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Enzymatic hydrolysis to produce nanocellulose in an integrated forest biorefinery strategy. A review. Introduction. In a world that seeks to break free from petrochemicals, the concept of forest biomass biorefinery is increasingly being studied as a way to maximize the value of the components of this biomass. Due to the high added value expected when transforming cellulose fibers into nanocellulose, this technology is highly attractive to the pulp and paper industrial world. Literature. The concept of integrated forest biorefinery is to adapt existing pulp mills so as to maximize the value of the co-products. Through the use of various methods, two types of nanocellulose may be obtained from the cellulose in the pulp. Due to its production of valuable byproducts, enzymatic hydrolysis is an interesting method to use for this purpose, but it must be combined with mechanical post-treatments. The production of nanocellulose from chemical pulp takes place in the final step of pulp production, and could be implemented without modifying the existing mills. The economic viability of this mode of production and the potential market size are the subject of recent studies that appear encouraging. Conclusions. Nanocellulose is a promising biomaterial whose field of application continues to grow. Cellulose in wood pulp can be used as a raw material for the production of nanocellulose using enzymatic pre-treatments that generate valuable co-products. This process can be integrated into a conventional chemical pulp mill and constitutes a broadening of the products available to the pulp and paper industry.

The paper discusses the results of a study that highlights the importance of modern biotechnological processes in the framework of sustainable development by analyzing the activities of several international corporations. It is shown that the implementation of the principles of justice and ethics in this context is identified as one of the key challenges for the global community. The paper discusses in detail the concept of the bio-based circular economy, which is already being applied in the EU countries, although with varying degrees of success in long-term operations. It is determined that green project management plays a key role in the implementation of this concept. Particular attention is paid to the impact of the biotechnology industry on the environmental situation. It is established that materials produced with the use of biotechnology can have a negative impact on the environment. An important aspect is also the sustainability of technologies, which implies not only their natural changes but also the ability to adapt to new standards of use. In the context of highlighting these aspects, the article points out the need for further research and development of strategies aimed at effective management of environmentally friendly technologies as well as ensuring their sustainable effectiveness in the long term. The paper presents the results of a study on the role of modern biotechnological processes in the context of sustainable development on the example of a number of international corporations. The concept of the bio-based circular economy, which has been promoted in the EU member countries, although with varying degrees of success in long-term operations, is considered. It is established that the management of “green” projects plays a key role in this context.

CRISPR is currently viewed as the central tool for future gene therapy. Yet, many prominent scientists and bioethicists have expressed ethical concerns around CRISPR gene therapy. This paper provides a critical review of concerns about CRISPR gene therapy as expressed in the mainstream academic literature, paired with replies also generally found in that literature. The expressed concerns can be categorised into three types depending on whether they stress risk/benefit ratio, autonomy and informed consent, or concerns related to various aspects of justice. In the reviewed literature, we found no intrinsic objections to CRISPR gene therapy, even though many such objections were present in discussions of gene editing in the 1990s. The paper then proposes a brief outline for a practically applicable moral framework for public decision-making about CRISPR gene therapy and suggests how such a framework might be supported. We also suggest that this framework should govern public engagement about CRISPR gene therapy in order to reduce the risk that we make decisions about CRISPR gene therapy based on misperceptions, inflated views of risk, or unreasonable moral or religious views.

Following the path established in Serbian anthropology by the subdiscipline of the anthropology of film, as well as the anthropological "section" for the study of science fiction, the analytical focus of this paper is the film Men and Chicken. Contrary to critics who saw in this film "an unreadable, morbid and cynical postmodern horror", the basic thesis of this paper is that the film helps us not only to question public ideas about science, but also to shed light on the hopes, fears and conceptual dilemmas caused by the advance of biotechnologies. It helps us to, using a product of popular culture close to the experience of the general public, analyze the way in which the imaginarium of the film deals with the "paradox at the heart" of western thought - the simultaneous claim that humans are animals and that animality is the polar opposite of what we hold to be human. The paradox in question need not be an intellectual chew toy for a bored mind, nor an opportunity for demonstrating the wondrous power of an analytical process of Levi-Straussian calibre, rather a very relevant question in current institutional and public discussions on creating hybrid embryos/species at the heart of which are attempts to establish the biological, moral and cultural status of humans, non-humans and hybrids.

Description of the subject. Understanding the current situation and evolution of forests is essential for a sustainable management plan that maintains forests' ecological and socio-economic functions. Remote sensing is a helpful tool in developing this knowledge. Objectives. This paper investigates the new opportunities offered by using Sentinel-2 (S2) imagery for forest mapping in Belgian Ardenne ecoregion. The first classification objective was to create a forest map at the regional scale. The second objective was the discrimination of 11 forest classes (Fagus sylvatica L., Betula sp., Quercus sp., other broad-leaved stands, Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco, Larix sp., Pinus sylvestris L., Picea abies (L.) H.Karst., young needle-leaved stands, other needle-leaved stands, and recent clear-cuts). Method. Two S2 scenes were used and a series of spectral indices were computed for each. We applied supervised pixel-based classifications with a Random Forest classifier. The classification models were processed with a pure S2 dataset and with additional 3D data to compare obtained precisions. Results. 3D data slightly improved the precision of each objective, but the overall improvement in accuracy was only significant for objective 1. The produced forest map had an overall accuracy of 93.3%. However, the model testing tree species discrimination was also encouraging, with an overall accuracy of 88.9%. Conclusions. Because of the simple analyses done in this study, results need to be interpreted with caution. However, this paper confirms the great potential of S2 imagery, particularly SWIR and red-edge bands, which are the most important S2 bands in our study.

Description of the subject. The paper presents and discusses a method for fractionating bulk soil organic carbon (SOC) in meaningful SOC fractions to better assess SOC status and its related soil ecosystem functions. Objectives. The objective is to perform an evaluation of ecosystem functions of soil organic matter at plot scale and compare it to the normal operative range of the local agro-ecological region. Method. By separating carbon associated with clay and fine silt particles (stable carbon with slow turnover rate, < 20 µm) and carbon non-associated with this fraction (labile and intermediate carbon with higher turnover rates, ≥ 20 µm), effects of management can be detected more efficiently at different scales. Conclusions. Soil organic carbon fractions, used as proxies for soil ecosystem functions, can be helpful because they represent SOC functional pools. This paper proposes to apply fractionation on samples taken at plot and regional scale. It is therefore possible to establish a normal operative range for a specific agro-region for comparison with the values in individual plots. This allows drawing a baseline for SOC fractions status in a specific agricultural unit. This approach provides valuable information to study and evaluate the impact of agricultural management in the context of enhancing soil quality and functions.

In Plato's work, technè (know-how) opposes to épistèmè (theoretical science which depends on the power of the mind). Technology today is technoscience, the knowledge par excellence, the materialized science of modern times. If the Rousseau's Discours criticizes illusions of progress, it is in the 20th and 21st centuries that criticism of the technique takes its philosophical dimension and this kind of philosophical and ethical debate makes the purpose of this paper. We live in an era of biotechnological discoveries which raise moral and ethical issues about the nature of life, the notion of "species," the instrumentalization and appropriation what is alive by humans. The Genetic genius and biotechnology are revolutionizing the planet. But how far should it be considered a "research activity"? What are the "fundamental ethical principles"? Paul Valéry is against the science experiments and manipulations that transform nature. Trivializing life, it will end to be considered a mechanic, as a set of chemical reactions. Without doubt, the revolution of transgenic products raises passions and polemics. Without demonizing science and technology, one should instead consider the status of new biotechnologies and the problems they pose. The technical choices imply consequences; it is more important than ever, to find transdisciplinary paths of a science and technology to be at the service of men and of tomorrow's society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO2 measurement and carbon sequestration in West African terrestrial ecosystems. A review. Introduction. In West Africa, as elsewhere in other parts of the world, preserving terrestrial ecosystems has proven essential to any emissions mitigation policy for greenhouse gases, notably carbon dioxide. A meaningful assessment of the contribution of a given region to the global carbon cycle implies the need to think in terms of balance, taking into account the totality of the carbon export and import within the ecosystems. Literature. This review, based on the results of a small number of published and unpublished studies focusing on West African ecosystems, has as its main objective the assessment of the importance of carbon exchange. Carbon fluxes appear to be spatially highly variable in the West African region, mainly due to the variability of the types of vegetation, approaches to ecosystem management, and edaphic and climatic conditions. The mean annual precipitation appears to be the main factor controlling plant respiration and photosynthesis in this region. Annual cumulated NEE has been positively correlated with the rate of photosynthesis, and has been shown to account for 71% of its spatial variability at the annual scale. This paper also confirms the presence of carbon sink behavior for considered ecosystems in the West Africa with an annual average carbon sequestration of -2.0 ± 1.5 t C·ha-1 and highlights the need to improve understanding of factors or mechanisms controlling the carbon exchange between the ecosystems and the atmosphere. Conclusions. Based on these results, which were collected on a very limited number of sites, it appears necessary to continue with the measurement of carbon fluxes in the long term at the ecosystem scale in order to better appreciate the temporal and spatial variabilities, especially on a seasonal and inter-annual basis. This paper highlights the need to extend eddy covariance measurements to other vegetation types in this region in order to facilitate studies comparing the different ecosystems. This could be used as a basis for the recommendation of more sustainable management strategies favoring carbon sequestration while limiting emission levels.

Introduction. Phosphorus (P) is an essential element for plant growth. Therefore, it is essential to accurately evaluate its content in the soil. This requires reliable indicators of soil P status. Literature. This paper reviews literature regarding the indicators of P status in soils. Many indicators can be found, including single extractions (soluble, available, or total P), which are the most common indicators used worldwide. Over time, increasingly complex P indicators have been developed as sequential extractions which characterize the various forms of P, degree of P saturation, diffusive gradients in thin films, biological extractions, isotopic methods, or more complex models. To make a choice among them, different criteria should be applied, including relevance, cost and time, ease of interpretation, and, most importantly, the objective of the analysis. It is also necessary to analyze the appropriateness to soil and climate. Firstly, this paper describes the various types of indicators present in the literature, and proposes a classification system. Secondly, all cited indicators are evaluated and compared. Finally, the P indicators met in Wallonia, southern Belgium are discussed. Conclusions. Each P indicator presents advantages and disadvantages. This review highlights the importance of careful consideration of indicator choice, and the establishment of interpretation thresholds.

Description of the subject. Current trends suggest an increasing future demand for conventional meats, which indicates a strong need to shift this dependency to other alternative protein sources such as insects. Literature. From a nutritional point of view, of all the insects consumed globally, grasshoppers are particularly important as a human food. Data from the literature regarding the nutrient composition, amino acid profile, fatty acid profile, mineral composition and vitamin content of grasshoppers as reviewed in this paper, suggest that a number of grasshopper species are a good source of nutrients. It also highlights some of the health related aspects that might arise from the consumption of grasshoppers, mostly linked to agricultural practices and the allergic response of sensitive individuals. The paper also summarizes some religious, social and economic factors that are associated with grasshopper consumption. Conclusions. The success of introducing grasshoppers as a novel food in western countries depends on changes in consumer attitudes. It would be interesting to develop food products derived from grasshoppers in a form acceptable to consumers. Furthermore, it is important to explore the food potential of some grasshopper species native to western countries and to develop their rearing methodologies to enhance availability.

Assessment and contributions of different Social Life Cycle Assessments performed in the agribusiness sector. Introduction. Consumers are attaching increasing importance to the sustainability of the products they purchase. The agribusiness sector is well aware of this trend and is making efforts to guarantee product sustainability. Literature. Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA) is a widely used methodology (like others in this field, such as ISO 26000 and SA 8000) for evaluating the social impact of the activities involved in the life cycle of a product. The S-LCA guidelines were published in 2009 and therefore the framework for this methodology is not yet well established. Nevertheless, some S-LCA studies have been completed and have contributed to the development of the methodology. The objective of this paper is to give feedback to the agribusiness sector and researchers regarding prospects for future use of Social Life Cycle Assessment in the agribusiness sector. Papers selected for this literature review have been chosen on the basis of Scopus's query from 2000 to the present day. Scopus's query contains analyses of major international conferences. The case studies in the agribusiness sector that are reviewed in this paper highlight the usefulness of a social hotspots database, the need for stakeholder involvement in S-LCA implementation, the link between S-LCA and its regional context, and the benefits of developing causal links between indicators and impact categories, such as working conditions and governance. Conclusions. Further methodological investigation needs to be conducted in order to standardize this new methodology. Its ability to provide an overview of assessment of socioeconomic impacts makes it a good choice for evaluating the aspect of social impact as part of sustainability studies.

Use of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy in soil analysis. A review. This paper presents a literature review on the development of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy for soil analysis and the contribution of this technique to the evaluation of soil fertility analysis. This technique is used to estimate the chemical composition of soil samples on the basis of their absorption properties. It is therefore an indirect method of measurement, which requires a calibration phase for the prediction of these properties. NIR spectroscopy offers many advantages compared to reference analysis: it is known to be a physical, non-destructive, rapid, reproducible and low cost method. Often employed in other analytical domains, such as agro-food, NIR spectroscopy has, however, seldom been used in soil characterization, due to the complexity of the soil matrix. Thanks to the development of chemometric methods, numerous studies have recently been conducted to evaluate the feasibility of the application of the technique in soil analysis. Most authors conclude that NIR spectroscopy is promising; however, to date, use of the technique has not spread to routine laboratories. The paper is organized as follows. Firstly, we provide an overview of the NIR spectroscopy technique and related chemometric methods. Secondly, we describe the soil characteristics that can be predicted using this technique. Finally, we detail examples of results that have been obtained through the use of the technique, mainly in the determination of clay and organic carbon content, and of cation exchange capacity.

Survey on cereal resources in Wallonia according to their different uses. Survey on cereal resources in Wallonia according to their different uses. More than 60% of the arable cropped area in Wallonia is dedicated to cereals. Cereal chains were initially aimed at ensuring food security but are now progressively oriented towards new non-food uses. Walloon cereal chains are now having to face up to new global challenges: to ensure the competitiveness and sustainability of vegetal and animal chains, to match society's expectations and to meet the biomass needs for energy uses and bio-based products. Within this framework, this research aims to evaluate the environmental and socio-economic sustainability of future scenarios of current and potential food and non-food uses for Walloon cereals. This paper, the first in a series of two, presents the current picture of Walloon cereal crops and their uses. Various steps are analyzed: production, collection, wholesale and processing. Four main uses characterize cereal processing: the so-called "4Fs", representing Food (human food uses), Feed (animal feed uses), Fuel (energy uses) and Fiber (material uses). Data collected from stakeholders in the Walloon cereal chain enabled us to assess cereal flows for the "4Fs", drawing a qualitative and a quantitative picture of Walloon cereal resources including the key elements of the cereal chains. This approach serves as a basis for a prospective exercise, described in a companion paper, which develops potential uses for Walloon cereal resources at the 2030 horizon.

Edible orchids by the Bagam tribe in Cameroon. In the Zambezian region of Africa, tuber orchids are renowned for their food, medicinal and economic values. In central Africa and in Cameroon in particular, socio-economic role of orchids is still to be documented. The current paper focuses on two orchids, Habenaria keayi Summerh. and Habenaria zambesina Rchb.f. which tuber and roots respectively are used to prepare a food called "napssié" or ground meat by the Bagam tribe in the subdivision of Galim, Western region of Cameroon. The paper also mentions their socio-economic role, threat and pleads for their domestication.

Tropicultura is a multidisciplinary journal which aims mainly at releasing research results relevant to rural development in developing countries and at improving the investigation capacities of the researchers who submit manuscripts to its editorial board. The operating process of the journal and its consequences on its output during the period 2002-2009 were analyzed by considering mainly the factors influencing the duration of the editorial work and the final acceptance of the manuscripts. The factors taken into consideration were the field of research, the geographic origin of the data analyzed, the language of writing and the country of origin of the authors. The available data were analyzed using descriptive statistic methods. They were also subjected to parametric and non parametric comparisons. During the investigated period, a total of 1,034 papers have been submitted to Tropicultura in different fields of rural development research, with a large proportion of papers in agronomy sensu lato (60%), and livestock production (19%). Most of the papers submitted (85.1%) came from Sub-Saharan Africa, followed by North Africa (11.2%), Asia (1.6%), Latin America (1.3%), Europe (0.6%), and Oceania (0.3%). The rate of acceptance (27.4%) was very low compared to other journals, mainly because of a poor design of the works or inappropriate research topics. The average time for final decision was 355 days. The non parametric classification analysis retained as major determinants for the acceptance of papers for publication in decreasing order of influence: time before final decision, language, continent, Belgian cooperation priority countries, Belgian cooperation partner countries, and the field of research. The data obtained are discussed in the light of the literature related to the editorial process of other scientific journals, taking into account the peculiarities of Tropicultura related to its history and to the history of the rural development actions of the Belgian cooperation. This analysis highlighted a series of possible improvements at the level of the operating process of the journal which should enable it to better achieve its goals.

Organic cotton production in Paraguay. 2. Agronomic limitations for a novel industry. Two main limiting factors to organic cotton production are soil fertility and pest (arthropods and diseases) management. Paraguay has begun to produce organic cotton since 2003. An exploratory study was carried out in order to have a better knowledge of the way the organic cotton production has developed and to identify economic (first paper) and agronomic limitations (this paper). In addition, this paper provides an analysis of the production of cotton-seed. The study was achieved in 2008 during the cotton harvest period by interviewing the actors from the farm to the industrial level. With more than 200 tons of cotton-seed produced since 2006-2007, Paraguay has reached the second position of South-American producers of organic cotton, behind Peru. In 2007-2008, the recorded average yield of 492 kg.ha-1 of cotton-seed has been underestimated because of sales of organic cotton to the conventional industry. Fertilization and insect pest management, especially for the boll weevil Anthonomus grandis, were based on biological approaches at the whole cropping system level. Management practices included the use of made-in-farm inputs with, according to users, a fair level of efficacy but whose actual effects are mostly poorly known. We recommend in-depth studies firstly to identify the biological pathways involved when necessary, secondly to assess the qualitative and quantitative diversity of farmers practices, and thirdly to integrate their impacts at different space and time scales.

The paper aims to identify the rationality of peasant communities and their contribution to rural development in Kampong Thom province. To do so, an interdisciplinary analytical framework addresses the dynamics of land use and land tenure, the strategies of labor force allocation as well as the determinants of land and labor agricultural productivities amongst peasant communities. It rests on details field surveys in two communes located in very distinct agro-ecological settings of Kampong Thom province. A land use change analysis based on time-series aerial photos is conducted with participatory inventories of natural resources. It shows that endogenous management of forest and fisheries resources generate significant incomes and, at the same time, contribute to maintaining biodiversity. The paper analyses how this contribution is challenged by the non-peasant actors involved in massive State land privatization. Aiming to full employment, peasant households enjoy a great flexibility in the way they allocate labor force, especially in line with the age of active labor and the fluctuation of labor opportunity costs. Principally due to an unequal land holding distribution, agricultural income is unfairly distributed but this inequality is actually balanced by the access to common-pool resources of crucial importance for the poorest and by the recourse to non farming activities, which is an important factor of socio-economic differentiation amongst households. The main economic indicators of rice production confirm that peasant households always try to maximize their income in step with the production factor they have in relatively less amount. A land market simulation stresses that, contrarily to theoretical assumptions, land access through sale (and purchase) does not result in a fairer land distribution. Nevertheless, land leases amongst peasant households seem more promising to ensure equitable access to land as they are embedded in collective security mechanisms activated by peasantry. The paper argues that peasant communities in the studied area constitute a solid basis for rural development as they offer a very good articulation between economic efficiency, social justice and environmental sustainability. Finally, recommendations are formulated to properly address peasant contribution to rural development in the new national agrarian policies.

Descreve como a odontologia atual, no Brasil, participa das transformações do objeto de sua atividade em mercadoria para os consumidores darem vazão a desejos estéticos. Explora a construção do objeto odontológico dos desejos e sua relação com o cirurgião-dentista e o paciente-consumidor no mundo contemporâneo. Explicita o papel dos megacongressos odontológicos, a propiciarem um self-service biotecnológico que enfeitiça e seduz, uniformizando valores consumistas para a avidez por novidades dos cirurgiões-dentistas. Analisa a atuação da mídia na prática odontológica. Conclui que a individuação do cirurgião-dentista gerou ontologia petrificada e epistemologia fragmentada, e apresenta algumas tarefas inadiáveis para os segmentos acadêmico-profissionais e a sociedade, como o desenvolvimento de estratégias e a discussão sobre a comunicação em saúde bucal.This paper describes how dentistry in Brazil currently participates in the transformations of the object of its activity into commodities with which consumers can indulge their aesthetic desires. It explores the construction of the dental object of desires and its relationship with the dentist and the patient-consumer in the contemporary world. The paper makes explicit the role of the mega-dental congresses, which provide a biotechnological self-service that allure and seduce, creating uniform consumer values eager for the new offerings from dental surgeons. Also analyzes the role of the media in dental practices. It concludes that the individuation of the dental surgeon has generated a petrified ontology and fragmented epistemology. The paper presents some pressing tasks for the academic and professional sectors and society as a whole, such as the development of strategies and discussion about communication related to oral health.

In a sense, technology is a way for science to express its practical side, a means of translating discoveries and knowledge into real world applications – but this process can bring with it a variety of ethical challenges. For example, the field of biotechnology had been promised to deliver great things to society, including revolutionary medical treatments and genetically enhanced foods, all of which would be safe, affordable and thus widely available. But few products have yet made it to the consumer marketplace. In one of the most promising areas of application, that is agricultural biotechnology, few technologies have yet fully emerged from laboratories and those products that are in use have engendered significant controversy. Specifically, this paper focuses on a case study of transgenic Plant-Made vaccines, which over the past 15 years have barely made it past the proof of concept stage and thus stagnated where they should have been accomplishing the ‘golden promise’ of providing low cost and effective inoculation for the poor populations of developing countries. The question this paper examines is why, beyond the process of discovery and conceptualization, such technologies are having trouble maturing and being usefully translated into civil society. Moreover, what particular key factors are in need of reconsideration if these technologies are to be effectively implemented and accepted by consumers, and thus have a positive impact on global health and equitable access to needed medicines?

The paper summarises the work done in the framework of two R&D projects aimed to demonstrate the contribution of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to help the enforcement of the European legislation governing the use of animal by-products in animal feeds. Three different types of animal feed products were studied: compound feeds (CFs), animal protein byproducts meals (APBPs) and animal fats by-products (AFBPs). The quantitative and qualitative chemometric models produced with a large collection of compound feed samples (n = 1005 ground and 523 unground) have demonstrated, that NIRS can be used for the detection and quantification of the meat and bone meal (MBM) added to compound feeds. Discriminant models produced with unground samples produced 100% of correctly classified samples in two cloned instruments placed in two different locations. The results also show that two dimensions NIR spectra of Animal By-Products (ABP, animal meals and fats) may contain information about the animal species or group of species from which the ABPs were produced. However, further work is needed to enlarge the sample bank and the spectral libraries with well authenticated samples in order to increase the robustness of the quantitative and qualitative NIRS models. The paper opens expectations for using NIRS for the enforcement of legislation concerning the use of ABPs in animal feeds. More research and demonstration efforts have to be done in order to obtain more definitive and robust predictive models and for optimising its implementation either at-line, on-line and in-line in feed factories and inspection laboratories.

This paper describes fat processing and rendering systems as it relates to the activities of the European Fat Processors and Renderers Association (EFPRA). The paper is laid out in sections. Firstly a general section deals with all common aspects relating to the activities of EFPRAmembers. Secondly, specific issues are discussed with regard to a) fat processing, b) animal by-products not intended for human consumption. Finally, a summary is given, which concludes that given the state of science today ; a) the activities of EFPRAmembers are vital to the sustainable operation of the animal livestock-food chain and to the environment ; b) the products from the industry may be regarded as safe if the following standards are applied safe sourcing, safe processing, safe use ; c) the application of these principles will allow the re-entry of certain products manufactured by EFPRA members into the food chain.

Forests and forestry play important roles in Austria with its close to 50/ forest cover. This paper provides details about the Austrian forest carbon inventory, discusses briefly the sources and sinks accounted under the land use, land use change and forestry articles of the Kyoto Protocol, and presents an integrated carbon model (Austrian C-Balance Model) that was developed to include not only the forest sector, but other sectors that are greenhouse-gas relevant. Improvements in forest management practices are seen as important possibilities of increasing the carbon sink strength of Austrian forests, but also of pursuing other goals such as increased biodiversity and resistance to future climate-change impacts. This paper presents a process model and a carbon accounting model that are applicable for evaluating carbon impacts of changes in forest management.

Use of medicinal plants to prevent and cure snakebites: current situation and perspectives. A review Introduction. Snakebites are a public, social and economic health problem in subtropical and tropical regions. To cope with this problem, the inhabitants of these regions often resort to medicinal plants recognized in traditional knowledge. This paper offers a synthesis of the state of traditional and scientific knowledge, on snakebite envenomation and anti-bite and anti-snake venom plants. It aims to build up a database of plant species used to prevent and cure snakebites and to highlight potential future avenues of research to enhance their pharmaceutical potential. Literature. This systematic review used the Agora database and Google Scholar as a search engine to identify, through well-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, all relevant studies on snakebites and plants used for their prevention or treatment. Conclusions. Almost all snakebite cases reported in the scientific literature have occurred in tropical and/or third world countries, where they cause a neglected disease receiving little attention from local authorities and public health organizations. Despite this lack of attention, the literature cites the widespread use of plants as a remedy: a total of 66 plant species, grouped into 31 families, have been used to prevent snakebites and 1,127 plant species, belonging to 176 families, have been used to treat snakebites worldwide. Although some of these plants have been scientifically shown to be effective in preventing or curing snakebite envenomation, in-depth pharmacological studies need to be carried out to validate their use, in order to improve the livelihood of mostly rural communities in developing countries.

Description of the subject. Given the current low price of milk, a lot of producers have decided to process their milk into products with a higher added-value, including butter. However, all milks are not suitable to be transformed into butter. It would thus be useful to be able to predict milk processing properties. Objectives. The aim of this paper was to study the ability of milk to be processed into butter using infrared spectrophotometry. Method. A normalized protocol for the production of butter was developed. Milk samples (n = 110) collected between 2013 and 2016 were analyzed by near and medium infrared spectrometry (315 spectra). Butter samples were also analyzed by visible-near infrared spectrometry (220 spectra). Composition of the products was subsequently assessed using validated prediction equations. Principal components analyses were performed to discriminate samples. Results. Butter properties seemed to be influenced by seasons and feedings. Water content and color parameters could be predicted on the basis of butter infrared spectra. Conclusions. It was possible to correlate butter characteristics with milk properties. However, it was not possible to predict butter characteristics on the basis of milk near infrared spectra. It could be interesting to try predictions from milk medium infrared spectra.

Using professional knowledge in building scientific knowledge; a comparative analysis of several case studies. This paper results from cross-disciplinary reflection by social and biotechnical researchers engaged in surveys with experts from the agriculture and nature spheres: farmers: technical advisors, managers of nature conservation programmes and biologists. The purpose was to analyse the way professional knowledge is used by researchers to enrich their body of scientific knowledge. How professional knowledge is used depends in part on each scientific discipline, but far more on the final research aims. We first identified three ideotypes based on whether professional knowledge is used (1) in a comprehensive way to understand its origins, (2) to build new biological knowledge complementary to the one produced on an experimental basis, or (3) to build operational knowledge to help professionals manage their problems. A cross-analysis of the survey methods used then led to discussing the nature of the scientific knowledge developed from professional knowledge and the innovative potential of such surveys. Finally the heuristic potential of surveys is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Description of the subject. Mungbean (Vigna radiata [L]. R.Wilczek) is an important summer leguminous crop. It is widely grown in South Asia to fulfill the human nutritious demand of protein, minerals, vitamins and bioactive constituents. It is well suited to be intercropped with cereals in N limited soil to enhance crop productivity through biological nitrogen fixation. Objectives. This paper assesses the impacts of altitude, nitrogen dose, planting pattern and time of sowing on growth and yield parameters of mungbean intercropped with maize in comparison to their sole counterpart. Method. Three-year experiments (2015, 2016 & 2017) were conducted to assess growth and yield performance of mungbean and maize under different environmental conditions and management practices including altitude (1,500; 1,800 and 2,200 m), nitrogen dose (28, 56, 113 kg·ha-1), planting pattern (alternate single row and alternate double row), cropping systems (sole and intercropping), and sowing time of intercropping with maize (simultaneous and staggered). Sole plots of maize and mungbean were also established separately. A Randomized Complete Block Design was used with three replicates. Growth and yield components of mungbean i.e., plant height, leaf area per plant, thousands grain weight, grain yield, biological yield and harvest index were measured. Maize plants were sampled at maturity for computing its grain yield. Results. Orthogonal contrast analysis showed a significant variation in plant height due to year and altitude, leaf area per plant due to intercropping, year and altitude, thousands grain weight due to intercropping, planting pattern and time of intercropping with maize, grain yield due to intercropping, year, altitude and planting pattern, biological yield due to year, altitude and planting pattern, and harvest index due to year and altitude. Moreover, intercropping and management practices influenced maize grain yield. Conclusions. Intercropping reduced the growth and yield performance of mungbean compared to monocropping that is attributed to the competition of resources between two crops. However, this interspecific competition has been mollified at lower altitudes when staggered sowing of mungbean intercropped with maize through alternative double row pattern was done. Consequently, in these conditions mungbean growth and yield was improved.

Introduction. In the Comoros archipelago, as in many places in Africa, traditional medicine is the first reflex people have when it comes to finding a cure. This work illustrates the diversity of remedies found in this group of islands. The plant species potentially effective from a pharmaceutical point of view can be targeted through the comparison of different databases. The present study also illustrates the importance of preventing the loss of traditional knowledge based on hundreds of years of observations. Literature. The information in this paper originates from databases built by ethnobotanists as well as peer reviewed scientific articles. In addition, some information also come from work done by locals working with recognized organisms. Conclusions. The scientific literature cites 207 different species that are used for traditional practices in the Comoros archipelago, among which 9 are endemic. These species were compared to the pharmacopoeias of other islands and surroundings from the Indian Ocean in terms of similarities and differences between targeted ailments. Only 3% of the cited species present similarities in use among the islands of the Indian Ocean and surroundings.

Reliable and rapid diagnostic methods are essential to support inspection activities conducted by National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) in the framework of their official mandate, and to evaluate the efficacy of control measures taken. Since 1998 the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO) has been supporting the harmonization of diagnostic methods for regulated pests in the EPPO region through the development of technical standards. In order to increase active collaboration among the organizations involved in plant health research activities at the national and regional levels, Euphresco (European Phytosanitary Research Coordination) was established in 2006 and funded by the EU as an ERA-NET project. Euphresco has subsequently evolved into a self-sustaining international network hosted by EPPO. This paper describes the EPPO diagnostic programme. It will also provide some examples of research projects funded through Euphresco that have provided valuable support for the development of pest-specific diagnostic protocols and will show how NPPOs can shape the research agenda of research funders and help to identify gaps to be addressed through transnational collaboration.

Cylicodiscus gabunensis Harms: a popular species in international trade. A review. Introduction. Due to the decline in tropical timber resources, silvicultural and ecological knowledge in these taxa need to be improved for management decision-making. Cylicodiscus gabunensis Harms (Fabaceae-Caesalpinioideae) is a timber tree species with a high socio-economic value. The present paper provides a species-specific literature review and highlights research areas for future investigations. Literature. Known as okan, C. gabunensis inhabits evergreen and semi-deciduous tropical rain forests. Considered as a sacred tree by indigenous peoples, it is a multipurpose timber tree species. The phenology of this species is regular and its seeds are dispersed by wind. Nowadays, most C. gabunensis populations found in evergreen forests exhibit a clear lack of regeneration, which may threaten its long-term logging. The lack of other relevant silvicultural and ecological information for forest managers may increase that risk of unsustainable exploitation. Conclusions. This review summarizes the information available on C. gabunensis in the fields of botany, wood anatomy, ecology and ethnobotany. It provides valuable information for forest managers and decision-makers while considering exploitation intensities and tree population characteristics. Highlighting this information is the first step to (i) deciding on a conservation status for the species, and (ii) proposing appropriate management strategies.

The paper aims to analyse the impact which four of the main challenges of contemporary world may have on the future of legal professions. Although, among the four challenges there are multiple connections, they were grouped into two categories, within which the liens are clear: the pandemic and the post-truth (I) and the genetic engineering and artificial intelligence (II).

Comparison of drift of two types of sprayers used in cotton production in Benin. Description of the subject. Increasing use of plant protection products and a continuous change in their active substances during recent years raise crucial questions regarding environmental pollution, particularly for aquatic ecosystems in the cotton production area. Objectives. Field trials were carried out (in Batran, province of Banikoara) in conditions close to those of local practices. The objective was to quantify and compare the drift generated during spraying both with a centrifugal cane and a backpack sprayer, which are the two most popular types of sprayer used in the cotton area of Benin. Method. A mixture of water and tartrazine (a food grade dye) was prepared for spraying at 20 g·l-1. Ten spraying trials were conducted, at two heights (1 m and 1.5 m), according to a pre-established protocol validated by an initial trial carried out with water-sensitive paper. Fifty-four white cotton patches were placed at the predetermined heights and distances from the emission point. After each trial, the patches were collected and the tartrazine concentrations (in µg·cm-2) were determined after extraction in water with a colorimeter. The percentages of drift were then calculated from the quantities of tartrazine recovered. Results. Results showed that, in the same weather conditions (35° ± 1 °C; R.H.: 64 + 4%; wind speed stable around 3 m·s-1), spraying at the height of 1.5 m with the centrifugal cane generated drift percentages significantly higher than those generated by spraying at the height of 1 m with the backpack sprayer. Conclusions. Droplets of mixture were observed at up to 16 m, whichever sprayer was used.

Description of the subject. This paper describes the development, evaluation and limitations of screening PCR assays based on genes and for use in GMO detection. Objectives. The aim of this research is to propose new PCR assays based on gene-coding sequences that will join a panel of existing screening assays to make better GMO detection possible. Method. Real-time PCR methods using double-dye probes were developed for genes frequently encountered in GM constructs and evaluated in terms of specificity and sensitivity. Results. Eight real-time PCR tests were designed based on the sequences of the bar, pat, EPSPS, gox, gus and hsp70 genes. Two of them proved of limited interest due to the presence of positive signals linked to the presence of the donor organisms: residual sequences of Escherichia coli in the master mixes for the gus PCR assay and while for the hsp70 PCR test, hsp70 being only used in GM maize at present, it is useless as hsp70 originates from maize. The assays for bar, pat, EPSPS and gox were found to successfully detect the corresponding structural elements introduced in GM constructs. Several PCR assays were proposed for the EPSPS gene in order to cover the different versions of the gene. Conclusions. Real-time PCR tests for bar, pat, EPSPS and gox were developed and met the expected performance criteria in terms of specificity and sensitivity. The targets can be amplified with the same PCR conditions as PCR assays already developed for the detection of promoters and terminators, and can be used in combination on the same PCR plate in order to provide wider coverage of GMOs and initial information concerning the GMO(s) present.

Description of the subject. To boost the development of the national palm oil sector, one of the most promising moves for the Cameroonian government would be to improve partnerships between agro-industries and smallholders in order to increase the latter's plantation yields and oil extraction rates. Objectives. Drawing on successful experiences in Southeast Asia, this paper examines the conditions for establishing a win-win partnership between agro-industrial companies and smallholders in the Cameroonian palm oil sector. Method. The study was carried out in three production basins in the Centre and the Southwest regions of Cameroon where such partnerships were initiated before the collapse of the National Aid Fund for Rural Development (FONADER) in the 1970s. In participatory workshops involving at least twelve stakeholders (palm oil producers, artisanal and industrial millers, intermediaries and agricultural extension services), the participants' knowledge was integrated together through individual and collective reflection, with a guarantee of equal expression and consideration of views. Two workshops followed a strict adaptation of Participatory Prospective Analysis (PPA); a third followed a semi-directed participatory approach. Interactions between participants produced definitions of the systems studied and the variables involved, different plausible future scenarios, and recommendations for decision making. Results. Access to technical and managerial capacity building, terms of the contract, access to shareholding in the company by smallholders, and legalization of the terms of the contract emerged as the major items that would influence a sustainable partnership between agro-industries and smallholders. Conclusions. Participatory derived recommendations show that long-term partnerships between agro-industry and smallholders depend on a negotiated contract agreement between the partners to ensure transparency and trust. In addition, a dedicated smallholder department in charge of village plantations within agro-industrial companies can facilitate communication between partners.

Description of the subject. Segetal plant species are highly threatened in arable land. They are an integral part of agricultural history and biodiversity in Western Europe. In Wallonia (southern Belgium), an agro-environmental scheme (AES) has been adopted for their conservation. It consists of strips on a field margin, with at least 60% cereals in crop rotation, and proscribes spraying and fertilisation. Objectives. This paper assessed the impact of an AES on segetal species conservation. Method. In eight organic fields and six conventional fields, a vegetation survey was performed on an AES strip and on a control margin of each field. Evenness, richness, cover and species composition for both total and segetal species were compared between AES strips and their corresponding control margins. Also, a cover of pernicious weeds was considered to be a factor in the rejection of AES by farmers. Results. In conventional agriculture, species richness (total and segetal) and cover (total and segetal) were higher in the AES than in the respective control; however, pernicious weed cover was also enhanced. In organic fields, total species richness was higher and pernicious weed cover was lower in the AES than in the respective control. Total evenness was higher in organic than in conventional fields, due to the co-dominance of several species. Under the AES, species composition and abundance remained different between conventional and organic fields. In all cases, rare species were hardly found in our survey. Conclusions. AES promote plant diversity in both organic and conventional fields. Sowing AES strips with uncleaned seeds from well-preserved fields, or species introduction, are recommended to enhance rare species recovery.

Expertise for forecasting cotton production in Western Africa: a solution to emerging climate uncertainty?. Description of the subject. Climate uncertainty is expected to have a severe impact on the economy of West African countries. The use of forecasting in agricultural production has become a priority for those working in the field of development. This article focuses on the early prediction of cotton production levels before harvesting in Senegal, using expertise from the cotton development company, SODEFITEX. Objectives. This paper aims to analyze the knowledge employed to predict yield, given the uncertainty about future climate conditions, and to evaluate the quality of such predictions, depending on the territorial scale of the expertise considered. Method. The methodology used in this study was a statistical analysis of cotton production in Senegal between 2004 and 2015, combined with a survey of 32 SODEFITEX experts. Results. Analysis of the survey of experts revealed that their evaluation of the cotton production was based mainly on the state of the crops and on crop management, with the planting date being the priority. For some experts, the history of production and its organizational and social environments were also important factors. A comparison of forecasts with actual production showed that the experts had systematically overestimated the levels of production when actual yields were below 1,000 kg·ha-1, under adverse climatic conditions. Conclusions. Within a context of poor scientific documentation of the early estimation of production by experts, the results of the study shed light on the knowledge drawn upon and the performance of the forecasts delivered, thus paving the way for a rational criticism of the expertise employed. The diversity of points of view highlighted by the multi-criteria analysis, between hierarchical levels and between agents at the same level, underlines the need for a closer look at the knowledge being utilized, in order to bring out "what matters" in these forecasts and to move towards greater objectivity of expertise in the face of recurrent climate hazards.

Description of the subject. This paper discusses the influence of amplicon length on real-time PCR results. Objectives. The aim of the experiments was to show that amplicon size has an influence on detection. Method. Tests were performed on genomic and plasmid DNA. Double-dye probes and SYBR® Green were used for detection by real-time PCR. Primers were selected in order to produce fragments with increasing sizes. Experiments dealt with two targets: an endogenous target for soybean (part of the lectin gene) and a transgenic target (junction P35S-CTP of the MON40-3-2 soybean). Results. The results show that the kinetics of amplification curves evolve as a function of amplicon length, and smaller amplicons yield a higher level of fluorescence for the plateau phase. DNA degradation within the sample as well as the principles of fluorescence acquisition as a function of the chemistry used can also be factors. Conclusions. It was experimentally shown that the observed effect is linked to the suboptimal elongation temperature used in real-time PCR. Detection using SYBR® Green is less impacted as the loss of efficiency is partially compensated by the greater integration of SYBR® Green molecules in the larger fragments.

Effect of biochar on phosphorus bioavailability in an acidic silt loam soil. Description of the subject. This paper deals with the impact of biochar on soil phosphorus (P) bioavailability with a view to improving the management of P fertilization. Objectives. The aim of this study was to explore the potential of biochar to increase P bioavailability in soil. The specific objectives were to elucidate the role of feedstock and the rate of application of biochar on P solubility. Method. Three biochars produced from different feedstocks (Miscanthus straws, coffee husks and woody material) were added to an acidic Luvisol at two rates of application (1% and 3%; w/w). At the end of a 76-day incubation period, P bioavailability was assessed (0.01 M CaCl2 extraction). Soil physico-chemical properties and the amount of CO2 emitted over the incubation period were also determined. Results. The wood-derived biochar applied at 3% was the only treatment that increased significantly P bioavailability (+ 75%). This increase might result from the release of P by biochar itself (direct effect) but also from an enhanced P solubility in soil (indirect effect) related to a large increase in pH (+3.6 units compared to the control) and a higher soil biological activity. The other treatments had no significant impact on soil P bioavailability, probably as a result of their minor effect on soil pH. Conclusions. Our study shows that biochar-induced changes in P bioavailability in soil varied greatly with type of feedstock and rate of application. However, the balance between the direct and indirect effects of biochar on P bioavailability was not elucidated. Further investigations are thus essential to clarify the potential of biochar to improve P bioavailability in the soil-plant system.

Similarities and differences between hop cones and grape berries: sulfur and nitrogen aromas. A review. Introduction. Similarities can be found between the flavors of hop cones and grapes. The present paper will focus on their sulfur and nitrogen odorants. Literature. Although initially investigated in vines, recent research has led to the identification of a larger number of polyfunctional thiols in hop cones. These have included the pleasant-smelling grapefruit- or passion fruit-like 3-sulfanylhexan-1-ol. Surprisingly, to date, the occurrence of sulfides, polysulfides and thioesters (onion, vegetable or cheese-like flavors), as well as various thiophenes and terpenic episulfides has been described extensively only in the hop literature, while methoxypyrazines have been described only in vine cultivars. Conclusion. Among the sulfur and nitrogen odorants, many similarities have been observed between hop and grape polyfunctional thiols. Thiophenes, episulfides, sulfides, polysulfides and thioesters are mainly found in hop cones, while methoxypyrazines have been described only in grape.

The bioeconomic strategy of Ukraine has not been yet formed, the development of biotechnology is slow, the use of biotechnology is still very fragmentary. The main economic biotechnology sectors of Ukraine are agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food industry and bioenergy. A circular, sustainable bio-economy can become the primary tool for Ukraine’s integration into the EU Green Economy, making its economy more sustainable and competitive. The article aims to develop scientific and methodical aspects of the bioeconomic transformation of the national economy of Ukraine. The paper conducts a comprehensive assessment of the bioeconomic potential of the agri-food sector of the Ukrainian economy and identifies the main development priorities. The dynamics of alternative energy consumption and production from alternative energy sources have been provided.

Introduction. Interacting soil organisms support biological processes that participate in soil functions, organic matter decomposition, and nutrient cycling. Earthworms and microorganisms play a range of beneficial roles in agricultural systems, including increased organic matter mineralization, nutrient cycling, and soil structure stabilization. Literature. The following aspects of crop residue management effects are examined in this paper: (i) earthworm composition and structure; (ii) soil microbial communities; and (iii) phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) element availability and distribution in the soil profile. Conventional tillage (ploughing) is often reported to generate decreased soil organism abundance and diversity, primarily earthworms and microorganisms, as well as a uniform distribution of the nutrients P and N within the ploughed soil horizon. Soil residue incorporation of mineral particles can maintain P and N levels, however returning soil also increases aeration and the activation of microbial activity. Hence, comparisons of tillage effects on soil biological functioning and nutrient cycling remain unclear. Conclusions. This review highlights the challenges in establishing definitive evidence regarding the effects of crop residue management on soil organisms and nutrient dynamics. The studies examined reported variability in soil and climate, and the complexity of soil processes contributed to the absence of clear findings. Further research is required under temperate climate conditions.

Introduction. Multiple environmental and socio-economic indicators show that our current agriculture and the organization of the food system need to be revised. Agroecology has been proposed as a promising concept for achieving greater sustainability. This paper offers an overview and discussion of the concept based on existing literature and case studies, and explores the way it questions our current research approaches and education paradigms. Literature. In order to improve the sustainability of agriculture, the use of external and chemical inputs needs to be minimized. Agroecological farming practices seek to optimize ecological processes, thus minimizing the need for external inputs by providing an array of ecosystem services. Implementing such practices challenges the current structure of the food system, which has been criticized for its lack of social relevance and economic viability. An agroecological approach includes all stakeholders, from field to fork, in the discussion, design and development of future food systems. This inclusion of various disciplines and stakeholders raises issues about scientists and their research practices, as well as about the education of the next generation of scientists. Conclusions. Agroecology is based on the concept that agricultural practices and food systems cannot be dissociated because they belong to the same natural and socio-economic context. Clearly, agroecology is not a silver-bullet, but its principles can serve as avenues for rethinking the current approaches towards achieving greater sustainability. Adapting research approaches in line with indicators that promote inter- and transdisciplinary research is essential if progress is to be made.

Do manures spread before the sowing of a catch crop (CIPAN) present an excessive risk of nitrate leaching?. Description of the subject. The implementation of the Nitrates Directives in the Walloon region (in the south of Belgium) allows the summer spreading of any kind of manure on soils in preparation for the sowing of a catch crop. Objectives. This paper aims to assess whether the spreading of a manure before sowing a catch crop is more risky for groundwater quality than planting a cereal followed by another crop without any action being implemented between the harvesting of the cereal and the sowing (winter or spring) of the next crop. Method. This study is based on measurements of the nitrate nitrogen content of soils, at the beginning of the leaching period, performed on reference parcels and on controlled parcels. Results. Three thousand six hundred soil analyses performed in relation to controlled parcels between 2008 and 2013 showed that the presence of a catch crop (information about the possible application of a manure was not known) led to a nitrate nitrogen content (median) lower (with a very highly significant difference) than in a situation where no action was implemented between the two main crops. For the same period, the analysis of 600 results in reference parcels led to the same conclusion. Moreover, no significant difference was found between the two kinds of manure ("fast action", such as pig slurry or "low action", such as bovine manure). Conclusions. After the harvesting of a cereal, the spreading of a manure before sowing a catch crop creates no higher risk for water quality than the succession of a cereal by a crop sowed in the autumn.

Ground cover influence on Carabidae (Coleoptera) populations and potential interest for bio-control of some vineyards pests. Description of the subject. This paper deals with carabid populations within vineyards. Objectives. The objectives were to evaluate the effects of ground cover management on carabid populations and to understand the potential of these beetles as predators of some grapevine pests. Method. Two vineyards, located in Geneva (Switzerland), were sampled with 60 pitfall traps. Observations were carried out from March to October 2014 and a botanical survey was carried out in June. Results. In total, 951 carabids belonging to 36 species were captured in the two vineyards. Bare ground and poor plant species treated with herbicides reduced the abundance of the ground beetles. On the other hand, ground covered with spontaneous vegetation, rather than a mixture of seeds, seemed to favor ground beetles throughout the sampling period. Conclusions. The peak activity of the potential predatory beetles corresponded to the occurrence of some vine pests. However, the most common carabid species captured had an omnivorous diet and a low potential for pest predation on viticulture.

Utility of a typology of timber artisanal loggers, in order to contribute to the formulation of public policy on logging in Orientale province (DRC). Description of the subject. This paper discusses the types of wood artisanal loggers, in order to assist in the formulation of public policy on logging in Orientale province (DRC). Objectives. The objective was to characterize artisanal timber in order to propose the establishment of legal channels to increase the contribution of this product to the national economy. Method. Surveys were conducted with 412 artisanal loggers active in 23 villages in Orientale province between 2010 and 2012. Factor analyses for mixed data (FAMD) and hierarchical classification on principal components (HCPC) were performed. Results. Three types of artisanal loggers were distinguished: (1) sawyers of provincial origin who supply local markets in Kinshasa; (2) sawyers of local origin that serve local markets; (3) sawyers from the other provinces of Orientale province, supplying markets in Kivu and Uganda. Conclusions. Taking into account the specificity of each of these groups of artisanal operators could improve the development and implementation of public policy measures needed to secure and formalize logging activity.

Description of the subject. The hyoscyamine, a tropane alkaloid, widely used in medicine, can be produced from Datura sp. (Solanaceae). However, its content in the spontaneous roots remains low; therefore, hairy roots (HRs) were envisaged as a potential alternative to improve its biosynthesis. The hairy roots are characterized by a good genetic stability and a rapid growth. Indeed, Datura stramonium HRs have widely been studied in the perspective of improving the yield of hyoscyamine. This study is part of this same perspective. Objectives. This paper aims to study the effects of polyploidization of HRs induced by colchicine in synergy with elicitation (with acetylsalicylic [ASA] or salicylic acids [SA]) on the hyoscyamine content in D. stramonium. Method. Colchicine was applied at different concentrations and periods, on a selected hairy root line (LDS) of D. stramonium obtained by infection with Agrobactrium rhizogenes strain A4. The selection of tetraploid HR lines was performed by the cytogenetic analysis using light microscopy. The effect of polyploidization and elicitation was studied on the biomass (dry weight) and hyoscyamine content of HRs. Results. The untreated HR line (control) shows a diploid level with 2n = 24 chromosomes. However, the HR lines treated with colchicine show, in most cases, an endoreduplication of their genetic material. The survival rate of endoreduplicated lines varies between 30% and 93%, depending on concentration and exposure time to colchicine. Moreover, the tetraploid HR line shows an increase in its biomass and hyoscyamine content in comparison to the diploid HR line (LDS). Further, elicitation of HRs by ASA or AS at the 10-4 M concentration causes a low decrease or increase in dry weight, respectively. However, the same treatments show a significant increase in the yield of hyoscyamine in elicited HR lines. Consequently, our work indicates that the combination of polyploidy and elicitation can lead to significant improvements in hyoscyamine biosynthesis and content due to their synergistic effects. Conclusions. Elicitation of tetraploid hairy root lines improves significantly their content of hyoscyamine.

Guibourtia Benn.: a high conservation value genus. A review. Introduction. Known as a genus of great socio-cultural and economical importance, Guibourtia Benn. includes morphologically very similar multipurpose sister species, found in various habitats with different climate and soil conditions. In many places, Guibourtia is subject to local overexploitation by forest companies and local communities. As the population density of Guibourtia species is generally very low, it may be necessary to conduct scientific investigations that will provide valuable information for the management of the populations concerned. Literature. This paper is based on an extensive literature review and summarizes the available information on the genus Guibourtia, in terms of botany, ecology, genetics, forestry and ethnobotany. Our review provided evidence that, to date, ecological and silvicultural knowledge regarding Guibourtia species is lacking and that it is very difficult to morphologically differentiate very similar sister species. In addition, we provide a new determination key for the genus Guibourtia. Conclusion. Based on the available information, it is difficult to assess the conservation status of these taxa. Further investigations are needed to suggest appropriate management strategies for Guibourtia. Moreover, species diversity within this genus and its distribution in various tropical biomes make it an excellent biological model for understanding the historical, biological and environmental mechanisms that explain the diversity of tropical moist forests.

Description of the subject. Dietary fiber is largely used in pig production but some contradictions appear in the literature regarding the effects on performance and health. Objectives. This paper aims to contribute to the clarification of the effects of a diet rich in sugar beet pulp on animal behavior, growth performance, carcass quality and gut health of fattening pigs. Method. Two successive batches of 24 fattening pigs were each divided into two groups fed ad libitum either a standard diet based on cereals (STD, 19% NSP [non-starch-polysaccharides]) or a fibrous diet based on 23% sugar beet pulp (HFD, 31% NSP). Results. Pigs activity rate and feeder occupancy duration were increased by 57% and 165% for group fed HFD, respectively (P < 0.05). The fecal bacteria counts showed increases with HFD for Lactobacillus (10.21 vs 9.84 log10 of cfu·g-1 of feces dry matter, P < 0.05) and Bifidobacterium (9.49 vs 8.88, P < 0.01) but decreases for Enterobacteriaceae (4.85 vs 5.97, P < 0.001). Reductions of the average daily gain (788 vs 876 g per day, P < 0.001) and the dressing percentage (75.7 vs 78.9%, P < 0.001) were observed with HFD. Gastric lesion score was decreased with HFD (0.82 vs 1.55, P < 0.05). For pigs fed HFD, the proportion of surface area occupied by goblet cells was increased in the jejunum (10.06 vs 7.99%, P < 0.01) and the number of CD3 lymphocytes was increased in the colon (1.24 vs 0.90·mm-², P < 0.05). Conclusions. HFD contributes to strengthen the gut health of fattening pigs, but it impairs growth performance and carcass traits.