterioration in some, hematological constituents and biochemical parameters. These changes can be reflected on the activities, performance and fetus of pregnant rabbits under hot environmental conditions of Saudi Arabia. Hence, it can be concluded that winter is the best season for breeding and conservation of domestic rabbits.
Antidiabetic Activity of Basella rubra and its Relationship with the Antioxidant Property.
(2011-04) Nirmala, A; Saroja, S; Devi, G Gayathri
Oxidative stress induced by streptozotocin (STZ) has been shown to damage pancreatic beta cell and produce hyperglycemia in rats. In the present study an attempt was made to examine the action of Basella rubra against experimental diabetes as well as the antioxidant potential of the leaf extract. Aqueous extract of Basella rubra (400mg/kg body weight for 30 days) was found to significantly reduce the blood sugar level. The oxidative stress produced by streptozotocin was found to be significantly lowered when compared to control rats. This was evident from a significant decrease in blood sugar level and increased level of liver enzymatic (Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx)) and non enzymatic antioxidants (vitamin C, E and reduced glutathione). These results indicate that Basella rubra extract effectively reduced the oxidative stress induced by streptozotocin and potential reduction in blood sugar level.
Effect of Cocktail of Fungi Blend on the Digestibility Coefficient and Digestible Nutrients of Goat (Capra hircus).
(2011-07) Belewu, M A; Belewu, K Y; Popoola, L A
Nine West African dwarf goats (3 goats per diet) initially averaging between 4.5 and 6.5kg body weight, were fed either Jatropha curcas untreated diet A (control), 50% cocktail of fungi blend treated Jatropha curcas kernel cake (diet B) and 100% cocktail of fungi blend treated Jatrpoha curcas kernel cake (diet C) adlibitum for 56 days followed by a 7 day total faecal collection. All the diets have a crude protein content of between 17.99 and 19.23%. Total dry matter intake (TDMI) (543.25 – 606.25g/d) showed significant differences among the diets (p<0.05). The digestibility coefficient of dry matter which was similar (p>0.05) among the diets ranged between 91.84% and 94.31%. The digestibility of crude protein was numerically highest for diet B and least for other diets (A and C). The digestible dry matter intake was significantly (p<0.05) higher for diet B compared to other diets. The digestibility of crude fibre and ether extract followed same trend as other nutrients. The digestible crude protein intake was 481.6g/d (A), 544.63g/d (B) and 472.6g/d (C). The digestible crude fibre intake was greater (p<0.05) for diet B (576.25) followed closely by diet A (520.5g/d) and C (516.75g/d). Digestible ether extract intake tended (p<0.05) to be lower for goat fed diet C (500.00g/d) compared with diet A and diet B which were similar (p>0.05). In conclusion, inclusion of cocktail of fungi blend Jatropha curcas kernel cake in a mixed ration appear to be viable feed ingredient for goat diet.
Study of Microbial Population and Enzyme Activities in Intercropped Peanut Rhizosphere with Different Nutrient Application.
(2011-07) Bhadoria, P B S; Basu, M; Mahapatra, S C
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different levels of chemical fertilizers (CF) alone or in combination with farmyard manure (FYM) under lime or no lime amelioration on biological properties of the rhizosphere soil of peanut, grown as intercrop with sabai grass (Eulaliopsis binata (Retz.) C.E. Hubb) in an acid lateritic soil. The effect of five fertilization levels viz., no CF (F0), CF @ 20:40:30 (F1), CF @ 40:80:60 (F2) kg ha-1 NPK, F1 + 2.5 t FYM ha-1 (F3) and F2 + 5 t FYM ha-1 (F4) with (2 t ha-1) and without lime application were studied on the bacterial density, dehydrogenase and phosphatase enzyme activities (i.e. acid and alkaline phosphomonoesterases), nitrogen accumulation in nodules and phosphorus solubilizing power at 25, 50, 75 and 100 days after sowing of peanut for two years. Results showed significant effects of fertilization levels and growth stages of the crop on the microbial activities. Populations of symbiotic nitrogen fixing and phosphorus solubilizing bacteria, soil enzyme activities, nitrogen accumulation in nodules and phosphorus solubilizing power in the FYM+CF treated plots significantly increased compared to sole CF treatments under both lime and no lime application. Lime application improved the activity of dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphomonoesterase enzymes, while decreased acid phosphomonoesterase activity. This study revealed that integrated application of optimum level of inorganic fertilizer, farmyard manure along with lime could improve the biological properties of an acid lateritic soil as well as the growth of peanut under sabai grass-peanut intercropping system.
Microbial Biodegradation of Aromatic Compounds in a Soil Contaminated with Gasohol.
(2011-07) Parreira, A G; Tótola, M R; Jham, G N; Da Silva, S L; Borges, A C
The studies developed in this work aimed to find alternatives to biodegradation or bioremediation of soils contaminated with gasoline or gasohol. So, the biodegradation of benzene, toluene and o-xylene (BTX) in soil samples contaminated with gasoline or gasohol by a bacterial consortium was studied. Four bacterial strains were selected for the consortium based on their growth capacity in gasoline, gasohol and BTX as sole carbon sources, and on the production of biosurfactants in mineral medium containing gasohol as the sole carbon source. The reduction of TX concentrations in soil slurries in a multi-cell bioreactor system was used as the criterion to evaluate biodegradation efficiency. BTX removal was highly stimulated by air injection and mineral nutrients, and was significantly increased by the presence of the bacterial consortium. Addition of a proprietary oxygen release compound did not stimulate the biodegradation of BTX.
Genotype X Environment Interaction and Yield Performance of 43 Improved Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Genotypes at Three Agro-climatic Zones in Nigeria.
(2011-10) Akinwale, M G; Akinyele, B O; Odiyi, A C; Dixon, A G O
Aim: To determine the possible effects of environment and genotypic differences on root yield and other related traits. Methodology: 43 improved cassava genotypes were evaluated for root yield, root number, root dry matter, cassava mosaic disease and Cassava bacterial disease. The experiments were conducted using a randomized complete-block design with four replications for two years in three representative agro-ecological zones (Mokwa, Ibadan and Onne) in Nigeria. The data collected were subjected to combined analyses of variance using the GLM procedure of Statistical Analysis System (SAS 9.2) to determine the magnitude of the main effects and interactions. GGEbiplot software (GGEbiplot, 2007) was applied for visual examination of the GEI pattern of the data. Results: Genotype, Location and genotype by environment (GXE) interaction were highly significant for all the traits studied (P< 0.001), indicating genetic variability between genotypes by changing environments. The partitioning of GGE through GGE biplot analysis showed that PC1 and PC2 accounted for 61.3% and 28.8% of GGE sum of squares respectively for root yield, explaining a total of 90.1% variation. Conclusion: Genotypes G4 and G15 were the highest yielding and stable genotypes. G2 and G7 were equally stable but with poor roots yield. G43, which had a mean yield similar to the grand mean, may be regarded as a desirable genotype. Mokwa and Ibadan were found to be the most discriminative and the least representative environments for root yields while Onne environment was found to be the most representative and the least discriminative.
Establishment of Regeneration and Transformation System of Lycopersicon esculentum MicroTom.
(2011-10) Wu, Zhengjing; Sun, Shuwei; Wang, Fenghua; Guo, Dalong
In this article in order to build up an efficient regeneration system for cotyledons or hypocotyls of tomato MicroTom, two kinds of seed disinfectant (3% NaClO and 0.1% HgCl2 used for 5, 10, 15, 20 min), two types of basal medium (MS: Murashige and Skoog，1964, and B5: Gamborg et al.,1968), different ratio of Indole Butyric Acid (IBA: 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 mgL- 1) and 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA: 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0 mgL-1) were tested. As for gene transform system, kanamycin (Kan: 0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 150mgL-1), carbenicillin, cephalosporin, cefoperazone sodium and sulbactam sodium for injection (Carb, CS, CSSS respectively) at the rate 100, 200, 300, or 500 mgL-1, respectively were added in medium B5 in order to find the suitable concentration for bacteriostasis and shoot regeneration. Moreover, cell concentration of Agrobacterium EHA105 (OD600: 0.3, 0.5, or 0.8）and infection time (5, 10, 15 min) were screened and optimized in this article. The results showed that 3% NaClO for 20 min is optimal as for the disinfect efficiency on the seed surface. The most suitable medium to induce adventitious bud is basal medium B5+0.05 mgL-1 IBA＋1.5 mgL-1 6-BA. The cotyledons and hypocotyls were cultivated in culture medium B5+IBA @ 0.05 mgL-1 for 2 d, then infected by Agrobacterium EHA105 (OD600=0.5) for 10 min, then plantlets were transferred to a fresh regeneration medium which contained 50 mgL-1 Kan and 300 mgL-1 CSSS, which was proved to be the most suitable transformation system for MicroTom.
Studies on Cyanobacterial Biodiversity in Paper Mill and Pharmaceutical Industrial Effluents.
(2011-10) Dubey, Sanjay Kumar; Dubey, J; Viswas, A J; Tiwari, P
A thorough knowledge of the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of an industrial waste is a crucial requirement for any attempt at chemical and/or biological treatment of the waste. Hence the present study was aimed to assess the physicochemical characteristics and cyanobacterial study on different industrial effluents. In the present study, effluents from two different places, paper mill and pharmaceutical industries, were selected to determine the cyanobacterial biodiversity. It was revealed that the physicochemical characteristics of both effluents studied were more or less similar. Total 25 species of cyanobacteria were found to be distributed in two different effluents in which twenty two were found in paper mill and fourteen were in pharmaceutical industries. Some of the species of cyanobacteria like Microcystis aeruginosa, Oscillatoria curviceps, O. princeps, Phormidium ambiguum, P. corium and few more were recorded in both the effluent analyzed. The dominant genus was recorded to be Oscillatoria and among themselves its six species were recorded. The abundance of cyanobacteria in these effluents was due to favorable contents of organic matter, rich calcium and nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates with less dissolved oxygen. Therefore, it can clearly stated that physicochemical characters together with biological monitoring of industrial effluents provided converging lines of evidences for evaluation of polluted habitats in this case as in some other studies reported by many researcher. This type of study would be valuable for future pollution abatement programmes.
Switching between Heat Shock Proteins and Cold Inducible Proteins under Temperature Fluctuation in Solanum tuberosum L. Cultivars in In Vivo Condition.
(2011-10) Louis, Bengyella; Roy, Pranab
Cross-talking between heat shock proteins (HSPs) and cold inducible proteins (CIPs) subsequent to combinational mild heat (35°C) and cold (8°C) stress was investigated in vivo for four cultivars of Solanum tuberosum L. viz. Kufri Pukhraj (PO), Kufri Jyoti (GS), Kufri Ashoka (KF) and Kufri Chandramukhi (CM) in the order of their decreasing thermotolerance, to understand how this economic crop adapts to extreme temperature fluctuation. We showed a time-course differential genotypic expression pattern for HSPs at 35°C for 10h and CIPs at 8°C for 12h time-lapse. Remarkably, we noted the disappearance of a housekeeping protein (HKP) of about 19.8KD at 2h, 35°C in GS absent in CM, KF and PO; but strongly expressed as CIPs at 8°C for all the cultivars. Furthermore, heat-stress led to an outstanding transient induction of HSP95.9, HSP83.6, HSP78.7, HSP70.7, HSP66.0, HSP54.1, HSP48.6, HSP43, sHSP38.3, sHSP35.3, sHSP29, sHSP22.5, sHSP17.8 and sHSP9.5 in GS at 6h, while HKP58.7, HKP55.5 and HKP43.7 were stably overexpressed in CM, KF and PO. Temperature switching from 35°C to 8°C upregulated HKP43.4, HKP54.6, CIP14.1 and HKP19.9 for all the cultivars. The recovery process 24h subsequent to this archetype switching was governed by overexpression of small(s)HSPs of about 25.4KD-14.1KD, HKP58.7 and HKP43.5 for all cultivars. Results suggest crosstalk protection for this paradigm-shift in temperature is chiefly conferred by isoforms of constitutively expressed HKPs, CIP19.9 and CIP14.1 in S. tuberosum L. Explicitly, this differential proteome change within 22h signify HKPs may not participate in thermotolerance as HSPs, but participate in cold acclimation as CIPs, recovery as sHSPs and even switch-off during heat-stress in some cultivars as depicted in GS.
Assessment of Biological Activities: A Comparison of Pergularia daemia and Jatropha curcas Leaf Extracts.
(2011-10) James, Omale; Unekwojo, Ebiloma Godwin; Ojochenemi, Agbaji Ann
The present study was aimed to compare the wound healing, free radical scavenging and cytotoxicity potentials of Jatropha curcas and Pergularia daemia leaf extracts. Quantitative analysis for some phytochemicals; flavonoids, phenols, glycosides, tannins, saponins and alkaloids were carried out using standard methods. Herbal ointments containing 50% (w/w) methanol leaf extracts of Jatropha curcas and Pergularia daemia were formulated. Excision wound measuring 7x7 mm2 was created and the ointment applied topically on the wounded area which was measured at intervals of 4 days. Blank ointment (paraffin base) served as the negative control while Povidone iodine ointment served as the standard treatment. On the 16th day, rats treated with the standard drug (Povidone iodine) showed 82.1% wound closure; J. curcas -treated rats showed 91.3% wound healing while P. daemia treated rats exhibited 97.2% wound closure, indicating an efficacy of the formulations. The ointment formulated with P. daemia leaf extract had the best wound healing potential with very minimal scar formulation. The phytochemical screening revealed that the leaves of J. curcas and P. daemia contain tannins, alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids and glycosides. J. curcas had appreciable amount of saponins, however, saponins were not detected in P. daemia. The LC50 values for J. curcas and P. daemia were 586.79 μg/ml and 344.26 μg/ml, respectively while that of the standard (Potassium dichromate) was 62.52 μg/ml. The crude methanol extracts of J. curcas and P. daemia possessed free radical scavenging activities with IC50 of 90.83 and 214.16 μg/ml, respectively while that of the standard quercetin was 50.71 μg/ml. The results obtained in this study strongly support the verbal claims on the use of these plants for wound healing. It also indicates that J. curcas and P. daemia are potential sources of natural antioxidants and are relatively safe for the purposes utilized.
Nutritional Evaluation, in vitro Free Radical Scavenging and in vivo Anti-inflammatory Effects of Gisekia pharnaceoides and Identification of Kaempferol as a Nutraceutical Agent.
(2011-10) Gandhimathi, Chinnasammi; Sathiyasekaran, Bernard W C; Perumal, Paramasivan T; Rose, Chellan
Aims: To analyse the nutritional profile and assess the antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities of Gisekia pharnaceoides wild plant used as traditional food source for dietary supplementation and to identify the bioactive compound as the nutraceutical agent. Study design: In vitro and In vivo studies. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biotechnology, CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute, Chennai-600020, India and Sri Ramachandra College of Pharmacy, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai-600116 between October 2005 and December 2007. Methodology: Dry powder of the whole plant of Gisekia pharnaceoides was used for determining the nutritional parameters. Vitamins were estimated as per Indian Pharmacopoeia and United States Pharmacopoeia methods. Mineral composition was determined using Atomic absorption spectroscopy. Proximate analysis of plant power was carried out according to AOAC methods. Solvent extracts of the plant were assessed for free radical scavenging activities in vitro and antiinflammatory activity in vivo. UV, IR, NMR and LC-MS spectroscopy were used for identification of the bioactive compound. Results: A markedly increased composition of vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, ascorbic acid and vitamin A and a wide range of minerals of metabolic importance have been estimated with high nutritive value. Additionally, the plant contained 9% protein and about 3% fat and carbohydrate content to an extent of 69%, of which 8% was crude fibre. All three extracts exhibited a high degree of free radical scavenging ability against DPPH radical, NO•, OH•, ABTS•+, O2 • -. The methanol fraction showed increased levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities compared to the other two extracts because of the presence of a flavonoid which was identified as kaempferol using UV, FTIR, NMR and LC-MS spectroscopy. Conclusion: Gisekia pharnaceoides could therefore serve as a potential nutraceutical to prevent or inhibit the harmful oxidation process in human pathophysiology, and, is a high value nutritive source as a dietary supplement to prevent malnutrition especially in rural population. Therefore, we suggest the dietary intake of the plant for nutritional supplementation.
Batch Equilibrium and Kinetic Studies of Simultaneous Adsorption and Biodegradation of Phenol by Pineapple Peels Immobilized Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCIB 950.
(2012-01) Agarry, S E; Aremu, M O
This study was aimed to investigate the use of pineapple as a cheap, eco-friendly adsorbent and support matrix for the immobilization of microbial cell and for subsequent removal of phenol from waste water. The effects of initial phenol concentration, pH and adsorbent particle size on the simultaneous adsorption-biodegradation (SAB) of phenol were studied. The batch simultaneous adsorption and biodegradation (SAB) of phenol in simulated phenol waste water by pineapple peels immobilized Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCIB 950 has been studied with the use of glass bottles as bioreactors placed in a rotary mechanical shaker for 72 h. The results of the batch equilibrium adsorption-biodegradation studies showed that adsorption-biodegradation capacity decreased with increase in particle size. The equilibrium adsorption-biodegradation data were analyzed by the Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich-Peterson models of adsorption. The results showed that the equilibrium data for phenol degradation sorbent systems were well fitted to the three adsorption models with Langmuir and Redlich-Peterson adsorption isotherms having the best fit. The adsorption-biodegradation kinetic data obtained at different initial phenol concentrations and pH showed that the adsorption-biodegradation capacity of the pineapple peels immobilized P. aeruginosa generally increased with increase in initial phenol concentration and pH. The kinetic data were analyzed using Lagergren pseudo-first order, pseudo second-order, Elovich and intraparticle diffusion rate equations. The rate equations fitting showed that the adsorption-biodegradation kinetic data generally fitted the four rate equations tested from which the rate constants and diffusion rate constants were estimated. However, the Lagergren pseudo first-order rate equation gave the best fit and, thus the process followed first-order rate kinetics. Therefore, pineapple peels being an agricultural waste product have the potential to be used as low-cost adsorbent and support matrix for microbial culture immobilization for the removal of organic pollutant from waste water.
Exploring Agricultural Potentiality of Serratia entomophila AB2: Dual Property of Biopesticide and Biofertilizer.
(2012-01) Chattopadhyay, Pritam; Chatterjee, Sandipan; Gorthi, Shrikanth; Sen, Sukanta K
Aims: In an attempt to explore novel agents for application in agriculture, the strain Serratia entomophila AB2 was investigated. Study design: Pesticidal, Fertilizing and Toxicological effects. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Botany (Microbiology Unit), Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan, West Bengal, India and M/S Ajay Biotech (India) Ltd., Pune, India, between December 2006 to August 2007. Methodology: Pesticidal activity of the isolate Serratia entomophila strain AB2 was tested against 5 day old larvae of Heliothis armigera, Spodoptera litura, and Plutella xylostella through feeding assay. Fertilizing capacity of the strain was determined by inorganic phosphate and zinc solubilizing experiments. Conventional T-tests were performed to check effect against certainr rhizospheric organisms (Azotobactor chroococcum NCIM 2452, Rhizobium japonicum NCIM 2746, Azospirillum brasiliensis NCIM 5135, Erwinia amylovora MDVB). In animal toxicity experiments, adult male Swiss albino mice (body wt ≈ 25 g) were used to find LD50 within the experimental doses and male Sprague Dawley strain of Swiss albino rat (body wt ≈ 110 g) were used to find out the effect of feed inoculation treatment in liver and blood as general target of intoxication through standard thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) assay. Results: The mortality rate of, lepidopteron larvae tested was determined between 89.5 to 94.3% while LC50 value estimated between 0.44x105 to 1.44x105 CFU (colony forming unit) mL-1 through probit analysis. As a part of fertilizing activity, S. entomophila AB2 was found to solubilize phosphorus and zinc in in-vitro condition. In cross reactivity study with other rhizospheric bacteria, the isolate proved as non reactive. No mortality was recorded with Swiss albino mice and other toxicological data resulted from the experiment with Sprague Dawley strain of Swiss albino rat were found insignificant. Conclusion: The isolate S. entomophila AB2 showed its potential in in vitro conditions for both pesticidal and fertilizing activity. The data generated in this study show much promise of S. entomophila AB2 for its field application in integrated crop management (ICM). These predictors, however, need further work for field validation.
Isolation and Identification of Methicillin- Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Keys of College Students Using Different Detection Methods.
(2012-01) Amini, Razieh; Abdulamir, A S; Ling, Beh Poay; Jahanshiri, Fatemeh; Hematian, Ali; Zargar, Mohsen; Sekawi, Zamberi; Jalilian, Farid Azizi
Aims: In this study, the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) were isolated and identified by using biochemical tests, antibiogram and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to explore the circulation of MRSA among college students. Study design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia between June 2010 and December 2010. Methodology: A total of 100 samples were collected from keys of college students. There were 39 isolates (39 %) Gram-positive cocci and Catalase positive. 29 (74.36%) were glucose oxidation and fermentation positive. From the 39 isolates, 16 (43.24%) were shown Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA) tests positive. The deoxyribonuclease (DNase) tests and tube coagulase tests with human and rabbit plasma were carried out to improve the efficiency of the MSA test. Results: 7 (43.75%) DNase positive and 2 (12.5%) tube coagulase positive. Both human and rabbit plasma showed similar sensitivity for the tube coagulase tests in this study. However, both isolates with tube coagulase positive were confirmed as S. aureus but not resistant to oxacillin, methicillin, erythromycin and cefoxitin. 2 (66.67%) of 3 (18.75%) isolates which is tube coagulase negative were resistant to erythromycin and 1 (33.33%) of them was resistant to methicillin. Rare strains of S. aureus can be coagulase negative. PCR assay was used. 1 (33.33%) of the coagulase negative isolate resistant to erythromycin was found to have nuc gene, mecA gene, ermC gene, msrA gene, linA gene, and femA gene. The isolate was confirmed as MRSA. Conclusion: In conclusion, PCR technique is more sensitive and reliable than tube coagulase test or antibiogram for the detection of MRSA. And keys were shown to be an important source of MRSA and other bacteria circulation in the community.
Bacterial Succession Studies during Fermentation of African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) to Iru Using Molecular Methods.
(2012-01) Adelekan, Aminat O; Nwadiuto, Esiobu
Aims: The identity, diversity and dynamics of the bacterial community involved in the fermentation of African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) to “Iru”, a protein-rich condiment in Western Nigeria; was studied using the 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Study design: 16S rRNA gene was used to study bacterial succession and diversity in this solid-state fermentation with a view to develop a framework for improving quality control of this important and nutritious solid-state fermentation product and possibly develop starter cultures for commercializing the product. Place and Duration of Study: Biotechnology Centre of University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria and Biological Sciences Department, Florida Atlantic University, Davie Campus, Florida U.S.A., between July 2008 and October 2009. Methodology: Raw seeds were prepared in the traditional African way by boiling them for 6hr to soften the seed coat; and for another 1hr to soften the cotyledon. The boiled seeds were immediately transferred into a jute-bag and wrapped tightly to prevent heat loss. They were left at ambient temperature to ferment for 72hr. Total Bacterial Community of the seed was obtained by vigorously rinsing seeds in phosphate buffered saline, before boiling and immediately after boiling (0hr), and subsequently at intervals of 24hrs for three days. To compare cultivable phyllotypes and possible non-cultivable bacteria, subsamples of the extracted bacteria were cultured on Tryptic Soy Agar. Total community small subunit (SSU) rRNA was amplified from extracted genomic DNA by Plate wash polymerase chain reaction (for cultured bacteria) and classic PCR directly from seed-buffer extract (uncultured bacteria). Genomic DNA was extracted employing a modified protocol of the freeze-thaw and Qiagen DNA extraction methods. Extracted genomic DNA was run on 1% agarose gel to rule out shearing before PCR amplification of the 16S rRNA gene with the 27F and 1492R primer pair. The amplified samples were cloned using TOPO cloning vector and transformed samples were sequenced. Identity of samples were done by aligning samples in Ribosomal database Project and close relatives was identified. Results: The process was found to be a classic alkaline fermentation (pH 6 – 8.39). Cultivable bacterial populations changed from 120CFU/g at start of fermentation to 1630000000 CFU/g on day 3. The most abundant organism present in the raw African Locust Beans isolates (Clone 1A) had 97% match to Acinetobacter sp. Cooked Locust beans isolates (Clone 2A) shared 100% identity to Bacillus subtilis. Organisms present at 0 hr, 24 hr and 48 hr of fermentation (Clones 3A, 4A and 5A) proved to have 100% match to Bacillus anthracis relatives; Bacillus cereus; and Bacillus sp. respectively. Enterobacter sp. (99% similarity to Clone 6A) was only detected after 72 hrs; amidst the bacilli. Even less abundant clones were identified as various Bacillus phyllotypes. Cultured and non-cultured bacterial phyllotypes in this system clustered similarly and appear to be the same; confirming that Bacillus species were primarily responsible for the fermentation products of iru. While the bacterial identity and low diversity index reported here, is not surprising given the resilience of bacterial endospores to boiling; it provides convincing evidence to explore the use of endospores from these cultivable non-pathogenic bacillus strains as starter cultures for the solid state fermentation.
Biosorption of Lead by Bacillus cereus Isolated from Industrial Effluents.
(2012-04) Murthy, Shruti; Bali, Geetha; Sarangi, S K
Aims: To study the biosorption of lead ions from solution using Bacillus cereus isolated from industrial effluents collected from Peenya industrial area, Bangalore, India and to determine the optimum conditions for biosorption. Study design: Experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Bangalore University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India, between October 2008 and December 2009. Methodology: Sixty bacterial strains were isolated from industrial effluents collected from Peenya industrial area. Among the sixty isolates only six were selected for further investigation due to their high minimum inhibition concentration for lead. Lead biosorption studies were carried out for all the six isolates using atomic absorption spectrometry. The optimum conditions (temperature, pH and culture age) for biosorption were determined for the isolate showing highest lead biosorption. Results: The lead biosorption capability of all six isolates was studied at different concentrations of lead (100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 mg/l). The isolate 6 showed highest lead biosorption capability and was identified as Bacillus cereus. Studies on the control of environmental factors revealed that an optimum temperature of 30°C and pH 5, facilitates maximum biosorption of lead by 24hrs old culture of Bacillus cereus. Conclusion: Biosorption is an alternative to traditional physicochemical methods for removing toxic metals from wastewaters. The results of this study are discussed in the light of the biosorption capacity of Bacillus cereus that could be exploited in the bioremediation of lead.
Adsorption and Stabilization of a Raw Starch Digesting Amylase on Micro Bead Silica Gel 300 A.
(2012-04) Nwagu, Tochukwu Nwamaka; Aoyagi, Hideki; Okolo, Bartholomew N
Aims: To produce a robust starch hydrolyzing enzyme (improved catalytic and noncatalytic properties) by the adsorption of the soluble enzyme on micro bead silica gel. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba-shi Ibaraki-ken, Japan between July 2009 and August 2010. Methodology: Ten types of Micro Bead silica gel with pore sizes ranging from 0.4-100 nm were screened to determine the best support for the immobilization of a microbial raw starch digesting amylase (RSDA). The micro bead which gave the highest yield was selected for further studies. Properties of the immobilized enzyme were compared to the free type to determine the effect of immobilization on catalytic, storage and operational stability. Results: Micro Bead 300 A gave the highest yield and the optimum condition for adsorption of the RSDA was at pH 5, 25°C for 24 h. Optimum pH of the immobilized enzyme shifted from 5 to 4.5 and optimum temperature from 30 to 50°C. The immobilized amylase retained over 70% of its initial activity after 12 h incubation at 70°C in 0.2 M citrate phosphate buffer pH 5 whereas free enzyme lost 92% initial activity under same conditions. Immobilized enzyme retained 95% activity after 10 batch reactions of 30 min each and 100% activity after storage for 6 weeks at room temperature. Conclusion: Immobilized RSDA was marginally more pH and temperature stable compared to the native type. It also exhibited storage stability and could be re-used repeatedly without considerable desorption during washing. The kinetic and stability features combined with the properties of the support make this process appealing for industrial application.
Increase in Endoglucanase Productivity and Mycelial Stability of Rhizopus oryzae by Classical Mutagenesis.
(2012-04) Bandyopadhyay, Sudarshana; Karmakar, Moumita; Ray, Rina Rani
Aim: To develop a mutant strain with high endoglucanase productivity and optimization of some cultivation parameters. Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Molecular Biology & Genetics, Presidency University, College Street, Kolkata: 700 073, India, between Aug, 2010 and March 2011. Methodology: The wild strain of Rhizopus oryzae PR7 MTCC 9642 was subjected to classical mutagenesis by suspending 5 hyphal discs (0.5 cm) in 10ml of N-methyl-N'-nitro- N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) solutions of various concentrations (125-1000μg). The in situ cellulolytic activity of the colonies of the mutant strains on the plates were measured by using alcoholic iodine solution and the highest enzyme producing mutant was selected. The mutant strain was later cultivated in presence of various domestic wastes at various pH, temperature, time. The morphological alteration was also checked by staining with fluorescent dye. Results: Out of 50 mutants, strain A7 was selected that showed about 33% increase in endoglucanase synthesis utilizing orange bagasse as sole carbon source in a shake flask screen. The strain was found to have the same pH and temperature optima, but could achieve highest level of enzyme production earlier than that by its wild counterpart. Being a dimorphic fungus, the wild type strain of Rhizopus oryzae, showed a transformation to yeast like pelleted form, whereas the mutant strain A 7 showed persistent filamentous structure indicating the achievement of a structural stability in presence of environmental stress. Conclusion: The present mutant strain could ferment orange bagasse and showed an increased production of endoglucanase with minimized time consumption with greater mycelial stability against various environmental stresses. These achievements will definitely add economy in industrial production of endoglucanse at a nominal cost.
Screening Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes by Genetic Variability of Vegetative and Yield Traits Using Compromise Programming Technique.
(2012-04) Idris, Atif Elsadig; Mohammed, Hassan Ibrahim
The present study was made to develop a suitable procedure for selecting the most sustainable maize genotype to grow by considering genetic variability for vegetative, yield and yield components under irrigated farming. The experiment was conducted at the experimental farm, College of Agricultural studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Shambat, during summer seasons of 2007/08 and 2008/09, respectively. Significant variability was observed for plant height, stem diameter, number of rows per cob and ear length during the first season 2007/08 and for days to 50% flowering and 100-seed weight during the second season 2008/09. Frantic genotype scored maximum seed weight (81.0g) while Baladi had least seed weight (57.48g). Frantic genotype had maximum grain yield (0.577 ton/ha), while minimum grain yield ton/ha was recorded in Baladi (0.473 ton/ha). Data recorded for heritability showed that days to 50% flowering had maximum heritability (79.1%) while the minimum heritability (4.46%) was recorded for 100 seed weight. The present study revealed considerable amount of diversity among the tested populations which could be manipulated for further improvement in maize breeding in Sudan. However, significant differences of grain yield were observed among varieties. Due to the observed variability multi objective compromise programming technique is employed to screen these Maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes according to their vegetative and yield traits for purpose of selecting the best one that suit irrigated farming conditions of Shambat area. The study ranked the different Maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes and recommends the best alternative. Ranking of alternatives was explored in reference to selection criteria weights preferred by an agronomist, animal production specialist and nutrition scientist in comparison to equal weights.
Efficacy of Ascorbic Acid in Reducing Glyphosate-Induced Toxicity in Rats.
(2012-07) Ikpeme, E V; Udensi, O; Ekaluo, U B; Solomon, T O
Aim: Humans and animals interact with their environments on a daily basis and, as a consequence, are exposed to a broad spectrum of synthesized chemicals present in the food they eat, the air they breathe and the water they drink including glyphosate. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of glyphosate on the sperm dynamics of male albino rats and the protective effects of ascorbic acid. Methods: Twenty five mature male albino rats were weighed and divided into five groups in a completely randomized design (CRD). Group 1 rats served as the control. Rats in groups 2 and 4 received 250ml/kg and 500ml/kg of glyphosate while groups 3 and 5 rats were administered with 250ml/kg and 500ml/kg of glyphosate and 200mg/kg of ascorbic acid, respectively, which were administered orally using oral gavages. The treatment regimen lasted for 65 days. Results: Our results showed that there were significant adverse effects (P<0.05) of glyphosate treatment on sperm parameters and the cyto-architecture of the gonad, which showed disruption in the seminiferous tubules, necrotic germinal epithelium and clumped Leydig cells. However, administering the rats with ascorbic acid caused significant ameliorating effects on the parameters investigated. Conclusion: Succinctly, glyphosate exposure to animals is detrimental to their reproductive physiology, including the cellular integrity of the gonads. This not notwithstanding, administering the affected animals with ascorbic acids might reduce the toxicity inflicted by the glyphosate.

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