Counts Of Heterotrophic Bacteria Research Articles

Antibiogram Screening of Edible oils Sold in two Geopolitical Zones of Nigeria

Edible oil is of the most important and widely used processed foods. The study was carried out to assess the microbiological quality of edible oil (Shea butter, Coconut oil and Palm Kernel oil) from two geopolitical zones of the country. A total of thirty (30) samples were gotten from four (4) different markets in the two geopolitical zones. Bacteria and Fungi were isolated and identified base on cultural, microscopic, biochemical characteristics and antibiotic sensitivity test were carried out. The total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) of the sample ranged from 3.1 x 103 – 3.6 x 104cfu/ml. The total heterotrophic fungi count ranged from 1.0 x 102 – 6.4 x 103cfu/ml. The bacteria isolated and identified were Bacillus sp., Escherichia sp., Pseudomonas sp., Micrococcus sp., Staphyloccus sp., Enterobacterium sp., and Klebsiella sp while the fungi were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Rhizopus, Fusarium, Candida sp and Penicillium sp. The antibiogram of the Gram positive bacteria showed that all the organisms were sensitive to Erythromycin (100%) while Gram negative organisms were sensitive to Ofloxacin (100%) and Ciprofloxacin (100%). The bacterial load of all the samples fell within the minimum acceptable range according to CODEX standard. It is important that improve aseptic techniques be employed in the production, handling and marketing of edible oil.

Physicochemical, bacteriological, and correlational evaluation of water obtained from boreholes and springs in a sub-urban community

Inadequate safe and portable water supply particularly in underdeveloped and developing countries has been associated with posing serious public health implications, especially as water related diseases continue to be a major health challenge in resource limited settings worldwide. Physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of borehole and spring water sources in a sub-urban community were assessed to determine their potability and correlation index. Twenty (20) water samples, 10 from boreholes and 10 from springs were randomly collected from different locations and analysed using standard microbiological and physicochemical methods. The results were compared with NIS and WHO standards for drinking water. Physicochemical parameters including; temperature, pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total hardness, total dissolved solid, Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Chloride, Sodium, Nitrate, Ammonium and Potassium were determined following the procedures prescribed by American Public Health Association Standard Method. Results obtained revealed that 99.3% of the analysed physicochemical parameters were within the maximum acceptable limits of NIS and WHO guidelines for drinking water except borehole iron concentration (0.52mg/L) and Manganese concentration (0.14mg/L). The total heterotrophic bacterial count (THB), total coliform count and faecal coliform count ranged from 1.6x103cfu/100ml to 4.7x103cfu/100 ml, 8.0cfu/100ml to 25cfu/ml, 0cfu/100ml to 14cfu/100ml respectively for boreholes, and 1.7x103cfu/100ml to 4.6x103cfu/100ml, 10cfu/100ml to 21cfu/100ml, 9cfu/100ml to 17cfu/100ml respectively for samples from spring water supply. Phenotypic characterization of the samples revealed the presence of certain organisms with pathogenic potentials such as Staphylococcus aureus 27.5%, followed by E. coli 19.6%, P. aeruginosa 11.8%, Klebsiella spp. 9.8%, Enterobacter spp. 7.8%, Enterococcus spp. 7.8%, Lactobacillus spp. 5.9%, Proteus spp. 3.9%, Shigella spp. 3.9% and Vibrio cholerae 2.0%. Pearson’s correlation analysis showed significantly strong positive correlation between total heterotrophic bacteria count and total coliforms (r = 0.643) and strong negative correlation between pH and total dissolved solids (r = -0.640). Other parameters such as faecal coliform, temperature, pH, turbidity, Zinc, Ammonium and Sodium shows significant correlation among variables.

PERFORMANCE OF PACIFIC WHITE SHRIMP FED PROBIOTICS <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> AND <i>Bacillus</i> spp. IN A BIOFLOC SYSTEM

The present study evaluated the use of the indigenous probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum and commercial probiotic containing Bacillus spp. in the culture of L. vannamei in a biofloc system. Shrimp were fed with four diets: L. plantarum, Bacillus spp., L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. and feed with no additives. Growth performance, water quality variables and microbiological counting of water and digestive tract of shrimp were determined. The control group and L. plantarum treatment showed better growth performance. The highest feed conversion ratio (FCR) and the lowest survival were obtained in the L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatment, which had significantly higher nitrite values. Vibrio spp. counts in the water were lower in the L. plantarum and L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatments and were lower in the intestinal tract in the L. plantarum treatment. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was higher in the L. plantarum treatment in the water and digestive tract. The count of total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) deferred only among Bacillus spp. and L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatment, being higher in the latter group. In Bacillus spp. treatment, no presence of LAB was detected in the water or intestinal tract. We conclude that the use of L. plantarum combined with Bacillus spp. negatively affected survival, FCR and water quality, but that the use of L. plantarum alone reduced the presence of Vibrio spp., even though it did not change the growth performance of L. vannamei.

Effects of seasonal variation and locations on microbial load in sediment and water of a polluted ecosystem

Seasonal effects on microbial load of sediment and water at different locations along Bonny Estuary of Niger Delta was investigated for a period of 12 months. All analyses followed standard procedure. Results revealed that total fungi counts in sediment and water at different locations were not significantly different (p > 0.05) at both wet and dry seasons while hydrocarbon utilizing fungi showed significant differences (p < 0.05) at both seasons in both sediment and water samples. During the wet season, total faecal counts ranged from 5.0 to 10.0 x 105 CFU/g for sediment and 4.0 to 7.0x 105 CFU/g in water. In dry season, the concentration of hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria in the sediment ranged between 0.1 x 105 CFU/ml/g and 8.0 x 105 CFU/ml/g in wet season while in dry season, the concentration in water ranged between 0.1 x 105 CFU/ml/g and 6.0 x 105 CFU/ml/g at Abuloma. At Okwujagu, total heterotrophic bacteria counts in sediment ranged from 0.1 to 8.0 x 105 CFU/g in dry season. This was higher than the range 0.1 to 6.8.0 x 105 CFU/ recorded in Abuloma, Okwujagu and Slaughter at dry season. The highest vibrio counts in water (11.0 x 105 CFU/ml) for wet and (10.0 x 105 CFU/ml) for dry seasons were recorded at Slaughter. In Oginiba, the feacal count recorded 3.0 x 105 CFU/ml in water during the wet season and 2.0 x 105 CFU/ml for dry season. Generally, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the bacterial concentrations in both sediment and water. This showed that different seasons favour the growth of certain microbial types.

Bacteriological Assessment of Automated Teller and Point of Sales Machine User Interface in Uyo Metropolis, Nigeria

The Automated Teller Machine (ATM) and Point of Sales (POS) machine user interface of different banks, schools, hospitals, restaurants/eateries, shopping malls and petrol/gas stations in Uyo metropolis were bacteriologically assessed in the dry and wet seasons using cultural technique. The result of fomites key pads indicate total heterotrophic bacteria counts (THBC) was in the order: Banks > Hospitals > Schools > Petrol/Gas stations > shopping malls > Restaurants/Eateries in both seasons. There was an increase in the bacterial counts of the fomites from all locations in the wet season compared to the dry season and the difference significant (p = 0.05). The THBC from ATMs in banks, hospitals and schools ranged from 5.6 ± 0.1 to 7.8 ± 0.6 Log₁₀CFU/cm2 and from POS 3.4 ± 0.3 to 5.0 ± 0.2 Log₁₀CFU/cm2) for Petrol/Gas stations, shopping malls and Restaurants/Eateries in the wet season. The dry season revealed THBC range of 4.1± 0.6 to 6.4 ± 0.3 Log₁₀CFU/cm2 for ATMs and 2.6 ± 0.8 to 3.8 ± 0.1 Log₁₀CFU/cm2 for POS. Organisms associated with the fomites were Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and species of Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Proteus, Streptococcus, Salmonella, Shigella, Micrococcus, Vibrio and Klebsiella. The highest and least frequency of occurrence in the dry season indicated Micrococcus (17.2%) and Vibrio (1.4%) in relation to Staphylococcus aureus (18.2%) and Proteus sp. (2.8%) in the wet season. The Gram-positive organisms exhibited high and low susceptibility to Gentamycin and Augmentin compared to Ofloxacin and Amoxicillin respectively in Gram-negative bacteria. The results indicate ATM and POS machine user interface as possible sources of pathogenic organisms. Therefore, regular cleaning of ATM and POS user interface and public awareness on the need for adequate personal hygienic practice after the use of these machines is recommended to reduce associated risks.

The pollution status and effects of seasonal changes in rivers within Imo River Basin, Southeastern Nigeria

The pollution status and effects of seasonal changes in rivers within Imo River basin were studied between October 2015 and September 2016. Water samples and 4 species of fish samples were collected from seven rivers: Otanmiri, Nwaorie, Njaba, Blue Lake Oguta, OrashiOpuomo and AbubaUnuchi, using suitable sterile containers. The water and fish samples were analysed bacteriologically using culture technique and the method of (1) for physico-chemical parameters. The findings revealed that 11 genera of bacteria Staphylococcus species, Streptococcus faecalis, Micrococcus species, Aeromonas species, Vibrio species, Salmonella species, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, Flavobacterium species and Klebsiella species were present in the water and fish samples examined. The total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) of the rivers during the raining season ranged from 2.3 x 106 to 2.9 x 106cfu/ml and 2.02 x 105 to 2.6 x 105cfu/ml in the dry season. For the fish samples, the THBC ranged from 1.86 x 105 to 2.4 x 105cfu/ml in the raining season and increased to 2.3 x 105 to 2.8 x 105cfu/ml in the dry season. The physico-chemical parameters of the watersamples: cadmium, lead, mercury, nitrate, sulphate, phosphate and copper were found to be higher than WHO standard for drinking water, especially during the dry season. The prevalence of physically observed fish diseases generally increased from 35.6% percent in the raining season to 74.4% in the dry season. The study has established high pollution of rivers within Imo river basin and adverse effects of seasonal changes on aquatic organisms in the rivers due to pollution.

Analysis of the Physicochemical Parameters and Microbiological Quality of Water Samples Obtained from Mbiaso River and Enang Stream in Ikot Ekpene Metropolis

The physicochemical, microbiological and heavy metal studies of water samples obtained from Mbiaso River and Enang Stream were investigated. Water samples were collected from two locations with two sampling points from each location along the course of the water body based on their use by the community and analysed using standard procedures. The results obtained were compared with WHO standards for drinking and recreational water. Aside titratable acidity, titratable alkalinity and BOD, all other physicochemical parameters were within the permissible standards. All the heavy metals concentrations were above the permissible limits except for Lead (Pb) that ranged between 0.01mg/l to 0.05 mg/l for all the sampling points. All the water samples were found to harbor coliforms organisms in numbers greater than the required WHO standards for water except for Enang river that lacked the presence of Vibrio spp. The total viable counts for all the water samples were generally high exceeding the standard limit of 1.0 x 102 cfu/ml for water. The total heterotrophic bacteria count, total coliform count, faecal coliform count and total fungal count ranged between 1.9x104 - 52x104 cfu/ml, 2.3x104 -38 x104 cfu/ml, 1.7x104 - 30x104 cfu/ml and 2.5x104 - 5.3x104 cfu/ml respectively. The total salmonella-shigella counts and total staphylococcus counts were in the range of 0.2 x102-0.4 x102 cfu/ml and 0.3 x102 -0.6 x104 cfu/ml respectively. From the study, it is suggested that some regulations measures be put in place to control pollution of the water while the water be properly treated before use for domestic, potable or recreational purposes.

Vinasse from sugarcane bagasse (hemicellulose) acid hydrolysate and molasses supplemented: biodegradability and toxicity

Vinasse sugarcane is a valuable byproduct of the ethanol production process, presenting a perspective of volume increase with the development of second generation ethanol (2GE). However, this byproduct needs new methods of treatment and management for sustainability. Besides that, 2GE vinasse can be associated with some compounds (such as furan derivatives, phenolic compounds and organic acids), depending on the process used to solubilize hemicellulose, which could compromise vinasse destination or utilization. For this reason, detoxification methods of the hemicellulosic hydrolysates, from which vinasse is obtained in subsequent steps, are crucial. This study aimed to investigate whether the biological detoxification of vinasse from 2GE presents a difference concerning the microbial activity of biodegradation and toxicity when compared to vinasse without the detoxification process. Two vinasses (1, before; and 2, after detoxification) from fermented sugarcane bagasse (hemicellulose fraction) acid hydrolysate (supplemented with its molasses), under different concentrations: 2.5; 5 e 10% were evaluated. Their physicochemical characterization, biodegradation microbial activity (through Bartha and Pramer respirometric method, with total count of heterotrophic bacteria and fungi), and toxicity evaluation (through bioassays with Lactuca sativa at concentraction: 2.5; 5 e 10% and Daphnia similis to 1.5; 2.5; 3.5; 4.5; 5 and 10%) were performed. The results indicated high mineral and organic matter, which under a specific circumstance (2.5% of soil conditioning), enabled high efficiency in biodegradation (>80%). The bioassays with L. sativa signaled negative effect for radicular growth when the vinasses were applied at a concentration of 5 and 10% (sublethal effect and delayed root growth). Acute effects were observed in D. similis, with 50% of immobilization, at concentrations of 4.13% and 4.74% for vinasses 1 and 2, respectively. These results indicate that the biodegradation of vinasse from sugarcane bagasse acid hydrolysate occurs at relatively low levels (up to 5%) and suggests that higher concentrations (≥10%) may impair the growth of soil-associated microorganisms.

Genomic Characterization and Plasmid Profile of Listeria and Salmonella Species Isolated from Oreochromis niloticus Sold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Fish are generally regarded as safe, nutritious and beneficial but aquaculture products have sometimes been associated with certain food safety issues. Consumption of fish may also cause diseases due to infection or intoxication, Hence, the aim of this study is to characterize using genomic analysis and plasmid profile of Listeria and Salmonella species isolated from Oreochromis niloticus sold in Port Harcourt. A total of one hundred and eighty samples (180) were collected from three different markets namely; Creek road, Mile one and Rumuokoro markets over a period of six months. The samples were labelled and transported in an ice packed coolers to the laboratory for analyses. Standard analytical protocols were employed to determine the bacteriological characteristics of the various parts such as Intestine, Gill, flesh of the sample. Statistical analyses were carried out using ANOVA and All pairs tukey-kramer. Results obtained from the study showed that the total heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 5.1 to 5.9 x10 x106cfu/g across the markets for the flesh part, 6.0 to 7.7 x106 cfu/g (Gill) and 7.1 to 7.6 x106 cfu/g for the intestinal samples. Total coliform count ranged from 4.2 to 5.4 x104cfu/g (flesh), 5.2 to 5.4 x104 cfu/g ((Gill) and 6.1 to 8.0 x104 cfu/g (Intestine). Listeria count range from 2.7 to 2.9 x104 cfu/g (Fresh), 3.3 to 3.7 cfu/g (Gill)), and 3.8 to 4.3 cfu/g (Intestine), and Salmonella count ranged from 1.0 x103 - 1 .1 x103 cfu/g (Flesh) 1.0 to 1.6 x103 cfu/g (Gill) and 1.2 to 2.0 x103 cfu/g (intestine). This results shows that the intestines harbours more bacterial load than the gill and flesh. Mean values for all the microbial counts were significantly different (P<0.05) in the three samples across the sampled markets The result of the conventional and genomics identification confirms the following species of Listeria and Salmonella: L. grayi VD-Sfg with accession number MW020239 having a closest gene bank match with Listeria grayi CIP 100% identified, L. monocytogenes VD-Sfg with accession number MW020240 closest to L. monocytogenes NCTC 10357 with 99.73% identified, L. seeligeri VD-SFF accession number MW020241 closet to L. seeligeri ATCC 35967 with 98.95%, L. welshimeri VD-SF MW020242 closest to L. welshimeri ATCC 35897 with 99.9%, L. monocytogenes VD-Fg MW020243 closet to L. monocytogenes NCTC 10357 eith 99.73% identity, S. bongori VD-SwfiA MW020245 closest to S. bongori NCTC 12419 and S. enterica VD-SwfiD MW20244 closest with S. entrica LT2 both with 100% identity. Gel electrophoresis of the plasmid DNA showed that all the isolates possess plasmid. This finding is of public health concern as these organisms are the known causes of food-borne diseases and also serve as reservoirs for resistance plasmids that may be transferred to otherwise susceptible bacteria making them resistant, thus increasing the occurrence of antibiotic resistance among microorganisms.

MICROBIAL AND PHYSIOCHEMICAL PROFILE OF BRANDED AND UNBRANDED GROUNDNUT OIL

Processed food products have shown high potentials to be contaminated in suitable environmental conditions. Groundnut oil is one of such products. The study was conducted to determine the safest branded and unbranded groundnut oil sold in markets. Total bacterial count and Total fungal count were evaluated using standard microbiological methods. The result obtained showed that all the branded oil was free from bacterial contamination since they went through a series of refining processes. Although, they were contaminated with fungi. All the unbranded groundnut oil had bacterial and fungal contaminations of species which include; Bacillus (20%), Staphylococcus (20%), Enterobacter (6%), Micrococcus (27%), Fusarium, and Aspergillus sp. The total heterotrophic bacteria count for the unbranded groundnut oil samples ranged from 9.4×102 to 2.3×102 cfu/ml while total fungal counts for unbranded groundnut oil samples ranged from 5.5 ×100 and 2.0×100 cfu/ml. The total bacterial count for branded groundnut oil ranged from 3.0×100 and 2.0×100 which were within acceptable standards. The physicochemical parameters for unbranded groundnut oil did not exceed the acceptable limit. Nevertheless, consumers are encouraged to use more refined and branded groundnut oil as these fall closer to acceptable standards than regular unbranded ones.

Brown seaweeds added in the diet improved the response to thermal shock and reduced Vibrio spp. in pacific white shrimp post‐larvae reared in a biofloc system

This work aimed to evaluate the effect of the combined use of the brown seaweeds Sargassum filipendula (S) and Undaria pinnatifida (U) dry biomass, as a feed additive, on growth performance, bacterial count and thermal shock resistance of Pacific white shrimp reared in a biofloc system during the nursery phase. Four combinations of seaweeds were evaluated: 0.5S:2U, 0.5S:4U, 1S:2U and 1S:4U (%), and a control diet. Shrimp post-larvae (PLs, initial weight ± 0.006 g) were reared for 7 weeks in 400 L polyethylene tanks, partially filled with water from a biofloc matrix tank, at density of 3000 PLs m−3, and were fed 6 times a day until reaching ±1 g. The presence of Vibrionaceae in PLs was significantly lower in those that were fed diets containing 0.5S:4U and 1S:4U. For thermal shock resistance (from 29°C to 13.5 ± 0.1°C for 1 h, and returned to 29°C), PLs fed the diet containing 1S:2U showed lower cumulative mortality than those fed the other diets. Among all treatments, no significant difference was observed in growth performance and total heterotrophic bacteria count in the PLs. S. filipendula and U. pinnatifida showed a combined effect on shrimp thermal resistance and reduction of Vibrio spp. in PLs.

Environment variables, composition and metabolic characteristics of culturable sediment bacteria isolated around Gökçeada Island, Aegean Sea, Turkey

Determination of bacteriological diversity in marine ecosystems is of great importance in terms of understanding the functioning of the marine ecosystem, as well as being an indicator of alarm for pollution and sudden changes in marine environments. In this study, we aimed to investigate the composition and metabolic characteristics, relative to variable environmental parameters in the sediment sampling points, of cultivable heterotrophic bacteria taken seasonally from the coastal areas of Gökçeada Island, Turkey between February and November of 2015. The counts of the total cultivable heterotrophic aerobic bacteria (HAB) were tested by using the spread plate technique with Marine agar. The living and dead bacteria counts (TB) were tested with an epifluorescent microscope by means of the DAPI–CTCstaining method. The enzyme activation and metabolic responses of the bacterial isolates were screened against certain substrates by using the VITEK 2 Compact 30 automated micro-identification system. Variable environmental parameters were recorded in-situ in the seawater samples surrounding the sediment samples with multiparameter instrument. The spatial variability of trophic parameter values was tested by spectrophotometric methods. The mean HAB and TB counts of sediment samples were recorded as 35x109±0.5 and 79x1010±0.9 CFU g−1, respectively. During the study period, sixteen bacteria species belonging to six classes. Bacilli (6.0%), Gammaproteobacteria (71.1%), Betaproteobacteria (3.6%), Actinobacteria (1.2%), Cocci (1.2%), and Alphaproteobacteria (16.9 %) were recorded. Arylamidase was determined to be the highest enzyme activity. These results showed that nitrogen mineralization occurs at a high rate in the sediment samples of Gökçeada Island. Temporal and spatial variations in total and heterotrophic bacteria levels between seasons were significant (p<0.05) in the study area. There were no significant station variations between TB and HAB levels (p>0.05). It was determined that trophic parameters related to primary environmental conditions affect bacterial composition, frequency, and metabolites in coastal areas.

Comparative Bacteriological Evaluation of Frozen and Salt Water Tilapia Fishes (Oreochromos niloticus and Oreochromos aureus) Sold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Nigeria

Fishes are highly perishable, and prone to vast variations in quality due to differences in species, feeding habits as well as the environmental and preservation factors. This study Compared the bacteriological quality of Frozen and Salt Water Tilapia Fishes (Oreochromos niloticus and Oreochromos aureus) sold in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Total number of sixty (60) samples were evaluated. Frozen tilapia (36) and salt water tilapia fishes (24) were obtained from the three sampling markets using sterile bags which were properly labelled. The samples were transported to the Laboratory for analyses within 2 hours of collection in a thermos box containing ice pack and standard microbiological procedures were employed in the bacteriological evaluations. Different parts of the fishes such as Intestine, gills and flesh of the samples were dissected and used for bacteriological analysis. Statistical analyses were carried out using ANOVA and All pairs tukey- kramer. Results obtained from the study showed that the highest number of total heterotrophic bacteria count was obtained from frozen fish gills which was 7.7 x 106±0.98 cfu/g while the least count of 4.7 x 106±0.67 cfu/g was from salt water tilapia fish flesh. Total coliform count ranged from 3.3 x104±0.91 cfu/g to 8.0 x104±0.44a cfu/g for salt water flesh and frozen fish intestine from different markets respectively. Listeria species count ranged from 1.3 x104± 0.30 cfu/g to 4.3 x104±0.57 cfu/g for salt water fish intestine and frozen fish flesh respectively. Total Salmonella count ranged from 1.0 x103±0 cfu/g to 6.2x103±1.30cfu/g for frozen fish flesh and salt water fish intestine. These values were above the WHO permissible limit. Mean values for all the microbial counts were significantly different at (P&lt;0.05) in the two samples across the sampled markets comparatively, frozen fish has more bacteriological load than salt water fish, this may be attributed to the handling, hygiene storage of the respective fishes as well as storage conditions. Listeria species were identified as L. monocytogenes, L. graji, L. seeligeri, L. ivanovii, and L. welshmeri by genomic studies. While three species of Salmonella such as S. arizonae, S. gallinarum, S. typhi were isolated. Other bacterial isolates were identified as Vibrio spp, Bacillus spp Staphylococcus spp Shigella spp Pseudomonas spp. Enterobacter spp. E. coli, Micrococcus spp. Acinetobacter spp. Klebsiella spp. This study revealed that fish sold at different markets in Port Harcourt especially frozen fish, is highly contaminated with different kinds of bacterial pathogens which may constitute potential public health hazard due to the unhygienic nature of fish vendors which predisposes frozen fishes to contamination by pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore proper blanching and heating methods should be employed during preparations of fishes to avoid cross contamination and food intoxication/ poisoning before consumption. It is important that all hazard analysis critical control point be adhered to for good production processes.

Investigations on the characterizations, optimization and effectiveness of goat manure compost in crude oil biodegradation

This study investigates the potential of ready to use goat manure compost (GMC) in the biodegradation of crude oil (CO). Microbial respiration (CO₂ evolved), and heterotrophic bacteria count (HBC) in the CO contaminated soil treated with goat manure compost (COCS-GMC) were also investigated. The HBC demonstrated that the COCS-GMC contained valuable microbial populations while the CO₂ evolved in COCS-GMC and control samples were 500 ​mg ​g−1 and 230 ​mg ​g−1, respectively. The characterization of the CO showed that the dormant hydrocarbon compositions were saturates with traces of aromatic hydrocarbon, resins and asphaltene. The one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post-hoc analysis revealed that the CO₂ evolved within 30 days of incubation was significant (P ​< ​0.05) while the CO₂ evolved within 10, 20, 40, and 50 days were not. Instrumental analysis such as the XRD, FTIR and SEM were carried out on the GMC to give further information on the surface morphology and elemental compositions. The results obtained from the RSM indicated the satisfactory performance of the quadratic model with R2 (0.9779), adjusted R2 (0.9621), and predicted R2 (0.8951). The solution selected from the numerical optimization process was CO concentration of 63 ​g ​L−1 and pH 6 with the desirability of 1.

Scrutiny of Microorganisms in Fermented Milk Beverage and Water from Dairy under State Inspection

The aim of the study was to examine microorganisms in samples of fermented milk beverage and water from dairy under state inspection. In a dairy located in the Rec&#244ncavo of Bahia, fifteen samples of fermented milk beverage were collected, corresponding to three different batches, and six water samples, two from each point of use in the industry: Point 1—Sanitary barrier; Point 2—Internal faucet for cleaning surfaces and utensils; Point 3—Drinking fountain for employees. All samples were submitted to microbiological research of total coliforms, Escherichia coli and Aeromonas spp. In the water samples, there was also quantification of heterotrophic bacteria and analysis of free residual chlorine. The fermented milk beverage samples did not show growth of total coliforms, E. coli and Aeromonas spp. With regard to water, no sample showed measurable levels of free residual chlorine, while in the microbiological analysis the count of heterotrophic bacteria in the drinking water exceeded the limit established by legislation (5.6 × 102 CFU&#46mL-1). In addition, the water from the sanitary barrier revealed total coliforms above the allowed value (1.3 × 101 CFU&#46100 mL-1) and showed contamination by Aeromonas spp. (7.0 × 101 CFU&#46mL-1). Thus, it can be inferred that, although the fermented milk beverage did not present the investigated microorganisms, the water used by the industry showed microbial contamination, and due to its participation in the entire production process, water quality control is extremely important to prevent contamination of the food handler and the final product, preventing the spread of diseases and harm to public health.

Evaluation of microbiological and physical parameters of water from dental clinics in a brazilian university

Introduction and objective: Contamination of the water used in health care units can induce adverse individual and collective consequences. The objective of this study was to evaluate the water quality in dental clinics of a dentistry program of a university in Brazil, calculating the total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, heterotrophic bacteria and pH. Materials and methods: In each clinic, water samples were collected for analysis at different points: external cistern, clinic faucet, dental chair tank and triple syringe. After sample collection, analysis was performed: the presence of total coliforms and thermotolerant coliforms was determined by chromogenic substrate technique, the presence or absence of Escherichia coli by fluorescence in ultraviolet light, the count of heterotrophic bacteria through the number of colonies and the determination of pH. Results: In all studied sites, the presence of total coliforms, Escherichia coli and thermotolerant coliforms was observed in at least 26% of the samples. In relation to CFU / ml, all mean values were much higher than the maximum established by legislation (500 CFU / ml). It was verified a statistically significant difference was found in the external cistern and tap when compared to the chair tank and triple syringe (p &lt; 0.05). All pH samples were within the standards. Conclusion: The global analysis showed that 100% of the samples were inadequate, which classified the water potability as nonstandard in regard to the current Brazilian legislation.

Prevalence and Antibiogram of Salmonella Species Isolated from Snail (Archachatina marginata) Sold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Increase in microbial population especially Salmonella species in food due to improper handling, storage and exposure to contaminants can raise public health concerns when consumed without adequate processing. This study evaluates the prevalence and antibiogram of Salmonella species associated with the giant land Snail (Archachatina marginata) sold in markets around Port Harcourt metropolis. A total number of seventy two (72) samples of land snail were collected from three markets; Creek Road, Mile one and Rumuokoro. The samples were labelled and transported in an ice packed coolers to the laboratory for analyses. Standard microbiological protocols were employed to determine the microbial load and species of the various parts (intestine, meat and fluid) of the snail samples after shucking. Antibiotics sensitivity profile testing of the isolated and identified Salmonella species were carried out as recommended by Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) and statistical analyses using one way ANOVA and all pairs Turkey-Kramer. Results from the study showed that the highest total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) of 8.6x106CFU/g was obtained in the snail intestine sourced from Creek road market while THBCs of 8.2x106 CFU/g and 7.3x106 CFU/g were from Mile one and Rumuokoro markets respectively. THBCs of meat from the markets ranged from 4.3-5.4x106 CFU/g and 3.7-4.9x106CFU/ml in fluid with Rumuokoro having the least occurrence respectively. Mean Salmonella counts (MSCs) ranged from 0.4-3.6 x103 CFU/g, with least count obtained from Rumuokoro and Mile 1 markets. Similarly, least MSCs in fluid and intestine were obtained from Rumuokoro and Mile 1 whereas Creek road Market had the highest respectively. Three species of Salmonella; S. arizonae, S. gallinarum and S. typhi were predominant in addition to other species such as Vibrio spp,, Bacillus spp., Staphylococcus spp., Shigella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacter spp., E. coli, Micrococcus spp., Acinetobacter spp., Klebsiella spp. and Listeria spp identified using both conventional and molecular method. Antibiogram profile revealed that all the identified Salmonella species were susceptible to Ofloxacin and Ciprofloxacin but strongly resistance to Cetazidime and Gentamicin. The diversity and elevated microbial load observed from this study calls for caution in handling and processing of snails since most of these bacteria may become aetiologic agents of several food-borne diseases and other pathological conditions. As a necessity, good quality control measures and proper chemotherapy should be administered to patients with signs and symptoms of food borne illness emanating from consumption of snail.

Iko River Estuary: Anthropogenic impacts and the microbial community alterations

The contamination of the aquatic systems with heavy metals has been on the increase since the last century due to industrial activities and this has contributed greatly to the variations in the microbial community structure and function in the ecosystem. The natural and anthropogenic variations in microbiological and heavy metals analysis in Iko River estuary was analyzed using standard methods. From the result, it was observes that anthropogenic variations influence greatly the microbial proliferation as significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher microbial levels were observed across all microhabitats (tidal water, intertidal water and benthic sediment) as well as stations (upstream – Okoro, midstream – Kampa and downstream – Emeroke). It was observed that the sediment samples produced significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher THB counts than tidal and intertidal water samples. Similar trends were observed for CUB, TF and CUF respectively. There was no significant difference (p&gt;0.05) between the mean values of upstream, midstream and downstream. In all microhabitats and stations, the densities of crude oil-utilizing microorganisms were significantly (p&lt;0.05) low compared to total heterotrophic counts. The total fungal counts were significantly (p&lt;0.05) low compared to total heterotrophic bacteria counts. The result showed relatively higher concentrations of heavy metals in sediment than in tidal and intertidal water samples. The results indicate that the water and sediment samples show a remarkable variation in heavy metals and total petroleum hydrocarbon as a result of the great human activities in the estuary.

Quality attributes and safety of processed meat products in Ibadan, Nigeria

Consumption of processed meat products has greatly increased due to availability and accessibility of ready to eat meat products. Despite increased patronage of ready to eat meat products, food safety implication of processed ready-to-eat-meat products is of global concern. Against this background, this study was aimed at assessing the quality and safety of processed ready to eat meat products sold in Ibadan. Samples of asun, suya and kundi were randomly collected from four selected markets in Ibadan metropolis and subjected to chemical analyses. The total cholesterol content in suya (1538.00 mg/100mg) was significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) than in asun (1277.60 mg/100mg) and kundi (1277.60 mg/100mg). Kundi had significantly (P&lt;0.005) higher crude protein (70.66 %) and ether extract (23.42 %) than asun with 20.17 % and 10.85 % ether extract, respectively. Lipid peroxidation of suya (6.18 mg/MDA/kg) at day 28 was significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) than kundi (4.50 mg/MDA/kg) and asun (4.19 mg/MDA/kg). The total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (TPAH) was 5.31μg/kg in suya, 2.02μg/kg in asun and 1.55μg/kg in kundi. The total heterocyclic aromatic amine (THAA) was 51.66 ng/g in suya, 28.12 ng/g in asun and 23.70 ng/g in kundi. The total heterotrophic bacteria count in suya (28.17 ×10-3cfu/g) was higher than in kundi (11.19 ×10-3cfu/g) and asun (3.99×10-3cfu/g). Therefore, safe keeping and quality of suya in Ibadan metropolis was low based on the above parameters measured.

Effects of ozone on post-smolt Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) performance, health, and maturation in freshwater recirculation aquaculture systems

Steroid hormones accumulate in recirculation aquaculture systems (RAS) and may influence the reproductive physiology of farmed fish. Ozone reduces hormone concentrations in freshwater RAS used to rear Atlantic salmon, but its effect on reproductive development is unknown. Accordingly, an 8-month trial was carried out to evaluate the growth, health, and maturation of post-smolt Atlantic salmon (296 ± 4 g initial weight) reared in six replicated freshwater RAS (9.5 m3 total volume) operated with or without ozone (N = 3/treatment). Residual ozone was controlled with an oxidation reduction potential (ORP) of 300–320 mV, and mean water temperature was maintained at 14.7 °C. Atlantic salmon growth was generally faster in ozonated RAS. Salmon from RAS with and without ozone weighed 2156 ± 101 and 1810 ± 15 g, respectively, by the end of the study. Caudal, anal, and pelvic fin damage was greater (P < 0.05) for salmon in ozonated RAS early in the trial but improved thereafter. No statistical differences in gill, skin, and skeletal muscle histopathology were observed between treatments at the end of the study. Waterborne estradiol, testosterone, and 11-ketotestosterone levels were periodically lower (P < 0.05) in ozonated RAS, but maturing salmon were more prevalent in these systems. At the end of the trial, percent maturation of salmon populations reared in RAS with and without ozone was 63 ± 7 and 48 ± 1%, respectively; however, maturity appeared to be related to fish size. Improved water quality was observed in ozonated RAS including reduced dissolved copper, iron, and zinc levels, total heterotrophic bacteria counts, and true color, and increased ultraviolet transmittance, which may have supported improved Atlantic salmon growth. Overall, ozone did not inhibit the onset or prevalence of Atlantic salmon maturation, but significant improvements in water quality and salmon growth performance resulted from its use.