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From Waste to Protein: Optimizing Rice Husk Utilization for Sustainable Single Cell Protein Production
No full textThe increasing global demand for protein has prompted a search for sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional animal and dairy sources. Single-cell protein (SCP) produced from microorganism’s offers a promising solution due to its high protein content and rapid growth rates. This study addresses the challenge of utilizing rice husk, an abundant yet underutilized agricultural waste in Nigeria, as a substrate for SCP production. Through optimization of the production of SCP using Bacillus sp. AT-b3 and Bacillus sp. CMF 12 as model organisms. Molecular identification through 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed Bacillus sp. AT-b3 and Bacillus sp. CMF 12 as the most potent isolates for SCP production. Optimization studies were conducted using the One-Factor-at-a-Time (OFAT) method to determine the ideal fermentation conditions. The results showed that the optimal temperature for SCP production was 40 °C, with Bacillus sp. AT-b3 demonstrating superior production efficiency. pH optimization revealed that neutral pH (pH 7) was ideal for maximizing SCP production, with Bacillus spp. AT-b3 outperforming Bacillus sp. CMF 12 at this pH. Substrate concentration studies indicated that 2.0% was optimal for SCP production, and incubation time optimization indicated 48 hours as the optimal period for maximum yield. Amino acid profiling of the SCP produced showed significant variations between the two isolates. Bacillus sp. CMF 12 was richer in essential amino acids like Arginine and Methionine, while Bacillus sp. AT-b3 had a higher Glycine content at (p<0.05). The findings of this study suggest that both strains have potential applications in nutritional supplements, with Bacillus sp. AT-b3 being particularly suited for industrial-scale SCP production. This study concludes that Bacillus sp. AT-b3 is an efficient SCP producer under optimal conditions of neutral pH, moderate temperature, and appropriate substrate concentration. Further research is recommended to explore pilot-scale production, alternative substrates, and comprehensive safety assessments
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Endophytic Bacteria Isolated from Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranea) Nodules in Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire
No full textA thorough understanding of the diversity, functions and specific interactions of endophytic bacteria present in legumes is essential for improving crop production. This study aimed to identify roots nodule endophytes associated to Bambara groundnut by analyzing their morphological diversity and genetic diversity. A total of 34 bacterial isolates were sampled from different cultivation sites and associated with 5 local varieties of Bambara groundnut.
Morphological analysis using macroscopic and microscopic observation revealed that the bacterial isolates were morphologically diverse in terms of colony appearance, shape, colony size, color, opacity and Gram stain result. These bacteria exhibited characters different from those of the symbiotic bacteria. In addition, molecular identification based on sequencing the 16S-rRNA gene and 1081 bp analysis showed the existence of non-symbiotic bacteria in Bambara groundnut nodule. The community of roots nodule endophyte isolated from Bambara groundnut belonged to the genera Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Bacterium, microbacterium, Rahnella, Paenibacillus, Lysobacter with 98 to 99.5% similarity, classified under the Firmicutes, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria phyla. In Bambara groundnut, the predominant nodule endophytes were Bacillus (56%) and Pseudomonas (17%).
Future research could further investigate the ecological implications of these bacterial interactions, and their potential applications in biotechnology and agronomy, particularly in biofertilization and host plant growth promotion
A New Era for Gold Nitrate Nanoparticle Applications
No full textGold nanoparticles are included in the group of metallic nanoparticles, and their application has become possible recently because of new optical equipment, electronic devices, and probes capable of manufacturing, detecting, and identifying biomolecules of medical interest. Among the range of nanoparticles, one stands out: the gold nanoparticle. It doesn\u27t possess toxic characteristics and can be administered in vivo. In this study, the structural, optical and electronic properties of gold nitrate were investigated using the density functional theory formalism, considering the gradient generalized approximation. Finally, we observe its application in nanobiotechnology, specifically photothermal applications
Medicinal Properties of Cobalt and Copper Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Limonia acidissima Leaf Extract
No full textAim: The present investigation was undertaken to synthesize Cobalt and copper nanoparticles (NPs) using Limonia acidissima L. leaf extract and to test their few medicinal properties like antimicrobial antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities.
Methodology: Limonia acidissima plant leaves were collected from the vicinity of the College and the study was completed in 11 months. The hot aqueous leaf extract and soxhlet extract using ethyl acetate as solvent were prepared. Phytochemical analysis of the leaf extract showed the presence of Tannins, Flavonoids, Alkaloids and absence of Phenols. The leaf extract was then used to make Cobalt and copper nanoparticles (NPs) using Cobalt acetate and Copper sulphate respectively.
Results: The formation of NPs was checked by color change and confirmed with UV–visible spectrophotometry. The typical peaks of Co-NPs were detected in the range of maximum wavelength between 380-520 nm and that for Cu NPs was detected between 260-580 nm. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized NPs of both metal oxides was then tested against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria and also against two Candida sps. Cobalt NPs exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against all tested organisms but Copper NPs showed no antimicrobial activity. The both NPs were also tested for antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties. Comparatively the Copper NPs possessed higher antioxidant and anti-diabetic activity than the cobalt nanoparticles.
Conclusion: Thus, this underutilized plant from India can be further exploited for more medicinal properties and bring it into pharmaceutical usage
The Synergy of Molecular Docking and Bioinformatics: An in Depth Review in Drug Discovery
No full textMolecular docking and bioinformatics have emerged as pivotal tools in the realm of drug discovery, significantly transforming the landscape of pharmaceutical research and development. These computational techniques enable scientists to predict, analyze, and expedite the identification of potential drug candidates with remarkable precision and efficiency. Molecular docking facilitates the virtual screening of vast compound libraries, offering a cost-effective means of selecting promising lead compounds for further study. Bioinformatics, on the other hand, harnesses the power of biological data analysis, encompassing genomics, proteomics, and other omics fields to elucidate disease mechanisms, identify drug targets, and advance personalized medicine. Recent innovations, including the integration of artificial intelligence, cryo-electron microscopy, and quantum computing, are poised to propel these tools further into the future of drug discovery. However, alongside these advancements, ethical and regulatory considerations regarding data privacy, algorithmic fairness, transparency, and adherence to legal and ethical guidelines must be carefully navigated. Striking a harmonious balance between innovation and ethical practice is paramount as molecular docking and bioinformatics continue to reshape the landscape of healthcare and pharmaceutical research
Review on How Genetic Innovations Revolutionizing Seed Quality Production
No full textThe process of genetic engineering modifies the genes regulating various attributes of seed quality by fabricating or redesigning some of the DNA sequences within an organism which affects germination, growth, and storage performance. Providing molecular dissection as a tool for exploiting the genetic blueprint towards the crop improvement strategy as well as improved seed yield or quality is an example showing how important it is to understand these things technically. Techniques like CRISPR and prime editing that have potential to position-specific changes in DNA sequences that helped to improve different traits such as stress resistance, productivity, nutritional value etc. Applications of transgenic approaches for boosting mineral content in certain crops different methods used to deal with micronutrient for malnutrition in developing countries. Development of good quality seeds resistant to environmental conditions are very important for agricultural sustainability under climate change. It ensures crop adaptation, food security and multiplication that must be promoted in future. The regulatory framework rightly requires safety assessments adapted to genetically modified (GM) foodstuffs which not only leads to satisfied public regarding health issues but also ethical standards concerning genetic engineering are upheld. The outcome is that by adhesion to professional ethics and strict safety measures, biotechnology possessing such qualities has been able to make revolutionary contribution into development fostered by stable agriculture system
Characterization of UV-absorbing Mycosporine-like Amino Acids in Freshwater Cyanobacterium Nostoc calcicola
No full textMycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) are gaining attention for their UV photoprotective properties and potential applications in biomedical fields, cosmetics, and toiletries. In this study, Nostoc calcicola a genus of cyanobacteria distributed in freshwater were tested for MAA production. This organism was provided by the Freshwater Algae Culture Collection of the Institute of Hydrobiology, the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It was isolated and cultured in the laboratory, in 500 ml glass flasks containing 300 ml of liquid medium BG11 treated on UV-B light 0.1 Wm–2. At different time, cultures were exposed to UV-B light at intensity 0.1 W. m-1 to determine the Maximum PSII photochemical (Fv/Fm). MAAs were extracted using 100% HPLC grade methanol and separated through high-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Based on liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis, one MAA compound was identified as porphyra. Thus, UV-B treatment of Nostoc calcicola significantly enhanced the production of UV-absorbing mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs). The content of porphyra could reach up to 8.5 mg/g dry weight in Nostoc calcicola under UV-B treatments for 2 days. The present cyanobacteria could be used for biotechnology research and the UV-absorbing compound porphyra may be of great value in the development of novel sunscreens
Assessment of Microbial Contamination and Hygiene Practices of Okra Powders in Public Markets of Yamoussoukro
No full textBackground: Okra is one of the most consumed fruit vegetables by Ivorians either fresh or powdered. However, due to a lack of supervision, okra powders are sold under conditions that often leave something to be desired.
Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of microbial contamination of okra powders sold in public markets, with a view to preventing any potential health risks for consumers.
Methodology: The experimental method is based on a survey within the markets of the city of Yamoussoukro in order to describe the conditions of sale. Samples of okra powders sold in these markets were analyzed.
Acquired Results: The survey showed that, most marketers sell their product beyond 10 days. Additionally, okra powders are sold in plastic containers, uncovered. In addition, the analyzes reveal the absence of Salmonella spp. but the presence of yeasts, molds, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli whose loads varying from 3.5. 103a ± 0.16.103 to 4.8.103a ± 0.49.103 CFU/g, 1.5.104b ± 0.28.104 to 3.2.103a ± 0.32.103 CFU/g and 3.3.103a ± 0.17.103 to 8.103a ± 0.91.103 CFU/g. However, all the okra powders analyzed present an unsatisfactory microbiological quality.
Conclusion and Outlook: To avoid any health risk for consumers, traders must be supervised, organized and made aware of good hygiene practices
Effect of Fermentation Time of Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6051 on Black and Red Lima Bean (Phaseolus lunatus) Seeds on Nutrients, Antinutrients and Antioxidant Potential
No full textAims: The lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) is a species of legume rich in protein and minerals, particularly potassium, phosphorus, calcium and iron. However, this legume is not widely consumed because it is considered a poor man\u27s protein and its consumption leads to digestion problems due to its high content of anti-nutritional factors. The aim of this study is therefore to add value to Phaseolus lunatus by improving its nutritional and antioxidant quality through controlled fermentation with Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6051 in order to make it a food ingredient.
Study Design: Phaseolus lunatus seed flour was fermented with Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6051 for 24, 48 and 72 hours under controlled conditions.
Methodology: The impact of fermentation time with Bacillus subtilis on the proximal composition, anti-nutritional factors and antioxidant capacity of lima bean flour was evaluated.
Results: Protein and fibre contents increased during fermentation (19.77 to 22.93%) and (5.99 to 8.28%) while lipid and carbohydrate contents decreased. The levels of anti-nutritional factors decreased significantly (p < 0.05). Antioxidant power increased significantly (p < 0.05) during fermentation.
Conclusion: Fermentation with Bacillus subtilis improves the nutritional quality and antioxidant power of lima bean flour. Lima bean flour fermented with Bacillus subtilis could be used as a human food ingredient
Cattle Artificial Insemination Service in Developing Countries: Efficiency, Major Challenges and Economic Loss: A Review
No full textThis review paper summarizes information on the efficiency, major challenges and economic loss of cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) service in developing countries. Efficiency of AI service can be measured by number of services per conception (NSC), conception rate at first insemination, and calving rate (CR). The optimum recommended NSC for profitable dairy cow ranges from 1.0-2.0. The averages of NSC of the conventional AI (1.73) and fixed time AI (1.78) in the reviewed publications were in the ranges of the recommendations of NSC. The NSC varies with animal breeds, animal factor (body condition score, age and parity), semen factor (handling procedure and quality), inseminator factor (knowledge, skill and experience), production systems, management level provided and AI breeding methods. The NSC and calving rate vary with conventional AI and fixed time AI breeding methods. Likewise, calving rate (CR) is influenced by poor semen quality, poor semen handling procedure, inadequate insemination skill, poor oestrus detection and wrong time of insemination. The average success rate (CR) of conventional AI (35.15%) in the reviewed publications is far below the success rates reported in some developing countries. Nevertheless, widespread use and longtime use of AI service on selected genotype(s) can cause cattle biodiversity loss. Dairy producers incur additional costs when cows fail to conceive at their first AI services. Moreover, challenges of AI service comprised of feed scarcity, animal diseases, climate change, poor AI infrastructure, poor livestock husbandry practices, weak livestock extension systems and incapability of Artificial Insemination Technicians (AITs). This calls designing suitable interventions to improve the efficiency of AI services. Adequate feed and high level of management should be provided to the breedable cows and heifers. AI service centers should be established as per the recommended number of breedable cows and heifers. AI inputs including AITs should be always available at each AI service center, and proper AI service recording should be practiced. Sexed semen should be used to enhance the number of replacement heifers, and capacity building should be provided to AITs and community cattle breeders. Radio, television and printed medias should be used to enhance the awareness of the community cattle breeders. Frequent extension support is essential for the success rate of the AI service.