Total Coliform Counts Research Articles

Enhancement Effects of Water Magnetization and/or Disinfection by Sodium Hypochlorite on Secondary Slaughterhouse Wastewater Effluent Quality and Disinfection By-Products

Wastewater disinfection is one of the most critical issues in protecting human health against exposure to waterborne pathogenies. Chlorine is among the most commonly used disinfectants in many wastewaters’ treatment plants. Nevertheless, disquiets regarding chlorine’s disinfection by-products (DBPs) have grown recently. One of the most effective ways to reduce DBPs generation is to reduce chlorine dosage by increasing disinfectant efficiency. Using magnetic field (MF) in wastewater treatment is one of the promising research topics with significant progression. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of using a magnetic field and/or sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) disinfection on secondary slaughterhouse wastewater effluent quality and by-products. Three groups of secondary slaughterhouse wastewater effluents were used: G1 was treated with NaClO only at 0, 2, 4, and 6 mg/L; G2 was treated with exposure to MF at 14,500 gausses, and G3 was pretreated with MF, then NaClO at the exact chlorine dosages and MF strength. The results showed an augmented effect when using a magnetic field as a pre-treatment step before NaClO treatment in the remediation of slaughterhouse wastewater over the use of any of them solely. The removal rate of COD and BOD increased by up to 26 and 20%, respectively, when pre-treatment with MF was employed as a mean percentage at all chlorine dosages, while TSS, TDS, and EC increased by 23.5 and 5.5%, respectively. Over and above, the removal rate for each TN and TP increased by 12 and 6.5% as a mean percentage at all chlorine dosages when using a combination of the two. In addition, pre-treatment by MF reduced the required concentration of NaClO from 6 to 4 mg/L, resulting in an 11% increase in the reduction rate of total coliform count, 8% increase in the reduction rate of fecal coliforms, and 10% increase in the reduction rate of E. coli and 5% in Salmonella via increasing the disinfection efficiency of NaClO. Finally, it decreased the concentration of Chloroform produced by more than 77.2% by using the higher concentration of NaClO (6 mg/L). The issue that approved the promising approach of using MF as a pre-treatment step in the treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater provides the advantage of using smaller dosages of disinfection, lowering the cost of the procedure process, and reducing the harmful concentration of DBPs.

A Comparative Study on Microbiological and Chemical Characteristics of Small Ruminant Carcasses from Abattoirs in Greece.

Meat quality dictates consumer preferences with hygiene forming a key component, especially in meat types with declining popularity, such as sheep and goat meat. Aiming to increase the marketability of sheep and goat meat, we examined 370 sheep and goat carcasses from two abattoirs in Greece. Tests included enumeration of the total mesophilic viable count, total psychrophilic viable count and coliform count, and detection of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and presumptive ESBL Escherichia coli. Moreover, designated samples of meat were used to measure pH, moisture, total fat and protein content. Goat carcasses had significantly higher microbial counts compared to sheep carcasses. Lamb and kid carcasses had larger TMVC, TPVC and coliform counts compared to carcasses from adult animals. One strain of L. monocytogenes (0.8%), typed as serovar 1/2a (3a), was isolated from one adult sheep carcass. Twelve strains of ESBL Escherichia coli (25%) were isolated; there were not any strains of Salmonella spp. The average values of pH, moisture, total fat and total protein were 5.83%, 67.76%, 7.21% and 21.31%, respectively, for sheep carcasses and 5.70%, 68.2%, 5.69% and 24.10%, respectively, for goat carcasses. The results showed a small deviation in assessed parameters, implying the uniformity of the conditions concerning rearing and slaughtering.

Factors associated with total coliform and total viable bacterial count in camel milk from Isiolo County, Kenya.

Background and Aim:Camels have adaptive features to harsh climatic conditions, which make them a valued stable source of livelihood in arid lands. This study estimated the total bacterial and coliform counts (CCs), their associated factors in raw camel milk from the pastoral camel keepers, and the entire milk value chain in Isiolo County and Nairobi, Kenya. This study elucidates the bacterial load in camel milk and its potential risk. Moreover, this study provides recommendations on how to avert a human health hazard.Materials and Methods:This cross-sectional study targeted the camel pastoralists in Isiolo County, in the northern central part of Kenya. The study was conducted in July and August 2021. In addition, camel milk samples were collected along the value chain key points, including the producers, transporters, one bulker, and small traders in Isiolo town, and other retailers in Nairobi City. Eight camel herds were purposively selected and visited for a sample collection from pooled milking containers (10 mL each). In addition, milk was collected from pooled milk through the transporters, two milk bulkers, and several milk retailers in Isiolo town. Milk was further collected from retailers in Eastleigh town, Nairobi City. At each sampling point, 20 mL of milk sample was collected aseptically. The milk samples were assessed for total viable bacterial counts (TVBC) and CCs using the plate count and digital colony count, respectively.Results:A total of 76 respondents were selected and 213 milk samples were collected in this study. The respondents included the 1 (1.3%) bulker, 32 (42.1%) producers, 26 (34.2%) traders, and 17 (22.4%) transporters. Most respondents were male (62%), with most being over 40 years old. Overall, the TVBC had a mean of 2436835 ± 9276636 and a median of 3600. Furthermore, the multivariable multilevel mixed-effects linear regression model indicated that gender and practice of smoking milk-handling containers were positively and negatively associated with high counts of the natural logarithm of total viable bacteria, respectively. Of the milk samples evaluated for the CC, 10.3% (22/213) had counts greater than or equal to (≥) 100,000, where some also indicated extreme outliers of about 9.3 million.Conclusion:This study reports a low proportion of camel milk samples with high total viable bacterial and CCs. The material of the milk container and level of education interactively affected the total viable bacteria.

Physico-chemical and Microbiological Qualities of Abattoir Wastewater in Egbu, Imo State, Nigeria

Abbattoir waste water is of a complex composition. When discharged without being treated, poses a threat to human health and the environment. This is the practice common in Nigeria, and is worrisome.
 Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the physico-chemical and microbiological qualities of waste water from Egbu abattoir discharged into ‘Otamiri’ river in Owerri North local government area, Imo State, Nigeria.
 Methods: The microbial quality of abattoir wastewater was studied. The duration of the study was three months, from June to September, 2019. Sample collection was done in the morning (8-10am) and in the evening (4-6pm). A total of thirty samples (30) were collected from two sampling points, at the place of generation of the wastewater (Effluent source) and at the point of discharge into the river (POE). Standard methods were employed to assess the microbiological and physiochemical quality of the effluent. The microorganisms isolated from the samples included Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Aspergillus, Mucor, Listeria, Micrococcus and Candida species. The Total Heterotrophic Count (THC) of effluent samples, at source and POE were 8.51log10 cfu/ml and 6.15log10cfu/ml respectively, Total Coliform Count (TCC) for same samples were 6.77log10 cfu/ml and 4.56log10 cfu/ml respectively. The Total Fungal Count (TFC) of the effluent samples at source and at POE was 5.19log10 cfu/ml and 4.18log10 cfu/ml respectively. Results further revealed that the pH of the effluent at source was 6.58 while that at Point of Entry into the river was 7.30. The temperature of both samples was 25oC. The Total Dissolved Solid values of the effluent collected at source was higher, having a value of 1400mg/L against 1000mg/L at Point of Entry. Also the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) values of the effluent at source were 5.10mg/L and 8.58mg/L respectively, while the BOD and COD of the water at the POE were 4.3mg/L and 7.9mg/L respectively.
 Conclusion: Abattoir wastes are becoming a major environmental health challenge and being discharged into the Otamiri River indiscriminately is of public health concern. The potential public health implications associated with discharging untreated abattoir wastewater into the environment and thus, the need for adequate treatment to ensure decontamination as well as providing wastewater treatment facility is imperative.

Microbial Quality Assessment of Raw Freshwater Fish Sold in Local Markets of Kathmandu Valley

Microbial quality of Labeo rohita, Cyprinus carpio and Clarias batrachus collected from the markets of Kathmandu valley was evaluated. 9 freshwater fish (skin, gills, intestine) were sampled and were analyzed for Total Plate Count (TPC), Total Coliform Count (TCC) and Total Fecal Coliform Count (TFCC). The average TPC ranged from 4.1 x 107 to 1.02 x 108 cfu/gm, with the highest count in C. batrachus and the lowest in C. carpio, whereas the organ wise load was the highest in intestine with 1.3 x 108 cfu/gm and the lowest in skin with 1.02 x 107 cfu/gm. The highest TCC and TFCC was found in C. carpio and C. batrachus respectively, whereas organ wise distribution showed the highest count in intestine for both TCC and TFCC. The pathogens isolated from the samples were Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Coagulase negative Staphylococcus (CoNS), Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella Typhi and S. Paratyphi. E. coli was isolated from 67% of L. rohita, 44.44% of C. carpio and 66.67% of C. batrachus. S. aureus was isolated from 44.44% of both L. rohita and C. batrachus whereas 55.55% of C. carpio. CoNS were isolated from 33.33% of L. rohita, 22.22% of C. carpio and 33.33% of C. batrachus. S. Typhi was isolated from 11.11% of C. carpio and 22.22% of C. batrachus. S. Paratyphi was isolated from 11.11% of both L. rohita and C. batrachus, V. cholerae was isolated from 11.11% of L. rohita, 33.33% of C. carpio and 22.22% of C. batrachus. The observation of this study showed higher bacterial load in all of the fishes above the acceptance level and presence of Total Coliform, Fecal Coliform and potential human pathogens suggests that the microbial quality of the fish available in the market is not satisfactory. Hence, the fishes possess a threat to public health safety and there is an urgent need to improve the Quality Control and Quality Assurance Systems for fish markets of Kathmandu valley.

Real-time assessment of the Ganga river during pandemic COVID-19 and predictive data modeling by machine learning.

In this study, four water quality parameters were reviewed at 14 stations of river Ganga in pre-, during and post-lockdown and these parameters were modeled by using different machine learning algorithms. Various mathematical models were used for the computation of water quality parameters in pre-, during and post- lockdown period by using Central Pollution Control Board real-time data. Lockdown resulted in the reduction of Biochemical Oxygen Demand ranging from 55 to 92% with increased concentration of dissolved oxygen at few stations. pH was in range of 6.5–8.5 of during lockdown. Total coliform count declined during lockdown period at some stations. The modeling of oxygen saturation deficit showed supremacy of Thomas Mueller model (R2 = 0.75) during lockdown over Streeter Phelps (R2 = 0.57). Polynomial regression and Newton’s Divided Difference model predicted possible values of water quality parameters till 30th June, 2020 and 07th August, 2020, respectively. It was found that predicted and real values were close to each other. Genetic algorithm was used to optimize hyperparameters of algorithms like Support Vector Regression and Radical Basis Function Neural Network, which were then employed for prediction of all examined water quality metrics. Computed values from ANN model were found close to the experimental ones (R2 = 1). Support Vector Regression-Genetic Algorithm Hybrid proved to be very effective for accurate prediction of pH, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Dissolved Oxygen and Total coliform count during lockdown.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13762-022-04423-1.

Bacteriological Quality of Money from the Cash Registers of Banks and Markets in the Port Harcourt Metropolis and Bacterial Susceptibility to Antibiotics

Bacterial contamination of money acts as vehicle for the transmission of pathogenic and drug resistant organisms. This study was carried out to investigate the bacteriological quality and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of money bank cash-points and markets in Port Harcourt metropolis. Two hundred and eighty-eight (288) naira notes belonging to the following denominations, N5, N10, N20, N50, N100, N200, N500 and N1000 were collected for three months from banks and markets and subjected to standard microbiological procedures such as standard plate counts, identification, sensitivity testing using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Total heterotrophic bacterial count (THB) ranged from 0.6±0.00x106 to 12.80±9.19x106cfu/g; 0.65±0.21x106 to 13.05±9.55x106cfu/g; 0.65±0.20x106 to 8.05±2.48x106Cfu/g in N5 and N100 from Access Bank (AB), United Bank of Africa (UBA) and Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), respectively. There was a significant difference (p≤0.05) in the THB between the different naira notes. Total coliform count (TCC) ranged from 0.00 x104 to 56.90±28.43x104Cfu/g; 0.00 x104 to 61.90±35.49x104Cfu/g; 0.00x104 to 17.75±12.79x104Cfu/g in N5, and N100 for AB, UBA and GTB respectively. THB ranged from 2.69±1.55x106 to 9.95±3.22x106cfu/g; 3.00±1.69x106 to 12.30±9.89x106cfu/g; 3.30±1.82x106 to 17.30±6.97x106cfu/g in N1000, N10 and N100 naira for Mile 1, Mile 3 and Creek road markets respectively. There was a significant difference (p≤0.05) in the THB between the different naira notes sampled in both Banks and markets. TCC ranged from 0.77±0.28x104 to 45.59±10.18x104Cfu/g; 0.78±0.88x104 to 40.59±3.11x104Cfu/g; 1.45±0.07x104 to 55.60±10.18x104Cfu/g in N1000 and N100 Mile 1, Mile 3 and Creek road market respectively. Faecal coliform count ranged from 0.00x103 to 1.53±0.15x103Cfu/g for only mile 1 market. There was a significant difference (p≤0.05) in the total and faecal coliform counts between the different naira notes sampled in Banks and markets. The bacterial isolates identified were; Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus cereus and Serratia marcesens. Twenty-one (21) bacteria were isolated from Banks and Markets. Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus leteus, Escherichia coli and Serratia marcesens were significantly high in N100 (41.67%) (66.67%), (100%), (100%) respectively. Staphylococcus spp was susceptible to Gentamicin (33.3%), Bacillus spp to Ofloxacin (100%), Micrococcus spp to Ofloxacin and Gentamicin (100%), Serratia spp and Escherichia coli were susceptible to Ofloxacin, Gentamicin and Nitrofurantoin (100%) and they were all resistant to Ceftazidime, Cefixime, Cloxacillin, Augmentin, Cefuroxime and Ceftriaxone (100%)> Erythromycin and Gentamicin (75%). Hundred-percent (100%) of the bacterial isolates had multidrug resistance index greater than 0.2. Public awareness on personal hygiene should be encouraged while drug abuse should be discouraged.

Evaluation of Surface Water Contamination by Leachate from Uncontrolled Landfills: A Case Study of Yenagoa Central Waste Dump, Nigeria

Recently, surface water pollution has generated grave concerns because of anthropogenic activities including inadequate management of waste. Therefore, this study is concerned with the evaluation of surface water contamination by leachate from uncontrolled landfill in Yenagoa Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Three surface water samples were taken from a stream adjacent to an uncontrolled landfill and analyzed. The Downstream point (SW 1) and Upstream points (SW 3) were taken 50 meters from the southernmost and northernmost ends of the landfill, while the Central point (SW 2) was also taken 50 meters from the central edge of the landfill. The parameters analyzed were, pH, EC, TDS, COD, BOD, TH,NH4+, SO42-, NO3-, Phosphate, Cd, Cr, Cu2+, Pb, Zn, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, Fe2+, K+, as well as Total coliform count using standard methods. The concentration of these parameters were compared with NSDWQ and WHO to ascertain their levels within the surface water. The surface water analysis across the Downstream point (SW 1) showed that parameters like pH, EC, TDS, TA, TH, Na, K, Fe, BOD, COD, Phosphate and Total Coliform Count, recorded 7.18, 2,450 μS/cm, 1,225 mg/l, 534.9 mg/l, 270 mg/l, 122.92 mg/l, 69.42 mg/l, 9.48 mg/l, 25 mg/l, 16 mg/l, 7.5 mg/l and 2.80 X 106 cfu/ml respectively. All these values except pH were above NSDWQ and WHO recommended values for potable water. When compared to samples from SW 2 and SW 3, SW 1 samples had higher concentration of parameters. However, some metals and heavy metals like Pb, Cu, Zn, Cd and Cr were below equipment detectable limits for all sampled locations. It was confirmed therefore that the Downstream point (SW 1), was the most contaminated among the three sampled surface water points, in this study. Pearson’s correlational analysis also confirmed that some parameters indicated unity. It was recommended that surface water sources around landfills should be properly monitored to curb water pollution.

Molecular Characterization of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria from Soil within Rivers State University, Nigeria

Antibiotic resistance has become a subject of global concern to health systems all over the world and the shedding of antibiotic resistant bacteria from humans and animals into the soil is a threat to public health. This research was carried out to molecularly characterize and assess antibiotic resistant bacteria from soil in Rivers State University. Bacteria from soil in four locations; waste dump site, fish farm, poultry farm and home soil were enumerated and identified using standard microbiological techniques such as serial dilution, plating and incubation, isolation, biochemical testing and molecular identification. Sensitivity testing on the bacterial isolates was done using Kirby-Bauer Disk diffusion method. These resistant isolates were also subjected to molecular testing to ascertain the presence of resistant genes. The results revealed mean total Heterotrophic Bacterial Counts (THBC) for 32 samples ranged from 1.05±0.72 x 107 to 3.63±2.58x 107 CFU/g in fish farm and waste dump samples respectively. Total Coliform Counts (TCC) ranged from 3.65±2.91 x105 to 6.92±4.41 x105 CFU/g in Fish farm and Waste dump samples while Total Staphylococcal count ranged from 3.80±1.71 x104 to 11.46±9.21 x104 CFU/g in Fish farm and Waste dump samples respectively. Total Pseudomonad Count (TPC) ranged from 0.09±0.09 x 103 to 2.47±1.67x 103 CFU/g in Home soil and Fish farm samples. There was a difference (p≤0.05) in total heterotrophic bacterial, Staphylococcal and Pseudomonad counts, but no difference (p≥0.05) in total coliform. Seventy-nine (79) bacterial isolates were identified in this study belonging to the following genera; Bacillus spp, Staphylococcus spp., Micrococcus spp, Pseudomonas spp, Serratia spp, Proteus spp, Klebsiella spp, Salmonella spp and Escherichia spp with Staphylococcus (58.83%) having the highest occurrence and Pseudomonas (11.11%) had the least occurrence from the samples. Antibiotic sensitivity revealed that most isolates were resistant to many antibiotics tested with the highest resistance observed for Cefuroxime, Ceftazidime and Cefixime (100%) for the gram negative organisms and also Cefuroxime, Ceftazidime and Cloxacillin for gram positive bacteria. However, all bacteria showed sensitivity to gentamicin. Multiple Antibiotic resistance (MAR) index for all bacteria were above 0.2. Resistant bacterial isolates were identified molecularly as S. aureus, S. sciuri, M. luteus, B. cereus, B. subtilis, P. aeruginosa, S. mercescens, P. vulgaris, E. coli and Salmonella typhimurium. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia mercescens, Proteus vulgaris and E. coli had CTX-M gene present in their genome while Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus sciuri, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis had the mecA gene present in their genome. This study has highlighted the rise in antibiotic resistance in bacteria from soil, hence, there is need to checkmate indiscriminate use of antibiotics in agriculture.

Formulation of value added chicken nuggets using carrot and ginger as a source of dietary fiber and natural antioxidant

The study was aimed to evaluate the effect of different levels of carrot with ginger on the quality attributes of chicken nuggets. For this purpose, chicken meat samples were divided into four treatment groups viz. T0 (Control), T1 (1% ginger and 4% carrot), T2 (1% ginger and 8% carrot) and T3 (1% ginger and 12% carrot). Days of intervals were 0, 15, 30 and 45th days. Samples were preserved at -20º C for 45 days. An ANOVA of a 4×4 factorial experiment in completely randomized design having three replications per treatment was used for analyses of data. Sensory, proximate, physicochemical, biochemical and microbiological analyses were determined. Color, flavor, juiciness, tenderness and overall acceptability increased significantly (p<0.05) among the different treatment groups but decreased at different days of intervals. Dry matter (DM) content decreased significantly (p<0.05) with different treatment levels and increased with days of intervals. Crude protein (CP), Ether extract (EE) and ash content of all treatments were decreased significantly (p<0.05) among different treatment groups. Free fatty acids (FFAs), peroxide value (POV) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values were decreased significantly (p<0.05) with different treatment levels and increased with days of intervals. Total viable count (TVC), total coliform count (TCC) and total yeast mold count (TYMC) decreased significantly (p<0.05) at different treatments. On the basis of sensory, physicochemical, biochemical and microbial properties indicate that T3 was the best among treatment groups. Hence, 12% carrots with 1% ginger extracts may be recommended for formulation of value added chicken nuggets as enriched dietary fiber and natural antioxidant. SAARC J. Agric., 20(1): 185-196 (2022)

Effect of Post Slaughter Time Interval (PSI) on the Quality of Heteroclarias

ABSTRACT Post-slaughter time interval (PSI) plays an important role in the resultant quality of fish product. However, there is little information on the effect of PSI on heteroclarias, which is the most cultured fish in the study area. Forty-two samples of heteroclarias (average weight 500 ± 10.0 g) were collected, euthanized using salt, and stored at ambient temperature (27 ± 3°C); samples were collected at 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 hours for sensory, histological, proximate, biochemical, and microbial assessments using standard procedures. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS 16.0 version. Most sensory attributes were retained for 12 hours PSI; however, crude protein, minerals, and pH were reduced significantly (p < .05) with increased PSI, and the total volatile base nitrogen, peroxide value, and free fatty acid increased significantly (p < .05) with increased PSI. The total viable count, total fungal count, total coliform count, fecal coliform count, and Escherichia coli also increased significantly (p < .05) with increased PSI but were within acceptable limits for good-quality fish. Heteroclarias should not be delayed beyond 12-hour PSI before preserving or processing in order to get best-quality raw material (fish) for consumers.

Evaluation of Total Coliform Counts in Non-Fermented and Fermented Cow Milk Products (Kindirmo, Mai-Shanu and Nono) in Zaria Metropolis, Nigeria

Testing for coliforms has a long history in dairy production, and has helped to identify the unsanitary condition of unpasteurized and pasteurized milk products. The study was performed to evaluate the level of coliform bacterial contamination in raw cow milk and milk products (kindirmo, mai-shanu, and nono). A total of 426 samples comprising 106 raw milk, 106 kindirmo, 106 mai-shanu and 108 nono were obtained from four selected Fulani herds (Damari, Marwa, Tudun-Muntsira, and Wuciciri) and four milk markets (Kasuwan-Mata, Kwangila, Samaru and Tudun-Wada) in Zaria Metropolis, all samples were tested using the bacteriological method. Coliform counts were analyzed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Tukey package and recorded as mean coliform counts (CFU/ML). The overall mean coliform counts for the milk products (raw milk, kindirmo, mai-shanu, and nono) were 98.88 ± 7.68 x 108 CFU/ML, 60.19 ± 5.49 x 108 CFU/ML, 60.36 ± 5.50 x 108 CFU/ML and 73.5 ± 7.09 x 108 CFU/ML respectively. The mean coliform counts for raw milk were significantly different (p ≤ 0.05) from the three products (kindirmo, mai-shanu and nono). The study revealed heavy coliform bacterial load, ranging between 60.19 ± 5.49 x 108 CFU/ML and 98.88 ± 7.68 x 108 CFU/ML. This study calls for educating farmers and milk retailers at different levels level of production on the hygienic way of handling milk along the value chain to minimize unnecessary contamination of milk and milk products which can be of public health significance.

Simultaneous removal of Zn(II) ions and pathogens from pharmaceutical wastewater using modified sugarcane bagasse as biosorbents

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB) was developed into biosorbents by base (BSB), acid (ASB), and acid-base (A-BSB). The biosorbents were deployed to remediate pharmaceutical wastewater that was laden with Zn(II) ions and pathogens. The wastewater was characterised and revealed an increased Zn(II) ions concentration of 10.41 mg/l, total bacterial count (TBC) of 1.3 × 103 CFU/ml, and total coliform count (TCC) of 6 × 102 CFU/ml. These pollutants are hazardous to human and aquatic lives if discharged into the ecosystem without treatment. The developed biosorbents were characterised by FTIR, XRD, SEM with EDX mapping, and BET. The FTIR spectra showed peaks of the carboxylic groups present in lignin and hemicellulose which have good biosorbent properties. The XRD revealed the effect of the chemical modification of the SCB by changing the compound composition from sucrose to cellulose. The BET of the A-BSB gave the highest surface area and pore volume of 5.339 × 102 m2/g and 2.722 × 10−1 cc/g respectively, while the pore size of 2.105 nm was the lowest. Therefore, A-BSB exhibited optimum 99% removal of Zn(II) ions, and antimicrobial capacity of 100% removal for both TBC and TCC at 120 min, 40 °C, and 0.5 g dosage. The A-BSB is the most suitable adsorbent among the developed biosorbents for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment, as the findings from the kinetics study recommended chemisorption. Hence, the chemical modification of SCB was a promising low-cost adsorbent for Zn(II) ions and pathogens' removal from aqueous solutions.

Bacteriological and Physico-Chemical Analysis of Lapai Water Supply

Bacteriological and Physico-chemical analysis of Lapai water source was investigated. Lapai is the headquarters of Lapai Local Government Area of Niger state, Nigeria. Bacteriological quality of water samples was determined by enumeration through Total Viable Count and Coliform count using the Most Probable Number (MPN) method. The Isolates were subjected to Series of Biochemical tests for characterization and identification. The physicochemical parameters were determined according to the standard analytical methods for the examination of water and waste water and Romanian standard. Findings from this work includes the following: Maximum Total Viable Count (TVC) and Coliform count were recorded to be 2.45 x 107cfu/mg and &gt; 1100 MPN index/100ml,while minimum TVC and Coliform count were recorded to be 1.05 x 107cfu/mg and 0MPN index/100ml in the water samples. Total bacteria count and identified from all the water sources in Lapai metropolis indicated that Escherichia coli and Klebsiella sp occurred most with five (5) and four (4) isolates respectively.The conductivity data for the raw water samples indicated that State low-cost (LN), IBB Hostel (LE) and Emir Palace (LW) analysed were 250, 120 and 580 μs/cm. The pH, conductivity, chloride, nitrate and total hardness decreases with increasing treatment time in the column for the borehole water samples. While, the pH, temperature, turbidity, conductivity, total suspended solid (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), and total solids (TS), BOD, COD, nitrate, phosphate, ammonia and heavy metal analysis for the surface water (stream/river) samples also decreases with increasing treatment time in the packed column. Treatment of the water using nanocellulose revealed a decrease in all the investigated parameters with increasing treatment time. Most water samples examined did not meet up with the WHO standard for portable water, and the presence of these bacteria are potential pathogens that can significantly affect microbiology water quality, resulting to great health risk.

Potentially pathogenic Escherichia coli from household water in peri-urban Ibadan, Nigeria.

Feco-orally transmitted infectious diseases are common in Nigeria where the potable water access is poor. In the south-western Nigerian Ibadan metropolis, supply of municipal water is meagre as residents depend on household wells and boreholes. The likelihood of fecal contamination of household water sources in Ibadan was examined longitudinally to quantify and understand its impact. Well and borehole water samples aseptically collected from 96 households in Ibadan were assessed for total heterotrophic counts (THCs), total coliform counts (TCCs) and total Escherichia coli counts (TECs) using a pour plate technique. E. coli were identified by uidA and whole-genome sequencing using Illumina technology, whereas virulence factors were predicted using VirulenceFinder. There was season-independent abundance of THC and TCC in the well and borehole with a significant recovery of E. coli in the wells during the wet season compared to the dry season (P = 0.0001). Virulence genes associated with pathogenic E. coli were identified in 13 (52%) strains with one E. coli each classified as extra-intestinal E. coli, avian pathogenic E. coli and enteroaggregative E. coli. High heterotrophic and coliform counts, with rainfall-driven E. coli contamination revealed that the water sources evaluated in this study are unfit for consumption.

Determination of the microbial and physiochemical composition of branded and unbranded Shea butter

Shea butter samples were randomly obtained from different local markets and supermarkets from two states in Nigeria for the unbranded and branded samples respectively. Isolation and identification of microbial contaminants as well as determination of some physiochemical parameters such as heavy metal levels, saponification and iodine composition for branded and unbranded samples. The Total heterotrophic Fungi count of unbranded samples ranged from 8.50×104 cfu/g to 3.20×107cfu/g while the branded samples showed no significant count, the total heterotrophic bacteria count of unbranded and branded samples ranged from 1.25×106cfu/g to 3.35×108cfu/g, total coliform counts ranged from 1.2×102cfu/g to 2.15×103cfu/g, total Staphylococcus counts of the unbranded and branded samples ranged from 2.71×105 to 3.55×105, The isolated microorganism include: Aspergillus niger (40%), Candida species (30%), Aspergillus fumigatus (10%), Penicillium species (10%) and Blastomyces species (10%). Escherichia coli (26.67%) Pseudomonas species (13.33%), Klebsiella specie (13.33%), Staphylococcus species (26.67%) and Bacillus species (20%). Significant difference was observed in saponification (183.73mgKOH/g and 174.46mgKOH/g) and iodine (40.6I2/100g and 37.94I2/100g) values respectively. Heavy metals present in the branded sample were manganese (Mn), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) while iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) only were present in the unbranded sample. It can also be deduced that shea butter exposed and sold in the local markets and the branded samples which are not properly packaged harbor microbes and this may be harmful to the health of the users mostly newborn and those with injury on their skin. it is recommended that the Shea butter should be properly packaged or covered at sales point in order to reduce microbial re-contamination.

Assessment of quality and shelf life of goat liver stored at refrigerated temperature

The objective of this study was to assess the quality and shelf life of goat liver storage at refrigerated temperature (4º C). For this purpose, raw goat liver samples were divided into five treatment groups in relevant of five days storage, treated as T1 (day 1or control), T2 (day 2), T3 (day 3), T4 (day 4) and T5 (day 5). Sensory attributes (color, flavor, juiciness and tenderness), proximate composition, pH value, cooking loss, biochemical properties such as free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide value (POV), thiobarbituricacid value (TBA), and microbial load such as total viable count (TVC), total coliform count (TCC) and total yeast mould count (TYMC) were carried out in each day of storage. The results show that color, flavor, juiciness, and tenderness were significantly decreased with increase the days of storage. Dry matter (DM) content significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased, while crude protein, ether extract and ash contents were significantly (p&lt;0.05) decreased with increase the days of storage. A significant (P&lt;0.05) decrease of pH from 6.85 to 5.68 was observed during 5 days of storage. The percentage of cooking loss of 13.37 ml on day1 gradually increased to 33.84 mL on the fifth day of storage. In addition, the biochemical and microbial analysis also showed that FFA, POV, TBA, TVC, TCC and TYMC values were significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased with increase the days of storage. Therefore, based on these results of shelf life evaluation, it may be concluded that goat liver will acceptable microbiologically and organoleptically up to the third day of storage at 4º C.

Characterization of Pathogenic Bacteria Associated with Contamination of Domestic Water in Owerri Area

This study examined characterization of bacteria pathogens associated with domestic water contamination in Owerri area. Ten samples of water were collected from various sources of water in Owerri and were bacteriologically analyzed. Using the Pour-plate method on nutrient agar, MacConkey, and Salmonella-Shigella agar and the Most Probable Number technique, the total heterotrophic count and the most probable number index of coliform using double and single strength MacConkey broth as well as confirmed and completed test were determined. Result was presented in mean ± standard deviation, and Log10cfu/ml. The total heterotrophic count ranges from 7.8 ± 1.06 x 105cfu/ml to 6.1 ± 0.21 x 105cfu/ml, total coliform count ranges from 4.0 ± 1.41 x 104 cfu/ml to 1.5 ± 0.0 x 104cfu/ml. The Log10cfu/ml for heterotrophic count ranges from 8.7 Log10cfu/ml to 5.79 Log10cfu/ml, total coliform ranges 3.6 Log10cfu/ml to 1.9 Log10cfu/ml. Student t - test was used in comparing the mean between total heterotrophic count and total coliform count. The result revealed that there is a significant difference between the mean P &gt; 0.005. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas species, Salmonella species and Enterobacter species were the organisms identified. Water is indispensable for human health and wellbeing. Portable water is an essential amenity that will aid eradication of water-borne diseases as well as improve the environmental sanitation. There should be enlightenment programs for the communities and other concerned populace in order to educate them on the dangers of such water sources serving for drinking or utilization for other domestic activities

ALCOHOL DISRUPTED AND INCREASED ANTIBIOTICS RESISTANT PROFILES OF SELECTED BACTERIA RESIDENT IN GASTRO-INTESTINAL TRACT OF WISTER RAT

The study is aimed at investigating the effect of alcohol intake on gut microbiota and antibiotic susceptibility of some of the microbial genera isolated. Twenty-four wistar rats were administered orally with branded dry gin (40% alcohol) and one was picked randomly every 48hrs and sacrificed by cervical decapitation. The intestine was collected aseptically after laparotomy and placed in a sterile petri dish. The intestinal bacteria were enumerated, isolated and identified using standard microbiological methods. The antibiotic susceptibility was done using the disc agar diffusion method. The Total Heterotrophic (x 104 CFU/g) and Total Coliform Counts ranged from 2.0 – 65 and 1 – 28 respectively. Bacteria genera isolated are; Escherichia, Proteus, Citrobacter, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Enterobacter, Salmonella, Klebsiella and Bacillus. E. coli was the most (100%) prevalent. Enterococcus, Lactobacillus and Enterobacter were also highly prevalent. The occurrence of the genera was in the order Lactobacillus &gt; Citrobacter &gt; Klebsiella and Salmonella &gt; Proteus. All isolates were present in all the intestines few days after administration of the gin, but there was a decline in the occurrence till the 21st day, after which there was an increase. The susceptibility of Escherichia to conventional antibiotics was between 0–90% and there was no particular trend with the length of exposure but there was substantial decrease in the susceptibility to the antibiotics. The susceptibility of Enterococcus to the antibiotics decreased with the length of exposure to the alcohol. Intake of alcohol has a pronounced effect on the gut microbiome and the antibiotic susceptibility of isolates.

Evaluation of Bacteriological Quality of Dried Crayfish (Procambarius clarkil) Sold at Selected Markets in Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria

Dried crayfish are known to be important for human nutrition. Four hundred samples of dried `crayfish were purchased from six different markets and taken to bacterial zonooses laboratory for evaluation of microbial quality. Samples were analysed for bacterial load counts using standard microbiological methods. Total aerobic plate counts ranged from 6.74 ± 0.53 log10cfu/g for Bwari and 8.23 ± 0.36 log10cfu/g for Garki respectively, while total coliform counts ranged from 7.73 ± 0.48 logcfu/g for Gwagwalada to 8.31± 0.22 log10cfu/g for kubwa respectively. The common genera of bacterial isolated were Staphylococcus species (298;74.5%) and Streptococcus species (242;60.5%), Escherichia coli (230; 57%) Bacillus species (212;53%), Salmonella spcies (196; 49%) and Pseudomonas species (188; 47%). Overall, the highest value 8. 31 ± 0.22logcfu/g was obtained for both aerobic plate count and coliform counts which is much higher than the reference value of 5.7log10cfu/g for International commission on microbiological specification for food. This therefore highlights the need to improve the processing, handling, distribution, storage and transportation of dried crayfish in other to enhance consumer safety.