| 1 | Osborne, K. A., Neil, D. G., Sherry, A., Leary, P., Mejeha, O., Bischoff, J.., Darci, R., Sidgwick, F. R., Daniel, B., Marina, G. K. and Talbot, H. M., (2017). | Methanotroph-derived bacteriohopanepolyol signatures as a function of temperature related growth, survival, cell death and preservation in the geological record | Interpretation of bacteriohopanepolyol (BHP) biomarkers tracing microbiological processes in modern and ancient sediments relies on understanding environmental controls of production and preservation. BHPs from methanotrophs (35-aminoBHPs) were studied in methane-amended aerobic river‐sediment incubations at different temperatures. It was found that: (i) With increasing temperature (4°C–40°C) a 10-fold increase in aminopentol (associated with Crenothrix and Methylobacter spp. growth) occurred with only marginal increases in aminotriol and aminotetrol; (ii) A further increase in temperature (50°C) saw selection for the thermophile Methylocaldum and mixtures of aminopentol and C-3 methylated aminopentol, again, with no increase in aminotriol and aminotetrol. (iii) At 30°C, more aminopentol and an aminopentol isomer and unsaturated aminopentol were produced after methanotroph growth and the onset of substrate starvation/oxygen depletion. (iv) At 50°C, aminopentol and C-3 methylated aminopentol, only accumulated during growth but were clearly resistant to remineralization despite cell death. These results have profound implications for the interpretation of aminoBHP distributions and abundances in modern and past environments. For instance, a temperature regulation of aminopentol production but not aminotetrol or aminotriol is consistent with and, corroborative of, observed aminopentol sensitivity to climate warming recorded in a stratigraphic sequence deposited during the Paleocene-Eocene thermal maximum (PETM). | Environmental microbiology report | 9(5)
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| 2 | Viggi, C. C., Bruna, M., Emanuela, F., Susanna, I., Alessio, M., Saulius, K.., Sherry, A., Mejeha, O. K., Ian, M. H., Eleni, V., Korneel, R., Simona, R. and Federico, A. (2017). | Bridging spatially segregated redox zones with a microbial electrochemical snorkel triggers biogeochemical cycles in oil-contaminated River Tyne (UK) sediments | Marine sediments represent an important sink for a number of anthropogenic organic contaminants, including petroleum hydrocarbons following an accidental oil spill. Degradation of these compounds largely depends on the activity of sedimentary microbial communities linked to biogeochemical cycles, in which abundant elements such as iron and sulfur are shuttled between their oxidized and reduced forms. Here we show that introduction of a small electrically conductive graphite rod (“the electrochemical snorkel”) into an oil-contaminated River Tyne (UK) sediment, so as to create an electrochemical connection between the anoxic contaminated sediment and the oxygenated overlying water, has a large impact on the rate of metabolic reactions taking place in the bulk sediment. The electrochemical snorkel accelerated sulfate reduction processes driven by organic contaminant oxidation and suppressed competitive methane-producing reactions. The application of a comprehensive suite of chemical, spectroscopic, biomolecular and thermodynamic analyses suggested that the snorkel served as a scavenger of toxic sulfide via a redox interaction with the iron cycle. Taken as a whole, the results of this work highlight a new strategy for controlling biological processes, such as bioremediation, through the manipulation of the electron flows in contaminated sediments. | Water Research | 127
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| 3 | Nwaneri, C. B., Ogbulie , J. N., and Chiegboka, N. A. (2017). | The Microbiology and Biochemistry of Treculia africana (African Breadfruit) Fermentation | In the fermentation of African breadfruit, the microorganisms present were isolated and identified. The process involved microbial succession, with the participation of bacteria fungi and yeast genera. The bacteria genera isolated were Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Micrococcus,Enterobactei and Staphylococcus, with Bacillus and lactobacillus constituting the predominant microflora. The fungi genera isolated were Aspergillus, Curvularia and Alternaria while the only yeast isolated was Saccharomyces spp. The heterotrophic, proteolytic, lipolytic and saccharolytic bacterial population increased progressively from the first day till the seventh day when a peak was recorded. The physical parameters like temperature, pH and moisture were observed during the process. Also the proximate analysis of the as the fermentation progresses. The decrease in crude fibre contents could be attributed to breakdown of the fibre components by the fermentative organisms. The proximate analysis reveals that the breadfruit has rich food value and hence may be used with other food supplements in the production of human food and animal feed. | Nigerian Journal of Microbiology | 31(1)
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| 4 | Nwaneri, C. B., Onyeagba, R. A, Nwaugo, V. O., and Amadi, E. S. (2017). | Effects of Snail Farming on Soil Microbial Spectrum and Physicochemical Properties. | The study was undertaken to determine the effect of snail farming on soil microbial spectrum and physicochemical properties. This was investigated using standard chemical analytical procedures and cultural techniques. Snail soil samples were collected from two locations within Owerri, including, Nekede and Irete. Snail species reared in the farms were Achatina achatina and Archachatina marginata. The pH changed from neutral to alkaline. The temperature also increased slightly. Phosphate, sulphate, nitrate and total organic matter showed similar increase in the snail farm soil samples than in the test control sample with the differences being statistically significant. (P = 0.05).Sodium and potassium ions increased slightly while calcium and magnesium ions increased more. Thirteen bacterial species isolated from the snail farm soil samples were Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Aerornonas, Staphococcus, Shigella and Flavobacteria, Nitrobocter, Eseherichia coil and Kiebsieiia, Proteus, Enterobacter, Micrococcus and Salmonella species. The most prevalent was Bacillus species which had 100% occurrence. The total heterotrophic bacteria (TLIB) had the highest counts in both snail farm soil samples and controls. Further bacteriological analysis of the snail shell bacterial loads showed the same trend as in the soil analysis. The values of the enzymatic activities estimated in both snail farm and control soil samples showed that dehydrogenase had the highest activities. These changes are attributable to the contents of the wastes and their metabolism by microorganisms. The snail wastes could serve as increased additional source of micro-organisms to the soil while the left-over food items served as added nutrient for microbial growth. Most metabolic reactions are exothermic and the cumulative effect was the slight increase in soil temperature observed in this study. Similarly, the breakdown of the protein content of the wastes caused the release of ammonia which dissolved in the soil moisture to cause the increased pH values observed. | Nigerian Journal of Microbiology | 31(1)
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| 5 | Agwaranze, D. I., Ogodo, A. C., Nwaneri, C. B. and Agyo, P. (2017). | Bacteriological Examination of Well Water in Wukari, Nigeria | Provision of portable drinking water is of public health concern especial in developing countries where this is unavailble. The bacteriological quality of well water in Wukari metropolis was examined. A total of fifteen samples, five from each of the three wards (Puje, hospital and Avyi) in wukari were analyzed for total bacteria load, total coliform and presence of bacteria Species using standard microbiological techniques. The result showed that the total viable count of bacteria in all the samples ranged from 0.86 x 104 cfu/ml (W5A) to 3.04 x 104 cfu/ml (WI4P). Total coliform ranged from 0.24x 102 cfu/ml (W5A) to I .84 x 102 cfu/mI (W13P). Bacteria isolated showed that Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from samples W1A, W2P and W3A. W4A, W8H, W9H, W11P and WI3P, Pseudomonas species was present in W1A, W3A, W4A, W7H,and W15P, Escherichia coli was isolated from W1A, W5A,W7H, W8H,W9H,W11P, and W14P, Klebsiella species and Enterococcus Specie were isolated from W2A and W3A, W6H and W10H respectively. Salmonella species was present in W2A, W10H, W11 was present in W2A, WA, WdA. W7H and The study has shown high level of bacterial contamination in ill lite samples. I leitce, the need ihr well maintenance and hygienic practices by households to reduce the risk of disease outbreak from the organisms encountered in this study. | International Journal of Scientific Research in Environmental Science. | 5 (2)
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| 6 | Ogodo, A. C., Nwaueri, C. B., Agwaranze, D. I., Ewanfo, J. I. and Okoronkwo, C. U. (2017). | Antimycotic and Antibacterial Activity of Aframomum melegueta Seed Extracts Against Bacteria and Fungi Species from Food Sources | The antibacterial and antimycotic activity of Aframomum melegueta seeds were investigated against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureas, Pseudomonas earuginosa, Salmonella species, Klebsiella species, Bacillus species, Fusarium species, Rhizopus species, Aspergillus species, Penicillium species and Mucor species isolated from spoiled bread and tomatoes using agar well diffusion method. The result showed that the ethanol extract exhibited higher antibacterial activity more than the aqueous extract with Bacillus sp. having the highest zone of inhibition (28mm, 23mm), followed by Salmonella sp. (26mm, 22mm), S. aureus (24mm, 19mm), Klesiella sp. (22mm, 17mm) and F. coil (20mm, 16mm) while F earuginosa was the least (18mm, l5iiim). The antifungal activity showed that Rhizopus sp. was thp most inhibited by both ethanol and aqueous extracts respectively (20mm and 16mm), followed Penicillium sp. (17mm an4 12mm), Aspergillus sp. (14mm and 11mm) and Fusarium sp (14mm and 10mm) while Mucor sp. was the least (15mm iand 9mm). The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the aqueous seed extracts showed that MIC of E. coli, S. aureulc, Salmonella sp. and Bacillus sp. was 2Omg!mL. MIC for .P earuginosa, Klesiella sp. and Rhizopus sp. was 3Omg/mL while Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp. and Mucor sp. have MICs of 50mg/ml. The MICs of the ethanolic extract showed that F. coil and S. aureus have MICs of lOmg/mL, F earuginosa, Klesiella sp., Penicillium sp. and Rhizoprus sp. have 2Omg/mL, Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp. and Mucor sp. have 3Omg/mL while Bacillus sp. was the most susceptible with MIC of 5mg/mt. The low MICs are indication of strong antibacterial and antimycotic effects of the extracts. Hence, the extracts could be used in treating infections associated with the test organisms and as well as serve as potential food preservative. | Central African Journal of Public Health | 3(4):44-50
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| 7 | Opurum, C. C., Nwanyanwu, C. E., Nwaneri, C. B. and Mbachu, I. A. C. (2017). | Biosurfactant Production by Pseudomonas species using Pre-treated Palm Oil Mill Effluent as Fermentation Mediums | ln this study, pre-treated palm oH mill effluent (POME) was evaluated as a possible inexpensive, alternative and renewable medium source for the production of biosurfactant by Pseudomonas fluorescens and Pseudomonas sp. Different concentrations of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 % (v/v) pie-treated POME was used in this study. The media were inoculated with 5 % of the innoculum standardized by adjusting the turbidity to O comparable to 0.5 McFarland standards. The fermentation was carried out at 30°C in a rotary shaker incubator at 160 rpm for 120 h. Biosurfactant production was screened based n haemolytic activity, tilted glass slide test (TGST), emulsification index (E24) and oil preading properties. Results of the physicochemical analysis showed that besides carbohydrate, protein and oil, POME is remarkably rich in very valuable nutrient minerals particularly Ca, Mg, Cu, K, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn and P that could support the fermentative cultivation of bacteria for the production of biosurfactant. Although all the concentrations used ppreciabIy supported bacteri growth, the highest cell count was recorded in 20 % (9.0 x 10- 13.4OxlO7CFUfml) between 72 —96 h incubation in P. fiuorescens and 8.55 x — 6.47 xIO8CFU/ml between 48-72 h in Pseudomonas sp. Similarly, the peak of dehydrogenaoe activity was recorded in 20 % POME (38.08 p/mI) in Pseudomonas sp. The biosurfactant produced by P. fluorescens and Pseudomonas sp. in 20 % POME exhibited maximum oil spreading properties of 1.9 and 1.4 cm, respectively. However, maximum emulsification activity was recorded in biosurfactant produced in 60 % POME by P. fluorescens (61 %) and Pseudomonas sp. (58.36 %). The properties exhibited by the biosurfactant suggest its potential for application in biorernediation, enhanced oil recovery, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry. The findings in this study provide a strong indication that POME could be used as a veritable alternative and inexpensive medium source and holds a prospect in the large scale industrial production of biosurfactant by the Psetidomonas. | Futo Journal Series (FUTOJNLS) | 3(2)
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| 8 | Ogodo, A. C., Agwaranze, D. I., Nwaneri, C. B., Okoronkwo, U. C. and Uzochukwu, G. E. (2017). | Activity of Leave and Stem Bark Cuttings of Ocimum gratissimum Extracts on Foodborne Pathogens | The antibacterial activity of aqueous and ethanol extrtcts of leave and stem bark cutting of Ocimum gratissimum against selected foodbotne pathogens, Eseherichia coil, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas species, Salmella species and Shigella species, were evaluated using agar well diffusion method. Th4 results show that both extracts of the plant parts inhibited the organisms. However,L the ethanol extracts were more eftbctive than the aqueous extracts. Also, the exttats of the stem bark cuttings were more potent than the leave extracts. The combined extracts of the leave and stem bark cutting showed synergistic antibacterial effect. The ninimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of aqueous extract of the leave showed that the MIC for Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas species was 3OmgImL while Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella species and Shigella species have MICs of 5OmgImL. The MIC of the ethanolic leave extract showed that Pseudomonas species had the least MIC of I 0mg/niL while Escherichia co/i, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella species and Shigella species have MICs of 2Omg/mL respectively. The MIC of the aqueous stem bark cutting extract showed that Escherichia coil, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas species had the same MIC of 2Omg/mL while Salmonella species and Shigeila species have MICa of 3Omg/mL respectively while the MIC of the ethanolic stem bark cutting extract showed that E. coil, S. aureus and Salmonella species have MICs of 10mg/niL. Shigella species had 20mg/niL while Pseudomonas species had MIC of SmgImL. The low MICs are indication of strong antibacterial effect on the organisms particularly the ethanol extracts. Therefore, the extracts of Ocimum gratissimum could be used in treating infections associated with the test organisms as well as in food preservation. | AASCJT Journal of Bioscience | 3(2)
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| 9 | Ogodo, A. C., Agwaranze, D. l., Nwaneri, C. B., Yakubu, M. N. and Zakariya, J. H. (2018). | Comparative Study on the Bacteriological Quality of Kunun-Aya Sold in Wukari, Nigeria | This study was carried out to ascertain the bacteria quality of kunun—aya from Wukari metropolis.A total of nine (9 samples, three from each of the Wards (Avyi, Hospital and Pujee) in Wukari and laboratory prepared sample (control) were evaluated for bacterial load and presence of bacteria using standard microbiological techniques. The result show that the pH of the kunun-aya samples were within the acidic range of 2.03 to 2.16. the total bacterial count ranged from 1.3 x 107ncfu/ml to 2.2 x 107 cfu/ml while control was 3.0 x 103 cfu/ml. total coliform and staphylococcal counts ranged from 1.0 x 103 cfu/ml to 7.0 x 103 cfu/ml and 4.0 c 104 cfu/ml to 8.0 x 104 cfu/ml with control having < 10 colonies respectively. Bacteria isolated and their distributions shows that Klebsiella species was present in samples AVY1, AVY2, HSP1, HSP2, PUJ2 and PUJ3. Bacillus species was present in samples AVY1, HSP1, PUJ2,and control Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from all the samples except HSP, PUJ2, and control,. Citrobacter species, Salmonella species, SAhigella species and Micrococcus species were only isolated from HSP1, PUJ1, PUJ3 and control respectively. Proteus species was isolated from PUJ1 and PUJ3, Pseudomonas so=pecies was present in AVY3 and PUJ1, Escherichia coli, was present in AVY1, HSP1, HSP2 and PUJ1 while Enterococcus species was isolated from HSP1, PUJ2, and control. The occurrence of these isolates that Staphyloccocus aureus was the highest , 7 (70%), followed by Klebsiella species and Bacillus species having occurrences of 6 (60%) each, Escheerichia coli, 4 (40%), Enterococcus specie 3(). | International Journal Research Studies in Microbiology and Biotechnology | 4 (1)
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| 10 | Agwaranze, D. I., Nwugo, V. O., Ogodo. A. C., Onudibia, M. E., Nwaneri, C. B. and Aliba, N. V. (2018). | Effects of cassava mill effluent (CME) on bacteria diversity of soil and aquatic environments in South- South Nigeria | The effects of cassava effluent on the bacteria diversity of Nkissa River in South-south area of Nigeria and the adjoining soil were investigated. Results obtained in soil analysis showed changes in temperature (28.6—32.6oC) , pH (7.2—l0.3 ) and toxicity of cassava (TOC) (24.2-41.3 mg/g). Highest values were obtained near the waste pit while control soil had the least values. Cyanogenic potential was highest near the pit. total heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 3.7xl04_6.6x106 CFU/g. Phosphate solubilizing bacteria count ranged from 2.2x 102—2.9 x 103CfU/g. In all eases, highest values were obtained 100ml from the waste pit, followed by the control while the least was in the pit edge. The water analysis showed that dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). total suspended solids (TSS) and total dissolved solids (TDS) were adversely affected by the cassava effluent as values from the upstream were significantly (p<0.05) lower than those from the discharge point (DP) to the downstream areas (DS I and DS 11). The metallic ions were not significantly affected. The cyanogenic potentials of the water samples were quite low (1.03- 0.42 mg/l). Klebsiella, Corynebacterium, Acinebacter, and Morexalla Species which were absent from Upstream (US), were found from the Discharge/ Fallout Point (DFP) to the Downstream (DS) samples, Escherichia, Lactobacillus,, Bacillus and Micrococcos species were found in all the water samples analyzed. The cassava effluent utilization test showed that Alcaligenes,. Xanthomonas,, Loctobacillus, Coryneabacterium and Micrococcus species are good metabolizers of the effluents indicated. However, Escherichia and Enterobacter species did not utilize the effluent at all. Results indicated adverse effects of the cassava mill effluent (CME) on soil parameters and water qualities which call for regulations on the disposal of CME to avoid environmental degradation. | Open Access Journal of Science | 2 (4)
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| 11 | Nwogwugwu, N. U., Abu, G. O. and Akaranta, O. (2018). | Isolation of Cellulose Degrading Microorganisms from Agro-Wastes for Industrial Utilisation. | Cellulose is a simple polymer, which forms insoluble crystalline micro fibrils that are highly resistant to enzymatic hydrolysis. Cellulolytic microorganisms play an important role in the biosphere by recycling cellulose, the most abundant carbohydrate produced by plants. Twelve cellulose degrading microorganisms were isolated from different substrates: decomposing corn cob and corn husk, decomposing saw dust from timber shades and poultry beddings. The isolation of cellulose degrading bacteria (CDB) and fungi was done by inoculating 0.1ml aliquots of serially diluted samples on Cellulose agar medium, Nutrient agar, Potato dextrose agar and cellulose Congo-red agar. Cellulose activity of the organisms was determined by diameter of clear zones around the colonies on Cellulose Congo red agar medium. The highest zone of clearing for bacteria was seen with Cellulomonas, 4.10mm; followed by Bacillus, 3.7mm; Pseudomonas 3.1mm and Staphylococcus 2.8mm etc. The highest for fungal isolates was Aspergillus, 16.40mm; Penicillum, 14.70mm and Mucor, 12.4mm. Most of the biological conversions are aimed at changing cellulose into ethanol by fermentation, to replace fuel currently supplied by petroleum. These applications are based on the modification of cellulose and hemicelluloses by partial hydrolysis. Total hydrolysis of cellulose into glucose, which could be fermented into ethanol, isopropanol or butanol is not yet economically feasible. However, the need to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases provides an added incentive for the development of processes for generating biofuels from cellulose, a major renewable carbon source. | International Journal of Innovative Science, Engineering & Technology | 5(2)
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| 12 | Chinakwe, E. C., Egbadon, E. O., Ofoh, M. C., Ojibe, O., Onyeji, J. C., Emeakaroha, M.C., Nwogwugwu, N. U. and Chinakwe, P. O. (2017). | In vitro Evaluation of the effect of Inorganic Fertilizer on Rhizosphere Soil Microbial Populations during Early Growth of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris. | Aims: The study assessed the effects of different regimen of inorganic fertilizers on the microbial community structure in the rhizosphere soil of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris Study Design: Seeds of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris were planted and Inorganic fertilizers were added to the soil after two weeks of planting to determine their effects on the microbial structure as well as the microbial succession pattern in the rhizosphere soils of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris during early growth. Statistical analysis were carried out using a two-wayduring early growth. ANOVA. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out at the farmland of School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri Nigeria for a period of five weeks. Methodology: Seeds of Zea mays and Phaseoulus vulgaris were planted in a soil under laboratory condition and different regimen of inorganic fertilizers added after two weeks using the placement method of fertilizer application, and a control experiment maintained without addition of fertilizers. Rhizosphere soil from Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris were collected every week for the remaining weeks for microbiological analysis to determine the microbial community and microbial populations present in the soil. Results: In this study the presence of Bacillus sp, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Rhizobium sp, were evident in the rhizosphere soil of both Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris all through the five week period of study. The fungal community structure revealed the presence of Saccharomyces sp, Fusarium and Penicilium notatum for Zea mays rhizosphere soil, while Phaseolus vulgaris rhizosphere soil had Saccharomyces sp, Streptomyces sp, Fusarium and Penicilium notatum. The microbial succession pattern revealed that Bacillus sp, Staphylococcus aureus, Rhizobium sp and Saccharomyces sp were mostly predominant in the rhizosphere soil of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris all through the period of study. Conclusion: The results from this study revealed that inorganic fertilizers had significant effect on the microbial community structure present in the rhizosphere soil of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris during early growth when compared to the control without inorganic fertilizer. This result suggests that the increased microbial community in rhizosphere soil of Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris resulted from increased biological interaction in the soils between the roots of plants, microorganisms and the inorganic fertilizer. | Biotechnology Journal International. | 18(1)
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| 13 | Opurum, C. C., Nwanyanwu, C. E., Nwaneri C. B., and Mbachu, I. A. C. (2017). | Biosurfactant Production by Pseudomonas species using Pre-treated Palm Oil Mill Effluent as Fermentation Mediums | ln this study, pre-treated palm oH mill effluent (POME) was evaluated as a possible inexpensive, alternative and renewable medium source for the production of biosurfactant by Pseudomonas fluorescens and Pseudomonas sp. Different concentrations of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 % (v/v) pie-treated POME was used in this study. The media were inoculated with 5 % of the innoculum standardized by adjusting the turbidity to O comparable to 0.5 McFarland standards. The fermentation was carried out at 30°C in a rotary shaker incubator at 160 rpm for 120 h. Biosurfactant production was screened based n haemolytic activity, tilted glass slide test (TGST), emulsification index (E24) and oil preading properties. Results of the physicochemical analysis showed that besides carbohydrate, protein and oil, POME is remarkably rich in very valuable nutrient minerals particularly Ca, Mg, Cu, K, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn and P that could support the fermentative cultivation of bacteria for the production of biosurfactant. Although all the concentrations used ppreciabIy supported bacteri growth, the highest cell count was recorded in 20 % (9.0 x 10- 13.4OxlO7CFUfml) between 72 —96 h incubation in P. fiuorescens and 8.55 x — 6.47 xIO8CFU/ml between 48-72 h in Pseudomonas sp. Similarly, the peak of dehydrogenaoe activity was recorded in 20 % POME (38.08 p/mI) in Pseudomonas sp. The biosurfactant produced by P. fluorescens and Pseudomonas sp. in 20 % POME exhibited maximum oil spreading properties of 1.9 and 1.4 cm, respectively. However, maximum emulsification activity was recorded in biosurfactant produced in 60 % POME by P. fluorescens (61 %) and Pseudomonas sp. (58.36 %). The properties exhibited by the biosurfactant suggest its potential for application in biorernediation, enhanced oil recovery, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry. The findings in this study provide a strong indication that POME could be used as a veritable alternative and inexpensive medium source and holds a prospect in the large scale industrial production of biosurfactant by the Psetidomonas. | Futo Journal Series (FUTOJNLS) | 3(2)
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| 14 | Ogodo, A. C., Agwaranze, D. I., Nwaneri, C. B., Okoronkwo, U. C. and Ekeleme, U. G. (2017). | Activity of Leave and Stem Bark Cuttings of Ocimum gratissimum Extracts on Foodborne Pathogens | The antibacterial activity of aqueous and ethanol extrtcts of leave and stem bark cutting of Ocimum gratissimum against selected foodbotne pathogens, Eseherichia coil, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas species, Salmella species and Shigella species, were evaluated using agar well diffusion method. Th4 results show that both extracts of the plant parts inhibited the organisms. However,L the ethanol extracts were more eftbctive than the aqueous extracts. Also, the exttats of the stem bark cuttings were more potent than the leave extracts. The combined extracts of the leave and stem bark cutting showed synergistic antibacterial effect. The ninimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of aqueous extract of the leave showed that the MIC for Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas species was 3OmgImL while Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella species and Shigella species have MICs of 5OmgImL. The MIC of the ethanolic leave extract showed that Pseudomonas species had the least MIC of I 0mg/niL while Escherichia co/i, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella species and Shigella species have MICs of 2Omg/mL respectively. The MIC of the aqueous stem bark cutting extract showed that Escherichia coil, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas species had the same MIC of 2Omg/mL while Salmonella species and Shigeila species have MICa of 3Omg/mL respectively while the MIC of the ethanolic stem bark cutting extract showed that E. coil, S. aureus and Salmonella species have MICs of 10mg/niL. Shigella species had 20mg/niL while Pseudomonas species had MIC of SmgImL. The low MICs are indication of strong antibacterial effect on the organisms particularly the ethanol extracts. Therefore, the extracts of Ocimum gratissimum could be used in treating infections associated with the test organisms as well as in food preservation. | AASCJT Journal of Bioscience | 3(2)
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| 15 | Ngumah, C.C., Ogbulie, J. N., Orji, J. C., Amadi, E. S., Nweke, C. O. and Allino, J. (2017). | Optimizing Biomethanation of a Lignocellulosic Biomass using Indigenous Microbial Cellulases Systems. | The effects of different concentrations of cobalt and manganese on the biomass and the ability of Azotobacter chroococcum to fix nitrogen wereinvestigated. In vitro trials were conducted in Jensen’s (nitrogen free) broth (half strength) under continuous air flow, incubated at ambient room temperatures for seven days. Results obtained showed that 12.5 mg/l, 25 mg/l, 50 mg/l, 100 mg/l, and 200 mg/l concentrations of cobalt and manganese respectively enhanced microbial growth of Azotobacter chroococcum concomitantly. However, nitrogen fixation was enhanced only at 12.5 mg/l and 25 mg/l concentrations for cobalt, and only at 12.5 mg/l concentration for manganese. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in the specific growth rates and nitrogen fixations respectively, between the cobalt and manganese trials. Kinetic modeling revealed that nitrogen fixation was associated with biomass concentration, and not with cell mass growth. | BioTechnologia | 98(3)
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| 16 | Orji, J. C., Ngumah, C. C., Asor, H. and Anuonyemere, A. (2017). | Effects of Cobalt and Manganese on Biomass and Nitrogen fixation Yields of a free-living Nitrogen fixer – Azotobacter chroococcum | Studies on enhancing biomethanation were performed to ascertain whether amending lignocellulosic biomass waste with indigenous microbial-cellulases systems will improve biomethane output. To evaluate this, gastrointestinal contents of slaughtered beef cattle were treated with inocula derived from the guts of giant African land snail (Archachatina marginata) and worker termites (Coptotermes formosanus), individually as well as combined. The fed-batch method operating at prevailing ambient room temperatures (30 ± 2EC) for a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 60 days was adopted. Feedstock slurry without amendment, amended with Archachatina marginata -derived inoculum, amended with Coptotermes formosanus-derived inoculum, and amended with Archachatina marginata: Coptotermes formosanus(50 : 50%) mixed inocula yielded cumulative biomethane of 65.26 ml/g VS, 63.21 ml/g VS, 125.99 ml/g VS, and 97.16 ml/g VS, respectively. Physicochemical analysis of feedstock and digestates revealed increased reductions in lignin, hemicelluloses, and celluloses (lignocelluloses) in trials amended with microbial-cellulases systems. This study revealed that among the experiments assayed, the trial amended with the cellulases system from Coptotermes formosanus yielded the highest cumulative biomethane. | European Journal of Biological Research | 8(1)
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| 17 | Ngumah, C. C., Ogbulie, J. N., Orji, J. C., Amadi, E. S., Nweke, C. O. and Allino, J. (2018). | Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Diversity in Selected Heavy Metal Contaminated Soils in Owerri, Nigeria. | An investigation was carried out on the species diversity of Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in selected heavy metal contaminated soils within Owerri metropolis. Soils (0-20cm) were collected from 8 different locations viz (1) high auto mechanic activity area. (2) Medium auto mechanic activity area. (3) Low auto mechanic activity area. (4) Old dump site. (5) Active dump site. (6) Recovery dump site. (7) Heavy traffic highway. (8) Undisturbed vegetative land that served as control. Soil samples were analyzed for physicochemical parameters including heavy metal viz lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd) and Zinc (Zn). Also the ecological characteristics of AM fungi species were determined. Results showed that areas with high pollution index (PI) adversely affected the richness and diversity of AM fungi species. Seven different AM fungi ecotypes were isolated from the soil samples. These ecotypes had varied relative abundance across the locations. Species richness and diversity as measured by Shannon-Wiener index decreased in soils with PI > 20 but increased with low PI < 20. However, these organisms maintained significant populations across the locations. Thus suggesting high possibility of facilitating microbial activity in heavy metal stressed soil ecosystems. | Journal of Applied and Environmental Microbiology | 6(2)
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| 18 | Onoh, C. C, Aguocha, J. K., Osuagwu, I. K. Amadi, C. O., Akalonu, G. I. and Nwabueze, R. N. | Magnitude and Pattern of Disease Presentation among Students in Federal University of Technology Owerri Nigeria | Students’ wellbeing is paramount to their effective participation in academic and extracurricular activities. This study described the prevalence and pattern of disease presentation among students attending Federal University of Technology Medical Centre, Owerri, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional hospital based study of consecutive 552 students who gave their informed consent. Data were extracted through clerking, examination and laboratory investigations and they included socio-demographic information and diagnoses. These data were entered into Microsoft Excel 2016 and transported to Xlstat 2015 for analysis. The age distribution of the students revealed that majority of the students (46.4%) were within the age bracket of 17-23years. The mean age of the students was 24 years. The majority of the students (22.6%) were drawn from the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology. The disease pattern of students showed that typhomalaria fever was most prevalent (33.5%), malaria (28.9%), upper respiratory tract infection (21.3%), hypertension (7.3%), peptic ulcer disease (5.7%) and typhoid (3.6%). Malaria was most prevalent during the rainy season in the months of June and July, 36.5% and 35.1% respectively. Strengthening of the primary health care system, application of the principles of integrated vector management and investing substantially in specialist care model will lessen the burden of diseases in the University community. | IOSR Journal of Dental and Medical Sciences (IOSR-JDMS) | 16(3)
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| 19 | Braide ,W., Madu, L. C., Adeleye, S. A., Korie, M. C. and Akobondu, C. I. (2018). | Prevalence of Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase Producing Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from Clinical Samples | There has been an increasing attention globally over the rising treatment failures caused by Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) producing organisms when new generation antibiotics are used. This study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of ESBL producing Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Two hundred and fifty clinical isolates comprising, E. coli (136) and P. aeruginosa (114) was used for the study. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of isolates was determined using the disc diffusion method. ESBL phenotypes were further determined by the double disc synergy test using Ceftazidime, Cefotaxime, Ceftriazone and Amoxicillin clavulanic acid. Out of the 250 isolates tested, 114 (45.6%) were positive for ESBL production comprising 66(26.4%) E. coli and 48(19.2%) P. aeruginosa. The antimicrobial sensitivity testing showed that the highest resistance of 100% was recorded with Cephalexine while the least of 0% was recorded with the aminoglycosides and quinolones, giving a clear indication that the aminoglycosides and quinolnes could be recommended for the treatment of ESBL infections caused by these organisms. The result of the present study showed that there is apparently high prevalence of ESBL producing E. coli and P. aeruginosa in the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. | International Journal of Sciences | 7(2)
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| 20 | Braide, W., Dokubo, K. O., Adeleye, S. A., Uzoh, C. V. and Akobundu, C. I. (2018). | Phytochemical properties, toxicological screening and antibacterial qualities of various parts extracts of Ficus sycomorus | Anti-nutritional analysis and bactericidal properties of various parts of Ficus sycomorus were determined using standard methods. The extracts of F. sycomorus were subjected to bacterial susceptibility tests while the fruit was fed to Wistar rats to determine toxicological effects. The results obtained revealed the presence of tannin, hydrogen cyanide, flavonoid, saponine, alkaloid, oxalate and vitamin C in various proportions in the plant parts examined. The fruit extract showed bactericidal effect on some multi drug resistant bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus vulgaris. Toxicological analysis of the fruit therapy on Wistar rats showed positive results as enzymatic examination of the liver, kidney and blood of the Wistar rats did not indicate any serious damage. Histological study carried out on the Wistar rats showed that the liver, kidney and blood did not suffer any damage in both 400 and 800 mg/kg test groups. Antimicrobial qualities of F. sycomorus conferred on it an alternative source of treatment for pathogenic infection. Therefore, it is recommended that the plant parts of F. sycamorus be consumed as food; for their numerous health benefits and their great potentials as antimicrobial agents. | J. Med. Plant Herb. Ther. Res. | 6(1)
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| 21 | Braide, W., Oji, I. N., Adeleye, S. A. and Korie, M. C. (2018). | Comparative study of bioethanol production from agricultural wastes by Zymomonas mobilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae | The capability of local strains of Zymomonas mobilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce bioethanol from cassava, yam and potato peels was investigated. The three substrates were subjected to a pretreatment process using acid and enzyme hydrolysis to remove lignin. Ethanolic fermentation was done using Z. mobilis and S. cerevisiae for 5 days. Ethanol yield, specific gravity, pH and total reducing sugar were determined using standard methods. The results of the percentage ethanol yields from potato, cassava, yam and combined substrates gave 5.17, 6.86, 6.03 and 8.36 for Z. mobilis and 5.51, 6.77, 7.39 and 6.64% v/v for S. cerevisiae respectively at 72 h fermentation. Maximum yield of ethanol was obtained at pH 4.0-4.5 for Z. mobilis and 4.2-4.5 for S. cerevisiae. The specific gravity, sugar content and pH decreased with fermentation. The maximum ethanol produced after 72 h of fermentation by Z. mobilis was 8.36% v/v and 7.39% v/v by S. cerevisiae. During fermentation, pH of substrates inoculated with Z. mobilis and S. cerevisiae dropped from 5.0 to 4.1 and 5.0 to 4.2, respectively within 0 to 72 h. Sugar concentration reduced from 11.82 to 7.69 mg/g and 13.08 to 7.50 mg/g in substrates fermented by Z. mobilis and S. cerevisiae, respectively. The substrates were compared based on their reducing sugar content and total ethanol yield. The results obtained show that all the agricultural wastes studied have the potential to produce ethanol. | IJAMBR | 6(5)
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| 22 | Adeleye, S. A., Braide, W., Chinakwe, E. C., Esonu, C. E. and Uzoh, C. V. 2017. | Chicken Meat, Beef and Vegetables: Potential Sources of Campylobacter jejuni Contamination in Imo State, Nigeria | This work was carried out to determine the incidence of Campylobacter jejuni in selected food products in Imo state, Nigeria. Unprocessed chicken meat, beef and processed salad vegetables (diced carrots and cabbage) were assessed for the incidence of Campylobacter jejuni. 600 samples were collected between August, 2017 and December, 2017 from selected local markets. The Campylobacter jejuni was characterized using relevant biochemical test, growth characteristics and antimicrobial susceptibility and the results were read off using ABIS online showing 99% similarity with 65% accuracy. Results show that chicken samples isolated from Ihiagwa and relief markets were positive to Campylobacter jejuni with a 96% and 95% incidence respectively. More beef samples from Relief market were positive compared to those from Ihiagwa market with 56% and 43% incidence respectively. On the other hand higher incidence was reported for the salad vegetables from Relief market than those from Ihiagwa market with values of 22% and 16% respectively. Also most samples from Relief Market had higher microbial load than samples from Ihiagwa market. This work stresses the need for routine checks on meat sold in markets and also recommends proper processing of meat and vegetable samples before consumption. | Sustainable Food Production | 3(3)
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| 23 | Nwanyanwu C. E.,Adieze, I. E., Nweke, C. O. and Nzeh, B. C., 2017 | Combined effects of metals and chlorophenols on dehydrogenase activity of bacterial consortium | Toxicity of Zinc, Cadmium, 4-Chlorophenol (4-CP), 2,4-Dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) and their binary and quaternary mixtures were determined based on inhibition of dehydrogenase activity of a consortium of Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Micrococcus and Staphylococcus species. The toxicity of chemicals and their mixtures were evaluated in the concentration range of 0-3mM while Cadmium and 2,4-Dichlorophenol binary mixture range was 0-1.8mM. Zinc, 4-CP and 2,4-DCP exhibited hormetic effect at low concentrations. The IC50 were determined using monotonic and hormesis dose-response models. The binary and quaternary mixtures of the pollutants evaluated showed progressive inhibition of the enzyme activity. The combined effects of the mixtures on the enzyme activity of the bacterial consortium were evaluated with isobolographic representation and toxic index (TI) model. The isobolographic analysis indicated additive, synergistic and antagonistic interactions for the various binary mixtures evaluated. However, the TI of most mixtures was within the range of 0.5-2.0 and are considered additive. Modulation of the toxic interactions by the components of the mixture through synergistic and antagonistic interaction of the heavy metals and phenolic compounds against the dehydrogenase activity of the bacterial consortium were possible depending on the relative amount of the components | International Research Journal of Biological Sciences | 6(4), 10-20,
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| 24 | Nweke, C. O., Mbachu, I. A. C., Opurum, C. C. and Mbagwu, C. L.2017 | Toxicity of quaternary mixtures of metals to aquatic microbial community | The toxicities of quaternary mixtures of metal ions [Cd(II), Co(II), Zn(II) and Ni(II)] against microbial community of river water were assessed using inhibition of INT-dehydrogenase activity as endpoint and uniform design concentration ratios. The effective concentrations (EC50) were estimated using logistic concentration-response model. The toxicity of the individual metal ion was ranked as Cd(II) > Co(II) > Zn(II) > Ni(II). In comparison to observed toxicities, the concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) models predicted the combined toxicities of the mixtures with varying accuracy. The deviations from accurate prediction of the mixture toxicities indicate possible synergistic and antagonistic effects of the mixtures. However, the model deviation ratios (MDR) based on 50% effective concentrations (EC50s) for most mixtures lie between 0.5 and 2.0. Thus, the combined action of the mixtures were considered to be additive. | International Research Journal of Environmental Sciences | 6(3), 30-37
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| 25 | Nweke C. O. and Ogbonna C. J. 2017 | Statistical models for biphasic dose-response relationships (hormesis) in toxicological studies | The dose-response phenomenon characterized by low dose stimulation and high dose toxicity has been reawakened after a long period of marginalization. This phenomenon termed hormesis is induced by biological, physical and chemical agents and occurs in all groups of living things including whole plants and animals, microorganisms, cells and tissues. Hormesis has attracted increased interest among toxicologists from diverse disciplines, resulting to emergence of new scientific tools for its study. Statistical models have been developed and used to characterize hormesis dose-response relationships. Some of these models include the classical Brain-Cousens model, the Cedergreen-Ritz-Streibig model and their reparameterizations. Other hormesis models are the bilogistic models, their modifications or extensions and the hormesis models used in allelopathy such as An-Johnson-Lovett model. These models are used to describe either U-shaped or inverted U-shaped dose-response relationships and to compute hormesis quantities. This review explored the applications of these models in toxicological studies with emphasis to their strengths and weaknesses. | Ecotoxicology and Environmental Contamination | 12 (1) 39-55
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| 26 | Nweke, C. O., Umeh, S. I. and Ohale, V. K. 2018 | Toxicity of four metals and their mixtures to Pseudomonas fluorescens: An assessment using fixed ratio ray design | The toxicities of binary (Ni(II) + Co(II) and Zn(II) + Cd(II)), ternary (Zn(II) + Cd(II) + Ni(II) and Ni(II) + Co(II) + Cd(II)) and quaternary (Ni(II) + Co(II) + Zn(II) + Cd(II)) mixtures of metal ions to Pseudomonas fluorescens were assessed by using inhibition of dehydrogenase activity as an endpoint. Uniform design concentration ratio (UDCR) and equieffect concentration ratio (EECR) mixtures were designed to evaluate the combined toxicities of these heavy metal ions. All the dose-response relationships of the UDCR and EECR mixtures and the individual metals could be described by logistic function. Toxicities predicted by concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) models were compared with the observed toxicities. The CA and IA models predicted similar toxicities of the binary and Zn(II) + Cd(II) + Ni(II) ternary mixtures. Generally, Zn(II) + Cd(II) + Ni(II) ternary mixtures were synergistic while Ni(II) + Co(II) + Cd(II) ternary mixtures were antagonistic. The equieffect and quaternary mixtures were generally synergistic. Synergistic, antagonistic and additive effects of the mixtures are possible from the viewpoint of these analyses. | Ecotoxicology and Environmental Contamination | 13 (1) 1/14/2019
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