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Production And Characterisation Of Keratinase By Fungi Isolated From Soil Samples At Gwagwalada, FCT – Abuja, Nigeria

Ugoh, Sylvanus Chukwudi and Ijigbade, Bamidele

Department of Biological Sciences, University of Abuja, P.M.B. 117, Abuja-Nigeria.

Email: sylvaugoh@hotmail.com

Abstract: Fifty soil samples were collected from refuse dumps, animal sheds, farm lands, drainage sites and barbers’ shops at Gwagwalada, FCT-Abuja and screened for the presence of keratinase- producing fungi by Hair Bait Technique using chicken feather as keratin bait. A total of 51 fungal isolates belonging to two genera and four species of keratinase- producing fungi were observed. Sixteen (31.37 %) of the isolates were from refuse dumps, animal sheds and barbers’ shops, both have 11 (21.57 %) isolates each, while farmlands and drainage sites have 10 (19.61 %) and 3 (5.88 %) isolates respectively. Aspergillus niger (van Teigh) 17 (33.33 %) was the most abundant species, followed by Penicillium chrysogenum (Thom) 13 (25.49 %), Aspergillus flavus (Link ex Fr.) 12 (23.53 %) and Penicillium marneffei (Hubert) 9 (17.65 %) being the least in abundance. The highest keratinase activities were recorded in Aspergillus niger (14.56±1.54 Keratinase unit (Ku)/ml), Penicillium marneffei (13.18±2.19 ku/ml), Penicillium chrysogenum (12.56±2.75 ku/ml) and Aspergillus flavus (11.93±1.80 ku/ml). The rate of prevalence and the quantity of enzymes produced are significantly different (P = 0.05). These non-dermatophytic keratinolytic fungi have potential use in biotechnological processes involving keratin hydrolysis. The results of this work revealed that keratinolytic activity is relatively widespread among common fungi and may have an important role in keratin degradation in the natural environment.

[Ugoh, Sylvanus Chukwudi and Ijigbade, Bamidele. Production And Characterisation Of Keratinase By Fungi Isolated From Soil Samples At Gwagwalada, FCT – Abuja, Nigeria. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):1-7]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 1. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.01

Keywords: Keratinase, fungi, soil, enzymes, keratinase unit

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Bioremediation of a Soil Contaminated with Lubricating Oil using Bacteria Consortium

Olusegun Onimisi John-Dewole¹, Ramat Oyenike Sanni-Awal²

^1&2Department of Biochemistry, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria

segunotaru@yahoo.com

Abstract: A pilot study was carried out on soil from toll gate area in Ibadan, Oyo state western Nigeria, contaminated with hydrocarbon (lubricating oil) by artificial simulation to determine the attendant effect associated with the soil physicochemical properties and microbiological composition. Biodegradation of the contaminant using soil microbes and the kinetics of such process was also investigated. Soil parameters such as pH, conductivity, total organic hydrogen, total nitrogen and phosphorus and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) were characterized using standard analytical methods. Trend in growth phase of soil heterotrophic and hydrocarbon utilizing microbes were investigated. Hydrocarbon contamination was seen to affect certain soil properties as a reduction in pH, conductivity, total phosphorus and heterotrophic microbial population was observed. The rate of microbial degradation was found to be dependent on pH and nutrient source. Effective degradation and increased microbial growth occurred between pH 5.3 and 7.2 but recorded reduced microbial growth and rate at much higher pH, thereby defining a suitable pH condition for the process.

[Olusegun Onimisi John-Dewole, Ramat Oyenike Sanni-Awal. Bioremediation of a Soil Contaminated with Lubricating Oil using Bacteria Consortium. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):8-11]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 2. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.02

Keywords: biodegradation, lubricating oil, degradation kinetics, soil pollution, total petroleum hydrocarbon.

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Chemical, Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Screening of Extracts of B. sapida for Agricultural and Medicinal Relevances

Olusegun Onimisi John-Dewole¹, Olutomi Oyedunni Popoola ²

¹Department of Biochemistry, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria

²Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria

segunotaru@yahoo.com

Abstract: Phytochemical screening of the fruit of Blighia sapida confirmed the presence of Saponin, Saponin glycoside, Tannin, Balsam, Cardiac glycoside and Volatile oil. Spectrophotometric analysis for trace metals (such as Mn, Zn, Cu, Ni and Fe), Phosphorus and Sulphur showed that B. sapida contained Mn (0.332+0.003 mg/100g), Zn (1.820+0.001 mg/100g), Cu (0.253+0.002 mg/100g), Ni (1.074+0.001 mg/100g), Fe (0.791+0.002 mg/100g), Pb (0.010+0.001), P (49.20+0.200 mg/100g) and S (719.83+0.290 mg/100g). The medicinal and agricultural relevance of the extracts were evaluated in-vitro by antimicrobial and antifungal assays. The aqueous extract (but not methanol and petroleum ether extracts) showed growth inhibitory effects on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, but Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were resistant to all the plant extracts and the antibiotic controls. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the aqueous extract of B. sapida on S. aureus and E. coli were 3.13 mg and 12.50mg respectively. The Minimum Bacterial Concentration (MBC) of the aqueous extract against the test organisms ranged from 12.50mg to 25.00mg.

[Olusegun Onimisi John-Dewole, Olutomi Oyedunni Popoola. Chemical, Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Screening of Extracts of B. sapida for Agricultural and Medicinal Relevances. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):12-17]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 3. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.03

Keywords: antimicrobial; B. sapida; herbal; pharmaceutical; phytochemical

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Examining relation between qualities of work life based on Walton model and staff efficiency of Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar

Masoud Ahmadinejad¹, Ommehkolsoum Gholamhosseinzadeh² Mahmoud yaghobi doust³

¹Department of Management, Shoushtar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar, Iran

²Assistant Professor, Sari branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran

³Department of Sociology, Shoushtar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar, Iran

Abstract: This research has been done with the main goal of examining relation between quality of work life based on Walton theory and staff efficiency amount of Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar branch. The use and method of the present research is descriptive-correlation. The statistical society is consisting of whole staff of this university that according to Karaji and Morgan 100 persons were chosen randomly as sample among 320 non-academic member staff occupying in university. The statistical descriptive and presumptive methods are consisting of percentage, frequency, average, variance and criteria deviation in order to analyze. The present research founds indicate the presence of the positive and meaningful correlation coefficient between quality of work life pattern based on Walton and staff efficiency amount occupying in Islamic Azad university, Shoushtar branch. Also research founds indicate the presence of the positive and meaningful correlation coefficient between different dimensions of work life as the independent variants and efficiency amount of staff as the dependent variant.

[Masoud Ahmadinejad, Ommehkolsoum Gholamhosseinzadeh, Mahmoud yaghobi doust. Examining relation between qualities of work life based on Walton model and staff efficiency of Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar. Nat Sci 2013; 11(10)18:-23]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 4. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.04

Keywords: quality of work life, Walton theory, efficiency, staff of Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar branch

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Asymptomatic Plasmodium Parasitaemia in Ilorin, North Central Nigeria

¹Udeze AO, ¹Nwokocha EJ, ²Okerentugba PO, ¹Anibijuwon II, ²Okonko IO

¹Department of Microbiology, University of Ilorin, P.M.B. 1515 Ilorin-Nigeria

²Medical Microbiology Unit, Department of Microbiology, University of Port Harcourt, P.M.B, 5323 Choba, East-West Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

*Corresponding author: austok90@yahoo.com, udeze.ao@unilorin.edu.ng, Phone: +234(81)35586003

ABSTRACT: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of malaria parasites infection among apparently healthy students of the University of Ilorin, Ilorin-Nigeria. A total of 200 students {98 (49.0%) males and 102 (51.0%) females; age range: 16-30 years} were recruited for the study after informed consent. Both thick and thin films were made and stained using parasitological standard procedures after collection of blood samples from the students. Analysis of the result showed that 100 (50.0%) of the subjects had malaria parasitaemia. Highest prevalence (56.9%) was recorded among the females than the males (42.9%). Age distribution showed 48.8% among subjects of age range 15-20 years, 48.3% among subjects of age range 21-25 years and 40.0% among subjects of age range 26-30 years. The result also showed that 84.0% of the infection occurred among subjects with haemoglobin genotype AA while 16.0% of the infection occurred among subjects with haemoglobin genotype AS. Frequency distribution of the Plasmodium species showed that Plasmodium falciparum has the highest occurrence (75.0%). This is followed by Plasmodium malariae with a frequency of 13.0% and Plasmodium ovale with a frequency of 8.0% while Plasmodium vivax has the least occurrence of 4.0%. This finding has further confirmed the endemicity of this infection among students population. Control measures to stop the spread are therefore advocated.

[Udeze AO, Nwokocha EJ, Okerentugba PO, Anibijuwon II, Okonko IO. Asymptomatic Plasmodium Parasitaemia in Ilorin, North Central Nigeria. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):24-28]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 5. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.05

Keywords: Plasmodium, Parasitaemia, Haemoglobin genotype, Students

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Effect of Harvest Period on Senescence and Grain Yield in Some Varieties of Cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata (L.) Walp)

¹Aliko, A.A., ¹Mukhtar, F.B., ²Aminu S.U., ^3,4Gashua, I.B.

¹Department of Plant Biology, Bayero University, P.M.B. 3011, Kano - Nigeria.

²Jigawa State College of Education, P. M. B. 1002, Gumel – Nigeria

³School of Applied Sciences University of Wolverhampton. Wulfruna, WV1 1SB, UK.

⁴Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Federal Polytechnic Damaturu-Nigeria.

i.b.gashua@wlv.ac.uk

Abstract: Studies were conducted in the rainy and dry seasons of 2009 at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Kano research station - Nigeria on four cowpea varieties namely: Kanannado, IT89KD-288, IT99K-82-2 and IT99K-1060 to assess the effect of different harvesting period on senescence and grain yield. Three harvesting periods - depodding at physiological maturity, deseeding at physiological maturity and depodding at agronomical maturity were adopted for this study. Data obtained on the progression of senescence showed significant difference among the different treatments. Senescence occur very late in all varieties given physiological maturity harvest treatment and greater yield was observed by delaying these varieties of cowpea to senesce. Average number of days to total death of plants in “Kanannado” harvested at physiological maturity was observed to be 138.83 days during the rainy season, while it was 124.67days in the same variety harvested at agronomical maturity. The mean number of pods was observed to be 13.20 in “Kanannado” harvested at physiological maturity which is greater than 6.83 observed in the same variety harvested at agronomical maturity during same season.

[Aliko, A.A., Mukhtar, F.B., Aminu S.U. and Gashua, I.B. Effect of Time of Harvest on Senescence and Grain Yield in Some Varieties of Cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata (L.) Walp). Nat Sci 2013;11(10):29-33]. ISSN: 1545-0740. http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 6. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.06

Key word: Cowpea, Kanannado, Depodding, Agronomical maturity, Senescence.

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Epidemiological studies of abomasal nematodes of sheep of Kashmir Valley with particular reference to Haemonchus contortus.

Irfan-ur-Rauf Tak¹, M. Z. Chishti¹ and Fayaz Ahmad²

¹ Centre of Research for Development, University of Kashmir, Srinagar – 190 006

² Department of Zoology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006, Kashmir

irfanrauftak@yahoo.in

Abstract: The valley of Kashmir owes its great excellence not only to the charming scenic beauty but is bestowed with rich flora and fauna present in wide variety and diversity. Sheep are among those animals which were first tamed by man. Sheep being a close grazer is regarded as museum of parasites especially for helminths. Haemonchus contortus is a blood sucking intestinal helminth that lives in the abomasum of small ruminants worldwide. This parasite can be devastating to producers as it causes decreased production levels due to clinical signs such as anaemia, edema and death. The abomasae of sheep in which this parasite resides were collected from abattoirs of various districts during the study of one year from November, 2011 to December, 2012 and were then carried to laboratory for screening. In case of collection sites falling in far areas, the organs were screened on spot. The parasites were placed in petridish containing 0.05M PBS (pH 7.4) for initial washing to remove host material and allow regurgitation of gut contents. The length and width of each parasite was measured and segregated into Haemonchus contortus based on standard body lengths: Haemonchus contortus: female (18 to 30 mm), male (10 to 20 mm). The regular record of the entire process was properly maintained. During the study period, a total of 310 sheep abomasum were examined, out of which 198 (63.87%) were found to be infected. Of these, 191 (61.61%) were found to be infected with H. contortus and 112 (36.12%) were found to possess mixed infection. The infection was found highest in summer (80.80%) and lowest in winter (37.5%) (P<0.05). The prevalence of the parasite was highest in lower age groups (78.35%) and lowest in higher age groups (39.65%) (P<0.05). The males (63.03%) showed significantly higher prevalence as compared to females (60.00%) (P>0.05). The study indicates the prevalence of Haemonchus contortus varies in different seasons and in different age groups.

[Irfan-ur-Rauf Tak, M. Z. Chishti and Fayaz Ahmad. Epidemiological studies of abomasal nematodes of sheep of Kashmir Valley with particular reference to Haemonchus contortus. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):34-39]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 7. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.07

Keywords: Haemonchus contortus; Helminths; Abomasum; PBS.

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In-Vitro Study Of Biodegaradtion Of Spent Lubricating Oil By Aspergillus Niger

^1*Stephen, E., Emmanuel, O.E., Okpanachi, O.S., Emmanuel, S. Temola, O.T., Musa, K. and Ebiloma, I.P²

1.                    Department of Microbiology, Kogi State University, Anyingba, Nigeria

2.                    Department of Science, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Nigeria

psychsea07@gmail.com

Abstract: Biodegradation of spent lubricating oil by Aspergillus niger was studied in vitro for 16 days. The pH, turbidity, nitrate and gas chromatographic analysis (GC-MS) of the medium was carried out. The result showed increase in pH and turbidity in the course of the study while nitrate concentration declined over the same period. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in pH, turbidity and nitrate concentrations between the controls and the inoculated samples. The GC-MS revealed that alkanes were degraded into carboxylic acids while benzene and azulene were not degraded by Aspergillus niger. This study suggests that Aspergillus niger can grow and metabolize some compounds in spent lubricating oil.

[Stephen, E., Emmanuel, O.E., Okpanachi, O.S., Emmanuel, S. Temola, O.T, Musa, K. and Ebiloma, I.P. In-Vitro Study Of Biodegaradtion Of Spent Lubricating Oil By Aspergillus Niger. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):40-44]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 8. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.08

Key words: Biodegradation, In-Vitro, Aspergillus niger, Turbidity, GC-MS

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Applications of Electrochemical Elements in Systems of Artificial Intelligence

Mikhail Vaynshteyn¹, Aleksandr Lanis²

^1. SciPeople Scientific Society, PhD, Saint Louis, USA

^2. Mercy Hospital, MD, Saint Louis, USA

vamiz@yahoo.com

Abstract: Contemporary systems of artificial intelligence transduce information primarily by application of electronic, rather than nonelectronic, devices. Recently, numerous reports have been published about the research and development of electrochemical transducers, which are fully compatible with the technology of solid-state electronics and can provide substantial benefits in the circuit design. In nature, intellectual functions are carried out on the basis of electrochemical and chemical mechanisms of information transfer, such as occurs in the human brain. Artificial intelligence systems allow one to replicate and to amplify the various functions inherent in nature. This article describes the main results and the probable prospects of technologies which may permit one to carry out certain intellectual functions by means of technical solutions based on the application of electrochemical transducers of information.

[Vaynshteyn M, Lanis A. Applications of Electrochemical Elements in Systems of Artificial Intelligence. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):45-52]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 9. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.09

Keywords: Memistor; memristor; transducer; electrochemical transistor

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Histological and Ultrastructural studies On the Epididymis of Pigeon (Columba livia)

 Abdel Aleem A. El- Saba and Mohamed I. Abdrabou

 Department of Cytology and Histology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Cairo University.

Abdo_1416@yahoo.com

Summary: The pigion's epididymis consisted of an extra testicular part of the rete testis, the proximal & distal efferent ductules, the connecting ductules & the epididymal duct. The extra testicular part of rete testis lined by squamous to cuboidal epithelium. The wall of the proximal efferent ductules was thrown into many longitudinal folds. Their epithelium formed of two main cell types, ciliated and non ciliated cells in addition to few basal cells. The ciliated cells appeared columnar with Long tuft of cilia projected from their luminal surfaces. Many cells showed large and small multi vesicular bodies, dense bodies associated with yellow Lipofuchsin pigment. The non ciliated cells were denser than the ciliated ones. They showed intracytoplasmic vacuoles, dens globules. Their apical cytoplasm might protrude into the ductular lumen to form bleb like projections with PAS +ve. The distal efferent ductule appeared smaller in diameter than the proximal ones. The epididymal duct had wide lumen. The lining cells consisted of non-ciliated columnar cells and basal cells. The columnar cells showed vacuolated cytoplasm.

[Abdel Aleem A. El- Saba and Mohamed I. Abdrabou. Histological and Ultrastructural studies On the Epididymis of Pigeon (Columba livia). Nat Sci 2013;11(10):53-63]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.com/neture. 10. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.10

Key words: pigeon, Columba livia, epididymis, rete testis, efferent ductules, epididymal duct.

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Inhibitory effect of Psidium guajava Linn. stem bark extracts on community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Chibuike Ibe ¹, Reginald Azu Onyeagba¹, Solomon Charles Ugochukwu², Venatius Chiamaka Ubah³ and Chinenyenwa Joy Nduka⁴

¹Microbiology Department, Abia State University, PMB 2000 Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria

²Plant Science and Biotechnology Department, Abia State University, PMB 2000 Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria

³Animal and Environmental Department, Abia State University, PMB 2000 Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria

⁴Environmental Health Technology Department, Abia State College of Health Technology, PMB 7016 Aba, Abia State, Nigeria

chibuike_ibe@yahoo.co.uk

Abstract: This study was conducted to investigate the inhibitory effect of Psidium guajava stem bark extract on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The plant materials were extracted and phytochemicals quantified using standard techniques. The agar well diffusion procedure and agar dilution method were used for the assessment of the antibacterial activity of the extracts, and quantitative determination of the bacteriostatic and bacteriocidal activities of the plant extracts respectively. The mean inhibition zone diameter (IZD) of the extracts ranged from 5-22 mm with ethanolic extracts exhibiting higher activities. The minimum concentrations range at which 50% and 90% of the isolates were inhibited for water and ethanolic extracts and their specific concentrations are: 1250-˃5000 μg/ml (MIC₅₀, 2500 μg/ml; MIC₉₀, 5000 μg/ml), and 625-5000 μg/ml (MIC₅₀, 1250 μg/ml; MIC₉₀, 2500 μg/ml) respectively. The phytochemicals estimated in mg/g dry body weight included: total phenol (111.82±0.47), tannin (141.98±0.51), flavonoids (3.31±0.04), vitamin C (1.59±0.03), saponin (285.79±0.81), and alkaloid (111.066±0.38). The methanolic extracts of the plant showed appreciable 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical-scavenging ability of 0.056  mg/ml. Similarly, the plant extract had high trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) of 11.95±0.04 mM/gdw. The result of this study supports the use of Psidium guajava stem bark in folk medicine.

[Chibuike Ibe , Reginald Azu Onyeagba, Solomon Charles Ugochukwu, Venatius Chiamaka Ubah and Chinenyenwa Joy Nduka. Inhibitory effect of Psidium guajava Linn. stem bark extracts on community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):64-72]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature.  11. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.11

Keywords: Psidium guajava; inhibitory effect; phytochemical analysis; community acquired methillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

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Bacteriological Quality and Safety Evaluation of Raw Cow Milk in Ilorin, North Central Nigeria.

Laba, Sunday Ademola^1* and Udonsek, Christiana Effiong²

¹Department of Microbiology, University of Ilorin, P. M. B 1515, Ilorin 240003, Nigeria.

²Department of Microbiology, University of Ilorin. P. M. B 1515, Ilorin 240003, Nigeria.

labademola@yahoo.com

Abstract: Microbial contamination of raw milk has become a global health problem. Large number of people in Nigeria consume raw cow milk due to its cheap status. These study was undertaken to investigate the bacterial quality of of raw cow milk in Ilorin, and surrounding villages, Nigeria and the effect of pasteurization on the samples. Raw milk samples (n=12) were aseptically collected from the milking bowls from different locations. The samples were analyzed within three hours of procurement. Isolation, enumeration and identification of the prevailing bacteria were carried out following the standard procedure. The pH of the samples ranges between 6.3-6.8 while the TTA is from 0.87-1.98. Analysis of the Milk sample revealed high load of bacterial pathogens such as, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Proteus spp. and Bacillus cereus. Total viable count ranges from 1.16 x 10⁶ to 2.60 x 10⁶ while the pasteurization count ranges between 0.8 x 10² to 1.2 x 10². Results indicate the potential health risk of consuming raw cow milk under the current production and collection condition.

 [Laba SA, Udosek CE. Bacteriological Quality of Raw Cow Milk in Ilorin, North Central Nigeria. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):73-79]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 12. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.12

Key words: Raw milk, Pasteurized milk, Escherichia coli, Coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus

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Parameters Optimization of Cellulase Zymosynthesis by Aspergillus flavus NSPR017 Grown on Pretreated Orange Peels

Akinyele Bamidele Juliet, Ekundayo Temitope Cyrus and Olaniyi Oladipo Oladiti

Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

 cyruthm@yahoo.com

Abstract: The potential of Aspergillus flavus NSPR016, Aspergillus flavus NSPR017 and Aspergillus flavus NSPR019 for overproduction of industrial cellulase; adopting cheap and readily available agrowastes as sole carbon substrates under submerged fermentation was investigated. Cellulase production was considerably heightened via physicochemical and nutritional optimization. The effects of several parameters such as carbon and nitrogen substrates, incubation period and temperature, pH and substrate concentration were evaluated. The isolates were screened for cellulase production in mineral medium with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) supplemented as the sole carbon source. All the tested isolates proved to be cellulase producers with varied rates of enzyme production. However, the highest cellulase production was found with Aspergillus flavus NSPR017 and was therefore selected for further optimization studies. Utilization of agrowastes as carbon subtrates instead of CMC for cellulase production was also evaluated. Among tested carbon sources (yam peels, orange peels and wheat bran), orange peels at 5% was found to be the most suitable carbon source. By optimizing the fermentation conditions, maximum cellulase activity was attained at 96 hours, pH 6.5 and temperature 28^oC of incubation, 5% orange peels and 0.2% soybeans. The results obtained suggest that lowcost system for hyperproduction of cellulase   is achievable for industrial application.

[Akinyele Bamidele Juliet, Ekundayo Temitope Cyrus and Olaniyi Oladipo Oladiti. Parameters Optimization of Cellulase Zymosynthesis by Aspergillus flavus NSPR017 Grown on Pretreated Orange Peels. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):80-87]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 13. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.13

Keywords: Agrowastes, zymosynthesis, submerged fermentation, cellulase, Aspergillus flavus NSPR017.

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A Formula for Calculating the Critical Load of the Needles Used in the Garment and Apparels Sewing Technology: Part 1: Pucarenko Technique

El Gholmy S. H., I. A. Elhawary

Department of Textile Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt

sh_gholmy@yahoo.com

Abstract: The sewing machines needle is an important and vital machines member. The general objectives of sewing needle is to penetrate the sewn materials either single layered or multiple layered fabrics and to carry the sewing thread via the sewn fabrics for loop formation during the penetration by the sewing needle, a resisting force at the free end of the needle is built up that subjects the needle to an axial compressive force this force can lead to the needles buckling in the elastic or plastic region of the needles metal [steel]. In both cases the sewing needle may be bent this will lead to produce a defective readymade garment or a downgraded quality clothing [1]. In the present work a Pucarenko technique has been applied for calculating the industrial sewing needle critical load P_cr.It was found that P_cr. for an industrial sewing machine is 62 N (newton). The working resisting force during sewing process must be less than P_cr. to avoid needles buckling this must be controlled by safety factor of elastic stability (m) where m=P_cr./P_W, for jeans (denim) fabrics, where P_W =120 c N (woven fabric, 120 g/mt²) when the needle free length changed from 45mm to 12mm, the critical load increased from 62N to 90N.The Pucarenko formula calculates only the stability factor η due to the different needle cross- section. The value of η changed about 0.0284% which can be neglected.

[S. H. El Gholmy, I. A. Elhawary. A Formula for Calculating the Critical Load of the Needles Used in the Garment and Apparels Sewing Technology: Part 1: Pucarenko Technique. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):88-93]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 14. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.14

Keywords: sewing needle design, needle holes, critical load

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Effects of Ethanolic Purslane Shoot and Seed Extracts on Doxorubicin-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Albino Rats

Osama M. Ahmed^{1, 3}; Walaa G. Hozayen²; Haidy Tamer Abo Sree ³; Mohamed B; Ahmed⁴

¹Physiology Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni- Suef, Beni-Suef University Egypt

²Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt

³Biochemistry Division, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine Nahda University, Beni-suef, Egypt

osamamoha@yahoo.com; walaahozayen@hotmail.com; haidyalshafeey@yahoo.com

Abstract: Doxorubicin (DOX), an anthracycline antibiotic, is a broad-spectrum antineoplastic agent, which is commonly used in the treatment of uterine, ovarian, breast and lung cancers, Hodgkin's disease and soft tissue sarcomas as well as in several other cancer types. The effect of doxorubicin (4 mg/kg b.w.week) without or with oral administration of ethanolic purslane (Portulaca oleracea) shoot (leaves and stems) extract (50 mg/kg b.w.day) or ethanolic purslane seeds extract (50 mg/kg b.w.day) co-treatments for 6 weeks was evaluated in adult male rats. Serum ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, total bilirubin,total protein and albumin levels were assayed. Lipid peroxidation (indexed by MDA) and antioxidants like hepatic glutathine, glutathione transferase, peroxidase, SOD, CAT were assessed. There was an increase in serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, GGT and total bilirubin. In addition, hepatic glutathine, glutathione transferase, peroxidase, SOD, CAT activities were decreased while lipid peroxidation in the liver was increased. Co-administration of ethanolic purslane and seed extracts successfully improved the adverse changes in the liver functions with an increase in antioxidants activities and reduction of lipid peroxidation. In coclusion, it can be supposed that dietary purslane extract supplementation may provide a cushion for a prolonged therapeutic option against DOX hepatopathy without harmful side effects. However, further clinical studies are required to assess the safety and efficacy of these extract in human beings.

[Osama M. Ahmed; Walaa G. Hozayen; Haidy Tamer Abo Sree; and Mohamed B; Ahmed. Effects of Ethanolic Purslane Shoot and Seed Extracts on Doxorubicin-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Albino Rats. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):94-101]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 15. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.15

Key words: Doxorubicin, purslane, hepatotoxicity and antioxidants.

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Production of Pectinase by Fungi isolated from Degrading Fruits and Vegetable

*Adesina, Felicia C.1, Adefila, Olutola A.1, Adewale,  Adeyefa1, O and Ummi Habiba O1,  Agunbiade, Shadrach O. 2

1Dept of Microbiology, Faculty of information Technology and Applied Sciences Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

2Dept of Biochemistry, Faculty of information Technology and Applied Sciences Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

*adesinafelicia@yahoo.com, +2348123329944

ABSTRACT: Peelings of fruit and vegetable waste are usually thrown away as waste and they constitute environmental nuisance because they are found in heaps littering our environment and contributing to environmental pollution. This work was therefore aimed at using these fruit peelings as substrates in solid state fermentation for production of fungal pectinase. Pectinase producing fungal isolates from spoilt fruit peels and pomace were selectively obtained among other fungal isolates by culturing in successive enrichment medium. The obtained isolates were screened on agar plates containing 0.5% pectin as the sole carbon source. Two fungal isolates Rhodotorulla spp and Mucor mucorales were selected due to the large clearance zones they had on the plates and were used in solid state fermentation for the production of pectinase. Substrates used for the production of pectinase were dried and milled orange and pineapple peelings and water melon pomace while incubation was for 14 days. Assay was carried out every other day. Crude enzyme extract from both isolates were characterized. Highest pectinase activity of 82.95U/dry weight of substrate (dw) was recorded for Rhodotorulla spp. using orange peelings as substrate on the 8^th day while the least was 16.12U/dw on water melon pomace as substrate on the 2^nd day. Mucor had its highest pectinase activity of 46.05U/dw on orange peelings as substrate on the 12^th day. Optimum temperature and pH for pectinase by Rhodotorulla spp was at 35˚C and 6.0 respectively while that of Mucor mucorales was 45˚C and 5.8 respectively.  Pectinase by Mucor mucorales was relatively stable even at 65˚C. Michaelis Menten (K_m) constant value for pectinase by Rhodotorulla spp was 3.0 mg/ml while the maximum velocity (V_max) was 0.023364U/mg/min. K_m value of pectinase by   Mucor mucorales was 15 mg/ml while the V_max was 0.043364U/mg/min. The molecular weights of pectinase by Rhodotorulla spp. were 35 and 45 kDa while that of Mucor mucorales was 60 kDa. Fruit waste therefore could be used as substrates for the production of microbial pectinases.

[Adesina, Felicia C., Adefila, Olutola A., Adewale,  Adeyefa, O and Ummi Habiba O,  Agunbiade, Shadrach O. Production of Pectinase by Fungi isolated from Degrading Fruits and Vegetable. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):102-108]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 16. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.16

Keywords: Pectinase, Waste, Fruit, Fungi.

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The Socioeconomic Impact of Adopted Agroforestry Practices on the Livelihoods of Rural Small Scale Farmers in Northern Rwanda

Isaac Emukule Ekise ¹, Alphonse Nahayo¹, Jennifer Rono¹ and Jean Berchmans Twahirwa².

¹ Department of Forestry and Nature Conservation, Higher Institute of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, P.O. Box 210, Musanze, Rwanda

² Department of Rural Development and Agribusiness, Higher Institute of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry P.O. Box 210, Musanze, Rwanda

iekise@yahoo.com

Abstract: Understanding the impact of agroforestry practices on rural farming households’ livelihoods is the best way of seeking strategies to improve the farming systems and hence improve the welfare of households. In this regard, a survey on the impact of agroforestry practices was conducted in Jenda Sector in 2012 with the aim of obtaining information of the contribution of these new techniques using a sample size of 116 households selected using random sampling method. SPSS and Excel programs were used to process and analyze data. The results of the survey showed that woodlots (59%), windbreaks (3%), fruit trees (3%), boundary tree planting (62%), live fences (31%), intercropping or Taungya (5%) and homegardens (28%) are the most commonly preferred agroforestry practices among households in the sector. The most preferred tree species are Erythrina abysssinica (100%), Alnus acuminata (94%), Grevillea robusta (77%) and Iboza liparia (72%). The households affirmed that agroforestry practices increased soil fertility (65%), increased farm income (59%), conserved soil and water (76%), reduced chances of crop failure through diversification (42%), saved time used to collect fodder and fuelwood from forests (46%) and maintaining and improving surrounding environment (39%). Honey (4%), timber (8.9%), fodder (45%), firewood (74%), stakes (82%), fruits (24%), charcoal (17%), building poles (46%), and medicines (32%) are some of the agroforestry products produced on their farms. Agroforestry practices on the farms accounted for 40% of total annual income. The estimated multiple linear regression model showed that the socioeconomic factors influencing income generation positively were age, sex, experience in farming, household size, education, health status and land size with an R² value of 50%. The variation in income due to the stochastic error term was accounted for by 50%. The study also showed that lack of capital (1.12 mean rank), lack of planting materials (1.71 mean rank), lack of labour (3.06 mean rank), and lack of technical advice (mean rank 3.19) were the major constraints hampering the full agroforestry impact. In conclusion, this study has established that agroforestry practices (techniques) are indeed transforming the rural livelihoods of households and these practices should be upscaled in other sectors of the country.

[Ekise I.E, Nahayo A, Rono J, Twahirwa J.B. How Agroforestry Practices are Transforming the Livelihoods of Rural Small Scale Farmers in Northern Rwanda. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):109-117]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 17. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.17

Keywords: Agroforestry practices, transforming , livelihoods, rural small scale farmers.

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Responses of Wheat – Rice Croping System to Cyanobacteria Inoculation and Different Soil Conditioners Sourcerses under Saline Soil

Wafaa, M. T. Eletr, F. M. Ghazal, A. A. Mahmud and Gehan, H. Yossef

Soils, Water and Environ. Res. Inst., Agric. Res. Center (ARC), Giza, Egypt

Abstract: A Field experiment was conducted in the clayey soil of the farm at Sahl El-Hossynia Agric. Res. Station in EL-Sharkia - Governorate, Egypt. The institute farm is located at 31^o 8' 12.461" N latitude and 31^o 52' 15.496" E longitude. Wheat crop (Triticum aestivum L) was planted during winter season (2010-2011) and rice crop (Oryzae sativa) was planted during summer season (2011) to study the effectiveness of cyanobacteria inoculation combined with different sources of soil conditioners to improve soil chemical properties, soil biological activity and reflected to productivity of both wheat and rice crop system; total content of mineral nutrients of both tested plants were taken in consideration. Results indicated that, in general, applying cyanobacteria inoculation in combined with some soil conditioners decreased slightly pH and EC values, while organic matter (OM) and Saturation Percent (SP) were increased as compared to control treatment. Also, applying cyanobacteria in combined with fulvic acid (FA) and /or humic substrate (HS) significantly superior for decrease EC, SAR and ESP values in soil at both studied seasons. Moreover, cyanobacteria inoculation combined with compgypsum increases organic matter (OM) content in soil after two cultivated seasons. In addition, positive significant responses existed for available N, P and K as well as soil biological activity (total count bacteria, CO₂ evolution, dehydrogenase activity and nitrogenase activity) in the studied soils under cultivation with both wheat and rice as a result of applied gypsum combination with cyanobacteria inoculation as compared to control treatment. On the other hand, wheat and rice yields (straw and grain) along with total content of macronutrients (N, P and K) increased significantly in response to cyanobacteria inoculation in combination with gypsum as compared to other treatments and\or control treatment. In conclusion, the application of cyanobacteria inoculation combined with humate organic acids helpful to improve the soil properties of saline soils. Also, the cyanobacteria inoculation combined with gypsum improved available and uptake macronutrients reflected that on the yield components.

[Wafaa, M. T. Eletr, F. M. Ghazal, A. A. Mahmud and Gehan, H. Yossef. Responses of Wheat – Rice Croping System to Cyanobacteria Inoculation and Different Soil Conditioners Sourcerses under Saline Soil. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):118-129]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 18. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.18

Key words: Cyanobacteria inoculation, soil conditioners, gypsum, compost, humic acid, fulvic acid, polyvinyl acetate, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), rice (Oryzae sativa)

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Chemical Constituents and In Vitro Antimicrobial Activities of Five Botanicals Used Traditionally for the Treatment of Neonatal Jaundice in Ibadan, Nigeria

Gbadamosi I. T. and Obogo S. F.

Department of Botany, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

gita4me2004@yahoo.com

Abstract: Neonatal jaundice is a main cause of morbidity and mortality among neonates in Nigeria and ethnobotanical investigation revealed the use of Alstonia boonei (De wild.), Cocos nucifera (L.), Gossypium barbadense (L.), Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schumach. & Thonn.) and Vernonia amygdalina (Del.) for the management of neonatal jaundice in Ibadan, Nigeria. This study analysed the five plants for their chemical components and antimicrobial activities to justify their therapeutic values in the management of jaundice. The powdered plant samples were screened for mineral and phytochemical components using standard protocols. The ethanol extracts (50 mg/ml) of samples were tested against five clinical pathogenic organisms at 10^-1 – 10^-6 cfu/ml inoculum concentrations using agar-well diffusion method. All data were analysed statistically. G. barbadense (0.26%) had the highest Na content. A. boonei had the highest Zn and Fe contents, 64.00% and 51.36% respectively. A. boonei contained the highest saponins (0.79%) and tannins (0.05%). At 1 x 10^-4 cfu/ml, G. barbadense was most active on K. pneumoniae (29.90 mm); T. tetraptera was most active against C. albicans (21.90 mm) and T. tetraptera and V. amygdalina gave the same activity (14.90 mm) against E. coli. At 1 x 10^-6cfu/ml, only T. tetraptera showed 100% antimicrobial activity by being active against all test organisms. The mineral and phytochemical components of the plants could be responsible for their antimicrobial properties. The extracts, compounds as well as oils from the test plants especially A. boonei could be useful in combating infections and metabolic disorder associated with neonatal jaundice. Toxicity studies of the plant samples would ascertain their safety in treatments.

[Gbadamosi IT, Obogo SF. Chemical Constituents and In Vitro Antimicrobial Activities of Five Botanicals Used Traditionally for the Treatment of Neonatal Jaundice in Ibadan, Nigeria. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):130-135]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 19. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.19

Keywords: Botanicals; jaundice; neonates; mineral analysis; phytochemical screening; antimicrobial assay

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Effect of Water Deficit on Growth of Some Mango (MangiferaindicaL) Rootstocks

Abdel-Razik, A. M.

Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.

Gabdrabboh65@yahoo.com

Abstract: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of water deficit on the growth of mango rootstock seedlings. The experimented seedlings were obtained by seed propagation of two mango cultivars, namely: Sabre and Zebda. One year old mango rootstock seedlings (MangiferaindicaL) were grown in pots in a green house, where they subjected to four water levels, 100% (control), 80%, 60% and 40% available water. The results indicated that, Sabre stock seedlings gave the highest values of shoot growth, leaves number, leaf area, root/shoot ratio, succulence grade, T.S.S%, leaf proline and leaf nutrient content compared with that of Zebda rootstock seedlings.

[Abdel-Razik, A.M. Effect of Water Deficit on Growth of Some Mango (MangiferaIndicaL) Rootstocks. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):136-142]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 20. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.20

Key words: Mango, Water deficit, Osmotic potential, Proline, Leaf nutrient content.

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Effect of Some Growth Regulators on Yield and Fruit Quality of Manzanillo Olive Trees

Abdrabboh, G.A

Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Nasr city, Cairo, Egypt.

Gabdrabboh65@yahoo.com

Abstract: The present work is an attempt to elucidate the effect of some growth regulators on fruit drop, yield and quality of olive cv. Manzanillo. Thirteen years old olive trees were foliar sprayed with both GA₃ and NAA individually and additively at 50 and 75 ppm. Maximum fruit drop % was recorded by using NAA at 75 ppm. Spraying trees with 75 ppm of GA₃ and NAA at either 50 or 75 ppm decreased fruit drop% in comparison to those sprayed with NAA only. Spraying trees with GA₃ at 75 ppm caused maximum fruit yield/ tree in comparison to those of other treatments including control. Maximum fruit weight, volume, length, diameter as well as fruit shape index were obtained when trees were treated with GA₃ at 75 ppm. GA₃ and NAA either individually or additively increased TSS % as well as TSS/Acid ratio of fruit juice and decreased total acidity than control. Maximum oil content (% of dr. wt.) was recorded when trees were sprayed with 75 ppm of GA₃ in comparison with other treatments including control. Accordingly, it is preferable to spray Manzanillo olive trees with GA₃ and NAA individually or additively 10 days after fruit set to improve tree yield and fruit quality.

[Abdrabboh, G.A. Effect Of Some Growth Regulators On Yield And Fruit Quality Of Manzanillo Olive Trees. Nat Sci 2013;11(10):143-151]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 21. doi:10.7537/marsnsj111013.21

Key Words: GA_3, NAA, Manzanillo olive, Fruit drop, yield, Fruit quality.

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