Asian Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
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Examination of Physicochemical, Microbial, Pharmacological and I.R. Studies of Ni(II) Lomustine Complex
No full textThe Ni(II) complex of the chemotherapeutic agent, lomustine, was synthesized and meticulously examined for its physicochemical, antimicrobial, and pharmacological properties, with particular focus on its infrared (IR) spectral behavior. The coordination complex was synthesized under controlled conditions and characterized through IR, UV–Vis, elemental analysis, and thermal analysis techniques. The IR spectra confirmed that carbonyl and nitrogen donor atoms from lomustine are involved in coordinating with the Ni(II) center. The complex showed improved stability and unique spectral characteristics in comparison to the free drug. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated notable activity against various bacterial and fungal strains, suggesting enhanced efficacy through metal coordination. the complex showed increased efficacy against Bacillus subtilis with an inhibition zone of 31 mm (a -10.71% change over the control drug, indicating a stronger effect if interpreted as a reduction in growth compared to the control, or a miscalculation in the percentage given the increased zone), while it was less effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae. No activity was observed against E. coli. Furthermore, preliminary pharmacological studies indicated that the Ni(II)-lomustine complex possesses enhanced cytotoxic potential. At a concentration of 100 µg/mL, the complex achieved 64.8% inhibition after 2 hours, 88.5% after 4 hours, and 95.1% after 6 hours, which are generally higher inhibition percentages compared to the free drug at equivalent concentrations and time points. Preliminary pharmacological studies further demonstrated increased cytotoxic potential, suggesting that the Ni(II) lomustine complex may offer therapeutic advantages over the parent compound. The results highlight the role of metal–drug interactions in modifying biological activity and support further exploration of such complexes in medicinal chemistry
Characterization of Rhizobium Isolates from Soybean (Glycine max L.) and Assessment of Their Plant Growth-Promoting Attributes in the Malwa Region of Madhya Pradesh, India
No full textSoybean (Glycine max) is a leguminous crop that relies on symbiotic nitrogen fixation by rhizobacteria for optimal growth and productivity. This study focuses on the isolation and functional characterization of Rhizobium spp. from the Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Soybean nodule samples were collected from different soybean-growing regions and rhizobium spp. were isolated by using Yeast Extract Mannitol Agar (YEMA) media. A total of 110 bacteria were isolated from root nodule samples collected from five villages of Ratlam district, Madhya Pradesh, India. Out of 110 isolates, 14 different bacterial isolates were selected for, colony morphology and characterized on the basis of microscopy and biochemically. The isolates could survive at temperatures between 4 and 45 °C (optimum 30 °C), and pH 5–11 (optimum 8). Additionally we have determine the plant growth promoting trails i.e., phosphate solubilizaion, potassium solubilization, production of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), ammonia, and hydrogen cyanide (HCN). Most of the isolates exhibited plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits. The study concludes that native Rhizobium isolates from the Malwa region possess distinct physiological and plant growth-promoting capabilities. These findings highlight their potential as region-specific bioinoculants to improve soil fertility and support sustainable soybean production under local agroclimatic conditions. This significance of this work to identifies and evaluates native Rhizobium from the Malwa region that can enhance soybean growth, yield, and soil fertility
Ecological Significance of Dynamism of Physiologic Variance on Properties of Palm Oil Mill Effluents
No full textProperties a given waste is essential for rationale comprehension of plausible way(s) for its remediation. In the present study, POME from oil milling centre at Anambra state showed high heterotrophic activity of microorganisms. Total viable counts of the organisms isolated from the waste water were 5.4 x 103 CFU/ml and 4.4 x 103 CFU/ml at day 0 and day 7 of the incubation respectively. These observations showed a significant variation from the control experiment at these recorded days of incubations which shows total viable cell counts (TVC) of 4.6 x 103 and 2.9 x 104 CFU/ml respectively. Total coliform counts (TCC) of the organisms isolated from the dairy waste water were 1.3 x 103 and 1.8 x 103 CFU/ml for the day 0 and day 7 incubation periods respectively while the TCC from the control experiment were: 8.0 x 102 and 3.2 x 102 CFU/ml for day 0 and day 7 incubation periods respectively. POME sample from Awka, Anambra state was subjected to various physicochemical profiling and was further optimized at different conditions to exert various variability. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) is one of the important physical parameter widely used in assessment of quality of aqueous surroundings. Physicochemical properties of waste water from the milling centre showed the following: pH (5.0), temperature (41oC), conductivity (610); water dissolved minerals such as Cl-, K+, PO3, Mg2+, Ca2+ were all determined. Initial dissolved oxygen concentration (mg/l) of the waste water was determined using a probe connected to a meter with initial value of 39.4 mg/l. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) was determined after five incubation days at room temperature in separate bottles optimized at varying pH of 4.0-9.0 in a range of 1.0 units. BOD5 decreases with increased pH values in all the tested samples incubated for 5 days. pH 5.0 gave a significant reduction of the oxygen exertion (1400 mg/ml) while pH 4.0, 6.0, 7.0 showed an oxygen exertion (BOD5) of 1978, 2778, and 2965 mg/ml respectively. Samples incubated at 8.0 and 9.0 showed oxygen exertion of 2945 and 2899 mg/ml respectively. Other contents of the dairy waste water such as total organic carbon (TOC), total organic matter contents (TOM) were all determined respectively. Samples was also collected from mapped area 0.5 km away from the waste water reservoir and used as the reference standard. Proceeding results from the present research study showed the compromised statues of our aquatic environment and also in a wider look gave a great insight of effective modalities in water treatment; as increasing population of myriads of processing industries in our country today pose great challenge to the competence of our aquatic body
Development, Characterization, and Culinary Potential of Wine from Dates Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) and Some Spices
No full textThe rising prevalence of health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, along with the high costs associated with conventional wine, have presented significant challenges for consumers. This study aimed to develop an affordable and health-conscious wine using date palm fruit, enabling home production. The process involved extracting pulp from healthy date fruits and fermenting it with Saccharomyces cerevisiae EC-1118 yeast and sugar. To enhance the wine’s flavor and medicinal value, various spices, including ginger and turmeric, were incorporated. Additionally, honey was added to certain samples to increase antioxidant activity. The fermentation process spanned approximately 10 days, during which key parameters such as Alcohol by Weight (AFD), volatile acidity (Vc), and fixed acidity (Fv) were measured. Post-fermentation, biochemical and enological analyses revealed ethanol content ranging from 9% to 11% and volatile acidity between 3 to 9 g/L. Both sensory and non-sensory evaluations were conducted to assess the organoleptic qualities of the wine, with findings indicating that the wine produced from fermented date fruit pulp was organoleptically superior. Furthermore, storage studies demonstrated that the wine could be refrigerated for up to one month without any significant loss in taste or flavor
Detection and Molecular Characterization of Avian Encephalomyelitis Virus in India: A Preliminary Report
No full textTremovirus A, previously recognized as Avian encephalomyelitis virus (AEV) is, one of the viruses that have been reported to be associated with nervous and enteric disorders in young birds. In Kerala, there has been an increase in the cases of nervous and enteric diseases in chickens. The detection and characterization of other viruses associated with nervous and enteric viruses in chickens has been established in Kerala. While there have been reports of nervous and enteric diseases in chickens in the region, no previous research had focused on AEV as the causative agent. A total of 50 samples were tested to detect AEV by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) targeting the 5\u27 untranslated region (5\u27UTR) of AEV. Of the samples tested, one (2%) was found to be positive for the virus. The most immunogenic protein of AEV is VP1 protein forming the major capsid protein. The VP1gene segment of the detected virus isolate was amplified and molecular characterization was done. The phylogenetic analysis of the VP1 gene sequence revealed that the virus was identical to AEV viruses detected in Hungary, China, and Hong Kong (64% similarity). The current isolate showed a nonsynonymous mutation of I184V which was noticed only in Hungary isolate. The results of the study indicate that AEV is rarely present in chickens of Kerala, India, and that its occurrence is very low. Since the virus is capable of inducing nervous signs, mortality, and economic losses, measures are to be taken to control the spread of the virus in chickens in Kerala, India
Isolation and Identification of Bacteria Associated with the Spoilage of Cucumis melo (Golden Melon) Sold in Zuba and Gwarimpa Market
No full textGolden melon (Cucumis melo) is a popular fruit consumed in Nigeria, prized for its sweet flavour and juicy texture. However, spoilage caused by microbial contamination is a major concern, particularly in markets like Zuba and Gwarinpa, where improper handling and storage practices are common. This study aimed to isolate and identify bacteria associated with the spoilage of golden melon sold in Zuba and Gwarinpa markets in Abuja, Nigeria. Samples were collected and analysed for proximate, bacteria, pathogenicity test and antibiogram susceptibility analysis using standard methods and procedures. The results revealed a diverse bacterial population associated with the spoilage of golden melon, including species of Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniaae, Enterobacter aerogenes, Shigella sp, Salmonella sp. All the bacteria species were positive to pathogenicity test except Enterobacter aerogenes, which test negative. To conclude, this study provides valuable insights into the bacterial diversity associated with the spoilage of golden melon in Zuba and Gwarinpa markets. The findings underscore the importance of implementing proper hygiene and storage practices to minimize microbial contamination and extend the shelf life of golden melon
Pathogenicity Profiling of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Canine Otitis Cases from two Veterinary Centers in Kerala, India
No full textBackground and Aim: Otitis externa, characterized by inflammation of external ear canal, is a common condition affecting dogs worldwide. The condition is further exacerbated by infections caused by various bacteria, among which Pseudomonas aeruginosa is of critical importance due to its ability to form biofilms and produce different virulence factors resulting in chronic infections. The aim of this study is to isolate Pseudomonas spp. from cases of canine otitis and analyze their pathogenicity profiles.
Study Design: Dogs exhibiting clinical signs of otitis were included in the study. Pathogens were identified using biochemical and molecular methods, and their pathogenicity profiles were assessed biochemically and clustered using K-means clustering.
Methodology: This Cross-sectional study involved 30 specimens from dogs presented at the clinics with signs such as pruritus of the ear, severe pain, head shaking, foul odour, ear discharges and ear scratching suggestive of otitis externa from September 2023-march, 2024 carried out at Wayanad district, Kerala, India. Samples were collected aseptically. Isolation and identification of Pseudomonas spp., were performed using biochemical tests and detection of the OprI gene. Pathogenicity profiles were evaluated based on proteolytic, lipolytic, and hemolytic activities, biofilm production, pyoverdine production, and prevalence of elastase (LasB) gene. Degrees of association between these traits were calculated, and clustering analyses were performed.
Results: Nine isolates (31%) of P. aeruginosa were obtained. Proteolytic and lipolytic activities were present in seven of the nine isolates. Production of elastase and biofilms were observed in only two isolates. Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlation between the traits, except for biofilm formation and elastase production (χ² = 9.009, p = 0.003). Clustering analysis identified an optimal k-value of 4. Two isolates with the most pathogenic traits formed separate clusters, while the one isolate with the fewest traits formed its cluster. All other isolates with varying pathogenicity factors were grouped into one cluster.
Conclusion: The study demonstrated that P. aeruginosa in canine otitis exhibits various pathogenicity factors that contribute to its invasion and nutrient acquisition. These traits appear to function independently. A larger sample size with more traits under consideration may provide better clustering resolution based on pathogenicity profiles
Influence of Aeration through Turning on Microbial Activity and Decomposition Rate in Vermicomposting
No full textThis study was implemented to investigate effects of turning (aeration) on microbiological activity and rate of decomposition in vermicomposting. Aeration is a key element in composting which provides oxygen to the aerobic organisms during composting. Oxygen also has the important function of controlling temperature as well as removing excess moisture and unhygienic gases. If the oxygen supply is limited, the composting process might turn anaerobic, which is much slower and odorous process. Such maintenance of aerobic condition has some additional significance for vermicomposting because the earthworms, which play vital role in this kind of composting, are essentially dependant on availability molecular oxygen in the system. Although some information is available on the beneficial effects of maintaining aerobic conditions in composting chambers through turning the piles during traditional composting yet such information with regard to vermicomposting is not available. In this experiment, therefore, the effect of turning the vermicomposting materials on nature and the behaviour of microorganisms and also on the rate of decomposition were studied. The result of the study will be hopefully helpful for maintaining aerobic condition in the vermicomposting system, thus improving the pace of vermicomposting and the quality of the product
Physiochemical and Microbial Quality of Melon and Bush Mango Seeds and Milled Products in Local Markets ln Rivers State,Nigeria.
No full textRisk of food borne infection contamination of food, in Africa is increased due to environmental, agronomic and socio-economic factors. This study assesses the microbial quality of melon and bush mango displayed in the local markets, aiming to provide valuable insights into the safety and quality of these widely consumed food products. Standard procedure for microbiological and proximate analysis were employed. The heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 8.5 x 10⁵ cfu/g to 1.35 x10⁶ cfu/g. The total staphylococcus count ranged from 1.2 x 10³ cfu/g to 4.35 x 10³ cfu/g. The coliform count ranged from 2.8 x 10⁴ to 7 x 10⁵, Total Samonella count ranged from 4 x 10² cfu/g to 1.5 x 10³ cfu/g and Fungi count 6.5 x 10² cfu/g to 2.5 x 10³ cfu/g. Morphological and Biochemical characterization of heterotrophic bacteria isolated from both melon and bush mango identified nine genera, including Staphylococcus (14.6%) Bacillus (20%), Corynebacterium (5.6%) Enterobacter (4.4%), Micrococcus ( 3.3%) Pseudomonas (12.2%), Escherichia coli (13.3%), Salmonella (11.1%) and Proteus (11.1%). Fungal species like Penicillium spp., Fusarium spp., Aspergillus flavus, Candida spp., Mucor spp., Saccharomyces sp., and Aspergillus niger were isolated from both seed and milled seeds samples of melon and bush mango. The frequency of occurrence revealed variations among bacterial isolates in melon and bush mango seeds. The most frequent fungal species included Candida spp. (9.4%) Aspergillus niger (20%) Mucor (9.4%), Fusarium (11.4%), Aspergillus flavus (9.4%), Penicillium (13.2%), Rhizopus spp (3.7%) and Saccharomyces (15%). Proximate and heavy metal analysis indicated variations in the composition of Carbohydrate (7.11%), Lipid (15.03%), Ash (1.89%), Moisture (7.31%), Protein (23.86%), Crude Fiber (12.66%), Lead (0.213 mg/kg), Copper (2.11mg/kg), calcium (0.49mg/kg) and Cadmium (0.0169mg/kg) in melon and bush mango, Carbohydrate (15.03%), Lipid (58.24%), Ash (1.74%), Moisture (10.48%), Protein (11.95%), Crude Fiber (2.64%), Lead (1.7903mg/kg), Copper (2.11mg/kg), calcium (0.148mg/kg) and Cadmium (0.000385mg/kg). The presence of heterotrophic bacteria in such ranges suggests potential differences in hygiene practices during cultivation, processing, and storage. Therefore; Implement stringent quality control measures during the production, processing, and storage of both melon and bush mango seed
Characterization of Phytochemical Inhibitors of the COVID-19 Primary Protease Using Molecular Modelling Approach
No full textThe objective of this research is to find an antiviral medication that would work against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Using existing effective pharmaceuticals from various virus treatments will be an immediate qualifying strategy. Virtual screening of antiviral databases for possible therapeutic effect were used to identify favourable pharmacological compounds. In anti-CoV medication development, targeting the major protease (pdb id: 6LU7) is becoming more significant. This paper focuses on the In silico evaluation of proposed anti-Alzheimer activity. Including toxicity prediction, molinspiration, AdmetSAR predictions, and targeted docking investigations, the best therapeutic candidates have been offered. Based on Viber and Lipinski rules, 4 derivatives were chosen for bioactivity prediction and drug similarity score. The reference standard drugs for the comparison of molecular descriptors and docking were hydrochloroquine and remdesivir. Remdesivir is a well-known FDA-approved drug that slows viral reproduction by terminating its binding to the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Our proposed compounds share similarities with Remdesivir, and doxorubicin is another drug with anti- SARS-CoV-2 virus. For pharmacological targets including such enzymes, nuclear receptors, kinase inhibitors, G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) ligands, and ion channel modulators, the bioactivity score of the compounds was predicted Apart from 4 compound, which has been found to get AdmetSAR toxicity or impact, all proposed compounds showed good blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration, human intestinal absorption (HIA), and Caco-2 cell permeability in their ADMET predictions. Rutin and quercetin have a strong affinity to inhibit these proteins which cause SARS-CoV-2 virus. Our data provide evidence that therapy is effective and enhances oral bioavailability