Fungal Counts Research Articles

Assessment of the impact of locally fabricated oven and sun drying method on the proximate, mineral and microbiological composition of Clarias gariepinus (catfish)

Drying is an age long practice which prevent fish from deterioration and spoilage, however, traditional drying is usually practiced in rural settings with poor hygienic conditions, thus, the nutritional and microbial quality of such products is uncertain. Therefore, the present study was aimed at evaluating the impact of a locally fabricated oven and sun drying method on the proximate, mineral and microbial composition of Clarias gariepinus (Catfish) using standard laboratory procedures. The results of the proximate analysis showed that the oven dried fish had the highest crude protein content (66.43 ± 3.37 %), crude lipid content (8.27 ± 0.28 %) and carbohydrate content (4.50 ± 0.22 %) which were statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to the sun dried fish, while the sun dried fish had the highest ash content (16.30 ± 2.48 %) and moisture content (14.30 ± 0.82 %) which were statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to the oven dried fish. Also, the mineral analysis showed that the oven dried fish had the highest calcium (821.49 ± 1.10 mg/kg), phosphorus (86.04 ± 0.83 mg/kg), potassium (254.72 ± 0.40 mg/kg), iron (40.73 ± 0.23 mg/kg), manganese (0.95 ± 0.01 mg/kg) and selenium (14.15 ± 0.39 mg/kg) content which were statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to the sun dried fish, while the sun dried fish had the highest sodium (173.52 ± 0.12 mg/kg), cupper (0.87 ± 0.12 mg/kg), magnesium (39.01 ± 0.43 mg/kg) and zinc (2.83 ± 0.23 mg/kg) content which were also statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to the oven dried fish. The study also showed that the total viable bacterial count was higher in the sun dried fish (6.23 x 105 cfu/g) which was not statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to the oven dried fish (5.65 x 105cfu/g), while the fungal count was higher in the oven dried fish (6.55 x 105 cfu/g) which was also not statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to the sun dried fish (5.01 x 105 cfu/g). The findings in this study showed that the locally fabricated oven was remarkably effective, yielding fish with significantly enhanced nutritional profiles and minimal microbial contamination. This approach offers a superior method for fish preservation, providing a promising alternative for improving food safety and nutritional quality.

Characterizing the Contribution of Strain Specificity to the Microbiota Structure and Metabolites of Muqu and Fresh High-Temperature Daqu

In this study, the differences in physicochemical properties, microbial community structure, and metabolic characteristics between various fortified Muqu and their corresponding high-temperature Daqu (HTD) were investigated using multiphase detection methods. The results demonstrated that the physicochemical properties, community structure, dominant bacterial composition, and metabolic components varied significantly among the different types of fortified HTD. The differences between HTDs became more pronounced when fortified HTD was used as Muqu. Compared to HTD, Muqu exhibited a more complex volatile profile, while HTD contained higher levels of characteristic non-volatile components. The cultivable bacteria count in Muqu was significantly higher than that in HTD, while the cultivable fungi count was slightly lower than that in HTD. The fungal profiles in HTD were primarily associated with starch hydrolysis and ethanol synthesis, while bacterial activity was more prominent in Muqu. Additionally, pyrazine synthesis was mainly attributed to fungi in Muqu and bacteria in HTD. Source Tracker analysis indicated that 8.11% of the bacteria and 26.76% of the fungi originated from Muqu. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the controlled production of HTD, contributing to improvements in its quality and consistency.

Study of Fungal Organisms Associated with Smoked and Dried Fish Sold in Awka Markets, Anambra State

Fungal contamination of fish is considered as the major cause of spoilage and it constitutes a significant public health problem. This study was carried out to determine the fungal organisms associated with smoked and dried fish samples: Scomber scombrus (Mackerel), Sardinella longiceps (Sardine), Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia), Clarias gariepinus (catfish), Gadus morhua (Stock fish), Ethmalosa fimbriata (Bonga fish), and Citharinus citharus (Mangala) sold in Awka markets, Anambra State, Nigeria. A total of fifty (50) (25 smoked and 25 dried) fishes were obtained from three markets in Awka and examined microbiologically for viable fungal infestation using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media. A total of 121 fungal organisms were isolated from 25 smoked and 25 dried fish samples and identified. The isolated fungi were Mucor spp, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium spp, Fusarium spp and Rhizopus spp. It was observed that all the fish samples harboured multiple fungal organisms. Aspergillus niger was the fungus with the highest mean fungal count of 9.00±5.568, followed by Mucor spp (8.00±1.732), while Aspergillus flavus was the lowest (3.67±1.528). In the dried fish samples, Gardus morhua (stock fish) had the highest infestation with fungi (1.08±1.083), while in smoked fish, Clarias gariepinus (catfish) had the highest infestation. The high level of fungal contamination can be attributed to poor handling of fish and the environment. Considering the danger to public health, food and safety authorities should intensify their monitoring efforts towards controlling fish contamination, and fish sellers should also be sensitized on hygienic fish handling techniques.

Unveiling the effects of ZnO nanoparticle incorporated chitosan coating on postharvest quality of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)

Due to rapid moisture loss, eggplant (Solanum melongena L.), a significant economic product, has a short postharvest shelf life. This study examined at 4 °C for 20 days at the effects of chitosan (CH) 1% and CH with micro ZnO (0.25 g/L) on eggplant quality. After 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 days, coating effects on parameters (weight loss, pH, respiration rate, total acidity, soluble solids, firmness, total anthocyanin, antioxidant, phenolic, antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, peroxidase and malondialdehyde activity), as well as microbiological count (total bacteria and yeast), were examined. When compared to the control, the coatings significantly affected the quality parameters, eggplant fruit coatings with CH (1 %) + nano ZnO (0.25 g/L) had the significantly least respiratory rate, weight loss, firmness, TAC, TPC, TAA and enzyme activity (P < 0.05). The microbial load during fruit preservation was suppressed by nano ZnO treatments (total bacterial and fungal count in control and eggplant treated with nano ZnO were 4.46, 4.33 and 3.96, 3.17 log CFU g−1 respectively). Treatments had little effect on fruit's flavour or aroma, but ZnO-treated fruit had improved texture, colour, and acceptance overall compared to control fruit. Finally, nano ZnO may offer a chance to preserve quality and limit deterioration during extended storage.

Air quality in a small city: criteria pollutants, volatile organic compounds, metals, and microbes.

This work presents a year-long integral study of air quality parameters in Ciudad Real, a small city in the center of Spain, and its influence on the nearby national park, Las Tablas de Daimiel. The study covers meteorological parameters and criteria pollutants such as O3, NO, NO2, SO2, and PM10. Additionally, for each month, a 1-week campaign was performed sampling air in sorbent tubes with 8-h time resolution to analyze anthropogenic volatile organic compounds and the effects of seasons, daytime, and working-weekend days. During these campaigns, 24-h PM2.5 samples were also collected to measure the load of bacteria and fungi, as well as the trace concentrations of elements.The city and the national park NOx profiles showed that emissions from the town had a non-perceivable effect on the protected area. PM10 levels in Ciudad Real were influenced by Saharan intrusions, as was the national park; however, Ciudad Real had a higher contribution from anthropogenic sources. Ozone levels were lower in the city during the cold season due to the higher concentration of NOx and have not changed significantly in the last decade.The VOCs with higher average concentrations were toluene, m,p-xylene, benzene, methylene chloride, and o-xylene, with traffic being the main source of these pollutants in the city. For benzene and carbon tetrachloride levels, weak carcinogenic risks were estimated. In PM2.5, the most abundant metals were Na, Zn, Mg, Ca, Al, Fe, and K. The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks estimated from the levels of the studied metals were negligible. Bacterial and fungal counts positively correlated with the concentration of PM2.5. Microbial community composition showed seasonal variability, with the dominance of human pathogenic bacteria which correlated with certain pollutants such as SO2. Bacillus and Cutibacterium were the most abundant genera.

Utilization of Different Preservatives (Cloves and White Pepper) for Extending of Shelf Live and Nutritional Value of Tiger Nut Milk (Kunun Aya)

Tiger nut milk (Kunun aya) is a traditional beverage and its non-alcoholic widely consumed in Northern part of Nigeria. The beverage was prepared from tiger nut with addition of spices such as cloves, and white pepper at different concentration in order to find its natural preservatives, so as to be preserve for a longer period using natural material so as to find if its shelf life and nutritional content will be maintained. The samples were stored at 4o c for 2 days and the effects of those spices on their proximate, microbial and fungal counts were evaluated. Fresh tiger nut and the spices (cloves and white pepper) were purchased form Jalingo central market in Taraba state in the Northeastern part of Nigeria. The tiger nut milk seeds were sorted and all the unwanted materials which may affects the taste and keeping quality of the drink were removed, washed and rinsed with portable water and then soaked for eight hours(8hrs) to soften the fibre and to remove off-flavor. One kilogram of fresh tiger nut was blended four times in to slurry with water. The slurry was pressed using a muslin cloth to recover extract. Two samples of spiced drink were analyzed for total moisture, ash content, crude protein, crude fibre, crude fat, and carbohydrate. Results of the proximate analysis reveal a range of 80.0-89.5% and 79.8- 87.2% and for moisture of tiger nut milk with cloves and white pepper which is higher at tiger nut with cloves. Ash content ranged from 0.3 -0.6 and 0.6-0.8%, both shows no significant difference in both sample B(1g) of tiger nut milk with cloves and white pepper. For crude fat it ranges 2.5-4.8%, and 2.3-4.1%. The crude fibre shows 2.1-3.0 and 2.2-3.2%, then crude protein 3.3-3.7% and 3.0-3.9% and carbohydrate range 1.7-3.9% and 1.9-2.6% of tiger nut milk cloves and white pepper respectively with no significant difference in sample C(2g) and control in tiger nut milk with cloves under carbohydrate content. The bacterial count of tiger nut milk with cloves and white pepper range 1.2×104 -2.7×104 and 1.6×104-3.0×104 respectively. And fungal count 1.5×107 -2.1×107 and 1.8×107 -2.1×107 with no significant difference in sample B(1g) and C(2g) with both have 1.8×107. The study revealed that cloves and white pepper can be served as a natural preservative in tiger nut milk and at the same time maintain its nutritional qualities.

Microbiological and nutritional assessment of ‘&lt;i&gt;ncha iwu&lt;/i&gt;’ (edible emulsion) vended in selected markets in Umunneochi Lga, Abia State, Nigeria

‘Ncha iwu’ is commonly used as a sauce in the preparation of ready-to-eat African salad, a wellknowndelicacy among the Igbo tribe in Nigeria. A total number of fifteen (15) samples of ‘ncha iwu’ were randomly purchased from three (3) vendors in Orie Ngodo and Eke Eziama market in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia state. The microbiological quality, proximate composition, and mineral content of the samples were determined using Standard Methods. ‘Ncha iwu’ prepared in the laboratory served as the control. The results showed that total bacterial, Staphylococcal, Coliform and fungal counts of the samples ranged from 3.81-4.37, 2.0-3.58, 3.0-3.8, and 2.0-3.0 log10 CFU/g, respectively. The bacterial species isolated and frequency of occurrence were Staphylococcus aureus (28 %), Klebsiella spp. (18 %), Pseudomonas spp. (18 %), Escherichia coli (18 %) while the fungal species were Penicillium spp. (50 %), Aspergillus spp. (40 %), and Candida spp. (10 %). Proximate analysis indicated that ‘ncha iwu’ contains ash (63.93%), moisture (15.88 %), fibre (8.99 %), lipid (7.70 %), protein (3.50 %) and carbohydrate (0.0 %) while minerals content include Fe (3.679 mg/g), Mg (1.055 mg/g), K (1.054 mg/g), Ca (1.030 mg/g), Mn (0.469 mg/g) and Na (0.222 mg/g). Although ‘ncha iwu’ contains beneficial nutrients, majority of the commercial samples were contaminated with potential pathogenic microorganisms which is a public health concern unlike the control. This is as a result of poor handling by the producers and vendors. Good hygienic practices by the handlers, proper packaging and storage of ‘ncha iwu’ will reduce the microbial contamination of the product. Hence, adequate public health awareness campaign, training on food safety, sanitation and hygenic practices should be provided to the local processors and vendors of ‘ncha iwu’.

Assessment of microbial contamination on generator surfaces: a case study at the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Microorganisms pervade the atmosphere, with inert surfaces serving as secondary repositories for the transmission of bacteria and fungi, posing public health concerns. This study aimed to assess the microbial burden on top surfaces and handles of specific generators at the University of Port Harcourt. Total Heterotrophic Bacteria counts ranged from 5.0 to 8.13 log CFU/ml, with the highest count observed on the handle of a generator at Ematex and the lowest on the top of a generator at the SSLT building. Total Fungi counts ranged from 5.0 to 6.45 log CFU/ml, with the highest count on the handle of a generator at English House and the lowest on the handle of a generator at Ofrima and the top of a generator at SSLT. Identified organisms include Staphylococcus spp, Enterococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., Bacillus spp., Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, as well as Aspergillius spp., Penicillium spp., Chysosporium spp., Fussarium spp., Muccur spp., and Candida spp. Microorganisms on generator handles exceeded those on the top, and the microbial profiles of handles were similar across the generator sets. Improved personal hygiene and regular handwashing is advised to mitigate bacterial presence on hands, which can be transferred from generator surfaces and handles.

EFFECT OF FICUS THONNINGII (STRANGLER FIG) LEAF EXTRACT ON RUMEN FERMENTATION PARAMETERS AND MICROBIAL COUNT OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of Ficus thoningii leaf extract (FLE) on rumen fermentation parameters and microbial count of West African dwarf goats fed total mixed ration in an 84-day feeding trial. Twenty-four West African dwarf goats were divided into four treatment groups and FLE were administered orally via syringe every morning at four varying levels (0, 5, 10 and 15mL) per animal per day for each of the four treatments respectively. The phytochemical composition of FLE was determined. Rumen fluid of the goats was collected at the end of the study and the pH, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), ammonia-nitrogen, and microbial population were also determined. The study revealed that FLE contains tannins, cyanogenicglycosides, total phenol, flavonoid, trypsin inhibitor, phytate oxalate, alkaloids and saponin . TVFA was higher (p&lt;0.05) in goats administered 15mL dosage (101.70mM) while ammonia-nitrogen was higher (p&lt;0.05) at 10 and 15mL doses. FLE increased (p&lt;0.05) fungi count in goats administered the various doses of FLE. Bacteria and protozoa counts were not significantly (p&gt;0.05) influenced by administration of FLE. However, the values obtained for bacteria count increased while that of protozoa count reduced by the end of the study. It was therefore concluded that FLE can be used up to 15 mL dosage to manipulate rumen fermentation to increase TVFA and ammonia nitrogen production.

EFFECTS OF ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF FICUS THONINGII (STRANGLER FIG) STEM BARK EXTRACT ON RUMEN FERMENTATION PARAMETERS AND MICROBIAL COUNT OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS

The study was aimed at investigating the effects of Ficus thoningii stem bark extract (FSBE) on rumen fermentation parameters and microbial count of West African dwarf goats in a 84-day feeding trial. Fifteen West African dwarf goats were divided into three treatment groups and administered FSBE at three doses of 0, 10 and 20ml/head/day for each of the three treatments respectively. Phytochemical composition of FSBE was determined. Rumen fluid of the goats was collected at the end of the study and the pH, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), ammonia-nitrogen and microbial population were also determined. Results show that FSBE at 10 % concentration contains tannin, phenol, flavonoids, phytate, oxalate and saponin. The administration of FSBE did not significantly (p&gt;0.05) affect pH, TVFA, and bacteria count. Ammonia-nitrogen decreased as the dosage of FSBE administered to the goats increased. The lowest (p&lt;0.05) ammonia-nitrogen (40.72 and 45.33 mg/dL) concentration was obtained in goats administered 10 and 20ml dosage of FSBE respectively. FSBE increased (p&lt;0.05) fungi count but reduced protozoa count at 10 and 20 ml doses. It was therefore concluded that FSBE can be used up to 20 mL dosage to manipulate rumen fermentation for reduced ammonia-nitrogen and protozoa population.

The Effect of Metallic Nanoparticles Supplementation in Semen Extender on Post-thaw Quality and Fertilizing Ability of Egyptian Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Spermatozoa.

Nanomaterials offer several promising prospects in the field of farm animal reproduction, encompassing a broad range of applications such as transgenesis and the precise delivery of substances to sperm cells, antimicrobial, antioxidants properties as well as their potent role in improving cryopreservation methods. The aim of the present study is to explore the effect of supplementing the semen extender with 10µg/mL nano gold (Au-NPs10), 10µg/mL nano silver (Ag-NPs10), 1µg/mL nano selenium (Se-NPs1), and 100µg/mL nano zinc oxide (ZnO-NPs100) on sperm characteristics and kinematics parameters, acrosome integrity, oxidative biomarkers, morphological and apoptosis-like changes of frozen-thawed buffalo bull sperm, and, ultimately, their fertilizing capacity. The results revealed that all aforementioned nano materials significantly improved viability, progressive motility, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, and kinematic parameters as well as apoptosis-like changes of post-thawed buffalo bull sperm compared to the control (p < 0.05). No discernible effects were observed on sperm ultrastructure morphology measures as a response to the addition of these metallic nanoparticles to the extender. The values of caspase 3 significantly decreased by 64.22, 45.99, 75.59, and 49.39% in Au-NPs10, Ag-NPs10, Se-NPs1, and ZnO-NPs100treated groups, respectively, compared to the control. The addition of 100µg ZnO-NPs to the extender significantly decreased the total count of bacteria, fungi, and yeast compared to the control (p < 0.05). The AuNPs10 and SeNPs1 treated groups showed lower content of malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide concentrations and higher values of total antioxidant capacity of post-thawed extended semen (p < 0.05). Pregnancy rates increased by 17.5, 20, and 30% in buffalo cows inseminated with sperm treated with ZnO-NPs100, Se-NPs1, and Au-NPs10, respectively, compared to the control group. The present results indicate that the freezing extender supplemented with metallic nanoparticles can be an effective strategy to enhance the cryotolerance and fertility potential of buffalo bull sperm.

THE INFLUENCE OF COPPER SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND RUMEN FERMENTATION PARAMETERS OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF SHEEP

Addition of copper in the diet has been proved to be beneficial to micro flora enhancing rumination. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the influence of copper glycine (Cu-G) on growth performance and rumen fermentation parameters of West African dwarf (WAD) sheep fed diets containing graded levels of Cu-G supplementation; incorporated into the concentrate diet at 0, 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg respectively to formulate four (4) experimental diets. A total of sixteen (16) WAD sheep were randomly allotted to 4 dietary treatments for 84 days with 4 animals per treatment in a completely randomized design having an average live weight of 13.00 ± 2.00 kg. Data were collected on growth performance and rumen fermentation parameters. Body weights were measured at the end of each week and the rumen fluid collection was carried out at the end of the experiment. Results revealed that there was no significant (p&gt;0.05) difference on the growth performance parameters across the dietary treatments. The final weight gain, metabolic weight, total feed intake and feed conversion ratio values obtained in this study ranged from 22.16-24.85 kg, 27.39-36.64 g/dw0.75, 508.22-556.96 g/d and 4.96-6.84 respectively. The rumen fermentation parameters was not significantly (p&gt;0.05) influenced by Cu-G supplementation except total fungi count (TFC), total coliform count (TCC) and protozoan count which ranged from 1.29-1.49×103cfu/ml, 2.23- 2.48×102cfu/ml and 2.25-2.72×105cfu/mlrespectively. Furthermore, the TFC, TCC and protozoan values obtained in this study increased across the dietary treatments as the Cu-G supplementation increased. Sheep fed 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg recorded the highest values for TCC, TFC and protozoan count obtained in this study. It can therefore be concluded that copper glycine included in diet at 15 mg/kg inclusion level had the highest microbial count in the rumen environment thereby positively influencing ruminal fermentation but had no influence on the growth performance of the West African dwarf sheep.

Assessment of microbial quality of some industrially packed food seasoning obtained from different retail outlets in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria

Qualities of curry, thyme and pepper commonly marketed in Nigeria were investigated. The total bacterial and fungal counts, types of microorganisms present and the physico-chemical qualities were also determined. These spices had a pH range from 5.92 to 6.44, with a moisture content of 6.08% to 36.32%. The bacterial load was within the range of 13.0 × 103 to 43.8 × 103 cfu/g with a lower fungal count of 6.5 × 103 to 35.2×103 cfu/g. Five bacterial and six fungal species namely Aeromonas, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Streptococcus and Bacillus;as well as Mucor, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillum, Candida, Aspergillus and Rhodotorula, respectively, were isolated. The implication of these findings on the health of the populace was discussed from a microbiological viewpoint. The presence of these microbes in the spices may pose a serious threat which is of significance in public health.

Mycobiota, Total Aflatoxins, And Ochratoxin A of Black And Green Cumin.

Because of the medical importance of cumin as well as it being one of the food additives to many Saudi dishes, there was a need to study the fungal load of this type of spice. This study aimed to determine the mycological profile of the retail black and green cumin distributed in different markets at western region, Saudi Arabia, using the dilution plat method on dichloran 18% glycerol (DG18) agar and incubation at 25°C. Using morphological criteria and molecular markers (internal transcribed spacer sequence), 39 species belonging to 18 genera were collected from different black cumin (33 species belonging to 17 genera) and green cumin (25 species belonging to 9 genera). Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. ochraceus, Cladosporium cladosporioides, and Stemphylium botryosum were the most prevalent. Black cumin harbors fungal counts reaching 545 colony-forming units (CFU)/g, while green cumin included 500 CFU/g. Also, the natural occurrence of aflatoxins and ochratoxin A was also measured. Seventy-two cumin samples (90% of tested samples) showed toxin contamination. Aflatoxins and ochratoxin A ranged from 9.35 to 3.9 PPB in black cumin samples and from 4.08 to 5.75 PPB in green cumin samples.

Effect of Crop Establishment Methods on Rhizospheric Soil Microbiota in Mustard Due to Different Land-Use Systems

A field study was conducted to assess the effect of crop establishment methods on rhizospheric soil microbiota in mustard due to different land-use system at the Research Farm, Department of Forestry, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (MP) for two consecutive years (2022–23 and 2023-24). The experiment was assessed in the double-split plot design with three replications. The experiment consisted of two land-use systems as main plot treatment (S1: Agroforestry system and S2: Open system), three crop establishment methods of mustard (M1: Broadcasting, M2: Line sowing, and M3: Transplanting) as sub-plot treatments and four levels of boron (B0: Control, B1: 1 kg ha-1 as basal B2: 2 kg ha-1 and B3: ½ kg ha-1 as basal + ½ kg ha-1 as foliar spray) as sub-sub plot treatments. The soil samples were collected after harvesting of crop during both the years of study to analyse soil microbiota (total bacteria, azotobacter, rhizobium, total fungi and actinomycetes). The results revealed that, significantly higher counts of azotobacter (31.37 CFU x 105), rhizobium (21.99 CFU x 106), total bacteria (42.78 CFU x 106), total fungi (8.30 CFU x 105) and actinomycetes (12.98 CFU x 105) were higher under agroforestry system than the open system. Meanwhile higher counts of azotobacter, rhizobium, total bacteria, total fungi and actinomycetes were found to be significantly superior in broadcasting (29.59 CFU x 105, 20.28 CFU x 106, 37.52 CFU x 106, 7.97 CFU x 105, 12.68 CFU x 105, respectively) over both line sowing and transplanting crop establishment methods. In case of boron levels, no significant changes occurred in the soil biology under both agroforestry and open systems. Hence, it could be concluded that vegetative cover over soil helps to proliferation of population of soil microbiota in the rhizospheric zone of crop.

Characterization of ultrasonic-assisted antifungal film loaded with fermented walnut meal on Rosa roxburghii Tratt during near-freezing temperature storage.

Fermented walnut meal (FW) has antifungal activity against Penicillium victoriae, a fungus responsible for Rosa roxbughii Tratt spoilage. This study characterized and applied ultrasonic-assisted antifungal film loaded with FW to preserve R. roxbughii Tratt during near-freezing temperature (NFT). Results showed that O2 and CO2 transmission rates decreased by 80.02% and 29.05%, respectively, and antimicrobial properties were improved with ultrasound at 560W for 5min and 1% FW. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction results revealed ultrasound improved hydrogen bonds and inductive effect via ─NH, ─OH, and C═O bonds. The addition of FW led to the formation of CMCS-GL-FW polymer via C═O bond. Thermogravimetric analysis and transmission electron microscope results demonstrated thermal degradation process was decomposed by ultrasound, and the internal structure of P. victoriae was accelerated by the addition of FW. Compared to the U-CMCS/GL group, the vitamin C content, peroxidase, and catalase activities of U-CMCS/GL/FW were enhanced by 4.24%, 8.52%, and 14.3% during NFT (-0.8 to -0.4°C), respectively. Particularly, the fungal count of the U-CMCS/GL/FW group did not exceed 105 CFU g-1 at the end of storage, and the relative abundance of P. victoriae decreased to 0.007%. Our findings provide an effective route for agricultural waste as natural antifungal compounds in the active packaging industry. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: In this study, the barrier and antimicrobial properties of film were successfully improved by ultrasonic treatment and loaded fermented walnut meal. The ultrasonic-assisted antifungal film loaded with fermented walnut meal effectively delayed the degradation of nutrients and reduced microbial invasion of Rosa roxburghii Tratt. These results provide a theoretical basis for the application of agricultural waste in the food packaging industry.

Assessing the influence of planting time and fertilization on growth, flowering, yield and soil properties of chrysanthemum

ObjectivesTo identify optimal planting time for maximizing growth and flowering, and assess the impacts of various fertilization techniques on plant growth and soil health in chrysanthemum. MethodsThe investigation was conducted at Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India from 2022 to 2023. The study aimed to investigate the impact of various planting times and fertilization schedules on the yield, quality, and soil health characteristics of chrysanthemum. Different planting times from 15 June to 30 August under organic and inorganic fertilization regimes were evaluated. Data related to vegetative growth, flowering, soil chemical and biological properties were recorded. ResultsPlantingon15 June along with inorganic fertilization resulted in improved vegetative characters like plant height (74.37 cm) and plant spread (30.56 cm), flowering characters like cut flower stem length (64.07 cm), stem strength (10.40°), flower diameter (11.80 cm) and duration of flowering (22.50 days) and soil chemical properties like available N, P, K (326.53, 40.36 and 359.48 kg/ha, respectively). However, planting on June 15 combined with organic fertilization led to enhancement in soil microbiological properties, including bacterial count (138.33 cfu/g soil), fungal count (31.75 cfu/g soil), actinomycetes count (62.46 cfu/g soil), microbial biomass (52.62 µg/g soil) as well as vase life (19.70 days). ConclusionIn the present study, it was found that planting time and fertilization significantly impacted chrysanthemum growth, yield and soil properties. The 15 June planting with inorganic fertilization boosted growth, yield and macronutrient content, while organic fertilization on the same date enhanced soil microflora. Flowering was influenced by planting time and organic fertilization showed promise as an alternative to chemical fertilization. Optimizing planting schedules and using organic fertilizers would lead to sustainability and offer economically viable alternatives to conventional crop management.

Response of postharvest treatments on shelf life, biochemical and microbial quality of banana variety Red Banana.

The popular Red Banana variety faces transportation challenges and has a limited postharvest shelf life due to its ripe fruits being less resistant and being a climacteric fruit. This study aims to prolong the shelf life of Red Banana fruits through different postharvest treatments. Fruit bunches of Red Banana were harvested at the mature green stage, separated into hands, precooled, subjected to 12 treatments and stored in corrugated fibre board boxes till the end of shelf life under ambient conditions. Fruits coated with 10% bee wax + 0.5% clove oil (T4), fruits subjected to coating with 10% bee wax and packaging with potassium permanganate (T9) and fruits dipped in hot water at 50 °C for 10 min. and packaging with potassium permanganate (T11) registered highest shelf life of 18.67 days. The highest TSS of 26.33°Brix was noticed in fruits stored with potassium permanganate (T8) after 12.67 days of storage and lowest titratable acidity of 0.19% and the highest sugar-acid ratio of 79.76 was noticed in control (T12) after 11.33 days of storage. Moreover, the highest vitamin C content (7.74 mg 100 g?¹), total sugar content (18.47%), reducing sugar content (15.49%), total carotenoid content (24.13 µg 100 g-1) was noticed in treatment T7 (hot water dipping at 50 °C for 10 min.) after 17.67 days, T10 (coating with 40% aloe vera extract and packaged with potassium permanganate) after 13.33 days, T4 (coating with 10% bee wax + 0.5% clove oil) after 18.67 days and T9 (coating with 10% bee wax + potassium permanganate) after 18.67 days of storage respectively. Furthermore, the lowest fungal and bacterial count was observed in treatments T2 (dipping in 30ppm sodium hypochlorite solution), T7 (hot water dipping at 50 °C for 10 min.), T9 (coating with 10% bee wax + potassium permanganate) and T10 (coating with 40% aloe vera extract + potassium permanganate) .

Impact of UV-C irradiation on pests and fungi in stored wheat

The application of UVC radiation in stored wheat grains in Brazil is still very recent and the study of the parameters of this technology in stored products becomes important for the advancement in the scientific as well as technological areas. This is mainly due to the fact that it is a cheap technology that does not leave residues, and can be used to replace chemical pesticides. Thus, the objective of the present work is to evaluate the effect of UV-C radiation on the control of insect pests and fungi in wheat grains. For this purpose, wheat grains containing 20 adult insects of Sitophilus sp were irradiated with UVC light for 15 and 30 minutes at intervals of 15 days for 120 days of storage. At the end of the period, live and dead insects, mass loss and total fungal count were evaluated. Based on the analyses carried out, the use of UV-C Light has been reaffirmed as an effective microbiological control method. On the other hand, the study of its use as a method of biological control, under the conditions of the experiment in which the plant material used were wheat grains with moisture content below 10%, is not feasible since the exposure of wheat grains infested with Sitophilus sp. During the 15 and 30 minute periods, every 15 days there was no statistical difference when compared to the control group.

Prevalence of aflatoxigenic fungi and contamination in soils and maize grains from aflatoxin-hot spot areas in Tanzania

Maize is a major food security crop contributing over 50 % of total food requirement in Tanzania. However, number of factors limit its production and quality. Aflatoxins contamination mostly produced by two Aspergillus species, A. flavus and A. parasticus compromise food safety, public health and economic concern globally. Despite its harmful effects little is documented on the aflatoxin- producing fungi on prevalence’s and contamination levels in soils and maize. The present study investigated Aflatoxigenic occurrence and aflatoxins contamination extents in seven districts. A total of 126 soil and 126 maize samples were collected and analyzed for presence, dominance, and levels of aflatoxin contaminations. Serial dilution and direct plating techniques were used for fungal isolation from soil and maize respectively and macro morphology characterization were used for identification. Aflatoxin levels were detected by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. A. flavus (38.1 %), A. parasiticus (22.2 %) and A. niger (16.7 %) were found to be the most dominant linked to aflatoxins B1 contamination. Total Aflatoxins were detected in Bahi (72.2 %, with mean of 87.9 μg/kg), Chemba (61.2 %, 74.2 μg/kg), and Babati (56.3 %, 65.8 μg/kg) indicating these were more prone to aflatoxins and higher aflatoxigenic prevalence. Aflatoxin B1 was detected most in Bahi (22.4 %, 402.4 μg/kg), Chemba (13.4 %, 241 μg/kg), and Babati (11.1 %, 199.2 μg/kg). Fungal counts ranged 3.4 ×105 to 6.9 ×107 CFU/g for contaminated samples. Aflatoxigenic species varied significantly (P<0.001) between cropping systems and the locations. Aflatoxigenic occurrence and levels were shown to be influenced by the cropping systems, as evidenced by the soils exhibiting a higher frequency than maize grains. Compared to mixed cropping, the mono-cropping system exhibited the greatest levels of aflatoxigenic population and aflatoxin contamination, indicating that farming practices affect contaminations and the need for improved cropping system practices.