Background and Objective: Tick-borne hemoparasitic illnesses pose a serious threat to the well-being and productivity of cattle. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of tick-borne hemoparasites in Cameroon, ...Background and Objective: Tick-borne hemoparasitic illnesses pose a serious threat to the well-being and productivity of cattle. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of tick-borne hemoparasites in Cameroon, with a specific focus on the Noun and Nde Divisions of the West Region. Methodology: A total of 423 cattle from 10 villages in both divisions were included in the study. Blood smears were prepared and subjected to microscopic screening for Babesia and Anaplasma parasites. Results: The prevalence of Anaplasma was found to be 23.4%, while Babesia exhibited a seroprevalence of 17.3%. Samples from Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) and Koupa Ngangnou demonstrated significantly higher prevalence rates, potentially influenced by climate variations affecting tick populations. Additionally, 17.3% of the animals exhibited low hematocrit levels, indicative of anemia. No significant associations were observed between the presence of hemoparasite infection and cattle characteristics. Conclusion: This study provides fundamental data on the extensive distribution and impact of tick-borne hemoparasites in a significant cattle-producing region of Cameroon.展开更多
Rotaviruses, noroviruses, and astroviruses are responsible for gastroenteritis in children under 5 years old. The objective of our study was to estimate the evolution of prevalence of rotavirus, norovirus and astrovir...Rotaviruses, noroviruses, and astroviruses are responsible for gastroenteritis in children under 5 years old. The objective of our study was to estimate the evolution of prevalence of rotavirus, norovirus and astrovirus infections in children aged 0 to 5 years with gastroenteritis, after the introduction of rotavirus vaccines in Burkina Faso. This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and December 2023, collecting 100 stool samples from children with gastroenteritis at Saint Camille Hospital in Ouagadougou and the Charles De Gaulle University Paediatric Hospital. Noroviruses and astroviruses were detected using multiplex real-time PCR with a Sacace biotechnology detection kit. Data analysis was performed with Stata statistical software, version 16.0. The prevalence of norovirus infections was 14% and astrovirus infections were 9%. Rotavirus infections were found at prevalence of 15%. The age group most affected by norovirus and astrovirus infections was 0 - 12 months, with respective prevalence rates of 73.34% and 55.56%. The most frequently observed clinical signs in children infected with astrovirus were fever (77.78%), diarrhea (55.56%), and vomiting (44.44%). The introduction of rotavirus vaccines has reduced rotavirus-related infections. However, this has not significantly impacted the prevalence of norovirus and astrovirus infections in Burkina Faso.展开更多
The present study conducted in the town of Ombessa aims to assess the influence of abiotic factors on the abundance dynamics and antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis isolated from so...The present study conducted in the town of Ombessa aims to assess the influence of abiotic factors on the abundance dynamics and antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis isolated from some aquatic systems from February to July 2022, monthly samples were taken at 10 water points used by the population (8 groundwater points and 2 surface water points). Samples were analyzed for physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, pH, electrical conductivity. Bacteriological variables such as BHAM, E. coli and E. faecalis abundances were also assessed. Antibiotic susceptibility of E. coli and E. faecalis was assessed using 06 antibiotics using the Kirby-Bauer diffusion disk method. The results show that bacterial abundances were the highest in surface waters. Bacterial densities were the highest in May and the lowest in February. The average densities recorded were 3845 CFU/100mL for BHAM, 380 CFU/100mL for E. coli and 14 CFU/100mL for E. faecalis in groundwater;and 8583 CFU/100mL for BHAM, 6878 CFU/100mL for E. coli and 812 CFU/100mL for E. faecalis in surface water. Antibiotic susceptibility tests showed that these bacterial species are sensitive to Gentamicin, Chloramphenicol, Azithromycin and Ciprofloxacin. They are all resistant to Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole, E. coli is resistant to Doxycycline and E. faecalis has an intermediate sensitivity to Gentamicin. Overall, the Multiresistance to Antibiotics (MRA) indices obtained were above 0.2, indicating the presence of multidrug resistance in bacterial communities. The physico-chemical properties of the water varied over time and space, but on the whole remained below the threshold values of WHO guidelines. The degree of linkage between abiotic water variables and bacteriological parameters has shown that bacterial densities are more abundant in rainy seasons and increased O2 levels favor bacterial growth, while TSS, CO2 and dissolved nitrate levels affect the sensitivity of these bacterial species to antibiotics.展开更多
About 80% of cowpea seeds are lost along with 30% of their weight after six months of unprotected storage due to attacks by Callosobruchus maculatus. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of applying bioinsecticid...About 80% of cowpea seeds are lost along with 30% of their weight after six months of unprotected storage due to attacks by Callosobruchus maculatus. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of applying bioinsecticides on the biological parameters of C. maculatus to reduce its damage to cowpea stocks. Four treatments including an untreated control and three doses of powdery extracts of C. nigricans, Z. zanthoxyloides and H. suaveolens, were compared in a Fischer block with four completely randomized repetitions. One hundred undamaged cowpea seeds were mixed with doses of each extract in Petri dishes and then fed as food substrates to ten pairs of C. maculatus for eight days. The extracts of H. suaveolens, C. nigricans and Z. zanthoxyloides all contain active ingredients including polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins and alkaloids, etc. The extract of Z. zanthoxyloides was found to be more active on adults (100.00% mortality) followed by C. nigricans (98.75% mortality) and H. suaveolens (97.50% mortality) at 80 mg/g. Fecundity per female decreased significantly in the treated batches of 13.82 eggs for H. suaveolens at 10.12 eggs for C. nigricans at a dose of 80 mg/g. Germination rate of seeds was statistically raised to 100% at 60 and 80 mg/g by C. nigricans powder and lowered to 83.00% at 20 mg/g by Z. zanthoxyloides extracts. The application of Z. zanthoxyloides extract would be a less expensive alternative for the sustainable management of C. maculatus in cowpea stocks.展开更多
WHO strategy on traditional medicine is based on security and quality of phytomedicine. Commonly adulterated affecting mostly metabolic and sexual dysfunction drugs. Control quality of those phytomedicines requires de...WHO strategy on traditional medicine is based on security and quality of phytomedicine. Commonly adulterated affecting mostly metabolic and sexual dysfunction drugs. Control quality of those phytomedicines requires development of strategy and techniques applicable to them. Among the techniques, Reverse Phase Liquid Chromatography is the most used and has been developed in these studies to assess a protocol to characterize Gardenia aqualla leaves extract. The method consists in determining chromatographic conditions using organic and pH gradient models based on water and acetonitrile combined with pH modifiers made up of formic acid (AF) and ammonium hydroxide (NH<sub>3</sub>). Results show that extracts contain mainly acidic compounds quickly eluted by NH<sub>3</sub> and more retained by AF. Optimal pH range for separation is 3 - 7 corresponding to 1.59 mM of NH<sub>3</sub> and 6.55 mM of AF. In these conditions, elution of many polar compounds could be effective using a C18 based-deactivated column in a short period of time.展开更多
A study aimed at evaluating the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of surface water was therefore carried out in a few watercourses in the municipality of Mbankomo, located in the Center Region (Cameroon). Th...A study aimed at evaluating the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of surface water was therefore carried out in a few watercourses in the municipality of Mbankomo, located in the Center Region (Cameroon). The physico-chemical parameters were measured according to the standard method. The organic pollution index (OPI) was determined from the contents of nitrates, phosphates, and ammoniacal nitrogen to characterize the level of organic pollution of the water. The microorganisms sought were total flora, indicators of faecal contamination like total coliforms, faecal coliforms, feacal streptococci and Escherichia coli, as well as the species Clostridium perfringens. The organic pollution index indicates a high-level organic pollution level during the small rainy season and high to moderate during the small dry season. High concentrations of the total and fecal coliforms, streptococci fecal, Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens respectively of 1712 × 10<sup>5</sup> CFU/100mL;82 × 10<sup>5</sup> CFU/100mL;10 × 10<sup>5</sup> CFU/100mL;27 × 10<sup>5</sup> and 40 × 10<sup>3</sup> CFU/100mL, all higher than WHO standards, indicate that the waterways of Mbankomo are subject to feacal pollution and harbor pathogenic microflora. The cell densities of main bacteria were significantly correlated with main abiotic parameters, such as Escherichia coli, which was significantly correlated with the pH of the water (r = 0.35;p < 0.05). The variation of organic pollution index category means correspond to a high level of organic pollution during the small rainy season and a high to moderate level during the small dry season. The deterioration of the quality of these waters is favored by their proximity to sources of pollution (toilets, plantation), the runoff of the waters contaminated, the use of detergents and wrong maintenance. These waters without any treatment are not recommendable for human consumption according to standards of the World Health Organization.展开更多
A study to evaluate the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality of groundwater was carried out in the commune of Mbankomo(Centre-Cameroon)at 4 wells and 4 springs during the period from March to August.The physic...A study to evaluate the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality of groundwater was carried out in the commune of Mbankomo(Centre-Cameroon)at 4 wells and 4 springs during the period from March to August.The physico-chemical parameters were measured by the standard method.Indicator bacteria of fecal contamination,namely HAB(Heterotrophic Aerobic Bacteria),total and faecal coliforms(Escherichia coli),and faecal streptococci were isolated by the surface spreading technique on PCA(Plate Count Agar),Endo and BEA(Bile Esculin Azide)agar respectively,and sulphite-reducing clostridia by the incorporation method on Tryptone Sulfite Cycloserine(TSC)agar.From a physico-chemical point of view,the groundwater in Mbamkomo is characterized by an average temperature(24.24±0.24°C);it is polluted with organic matter,acid and poorly mineralized.It was noted from a bacteriological point of view that these waters have a high and varied bacterial load with an average value of 100.8 × 10^(5) CFU/100 mL for coliforms,16.3 × 10^(5) CFU/100 mL for fecal streptococci,5.6 × 10^(5) CFU/100 mL for Escherichia coli and 4.8 ×10^(²)CFU/100 mL for Clostridium perfringens.These concentrations are all higher than the WHO(World Health Organization)standards which are set at 0 CFU/100 mL for coliforms,fecal streptococci and Clostridium perfringens and indicate fecal pollution of these waters.Escherichia coli cell densities were significantly correlated with dissolved oxygen in the water(r=0.510;p<0.05).The degradation of the quality of these waters is favored by their proximity to pollution sources,poor maintenance and poor protection of the wells.These waters,without any treatment,are not recommended for human consumption according to the standards of the WHO.展开更多
Objective:To assess the ovicidal and larvicidal activities of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of pawpaw seeds Carica papaya（Caricaceae） on the eggs and first stage larvae（L<sub>1</sub>） of Heligmosomoid...Objective:To assess the ovicidal and larvicidal activities of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of pawpaw seeds Carica papaya（Caricaceae） on the eggs and first stage larvae（L<sub>1</sub>） of Heligmosomoides bakeri.Methods:Eggs of this parasite were obtained from experimentally infested mice（Mus musculus） and larvae were from eggs after incubation at 25℃for about 72 hours.The eggs and larvae were exposed to ten different concentrations（0.125,0.25,0.375,0.5, 0.75,1.0,1.25,1.75,2.25 and 2.75 mg/mL） of both aqueous and ethanolic extracts respectively for 72 hours.Distilled water and 0.05%ethanol used as placebo and negative control,respectively. Results:Placebo and negative control group all showed average 92%embryonnation,98%egg hatching and 2%larval mortality,and did not affect development and larval survival.The extracts inhibited embryonic development,egg hatching and larval survival.In general,the ovicidal and larvicidal activities increased with increasing concentration of different extracts.The aqueous extract was found to be more potent on eggs than on larvae.At 2.75 mg/mL,only 8%of eggs embryonnated and 50%hatched to L<sub>1</sub> vs 57%embryonic development and 79%hatching occurred in the ethanolic extract.However,this later extract was more efficient in preventing larval development producing 96%mortality as against 68%with the aqueous extract.Conclusions: These results shows the ovicidal and larvicidal properties of aqueous and ethanolic pawpaw seeds extracts.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate anti-dyslipidemic,antioxidant and anti-atherosclerogenic properties of this extract in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rat.a model of metabolic syndrome-induced atherosclerosis and associated c...Objective:To evaluate anti-dyslipidemic,antioxidant and anti-atherosclerogenic properties of this extract in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rat.a model of metabolic syndrome-induced atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases.Methods:Normocholeslerolemic(NC) male rats were divided into six groups(n=10) and fed a high-cholesterol(HC) diet for 30 days(5 groups),or normal rat chow(normal control group).Rats given a HC diet also received distilled water(disease control),the potent hypocholcsterolcmic agent with antiatherosclerotic activity atorvastatin(2 mg/kg,positive control),or one of the three doses of Zanthoxylum heitzii stem bark aqueous extract tested(225,300 and 375 mg/kg) concomitantly for four months.Signs of general toxicity,body temperature and weight,and water and food intake were monitored in live animals.After sacrifice,lipid profiles and oxidative stress markers were assessed in the blood and liver,aorta,and feces,and histopathological analysis of aorta was performed.Results:Plant extract prevented the elevation of aortic total cholesterol and triglycerides,and hepatic low density lipoprotein,very low density lipoprotein,and total cholesterol.Lipid peroxidation(TBARS) was decreased and aortic atherosclerotic plaque formation prevented.Conclusions:These observations strongly suggest that stem bark aqueous extract of Zanthoxylum heitzii has anti-atherosclerogenic properties,at least partly mediated by antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects.展开更多
Objective:To assess ovicidal activity of three acetonic extracts from the leaves of three forage legume,Calliandra calotyrsus(C.calotyrsus),Gliricidia sepium(G.sepium) and Leucaena diversifolia(L.diversifolia) in vitr...Objective:To assess ovicidal activity of three acetonic extracts from the leaves of three forage legume,Calliandra calotyrsus(C.calotyrsus),Gliricidia sepium(G.sepium) and Leucaena diversifolia(L.diversifolia) in vitro on Haemonchus contortus(H.contortus).Methods:Eggs were exposed for 24 hours to five different concentrations(0.075,0.15,0.3,0.6 and 1.25 mg/mL) of acetonic extracts at room temperature(24℃).Distilled water and 0.4%Tween were used in the bioassay as negative controls.Results:The later did not affect embryonation and egg hatching of H.contortus.Conversively,significant effects were obtained with the acetonic extracts of leaves of all three plants and the maximum activity was observed with the highest concentration (1.25 mg/mL).The acetonic extract of G.sepium was found to be more active(2.9%and 0.0% for embryonation and egg hatching,respectively) than the other substances 16.5%and 33.5%, respectively for C.calothyrsus,33.7%and 33.3%,respectively for L diversifolia.Conclusions: These results suggest that the three forage legumes do possess ovicidal properties and further studies on larvae should be carried out.展开更多
Objective: To assess the putative diuretic and antioxidant properties of Cassia occidentalis(C. occidentalis) leaves' aqueous extract. Methods: Adult rats were administered with C. occidentalis leaves aqueous extr...Objective: To assess the putative diuretic and antioxidant properties of Cassia occidentalis(C. occidentalis) leaves' aqueous extract. Methods: Adult rats were administered with C. occidentalis leaves aqueous extract acutely(24-h) and subchronically(7 d), at doses 80, 160, 240, 320, and 400 mg/kg(per os). Negative control group received only an equivalent volume of distilled water, while the two positive control groups received the diuretic drugs furosemide(20 mg/kg, i.p.) and hydrochlorothiazide(HCTZ, 20 mg/kg, i.p.). Urinary elimination of electrolytes in response to treatments was evaluated, together with changes in concentrations of creatinine, urea, aldosterone, glucose, and albumin in urine and plasma. Various urinary indicators of kidney function and plasmatic markers of oxidative stress were also assessed. Results: The acute administration of C. occidentalis increased the urinary excretion of 107.58% at the higher dose tested, compared to negative control. The reference drugs furosemide and HCTZ induced increases of 84.27 % and 48.05 %, respectively. Acutely, the extract induced Na+ and Cl- elimination, whereas subchronically an increase in K+ elimination was also observed. The extract also improved the kidney function indexes and oxidative stress markers. These effects were dose-dependent and comparable with positive control observations. Conclusions: Our i ndings strongly suggest that C. occidentalis aqueous extract has diuretic and antioxidant activities, and deserves further studies considering the potential for the treatment of hypertension.展开更多
Aim： To find an in vitro system for the measurement of the androgenic effects of different extracts of Hibiscus macranthus （Malvaceae） and Basella alba （Basellaceae）. Methods： The production of testosterone from...Aim： To find an in vitro system for the measurement of the androgenic effects of different extracts of Hibiscus macranthus （Malvaceae） and Basella alba （Basellaceae）. Methods： The production of testosterone from testes slices incubated in two media, either Krebs-Henseleit buffer containing 0.5% Bovine serum albumin （BSA） or Dubecco＇s Modified Eagle＇s medium-F12 Ham nutrient mixture （DME/Ham F12）, under a mixture of 5% CO2 in 95% air was determined either in the presence or absence of cofactors and Hibiscus macranthus plus Basella alba （HMBA） extracts. Results： The testosterone production was increased in testes slices incubated in DME/Ham F12 medium in response to the cofactors （49%） and aqueous extracts （34%-60% according to dilutions）. Under the same atmospheric conditions, there was no positive response of the testes slices to either cofactor or HMBA extract stimulation in Krebs-Henseleit buffer containing 0.5% BSA, In further investigations related to the effect of HMBA, the DME/ Ham F12 medium was used. The results obtained from the in vitro test showed that the activity was present mainly in methylene chloride and methanol, since these extracts induced an increase in testosterone production by testes slices. Conclusion： The testes slice system is suitable to be used for further in vitro investigations of the isolation of androgenic bioactive components of plants. （Asian J Androl 2006 Jan; 8： 111-114）展开更多
The impact of land use changes on watercourses is poorly documented in Cameroon. Therefore, this study examines the effects of agriculture and urbanization on water quality, the structure and functional organization o...The impact of land use changes on watercourses is poorly documented in Cameroon. Therefore, this study examines the effects of agriculture and urbanization on water quality, the structure and functional organization of macroinvertebrates of streams in the coastal zone of Cameroon. Nine sampling stations including three per catchment area with different land occupations (agricultural, urban and forest) were selected. Benthic macroinvertebrates were sampled monthly from February to July 2018 and the physicochemical variables were measured simultaneously. The urban and agricultural streams showed highly polluted waters with high nutrient and suspended matter content, whereas the forest stream waters are moderately polluted. In addition, the hierarchical ascending classification indicated a proximity in water quality between the agricultural and forest streams for which the main physicochemical variables did not vary significantly. With regards to macroinvertebrates, the forest watercourse is characterized by the proliferation of pollution-sensitive taxa, high diversity indices and complex trophic structuring, indicating its good ecological status. In contrast the urban watercourse, heavily polluted is characterized by low diversity indices reflecting a simplification of the structure of stands dominated by the pollution-tolerant collector-gatherer stands. The majority of biological indices and functional feeding groups were not significantly different between the agricultural and forest streams, suggesting a less pronounced impact of agriculture on macroinvertebrates. Our results showed that, riparian vegetation even though constituted of perennial crops, reduces the effects of agricultural inputs on streams and promotes the establishment of diversified macroinvertebrate communities.展开更多
The aim of the study was to bring scientific evidence of the curative action of the stem bark aqueous extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum (ASMa) on the sexual maturation and fertility of the immature female Wistar ...The aim of the study was to bring scientific evidence of the curative action of the stem bark aqueous extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum (ASMa) on the sexual maturation and fertility of the immature female Wistar rat. Forty immature female rats were randomized and divided into 4 groups of ten animals each and orally treated with the ASMa at doses of 0 (distilled water), 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg /BW/day for 30 consecutive days. Body weight and food intake were recorded throughout the experimental period. The precocity of the puberty onset in treated animals was evaluated through the determination of their age at vaginal opening. At the end of the experimental period, 5 animals in each group were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for hormonal assay. Their ovaries and uteri were removed, blotted, weighted and prepared for biochemical analysis. The remaining rats (5 per group) were crossed with males of proven fertility. After laparotomy (ten days after mating) and delivery, fertility and gestational parameters were recorded. It was noticed that, body weight gain increased significantly at all doses although there was no significant difference in food intake. The sexual maturation of treated animal was reduced to 5 days when compared to control. This was associated with the simultaneous elevation of FSH and LH (p < 0.0001) at dose of 800 mg/kg and FSH alone (p mg/kg. However, the ovarian cholesterol significantly decreased (p < 0.0001) at all doses while the uterine protein significantly increased (p < 0.05;p mg/kg and 800 mg/kg. The animal treated at doses of 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg exhibited an early fertilization (2 - 3 days) when compared to the control one (9 - 14 days). The number of implantation site significantly increased (p < 0.05;p mg/kg and 800 mg/kg) after laparotomy as well as the number of alive fetuses after delivery and gestational rate (80% and 100%) respectively. These results provide the strong evidence on the induction of the onset puberty and gonadotropin synthesis, the improvement of the ovarian folliculogenesis and the fertility effect of ASMa in immature rats.展开更多
Market gardening, in the swampy lowlands of the Dschangcity, plays an important role in terms of providing employment, and supply the city with fresh products. However, waterborne diseases, which occur in the city, ar...Market gardening, in the swampy lowlands of the Dschangcity, plays an important role in terms of providing employment, and supply the city with fresh products. However, waterborne diseases, which occur in the city, are both attributed to the bad quality of drinking water and sanitation practices. This work aims to characterize watering waters of crop, to assess the health risks associated with the use of these waters. Water from eleven streams and five wells used to irrigate crops were sampled and analyzed once a week for a month. Analyses focused on physico-chemical parameters (temperature, suspended matter, pH, electrical conductivity, COD, BOD5, NO-3 , Al, Fe, Cu, Ni), parasitological (helminthes eggs) and bacteriological (total coliforms, fecal coliforms, fecal streptococcus). The results show that, the physico-chemical quality of well waters generally approaches the WHO standards of crop watering water. The physico-chemical of streams waters and bacteriological quality of wells and streams waters are bad, according to WHO guide. These bad quality waters could contaminate crops, some of which are eaten raw, which is surely a cause of the outbreak of waterborne diseases in the city. The waters from streams are more affected. The pretreatment of the water before use for irrigation of vegetables is highly recommended.展开更多
Objective:To examine the magnitude and some risk factors of porcine eysticercosis in Bafut and Santa,two sub-divisions noted for pig farming in the North West Region of Cameroon.Methods: A total of 499 pigs in 300 hou...Objective:To examine the magnitude and some risk factors of porcine eysticercosis in Bafut and Santa,two sub-divisions noted for pig farming in the North West Region of Cameroon.Methods: A total of 499 pigs in 300 households were examined by tongue inspection and serologically by Ag-ELISA.Information was sought on the age and sex of the animals,prevailing husbandry systems,types of feed,the state of each pen and the state of toilets.Futhermore,a questionnaire was administered to the farmers to determine their awareness on taeniasis/cysticercosis and related factors.Results:The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in Santa(10.2%) than in Bafut(4.2%),although there was a higher level of awareness in both localities(62.3%).Age of pigs,traditional rearing systems(roaming,tethered,earth floor pen,raised floor pen),faecal disposal in the environmenl and poor sanitation significantly influenced the seroprevalence of porcine cysticercosis in both localities.Most farmers(79.7%) used a combination of concentrate, grass and kitchen waste to feed pigs.Financial loss from porcine cysticercosis was estimated at 346 900 CFA representing 2%of total income.Conclusions:Control measures advanced here include sensitization campaigns,periodic examination and treatment of infected pigs by veterinarians,improved husbandry systems,proper use of standard latrines regularly inspected by sanitary officers,and sound hygienic and sanitary practices.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the effects of Crassocephalum(C.)bauchiense(Hutch)leaf aqueous extract on the biochemical markers of toxicity,oxidative stress indicators and reproductive parameters in rabbit does(Oryctolagus cu...Objective:To evaluate the effects of Crassocephalum(C.)bauchiense(Hutch)leaf aqueous extract on the biochemical markers of toxicity,oxidative stress indicators and reproductive parameters in rabbit does(Oryctolagus cuniculus)exposed to potassium dichromate.Methods:A total of 36 nulliparous and sexually mature female rabbit does,aged 8 months and weighing 2.8-3.0 kg,were divided into 6 groups of 6 animals.After mating,group T0 received distilled water(1 mL/kg body weight),while groups T0-,VC100,AE100,AE200 and AE400 were treated with 40 mg/mL/kg body weight of potassium dichromate.In addition,group VC100 received 100 mg/mL/kg body weight of vitamin C,while groups AE100,AE200 and AE400 received aqueous extract of C.bauchiense leaves at 100,200 and 400 mg/mL/kg body weight,by oral gavage for 27 days,respectively.On the 28th daypost-co?tum,animals were sacrificed.Biochemical indicators such as creatinine,urea,alanine amino tranferase,aspartate amino transferase,total protein and total cholesterol were measured by using a spectrophotometer.Follicle stimulating hormone,luteinizing hormone and progesterone were measured by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay.Oxidative stress markers like malondialdehyde,catalase,superoxide dismutase and total peroxidase in ovary homogenates were measured by spectrophotometer.Results:Serum concentrations of urea,creatinine,alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and total cholesterol were significantly higher(P<0.05),and total protein level was significantly lower in T0-group(receiving potassium dichromate only)compared to other groups.Administration of ethanolic extract of C.bauchiense significantly decreased serum concentrations of urea,creatinine,alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and total cholesterol,and significantly increased total protein level.However,ethanolic extract of C.bauchiensehad no significant effect on the foetotoxic characteristics.The serum concentrations of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone were significantly(P<0.05)lower in T0-group as compared to the control group while progesterone were comparable(P>0.05)among all groups;C.bauchiense leaf extracts significantly(P<0.05)increased the level of follicle stimulating hormone,but the increase in luteinizing hormone was not significant(P>0.05).Catalase and total peroxidase activities significantly decreased(P<0.05),and malondialdehyde significantly increased in T0-group compared to other groups.The administration of C.bauchiense leaf extracts significantly(P<0.05)increased the activities of catalase and peroxidase.Conclusions:Potassium dichromate-induced oxidative stress involves in hepatotoxicity,nephrotoxicity and reprotoxicity.The aqueous extract of C.bauchiense leaves could mitigate these adverse effectsvia antioxidant properties.展开更多
Capparis spinosa L. is a traditionally used plant in Algerian folk medicine to treat asthma, rheumatism and other free radicals related disorders such inflammatory. The present study was designated to study the antiox...Capparis spinosa L. is a traditionally used plant in Algerian folk medicine to treat asthma, rheumatism and other free radicals related disorders such inflammatory. The present study was designated to study the antioxidant activity of aerial and root parts of Capparis spinosa L.. Total polyphenol content was determined, after extraction with solvents in five subfractions; methanol （CE）, Hexan （HE） chloroform （CHE）, ethyl acetate （EAE） and aqueous extracts （AE）, employing the ＂Prussian blue assay＂. The results showed that EAE containing the highest concentration of phenolic compounds and Flavonoids followed by those of CHE of aerial and root parts, repectively. The antioxidant protective effects of extracts were determined by measuring the erythrocyte membrane resistance to free radical-induced. The results demonstrated that all the extracts exhibited a protective effect against t-BHP induced oxidative damages in human erythrocytes, the most potents wer CEs and CHEs with 86.55%, 85.81%, 74.59%, and 68.70%, for aerial and root parts, respectively, which were more effective than used standards： Quercetin （65.46%） and rutin （59.62%）. In order to more clarify the previous antioxidants activity of the extracts through other mechanisms, the iron chelating ability assays were realized. The results showed that the iron chelating ability of Aerial and root extracts were very considerable; the CE showed an excellent chelating with ICs0 of 0.197 ± 0.031 μM/quercetin equivalent, higher than that used standard EDTA, with approximately 0.34 folds. These results show that Capparis spinosa L. extracts have strong anti-oxidant effects and may have some clinical benefits.展开更多
The untreated effluents generated by hospital activities contribute to the dissemination of pathogenic germs and multi-resistant bacteria, thus presenting a great potential danger for health and the environment. The o...The untreated effluents generated by hospital activities contribute to the dissemination of pathogenic germs and multi-resistant bacteria, thus presenting a great potential danger for health and the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and physico-chemical quality of the effluents of the Yaoundé University Hospital Centre and their impact on the environment. It was a prospective and analytical study on three sites where hospital effluents from the intensive care unit (Station A), the upstream of the wastewater treatment plant (Station B), and the gynaecology, surgery and hospitalisation departments (Station C) were sampled. Samples were collected in sterile glass bottles for bacteriological analyses and polyethylene bottles for physico-chemical analyses. The bacteriological parameters measured showed that the density of the bacterial species sought was very high at Station B with a predominance of the species Escherichia coli (57.36%). At Station A, total coliforms were very abundant (50.12%) and at Station C, the genus Pseudomonas was predominant (14.69%). Bacteria of the genus Streptococcus were represented by three species, namely: Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The Pseudomonas genus was also represented by 3 species, namely Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas maltophilia and Pseudomonas putida. The physico-chemical parameters showed that apart from temperature and conductivity, which were in compliance with the standards, the other had values higher than these standards. This study shows that untreated hospital effluent contains most of the bacteria involved in community, nosocomial infections and would be a potential source of risk to the surrounding population.展开更多
Sida pilosa Retz. (Malvaceae) is a medicinal plant used in Africa for the treatment of dysmenorrhea, lower abdominal pains and intestinal helminthiasis. S. pilosa aqueous extract and derived fractions were investigate...Sida pilosa Retz. (Malvaceae) is a medicinal plant used in Africa for the treatment of dysmenorrhea, lower abdominal pains and intestinal helminthiasis. S. pilosa aqueous extract and derived fractions were investigated for their bioactivity against Schistosoma mansoni. The aqueous extract from S. pilosa aerial parts (1.25 - 40 mg/mL) and derived fractions (n-hexane, DCM, EtOAc and n-BuOH: 0.25 - 8 mg/mL) were tested on adult S. mansoni maintained in a GMEN culture medium. Praziquantel was used as the reference drug. After 24 h of incubation, worms were monitored for their viability and egg output. The antioxidant activity of S. pilosa was evaluated by the ability to scavenge the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radicals. The chemical composition of the n-BuOH fraction was investigated by HPLC-MS analysis. S. pilosa aqueous extract and fractions significantly increased worm mortality in a concentration-dependent manner. The n-BuOH fraction was the most active with a LC50 of 1.25 mg/mL. Significant reduction of motor activity (25% to 100%) was recorded for surviving worms incubated in different concentrations of the extract and fractions. Incubation of S. mansoni in different concentrations of S. pilosa extract and fractions led to significant reduction of egg laying (52% to 100%). The aqueous extract and derived fractions exhibited antioxidant activity in a concentration-dependent manner. The highest antioxidant activity was found with the EtOAc fraction, followed by the DCM and n-BuOH fractions. HPLC-MS analysis of the n-butanol fraction revealed the presence of two indoloquinoline alkaloids. This study disclosed the schistosomicidal activity of the n-butanol fraction from S. pilosa aqueous extract. This activity is probably related to the indoloquinoline alkaloids identified in the fraction.展开更多
文摘Background and Objective: Tick-borne hemoparasitic illnesses pose a serious threat to the well-being and productivity of cattle. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of tick-borne hemoparasites in Cameroon, with a specific focus on the Noun and Nde Divisions of the West Region. Methodology: A total of 423 cattle from 10 villages in both divisions were included in the study. Blood smears were prepared and subjected to microscopic screening for Babesia and Anaplasma parasites. Results: The prevalence of Anaplasma was found to be 23.4%, while Babesia exhibited a seroprevalence of 17.3%. Samples from Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) and Koupa Ngangnou demonstrated significantly higher prevalence rates, potentially influenced by climate variations affecting tick populations. Additionally, 17.3% of the animals exhibited low hematocrit levels, indicative of anemia. No significant associations were observed between the presence of hemoparasite infection and cattle characteristics. Conclusion: This study provides fundamental data on the extensive distribution and impact of tick-borne hemoparasites in a significant cattle-producing region of Cameroon.
文摘Rotaviruses, noroviruses, and astroviruses are responsible for gastroenteritis in children under 5 years old. The objective of our study was to estimate the evolution of prevalence of rotavirus, norovirus and astrovirus infections in children aged 0 to 5 years with gastroenteritis, after the introduction of rotavirus vaccines in Burkina Faso. This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and December 2023, collecting 100 stool samples from children with gastroenteritis at Saint Camille Hospital in Ouagadougou and the Charles De Gaulle University Paediatric Hospital. Noroviruses and astroviruses were detected using multiplex real-time PCR with a Sacace biotechnology detection kit. Data analysis was performed with Stata statistical software, version 16.0. The prevalence of norovirus infections was 14% and astrovirus infections were 9%. Rotavirus infections were found at prevalence of 15%. The age group most affected by norovirus and astrovirus infections was 0 - 12 months, with respective prevalence rates of 73.34% and 55.56%. The most frequently observed clinical signs in children infected with astrovirus were fever (77.78%), diarrhea (55.56%), and vomiting (44.44%). The introduction of rotavirus vaccines has reduced rotavirus-related infections. However, this has not significantly impacted the prevalence of norovirus and astrovirus infections in Burkina Faso.
文摘The present study conducted in the town of Ombessa aims to assess the influence of abiotic factors on the abundance dynamics and antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis isolated from some aquatic systems from February to July 2022, monthly samples were taken at 10 water points used by the population (8 groundwater points and 2 surface water points). Samples were analyzed for physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, pH, electrical conductivity. Bacteriological variables such as BHAM, E. coli and E. faecalis abundances were also assessed. Antibiotic susceptibility of E. coli and E. faecalis was assessed using 06 antibiotics using the Kirby-Bauer diffusion disk method. The results show that bacterial abundances were the highest in surface waters. Bacterial densities were the highest in May and the lowest in February. The average densities recorded were 3845 CFU/100mL for BHAM, 380 CFU/100mL for E. coli and 14 CFU/100mL for E. faecalis in groundwater;and 8583 CFU/100mL for BHAM, 6878 CFU/100mL for E. coli and 812 CFU/100mL for E. faecalis in surface water. Antibiotic susceptibility tests showed that these bacterial species are sensitive to Gentamicin, Chloramphenicol, Azithromycin and Ciprofloxacin. They are all resistant to Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole, E. coli is resistant to Doxycycline and E. faecalis has an intermediate sensitivity to Gentamicin. Overall, the Multiresistance to Antibiotics (MRA) indices obtained were above 0.2, indicating the presence of multidrug resistance in bacterial communities. The physico-chemical properties of the water varied over time and space, but on the whole remained below the threshold values of WHO guidelines. The degree of linkage between abiotic water variables and bacteriological parameters has shown that bacterial densities are more abundant in rainy seasons and increased O2 levels favor bacterial growth, while TSS, CO2 and dissolved nitrate levels affect the sensitivity of these bacterial species to antibiotics.
文摘About 80% of cowpea seeds are lost along with 30% of their weight after six months of unprotected storage due to attacks by Callosobruchus maculatus. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of applying bioinsecticides on the biological parameters of C. maculatus to reduce its damage to cowpea stocks. Four treatments including an untreated control and three doses of powdery extracts of C. nigricans, Z. zanthoxyloides and H. suaveolens, were compared in a Fischer block with four completely randomized repetitions. One hundred undamaged cowpea seeds were mixed with doses of each extract in Petri dishes and then fed as food substrates to ten pairs of C. maculatus for eight days. The extracts of H. suaveolens, C. nigricans and Z. zanthoxyloides all contain active ingredients including polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins and alkaloids, etc. The extract of Z. zanthoxyloides was found to be more active on adults (100.00% mortality) followed by C. nigricans (98.75% mortality) and H. suaveolens (97.50% mortality) at 80 mg/g. Fecundity per female decreased significantly in the treated batches of 13.82 eggs for H. suaveolens at 10.12 eggs for C. nigricans at a dose of 80 mg/g. Germination rate of seeds was statistically raised to 100% at 60 and 80 mg/g by C. nigricans powder and lowered to 83.00% at 20 mg/g by Z. zanthoxyloides extracts. The application of Z. zanthoxyloides extract would be a less expensive alternative for the sustainable management of C. maculatus in cowpea stocks.
文摘WHO strategy on traditional medicine is based on security and quality of phytomedicine. Commonly adulterated affecting mostly metabolic and sexual dysfunction drugs. Control quality of those phytomedicines requires development of strategy and techniques applicable to them. Among the techniques, Reverse Phase Liquid Chromatography is the most used and has been developed in these studies to assess a protocol to characterize Gardenia aqualla leaves extract. The method consists in determining chromatographic conditions using organic and pH gradient models based on water and acetonitrile combined with pH modifiers made up of formic acid (AF) and ammonium hydroxide (NH<sub>3</sub>). Results show that extracts contain mainly acidic compounds quickly eluted by NH<sub>3</sub> and more retained by AF. Optimal pH range for separation is 3 - 7 corresponding to 1.59 mM of NH<sub>3</sub> and 6.55 mM of AF. In these conditions, elution of many polar compounds could be effective using a C18 based-deactivated column in a short period of time.
文摘A study aimed at evaluating the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of surface water was therefore carried out in a few watercourses in the municipality of Mbankomo, located in the Center Region (Cameroon). The physico-chemical parameters were measured according to the standard method. The organic pollution index (OPI) was determined from the contents of nitrates, phosphates, and ammoniacal nitrogen to characterize the level of organic pollution of the water. The microorganisms sought were total flora, indicators of faecal contamination like total coliforms, faecal coliforms, feacal streptococci and Escherichia coli, as well as the species Clostridium perfringens. The organic pollution index indicates a high-level organic pollution level during the small rainy season and high to moderate during the small dry season. High concentrations of the total and fecal coliforms, streptococci fecal, Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens respectively of 1712 × 10<sup>5</sup> CFU/100mL;82 × 10<sup>5</sup> CFU/100mL;10 × 10<sup>5</sup> CFU/100mL;27 × 10<sup>5</sup> and 40 × 10<sup>3</sup> CFU/100mL, all higher than WHO standards, indicate that the waterways of Mbankomo are subject to feacal pollution and harbor pathogenic microflora. The cell densities of main bacteria were significantly correlated with main abiotic parameters, such as Escherichia coli, which was significantly correlated with the pH of the water (r = 0.35;p < 0.05). The variation of organic pollution index category means correspond to a high level of organic pollution during the small rainy season and a high to moderate level during the small dry season. The deterioration of the quality of these waters is favored by their proximity to sources of pollution (toilets, plantation), the runoff of the waters contaminated, the use of detergents and wrong maintenance. These waters without any treatment are not recommendable for human consumption according to standards of the World Health Organization.
文摘A study to evaluate the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality of groundwater was carried out in the commune of Mbankomo(Centre-Cameroon)at 4 wells and 4 springs during the period from March to August.The physico-chemical parameters were measured by the standard method.Indicator bacteria of fecal contamination,namely HAB(Heterotrophic Aerobic Bacteria),total and faecal coliforms(Escherichia coli),and faecal streptococci were isolated by the surface spreading technique on PCA(Plate Count Agar),Endo and BEA(Bile Esculin Azide)agar respectively,and sulphite-reducing clostridia by the incorporation method on Tryptone Sulfite Cycloserine(TSC)agar.From a physico-chemical point of view,the groundwater in Mbamkomo is characterized by an average temperature(24.24±0.24°C);it is polluted with organic matter,acid and poorly mineralized.It was noted from a bacteriological point of view that these waters have a high and varied bacterial load with an average value of 100.8 × 10^(5) CFU/100 mL for coliforms,16.3 × 10^(5) CFU/100 mL for fecal streptococci,5.6 × 10^(5) CFU/100 mL for Escherichia coli and 4.8 ×10^(²)CFU/100 mL for Clostridium perfringens.These concentrations are all higher than the WHO(World Health Organization)standards which are set at 0 CFU/100 mL for coliforms,fecal streptococci and Clostridium perfringens and indicate fecal pollution of these waters.Escherichia coli cell densities were significantly correlated with dissolved oxygen in the water(r=0.510;p<0.05).The degradation of the quality of these waters is favored by their proximity to pollution sources,poor maintenance and poor protection of the wells.These waters,without any treatment,are not recommended for human consumption according to the standards of the WHO.
文摘Objective:To assess the ovicidal and larvicidal activities of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of pawpaw seeds Carica papaya（Caricaceae） on the eggs and first stage larvae（L<sub>1</sub>） of Heligmosomoides bakeri.Methods:Eggs of this parasite were obtained from experimentally infested mice（Mus musculus） and larvae were from eggs after incubation at 25℃for about 72 hours.The eggs and larvae were exposed to ten different concentrations（0.125,0.25,0.375,0.5, 0.75,1.0,1.25,1.75,2.25 and 2.75 mg/mL） of both aqueous and ethanolic extracts respectively for 72 hours.Distilled water and 0.05%ethanol used as placebo and negative control,respectively. Results:Placebo and negative control group all showed average 92%embryonnation,98%egg hatching and 2%larval mortality,and did not affect development and larval survival.The extracts inhibited embryonic development,egg hatching and larval survival.In general,the ovicidal and larvicidal activities increased with increasing concentration of different extracts.The aqueous extract was found to be more potent on eggs than on larvae.At 2.75 mg/mL,only 8%of eggs embryonnated and 50%hatched to L<sub>1</sub> vs 57%embryonic development and 79%hatching occurred in the ethanolic extract.However,this later extract was more efficient in preventing larval development producing 96%mortality as against 68%with the aqueous extract.Conclusions: These results shows the ovicidal and larvicidal properties of aqueous and ethanolic pawpaw seeds extracts.
文摘Objective:To evaluate anti-dyslipidemic,antioxidant and anti-atherosclerogenic properties of this extract in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rat.a model of metabolic syndrome-induced atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases.Methods:Normocholeslerolemic(NC) male rats were divided into six groups(n=10) and fed a high-cholesterol(HC) diet for 30 days(5 groups),or normal rat chow(normal control group).Rats given a HC diet also received distilled water(disease control),the potent hypocholcsterolcmic agent with antiatherosclerotic activity atorvastatin(2 mg/kg,positive control),or one of the three doses of Zanthoxylum heitzii stem bark aqueous extract tested(225,300 and 375 mg/kg) concomitantly for four months.Signs of general toxicity,body temperature and weight,and water and food intake were monitored in live animals.After sacrifice,lipid profiles and oxidative stress markers were assessed in the blood and liver,aorta,and feces,and histopathological analysis of aorta was performed.Results:Plant extract prevented the elevation of aortic total cholesterol and triglycerides,and hepatic low density lipoprotein,very low density lipoprotein,and total cholesterol.Lipid peroxidation(TBARS) was decreased and aortic atherosclerotic plaque formation prevented.Conclusions:These observations strongly suggest that stem bark aqueous extract of Zanthoxylum heitzii has anti-atherosclerogenic properties,at least partly mediated by antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects.
文摘Objective:To assess ovicidal activity of three acetonic extracts from the leaves of three forage legume,Calliandra calotyrsus(C.calotyrsus),Gliricidia sepium(G.sepium) and Leucaena diversifolia(L.diversifolia) in vitro on Haemonchus contortus(H.contortus).Methods:Eggs were exposed for 24 hours to five different concentrations(0.075,0.15,0.3,0.6 and 1.25 mg/mL) of acetonic extracts at room temperature(24℃).Distilled water and 0.4%Tween were used in the bioassay as negative controls.Results:The later did not affect embryonation and egg hatching of H.contortus.Conversively,significant effects were obtained with the acetonic extracts of leaves of all three plants and the maximum activity was observed with the highest concentration (1.25 mg/mL).The acetonic extract of G.sepium was found to be more active(2.9%and 0.0% for embryonation and egg hatching,respectively) than the other substances 16.5%and 33.5%, respectively for C.calothyrsus,33.7%and 33.3%,respectively for L diversifolia.Conclusions: These results suggest that the three forage legumes do possess ovicidal properties and further studies on larvae should be carried out.
基金the financing allocated for function of the Laboratory of the Medicinal Plants,Health and Galenic Formulation of the Department of Biological Sciences
文摘Objective: To assess the putative diuretic and antioxidant properties of Cassia occidentalis(C. occidentalis) leaves' aqueous extract. Methods: Adult rats were administered with C. occidentalis leaves aqueous extract acutely(24-h) and subchronically(7 d), at doses 80, 160, 240, 320, and 400 mg/kg(per os). Negative control group received only an equivalent volume of distilled water, while the two positive control groups received the diuretic drugs furosemide(20 mg/kg, i.p.) and hydrochlorothiazide(HCTZ, 20 mg/kg, i.p.). Urinary elimination of electrolytes in response to treatments was evaluated, together with changes in concentrations of creatinine, urea, aldosterone, glucose, and albumin in urine and plasma. Various urinary indicators of kidney function and plasmatic markers of oxidative stress were also assessed. Results: The acute administration of C. occidentalis increased the urinary excretion of 107.58% at the higher dose tested, compared to negative control. The reference drugs furosemide and HCTZ induced increases of 84.27 % and 48.05 %, respectively. Acutely, the extract induced Na+ and Cl- elimination, whereas subchronically an increase in K+ elimination was also observed. The extract also improved the kidney function indexes and oxidative stress markers. These effects were dose-dependent and comparable with positive control observations. Conclusions: Our i ndings strongly suggest that C. occidentalis aqueous extract has diuretic and antioxidant activities, and deserves further studies considering the potential for the treatment of hypertension.
文摘Aim： To find an in vitro system for the measurement of the androgenic effects of different extracts of Hibiscus macranthus （Malvaceae） and Basella alba （Basellaceae）. Methods： The production of testosterone from testes slices incubated in two media, either Krebs-Henseleit buffer containing 0.5% Bovine serum albumin （BSA） or Dubecco＇s Modified Eagle＇s medium-F12 Ham nutrient mixture （DME/Ham F12）, under a mixture of 5% CO2 in 95% air was determined either in the presence or absence of cofactors and Hibiscus macranthus plus Basella alba （HMBA） extracts. Results： The testosterone production was increased in testes slices incubated in DME/Ham F12 medium in response to the cofactors （49%） and aqueous extracts （34%-60% according to dilutions）. Under the same atmospheric conditions, there was no positive response of the testes slices to either cofactor or HMBA extract stimulation in Krebs-Henseleit buffer containing 0.5% BSA, In further investigations related to the effect of HMBA, the DME/ Ham F12 medium was used. The results obtained from the in vitro test showed that the activity was present mainly in methylene chloride and methanol, since these extracts induced an increase in testosterone production by testes slices. Conclusion： The testes slice system is suitable to be used for further in vitro investigations of the isolation of androgenic bioactive components of plants. （Asian J Androl 2006 Jan; 8： 111-114）
文摘The impact of land use changes on watercourses is poorly documented in Cameroon. Therefore, this study examines the effects of agriculture and urbanization on water quality, the structure and functional organization of macroinvertebrates of streams in the coastal zone of Cameroon. Nine sampling stations including three per catchment area with different land occupations (agricultural, urban and forest) were selected. Benthic macroinvertebrates were sampled monthly from February to July 2018 and the physicochemical variables were measured simultaneously. The urban and agricultural streams showed highly polluted waters with high nutrient and suspended matter content, whereas the forest stream waters are moderately polluted. In addition, the hierarchical ascending classification indicated a proximity in water quality between the agricultural and forest streams for which the main physicochemical variables did not vary significantly. With regards to macroinvertebrates, the forest watercourse is characterized by the proliferation of pollution-sensitive taxa, high diversity indices and complex trophic structuring, indicating its good ecological status. In contrast the urban watercourse, heavily polluted is characterized by low diversity indices reflecting a simplification of the structure of stands dominated by the pollution-tolerant collector-gatherer stands. The majority of biological indices and functional feeding groups were not significantly different between the agricultural and forest streams, suggesting a less pronounced impact of agriculture on macroinvertebrates. Our results showed that, riparian vegetation even though constituted of perennial crops, reduces the effects of agricultural inputs on streams and promotes the establishment of diversified macroinvertebrate communities.
文摘The aim of the study was to bring scientific evidence of the curative action of the stem bark aqueous extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum (ASMa) on the sexual maturation and fertility of the immature female Wistar rat. Forty immature female rats were randomized and divided into 4 groups of ten animals each and orally treated with the ASMa at doses of 0 (distilled water), 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg /BW/day for 30 consecutive days. Body weight and food intake were recorded throughout the experimental period. The precocity of the puberty onset in treated animals was evaluated through the determination of their age at vaginal opening. At the end of the experimental period, 5 animals in each group were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for hormonal assay. Their ovaries and uteri were removed, blotted, weighted and prepared for biochemical analysis. The remaining rats (5 per group) were crossed with males of proven fertility. After laparotomy (ten days after mating) and delivery, fertility and gestational parameters were recorded. It was noticed that, body weight gain increased significantly at all doses although there was no significant difference in food intake. The sexual maturation of treated animal was reduced to 5 days when compared to control. This was associated with the simultaneous elevation of FSH and LH (p < 0.0001) at dose of 800 mg/kg and FSH alone (p mg/kg. However, the ovarian cholesterol significantly decreased (p < 0.0001) at all doses while the uterine protein significantly increased (p < 0.05;p mg/kg and 800 mg/kg. The animal treated at doses of 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg exhibited an early fertilization (2 - 3 days) when compared to the control one (9 - 14 days). The number of implantation site significantly increased (p < 0.05;p mg/kg and 800 mg/kg) after laparotomy as well as the number of alive fetuses after delivery and gestational rate (80% and 100%) respectively. These results provide the strong evidence on the induction of the onset puberty and gonadotropin synthesis, the improvement of the ovarian folliculogenesis and the fertility effect of ASMa in immature rats.
文摘Market gardening, in the swampy lowlands of the Dschangcity, plays an important role in terms of providing employment, and supply the city with fresh products. However, waterborne diseases, which occur in the city, are both attributed to the bad quality of drinking water and sanitation practices. This work aims to characterize watering waters of crop, to assess the health risks associated with the use of these waters. Water from eleven streams and five wells used to irrigate crops were sampled and analyzed once a week for a month. Analyses focused on physico-chemical parameters (temperature, suspended matter, pH, electrical conductivity, COD, BOD5, NO-3 , Al, Fe, Cu, Ni), parasitological (helminthes eggs) and bacteriological (total coliforms, fecal coliforms, fecal streptococcus). The results show that, the physico-chemical quality of well waters generally approaches the WHO standards of crop watering water. The physico-chemical of streams waters and bacteriological quality of wells and streams waters are bad, according to WHO guide. These bad quality waters could contaminate crops, some of which are eaten raw, which is surely a cause of the outbreak of waterborne diseases in the city. The waters from streams are more affected. The pretreatment of the water before use for irrigation of vegetables is highly recommended.
基金financially supported by the Belgian Directorate General for Development Cooperation(DGDC, Brussels) within the framework agreement between DGDC and the Institute of Tropical Medicine,Antwerp.
文摘Objective:To examine the magnitude and some risk factors of porcine eysticercosis in Bafut and Santa,two sub-divisions noted for pig farming in the North West Region of Cameroon.Methods: A total of 499 pigs in 300 households were examined by tongue inspection and serologically by Ag-ELISA.Information was sought on the age and sex of the animals,prevailing husbandry systems,types of feed,the state of each pen and the state of toilets.Futhermore,a questionnaire was administered to the farmers to determine their awareness on taeniasis/cysticercosis and related factors.Results:The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in Santa(10.2%) than in Bafut(4.2%),although there was a higher level of awareness in both localities(62.3%).Age of pigs,traditional rearing systems(roaming,tethered,earth floor pen,raised floor pen),faecal disposal in the environmenl and poor sanitation significantly influenced the seroprevalence of porcine cysticercosis in both localities.Most farmers(79.7%) used a combination of concentrate, grass and kitchen waste to feed pigs.Financial loss from porcine cysticercosis was estimated at 346 900 CFA representing 2%of total income.Conclusions:Control measures advanced here include sensitization campaigns,periodic examination and treatment of infected pigs by veterinarians,improved husbandry systems,proper use of standard latrines regularly inspected by sanitary officers,and sound hygienic and sanitary practices.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the effects of Crassocephalum(C.)bauchiense(Hutch)leaf aqueous extract on the biochemical markers of toxicity,oxidative stress indicators and reproductive parameters in rabbit does(Oryctolagus cuniculus)exposed to potassium dichromate.Methods:A total of 36 nulliparous and sexually mature female rabbit does,aged 8 months and weighing 2.8-3.0 kg,were divided into 6 groups of 6 animals.After mating,group T0 received distilled water(1 mL/kg body weight),while groups T0-,VC100,AE100,AE200 and AE400 were treated with 40 mg/mL/kg body weight of potassium dichromate.In addition,group VC100 received 100 mg/mL/kg body weight of vitamin C,while groups AE100,AE200 and AE400 received aqueous extract of C.bauchiense leaves at 100,200 and 400 mg/mL/kg body weight,by oral gavage for 27 days,respectively.On the 28th daypost-co?tum,animals were sacrificed.Biochemical indicators such as creatinine,urea,alanine amino tranferase,aspartate amino transferase,total protein and total cholesterol were measured by using a spectrophotometer.Follicle stimulating hormone,luteinizing hormone and progesterone were measured by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay.Oxidative stress markers like malondialdehyde,catalase,superoxide dismutase and total peroxidase in ovary homogenates were measured by spectrophotometer.Results:Serum concentrations of urea,creatinine,alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and total cholesterol were significantly higher(P<0.05),and total protein level was significantly lower in T0-group(receiving potassium dichromate only)compared to other groups.Administration of ethanolic extract of C.bauchiense significantly decreased serum concentrations of urea,creatinine,alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and total cholesterol,and significantly increased total protein level.However,ethanolic extract of C.bauchiensehad no significant effect on the foetotoxic characteristics.The serum concentrations of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone were significantly(P<0.05)lower in T0-group as compared to the control group while progesterone were comparable(P>0.05)among all groups;C.bauchiense leaf extracts significantly(P<0.05)increased the level of follicle stimulating hormone,but the increase in luteinizing hormone was not significant(P>0.05).Catalase and total peroxidase activities significantly decreased(P<0.05),and malondialdehyde significantly increased in T0-group compared to other groups.The administration of C.bauchiense leaf extracts significantly(P<0.05)increased the activities of catalase and peroxidase.Conclusions:Potassium dichromate-induced oxidative stress involves in hepatotoxicity,nephrotoxicity and reprotoxicity.The aqueous extract of C.bauchiense leaves could mitigate these adverse effectsvia antioxidant properties.
文摘Capparis spinosa L. is a traditionally used plant in Algerian folk medicine to treat asthma, rheumatism and other free radicals related disorders such inflammatory. The present study was designated to study the antioxidant activity of aerial and root parts of Capparis spinosa L.. Total polyphenol content was determined, after extraction with solvents in five subfractions; methanol （CE）, Hexan （HE） chloroform （CHE）, ethyl acetate （EAE） and aqueous extracts （AE）, employing the ＂Prussian blue assay＂. The results showed that EAE containing the highest concentration of phenolic compounds and Flavonoids followed by those of CHE of aerial and root parts, repectively. The antioxidant protective effects of extracts were determined by measuring the erythrocyte membrane resistance to free radical-induced. The results demonstrated that all the extracts exhibited a protective effect against t-BHP induced oxidative damages in human erythrocytes, the most potents wer CEs and CHEs with 86.55%, 85.81%, 74.59%, and 68.70%, for aerial and root parts, respectively, which were more effective than used standards： Quercetin （65.46%） and rutin （59.62%）. In order to more clarify the previous antioxidants activity of the extracts through other mechanisms, the iron chelating ability assays were realized. The results showed that the iron chelating ability of Aerial and root extracts were very considerable; the CE showed an excellent chelating with ICs0 of 0.197 ± 0.031 μM/quercetin equivalent, higher than that used standard EDTA, with approximately 0.34 folds. These results show that Capparis spinosa L. extracts have strong anti-oxidant effects and may have some clinical benefits.
文摘The untreated effluents generated by hospital activities contribute to the dissemination of pathogenic germs and multi-resistant bacteria, thus presenting a great potential danger for health and the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and physico-chemical quality of the effluents of the Yaoundé University Hospital Centre and their impact on the environment. It was a prospective and analytical study on three sites where hospital effluents from the intensive care unit (Station A), the upstream of the wastewater treatment plant (Station B), and the gynaecology, surgery and hospitalisation departments (Station C) were sampled. Samples were collected in sterile glass bottles for bacteriological analyses and polyethylene bottles for physico-chemical analyses. The bacteriological parameters measured showed that the density of the bacterial species sought was very high at Station B with a predominance of the species Escherichia coli (57.36%). At Station A, total coliforms were very abundant (50.12%) and at Station C, the genus Pseudomonas was predominant (14.69%). Bacteria of the genus Streptococcus were represented by three species, namely: Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The Pseudomonas genus was also represented by 3 species, namely Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas maltophilia and Pseudomonas putida. The physico-chemical parameters showed that apart from temperature and conductivity, which were in compliance with the standards, the other had values higher than these standards. This study shows that untreated hospital effluent contains most of the bacteria involved in community, nosocomial infections and would be a potential source of risk to the surrounding population.
文摘Sida pilosa Retz. (Malvaceae) is a medicinal plant used in Africa for the treatment of dysmenorrhea, lower abdominal pains and intestinal helminthiasis. S. pilosa aqueous extract and derived fractions were investigated for their bioactivity against Schistosoma mansoni. The aqueous extract from S. pilosa aerial parts (1.25 - 40 mg/mL) and derived fractions (n-hexane, DCM, EtOAc and n-BuOH: 0.25 - 8 mg/mL) were tested on adult S. mansoni maintained in a GMEN culture medium. Praziquantel was used as the reference drug. After 24 h of incubation, worms were monitored for their viability and egg output. The antioxidant activity of S. pilosa was evaluated by the ability to scavenge the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radicals. The chemical composition of the n-BuOH fraction was investigated by HPLC-MS analysis. S. pilosa aqueous extract and fractions significantly increased worm mortality in a concentration-dependent manner. The n-BuOH fraction was the most active with a LC50 of 1.25 mg/mL. Significant reduction of motor activity (25% to 100%) was recorded for surviving worms incubated in different concentrations of the extract and fractions. Incubation of S. mansoni in different concentrations of S. pilosa extract and fractions led to significant reduction of egg laying (52% to 100%). The aqueous extract and derived fractions exhibited antioxidant activity in a concentration-dependent manner. The highest antioxidant activity was found with the EtOAc fraction, followed by the DCM and n-BuOH fractions. HPLC-MS analysis of the n-butanol fraction revealed the presence of two indoloquinoline alkaloids. This study disclosed the schistosomicidal activity of the n-butanol fraction from S. pilosa aqueous extract. This activity is probably related to the indoloquinoline alkaloids identified in the fraction.
