Fungal Research Articles

Composite additives regulate physicochemical and microbiological properties in green waste composting: A comparative study of single-period and multi-period addition modes

Composting additives can significantly enhance green waste (GW) composting. However, their effectiveness is limited due to the short action duration of a single-period addition. Therefore, this study proposes that multi-period additive modes to prolong the action duration, expedite lignocellulose degradation, reduce composting time, and enhance product quality. This study conducted six treatments (T1–T6), introducing a compound additive (BLP) during the mesophilic (MP) and cooling periods (CP). Each treatment consistently maintained 25% total BLP addition of GW dry weight, with variations only in the BLP distribution in different periods. The composition of BLP consists of Wbiochar: Wlactic acid: Wpond sediment in a ratio of 10:1:40. Specifically, T1 added 25% BLP in CP, T2 added 5% in MP and 20% in CP, T3 added 10% in MP and 15% in CP, T4 added 15% in MP and 10% in CP, T5 added 20% in MP and 5% in CP, and T6 added 25% in MP. In this study, composting temperature, pH value, electrical conductivity, total porosity, the contents of lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and nutrient, scanning electron microscopy images, germination index, and the successions of different bacteria and fungi at the phylum and genus levels were detailed. Results showed T4 achieved two thermophilic periods and matured in just 25 days. T4 enhanced lignocellulose degradation rates (lignin: 16–53%, cellulose: 14–23%, hemicellulose: 9–48%) and improved nutrient content. The above results, combined with correlation analysis and structural equation model, indicated that T4 may promote the development of dominant bacteria (Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes) by regulating compost physicochemical properties and facilitate the growth of dominant fungi (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota) by modulating nutrient supply capacity. This ultimately leads to a microbial community structure more conducive to lignocellulose degradation and nutrient preservation. In summary, this study reveals the comprehensive effects of single-period and multi-period addition methods on GW composting, providing a valuable basis for optimizing the use of additives and enhancing the efficiency and quality of GW composting.

Intermittent low-dose far-UVC irradiation inhibits growth of common mold below threshold limit value.

Mold infestations in buildings pose significant challenges to human health, affecting both private residences and hospitals. While molds commonly trigger asthma and allergies in the immunocompetent, they can cause life-threatening diseases in the immunocompromised. Currently, there is an unmet need for new strategies to reduce or prevent mold infestations. Far-UVC technology can inactivate microorganisms while remaining safe for humans. This study investigates the inhibitory efficacy of far-UVC light at 222 nm on the growth of common mold-producing fungi, specifically Penicillium candidum, when delivered in low-dose on-off duty cycles, a configuration consistent with its use in real-world settings. The inhibitory effect of the low-dose duty cycles was assessed on growth induced by i) an adjacent spore-producing P. candidum donor and ii) P. candidum spores seeded directly onto agar plates. In both setups, the far-UVC light significantly inhibited both vertical and horizontal growth of P. candidum, even when the UV doses were below the Threshold Value Limit of 23 mJ/cm2. These results suggest that far-UVC light holds the potential to improve indoor air quality by reducing or preventing mold growth, also when people are present.

Pseudomonas chlororaphis Metabolites Reduce MfCYP51 Expression and Yield Synergistic Efficacy in Mixture with Reduced Rates of Propiconazole Against DMI-Resistant Monilinia fructicola Isolates.

Brown rot caused by Monilinia fructicola is one of the most important diseases affecting peach production in the southeastern United States. Management often involves the use of demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides, but efficacy can be compromised because of overexpression of the MfCYP51 gene encoding the 14α-demethylase of the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the biorational fungicide Howler EVO containing Pseudomonas chlororaphis ASF009 metabolites on the expression of MfCYP51 in M. fructicola and associated synergy with a DMI fungicide for control of DMI-resistant strains. Mycelia from two DMI-sensitive and three DMI-resistant M. fructicola isolates were exposed or not to propiconazole (0.3 μg/ml), Howler (88.1 μg/ml), or the combination propiconazole + Howler for 6 h prior to RNA extraction. Real-time PCR indicated that Howler reduced the constitutive expression of MfCYP51 in DMI-sensitive and two of three DMI-resistant isolates. Propiconazole-induced expression of the DMI target gene was significantly reduced by Howler and by the mixture of Howler plus propiconazole in all isolates. Detached fruit studies on apple revealed that the combination of Howler plus a reduced label rate of Mentor (50 μg/ml propiconazole) was synergistic against brown rot caused by a DMI-resistant isolate in high and low inoculum spore concentration experiments (synergy values of 40.1 and 4.9, respectively). We hypothesize that the synergistic effects against M. fructicola resistant to DMI fungicides based on MfCYP51 gene overexpression can be attributed to reduced 14α demethylase production due to transcription inhibition, which may necessitate fewer DMI fungicide molecules to arrest fungal growth. The use of Howler/DMI mixtures for brown rot control warrants further investigation because such mixtures could potentially allow for reduced DMI fungicide use rates in the field without compromising yield or increased resistance selection.

Pneumocystis murina promotes inflammasome formation and NETosis during Pneumocystis pneumonia.

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PjP) poses a serious risk to individuals with compromised immune systems, such as individuals with HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive therapies for cancer or solid organ transplants. Severe PjP triggers excessive lung inflammation, resulting in lung function decline and consequential alveolar damage, potentially culminating in acute respiratory distress syndrome. Non-HIV patients face a 30%-60% mortality rate, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of inflammatory responses in PjP. Prior research emphasized macrophages in Pneumocystis infections, neglecting neutrophils' role in tissue damage. Consequently, the overemphasis on macrophages led to an incomplete understanding of the role of neutrophils and inflammatory responses. In the current investigation, our RNAseq studies on a murine surrogate model of PjP revealed heightened activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and NETosis cell death pathways in their lungs. Immunofluorescence staining confirmed neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) presence in the lungs of the P. murina-infected mice, validating our findings. Moreover, isolated neutrophils exhibited NETosis when directly stimulated with P. murina. Isolated NETs compromised P. murina viability in vitro, highlighting the potential role of neutrophils in controlling fungal growth and promoting inflammation during P. murina pneumonia through NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and NETosis. These pathways, essential for inflammation and pathogen elimination, bear the risk of uncontrolled activation leading to excessive tissue damage and persistent inflammation. This pioneering study is the first to identify the formation of NETs and inflammasomes during Pneumocystis infection, paving the way for comprehensive investigations into treatments aimed at mitigating lung damage and augmenting survival rates for individuals with PjP.IMPORTANCEPneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PjP) affects individuals with weakened immunity, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and organ transplant patients. Severe PjP triggers lung inflammation, impairing function and potentially causing acute respiratory distress syndrome. Non-HIV individuals face a 30%-60% mortality rate, underscoring the need for deeper insight into PjP's inflammatory responses. Past research focused on macrophages in managing Pneumocystis infection and its inflammation, while the role of neutrophils was generally overlooked. In contrast, our findings in P. murina-infected mouse lungs showed neutrophil involvement during inflammation and increased expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and NETosis pathways. Detection of neutrophil extracellular traps further indicated their involvement in the inflammatory process. Although beneficial in combating infection, unregulated neutrophil activation poses a potential threat to lung tissues. Understanding the behavior of neutrophils in Pneumocystis infections is crucial for controlling detrimental reactions and formulating treatments to reduce lung damage, ultimately improving the survival rates of individuals with PjP.

Functional Surfaces for Passive Fungal Proliferation Control: Effect of Surface Micro- and Nanotopography, Material, and Wetting Properties.

Fungal proliferation can lead to adverse effects for human health, due to the production of pathogenic and allergenic toxins and also through the creation of fungal biofilms on sensitive surfaces (i.e., medical equipment). On top of that, food spoilage from fungal activity is a major issue, with food losses exceeding 30% annually. In this study, the effect of the surface micro- and nanotopography, material (aluminum, Al, and poly(methyl methacrylate), PMMA), and wettability against Aspergillus awamori is investigated. The fungal activity is monitored using dynamic conditions by immersing the surfaces inside fungal spore-containing suspensions and measuring the fungal biomass growth, while the surfaces with the optimum antifungal properties are also evaluated by placing them near spore suspensions of A. awamori on agar plates. Al- and PMMA-based superhydrophobic surfaces demonstrate a passive-like antifungal profile, and the fungal growth is significantly reduced (1.6-2.2 times lower biomass). On the other hand, superhydrophilic PMMA surfaces enhance fungal proliferation, resulting in a 2.6 times higher fungal total dry weight. In addition, superhydrophobic surfaces of both materials exhibit antifouling and antiadhesive properties, whereas both superhydrophobic surfaces also create an "inhibition" zone against the growth of A. awamori when tested on agar plates.

Biodegradation of Difenoconazole Using Fungal-Bacterial Consortia

Abstract Pesticides are used all over the world in agricultural operations to reduce the damage of pests and to improve the productivity of agricultural crops. The excessive use of these chemical compounds has led to the deterioration of soil and increase the level of pollution of water and air resources. Moreover, the continuous use and non-target toxicity of pesticides has become a major concern to the agricultural ecosystem that directly hinders the productivity of agricultural products. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate and identify fungal and bacterial species with the ability to biodegrade fungicide via conducting preliminary tests to find out which of them have the ability to grow in a treated medium with a fungicide Difenoconazole, which belongs to the group of the pesticides Triazoles. The fungi and bacteria that succeeded in growing were as follow Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus ochraceus, Bacillus cereus S1 and Bacillus cereus S2 were identified by extracting their genomic DNA and applying the primers ITS and 16s rRNA for both examined fungi and bacteria, respectively. The fungi were laboratory adapted to multiple concentrations reaching the highest concentration of 550 mgL-1, while bacteria reached 1200 mgL-1 laboratory to break down the pesticide. The results of the combinations tested as the B. cereus S1 and B. cereus S2 were the fastest growing in the liquid medium PDB at the concentration of 325 mgL-1. While the combination A. flavus and B. cereus S1 had the highest biodegrading ability at the same concentration, which led to the disappearance of the pesticide Difenoconazole turbidity in the liquid medium as a result of its consumption by fungal and bacterial isolates. As for the treatment of the pesticide in the solid PDA medium to know its effect on the growth of fungi and the formation of spores, the results revealed that fungal isolates increase their vegetative growth when the concentration increases, the production of fungal spores decreases, and indicates the ability of the fungi to use the pesticide as an energy source.

Study of the Effect of Storage Period on the Growth of Fungi in Green Coffee in Open Atmospheres

Study of the Effect of Storage Period on the Growth of Fungi in Green Coffee in Open Atmospheres

Biological control of the shot-hole disease in flowering cherry tree using antimicrobial compounds produced by Bacillus velezensis 8–2

BackgroundEffective control of shot-hole disease in flowering cherries is challenging because of multiple causative pathogens (bacteria and fungi). Bacillus species are well-known for their ability to control plant pathogens; therefore, biological control potential of a Bacillus isolate, B. velezensis 8–2, against SH disease on flowering cherry trees was investigated.ResultsThis study revealed strong antimicrobial activity of Bacillus velezensis 8–2 against various plant pathogenic bacteria and fungi, particularly focusing on Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (Xap) and Mycosphaerella cerasella (Mc), which cause shot-hole (SH) disease in flowering cherry trees. In vitro assays showed that the fermentation filtrate of B. velezensis 8–2 inhibited bacterial and fungal growth with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 1.25–10% and 2.5–10%, respectively. UPLC-Q–Orbitrap–MS analysis revealed that B. velezensis 8–2 produced antagonistic compounds, including polyketides (difficidin and oxydifficidin) and cyclic lipopeptides (iturin A, fengycin, and surfatin). To enhance antimicrobial activity, fermentation parameters for optimal production of two antibacterial and three antifungal compounds were investigated in a 5 L jar fermenter. By regulating the agitation speed to sustain the state of vegetative cells, the production period was extended by 20 h at 400 rpm, resulting in maximum yields of 86.6 μg/mL for difficidin and 150.0 μg/mL for oxydifficidin within a 72 h fermentation period. In a field trial, a 500-fold diluted 10% suspension concentrate formulation of B. velezensis 8–2 effectively inhibited the development of SH disease, demonstrating 66.6% disease control and a 90.2% disease symptoms reduction.ConclusionsThis is the first report to assess the disease control efficacy of B. velezensis for the biocontrol of SH disease in the field. These results suggest that the application of B. velezensis 8–2 could serve as a practical alternative for managing various bacterial and fungal diseases, including the management of SH disease in flowering cherry trees.Graphical

Prevalence of Chronic Wounds Microbial Contaminations and their Susceptibility Pattern to Current Antibiotics in Mbingo and Nkwen Baptist Hospitals

Abstract BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance among pathogens causing chronic wound infections is a growing concern, particularly in low-income countries. Understanding the microbial profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns in chronic wounds is crucial for guiding effective treatment strategies. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of microbial contamination and antibiotic susceptibility patterns in chronic wounds among patients treated at Mbingo Baptist Hospital and Nkwen Baptist Hospital in Northwest Cameroon. METHODS: A cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted from March to June 2022. Wound samples were collected from patients with chronic wounds, and microbiological analyses were performed to identify the isolates and assess their antimicrobial susceptibility. RESULTS: A total of 54 chronic wounds were examined, with venous ulcers being the most common type (42.6%). Bacterial and fungal growth was detected in 89% of the wound swabs. Gram-negative bacteria, including Salmonella spp. (14.8%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (7.4%), were frequently isolated, along with Gram-positive organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus (18.5%) and Staphylococcus spp. (11.1%). Polymicrobial infections were observed in 11.2% of the cases. The isolates exhibited high-resistance rates to commonly used antibiotics, such as sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (83%), amoxicillin (80.9%), ceftriaxone (74.5%), azithromycin (66%), and doxycycline (61.7%). Diphtheria spp. and S. aureus showed resistance to nearly all the tested antibiotics. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the significant burden of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in chronic wound infections in the studied health-care facilities in Cameroon. These findings underscore the urgent need for improved antimicrobial stewardship and the development of novel treatment strategies to address the growing challenge of drug-resistant pathogens in chronic wound management.

Bacillus‐based product protects soybean, improves grain yield and produces metabolites able to promote plant growth and antagonize pathogenic fungi

AbstractSoybean is frequently affected by pathogenic fungi, which are usually managed by chemicals. Foliar sprays with biological agents have been introduced as new allies to reduce plant diseases. This study verified foliar sprays of Bacillus subtilis‐based product applied for three consecutive cropping seasons associated or not with chemical fungicides to control Asian rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi) and the effect of B. subtilis‐produced metabolites against pathogenic fungi and on soybean growth. Field treatments were as follows: (i) Foliar application of B. subtilis‐based product, followed by chemical sprays; (ii) chemical management alone; (iii) B. subtilis‐based product alone, and (iv) control treatment with water sprays. In the three years, B. subtilis‐based product alone or followed by chemicals reduced at least 75% the Asian rust severity, similar to chemical management. Moreover, soybean grain yield increased when B. subtilis‐based product was followed by chemicals. Cell‐free filtrates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from B. subtilis isolate or from the formulated bioproduct were tested against fungi pathogens Fusarium cf. incarnatum/equiseti and Macrophomina phaseolina. All filtrates and VOCs emission reduced more than 40% the mycelial growth of both fungi. Also, the filtrates stimulated the soybean growth at a rate similar to the bioproduct, indicating the potential of the B. subtilis compounds to control fungi pathogens and promote plant growth. Therefore, the B. subtilis‐based product showed a satisfactory protection and yield increment for soybean and B. subtilis‐produced metabolites antagonized pathogenic fungi and stimulated the soybean plant growth.

Comparison of Bamboo and Wire Types of Battery Materials on the Welfare and Production Performance of Laying Hen

This research aimed to determine the comparison of types of battery materials for laying hens, specifically bamboo and wire, on the welfare and production performance of laying hens. The material for this research consisted of 100 laying hens of the ISA Brown strain aged 54 weeks. The variables observed included livestock welfare, which was assessed through behavioral aspects (eating, drinking, and resting), while the production performance variables observed included HDP (Hen Day Production), egg weight, egg mass, and FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio). The research method employed an experimental approach using the T-test (independent sample). Two treatments were used, each with 50 replications. The results of the research indicated that the difference in treatment using T1 (bamboo battery materials) and T2 (wire battery materials) affected livestock welfare and production performance. The research results demonstrated that the behavior of bamboo batteries was considered better in terms of livestock welfare because they were able to better prevent heat stress. In terms of production performance, wire batteries exhibited higher Hen Day Production (HDP) and were better at preventing disease than bamboo batteries. However, bamboo batteries had a higher egg weight due to the frequency of feeding chickens being higher than wire batteries. Improved sanitation management is necessary for batteries made from bamboo because they tend to more easily become a medium for the growth of germs, lice, and fungi, which can cause disease and result in decreased production performance.

The last system by Cavalier-Smith

At the end of 2022, after the death of T. Cavalier-Smith, his fundamental synthesis under the title “Ciliary transition zone evolution and the root of the eukaryote tree: implications for opisthokont origin and classification of kingdoms Protozoa, Plantae, and Fungi” was published on the “Protoplasma” pages. This work highlights the organization of the transition zone of the eukaryotic flagellum and provides a new author’s system for this domain. Since the analysis of this heuristically important paper was not included in any memorial essay dedicated to Cavalier-Smith published in 2021–2022, this writing is dedicated to attempt of such an analysis. In addition, a glossary is provided containing specific terms introduced by Cavalier-Smith, which will help to better navigate the theoretical heritage of this scientist.

Environmental Fungal Contamination Characterization of Three Inpatient Units Utilizing Optimized Detection Methods

Background: Environmental sampling and detection methods for fungi in healthcare settings are not well-established. We previously refined methods for fungal sampling and detection in a controlled laboratory environment and aimed to validate them in a real-world healthcare setting. Methods: We performed a microbiological analysis of air and surfaces in three inpatient units at a tertiary care center. Surface samples were obtained with foam sponges from 3 locations in patient rooms (Patient bedrails, bathroom floor, HVAC export) and 5 locations in units (HVAC exports 3x, clean linen storage, soiled linen storage). Air samples were taken with an active air sampler directly below HVAC exports. Sponges were processed using the stomacher technique. Samples underwent DNA extraction followed by qPCR with FungiQuant primers targeting the 18S rRNA gene. Amplicons from positive samples were sequenced (NextSeq 1000, 300bp PE) and SmartGene databases were used to interpret sequence data. For comparison to culture methods, samples were also plated onto Sabouraud and HardyCHROM Candida + auris medias. Fungal growth underwent DNA extraction, 18S PCR and Sanger sequencing for genus and species identification. Results: A total of 85 samples were obtained, from 15 patient rooms and three units resulting in 61 surface and 24 air samples. Patients in study rooms had a median age of 53, 9 (60%) were male, and no patients had an invasive fungal infection during their hospital encounter. 44 (53%) and 39 (46%) samples were positive for fungi via qPCR and culture, respectively. Of the 44 positive qPCR samples, microbiome analyses identified at least one fungi to the species, genus and family levels in 43 (98%), 28 (64%), 18 (41%) samples, respectively (Table 1). 114 total isolates were identified of which the most common were Mallassezia restricta (30 [26%]), Malassezia globose (29 [25%]), and Pennicillium paradoxum (4 [4%]). 39 genera were identified of which the most common were Mucor (19 [49%]) and Candida (8 [21%]). Of the 39 culture positive samples, 90 total isolates were recovered. The most common species were Paradendryphiella arenariae (19 [21%]), Aspergillus niger (12 [13%]) and Penicillium commune (12 [13%]). Conclusion: These results demonstrate the presence of diverse fungal species in both air and surface samples across inpatient units. Higher sensitivity was noted utilizing qPCR, however, identified genera and species were markedly different between qPCR and culture methods. Larger studies are needed to assess the efficacy of qPCR for fungal detection in the healthcare environment.

Field study on the integration of a hydrogen-producing microbiome in restoring Phellinus noxius-affected rhizosphere

At National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (NKUST), a mesophilic anaerobic bioreactor system produces a hydrogen-producing microbiome (HMb) containing beneficial bacteria such as Bacillus sp. This HMb, known for degrading cellulose and remediating soil, is being tested in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, to treat tree root rot caused by Phellinus noxius (P. noxius). The study aims to evaluate HMb's effectiveness in restoring the rhizosphere, enhancing soil health, and increasing tree resistance by assessing soil bioactivity and microbial diversity.Field experiments showed that HMb treatment improved tree health by 24 % at the highest health level but reduced it by 20 % at the next level. Post-treatment soil organic matter (SOM) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) levels remained stable, indicating minimal impact on soil fertility. HMb also lowered soil pH in some plots, potentially suppressing pathogens and enhancing nutrient absorption. The study found that HMb increased microbial diversity in the rhizosphere, particularly Acidobacteria and Proteobacteria, which inhibited fungal growth. However, HMb had no significant impact on P. noxius populations. Overall, HMb treatment shows promise in enhancing plant health by improving microbial diversity and soil conditions, but further research is needed to understand its full impact on pathogen suppression and soil health restoration.

Maize–fusarium interactions: Tunisian insights into mycotoxin ecology

Maize is a worldwide crop yet can be associated with mycotoxigenic fungi, much investigated in humid tropical and cooler, wet temperate regions. However, in hot, arid/semi-arid regions data on their occurrence are poor. In this paper, we focused on interactions between maize and Fusarium fungal species in Tunisia, which has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and milder, damper winters. Maize kernels, stalks, and roots were sampled from 19 agricultural fields and 56, 72, and 88 % of samples, respectively, yielded Fusarium isolates. Based on molecular identifications, these were mainly F. verticillioides (67 %), and other species of Fusarium fujikuroi species complex and members of Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti-, oxysporum-, burgessii-, solani- and concolor species complexes. In addition, five isolates were identified as Clonostachys rosea. Fusarium verticilloides and Fusarium proliferatum, that produce fumonisins, suspected carcinogenic compounds, were isolated from all kinds of samples, whereas the other species were isolated only from root and stems. Fumonisin B1 was higher in kernels than in silage, while deoxynivalenol, potent protein synthesis inhibiting compound, was detected (at low levels) in grains and silage. A subset of selected strains, representative of all species identified, was also used to evaluate their ability to produce mycotoxins.Fusarium verticillioides, Fusariumproliferatum and Fusarium nygamai produced high levels of fumonisin B1in vitro, as well as beauvericin and enniatins. These findings confirm that, even in hot arid regions, which generally do not favour fungal growth, mycotoxin-producing fungi can be reason of concern for human and animal health.

Gambaran Efektivitas Tepung Biji Nangka (Artocarpus heterophyllus) sebagai Media Alternatif Pertumbuhan Jamur Aspergillus niger

The culture medium functions to provide nutrition and as a place for microorganisms to grow optimally. The price of agar media is expensive and quite difficult to reach, making examination of microorganisms in the laboratory expensive. This can be overcome by using alternative media that are easy to obtain. One example of a natural ingredient that can be used as an alternative medium is jackfruit seeds which are then processed into flour. Jackfruit seeds can be used as an alternative ingredient because they contain nutrients, namely carbohydrates. The aim of this research was to see the effectiveness of jackfruit seed flour for the growth of the Aspergillus niger fungus. The type of research used is descriptive by describing the growth of the Aspergillus niger fungus on alternative agar media, namely jackfruit seed flour. . After data collection, the data is then processed using a tabulating stage which is presented in table form by showing the growth of the Aspergillus niger fungus macroscopically and microscopically using 10x and 40x magnification which is then grouped based on positive and negative categories.

Comparative Analysis of Shelf Life and Fungal Spoilage of Different Brands of Bread Sold within Dutsin-Ma Metropolis

The study aimed to compare the shelf life and fungal spoilage of different brands of bread sold within Dutsin-Ma Metropolis. Nine brands of bread were purchased from different vendors within Dutsin-Ma metropolis and were transported in sterile polyethylene bags to the Microbiology Laboratory of Federal University Dutsin-Ma for analyses using standard procedures. The bread samples were stored at various storage conditions such as room temperature, sun exposure, and refrigerator, respectively, for a specified period of 7 days from day 1 to day 7, and samples were taken at each interval to measure the quality of the bread. At each interval, the shelf life of the bread was evaluated based on the color, texture, smell, and taste of the bread. Bread samples stored under ambient temperature had the highest contamination, while samples stored under the sun had less fungal growth and samples kept in a refrigerator showed no fungal growth at all. Analysis of different nine (9) brands of bread yielded fungal species such as Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus stolonifer, Fusarium and Penicillium species. Aspergillus niger was found to have the highest percentage occurrence (28%), while Fusarium spp and Trichophyton rubrum had the least percentage occurrence (8%). It is recommended that bakery processes should ensure proper hygiene during the manufacturing process to minimize microbial contamination, especially moulds. People are also advised to buy modern-produced breads for their consumption which is thought to have improved quality standards than the locally produced ones.

The Potential o f Gold Nanobipyramids as Anti-Fungal f or Dermatophytes Fungi at Living Animals

Dermatophytes are a group of fungi that cause dermatophytosis, a type of skin infection affecting both humans and animals. While dermatophytosis is typically self-limiting, it can pose significant challenges for individuals with weakened immune systems. Additionally, current treatment options for dermatophytosis have their limitations, including issues of toxicity, inefficacy, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. Recently, nanotechnology-based approaches have emerged as a promising strategy to overcome the drawbacks of conventional antifungal medications. Gold Nanoparticles (GNPs) have demonstrated substantial antifungal activity against various fungal species, including dermatophytes. Among these, Gold Nanobipyramids (GNBPs) exhibit unique physicochemical properties that enhance their effectiveness against dermatophytes. GNBPs were synthesized using the Seed-Mediated Growth Method (SMGM) due to its simplicity. Optically, GNBPs displayed plasmonic peaks at 1.548 (wavelength 561 nm) and 2.372 (wavelength 807 nm). Structurally, intensity peaks at 38.15° (plane 111) and 44.49° (plane 200) were identified. GNBPs have a surface density of ~70.227±0.530. In the dermatophyte treatment process, GNBPs exhibited varying inhibitory effects. At 40% concentration, fungal growth persisted, with a surface density similar to the no control area. At 60%, inhibition occurred, though less efficiently. The most effective inhibition was observed at 80%, and complete inhibition was achieved at 100% concentration. GNBPs proved successful in inhibiting fungal growth, attributed to their curvature and sharp edges interacting with microbial cell membranes, leading to membrane damage and cellular content leakage.

Characterization of biologically synthesized copper nanoparticles by Aspergillus carbonarius and evaluation of their activity in reducing the pathogenic stress of tomatoes infected with Fusarium oxysporum

This study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of the fungus Aspergillus carbonarius in the synthesis of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) from copper chloride solution, with the characterization of these nanoparticles and the demonstration of their effectiveness in inhibiting the pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum causing tomato root rot disease. The results indicated that the treatment of copper chloride solution at 150 mM with A. carbonarius filtrate led to the production of CuNPs which characterized by a color change from blue to green, with the highest absorbance observed at 300 nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results revealed the crystalline structure with peaks at angles 28.47286, 47.43258, and 56.20644 ◦ corresponding to (111), (220), and (311) planes, respectively, matching the JCPDS card number 01-081-1841. Scanning electron microscopy images showed cubic, pyramidal, and prismatic shapes with dimensions ranging from 15 - 84.291 nm. In laboratory experiment, CuNPs inhibited the growth of the pathogenic fungus, with an inhibition zone of 1.6 cm, compared to copper chloride which recorded 0.9 cm. In the field, , the treatment of CuNPs led to an increase in the stress resistance indicators, reaching the highest values for CuNPs when combined with the fungicide Medazim in the American tomato cultivar. The concentrations of total phenols and glutathione in this treatment were 2.56 mg/g and 0.322 µg/g, respectively. The lowest concentration of proline was recorded as 4.31 µg/g in the treatment involving CuNPs against the fungal infection. CuNPs with the fungicide medazim, significantly outperformed other treatments, registering lowest disease severity at 12.22% in the American cultivar, compared to the highest disease severity was recorded in the treatment with the pathogenic fungus alone, reaching 91.16% in the Dutch cultivar. CuNPs significantly increased tomato fruit weight, both in healthy and infected plants. The American, Turkish, and Dutch tomato cultivars infected with the pathogenic fungus and treated with under + medazim showed higher productivity, reaching 6432.55, 6334.34, and 6305.73 g.plant-1, compared to the lowest productivity in the treatment of these cultivars with the pathogenic fungus, reaching 1008.34, 977.45, and 833.78 g.plant-1, respectively

The Morphological Identification of Fungi Causing Cocoa Fruit Rot Disease and Inhibition Test of Bacillus spp. Against the Fungus in Vitro

Cocoa plants in Nagari Bunga Tanjung, West Sumatra Province, are infected with cocoa pod rot disease by the fungal pathogen Phytophthora palmivora and this causes serious problems if not appropriately controlled. Therefore, Bacillus spp testing needs to be undertaken to obtain Bacillus spp that were more capable of inhibiting the growth of the pathogen. The research was conducted at the Plant Disease Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Riau University in February-June 2024. Completely Randomized Design (CRD) were used in this emerimantal study with 5 treatments and 4 replicates so that 20 there were experimental units. The treatments given were: B0 : Without Bacillus spp, B1 : Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, B2: Bacillus cereus, B3: Bacillus pseudomycoides and B4: Bacillus velezensis. Variables observed were the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of Phytophthora palmivora, the diameter of pathogenic colonies after the application of Bacillus spp. and the inhibition of Bacillus spp. bacteria against Phytophthora palmivora. Further testing was done through Duncan's New Multiple Range Test (DNMRT) at the 5% level. The results of the research conducted showed that the cause of cocoa fruit rot disease in Nagari Bungo Tanjuang is Phytophthora palmivora based on morphological characteristics. All Bacillus spp. namely: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus pseudomycoides, and Bacillus velezensis were able to inhibit the growth of Phytophthora palmivora fungus in vitro. Bacillus cereus, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus pseudomycoides, and Bacillus velezensis were able to inhibit the growth of Phytophthora palmivora in vitro. Phytophthora palmivora with inhibition power of 38.89%, 40.28%, 43.33%, 77.78%, respectively.