Search results for “Bacteria”

Effect of Bio-Controlling Methods (Proplis and Bacteria) on the 3rd_larval Instar of Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

The greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella L.) is one of the most destructive insect pests that threaten apiculture. Laboratory experiments were conducted in the Research Laboratory, College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology during the period from the 2nd_ of April to 29th_ of October 2021 to evaluate the lethal effect of Bee glue (proplis) and Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki (Btk) on the G.mellonella. Five concentrations (5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5% and 15%) of proplis extract and (0.62,1.25,2.5,5 and 10 mg/ml) of Bt were used for each proplis extract and Bt in a Completely Randomized Design. Powder ethanol extract of proplis at 15% concentration caused 83.3% mortality after 96 hrs of application, where as 10mg//ml concentration of Bt gave 93.3% mortality after 72 hrs of exposure. The statistical analysis revealed significant differences between all treatments and control. Additionally, all treatments (proplis/ /Bt) increased the mortality %.  

Antibacterial Activities of Ni Substituted Ferrite Particles for Biological Applications

In this research work Mg0.45Mn0.55-xNixFe2O4 ferrite particles of varying compositions (x=0.05, x=0.15, x=0.25, x=0.45 and x=0.55) were synthesized using cost effectual co-precipitation route. The synthesized ferrite particles were characterized by collection of techniques. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of cubic spinel structure of the ferrite particles. SEM and AFM analyses illustrated the morphology and size distribution of obtained ferrite particles. FT-IR study exposed that the absence of any additional peak related to second phase. VSM results indicated magnetic analyses such as saturation magnetization (MS), Coercivity (HC) and Remanence (Mr) of ferrite particles. The major objective of the present investigation is to synthesize MgMnNiFe2O4 ferrite particles on cotton fabrics in order to obtain finished fabrics; it is very significant in biological applications. The antibacterial activities of the ferrite particles coated cotton fabrics were tested against selected Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria which showed tremendous results via formation of inhibition zones. The fabricated ferrite particles on cotton fabrics showed great durability evidenced by their antibacterial activities even after 20 washing cycles. Hence, the functionalized cotton fabrics could be used as potential antibacterial agent.

Biotechnological application of Cyanobacteria in, Agriculture, Medicine and Environment

Cyanobacteria are considered as one of the important group of organisms having significant ecological, industrial, and biotechnological importance. Cyanobacteria have gained a lot of atten ion in recent years because of their potential applications in biotechnology. This review presents an overview of uses of cyanobacteria in industry agriculture, environment pharmaceutical and medicinal roles and to provide future prospects of the field of cyanobacteria biotechnology. Nowadays cyanobacteria have gained attention researchers because of their various potential applications such as food and feed pharmaceutical industries in medicine, in bioremediation, soil conditioning, as biopolymers, bio adhesives, bioenergy and biofertilizers. Due to presence of wide spectrum of bioactive compounds cyanobacteria has possesses antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer activities. Several strains of cyanobacteria are also rich in food supplements. Further nitrogen fixing and soil conditioning capacity of cyanobacteria attracted researchers. Recent studies have also shown that cyanobacteria have capability to degrade environmental pollutants and are also being used as a promising source of alternative energy. Cyanobacteria has also its limitations through bloom production it influnces on the nutrient availability and usage of phytoplankton plants. This review is an effort to forward the valuable information about the qualities of cyanobacteria and their potential role in solving the agricultural and environmental problems for the future welfare of the planet.Thus more efforts should be made in search of more potential strains of cyanobacteria to ensure maximum production of the desired products.

Causes and Consequences of the Syndrome of Excessive Bacterial Growth in the Small Intestine

Currently, there is a paradoxical situation where the dominant opinion in medicine recognizes the harmfulness of dysfunction of such barrier structures as the cardia, pylorus, sphincter of Oddi, heart valves, valves of the veins of the lower extremities, etc., but ignores the failure of the ileocecal obturator (bauginium damper) or its absence as a possible cause of the pathology of the digestive system, as well as various extraintestinal diseases 1. But also I.I. Grekov (1952) expressed his position 2, which remained relevant: “Despite a number of works devoted to the proximal part of the large intestines, the pathology of this department is still insufficiently explained because the role of the Bauginium damper was completely ignored in these works.

Investigation of Emerging Risk Factors and Isolation of Potential Pathogenic Bacteria from Domestic Dog Stool in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Niger Delta

This study investigated the potential pathogenic bacteria that are associated with domestic dog stool in Port Harcourt Metropolis. Convenience sampling techniques were used for sample collection outcome. A total of fifty dog stool samples were collected aseptically into a sterile stool container from different locations (Agip Estate, Rumuokoro Community, Government Residential Area, Sand-fill Borokiri, Port Harcourt Township, and Rivers State University lecturers’ quarters) all within Port Harcourt City. Bacteriological analysis was determined using standard microbiological analytical and identification techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 21 for frequency, percentage, prevalence rate and correlation at 0.01 and 0.05 level of significance. Potential pathogens with associated percentages that were isolated are E coli (20.0%), Klebsiella species (16.0%), Pseudomonas species (4.0%), Proteus species (28.0%), Bacillus species (4.0%), Staphylococcus aureus (14.0%), and unidentified [other Staphylococcus species] (4.0%). However, the research further revealed that Proteus species (28.0%), was the most prevalent pathogen, while Bacillus species (4.0%), Pseudomonas species (4.0%), and Streptococcus species (4.0%), were the least prevalent among pet dogs studied. The correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between isolates with socio-demographic data of pet owner and Pet biodata respectively. From the analysis, correlation coefficient values of .269 and .124 were obtained for Age of Pet Owner and Gender of Owner respectively. It also show a direct correlation but by implication, a very weak, non-significant (p<0.05) relationship existed between the organisms isolated and the variables (Age of Pet Owner and Gender of Pet Owner). However, no relationship exists between isolates and visit to vet Doctor (r-0.038; p>0.05). Furthermore, negative non-significant correlation (p>0.05) was observed for marital status of Pet Owner (r=-.158) and Age of Pet (r=-.023) and isolate. Also, correlation association between isolates and some risk factors using the correlation analysis matrix revealed an indication of an indirect but moderate association between isolates and Caressing (r=-.347, p=0.01). However, other risk factors like vaccination (r=.042), Feeding Pattern(r=.125), Pet Bathing (r=.220) and Eating with pet in same plate (r=.146), did not prove statistical significance at p>0.05. The results from the study strongly suggest that pet dogs carry potential pathogenic organisms in their faecal matter that can serve as a source of infection to the pet owners. It is, therefore, very critical that these pets should be treated and possibly vaccinated frequently, even as their faecal matters should be well disposed to prevent possible zoonotic infectious epidemic outbreak in our global communities.

Biosorption of Lead Using the Bacterial Strain, Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 2423)

Lead removal efficiency of the bacterial strain, Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 2423) was tested with 200, 400, 600, 800 and 1000 ppm of lead in minimal broth for a period of ten days. Samples were tested for the level of lead every two days in each concentration and maximum removal was observed after six days of treatment. With the increase in lead concentration, both biomass and lead removal efficiency showed an increase. When tested with immobilized, dead and live cells, maximum removal was observed for immobilized cells. Among the sugars tested, monosaccharide sugars enhanced the biomass of B. subtilis during lead treatment and the results are discussed.

Antibacterial and Cytotoxicity Activities of Major Compounds from Tinospora cordifolia Willd. Growing on Mangifera indica L.

Objective To investigate the major constituents of Tinosporacordifolia Willd. growing on Mangiferaindica, and to evaluate the efficacy of their antibacterial and cytotoxicity activities. Methods The ethanolic stem extract of T. cordifolia was subjected to silica gel 60 column chromatography, thin layer chromatography and medium pressure liquid chromatography for isolation of the major compounds. Identification of purified compounds was achieved by spectroscopic methods.. The crude extract and purified compounds were screened for their antibacterial and cytotoxicity properties using standard procedures. Results Two alkaloids were purified and identified as Magnoflorin (1) and Tembetarine (2). These compounds showed high antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus with both MIC (32-64 µg/ml) and MBC (128-256 µg/ml). The cytotoxicity activity of the purified compounds and crude extract was determined using MTT colorimetric assay against L929 and HEK293 cell lines. This showed weak cytotoxicity activity with IC50 values of 1162.24 to 2290.00 µg/ml and 1376.67 to 2585.06 µg/ml towards L929 and HEK293 cell lines, respectively. Conclusion The major compounds present in ethanolic stem extract of T. cordifolia growing on M. indica were extracted, purified and identified. This study suggests that these compounds exhibit great potential for antibacterial activity with weak cytotoxicity activity. They may be useful for their medicinal functions.

Developing Cellular & Molecular Biomarkers for Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Probiotic Bacteria in Fermented Foods

We present below a mechanistic cellular and molecular approaches for the development of Anti-Inflammatory biomarkersof Probiotic Bacteria in Fermented Foods. Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote human health by counteracting the noxious toxic gut microflora in human intestine, by modulating of the tight junctions, and by increasing mucin production, enforcing intestinal epithelial cell barrier function, modifying microbial community within the gut intestinal disorders, and improving immune responses associated with chronic inflammation in experimental animal models, collectively enhancing human health. Cytokine secretion by intestinal epithelial cells and macrophages are regulated by probiotics through key signaling pathways such as nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated kinases, resulting in alleviation of several disorders such as allergies, diabetes, obesity, heart diseases and cancer. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules involved in transcriptional and post-translational regulation of gene expression by inhibiting gene translation. Using in vitro and in vivo approaches in cell lines and mice models to study effects of probiotic conditional media and heat-killed bacterial strains with anti-inflammatory effect to elucidate the mechanisms by which probiotics affect signaling pathways, and by using global cytokine and microRNA gene expression analyses approaches to develop biomarkers for studying different pro- and anti-inflammatory activities, and using statistical approaches to analyse the data, we show that cytokines and miRNAs have an essential role in regulation of cancerous and inflammatory pathways. This mechanistic approach will result in developing specific disease biomarkers for the early diagnosis of certain pathogenic states, as well as evaluating the effect of different dietary components on developed biomarkers in health states that will promote and enhance human health. Comparing the concordance of the in vitro to the in vivo research findings will confirm the correspondence of both approaches to each other. Moreover, this study will have a major public health relevance in elucidating the role of miRNAs and their targets in inflammation, paving the way to diagnosing and treating of pathogenic human disease stages.

Retraction: Efficacy of BCG Vaccine and Role of Non Specific Sensitivity Due to Atypical Mycobacteria

Synthesis and Analysis of Copper Neem (Azadirechta Indica) Soap-Nitro and Ethoxy Benzothiazole Complexes for Anti-Bacterial Activity Related with Skin Diseases

The solid copper(II) soap derived from Neem (Azadirechta Indica)oil and its complex with ligand containing nitrogen, sulphur and oxygen atoms like 2-amino -6-nitro benzothiazole and 2-amino- 6-ethoxy benzothiazole have been synthesized and characterised by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy and biological studies. From the analytical data, the stoichiometry of the complex has been observed to be 1:1 (metal:ligand). The derived compounds were found active against Staphylococcus aureus,Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNs), Acinetobacter baumanii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and micrococcus bacteria. These findings have high medical, industrial and economic significance as copper (II) soap and copper (II) soap complex could be harnessed in the formulation of medicated soaps.

Evaluation of Bacterial Population in the Saliva of Drug Addicts

Background: The human mouth harbors over 700 microbial genera. The large number of them is normal bacteria; few of them are opportunistic pathogens. Objective: The study was aimed to evaluate the bacterial population of drug addicted persons and compare it to that of a normal healthy person. Methods: Five different samples of human saliva; alcohol drunken person, oral moist snuff user, cigarette, hashish and shisha smoker were investigated the involvement of bacteria in them. One sample was collected from normal non-addict person. The bacterial population in drug addictive persons were compared that on normal non-addictive person. Results: The bacteria observed were: Gram negative cocci, mono cocci, streptococci, vibrio, gram negative rod, gram positive staphylococcus, gram positive streptococci and gram-positive rod. Conclusion: The order of bacterial population was; alcohol drunken person<oral moist snuff user ˂ cigarette smoker ˂ hashish smoker ˂ shisha smoker˂ normal non addictive person. From the findings in this study it is concluded that all these drugs have some antibacterial activities.

Morpho-biochemical Identification and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Bacterial Isolates from Chicken Eggs in District Faisalabad

Microorganisms are the main cause of food-borne illness in humans that may occur by consuming unhygienic products from poultry and other sources. With the passage of time bacterial resistance to antibiotics is ever-increasing which necessitates development of new antibiotics. One of the most obvious reasons of antimicrobial resistance in human-beings is the consumption of contaminated food with microbes. The aim of present study is to isolate, identify and characterize the food-borne pathogens from chicken eggs. For this purpose, a total of 240 egg samples were collected from eight different towns of Faisalabad. Samples were collected from egg surface, yolk, albumin and egg tray. Isolation, identification and characterization of commonly occurring egg borne pathogens including E. coli, Salmonella spp., Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus were carried out by different cultural, morphological and biochemical tests. Antibiotic resistance pattern of recovered bacterial pathogens was determined by disk diffusion method (Kirby-Bauer). Zone of inhibition was measured through vernier calliper. The results revealed a high prevalence of Salmonella entitidis with 40.83% following Staphylococcus aureus with 22.08%, Escherichia coli with 17.92% and Bacillus subtilis in a lower ratio with 2.5%. The antibiotic sensitivity test showed different resistance patterns of the isolated microbes. For this purpose, five different drugs were used that included cefotaxime, tetracycline, gentamicin, levofloxacin and penicillin. Bacillus subtilis was highly resistant to penicillin and cefotaxime. Whereas, E. coli showed resistance to three antibiotics that were tetracycline, cefotaxime and penicillin. The only drug to which Staphylococcus aureus showed resistance was cefotaxime. Salmonella was resistant to tetracycline and gentamicin. The study concluded that chicken egg is contaminated with a number of bacteria that could be pathogenic or not. So, there is need of proper attention to cope up with possible future egg-borne illnesses.

RETRACTED: Efficacy of BCG Vaccine and Role of Non Specific Sensitivity Due to Atypical Mycobacteria

This article has been retracted on December 28, 2018. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2577-137X.ji-25-5837) This paper attempts to summarizes possible reasons for BCG trial failure in India. It also lists out some of the important controversies and questions raised with regards to BCG trial in the context of Non Specific sensitivity. It emphasizes on the fact, that Tuberculin test does not accurately reflect individual’s responded immunologically to mycobacterium, it only indicates nature of immune response that has been elicited in an infected individual. The dynamics of tuberculin reaction needs to be understood through immunological considerations. Categorization of Tuberculin test results factoring in immunological considerations,will have great implication on the interpretation of tuberculin test and therefore on the estimation of annual risk of infection of tuberculosis.

Isolation and Screening of Phb Producing Halotolerant Bacterial Strains from A Saline Environment

Plastic materials have been used as packaging materials and also have other numerous applications because of their durability and stability. Plastic products are non degradable and they continue to exist in the environment thereby causing a serious threat to the ecosystem. Bioplastics which are biodegradable plastics are emerging out as a boon to overcome the problem of plastic accumulation. Polyhydroxybutyrate or PHB is a bioplastic that serves as an alternative to synthetic plastics. PHB is a lipid reserve material that gets accumulated within the cell wall of micro organisms under stress conditions. Halophilic microorganisms can be of much use in the production of PHB as it is cost – effective and recovery of PHB is much easier in halotolerant organisms. Hence this study focuses on the isolation of PHB producing halotolerant bacterial organisms from marine sources. Screening of PHB positive isolates was done by Sudan Black B and Nile blue A staining. Large scale production of PHB by the efficient bacterial strain was done by using wastewater as the substrate.

Murky Water: Cyanobacteria, BMAA and ALS

Cyanobacteria have been implicated in the etiology of ALS for the past 50 years. The weakness of the theories of cyanobacteria or its neurotoxin, BMAA as the etiologic agent in ALS is the iniquitousness of cyanobacteria in the environment. In third world countries, clean water is far from commonplace, the exposure to cyanobacteria higher, yet the incidence of ALS is probably less than it is in developed countries. Even in the developed world, exposure to cyanobacteria is commonplace. Differences in the gut microbiome, possibly the presence of Proteobacteria, a protective agent against cyanobacteria toxins, may be important.

Bacterial Meningitis Associated with Pituitary Macroadenoma: Systematic Review

Introduction Bacterial meningitis complicates rarely pituitary macroadenomas. The aim of our systematic review is to study the features of the association between bacterial meningitis and pituitary macroadenoma. Methods We conducted a literature search in both MedLine and Google Scholar database from 1967 to October 2016 and reviewed all cases described of the association between bacterial meningitis and pituitary macroadenoma apart from any surgical act and without pituitary apoplexy. Results We found 14 articles describing 16 patients aged of 22-69 years old with a male predominance (sex ratio 4.3). Two patients (12.5%) had a well-documented clinical history of pituitary macroadenoma prior to the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Rhinorrhea has been found as the most common symptom through six patients (37.5%). Through the CSF culture, bacterial meningitis among patients suffering of pituitary macroadenoma commonly was due to Streptococcus pneumoniae. The examination in 18.75% of cases revealed signs related to pituitary macroadenoma (ophthalmoplegia and blindness). Six patients (37.5%) had received a treatment by dopaminergic agonist alone and 4 patients (25%) were treated with dopaminergic agonist associated with surgical treatment. Surgical treatment consisted of closure of the osteomeningeal breach in 12.5% (2/16) and tumor resection in 31.25% (5/16). Three patients (18.75%) had benefited tumor resection without prior agonist treatment. The mortality was 12.5% (2/16). Conclusion Our systematic review shows that bacterial meningitis represents a rare initial symptom leading to the diagnosis of invasive pituitary macroadenoma.

Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the United Kingdom from Home-Collected Samples: A Cross-Sectional Laboratory Analysis of over 6000 Cases

Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to rise globally, with >1 million new cases reported daily in 2020. In England, newly diagnosed STIs increased by 23.8% in 2022 compared to 2021. Many infections remain asymptomatic yet contribute to infertility, pregnancy complications, and neonatal morbidity. While routine screening often focuses on Chlamydia trachomatis, broader detection is limited by laboratory turnaround times and restricted test panels. Methods We analysed 6003 home-collected urine and/or swab samples submitted for sexual health screening in the UK. Samples were tested in the laboratory for 10 bacterial and viral pathogens. A total of 5859 urine and 1627 swab samples were processed, with paired samples assessed for diagnostic agreement. Results The most common infections detected in urine were Ureaplasma urealyticum (12.1%), Mycoplasma hominis (8.6%), and Chlamydia trachomatis (2.4%). Swabs showed similar prevalence, with Ureaplasma urealyticum (11.6%) most frequent, followed by Mycoplasma hominis (10.4%) and HSV-2 (4.4%). Paired urine–swab samples demonstrated strong agreement, though swabs improved HSV detection. Conclusions Ureaplasma urealyticum was the most prevalent STI detected, yet only Chlamydia trachomatis is routinely screened in England. Comprehensive laboratory testing of home-collected samples could reduce the hidden burden of STIs, infertility, pregnancy complications, and neonatal infections, while offering confidential and accessible diagnostics.

Exploring the Nanomedicinal Features of Ayurvedic Bhasmas: Insights from Traditional Medicine

Ayurveda is a traditional and scholarly medical system practiced in South Asia since the Vedic period. It integrates science and philosophy to promote a healthy, happy and prosperous life. Ayurvedicbhasmas are classical formulations that contain non-toxic forms of metals and minerals, enriched with therapeutic metabolites. These bhasmas are produced through repeated trituration of metals and minerals with the extracts from potent Ayurvedic herbs, followed by intense heating at temperatures above 650 °C. The preparation process of bhasmas closely resemble top-down approach in nanoparticle synthesis, resulting in very fine calcined nano-powders. These powders are used effectively in Ayurvedic treatments for various ailments, particularly chronic diseases. Recent studies have highlighted that bhasmas possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antitumor properties and may serve as potential carriers for drug delivery. This paper aims to compare bhasma particles prepared by traditional and modern methods, explore the therapeutic benefits of different bhasmas, and investigate the nanomedicinal features of various Ayurvedicbhasmas.

Exploring the Correlation between Glucose and Apoptosis Levels in Stored Platelets

Background and Objectives Platelets are small, anucleate blood cells produced in the bone marrow, primarily involved in blood coagulation. Platelet concentrate is a vital blood product with extensive applications. However, its short lifespan and limited donor availability pose global challenges. This study aimed to follow the trend of platelets 5 during days of storage. Material and Methods We studied on 40 platelet bags and analyzed glucose levels, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), bacterial culture, and apoptosis using flow cytometry with Annexin V-PI over three consecutive days (first, third, and fifth) post-blood collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results No significant correlations were found between age, blood group, or gender and the variables studied. No bacterial growth was detected. Glucose levels decreased significantly from day 1 (382 mg/dl) to day 5 (298 mg/dl). The average platelet apoptosis increased significantly from 3.65% on day 1 to 9.06% on day 5. Significant correlations were observed between glucose levels and apoptosis on days 3 (p<0.05) and 5 (p<0.01). No correlation found between LDH and apoptosis or necrosis, although a significant relationship between necrosis and apoptosis was noted on day 5 (p=0.003). Conclusion These findings suggest that while demographic factors do not influence the studied variables, the significant decrease in glucose levels correlates with increased platelet apoptosis over time, highlighting potential metabolic interactions that warrant further investigation.   Highlights 1. The study revealed subtle variations in metabolic markers related to donor demographics, particularly gender and age. Understanding these differences can inform targeted donor selection strategies to optimize platelet quality. 2. A significant negative correlation was found between glucose levels and apoptosis rates, indicating that as glucose decreases, platelet viability declines. This relationship highlights the need for careful monitoring of glucose levels during storage to maintain platelet function. 3. Fluctuations in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were correlated with increasing rates of apoptosis, suggesting that LDH could serve as a valuable biomarker for assessing platelet quality throughout the storage period. This finding could lead to improved storage protocols and enhanced transfusion safety.

Keratinophilic Fungi: Diversity And Abundance in the Soil of Ajmer District, Rajasthan

Soil is a natural habitat and ecosystem for microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Mostly keratinophilic fungi are found in soil, use keratin as a growth substrate, and are essential to the natural degradation of keratin waste. These fungi include dermatophytes, a potential source of infectious diseases in humans and animals and cause dermatophytosis. One hundred thirty-six soil samples were collected from several sites including animal habitats in Ajmer district, Rajasthan, India. The soil samples were used for the study of keratinophilic fungi related to species richness, abundance, and diversity. The Physio-chemical properties of collected soil samples were analyzed and examined in soil microflora for temperature, pH, and macronutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Ninety-eight soil samples (72%) showed positive results for the keratinophilic fungal isolates. The isolated fungal species belonging to eight genera and seventeen species included Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, Chrysosporium tropicum, Microsporum gypseum, M. canis, Fusarium solani, F. oxysporum, F. verticilloides, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, T. rubrum, T. tonsurans, T. terrestre, T. equinum, Penicillium, Mucor circinelloides, and Blastomyces. The temperature recorded for keratinophilic fungi ranged between 25℃ and 37℃ and pH was found in the range of 7.0 to 8.5. The fungal community was dominated by the order Onygenales followed by Eurotiales and Hypocreales belonging to the phylum Ascomycota.

Antibiotic-Resistant Urinary Tract Infection in a Bahamian Woman: A Case Report

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is becoming a major public health challenge in the Bahamas. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics by medical practitioners is a major contributor to this problem. We describe a 53-year-old woman who presented with symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Empiric treatment with first- and second-line antibiotics, namely trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and ciprofloxacin, respectively, were ineffective in clearing the infection. After culture and sensitivity testing via minimum inhibitory concentration analysis, nitrofurantoin proved to be the only effective oral antibiotic.

Malaria: A Driving Force to the Emergence and the Global Spread of Antibiotics Resistance

Malaria and bacteraemia are significant public health concerns and economic threats. In Africa, the intensity for simultaneous transmission and co-infection of Plasmodium spp and other bacteria pathogens are extremely high. It is believed that malaria suppress the immune system and enable the translocation of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract to other cellular compartments in the body. Some of the factors that contributed to the co-emergence of these pathogens are poor access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), poor infection control measures, inefficient health care systems. In addition, the similarities in the clinical signs and symptoms of these febrile diseases and the fact that the etiologic diagnostic testing can be complex, costly, and limited are the reasons why clinicians in resource-constrained setting often prescribe antibiotics empirically prior to or without laboratory testing to prevent severe outcomes in any patient hospitalized with malaria. However, this indiscriminate use of antibiotics has been identified as the driving force for antibiotic resistance, which is already at alarming rate in malaria endemic nations. In developed countries where malaria had been previously eradicated, there are increasing reports of imported malaria with concurrent bacteraemia. In this review, we emphasized the role of malaria in the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and the fact that eliminating malaria in Africa is one of the best strategies to address the emergence and the global spread of multi-drug resistance organisms.

Fecal Shedding, Antimicrobial Resistance and In Vitro Biofilm formation on Simulated Gallstones by Salmonella Typhi Isolated from Typhoid Cases and Asymptomatic Carriers in Nairobi, Kenya

Typhoid fever, caused by the human restricted pathogen Salmonella Typhi, remains a major global public health concern. Even after successful treatment, approximately 3-5% of patients with typhoid fail to clear the bacteria within one year and become chronic carriers. Most typhoid carriers have gallstones in their gallbladder, and biofilm formation on gallstones is highly correlated with chronic carriage. This study’s goal was to identify asymptomatic typhoid carriers in an endemic setting in Kenya, and to compare acute versus chronic isolates. A cohort of typhoid fever patients identified through blood and/or stool culture, and their household contacts, were followed up after treatment to detect longitudinal S. Typhi stool shedding. An abdominal ultrasound scan was used to identify individuals with gallstones. A total of 32 index patients and 32 household contacts were successfully followed-up. Gallstones were detected in 4 cases and 1 household contact. The duration of S. Typhi shedding was significantly longer in individuals with gallstones compared to those without, P<0.001. Eighty-three (83) S. Typhi strains were tested for susceptibility to commonly used antimicrobials and examined by in vitro biofilm formation assays. Out of 37 infected individuals, 32.4% had infections caused by multidrug resistant (MDR) S. Typhi strains and only 18.9% were infected by susceptible strains. Non-MDR strains formed significantly better biofilms in vitro than the MDR strains (P<0.001). This study provides data on S. Typhi chronic carriage that will influence public health approaches aimed at reducing typhoid transmission and the burden of infection.

Scrutinizing Local Probiotic Supplements and Drinks Available in the Bangladesh Market

The host's health may benefit from the probiotic microorganisms found in many products available on the market. In addition to food, these products include dietary supplements, food for special medical purposes, medicines, cosmetics, and medical devices. These products have anywhere from one to a dozen strains of bacteria from the same or different species, and sometimes they also have strains of fungi. Since the health benefits of probiotics depend on the strain, the number of cells in a dose, and the absence of pathogenic microorganisms, it is crucial to regulate the quality of probiotics. Depending on how a product is classified, how it looks, and how many microorganisms it has, it is very important to count and identify the microorganisms correctly. We investigated nine probiotic products in this study: five commercially available probiotic supplements and four probiotic drinks. The majority of commercial products did not contain all of the labeled lactic acid bacteria, nor did they contain any possibly harmful microorganisms. To ensure that consumers in Bangladesh obtain good products, probiotic-containing product rules and regulations should be developed. Furthermore, it should be the duty of probiotics-containing product manufacturers to provide consumers with information that is accurate, reliable, and compliant with legal and scientific requirements

Camel Brucellosis in Ethiopia: Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factor

Camels are a significant source of income for nomadic populations in many developing countries, including Ethiopia. Camels are well adapted to dry and semi-dry regions, providing income, food security, and transportation. However, camel production and productivity are constrained by infectious diseases, such as brucellosis, which is a highly infectious bacterial disease that affects camels and humans worldwide. Brucellosis causes significant economic losses due to abortion, low herd fertility, and decreased milk production. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of camel brucellosis varies depending on factors related to the host, agent, climate, and management system, with a reported prevalence ranging from 0.5% to 11.9%. Accurate diagnosis of camel Brucellosis is essential for herd-based screening of animals. Although culturing the pathogen is the preferred method for diagnosis, serological tests such as Rose-Bengal plate test (RBPT), Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Complement fixation test (CFT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays have been developed. Implementing effective diagnosis and surveillance systems to control the spread of brucellosis in animals and humans is very important, on top of awareness campaigns, vaccination programs, and suitable laboratory establishment recommended. Continued research is essential to maintain the health and productivity of camel populations, particularly in pastoral areas where camels play a significant role in the livelihood of communities. Therefore, the present paper views the seropositive prevalence and potential risk factors associated with camel brucellosis in Ethiopia.

Soluble Biobased Substances in soil or Salicylic Acid on leaves affect the foliar pH and soil biovariability of Grapes-as explained by the NIR Spectroscopy of Litterbags and Teabags

The purpose of the trial was to check the effects of two grapevine treatments on the plant activity and on the bioactivity and biovariability of the soil. An alkaline complex of Soluble Biobased Substances (SBS) was used in soil at 30 g per plant in a single solution. Salicylic Acid (SA) was used on leaves at 150 mg l-1 every two weeks at 50 ml plant. The plants were examined for their foliar pH and NIR spectra. The soil bioactivity was monitored by means of hay-Litterbag-NIRS (LBN) in combination with the Teabag Index (TBI), using rooibos and green tea that had been buried for 60 days. The evolution of the TBI presented here concerns the TBI-NIRS spectroscopic method used for discriminant analysis. A new algorithm was used to estimate the soil microbiome from the green Teabag spectra. The obtained results showed that the plants and the soil responded to the treatments. In fact, SBS, but not SA, lowered the leaf pH by 5%, an unexpected and original result. Both treatments increased the variability of the leaf composition, with a lower discrimination, based on the NIR spectra, from the Control (75%) to 44% (SA) and 38% (SBS). The TBI method, which is based on weights, was less efficient (67%) than the TBI-NIRS of rooibos (96%) or the LBN of hay (80%), but it was like the TBI-NIRS of green tea (74%). The LBN analyses indicated that the mycorrhizal index had increased by 8% in SA but had reduced by 7% in SBS, while both treatments reduced the activity of the microbes, which did not affect the soil respiration rate. The mineral N in the soil was substantially raised by about 11÷69%. The Taxa profiles showed marked deviations from the Control. Moreover, the SBS treatment reduced the Glomeromycota by 35%, which matched to the reduction in the mycorrhizal index. The most favored Bacteria from the treatments were Proteobateriaand Actinobacteria, with Mortierellomycota being the most penalized. Neither treatment affected the production, but both delayed the technological maturity by 9-11%, while the SBS retarded the phenolic maturity by about 18%. It has been concluded that a simple treatment of vines can affect the bioactivity in the leaves and berries as well as the biovariability of the soil.

Research Gaps In Contaminants Of Emerging Concern (CECs): Routes To The Standardization Of Chemical Test Methods By GC/LC-Mass Spectrometry: A Review

A literature review was undertaken with a focus on 1) identifying the research gaps regarding CECs, 2) identifying the most common ones, and 3) identifying the typical analytical methods/technologies employed, for their analysis. A total of 214 papers were noted, with a total of 21 review articles (9.8%). Of this total, a surprisingly high number were from South Africa alone: 117 (54.7%), of which 44 (20.6%) reports were associated with South Africa’s Water Research Commission (WRC). The top three CECs research gaps were (decreasing rank: Number of “gaps”, %): 1) Toxicity/Risk/Impact (260, 21.5%), 2) Analysis/Tests/Methods (118, 9.8%) and 2) Future research/studies (118, 9.8%), and 3) Monitoring (89, 7.4%). The common classes of CECs that were reported on, were : (i) Chemical: pharmaceuticals, personal care products, steroids, chlorinated and brominated contaminants, PAHs, PCBs, phthalates, alkyl phenols, herbicides, organochlorine pesticides, engineered nanomaterials and (ii) “Microbiological”: antibiotic resistance genes, human enteric bacteria and viruses, microbial pathogens (e.g., E Coli, rotavirus, Crypto, etc.), infectious biological water contaminants (e.g., E Coli isolates), cyanobacterial blooms (Microcystis). Common test methods used for analysis of the chemical contaminants were found to be chromatography (gas, liquid)-mass spectrometry; for the microbial contaminants, they were culture-based methods, ELISA, fluorescence microscopy, qPCR, RT-qPCR, gel electrophoresis, Raman spectroscopy, and also chromatography (largely liquid)-mass spectrometry, were also used. Some proposals were additionally made to address the very common, significant research gaps noted in CECs research, especially the standardization of analytical chemical test methods, based on chromatography-mass spectrometry, for quantification.

Detection of carbapenem resistance mechanisms among Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) isolated from broiler chickens

Background The emergence and spread of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria pose a serious threat to human health. Currently, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying carbapenem -resistance and their prevalence among APEC in Egypt. The aim of this study was to detect APEC in clinically diseased broiler chickens collected from broilers farms located at Dakahalia governorates, asses their virulence –associated genes, detect the antimicrobial susceptibility of recovered isolates and to detect genes encoding carbapenemase resistant. Methods A total of 100 organ tissue samples subjected to conventional culture technique for isolation of E. coli. The confirmed E. coli were subjected to disc diffusion method for detection their susceptibility to antimicrobials. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for detection of APEC virulence genes (hlyA, iutA, ompT, iss, iroN) and six carbapenem- resistant genes namely, blaIMP, blaVIM, blaKPC, blaOXA-48 blaGES and blaNDM,. Results Forty isolates were confirmed to be E. coli  among them, three or more APEC virulence- genes were detected from all isolates. The hlyA gene was detected in 90% (36/40), iroN in 95% (38/40), ompT in 97.5% (39/40), iutA in 92.5% (35/40) and iss was detected in 95% (38/40) of APEC isolates The tested isolates exhibited a remarkable resistance to ampicillin (97.5%), cefuroxime (92.5%), clindamycin (90%), chloramphenicol (62.5%), doxycycline (45%), amikacin (25%) and ciprofloxacin (12.5%). While, the retrieved isolates displayed 100 % sensitivity against imipenem, meropenem, ertapenem, ceftazidime and colistin. Concerning carbapenemase-encoding genes, blaIMP, blaVIM, blaKPC, blaOXA-48, blaGES  couldn’t be detected among the E. coli isolates, while, blaNDM was confirmed in three isolates . Conclusion The detection of NDM as one of the carbapenem resistant genes reveals that the resistant strains are not only capable of infecting humans, but that carbapenams- resistant E. coli (CREC)  has also started to pose a threat to poultry farm and other livestock animals. This may give rise to worries that these food-carrying creatures could infect humans or colonize them.

Molecular Confirmation of Staphylococci Strain’s Identification Isolated in the Hospital and University Center of Brazzaville, Republic of Congo

Bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus are pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria responsible for various infections, including skin suppuration, which can be severe or chronic. The objective of this study was to confirm Staphylococci strain’s identification isolated by bacteriological methods from biological products of CHU-B patients, by molecular methods based on the analysis of the gene coding for 16S rRNA. In total, 30 strains of Staphylococci were isolated including 8 (26.66%) community strains, 22 (73.33%) hospital strains. The products of the amplification of gene fragments encoding 16S rRNA from 10 strains of Staphylococci including 6 strains of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and 4 Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (CNS) were sequenced. The sequences obtained were subjected to bioinformatics analysis to confirm the results of conventional bacteriological methods. Six (6) S. aureus strains, 2 Staphylococcus haemolyticus strains, 1 uncultured bacterium clone nbw618g09c1, and one Staphylococcus sp. have been identified. These results made it possible to confirm the effectiveness of the molecular method and to show the limits of traditional bacteriological methods in the complete identification of bacteria.

Correlating 13C Isotope in Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins with their Anticancer Properties

Upon considering the anticancer effects of larger oligomeric proanthocyanidins and observing various papers reporting the high resolution mass spectroscopy of the oligomeric proanthocyanidins, it is determined that the unusual 13C enrichment in some plant oligomeric proanthocyanidins may be responsible for the anticancer activities of these food products. Such correlation of the 13C in the oligomeric proanthocyanidins also correlate with their scavenging of free-radicals, anti-virial and anti-bacterial properties. Proanthocyanidins in grape seeds are observed to have high enrichment in heavy isotopes of 2H, 13C, 15N and/or 17O. Mass analysis of DNA from human cancer cells are compared to normal human cells and cancer cells show bond specific enrichment of heavy isotopes in nucleotides G, A, T and C. On such basis, this study suggests possible stronger interactions of proanthocyanidins with DNA in cancer verses DNA in normal cells due to heavy isotope bond specific enrichments in both proanthocyanidins and the cancer DNA. Such 13C interactions from oligomeric proanthocyanidins with nucleic acids and proteins involved in replications, transcriptions and translations in cancer cells for interacting and chemically altering anabolism and cell division of the cancer cells are consistent with the author’s mechanism for normal cell to cancer cell transformations via possible replacements of primordial 1H, 12C, 14N, 16O, and 24Mg isotopes by nonprimordial 2H, 13C, 15N, and 17O and 25Mg isotopes in the proteins and nucleic acids. Such is also consistent with the proposed treatment for cancer by the author by use of foods containing proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and/or drug molecules enriched with the nonprimordial isotopes of 2H, 13C, 15N, and 17O and 25Mg.

Integrated Management of Sclerotinia Sclerotiorum, An Emerging Fungal Pathogen Causing White Mold Disease

Sclerotiniasclerotiorum, the causal agent for white mold (Sclerotinia stem rot), is a devastating fungal pathogen. Currently, Sclerotinia is most commonly managed using the chemical fungicide which can lead to Sclerotinia resistance development, impacting biodiversity and interfering with key ecosystem services. In this regards, field experiments were conducted during 2017-18 planting seasons to evaluate the efficacy of different components viz. sawdust burning, stable bleaching powder, fungal and bacterial bio-control agents, chemical fungicide Rovral 50 WP and integration of different components for the management white mold disease of bush bean, mustard and garden pea in three different locations viz. in the field of Plant Pathology Division, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Joydebpur, Gazipur, Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Burirhat, Rangpur and RARS, Ishurdi, Pabna, respectively. The results showed that different treatments displayed varying levels of effectiveness against the disease. All the treatments gave satisfactory reduction of white mold disease development and increased plant growth as well as yield of bush bean, mustard and garden pea. Among the treatments, integration of saw dust burning + soil amendments with Trichoderma based bio-fungicide + bacillus based bio-control agents + application fungicide Rovral 50 WP is the best treatment which reduced 97.49%, 77.72%, 72.26% white mold disease incidence and 84.61%, 81.14%, 71.01% white mold disease severity of mustard, bush bean and garden pea, respectively and increasing plant growth parameter as well as 52.16%, 27.74%, 36.97% yield of mustard, bush bean and garden pea, respectively. Application of only fungicide Rovral 50 WP also better treatment in reduction of white mold disease incidence and disease severity and increasing plant growth parameter as well as increasing yield of mustard, bush bean and garden pea. Soil amendment with fungal or bacterial bio-control agents also gave satisfactory results in reduction of white mold disease incidence and disease severity and increasing plant growth parameter as well as increasing yield of mustard, bush bean and garden pea. It could be concluded from the obtained results that integration between bio-control agents as a soil treatment and foliar application chemical fungicide might be useful as a good tool for controlling white mold disease caused by S.sclerotiorum and obtained higher yield of bush bean, mustard and garden pea under field condition.

Late Onset Meningitis in Post Traumatic Temporal Meningoencephalocele

Temporal lobe meningoencephalocele is an uncommon anomaly in the face. As brain tissue herniate through the dural imperfection, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or a mass will appear in the mastoid, middle ear or the both. Here we present a 10 years old boy with right lobe temporal meningoencephalocele which results in CSF leakage and manifested with bacterial meningitis. He had a history of head trauma and bone fracture 3 years ago. In surgery the defect repaired and the patient showed improvement.

Attenuation of Microcystins Using Electron Beams and Gamma Radiation: A Study with Environment-Bound Conditions

Microcystins (MCs) are toxins profusely synthesized by cyanobacteria, causing livestock poisonings and endangering human health. We design and execute an experiment to investigate the attenuation (degradation) of microcystins by exposing them to gamma radiation and electron beams at doses of 0 (control), 3, 5, 10 and 15 kGy. The experimental conditions simulate microcystin contamination of aquatic environments; we thus consider (1) microcystins inside whole cells and extracellular dissolved in water, simulated by non-sonicated and sonicated cells, respectively, and (2) two acute microcystin concentrations within water. Toxicity tests of Microcystis aeruginosa detected immobilization (i.e., paralysis) of Ceriodaphniasilvestrii exposed to aqueous crude extracts of irradiated and non-irradiated M. aeruginosa (NPLJ-4 strain) at concentrations of 45 and 90 mg.L-1 (mg dry weight of freeze-dried material), and the results were analyzed using the Trimmed Spearman-Karber statistical program to obtain 48-h EC50, the average effective concentration causing immobility in 50% of organisms after 48 hours. We conclude that electron beams are effective physical agents for toxin attenuation (degradation) and reach 100% effectiveness at 5 kGy and above; their efficiency is two orders of magnitude greater than that of gamma radiation. This new body of information contributes to (1) remediating environmental water sources; (2) designing water/wastewater treatment facilities; (3) combatting chronic microcystin environmental contamination; and (4) inspiring further studies to promote the use of biomonitors (e.g., Cladocerans) to detect and evaluate microalgae contamination.

Structural Characterization and Isotopic Abundance Ratio Analysis of the Consciousness Energy Healing Treated Ofloxacin

Ofloxacin is an antibiotic, useful against the number of bacterial infections. This scientific investigation was performed to identify the impact of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment on the structural properties and the isotopic abundance ratio of ofloxacin using sophisticated analytical techniques. Ofloxacin sample was divided into control and treated parts. Only the treated ofloxacin received the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment remotely by a well-known Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The LC-MS spectra of both the samples of ofloxacin at retention time 3 minutes exhibited the mass of the protonated molecular ion peak at m/z 362.17 (M+H)+. The chromatographic peak area% of the treated ofloxacin (52.4%) was increased by 2.03% compared to the control sample (51.36%). The LC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM in the Biofield Treated ofloxacin was significantly increased by 22.43% compared with the control sample. Similarly, the GC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM in the Biofield Treated ofloxacin was significantly increased by 19.24% compared with the control sample. The LC-MS and GC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 15N/14N or 13C/12C or 17O/16O) was significantly increased in the Biofield Treated ofloxacin as compared to the control sample. Thus,2H, 15N, 13C, and17O contributions from (C18H21FN3O4)+ to m/z 363.17 in the treated ofloxacin were significantly increased compared with the control sample. The increased isotopic abundance ratio of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treated ofloxacin may increase the intra-atomic bond strength and increase its physical stability. The new form of treated ofloxacin would be more stable, better soluble, and bioavailable compared to the control sample. It would be more useful to design efficacious pharmaceutical formulations that might offer better therapeutic response against infections in the urethra, urinary tract, gonorrhoea, pneumonia, infectious diarrhoea, bronchitis, cellulitis, bacterial infection of the eye and ear, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, prostatitis, otitis media, plague, etc.  

Overview of HIV Prevention among In-school Adolescents in the Rural Areas of Abia State of Nigeria

Introduction HIV prevention services to in-school adolescents need good planning and management. HIV risk reduction interventions are geared toward measuring sexual risk behaviour outcomes of adolescents that predispose them to HIV infection. The sexual behaviour of adolescents, especially in-school adolescents should be assessed in the process. Adolescents have been identified as the most vulnerable group for acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and as such, measures should be taken to prevent them from infection. One important reason for higher HIV prevalence among adolescents, especially girls, is the frequent practice of age-discrepant partnering, where older men, who are more likely to be infected with HIV, form sexual partners with younger girls. The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge and sexual behaviour of in-school adolescents in the prevention of HIV and AIDs in rural areas of Abia State. Materials and Methods This is a descriptive cross-sectional survey that was conducted between January and March 2020. Information was collected from 66 students of a community secondary school in the state. Participants were selected by a multi-stage sampling method and data were obtained using a semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire. Results Respondents consisted of 40(60.6%) females and 26(39.4%) males with ages ranging from 13 to 19. Some of the respondents 28 (42.4%), are living with parents while 24(36.4%) live with close relatives. A good number of the respondents 39(59.1%), accepted that their friends are HIV positive. Majority of them 49(74.2%) have not been approached for sexual relationships. About 17(25.8%) of the respondents accepted that they have boyfriends and girlfriends. Out of this number, 12(18.2%) of them said they have been approached for sex and only 2(3%) of them accepted having sexual relationships with the opposite sex. Finding showed that only 1(1.5%) of the respondents claimed to have ever used condoms during sex. Of the sexually active respondents, 49(74.2%) of them are aware that HIV is a virus infection caused by having multiple sex partners while 14(21.2%) were not sure whether HIV is a virus or bacterial infection. Conclusion The study revealed a gap in the knowledge of HIV prevention as well as inappropriate sexual behaviour among the respondents. Therefore, meaningful strategies that will be culturally sensitive to modify adolescent sexual risk behaviours should be adopted.

The Olive Quick Decline Syndrome: A Syndemic Outbreak in the Apulia Region, Southern Italy

Since a decade in Apulia, south-east of Italy, an increasing number of olive trees developed the quick decline syndrome (OQDS) leading to partial or total dessication of the canopy and subsequent death. Currently six million of olive trees show the symptoms of the decline, despite the mitigation measures which were undertaken to contrast the progression of the dessication. Associated with the syndrome, several phytopathogenic fungi were detected in the rhizosphere, endosphere and phyllosphere of the trees, along with the phytopathogenic bacterium Xylellafastidiosasubsp. pauca. Alongside, other pathogenic events were clearly identified, mostly defeating soil resilience: salinization, pollution, erosion, decline of biodiversity. Further events include delays in the adoption of appropriate mitigation measures not directed to challenge solely a bacterial pathogen, misuse of the territory, erratic agronomic management practices. The OQDS impacted also societal aspects. All the above concurrent causes strongly suggest that (1) the olive quick decline in Apulia is not a too symplistic epidemic outbreak due to a bacterium, but rather a syndemic outbreak formed by several diverse biotic and abiotic pathologies and (2) only a more holistic approach can help coping with the uncertainties and difficulties of an enduring co- existance with this syndemic events.

Analysis of Isotopic Abundance Ratio of Consciousness Energy Healing Treated Metronidazole Using LC-MS and GC-MS Spectrometry

Metronidazole is an antibiotic and useful for the antibacterial and antiprotozoal medication. This study was performed to investigate the impact of the Trivedi Effect®-Biofield Energy Healing Treatment on the structural properties and the isotopic abundance ratio of metronidazole using LC-MS and GC-MS spectroscopy. Metronidazole sample was divided into two parts, one part of metronidazole was considered as control (no Biofield Energy Treatment was provided), while the second part was treated with the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Alice Branton and termed as a treated sample. The LC-MS spectra of both the samples of metronidazole at the retention time (Rt) 2.61 minutes exhibited the mass of the protonated molecular ion peak at m/z 172 M+H+ (calculated for C6H10N3O3+, 172.07). The LC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 13C/12C or 15N/214N or 17O/16O) in the treated metronidazole was significantly increased by 8.24% compared with the control sample. Thus,13C, 2H, 15N,and17O contributions from (C6H10N3O3)+ to m/z 173 in the treated sample were significantly increased compared with the control sample. The GC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM in the treated metronidazole was significantly increased by 5.92% compared with the control sample. Hence,13C, 2H, 15N, and217O contributions from (C6H9N3O3)+ to m/z 172 in the Biofield Energy Treated sample were significantly increased compared with the control sample. However, the isotopic abundance ratio of PM+2/PM in the treated metronidazole was significantly decreased by 18.2% compared with the control sample. Hence,18O contributions from (C6H9N3O3)+ to m/z 173 in the treated sample were significantly decreased compared with the control sample. The isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 13C/12C or 15N/14N or 17O/16O) and PM+2/PM (18O/16O) in the treated metronidazole was significantly altered compared to the control sample. From the results, it can be hypothesized that the changes in isotopic abundance and mass peak intensities could be due to changes in nuclei possibly through the interference of neutrino particles via the Trivedi Effect® - Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment. The new form of treated metronidazole would be better designing novel pharmaceutical formulations that might offer better therapeutic response against bacterial and protozoal infection in the vagina (bacterial vaginosis), stomach (giardiasis, trichomoniasis, pseudomembranous colitis), joints (pelvic inflammatory disease), liver, skin, brain, and respiratory tract, aspiration pneumonia, rosacea, intra-abdominal infections, lung abscess, fungating wounds, periodontitis, amoebiasis, oral infections, etc.

Covid-19 Virus Sterilization Oven Based on Combination Between Ultraviolet and Infrared Emissions

The world is countering an unexpected wide spread of Covid-19 virus. Among the procedures used to prevent spreading the virus are classical and modern sterilization methods. In this paper, we combine the use of ultraviolet emissions, as a modern method, with the infrared emissions that generates high temperature, as a classical method, to design and implement a sterilization oven. Ultraviolet emissions have the ability to destroy the RNA of the virus while the infrared emissions destroy the virus membrane. Test was performed on indicators contains +ve gram rod bacteria which is stronger than the Covid-19 virus in high temperature and UV emission tolerant. Results showed that the UV emissions killed the microorganism in 15 minutes. However, combination between the UV and IR emissions in a sterilization oven succeeded to kill the under test microorganism in five minutes. The combination between the two sources of emission guarantees an effective sterilization process against bacteria, fungus, and viruses. Moreover, it speeds up the sterilization process time.

Aerobic Plate Count of Contaminants and Molecular Characterization of Eschereichia Coli in Raw Chicken Meat in Ismailia, Egypt

A total number of 100 samples from ten random broiler chicken carcasses (breast and thigh) were collected from an automatic poultry slaughtering plant in Ismailia city, Egypt. The mean values of Enterobacteriacae count were 5.9x104±9.7x103 cfu/g and 7.1x 104 ± 1.1x104 cfu/g for chicken breast and thigh samples respectively. The prevalence of E.coli were 12% and 9% breast and thigh samples examined, respectively. They are serologically identified as 33.35 and 22.2% O157:H7 (EHEC) , 16.6% and 11.1% O114:H21(EPEC), 16.6% and 33.3 %O127:H6 (ETEC) , 0% and 0% O126 (ETEC) and 33.3% and 0% O26 (EHEC) for breast and thigh samples, respectively. The incidence of E.coli O157:H7 was 100% in both serological and PCR methods from biochemical positive E.coli samples. Culture is specific and cheap whereas PCR is sensitive and expensive, hence, we recommend both culture and molecular methods, which improve sensitivity and specificity, to enhance detection of foodborne pathogens including E.coli.

Cloning, Expression and Characterization of the α-glucuronidase from the Hyperthermophile DictyoglomusturgidumDSM 6724Ô

Conversion of biomass into fermentable sugars is a major requirement for successful and cost-effective biofuels production. The conversion of xylan to sugars requires multiple enzymes including α-glucuronidase. Here we report the cloning, expression, purification and characterization of the α-glucuronidase from Dictyoglomusturgidum(DtuAgu). DtuAgu is an intracellular protein of 685 amino acids and a predicted molecular weight of 79.4 kD. Enzymatic activity was optimum between pH 7.0 and 8.0 and at 85°C. The specific activity of the enzyme was 10 u/mg when measured using mixed aldouronic acids. The specific activity on isolated glucuronoxylan was approximately 20% of the value obtained with xylooligosaccharides. DtuAgu significantly improved xylan conversion to xylose when evaluated using two mixtures of thermostable bacterial enzymes and two sources of xylan. DtuAgu has the potential to be a key player in thermostable enzyme cocktails for the conversion to biomass to biofuels.α

Bacteriological Quality of Groundwater in Imiringi Town, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

This study evaluated the bacteriological quality of groundwater from Imiringi in Ogbia Local government area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Groundwater samples were obtained in triplicates from four locations in the study area and analyzed for the bacteria quality using standard protocols. Results showed that the microbial density ranged from 2.97 – 6.03 x 104 cfu/ml (for total heterotrophic bacteria counts), 4.17 – 5.43 x 102 cfu/ml (for Enterobacteriaceae bacteria counts) and 0.00 – 1.48 x 102 cfu/ml (for Salmonella-Shigella counts). Statistically, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) across the various locations for each of the parameters. The density observed were higher than the allowable limit of 1.0 x 102 cfu/ml for drinking water as recommended by World Health Organization/Food and Agricultural Organization, and maximum permissible level of 10cfu/ml for total coliform as specified by Standard Organization of Nigeria. The prevalence of bacteria isolated in the water samples were Aeromonas species (8.00%), Citrobacter species (7.50%), Escherichiacoli (20.75%), Klebsiella species (5.50%), Pseudomonas species (12.00%), Salmonella species (2.25%), Shigella species (3.25%) and Staphylococcus species (40.75%). From the bacteria density and diversity, the water is not potable. Some of the bacterial found are of public health importance. Hence, there is a need to adequately treat the water using chlorination and boiling techniques before drinking.

The Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19): A Narrative Review

One of the key steps in determining how to prevent the viral disease is to identify the virus. The virus lives in different ways and in different environments. It lives in the air, in the sea, on plants, animals and objects and humans. Some people put humans on the path of developing zoonotic diseases that are specific to animals but also involve people with unhealthy behaviors. In the food chain, each animal is hunted by other animals and feeds on other animals or plants and other objects. Bacteriophages are viruses that kill bacteria. And there are creatures that kill viruses and this is the biological struggle with viruses. When the virus enters the body, it performs a series of activities that lead to a series of symptoms in the patient. These symptoms include the behavior of viruses. These are among the ecological and behavioral characteristics of viruses that need to be fully understood in order to limit viruses and deal with epidemics and pandemics. In this study, we try to reach a conclusion by reviewing the articles that have information about the behavioral (signs and symptoms) and ecological characteristics of viruses and use these findings in order to combat viruses.

Biodegradation of Malathion Using Pseudomonas stutzeri(MTCC 2643)

Pesticides are applied in agricultural fields for controlling pest population to achieve crop protection. But they cause damage to nontarget organisms and affect the quality of environment including water, air and soil. The present study has been designed to test the efficiency of Pseudomonas stutzerion the degradation of malathion. The bacterial strain was subjected to 50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm of malathion in minimal broth for 30 hours and changes in orthophosphate levels, pH and turbidity were monitored for every six hours. Efficiency of free and immobilized cells were compared for orthophosphate release. Influence of different sugars on degradation was also compared. Degradation of 150 ppm of malathion was confirmed with UV-Visible spectrophotometric analysis and HPLC analysis. The data were subjected to two way analysis of variance and the results are discussed. (Graph 1) Graph 1. Graphical Abstract

Pharmacological Importance of Sage and Oregano 

Sage and Oregano, both are well-known culinary herbs with potential medicinal uses. Sage is mostly used to cease wounds bleeding, treating sores, swelling, cough and ulcers back in the first century and was called as the fertility drug since it reduces excessive bleeding during menstruation. On the other hand Oregano was found to be effective in treating stomach discomforts, bacterial/fungal infection, inflammatory bowel disease etc. Therefore due to their therapeutic and native applications, Sage and Oregano is of high economic worth.

Biodegradation of Methyl Parathion Using Pseudomonas stutzeri (MTCC 2643)

Pesticides applied in agricultural fields for crop protection result in the contamination of the environment. They also affect the flora and fauna as well as the quality of air, water and soil. Hence their remediation is of concern. Among different strategies available, microbial remediation is cost effective and ecofriendly. The present work is designed to test the efficiency of Pseudomonas stutzeri, a bacterial strain obtained from MTCC, IMTECH, Chandigarh, India. After treating with 50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm of methyl parathion, parameters like, orthophosphate released, pH and turbidity changes were monitored upto thirty hours. Degradation of 200 ppm concentration was confirmed by UV-Visible spectrophotometry and HPLC analysis. This strain effectively degraded methyl parathion and it can be used in the remediation of contaminated agricultural fields.

Growing Threat Increased Carbapenem-Resistance among Klebsiella pneumoniae; Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Klebsiella pneumoniae in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background The morbidity and mortality associated with the multi drug resistant Gram negative bacterial infections pose a significant and growing challenge to clinical practitioners. Klebsiella pneumoniae, which is a substantial nosocomial pathogen and confer high levels of resistance to broad-spectrum antibiotics including carbapenems. The aim of this study is to determine the resistance profiles of Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from various clinical specimens. Material and Method In this study, the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of 2452 Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from various clinical specimens between July 2015 and November 2019 were considered retrospectively. Blood culture vials were incubated in Bac T / Alert 3D automated system, other samples were cultured on blood and Eosin Methylene-blue (EMB) medium. The identification and antibiotic susceptibility tests of the isolated bacteria were performed by VITEC 2 Compact ID-AST cards (BioMérieux, Marcy l’Etoile, Fransa) and the results were evaluated according to the standards of the Europian Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility testing (EUCAST). The first sample of each patient was included in the study. The strains with inappropriate results were re-studied with gradient agar diffusion test (BioMérieux, Marcy l’Etoile, Fransa). Results The study included a total of 2452 Klebsiella pneumoniae strains and the distribution of samples was as follows: 894 (36, 5 %) blood, 790 (32, 2%) bronchial lavage, 211 (8,6 %) wound, 148 (6 %) drainage, 148 (6 %) peritoneal fluid, 95 (3, 9 %) tracheal aspirates, 64 (2,6%) catheter, 62 (2,5 %) urine, 40 (1,6%) other samples (pleural fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, throat ). In this study, antibiotic susceptibility test results indicated that the resistance to tigecycline was lowest (0, 3%). High colistin resistance ratio (33, 5 %) in carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae was considered to be of concern. Conclusion In this study, high rates of resistance to carbapenems were noteworthy. Determination of hospital antimicrobial resistance rates will be useful in developing antibiotic use policies of each hospital, in the treatment of causative agents, in selecting antibiotics according to antimicrobial susceptibility.

Trichoderma reesei (Hypocrea jecorina) Bgl1 is a Novel, Exo-Acting Glucanase and Xylanase

Trichoderma reeseiβ-glucosidase (Bgl1) is one of four enzymes demonstrated to act synergistically to degrade cellulose both in vitro and in vivo. Our work attempted to better understand the substrate specificity and potential biotechnological applications of Bgl1. T. reesei Bgl1H cleaves over 80% of the β-(1-4) and β-(1-3) linkages in β-glucan and 14% of the β-(1-4) linkages in amorphous cellulose, significantly more than any tested bacterial β-glucosidase. Bgl1H cleaves 50% of the β-(1-4) linkages in xyloglucan when supplemented with cellulase and α-xyloside. Approximately 20% conversion to glucose was obtained from insoluble β-(1,3)-linked curdlan using only Bgl1H; addition of a curdlanase resulted in conversion of approximately 70% of the curdlan to glucose. Bgl1H also produces xylose from xylooligosaccharides and debranched xylans. For both glucans and xylans, the relative rates of hydrolysis increase with increasing polysaccharide chain lengths. Bgl1H is able to partially degrade β-glucan in a variety of grain components; addition of endo-acting enzymes improved the enzyme’s performance on these grain components. The ability of this enzyme to produce monosaccharides from undigestible polysaccharides suggest it may have potential in improving utilization of carbohydrates in animal feed, fermentations, and other biotechnological applications.

Evaluation of the Impact of Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment on the Isotopic Abundance Ratios (PM+1/PM and PM+2/PM) of Ofloxacin

Ofloxacin is a class of fluorinated quinolone antibiotics, useful against most of the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial infections. This study was designed to investigate the impact of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment on the structural properties and the isotopic abundance ratio of ofloxacin using LC-MS and GC-MS spectroscopy. Ofloxacin sample was divided into control and treated parts. The control ofloxacin did not receive the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment, while the treated ofloxacin receives the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Dahryn Trivedi. The LC-ESI-MS spectra of both the samples of ofloxacin at the retention time 3.05 minutes exhibited the mass of the protonated molecular ion peak at m/z 362.17 (M+H)+ (calculated for C18H21FN3O4+, 362.15). The LC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM in the treated ofloxacin was significantly increased by 56.57% compared with the control sample. Thus, 2H, 15N, 13C, and 17O contributions from (C18H21FN3O4)+ to m/z 363.17 in the treated ofloxacin were considerably increased compared with the control sample. The GC-MS based isotopic abundance ratios of PM+1/PM and PM+2/PM in the treated ofloxacin was significantly increased by 9.53% and 12.94%, respectively compared with the control sample. Hence, 2H, 15N, 13C, 17O, and 18O contributions from (C18H21FN3O4)+ to m/z 318 and 319 in the treated ofloxacin were significantly increased compared with the control sample. The LC-MS and GC-MS based isotopic abundance ratios of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 15N/14N or 13C/12C or 17O/16O), and PM+2/PM (18O/16O) in the treated ofloxacin were considerably improved compared to the control sample. The increased isotopic abundance ratio of the treated ofloxacin would increase the chemical bond strength and increase the stability in the body. The new form of treated ofloxacin would be more stable compared to the control sample and would be very useful to design improved pharmaceutical formulations that might offer better therapeutic response against infections of the urethra and cervix, infectious diarrhoea, urinary tract infections, cellulitis, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, prostatitis, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, plague, otitis media, etc.

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) Time–Resolved Absorption and Resonance FT–IR and Raman Biospectroscopy and Density Functional Theory (DFT) Investigation of Vibronic–Mode Coupling Structure in Vibrational Spectra Analysis

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a potent neurotoxin. Its name derives from Tetraodontiformes, an order that includes pufferfish, porcupinefish, ocean sunfish, and triggerfish; several of these species carry the toxin. Although tetrodotoxin was discovered in these fish and found in several other aquatic animals (e.g., in blue–ringed octopuses, rough–skinned newts, and moon snails), it is actually produced by certain infecting or symbiotic bacteria like Pseudoalteromonas, Pseudomonas, and Vibrio as well as other species found in animals. Parameters such as FT–IR and Raman vibrational wavelengths and intensities for single crystal Tetrodotoxin (TTX)are calculated using density functional theory and were compared with empirical results. The investigation about vibrational spectrum of cycle dimers in crystal with carboxyl groups from each molecule of acid was shown that it leads to create Hydrogen bounds for adjacent molecules. The current study aimed to investigate the possibility of simulating the empirical values. Analysis of vibrational spectrum of Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is performed based on theoretical simulation and FT–IR empirical spectrum and Raman empirical spectrum using density functional theory in levels of F/6–31G*, HF/6–31++G**, MP2/6–31G, MP2/6–31++G**, BLYP/6–31G, BLYP/6–31++G**, B3LYP/6–31G and B3LYP6–31–HEG**. Vibration modes of methylene, carboxyl acid and phenyl cycle are separately investigated. The obtained values confirm high accuracy and validity of results obtained from calculations. Molecular structure of Tetrodotoxin (TTX) 1–42.

Porphyromonas Gingivalis Response to Ultrasonication

Introduction Ultrasound technology has previously been applied for cataract removal and tennis elbow treatment. Recent data supports the use of ultrasonic debridement in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. No data is available concerning the potential antibacterial properties of a clinical grade, lower energy ultrasound probe. We investigated the effect of a ultrasonic probe with respect to P gingivalis bacterial viability. Methods A Tenex Tx1 probe with standard settings for clinical use was used for this study. A Gram negative (Porphyromonasgingivalis) bacteria, known for its pathological activity, was investigated. The bacteria was cultured in an anaerobic broth, re-suspended to achieve a consistent bacterial count, and 5ml of this re-suspension was placed in a test tube for testing. Each tube was sonicated with the Tx1 probe for varying lengths of time (10, 30, 60, 120 seconds). The sonicated was diluted and plated on blood-agar plates, followed by incubation for 48 hours at 37°C in an anaerobic growth chamber. The number of colony forming units were counted, on each plate and the anti-bacterial effect was calculated. A one way analysis of variance was performed for statistical analysis. Results A significant time-dependent antibacterial effect was demonstrated with sonication. When comparing the kill rate between the control and 120 seconds of sonication P Gingivalis had a 64% kill rate. This was the only statistically significant time comparison achieved, although the trend for all the time intervals was a reduction in the colony forming unit counts. Conclusion This study demonstrates that a clinically available ultrasonic probe (Tenex Tx1) has an antibacterial effect against the gram negative anaerobic bacterial species P gingivalis. Complete deactivation was not achieved, and there was a variation in effect dependent on the time of active sonication, with greater sonication times leading to greater kill rates. This data may partially help to explain the ability for ultrasonic debridement to result in the healing of long standing diabetic ulcers, that have been recalcitrant to other forms of treatment.

Quantification of Micrornas by Absolute Dpcr for the Diagnostic Screening of Colon Cancer

There is currently no validated micro(mi)RNA diagnostic stool test to screen for colon cancer (CC) on the market because of the complexity of fecal density, vulnerability of stool to daily changes, and the presence of three sources of miRNAs in stool (cell-free from fecal homogenates, exsosomal miRNAs from fecal exosomes, and fecal colonocytes). To address these complexities, we have first carried out a microarray miRNA experiment, using Affymetrix GeneChip miRNA 2.0 Arrays, on immunocaptured and enriched stool colonocytes of 15 subjects (three healthy controls and twelve colon cancer patients [three TNM stage 0-1 (e.g., polyps◻ ³ 1 cm, villous or tubvillous, or with high grade dysplasia), three stage 2, three stage 3, and three stage 4 in triplicates to select a smaller panel of 14 preferentially expressed mature miRNAs associated with colon cancer (12 Up-Regulated, miR-19a, miR-20a, miR-21, miR-31, miR-34a, miR-96, miR-106a, miR-133a, miR-135b, miR-206, miR-224 and miR-302; and 2 Down-Regulated, miR-143 and miR-145). In a subsequent validation study carried out on total small RNA extracted by immunocapture, followed by RT that employed TaqMan® miRNA Reverse Transcription (RT) Kit and a Custom TaqMan RT Primer Pool, absolute quantification of miRNAs, in copies/µl, was measured using a chip-based Absolute QuantStudio 3D Digital PCR analysis. To ensure that we have chosen human and not bacterial small total RNA, we have carried out coextraction protocols with E. coli K1 strain RS18, compare Agilent electrophoretic patterns, and also sequenced random samples throughout this research using mRNA/miRNA sequencing. Our initial quantitative dPCR miRNA data presented herein showe that the quantitative changes in the expression of a few mature miRNA genes in stool, which are associated with right and left colon cancer, would provide for a more convenient, sensitive and specific diagnostic screening markers thatare more useful than those test markers currently available on the market, such as the low-sensitivity (<15%) fecal occult blood test (FOBT); result in better compliance; and is more economical than the invasive and expensive colonoscopy exam in colon cancer, which can be cured if that cancer is detected at the early TNM stages, and that becomes incurable and deadly if not diagnosed before metastasis. Initial test performance characteristics of the miRNA approach showed that the test has a high numerical predictive value in colon cancer. Moreover, underpinning of the miRNA markers as a function of total RNA showed that the test can numerically differentiate between control subjects and colon cancer patients, particularly at the early stages of that curable cancer. We propose to extend our initial research results to a larger prospective and randomized five-years nested case-control study, to validate the expression of the above 14 miRNAs, in stool of 180 individuals in an epidemiologically designed study, using (30 controls and 150 colon cancer patients (thirty precancerous polyps (stage 0-1), forty five stage 2, and seventy-five colon cancer stages 3 or 4). chosen randomly by an epidemiological method from 900 control and CC subjects to allow for an adequate time to collect the required 900 stool samples, as well as allowing for statistically valid analysis, standardized test conditions, and to provide a mean for determining the true sensitivity and specificity of a miRNA-screening approach in noninvasive human stool. Power-analysis has indicated that a total of 180 individuals, which will take us 5 years to enroll in testing, is an appropriate number of subjects to standardize and validate our proposed miRNA screening test. We may find out at the end of the proposed validation study in stool that fewer miRNAs, or even one miRNA, may suffice to serve as an efficient and a quantitative marker for the non-invasive diagnostic screening of colon cancer in human stool. The above approach when combined with bioinformatics analysis, to correlate miRNA seed data with our previously published messenger (m)RNA target data in stool, allows for a thorough mechanistic understanding of how miRNA genes regulate mRNA expression, and would offer a better comprehensive diagnostic screening test for the non-invasive early detection stage (0-1) of colon cancer. In order to show the clinical sensitivity and specificity of the proposed miRNA test, the absolute miRNA PCR values, in copies/µl, will be correlated with FOBT, colonoscopy, and pathology data. Standardization will establish test’s performance characteristics (sample selection, optimal sample running conditions, preservation and storage) to ensure that the assay will perform the same way in any laboratory, by any trained personnel, anywhere in the World. Ultimately, a smaller number of selected validated miRNAs (<10) showing increased and reduced expression could suffice to give quantitative miRNAs colon cancer expression values, useful for the early diagnostic screening of that curable cancer.

Investigation of Antimicrobial Activity of the Extracts of the Leaves, Stembark and Root of Allanblackia floribunda: An Alternative Paradigm Shift Outcome.

Over the years, plants have been a major source of medicines, especially in the rural areas of the developing communities, with probably lack of functional health care facilities and trained health care personnel on hand for emergency medical response. However, with the dynamics and improvement in science and medicine, chemically synthesized drugs were being introduced and used to treat myriad of critical illnesses across board. Nonetheless, these were further strengthened owing to the increasing trend of drug resistance outcome, especially by the emerging and re-emerging infectious microorganisms. Thus, in the light of the above, there is a gradual but increasing steady return to the use of plants as sources of medicine and treatment of antibiotic resistance pathogens and illness across the globe. This study therefore, explores the use of antimicrobial activity of the leaves, stembark and root of Allanblackia floribunda on four bacterial isolates namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. Methylated spirit, ethanol and distilled water were used as the extraction solvents differently. Ethanol extracts proved to be a better solvent compared with the other two while the extracts from distilled water were not active against any of the isolates. However, all the three ethanol extracts were more active against S. aureus while Pseudomonas sp. showed a higher level of resistance to the extracts. The leaves and root of the plant were more active on most of the isolates compared with the stembark as shown in the results section.  

How Knowledge on Microbiota may be Helpful to Establish an Optimal Diet for Health Maintenance

In the last few years, gut microbiota has been identified to be an essential mediator in health and disease. In fact, it interacts with various organs and systems in the body, including brain, lung, liver, bone, cardiovascular system, and others. Microbiota-derived metabolites such as the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate are primary signals, which link the gut microbiota and physiology. Then, the findings on the roles of microbiota profoundly change not only the key concepts of biology and medicine, but also of nutrition. In fact, it is currently evident how the main task of nutrition is not to nourish us, but to maintain a comfortable environment for the intestinal microbiota. In this way, it works in symbiosis with us, correctly controlling the functioning of the organs, the physiological parameters and the cellular regenerative processes. It is also evident that the strength of reparative processes correlates with the ability of digestive system to process complex foods, which increases during weaning, a period of time in which the diversity of bacterial strains increases. Therefore, a task of food is to keep trained the digestive system, to which it corresponds an high microbiota diversity. Elderly leads to reduced microbiota diversity to which corresponds an intestinal frailty, responsible for the frailty of the elderly. In conclusion, a correct diet may not only keep us in good health but may also guarantee us longer longevity.

Physiological Features of Pennisetum Purpureum or Panicum Maximum Consumption in Guinea Pigs (Cavia Porcellus)

Guinea pig diet is essentially based on the use of grasses associated with protein sources. Then, in to improve the herbivores nutrition, the evaluation of intake and In vivo digestibility of Pennisetum purpureum or Panicum maximum in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) was carried out in January 2017 at the University of Dschang research and experimental farm and animal production and nutrition laboratory. 20 adult animals of local breed on average weight 450 ± 50g and aged about 5 months were used. They were organized into two batches of 10 animals each (5 males and 5 females). The first batch received 250g of fresh matter of Pennisetum purpureum + 60g concentrate/animal/day, while the second received the same treatment with Panicum maximum as grasses. Leftover and animals were weighed every morning before food distributions, and drinking water containing vitamin C was served ad libitum. According to the results, the highest ingestion was obtained with Panicum maximum. However, the digestibility different nutrients was comparable between treatments; nevertheless, males fed on P. maximum digested crude cellulose (63.78%) better than males fed on P. purpureum (51.17%). With regard to the variation of the bacterial rate of the caecal flora, enterobacteria of animals fed P. maximum was high (11.20 CFU/ml) compared to those of the animals receiving P. purpureum (7.27 CFU/ml), although regardless of the treatment, the level of lactobacilli was higher than that of enterobacteria. In view of the results obtained, these grasses can be alternatively used in feeding guinea pigs.

In Vitro Assessment of Estrogenic Potential of Biofield Energy Treatment using Human Endometrial Adenocarcinoma Cell Line

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of Consciousness Energy Healing based DMEM medium on the level of alkaline phosphatase enzyme (ALP) activity in Ishikawa cells. The test item, DMEM medium was divided into two parts. One part of the test item received Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mahendra Kumar Trivedi and was labeled as the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM, while the other part did not receive any treatment, and defined as the untreated DMEM group. The cell viability using MTT assay of the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM group was observed as 108%, which indicated that the test item was safe and non-toxic. The estrogenic potential using ALP level showed a significantly increase by 73.21% in the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM group as compared to the untreated DMEM group. Overall, the experimental data suggested that the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM has significantly improved ALP level, which play a vital role for the promotion and maintenance of estrogen level. Based on the study outcomes, it is concluded that Biofield Energy Healing Treatment showed a significant improved ALP level, which can be used in various estrogenic disorders such as hypophosphatasia, osteoporosis, severe anemia, malnutrition, hypothyroidism, magnesium deficiency, heart surgery, aplastic anemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia, enteritis in children, Wilson’s disease, pernicious anemia, bacterial infection and intrauterine infection is a leading cause of pelvic inflammatory disease, subfertility, infertility, endometritis, early pregnancy loss, fetal defects, and preterm birth.

The Development and Evaluation of A Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for the Detection of ESBL Genes in Urinary Tract Infections

Background Overuse of beta-lactam antibiotics has lead to selection for extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacteriaceae, a major cause of antibiotic resistant urinary tract infections (UTIs). Standard detection methods are time-consuming, with disputed accuracy. This study describes a novel real-time PCR method to detect CTX-M, SHV, OXA and TEM. Methods 179 Enterobacteriaceae isolates from UTIs were collected from the Leicester Royal Infirmary, UK. A multiplex Plexor®-based real-time PCR assay detected ESBLs using their specific amplicon melting temperature, during each cycle, removing the need for a melt-curve analysis. Validation was achieved by end-point PCR and disk diffusion. Results The method was able to produce rapid and accurate results, achieving a sensitivity and specificity of 94.9% and 72% respectively, and the assay can differentiate between the different ESBL genes, with ease. Conclusions With further investigation, a Plexor®-based assay could form the basis of a high-throughput kit that health services could use to detect ESBLs or other antibiotic resistance genes.

Lipid Components in the Dynamin Fraction Prepared from Rat Brain

Membrane dynamics in the presynaptic region of the neuron is a key process of neuronal signal transduction. Dynamin plays a central part during endocytosis participating in the deformation of membrane structure and constriction. During the study of molecular interaction of presynaptic proteins, we found that dynamin fraction prepared from brain extract contains several lipid components. Fractionation of lipids with thin layer chromatography and mass-analysis showed the presence of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, cerebroside, cholesterol and its-derivatives, and triacylglycerol. Since the GTPase activity of bacterially expressed dynamin was activated by the extracted lipid fraction, lipid components that affect the GTPase activity of dynamin was screened and cerebroside, hydroxycholesterols, cholesterol, and triacylglycerol were found to activate the GTPase activity. This result not only suggests the possibility that several neutral lipids participate in the membrane dynamics, but also revealed the possibility that a protein fraction contains lipid components even if its purity was confirmed with SDS-PAGE.

Sulfonamides: Historical Discovery Development (Structure-Activity Relationship Notes)

Sulfonamide group is a magic group introduced as the main core for different bio-activities in drug industry. According to its substitutes, literature divides sulfonamide derivatives to antibacterial sulfonamides and non-anti-bacterial sulfonamides. As Data was collected from different sources such as Drug Bank.com and Pubchem.com databases and then was analyzed, we found that these compounds are different in their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics; in addition to their sulfa cross allergy property. We presented these differences from these compounds changes in their chemical structure, in a way to build a solid base that can be depended on for developing new drugs from these compounds that interact with different receptors.

Physico-Chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Water from Boreholes in Otuoke Community, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

The concern over exposure to drinking water contaminated and the resultant adverse effect on human health has prompted several studies evaluating the quality of drinking water sources. This study was carried out to determine the bacteriological and Physico-chemical qualities of commercial borehole water within Otuoke community in Bayelsa state Nigeria. Ten (10) water samples were collected from the various locations designated as (A-J). The Physico-chemical parameters were determined by using the photometric technique through the Colour Q photometer and the bacteriological analysis was determined by using aerobic plate method. The Physico-chemical parameters of the water samples analysed were within the acceptable limit of WHO standard of drinking water quality except for Bromine and cyanuric acid which ranged from 1.6±0.1 to 2.7±0.1 and 2±1 to 9±1 respectively. The Result of total bacteria count obtained from the borehole water samples ranged from 1.1 x 105cfu/ml to 6.9 x 105cfu/ml and there was no detected growth for the faecal coliform count of most of the samples except for BHW-I and BHW-J which had 1.3 x 104 to 7.9 x 104 respectively. Bacteria isolated and identified using conventional biochemical test include E. coli (17.9%), Klebsiella spp. (35.7%), Salmonella spp(25.0%), Enterobacter aerogenes (21.4%) The study therefore suggests that all the borehole water tested in Otuoke and environs are considered unsafe for consumption and therefore regular treatment before usage is recommended.

Lipopolysaccharide Prompts Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Rats’ Testicular Tissue

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a component of the outer membrane of gram negative bacteria. LPS challenging allows switching transcription of proinflammatory cytokines on via over stimulation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) signaling pathway with subsequent pathogenic inflammatory response. We investigated the possible reproductive toxicity of LPS in male Wister albino rats. Oxidative stress markers, antioxidant status and caspase-3 activity were analyzed in testicular tissues of rats exposed to either saline or LPS (4 mg/kg BW, ip; 0.18 of the LD50). The samples were collected at 6 h and 72 h after injection of LPS. A significant reduction in testicular reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was observed at 72 h compared to control group. Total antioxidant capacity was decreased at 6 h with additional significant reduction at 72 h. Catalase activity was reduced significantly at both 6 and 72 h. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was increased (P ≤ 0.05) in LPS injected rats without variation between 6 and 72 h. A significant increase in nitric oxide (NO) was observed at 72 h after injection. A time-dependent increase in LPS-treated groups was observed in the concentration of caspase-3.Histopathological analysis revealed degenerative changes and necrosis of seminiferous tubules after 6 h with further accumulation of eosinophilic edematous transudate in its lumen after 72 h. In conclusion, by increasing time of exposure, LPS induced lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, reduced testicular antioxidant capacity and encouraged testicular apoptosis which could be possible mechanisms for impairment of testicular function.

Molecular Spectroscopy and Molecular Docking Studies on (E)-1-(4-Bromobenzylidene) Thiourea

The organic molecule (E)-1-(4-bromobenzylidene)thiourea (BBTU) have been synthesized and characterized using FT-IR and FT-Raman spectral studies. The quantum chemical calculations of BBTU have been studied using DFT/B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level of theory. The stable conformer is identified by the potential energy surface scan. The complete vibrational assignments were performed on the basis of PED analysis with the help of SQM method. NBO analysis was carried out to explore the various conjucative/hyperconjucative interactions within the molecule and their second order stabilization energy. The NLO activity of BBTU is calculated and compared with the standard Urea molecule. The energies of the FMOs are used for the determination of global reactivity descriptors. The electrophilic and nucleophilic charge sites were identified by the molecular electrostatic potential mapped surface. The molecular docking of BBTU is carried out with the receptors of 3U2D and 1JIJ to screen the bacterial activity.

Benzoate Concentration and Cooperativity by a Substrate for Benzoate 1,2-dioxygenase from Benzoate-Degrading Rhodococcus Opacus 1CP

We explored the effect of a change in substrate-benzoate (as sole carbon and energy source) concentration in growth medium on the activity of benzoate 1,2-dioxygenase (BDO) of R.opacus 1CP cells, where BDO is the enzyme mediated the initial attack of benzoate. The activity of the enzyme was estimated by a change of respiration of whole freshly harvested bacterial cells (growth of the cells on benzoate) in response to injection of benzoate. It was shown that when concentration of growth substrate-benzoate decreased from 6 g/L to 250 mg/L, the curves of the dependency of the response rate to benzoate on the initial concentration of benzoate demonstrated that kinetics of the process changes from hyperbolic saturation kinetics, or typical Michaelis-Menten kinetics, to sigmoidal dependency of V on S. The semisaturation constant as a characteristic of the strength of substrate binding with BDO changed simultaneously. These changes were accompanied by the increase in the Hill coefficient from 1.02 up to 3.06, hence positive kinetic cooperativity by a substrate was observed for BDO of R.opacus 1CP cells. The influence of this type of cooperativity on viability of rhodococcus in natural environment and causes of the changes mentioned are discussed. It was hypothesized that an increase in substrate concentration in the medium for the growth of the bacterium not only stimulated synthesis of the inducible enzyme (BDO) in the cell but also led to the change in BDO conformation followed by the change in interaction between substrate-binding active sites of enzymes.

In Vitro Activity of Iclaprim Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Nonsusceptible to Daptomycin, Linezolid or Vancomycin

Iclaprim is a novel bacterial dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor in Phase 3 clinical development for the treatment of acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections and hospital acquired bacterial pneumonia caused by Gram-positve bacteria. Daptomycin, linezolid and vancomycin are commonly used antibiotic for these indications. With increase selective pressure to these generic antibiotics, outbreaks of bacterial resistance to these antibiotics have been reported. This in vitro study evaluated the activity of iclaprim against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates, which were also not susceptible to daptomycin, linezolid or vancomycin. Iclaprim had an MIC ≤1 µg/ml to the majority of MRSA isolates that were nonsusceptible to daptomycin (5 of 7 71.4%), linezolid (26 of 26 100%), or vancomycin (19 of 28 66.7%). In time-kill curves analyses, iclaprim demonstrated ≥3 log10 reduction in CFU/mL at 4-8 hours for tested strains and isolates nonsusceptible to linezolid or vancomycin. Together these data support the use of iclaprim in serious infections caused by MRSA nonsusceptible to daptomycin, linezolid or vancomycin.

Vulvovaginitis as a Risk Factor for the Degree of Labial Adhesions in Prepubertal Girls with Labial Fusion

Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the correlation between the degree (percentage) of occlusion due to labial adhesions and vulvovaginitis. Materials and Methods: Prospective study of pre-pubertal females who attended our Division, during the past 7 years, due to labial fusion. Medical history, clinical examination and Q tip culture of vaginal fluid samples were performed, after separation of the labia. Treatment of isolated pathogens was administered, based on antibiogram results. Results: 53 patients, with mean age 3.81 years (±0.88 years, SD:2.65, range:0.33-9.5 years) had a total of 89 vaginal specimens collected, as re-culture was performed in 17 patients due to labial fusion recurrence. In 32.08% no pathogen was isolated. Gardnerella vaginalis (24.51%) and Bacteroides spp (15.09%) were the commonest isolated pathogens of the rest 67.92%. Among labial fusion recurrences the commonest isolated pathogen was Gardnerella vaginalis (23.13%), while in 36.12% no specific pathogen was detected. Conclusions: The results suggest that non-specific vulvovaginitis is responsible for lower degree (<60% closure) of labial adhesions, as well as that recurrent infection plays a role in the formation of higher degree/percentage of labial closure, especially when there are one or more pathogens present. Furthermore, the presence of anaerobes at initial cultures, together with Gram negative bacteria at re-cultures, appear to further facilitate the creation of extensive adhesions.

Synthesis of Labeled Rifabutin Dithiocarbamate: A Potential Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Imaging Agent

In this investigation, Rifabutin dithiocarbamate (RFND) was labeled with Technetium-99m (99mTc) using tricarbonyl technique. The labeled RFND was further characterized in terms of radiochemical purity, stability in saline & serum, in vitro bacterial binding, biodistribution in animal model rats and for scintigraphic accuracy in animal model rabbit. Finally different radiobiological characteristics of the 99mTc(CO)3-RFND was compared with the recently reported 99mTc-RFN. It was observed that the dithiocarbamate form of RFN showed better radiochemical purity, stability in saline, bacterial binding, biodistribution and targeted imaging than the recently reported 99mTc-RFN. These better radiobiological parameters posed 99mTc(CO)3-RFND as a more reliable agent for tuberculosis imaging.

A Successful Vancomycin Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant MRSA-Associated Canine Pyoderma

Case Report This report describes a case of diffuse pyoderma in a 10-year-old female dog with hypothyroidism. A previous treatment, without an early diagnosis, including cephalosporin associated with prednisolon resulted to be unsuccessfully. After clinical and microbiological examination in our laboratories, a diagnosis of methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-associated pyoderma was made. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing evidenced many resistances and susceptibility of the strain only to vancomycin and linezolid. A new therapy against hypothyroidism and associated with an appropriate antimicrobial (vancomycin) treatment, improved and resolved the infection. Clinical Significance To our knowledge, this is the first case of canine pyoderma caused by a strain of MRSA with a such severe multiresistant profile. MRSA infections present a serious challenge because of the emergence of resistance to numerous conventional antibiotics and the risk factors associated with the transfer of the bacteria to humans, who have a contact with infected pets.

The Role of BCL-2 and BAK Genes in Chronic Kidney Disease and Haemodialysis Patients

Background: Polymorphonuclear leucocytes are the first line of defence against foreign invaders and constitute the major cell type involved in certain types of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. Aim of the Work: The aim of the present study was to investigate the changes in expression of BCL-2 and BAK genes by real time PCR and to study whether they were involved in the accelerated neutrophil apoptosis which might be responsible for the recurrent bacterial infections seen in chronic renal disease and hemodialysis patients. Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted on sixty two subjects. Patients were selected from those admitted to Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI). Patients under study were classified into three groups; CKD patients (group I) kept on conservative treatment (22 cases), ESRD patients (group II) maintained on dialysis therapy, HD (20 cases). In addition, twenty healthy individuals served as a control group (group III) were involved. Results: There was significant increase in level of BAK gene in both patients' groups compared to control group with more increase in CKD group than ESRD group. Significant difference between the 3 groups was encountered with a higher expression level in CKD and ESRD groups than controls. There was decrease in level of BCL2 gene in both groups less than control group with more declines in ESRD group than CKD group. Conclusion: Bcl2 and Bak genes could have a role in survival and apoptosis of the studied groups and suggested their impact in controlling the inflammatory mechanisms and eventually their therapeutic potential.

Clinical and Immunological Beneficial Effects of Phyto V7 Consumption by HIV-1 Seropositive Individuals

Phytochemicals (PHT) are a large group of biologically active plant chemicals that may have positive effects on human health such as immune system stimulation, down regulation of inflammatory responses, radical scavenging activities, cell repair function, and antibacterial and antiviral activity. In this proof of principle 6 months study, the effects of supplementing a PHT mix, Phyto V7, to HIV-1 seropositive individuals and AIDS patients were examined. Individuals with CD4+ T-cells below 350 counts/mm3were assigned to one of the following treatments: CG1 - no treatment, CG2 - only highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART), TG1 - only Phyto V7, and TG2- both Phyto V7 and HAART. After 3 months of treatment there were approximately (-)1%, 1%, 2% and 4% increase in the mean weight of the CG1, CG2, TG1 and TG2 groups, respectively. The tendency for the body mass index (BMI) was similar. The CD4+ counts increased by 13%, 39%, 53% and 35%, respectively. Similar trends were noted after 6 months with 2%, 79%, 53% and 69% increases in the CD4+ counts, respectively. There was a significant reduction in viremia only in groups receiving HAART. Overall better results were obtained in the group of patients receiving both HAART and Phyto V7, in which the mean weight increased by 5.7% and the CD4+ T-cell counts increased by 69% after 6 months. This study indicates that providing Phyto V7 to HIV-1 seropositive individuals and AIDS patients, receiving or not receiving HAART, improves their physical wellbeing and CD4+ counts, enabling them to cope better with the viral infection.

Development of Poly-ε-Caprolactone Based Nanoadjuvant for Effective Vaccination Against Tuberculosis

The aim of the study was to synthesize sub-100nm poly-ε-caprolactone nanoparticles (PCL NP), load them with the mycobacterial protein, ESAT 6 and study the resulting immune responses in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells when incubated with human peripheral blood monocyte derived macrophages that had internalized the PCL NP. The synthesized PCL NP were characterized for size, shape and charge. They were found to be about 60nm in size with spherical shape. MTT assay revealed that the particles were perfectly biocompatible when tested in vitro on THP1 human monocytic cell line. The particles had a slow protein release kinetics and did not degrade appreciably even after 30 days in buffer solution. ELISA was used to quantify the cytokine response of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells when incubated with the monocyte derived macrophages as antigen presenting cells. The result of antigen presentation assay revealed that the antigen loaded PCL NP enhanced Th1 and CD8+ T cell responses significantly compared to the pure antigen. Thus we conclude that PCL NP of 60nm size can be effectively tested as a vaccine adjuvant with resulting activation of Th1/Th2 immunity as well as cytotoxic T cell response.

Evaluation of SterculiaUrens Gum as Novel Carrier for Oral Colon Targeted Drug Delivery System

The purpose of the research is to evaluate Sterculiaurens gum as a carrier for oral colon targeted drug delivery system. Sterculia gum has been reported to have wide pharmaceutical applications such as tablet binder, disintegrant, gelling agent and as a controlled release polymer, but it has not been exploited as colon targeting carrier. For evaluation as a carrier for colonic delivery of drugs characterization of gum was done. Microflora degradation studies of gum were conducted in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) pH 7.4 containing rat caecal content under anaerobic environment. Solubility, swelling index, viscosity and pH of the polymer solution were determined. Different formulation aspects considered were: gum concentration (10–40%), concentration of citric acid (10–30 %) on swelling index and in-vitro drug release. The results of the isothermal stress testing (IST) shows no degradation of samples of model drug, azathioprine, in the drug polymer mixture and the core tablet excipients. DSC and FT-IR study has proved the compatibility of the drug with Sterculia gum and other tablet excipients. Microflora degradation study revealed that Sterculia gum can be used as tablet excipient for drug release in the colonic region by utilizing the action of enterobacteria. Sterculia gum exhibits premature drug release in the upper GIT without enteric coating and may not reach to the colonic region. From the study, Sterculia gum as colon targeting carrier is possible via coating with chitosan/Eudragit mixed blend polymers which would provide acid as well as intestinal resistance; but undergo enzymatic degradation once it reaches the colon.

Demographics, Clinical Profile and Outcome among the HIV Infected Persons Hospitalized in the HAART Era in Barbados.

Background: HAART has resulted in significant decline in morbidity and mortality from HIV. However, it is unclear if the trends have continued in the current HAART era. An understanding of healthcare utilization patterns is important for optimization of care and resource allocation. We examined the diagnoses for hospitalizations of patients with HIV and their clinical and demographic profile years after the introduction of HAART. Methods: A retrospective audit of the HIV admissions from July 2009 through June 2010. The case notes of all the adult admissions where one of the discharge diagnoses was HIV infection was reviewed. Data including the demographics, date of diagnosis, treatment and the follow up details, admission outcome and the final diagnosis were extracted from the case notes. Results: Over the 12 months period there were 154 admissions where one of the discharge diagnosis was HIV infection, and this accounted for 2.9% of all medical admissions in adults. 103(67%) admissions were in persons who were known to be HIV infected prior to the current admission. HIV infection was diagnosed for the first time during the current admission in 51(33%) cases. Nearly two-thirds of those hospitalized, had a CD 4 cell counts of < 200/µL and 63 (66%) had a viral load greater than 50,000 copies/ml. Over all, opportunistic infection was the commonest (47%) discharge diagnosis, followed by serious bacterial infections and HIV nephropathy. The median duration of hospitalization was 6 days (Range 2 to 71 days). There were 49 (32%) deaths. Conclusions: A significant proportion of patients admitted with HIV infection were still diagnosed on admission and were found to be severely immunosuppressed. An opportunistic infection continues to be the commonest discharge diagnosis in HIV infected patients.

Eukaryotic Signature Proteins

Eukaryotic Signature Proteins (ESPs) are proteins that delineate the eukaryotes from the archaea and bacteria. They have no recognisable homologues in any prokaryotic genome, but their homologues are present in all main branches of eukaryotes. ESPs are thus likely to have descended from ancient proteins that have existed since the first eukaryotic cell. The last dataset of ESPs was calculated more than a decade ago, thus with advances in technology and the rapid completion of many evolutionary important genomes, this dataset required recalculating. This study recalculated the Giardia lamblia ESP dataset and provides a procedure to calculate signature proteins beginning with any species. The G. lamblia ESP dataset contained a range of proteins including many associated with the membrane, cytoskeleton, nucleus and protein synthesis. ESP datasets have implications on current models of eukaryotic evolution, having high importance in phylogenetic analysis due to ESPs’ consistency and conservation in all eukaryotic species.