bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies and Approaches for Antibiotic Yield Improvement in Actinomycetes
Authors: Shi Zhenping , Zhang Jiuming , Tian Li
Published: August 2018

Â Actinomycetes represent a valuable source of commercially significant antibiotics. However, the yields of antibiotics in wild Actinomycetes usually could not meet the commercial needs and so antibiotics yield improvement is a constant requirement in the drug industry. Various methods and strategies such as traditional strain breeding methods and fermentation optimization methods have been tried and some new ideas such as gene engineering, mixed culture and quorum sensing along with empirical approaches are still on the way to gain this ultimate goal. This review will focus on the strategies and approaches for Actinomycetes antibiotics augment.Â
In Vitro Screening of Antioxidant Properties of Ten Cameroonian Medicinal Plants
Authors: Nguedia Assob Jules Clement , Njouendou Abdel Jelil , Alango Nkeng Pepin Efouet , Chouna Jean Rodolphe , Badami S. M. , Verapur Veeresh P , Typpeswamy B. D. , Wanji Samuel
Published: August 2018

Background: Oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of several degenerative diseases. This work studied the invitro anti-oxidative properties of methanolic extracts of 10 Cameroonian medicinal plants including Autranella congolensis(AC); Beilschmiedia anacardioides(BA); Crossopteryx febrifiga (CF); Cussonia arborea (Cu A); Cyphostema adenaucaule(Cy A); Dissotis longipetala (DL); Lonchocarpus sepium(LS); Nauclea pobeguinii (NP); Pycnanthus angolensis (PA);Picralima nitida (PN) used in folk medicine against various ailments associated with oxidative damages pattern. Method:The extracts were subjected to phytochemical screening to identify major classes of secondary metabolites. Their totalcontents in phenols, flavonoids were determined; whereas the anti-oxidative and reducing power were evaluated. Theseextracts were tested for their scavenging activity using DPPH, ABTS, superoxide, hydroxyl and nitric oxide radicals andhydrogen peroxide. The inhibitory effects of extracts against lipid peroxidation were also investigated on rat brainhomogenates. Results: The methanolic extracts of CF, DL, LS and AC showed important antioxidant activities andscavenging properties against all radicals system used. The extract of CuA and NP were inactive against hydrogen peroxide.The most potent antioxidant activity was obtained with AC extract, which showed the lowest IC50 value as compared to theÂ standard. The IC50 values of this extract were 7.31Â±0.25, 5.20Â±0.35, 42.17Â±0.60, 77.30Â±7.41, 32.94Â±1.32, 9.71Â±1.07 andÂ 121.59Â±1.08 Î¼g/ml against ABTS, DPPH, hydrogen peroxide, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, superoxide radical, hydroxylradical and nitric oxide radical system respectively. These values were found to be comparable to those obtained with theÂ standards. Significant positive correlations were observed between total antioxidant activity with total reducing power(p<0.01; R2=0.8190), total flavonoids (P<0.05; R2=0.6419) and total phenol (P<0.01; R2=0.8643); whereas non-significantÂ correlation was obtained between other systems and the total phenolic constituents. Conclusion: The data generated fromÂ this study sustained the use of these medicinal plants in the treatment of various diseases associated with oxidative stress.The potent antioxidant activity of the Autranella congolensis extract and its high content in phenolic constituents are to betaken into the consideration for further phytochemical and biological investigations.
Two-Phase Anaerobic Digestion of Municipal Organic Solid Wastes
Authors: RodrÃ­guez-Pimentel R. , RamÃ­rez-Vives F. , JesÃºs-Rojas A. De , MartÃ­nez-Valdez F. J. , RodrÃ­guez-PÃ©rez S. , Monroy-Hermosillo O.
Published: August 2018

Two stages anaerobic digestion of the organic fraction of municipal solid wastes (OFMSW) is proposed using a batch anaerobic trickling bed (BATB) reactor in the first hydrolysis and acidogenesis stage. At total solids loading of 135 g/L and reaction times around 30 days, total solids (Î·TS) and chemical oxygen demand (Î·COD) removal efficiencies above 46% were obtained independently of pH (between 4.1 and 6.4). Dependent on pH were methane production, four times more at pH 6.4 than at 4.8 and four times more volatile fatty acids (VFA) production at 6.4 than at 4.1 and twice than at 4.8. Leachates generated in the BATB reactor were diluted with municipal wastewater and fed to an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor at volumetric organic loading rates from 11 to 28 g/L.d where 90% COD removal efficiencies (Î·COD) and 11.4 g CODCH4./L.d were obtained. Two stages anaerobic digestion results in high rates of solids removal and methane production (0.63 kWhr/kg TS fed).
Detection of Dengue Virus in Department of Bolivar, Colombia, 2012-2013, Real-Time PCR
Authors: GÃ“MEZ DORIS ESTHER , GarcÃ­a Yina Paola , OCHOA MARGARITA MARIA , Castro Raimundo , Camacho Erwin , TuirÃ¡n Pedro Blanco
Published: August 2018

Objective. To assess the presence of RNA from dengue virus by Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction with Reverse Transcriptase (qRT-PCR), in anti-dengue IgM seronegative serum samples obtained from symptomatic patients with less than 5 days of fever, in the department of Bolivar, Colombia.Materials and Methods. Cross sectional descriptive study, where 50 anti-dengue IgM seronegative serum samples were analyzed by qRT-PCR. In addition, we reviewed the epidemiological charts of each patient in order to collect sociodemographic and blood count (CBC) data.Results. DENV-3 RNA was detected in seven (14Â %) serum samples. The most common clinical manifestations were: fever (90Â %; 45/50), headache (88Â %; 44/50) and myalgia (74Â %; 37/50). Regarding the CBC, the most significant findings were: thrombocytopenia (60Â %; 30/50; 73.3% were men), and leukopenia (50Â %; 25/50; 60% were men).Conclusion. Detection and typing of DENV genome by qRT-PCR could be considered a diagnostic tool for Dengue in anti-dengue IgM seronegative serum samples, especially, within four days after the onset of the signs of the disease.
In Vitro Propagation of Croton Scabiosus Bedd. (Euphorbiaceae), an Endemic and Vulnerable Tree Species
Authors: Prasad Rao B. Ravi , Salamma S.
Published: August 2018

Croton scabiosus Bedd. (Euphorbiaceae), an endemic tree species of Southern Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India, categorised as â€˜Vulnerableâ€™ is attempted for in vitro propagation. Seed pathological problems, poor germination, recurrent fires and tree fellings in the native habitat are the major threats of the species. With an objective to standardise a suitable multiplication protocol to augment the species population in the natural habitat, the present study focus on multiplication of the species through micropropagation. Of the various growth regulators employed in the experimentation, maximum mean number of shoots i.e. 5.37Â±0.12 was found on MS medium fortified with 0.5mg/l BAP and 2.5mg/l IAA. Maximum mean length of shoots 5.27Â±0.14 was found on 0.5mg/l BAP+1mg/l IAA. In vitro rooting was found on half strength MS medium fortified with 2.5mg/l IBA (8.92Â±0.19 mean number of roots with 5.04Â±0.05 mean length of roots with 90% response). Only 10% of survival rate was observed and the species warrants effective on site conservation methods.
Levels of Î²2-Microglobulin and Association of ACE Gene I/D Polymorphism with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients
Authors: Hussain Nageen , Mahwish Mahwish
Published: August 2018

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus is a metabolic ailment which is an outcome of defect in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The ACEgene systematizes Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) and is the most profoundly studied gene because of its crucial role in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). The insertion/ deletion (I/D) of a 287bp long Alu repetitive sequence in intron 16 is responsible for three genotypes, DD and II homozygotes and ID heterozygotes.ACE levels differ in carriers with respect to their genotype; DD carriers have twice the levels of ACE than that found in II genotype individuals. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the association ofACE gene I/Dpolymorphism in Pakistani Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients primarily from Lahore.Methods:Hundred patients (T2DM) and fifty healthy controls were enrolled in this study. The ACE I/D polymorphism, located in intron 16, was analyzed by a triple primer method called nested-PCR and subsequently the results were analyzed by gel electrophoresis.Urine samples were also collected from patients suffering from diabetic nephropathy for the determination of beta-2 microglobulin.Results: The frequency of ACE genotypes DD, ID and II among the patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus was found to be 76%, 10%, 14% whereas in control subjects, 38% , 4% , 8% respectively. Other clinical parameters like blood sugar level and body mass index were also evaluated to find an association with genotype. The findings showed a non-significant association of ACE genotype with Blood Sugar Level (BSL) and Body Mass Index (BMI).Of the hundred T2DM patients enrolled in the study ten (10%) were of diabetic nephropathy. Beta-2-microglobulin was measured in the urine of these patients as well as healthy controls. A significant association between Î²2-microglobulin and T2DM was found by Fischerâ€™s exact test. Serum creatinine values were noted and correlation was found. The results showed a positive correlation but non-significant between creatinine and beta-2-microglobulin.Conclusion:In the present study, no significant association was found between ACE gene I/D polymorphism and T2DM. Gender of the T2DM patients showed null effect on genotype.Â  Other clinical parameters like blood sugar level and body mass index also revealed a non-significant association with the ACE gene genotype.
Analysis of Dinucleotide Bias and Genomic Signatures Across Cyanobacterial Genomes
Authors: P. Singh Dhananjaya , Prabha Ratna
Published: August 2018

Dinucleotide relative abundance or frequency of dinucleotides in particular nucleotide sequence is reported as genomic signature as it is specific across different DNA samples and able to identify the variance among different groups whereas identical or similar for closely related organisms. Dinucleotide relative abundance value is identified to be overall constant due to numerous factors as dinucleotide stacking energy and DNA helicity, mechanisms of replication, repair and context-dependent mutation pressures and includes information about genome-wide processes. In this study, we analyzed genome sequence of 41 cyanobacteria to gain an insight of dinucleotide bias in their genomes. Across different dinucleotides, TA is broadly underrepresented followed by CG and then AC+GT whereas; AA+TT and GC occupied a major portion of dinucleotide distribution across all cyanobacterial genomes. Underrepresentation of TA seems to be influenced by GC-content of the members as it tends to decrease when there is an increase in GC content. Members with similar GC content possess similar pattern of genomic signature. Habitats also seem to influence the dinucleotide relative abundance values of the organisms because it is suggested that marine organisms.
Antibacterial Activity of Lyophilized Aqueous Extract of Coriaria Myrtifolia from Northern Morocco
Authors: Hezbri Karima , Hafse Maha , Farah Abdellah , Sbissi Imed , Gtari Maher , Fikri Benbrahim Kawtar
Published: August 2018

This work aims to evaluate the antibacterial activity of lyophilized aqueous extract of Coriaria myrtifolia against twentythree bacterial strains belonging to twelve main genera, known to be involved in some pathologies and / or in the foodspoilage process: Bacillus sp., E. coli, E. hafnia, Enterococcus sp., Klebsiella sp,. Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonassp., Salmonella sp., Serratia sp., Shigella sp., S. aureus and Streptomyces sp. To achieve this goal, the disk diffusionmethod was used.The study revealed that C. myrtifoliaâ€™s aqueous extract is active against most of the tested strains and that activity isproportional to its concentration. The intensity of inhibition depends on the extractâ€™s concentration on one hand and on thebacterial species tested on the other hand.
Microbiological quality Assessment of hospital food in a public hospital in Fez (Morocco)
Authors: Zbadi L. , El Ouali Lalami A. , Baroudi A. , Marsou Z. , Benbrahim K. Fikri
Published: August 2018

The food safety has become a major issue in hospitals, since patients are especially vulnerable to foodborne illness considered as nosocomial infection.Aims: To assess health hazards in food at a hospital in Fez city (Morocco).Material and Results: Hygienic quality of food samples (n = 81: meals (40%), plants and vegetables (35%); meat / meat products (17%)) and contact surfaces (n = 80: local (32,5;%), equipment (50%) and staffâ€™s hands (17,5%)) was evaluated during 2011, and involved germs have been researched using standard methods. Results interpreted according to the Moroccan and French standards showed that the percentage of foodâ€™s non-compliance was 12%, with 32% for plants / vegetables and 7% for meat / meat products.The criminalization of fecal coliform was the important (91%) compared with Staphylococcus aureus (9%). Salmonella sp., Listeria monocytogenes, anaerobic sulphito-reducers, yeasts and molds were not implicated.Contact surfaces analysis showed that 40% of equipment, 38% of local and 29 % of the staffâ€™s hands were not clean. The causative organisms were fecal coliforms (60%) and S. aureus (40 %).Conclusion: Contact surfaces may affect the hygienic quality of food served in the hospital. That could make the warning signal in hospitals for the establishment of a global quality policy to ensure food safety and to prevent healthcare associated infections.
Molecular Typing by Polymerase Chain Reaction Sequence Specific Primers (PCR- SSP) of Human Leukocyte Class I and Class II Alleles in a Sample of Iraqi Visceral Leishmaniasis Patients
Authors: Mohymen(Ph.D.) Nidal Abdul , Qader (Ph.D.) Abdullah M. , Adâ€™hiah (Ph.D.) Ali H.
Published: August 2018

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the association between HLA alleles and visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in a sample of Iraqi patients. Methods: A total of 30 patients were studied, in addition to 20 age, gender and ethnicity matched controls. All subjects were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP) method. Results: Â For HLA-class I region (A and B loci), only HLA-A*19 allele showed a significant (P = 0.031) decreased frequency in VL patients as compared with controls (13.3 vs. 45.0%), and such deviation was associated with OR and PF values of 0.19 and 0.37, respectively. At HLA-class II region, HLA-DRB1*03 and HLA-DQB1*02 alleles were significantly (P = 0.020 and 0.013, respectively) increased in VL patients (56.6 vs. 20% and 46.6 vs. 10%, respectively) as compared with controls. The OR of such two positive associations was 5.23 and 7.88, respectively, and the EF value was 0.46 and 0.41, respectively. In contrast, HLA-DRB1*02 (13.3 vs. 45.0%) and HLA-DQB1*03 (33.3 vs. 70.0%) were significantly (P = 0.031 and 0.023, respectively) decreased in patients. However, none of these differences remained significant after correcting the P value for the number of alleles tested at each locus. Conclusion: these preliminary data suggest that HLA alleles may have some role in aetiopathogenesis of VL, and this role can be in favour of susceptibility and/or protection.
The Correlation between Microsatellite Instability and the Features of Sporadic Colorectal Cancer in Sample of Iraqi Patients
Authors: Mohymen Nidal Abdul , Hanon Basim Mohammed , Mahommod Akeel Shaker
Published: August 2018

Background: Microsatillite instability (MSI) is a mutational signature found in colorectal carcinoma (CRC), it represents about 12% in non inherited CRC.Aim: To correlate between MSI and sporadic CRC Iraqi patients.Patients and methods: A total of 47 patients with colorectal carcinoma were enrolled in this study, among these patients 26 (55%) males and 21(45%) females, with a range age from 37 years to 72 years, mean age (54.5 year). Microsatellite marker amplifications were performed as singleplex PCR reactions.Results: Patients were divided in to three groups, group 1 with MSI high were constituted a frequency of 17Â Â Â  (36.17 %), and group 2 with MSS (16) (34.04Â  %) and group 3 with MSI low the frequency(Â  14 ) (29.78Â  %). MSI high Â was expressed in high percentage (38.09%) Â in women comparted with male( 34.61%),while its relation to age, results indicated that age group (â‰¤ 50 years) showed high.Percentage (37.93%) compated with Group 1(â‰¥50 years) (33.33% ) and the realtion of MSI with morphological feature of the specimens showed that poorly diffrrentiated CRC specimens showed the highly percentage ( 47.07% ) when comparted with well and moderatly differntiated cases. The mucinous Â type of CRC reveled 100% pecentage for MSI comparted with nonmucinous Â ( 27.65%)Â  with siganficant difference. High frequancy of MSI was shown in right site (52.94%) with significant difference compared with MSI L and MSS.Conclusion: This study showed that there were a close association between MSI with female patients, old patients, and right site, mucinous and poorly differentiated CRC.
Enhancement of Cocoa Quality By the Indigenous Yeast Candida Tropicalis KLK4 Through Cocoa Bean Fermentation
Authors: Yanti Nur Arfa
Published: August 2018

An indigenous yeast strain that isolated from fermented cocoa bean has a role in cocoa bean fermentation process, was characterized and identified to be member of the Candida tropicalis Â species Â based on phenotypic characteristics and the D1/D2 region of the large subunit rRNA gene. Properties of importance for cocoa bean fermentation, namely sucrose, glucose, and citrate assimilation capacity, pH-, ethanol-, and heat-tolerance, were examined for isolate. The Quality of fermented cocoa bean was analyzed by cut test. Candida tropicalis KLK4 was tolerance to low pH value, high temperature, ethanol and could assimilate citrate, reflecting it is able to adapt to cocoa fermentation environment. The utilization of Candida tropicalis KLK4 strain as a starter culture for cocoa fermentation can enhance cocoa Â quality.
Polyphasic Characterization of a Potential Novel Cellulolytic Bacterium Brevibacillus Brevis Strain St-2
Authors: Prasad P. , Singh Tanuja , Bedi S.
Published: August 2018

The tremendous commercial potential of cellulases in a variety of applications remains the driving force for research in this area. The present study was aimed at isolation and screening of promising cellulolytic strains from locally collected soil samples. A promising cellulose degrading bacterial strain designated as St-2 was isolated from agricultural field. Optimization of fermentation media ingredients and environmental factors were done for optimizing growth of theÂ Â Â Â Â Â  strain which facilitates effective cellulase production. St-2 showed luxuriant growth on sucrose, lactose, mannitol and inositol whereas the growth was moderate on dextrose and fructose. The strain was able to grow in a wide range of pH (5-11) and temperature (4-45 ËšC) and was tolerant to up to 6% (w/v) of NaCl concentration in the medium. The results indicate wide spectrum adaptability of the strain to variable pH, temperatures and saline concentrations that makes it an advantageous organism to survive in the fluctuating environmental conditions. The optimum pH and temperature for enzyme production were 7 (with 2.11 U/ml CMCase activities and 2.22 U/ml FPase activities) and 37ËšC (with 1.73 U/ml CMCase activities and 1.92 U/ml FPase activities), respectively. The morphological and biochemical characteristics of the strain were consistent with those of the genus Brevibacillus. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain St-2 showed a similarity score of 99% with Brevibacillusbrevis(GeneBank Accession No. AB271756) having BLAST score ranging between 821 to 827 bits.
Association Between ACE I/D Gene Polymorphism and Hypertension in Smokers
Authors: Zafar Kayani Hateem , Riaz Sana , Hussain Nageen
Published: August 2018

The main aim is to study the association of ACE I/D polymorphism with healthy smokers. A total of 49 smokers and 49healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Intron 16 of the ACE gene was amplified by using nested PCR. The possiblebanding patterns were as follows; DD, 210 bp fragments; II, 264bp and 498 bp fragments; ID, 210 bp, 264 bp, and 498 bpfragments. The subjects comprised of males only. Among 49 subjects the frequency of ACE DD genotype was 75.5%(37/49), II 24.5% (12/49), while no ID genotype was found in the study. All controls showed DD genotype. The associationof ACE I/D polymorphism with different levels of blood pressure were found to be significant.
Autochthonous Starter Effect on the Microbiological, Physicochemical and Sensorial Characteristics of Moroccan Goatâ€™s Milk Cheeses
Authors: El Galiou Ouiam , Antonio Centeno Juan , Zantar Said , Bakkali Mohammed , Carballo Javier , Laglaoui Amin
Published: August 2018

The effect of adding four Lactococcus lactis subsp. Lactis, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis Bv. diacetylactis and Lactobacillus paracasei autochthonous strains as single starters (A and B) on the microbiological, physicochemical and sensory characteristics of Moroccan goatâ€™s milk cheese was investigated. Batches with a commercial starter (C) and with raw goatâ€™s milk without starter (D) were also made as controls. The results indicated that the different starter cultures used significantly affected the compositional characteristics of Moroccan goatâ€™s cheese. At the first day of ripening, the pH values of cheeses manufactured with any type of starter were significantly higher than those made without starter. No significant differences (P >0.05) in values of total solids (T.S.), proteins, ash, FAT and lactose content were found between any of the batches after 7 days of ripening. The autochthonous starters in Moroccan cheesemaking were successful at reducing the levels of coliforms earlier in ripening than in cheeses made without starter and even in those made with the commercial starter. These results suggest that the combined activity of L. Lactis subsp. lactis, L. Lactis. subsp. Lactis bv. diacetylactis and L. paracasei, produces cheese with good sensory characteristics.
Rainfall Dynamics of Terengganu Malaysia and Its Recent Trends Analysis Using the Mann-Kendall Test.
Authors: Abdullahi Musa Garba , Toriman Mohd Ekhwan , Gasim Mohd Barzani , Juahir Hafizan
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the pattern and trends of the daily rainfall data in Terengganu Malaysia based on seasonal rainfall indices. The statistics of rainfall indices were calculated in terms of their means for seven stations in Terengganu Malaysia for the period 2000 to 2012. The findings indicate that the trend in the study area has no significant changes in stations (1, 4 and 6) while station (2, 3, 5 and 7) shows significant changes and southwest monsoon had the greatest impact on the whole stations, particularly in characterizing the rainfall pattern of the area. During this season, the study area could be considered as the wettest region since all rainfall indices tested are higher than in other neighboring state of the Peninsula. Otherwise, the northwest of the area is denoted as the driest part of the state during the northeast monsoon period. The northwest of the state is less influenced by the northeast monsoon because of the existence of the Titiwangsa Range, which blocks some part of the region from receiving heavy rainfall. On the other hand, it is found that the areas with lowlands are strongly characterized by the northeast monsoonal flow.The results of the Mann-Kendall test, shows that, trends of the total amount of rainfall during the southwest monsoon decrease at some of the stations. The rainfall intensity increases in contrast, increasing trends in the total amount of rainfall were observed at three stations during the northeast monsoon, which give rise to the increasing trend of rainfall intensity. The results for the combined stations in both seasons indicate that there are no significant changes in trends during the extreme events for the Terengganu Malaysia. However, a smaller number of significant trends were found for extreme intensity.Â
Secondary multiplication of somatic embryos in banana (Musa spp. AAA) in semisolid medium: effect of the culture vessel type and sterilization method
Authors: Kosky Rafael GÃ³mez
Published: August 2018

The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of the type of culture vessel, and sterilization method on secondary multiplication of somatic embryos of the banana cultivar Grande naine (AAA) in semisolid culture medium. From 200 Âµl of embryogenic cell aggregates, somatic embryos in the globular stage were formed, which were used in the experiments to compare the types of culture vessel (glass and plastic) and the form of sterilization â€“ humid heat (autoclave) and chemical (VitrofuralÂ®). The evaluations of the number of somatic embryos that were multiplied were done at 15 and 20 days of culture. The results obtained with respect to the multiplication phase were highly promising, 40.25 and 80.15 Â± 5.0 somatic embryos at 15 and 20 days of culture in glass vessel with plastic cover and using the autoclave as the sterilization method. The results presented in this work open the door for the use of this phase in the mass propagation protocol of this crop via somatic embryogenesis.
PGPR Induced Differencial Expression of Defence Enzymes Regulating Resistance Against Colletotrichum Capsici in Turmeric
Authors: Adhipathi P. , Nakkeeran S. , Devi P. Renuka , Velazhahan R. , Raguchander T.
Published: August 2018

Plant growth promoting Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain BaTNAU5 and Pseudomonas fluorescens strain Pf3TNAU were evaluated in turmeric for induction defence by differential expression of defence enzymes against Colletotrichum capsici. Further the activity and quantitative assay of the defense enzymes peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), Î²â€‘1,3-glucanase, chitinase, catalase and defense-inducing chemicals (total phenols) significantly increased with soil and foliar application of B. amyloliquefaciens (BaTNAU5) and P. fluorescens (Pf3TNAU). Western blot analysis of protein extracts from B. amyloliquefaciens (BaTNAU5) and P. fluorescens (Pf3TNAU) challenged with C. capsici,Â  a chitinase with an apparent molecular weight of 28 kDa was induced four days after treatment.
Production, Characterization and Application of Inulinase from Pseudozyma sp. CCMB 300.
Authors: Assis Sandra A. , Nascimento Diego Sampaio , Lima Danyo M. , Junior Gildomar Valasques , Oliveira Rodrigo de Queiroz , Fernandes Pedro , Ribeiro Rita de CÃ¡ssia L. Figueiredo , Uetanabaro Ana Paula Trovatti , GÃ³es-Neto AristÃ³teles
Published: August 2018

The use of inulinases provides an alternative way to obtain fructose syrup through the hydrolysis of inulin. The objective of this work was to study the production, characterization and application of an inulinase from Pseudozyma sp CCMB 300 isolated from Brazilian semi-arid region. The higher production of inulinase in a medium containing 0.86 g L-1 yeast extract and 14.54 g L-1 glucose using response surface methodology (RSM). This statistical method was also used to access the optimum pH (8.28) and temperature (54ÂºC) for fermentative inulinase production. The results showed that the inulinase has potential for inulin hydrolysis, where a conversion yields of roughly 87.39 % for an initial concentration of inulin of 1% (w/v).
CELL SURFACE PROPERTIES OF HALOTOLERANT PROBIOTIC LACTOBACILLI
Authors: Hernandez-Sanchez Humberto , Melgar-Lalanne Guiomar , Rivera-Espinoza Yadira , Tellez-Medina Dario Iker
Published: August 2018

Cell surface characteristics of two halotolerant commercial probiotics (Lactobacillus casei Shirota and L. plantarum 299v) and three halotolerant potential probiotics (L. plantarum, L. pentosus and L. acidipiscis) isolated from Chiapas cheese were evaluated as well as the presence of exopolysaccharides (EPS) in their cell surface. Results showed no differences between the commercial probiotics and the strains of potential probiotics analyzed. All lactobacilli had similar autoaggregation levels (between 19.22 to 21.08%) and were able to coaggregate with gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens. The hydrophobicity to non-polar solvents (xylene, octane and hexadecane) was low. L. casei Shirota and L. plantarum isolated from Chiapas cheese had high affinity to chloroform; furthermore, it was possible to demonstrate the presence of capsular exopolysaccharides (CPS) in these strains because of the presence of carboxyl groups. From the results obtained in this work, it may be concluded that low hydrophobicity affinity to chloroform in these strains is related to the presence of CPS and that the higher affinity to chloroform might be related to CPS in the surface of halotolerant lactobacilli.
Cranberry Extract Suppressive Effect on Secretion of Inflammatory Cytokines by the Monocytic Cells
Authors: Babu Jegdish , Sangha Vreiti , Tipton David A
Published: August 2018

The proanthocyanidin rich fraction of cranberry (NDM) has long been speculated to possess the capacity to suppress the production of inflammatory mediators by macrophages. The objective of this investigation was to examine the effect of NDM on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated stimulation of the cultured monocytic cells (THP-1) to secrete two inflammatory cytokines; IL-1Î² and TNF-Î±. The LPS used in the study was isolated from periodontal pathogen, Porphyromonas gingivalis. Methods: Cultured monocytic cells were incubated with bacterial LPS in the presence or absence of NDM, and the culture supernatants were assayed for secreted TNF-a and IL-b by ELISA. Cells incubated with NDM secreted significantly lesser amounts of the two cytokines than the cells without. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the ability of NDM to suppress production of inflammatory cytokines by the human monocytic cells when stimulated with LPS. The findings of this study provides promising perspectives for the development of novel host-modulating therapies for adjunctive treatments of periodontitis or other inflammatory diseases by the NDM isolated from cranberries.
Yacon Flour and Corn Steep Liquor as Substrate for Inulinase and Biomass Production by Kluyveromyces Marxianus NRRL Y-7571
Authors: Sathler Leonardo Amorin , Contiero Jonas , Cazetta Marcia Luciana
Published: August 2018

Yacon is a perennial plant native of the Andesthat stores inulin-type polyfructans as reserve carbohydrates in its tubers. The enzymes that hydrolyze the inulin Î²-2,1 fructose Â linkages are called inulinases and are much used to produce high fructose syrups (HFS) and ethanol. The present study investigated inulinase and biomass production by Kluyveromyces marxianus NRRL Y-7571 using yacon flour as carbon source and corn steep liquor as nitrogen source by a Central Composite Design (CCD) 22 to carry out experiments and Surface Response Methodology (RSM) to analyze the results. The maximum enzyme production was 36.1 U.ml-1 and biomass production was 8.95 g.l-1 under the condition of 7% yacon flour and 2% corn steep liquor. The crude enzyme partial characterization showed that inulinase had optimal pH at 4.0 and optimal temperature at60Â°C. The enzyme maintained over 90% of its activity for four hours at45Â°C and50Â°C.
Growth Performance and Cultivation of Four Oyster Mushroom Species on Sawdust and Rice Bran Substrates
Authors: Owaid Mustafa Nadhim
Published: August 2018

Pleurotus species are progressively becoming important edible mushrooms worldwide and it is of importance in choosing suitable substrates in a given place to grow them. The study provides basic and valuable information on mycelial growth rates and yield efficacy of four different Pleurotus spp. The highest average mycelium growth of 1.29 mm/day followed by 1.17 mm/day was observed in the bags of P. salmoneostramineus and P. ostreatus grey, respectively. Similarly, the highest cumulative growth of 12.90 cm/day and 11.74 cm/day was recorded in the 30 day old bags of P. salmoneostramineus and P. ostreatus grey, respectively. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) of about three fold in the pin head formation of P. ostreatus grey (9 days) compared to other mushroom species (2-3 days). P. salmoneostramineus showed a vigorous growth in the fruiting body and the harvesting time required was just 5.67 days. It is clear from the result that there is no correlation between the rate of mycelia growth and pin appearance. The yield varied significantly due to the effect of mycelial growth on the substrate. The highest first flush and number of fruiting bodies was achieved in the yellow oyster followed by P. ostreatus grey and P. salmoneostramineus. In conclusion, sawdust and rice bran could be a promising substrate for linear mycelial growth of P. ostreatus species.
Physicochemical properties of fermented and non-fermented rice bran flour and its utilization in bread making
Authors: B.O.T Ifesan , Ifesan B. T , A.K Orogbangba
Published: August 2018

Rice bran was subjected to natural fermentation for 4 days and investigated for its physicochemical, antioxidant, phytochemical, functional properties and mineral content. In addition, the fermented and non-fermented rice bran flours were supplemented with wheat flour in several ratios for baking bread. The proximate composition results obtained showed that fermented rice bran flour possessed protein content of 5.68%, fibre (37.8%), fat (2.97%) and carbohydrate (31.06). It was observed that the total phenol content for non-fermented rice bran flour (362.69 GAE Âµg/ml) was higher than fermented bran flour (359.15 GAE Âµg/ml). However, the ability of the samples to scavenge 1,1-di phenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical was higher in fermented flour (57.0mg/ml) than in non-fermented sample (55.0 mg/ml). The result of the qualitative analysis of the phytochemical screening revealed that only saponin was present in the rice bran flours. The mineral composition of the non-fermented and fermented rice bran flours revealed that the flours possessed magnesium (0.19%-0.18%), sodium (0.06%-0.17%), calcium (0.08%-0.13%) and potassium (0.03%-0.02%). The physical properties of bread sample at 20% rice bran flour supplementation showed that there was no significant difference between loaf volume of the wheat flour bread and non-fermented rice bran bread (360cm3) while there was significant difference in the loaf volume of fermented rice bran bread (281cm3). It was observed that the fermented rice bran bread had the highest fibre content (1.83%), followed by non-fermented rice bran bread (1.37%) and wheat flour bread (0.95%). The sensory analysis revealed that both the fermented and non-fermented rice bran breadswere scored above average in all sensory parameters although wheat flour bread was preferred.Â
Genetic Diversity Analysis in wild species of Pongamia pinnata (L.) using RAPD and SRAP markers.
Authors: Kole Dr. Pravas Ranjan , Bhat K V , Chaudhury Rekha , Malik S K , Rao G Rajeshwar
Published: August 2018

Bio -diversityrefers to the variations within the living world while genetic diversity is the sum of genetic characteristics within any species or genus. Genetic diversity serves as a way for populations to adapt to changing environments. With more variation, it is more likely that some individuals in a population will possess variations of alleles that are suited for the environment. Those individuals are more likely to survive to produce offspring bearing that allele. The population will continue for more generations because of the success of these individuals. The extensive literature survey revealed that Pongamia Pinnata L. is an important medicinal plant with diverse pharmacological spectrum. The plant shows the presence of many chemical constituents which are responsible for varied pharmacological and medicinal properties. Furthermore, it also represents a milestone in the field of biofuel industry as one of the most important bio fuel crop. The present investigation was carried out to assess the genetic diversity of 37 wild species of P. pinnata collected from different states from India based on random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and Sequenced Related Amplified Polymorphism (SRAP) primers. After screening a total of 18 RAPD and 23 SRAP primers were used which gave reproducible amplification banding patterns. In RAPD out of 157 alleles were generated of which 150 were polymorphic across the studied accessions (96.8% polymorphism). For SRAP the total number of amplified products was 145 of which 122 were polymorphic (84.1% polymorphism). The mean polymorphic information content (PIC) for both the markers was 0.77 and 0.68. Variation in combined Jaccardâ€™s coefficient of similarity indicates the high level of genetic variation among the genotypes studied. The overall grouping pattern of clustering corresponds well with the principal component analysis (PCA), confirming patterns of genetic diversity observed among the accessions.Â
QSAR investigation on benzimidazole derivatives in Trichomonosisâ€™ disease
Authors: Nemati rashtehroodi Alireza , Ghasemi Ghasem
Published: August 2018

Globally trichomoniasis affects approximately 152 million people as of 2010 (2.2% of the population). It is more common in women (2.7%) than males (1.4%). The American Social Health Association estimates trichomoniasis affects 7.4 million previously unaffected Americans each year and is the most frequently presenting new infection of the common sexually transmitted diseases. On the pattern, QSAR study has been done on benzimidazole derivatives as potent inhibitors with trichomonicidal activity. Genetic algorithm (GA), artificial neural network (ANN), stepwise multiple linear regression (stepwise-MLR) were used to create then on non-linear and linear QSAR models. Geometry optimization of compounds was carried out by B3LYP method employing 6â€“31G (2d) basis set. HyperChem, Gaussian 03W, and Dragon (version 5.5) software programs were used for geometry optimization of the molecules and calculation of the quantum chemical descriptors. Finally, Unscrambler program was used for the analysis of data. The root-mean square errors of the training set and the test set for GAâ€“ANN model using jack-knife method, were 0.1840, 0.5051 and R2 was 0.70. Also, the R and R2 values in the gas phase were obtained 0.78, 0.61 from GA-stepwise MLR model. According to the obtained results, we find out GA-ANN model is the most favorable method toward the other statistical methods. Also, we would suggest that compounds No. 20, 33, 58, 48 and 47 as the most appropriate structure for the design of drugs to pharmacists.
Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) Biodiesel
Authors: Bello Emmanuel I. , Mamman A
Published: August 2018

Shea butter Â was pretreated with sulphuric Â acid to convert the free fatty acids to esters and thenÂ  transesterified to biodiesel using methanol and sodium hydroxide as catalyst. The oil, biodiesel, 10% and 20% blends with diesel were characterized according to ASTM and EN protocols for biodiesel. The fatty acid profile of the oil and biodiesel were analyzed usingÂ  HP 6890 Gas Chromatography analyzer fitted with a flame ionization detector. From the results obtained, the properties of the biodiesel are by and large within the ASTM limits for biodiesel and the saturation to unsaturation ratio is 0.87 which gives a good balance of properties. The mineral contents are also within the ASTM limits for biodiesel. From the results obtained, it was concluded that the biodiesel can be used as alternative fuel for diesel engines.Â Â
No evidence of association between apo E polymorphism and BMI and lipids profile in Turkmen population
Authors: Ahani Dr , S Eshghinia , NM Samaei , N Mamizade
Published: August 2018

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is a glycoprotein that plays an essential role in lipid transport and metabolism.The present study purposed to determine the distribution of apoE alleles in a Turkman population and its association with lipid profile. In a cross-sectional study 354 healthy Turkman were recruited. Fasting blood samples were collected for biochemical tests and DNA extracting. Genomic DNA was amplified using PCR-RFLP method. The resulting fragments of PCR product digestion were detected byÂ  polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. This study showed that Îµ3 allele and E3/E3 genotype are the most common allele and genotype, while Îµ2 and Îµ4 alleles had lower frequencies, respectively. Two homozygote genotypes E2E2 and E4E4 were not detected in our sample. Results didnâ€™t confirm any association between apo E polymorphism with lipids concentration in Turkmen population.Â
MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF LOCAL VERTEBRATE SPECIES USING CYTOCHROME OXIDASE SUBUNIT I (COI) GENE
Authors: Che Lah Ernieenor Faraliana , Tsolmon Amartuvshin , Ahamad Mariana
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study is to determine a molecular tool for identification of local vertebrate species using mtDNA COI gene. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using universal primers complementary to the conserved region of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene fragment, was performed on DNA of blood samples of 30 local animals in Malaysia. DNA of hosts was amplified by PCR and the products were visualized on gel electrophoresis. Twenty two sequences (73.3%) were obtained and compared with sequences registered in GenBank and BOLD Systems databases. The BLAST results for fifteen samples (68%) showed sequences were in congruence with morphological identification at 92% to 100% accuracy while seven sequences had no significant similarity. These results suggest that COI-based PCR is a reliable identification tool for vertebrates and can be applied for epidemiological studies on blood meal analysis of arthropod in Malaysia.
Ligninolytic enzymes production by Dichostereum sordulentum cultures in the presence of Eucalyptus bark as a natural laccase stimulator
Authors: Botto Emiliana , D'annibale Alessandro , Petruccioli Maurizio , Galetta Alejandra , MartÃ­nez SebastiÃ¡n , Bettucci Lina , MenÃ©ndez Maria Pilar
Published: August 2018

A strain of a fungal species, i.e., Dichostereum sordulentum, not yet isolated from either Uruguay or decayed Eucalyptus spp. wood, was investigated for its ability of producing extracellular ligninolytic enzymes. To this aim, the strain was grown on a N-rich liquid medium added with either bark or wood Eucalyptus dunnii sawdust. The former additive was more effective than the latter instimulating laccase leading to a production of 4.78 IU mL-1 which was further enhanced by the concomitant presence of 80 ppm CuSO4 (6.56 IU mL-1). The two order of magnitude higher proanthocyanidin content in bark than in wood suggests that this fraction might be responsible for the higher stimulatory effect of the former on laccase production.
Enzyme activation using dynamic manipulation of process variables.
Authors: Dantas JoÃ£o Henrique , Harth Matheus Lopes , Paris Leandro Daniel De , Cavalcanti AndrÃ© D. D. , Arroyo Pedro Augusto , Rodrigues Maria Isabel , Moraes Flavio Faria , Zanin Gisella Maria
Published: August 2018

Experimental design and surface response methodology were used to study the production of radish oil ethyl ester, using Burkholderia cepacia lipase. The estimative of the standard effects were determined as a function of time to analyze the importance of some variables. The results showed the importance of variables, as well the extents of their effect, vary throughout the reaction. Then was possible to analyze the behavior of the reaction medium and to propose situations where higher yields could be obtained. In fact, when the reactor was operated in this way, an 80,1% yield was achieved, much higher than common operation (39.9%). Also, enzymatic activity of ester production was tenfold.
Effect of wood flour as carbon source on cellulases and xylanases production by white-rot-fungi native from Misiones
Authors: RodrÃ­guez MarÃ­a Daniela , Barchuk MÃ³nica Lucrecia , Fonseca MarÃ­a Isabel , Zapata Pedro DarÃ­o , Villalba Laura Lidia
Published: August 2018

There is a need to explore lignocellulosic materials to select an adequate substrate for lignocellulolytic enzyme production. Utilization of some residues provides an opportunity to produce high yields of lignocellulolytic enzymes in a simple medium. The aim of the present work was to study the effect of wood flour as a carbon source on the cellulolytic and xylanolytic secretion of white-rot fungi native from Misiones. Fungi were incubated with 5 g Pinus sp. wood flour/L and 5 g Eucalyptus sp. wood flour/L as carbon sources in a reciprocal shaker at 80 rpm and 29ÂºC for 15 days. Total cellulase, endo-1,4-Î²-glucanase, Î²-glucosidase, cellobiohydrolase and endo-1,4-Î²-xylanase activities were determined in culture supernatants. Tested fungi showed high endo-1,4-Î²-xylanase activity between 6 and 12 days. Total cellulase showed the highest activity between 12-15 culture days. The test did not show differences among Pycnoporus sanguineus LBM 014, P. sanguineus BAFC 2126, Irpex lacteus BAFC 1171, Irpex sp. LBM 032, Irpex sp. LBM 034 and Lenzites elegans BAFC 2127, showing the highest activity for this group regard the others strains. I. lacteus BAFC 1171 was the strain with major endo-1,4-Î²-glucanase activity at day 9 (847 U/L). In the case of Î²-glucosidase and cellobiohydrolase, P. sanguineus BAFC 2126 was the strain with the highest activity between 12-15 culture days (18 U/L), and between 9-15 culture days (39 U/L), respectively. Wood flour proved to be a suitable carbon source to produce hydrolytic enzymes. I. lacteus BAFC 1171 and P. sanguineus BAFC 2126 have potential for cellulase production whereas P. sanguineus LBM 008 is a good endo-1,4-Î²-xylanase producer.
Statistical Optimization of Medium Components of Xylanase Production by Irpex lacteus BAFC 1168 strain F under liquid fermentation
Authors: DÃ­az Gabriela VerÃ³nica
Published: August 2018

The enhanced xylanase production of white rot fungus Irpex lacteus BAFC 1168 strain F using a liquid fermentation culture was investigated. The media nutrients were screened by a Plackett-Burman design and from the analysis of variance, carboxy-methylcellulose, urea and peptone were found to be the most positive and significant nutrient components. Hence, these three variables were selected for further optimization using a five-level central composite design in response surface methodology. The validation of the model experiment was conducted reaching 8.29 U/mL of xylanase activity when the composition medium was 1.6 g/L of CMC, 0.84 g/L of urea and 2 g/L of peptone. Optimum temperature and pH conditions on xylanase activity were also determined using a central composite design. It was reached a maximum xylanase activity of 8.36 U/mL when temperature and pH were 42.8Â°C and 5.6, respectively.