Journal of Applied and Natural Science
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Partial purification and characterization of bacteriocin from novel Brevibacillus borstelensis sp. isolated from Donkey’s lactation
Get PDFThe heightened awareness of ensuring enhanced safety standards is growing in order pertaining to the avoidance of chemical food preservation. Concurrently, there is a discernible increase in the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among foodborne pathogens, which engenders infections such as food poisoning, gastro-intestinal infections etc.. In this regard, bacteriocins present themselves as a compelling alternative for achieving both preservation and safety objectives in the realm of food science. Bacteriocins are ribosomally synthesized proteins that demonstrate inhibitory activities against a diverse spectrum of undesirable microorganisms. In the present study, a bacterium (Brevibacillus borstelensis sp.) derived from Donkey milk was scrutinized for its ability to generate a bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance (BLIS). The effectiveness of this substance was assessed against pathogens linked to foodborne/spoilage, specifically Bacillus subtilis (KK01), Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ,Pseudomonas aeruginosa (HCS36), and Escherichia coli (O22) .The evaluation comprised the bit/disc method followed by the Well-diffusion method. Employing a combination of phenotypic, biochemical, and molecular characteristics, including the 16S rRNA gene technique, the bacterial isolate was identified as Brevibacillus borstelensis strain 3.1 [OR272522.1]. The Bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance produced by B. borstelensiswas purified for the first time by using the chloroform extraction method, unveiling a molecular mass of 56 kDa. Further analysis examined the BLIS reactions to temperature, pH, proteolytic enzymes, and stability. The Bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance exhibited thermo-stability up to 90 °C, activity at neutral pH, sensitivity to trypsin, and partial stability up to 15 days of storage, indicating its potential as a bio-preservative for food.
Detection of anti-mannan antibodies and TLR9 as alternative methods for diagnosis of candidiasis in immunocompromised patients with vulvovaginitis
Get PDFVulvovaginal candidiasis is considered one of the most common women\u27s infections. The main cause of this disease is Candida albicans, which have many virulence factors such as germ tube formation, chlamydospore, and many hydrolytic enzymes. The current study aims to use anti-mannan antibodies and TLR9 to diagnose candidiasis in immuno-compromised patients with vulvovaginitis. A total of two hundred samples were obtained from patients attending Kirkuk Tumor Center, Kirkuk, Iraq, of which 100 were vaginal swabs from immunocompromised patients aged between (18-<40 years) from the period November 2022 to March 2023. The swab samples were transported with brain-hart infusion broth (Himedia-India). Furthermore, the other 100 samples were blood samples that were separated to use the serum for the detection of TLR9 and anti-mannan antibodies. The findings indicated that Candida spp. was present in 83% of the cultured samples. A notable rise in TLR9 was observed in serum samples that tested positive for candida spp. The results of the sensitivity and specification of IgM detection using the ELISA test showed 100% and 89.4%, respectively. The same test for the detection of IgG showed 92.4% and 51.1%. The positive and negative agreement between the ELISA test for detecting IgM and the ELISA test for detecting IgG is 81.4% and 44.1%, respectively. The findings suggest that the use of anti-mannan antibodies to diagnose candidiasis should be considered and given more importance for identification purposes.
Green symbiosis: Exploring the nexus of indoor plants for comprehensive wellbeing
Get PDFPlants enhance a space\u27s aesthetics and benefit numerous human health and well-being. Indoor plants improve air quality around residential areas by reducing pollutants, increasing humidity levels, and regulating temperature. These plants also reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and boost work productivity. Hydroponics, a soilless technique for indoor gardening, can further enhance the transpiration and photosynthesis rates, improving air temperature and humidity. These plants serve as organic air filters that efficiently remove contaminants, including those that can spread viruses like SARS-CoV-2. The presence of indoor plants in indoor environments is linked to improved mental and physical health, making it cost-effective for improving indoor environmental quality. The present review discusses the benefits of incorporating indoor and gardening plants in available indoor or residential spaces, which have been discussed for human well-being and environmental sustainability using previous supporting studies.
Elucidation of nature of gene action and estimation of combining ability effects for fruit yield and its component traits and resistance to fruit and shoot borer in brinjal (Solanum melongena (L.))
Get PDFCombining ability assessment helps select parents and hybrids with high performance, which can lead to increased yield and effective crop improvement. The present study aimed to evaluate 24 diverse crosses for ten different quantitative traits using line x tester mating in the kharif season. The experiment involved the assessment of crosses, which included 4 females, 6 males, and 1 commercial cultivar (Nishant). The evaluation employed a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Major discrepancies were observed in the genotypes of both parents and hybrids for all traits, indicating a significant amount of variation in fruit yield and other characteristics that contribute to yield. JBR-20-05 was found the best general combiner for days to 50% flowering, fruit length and plant height. JBR-20-04 was found to be the best general combiner for average fruit weight, fruit girth and total fruit yield per plant. The genotype identified in the JBR-20-07 study, resistant to fruit and shoot borer infestation, held significant potential for use in breeding and selection programs to enhance the resistance of brinjal varieties. Estimation of Specific combining ability effect revealed that among the hybrids, the hybrids JBR-20-04 x JBR-20-05 recorded highly significant specific combining ability (SCA) effects for total fruit yield per plant. The cross JBR-20-03 x JBR-20-05 showed high desirable significance to SCA for fruit and shoot borer infestation. Variance due to general combining ability was less than the variance due to SCA, and the ratio of GCA to SCA variance was less than unity. When choosing hybrids to enhance yield in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) through breeding, it is crucial to prioritize specific traits that directly contribute to increased production.
Effect of antibiotics on the expression of pyocyanin synthetic genes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from different clinical sources of a few hospitals in Mosul, Iraq
Get PDFPyocyanin is a blue-green phenazine pigment and one of the most virulent factors produced by the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It has a redox activity and a toxic impact on living cells, as it interacts with oxygen to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using antibiotics at a sub-lethal dose has an unexpected influence on the expression of pyocyanin-producing genes. In this study, qPCR technique was performed to identify the effect of eight antibiotics (cefotaxime, ampicillin, amoxiclav, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, chloramphenicol, kanamycin and tetracycline) on the gene expression level of pyocyanin synthetic genes in P. aeruginosa isolated from different clinical sources of a few hospitals in Mosul, Iraq using qPCR technique. It was found that when P. aeruginosa was grown in media containing cefotaxime (CTX 30 µg/mL), ampicillin (AM 25 µg/mL) or amoxiclav (AMC 30 µg/mL), up-regulated the expression of pyocyanin producing genes belonging to different operons thereby increased pyocyanin production. Overexpression occurred in (CTX) treatment in PhzA1 operon with 235.56 fold change and phzM and phzS genes with 340.14, 280.13 fold change, respectively. Lower expression levels showed in tetracycline (TE 30 µg/mL) treatment, which was a (1.44) fold change for phzA1 and a (1.64, 1.08) fold change for phzM and phzS genes. More caution should be considered when delivering antibiotics to treat P. aeruginosa infections, as using drugs that the bacteria resists or at sub-lethal concentrations may trigger up-regulation of virulence factors, aiding in the spread of the disease.
Isolation, purification, and identification of catechin from Rhizophora mucronata methanol leaf extract (Bakau Kurap)
Get PDFRhizophora mucronata (Bakau Kurap) is known as ‘Red mangrove’ growth in the coastal area of Sabah. The current investigation commenced following the behaviour of proboscis monkeys in Sabah, as they consumed mangrove leaves that were believed to contribute to their high sexual activity. The R. mucronata leaf is a natural source of flavonoid. Therefore, the present study aimed to isolate, identify and purify the active compound from R. mucronata leaf from Sabah by phytochemical screening and characterization using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Evaporative Light Scattering Detector-HPLC (ELSD-HPLC) and Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (LCMS/MS). Young leaves of R. mucronata collected around the coastal area of Sabah were authenticated at the Sabah Forestry Department, Sandakan, Sabah with a voucher specimen, R.mucronata (Bakau Kurap); SAN 149220. The leaves were oven-dried at 40 ± 3 °C overnight, powdered and subjected to 50% Soxhlet extraction using methanol: water. The extract was filtered, rotary evaporated and freeze-dried at 4 °C to remove excess solvent. The prepared extract was characterized by its total flavonoid, steroid and saponin contents. From HPLC analysis, the fraction collected matched with the catechin standard and Fraction F4 contained the highest catechin concentration (138.12 ppm). Further purification found that RM-F11 matched the catechin standard at the same retention time (RT) 6.8. Qualitative analysis using LCMS/MS, confirmed that the compound identified was catechin. Meanwhile, in Steroidogenesis, RM-F11 showed potent activity with the value of testosterone hormone released at 230.68 ± 11.2 pg/mL. The result indicated that the components of R. mucronata leaf of Sabah had the potential as an aphrodisiac agent
Waste-liquors generated during Handmade paper manufacture from cow dung as a potential source of biofertilizer
Get PDFIn India, cow dung is widely utilized to create formulations that serve as effective plant growth enhancers with antimicrobial properties. The cow dung-derived handmade paper manufacturing process produces two waste-liquor streams, a Raw Liquor (RL) produced through the dewatering of the cow-dung slurry and a Black Liquor (BL) produced during the soda pulping of dewatered cow dung. The present study explored the potential of these waste streams to be used as plant biofertilizers for germination and cultivation of Vigna radiata seeds (mung bean, IPM-02-03 variety). An in vitro assay for seed germination efficiency and a pot study for plant growth promotion (PGP) activity were used to assess this potential. The in vitro assay demonstrated that nutrient-rich RL, with its 100% seed germination efficiency (better than the 85.7% of tap water) was an effective biofertilizer for seed germination. In contrast, BL yielded poor seed germination efficiency. The pot study showed that water irrigation led to good seed germination, survival, plant rooting and shooting, but it was probably deprived of nutrients for inducing good grain yields. When water was replaced with RL, it was able to replicate the results, but with good grain yields. In contrast, BL produced poorer germination, seed survival and PGP results. The poor biofertilization efficiency of BL was most probably due to the nutrient losses and toxic chemicals produced in the harsh pulping process. The results showed that RL, though considered a waste stream, is sufficiently nutrient-rich to act as an effective biofertilizer for germinating mung bean seeds and promoting plant growth and grain yields.
Unlocking the potential of Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)
Get PDFThe Lion\u27s Mane mushroom, botanically known as Hericium erinaceus, stands out as a unique and esteemed member of the fungal kingdom. This extraordinary mushroom not only possesses an alluring appearance but also holds a significant historical presence in diverse cultures, especially within the context of ancient herbal medicine practices. This fungus holds promising prospects in several domains. Its potential as a natural remedy for cognitive health is gaining attention. This mushroom has neuroprotective properties and could play a role in supporting brain function, which is particularly relevant in the present aging population where neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer\u27s disease are a growing concern. Furthermore, Lion\u27s Mane has been explored for its potential in addressing mood disorders. It is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including β-glucans, that can positively affect the immune system. The fungus produces bioactive compounds that can be used to treat various chronic diseases like obesity, high blood pressure, hepatic disorders, and cancer ; it also has other benefits like wound healing and improving the immune system. This review endeavours to elucidate the multifaceted potential of Lion\u27s Mane mushroom within the domains of nutrition, health, and wellness. Through a comprehensive examination of its properties and benefits, the review explored how Lion\u27s Mane mushrooms can be harnessed to enhance human well-being. By unlocking the secrets hidden within this remarkable fungus, the study provides insights that can empower individuals to incorporate Lion\u27s Mane into their daily lives, fostering a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
Effect of gibberellic acid (GA3) and temperature on seed germination of Capparis spinosa L.
Get PDFSeed germination of Capparis spinosa L. is highly important for ecology, medicine, and economics. The present study aimed to determine the effects of six pretreatments and two temperature regimes, T1: 9/35.7°C (Laboratory) and T2: 1/43°C (Greenhouse), on Capparis spinosa L. seeds\u27 germination rate and latency time. Different pretreatments were tested, including scarification (P1) and seed imbibition in water (P2 and P3) and gibberellic acid (GA3) (P4, P5 and P6).The results showed that the highest germination rate (68.33%) was observed in the laboratory for the control seeds (T1, P0), followed by (58,33%) for seeds soaked in water for 48 hours (T1 P3),(56,67%) for seeds soaked in 200 ppm ofGA3 (T1, P4),(53,33%)for seeds soaked in 400 ppm and 600 ppm of GA3 (T1, P5andT1, P6), (48,33%)for seeds soaked in water for 24 hours (T1 P2), and (51,43%) for the control seeds in greenhouse (T2, P0), whereas the lowest germination rate (12.86%) was recorded in the greenhouse temperature, which was detrimental to seed germination, for seeds soaked in 600 ppm of GA3 (T2, P6). Germination latency times were shorter after soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours. Finally, seed germination of C. spinosa is subjected to several factors that may influence the total percentage of germination and latency time.
Isolation and characterization of a novel nitrogen fixer Beijerinckia fluminensis strain BAUMS11 from litchi (Litchi chinensis L.) rhizosphere
Get PDFIndiscriminate use of mineral fertilizers has a broad negative impact on soil health. Because of the above, there is an urgent need to search for natural organic alternatives, including using soil microbial resources to replenish soil nutrients for enhanced Agri productivity vis a vis sustainably maintaining soil health. The nitrogen-fixing rhizobacteria (NFR) are such type of bacteria which fix gaseous atmospheric nitrogen in the soil and in nodules of certain plant species in considerable amounts that are readily available for plants\u27 uptake and may be considered as a viable alternative source of mineral nitrogen application. The present study was conducted to isolate the most potent nitrogen-fixing bacteria from the litchi rhizosphere. Hence, Five NFR (NFR1 to NFR5) were isolated from the rhizosphere of litchi orchard of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhgalpur, India, based on their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in a nitrogen-free mineral salt medium. NFR2 was found to be the most potent in fixing atmospheric nitrogen (11.31 mg N per gram carbon source)among all the isolated rhizobacterial strains. Hence, on the basis of biological nitrogen fixation ability, the isolate NFR2 was subjected to 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) gene sequencing for molecular characterization. Based on 16S rDNA sequence analysis, NFR2 showed the closest sequence homology with Beijerinckia fluminensis and was identified and reported as Beijerinckia fluminensis strain BAUMS11, Accession number MN533953. The study noticeably indicated that the B. fluminensis strain BAUMS11 was found most efficient in fixing gaseous atmospheric nitrogen and may be used for the manufacturing of nitrogenous biofertilizer, which can fix atmospheric nitrogen to the tune-up to 30 kg N ha-1yr-1.