Biotechnology Journal International
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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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Item Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: An Atypical Adult Presentation and Comprehensive Literature Review with Management Recommendations(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-06) Ali, S; Shah, MA; Khan, MH; Shah, ZA; Waheed, A; Ahmad, A; Tahir, H; Fatima, K; Khan, BM; khan, NU; Shehzad, M; Maqbool, A; Haq, FU.Background: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a severe X-linked recessive disorder caused by mutations in the DMD gene and subsequent dystrophin deficiency, leads to progressive muscle degeneration, loss of ambulation, and life-limiting cardiorespiratory failure. While classically presented in early childhood, significant advancements in multidisciplinary care have dramatically extended survival, transforming DMD into a chronic condition requiring lifelong management, including transition to adult care. Concurrently, the therapeutic landscape is evolving with the advent of mutation-targeted molecular therapies alongside established supportive care standards. Aim and Objectives: This paper integrates the presentation of a rare case of DMD diagnosed in a 34-year-old male in Peshawar, Pakistan, with a comprehensive literature review. The objective is to synthesize current evidence-based knowledge regarding the etiology, diagnosis, prognostic factors, and multidisciplinary management of DMD across its full clinical spectrum. The review provides a framework for recognizing typical and atypical presentations, anticipating complications, implementing guideline-based care strategies, navigating transition issues, and understanding the potential and limitations of emerging therapies, with consideration for global perspectives and resource variability thereby highlighting current challenges and areas requiring further investigation. Methodology: A case report methodology was employed, utilizing clinical records and diagnostic findings from the presented patient. This was combined with a comprehensive literature review synthesizing information from searches of biomedical databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library), key systematic reviews and meta-analyses, international care guidelines, patient registry data, and relevant primary research, focusing on evidence pertinent to the review's objectives. Synthesis and Conclusion: DMD manifests a spectrum of severity influenced by genetic factors and potentially modulated by environmental and socioeconomic variables. Accurate diagnosis via genetic testing is paramount for appropriate management and therapy eligibility. While standardized multidisciplinary care has significantly improved outcomes, transforming DMD care necessitates addressing long-term adult needs and transition planning. Novel molecular therapies offer promise but face substantial challenges related to delivery, immunogenicity, safety, cost, and equitable global access. Optimizing outcomes requires integrating established comprehensive care standards with appropriate application of new diagnostic and therapeutic advances, tailored to individual patient needs across diverse global contexts. This review provides a synthesized overview to support clinicians in navigating the complexities of DMD diagnosis and lifelong management.Item Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of the Two Extracts (Aqueous and Lipidic) of P. aquilinum of Cross Plant(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-06) Sompila, AWT; Pambou-Tobi, NP.Ferns have been living with human beings for a long time. Various biological activities have been reported, such as dietary, antioxidant and others. In our case, the focus was on antimicrobial activity. The aim was to demonstrate the activity of two extracts (aqueous and lipidic) of P. aquilinum fronds. The methodology adopted consisted in extracting the total oil from fiddleheads using a sohlext device, with hexane as the solvent. The aqueous extract was also prepared using water as the extraction solvent. Five strains were selected and used, namely three strains of the Shigella genus: boydii, flexneri and sonnei, and two strains of the Pseudomonas genus: aeruginosa, clinical strain, and aeruginosa, spontaneous flora strain. At a concentration of 250 mg/mL, the lipid extract inhibited the growth of all three Shigella strains, with a mean zone of inhibition of 6.5 mm, 11 mm and 16 mm for Shigella sonnei, Shigella boydii and Shigella flexneri respectively. On the other hand, no activity was revealed against Pseudomonas. On the other hand, for both Shigella and Pseudomonas, the aqueous extract showed no activity at the same concentration of 250 mg/mL.Item Mitigate Environmental Stress and Enhance Crop Productivity(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-06) Shehata, RS; Moawad, H; Amer, HZ; Hasan, SA; Dawoud, RA; Kasem, AA.A field experiment was conducted during the wheat-growing season on a clay-loam soil to investigate the interaction between irrigation management, sowing dates, and winter wheat productivity. A split-plot design tested three planting dates (PD?: 15 November, PD?: 30 November, PD?: 15 December) and three irrigation levels (Irr?: five irrigations, Irr?: four, Irr?: three irrigations). Results revealed that early sowing (PD?) under full irrigation (Irr?) maximized grain yield (6.8 tons/ha) and 1000-grain weight (49.3 g) but required the highest water applied (5,608 m³/ha). Conversely, PD? with reduced irrigation (Irr?) conserved water (3,282 m³/ha) but incurred yield penalties (4.6 t/ha grain). Critically, PD? under Irr? achieved 94% of PD?’s yield with 18% less water, highlighting its viability for balancing productivity and sustainability. Water productivity (WP) improved under water-saving strategies, with PD?Irr? yielding the highest WP (1.41 kg/m³). The findings underscore that planting date (mid-November) is more suitable for yield than maximal irrigation, offering actionable strategies for farmers in water-scarce regions to enhance climate resilience while safeguarding food security.Item Evaluation of the Sensitivity of Strains of phytophthora spp Cause of Brown Rot of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao l.) against to Limocide 60 ME (An Extract of Sweet Orange Essential Oil)(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-06) Henri, NP; Brahima, C; Alban, MKA; Didier, KK; Edouard, YKJ; Martial, KKJF; Franck, ZB; Martial, KNG; Daouda, K.Ivory Coast produces nearly 2 million tons, which represents 15% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), more than 50% of exports and provides seven million jobs to Ivorians. However, its production is severely limited by the brown rot disease of cocoa pods. In order to increase production and improve public health and environmental problems, sweet orange essential oil extract was used to combat cocoa brown rot disease caused by Phytophthora spp. A morphological description of the pathogen was carried out. The effectiveness of Limocide was tested at doses of 100, 200, 400, 800 ppm and compared to NECO and Callomil super. Limocide, Callomil super and NECO significantly inhibited the in vitro mycelial growth of Phytophthora spp with 29.76, 89.41 and 100% respectively after six days of incubation. The minimum concentrations that inhibit 50% (IC 50 ) the growth of the fungus were, respectively, 929, 1521 and 348 ppm for Limocide , Callomil super and NECO. The biofungicide Limocide has proven its ability to control brown rot of cocoa pods under controlled conditions.Item Preliminary Report on Safety Evaluation of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (EPNs) and Symbiotic Bacteria on Silkworm(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-06) Yun-xi, Z; Jia-qi, Y; Xia, Z; Yin-miao, Y; Huan, W.Background: Entopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and their symbiotic bacteria are widely used as a natural pest enemy in agriculture and forestry pest control. The mulberry silkworm was fed by mulberry, and some mulberry was planted together with the farmland. In the process of using chemical pesticides to prevent and control field crop diseases and insect pests, mulberry leaf were polluted and the silkworms were poisoned. Aims: This research evaluated the safety of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and their symbiotic bacteria, which may be used to control the mulberry pests. Study Design: Five Steinernema species and Xenorhabdus sp. SY5 were used to evaluate the safety to mulberry silkworm. Place and Duration of Study: College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, between May 2021 and September 2024. Methodology: Mulberry silkworm was exposed /fed with five Steinernema species / Xenorhabdus sp. SY5. The larval duration, mortality, cocoon shell ratio and pupation rate were record. Results: The results indicated that the larval duration, the mortality, the pupation rate and cocoon produce were different by exposing in different Steinernema species, but Xenorhabdus sp. SY5 was not affected on mulberry silkworm. Conclusions: The tested entomopathogenic nematodes and symbiotic bacteria had no significant effect on mulberry silkworm. Further evaluation will be expected to apply in mulberry pest control.Item Purification and Characterization of ?-mannanase Produced by Bacillus cereus Isolated from Termite Guts(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-06) Osesusi, AO.Termites are highly effective at breaking down lignocellulose. This study was aimed at isolating ?-mannanase producing bacteria from termite guts, and to purify, and characterize the ??mannanase produced. The termites were isolated from Ikeji environs. Of eight isolates isolated and screened Bacillus?cereus showed better potential. The enzyme was produced using saw dust as substrate in a one-factor approach method. The most promising strain, identified as Bacillus cereus (accession number MW911450.1), exhibited the highest ?-mannanase activity and was selected for further investigation. Purification of the enzyme led to an increase in specific activity from 0.89 to 10.0 mg/mL and a purification fold rise from 1 to 11, accompanied by a decrease in protein content from 56.5 to 3.4 mg/mL using Sephadex G-100. Optimal enzyme activity was observed at temperatures of 25°C and 30°C, with reduced activity at higher temperatures, notably 78% at 90°C. The enzyme showed peak production at pH 4, followed by a steady decline at higher pH levels, with the lowest activity at pH 11. The enzyme retained partial activity in the presence of formaldehyde but was destabilized by solvents such as DMSO, Tween 20, acetone, Triton X, and acetic acid. Inhibitor testing revealed that compounds like urea, sodium A, EDTA, and cysteine enhanced enzyme activity, while SDS inhibited it. Metal ion analysis showed that K?, Na?, Mg²?, and Zn²? promoted activity, with K? having the strongest effect, whereas Mn²? had the least. Substrate concentration had a positive linear effect on enzyme activity, peaking at 0.5 mg/mL. The enzyme’s resilience to alkaline conditions and heat makes it attractive for breaking down hydraulic?fracturing fluids in oil drilling, pulp bio?bleaching in papermaking, and scouring/desizing steps in textile processing.Item Assessment of the Nutritional, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Chromolaena odorata Leaves(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-06) Ogunniran, AO; Dauda, OS; Adeleke, OV; Omowaye, MM; Okon, BI; Daramola, FA.Background and Aims: Chromolaena odorata is an invasive weed that grows all over Nigeria. Despite being regarded as an unwanted weed coupled with the rise in antibiotic resistance, there is a need to explore the nutritional and antimicrobial properties of the leaves. This study therefore evaluated the nutritional composition, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of Chromolaena odorata leaf extract Methodology: Chromolaena leaves were collected, and the nutritional composition, phytochemical constituents, and antioxidant properties of Chromolaena odorata leaf extract were determined using standard procedures. The agar well diffusion method was used to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of the methanol and ethyl acetate extract against the pathogens. At the same time, the active compounds present in the leaf were identified using High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: The proximate compositions of the leaf are moisture content (9.06 ± 0.07), ash content (1.45 ± 0.08), crude fat (6.84 ± 0.62), crude protein (6.88 ± 0.42), crude fiber (5.15 ± 0.13), and carbohydrate content (70.65 ± 0.26). The microelements were present in this order: K>Mg>P>Ca>Zn>Cl>Mn. Na and Cd had values of (0.01 ± 0.000), while Pb was not detected. Saponins, flavonoids, phenolics, steroids, and alkaloids except tannins were present. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents are 14.93 ±?0.11?mg GAE/g and 5.34 ± 0.04 mg QE/g, respectively. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO) radicals, and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS) had IC50 values of 309.62 µg/mL, 366.74 µg/mL, and 572.17?µg/mL, respectively, while the IC50 value for the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) was 271.25 µg/mL. The leaf extracts of Chromolaena odorata showed varying degrees of inhibition against the tested pathogens. Salmonella typhimurium 14028 was the most susceptible bacterium, while Escherichia. coli 25922 showed the least activity (4.5 mm). The HPLC revealed the presence of active compounds, such as quercetin, chalcone, kaempferol, flavone, flavonol, naringenin, and chromomoric acid. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the nutritional and dietary potential of Chromolaena odorata leaves. The extracts may be considered an effective antimicrobial agent against clinical pathogens.Item Isolation, Screening and Identification of Biopolymer Producing Bacillus cereus from Vegetable Wastes(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-04) Behar, N; Yadav, D; Verma, KK; Dubey, SK.Plastic materials are causing tremendous damage to the environment. To mitigate the use of synthetic plastics, eco-friendly biopolymers have emerged as an alternative to plastics. Biodegradable plastics such as polyhydroxy butyrate (PHB) are currently used in several synthetic applications similar to biopolymers. The present research was conducted to screen bacteria from vegetable wastes for PHB production. The PHB producing bacteria were screened using Sudan Black-B stain followed by microscopic examination for presence of PHB granules. The PHB was produced through a shake flask fermentation method. The significant PHB-producing bacteria was sequenced by 16S rRNA sequencing (1200bp) (NCIMRef: 2023/Seq-160), by NCIM, Pune, India. The sequencing report showed that the bacterial isolate has 99.93% closest homology to Bacillus cereus. Further, we have deposited this sequence in GenBank (SUB14283541 907R_Seq160_CB4 PP422177, SUB14283541 907R_Seq160_CB4_RC PP422178, SUB14283541 704F_Seq160_CB4 PP422179, and SUB14283541 907RC_704F_Seq160_CB4 PP422180) for further reference and studies. The Bacillus cereus CB 4-derived biopolymer precipitated with acetone has shown maximum PHB yield of 2.7 gL-1. Further research prospects would focus on the optimization of biopolymer production and its quality testing on various parameters.Item Morphological and Physiological Responses of Sorghum to Drought: Implications for Development of Climate-resilient Cultivars(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-04) Danquah, A; Otwe, EP; Galyuon, IKA; Kumi, F; Napo, C.Drought is a significant environmental stress affecting crop productivity, particularly, in semi-arid regions where sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] serves as an essential crop for food and fodder. Therefore, it is paramount to evaluate such crop varieties with potential for use in the development of climate-resilient ones through breeding and selection. A greenhouse pot experiment was carried out at Teaching and Research Farm of the School of Agriculture (A. G. Carlson Technology area), University of Cape Coast (UCC), to determine the morpho-physiological responses of seven sorghum varieties, focusing on the stay-green trait under drought-stressed (DS) and well-watered (WW) conditions. Parameters measured included green leaf area (GLA), relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll content, and grain yield. The results showed that the Dorado and Kapaala varieties exhibited greater drought resilience, maintaining higher GLA, RWC, chlorophyll levels and grain yield under drought stress conditions. Strong positive correlations between RWC, GLA, chlorophyll level, and grain yield parameters under DS highlighted these metrics as potential indicators for selecting drought-tolerant sorghum varieties. Thus, sorghum varieties such as Dorado and Kapaala could be employed in breeding programs for the development of climate-resilient varieties. The strong positive correlations between some morphological and physiological characters could be used to indirectly select for improved grain yields. This study underscores the importance of genetic diversity in crop resilience and provides valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at enhancing drought tolerance in sorghum.Item Assessment of the Persistent Organic Compounds Residual Level in Farm Soil of Telfaria occidentalis Hook F. Cultivation Area in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-02) FI, N; GO, O-A; RW, N; HD, A.Soil samples from some selected farms where Telfaria occidentalis Hook F. was planted within the Federal Capital Territory was during the rainy season (August 2023) soil samples were collected using a modified grid of 40 m – 40 m adapted from (Anibasa, 2016) with 20 m apart between sampling locations at a depth of 10 cm for each sampling location, these were analyzed for Persistent Organic Compounds (POCs) residue level using Gas Chromatography-Electron Capture Detector (GC-ECD). The inorganic pesticides like, Alpha-BHC, Beta-BHC, Gamma-BHC, Heptachlor, Endrin, DDT, Endosulfan II, DDD (Dichloro diphenyl dichloroethane) and Endosulfan Sulfate were recorded. Endosulfan Sulfate was the highest concentration of 3.00±0.69 mg/kg in the soil and was recorded in three Area Councils, followed by Heptachlor with concentration of 2.14±0.73 mg/kg recorded in all the Area Councils, Beta- BHC with concentration of 2.12±0.48 mg/kg recorded in five Area Councils and the lowest concentration of 0.67±0.22 mg/kg was that of Alpha –BHC recorded from three Area Councils. Statistical analysis of the findings indicated that the data was not normally distributed and no significant difference (p?0.05) in the concentrations across the six Area Councils however, all the concentrations were above Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) permissible by WHO/FAO in soil.Item Utilizing Plant Tissue Culture Protocol for Propagation of Jatropha curcas- A Semi-arid Tree Species in Maiduguri, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-02) Abdulkadir, A; Tarfa, M; Umar, MA; Saquib, M; Benisheikh, AA; Audu, M.This study examines the in vitro propagation of Jatropha curcas, a drought resistant tree species valued for its medicinal uses, biofuel production, and soil rehabilitation in arid regions. The research addresses the challenges of natural regeneration by employing micropropagation, as an alternative method for large-scale propagation. The explants were obtained from a healthy tree, sterilized and cultured in full strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) media, at different concentrations of Benzyle adenine (BA) and Indole-3-buteric acid (IBA). The data on shoot proliferation, leaf number, and shoot length were recorded after four weeks. The parameters recorded were statistically analyzed and means were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (P<0.05). Best response was observed in a MS medium (full Strength) supplemented with low level of BA (0.5mg/l) and IBA (0.2mg/l) showing shoot height of 1.567cm. The study reveals that high phenolic exuded by explants leading to hyperhydricity, and low moisture condition, hinders explant growth and development. None of the explant rooted when cultured on the rooting media (half MS media supplemented with Plant Growth Regulators IBA and NAA) but rather produces some substance appearing to be callus at the base of the plantlets which necessitated for histological analysis. The histological studies show, no any irregularities in the tissues structures and organization that might prevent the plantlet from rooting. From the result of this study, it can be concluded that the use of full-strength MS media supplemented with a very low Cytokinin and Auxin could be suitable for propagating Jatropha curcas in vitro. It is recommended that further research be undertaken to improve proliferation and rooting efficiency, for possibilities of substituting the conventional method of propagating of these tree species.Item Chemical Disinfectants in Disease Management and Productivity Enhancement in Mulberry Sericulture: A Review(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-02) R, KK; K, S; Rahman, T; Ahamed, MJ; S, J.The sericulture industry, focused on producing silk from Bombyx morisilkworms, is highly vulnerable to pathogenic outbreaks due to the domestication of silkworms, which has diminished their natural immunity. Pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, are common threats in silkworm rearing and significantly impact silk production. The use of chemical disinfectants in sericulture has proven to be an essential tool in mitigating these threats by maintaining hygienic rearing conditions. This paper reviews the importance, mechanisms, and application of chemical disinfectants in disease management and highlights their role in enhancing sericulture productivity.Item Genotypic Identification of Extended-Spectrum ?-Lactamase (ESBL) Producing Salmonella spp. Associated with Meat and Lettuce and Sales Practices that Contribute to Contamination of These Foods in Bobo Dioulasso(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-02) Somda, NS; Flibert, G; Hien, DF de S; Tankoano, A; Adesoji, TO; Bayili, GR; Konfé/Kanwé, EM; Roamba, A; Kaboré, D; Bonkoungou, OJI; Savadogo, A; Sawadogo-Lingani, H.Background and Aims: Food contamination is often linked to diverse factors such as poor food preservation, culinary techniques, and the handling of products during marketing. These factors could facilitate the spread of bacteria which are among the primary causes of food borne infections in both developing and industrialized countries adding to public health burden. This study aims to highlight the epidemiology of Extended-Spectrum ?-Lactamase (ESBL)-producing Salmonella strains in lettuce and charcuterie as well as to investigate sales practice that could aid food contamination. Methods: The study was conducted at Bobo-Dioulasso from April to December 2021. A survey was carried out among 30 randomly selected lettuce sellers in 5 markets and 30 randomly selected charcuterie workers in 3 selected supermarkets. A total of 162 samples (90 lettuce and 72 charcuterie) were collected and screened for the presence of Salmonella using standard methods. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out on the obtained Salmonella isolates using the Kirby – Bauer disk diffusion technique. Specific primers were used for the detection of the class 1 integrons, antibiotic resistance, and virulence genes by PCR. Results: The quality of water used for keeping the lettuce fresh (wetting) and sellers’ hygiene were significantly associated with lettuce contamination (=14.21, P<0.001). For charcuteries, 66.7% and 33.3% of the structures surveyed use refrigerated trucks and vans for transportation, respectively. Salmonella was isolated from 12.35% (20/162) of the samples, i.e., 13.33% (12/90) of the lettuce samples and 11.11% (8/72) of the charcuterie samples (?2 = 9.485; p < 0.005). Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that all the isolates were resistant to colistin while 70% (14/20) and 60% (12/20) were resistant to cephalothin and ampicillin, respectively. The int1, parE, parC, blaCTX-M, and blaTEM genes were detected among 70%, 65%, 60%, 45% and 40% of the isolates, respectively. Conclusion: This study revealed that seller’s practice including handling and quality of water for wetting could significantly increase the risk of contamination on ready to eat vegetables including the presence of enteric pathogens such as Salmonella sp carrying various antibiotic resistance determinants which could pose public health risk. There is a need of sensitization and training for these sellers as the issue is a national public health problem.Item Sustainable Production of Liquid Biofertilizer: Utilizing Spent Mushroom Substrate and Watermelon Peels(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-02) PU, M; Onwukwe, C; BA, E; CM, I; BT, D; HO, S; CN, A.Biofertilizers are natural fertilizers that contains live biomass. This study demonstrates the production of Liquid biofertilizer through the use of spent mushroom substrate (SMS), and watermelon peels by liquid state fermentation technique. This is a result of contamination and lose of soil fertility faced by the environment and agricultural farm land as a result of incessant use of inorganic fertilizers that are persistent in the soil. The two waste materials of 5379g each were obtained and placed on a 35-litre drum, 27 litre of water was poured on the mixture after washing the watermelon peel and stirred evenly, then allowed to ferment for 3 weeks under anaerobic condition, then filtration of the mixture was done after complete fermentation, and microbiological and physicochemical analysis was carried out on the mixture before and after fermentation. Reduction in the concentration of total nitrogen, phosphorous, magnesium and potassium were observed after fermentation while iron content increased after fermentation. The following bacterial species were identified using 16S rRNA gene amplicons: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Stenotrophomonas, geniculata, Sphingobacterium daejeonense and Alcaligene faecalis. A Pot experiment was carried out with a planting bag on three set ups in duplicates, (i) seed + liquid biofertilizer application, (ii) seed + chemical fertilizer application (iii) Seed alone. Then planting of bean seed (Phasolous vulgaris L.) and groundnut seed (Arachis hypogea) on each set up after physicochemical analysis of the planting soil. Growth comparison using germination test was done by measuring the shoot length, leaf length, leave number, leaf width, stem girth and number of branches, it was observed that the treatment with liquid biofertilizer application competed favourably with that of chemical fertilizer treatment and the biofertilizer also serves as a bio-control agent as the leaves of the biofertilizer set up was not eaten by caterpillar while that of inorganic (chemical fertilizer) was eaten up.Item Hygiene Practices and Microbial Contamination of Liquid Gapal Sold in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-02) Abel, T; Siourimè, SN; Flibert, G; Adama, P; Zeynab, TR; Toussaint, OB; Amal, S; Donatien, K; Hagrétou, S-L.Aims: Liquid gapal is a fermented food prepared mainly from millet paste and milk, and is increasingly consumed in Burkina Faso's major cities. This study aims to contribute to knowledge of the microbiological quality of liquid gapal marketed in Ouagadougou. Methodology: To achieve this objective, we surveyed eleven (11) gapal producers located in ten (10) different districts of the city. Thirty-three (33) samples of liquid gapal randomly collected at a rate of three (3) samples per producer were then analyzed using standard microbiological analyzes methods. Results: The results showed that some producers had poor control over good hygiene and production practices. The use of public mills to grind millet and lack of backup power systems that can contribute to promote microbial contamination. Microbiological analyzes showed that the level of microbiological contamination varied from one gapal producer to another. Microbial loads varied from 4.9 to 8.1log10 CFU/mL for total aerobic mesophilic microorganisms, 4.3 to 5.7 log10 CFU/mL for yeasts and moulds, 4.6 to 8.8 log10 CFU/mL for lactic acid bacteria, 1.4 to 4.6 log10 CFU/mL for enterobacteria, 0.8 to 4.6 log10 CFU/mL for thermotolerant coliforms, ?1.0 UFC/mL to 3.7 log10 CFU/mL for Staphylococcus aureus and 0.6 to 3.0 log10 CFU/mL for Bacillus cereus. Conclusion: These results underline the need to strengthen the capacities of these gapal producers in order to improve the quality of the products they marketed.Item Automated Estimation of Plant Leaf Disease Severity Using Classical Image Segmentation Techniques(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-04) TAA, E; HB, N; MEL, N.Aim: This study aimed to propose a computationally cost-effective method for automated estimation of plant leaf disease severity in resource-limited settings. Study Design: The performance of four image segmentation algorithms—global thresholding, adaptive thresholding, Otsu thresholding, and edge detection—was evaluated using nine curated images of disease-affected leaves from tomato, bell pepper, and potato plants. Each image was segmented into healthy and diseased regions, and quantitative metrics—including diseased pixel counts, percentage of affected area, healthy-to-diseased ratios, and computational time—were analyzed to assess algorithm performance. Results: The segmentation methods executed with near-instantaneous speed (0–0.001 seconds per image). Global and Otsu thresholding consistently demonstrated high segmentation accuracy, leading to reliable severity estimations. Adaptive thresholding tended to overestimate disease severity, while edge detection, despite providing precise lesion boundaries, significantly underestimated overall disease severity. Conclusion: Comparative analysis, supported by visual validation, suggests that Otsu thresholding, closely followed by global thresholding, is the most effective approach for leaf disease severity estimation, offering high accuracy with minimal computational overhead. These findings indicate that classical computer vision techniques can play a valuable role in supporting plant disease diagnostics and estimation in resource-constrained environments.Item Spore as a Survival Strategy in Cryptogams: Emerging Applications in Biotechnology and Beyond(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-04) Gupta, A; Singh, R.Spore biology is a fascinating field with immense potential for fundamental research and its applications. Spores are highly resistant dormant cells with reduced metabolic activity. The spores are found naturally in soil. Spores have unique features such as haploid nature, asexual reproductive units, extremely resistant cell wall and ability to survive in extreme conditions. Due to this spores have promising future prospects in research in fields of biosensing, biocontrol, biofertilizers, biomedicine biological warfare, probiotics and crop improvement. Because of resistance in changes in pH, temperature, and other environmental factors, they are used as efficient vaccine vehicles. Certain bacteria have been genetically manipulated to express antigens on the surface of their spores. Further bacterial spores can be used to selectively deliver drugs to tumor sites. This offers huge potential of spores in field of medicine.Item A Study of Ocean-Source Biosurfactant-Producing and Petroleum Hydrocarbon Degrading Bacterial Resource of The Atlantic Ocean, Araromi Sea-Side, Ondo State, Nigeria(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-04) Ikuesan, FA.Bioavailability of hydrocarbons to microorganisms is a serious threat to the efficiency of biodegradation process for the decontamination of polluted environments. The objective of this research is to characterize ocean-source biosurfactant-producing bacterial resource with potential to degrade hydrocarbons. The oceanwater sample was collected from the Atlantic Ocean on latitude 6.3250338 and Longitude 4.4834361 in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. The Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrophotometry (GC-MS) analysis was used for the determination of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPHs). Quantification and identification of bacterial isolates were carried out by standard morphological, biochemical and molecular methods based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Four autochthonous marine-source bacteria were evaluated for their petroleum hydrocarbon utilization potentials by spectrophotometry method at 600 nm wavelength of culture in Bushnell Haas medium fortified with 1% petroleum hydrocarbon and then assayed for biosurfactant activity by oil collapse, foaming activity, emulsification and oil drop tests. The population of hydrocarbon degrading bacteria was 9.80×104 - 3.00×105 (CFU/mL) constituting 2.09 – 6.38% of the total heterotrophic bacterial population. Lysinibacillus fusiformis (OM179766.1) Citrobacter werkmanii (CP019986.1), Lysinibacillus sphaericus (CP015224.1) and Pseudomonas putida (MT604992.1) with 94.07-99.40% percentage homology were identified from the sample and exhibited varying responses to petroleum derivatives. The isolates exhibited positive responses to biosurfactant activity except Citrobacter werkmanii which showed negative response to drop collapse test. The isolates exhibited 44-83% and 26-66% emulsification (E24) and foaming activities respectively. The results of this study conclude that there exist in the marine ecosystem diversity of biosurfactant-producing bacteria that can be exploited to enhance pollutant bioavailability for the remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated ecosystem.Item Pathogenic Susceptibility of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) to Twelve Isolates of Colletotrichum sp Present on Six Weeds in Cashew Orchards in Côte d'Ivoire(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-02) Aboulaye, T; Sibirina, S; R. E., AA; Arsène, SN; Karidia, T-O; Daouda, K.Cashew nuts are one of the agricultural products that contribute significantly to Côte d'Ivoire's economic development. However, cashew nut production in Côte d'Ivoire is threatened by anthracnose. Reducing anthracnose proliferation factors could reduce its impact on cashew trees. The aim of the study was to assess the virulence of Colletotrichum sp. isolated from weeds in cashew trees. It assessed the pathogenicity of 12 isolates of Colletotrichum sp. extracted from six weeds on cashew plants. The inocula were prepared by scraping the mycelium of each fungus in 10 ml of sterile distilled water. The spore suspension was collected and calibrated at 4.6.106 conidia/ml using a Malassez cell. This suspension was applied by spraying to the leaves of 30-day-old cashew plants. The parameters assessed were symptom incidence and severity index. All isolates tested induced symptoms characteristic of anthracnose on cashew plants. There was a significant difference between isolates in terms of their virulence. The highest incidence of 90% was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColE2 isolate and the lowest incidence of 30% was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColN3 isolate. The highest severity index of 7.66 was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColE3 isolate and the lowest severity index of 2.00 was obtained on plants inoculated with the ColN3 isolate. These results show that Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe), Vitellaria paradoxa (G), Micuna pruriens (L.), Blighia sapida (K. Koenig), Albizia zygia (DC) and Pterocarpus erinaceus (Poir) are hosts of anthracnose in cashew orchards in Côte d'Ivoire. Their integration into cashew pathogen control strategies is necessary.Item Apoptosis Mechanisms: Role of Anti-apoptotic Proteins, Cancer Hallmarks and Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer Cell Survival(Ms. M. B. Mondal, 2025-04) Zameer, S; Akram, Z; Daniyal, A; Fatima, U; Faraz, M; Anwar, Z; Khatoon, S; Habib, S; Mustafa, M.Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is the result of signaling pathways being activated when cells experience irreversible alterations due to internal or external stress. To stop cancer from developing, this procedure is crucial for getting rid of potentially dangerous cells that have accumulated genetic damage. Nevertheless, a lot of cancer cells create defenses against death, which aids in the growth of tumors and treatment resistance. Certain intracellular proteins play a key role in blocking apoptosis by interfering with specific stages of the cell death process. Among these, members of the Bcl-2 family such as Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL help maintain the integrity of cellular membranes, including those of the plasma membrane, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria. Additionally, Bcl-2 is believed to exhibit inherent antioxidant properties. The transition from normal cells to malignant tumors involves the acquisition of distinct functional traits, often referred to as the hallmarks of cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in this transformation, facilitating tumor growth by providing essential nutrients and interacting dynamically with cancer cells. This paper focuses on the role of Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins (IAPs) and anti-apoptotic proteins like Bcl-2, both of which contribute to cancer progression by preventing cell death. Their ability to enhance cell survival promotes tumor growth and resistance to treatment. Additionally, the review underscores the TME's significance, including the microbiome's influence in modulating apoptosis and shaping tumor behavior. Targeting elements of the TME could improve therapeutic strategies and enhance treatment efficacy.