Total Coliform Counts Research Articles

Performance analysis of bamboo-based (Bambusa vulgaris) activated carbon in aquaculture wastewater treatment

In the light of considerable pressure on scarce freshwater sources due to various competing demands, different techniques and materials have been used and still in use to treat and use wastewaters which have been considered as healthy alternatives to minimize the pressure. Bamboo-based (Bambusa vulgaris) activated carbon, produced using carbonization and activation processes was used to treat wastewater obtained from the aquaculture research farm of the Federal University of Technology, Akure. Initial and final characterization of the wastewater samples were performed for 17 physicochemical, 7 heavy metals, and 2 microbiological parameters amongst which were electrical conductivity (EC), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), alkalinity, and acidity. Others are total dissolved solids (TDS), nitrate (Na), nitrite (Ni), and dissolved oxygen (DO). Heavy metals tested were chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) while total coliform and total viable counts of bacteria, yeast, and fungi were also analyzed. These analyses were performed following the American Public Health Association (APHA 2005), and the results obtained were subjected to statistical analyses using relevant tools such as SPSS 16 version, Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan Multiple Range Test at a 95% level of significance. Removal efficiencies between the initial and final characterization of the physicochemical parameters with the adsorbents were marginal except for Ca and acidity having 61% and 62%, respectively, in carbonated charcoal. Furthermore, acidity, nitrate, and sulphate have 62%, 58%, and 57% removal efficiencies in HNO3 AC, respectively, while 60% and 75% were recorded with acidity and nitrite, respectively, in KOH’s AC. All the heavy metals experienced considerable removal efficiency ranging from 71 to 100% in KOH’s AC. The efficacy of HNO3 and KOH’s AC, when compared with carbonated charcoal in wastewater treatment, was highlighted. However, KOH’s AC was confirmed to be more effective in heavy metal removal due to its widespread pore spaces and deeper cavities depicting a very good surface for adsorption capacity.

Comparative Study of Indicator Organisms in Different Water Sources in North Bank Area of Makurdi

This study compared the presence of indicator organisms in different domestic water sources in the North Bank area of Makurdi. The water sources included stream waters, well waters, and borehole waters. Total bacteria count, total coliform count, microscopic examination, and biochemical tests were the parameters measured. The results obtained showed that all the different water sources had the presence of total bacteria and coliforms except the borehole water along Ter Guma Street (B1) which only showed the presence of total bacteria. The total bacteria count was found to be more (2.91 x 107 cfu/ml) in the stream water samples along University of Agriculture Road (ST2) and least in B2 water samples (6.76 x 106 cfu/ml) with no significant difference (p>0.05). Total coliform counts were found in all the water sources except in B1 water sample, while, the well water sample from Old Lafia Road (W2), had the highest total coliform count (1600 MPN/100 ml). Coliform isolates including Escherichia coli, Streptococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae were found in the water samples, with well water from Old Lafia Road (W2), having more of the isolates. This study reveals that all the water sources studied were contaminated by the presence of microorganisms including indicator organisms, above the recommended by WHO, for a domestic water source. Further study to investigate the physicochemical parameters of these water sources is suggested.

Screening of Essential Oils and Effect of a Chitosan-Based Edible Coating Containing Cinnamon Oil on the Quality and Microbial Safety of Fresh-Cut Potatoes

Fresh-cut potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) are a popular food owing to their freshness, convenience, and health benefits. However, they might present a potentially high health risk to consumers during transportation, processing, and marketing. In the current study, 18 essential oils (EOs) were screened to test their antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes (LM), Salmonella typhimurium (ST), Staphylococcus aureus (SA), and Escherichia coli O157:H7 (EC O157:H7). The antibacterial effectiveness of a chitosan edible coating (EC) containing cinnamon oil was evaluated against microorganisms on fresh-cut potatoes. Fresh-cut potatoes were treated with chitosan EC and chitosan EC containing different concentrations (0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6%, v/v) of cinnamon oil, and uncoated samples served as the control. The viability of naturally occurring microorganisms and artificially inoculated LM on fresh-cut potatoes was evaluated, as were the colour, weight loss, and firmness of potatoes, every 4 days for a total of 16 days at 4 °C. The results demonstrate that the inhibition zones of cinnamon, oregano, and pomelo oils were 16.33–30.47 mm, 22.01–31.31 mm, and 21.75–35.18 mm, respectively. The cinnamon oil exhibits the lowest MIC (0.313 μL/mL) for four foodborne pathogens compared with oregano and pomelo oils. The chitosan EC containing 0.2% cinnamon oil effectively maintains the quality of fresh-cut potatoes including inhibiting the browning, preventing the weight loss, and maintaining the firmness. The decline of total plate counts, yeast and mould counts, total coliform counts, lactic acid bacteria count, and Listeria monocytogenes in EC containing 0.2% cinnamon oil were 2.14, 1.92, 0.98, 0.73, and 1.94 log cfu/g, respectively. Therefore, the use of chitosan EC containing cinnamon oil might be a promising approach for the preservation of fresh-cut potatoes.

Medically important bacteria isolated from commercial herbal medicines in Kampala city indicate the need to enhance safety frameworks

The high global bacterial infection burden has created need to investigate the neglected potential drivers of pathogenic bacteria, to inform disease prevention. Kampala is facing a proliferation of herbalists, selling herbal medicine (HM), of largely unregulated microbiological quality. We evaluated the bacterial contamination burden in HM sold in Kampala, to support evidence-based redress. The total viable loads (TVL), total coliform counts (TCC), E. coli counts, and prevalence of selected bacterial strains in 140 HM were examined using conventional culture, following the guidelines of World Health Organization (WHO), and Uganda National Drug Authority (NDA). Data were analyzed using D'Agostino-Pearson test, frequencies, proportions, Chi-square, and Mann–Whitney U test with STATA version-15.0. Fifty (35.7%), fifty-nine (42.1%), and twelve (8.6%) HM were unsafe for human use because they exceeded WHO’s permissible limits for TVL, TCC, and E. coli counts respectively. Solids had significantly higher mean TVL than liquids. Violation of NDA’s guidelines was significantly associated with high TVL. Fifty-nine bacteria, viz., Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 34; 57.6%), Escherichia. coli (12; 20.3%), Staphylococcus aureus (7; 11.9%), Klebsiella oxytoca (3; 5.1%), Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp. (1; 1.7% each), were isolated from 45 (32.1%) samples. These bacteria can cause severe clinical diseases, and promote deterioration of HM potency.

Parasitic and bacterial contamination of sachets water sold at Ngwo, Enugu State, Nigeria

Water is an essential part of human nutrition. It is readily available in sachets with little or no interest in the quality by the producers. This study focused on the isolation and identification of parasites and bacteria contaminating sachet water sold at Ngwo, Enugu State, Nigeria. Twenty-one sachets of water were collected randomly from seven different brands sold within the community. The parasites were identified using sedimentation technique while bacteria were isolated from water cultured in Nutrient, MacConkey, and Eosin Methylene Blue Agar media. The physicochemical parameters analysed were total dissolved solids, pH, chloride, total hardness, and nitrite. Two-way analysis of variance was employed to analyse the data for bacteria and parasites identified. Of the twenty-one sachet water samples examined, 13(61.9%) were positive for parasites. Two parasite species [Cysts of Entamoeba histolytica 4(19.0%) and Giardia lamblia 9(42.8%)] were identified. The total viable bacteria count ranged from 4(6.5%) to 10(16.1%) colonies in 1ml of water whereas the total Coliform count ranged from 4(6.5%) to 6(9.7%) in 1ml of water with sample F having the highest value of both total viable bacterial count and total Coliform count. The percentage of the total viable bacterial count recorded was 75.8% while the total Coliform count was 24.2%. There was a significant difference in the distribution of bacteria among different brands of water samples (p<0.05) but not in parasite distribution (P<0.05). Bacillus spp 10(29.4%) had the highest occurrence whereas Micrococcus spp 3(8.8%) had the least which was not significant (P>0.05). The physicochemical parameters fell within the recommended limit set by the World Health Organization for drinking water except for the pH value of two brands which was below the stipulated limit. The presence of coliform and other microbes in the samples could have unhealthy implications for consumers when consumed. There is a need for regular and periodic monitoring of the water quality before and after production.

Assessment of the effect of COVID-19 Lockdown on Water Quality of Baldi River Sahastradhara Sulphur Spring, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

Due to imposed restrictions during COVID-19 lockdown on air- rail - road traffic and industrial activities,early signs of improvement in water quality of several Indian rivers were noticed in terms of higher dissolvedoxygen and lower biochemical oxygen demand and total Coliforms, on account of least discharge of industrialeffluents and restricted human outdoor movement. In the backdrop of above, this study was aimed toassess the water quality index (WQI) of Baldi River -Sahastradhara Sulphur Spring, Dehradun, India, byfollowing the U.S. National Sanitation Foundation, NSF-WQI model, during lockdown (April to June 2020)and after unlocking process (July – September, 2020). The spatial and seasonal variations in ten waterquality parameters of Baldi River -Sahastradhara Sulphur Spring were investigated by monitoring thewater quality at three locations; Baldi river upstream, Sahastradhara proper and Baldi river downstream. Duringthe entire study period, improved water quality was observed, in terms of high DO ranging from 9.17±0.035to 8.38±0.028 mg/L and comparatively low BOD ranging from 1.68±0.032 to 2.31± 0.031 and low totalcoliform counts ranging from 06±1.09 to 31±2.75 MPN/100 mL. The NSF-WQI water quality status ofBaldi River -Sahastradhara Sulphur Spring was found to be Good all the time and the computed WQI atBaldi river upstream, Sahastradhara proper and downstream were 85.53, 83.48 and 82.30 during lockdownperiod (summer). However, during unlocking process (monsoon), due to continued weekend restrictions,on account of minimum tourists activities the water quality was still computed Good that NSF-WQI werefound to be 83.20, 80.58 and 79.27, at the studied locations respectively.

Bacterial Profile of Livestock Farms in South-East Nigeria

The unregulated practice of livestock production has endangered the public health sector through the multiplication and spread of bacterial pathogens. This study investigated the bacterial profiles of livestock farms in Aba, Umuahia, Okigwe and Mbaise in the Southeastern part of Nigeria. Air was sampled with passive sedimentation technique; water samples were collected randomly from the farm water sources while hand swabs from the farmers and feeds were collected with sterile swab sticks and containers respectively. Total heterotrophic bacterial count (THBC) was analyzed by pour plate method; total coliform count (TCC) was determined by membrane filter technique while total potential pathogenic bacterial count (TPPBC) was examined by growing the samples in some selective agar media. Of the four cities studied, Aba had the highest THBC (28.43±0.3×105, 26.70±0.7×105, 26.26±0.5×105 CFU/ml), TPPBC (17.47±0.5×105 CFU/ml and 20.02±0.5×105 CFU/ml) and TCC (24.06±0.4×105, 17.93±0.6×105 and 22.36±0.4×105 CFU/ml) for pig, cow and poultry farms respectively while Mbaise had the least value. A total of thirteen (13) bacterial species were isolated in the study but, only Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella sp., Salmonella sp., Proteus mirabilis and Bacillus subtilis were commonly distributed in the four cities. Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus were isolated more in Okigwe, Aba and Umuahia respectively than Mbaise. Salmonella sp. (60.00%) had the highest occurrence followed by Staphylococcus aureus (55.33%) while Proteus mirabilis (4.50%) had the lowest occurrence. High bacterial loads were obtained in the study especially in Aba. Livestock farmers should consider proper hygienic measures in order to limit the spread of pathogenic bacteria among surrounding communities.

Seasonal Dynamics in Bacteriological and Physicochemical Water Quality of the Southern Gulf of Lake Tana.

Freshwater lakes are important sources of water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses. Lake Tana offers a range of ecosystem services to the surrounding communities. However, this lake is facing deterioration in water quality due to pollution caused by anthropogenic influences. Therefore, regular monitoring of key water quality parameters is critical to understanding the water quality status of the lake. This study aimed to assess the seasonal fluctuation of water quality of the Southern Gulf of Lake Tana using indicator bacteria and some physicochemical parameters. A total of 48 water samples were collected in dry and wet seasons from eight sites in the study area. Total coliforms (TC), faecal coliforms (FC), and some physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, ammonium, nitrate, and phosphate) were determined following standard methods. The results revealed that coliform counts were above the permissible level set by Ethiopian Standards and varied significantly among sites (P < 0.05). FC counts ranged from 1 to 1600 MPN/100 ml (with the lowest and highest mean value of 1 at site 8 to 1076.5 ± 3.1 at site 4) and again TC counts ranged from 1 to 1600 MPN/100 ml (with a mean value of 4.8 ± 1.81 at site 6 to 1600 at site 4 and site 8). The findings also confirmed that the highest counts of coliforms were observed during the wet season. The high counts are attributed to the discharge of human excreta and animal wastes during the rainy season from the different anthropogenic activities near the Gulf. Significant variations in most of the physicochemical parameters were also observed between sites and seasons. FC and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) in most sites did not meet the EPA standard for surface water. Corrective measures are highly recommended for anthropogenic activities driving high pollution loads in the lake.

PSXIV-2 Effect of Drinking Water Disinfection Treatments on Water Quality, Water and Feed Consumption, Apparent Total Tract Digestibility and Health in Holstein Bulls fed High-Concentrate Diets

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different drinking water disinfection treatments on water quality, water and feed consumption, apparent total tract digestibility, and animal health in fattening Holstein bulls. Bulls (n=24; 176 ± 16.3 kg BW, and 149 ± 5.8 d age) were housed individually and fed ad libitum. Animals were assigned to 1 of 4 drinking water disinfection treatments: 1) CTR (n=6), no treatment; 2) ACCHL (n=6), acidification (0.65 mL/L phosphoric acid) and chlorination (0.15 mL/L sodium hypochlorite); 3) PER (n=6), 0.15 mL/L peroxide, and 4) DIO (n=6), 2.50 mL/L chlorine dioxide. Water consumption and animal health status was recorded daily. Water disinfectant capacity were analyzed weekly. Feed consumption was recorded every 2 wk. Water quality was analyzed every 4 wk. At d 0, 42, 112 and 210 blood samples were collected. At d 35 and 140 apparent total tract digestibility was estimated. Data were analyzed with a mixed effects model. Means water disinfectant capacity were pH 6.60 and 0.75 mg/L free residual chlorine in ACCHL, 10.6 mg/L peroxide in PER, and 0.52 mg/L chlorine dioxide in DIO. Water treatments did not affect physicochemical water quality; however, they reduced (P&amp;lt; 0.01) water total coliforms count compared with CTR, and ACCHL and DIO were lesser than PER (199, 0, 35, and 0 ± 0.2 UFC/100mL for CTR, ACCHL, PER, and DIO, respectively). Dry matter intake tended (P=0.06) to increase in DIO compared with CTR (8.24 vs. 7.49 ± 0.266 kg/d, respectively). Water treatments did not affect nutrient digestibility nor blood parameters. In conclusion, drinking water disinfection treatments tested had a good disinfectant efficacy without detrimental effect on health and nutrient digestibility in bulls fed high-concentrate diets. Further commercial studies with more animals are needed to evaluate the potential effect of chlorine dioxide on intake and efficiency.

Effect of Natural Antioxidants on Nutrients, Sensory and Keeping Quality of Suya from Mutton Subjected to Different Processing Methods

This study evaluated the effect of breeds, processing methods, natural antioxidants and storage period of Suya from mutton. A total of 12 sheep (six each from Balami and Ouda) were weighed, slaughtered and allotted to three processing methods which are scalding, singeing and skinning. They are processed into Suya meats prepared with 4 different natural antioxidants (black pepper (Piper nigrum), green tea (Camellia sinensis), roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and preserved for four weeks. The samples were evaluated for chemical composition, organoleptic properties, microbial loads and storage period. Data collected were analysed using a factorial arrangement of 2x3x4. The results showed that natural antioxidants significantly (P&lt;0.05) influenced all parameters measured except dry matter with the highest value of CP (60.28%) observed in Suya samples spiced with black pepper. There were significant (P&lt;0.05) in all the parameters evaluated using different processing methods. Breed had no significant (P&gt;0.05) on organoleptic properties. Significant (P&lt;0.05) effect was observed on colour for processing methods with the highest value 5.18 in scalding. Natural antioxidants had significant (P&lt;0.05) on organoleptic properties except for flavor while Suya spiced with clove was rated highest on overall acceptability (6.60). However, breed had no significant (P&gt;0.05) on all the microbial counts of Suya samples. Scalding had the lowest (P&lt;0.05) values for all the microbial parameters measured. Natural antioxidants significantly (P&lt;0.05) affect all the parameters evaluated with the highest total bacterial count (TBC) 9.34x106, total coliform count (TCC) 9.21x104 and total yeast count (TYC)10.23x103 in the control while the lowest counts of TBC, TCC and TYC in the samples spiced with clove were found as (4.31x106), (5.26x104) and (5.46x103), respectively. Storage for four weeks had higher significant (P&lt;0.05) values in all the parameters measured than those evaluated for microbial loads at 0 day. It is therefore concluded that, samples spiced with clove had lower microbial loads which tend to enhance shelf-life and were most acceptable for consumption.

Qualitative Evaluation of Lamb Meat Sausage Prepared with Different Antioxidants

Consumer awareness and health consciousness has resulted in the use of natural additives or alternative methods to extend shelf life and improve food safety. The present study evaluated the quality and shelf-life of lamb meat sausage prepared with different natural antioxidants. The antioxidants (Turmeric, Garlic, Honey, Moringa and Ginger at 2% each) on the yield, sensory acceptability, chemical composition, lipid peroxidation, fatty acid profile and microbiological assay was studied in a completely randomized design. The results revealed that the turmeric, garlic and honey compared (p&gt;0.05) favourably with the control in terms of yield and preferred (p&lt;0.05) above others for colour, flavor, tenderness and overall acceptability. All the antioxidants have suppressing effects with lower values (P&lt;0.05) on crude protein, ether extracts and lipid peroxidation as compared to the control. Variation exist in all the parameters of the fatty acid profile while the microbial loads of the lamb meat sausage samples showed a significant (p&lt;0.05) reduction in the Total Bacterial counts (TBC), Total Coliform Counts (TCC) and Total Fungi Counts (TFC) for all samples prepared with natural antioxidants with the least values (p&lt;0.05) reported in moringa samples as compared with others. Conclusively of the respective natural antioxidants in lamb meat sausage enhanced the cooking yield, nutrient composition and keeping qualities of the product and is therefore recommended for the product quality and safety.

Assessment of Water Quality of Kulik River of Raiganj with Reference to Physicochemical Characteristics and Potability

This study involves the assessment of physicochemical and microbiological parameters evaluated from nine sites along the stretch of the Kulik river for one year (during January–December 2020), in and around the town of Raiganj in Uttar Dinajpur district of West Bengal, India. The study was carried out to determine whether the river water can be used for drinking, domestic or household and recreation purposes. The parameters such as water temperature, pH, free carbon dioxide, dissolved oxygen, total alkalinity, total hardness, chlorides and total coliform count were analyzed using standard protocols. Significant differences were observed in the parameters both temporally and spatially. Total coliform count indicated the river water has high faecal contamination. The present study depicts the quality of the river and indicates that the water is non-potable. The result implies that the river needs continuous monitoring and treatment to maintain its aesthetic and hygienic value and to ensure its conservation for the future generation.

Association of the efficiency of hemodialysis instruments in the removal of microbial and chemical pollutant.

Dialysis water is vital because of various harmful contaminants for patients. The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of hemodialysis instruments in the removal of microbial and chemical pollutant in educational hospitals affiliated to Ahvaz Jundishapur University of medical sciences, Iran during 2018–2019. This cross-sectional descriptive research studied the microbial and chemical water quality of hemodialysis instruments in Razi, Sina, and Golestan hospitals in Ahwaz, Iran. 72 samples of microbial parameters and 24 samples of chemical parameters were collected from water used in hemodialysis instruments, including microbial characteristics (the total coliform, fecal coliform and heterotrophic bacteria counts) and chemical characteristics (pH, turbidity, PO4, Cl, Mg, So4, Ca, NO2, and EC) at Razi, Imam, and Golestan educational hospitals on all weekdays during 2018-2019. In this study, experiments were done according to the current standard methods, EPA from hemodialysis instruments. Finally, using SPSS18 software and descriptive statistics, the relationship between results at the removal of toxic, microbial, and chemical pollutants in different months and hospitals was investigated. this study showed that the average concentration of chemical characteristics during the warm season at Razi, Imam, and Golestan educational hospitals for pH, Turbidity, PO4, Cl, Mg, So4, Ca, NO2, and EC were (6.867, 6.4475, 6.53); (2.985, 3.035, 1.226); (0.075, 0.245, 0.195); (38.5, 21.965, 144.87); (1.552, 1.657, 39.445); (8.6, 4.5, 21.5), (2.09, 3.187, 78.975); (0.0082, 0.038, 0.155), and (125.25, 70.35, 78.35), respectively during 2018. Also, during 2019, results showed that the average levels of amounts for pH, Turbidity, PO4, Cl, Mg, So4, Ca, NO2, and EC in Razi, Imam, and Golestan educational hospitals were (7.077, 7.252, 6.435), (1.725, 0.595, 4.16), (0.0775, 0.0597, 0.0297), (52.33, 138.81, 20.92), (23.52, 18.227, 8.767), (35, 27.25, 4.05), (14.58, 28.152, 9.25), (0.0067, 0.0045, 0.0032), and (210.52, 121.62, 29.16), respectively. According to the results, hemodialysis instruments in Razi and Imam have a 90% efficiency in removing heterotrophic bacteria counts (HPC). Based on these findings, educational hospital hemodialysis equipment effluent in Ahvaz, Iran was mitted to Iran environmental standards for use in hemodialysis machines. The result showed that the removal percentage level of microbial and chemical pollutants by the hemodialysis process is comparatively suitable. It should be mentioned that in the proper operation and reconstruction, hemodialysis systems can have an increased rate of removal of microbial and chemical pollutants.

Antibiotics Resistance Pattern of Food-Borne Bacteria Isolated from Ice Cream in Bangladesh: A Multidisciplinary Study

Ice cream is one of the most popular food items consumed during the summer season in Bangladesh by all ages but mostly school-going students. Due to the ingredients and handling process of ice cream, it acts as a good shelter for pathogenic and nonpathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the microbial count, prevalence, isolate and characterize multidrug-resistant bacteria in ice cream samples collected from nearby shops of schools in Tangail district, Bangladesh. Ice-cream consumer and nonconsumer students were selected by providing questionnaires. Total viable count (TVC) and total coliform count (TCC) were determined by pour plate methods, where conventional methods were performed for bacterial identification. The Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of bacterial isolates. Kado and Liu method, with some modifications, was used to extract plasmid from the isolated bacteria and visualized through gel electrophoresis. The demographic characteristics showed that the degree of symptoms regarding microorganisms mediated disorders and rate of antibiotics intake in ice cream consumers were significantly higher than the nonconsumers. The range of TVC and TCC in the ice cream samples was found 0–9.9 × 109 CFU/ml and 0–900 CFU/ml, respectively. Interestingly, 93.75% of the total ice cream samples also showed fungal positive. A total of 12 different bacterial species were identified, including Proteus spp, E. coli, V.cholera, Pseudomonas spp, Shigella spp, Klebsiella spp, Aeromonas spp, V. Parahemolyticus. Salmonella paratyphi, Citrobacterspp, Plesiomonasspp, and Staphylococcus aureus. The antimicrobial susceptibility assay showed the multiple resistance frequency of these isolates to different antimicrobial drugs. All individual isolates were screened for plasmid DNA, and we found that seven strains harbored a single or more than two plasmids sized approximately between 1.9 and 140 MDa, indicating a possible connection between resistance phenotype pattern and genotype.

Effect of sodium alginate on the quality of chicken sausages

The study was conducted to find out the effect of adding different levels of sodium alginate on the sensory, physicochemical, biochemical and microbiological properties of fresh and preserved chicken sausage. Chicken sausage samples were divided into three treatment groups: T1 (Control group), T2 (2% sodium alginate) and T3 (4% sodium alginate). The sensory qualities like color, juiciness, tenderness and overall acceptability were increased with different treatment levels and decreased with increase of days of intervals. Dry matter (DM) content decreased significantly (p&lt;0.05) with different treatment levels and increased with the enhancement of days of intervals. Crude Protein (CP) content decreased significantly (p&lt;0.05) with different treatment levels and days of intervals. Ether extract (EE) content decreased significantly (p&lt;0.05) with different treatment levels and decreased with the increase of the days of intervals. Ash content increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) with different treatment levels and increased with the increase of days of intervals. At different treatment levels and days of intervals, cooking loss decreased and pH value increased. Free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (POV) and 2-thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value were decreased significantly (p&lt;.0.05) with different treatment levels but enhanced with the increase of days of intervals. Microbial assessments like total viable count (TVC), total coliform count (TCC) were decreased significantly (p&lt;0.05) with different treatment levels but increased with days of intervals and, total yeast mould count (TYMC) were decreased with different treatment levels and days of intervals. Therefore, 4% sodium alginate can be recommended as a source of antioxidant in chicken sausage.

Vibrational spectroscopy and non-parametric analysis for biodegradation evaluation: The acrylic-emulsion paint scenario

The utility of Raman spectroscopy, characterized by excellent lateral resolution, in capturing the degradation of paints was investigated. Six fresh and six spoilt acrylic emulsion paint samples obtained from a paint company in Lagos, Nigeria and were used for this study. They were analyzed for microbial population and types using total viable count method and analytical profile index (API20E &20NE). Physicochemical quality markers [transmittance (TR), pH, OD600, and specific gravity (SG)] of the paints were evaluated by standard methods. Raman spectroscopy was deployed to analyze components of both fresh and spoilt paint samples. Lead (Pb) concentrations were assessed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The fresh samples had 9.50–7.00 × 108 CFU/mL; 0.07–0.12 × 106 CFU/mL; 1.54–2.70; 7.41–7.74; 1.69–1.92; 0.87–1.01 and 0.48–1.86 mg/kg for total bacterial count(TBC), total coliform count(TCC), TR, pH, OD, SG and Pb concentration respectively. Microbes observed in the fresh samples belonged to the genera Aeromonas, Bacillus, Paenibacillus, Enterobacter, Corynebacterium, Micrococcus, Pseudomonas, Burkholderia, Serratia, Klebsiella and Alcaligens. Spoilt samples had 1.80 × 109-3.20 × 1011CFU/mL; 1.02 × 105-3.30 × 106 CFU/mL; 2.69 × 109- 6.95 × 109CFU/mL; 1.21–1.71; 6.71–8.21; 1.76–1.93; 0.86–1.01 and 0.61–2.88 mg/kg for TBC, TCC, total fungal count, transmission, pH, OD600, SG and Pb respectively. The spoilt samples had the genera Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Citrobacter, Bacillus, Enterobacter, Corynebacterium, Escherichia, Burkholderia, Alcaligens, Penicillium and Aspergillus. Raman spectroscopy indicated a shift in prominent peaks corresponding to component degradation in spoilt samples. Differences revealed by Wilcoxon Signed Rank non-parametric statistical test results further corroborate extent of microbial degradation of the paint matrix.

Influence of drying methods on heavy metal composition and microbial load of plantain chips

Mature unripe plantain is usually processed into chips using the traditional sun-drying method without considering consumer safety. Thus, there is a need to assess the influence of solar tent and open sun drying on the heavy metal composition and microbial load of plantain chips. Thirty samples of dried plantain chips were collected randomly from 10 processing centers in Akure South and Idanre Local Government Areas of Ondo State, Nigeria. In addition, four popularly consumed plantain varieties (agbagba, bobby tannap, mbi egome, and pita 23) were processed to chips and dried using open sun and solar tent drying. The samples were analyzed for heavy metal compositions using an Inductively Coupled Plasma- Optical Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES) and microbial loads using the serial dilution method. The heavy metal content of the dried plantain chips was in the range of 0.01–0.08 mg/kg for Cd, 0.01–0.07 mg/kg for Co, and 0.05–0.50 mg/kg for Pb. Seven fungi (Penicillium spp., Rhizopus spp., Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus Niger, Aspergillus tamarii, Fusarium verticillioides, and Monilla spp.) of health importance were isolated. The drying methods had a significant effect on the Cd (p < 0.01), Co (p < 0.001), and Pb (p < 0.01) contents of the plantain chips, but with no significant effect (p > 0.05) on the bacterial, fungi, and total coliform counts. Since the heavy metal content and microbial loads were higher in the surveyed and open sun-dried samples, the solar tent-dryer may be more reliable in producing less contaminated plantain chips than the open sun drying methods.

Coliform bacteria screening and evaluating chemical composition of raw milkfrom dairy farms of Sylhet Sadar, Bangladesh

The study aims screening of coliform bacteria and evaluates chemical constituents of farm supplied raw milk at Sylhet sadar, Bangladesh. A total of 50 milk samples (5 samples from each farm) were collected from randomly selected 10 different farms. Samples were diluted (1:1000000) and bacteria cultures were done in EMB (Eosin methylene blue) agar. Further, Indole test, Methyl red test, Voges-Proskauer were done to differentiate environmental and fecal coliform (Escherichia coli). Chemical analysis of milk was done using automatic milk-analyzer. Total coliform count (TCC) was found to be ranged between 0.6 × 106 to 7.8 × 106 colony forming unit/ml (cfu/ml) and the biochemical tests showed negative results for Indole and Methyl red test and positive for Voges-Proskauer test, respectively confirming the absence of fecal coliform (Escherichia coli) and presence of environmental coliforms. Mean values of Chemical constituents were found to be fat% (4.48%), Solid-Not-Fat% (8.55%), Protein% (3.20%), Lactose% (4.66%) and Mineral% (0.68%). Adulteration with added water in milk was also found with a mean of 0.89%. This study will help to generate an idea about coliform contamination scenario and quality of farm milk found at the particular study area.

Effect of formic acid treatment on colostrum quality, and on absorption and function of immunoglobulins: a randomized controlled trial in Holstein dairy calves

BackgroundGood quality colostrum is characterized by high immunoglobulin concentration and low pathogen load. Some methods of pathogen reduction can decrease immunoglobulin concentration and potentially affect their function. Objectives were to determine the effect of formic acid treatment on colostral bacterial and immunoglobulin (IgG) levels before feeding, and serum immunoglobulin concentration and neutralizing capabilities after feeding. Fifteen female Holstein calf pairs born < 12 h apart from different dams were randomly assigned to receive four liters of either untreated pooled (both dams) colostrum (MC) or colostrum acidified to pH 4.0–4.5 (AC). Colostrum characteristics estimated; pH, bacterial load, IgG concentration, and neutralization of Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBRV/BoHV-1), Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVDV) Types 1 and 2. Blood samples were collected on days 1, 3 and monthly for 6 months and were analyzed for IgG, and both viral plus leptospiral neutralization, and total protein (day 3 only).ResultsCompared to MC (mean 6.7, SD 0.4; median 6.8, range 6.0–7.3), AC pH was significantly reduced (mean 4.3, SD 0.2; median 4.3, range 4.0–4.5; P < 0.001). Total coliform count (cfu/mL) was also reduced (MC mean 149, SD 444; median 1, range 0–1,700; AC mean 8, SD 31; median 0, range 0–120; P = 0.02). Colostrum IgG concentration was not significantly different between MC (mean 93.3, SD 39.7; median 92.8, range 36.7–164.4 g/L) and AC (mean 101.9, SD 36.7; median 108.3, range 33.8–164.4 g/L; P = 0.54). In calves, serum IgG peaked on day 3 (MC mean 26.1, SD 34.9; median 169.2, range 8.3–151.0 g/L; AC mean 30.2, SD 48.7; median 188.8, range 3.1–204.4 g/L; P = 0.77), and apparent efficiency of IgG absorption was not different between groups (MC mean 24.3, SD 11.4, median 25.3, range 8.6–51.3%; AC mean 22.6, SD 21.7, median 21.6, range 4.1–58.9%; P = 0.65). Thereafter, IgG levels declined but did not differ between groups. MC and AC serum neutralizing titers for IBRV, BVDV Types 1 and 2, or Leptospira interrogans serovars Canicola, and Pomona and L. borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo were not different.ConclusionsColostrum acidification significantly decreased bacterial load fed to newborn calves without affecting colostral IgG concentration or virus neutralization. In addition, acid treatment did not affect serum IgG concentration in calves or its activity against common pathogens.

CONCORDANCE OF METHYLENE BLUE REDUCTION AND MICROBIOLOGICAL TECHNIQUES IN THE ANALYSIS OF RAW AND PROCESSED MILK QUALITY: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Raw milk is a milk that has not undergone pasteurization for an effective pathogen elimination, thus having a reduced shelf life due to microbial activities. Microorganisms such as bacteria can affect the quality of diary products, hence the need to assess the microbial quality of natural cow milk, pasteurized milk and processed tin-milk which are consumed on daily basis in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large. In this study, raw (unpasteurized) and processed milk samples from two locations (Bogobiri and Watt market) in Calabar municipal were analyzed using methylene blue reduction test (MBRT), total heterotrophic bacterial count (THBC) and total coliform count (TCC). The total Heterotrophic bacterial count ranged from too numerous to count (TNTC) to 3.86 x 106 colony forming unit (CFU)/milliliter (ml) in samples MA (Unpasteurized/Raw cow milk) and MB (Pasteurized cow milk) respectively. There was no fungal growth in five of the samples except MA that had a fungal count that was TNTC. The highest TCC was obtained from sample MA, with a value of 2.96 x 106 CFU/mL while sample MD had the lowest count of one colony. The total microbial count from sample MA was extremely high and above the standard signifying that it is unfit for human consumption. The MBRT result revealed that MD (Processed liquid tin-milk) and MC (Processed liquid tin-milk) gave no methylene blue reduction (excellent quality) while MB (Pasteurized cow milk), ME (Processed liquid tin-milk) and MF (Processed liquid tin-milk) were of fair quality. However, MA gave a poor quality based on the MBR time of between 30 m to 2 h corroborating with the high value of its THBC which was above the standard. Milk being a vital protein source and an excellent medium for microbial growth should be thoroughly treated by sterilization in a bottle as the study revealed that the milk microbial load can be greatly reduced by pasteurization, with sterilization in bottle having a greater bactericidal effect than pasteurization.