Taha Menasria | Universite de Tebessa (original) (raw)

Papers by Taha Menasria

Rhizosphere, Jun 2020

This study aimed to characterize endophytic bacteria associated with root-nodules of a wild legum... more This study aimed to characterize endophytic bacteria associated with root-nodules of a wild legume (Genista cinerea: Fabaceae) growing in arid soils of Algeria. A total of ten non-symbiotic endophytic bacterial strains were isolated and identified using a combination of conventional and molecular approaches based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Moreover, growth variations of the isolates under different environmental conditions were examined using advanced statistical modeling techniques (Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampler for multivariate generalized linear mixed models-MCMCglmm). The results revealed the existence of a large physiological diversity among the endophyte isolates, which formed two distinct groups. Group 1, included fast-growing and salt-tolerant isolates and Group 2 covered acid-sensitive isolates. The bacterial isolates showed capabilities to assimilate different carbonaceous and nitrogenous substances, with consistent and large tolerances to pH [4-10], temperature [4-55°C], and salinity [NaCl = 2-10%]. In addition, The MCMCglmm indicated that scored growth rate increased with pH and decreases at high level of salinity. The endophytic strains were classified as fast-growing bacteria belonged to the β and γ-Proteobacteria including Achromobacter, Klebsiella, Luteibacter, Pantoea and Pseudomonas. The present findings may support the idea that these isolates are passenger bacteria able to colonize nodules of Genista cinerea. Furthermore, the salt and temperature tolerant patterns found among the isolates reflect the environmental stresses pressure and the importance of using efficient indigenous endophytic strains for successful plant inoculation in arid agriculture.

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World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology , 2019

This paper aims to characterize halophilic bacteria inhabiting Algerian Saline Ecosystems (Sebkha... more This paper aims to characterize halophilic bacteria inhabiting Algerian Saline Ecosystems (Sebkha and Chott) located in arid and semi-arid ecoclimate zones (Northeastern Algeria). In addition, screening of enzymatic activities, heavy metal tolerance, and antagonistic potential against phytopathogenic fungi were tested. A total of 74 bacterial isolates were screened and phylogenetically characterized using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed a heterogeneous group of microorganisms falling within two major phyla, 52 strains belonging to Firmicutes (70.2%) and 22 strains (30.8%) of γ-Proteobacteria. In terms of main genera present, the isolates were belonging to Bacillus, Halobacillus, Lentibacillus, Oceanobacillus, Paralio-bacillus, Planomicrobium, Salicola, Terribacillus, Thalassobacillus, Salibacterium, Salinicoccus, Virgibacillus, Halomonas, Halovibrio, and Idiomarina. Most of the enzyme producers were related to Bacillus, Halobacillus, and Virgibacillus genera and mainly active at 10% of growing salt concentrations. Furthermore, amylase, esterase, gelatinase, and nuclease activities ranked in the first place within the common hydrolytic enzymes. Overall, the isolates showed high minimal inhibitory concentration values (MIC) for Ni 2+ and Cu 2+ (0.625 to 5 mM) compared to Cd 2+ (0.1 to 2 mM) and Zn 2+ (0.156 to 2 mM). Moreover, ten isolated strains belonging to Bacillus, Virgibacillus and Halomonas genera, displayed high activity against the pathogenic fungi (Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxyporum, F. verticillioides and Phytophthora capsici). This study on halophilic bacteria of unexplored saline niches provides potential sources of biocatalysts and novel bioactive metabolites as well as promising candidates of biocontrol agents and eco-friendly tools for heavy metal bioremediation.

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EXCLI Journal, 2020

The increased incidence of invasive infections and the emerging problem of drug resistance partic... more The increased incidence of invasive infections and the emerging problem of drug resistance particularly for commonly used molecules have prompted investigations for new, safe and more effective microbial agents. Actinomycetes from unexplored habitats appear as a promising source for novel bioactive compounds with a broad range of biological activities. Thus, the present study aimed to isolate effective wetland-derived actinomycetes against major pathogenic fungi and bacteria. Water samples were collected from various locations of Fetzara Lake, Algeria. Thereafter, an actinomycete designated ActiF450 was isolated using starch-casein-agar medium. The antimicrobial potential of the newly isolated actinomycete was screened using the conventional agar cylinders method on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) against various fungal and bacterial pathogens. A wetland-derived Streptomyces sp. Actif450 was identified as Streptomyces malaysiensis based on its physiological properties, morphological characteristics, and 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis. The antimicrobial activity of Streptomyces sp. ActiF450 showed potent and broad-spectrum activity against a range of human fungal pathogens including moulds and yeasts, such as Arthroderma vanbreuseghemii, Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, Candida albicans, C. glabarta, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis, Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, Microsporum canis, Rhodotorula mucilaginous and Scodapulariopsis candida. In addition, high antibacterial activity was recorded against pathogenic staphylococci. The novel Streptomyces sp. ActiF450 may present a promising candidate for the production of new bioactive compounds with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.

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Physico-chemical and bacteriological quality assessment of surface water at Lake Tonga in Algeria, May 2020

Maintaining standard water quality of aquatic ecosystems requires continuous monitoring of water ... more Maintaining standard water quality of aquatic ecosystems requires continuous monitoring of water physicochemical and bacteriological characteristics. This study aimed at assessing water physicochemical and microbiological proprieties of Lake Tonga (northeastern Algeria). Water samples were collected monthly (January–June) from three different stations at different depths. Several physicochemical and bacterial parameters were measured (pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, hardness, biological oxygen demand (BOD5), concentrations of suspended solid materials, dry residuals, dissolved oxygen, phosphate, nitrites, nitrates, ammonium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, potassium and sulfur dioxide, total heterotrophic bacteria, total coliforms, faecal coliforms and faecal Streptococci). Physicochemical analysis of Tonga Lake water revealed a slightly alkaline environment pH (6.5<pH<8.5), electrical conductivity<1500μS/cm, turbidity>7.02 NTU, dry residues<2000mg/L, suspended solid materials (11.8mg/L, <30mg/L), dissolved oxygen<5mg/L, phosphates >5mg/L, BOD5<5mg/L, nitrates<50mg/L, nitrite >0.1mg/L, and NH4+>0.5mg/L, Ca<200mg/L, Mg<150mg/L, Cl>500mg/L, K>20mg/L and sulfates<200mg/L. In addition, microbiological results indicated the presence of different groups of fecal bacteria with an average of 32.3×10³ CFU/100mL for total heterotrophic bacteria, 24×10³ CFU/100mL for total and faecal coliforms, and 37×10³ CFU/100mL for faecal Streptococci. Tonga Lake is in a eutrophication state and further severe ecosystem degradations may occur if appropriate management measures are not taken in short term.

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The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries (JIDC), Apr 4, 2019

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common nosocomial pathogens, known with a... more Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common nosocomial pathogens, known with a wide resistance to antimicrobials. Carbapenemases producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a growing global public health concern as this pathogen is easily transmissible among patients. Metallo-Beta-lactamases is the most important class of these carbapenemases with their broad-spectrum resistance profile. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of MBL-producing P. aeruginosa collected in an Algerian hospital. Methodology: All Metallo-β-lactamase (MBL)-producing P. aeruginosa isolates recovered from patients during a 2 years period (2015-2016) were studied using a combination of phenotypic and molecular typing methods (susceptibility testing, molecular characterization of carbapenemase-encoding genes, multi-locus sequence typing and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis). Results: A total of twenty-six MBL producing P. aeruginosa of 188 isolates were investigated. The burns unit ranked in the first position of the majority of identified cases with 73.07%. About 73.07% of total MBL isolates were mainly isolated from pus samples. The studied isolates were subjected to the molecular typing, in which 4 different Dra1-PFGE patterns and 3 sequences type were assigned (ST244, ST381, and ST1076), and all isolates were revealed positive for VIM-4. Conclusions: We report the third description of blaVIM-4 in Algeria indicating the emergence and spread of carbapenemase-encoding genes among P. aeruginosa in the hospital environment.

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Journal of Advanced Research, 2018

A phenotypic characterization of thirteen root nodule bacteria recovered from wild legumes (Genis... more A phenotypic characterization of thirteen root nodule bacteria recovered from wild legumes (Genista microcephala and Argyrolobium uniflorum) growing in arid eco-climate zones (Northeastern Algeria) was conducted using analysis of sixty-six phenotypic traits (carbohydrate and nitrogen assimilation, vitamin requirements, growth temperature, salinity/pH tolerance and enzyme production). Furthermore, SDS-PAGE profiles of total cell protein, antibiotic susceptibility and heavy metal resistance were performed. The results showed that the isolates can grow at pH 4 to 10, salt concentration (0-5%) and temperature up to 45 °C. The rhizobia associated with Genista microcephala and Argyrolobium uniflorum were able to produce different hydrolytic enzymes including cellulose, pectinase and urease, with remarkable tolerance to toxic metals such as zinc, lead, copper, and mercury. Numerical analysis of the phenotypic characteristics revealed that the rhizobial isolates formed four main distinct groups showing high levels of similarity with Gammaproteobacteria. The salt tolerant and heavy metals resistance patterns found among the indigenous rhizobial strains are reflecting the environmental stresses pressure and make the strains good candidates for plant successful inoculation in arid areas.

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Journal of King Saud University - Science, 2018

Actinomycetes from unexplored habitats are considered as a promising source for novel bioactive c... more Actinomycetes from unexplored habitats are considered as a promising source for novel bioactive compounds with a broad range of biological activities. A study was carried out to isolate and identify rare acti-nomycetes producing antimicrobial from a natural wetland. Water samples from Fetzara Lake (North eastern-Algeria) were collected and subjected to rare actinomycetes isolation using different rich media. Eight selected actinomycetes were screened in vitro for hydrolytic enzymes, antibacterial and anticandi-dal activities. Based on the 16S rRNA sequencing, the eight actinomycetes isolates were categorized into four different rare genera Actinomadura, Nocardia, Nonomuraea and Micromonospora. Interestingly, significant anticandidal and antibacterial activities against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were observed. Furthermore, the actinomycetes isolates were able to produce different hydrolytic enzymes with potential industrial and food processing applications such as amylase, cellulase, protease, and lipase. Overall, the study revealed that the selected aquatic rare actinomycetes recovered from Fetzara Lake presented good candidates to be explored as new sources of bioactive compounds.

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Microbiological Research, Mar 2018

The diversity of haloarchaea associated with different dry salt lakes in northeastern Algeria was... more The diversity of haloarchaea associated with different dry salt lakes in northeastern Algeria was investigated together with their potential of hydrolytic enzyme production. A total of 68 aerobic halophilic archaea were isolated from saline sediments. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the isolates were assigned to seven phylotypes within the class Halobacteria, namely Haloarcula, Halococcus, Haloferax, Halogeometricum, Haloterrigena, Natrialba, and Natrinema. The results showed that Haloferax group was found to be dominant in all samples (30 isolates) (44%) with high diversity, followed by Halococcus spp. (13%) (9 isolates). All phylotypes are extreme halophiles and thermotolerant with the ability to grow at temperatures up to 48 °C. In addition, the screening for extracellular halophilic enzymes showed that 89.7% of the isolates were able to produce at least two types of the screened enzymes. The strains producing esterase, gelatinase, inulinase, cellulase and protease activities were the most diverse functional group. These data showed an abundant and diverse haloarchaeal community, detected in Algerian wetland ecosystems, presenting a promising source of molecules with important biotechnological applications.

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Turkish Journal of Botany, Aug 5, 2018

The prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L. Miller) is a xerophytic cactus species widely cultivate... more The prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L. Miller) is a xerophytic cactus species widely cultivated in arid and semiarid regions worldwide and used in rehabilitation programs of rangelands in Algeria since 1990. This study analyzed the diversity and functional traits of plant species established in prickly pear plantations growing under arid and semiarid climates. A three-year plant assessment (2008–2010) was carried out using ecological descriptors (Abundance, species richness, diversity indices, disturbance index, Jaccard index) and plant functional traits (life forms, chorological types, dispersal types, Grime’s, Noy-Meir's strategies and morphological types). The results revealed 36 and 31 species in arid and semi-arid rangelands, respectively, with remarkable dominance of therophytic (43.2%) and hemicryptophytic plants (41.1%) growing under semi-arid climatic zone. Shannon and diversity index showed low values (0.93-1.84 in surveyed rangelands) with a maximum of 2.74 in 2009. Disturbance index ranged between 51% to 55% and the dispersion scheme of diaspores was dominated by anemochorous plants. The chorological analysis indicated that the study plants were oriented towards a Mediterranean pattern in the broad sense. The predominant adaptive strategies of Grime were ruderal-stress-tolerant (RS), competitive-stress-tolerant (CS) and competitive-ruderals (CR) which were attached to the two strategies of Noy-Meir (aridopassives and aridoactives).

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International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, Dec 2017

This study was car­ried out to pro­vide an overview of the fun­gal load in Al­ger­ian tra­di­tion... more This study was car­ried out to pro­vide an overview of the fun­gal load in Al­ger­ian tra­di­tional baths (Ham­mams) as well as to iso­late and iden­tify the main path­o­genic fungi. Over a pe­riod of four months, ten baths were ex­am­ined and screened for fun­gal con­t­a­m­i­na­tion from sev­eral parts of the hot steamy rooms (floor, wall, door, air and mar­ble mas­sage plat­form). In to­tal, 7157 fungi iso­lates were re­cov­ered from the sur­veyed Ham­mams and the most abun­dant molds were Peni­cil­lium spp. (45.12%) fol­lowed by As­pergillus spp. (28.80%). In ad­di­tion, molds flora in tra­di­tional baths was char­ac­ter­ized by a large num­ber of hy­drophilic species like Cla­dospo­rium, Fusar­ium, Rhi­zo­pus, Mu­cor and Al­ternaria. Eight can­dida-like ap­peared fre­quently (C. al­bi­cans, C. glabrata, C. trop­i­calis, C. lipoly­t­ica, Ge­ot­richum sp., Tri­chosporon sp., Rhodotorula sp. and Cryp­to­coc­cus sp.) of which C. al­bi­cans was the com­mon iso­lated yeast (35.14%). The re­sults in­di­cate a sig­nif­i­cant dif­fer­ence (p = 0.007) in species rich­ness be­tween molds and yeasts and their dis­tri­b­u­tion var­ied sig­nif­i­cantly among sam­pled po­si­tions in baths. AN­COVA re­vealed a sig­nif­i­cant in­crease in fun­gal loads re­lated to the av­er­age num­ber of cus­tomers and mean open­ing year of the Ham­mams, in con­trast with lo­cal­ity (fa­vored or pop­u­lar dis­trict). This study in­di­cates that Ham­mams pre­sent a po­ten­tial source of path­o­genic fungi which may im­pose a real threat on pub­lic health

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Original Research Article, Nov 2015

Earthworms are important soil macroinvertebrates and are often used in assessing of soil pollutio... more Earthworms are important soil macroinvertebrates and are often used in assessing of soil pollution. The present study was conducted in order to investigate the effect of two compounds, triple superphosphate TSP (fertilizer), sekator (herbicide) and their mixture at two agricultural doses on a Lumbricus terrestris population. Neurotoxicity (Acetylcholinesterase, AChE), metabolisation (glutathione-S-transferase GST), glutathione (GSH), and protein content were evaluated as biomarkers. Treated earthworms with sekator showed a non-significant increase of protein content (P>0.05). In contrast, protein content increased significantly (P<0.0001) up to (104.75±4.75 and 109.09±5.4 μg/worm) after 72h of exposure with TSP and the mixture respectively. As compared to TSP exposure, sekator in mixture substantially decreased AChE activity. In control series, the GST activities and GSH concentrations remain stable after 72h while sekator and TSP induced the biomarker responses, which was proportional to exposure time and administered dose. Non significant correlations were recorded between AChE and GSH, GST and the protein contents in most interactions. The obtained results indicate that application of sekator in mixture with triple superphosphate could have harmful effects on earthworms since caused significant changes in measured biomarkers.

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Frontiers in Microbiology, Nov 6, 2015

Background: Honey has multiple therapeutic properties due to its composition with diverse compone... more Background: Honey has multiple therapeutic properties due to its composition with diverse components. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of Saharan honeys against bacterial pathogens, the variation of honey floral origins and its physicochemical characteristics. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity of 32 samples of honey collected from the Algerian Sahara Desert was tested on four bacteria; Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium perfringens, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The botanical origin of honeys and their physicochemical properties were determined and their combined antibacterial effects were modeled using a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM). Results: Out of the 32 study samples, 14 were monofloral and 18 were multifloral. The pollen density was on average 7.86 × 106 grains/10 g of honey, water content was 14.6%, electrical conductivity was 0.5 μS/cm, pH was 4.38±0 50, hydroxymethylfurfural content was 82 mg/kg of honey, total sugars = 83%, reducing sugars = 71%, and the concentration of proline = 525.5±550.2 mg/kg of honey. GLMM revealed that the antibacterial effect of honey varied significantly between bacteria and floral origins. This effect increased with increasing of water content and reducing sugars in honey, but it significantly decreased with increase of honey electrical conductivity. E. coli was the most sensitive species with an inhibition zone of 10.1±4.7 mm, while C. perfringens was the less sensitive with 3.9±5.4 mm. Honeys dominated by pollen of Fabaceae sp. were most effective with an overall antimicrobial activity equals to 13.5±4.7 mm. Conclusion: Saharan honeys, of certain botanical origins, have physicochemical and pollinic characteristics with relevant potential for antibacterial purposes. This encourages a more comprehensive characterization of honeys with in vivo and in vitro investigations.

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Research Article, Mar 15, 2015

In the present study, an attempt is made to evaluate the kinetics of biological phosphate removal... more In the present study, an attempt is made to evaluate the kinetics of biological phosphate removal using a bacterial consortium of activated sludge, as well as screening for dominant polyphosphates accumulating bacteria. The results showed an efficient phosphate uptake (P < 0.001) of the consortium, with rates related to the initial concentration of both phosphate and carbon sources. Short chain volatile fatty acids presented the suitable substrates for enhanced biological phosphorus removal, of which maximum yield reached 99.23% and 78.51% in basal salt medium supplemented with 0.5% of sodium acetate and lactate respectively. Fifteen phosphate-accumulating bacteria were isolated from the activated sludge and only four isolates were selected and characterized as Pseudomonas aeruginosa AS1, Moraxella lacunata AS2, Acinetobater junii AS3 and Alcaligenes denitrificans AS4. The highest efficiency of phosphate uptake using pure culture was achieved with Ac. junii AS3 (83.36) followed by P. aeruginosa AS1 (81.78%), Al. denitrificans AS4 (76.72%), and M. lacunata AS2 with 50.6%.

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A study was performed to estimate the prevalence of the external bacterial flora of two domestic ... more A study was performed to estimate the prevalence of the external bacterial flora of two domestic cockroaches (Blattella germanica and Blatta orientalis) collected from households in Tebessa (northeast Algeria). Three major bacterial groups were cultured (total aerobic, enterobacteria, and staphylococci) from 14 specimens of cockroaches, and antibiotic susceptibility was tested for both Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas isolates. Culturing showed that the total bacterial load of cockroaches from different households were comparable (P < 0.001) and enterobacteria were the predominant colonizers of the insect surface, with a bacterial load of (2.1E+5 CFU/insect), whereas the staphylococci group was the minority. Twenty-eight bacterial species were isolated, and susceptibility patterns showed that most of the staphylococci isolates were highly susceptible to chloramphenicol, gentamycin, pristinamycin, ofloxacin, clindamycin, and vancomycin; however, Pseudomonas strains exhibited resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, imipenem, and the second generation antibiotic cephalosporin cefuroxime.

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PeerJ, Mar 24, 2015

The current study highlights some knowledge on the diversity and structure of insect communities ... more The current study highlights some knowledge on the diversity and structure of insect communities and trophic groups living in Sabkha Djendli (semi-arid area of Northeastern Algeria). The entomofauna was monthly sampled from March to November 2006 using pitfall traps at eight sites located at the vicinity of the Sabkha. Structural and diversity parameters (species richness, Shannon index, evenness) were measured for both insect orders and trophic guilds. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) was applied to determine how vegetation parameters (species richness and cover) influence spatial and seasonal fluctuations of insect assemblages. The catches totalled 434 insect individuals classified into 75 species, 62 genera, 31 families and 7 orders, of which Coleoptera and Hymenoptera were the most abundant and constant over seasons and study stations. Spring and autumn presented the highest values of diversity parameters. Individual-based Chao-1 species richness estimator indicated 126 species for the total individuals captured in the Sabkha. Based on catch abundances, the structure of functional trophic groups was predators (37.3%), saprophages (26.7%), phytophages (20.5%), polyphages (10.8%), coprophages (4.6%); whereas in terms of numbers of species, they can be classified as phytophages (40%), predators (25.3%), polyphages (13.3%), saprophages (12%), coprophages (9.3%). The CCA demonstrated that phytophages and saprophages as well as Coleoptera and Orthoptera were positively correlated with the two parameters of vegetation, especially in spring and summer. While the abundance of coprophages was positively correlated with species richness of plants, polyphage density was positively associated with vegetation cover. The insect community showed high taxonomic and functional diversity that is closely related to diversity and vegetation cover in different stations of the wetland and seasons.

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Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences, Dec 2013

In the present investigation, an Algerian commonly available plant namely Cotula cinerea, found t... more In the present investigation, an Algerian commonly available plant namely Cotula cinerea, found throughout sandy desert grounds, was screening for antimicrobial activity against five different human pathogenic microbes namely, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar disc diffusion method. Aerial parts of C. cinerea were subjected to extraction using four solvents of different polarity (70% ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate and petroleum ether). Petroleum ether and n-butanol extracts had the most effective antimicrobial activity with Gram-negative K. pneumoniae demonstrating the highest susceptibility. Linear regression analysis was performed to find correlations between extract concentrations and inhibition activity. Results showed a significant increase in mean diameter of inhibition zone with increasing extract concentrations of all solvents except n-butanol. Two-way ANOVA test was used to compare the effect of C. cinerea extracts on the antimicrobial properties. All plant extracts have shown significant differences in their actions as antimicrobial agents. Indeed, the n-butanol extract at a low concentration of 0.25 mg mL-1 indicated a potent antimicrobial activity of C. cinerea extracts.

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Pathogens and Global Health , Apr 27, 2014

Background: Cockroaches are among the most common pests in public dwellings and health facilities... more Background: Cockroaches are among the most common pests in public dwellings and health facilities. Their presence can raise safety concerns, especially as they maybe carriers of pathogenic organisms.
Methods: This study was carried out to isolate and identify the bacterial flora from German cockroaches (Blattella germanica). Cockroaches collected by hand-catches from two public hospital environments in Tebessa city (Northeast Algeria) were screened for microbial load from their external surfaces and alimentary tract using standard bacterial protocols.
Results: A total of 174 bacterial isolates were isolated from 39 German cockroach specimens. The most common and abundant bacterial species belonged to the Pseudomonas group (23.5%), and Serratia (13.2%). Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus were also isolated as well as opportunistic pathogens like Klebsiella species and food spoilage bacteria such as Enterobacter and Citrobacter species from both external surface and digestive tract of the insect. Generalized linear models (GLM) were performed to analyse the variation of abundances and occurrences of bacterial isolates harboured by B. germanica. The GLMs revealed that the main factors affecting variation of bacterial diversity and abundance were sex and hospital (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings of the present study suggest that German cockroach act as reservoir and potential vector of some bacterial pathogens.

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Research article, Jul 2014

Abstract- In the present study, a total of 108 of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was isolated from Al... more Abstract- In the present study, a total of 108 of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was isolated from Algerian traditional fermented dairy products (Jben, Klila, Raib and Lben) in order to evaluate their enzymatic activities (Proteolytic, α-amylase production, caseinolytic, lipolytic) and antimicrobial proprieties. Twelve representative isolates were selected and characterized with regard to their functional properties. The retained strains were identified using phenotypic and 16S rDNA gene analysis as; Lactococcus lactis subsp lactis (3 strains), L. lactis subsp. cremoris (1 strain), L. lactis subsp. lactis biovar. diacetylactis (2 strains), Lactobacillus plantarum (3 strains), Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei (2 strains) and Leuconostoc mesenteroides (1 strain). Lactococcus strains showed the greatest degree of acidifying and proteolytic activity. However, tow strains of Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei exhibited maximum caseinolytic activity. Furthermore, low lipolytic and amylolytic capacities were detected. The enzymatic potential evaluated with API ZYM system showed that all strains exhibited high Leucine arylamidase, Valine arylamidase and β-Galactosidase activities. Selected LAB were also tested for their antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 using agar well diffusion technique. All extracts of isolates were found to be fully inactivated by proteolytic enzymes, heat stable up to 100°C for 20 min and displayed inhibitory activity at pH from 3.0 to 10.0. Lactic acid bacteria isolated in this study play complex role in the traditional fermentation milk by their functional properties related to a specific enzyme spectrum, acidifying capacity, antimicrobial activities and probiotic properties.

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Research Article, Jul 2014

Abstract- This study was carried out to isolate and identify bacterial flora from German cockroac... more Abstract- This study was carried out to isolate and identify bacterial flora from German cockroaches (Blattella germanica) collected from dwellings and health facilities in Tebessa city. A total of 187 bacteria were isolated from 46 cockroachs pecimens. The most common and abundant bacteria species belonged to Enterobacteria group (54.54%), while pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus as well as
Pseudomonas aeruginosa w isolated with a rate of 12.83 % and 4.81 %, respectively. The results indicated that B. germanica is a possible reservoir and carriers of bacterial pathogens via their bodies and thus may spread multiple drug resistance species.

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Research Article, Dec 2013

The study was carried out in Tebessa (Northeast Algeria) to investigate antimicrobial susceptibil... more The study was carried out in Tebessa (Northeast Algeria) to investigate antimicrobial susceptibility of Salmonella isolated from poultry product and human patients. Antibiotic resistance profiles were detected against 25 selected antimicrobial agents using micro dilution method (MICs). Seventy-six Salmonella strains were selected and serotyped which Salmonella Enteritidis serovar was the most prevalent serotype. Over all, High level of resistance were noted with quinolones (nalidixic acid), non-wild types with fluoroquinolones (norofloxacin, ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin) and variable scaling values within colistin. Foodborne strains showed some trends to shift toward non-wild types with some beta-lactams and sulfamethoxasole/trimethoprim. Moreover, human serovars showed heterogeneity in susceptibility patterns indicating wide spread multi-drug resistance with quinolones, β-lactams (aminopenicillin, cefalosporin), aminoglycosides, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol. As a result, the relatively high resistance among the Salmonella lying in both human and poultry products could pose therapeutic and public health problems as potential vehicles of resistant Salmonella.

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Rhizosphere, Jun 2020

This study aimed to characterize endophytic bacteria associated with root-nodules of a wild legum... more This study aimed to characterize endophytic bacteria associated with root-nodules of a wild legume (Genista cinerea: Fabaceae) growing in arid soils of Algeria. A total of ten non-symbiotic endophytic bacterial strains were isolated and identified using a combination of conventional and molecular approaches based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Moreover, growth variations of the isolates under different environmental conditions were examined using advanced statistical modeling techniques (Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampler for multivariate generalized linear mixed models-MCMCglmm). The results revealed the existence of a large physiological diversity among the endophyte isolates, which formed two distinct groups. Group 1, included fast-growing and salt-tolerant isolates and Group 2 covered acid-sensitive isolates. The bacterial isolates showed capabilities to assimilate different carbonaceous and nitrogenous substances, with consistent and large tolerances to pH [4-10], temperature [4-55°C], and salinity [NaCl = 2-10%]. In addition, The MCMCglmm indicated that scored growth rate increased with pH and decreases at high level of salinity. The endophytic strains were classified as fast-growing bacteria belonged to the β and γ-Proteobacteria including Achromobacter, Klebsiella, Luteibacter, Pantoea and Pseudomonas. The present findings may support the idea that these isolates are passenger bacteria able to colonize nodules of Genista cinerea. Furthermore, the salt and temperature tolerant patterns found among the isolates reflect the environmental stresses pressure and the importance of using efficient indigenous endophytic strains for successful plant inoculation in arid agriculture.

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World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology , 2019

This paper aims to characterize halophilic bacteria inhabiting Algerian Saline Ecosystems (Sebkha... more This paper aims to characterize halophilic bacteria inhabiting Algerian Saline Ecosystems (Sebkha and Chott) located in arid and semi-arid ecoclimate zones (Northeastern Algeria). In addition, screening of enzymatic activities, heavy metal tolerance, and antagonistic potential against phytopathogenic fungi were tested. A total of 74 bacterial isolates were screened and phylogenetically characterized using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed a heterogeneous group of microorganisms falling within two major phyla, 52 strains belonging to Firmicutes (70.2%) and 22 strains (30.8%) of γ-Proteobacteria. In terms of main genera present, the isolates were belonging to Bacillus, Halobacillus, Lentibacillus, Oceanobacillus, Paralio-bacillus, Planomicrobium, Salicola, Terribacillus, Thalassobacillus, Salibacterium, Salinicoccus, Virgibacillus, Halomonas, Halovibrio, and Idiomarina. Most of the enzyme producers were related to Bacillus, Halobacillus, and Virgibacillus genera and mainly active at 10% of growing salt concentrations. Furthermore, amylase, esterase, gelatinase, and nuclease activities ranked in the first place within the common hydrolytic enzymes. Overall, the isolates showed high minimal inhibitory concentration values (MIC) for Ni 2+ and Cu 2+ (0.625 to 5 mM) compared to Cd 2+ (0.1 to 2 mM) and Zn 2+ (0.156 to 2 mM). Moreover, ten isolated strains belonging to Bacillus, Virgibacillus and Halomonas genera, displayed high activity against the pathogenic fungi (Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxyporum, F. verticillioides and Phytophthora capsici). This study on halophilic bacteria of unexplored saline niches provides potential sources of biocatalysts and novel bioactive metabolites as well as promising candidates of biocontrol agents and eco-friendly tools for heavy metal bioremediation.

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EXCLI Journal, 2020

The increased incidence of invasive infections and the emerging problem of drug resistance partic... more The increased incidence of invasive infections and the emerging problem of drug resistance particularly for commonly used molecules have prompted investigations for new, safe and more effective microbial agents. Actinomycetes from unexplored habitats appear as a promising source for novel bioactive compounds with a broad range of biological activities. Thus, the present study aimed to isolate effective wetland-derived actinomycetes against major pathogenic fungi and bacteria. Water samples were collected from various locations of Fetzara Lake, Algeria. Thereafter, an actinomycete designated ActiF450 was isolated using starch-casein-agar medium. The antimicrobial potential of the newly isolated actinomycete was screened using the conventional agar cylinders method on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) against various fungal and bacterial pathogens. A wetland-derived Streptomyces sp. Actif450 was identified as Streptomyces malaysiensis based on its physiological properties, morphological characteristics, and 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis. The antimicrobial activity of Streptomyces sp. ActiF450 showed potent and broad-spectrum activity against a range of human fungal pathogens including moulds and yeasts, such as Arthroderma vanbreuseghemii, Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, Candida albicans, C. glabarta, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis, Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, Microsporum canis, Rhodotorula mucilaginous and Scodapulariopsis candida. In addition, high antibacterial activity was recorded against pathogenic staphylococci. The novel Streptomyces sp. ActiF450 may present a promising candidate for the production of new bioactive compounds with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.

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Physico-chemical and bacteriological quality assessment of surface water at Lake Tonga in Algeria, May 2020

Maintaining standard water quality of aquatic ecosystems requires continuous monitoring of water ... more Maintaining standard water quality of aquatic ecosystems requires continuous monitoring of water physicochemical and bacteriological characteristics. This study aimed at assessing water physicochemical and microbiological proprieties of Lake Tonga (northeastern Algeria). Water samples were collected monthly (January–June) from three different stations at different depths. Several physicochemical and bacterial parameters were measured (pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, hardness, biological oxygen demand (BOD5), concentrations of suspended solid materials, dry residuals, dissolved oxygen, phosphate, nitrites, nitrates, ammonium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, potassium and sulfur dioxide, total heterotrophic bacteria, total coliforms, faecal coliforms and faecal Streptococci). Physicochemical analysis of Tonga Lake water revealed a slightly alkaline environment pH (6.5<pH<8.5), electrical conductivity<1500μS/cm, turbidity>7.02 NTU, dry residues<2000mg/L, suspended solid materials (11.8mg/L, <30mg/L), dissolved oxygen<5mg/L, phosphates >5mg/L, BOD5<5mg/L, nitrates<50mg/L, nitrite >0.1mg/L, and NH4+>0.5mg/L, Ca<200mg/L, Mg<150mg/L, Cl>500mg/L, K>20mg/L and sulfates<200mg/L. In addition, microbiological results indicated the presence of different groups of fecal bacteria with an average of 32.3×10³ CFU/100mL for total heterotrophic bacteria, 24×10³ CFU/100mL for total and faecal coliforms, and 37×10³ CFU/100mL for faecal Streptococci. Tonga Lake is in a eutrophication state and further severe ecosystem degradations may occur if appropriate management measures are not taken in short term.

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The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries (JIDC), Apr 4, 2019

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common nosocomial pathogens, known with a... more Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common nosocomial pathogens, known with a wide resistance to antimicrobials. Carbapenemases producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a growing global public health concern as this pathogen is easily transmissible among patients. Metallo-Beta-lactamases is the most important class of these carbapenemases with their broad-spectrum resistance profile. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of MBL-producing P. aeruginosa collected in an Algerian hospital. Methodology: All Metallo-β-lactamase (MBL)-producing P. aeruginosa isolates recovered from patients during a 2 years period (2015-2016) were studied using a combination of phenotypic and molecular typing methods (susceptibility testing, molecular characterization of carbapenemase-encoding genes, multi-locus sequence typing and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis). Results: A total of twenty-six MBL producing P. aeruginosa of 188 isolates were investigated. The burns unit ranked in the first position of the majority of identified cases with 73.07%. About 73.07% of total MBL isolates were mainly isolated from pus samples. The studied isolates were subjected to the molecular typing, in which 4 different Dra1-PFGE patterns and 3 sequences type were assigned (ST244, ST381, and ST1076), and all isolates were revealed positive for VIM-4. Conclusions: We report the third description of blaVIM-4 in Algeria indicating the emergence and spread of carbapenemase-encoding genes among P. aeruginosa in the hospital environment.

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Journal of Advanced Research, 2018

A phenotypic characterization of thirteen root nodule bacteria recovered from wild legumes (Genis... more A phenotypic characterization of thirteen root nodule bacteria recovered from wild legumes (Genista microcephala and Argyrolobium uniflorum) growing in arid eco-climate zones (Northeastern Algeria) was conducted using analysis of sixty-six phenotypic traits (carbohydrate and nitrogen assimilation, vitamin requirements, growth temperature, salinity/pH tolerance and enzyme production). Furthermore, SDS-PAGE profiles of total cell protein, antibiotic susceptibility and heavy metal resistance were performed. The results showed that the isolates can grow at pH 4 to 10, salt concentration (0-5%) and temperature up to 45 °C. The rhizobia associated with Genista microcephala and Argyrolobium uniflorum were able to produce different hydrolytic enzymes including cellulose, pectinase and urease, with remarkable tolerance to toxic metals such as zinc, lead, copper, and mercury. Numerical analysis of the phenotypic characteristics revealed that the rhizobial isolates formed four main distinct groups showing high levels of similarity with Gammaproteobacteria. The salt tolerant and heavy metals resistance patterns found among the indigenous rhizobial strains are reflecting the environmental stresses pressure and make the strains good candidates for plant successful inoculation in arid areas.

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Journal of King Saud University - Science, 2018

Actinomycetes from unexplored habitats are considered as a promising source for novel bioactive c... more Actinomycetes from unexplored habitats are considered as a promising source for novel bioactive compounds with a broad range of biological activities. A study was carried out to isolate and identify rare acti-nomycetes producing antimicrobial from a natural wetland. Water samples from Fetzara Lake (North eastern-Algeria) were collected and subjected to rare actinomycetes isolation using different rich media. Eight selected actinomycetes were screened in vitro for hydrolytic enzymes, antibacterial and anticandi-dal activities. Based on the 16S rRNA sequencing, the eight actinomycetes isolates were categorized into four different rare genera Actinomadura, Nocardia, Nonomuraea and Micromonospora. Interestingly, significant anticandidal and antibacterial activities against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were observed. Furthermore, the actinomycetes isolates were able to produce different hydrolytic enzymes with potential industrial and food processing applications such as amylase, cellulase, protease, and lipase. Overall, the study revealed that the selected aquatic rare actinomycetes recovered from Fetzara Lake presented good candidates to be explored as new sources of bioactive compounds.

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Microbiological Research, Mar 2018

The diversity of haloarchaea associated with different dry salt lakes in northeastern Algeria was... more The diversity of haloarchaea associated with different dry salt lakes in northeastern Algeria was investigated together with their potential of hydrolytic enzyme production. A total of 68 aerobic halophilic archaea were isolated from saline sediments. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the isolates were assigned to seven phylotypes within the class Halobacteria, namely Haloarcula, Halococcus, Haloferax, Halogeometricum, Haloterrigena, Natrialba, and Natrinema. The results showed that Haloferax group was found to be dominant in all samples (30 isolates) (44%) with high diversity, followed by Halococcus spp. (13%) (9 isolates). All phylotypes are extreme halophiles and thermotolerant with the ability to grow at temperatures up to 48 °C. In addition, the screening for extracellular halophilic enzymes showed that 89.7% of the isolates were able to produce at least two types of the screened enzymes. The strains producing esterase, gelatinase, inulinase, cellulase and protease activities were the most diverse functional group. These data showed an abundant and diverse haloarchaeal community, detected in Algerian wetland ecosystems, presenting a promising source of molecules with important biotechnological applications.

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Turkish Journal of Botany, Aug 5, 2018

The prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L. Miller) is a xerophytic cactus species widely cultivate... more The prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L. Miller) is a xerophytic cactus species widely cultivated in arid and semiarid regions worldwide and used in rehabilitation programs of rangelands in Algeria since 1990. This study analyzed the diversity and functional traits of plant species established in prickly pear plantations growing under arid and semiarid climates. A three-year plant assessment (2008–2010) was carried out using ecological descriptors (Abundance, species richness, diversity indices, disturbance index, Jaccard index) and plant functional traits (life forms, chorological types, dispersal types, Grime’s, Noy-Meir's strategies and morphological types). The results revealed 36 and 31 species in arid and semi-arid rangelands, respectively, with remarkable dominance of therophytic (43.2%) and hemicryptophytic plants (41.1%) growing under semi-arid climatic zone. Shannon and diversity index showed low values (0.93-1.84 in surveyed rangelands) with a maximum of 2.74 in 2009. Disturbance index ranged between 51% to 55% and the dispersion scheme of diaspores was dominated by anemochorous plants. The chorological analysis indicated that the study plants were oriented towards a Mediterranean pattern in the broad sense. The predominant adaptive strategies of Grime were ruderal-stress-tolerant (RS), competitive-stress-tolerant (CS) and competitive-ruderals (CR) which were attached to the two strategies of Noy-Meir (aridopassives and aridoactives).

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International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, Dec 2017

This study was car­ried out to pro­vide an overview of the fun­gal load in Al­ger­ian tra­di­tion... more This study was car­ried out to pro­vide an overview of the fun­gal load in Al­ger­ian tra­di­tional baths (Ham­mams) as well as to iso­late and iden­tify the main path­o­genic fungi. Over a pe­riod of four months, ten baths were ex­am­ined and screened for fun­gal con­t­a­m­i­na­tion from sev­eral parts of the hot steamy rooms (floor, wall, door, air and mar­ble mas­sage plat­form). In to­tal, 7157 fungi iso­lates were re­cov­ered from the sur­veyed Ham­mams and the most abun­dant molds were Peni­cil­lium spp. (45.12%) fol­lowed by As­pergillus spp. (28.80%). In ad­di­tion, molds flora in tra­di­tional baths was char­ac­ter­ized by a large num­ber of hy­drophilic species like Cla­dospo­rium, Fusar­ium, Rhi­zo­pus, Mu­cor and Al­ternaria. Eight can­dida-like ap­peared fre­quently (C. al­bi­cans, C. glabrata, C. trop­i­calis, C. lipoly­t­ica, Ge­ot­richum sp., Tri­chosporon sp., Rhodotorula sp. and Cryp­to­coc­cus sp.) of which C. al­bi­cans was the com­mon iso­lated yeast (35.14%). The re­sults in­di­cate a sig­nif­i­cant dif­fer­ence (p = 0.007) in species rich­ness be­tween molds and yeasts and their dis­tri­b­u­tion var­ied sig­nif­i­cantly among sam­pled po­si­tions in baths. AN­COVA re­vealed a sig­nif­i­cant in­crease in fun­gal loads re­lated to the av­er­age num­ber of cus­tomers and mean open­ing year of the Ham­mams, in con­trast with lo­cal­ity (fa­vored or pop­u­lar dis­trict). This study in­di­cates that Ham­mams pre­sent a po­ten­tial source of path­o­genic fungi which may im­pose a real threat on pub­lic health

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Original Research Article, Nov 2015

Earthworms are important soil macroinvertebrates and are often used in assessing of soil pollutio... more Earthworms are important soil macroinvertebrates and are often used in assessing of soil pollution. The present study was conducted in order to investigate the effect of two compounds, triple superphosphate TSP (fertilizer), sekator (herbicide) and their mixture at two agricultural doses on a Lumbricus terrestris population. Neurotoxicity (Acetylcholinesterase, AChE), metabolisation (glutathione-S-transferase GST), glutathione (GSH), and protein content were evaluated as biomarkers. Treated earthworms with sekator showed a non-significant increase of protein content (P>0.05). In contrast, protein content increased significantly (P<0.0001) up to (104.75±4.75 and 109.09±5.4 μg/worm) after 72h of exposure with TSP and the mixture respectively. As compared to TSP exposure, sekator in mixture substantially decreased AChE activity. In control series, the GST activities and GSH concentrations remain stable after 72h while sekator and TSP induced the biomarker responses, which was proportional to exposure time and administered dose. Non significant correlations were recorded between AChE and GSH, GST and the protein contents in most interactions. The obtained results indicate that application of sekator in mixture with triple superphosphate could have harmful effects on earthworms since caused significant changes in measured biomarkers.

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Frontiers in Microbiology, Nov 6, 2015

Background: Honey has multiple therapeutic properties due to its composition with diverse compone... more Background: Honey has multiple therapeutic properties due to its composition with diverse components. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of Saharan honeys against bacterial pathogens, the variation of honey floral origins and its physicochemical characteristics. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity of 32 samples of honey collected from the Algerian Sahara Desert was tested on four bacteria; Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium perfringens, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The botanical origin of honeys and their physicochemical properties were determined and their combined antibacterial effects were modeled using a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM). Results: Out of the 32 study samples, 14 were monofloral and 18 were multifloral. The pollen density was on average 7.86 × 106 grains/10 g of honey, water content was 14.6%, electrical conductivity was 0.5 μS/cm, pH was 4.38±0 50, hydroxymethylfurfural content was 82 mg/kg of honey, total sugars = 83%, reducing sugars = 71%, and the concentration of proline = 525.5±550.2 mg/kg of honey. GLMM revealed that the antibacterial effect of honey varied significantly between bacteria and floral origins. This effect increased with increasing of water content and reducing sugars in honey, but it significantly decreased with increase of honey electrical conductivity. E. coli was the most sensitive species with an inhibition zone of 10.1±4.7 mm, while C. perfringens was the less sensitive with 3.9±5.4 mm. Honeys dominated by pollen of Fabaceae sp. were most effective with an overall antimicrobial activity equals to 13.5±4.7 mm. Conclusion: Saharan honeys, of certain botanical origins, have physicochemical and pollinic characteristics with relevant potential for antibacterial purposes. This encourages a more comprehensive characterization of honeys with in vivo and in vitro investigations.

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Research Article, Mar 15, 2015

In the present study, an attempt is made to evaluate the kinetics of biological phosphate removal... more In the present study, an attempt is made to evaluate the kinetics of biological phosphate removal using a bacterial consortium of activated sludge, as well as screening for dominant polyphosphates accumulating bacteria. The results showed an efficient phosphate uptake (P < 0.001) of the consortium, with rates related to the initial concentration of both phosphate and carbon sources. Short chain volatile fatty acids presented the suitable substrates for enhanced biological phosphorus removal, of which maximum yield reached 99.23% and 78.51% in basal salt medium supplemented with 0.5% of sodium acetate and lactate respectively. Fifteen phosphate-accumulating bacteria were isolated from the activated sludge and only four isolates were selected and characterized as Pseudomonas aeruginosa AS1, Moraxella lacunata AS2, Acinetobater junii AS3 and Alcaligenes denitrificans AS4. The highest efficiency of phosphate uptake using pure culture was achieved with Ac. junii AS3 (83.36) followed by P. aeruginosa AS1 (81.78%), Al. denitrificans AS4 (76.72%), and M. lacunata AS2 with 50.6%.

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A study was performed to estimate the prevalence of the external bacterial flora of two domestic ... more A study was performed to estimate the prevalence of the external bacterial flora of two domestic cockroaches (Blattella germanica and Blatta orientalis) collected from households in Tebessa (northeast Algeria). Three major bacterial groups were cultured (total aerobic, enterobacteria, and staphylococci) from 14 specimens of cockroaches, and antibiotic susceptibility was tested for both Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas isolates. Culturing showed that the total bacterial load of cockroaches from different households were comparable (P < 0.001) and enterobacteria were the predominant colonizers of the insect surface, with a bacterial load of (2.1E+5 CFU/insect), whereas the staphylococci group was the minority. Twenty-eight bacterial species were isolated, and susceptibility patterns showed that most of the staphylococci isolates were highly susceptible to chloramphenicol, gentamycin, pristinamycin, ofloxacin, clindamycin, and vancomycin; however, Pseudomonas strains exhibited resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, imipenem, and the second generation antibiotic cephalosporin cefuroxime.

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PeerJ, Mar 24, 2015

The current study highlights some knowledge on the diversity and structure of insect communities ... more The current study highlights some knowledge on the diversity and structure of insect communities and trophic groups living in Sabkha Djendli (semi-arid area of Northeastern Algeria). The entomofauna was monthly sampled from March to November 2006 using pitfall traps at eight sites located at the vicinity of the Sabkha. Structural and diversity parameters (species richness, Shannon index, evenness) were measured for both insect orders and trophic guilds. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) was applied to determine how vegetation parameters (species richness and cover) influence spatial and seasonal fluctuations of insect assemblages. The catches totalled 434 insect individuals classified into 75 species, 62 genera, 31 families and 7 orders, of which Coleoptera and Hymenoptera were the most abundant and constant over seasons and study stations. Spring and autumn presented the highest values of diversity parameters. Individual-based Chao-1 species richness estimator indicated 126 species for the total individuals captured in the Sabkha. Based on catch abundances, the structure of functional trophic groups was predators (37.3%), saprophages (26.7%), phytophages (20.5%), polyphages (10.8%), coprophages (4.6%); whereas in terms of numbers of species, they can be classified as phytophages (40%), predators (25.3%), polyphages (13.3%), saprophages (12%), coprophages (9.3%). The CCA demonstrated that phytophages and saprophages as well as Coleoptera and Orthoptera were positively correlated with the two parameters of vegetation, especially in spring and summer. While the abundance of coprophages was positively correlated with species richness of plants, polyphage density was positively associated with vegetation cover. The insect community showed high taxonomic and functional diversity that is closely related to diversity and vegetation cover in different stations of the wetland and seasons.

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Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences, Dec 2013

In the present investigation, an Algerian commonly available plant namely Cotula cinerea, found t... more In the present investigation, an Algerian commonly available plant namely Cotula cinerea, found throughout sandy desert grounds, was screening for antimicrobial activity against five different human pathogenic microbes namely, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar disc diffusion method. Aerial parts of C. cinerea were subjected to extraction using four solvents of different polarity (70% ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate and petroleum ether). Petroleum ether and n-butanol extracts had the most effective antimicrobial activity with Gram-negative K. pneumoniae demonstrating the highest susceptibility. Linear regression analysis was performed to find correlations between extract concentrations and inhibition activity. Results showed a significant increase in mean diameter of inhibition zone with increasing extract concentrations of all solvents except n-butanol. Two-way ANOVA test was used to compare the effect of C. cinerea extracts on the antimicrobial properties. All plant extracts have shown significant differences in their actions as antimicrobial agents. Indeed, the n-butanol extract at a low concentration of 0.25 mg mL-1 indicated a potent antimicrobial activity of C. cinerea extracts.

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Pathogens and Global Health , Apr 27, 2014

Background: Cockroaches are among the most common pests in public dwellings and health facilities... more Background: Cockroaches are among the most common pests in public dwellings and health facilities. Their presence can raise safety concerns, especially as they maybe carriers of pathogenic organisms.
Methods: This study was carried out to isolate and identify the bacterial flora from German cockroaches (Blattella germanica). Cockroaches collected by hand-catches from two public hospital environments in Tebessa city (Northeast Algeria) were screened for microbial load from their external surfaces and alimentary tract using standard bacterial protocols.
Results: A total of 174 bacterial isolates were isolated from 39 German cockroach specimens. The most common and abundant bacterial species belonged to the Pseudomonas group (23.5%), and Serratia (13.2%). Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus were also isolated as well as opportunistic pathogens like Klebsiella species and food spoilage bacteria such as Enterobacter and Citrobacter species from both external surface and digestive tract of the insect. Generalized linear models (GLM) were performed to analyse the variation of abundances and occurrences of bacterial isolates harboured by B. germanica. The GLMs revealed that the main factors affecting variation of bacterial diversity and abundance were sex and hospital (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings of the present study suggest that German cockroach act as reservoir and potential vector of some bacterial pathogens.

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Research article, Jul 2014

Abstract- In the present study, a total of 108 of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was isolated from Al... more Abstract- In the present study, a total of 108 of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was isolated from Algerian traditional fermented dairy products (Jben, Klila, Raib and Lben) in order to evaluate their enzymatic activities (Proteolytic, α-amylase production, caseinolytic, lipolytic) and antimicrobial proprieties. Twelve representative isolates were selected and characterized with regard to their functional properties. The retained strains were identified using phenotypic and 16S rDNA gene analysis as; Lactococcus lactis subsp lactis (3 strains), L. lactis subsp. cremoris (1 strain), L. lactis subsp. lactis biovar. diacetylactis (2 strains), Lactobacillus plantarum (3 strains), Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei (2 strains) and Leuconostoc mesenteroides (1 strain). Lactococcus strains showed the greatest degree of acidifying and proteolytic activity. However, tow strains of Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei exhibited maximum caseinolytic activity. Furthermore, low lipolytic and amylolytic capacities were detected. The enzymatic potential evaluated with API ZYM system showed that all strains exhibited high Leucine arylamidase, Valine arylamidase and β-Galactosidase activities. Selected LAB were also tested for their antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644 using agar well diffusion technique. All extracts of isolates were found to be fully inactivated by proteolytic enzymes, heat stable up to 100°C for 20 min and displayed inhibitory activity at pH from 3.0 to 10.0. Lactic acid bacteria isolated in this study play complex role in the traditional fermentation milk by their functional properties related to a specific enzyme spectrum, acidifying capacity, antimicrobial activities and probiotic properties.

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Research Article, Jul 2014

Abstract- This study was carried out to isolate and identify bacterial flora from German cockroac... more Abstract- This study was carried out to isolate and identify bacterial flora from German cockroaches (Blattella germanica) collected from dwellings and health facilities in Tebessa city. A total of 187 bacteria were isolated from 46 cockroachs pecimens. The most common and abundant bacteria species belonged to Enterobacteria group (54.54%), while pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus as well as
Pseudomonas aeruginosa w isolated with a rate of 12.83 % and 4.81 %, respectively. The results indicated that B. germanica is a possible reservoir and carriers of bacterial pathogens via their bodies and thus may spread multiple drug resistance species.

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Research Article, Dec 2013

The study was carried out in Tebessa (Northeast Algeria) to investigate antimicrobial susceptibil... more The study was carried out in Tebessa (Northeast Algeria) to investigate antimicrobial susceptibility of Salmonella isolated from poultry product and human patients. Antibiotic resistance profiles were detected against 25 selected antimicrobial agents using micro dilution method (MICs). Seventy-six Salmonella strains were selected and serotyped which Salmonella Enteritidis serovar was the most prevalent serotype. Over all, High level of resistance were noted with quinolones (nalidixic acid), non-wild types with fluoroquinolones (norofloxacin, ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin) and variable scaling values within colistin. Foodborne strains showed some trends to shift toward non-wild types with some beta-lactams and sulfamethoxasole/trimethoprim. Moreover, human serovars showed heterogeneity in susceptibility patterns indicating wide spread multi-drug resistance with quinolones, β-lactams (aminopenicillin, cefalosporin), aminoglycosides, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol. As a result, the relatively high resistance among the Salmonella lying in both human and poultry products could pose therapeutic and public health problems as potential vehicles of resistant Salmonella.

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Raw count-data of insect species: Taxonomic list of insect species with their number of individua... more Raw count-data of insect species: Taxonomic list of insect species with their number of individuals trapped during three seasons (2006) and at eight stations around Sabkha Djendli (northeast Algeria).

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