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Research Article
Screening of Natural Plant Extracts for Antimicrobial Activity Against Streptobacillus moniliformis
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
40-49
Received:
29 April 2025
Accepted:
10 May 2025
Published:
2 September 2025
Abstract: The rise of antimicrobial resistance has driven the search for alternative antibacterial agents, including plant-based compounds. This study evaluates the antimicrobial potential of selected herbal extracts against Streptobacillus moniliformis using the agar well diffusion method. The tested extracts included Basil leaves (Ocimum sanctum), Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica), Bael leaves (Aegle marmelos), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Moringa seeds and leaves (Moringa oleifera), Dalchini (Cinnamomum verum), Lemon/Orange peels (Citrus limon and Citrus sinensis), and Ginger peels (Zingiber officinale). Among these, Bael leaves (Ocimum sanctum), and Lemon (Citrus limon) peels demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, forming distinct zones of inhibition. In contrast, Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Moringa (Moringa oleifera), extracts did not inhibit bacterial growth. The observed antimicrobial activity is likely due to the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils, which may disrupt bacterial cell walls and metabolic processes. Notably, S. moniliformis exhibited limited survival in culture, while other bacterial strains showed minimal resistance. These findings suggest that certain herbal extracts, particularly Bael leaves and Lemon peels, may serve as natural antimicrobial agents against S. moniliformis. Among the tested extracts, Bael leaves (Aegle marmelos) and Lemon peels (Citrus limon) demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, with zones of inhibition measuring approximately 124mm and 23mm, respectively. Further studies are required to isolate and characterize the active compounds responsible for this antibacterial activity to explore their potential in developing alternative antimicrobial therapies.
Abstract: The rise of antimicrobial resistance has driven the search for alternative antibacterial agents, including plant-based compounds. This study evaluates the antimicrobial potential of selected herbal extracts against Streptobacillus moniliformis using the agar well diffusion method. The tested extracts included Basil leaves (Ocimum sanctum), Neem lea...
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Review Article
Potential and Challenges of Moringa Oleifera Cultivation in Uttar Pradesh: A Path to Enhanced Nutritional Security
Sameera Hasan*
,
Anupama Kaushik
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
50-54
Received:
7 February 2025
Accepted:
21 February 2025
Published:
9 September 2025
Abstract: Moringa oleifera, or the drumstick tree, is rapidly becoming a significant agricultural asset in Uttar Pradesh, India, driven by its exceptional nutritional profile and therapeutic properties. Research conducted in key regions like Prayagraj and Jhansi highlights the tree's adaptability and potential for high-yield leaf production. Optimal cultivation practices are crucial for maximizing Moringa leaf output. Studies indicate that using cuttings with a diameter of 30-35 mm significantly improves survival rates and subsequent leaf yield. Intensive cultivation, employing a close spacing of 50×50 cm, has demonstrated remarkable results, yielding 80-130 tonnes of green forage per hectare annually. This forage boasts a substantial crude protein content of 21.53%, underscoring its value as a nutritional resource. The leaves of Moringa are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This rich composition makes them invaluable in both culinary applications and traditional medicine. They are used to address various health concerns and contribute to overall well-being. However, the cultivation of Moringa in Uttar Pradesh faces challenges, notably fungal infections. Cercospora apii s. lat. poses a significant threat, impacting leaf yield and quality. Effective disease management strategies are essential to protect crops and ensure consistent production. To fully realize the potential of Moringa cultivation, continuous improvements in farming practices are needed. This includes optimizing planting techniques, irrigation, and fertilization. Addressing disease vulnerabilities through integrated pest management and resistant varieties is paramount. Despite these challenges, Moringa cultivation holds immense promise for enhancing nutritional security and promoting sustainable agriculture in Uttar Pradesh. Future research should concentrate on developing robust disease control measures and refining cultivation techniques to maximize yield and quality. By addressing these key areas, the region can fully capitalize on the benefits of this versatile and valuable tree.
Abstract: Moringa oleifera, or the drumstick tree, is rapidly becoming a significant agricultural asset in Uttar Pradesh, India, driven by its exceptional nutritional profile and therapeutic properties. Research conducted in key regions like Prayagraj and Jhansi highlights the tree's adaptability and potential for high-yield leaf production. Optimal cultivat...
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Research Article
Water Quality at the Brikama Water Treatment Plant, Gambia
Samba Camara*,
Lamin Fanding Barrow
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
55-60
Received:
25 May 2025
Accepted:
11 June 2025
Published:
9 September 2025
Abstract: Aim: A staggering 43% of the over 2 million population of The Gambia depends on contaminated water sources for domestic purposes, including pipe-borne water supplied by the National Water and Electricity Corporation (NAWEC), the nation's sole provider of pipe-borne water. The main objective of this study was to assess the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality parameters of the water sourced from the Brikama Public Water Treatment plant, specifically post-aeration and chlorination, as well as during its provisional storage at the plant prior to distribution to consumers. Method: Physico-chemical and bacteriological data were acquired from the management authorities of the plant through a meticulous review of their operational water quality monitoring records of 2022. A key informant guide regarding the plant's operations was used to elicit information from the management via interviews with the on-site personnel. Results: The averages of the Electrical Conductivity (EC=30 μS/cm), Residual Chlorine (RCl2= 0.3 mg/l), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS= 20 mg/l) of the water fell within the limits established by the WHO guidelines. Conversely, the averages of the Temperature (30°C), Total Coliform (TC=2 cfu/100 ml), and Hydrogen Potential (pH=6.1) of the water were deemed unacceptable according to the same guidelines. Conclusions and Recommendations: This paper investigates critical water quality issues and infrastructural and operational deficiencies at the Brikama public water treatment plant in The Gambia. While some parameters meet WHO guidelines, others like Temperature, Total Coliform, and pH remain subpar, increasing contamination risks. Recommendations include further water treatment at the household level, infrastructural improvements, and the implementation of a comprehensive Water Quality Data Information System. Enhanced public education and system maintenance are pivotal to improving water safety standards and protecting community health.
Abstract: Aim: A staggering 43% of the over 2 million population of The Gambia depends on contaminated water sources for domestic purposes, including pipe-borne water supplied by the National Water and Electricity Corporation (NAWEC), the nation's sole provider of pipe-borne water. The main objective of this study was to assess the physico-chemical and bacte...
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Research Article
Effect of Dietary Replacing Soybean Meal with Fluted Pumpkin Seed Meal in the Diets of African Catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
61-70
Received:
28 January 2025
Accepted:
18 February 2025
Published:
13 September 2025
Abstract: Feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of fermented fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis seed meal in the diets of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings with respect to their growth performance, feed efficiency, haematological indices, proximate composition and cost benefit analysis and nutrient utilization. Five iso-nitrogenous experimental diets were formulated to contain 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% and 100% of fermented Telfairia occidentalis seed meal and were designated as T1 (0% inclusion), T2 (25% inclusion), T3 (50% inclusion), T4 (75% inclusion) and T5 (100%) in a completely randomized design. Fifteen net hapa 1m×1m×1.2m were suspended in polythene- lined earthen pond (7m×5m×1m) with the aid of kuralon twine tied to iron pegs, the polythene lined earthen pond was filled to brim borehole water. Each treatment had three replicates with 15 fish were accommodated in each hapa (mean initial body weight (8.85±0.03 g) per fish. Water temperature and other water quality parameters were monitored daily. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and condition factor between the treatment groups. The results show that final weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio were highest in treatment T5 in fish fed 100% (204.40g) fermented fluted pumpkin seed meal, better growth and nutrient utilization was observed in fish fed 100% fermented fluted pumpkin seed meal. The haematological indices shows that fish fed 100% fermented fluted pumpkin seed meal had better haemoglobin (14.47g/dl), packed cell volume, red blood (4.13 million/m3) cell and white blood cell. There was significant difference (P<0.05) between the haemoglobin concentration of fish fed 100% and all the others treatment group. The crude protein in the fish indicates fish fed 100% fermented fluted pumpkin seed meal was significantly better (62.42) than the other treatment groups. The cost benefit also indicates positive return for fish fed 100% fermented fluted pumpkin seed meal. This result indicated, that inclusion of fermented Telfairia occidentalis seed meal at 100% in the diet of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings improves the nutritive value for fish, hence can serve as alternative ingredients and replacement of soybean in fish feed production.
Abstract: Feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of fermented fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis seed meal in the diets of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings with respect to their growth performance, feed efficiency, haematological indices, proximate composition and cost benefit analysis and nutrient utilization. Five iso-nitrogenous experimenta...
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