Showing papers in "Advances in microbiology in 2022"

Biodiversity and Distribution of <i>Aspergillus</i> and Their Toxins in Maize from Western and Eastern Regions of South Africa

Abstract: Aspergillus species and aflatoxins production are more prevalent during times of high heat and drought. In South Africa, there is frequent occurrence of drought as a result of climate change. The aim of this study was to investigate the biodiversity and distribution of Aspergillus species with their corresponding toxins in maize from main maize producing regions of South Africa; [Western Regions (WR) and Eastern Regions (ER)]. One hundred and twen-ty-three (64 from WR and 59 from ER) maize samples from the two agro-climatic regions in South Africa were analyzed using cultural, molecular and analytical methods. Across agro-climatic regions, Aspergillus species contaminated about 62% of the maize samples, while Aspergillus flavus was the most prevalent (47.15%) followed by Aspergillus fumigatus (4.69%) while the least was Aspergillus parasiticus (0.81%). The Western Regions showed a higher distribution of varieties of Aspergillus species compared to the Eastern Regions. Aflatoxins contaminated only 27.64% of the maize samples with a mean total aflatoxin concentration of 2.40 μg/kg which is below the South Africa’s set standard for total aflatoxin in food (5 μg/kg). About 10.57% of the samples produce aflatoxins above the 5 μg/kg permissible limit for total aflatoxin in foods. The ratio of toxigenic to atoxigenic strains of Aspergillus flavus was generally low in all the regions of South Africa. This study could aid policy makers to make informed decisions in developing remediation strategies for Aspergillus mycotoxins.

A Review of Prevalence, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns and Molecular Characteristics of Methicillin-Resistant <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> (MRSA) in the Caribbean

Abstract: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major pathogen causing infections resulting in severe morbidity and mortality worldwide. To date, the true nature and extent of MRSA infections in the Caribbean are not well understood. This is a review of the limited studies in the Caribbean describing the prevalence, epidemiology, and molecular characteristics of MRSA in hospitalized and non-hospitalized patients. Relevant articles were searched and extracted from PubMed and Mendeley and a narrative review of the findings was constructed. An aggregate of 24 articles, from 1999 to 2020, was found from 10 of 27 countries. Majority of the studies were from Trinidad and Tobago (29%) and Jamaica (21%) while 50% were from Barbados, Dominican Republic, Martinique, Haiti, Cuba, St. Kits & Nevis, Guadeloupe, and Guyana. Approximately 75% of investigations were conducted on hospitalized patients versus 20% on outpatients. The data revealed geographical differences in the prevalence of MRSA within the Caribbean; 20% - 100% of Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates from hospitalized patients and outpatients were resistant to methicillin, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones, but susceptible to several non-beta lactam antibiotics, due to the widespread occurrence of CA-MRSA clone ST8 SCCmec IV, PVL positive. There was moderate prevalence of ST72 SCCmec V (14% - 25%) in both hospital and community settings in a few of the countries while ST30 SCCmec IV, PVL positive, was moderately prevalent (27%) only in Dominican Republic. Also, there was moderate prevalence of HA-MRSA ST5 SCCmec II (18%) in community settings in the Dominican Republic and Martinique, but high prevalence of HA-MRSA ST239 SCCmec III (60%) in hospitalized patients in Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago. The epidemiologic profile of MRSA in both hospital and community settings is changing in the Caribbean. Epidemiological studies on outpatient settings and the implementation of stringent hospital infection control measures are needed in the region.

Microbiome Diversity Analysis of the Bacterial Community in Idah River, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract: The analysis of bacterial diversity in aquatic systems particularly in rivers, lakes, and streams can provide useful data on the effect of anthropogenic activities on such water bodies to humans and fishes. Idah River, the focal point of this study, is an offshoot of the two major Nigerian rivers characterized by observed human activities and pollution sources. Water samples were collected from four designated sites and assessed for their bacterial assemblages and structure, using PacBio Single-Molecule Real-Time (SMRT) sequencing technology. The full length of the 16S rRNA gene was sequenced, and Amplicon Sequence Variants were generated using the DADA2 workflow optimised for PacBio long-read amplicons in Rstudio. A total of 8751 high-quality reads obtained were taxonomically classified as 24 phyla, 42 classes, 84 orders, 125 families, 156 genera, and 106 species. Taxonomical composition revealed Proteobacteria as the most abundant phyla across all sample sites. At the genera level, Azospira (57.03%) was the most dominant ASV in Docking Point A, while Acinetobacter (66.67%) was the most abundant ASV in Docking Point B. In Idah Axis Confluence, hgcl clade (65.66%) was the most prevalent ASV, whereas Holophaga (42.86%) was the most common ASV in Idah Axis Midstream. Genera analysis also revealed that 12.9% of the total ASVs were discovered across all sample sites. Among these were pathogenic bacteria, reducers, and degraders of domestic and animal wastes. Observed results provide evidence that sampled sites of Idah River are contaminated, most likely through constant human activities and thus, could have an impact on resident fishes as well. This study, therefore, agrees with a previous report from the river, which used standard microbial procedures. However, next-generation sequencing techniques employed revealed more bacterial community than the former, including unresolved taxonomic sequences that may be novel.

A Review of Probiotic Applications in Poultry: Improving Immunity and Having Beneficial Effects on Production and Health

Abstract: Abstract A new class of feed additives and nutritional supplements, known as probiotics, include bacterial, fungal, and yeast cultures from various sources. Overall, probiotics are believed to promote the health and well-being of animals, birds, and humans in a variety of settings. Incorporating probiotics into the diets of cattle and poultry has been demonstrated to improve growth, feed conversion efficiency, immunological responses, and the animal's ability to manage enteric infections. The use of probiotic-enriched chicken feed has been shown to enhance egg production by as much as 30% among laying chickens. Probiotics may be used to fight off harmful microorganisms, create antibacterial compounds (such as bacteriocins or colicins), and alter the immunological response of the host, according to the National Institutes of Health. Pathogenic microbial strains such as Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Bacillus, Enterococcus, Pediococcus, Aspergillus, and Saccharomyces are employed in the making of chicken products. The use of subtherapeutic doses of antimicrobial agents, including antibiotics, to combat or remove harmful bacteria and promote animal growth and feed efficiency has resulted in the accumulation of antibiotic residues in animal feed as well as the emergence of drug-resistant microbes in the feed supply chain. As a result of public health concerns, there has been a renewed emphasis on the use of probiotics in chicken production rather than antibiotics in recent years. This research examines the effects of probiotics and direct-fed microorganisms (DFM) on chicken health and performance, with a particular emphasis on the favourable effects they have on poultry health and performance.

Production of Ergot Alkaloids by the Japanese Isolate <i>Claviceps purpurea</i> var. <i>agropyri</i> on Rice Medium

Abstract: Ergot alkaloids (EAs) are secondary metabolites produced by ergot fungi (e.g., Claviceps purpurea), which are parasites of Gramineae grasses. EAs and their analogs are used to treat migraine, postpartum uterine bleeding, and Parkinson's syndrome. Recent studies have reported additional new bioactive activities of EAs and their analogs, making them essential compounds for drug development, drug repositioning, and clinical applications. EAs are produced industrially by field cultivation of ergot or liquid fermentation in the mycelial phase, but there are few published studies of the production of EAs by cereal culture and thus this approach is poorly understood. This study searched for Claviceps strains that produce EAs cultured artificially in the mycelial phase, then the selected strains were cultured on cereal media (white rice, brown rice, and rye) to examine their ability to produce EAs on each medium. C. purpurea var. agropyri produced the Clavine-type EAs pyroclavine (1), festuclavine (2), and agroclavine (3) in the mycelial phase. When cultured with white rice, brown rice, or rye, C. purpurea var. agropyri produced 1 - 3 on all cereal media. The total amount of 1 - 3 in each cereal medium (150 g of cereal per Roux flask) was 2220.5 ± 564.1 μg for white rice, 920.0 ± 463.6 μg for brown rice, and 595.4 ± 52.1 μg for rye. The white rice medium supported the highest production of 1 - 3, with the total amount of EAs (150 g of white rice per Roux flask) being about 34 times higher than that in the T25 liquid medium (190 mL per 1 L Erlenmeyer flask) (equivalent amount per flask).

A Review on Brucellosis in Cameroon: Diagnostic Approaches, Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Infection

Abstract: Brucellosis is a neglected tropical zoonotic disease that threatens the food production and public health sectors. It is of considerable animal welfare and economic importance and is underreported in most parts of the world, especially in developing countries like Cameroon. Brucellosis has been reported in cattle, other domestic animals and humans in Cameroon. The burden of the disease is unclear, and the awareness remains questionable. It became necessary for this review to be carried out to highlight the diagnostic approaches used to confirm brucellosis in animals and humans, disease epidemiology and risk factors for infection. So far, reports of brucellosis in previous studies have been based on serology only. Seroprevalence data of Brucella antibodies in animals indicate the risk of human brucellosis in Cameroon. However, few investigations have been undertaken on human brucellosis, considering the different epidemiological settings. There is no report or unsuccessful attempts to identify Brucella species circulating in Cameroon. It could largely be attributed to a lack of standard laboratories for testing and the lack of consumables. The way forward will require a surveillance system for brucellosis in the country, educating all sectors affected and drafting a diagnostic protocol for high-risk individuals.

Investigating the Bioburden of “Neglected” Hospital Low Contact Surfaces

Abstract: Microbes inhabit every surface, reproduce, and if undisturbed, could form biofilm. Hospital contact surfaces have been reported to play a major role in the spread of healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs). Most studies on these surfaces as a route for the spread of nosocomial infections have focused on the high-contact surfaces. There is a paucity of information on the bioburden of “neglected” low-contact surfaces such as bedside bible, ward television, and ward clock, etc. This study was carried out to investigate the bioburden of “neglected” low-contact hospital surfaces and compare it with that of the high-contact surfaces. Using a sterile swab stick moistened in normal saline, we collected 400 samples from contact surfaces of 20 randomly selected hospitals in Owerri, southeast in Nigeria, and by standard microbiological methods and with reference to standard identification manuals, microbial species were isolated and characterized. The results show that the mean of the bioburden in cfu/square swabbed surface of these “neglected” low-contact surfaces is significantly higher (p = 0.005) than that of the high-contact surfaces which may be a result of target hygienic cleaning, with attention on the high-contact surfaces and the low-contact surfaces are often “neglected”. This result gives an insight into the continued prevalence of hospital-acquired infections as these “neglected” low-contact surfaces continue to serve as a reservoir for pathogenic microbes and a source of continued microbial contamination of hospital surfaces. It therefore calls for a revamp of existing hospital cleaning protocols and redesigning of cleaning regimes.

Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water from Randomly Selected Boreholes and Shallow Wells around Hargeisa, Somaliland

Abstract: Background: Shallow wells and boreholes are vital sources of potable water in Hargeisa. This water can be polluted by runoff, in particular during the rainy season, causing outbreaks of waterborne infections. Objectives: This research aimed at evaluating the microbial quality of shallow wells and boreholes water around Hargeisa, Somaliland. Methods: The total coliform and Escherichia coli count were done by using the membrane filtration method. Overall, 100 ml of each water sample was filtered via a 0.45 μm membrane filter, and then the filters were put on m-Endo agar plates that were incubated at 37 ̊C for 24 to 48 hours. Results: The mean value of total coliform counts for the boreholes and shallow wells ranged from 1.288 × 10 to 8.8 × 10 CFU/100ml, while the mean value of total E. coli counts also ranged from 3.5 × 10 to 4.429 × 10 CFU/100ml. Results from this study have demonstrated that all water sources (Arabsiyo, Dararweyne, Darasalaam, Dabaraqas, and Jaleelo) don’t comply with the WHO guideline for drinking water. Results from the analysis of water samples of 28 wells demonstrated a significant correlation between total coliform and E. coli counts (P = 0.01). Therefore, this water is not fit for human consumption unless it is treated. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated that all results of both mean values of total coliform and E. coli counts from groundwater of selected shallow wells and boreholes were beyond WHO standards, so water from Arabsiyo, Jaleelo, Dabaraqas, Dararweyne, and Darasalaam requires treatment before human consumption.

The Possibilities of Chronic Renal Failure Patients Contracting Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection, Sudan

Abstract: Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa. The effects of the CKD on the host and the continuous therapeutic measures increase the hypothesis of blood-borne diseases transmission. Objective: This study aimed to find the frequency of occult hepatitis B virus (OBI) in patients of chronic renal failure (CRF) and to study the possibilities of infection acquisition. Methods: During 2017 and 2019, two hundred CRF patients under regular haemodialysis and attending Gezira Hospital for Renal Diseases and Surgery were recruited. Plasma specimens were collected and used for detection of hepatitis B surface antigens (HbsAg), total hepatitis B core antibodies (anti-HBc) and hepatitis B virus DNA isolation. Nested PCR reaction was followed to identify HBV. Socio-clinical data for each participant was obtained. Results: Male patients represented 64% (128/200), most frequent age group was from 41 to 60 years with percentage of 56.5% (113/200), 86% (172/200) of CRF patients were received blood while 42% (84/200) get HBV vaccination. Hepatitis B core antibodies were found in 54% (108/200) of studied cases, and 22% (42/188) of tested DNA were positively amplified for target gene. Detection of Hepatitis B core antibodies was significantly associated with marital status while absence of vaccination significantly associated with the detection of both hepatitis B core antibodies and HBV DNA. Conclusion: This study found high frequency of OBI in CRF patients, to reduce the transmission of the disease, possible hypotheses should be studied, including blood transfusion, haemodialysis process and HBV vacHow to cite this paper: Ahmed, E.A., Mohammed, A.E., Nour, B.Y.M., Talha, A.A., Hamid, Z., Elshafia, M.A. and Salih, M.E. (2022) The Possibilities of Chronic Renal Failure Patients Contracting Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection, Sudan. Advances in Microbiology, 12, 91-102. https://doi.org/10.4236/aim.2022.123008 Received: February 1, 2022 Accepted: March 5, 2022 Published: March 8, 2022 Copyright © 2022 by author(s) and Scientific Research Publishing Inc. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution International License (CC BY 4.0). http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Open Access

Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern and Identification of Multidrug Resistant Novel Salmonella Strain in Poultry Chickens of Hathazari Region in Chattogram, Bangladesh

Abstract: Poultry chickens are potential source of transmission of zoonotic Salmonella, into human food chain, causing food-borne illness and also hindering development of poultry industry in Bangladesh. The non-judicious uses of antibiotics in poultry farm have increased the multidrug resistant bacteria. So, this study reports the occurrence of Salmonella in poultry samples (meat, egg, liver and cloacal swab) and the antimicrobial resistance pattern of the isolates. This study was carried out throughout the period of May 2019-March 2020, at the bacteriological laboratory in the Department of Microbiology, University of Chittagong. Isolates were identified on the basis of cultural and biochemical tests from a total of 25 broiler samples (meat, liver, eggshell and cloacal swab). Antibiotic susceptibility pattern was observed using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The overall detection rate of Salmonella was 48% (12/25) and the highest occurrence was noticed in raw meat 62.5% and the lowest in liver (37.5%). The antimicrobial resistance tests revealed that all the isolates (n = 12) exhibited 100% resistance to vancomycin and cephalexin, followed by ampicillin (75%), nalidixic acid (58.33%), chloramphenicol (41.66%), doxycycline (50%), and neomycin (50%). On the other hand, ciprofloxacin showed 83.33%, ceftazidime and amoxicillin showed 91.6% sensitivity respectively. A considerably high proportion of isolates (11/12, 91.67%) was resistant to three or more antibiotics and 6 multidrug profiles were observed. The ampicillin-chloramphenicol-nalidixic acid-neomycin-cephalexin-doxycycline-vancomycin (4/12) was more frequently observed phenotype in multidrug profiles. Finally, two multidrug-resistant strains of Salmonella were identified and classified based on their 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences as Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica strain Eshaa2 and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica strain Eshiika3 at NCBI GenBank with Accession no. MT163513 and MT164531 respectively. So, more attention should be focused on increasing antibiotic surveillance to cope with the spread of emerging resistance and on the alternative approaches.

Treatment Effect of Various Concentration of Plant Extracts on Murine Norovirus

Abstract: Noroviruses are positive-sense, single-stranded, non-enveloped RNA virus that measures approximately 27 - 35 nm in diameter. It affects humans of all ages and races causing most cases of viral gastroenteritis worldwide. Infection results from ingestion of contaminated food or water as well as causing diarrhea and vomiting in humans. Extracts from plants are known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and adhesive properties which are associated with barrier functions. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether plaque reduction was due to an effect of methanolic plant extract directly on the virus, whether the extract affects viral replication, and lastly, whether the extract disrupts the cell surface binding with the virus. The plant extracts of interest were the calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) and the seeds of Zanthoxylum armatum (ZA). Antiviral activities of these extracts were determined against murine norovirus. The logarithmic viral reduction per pla-que-forming unit was (22 log 10 ) PFU/ml (control), (15 log 10 ) PFU/ml (treated HS), and (12 log 10 ) PFU/ml (treated ZA) with a significant reduction (68% and

Bacteriome in Ticks Collected from Domestic Livestock in Kenya

Abstract: Background: Metagenomics approaches are increasingly being utilized as “dipstick” for microbial carriage. In this study, 16S rRNA metagenomics was used to probe for microbial community that resides in the ticks, those they pick from the environment, wildlife and livestock and to identify potential tick borne zoonoses. Methods: Tick DNA from 463 tick pools collected from domestic animals between 2007 and 2008 were amplified with primers that target the 16S rRNA V3-V4 domain and then sequenced on Illumina Miseq platform using 300 cycles version 3 kits. Ticks were pooled according to species and animal from which they were collected. A non-target control was used to track laboratory contaminants. Sequence data were analyzed using Mothur v1.3 pipeline and R v3.3.1 software and taxonomy determined using SILVA rRNA database. Shannon diversity index was used to compute bacterial diversity in each tick species before computing the means. Results: A total of 645 bacteria genera grouped into 27 phyla were identified. Four phyla contributed 97.4% of the 36,973,934 total sequences. Proteobacteria contributed 61.2% of these sequences that tarried to 33.8% genera, compared to 15.9% (23.4% genera) for Firmicutes, 15.6% (20% genera) for Actinobacteria and 4.7% (11.6% genera) for Bacteroidetes. The remaining 23 phyla only contributed 2.6% of the sequence reads (11.2% genera). Amongst the 645 genera, three groups were discernible, with the biggest group comprised commensals/symbionts that contributed 93.6% of the genera, but their individual sequence contribution was very low. Group two comprised genera that are known to contain pathogenic species, with Coxiella contributing 15,445,204 (41.8%) sequences, Corynebacterium (13.6%), Acinetobacter (4.3%), Staphylococcus (3.9%), Bacillus (2.7%) and Porphyromonas (1.6%), Ralstonia (1.5%), Streptococcus (1.3%), Moraxella (1.3%), amongst others. Group three comprised genera known to contain tick borne zoonotic pathogens (TBZ): Rickettsiae, Anaplasma, Francisella, Ehrlichia, Bartonella and Borrelia. Individually the TBZ contributed Amblyomma variegatum carried the least diverse bacteria (mean Shannon diversity index of 2.69 ± 0.92) compared to 3.79 ± 1.10 for A. gemma, 3.71 ± 1.32 for A. hebraeum, 4.15 ± 1.08 for other Amblyomma spp, 3.79 ± 1.37 for Hyalomma truncatum, 3.67 ± 1.38 for other Hyalomma spp, 3.86 ± 1.27 for Rhipicephalus annulatus, 3.56 ± 1.21 for Rh. appendiculatus, and 3.65 ± 1.30 for Rh. Pulchellus, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.443). Conclusion: This study illustrates the utility of 16S rRNA metagenomics in revealing the complexity of bacteria communities that reside and/or transit through the tick having been picked from the environment, livestock and/or wild animals, some with potential to cause zoonoses.

Bioremediation of Vegetable Oil Contaminated Soil with Two Microbial Isolates

Abstract: Vegetable oil spills are becoming frequent and are potentially more challenging than petroleum hydrocarbon spills. Microbial lipases occupy a place of prominence among biocatalysts and are often used for the remediation of vegetable oil spills. There is a need for extensive characterisation of lipase for the treatment of vegetable oil-polluted sites. This work was carried out to monitor the degradation pattern of vegetable oil. Two microbial isolates previously isolated from an oil mill in Ibadan, Nigeria were used for the bioremediation experiment. Soil samples (with some purposely contaminated with 2 different vegetable oils) collected from the Nursery section of the Microbiology department as well as soil samples from the oil mill were all subjected to varied treatment processes. Field bioremediation using the isolates was carried out for 12 weeks. The isolates were identified, and microbial load and residual oil weight were determined during the degradation period using standard methods. The two isolates were identified as Pseudomonas fluoresecens and Candida parapsilosis. The result of sterile soil samples with and without mixing option, from palm oil and palm kernel purposely contaminated soils for all the various treatments, showed a general increase in total viable counts from the 2nd week to the 12th week, however in the non-sterile counterpart there was a steady increase from the 2nd week to the 8th week and subsequently, a gradual decrease from the 10th to the 12th week. The residual oil weight in the sterile purposely palm oil-contaminated soil, treated with the consortium (POC) non-mixed gave a reduction of value from 0.335 g on day 0 to 0.13025 g by the 12th week. From the oil mill non-sterile, treated with (POC) non-mixed sample, the residual weight after 12 weeks of treatment was 0.0043 g from an initial weight of 0.01 g. The microorganisms Pseudomonas fluoresecens and Candida parapsilosis had the potential for the degradation of fatty waste. They could therefore be employed in the environmental cleanup of the vegetable oil spill sites.

Thermoresistant, Ethanol-Resistant and Acid-Resistant Properties of Acetic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Fermented Mango Alcohol

Abstract: Vinegar production is seriously affected by the sensitivity of acetic acid bacteria (AAB) to high temperature, high ethanol concentrations, and high acetic acid concentrations. The aim of this study was to investigate the thermo-ethanol-acid tolerance characters of five AAB strains (VMA1, VMA5, VMA7, VMAM, VMAO) previously isolated from fermented mango alcohol and belonging to Gluconoacetobacter genera. As result, the five AAB strains exhibited good growth and acid production at temperatures up to 45°C; they could tolerate and produce acetic acid at ethanol concentrations up to 20% (v/v). In addition, the studied strains showed growth at acetic acid concentrations up to 4.5% (w/v). Strains VMA7 and VMAO showed the highest resistance properties: they demonstrated acid production at 50°C and VMAO could even grow at 60°C; they tolerated and produced acetic acid at 25% (v/v) ethanol concentration; they showed resistance to acetic acid concentrations up to 6% (w/v). Considering all these properties, the use of these strains would seriously contribute to improving the quality of the vinegar produced and help to reduce the cooling water feeds in vinegar production especially in hot countries in the context of global warming.

Is Gain of Function a Reliable Tool for Establishing Sars-Cov-2 Origin?

Abstract: The present opinion article, while dealing with the debated origin of “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2” (SARS-CoV-2), the betacoronavirus responsible for “Corona Virus Disease-2019” (COVID-19), provides a speculative insight into the so-called “gain of function” (GOF), a process resulting in the acquirement of new phenotypic features on behalf of the viral pathogen. More in detail, a GOF-related phenomenon leading to increased SARS-CoV-2 virulence and/or transmissibility—as clearly exemplified by the “delta” and the “omicron” as well as by other “variants of concern”—would not necessarily imply that viral genetic manipulations made in the laboratory are its exclusive drivers, provided that GOF may also occur as a consequence of a natural selection process. In order to gain a better understanding of SARS-CoV-2 GOF and GOF-associated phenomena, an in-depth knowledge of the complex viral-host interaction dynamics is absolutely needed, while also paying special attention to the human-animal-viral ecological interfaces within an “ad hoc” multidisciplinary, “holistic”, scientific evidence-based and “One Health”-based approach.

Optimal Growth Conditions of Microorganisms Isolated from the Buyeo Royal Tomb No. 1 and Their Effects on Painting Layers

Abstract: The Buyeo Royal Tomb No. 1 is an ancient tomb built in the late 6th and early 7th century. The four walls of the main room have murals of four guardian deities, and the ceiling has murals of lotus and cloud patterns. This study assessed the optimal growth conditions of two fungal (Fusarium oxysporum, Mortierella sp.) and four bacterial (Bacillus cereus, Cupriavidus campinensis, Streptomyces avidinii, Streptomyces cirratus) strains isolated from the Tomb No. 1, along with their effects on the painting layer. The two fungi showed optimal growth at 20°C - 30°C under both nutrient and non-nutrient conditions. These strains did not decompose or discolor the three pigments (cinnabar, hematite, oyster shell white); however, M. sp. showed slight decomposition of the media (starch paste, sea weed). The four bacterial strains showed the most active growth at 20°C - 25°C under nutrient conditions and did not grow under non-nutrient conditions. These bacteria commonly degraded animal glue and sea weed components. In addition, S. cirratus degraded starch. The genus Streptomyces discolored the pigment medium to brown and black, suggesting a possible risk of discoloration of the murals. The current environment in Tomb No. 1 was sufficient for microorganism growth, and the presence of strains such as soil bacteria and actinomycetes on the mural surface may damage the murals. The findings of this study could be helpful for preserving mural tombs against biological damage caused by microorganisms that are already present or may be present in the tombs in the future. These findings also provide guidelines for comprehensive conservation management.

Antiboitic Resistance of Uropathogenic <i>Eshcherichia coli</i> in Pateints of Hargeisa Group Hospital, Hargeisa, Somaliand

Abstract: Background: Urinary tract infection is a common disease in Somaliland society. The predominant causative organism of Urinary tract infection is Escherichia coli. This research studies antibiotic resistance of uropathogenic E. coli in patients of Hargeisa Group Hospital. The study selected commonly prescribed antibiotics for urinary tract infection treatment. Methodology: Urine samples of patients were cultured to isolate causative organisms of the urinary tract infection. Chromo-agar media, CLED, and biochemical tests are applied to identify the type of bacteria. Antibiotic reactions to E. coli bacteria are measured to differentiate between sensitive and resistant drugs with the guidance of the Clinical and Laboratories Standard Institute (CLSI). Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method is applied to assess antimicrobial activity against E. coli. Data of patients such as age, sex, symptoms of UTI, previous UTI infection, and history of antibiotic use were recorded. SPSS and Microsoft Excel are applied to analyze and interpret data. Results: The predominant organism that caused urinary tract infection was Escherichia coli (55%), Klebsiella spp (15%), Candida spp (15%), Enterococcus spp (10%), Staph spp 2.5%, and Pseudomonas spp 2.5% while other 55% were negative. The study assessed antibiotic resistance of E. coli, which reported resistance to Tetracycline at (70%), Ampicillin (64%), and Cotrimoxazole (61%). The bacteria showed moderate resistance to Ceftriaxone (43.5%), Nalidixic acid (43%), and Ciprofloxacin (36%). The bacteria are sensitive to Amikacin (100%), Nitrofurantoin (96%), Levofloxacin (73%) and gentamicin (74%). Conclusion: The overall incidence of antibiotic resistance to E. coli is high because the bacteria show a percentage of resistance to each antibiotic except Amikacin which gives (100%) sensitivity. The research recommends public awareness of the risks associated with antibiotic use and periodic evaluation of antibiotic resistance to accomplish better managing urinary tract infections.

<i>In Vitro</i> Screening of Endophytic <i>Trichoderma</i> sp. Isolated from Oil Palm in FGV Plantation against <i>Ganoderma boninense</i>

Abstract: The potential of several endophytic Trichoderma isolates, isolated from healthy oil palm roots was assessed against Ganoderma boninense (PER71), the caus-al agent of Basal Stem Rot (BSR) disease through in vitro screening. In the dual culture assay, all endophytic Trichoderma isolates were found to be capable of inhibiting the growth of PER71 mycelium, by causing more than 70% inhibition of the pathogen’s radial growth (PIRG). Trichoderma asperellum M103 has caused the highest inhibition at 93.14%. The volatile compound produced by M103 also suppressed 65% of the pathogen’s radial growth. On the other hand, T. harzianum, M108 was found to have the ability to produce non-volatile compounds that is toxic and it has effectively inhibited 98.18% of the growth of PER71. Collectively, T. asperellum M103 and T. harzianum M108 have the potential to inhibit the growth of G. boninense PER71. These isolates were shown to be viable options for the future management of G. boninense in the oil palm field.

Zika Virus and Its Association with Neurological Disorders

Abstract: Zika virus (ZIKV) is a flavivirus that can be identified as a small envelope with a positive-stranded RNA and an important medical pathogen, which causes deadly human diseases. The virus is carried by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes through a blood meal and it is also spread through body fluids. ZIKV infection may present with symptoms like fever, myalgia, maculopapular rash as well as neurological sequelae, which include, microcephaly, epilepsy, and Guillain Barré syndrome (GBS). This put the virus on a scale of the public health burden of almost 87 countries. The potential threat of ZIKV infection is not completely eradicated in many countries in Africa, America, and the Western Pacific regions. There are no vaccines and treatments available to date. Since ZIKV causes microcephaly in utero by targeting neural progenitor cells, inducing apoptosis, and impairing neurodevelopment, this article hopes to evaluate the neurological disorders associated with the Zika virus infection while elucidating the current trends in the development of vaccines and drugs.

Effect of Crude Drug Extracts on Trypacidin Production in <i>Aspergillus fumigatus</i>

Abstract: We examined the production of fungal metabolites as biological responses to 120 crude drugs by culturing the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus CBS101355 with crude drugs and analyzing the culture extracts by HPLC. Nine crude drug extracts [Kyokatsu (Notopterygium), Kyonin (apricot kernel), Kujin (Sophora root), Goboshi (Burdock fruit), Goma (sesame), Shokyo (ginger), Shin’i (magnolia flower), Togashi (Benincasa seed), and Bukuryo (Poria sclerotium)] induced the production of trypacidin, which was not produced by culturing in potato dextrose broth without crude drugs.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Antibiotic Use and Antimicrobial Resistance among Medical Students in a Private University in Dominica, West Indies

Abstract: Antibiotics are indispensable to maintaining human health, however, their overuse has resulted in resistant organisms which present a significantly higher burden to the low to middle income countries, due to the high incidence of communicable diseases. Insufficient antimicrobial-related training for physicians during their undergraduate education could have a negative impact on their prescribing. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices of antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance among medical students in a private university in Dominica, a resource-limited country, in order to facilitate more effective education of these future prescribers. A cross-sectional study was undertaken with the medical students from February 2021 to April 2021 using a 36-item questionnaire. Data analysis was achieved using descriptive statistics. A total of 85 students participated in the study, majority (70%) were female, African, aged 23.8 ± 4.6 years and single. Between 64 and 99% of the respondents reported no risk factors for communicable diseases and demonstrated a low to moderate (10% - 40%) negative response to knowledge-related questions. The majority (70%) of the respondents who had used antibiotics in the past 12 months reported efficacy and limited side-effects, but confirmed lack of knowledge about the classes of antibiotics prescribed to them. Almost half of the medical students (48%) reported having abused antibiotics, while about a third (35%) of the respondents reported sharing antibiotics with friends or loved ones in the past. There was no significant association between age, gender, and the medical students’ knowledge of antibiotic resistance (p > 0.05). However, they reported that they would like more education on antimicrobial use and resistance. The medical students in this study showed knowledge of antimicrobial resistance, but lacked comprehension of components of antimicrobial stewardship, including prevention of inappropriate use and classes of antibiotics. Therefore, steps need to be taken to prepare medical students for antimicrobial resistance and stewardship initiatives effectively.

Antibacterial Activity of Exogenous Glutathione and Its Synergism on Antibiotics in Methicillin-Associated Multidrug Resistant Clinical Isolates of <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>

Abstract: Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most problematic human pathogens. Antibiotic treatment of MRSA often associated with resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics is extremely challenging and urgently demands action to treat MRSA. Glutathione (GSH) is a biogenic thiol-compound that maintains an optimal intracellular redox-potential required for various normal cellular processes. Antibacterial activity of exogenous GSH has been reported in some bacterial pathogens but is largely unknown in MRSA. Aim: This study aimed to understand antibacterial activity of GSH, its role in antibiotic susceptibility, and a potential antibacterial mechanism in clinical isolates of S. aureus. Materials and Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), checkerboard, time-killing, and bacterial killing assays were performed for 14 clinical isolates of S. aureus including 10 MRSA and two type strains (ATCC 700699 and 35556). Results: MIC and MBC levels for the clinical and type strains were 15 - 20 mM and 25 - 40 mM of GSH, respectively. Subinhibitory concentrations of GSH synergistically enhanced susceptibility of all tested-antibiotics, resulting in sensitizing all-tested S. aureus. Bacterial-killing produced by GSH-mediated acidity was significantly higher than that by hydrochloric acid-mediated acidity. Conclusion: Overall results concluded that GSH exhibited antibacterial activity on S. aureus regardless of antibiotic susceptibility and synergistically enhanced antibiotic susceptibility. Additionally, GSH-mediated acidity was one of the antibacterial mechanisms. These findings suggest that GSH may be a potential antimicrobial agent or adjuvant for the conventional anti-MRSA regimens.

Molecular and Serological Epidemiology of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus in North Region of Cameroon

Abstract: The serological prevalence of foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) among the cattle population in the North region of Cameroon was determined using ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays) serological tests for structural as well as non-structural proteins. In these cattle, FMDV RNA was identified, amplified, sequenced and the sequences were used to construct a phylogenetic tree. A sedentary cattle population randomly selected from six veterinary centres in the North region was sampled twice, six months apart. High prevalence of FMDV antibody was recorded in the first (402/466 (85.84%)) and second (358/411 (86.90%)) sampling periods. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in prevalence of FMDV antibody between the two sampling periods. Goudali and Peulh breeds of cattle and animals of three to five years old were the most infected with FMDV and mostly in the months of May and August. A seroprevalence of 100% (n = 14) of FMDV against serotypes A and O was observed in sera from convalescent animals in the study area. FMDV antigen detection ELISA showed a prevalence of 18/37 (48.65%) for serotypes SAT1 (8.1%), SAT2 (35.1%), A (10.8%) and O (2.7%) among the clinically infected animals. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in prevalence of FMDV RNA between the sampling periods. A prevalence of FMDV RNA (17.5% (n = 120) and 16.7% (n = 240)) was observed among the sedentary animals that were sampled four to five months apart. FMDV RNA prevalence of 28/37 (75.6%) among clinically infected animals was also observed, thus confirming all the 12 outbreaks investigated. Sequence analysis of VP1 coding gene of the SAT2 serotype showed that it was homologous to the Libyan isolates (that caused epidemics in northern Africa in 2012) and also clustered with the serotypes isolated from both Nigeria and Sudan in 2007.

Różne Oblicza Sławnego Odkrywcy Pamięci Ludwika Pasteura w 200. Rocznicę Urodzin

Abstract: Streszczenie Ludwik Pasteur uznawany jest za jednego z największych naukowców. A jednak nawet na pomnikowej postaci Pasteura dostrzegane są rysy. Jego charakter i pewne działania są przedmiotem krytyki lub co najmniej kontrowersji. Zawarty w niniejszym artykule przegląd dokonań francuskiego uczonego, przygotowany z okazji dwusetnej rocznicy jego urodzin, pokazuje, że, mimo formułowanychz różnych stron zarzutów, Pasteur w pełni zasługuje na miano „dobroczyńcy ludzkości”.

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Shigella&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Strain Has Developed Non-Studied Pathogenicity Mechanisms of Adaptability in the Colonization of Epithelial Cells

Abstract: According to the World Health Organization, foodborne diseases are a major public health problem, particularly in developing countries including the Republic of Congo. They are responsible for several episodes of diarrhea, especially in children under five years old. There is no reliable epidemiological data on the pathogenicity of the Shigella spp. strains circulating in the whole Republic of Congo drafting this paper. The purpose of this study was to examine the Shigella spp strain pathogenicity close to an environment contaminated with faeces in the city of Brazzaville. As a result, 54 isolates have been associated with Shigella spp. The gastric acid resistance test performed on Shigella Environmental Strain (SES) and Shigella Clinical Strains (SCS) resulted in 38.8% (21/54) and 100% acid resistant, respectively. Shigella spp. Strains (SES and SCS) were ranged in a survival percentage from 11% to 93%. By monitoring Biosurfactant-Like Molecule (BLM) production, we showed that the BLM production of SES and SCS was highly dependent on bacterial culture density involving the Quorum Sensing (QS). S. flexneri, S. boydii, and S. sonnei and as well as SES and SCS were able to invade and contaminate eggs by colonizing egg yolk. The counting bacteria were ranging from two to 5 × 107 CFU/mL after contamination. Concomitantly, BLM was secreted during the post contamination of poultry eggs with 100% EI24. Further by trying to show the pathogenicity by the hemolysis test, we have shown that SES and SCS were able to show significant areas of lysis on blood agar. Finally, this work has proposed an additional model of cell invasion including biosurfactants during the pre- and post-invasion phases.

Analysis of Prevalent Leptospira Serovar in Different Animals of South Gujarat Region during the Year of 2020

Abstract: Background & Aims : Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease transmitted through contact among animals that are harboring leptospira. Knowledge of prevalent leptospira in a particular animal of a particular geographical area is essential to understand the epizootiology of disease as well as the linkage between circulation of serovars in animals and humans, and to apply appropriate control measures. Materials & Methods : For this retrospective analytic study, animal samples from different districts of south Gujarat region, India received in Microbiology department of Government Medical College (GMC), Surat, Gujarat region, India, during the year of 2020 for Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) of leptospira serovars included in the study. Results of MAT which was already performed using 12 different serovars were analysed to know prevent serovars in a particular animal. Qualtitative data was analysed using frequency and percentage. Results : Out of 1406 animal's samples, 151 (11%) were positive from animals like cow, buffalo, bullock, and goat. More prevalent serovars in cows were Ictrohemorrahiae (22%), hardjo (19%), patoc (17%), and pyrogen (16%). In buffalos, patoc (58%) and hardjo (27%) were found. In bullocks, hardjo (50%) and in goats, automonalis (50%), australis (22%) and patoc (14%) were found as prevent serovars. Conclusion : Different prevent serovars has been observed in different animals from different districts of south Gujarat region, which will be helpful to trace the source of infection in human, to apply control measures, to know epizootiology of disease, and for developing strategies in future during vaccine development with emphasizing more on the prevalent serovars.

Covid-19 Transmission, Risks Factors and Disease Characteristics in Asthmatics Patients

Abstract: Abstract Background The World Health Organizations (WHO) scientific brief on the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and asthma from 2021, states individuals with asthma to be at a higher risk of respiratory infections as recorded in the annual influenza season. However, existing data from the COVID-19 pandemic does not till date establish an association of the disease with asthma. The disease burden of COVID-19 among asthmatic patients has not been very evident. This paucity of information forms the main rationale of our literature review, which is focused on collecting scattered literature around transmission, risks, as well as disease characteristics of COVID-19 among asthmatics world over including Saudi Arabia. Methodology This study report has been generated after detailed literature survey using keywords “asthma”, “coronavirus”, “COVID-19” and SARS-CoV-2 including quality high impact publications on relevant focus area through Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed. Publication between year 2019 and 2021 were selected in specific to ensure the focus of the current literature review does not lose relevance in space of time. Results Our literature review identified elderly to have been reported to have high susceptibility to COVID-19; the risk being exacerbated among those with comorbidities. Further, no specific directives on asthma being one of the risk factors was found to be reported, especially with the current disease management strategy for COVID-19. The severely diseased COVID-19 patients also have been reported to exhibit increase in multiple cytokines, which may increase airway inflammation and exacerbate asthma attacks. However, contrary literature reports indicate an increase in T cells to reduce the disease impact of COVID-19. Conclusion There is paucity in significant evidence as of writing this review article to highlight exclusive negative impact of COVID-19 on asthmatics. Asthma patients however need to be recommended care pertaining to having their controller medication as new data continue to emerge on the clinic-pathological factors of the novel coronavirus.

Secalonic Acid and Benzoic Acid Analogues Exhibiting Cyto toxicity against Cancer Cells Isolated from <i>Claviceps yanagawaensis</i>

Abstract: The genus Claviceps (Clavicipitaceae) is noted for producing ergot alkaloids that cause ergotism. Claviceps yanagawaensis, a parasite of Zoysia japonica (family: Poaceae), has been isolated in Japan. Bioactivity screening showed that a methanol extract from a rice culture of C. yanagawaensis was cytotoxic to cancer cells. In our search for active substances, the new secalonic acid analogues (-)-5-epi-F-7 (1) and ergochrysin C (2) and a new benzoic acid analogue, dimethyl bigutol (3), were isolated along with the known compounds 3,4-dihydroxy-5-(3-methyl-2-buten-1-yl)benzoic acid (4) and methyl veratrate (5). The structures of 1 - 3 were elucidated by NMR, MS, and circular dichroism spectroscopy. MTT assays of 1 - 5 using cancer cell lines (HepG2, HL60, HT29, PANC-1, and T98G) showed that 1 - 4 exhibited cytotoxicity against cancer cells.