The Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) is a disease-resistant, high-productivity bird. It has few breeding constraints. A phenotypic characterization study of the Japanese quail was carried out in southern Côte d...The Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) is a disease-resistant, high-productivity bird. It has few breeding constraints. A phenotypic characterization study of the Japanese quail was carried out in southern Côte d’Ivoire to gain a better understanding of this bird. The study involved 298 individuals. The phenotypes were white, black, gray, and red. A total of 11 morphometric parameters were examined. Variables were significantly different between the phenotype and sex groups. The female quail was larger than the male quail. The quail was 20.77 and 4.10 cm long. The head was supported by a 5.89 cm-long neck. The tail was 3.61 cm long. The wing length was 10.42 cm, and the thigh diameter was 2.12 cm. The tarsus was 3.39 cm long and 0.61 cm in diameter. The average quail weight was 297.06 g. The quails in this study exhibit a high degree of morphological variation between individuals in terms of plumage. These results can help develop strategies for developing and genetically improving this short-cycle resource.展开更多
This study examines the socio-economic profile of livestock farmers in coastal Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 43 people were interviewed using well-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using de...This study examines the socio-economic profile of livestock farmers in coastal Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 43 people were interviewed using well-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive methods. The results showed that local Lagoon breeders are divided into two zones: southwest and southeast. Breeders in the south-western region are generally located in two sub-prefectures of the Tabou Department (Grabo and Oulodio). Tabou’s department alone accounts for 42% of the Lagoon breed in Côte d’Ivoire. Agriculture in this area is traditionally sedentary, practiced for social reasons. On the other hand, the south-eastern zone, located in the departments of Aboisso, Adzopé, Agboville, Grand-Lahou, Jacqueville, Abidjan, Dabou and Sikensi, represents 58% of the Lagoon breeding area in Côte d’Ivoire. This second group is characterised by improved breeding. Most of the farmers interviewed in this zone breed for economic reasons. However, the risk of cross-breeding, which already affects the local Lagoon breed, could be increased by the presence of other species such as the Zebu and Ndamas, or even the Baoulé, in this south-eastern herd.展开更多
Maize (Zea mays L.) is the world’s leading cereal crop, with production estimated at over 1 billion tonnes in 2022. In Côte d’Ivoire, maize is one of the most widely consumed foods, with national production exc...Maize (Zea mays L.) is the world’s leading cereal crop, with production estimated at over 1 billion tonnes in 2022. In Côte d’Ivoire, maize is one of the most widely consumed foods, with national production exceeding 1 million tonnes in 2022. Despite its importance, this crop is subject to numerous biotic constraints, including Maize streak virus (MSV). The objective of this study was to characterize MSV isolates from Côte d’Ivoire using molecular biology techniques. To achieve this, maize leaf samples displaying characteristic symptoms of MSV were collected from different agro-ecological zones (AEZs) of Côte d’Ivoire. Total DNA was extracted from the collected samples using the CTAB method and quantified with a Nanodrop spectrophotometer. The C2 region of the MSV genome’s open reading frame (ORF) was amplified through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using MSV-specific primers. The resulting PCR products were sequenced using the Sanger method. Bioinformatics analysis was performed using MSV sequences from other African countries (retrieved from NCBI) alongside sequences obtained in this study. The analysis was conducted using MEGA X version 10.05 software. The results showed that the main symptoms observed in the field included the presence of longitudinal light green streaks on leaves, stunted plant growth, and incomplete seed development in infected plants. Phylogenetic analysis of the sequences from Côte d’Ivoire revealed three monophyletic groups, with sequences of some isolates collected from the same plot belonging to different groups. The MSV sequences from Côte d’Ivoire are very close to those from Rwanda. This study underscores the need for further investigation into the genetic diversity of MSV strains to enhance the diagnosis and management of this viral disease, which is particularly prevalent in maize crops in Côte d’Ivoire.展开更多
The rise of new viruses, like SARS-CoV-2 causing the COVID-19 outbreak, along with the return of antibiotic resistance in harmful bacteria, demands a swift and efficient reaction to safeguard the health and welfare of...The rise of new viruses, like SARS-CoV-2 causing the COVID-19 outbreak, along with the return of antibiotic resistance in harmful bacteria, demands a swift and efficient reaction to safeguard the health and welfare of the global population. It is crucial to have effective measures for prevention, intervention, and monitoring in place to address these evolving and recurring risks, ensuring public health and international security. In countries with limited resources, utilizing recombinant mutation plasmid technology in conjunction with PCR-HRM could help differentiate the existence of novel variants. cDNA synthesis was carried out on 8 nasopharyngeal samples following viral RNA extraction. The P1 segment of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike S protein was amplified via conventional PCR. Subsequently, PCR products were ligated with the pGEM-T Easy vector to generate eight recombinant SARS-CoV-2 plasmids. Clones containing mutations were sequenced using Sanger sequencing and analyzed through PCR-HRM. The P1 segment of the S gene from SARS-CoV-2 was successfully amplified, resulting in 8 recombinant plasmids generated from the 231 bp fragment. PCR-HRM analysis of these recombinant plasmids differentiated three variations within the SARS-CoV-2 plasmid population, each displaying distinct melting temperatures. Sanger sequencing identified mutations A112C, G113T, A114G, G214T, and G216C on the P1 segment, validating the PCR-HRM findings of the variations. These mutations led to the detection of L452R or L452M and F486V protein mutations within the protein sequence of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. In summary, PCR-HRM is a vital and affordable tool for distinguishing SARS-CoV-2 variants utilizing recombinant plasmids as controls.展开更多
The increase and spread of bacterial resistance to extended-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics are reported in many infections and are a real public health problem worldwide. Drug pressure is a factor that favors the em...The increase and spread of bacterial resistance to extended-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics are reported in many infections and are a real public health problem worldwide. Drug pressure is a factor that favors the emergence of a population of better adapted bacteria. However, there is no literature highlighting the genetic diversity and evolutionary structure of E. coli and K. pneumoniae in an environment with high selection pressure in Côte d’Ivoire. The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity of E. coli and K. pneumoniae strains circulating at the HKB Hospital in Abobo and at the Daloa Regional Hospital and its impact on the dissemination of extended spectrum beta-lactam resistance genes. A total of 39 strains isolated from the urinary tract of infected patients, including 30 strains of E. coli and 9 strains of K. pneumoniae were studied. A total of 39 strains isolated from the urinary tract of infected patients, including 30 strains of E. coli and 9 strains of K. pneumoniae were studied. From genomic DNA extracts, ESBL resistance genes were amplified by PCR and sequenced, in addition to genetic typing by ERIC-PCR. The data obtained were submitted to genetic and bioinformatics analyses. The results have shown a genetic diversity important in E. coli and K. pneumoniae with diversity indexs (SID) ranging from 0.5 to 0.77. The genetic structure of the bacterial species studied has shown a clonal distribution of strains with clones expressing TEM-9 and CTX-M-15 variants. Also, this clonal structure was correlated with the spread of resistance genes in E. coli and K. pneumoniae. The spread of resistant clones is a factor that might limit the fight against antibiotic resistance.展开更多
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is an herbaceous plant of the Malvaceae family. In Côte d’Ivoire, okra production is estimated to be over 193,000 tons. This low production is largely due to poor soils and hardl...Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is an herbaceous plant of the Malvaceae family. In Côte d’Ivoire, okra production is estimated to be over 193,000 tons. This low production is largely due to poor soils and hardly covers the needs of the population. To remedy this, growers systematically use mineral fertilizers. However, these fertilizers pollute the environment. To find an alternative to chemical fertilization and increase production, the effect of biofertilizers (Spaawet, Retone, Super Gro) compared with NPK mineral fertilizer was evaluated on Divo, Teriman, and Djonan F1 cultivars. The trial was set up in a factorial block design with three replications. Plant height, number of functional leaves, and crown diameter were assessed at 60 days after sowing (DAS). The time to 50% flowering, production time, and fruit yield were calculated. The results showed that the biofertilizer Retone induced the highest heights and number of functional leaves, with averages of 61.89 cm and 29.88 leaves, respectively. The diameter at the crown (17.77 mm) was highest with the NPK mineral fertilizer, and the shortest 50% flowering time, with an average of 47.61 days, was also obtained with the biofertilizer Retone. The NPK mineral fertilizer produced the longest production time, with an average of 35.25 days. The highest yields were obtained using Retone (11.07 t/ha) and NPK (9.52 t/ha) fertilizers. The “Divo<sub>*</sub>Retone” interaction produced the highest yield with an average of 12.19 t/ha. The biofertilizer Retone could therefore be used as an alternative fertilizer to chemical fertilization in okra crops, given its effect on the parameters assessed.展开更多
Desmodium adscendens is a plant in the Fabaceae family that is very important to man, both agronomically and medicinally. It is an important cover crop that contributes to improving soil fertility, reducing the risks ...Desmodium adscendens is a plant in the Fabaceae family that is very important to man, both agronomically and medicinally. It is an important cover crop that contributes to improving soil fertility, reducing the risks associated with crop pests and weeds. However, very little research has been carried out into its domestication for use as a cover crop in banana plantations in Côte d’Ivoire. The general objective of this study was to evaluate, under semi-controlled conditions, the effect of different levels of shade on the growth and development of Desmodium adscendens. The studies were carried out on the experimental site of the UP-Plant Physiology Laboratory. Four shading levels were evaluated: 0 (NO), 20% (N1), 40% (N2) and 60% (N3) light levels. The Desmodium adscendens cuttings used were collected from a 3-month nursery. For each treatment, 10 tubs containing sterilized soil were used, and 50 cuttings were planted. After planting, growth and development parameters were assessed weekly on 10 plants. In addition, yield and fresh and dry mass were measured. Finally, the reproductive cycle of Desmodium adscendens was determined. The results showed that plant growth and development were greatest in plants grown under the 40% shade level, followed by the 20% and 60% shade levels. In contrast, plants in full light showed poor growth and development. The 40% shade level was the most favorable for growing Desmodium adscendens cuttings, with a cycle length of 67 days. Growing Desmodium adscendens under shade with 20% and 40% light levels could be recommended to farmers.展开更多
Context: The gut microbiota represents a complex ecosystem encompassing all unicellular microorganisms residing in the digestive tract, primarily bacteria, fungi, archaea, and even viruses. The relationship between th...Context: The gut microbiota represents a complex ecosystem encompassing all unicellular microorganisms residing in the digestive tract, primarily bacteria, fungi, archaea, and even viruses. The relationship between the host and the microbiota is symbiotic: bacteria benefit from a stable environment, while the host gains numerous capabilities in terms of digestion, metabolism, nutrition, and immunity. However, numerous studies suggest that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in various non-communicable diseases, including obesity, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, allergic and immune disorders, behavioral disorders, and even certain cancers. The objective of our study was to characterize the gut microbiota of a group of breast cancer patients by comparing it to that of control subjects in Côte d’Ivoire, using a metagenomic approach. Method: A case-control study was conducted from May 2020 to September 2023. A total of 85 women (39 cases and 46 controls) were recruited, and stool samples were collected from both breast cancer patients and healthy women. Among these, ten (10) samples from patients and ten (10) samples from healthy women were randomly selected for the study of the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota was characterized by sequencing the V4 region of 16S rRNA using metagenomic NGS technology, and bioinformatic analysis was performed using the mothur pipeline. Results: In women with breast cancer, we observed a reduction in the relative abundance of the phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, as well as an increase in the phyla Actinobacteria and Verrucomicrobia. Additionally, their microbiota exhibited lower Chao1 and Sobs diversities compared to the control women (p < 0.05). Molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) revealed a significant difference between the case and control groups (p < 0.001). This study has highlighted a significant difference in the relative abundance of major phyla within the gut microbiota of cases compared to healthy controls. It will contribute to enriching African and global data, thus promoting a better understanding of the role of gut microbiota in breast cancer.展开更多
Under normal circumstances, spermatozoa are protected from the immune system by the blood-testis barrier. The breakdown of this barrier is the origin of the synthesis of antisperm antibodies (ASA). The presence of spe...Under normal circumstances, spermatozoa are protected from the immune system by the blood-testis barrier. The breakdown of this barrier is the origin of the synthesis of antisperm antibodies (ASA). The presence of sperm agglutinates in semen is characteristic of ASA. But is the presence of agglutinates in semen necessarily linked to the level of ASA in semen? The objective of this study was to assess the concentration of anti-sperm antibodies (ASA) in normozoosperms and infertile men with azoospermia. The biological material consisted of samples of human sperms: 30 samples with azoospermia and 32 with normozoospermia. The ASA assay was performed in seminal plasma using the DRG® Sperm Antibody ELISA (seminal plasma) kit (EIA-4249). The reading was carried out using a microplate reader at 450 nm. Data analysis was performed using Graph Pad Prism 7 software. The results obtained showed that the difference in ASA concentration between these two categories of sperm was not significant, with an average ASA level of 31.54 ± 2.45 U/mL in azoospermic ejaculate and 27.63 ± 1.51 U/mL in normozoosperms. Statistical analysis showed higher ASA concentrations in azoosperms with 6.67% of these declared positive. The ASA positivity rate made it possible to distinguish secretory azoospermias from obstructive ones. Also, the presence of ASA is not necessarily linked to the presence of agglutinates in the semen.展开更多
This study assessed the contribution of climate projections to improving rainfall information for cocoa crops in the central and southern regions of Côte d’Ivoire. Particular attention was paid to fourteen local...This study assessed the contribution of climate projections to improving rainfall information for cocoa crops in the central and southern regions of Côte d’Ivoire. Particular attention was paid to fourteen localities in these two climatic zones. Simulation data were obtained from the CORDEX ensemble and observation data from CHIRPS. They cover the period 1991-2005 for the reference period and the future period from 2021 to 2050 for the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. In addition, the study was based on the water requirements necessary during the critical phase of the cocoa tree (the flowering phase) for a good yield from the cocoa production chain on the one hand, and on a selection of three climate indices CDD, CWD and r95PTOT to study their spatio-temporal changes over two future periods 2021-2035 (near future) and 2036-2050 (medium-term) on the other. These climatic indices influence cocoa cultivation and their use in studies of climatic impacts on agriculture is of prime importance. The analysis of their spatio-temporal changes in this work also contributes to providing climate services based on rainfall, to which cocoa crops are highly sensitive. Our results show that the CDD and CWD indices vary from one region to another depending on latitude. For the fourteen localities studied, the number of consecutive dry days (CDD) could increase between now and 2050, while the number of consecutive wet days (CWD) could decrease over the period 2021-2035 and then increase over the period 2036-2050. The localities of Tabou, Aboisso and San-Pedro record high numbers of CDD index and CWD index for both projection scenarios. In comparison with the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios, these results show that the RCP8.5 scenarios are having an impact on cocoa growing in Côte d’Ivoire.展开更多
In Côte d’Ivoire, the recurring and unregulated use of bushfires, which cause ecological damage, presents a pressing concern for the custodians of protected areas. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of...In Côte d’Ivoire, the recurring and unregulated use of bushfires, which cause ecological damage, presents a pressing concern for the custodians of protected areas. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of the dynamics of burnt areas within the Abokouamékro Wildlife Reserve (AWR) by employing the analysis of spectral indices derived from satellite imagery. The research methodology began with the calculation of mean indices and their corresponding spectral sub-indices, including NDVI, SAVI, NDWI, NDMI, BAI, NBR, TCW, TCG, and TCB, utilizing data from the Sentinel-2A satellite image dated January 17, 2022. Subsequently, a fuzzy classification model was applied to these various indices and sub-indices, guided by the degree of membership α, with the goal of effectively distinguishing between burned and unburned areas. Following the classification, the accuracies of the classified indices and sub-indices were validated using the coordinates of 100 data points collected within the AWR through GPS technology. The results revealed that the overall accuracy of all indices and sub-indices declines as the degree of membership α decreases from 1 to 0. Among the mean spectral indices, NDVI-mean, SAVI-mean, NDMI-mean exhibited the highest overall accuracies, achieving 97%, 95%, and 90%, respectively. These results closely mirrored those obtained by sub-indices using band 8 (NDVI-B8, SAVI-B8, and NDMI-B8), which yield respective overall accuracies of 93%, 92%, and 89%. At a degree of membership α = 1, the estimated burned areas for the most effective indices encompassed 2144.38 hectares for NDVI-mean, 1932.14 hectares for mean SAVI-mean, and 4947.13 hectares for mean NDMI-mean. A prospective approach involving the amalgamation of these three indices could have the potential to yield improved outcomes. This study could be a substantial contribution to the discrimination of bushfires in Côte d’Ivoire.展开更多
Background: Mechanisms underlying overeating-induced obesity in post-menopausal woman include functional lack of 17β-estradiol dysregulating dopamine D2 receptors, thereby inducing food addiction, glucose craving or ...Background: Mechanisms underlying overeating-induced obesity in post-menopausal woman include functional lack of 17β-estradiol dysregulating dopamine D2 receptors, thereby inducing food addiction, glucose craving or alcohol dependence through reward circuitry. This study aimed at further understanding 17β-estradiol and dopamine D2 receptors interferences in the etiology of woman obesity. Method: Seventy-two Wistar female rats weighing 200 - 205 g, individually-housed, were divided into non-ovariectomized control (C = 6 groups) and ovariectomized rats (OVX = 6 groups) which were concurrently subjected to the following treatments: Non-drug-treated (DMSO vehicle), 17β-estradiol (E2, 5 μg/kg, s.c.), sulpiride (SUL, 20 mg/kg, i.p.), bromocriptine (BR, 0.1 mg/kg, i.p.), E2 + SUL or E2 + BR, designating the 6 constitutive groups of either control or ovariectomy. Within each experimental group, consumption of different solutions (10% alcohol, 10% sucrose and water) as well as food intake and body weight were daily measured, for 10 consecutive days. Results: This study indicated that D2S was a specific inducer of alcohol and food intakes, but reduced sugar consumption. In addition, 17β- estradiol regulated the body weight set point, modulating D2S functions towards increased food intake at lower weights and decreased food intake at higher weights. D2S met the slow genomic actions induced by 17β-estradiol. Conversely, D2L inhibited alcohol and food intakes, but induced specifically sugar consumption, thereby regulating blood glucose levels and promoting energy expenditure in reducing body weight. Indeed, 17β-estradiol exerted a tonic inhibition on D2L which was released by OVX, exacerbating sugar intake and increasing body weight. D2L mediated the rapid metabolic effects of 17β-estradiol. Conclusion: Our results supported physiological data reporting that activation of the mostly expressed presynaptically D2S-class autoreceptors decreased dopamine release stimulating food intake, whereas activation of the predominantly postsynaptic isoform D2L receptors increased dopamine activity inhibiting food intake. Our studies indicated that 17β-estradiol acted on the two types of D2 receptors showing opposite functions to equilibrate energy intake vs. expenditure for weight set point regulation. Our data also supported biochemical findings reporting that 17β-estradiol induced D2 genes transcriptional regulation, thereby involving both types of D2 receptors in the etiology of obesity. The combined dysregulated effects of D2L and D2S receptors, as 17β-estradiol was lacking, would be causal factors underlying the etiology of obesity.展开更多
Background: This work aims at investigating the histology of hippocampus formation as structural model of information processing. The study addressed the question whether the pattern of cellular type distribution with...Background: This work aims at investigating the histology of hippocampus formation as structural model of information processing. The study addressed the question whether the pattern of cellular type distribution within hippocampal fields could be used as support of information processing in the hippocampus. Method: Pyramidal-shaped neurons presenting both cytoplasm and nucleus outlined clearly were measured systematically on brain slides, using a light microscope connected to a microcomputer equipped with a scanner software for measuring particles. Morphological types of cells were identified following class sizes and their distribution determined through hippocampal fields. Results: A battery of statistical tests: Sturges’ classification, class sizes distribution around overall mean, Bartlett’s sphericity test, principal components analysis (PCA) followed by correlations matrix analysis and ANOVA allowed two cellular groups to be identified in the hippocampus: large and small pyramidal-shaped cells. Conclusion: The results show that sensory information processing in the hippocampus could be built on two classes of pyramidal neurons that differed anatomically with probably different physiological functions. The study suggests combination ensembles clustering large and small pyramidal cells at different rates, as fundamental signaling units of the hippocampus.展开更多
Our previous studies showed that 17β-estradiol (E2) modulated dopamine D2 receptor in regulating body weight set-point. The aim of this study was to understand whether thiamine deficiency influenced the E2 modulation...Our previous studies showed that 17β-estradiol (E2) modulated dopamine D2 receptor in regulating body weight set-point. The aim of this study was to understand whether thiamine deficiency influenced the E2 modulation on dopamine D2 receptors, using bromocriptine mesylate (BR) and sulpiride (SUL) as selective central dopamine-D2 receptors agonist and antagonist respectively. We studied the E2-dopamine D2 receptors interferences in a 10-day thiamine-deficient female rats for which consumptions of water, sugar, alcohol and food were daily-recorded and their consequences on body weights assessed. Our results showed that the volume of water daily ingested doubled in thiamine-deficient female rats (OXT), while sugar and alcohol consumptions collapsed with decreased weight and food consumption. On the one hand, thiamine potentiated D2/BR activity (bromocriptine-activated D2 receptors) to induce sugar intake and inhibited the same D2/BR receptors to induce water intake. On the other hand, thiamine promoted D2/SUL receptors (sulpiride-inhibited D2 receptors) for enhanced alcohol intake, increased food consumption and weight gain. Taking together, thiamine modulated the actions of 17β-estradiol on both D2/BR and D2/SUL receptors activities.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate and-diarrhoeal and antimicrobial activities of the bioactive fraction of Trichilia emetica in order to provide a scientific basis for the management of gastroenteritis in Burkina Faso.Methods:To ...Objective:To evaluate and-diarrhoeal and antimicrobial activities of the bioactive fraction of Trichilia emetica in order to provide a scientific basis for the management of gastroenteritis in Burkina Faso.Methods:To do this,polyphenols content of extract and fractions were investigated.FolinCiocalteu,AlCl_3 methods and tannic acid respectively were used for polyphenols content.The in vivo antidiarrhocal activity was done using Swiss albino mice of both sexes.In vitro antimicrobial activity(disc-diffusion assay,minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum microbicidal concentration or minimal bactericidal concentration) was assessed using seven bacteria strains(Gram-negative and Gram-positive).Results:About our study,it was found that ethyl acetate fraction effective attenuation factior(EAF) elicits the higher total phenolics and total flavonoids contents compared to the extracts of leaves of Trichilici emetica.EAF of Trichilia emetica Vahl..has positive effects in a dose dependent manner against diarrhoea induced by castor oil in experimental mice.The bioactive fraction also showed good antimicrobial activity against all tested Gram-negative and Grampositive bacteria strains.It was shown that experimental bacteria strains were more sensitive to the EAF effect compared to the ciprofloxacin.Conclusions:The obtained results allow justifying the traditional uses of Trichilia emetica and possess good antidiarrhoeal and antimicrobial activities of EAF from Trichilia emetica.Results of the present study have clearly supported the utilization of Trichilia emetica in Burkina Faso traditional medicine.展开更多
In this study, the effects of the storage duration of coffee cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying on the kinetics of drying, fungi development and the variation of physicochemical content were eval...In this study, the effects of the storage duration of coffee cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying on the kinetics of drying, fungi development and the variation of physicochemical content were evaluated. The results showed that the longer coffee cherries were stored after harvest before putting out for sun drying, the quicker they dried. Indeed, the drying durations were 19, 16, 12, 10, 7 days respectively for coffee cherries put out for sun drying at the day of harvest, the second, the fourth, the sixth and the eighth day after harvest. However, this storage of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying led to the increasing to the infection of cherries by fungi. Indeed, samples of more contaminated inside were those from the lots of cherries stored 8 days after harvest before putting out for sun drying with 55.55% of the samples infected with a percentage of infected beans between 10% and 50%, and 44.45% of the samples were infected with a percentage of infected beans between 50% and 100%. Furthermore, those put out for sun drying at the day of harvest were free inside by fungi. Among the fungi isolated, toxigenic species was found. However, no relationship between the frequencies of ochratoxin A producing strains isolated and the storage duration of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying was noted. This storage of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying also led to the acidification of the cherries (pH = 5.27 - 3.6) and the degradation of their chlorogenic acids content (12.58% - 10.30%) while for their caffeine content (2.53% - 2.55%). No significant difference was observed about the storage duration of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying.展开更多
17β-estradiol modulates the activity of D2 receptors in the regulation of food intake and body weight. The functional lack of 17β-estradiol in postmenopausal women could create a dietary imbalance and cause body wei...17β-estradiol modulates the activity of D2 receptors in the regulation of food intake and body weight. The functional lack of 17β-estradiol in postmenopausal women could create a dietary imbalance and cause body weight gain. This study aimed to better understand the interferences that could exist between 17β-estradiol, D2 receptors and the selection of carbohydrate, fat and protein consumption, as well as their consequences on body weight gain by using an animal model of the menopause. Ovariectomy exacerbates the consumption of foods rich in lipids. Thus confirming an inhibitory action of 17β-estradiol (E2) on the consumption of these types of foods. This consumption stimulates body weight gain, which is promoted by the high caloric content of these foods and not by the amount consumed. Our results showed a direct involvement of D2 receptors in food choice. This choice would be made according to the two (2) isoforms of the D2 receptors. The D2/BR isoform directs towards a high carbohydrate consumption, without causing a gain in body weight. While D2/SUL, promotes high fat food consumption, causing an increase in body weight. In women, 17β-estradiol modulates the activity ratio between these two D2 receptor isoforms to ensure energy and homeostatic balance, stabilizing food intake and body weight.展开更多
The significant role of tropical forest ecosystems in the global carbon budget has increased the need for accurate estimates of tropical forest biomass.The lack of large-scale biomass allometric equations hampers the ...The significant role of tropical forest ecosystems in the global carbon budget has increased the need for accurate estimates of tropical forest biomass.The lack of large-scale biomass allometric equations hampers the understanding of the spatial distribution of tree biomass and carbon stocks and their influencing factors in West Africa.This study aimed to develop allometric equations to estimate aboveground biomass of African oak(Afzelia africana Sm.)in Burkina Faso and to analyze factors affecting the variability of tree biomass and carbon storage.Sixty individual trees were destructively sampled in four protected areas along two climatic zones.In each climatic zone,log–log models were tested and fitted to each aboveground biomass component and to the total aboveground biomass.Carbon content in tree aboveground components was evaluated using the ash method.All validated equations showed good fit and performance with high explained variance.Allometric equations differed between the Sudano-sahelian zone and the Sudanian zone,except for leaf biomass equations.Both biomass allocation and carbon content varied significantly between tree components but not between climatic zones.Carbon content in tree components followed the patterns of biomass allocation with branches accounting for the highest proportion.In the two climatic zones,carbon contents were 50.18–52.62%for leaves,54.78–54.94%for stems and 54.96–55.99%for branches.Dry biomass ranged from 509.05 to 765.56 kg tree^-1 at site level and from 620.21 to 624.48 kg tree^-1 along climatic zones.Carbon content varied from 53.90%in the Sudano-sahelian zone to 54.39%in the Sudanian zone.This study indicated that climate does not influence aboveground biomass production and carbon sequestration of Afzelia africana along the Sudanosahelian and the Sudanian climatic zones of Burkina Faso.Future studies on climate–growth relationships should contribute to better understanding climate effects on biomass production and carbon storage.展开更多
The molecular and cellular mechanisms by which alcohol produces its deleterious effects on neuronal networks are only now beginning to be understood. This review focused on alcohol-induced neurobiological alterations ...The molecular and cellular mechanisms by which alcohol produces its deleterious effects on neuronal networks are only now beginning to be understood. This review focused on alcohol-induced neurobiological alterations on neuronal network components underlying information processing, for further understanding of intellectual disability related to FASD. Abnormal neurodevelopmental events related to alcohol-damaged fetal brain included neurogenesis inhibition, aberrant migration, impaired differentiation, exacerbated apoptosis, impaired axon outgrowth and branching altering synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity, abnormal GABAergic interneurons triggering synaptic inhibitory/excitatory imbalance, reduced myelinogenesis causing injured white matter in prefrontal lobe and atrophied corpus callosum compromising interhemispheric information transfer, the whole compromising neuronal network scaffolding which may lead to biased information processing with deficits in executive function. What added to these abnormalities are smaller gray matter and reduced hippocampus, resulting in cognition and memory failures. As a whole, these developmental disorders may underlie intellectual disability related to FASD. In rodents, these neuronal network components matured mainly during the second and third trimesters equivalents of human gestation. Transferability of results from animal to human was also discussed. It was hoped that the understanding of alcohol-induced neuronal networks failure mechanisms during the developing brain may lay a foundation for prospective new treatments and interventions.展开更多
Purpose: This study was conducted in order to evaluate the antidiabetic effects of the aqueous extract of Lippia multiflora supplemented with magnesium on some biochemical markers of the kidneys and liver in type 2 di...Purpose: This study was conducted in order to evaluate the antidiabetic effects of the aqueous extract of Lippia multiflora supplemented with magnesium on some biochemical markers of the kidneys and liver in type 2 diabetic rats. Method: 7 groups of 4 STZ-diabetic rats received separately orally Glucophage<sup>®</sup> (Glu 10 mg/kg), the plant extract (LiMAE 200 - 600 mg/kg) and the plant extract supplemented with magnesium (LiMAE-Mg 200 - 600 mg/kg). After a daily treatment of 21 days, serum biochemical parameters were assayed in 16 hr-fasted rats. Results: Diabetes caused a significant (p Conclusion: The addition of magnesium to the extract of Lippia multiflora caused a greater reduction in the levels of urea, creatinine, ALT and AST increased in STZ-diabetic rats. Magnesium would therefore enhance the nephroprotective and hepatoprotective effects of Lippia multiflora in diabetic rats.展开更多
文摘The Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) is a disease-resistant, high-productivity bird. It has few breeding constraints. A phenotypic characterization study of the Japanese quail was carried out in southern Côte d’Ivoire to gain a better understanding of this bird. The study involved 298 individuals. The phenotypes were white, black, gray, and red. A total of 11 morphometric parameters were examined. Variables were significantly different between the phenotype and sex groups. The female quail was larger than the male quail. The quail was 20.77 and 4.10 cm long. The head was supported by a 5.89 cm-long neck. The tail was 3.61 cm long. The wing length was 10.42 cm, and the thigh diameter was 2.12 cm. The tarsus was 3.39 cm long and 0.61 cm in diameter. The average quail weight was 297.06 g. The quails in this study exhibit a high degree of morphological variation between individuals in terms of plumage. These results can help develop strategies for developing and genetically improving this short-cycle resource.
文摘This study examines the socio-economic profile of livestock farmers in coastal Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 43 people were interviewed using well-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive methods. The results showed that local Lagoon breeders are divided into two zones: southwest and southeast. Breeders in the south-western region are generally located in two sub-prefectures of the Tabou Department (Grabo and Oulodio). Tabou’s department alone accounts for 42% of the Lagoon breed in Côte d’Ivoire. Agriculture in this area is traditionally sedentary, practiced for social reasons. On the other hand, the south-eastern zone, located in the departments of Aboisso, Adzopé, Agboville, Grand-Lahou, Jacqueville, Abidjan, Dabou and Sikensi, represents 58% of the Lagoon breeding area in Côte d’Ivoire. This second group is characterised by improved breeding. Most of the farmers interviewed in this zone breed for economic reasons. However, the risk of cross-breeding, which already affects the local Lagoon breed, could be increased by the presence of other species such as the Zebu and Ndamas, or even the Baoulé, in this south-eastern herd.
文摘Maize (Zea mays L.) is the world’s leading cereal crop, with production estimated at over 1 billion tonnes in 2022. In Côte d’Ivoire, maize is one of the most widely consumed foods, with national production exceeding 1 million tonnes in 2022. Despite its importance, this crop is subject to numerous biotic constraints, including Maize streak virus (MSV). The objective of this study was to characterize MSV isolates from Côte d’Ivoire using molecular biology techniques. To achieve this, maize leaf samples displaying characteristic symptoms of MSV were collected from different agro-ecological zones (AEZs) of Côte d’Ivoire. Total DNA was extracted from the collected samples using the CTAB method and quantified with a Nanodrop spectrophotometer. The C2 region of the MSV genome’s open reading frame (ORF) was amplified through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using MSV-specific primers. The resulting PCR products were sequenced using the Sanger method. Bioinformatics analysis was performed using MSV sequences from other African countries (retrieved from NCBI) alongside sequences obtained in this study. The analysis was conducted using MEGA X version 10.05 software. The results showed that the main symptoms observed in the field included the presence of longitudinal light green streaks on leaves, stunted plant growth, and incomplete seed development in infected plants. Phylogenetic analysis of the sequences from Côte d’Ivoire revealed three monophyletic groups, with sequences of some isolates collected from the same plot belonging to different groups. The MSV sequences from Côte d’Ivoire are very close to those from Rwanda. This study underscores the need for further investigation into the genetic diversity of MSV strains to enhance the diagnosis and management of this viral disease, which is particularly prevalent in maize crops in Côte d’Ivoire.
文摘The rise of new viruses, like SARS-CoV-2 causing the COVID-19 outbreak, along with the return of antibiotic resistance in harmful bacteria, demands a swift and efficient reaction to safeguard the health and welfare of the global population. It is crucial to have effective measures for prevention, intervention, and monitoring in place to address these evolving and recurring risks, ensuring public health and international security. In countries with limited resources, utilizing recombinant mutation plasmid technology in conjunction with PCR-HRM could help differentiate the existence of novel variants. cDNA synthesis was carried out on 8 nasopharyngeal samples following viral RNA extraction. The P1 segment of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike S protein was amplified via conventional PCR. Subsequently, PCR products were ligated with the pGEM-T Easy vector to generate eight recombinant SARS-CoV-2 plasmids. Clones containing mutations were sequenced using Sanger sequencing and analyzed through PCR-HRM. The P1 segment of the S gene from SARS-CoV-2 was successfully amplified, resulting in 8 recombinant plasmids generated from the 231 bp fragment. PCR-HRM analysis of these recombinant plasmids differentiated three variations within the SARS-CoV-2 plasmid population, each displaying distinct melting temperatures. Sanger sequencing identified mutations A112C, G113T, A114G, G214T, and G216C on the P1 segment, validating the PCR-HRM findings of the variations. These mutations led to the detection of L452R or L452M and F486V protein mutations within the protein sequence of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. In summary, PCR-HRM is a vital and affordable tool for distinguishing SARS-CoV-2 variants utilizing recombinant plasmids as controls.
文摘The increase and spread of bacterial resistance to extended-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics are reported in many infections and are a real public health problem worldwide. Drug pressure is a factor that favors the emergence of a population of better adapted bacteria. However, there is no literature highlighting the genetic diversity and evolutionary structure of E. coli and K. pneumoniae in an environment with high selection pressure in Côte d’Ivoire. The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity of E. coli and K. pneumoniae strains circulating at the HKB Hospital in Abobo and at the Daloa Regional Hospital and its impact on the dissemination of extended spectrum beta-lactam resistance genes. A total of 39 strains isolated from the urinary tract of infected patients, including 30 strains of E. coli and 9 strains of K. pneumoniae were studied. A total of 39 strains isolated from the urinary tract of infected patients, including 30 strains of E. coli and 9 strains of K. pneumoniae were studied. From genomic DNA extracts, ESBL resistance genes were amplified by PCR and sequenced, in addition to genetic typing by ERIC-PCR. The data obtained were submitted to genetic and bioinformatics analyses. The results have shown a genetic diversity important in E. coli and K. pneumoniae with diversity indexs (SID) ranging from 0.5 to 0.77. The genetic structure of the bacterial species studied has shown a clonal distribution of strains with clones expressing TEM-9 and CTX-M-15 variants. Also, this clonal structure was correlated with the spread of resistance genes in E. coli and K. pneumoniae. The spread of resistant clones is a factor that might limit the fight against antibiotic resistance.
文摘Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is an herbaceous plant of the Malvaceae family. In Côte d’Ivoire, okra production is estimated to be over 193,000 tons. This low production is largely due to poor soils and hardly covers the needs of the population. To remedy this, growers systematically use mineral fertilizers. However, these fertilizers pollute the environment. To find an alternative to chemical fertilization and increase production, the effect of biofertilizers (Spaawet, Retone, Super Gro) compared with NPK mineral fertilizer was evaluated on Divo, Teriman, and Djonan F1 cultivars. The trial was set up in a factorial block design with three replications. Plant height, number of functional leaves, and crown diameter were assessed at 60 days after sowing (DAS). The time to 50% flowering, production time, and fruit yield were calculated. The results showed that the biofertilizer Retone induced the highest heights and number of functional leaves, with averages of 61.89 cm and 29.88 leaves, respectively. The diameter at the crown (17.77 mm) was highest with the NPK mineral fertilizer, and the shortest 50% flowering time, with an average of 47.61 days, was also obtained with the biofertilizer Retone. The NPK mineral fertilizer produced the longest production time, with an average of 35.25 days. The highest yields were obtained using Retone (11.07 t/ha) and NPK (9.52 t/ha) fertilizers. The “Divo<sub>*</sub>Retone” interaction produced the highest yield with an average of 12.19 t/ha. The biofertilizer Retone could therefore be used as an alternative fertilizer to chemical fertilization in okra crops, given its effect on the parameters assessed.
文摘Desmodium adscendens is a plant in the Fabaceae family that is very important to man, both agronomically and medicinally. It is an important cover crop that contributes to improving soil fertility, reducing the risks associated with crop pests and weeds. However, very little research has been carried out into its domestication for use as a cover crop in banana plantations in Côte d’Ivoire. The general objective of this study was to evaluate, under semi-controlled conditions, the effect of different levels of shade on the growth and development of Desmodium adscendens. The studies were carried out on the experimental site of the UP-Plant Physiology Laboratory. Four shading levels were evaluated: 0 (NO), 20% (N1), 40% (N2) and 60% (N3) light levels. The Desmodium adscendens cuttings used were collected from a 3-month nursery. For each treatment, 10 tubs containing sterilized soil were used, and 50 cuttings were planted. After planting, growth and development parameters were assessed weekly on 10 plants. In addition, yield and fresh and dry mass were measured. Finally, the reproductive cycle of Desmodium adscendens was determined. The results showed that plant growth and development were greatest in plants grown under the 40% shade level, followed by the 20% and 60% shade levels. In contrast, plants in full light showed poor growth and development. The 40% shade level was the most favorable for growing Desmodium adscendens cuttings, with a cycle length of 67 days. Growing Desmodium adscendens under shade with 20% and 40% light levels could be recommended to farmers.
文摘Context: The gut microbiota represents a complex ecosystem encompassing all unicellular microorganisms residing in the digestive tract, primarily bacteria, fungi, archaea, and even viruses. The relationship between the host and the microbiota is symbiotic: bacteria benefit from a stable environment, while the host gains numerous capabilities in terms of digestion, metabolism, nutrition, and immunity. However, numerous studies suggest that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in various non-communicable diseases, including obesity, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, allergic and immune disorders, behavioral disorders, and even certain cancers. The objective of our study was to characterize the gut microbiota of a group of breast cancer patients by comparing it to that of control subjects in Côte d’Ivoire, using a metagenomic approach. Method: A case-control study was conducted from May 2020 to September 2023. A total of 85 women (39 cases and 46 controls) were recruited, and stool samples were collected from both breast cancer patients and healthy women. Among these, ten (10) samples from patients and ten (10) samples from healthy women were randomly selected for the study of the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota was characterized by sequencing the V4 region of 16S rRNA using metagenomic NGS technology, and bioinformatic analysis was performed using the mothur pipeline. Results: In women with breast cancer, we observed a reduction in the relative abundance of the phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, as well as an increase in the phyla Actinobacteria and Verrucomicrobia. Additionally, their microbiota exhibited lower Chao1 and Sobs diversities compared to the control women (p < 0.05). Molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) revealed a significant difference between the case and control groups (p < 0.001). This study has highlighted a significant difference in the relative abundance of major phyla within the gut microbiota of cases compared to healthy controls. It will contribute to enriching African and global data, thus promoting a better understanding of the role of gut microbiota in breast cancer.
文摘Under normal circumstances, spermatozoa are protected from the immune system by the blood-testis barrier. The breakdown of this barrier is the origin of the synthesis of antisperm antibodies (ASA). The presence of sperm agglutinates in semen is characteristic of ASA. But is the presence of agglutinates in semen necessarily linked to the level of ASA in semen? The objective of this study was to assess the concentration of anti-sperm antibodies (ASA) in normozoosperms and infertile men with azoospermia. The biological material consisted of samples of human sperms: 30 samples with azoospermia and 32 with normozoospermia. The ASA assay was performed in seminal plasma using the DRG® Sperm Antibody ELISA (seminal plasma) kit (EIA-4249). The reading was carried out using a microplate reader at 450 nm. Data analysis was performed using Graph Pad Prism 7 software. The results obtained showed that the difference in ASA concentration between these two categories of sperm was not significant, with an average ASA level of 31.54 ± 2.45 U/mL in azoospermic ejaculate and 27.63 ± 1.51 U/mL in normozoosperms. Statistical analysis showed higher ASA concentrations in azoosperms with 6.67% of these declared positive. The ASA positivity rate made it possible to distinguish secretory azoospermias from obstructive ones. Also, the presence of ASA is not necessarily linked to the presence of agglutinates in the semen.
文摘This study assessed the contribution of climate projections to improving rainfall information for cocoa crops in the central and southern regions of Côte d’Ivoire. Particular attention was paid to fourteen localities in these two climatic zones. Simulation data were obtained from the CORDEX ensemble and observation data from CHIRPS. They cover the period 1991-2005 for the reference period and the future period from 2021 to 2050 for the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. In addition, the study was based on the water requirements necessary during the critical phase of the cocoa tree (the flowering phase) for a good yield from the cocoa production chain on the one hand, and on a selection of three climate indices CDD, CWD and r95PTOT to study their spatio-temporal changes over two future periods 2021-2035 (near future) and 2036-2050 (medium-term) on the other. These climatic indices influence cocoa cultivation and their use in studies of climatic impacts on agriculture is of prime importance. The analysis of their spatio-temporal changes in this work also contributes to providing climate services based on rainfall, to which cocoa crops are highly sensitive. Our results show that the CDD and CWD indices vary from one region to another depending on latitude. For the fourteen localities studied, the number of consecutive dry days (CDD) could increase between now and 2050, while the number of consecutive wet days (CWD) could decrease over the period 2021-2035 and then increase over the period 2036-2050. The localities of Tabou, Aboisso and San-Pedro record high numbers of CDD index and CWD index for both projection scenarios. In comparison with the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios, these results show that the RCP8.5 scenarios are having an impact on cocoa growing in Côte d’Ivoire.
文摘In Côte d’Ivoire, the recurring and unregulated use of bushfires, which cause ecological damage, presents a pressing concern for the custodians of protected areas. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of the dynamics of burnt areas within the Abokouamékro Wildlife Reserve (AWR) by employing the analysis of spectral indices derived from satellite imagery. The research methodology began with the calculation of mean indices and their corresponding spectral sub-indices, including NDVI, SAVI, NDWI, NDMI, BAI, NBR, TCW, TCG, and TCB, utilizing data from the Sentinel-2A satellite image dated January 17, 2022. Subsequently, a fuzzy classification model was applied to these various indices and sub-indices, guided by the degree of membership α, with the goal of effectively distinguishing between burned and unburned areas. Following the classification, the accuracies of the classified indices and sub-indices were validated using the coordinates of 100 data points collected within the AWR through GPS technology. The results revealed that the overall accuracy of all indices and sub-indices declines as the degree of membership α decreases from 1 to 0. Among the mean spectral indices, NDVI-mean, SAVI-mean, NDMI-mean exhibited the highest overall accuracies, achieving 97%, 95%, and 90%, respectively. These results closely mirrored those obtained by sub-indices using band 8 (NDVI-B8, SAVI-B8, and NDMI-B8), which yield respective overall accuracies of 93%, 92%, and 89%. At a degree of membership α = 1, the estimated burned areas for the most effective indices encompassed 2144.38 hectares for NDVI-mean, 1932.14 hectares for mean SAVI-mean, and 4947.13 hectares for mean NDMI-mean. A prospective approach involving the amalgamation of these three indices could have the potential to yield improved outcomes. This study could be a substantial contribution to the discrimination of bushfires in Côte d’Ivoire.
文摘Background: Mechanisms underlying overeating-induced obesity in post-menopausal woman include functional lack of 17β-estradiol dysregulating dopamine D2 receptors, thereby inducing food addiction, glucose craving or alcohol dependence through reward circuitry. This study aimed at further understanding 17β-estradiol and dopamine D2 receptors interferences in the etiology of woman obesity. Method: Seventy-two Wistar female rats weighing 200 - 205 g, individually-housed, were divided into non-ovariectomized control (C = 6 groups) and ovariectomized rats (OVX = 6 groups) which were concurrently subjected to the following treatments: Non-drug-treated (DMSO vehicle), 17β-estradiol (E2, 5 μg/kg, s.c.), sulpiride (SUL, 20 mg/kg, i.p.), bromocriptine (BR, 0.1 mg/kg, i.p.), E2 + SUL or E2 + BR, designating the 6 constitutive groups of either control or ovariectomy. Within each experimental group, consumption of different solutions (10% alcohol, 10% sucrose and water) as well as food intake and body weight were daily measured, for 10 consecutive days. Results: This study indicated that D2S was a specific inducer of alcohol and food intakes, but reduced sugar consumption. In addition, 17β- estradiol regulated the body weight set point, modulating D2S functions towards increased food intake at lower weights and decreased food intake at higher weights. D2S met the slow genomic actions induced by 17β-estradiol. Conversely, D2L inhibited alcohol and food intakes, but induced specifically sugar consumption, thereby regulating blood glucose levels and promoting energy expenditure in reducing body weight. Indeed, 17β-estradiol exerted a tonic inhibition on D2L which was released by OVX, exacerbating sugar intake and increasing body weight. D2L mediated the rapid metabolic effects of 17β-estradiol. Conclusion: Our results supported physiological data reporting that activation of the mostly expressed presynaptically D2S-class autoreceptors decreased dopamine release stimulating food intake, whereas activation of the predominantly postsynaptic isoform D2L receptors increased dopamine activity inhibiting food intake. Our studies indicated that 17β-estradiol acted on the two types of D2 receptors showing opposite functions to equilibrate energy intake vs. expenditure for weight set point regulation. Our data also supported biochemical findings reporting that 17β-estradiol induced D2 genes transcriptional regulation, thereby involving both types of D2 receptors in the etiology of obesity. The combined dysregulated effects of D2L and D2S receptors, as 17β-estradiol was lacking, would be causal factors underlying the etiology of obesity.
文摘Background: This work aims at investigating the histology of hippocampus formation as structural model of information processing. The study addressed the question whether the pattern of cellular type distribution within hippocampal fields could be used as support of information processing in the hippocampus. Method: Pyramidal-shaped neurons presenting both cytoplasm and nucleus outlined clearly were measured systematically on brain slides, using a light microscope connected to a microcomputer equipped with a scanner software for measuring particles. Morphological types of cells were identified following class sizes and their distribution determined through hippocampal fields. Results: A battery of statistical tests: Sturges’ classification, class sizes distribution around overall mean, Bartlett’s sphericity test, principal components analysis (PCA) followed by correlations matrix analysis and ANOVA allowed two cellular groups to be identified in the hippocampus: large and small pyramidal-shaped cells. Conclusion: The results show that sensory information processing in the hippocampus could be built on two classes of pyramidal neurons that differed anatomically with probably different physiological functions. The study suggests combination ensembles clustering large and small pyramidal cells at different rates, as fundamental signaling units of the hippocampus.
文摘Our previous studies showed that 17β-estradiol (E2) modulated dopamine D2 receptor in regulating body weight set-point. The aim of this study was to understand whether thiamine deficiency influenced the E2 modulation on dopamine D2 receptors, using bromocriptine mesylate (BR) and sulpiride (SUL) as selective central dopamine-D2 receptors agonist and antagonist respectively. We studied the E2-dopamine D2 receptors interferences in a 10-day thiamine-deficient female rats for which consumptions of water, sugar, alcohol and food were daily-recorded and their consequences on body weights assessed. Our results showed that the volume of water daily ingested doubled in thiamine-deficient female rats (OXT), while sugar and alcohol consumptions collapsed with decreased weight and food consumption. On the one hand, thiamine potentiated D2/BR activity (bromocriptine-activated D2 receptors) to induce sugar intake and inhibited the same D2/BR receptors to induce water intake. On the other hand, thiamine promoted D2/SUL receptors (sulpiride-inhibited D2 receptors) for enhanced alcohol intake, increased food consumption and weight gain. Taking together, thiamine modulated the actions of 17β-estradiol on both D2/BR and D2/SUL receptors activities.
基金supported by the European Community under the project no.26220220180:"Construction of the"AgroBioTcch"Research Centre"
文摘Objective:To evaluate and-diarrhoeal and antimicrobial activities of the bioactive fraction of Trichilia emetica in order to provide a scientific basis for the management of gastroenteritis in Burkina Faso.Methods:To do this,polyphenols content of extract and fractions were investigated.FolinCiocalteu,AlCl_3 methods and tannic acid respectively were used for polyphenols content.The in vivo antidiarrhocal activity was done using Swiss albino mice of both sexes.In vitro antimicrobial activity(disc-diffusion assay,minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum microbicidal concentration or minimal bactericidal concentration) was assessed using seven bacteria strains(Gram-negative and Gram-positive).Results:About our study,it was found that ethyl acetate fraction effective attenuation factior(EAF) elicits the higher total phenolics and total flavonoids contents compared to the extracts of leaves of Trichilici emetica.EAF of Trichilia emetica Vahl..has positive effects in a dose dependent manner against diarrhoea induced by castor oil in experimental mice.The bioactive fraction also showed good antimicrobial activity against all tested Gram-negative and Grampositive bacteria strains.It was shown that experimental bacteria strains were more sensitive to the EAF effect compared to the ciprofloxacin.Conclusions:The obtained results allow justifying the traditional uses of Trichilia emetica and possess good antidiarrhoeal and antimicrobial activities of EAF from Trichilia emetica.Results of the present study have clearly supported the utilization of Trichilia emetica in Burkina Faso traditional medicine.
文摘In this study, the effects of the storage duration of coffee cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying on the kinetics of drying, fungi development and the variation of physicochemical content were evaluated. The results showed that the longer coffee cherries were stored after harvest before putting out for sun drying, the quicker they dried. Indeed, the drying durations were 19, 16, 12, 10, 7 days respectively for coffee cherries put out for sun drying at the day of harvest, the second, the fourth, the sixth and the eighth day after harvest. However, this storage of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying led to the increasing to the infection of cherries by fungi. Indeed, samples of more contaminated inside were those from the lots of cherries stored 8 days after harvest before putting out for sun drying with 55.55% of the samples infected with a percentage of infected beans between 10% and 50%, and 44.45% of the samples were infected with a percentage of infected beans between 50% and 100%. Furthermore, those put out for sun drying at the day of harvest were free inside by fungi. Among the fungi isolated, toxigenic species was found. However, no relationship between the frequencies of ochratoxin A producing strains isolated and the storage duration of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying was noted. This storage of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying also led to the acidification of the cherries (pH = 5.27 - 3.6) and the degradation of their chlorogenic acids content (12.58% - 10.30%) while for their caffeine content (2.53% - 2.55%). No significant difference was observed about the storage duration of the cherries after harvest before putting out for sun drying.
文摘17β-estradiol modulates the activity of D2 receptors in the regulation of food intake and body weight. The functional lack of 17β-estradiol in postmenopausal women could create a dietary imbalance and cause body weight gain. This study aimed to better understand the interferences that could exist between 17β-estradiol, D2 receptors and the selection of carbohydrate, fat and protein consumption, as well as their consequences on body weight gain by using an animal model of the menopause. Ovariectomy exacerbates the consumption of foods rich in lipids. Thus confirming an inhibitory action of 17β-estradiol (E2) on the consumption of these types of foods. This consumption stimulates body weight gain, which is promoted by the high caloric content of these foods and not by the amount consumed. Our results showed a direct involvement of D2 receptors in food choice. This choice would be made according to the two (2) isoforms of the D2 receptors. The D2/BR isoform directs towards a high carbohydrate consumption, without causing a gain in body weight. While D2/SUL, promotes high fat food consumption, causing an increase in body weight. In women, 17β-estradiol modulates the activity ratio between these two D2 receptor isoforms to ensure energy and homeostatic balance, stabilizing food intake and body weight.
基金funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) through the West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) program。
文摘The significant role of tropical forest ecosystems in the global carbon budget has increased the need for accurate estimates of tropical forest biomass.The lack of large-scale biomass allometric equations hampers the understanding of the spatial distribution of tree biomass and carbon stocks and their influencing factors in West Africa.This study aimed to develop allometric equations to estimate aboveground biomass of African oak(Afzelia africana Sm.)in Burkina Faso and to analyze factors affecting the variability of tree biomass and carbon storage.Sixty individual trees were destructively sampled in four protected areas along two climatic zones.In each climatic zone,log–log models were tested and fitted to each aboveground biomass component and to the total aboveground biomass.Carbon content in tree aboveground components was evaluated using the ash method.All validated equations showed good fit and performance with high explained variance.Allometric equations differed between the Sudano-sahelian zone and the Sudanian zone,except for leaf biomass equations.Both biomass allocation and carbon content varied significantly between tree components but not between climatic zones.Carbon content in tree components followed the patterns of biomass allocation with branches accounting for the highest proportion.In the two climatic zones,carbon contents were 50.18–52.62%for leaves,54.78–54.94%for stems and 54.96–55.99%for branches.Dry biomass ranged from 509.05 to 765.56 kg tree^-1 at site level and from 620.21 to 624.48 kg tree^-1 along climatic zones.Carbon content varied from 53.90%in the Sudano-sahelian zone to 54.39%in the Sudanian zone.This study indicated that climate does not influence aboveground biomass production and carbon sequestration of Afzelia africana along the Sudanosahelian and the Sudanian climatic zones of Burkina Faso.Future studies on climate–growth relationships should contribute to better understanding climate effects on biomass production and carbon storage.
文摘The molecular and cellular mechanisms by which alcohol produces its deleterious effects on neuronal networks are only now beginning to be understood. This review focused on alcohol-induced neurobiological alterations on neuronal network components underlying information processing, for further understanding of intellectual disability related to FASD. Abnormal neurodevelopmental events related to alcohol-damaged fetal brain included neurogenesis inhibition, aberrant migration, impaired differentiation, exacerbated apoptosis, impaired axon outgrowth and branching altering synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity, abnormal GABAergic interneurons triggering synaptic inhibitory/excitatory imbalance, reduced myelinogenesis causing injured white matter in prefrontal lobe and atrophied corpus callosum compromising interhemispheric information transfer, the whole compromising neuronal network scaffolding which may lead to biased information processing with deficits in executive function. What added to these abnormalities are smaller gray matter and reduced hippocampus, resulting in cognition and memory failures. As a whole, these developmental disorders may underlie intellectual disability related to FASD. In rodents, these neuronal network components matured mainly during the second and third trimesters equivalents of human gestation. Transferability of results from animal to human was also discussed. It was hoped that the understanding of alcohol-induced neuronal networks failure mechanisms during the developing brain may lay a foundation for prospective new treatments and interventions.
文摘Purpose: This study was conducted in order to evaluate the antidiabetic effects of the aqueous extract of Lippia multiflora supplemented with magnesium on some biochemical markers of the kidneys and liver in type 2 diabetic rats. Method: 7 groups of 4 STZ-diabetic rats received separately orally Glucophage<sup>®</sup> (Glu 10 mg/kg), the plant extract (LiMAE 200 - 600 mg/kg) and the plant extract supplemented with magnesium (LiMAE-Mg 200 - 600 mg/kg). After a daily treatment of 21 days, serum biochemical parameters were assayed in 16 hr-fasted rats. Results: Diabetes caused a significant (p Conclusion: The addition of magnesium to the extract of Lippia multiflora caused a greater reduction in the levels of urea, creatinine, ALT and AST increased in STZ-diabetic rats. Magnesium would therefore enhance the nephroprotective and hepatoprotective effects of Lippia multiflora in diabetic rats.
