Asian Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
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Prevalence and Antifungal Susceptibility Patterns of Yeast Isolated from Wounds of Patients Attending University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
No full textThe increasing incidence of drug-resistant fungal infections has raised alarms in healthcare settings and underscores the need for this study, which investigated the antifungal susceptibility patterns of yeast from wound specimens. A total of twenty-one (21) wound specimens were collected from patients admitted in different wards at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and were subjected to isolation of Candida sp., microscopic identification, biochemical test, virulence determination, and antifungal susceptibility test. Results of the study showed an overall 38.1% prevalence of Candida sp., with patients with diabetic wounds contributing the highest quota (52.4%) to the overall prevalence. Also, 87.5% of the isolates possessed germ tube, none of the isolates were haemolytic or produced biofilm, and the mean inhibitory zone of the isolates at 2.5mg/ml ranged between 0.0 ± 0.0 to 33.5 ± 2.1mm for ketoconazole, 00.0 ± 00.0 to 22.5 ± 2.1mm for fluconazole, while the mean inhibitory zone of the isolates at 1.25mg/ml ranged between 0.0 ± 0.0 to 2.5.0 ± 2.8mm for ketoconazole, Fluconazole, and Itraconazole respectively. Due to the high susceptibility of the yeast isolates to ketoconazole compared to other antifungal agents, ketoconazole is recommended as the drug of choice for treating these isolates. Based on findings in this study, it is concluded that Candida sp. had low prevalence in the study area, occurred more in wounds of diabetic patients, had germ tube but lacked haemolysis, did not produce biofilm, and were more susceptible to ketoconazole than fluconazole and itraconazole
Effect of Swine Wastewater Treatment on Fungal Population and Physicochemical Characteristics of Soil
No full textThe application of swine wastewater to soil significantly impacts soil fungal communities and physicochemical properties. This study investigated the effects of varying swine wastewater concentrations on soil fungi and physicochemical characteristics. Soil samples were treated with different concentrations of swine wastewater were analyzed for fungal counts and physicochemical parameters, for 21 days at 7 days intervals. The results showed that treatments with swine wastewater had significantly higher fungal counts than the control, with the highest means found in Soil + 100ml SWW (5.0 × 103 CFU/g). Time points also showed significant differences, with Day 14 having the highest mean fungal count (5.4 × 103 CFU/g). Fungal genera isolated included Trichophyton sp, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium sp, Trichoderma sp, Cladosporium sp, Penicillium sp, Mucor sp, and Candida sp. The pH reached its lowest value (6.09) in the Soil + 100ml SWW treatment on Day 21, while the highest (7.35) was recorded in the Soil + 40ml SWW treatment on Day 7. Temperature was highest at 28.7°C in the Soil + 20ml SWW treatment on Day 7 and lowest at 25.2°C in the control treatment on Day 14. Moisture content remained lowest in control treatment, whereas the highest values were observed in the Soil + 40ml SWW treatment on Days 7 and 14, and in the Soil + 100ml SWW treatment on Day 21. Organic matter declined significantly, reaching its lowest level (0.35%) in the Soil + 40ml SWW treatment on Day 21. Nitrogen content was consistently highest in control treatment, while the Soil + 40ml SWW treatment had the lowest values throughout. The carbon-nitrogen ratio fluctuated considerably, peaking at 3.38 in the Soil + 40ml SWW treatment on Day 7 and dropping to 0.18 in the control treatment on Day 21. In conclusion, Swine wastewater applications altered soil fungal communities and physicochemical properties, increasing fungal counts and affecting pH, moisture, organic matter, and nitrogen levels. These changes highlight both benefits and environmental implications for soil management. This highlights the need for careful management and treatment of swine wastewater to prevent potential environmental risks
Comprehensive Multiplex RT-PCR and PCR Assay for Simultaneous Detection of Mixed Infections of Major Sugarcane Viruses
No full textSugarcane is a globally important cash crop crucial for production of sucrose. The productivity of sugarcane is affected by several viral pathogens, including Sugarcane bacilliform virus (SCBV), Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), Sugarcane streak mosaic virus (SCSMV), and Sugarcane yellow leaf virus (SCYLV). These viruses are known to primarily transmit through sugarcane planting seeds and germplasm exchange cause substantial economic yield losses worldwide. This study introduces an optimized multiplex PCR and conventional PCR assay for simultaneous detection of four major sugarcane viruses viz., SCBV, SCMV, SCSMV, and SCYLV. The proposed study developed and validated a multiplex PCR assay for early detection of major sugarcane viruses, supporting clean seed programs to enhance the productivity of sugarcane. In the present study, the sugarcane samples exhibiting characteristic disease symptoms were collected from six major sugarcane varieties of India. To assure the integrity and purity, overall genomic DNA and RNA were extracted. Based on the PCR results, the amplicons of approximately of 587 bp and 465 bp were detected for SCBV and SCMV, respectively in 3, 5, and 6 samples. However, amplicons of ~610 bp for SCYLV and ~599 bp for SCSMV have been seen in all six samples. The approach is very economical and demonstrated remarkable sensitivity, specificity, and robustness for the early and simultaneous detection of mixed viral infections in sugarcane. In order to promote sustainable sugarcane agricultural practices worldwide, the study fulfills a major gap in virus diagnostics by providing a strategic solution for early virus diagnosis, clean seed production, and enhanced sugarcane productivity
Progress and Prospects in HIV Vaccine Development: A Comprehensive Review
No full textHIV/AIDS has been a disease condition affecting the entire world since its discovery in the 1980s, with over 38 million people in the globe living with the virus. Several attempts, research and funds have been channelled towards discovering a cure for HIV/AIDS yet no cure has been discovered. Considering the burden associated with the disease condition, having a vaccine to help control the spread will be a great approach in the course of achieving universal control coverage of the disease condition and an end to the disease over time. In this review we examined the progress, challenges, and future directions in HIV vaccine development and various types of vaccine candidates currently under investigation, highlighting key drug candidates that failed to provide protection against HIV such as PrEPVacc, HVTN 505, Uhambo (HVTN 702), Imbokodo (HVTN 705) and Mosaico (HVTN 706) as well as RV144 that provided 31.2% protection against HIV in a modified intent-to-treat analysis and those whose investigations are still in progress. The search for HIV Vaccine continues despite the modest success of some vaccines in clinical trials due to diversity in genetic nature of HIV, its ability to mutate rapidly, and the difficulty of eliciting a sustained immune response. Hence we also reviewed current approaches to improve on the success rate recorded by RV144
Engineering Immunity: Biotechnological Paradigms in Modern Vaccine Development
No full textThe field of vaccine development has evolved in recent years, with the integration of biotechnology, which has brought about new models for engineering immunity. This paper examines the groundbreaking biotechnological advancements that have changed the course of vaccines in production, design, and efficacy. Modern technologies like mRNA, viral vectors, and synthetic biology have brought about more targeted and personalized immunization therapies. The molecular mechanisms behind these innovations were reviewed, including antigen presentation, immune modulation, and the optimization of adjuvants, as well as the challenges of ensuring long-term immunity. Ethical, regulatory, and logistical implications of these biotechnological tools were also considered in terms of pandemic and emerging infectious and chronic conditions. In addition, the promise and possibility of engineering immunity through biotechnology were highlighted, laying the foundation for the next generation of vaccines capable of addressing complex health challenges
Plant Growth-promoting Rhizobacteria and Rhizofungi of Calopogonium mucunoides in the University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
No full textAims: This study aims at isolating/enumerating microorganisms present in the plant root environment of Calopogonium mucunoides and to examine the biodiversity of rhizosphere/rhizoplane flora in different soil samples of the legume.
Methodology and Results: The composition of microbial communities associated with the rhizosphere and rhizoplane of Calopogonium mucunoides in the University of Calabar area was evaluated using standard microbiological and biochemical techniques. The results showed that the total heterotrophic bacterial load (THBL) at the root of Calopogonium muconoides plant sampled from the University of Calabar Botanical Garden, the University of Calabar Staff Quarters and Faculty of Biological Science Garden were: 80.00±0.82x104cfug-1, 55.67±1.25 x104cfug-1 and 90.33±1.25 x104cfug-1 respectively. Analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the total heterotrophic bacterial load (THBL) at the rhizosphere of the Calopogonium mucunoides plant. While the total rhizosphere fungal loads were 24.00+1.63x103cfug-1, 24.00+2.16x103cfug-1, and 18.00+2.88x103cfug-1 for Calopogonium mucunoides plant sampled from University of Calabar Botanical garden, University of Calabar staff Quarters and the Faculty of Biological Science garden respectively. There was a substantial alteration (p < 0.05) in the total rhizosphere fungal amounts in Calopogonium muconoides plants sampled from the University of Calabar. The bacterial group at the rhizosphere of the Calopogonium mucunoides plant was: Bacillus spp. Streptococcus spp., Proteus spp., Klebsiella spp., Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Acinetobacter spp and Enterobacter spp. while the rhizosphere fungal group was: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Mucor spp., Penicillium spp, and Rhizopus spp.
Conclusion, Significance and Impact of Study: The microorganisms seen in the rhizosphere of the plant could be used for both microbiological and biotechnological research at the University
Effect of Seed Borne Fungi on Seed Health of Soyabean
No full textA comprehensive study was conducted to characterize the seed-borne mycoflora associated with soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) and to evaluate their impact on seed health. Seed samples of three soybean cultivars-Palam Soya, Shivalik, and Hara Soya-were collected from field plots subjected to either fungicide treatment (tebuconazole) or left untreated at the experimental farm of CSKHPKV, Palampur. Detection and identification of seed-borne fungi were performed using both the agar plate and blotter paper methods, following ISTA protocols. A total of thirteen fungal species were isolated, with Fusarium proliferatum, Colletotrichum truncatum, and Alternaria alternate being the most prevalent across all cultivars and treatments. The agar plate method demonstrated higher sensitivity in detecting fungal contaminants compared to the blotter paper method. Pathogenicity assays revealed that Aspergillus niger significantly reduced seed germination, root length, shoot length, and seedling vigour index, indicating its high pathogenic potential. These findings highlight the critical need for regular monitoring and effective management of seed-borne mycoflora to safeguard soybean seed quality and enhance crop productivity
Screening of Brassica Spp. Genotypes against Sclerotinia Stem Rot under Natural Epiphytotic Conditions
No full textSclerotinia stem rot, caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary, is a major fungal disease affecting mustard (Brassica spp.), leading to significant yield losses, especially under cool and humid conditions. The present investigation was conducted during the Rabi 2024-25 at the Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Morena, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India, to evaluate seventy-three mustard genotypes for putative resistant to Sclerotinia stem rot under natural epiphytotic conditions. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with two replications, and disease severity was assessed at 60 days after sowing employing a 0–4 lesion length-based disease rating scale. Significant genetic variability was observed among the genotypes for disease reaction. Out of the 73 genotypes screened, 51 (approximately 70%) were found to be completely resistant (rating 0), displayed no visible disease symptoms. Nineteen genotypes were found moderately tolerant (rating 1), with lesion lengths ranging between 0.1 to 2.0 cm. Two genotypes exhibited moderate susceptibility (rating 2), while none was categorized as susceptible (rating 3). Only one genotype namely GSC-6 was found to be highly susceptible (rating 4), displaying lesions greater than 6.0 cm in length. The results underscore the availability of diverse resistance sources within the mustard germplasm and highlighted the potential of resistant and moderately tolerant genotypes for further use in breeding programmes aimed to breed Sclerotinia-resistant cultivar (s). The study confirms the effectiveness of field-based screening under natural disease pressure and supports the integration of host plant resistance as a core strategy in sustainable disease management. The identified resistant genotype (s) hold promises for future genetic improvement and development of high-yielding, Sclerotinia stem rot -resilient mustard varieties
Bacterial Isolates Associated with Fresh and Spoilt Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sold at International Market, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
No full textIntroduction: The ability of certain human pathogens to adapt to plants without losing their virulence toward people is a major concern today.
Aim: Thus, the aim of the present work was to characterize bacterial isolates associated with the surface of fresh and spoilt scotch bonnet pepper (Capsicum chinense) sold at International Market, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Methodology: A total of 10 scotch bonnet pepper samples (five (5) fresh and five (5) spoilt pepper) were collected. Bacterial isolates were characterized using standard microbiological procedures.
Results: The result revealed that from the fresh pepper samples, a total of twenty four (24) bacterial isolates were recovered while from the spoilt pepper samples, a total of thirty six (36) bacterial isolates were gotten. The percentage occurrence of bacteria isolated from the fresh pepper samples were in decreasing order of Staphylococcus aureus (25.00 %), Pseudomonas spp. (20.83 %), Escherichia coli (20.83 %), Bacillus spp. (16.67 %) and Proteus spp (16.67 %). The percentage occurrence of bacteria isolated from spoilt pepper samples were Staphylococcus aureus (27.78 %), Escherichia coli (22.22 %), Proteus spp (19.44 %), Bacillus spp. (16.67 %) and Pseudomonas spp. (13.89 %). The total heterotrophic bacteria counts for spoilt pepper ranged from 1.46 x 106 CFU/g to 2.01x106 CFU/g while total heterotrophic bacteria count of fresh pepper ranged from 1.22 x 106 CFU/g to 1.66 x 106 CFU/g.
Conclusion: This high microbial load underscores the need for stringent control measures to prevent infection
Microbial Analysis of Vended Fruit Juices and Sauces Consumed in Restaurants in Narsingdi City, Bangladesh
No full textFresh fruit juices from cafes and restaurants are a popular beverage in Narsingdi city of Bangladesh during summer season. Food-borne outbreaks may arise from them since harmful germs from the unsanitary surroundings of the food preparation area easily infect them. The purpose of the current study was to identify the microbiological characteristics of various fruit juices and sauces consumed in different cafes and restaurants in Narsingdi City, Bangladesh. The detection of total viable bacterial load, total fungi count, coliforms, and some other pathogenic bacteria was checked in a total of thirty-nine juice and sauce samples, specifically of six categories of juices (orange, lemon, pineapple, sugarcane, papaya, and apple) and three categories of sauces (tomato sauce, mustard sauce, and tamarind sauce). Total viable bacteria in these samples ranged from 104 to 108 CFU/mL. Sixty percent of the samples had total coliforms (including Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp.), all of which alarmingly exceeded the conventional bacteriological limits (1.0×104 CFU/mL) advised for fruit juices. Vibrio spp., Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus spp. were identified as harmful microorganisms. Standard biochemical, microscopic, and cultural assays were used to identify each of these bacterial isolates. Sulfomethoxazole-trimethoprim, Ciprofloxacin, Tetracycline, Nalidixic Acid, Gentamicin, Ceftriazone, Ampicillin, and Netilmicin were among the drugs against which the isolates showed variable levels of drug resistance. The microbiological evaluation of these well-known ready-to-drink goods is therefore constantly required; otherwise, they could pose health risks