bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydroxyapatite/cerium oxide composites: Sintering, microstructural, mechanical and invitro bioactivity properties
Authors: PAZARLIOĞLU Süleyman Serdar
Published: October 2019

Effect of cerium oxide (CeO2) additive on the microstructure, mechanical and invitro bioactivity properties of a commercially synthetic hydroxyapatite (HA) was investigated. HA without CeO2 started to decompose at 1100 oC, but the decomposition temperature of the CeO2 added samples decreased up to 900 oC. Decomposition rate of the sintered samples increased as the sintering temperature reached to 1300 oC. It was about 5.8% for monolithic HA, and increased to 11.4% when the CeO2 additive to HA reached to 2.5 wt%. SEM images showed that an excessive grain growth as well as microcracks occured on the surface of monolithic HA when it was sintered at the temperatures than that of 1100 oC. The microcracks were also observed on the surface of HA-CeO2 composites, when they were sintered at 1300 oC. The composite of HA-0.5CeO2 sintered at 1100 oC possess the higher fracture toughness (Kıc) (2.510 ± 0.225 MPam1/2) and the higher compressive strength (152.73 ± 6.31 MPa) compared to other HA-CeO2 composites, and it's mechanical properties are higher than that of monolithic HA at about 2-3 times. In-vitro bioactivity test results showed that apatite layers on the surface of the samples were in the different morphologies.
A Review of Biomedical Engineering Research in Turkey During 2008-2018
Authors: KARAMANLİOGLU Mehlika
Published: October 2019

Biomedical engineering is one of the fastest developing research disciplines in the past 60 years with the aid of rapid advances in technology. Biomedical engineering has emerged in Turkey in late 1970s but the research conducted in this area has been developing only in the past 15 years. The aim of this review is to summarize the problems regarding biomedical engineering in Turkey; to present the main subjects that are conducted in biomedical field in Turkey; and to summarize the prominent research papers conducted by Turkish Institutes published during 2008-2018 that contribute and/or have a potential to contribute to research and development (R&D) in biomedical engineering field in Turkey. These studies were divided into categories of tissue engineering, biosensors and biomedical devices; and summarized in this review
Yeni Bir Yaklaşımla Genç Bireylerde Kalp Sağlığı Takibi için Web ve Mobil Uygulama Geliştirilmesi
Authors: ALTIKARDEŞ Zehra Aysun , BAJGORA Mensur , SARIKAYA Ufuk , DOĞAN Buket , FAK Ali Serdar
Published: October 2019

Kardiyovasküler hastalık
riskini tetikleyen hipertansiyon, obezite, diyabet gibi önlenebilir
hastalıkların sıklığı ülkemizdeki genç bireylerde hızla artmaktadır. Bu
hastalıkların kontrollü bir şekilde takip edilebilmesi ve önlenebilmesi için
Marmara Üniversitesi öğrencilerinden toplanan demografik ve sağlık verileri ile
elektronik ortamda bir veri seti oluşturulmuştur. Bu veri seti kullanılarak,
öğrencilerin 10 yıllık kardiyovasküler risklerinin hesaplanarak görüntülendiği
ve kişiye özel hale getirilmiş tıbbi önerilerin e-posta yoluyla kendilerine
bildirildiği bir web platformu PHP ve MySQL kullanılarak oluşturulmuştur.
Öğrencilerin ilerleyen zamandaki kardiyovasküler hastalık risklerinin takip
edilebildiği bu platform, yüksek risk grubunda olan bireylerin risk
seviyelerinin normale indirilebilmesi için farkındalıklarını arttıran bir
işlevselliğe sahiptir. Hazırlanan web platformunun desteklenmesi için, Marmara
Üniversitesi öğrencilerinin kendi sağlık durumlarını takip edebilecekleri, kalp
sağlığı konusunda bilinçlendirici bildirimlerle destekleneceği ve yaşam
kalitelerini arttırabilmeleri için bir standart oluşturulmasına yardımcı olacak
“Sağlıklı Kalpler” adında Android ve iOS platformlarında kullanılmak üzere bir
mobil uygulama geliştirilmiştir. Bu uygulama içerisinde adım sayar, egzersiz
ekleme, listeleme, sağlıklı beslenme ve güncel sağlık durumunu izleme gibi
fonksiyonlar bulunmaktadır.
Auxiliary air conditioner for vehicles storing liquid hydrogen
Authors: UĞURLU Adem
Published: October 2019

Current Vehicle Air Conditioning
(VAC) systems, which are operated by compressors driven by Internal Combustion
Engines (ICEs) or batteries, increase the fuel consumption and emissions
depending on the thermal load of the vehicle passenger cabin. Since decreasing
the thermal load of the vehicle will decrease the fuel consumption and
emissions, studies in this area is very important from the economic and
environmental aspects. In this study, an Auxiliary Air Conditioning (AAC) system
for Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs) or Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCVs)
that store Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) as a powering source has been proposed
to make contribution to the works in this significant area. ICEVs were
evaluated as Gasoline Equivalent Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles
(GEHICEVs) and Diesel Equivalent Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (DEHICEVs)
considering their average fuel consumption rates according to the New European
Driving Cycle (NEDC). According to the analyses, approximate hydrogen
consumption values have been found that reach 0.7 g/s for GEHICEVs, 1.6 g/s for
DEHICEVs, and 0.6 g/s for FCVs with maximum cooling rates of 326 W, 704 W, and
250 W, respectively.
Identification of an allosteric binding site on the human glycine transporter, GlyT2, for bioactive lipid analgesics
Authors: Mostyn Shannon N , Wilson Katie A , Schumann-Gillett Alexandra , Frangos Zachary J , Shimmon Susan , Rawling Tristan , Ryan Renae M , O'Mara Megan L , Vandenberg Robert J
Published: October 2019

The treatment of chronic pain is poorly managed by current analgesics, and there is a need for new classes of drugs. We recently developed a series of bioactive lipids that inhibit the human glycine transporter GlyT2 (SLC6A5) and provide analgesia in animal models of pain. Here, we have used functional analysis of mutant transporters combined with molecular dynamics simulations of lipid-transporter interactions to understand how these bioactive lipids interact with GlyT2. This study identifies a novel extracellular allosteric modulator site formed by a crevice between transmembrane domains 5, 7, and 8, and extracellular loop 4 of GlyT2. Knowledge of this site could be exploited further in the development of drugs to treat pain, and to identify other allosteric modulators of the SLC6 family of transporters.
Sexual transmission of murine papillomavirus (MmuPV1) in Mus musculus
Authors: Spurgeon Megan E , Lambert Paul F
Published: October 2019

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the most common sexually transmitted infectious agents. Because of the species specificity of HPVs, study of their natural transmission in laboratory animals is not possible. The papillomavirus, MmuPV1, which infects laboratory mice (Mus musculus), can cause infections in the female cervicovaginal epithelium of immunocompetent mice that progress to cancer. Here, we provide evidence that MmuPV1 is sexually transmitted in unmanipulated, immunocompetent male and female mice. Female 'donor' mice experimentally infected with MmuPV1 in their lower reproductive tract were housed with unmanipulated male mice. The male mice were then transferred to cages holding 'recipient' female mice. One third of the female recipient mice acquired cervicovaginal infections. Prolonged infections were verified by histopathology and in situ hybridization analyses of both male and recipient female mice at the study endpoint. These findings indicate that MmuPV1 is a new model animal papillomavirus with which to study sexually transmission of papillomaviruses.
Suppressed expansion of single Shockley stacking faults at narrow widths in 4H-SiC
Authors: Maeda Koji , Murata Koichi , Tawara Takeshi , Kamata Isaho , Tsuchida Hidekazu
Published: October 2019

UV-induced expansion of single Shockley stacking faults (1SSFs) in 4H-SiC was found to be suppressed when the width of 1SSFs w is narrower than a certain value of w
r. The intensity profiles of 1SSF-originated photoluminescence (PL) show an initial growth with w followed by an intensity ceiling beyond w
r. The characteristic width w
r is several tens of μm at room temperature, which is close to the range of 1SSF PL reduction near the partial dislocations bounding the 1SSF. A qualitative reasoning is discussed for the larger 1SSF expansion threshold in n+ buffer/substrate interfaces than in n− drift layers.
Lead isotope trends and sources in the atmosphere at the artificial wetland
Authors: Cong Ling , Zhai Jiexiu , Yan Guoxin , Liu Jiakai , Wu Yanan , Wang Yu , Zhang Zhenming , Zhang Mingxiang
Published: October 2019

With the rapid development of industry, studies on lead pollution in total suspended particulate matter (TSP) have received extensive attention. This paper analyzed the concentration and pollution sources of lead in the Cuihu Wetland in Beijing during the period of 2016–2017. The results show that the lead contents in TSP in the Cuihu Wetland were approximately equal in summer and spring, greater in winter, and greatest in autumn. The corresponding lead concentrations were 0.052, 0.053, 0.101, and 0.115 ng/m3, respectively. We compared the 206Pb/207Pb data with other materials to further understand the potential sources of atmospheric lead. The mean values of 206Pb/207Pb from spring to winter were 1.082, 1.098, 1.092, and 1.078, respectively. We found that the lead sources may be associated with coal burning, brake and tire wear, and vehicle exhaust emissions. We also calculated the enrichment factor values for the four seasons, and the values were all much greater than 10, indicating that the lead pollution is closely related to human activities.
Reliability of isometric and isokinetic trunk flexor strength using a functional electromechanical dynamometer
Authors: Rodriguez-Perea Angela , Chirosa Ríos Luis J. , Martinez-Garcia Dario , Ulloa-Díaz David , Guede Rojas Francisco , Jerez-Mayorga Daniel , Chirosa Rios Ignacio J.
Published: October 2019

Aim

To determine the absolute and relative reliability of functional trunk tests, using a functional electromechanical dynamometer to evaluate the isokinetic strength of trunk flexors and to determine the most reliable assessment condition, in order to compare the absolute and relative reliability of mean force and peak force of trunk flexors and to determine which isokinetic condition of evaluation is best related to the maximum isometric.

Methods

Test-retest of thirty-seven physically active male student volunteers who performed the different protocols, isometric contraction and the combination of three velocities (V1 = 015 m s−1 , V2 = 0.30 m  s−1, V3 = 0.45 m s−1) and two range of movement (R1 = 25% cm ; R2 = 50% cm) protocols.

Results

All protocols to evaluate trunk flexors showed an absolute reliability provided a stable repeatability for isometric and dynamic protocols with a coefficient of variation (CV) being below 10% and a high or very high relative reliability (0.69 < intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] > 0.86). The more reliable strength manifestation (CV = 6.82%) to evaluate the concentric contraction of trunk flexors was mean force, with 0.15 m  s−1 and short range of movement (V1R1) condition. The most reliable strength manifestation to evaluate the eccentric contraction of trunk flexors was peak force, with 0.15 m  s−1 and a large range of movement (V1R2; CV = 5.07%), and the most reliable way to evaluate isometric trunk flexors was by peak force (CV = 7.72%). The mean force of eccentric trunk flexor strength with 0.45 m  s−1 and short range of movement (V3R1) condition (r = 0.73) was best related to the maximum isometric contraction.

Conclusion

Functional electromechanical dynamometry is a reliable evaluation system for assessment of trunk flexor strength.
Effects of field-grown transgenic switchgrass carbon inputs on soil organic carbon cycling
Authors: Xu Sutie , Ottinger Sarah L. , Schaeffer Sean M. , DeBruyn Jennifer M. , Stewart C. Neal , Mazarei Mitra , Jagadamma Sindhu
Published: October 2019

Genetic engineering has been used to decrease the lignin content and to change the lignin composition of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) to decrease cell wall recalcitrance to enable more efficient cellulosic biofuel production. Previous greenhouse and field studies showed that downregulation of the gene encoding switchgrass caffeic acid O-methyltransferase (COMT) and overexpression of the switchgrass PvMYB4 (MYB4) gene effectively improved ethanol yield. To understand potential environmental impacts of cultivating these transgenic bioenergy crops in the field, we quantified the effects of field cultivation of transgenic switchgrass on soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics. Total and active SOC as well as soil respiration were measured in soils grown with two COMT-downregulated transgenic lines (COMT2 and COMT3), three MYB4-overexpressed transgenic lines (L1, L6, and L8), and their corresponding non-transgenic controls. No differences in total SOC, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC) were detected between transgenic and non-transgenic treatments for both COMT (10.4–11.1 g kg−1 for SOC, 60.0–64.8 mg kg−1 for DOC, and 299–384 mg kg−1 for POXC) and MYB4 lines (6.89–8.21 g kg−1 for SOC, 56.0–61.1 mg kg−1 for DOC, and 177–199 mg kg−1 for POXC). Soil CO2-carbon (CO2-C) production from the COMT2 transgenic line was not significantly different from its non-transgenic control. In contrast, the COMT3 transgenic line had greater soil CO2-C production than its non-transgenic control (210 vs. 165 µg g−1) after 72 days of laboratory incubation. Combining the improvement in ethanol yield and biomass production reported in previous studies with negligible change in SOC and soil respiration, COMT2 could be a better biofuel feedstock than COMT3 for environmental conservation and cost-effective biofuel production. On the other hand, MYB4 transgenic line L8 produced more biomass and total ethanol per hectare while it released more CO2-C than the control (253 vs. 207 µg g−1). Long-term in situ monitoring of transgenic switchgrass systems using a suite of soil and environmental variables is needed to determine the sustainability of growing genetically modified bioenergy crops.
Comparison of the Ability of Several White-rot Fungi to Biobleach Acacia Oxygen-delignified Kraft Pulp
Authors: Afrida Sitompul , Watanabe Toshihiro , Tamai Yutaka
Published: October 2019

Previous screening analyses demonstrated that the in vivo biobleaching activities of the white-rot fungi Irpex lacteus KB-1.1 and Lentinus tigrinus LP-7 are higher than those of Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Trametes versicolor. The purpose of the current study was to examine the production of extracellular enzymes of these four white-rot fungi grown on three types of low-cost media containing agricultural and forestry waste, and to evaluate the ability of the produced extracellular enzymes to biobleach Acacia oxygen-delignified kraft pulp (A-OKP). The biobleaching activity of extracellular fractions of I. lacteus, L. tigrinus, T. versicolor, and P. chrysosporium cultures was the most pronounced after 3 days of incubation with Acacia mangium wood powder supplemented with rice bran and 1% glucose (WRBG) with resultant Kappa number reduction of 4.4%, 6.7%, 3.3%, and 3.3%, respectively. Therefore, biobleaching ability of I. lacteus and L. tigrinus have been shown to be higher than of T. versicolor and P. chrysosporium, both in vivo and in vitro.
The Treatment of Second Order Ordinary Differential Equations Using Equidistant One-step Block Hybrid
Authors: Skwame Y. , Sabo J. , Mathew M.
Published: October 2019

A general one-step hybrid block method with equidistant of order 6 has been successfully developed for the direct solution of second order IVPs in this article. Numerical analysis shows that the developed method is consistent and zero-stable which implies its convergence. The analysis of the new method is examined on two highly and mildly stiff second-order initial value problems to illustrate the efficiency of the method. It is obvious that our method performs better than the existing method within which we compare our result with. Hence, the approach is an adequate one for solving special second order IVPs.
Physicochemical and Nutritional Properties of Date (Phoenix reclinata) from Dabou (Côte d’Ivoire)
Authors: Hortense Blei Sika , Yolande Digbeu Dogoré , Pierre Valery Niaba Koffi , Meuwiah Betty Faulet , Grah Maxwell Beugre Avit , Lucien Patrice Kouame
Published: October 2019

The date, Phoenix dactylifera is known for its richness in nutrients. Given the high selling price and its scarcity, some rural populations in Côte d'Ivoire consume the Phoenix reclinata date without knowing the functional properties for their well-being. The highlighting of the nutritional value of these fruits is necessary to promote its valorization and its consumption in the form of bioformulated foods. Thus, the physicochemical and antioxidant properties as well as the mineral richness contained in the pulps and the cores were determined using the Association  of  Official Analytical Chemists and  spectrophotometric methods The analyzes were carried out on ripe fruits dried at 20°C in the laboratory of agrovalorization of the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University Jean Lorougnon Guédé between March and May 2019. The results reveal that the pulps and the cores are weakly acidic with respectively pH values of 6.37 ± 0.13 and 5.74 ± 0.06. The pulps and the cores contain respectively dry matter contents (90.39 ± 0.14 against 92.1 ± 0.02), in fibers (10.40 ± 0.17 against 88.7 ± 0.48), in energy values ​​(335.2 ± 0.44 kcal against 378.7 ± 1.07 kcal), in total polyphenols (2.63 ± 0.19 against 3.69 ± 0.18) and in minerals. The pulp and the cores have, for 100 g of solids, sodium contents (3.22 ± 0.12 mg against 3.69 ± 0.18 mg), potassium (0.71 ± 0.07 mg against 2.52 ± 0.08 mg), in phosphorus (3.00 ± 0.02 mg against 2.52 ± 0.08 mg), in calcium (0.16 ± 0.04 mg against 0.65 ± 0.03 mg), zinc (3.30 ± 0.05 mg vs. 3.08 ± 0.03 mg), iron (3.09 ± 0.01 mg vs. 3.26 ± 0.01 mg) and copper (2.93 ± 0.06 mg vs 3.08 ± 0.03 mg). These nutritious potentialities could be recommended in the formulation of foods for the malnourished.
Assessing the Knowledge, Behavior and Practices of Food Safety and Hygiene among Saudi Women in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Beesh Fatima , Al-Ammar Welayah , M. Goja Arafat
Published: October 2019

Background: Unsafe food is a serious concern for human health and well-being and has surfaced as a burning issue worldwide.

Aims: The present work was aimed at assessing the awareness, behavior and practices of food safety and hygiene among Women in Eastern region of Saudi Arabia.

Methodology: A comprehensive questionnaire was designed for collecting required data. The questionnaire comprised mainly of three questions pertaining to food safety issue like (1) knowledge and attitude of food handling (buying, storage and serving food), (2) behavior and practices, (3) food safety knowledge & awareness. The data were analyzed for descriptive, frequency distribution and percentages using SPSS software.

Results: Findings indicated that 40% of the women purchased their foods and needs on weekly basis with high rate for the chicken (67.7%) and meat (57.9%), while 26.4% “weekly” utilize or cook vegetables and fruits. 96.2%, 97.4% and 98.3% of the women “always” washed their hands after touching raw chicken/meats and fish, while 48.9% utilized separate cutting boards/knives for raw chicken/meat and fish. However, 89.8% of respondent female rinse cutting boards, knives and plates used for chicken/meats and fish before using them for other food. Only 22.6% of the women “always” checked their fridge temperature (4°C), while 28.1% and 23.4% of the female believed that it was “safe” to leave hot or cold foods out of the fridge for more than 4 hours, respectively. 60% of women believed that it was safe practices to thaw food outside the fridge.

Conclusion: Majority of the women in Eastern region (>90%) were well aware of food safety and wash their hands, cutting boards, knives and plates. However, about 25% of the respondent’s female believed that it was “safe” to leave hot/cold foods out of the fridge for more than 4 hours, while 60% believed it was “safe” to defrost frozen foods outside the fridge.
Risk Assessment of Occupational Exposure of Workers Engaged in Radiation Practice without Monitoring Devices
Authors: Bidemi I. Akinlade , Daniel F. Akisanya , Biodun S. Badmus
Published: October 2019

Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate occupational dose of personnel, engaged in radiation work without wearing monitoring device, at five diagnostic centres in Abeokuta, Ogun State metropolis, namely, Rainbow, New image, Bethel, Akinolugbade and Abiolad. 

Materials and Methods: Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) obtained from Radiation Protection Services, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo were used for dose measurements. LASU is accredited by the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) to provide radiation monitoring services. The TLDs were distributed to each of the centre for personnel and area (control and supervised) monitoring. The period of exposure of the TLDs was three months. The exposed TLDs were returned to LASU for processing. The effective dose received by personnel per quarter was extrapolated to annual effective dose to make comparison with the International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP) recommended dose limit. The stochastic effect of the measured dose was also estimated. 

Results: Annual effective dose received by all personnel ranged from 1.16 - 2.54 mSv. While the highest value was obtained by personnel at Bethel diagnostic centre, the lowest value was obtained at Akinolugbade. The risk of cancer associated with these values, estimated for a million population, was 112 and 61 at Bethel and Akinolugbade respectively.

Conclusion: This study showed that the annual effective doses to personnel at these centres were below the ICRP recommended dose of 20 mSv per annum. However, the Managements of these diagnostic centres should provide monitoring devices for their radiation workers in line with NNRA authorization requirements.
Review on Optimal Siting of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
Authors: Galadima Ahmadu Adamu , Aja Zarma Tahir , A. Aminu Maruf
Published: October 2019

Concerns about the need for clean energy and the need to reduce green-house gases have led researchers and engineers to explore adoption of electric vehicle technology. Electric vehicles hold a promising future due to their efficiency, low maintenance cost and zero carbon emission. Unfortunately, due to metric range drawbacks associated with electric vehicles, large scale adoption of electric vehicles still remains relatively low. To solve this issue of range anxiety, optimal placement and sizing methods of electric vehicle infrastructure is essential. This paper presents a review of optimal siting of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. It discusses impacts of electric vehicle charging loads on the distribution network and how large scale electric vehicle penetration would affect the grid. Further, the benefits of electric vehicles on the distribution network as well as the integration of renewable energy resources are presented.
Isolation and Screening for Biobutanol Producing Clostridium Species from the Soil Environment of Keffi Metropolis
Authors: D. Makut M. , O. Obiekezie S. , Owuna G.
Published: October 2019

Clostridium species have been reported as one of the most common groups of bacteria that produce biobutanol. The Study was aimed at isolation of Clostridium species from the soil environment in Keffi Metropolis and screening for their ability to produce biobutanol. Ten different location soil samples were collected within keffi Metropolis. Nutrient Blood agar was used for the isolation of the Clostridium species. biobutanol production was carried out using Clostridial isolates and Lucas test was used to detect biobutanol production Clostridium isolates after fermentation. The results show that six (6) species of Clostridial were isolated with a percentage frequency of Clostridium difficile (30%), Clostridium botulinum (10%), Clostridium cylindrosporum (20%), Clostridium perfringens (10%), Clostridium acetobutylicum (20%) and Clostridium celerecrescens (10%). The result further revealed that all the six (6) isolates were found to be able to produce biobutanol. Biobutanol is an industrial organic chemical that can place fossil fuel if harnessed and production of Biobutanol using Clostridium in large quantity can be alternative to fossil fuel.
An Over View of Feline Dermatophytosis
Authors: G. Abdalla Wisal,
Published: October 2019

Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal infection of hair and keratinized layers of the epidermis and is caused by keratinophilic and keratinolytic genera such as Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton. It is an endemic infection in many countries throughout the world affecting companion animals (dogs, cats), domestic animals (calves), and laboratory animals (rabbits) as well as humans. In cats M. canis is responsible for approximately 98% of the observed dermatophyte infections in indoor cats, whereas cats carrying T. mentagrophytes are usually hunters, indicating that the natural source of this species is either the soil or rodent prey.
Investigating the Presence of Plasmodium falciparum Chloroquine Resistant Transporter (Pfcrt) Drug-resistance Alleles in Some Northern Nigerian States
Authors: H. Ruqayyah M. , Nafisatu K. , Balarabe Musa B.
Published: October 2019

This study was designed to investigate the presence of Pfcrt drug- resistance alleles (CQ resistant biomarker) and attempted to analyse the outcome in some states of northern Nigeria. A total of four hundred and thirteen (413) Plasmodium falciparum positive blood samples were collected from Kaduna, Jigawa, Katsina and Kebbi states during the period of April-August 2013. The samples were genotyped at codon 76 using specific primers for Pfcrt gene. The data was analysed using Chi-square to determine significance association. Four hundred and thirteen (413) P. falciparum positive samples were genotyped at codon 76 of pfcrt gene. Sixty eight 68(16.5%) samples contained single K76 (Chloroquine sensitive) alleles, 49(11.9%) contained 76T, while 16(3.9%) contained mixed K76T alleles. K76 alleles were highest in Kaduna state 17(32.1%) and lowest in Kebbi state 10(7.4%), 76T was highest in Jigawa state 11 (25.6%) and lowest in Kebbi state 7(5.2%) while K76T was highest in Jigawa state 5(11.5%) and lowest in Kebbi state 2(1.5%) with significant difference between the states P<0.05. K76 was higher among females 43(17.6%), 76T was also higher females 30(12.2%) while K76T was higher among males 7 (4.2%). K76 was higher among age group of 16-25 years 17(22.4%) and least among 26-40years age group 13 (13.5%). 76T was also higher among 26-40 years age group 17(17.7%) and least among age group >40 years 1(2.0%) and K76T was higher among age group 16-25 years 6(7.9%) and least in >40 years of age 1(2.0%) with high significant difference P<0.05 between the age groups. The results of this study genetically confirms the use of CQ for malaria treatment in the area and attributed the varied distribution across the states, to high irrigation activities, self medication leading to dosage non compliance and improper diagnosis due to use of low sensitive RDT in most government hospitals. The need for enlightenment of the populace cannot over emphasize.
Toxicity Assessment of Produced Water Using Microtox Rapid Bioassay
Authors: Augusta Ajuzieogu Chinyere , Obukowho Odokuma Lucky , Chioma Blaise Chikere,
Published: October 2019

Aim: The study aimed at employing the Microtox test procedure in the current biological monitoring protocol as a reliable, rapid and ecologically relevant bioassay tool for toxicity assessment in environmental compliance monitoring of produced water discharges.

Study Design: Inhibition of bioluminescence by V. fischeri [median effective concentration (EC50)] was employed as the toxicity index.

Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology Department of Halden Laboratories, Port Harcourt, Nigeria / one month.

Methodology: Percent reduction in bioluminescence by V. fischeri after 15-min exposure to the PW samples was recorded as median effective concentration (EC50) values.

Results: The 15 min EC50 values of the untreated and treated produced water samples for V. fischeri was 1.0% and 23.27% respectively. Microtox test indicated the treated and untreated produced water samples were “very toxic” and “extremely toxic” respectively, after 15 min exposure time.

Conclusion: These findings emphasize the need for adequate treatment of produced water to meet standard discharge limits of regulatory agencies in Nigeria, as both physicochemical analysis and bioassay (Microtox) suggested that the treated PW was toxic to V. fischeri. This study thus supports the use of Microtox (bacterial toxicity) system as a sensitive and rapid bioassay tool for biological monitoring protocol in Nigeria's petroleum industry.
Potency of Trona on Fungi Associated with Tinea Capitis from Children in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS)
Authors: Nata’ala M. K. , Mormoni A. B. , Isah A. A. , Ibrahim U. B. , Zauro S. A. , Halilu M. E.
Published: October 2019

Aim: The potency of trona against fungi associated with dermatophytes isolated from children in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS) local farming community was investigated.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry and Department of Pharmacognosy, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria, between January 2017 and September 2017.

Methodology: The samples were collected from errand children within UDUS, and the organisms were isolated and identified microscopically using standard methods. Elemental analysis of the two types of trona (red and white) was also determined using standard Analytical methods. The sensitivity test was carried out using agar well diffusion method.

Results: In the two types of trona (red and white) Sodium was found to have the highest concentration of 9500 mg/kg and 8300 mg/kg, and the lowest was 0.15 and 0.10 mg/kg. Potassium was reported to have a concentration of 4400 mg/kg and 1800 mg/kg for the white and red trona respectively. Some of the organisms identified were Microsporum Canis, Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes etc. Highest mean zone of inhibition of 20.7 and 23.3 mm was recorded for the red and white trona respectively. The least zone of inhibition recorded was 2.7 and 4.7 mm for the red and white trona respectively. Increased activity was recorded when the concentration of the trona was increased.

Conclusion: The results revealed promising potentials of trona in the treatment of fungi associated with dermatophytoses. However, further studies should be done to determine the mechanism of action of trona on these organisms.
Plackett-Burman and Response Surface Methodology for Optimization of Oily Wastewater Bioremediation by Aspergillus sp.
Authors: El-Hamid Hazem T. Abd , Al-Prol Ahmed E. , Hafiz Mohamed A.
Published: October 2019

Plackett-Burman is beneficial design not only in determining the significant variables of bioremediation, but also in optimization of these variables. In this study, Plackett-Burman (PB) experimental model had been applied to assess the significant of some nutritional and environmental condition affecting oily wastewater bioremediation by Aspergillus niger. Eleven variables through twelve assays were planned, namely; Temperature, pH, sucrose, KH2PO4, NaCl, MgSO4, Na2HPO4, NH4Cl, NaNO3, urea and spore suspension to explain their effects on remediation of water contaminated with oil. The degradation process was enhanced based on oil and grease experiment. pH, sucrose, KH2PO4, NaCl, Na2HPO4 and urea were recognized as the positive factors that stimulate the degradation. On the other hand, other variables affected negatively on remediation process. The regression coefficient (R2 = 0.99) ensure the adequate integrity of the model. It was showed that sucrose (A), NaCl (B) and KH2PO4 (C) give high removal of oily wastewater when approaching to +1, on the other hand, the temperature (D) give high removal of oily wastewater when approaching to -1. (B) had positive effects on oily wastewater degradation, whereas C and D had negative effects. The factor with confidence level above 95% is considered as significant parameter. It was clear that variable B was the chief factor, while variables A, C, D, with levels below 95%, were considered insignificant.
Antibacterial and Phytochemical Screening of Crude Extracts of Leaves and Seeds of Datura stramonium
Authors: O. Julius O. , O. Oluwasusi V. , F. Ibiyemi M.
Published: October 2019

Datura stramonium, known by the common name Jimson weed, belongs to nightshade family; its origin can be traced back to Mexico, it has also been grown in other regions including Nigeria. This plant possesses antimicrobial agents which aid in its efficacy for treatment of ailments. Hence, this study investigated the antibacterial activities and phytochemical screening of aqueous and methanol extract of leaves and seeds of Datura stramonium. Leaves and seeds of the plant sample were processed to obtain fractions of crude extracts which were used against bacterial isolates such as, E. coli, S. aureus, S. typhi and P. aeruginosa. Phytochemical screening of the samples was also done to detect the presence of alkaloid, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, tannin, terpenoids, sterol and phenols. Results obtained showed the susceptibility pattern against the bacterial isolates at concentrations ranging from 0.5 – 2.5 mg/mL. The methanol extract of leaves of the plant sample showed high susceptibility pattern against E. coli and S. typhi. The study shows that crude extracts of leaves and seed of the plant sample were effective against the test organisms. The phytochemicals constituents were also present except sterol which is lacking in the seed sample due to the solvent used such as ethanol but may be present if other solvent is used. Antibacterial activity of crude extracts of D. stramonium leaves and seeds were as a result of presence of phytochemical constituents because they are fundamental biomedicals, which are considered biologically to be active compounds.
Isolation, Characterisation and Antibiogram Profile of Staphylococcus aureus in the Urine of Tertiary Care Hospital Patients of District Quetta, Pakistan
Authors: Achakzai Ramla , Shafee Muhammad , Achakzai Kamran Baseer , Khan Masroor Ali
Published: October 2019

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infectious diseases in community practice and a significant public health problem regarding morbidity and financial cost worldwide.

Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) among UTI patients of District Quetta Pakistan and to observe the antibiogram profile of the bacterial isolates.

Materials and Methods: One hundred urine samples were collected from both male and female UTI patients. These mid-stream urine samples were taken early in the morning in sterile, wide mouth containers from the pathological section of a tertiary care hospital (Bolan Medical College Hospital BMCH), District Quetta. Samples were further processed at the Microbiology laboratory of Centre for Advance Studies in Vaccinology and Biotechnology (CASVAB), University of Balochistan from August to December 2011.

Results: Only five samples were found positive for S. aureus on methyl red, Voges-Proskauer, catalase and coagulase, while negative on indole, citrate and motility. Positive samples showed cream and yellow coloured colonies on Staphylococcus medium 110 and mannitol salt agar, respectively. Infection was more common in female (60%) as compared to males (40%); while the overall infection rate was highest in the age group of 26-45 years (80%). During antibiotic sensitivity test, gentamycin showed 100% susceptibility against S. aureus.

Conclusion: It was concluded that only 5% of patients of UTI were caused by S. aureus that can be eliminated by treating the patients with antibiotic gentamycin. In the local scenario, routine urine culture tests and surveillance program is encouraged to be implemented.
Metabolic Control Analysis of Reaction Catalysed by Chalcone Synthase to Inhibit Complex Lipid Formation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Mamta Sagar , Shameem Ahmad , Neetesh Pandey
Published: October 2019

Tuberculosis is among the deadliest diseases occurring worldwide killing almost 2 million of people every year and the number increases every year. The drugs and medications used for treatment become ineffective due to the development of resistance in the causative pathogen, M. tuberculosis towards the drugs. This has led to the development of new approaches to study the diseases from different views. Chalcone Synthase is an enzyme involved in the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway occurring in plants and in certain bacterial species including M. tuberculosis. The enzyme is responsible for lipid biosynthesis in bacterial cell wall of M. tuberculosis. This study describes the kinetic behaviour of reaction; Chalcone Synthase catalyzes the first reaction in flavonoid biosynthesis and needs a certain threshold concentration of substrates for reaction to proceed. In this study, the steady state concentration of substrates is predicted by simulation experiment using Gepasi tool. Initial concentrations of substrates in M. tuberculosis are 4.78*10-2 mMol for p-coumaroyl-CoA and 2.23*10-7 mMol for malonyl-CoA, are taken as input which are essential for synthesis of Naringenin chalcone and release of CoA. This concentration was used to simulate the reaction. Simulation results show that after 5.00 seconds, at equilibrium constant J(R1) 0.000000e mM*ml/s, initial and final concentrations of all the five components become 1.000000 mM, at 0.000 mM reaction rate. Low and stable concentrations of products were obtained during steady state analysis which is 1.157721 mM for both Naringenin chalcone and Coenzyme. The work brings a relevant approach about the possibility of the inactivation of mycobacterial growth by reducing mycolic acid synthesis in the cell wall of mycobacterium and provides basis for new strategy to design vaccine or drug against the pathogen.
Effect of Dilute Acid and Alkaline Pretreatment of Typha australis (Typha Grass) for Bioethanol Production
Authors: Auwalu Bala, , Ali Farouq, Ahmad , Dabai Ibrahim, Aliyu , Chika Muhammad,
Published: October 2019

Typha australis (Typha grass) obtained from Kware Lake was used in this research to produce bioethanol. Different pretreatment methods including dilute acid (0.2M H2SO4), dilute alkaline (0.2M NaOH) and liquid hot water pretreatments were used to pretreat the Typha grass sample before enzymatic saccharification for 7 days using Aspergillus niger isolated from soil sediment and the hydrolysate was seeded with Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolated from palm wine to produce bioethanol. HPLC was used to analyze bioethanol product. The result showed that pretreatment with 0.2M H2SO4 removed more hemicelluloses (7.0%) when compared with other pretreatment methods used, but pretreatment with 0.2M NaOH and liquid hot water removed more lignin (14.29%) than dilute acid pretreatment. The highest percentage reducing sugar concentration of 0.58% was obtained from lower part of the sample pretreated with liquid hot water while Typha grass pretreated with 0.2M H2SO4 and 0.2M NaOH produced the highest percentage reducing sugar concentration of 0.32% each from the upper part of the sample. Also, the highest Bioethanol concentration of 2.07% was obtained at day 6 of fermentation from the Typha grass pretreated with liquid hot water while Typha grass pretreated with 0.2M H2SO4 and 0.2M NaOH produced highest Bioethanol concentration of 0.43% and 0.54% respectively. The results indicate that Typha grass can be harnessed for bioethanol production thereby reducing their negative impact on Lakes.
Cryptococcus neoformans – New Science for Discovering Melanin Modifiers
Authors: Soundharya R. , Aruna V. , Amruthavalli G. V. , Gayathri R.
Published: October 2019

Aim: The present study was taken up to establish the effect of niacinamide on phenoloxidase lead melanogenesis and to prove the reliability of C. neoformans based screening methodology.

Methods: The organism was grown in the Minimal media in presence and absence of L- DOPA and Niacinamide and checked for its pigment producing ability at different time intervals.

Results: Niacinamide did not affect the pigmentation in Cryptococcus neoformans in the absence or presence of L-Dopa.

Conclusion: Cryptococcus neoformans as a biological tool for studying the mechanism of action of various melanin promoters/ inhibitors. The present study highlights the importance and usefulness of Cryptococcus neoformans based screening invention as it is cost effective rapid and ‘living cell model’.
Microbiological and Physiochemical Quality of Freshwater in Isiokpo Community, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Chioma Ewulonu, Chigozie , Omokaro Obire, , Patience Akani, Nedie
Published: October 2019

Aim: To determine microbiological quality of fresh water in Isiokpo community.

Study Design: This study employs standard scientific methods, statistical analysis and interpretation.

Place and duration of the Study: Fresh water samples were collected from Isiokpo community in Ikwerre L.G.A. of Rivers State, Nigeria. Sampling was done every two weeks from three stations of Isiokpo river for duration of six months (February–July, 2018). Samples were transported in ice packed coolers to the Microbiology Laboratory of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, and immediately processed for analysis. 

Methodology: Ten- fold serial dilution technique was adopted after which 0.1 ml of appropriately diluted stock was inoculated onto sterile Microbiological media. Spread plate technique was employed for the isolation, enumeration and identification of microorganisms. The APHA standards were adopted in the determination of physico-chemical parameters which include turbidity, colour, odour, pH, conductivity, total suspended solids, total dissolved solids, nitrate, sulphate, calcium and BOD5. The  Duncan  multiple range test  was  employed  for analysis  of  variance  (ANOVA) of  the  data  obtained.

Results: The mean counts for Total heterotrophic bacterial counts ranged from 4.77±0.20 log10 CFU/ml to 4.92±0.11 log10 CFU/ml. Total coliform  bacteria  ranged  from  4.28±0.25 to 4.60±0.25log10 CFU/ml. Total Vibrio counts  ranged from 1.77±1.97 log10 CFU/ml to 4.25±0.09 log10 CFU/ml. Total Pseudomonas  counts ranged  from  2.48±1.93 log10 CFU/ml  to 4.0217±0.34 log10 CFU/ml. Total  heterotrophic fungal counts ranged from  2.31±1.81 log10 CFU/ml  to 4.21± 0.22 log10 CFU/ml in all the stations. The microorganisms isolated belong to the genera of Bacillus, Escherichia, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Shigella, Vibrio, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor and Rhizopus. The pH values ranged from 5.60 to 6.80, Conductivity 35 to 40 µs/cm, Total suspended solids (TSS) 48 mg/L to 54.00 mg/L, Total Dissolved Solids 5.20 to 6.50 mg/L, Nitrate 1.00 to 1.45 mg/L, Sulphate 1.00 to 1.30 mg/L, Calcium 6.00 to 9.20 mg/L and BOD 5.30 to               6.20 mg/L in all the stations.

Conclusion: The presence of E. coli which is an indicator of fecal contamination is enough to suspect that the water body is contaminated with fecal matter and pathogenic bacteria. The water should therefore not be put to human use without proper treatment because the water is of low quality and constitute a danger to public health.
Evaluation of Probiotic Potential of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Raphia Palm Wine (Raffia mambillensis)
Authors: Tongwa Quentin Metsatedem , Manet Linda , Mouafo Hippolyte Tene , Fossi Bertrand Tatsinkou
Published: October 2019

Aim: The present study was undertaken to assess the probiotic potential of lactic acid bacteria strains isolated from raphia palm wine (Raffia mambillensis O.) of the South West region of Cameroon.

Study Design: The study site and sample were randomly chosen and the responses assessed were submitted to analyses of variance.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Ekona in the South West region of Cameroon, between February 2017 and October 2018.

Methodology: Physicochemical analyses were performed to characterize the Raphia palm wine samples. Lactic acid bacteria were isolated from these samples using pour plate method, and the isolates were tested for their antimicrobial activity, low pH and bile salts tolerance, antibiotic sensitivity, hemolytic activity and enzymes production. The active isolates were identified phenotypically using API 50 CHL.

Results: The results revealed that among the nine isolates, only three were active against Escherichia coli BL21, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Salmonella enterica and Staphylococcus aureus with inhibition diameters ranging from 10 to 25 mm. The three isolates which exhibited antimicrobial activity were able to survive at simulated stomach pH (pH 3.0) with survival rate above 80% and in the presence of bile salts at 1% with survival rates above 50%. All three isolates gave negative results for hemolytic activity and were resistant to most antibiotic treatments. These three isolates produced β-galactosidase, which is beneficial for lactose intolerance. They also produced some non-carcinogenic enzymes including leucine arylamidase, crystine arylamidase, acid phosphatase, α-galactosidase, α-glucosidase, β-glucosidase, and N-acetyl-β-glucosamidase. Identification of these three isolates with API kit 50 CHL reveals that they are Lactobacillus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus brevis.

Conclusion: Our findings revealed that raphia palm wine can be an excellent source of probiotic lactic acid bacteria.
Antimicrobial Activity of Lactic Acid Bacteria from Kunun-Zaki on Selected Clinical Pathogens
Authors: Evurani S. Amuche , Godwin A. , Charity N. Ugwu , Chinelo C. Eze , Okafor G.
Published: October 2019

Aims: To investigate the anti-microbial activity of lactic acid bacterial isolates from locally fermented Kunun-zaki beverage.

Study Design:  The study was designed to study the anti-microbial effect of lactic acid bacterial isolates obtained from Kunun-zaki beverage.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Applied Microbiology Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Agbani, June 2009 and January 2010.

Methodology: Fresh Kunun drink was prepared from millet following standard modified procedures. Isolation of lactic acid bacteria from the beverage sample was carried out using MRS agar medium. Morphological and biochemical characterizations were performed to identify the organisms. Finally, the bacterial isolates were tested for antibacterial activity against clinical pathogens – Bacillus anthracis, Clostridium perfringens, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus faecalis, Micrococcus luteus, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus obtained from Microbiology Department Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka Nigeria.

Results: Morphological and biochemical characteristics revealed the presence of Gram’s positive bacteria which were identified as Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus brevis. The antimicrobial activity of the isolates (L. casei and L. brevis) against various pathogenic strains recorded 90±0.002% inhibition. Only Micrococcus luteus was absolutely resistant to antimicrobial treatments with Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus brevis. 

Conclusion: The study concluded that Lactobacillus brevis and Lactobacillus casei from kunun-zaki drink possess strong antimicrobial activity against a wide range of clinical pathogens. Since lactic acid bacteria are known to possess many health benefits, some of the therapeutic effects reported from the consumption of the beverage may be attributed to these organisms.