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Anacardium occidentale and Vitellaria paradoxa are two medicinal plants traditionally used by Ivorian, particularly in the treatment of diabetes, arterial hypertension and diarrhea. The objective of this work was to evaluate the phytochemical constituents and the antioxidant activity of the stem barks of A. occidentale L. and V. paradoxa. The stem bark of both plants was used for the aqueous extraction. Major chemical groups were identified using the tube staining method followed by confirmation by thin layer chromatography (TLC). The antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated by DPPH method. The results of phytochemical screening of plant extracts revealed the presence of polyphenols, anthraquinones, tannins, sterols, terpenes and saponins. In addition, the evaluation of the antioxidant activity by spectrophotometry using the DPPH method showed that all extracts had significant and different antioxydant activity compared to the reference molecule (Vitamin C, IC50 = 0.80 ± 0.70 µg/mL) with respective IC50 of 0.42 ± 0.32 µg/mL for V. paradoxa and 0.87 ± 0.77 µg/mL for A. occidentale. V. paradoxa therefore has the best antioxydant activity. These results could explain the therapeutic virtues of A. occidentale and V. paradoxa in the treatment of various pathologies.

Yam, Dioscorea spp. (L) is an important foodstuff that plays a key role in the agricultural system in Côte d'Ivoire. This plant is however subject to several diseases during its cultivation and conservation. The losses caused by rots of tubers in storage constitute a major risk for economic profitability and for the food safety of consumers. The development of an effective and environmental friendly control method has been initiated. The objective of this work is to improve the conservation of Discorea alata tubers through the use of aqueous extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Chromolaena odorata. To do this, three different doses (33 g/l; 39 g/l and 50 g/l) of aqueous extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Chromolaena odorata were applied to yam slices before inoculation with Colletotrichum sp. Results showed that applying different doses of aqueous plant extract to yam slices before inoculation of the fungal strain caused less rot. The aqueous extracts of the two plants showed antifungal activity against Colletotrichum sp. This antifungal activity was more effective with the 50 g/l dose of Ocimum gratissimum compared to the extract of Chromolaena odorata.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) was found to be important in improving teaching and learning. However, the use of this contemporary paradigm was found to be not effective due to different factors. Within this perceptive, this study aimed to investigate the degree at which ICT was used in teaching Biology and the influence of trainings and availability of ICT tools on its successful use in selected secondary schools of Rulindo district. Descriptive survey research design was used to collect data through interviews and questionnaires. From a population of 132 participants, a sample of 98 participants including Biology teachers, Head teachers, and District representative were participated in this research. The obtained data were analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The results showed that ICT was not effectively used in teaching Biology. This was associated with the shortage of adequate trainings and ICT related infrastructure. Therefore, more investment in providing ICT related infrastructure and adequate teachers’ training is needed for successful integration of ICT in teaching Biology.

Our work was based on the study of aqueous and hydroethanol extracts from the leaves ofAmaranthus hybridus L.(Amaranthaceae),Corchorus olitorius L.(Tiliaceae) andHibiscus sabdariffaL. (Malvaceae), and decoction. This work presents for the first time the phytochemical screening and the antioxidant activity of extracts of leaves of these three plants coming from the Côte d’Ivoire. Phytochemicalanalysisof theseextractsrevealed thepresenceof polyphenols and alkaloids in the three leaves. Thetotal phenolic contentof the extractsshowedvariations,between13.22 and 90.89 mg GAE/g. The hydroethanol extract (90.89 mg GAE/g) and decoction ofC. olitorius(57.89 mg GAE/g) had the most elevated contents. The evaluation of the reducing power with DPPH method revealed that the hydroethanol extract ofC. olitoriuswas the most active (IC50= 45.58 µg/mL). This result was in agreement with that obtained by FRAP method.

Au Bénin des efforts scientifiques sont consentis pour la connaissance de la diversité végétale. Cleome gynandra L. (Caya blanc, Sabo en Adja, Akaya en Mahi et Semboué en Peulh) de la famille des Capparaceaes fait l'objet de cette étude à travers sa connaissance agromorphologique. La méthodologie utilisée passe par des observations et prélèvement dans la nature et jardins de case. Dix (10) pieds de la plante ont été collectés dans chaque zone climatique et un (1) pied dans le jardin botanique de l’Université d’Abomey-Calavi. En plus des observations sur la plante complète, il est procédé à l’achat des graines de C. gynandra. Des variables quantitatives (hauteur de la plante, nombre de fruits par pied, longueur et diamètre des fruits, celle des pédoncules, nombre de ramification) et variables qualitatives (couleur, pilosité de la tige, couleur des fruits et graines et forme des feuilles) ont été observées, mesurées et calculées. Le traitement des variables a été possible par usage du logiciel XLSTAT- pro Version 2008. 1.01. Les relations entre variables ont été étudiées grâce à la matrice de corrélation de Pearson (n). Une Analyse en Composante Principale (ACP), a permis de ressortir si des différences significatives à un taux de 0,05 existent entre les variétés pour les caractères étudiés. L'étude a mis en évidence une grande variabilité agromorphologique dans les trois zones climatiques du Bénin par des caractères discriminant. Des différences significatives ont été observées entre les variables des trois zones climatiques d'une part et entre les individus issus des jardins de case et ceux collectés dans la nature d'autre part. L’ACP a mis en évidence trois grands ensembles. La classification ascendante hiérarchisée montre (8) ensembles qui tiennent compte des similarités et les observations.Mots clés : Cleome gynandra L, Akaya, variété, caractères, légume feuille et République du Bénin. English Title: Morphological characterization of Cleome gynandra L. in Benin In Benin, scientific efforts are being made for knowledge of plant diversity. Cleome gynandra L. (White Caya, Sabo in Adja, Akaya in Mahi and Semboué in Peulh) of the family Capparaceae is the subject of this study through its agromorphological knowledge. The methodology used involves observations and sampling in the nature and house gardens. Ten (10) feet of the plant were collected in each climatic zone and one (1) foot in the botanical garden of the University of Abomey-Calavi. In addition to the observations on the whole plant, the seeds of C. gynandra are purchased. Quantitative variables (plant height, number of fruits per foot, fruit length and diameter, peduncles, number of branching) and qualitative variables (color, stem hair, fruit and seed color and leaf forms) were observed, measured and calculated. Variable processing was possible using the XLSTAT-pro Version 2008 software. 1.01. Relationships between variables were studied using the Pearson correlation matrix (n). A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed if significant differences at a rate of 0.05 exist between the varieties for the characters studied. The study revealed a large agromorphologicalvariability in the three climatic zones of Benin by discriminating characters. Significant differences were observed between the variables of the three climatic zones on the one hand and between the individuals from the house gardens and those collected in the wild on the other hand. The CPA has highlighted three major groups. The hierarchical ascending classification shows (8) sets that take into account similarities and observations.Keywords: Cleome gynandra L, Akaya, variety, characters, leaf vegetable and Republic of Benin.

During the 2018-2020 Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, EVD was diagnosed in a patient who had received the recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus-based vaccine expressing a ZEBOV glycoprotein (rVSV-ZEBOV) (Merck). His treatment included an Ebola virus (EBOV)-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb114), and he recovered within 14 days. However, 6 months later, he presented again with severe EVD-like illness and EBOV viremia, and he died. We initiated epidemiologic and genomic investigations that showed that the patient had had a relapse of acute EVD that led to a transmission chain resulting in 91 cases across six health zones over 4 months. (Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and others.).

Introduction and objective: Sickle cell disease is an inherited pathology to an abnormality of hemoglobin precisely hemoglobin S for which there is no curative therapy. It mainly affects sub-Saharan African and Caribbean populations. Thus, this study aims to make the phytochemical screening ofCremaspora trifloraandMacaranga schweinfurthiias well as to evaluate the antisickling activity of their purified alkaloids. Methodology: Chemical screening was performed using color and precipitation tests as well as the foam index method. The extraction of the alkaloids was carried out with organic solvents in a basic medium while the purification by open column chromatography. The evaluation of the antisickling activity was carried out by Emmel’s test. Results: The chemical screening highlighted alkaloids, steroids, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids in the species studied. Flavonoids and anthocyanins were present in organs ofMacaranga schweinfurthii, but absent inCremaspora triflora. The extraction showed thatMacaranga schweinfurthiileaves contained 0.59% alkaloids and 0.73% alkaloids inCremaspora trifloraleaves. The alkaloids purification allowed to obtain an alkaloidal fraction MS1 (1.24 g, 70.05%) fromMacaranga schweinfurthiiand two fractions [CT2 (0.934 g, 63.97%) and CT3 (0.006 g, 0.41 %)] fromCremaspora triflorawhich tested positive with Dragendorff and Wagner reagents. The antisickling activity evaluation showed that the SIR varied between 36.00% (0.25 mg/ml) and 90.66% (1 mg/ml) for the alkaloid solutions ofCremaspora triflora(IC50of 0.51 mg/ml) as well as between 4.00% (0.25 mg/ml) and 33.33% (1 mg/ml) for the alkaloid solutions ofMacaranga schweinfurthii(IC50of 1.40 mg/ml). Conclusion: This study showed that the purified alkaloids of the studied plant species have an inhibitory power on sickling.&nbsp

The efficiency of agro pesticides and fertilizers in eliminating pests and scaling up crop yield has motivated farmers to increase their use. Unfortunately, health hazards caused on farmers by these agrochemicals are of growing concern, though not well elucidated. In order to evaluate the effects of occupational exposure to agrochemicals on some key parameters of male farmers’ health in Buea Subdivision, Cameroon, a total of 101 men, including 62 farmers using the agrochemicals and a reference population of 39 men not involved in occupational utilization of the agrochemicals, were interviewed on use of protective equipment, exposure symptoms and reproductive health status. Thereafter, serum cholinesterase [acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE)] activities, total antioxidant capacity and reproductive hormones [follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone and testosterone] were assessed. Results revealed that farmers mainly used insecticides followed by fungicides, herbicides and fertilizers, but with inadequate protective measures. The use of agrochemicals resulted in several exposure symptoms including weakness, itches, burning sensation, headache, sneezing, coughing and vomiting, as well as decrease in serum AChE activity when compared to the reference population. The agrochemicals impacted negatively on the farmers’ reproductive health as evidenced by increased FSH levels. Taken altogether, these results suggested that exposure to agrochemicals adversely affects farmers’ health. Therefore, there is a need to further sensitize the farmers on the use of protective equipment to mitigate the exposure and resulting health hazards.

Epilepsy is a heterogenous group of disorders defined by recurrent seizure activity due to abnormal synchronized activity of neurons. A growing number of epilepsy cases are believed to be caused by genetic factors and copy number variants (CNV) contribute to up to 5% of epilepsy cases. However, CNVs in epilepsy are usually large deletions or duplications involving multiple neurodevelopmental genes. In patients who underwent seizure focus resection for treatment-resistant epilepsy, whole genome DNA methylation profiling identified 3 main clusters of which one showed strong association with receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) genes. We identified focal copy number gains involving epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and PDGFRA loci. The dysplastic neurons of cases with amplifications showed marked overexpression of EGFR and PDGFRA, while glial and endothelial cells were negative. Targeted sequencing of regulatory regions and DNA methylation analysis revealed that only enhancer regions of EGFR and gene promoter of PDGFRA were amplified, while coding regions did not show copy number abnormalities or somatic mutations. Somatic focal copy number gains of noncoding regulatory represent a previously unrecognized genetic driver in epilepsy and a mechanism of abnormal activation of RTK genes. Upregulated RTKs provide a potential avenue for therapy in seizure disorders.

The extracts of leaves and roots of Costus afer plant have been fully investigated in an attempt to determine their phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activities. Phytochemical screening carried out using thin layer chromatography (TLC) revealed the presence of several secondary metabolites in all the selected extracts of the plant. In addition, our results showed that the leaves of C. afer are the richest in polyphenols with an average value of 3416.25 μg EAG/g MS. The total flavonoid assay revealed a highest content in the leaves (8.02 %). Furthermore, studies of the antioxidant activities using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) method showed a significant effect compared to the reference vitamin C. Ethyl acetate extract of the leaves show a higher percentage of inhibition (83 %), followed the roots (69 %).

Bioassay guided fractionation of the stem barks of Isolona cooperi led to the isolation of a new lactone, apoprunellelactone (APL, 1), and two known compounds, 5-[1-hydroxyhexyl]-2H-furan-2-one (2) and oleic acid (3). Their structures were elucidated by spectral analysis including MS, UV, IR, 1D and 2D-NMR spectroscopy. Evaluated for its antiprotozoal activities, APL (1) was found to be the most active on Leishmania donovani and L. major promastigotes with EC50 values of 16.3 and 8.2 µM, respectively. Against Trypanosoma brucei brucei trypomastigote forms, the activity of APL was moderated (MEC = 38.0 µM). Its hemisynthetic ester acetic derivative (1c) was 2-42 times more active than that of the APL and reference drugs, justifying further in vivo evaluation of the two compounds (1 and 1c) on Leishmania sp and Trypanosoma brucei brucei/mice models.

En Côte d’Ivoire, les pressions exercées sur les terres agricoles ont réduit la durée des jachères naturelles dominées par une végétation herbacée et dont la présence constitue une opportunité pour l’amélioration de la fertilité azotée des sols et la reconstitution minérale des sols dégradés. Pour cette étude, un inventaire floristique des légumineuses herbacées spontanées les plus répandues dans les jachères en constitution ont été effectuées suivie de la caractérisation physicochimique des échantillons du sol sous ces légumineuses ou non (témoin). Au total 6 espèces appartenant à deux familles (Fabaceae et Mimosaceae) et quatre genres (Calopogonium, Centrosema, Crotalaria et Pueraria) ont été inventoriées. Toutes ces espèces sont des Phanérophytes constitués majoritairement de lianes (83%) contre une minorité d’herbacées (17%). Le rapport C/N a varié de 09,5 à 12,8, demeurant ainsi dans la norme (9-12). Les sols prélevés sont quasi riches en matière organique (>1,30 g kg-1) à l’exception de celui recueilli sous Mimosa invisa (1,18±1,1g kg-1). La matière organique intervient dans les mécanismes de la libération de l’azote minéral, donc de la nutrition de la culture associée. Elle influe selon sa nature sur les propriétés physico-chimiques et biologiques du sol et a la capacité d’emmagasiner les réserves en eau.Mots clés : jachères naturelles, légumineuses subligneuses, inventaire, fertilisation, Côte d’Ivoire English title: Effects of six most common spontaneous legumes in natural fallows on soil fertility in the region of Daloa (Côte d’Ivoire)In Côte d'Ivoire, pressures on agricultural land have reduced the duration of natural fallows dominated by herbaceous vegetation and whose presence constitutes an opportunity for improving the nitrogen fertility of soils and the mineral replenishment of degraded soils. For this study, a floristic inventory of the most recurrent spontaneous herbaceous legumes colonizing these fallows in constitution was carried out followed by the physicochemical characterization of the soil samples under these legumes or not (control). A total of six species belonging to two families (Fabaceae and Mimosaceae) and four genera (Calopogonium, Centrosema, Crotalaria and Pueraria) were inventoried. All these species are Phanerophytes made up mainly of lianas (83%) against a minority of herbs (17%). The C / N ratio varied from 09.5 to 12.8, thus remaining within the norm (9-12). The soils sampled are almost rich in organic matter (> 1.30 g kg-1) with the exception of that collected under Mimosa invisa (1.18 ± 1.1 g kg-1). Organic matter is involved in the mechanisms of the release of mineral nitrogen, and therefore of the nutrition of the associated crop. Depending on its nature, it influences the physicochemical and biological properties of the soil and has the capacity to store water reserves.Keywords: Natural fallows, sublimers legumes, inventory, fertilization, Côte d’Ivoire.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is an ocular manifestation characterized by microvascular complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and two lacrimal angiogenic cytokines, interleukin-6 (Il-6) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). A cross-sectional study was conducted at Yaoundé Central Hospital from February,1 to June, 15, 2019. Twenty-six diabetic patients with retinopathy and 55 diabetics without retinopathy were enrolled. Tears were collected with Schirmer strips. The concentrations of VEGF-A and Il-6 were determined by the ELISA test. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi Data version 7.1.5.2. and GraphPad 5.0. The mean VEGF-A concentration was 163.4 ± 45.1 and 149± 81.8 pg/ml in patients with and without DR respectively (p= 0.292) while tear Il-6 level was 118.5±103 and 119±79.43 pg/ml in patients with and without DR respectively (p= 0.497). The mean tear VEGF level was 165.2 ± 76.10 and 153.50 ± 57.94 pg/mL in patients with and without diabetic maculopathy (DM) respectively (p=0.343) while tear Il-6 level was significantly lower in DM (54.92±32.68) compared to patients without DM (159.10±89.78) (p=0.047). Tear Il-6 level was significantly low in patients with DM. There was no association between the 2 lacrimal biomarkers and diabetic retinopathy. Further analysis is needed for this type of screening in diabetic patients.Keywords: eye, retina, tear, diabetes, biomarker; cytokine.

Background: Natural products such as extracts of plants have been seen as a possible alternative to conventional therapies in the treatment and management of male infertility. This study aimed at investigating the testicular antioxidant and testosterone enhancing ability of the hydro-alcoholic extract of Rauvolfia vomitoria in male rats. Methods: Twenty-four male rats were divided into four groups of 6 rats each, treated daily with either vehicle (distilled water; 5 mL/kg) or hydro-ethanolic extract of R. vomitoria (20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg, and 100mg/kg) for 60 days, and body weights recorded once every three days. At the end of the treatment, each animal was sacrificed, and reproductive organs were dissected out and weighed. Serum from capillary blood was used for testosterone quantification, while testicular homogenates were used for the estimation of antioxidant biomarkers. Results: Treatment with R. vomitoria extract did not alter the animal’s body weight. Instead, the extract at the dose of 40 mg/kg significantly increased (P< 0.05) the weights of all reproductive organs investigated. The plant extract also increased serum testosterone concentrations significantly (P< 0.05), with the highest effect observed in the animals treated with a dose of 40 mg/kg. Testicular antioxidant markers, thiobarbituric acid substances, glutathione, and catalase were equally improved (P< 0.05) by treatment with the plant extract at the dose of 40 mg/kg. Conclusion: Hydro-ethanolic extract of R. vomitoria portrayed beneficial pharmacological properties on reproductive organs, testicular antioxidants, and testosterone concentrations in male rats. These pharmacological activities support the traditional use of the plant in the management of male fertility disorders.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and mineral bioavailability of T. tetraptera fruit pulp, an aromatic wild edible plant, using standard methods. The pulp were extracted from mature dried fruits obtained from plants at Awabo (5°30‘14.2”N and 4°01‘30.6”W) and Loviguié villages (5°48‘24.5‘‘N and 4°20‘15.8”W), all in south-eastern Côte d‘Ivoire. The results of chemical analysis revealed that T. tetraptera fruit pulp contains carbohydrates (63.73±0.51%), crude protein (7.01±0.66%), crude fat (1.18±0.01%), ash (5.38±0.18%), fibre (11.78±0.02%), moisture (40.52±0.18%) and an energy value of 254.74±0.15 kcal/100g. Besides, the results showed a relative high amount of vitamin A (2.11±0.02%) and vitamin B9 (261.78±0.01 µg/100g) while vitamin E, B1 and B2 in trace concentration. Otherwise, the phytochemical analysis (mg/100g) based on dry weight revealed an appreciable amount of total phenol (2407.10±8.36), flavonoids (14.29±0.56), tannins (55.11±0.44), catechin (392.93±1.01) and also carotenoids (108.19±7.42 µg/100g). Organic acids profile (mg/100mL) showed citric acid (175.06±0.02) and salicylic acid (109.85±0.01) as major organic acids. Mineral composition (mg/100g) on dry weight basis revealed that potassium (1303.67±0.58) is the most abundant followed by phosphorus (303.33±5.77), calcium (187.33±0.58) and magnesium (141.33±0.57). Furthermore, the Phytates:Zn, Phytates:Ca, Oxalates:Ca and Phytates*Ca:Zn molar ratios recorded were all below than recommended threshold values, implying a bioavailability of zinc and calcium. These data indicate that the pulp of this fruit could be a good source of ingredient for both medicine and food industries in production.

Slow-growing, male chickens raised with outdoor access have been found to be a nutritious protein source with 24.83% protein in breast muscle. They have an acceptable carcass quality with at least 20% less abdominal fat, 3% more breast yield, and 3% more thigh yield than the birds raised in confinement. Similarly, slow-growing male chickens grown with outdoor access have a good bone quality with femur weight, length and diameter (16.5 g, 96.7 mm, and 8.61 mm, respectively). Considering fatty acid profile as a meat quality trait, breast muscles of slow-growing birds grown with outdoor access compared to those without such access have significantly higher polyunsaturated fatty acids level (3.85 vs. 3.36%), lower n6:n3 PUFA ratio (7.8 vs. 9.22) and lower saturated fatty acids content (26.29 vs. 28.73%). Raising slow-growing male chickens in production systems with outdoor access has been confirmed to be beneficial for the animals, the producers, the consumers and the environment.

During our research to contribute to the elucidation of the chemical composition of the root bark of E. suaveolens, six non-nitrogenous cassane diterpenoids (1–6) were isolated and identified. Of these secondary metabolites, three have never been previously described: Cassan-13,15-dien-3-oxo-17-oic acid (2), Cassan-15-en-[7,17]-γ-lactone (3) and 6α-hydroxy-cassamic acid (5). The other are known but, never isolated from the root barks of E. suaveolens (Fabaceae): Cassan-13,15-dien-17-oic acid (1), 6α-hydroxy-cassamic acid methyl esther (4) and cassamic acid (6). Their structures were established according to the spectroscopic data (NMR 1D and 2D, HR-ESI-MS and IR), in comparison with those of literature. The originality of this study lies in the fact that three new natural molecules were isolated and identified. In addition, all the isolated compounds (1–6) were reported for the first time from the root barks of E. suaveolens.

In this paper, the impact of Pontoscolex corethrurus on Acacia mangium growth and its phytoremediation efficiency in metal-contaminated soils were studied in a greenhouse pot culture under four treatments: non contaminated soil-non inoculated, control (C); non contaminated soil-inoculated (NcI); contaminated soil-non inoculated (CNi); contaminated soil-inoculated (CI). The results showed that A. mangium growth performance and its Pb, Ni and Cr uptake were significantly (P

Phytochemical investigation of the methanol extract from the root barks of Erythrophleum suaveolens (Guill. et Perr.) Brenan led to the isolation of four cassane diterpenoid amides and five cassane diterpenoid amines. Among these compounds, two were considered as new structures: 3β-hydroxy-3-methylbutanoyloxy-6α-hydroxy-nor-cassamine (1) and 3β-hydroxy-3-methylbutanoyloxy-erythrosuamine (2). Compounds 3 (3β-acetoxy-nor-erythrosuamine), 4 (nor-cassamine), 5 (6α-hydroxy-nor-cassamine), 6 (3β-hydroxy-erythrosuamide), 7 (6α-hydroxy-nor-erythrophlamide), 8 (nor-cassaidide) and 9 (nor-cassamidide) were known. Their structures were established by spectral analysis including MS, IR, 1D and 2D-NMR spectroscopy. The originality of this study lies in the fact that two new natural molecules were identified and all the isolated compounds (1-9) were reported for the first time from the root barks of E. suaveolens.

Background Cell-to-cell fusion is emerging as a key element of the metastatic process in various cancer types. We recently showed that hybrids made from the spontaneous merging of pre-malignant (IMR90 E6E7, i.e. E6E7) and malignant (IMR90 E6E7 RST, i.e. RST) mesenchymal cells recapitulate the main features of human undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), with a highly rearranged genome and increased spreading capacities. To better characterize the intrinsic properties of these hybrids, we investigated here their metabolic energy profile compared to their parents. Results Our results unveiled that hybrids harbored a Warburg-like metabolism, like their RST counterparts. However, hybrids displayed a much greater metabolic activity, enhancing glycolysis to proliferate. Interestingly, modifying the metabolic environmental conditions through the use of 5-aminoimidazole-4-carbox-amide-1-β-D-ribofuranoside (AICAR), an activator of the 5′-adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), specifically reduced the growth of hybrids, and also abrogated the invasive capacity of hybrids displaying enhanced glycolysis. Furthermore, AICAR efficiently blocked the tumoral features related to the aggressiveness of human UPS cell lines. Conclusion Altogether, our findings strongly suggest that hybrids rely on higher energy flux to proliferate and that a drug altering this metabolic equilibrium could impair their survival and be potentially considered as a novel therapeutic strategy.

Aim and objective: Clerodendrum thomsoniae leaves are used in Cameroon to manage diabetes and its related disorders. The study aimed at investigating the antidiabetic effect of the aqueous extract on diet and dexamethasone induced diabetic rats. Methods: Young mature leaves of C thomsoniae were dried, finely powdered and submitted to aqueous extraction. The dehydrated extract was tested in rats at 3 doses 312.5, 625 and 1250 mg/kg based on the local use of the plant. The effect of the extract on the fasting blood glucose in normoglycemic rats and MACAPOS 1 type diet induced diabetic rats, using respectively glibenclamide and metformin as positive control groups, were investigated. Results: AECT significantly reduced blood glucose levels in normoglycemic rats (p

En raison de la relative disparition progressive des jacheres qui permettaient auparavant la conservation des ressources minerales du sol, la problematique de recherche agronomique dans le Nord de la Cote d’Ivoire est etroitement liee a la petite superficie des exploitations agricoles. Dans un tel contexte, la methode a consiste a caracteriser deux facteurs determinants : le caractere « terre » qui represente la ressource rare des exploitations agricoles et le caractere « legumineuse » dont la necessite d’insertion dans les associations. Des systemes de cultures pures, les cultures associees mais- cajanus et mais-arachide ont ete etudies dans le Nord-Cote d’Ivoire. Les resultats ont montre que l’arrangement spatial du semis modifie sensiblement la production de ces associations. On constate que la culture est favorisee par l’association cereale-legumineuse par rapport a la culture pure. Sur le sol objet du present travail, le mais associe valorise aussi bien la productivite que le mais cultive individuellement. Les possibilites d'ameliorer l’association traditionnelle mais-legumineuse, sans application des fertilisants, sont egalement examinees. La superiorite de l’association reside plutot dans la valorisation du capital terre (Land Equivalent Ratio, LER >1) que dans la productivite du travail, qui ne se distingue pas globalement de celle des cultures pures ; cela signifierait que l’association gagne de son interet en milieu degrade. Les differents LER totaux calcules montrent egalement une difference non significative entre les rendements obtenus sur Labours a plat et billons dans toutes les differentes associations legumineuses-mais. De ce fait, les paysans n’ont aucune crainte a cultiver sur le labour a plat pour eviter de creer des poches a l’erosion a travers des sillons crees par le billonnage et qui se transforment en rigoles. Les meilleurs systemes d’associations sont cajanusmais et cajanus-mais-arachide. For the reason of the relative progressive disappearance of the fallow which allowed before the conservation of the soil mineral resources, the problems of agronomic research in the North of the Cote d’Ivoire are closely related to the small surface of the farms. In such a context, the method consisted in characterizing two determining factors: character "soil" which represents the rare resource of the farms and character "leguminous plant" of which need for insertion in intercropping systems. Farming systems pure, associated crop maize-cajanus and maize-groundnut were studied in the North of Cote d’Ivoire. The results showed that the spatial arrangement of sowing appreciably modifies the production of these intercropping systems. It is noted that the crop is supported by intercrop cereal-leguminous plant compared to the mixed crops. On soil, object of this work, the intercrop maize develops as well the productivity as individually cultivated maize. The possibilities of improving traditional intercrop maize-leguminous plants, without the application of fertilizers, are also examined. The superiority of intercropping lies rather in the valorization of the capital soil (Land Equivalent Ratio, LER > 1) that in the labour productivity, which is not distinguished overall from that of the pure cultures; that would mean that intercropping gains of its interest in degraded area. The different calculated total LER also shows a non significant difference between the yields obtained on Labor flat and balks in all various intercrop leguminous plant-maize. So the farmers don’t have any fear to cultivate on the labor flat to avoid erosion through furrows created by the Balk and which are transformed into drains. The best intercropping systems are cajanus-maize and cajanus-maize-groundnut.

Seed and pollen dispersal are important for defining sustainable forest management practices. By reducing population density, selective logging could affect not only the seed production of timber species but also the selfing rate and the patterns of seed and pollen rains. To assess these risks, we characterized seed and pollen dispersal patterns and the fine-scale spatial genetic structure (FSGS) of Pericopsis elata, a gregarious, wind-dispersed legume tree which is highly logged in Central Africa and threatened by overexploitation. Eleven microsatellite markers were used to genotype 189 adults and 664 seedlings in a 4 km2 plot in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to the neighbourhood model, seed dispersal was extremely leptokurtic, with 80% of seeds dispersal distances 500 m. Pollen dispersal was locally more extensive (median distance 260 m), but pollen immigration was not detected, and the selfing rate (54%) appeared particularly high compared to other tropical tree species. Limited gene dispersal resulted in remarkably high FSGS (Sp = 0.072). A decay of inbreeding with age also suggests that the species is prone to inbreeding depression. The reproductive success of trees was positively related to their diameter at breast height (dbh), with half of the progeny mothered by trees with dbh > 97 cm and fathered by trees with dbh > 119 cm. Our study highlights that (1) seed sources must be diversified for plantation or population reinforcement to limit consanguinity, and (2) the legal minimum cutting diameter in DRC (60 cm) should be increased to maintain enough post-logging reproductive potential.

Common allometric patterns have been reported across the tropics and good performance on independent data was retrieved for the most recent pantropical model predicting tree aboveground biomass (AGB) from stem diameter, wood density and total height. General models are undoubtedly useful for the estimation and monitoring of biomass and carbon stocks in tropical forests, however specific allometry, allocation, and traits, are at the core of many models of vegetation dynamics, and there is lack of such information for some regions and species. In this study, we specifically evaluated how size-dependent changes in above-ground biomass and biomass allocation to crown relate to other allometric and life-history traits for tropical tree species. We gathered destructive data available in eight terra firme forest sites across central Africa and the combined dataset consisted of 1,023 trees belonging to 54 tropical tree species phylogenetically dispersed, with only two congeneric species. A huge body of field and laboratory measurements was used for computing AGB and crown mass ratio (CMR) at the tree level, and to derive key allometric traits at the species level. For the latter, species-specific relationships between tree diameter and total height, crown exposure to light, wood density, and bark thickness were fitted for 50 species. Our results show interspecific variation in the relationships relating tree diameter to both AGB and CMR, and including species traits in a multi-specific AGB model confirmed that interspecific variation in biomass allometry is primarily determined by species wood density. We also showed that the allocation of biomass to crown increases linearly with tree diameter for most species, and that interspecific variation in the CMR model is associated with the species dispersal mode and maximum height. Trait covariations among our set of tropical tree species widespread and/or locally abundant in central Africa, revealed a continuum between large-statured species, which tended to be light-demanding, deciduous and wind-dispersed, and species with opposite attributes. Information on allometry, allocation, and traits provided here could further be used in comparative ecology and for parameterizing dynamic and succession models. Also importantly, the species-specific AGB models fitted for major tree species, including most timber species of central Africa, will help improve biomass estimates.

We reported recently that the elevated plus maze is a good tool for evaluating cognitive and motor functional changes in gamma-irradiated rats as a model for new drug evaluation and monitoring. The capacity of Garcinia kola to mitigate radiation-induced brain injury is currently unknown. We therefore assessed the effects of the neuroprotective medicinal plant Garcinia kola, on the cognitive and motor changes in this murine model of acute radiation syndrome. Wistar rats exposed once to an ionizing dose of Tc99m-generated Gamma radiation were treated with an ethyl acetate fraction of methanolic extract of Garcinia kola seeds (content of 100 mg/kg of extract) for 9 weeks. Cognitive and motor function indicators were assessed in the elevated plus maze in these animals and compared with irradiated control groups (vitamin C- and vehicle-treated groups) and the non-irradiated control rats. The irradiated control group displayed cachexia, shaggy and dirty fur, porphyrin deposits around eyes, decreased exploratory activity, reduced social interactions and a loss of thigmotaxis revealed by a marked decrease in rearing episodes and stretch attend posture episodes close to the walls of elevated plus maze closed arm, an increased central platform time, and decreases in open arm time and entries. This group further displayed a decrease in head dips and grooming episodes. Treatment with Garcinia kola, and in a lesser extent vitamin C, significantly prevented the body weight loss (P, The effects of G. kola (a medicinal plant in African traditional medicine) seed extract on the cognitive and motor changes in the murine model of acute radiation syndrome were assessed. The extract was found to mitigate body weight loss, cognitive and motor impairment in irradiated rats better than vitamin C., Graphical Abstract Graphical Abstract

International audience; Human γδ T cells contribute to tissue homeostasis and participate in epithelial stress surveillance through mechanisms that are not well understood. Here, we identified ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EphA2) as a stress antigen recognized by a human Vγ9Vδ1 TCR. EphA2 is recognized coordinately by ephrin A to enable γδ TCR activation. We identified a putative TCR binding site on the ligand-binding domain of EphA2 that was distinct from the ephrin A binding site. Expression of EphA2 was up-regulated upon AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells, and coexpression of EphA2 and active AMPK in tumors was associated with higher CD3 T cell infiltration in human colorectal cancer tissue. These results highlight the potential of the human γδ TCR to cooperate with a co-receptor to recognize non-MHC-encoded proteins as signals of cellular dysregulation, potentially allowing γδ T cells to sense metabolic energy changes associated with either viral infection or cancer.

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder affecting over 70 million people worldwide, with a high rate of pharmaco-resistance, diverse comorbidities including progressive cognitive and behavioural disorders, and increased mortality from direct (e.g. sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, accidents, drowning) or indirect effects of seizures and therapies. Extensive research with animal models and human studies provides limited insights into the mechanisms underlying seizures and epileptogenesis, and these have not translated into significant reductions in pharmaco-resistance, morbidities or mortality. To help define changes in molecular signalling networks associated with seizures in epilepsy with a broad range of aetiologies, we examined the proteome of brain samples from epilepsy and control cases. Label-free quantitative mass spectrometry was performed on the hippocampal cornu ammonis 1–3 region (CA1–3), frontal cortex and dentate gyrus microdissected from epilepsy and control cases (n = 14/group). Epilepsy cases had significant differences in the expression of 777 proteins in the hippocampal CA1 − 3 region, 296 proteins in the frontal cortex and 49 proteins in the dentate gyrus in comparison to control cases. Network analysis showed that proteins involved in protein synthesis, mitochondrial function, G-protein signalling and synaptic plasticity were particularly altered in epilepsy. While protein differences were most pronounced in the hippocampus, similar changes were observed in other brain regions indicating broad proteomic abnormalities in epilepsy. Among the most significantly altered proteins, G-protein subunit beta 1 (GNB1) was one of the most significantly decreased proteins in epilepsy in all regions studied, highlighting the importance of G-protein subunit signalling and G-protein-coupled receptors in epilepsy. Our results provide insights into common molecular mechanisms underlying epilepsy across various aetiologies, which may allow for novel targeted therapeutic strategies.

Background: Metabolic bone disease in chronic kidney disease patients is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and it has been reported to start early in the course of the disease and worsen as the kidney damage progresses. However, the prevalence and factors associated with metabolic bone disease in chronic kidney disease patients in our setting has not been established, so we aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with metabolic bone disease among patients with chronic kidney disease at a tertiary Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es salaam, Tanzania so as to help physicians recognize the patients at risk, diagnose the problem and prevent complications sooner. Methods: This was a hospital based cross-sectional study involving adult patients with chronic kidney disease attending renal unit Muhimbili National Hospital, a tertiary referral center in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Systematic sampling technique was employed to get study participants after being given informed consent. In this study, CKD-MBD was defined basing on the abnormality of serum calcium, phosphate or parathyroid hormone level. Data analysis was done using the SPSS version 23.0 software. Results: A total of 300 participants with chronic kidney disease stage 3 and above were included in this study. Majority were male, 198 (66.0%), with a mean age of 53 years. The prevalence of metabolic bone disease was found to be 75.0%. The most common form of metabolic bone disease was hyperparathyroidism 196 (87.1%), followed by hypocalcemia 174 (77.3%) and hyperphosphatemia 82 (36.4%), which was the least common. Factors which were found to be significantly associated with CKD-MBD were the use of calcium supplements, use of phosphate binders, being on dialysis, a calcium rich diet and a low phosphate diet. Conclusion: Metabolic bone diseases are common in patients with CKD at Muhimbili National Hospital. Patients with CKD should undergo serial assessment of phosphate, calcium and parathyroid hormone level, considered together, so as to diagnose metabolic bone disease early and treat those patients who will be found to have persistently or prolonged abnormalities in these bone mineral biomarkers.

Five new cassane-type diterpenoid heterosides, i. e. two cassane-type amides (1-2), two erythrophlamine-type amine esters (3-4) and a non‑nitrogenous erythrophlamine analogue (5) were isolated from the root barks (1-2) and the seeds (3-5) of Erythrophleum suaveolens. Their structures were unambiguously established by interpretation of their HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR data, and chemical degradation for sugar determination. Compounds 3-5 were evaluated for their cytotoxicity against a panel of three cell lines, revealing modest to strong activities.

Malaria has been for millennia one of the best known and most destructive diseases affecting humans. Its high impact has aroused great interest for the development of new effective and reliable diagnostic techniques. Recently it has been recently published that hairs from mammal hosts are able to capture, hold and finally remove foreign DNA sequences of Leishmania parasites. The aim of this study was to check if Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) DNA remains stable in blood samples deposited in Whatman paper after suffering different transport and storage conditions, and to compare the sensitivity of these results with those offered by thick a smear and Rapid Diagnostic Test, and besides to examine whether P. falciparum DNA would be detected and quantified by Real time quantitative PCR (qPCR) from hairs of people with different types of malaria. P. falciparum Histidine Repeat Protein II (pHRP-II) antigen detection and P. falciparum DNA were detected in 18 of 19 dry blood samples adhered to Whatman paper (94.74%), besides, Plasmodium DNA was also detected in seven out of 19 hair samples analyzed (36.84%), remaining stable until analysis for several months under the exposure to different environmental conditions. Although the sensitivity of PCR for the diagnosis of malaria in hair samples is not as high as blood analysis, the study of Plasmodium DNA presence in blood and hair could constitute a complementary tool with numerous advantages in sample collection, transport and storage. We suggest that the method could be also applied to medical, forensic and paleo-parasitological diagnosis, not only for malaria but also for searching many other pathogens in hair samples.

Le bonobo (Pan paniscus), est une espece endemique a la Republique Democratique du Congo (RDC). La presente etude identifie les menaces qui pesent sur ce primate au niveau de la Reserve Naturelle de Sankuru (RNSA), les priorise a partir des analyses spatiales en evaluant, de maniere comparative, l’evolution de l’occupation du sol a l’interieur et exterieur de la zone protegee. Par rapport au reste de l’aire de repartition historique du bonobo en RDC ou la chasse est une preoccupation majeure, les enquetes dans la zone d’etude revelent que l’agriculture sur brulis est la premiere menace d’origine anthropique qui influe plus sur la survie de ce primate. L’etude revele des signes d’existence d’une ignorance persistante aux lois du pays en matiere de gestion et de conservation de la nature de la part de la population locale. La croissance demographique, le manque d’alternatives de subsistance ainsi que l’expansion de l’occupation du sol a l’interieur et aux alentours de la RNSA presentent des grandes envergures spatiales et un impact tres remarquable sur le couvert vegetal. La vitesse de l’expansion du complexe rural est de 1,5% dans la RNSA soit 3600 ha/an. Cette extension se fait de facons identiques a l’interieur et a l’exterieur de la limite de la RNSA. The bonobo (Pan paniscus), is an endemic species to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This study identifies the threats to this primate in the Sankuru Natural Reserve (RNSA), prioritizes them based on spatial analyzes by evaluating, in a comparative manner, the land use evolution inside and outside the protected area. Compared to the rest of the bonobo distribution area where hunting is a major concern, surveys reveal that slash-and-burn agriculture is the first anthropogenic threat that has the greatest impact on bonobo's survival in the RNSA. The reveals signs of persistent ignorance to the country's laws on the management and conservation of nature by the local population. Population growth, the lack of subsistence alternatives as well as the expansion of the rural complex within and around the RNSA present large spatial dimensions and a very remarkable impact on the vegetation cover. The rate of expansion of the rural complex is 1.5% in the RNSA or 3600 ha / year. This extension of the rural complex is done in identical ways inside and outside the RNSA boundary.

The transfection of Cryptosporidium represents a major challenge, and current protocols are based on electroporation of freshly excysted sporozoites using a rather large amount of plasmid DNA which typically has a very poor yield. In this study, we report a fast and simple protocol for transfection of Cryptosporidium parvum that takes advantage of the DNA condensing power of the poly cationic polymer polyethylenimine (PEI) and the gene delivery property of the short cell-penetrating peptide octaarginine. Our novel protocol requires a very low amount of plasmid DNA and does not necessitate special laboratory equipment to be performed. Transfection appears to be more efficient in oocysts just triggered for excystation than the excysted sporozoites. Altogether, the application of octaarginine with PEI allows efficient transfection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on an electroporation-free protocol for transfection of sporozoites of a Cryptosporidium species.

This study was aimed at evaluating the curative effects of Hydroethanolic Extract Of Spirulina platensis (HESP) on the reproductive function of female Guinea pig exposed to oxidative stress. Sixty females, 3-4 months old, weighing 300-400 g were divided into six groups (10 animals/group). The neutral control received distilled water, the negative control was treated with lead acetate at a dose 12 mg/kg.b.w while the positive control was given 12 mg of lead acetate/kg b.w and 100 mg of vitamin C. Groups 4, 5 and 6 were treated with lead acetate at a dose of 12 mg/kg b.w for the first 30 days and then received from the 31st day to the 90th day HESP at doses of 50,100 and 200 mg/kg.b.w respectively once daily. Results revealed that lead caused prominent toxic effects on fertility, deterioration of sex organs as well as a disruption of serum levels of Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and progesterone. Lead acetate markedly increased tissues oxidative-stress marker (malondiadehyde), whereas it reduces the activities of antioxidant-enzymes, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), total peroxidase and catalase. These changes were also accompanied by a significant (p

International audience; Five new monoterpene indole alkaloids (1-5), including four serpentinine-related bisindoles and one alstonine derivative monomer, have been isolated from the aerial parts of Picralima nitida. Their structures were elucidated by analysis of their HRMS and NMR spectroscopic data, and their absolute configurations were deduced from the comparison of experimental and simulated ECD spectra. In addition, two known compounds (6 and 7), previously undescribed from P. nitida, have also been purified. The compound isolation workflow was guided by a molecular networking-based dereplication strategy. Twenty-three compounds were dereplicated from the EtOH extract of P. nitida and fractions network and were assigned various levels of identification confidence. The antiparasitic activities against Plasmodium falciparum as well as the cytotoxic activity against the MRC-5 cell line were determined for compounds 1-7.

Fruits and vegetables are important commodities in global agriculture. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, production is sub-optimal in terms of yield, quality and environmental health practices due to several constraints such as insect pests which reduce yields through direct damage, or indirectly as disease vectors often promoting microbial diseases. Pest control still relies mainly on chemicals with their associated risks of resistance selection and toxicity to humans and environment. Several alternatives including biopesticides, semiochemical and nets are being explored in pest management. Insect nets applied on tomatoes, cabbages, beans and leafy vegetables protect them from flies, butterflies, moths, albeit to a lesser extent, whiteflies, aphids and thrips reducing their outbreaks as compared to open cultivation. As a result, pest control is limited and yield quantity and quality are improved. Insect nets are safe and cost effective for a period of 3-5 years if well maintained, and they may be re-used and recycled. Insect nets applied on cabbages in Benin yielded 3-fold more profit than current practice. However, insect nets are not effective against all pests inclusion of insect attractants or repellents may enhance efficacy of netting technology. The use of insect nets offers a cost-effective insect pest management option to among smallholder vegetable growers. The full benefit will be achieved with intensified extension efforts to make this technology better known.

This study was conducted to evaluate effectiveness of an integrated management intervention in the control of endo- and ectoparasites of pigs kept by smallholder farmers in Mbeya Rural and Mbozi districts of southern highlands of Tanzania. A repeated cross-sectional group randomization design was employed, with 10 villages in the intervention group and six villages in the control group. The intervention consisted of improving pig confinement, feeds and feeding practices, and strategic anthelmintic treatment of pigs with oxfendazole, to primarily control Taenia solium (porcine) cysticercosis and nematodes; and with ivermectin to control ectoparasites and nematodes. Blood and faecal samples, ectoparasite specimens and skin scrapings were collected at baseline and two follow-up rounds, at an interval of seven months. A total of 482, 460 and 421 pigs were sampled in 221, 196 and 139 households at baseline, first and second follow-up visits respectively. Sero-prevalence of PC, prevalence and burden of gastrointestinal (GI) nematodes and prevalence of ectoparasites were determined using Ag-ELISA, McMaster faecal egg counting technique and body searches/skin scrapings, respectively. Mann Whitney test was used to measure intervention effect by comparing changes from baseline values of prevalence and faecal egg counts between the two groups. No significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed between the two groups, in changes from baseline of sero-prevalence of PC. The intervention significantly reduced prevalence of Trichuris suis (p = 0.044) and mean faecal egg counts of Ascaris suum (p = 0.02) from baseline to first follow-up. The intervention showed a substantial effect on the prevalence of ectoparasites as it significantly reduced overall prevalence of ectoparasites (p = 0.026), lice (p = 0.045), ticks (p = 0.049) and mites (p = 0.013) from baseline to first follow-up, and prevalence of ectoparasites, lice and mites from baseline to second follow-up (p = 0.052, p = 0.03, p = 0.017 respectively). This study has demonstrated a moderate effect of the intervention on controlling GI nematodes and ectoparasites, but no effect on sero-prevalence of PC. The reported ineffectiveness of the intervention against PC is probably an underestimation because serology is not able to provide quantitative data. It may also be a result of reduced compliance as this was a field study. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to better understand transmission dynamics of PC and explore One Health approaches including treatment of the human population against taeniosis to better secure public health.

Substance abuse is a public health priority in the context of the HIV epidemic, especially in military communities. This cross-sectional study quantified alcohol and cannabis use in the Malawi Defence Force and investigated its associations with condom use, transactional sex, multiple sexual partners, and sexual violence. Participants were 944 male and female service members ≥ 18 years old. Data were collected in 2013 using a computer-assisted self-interview. Twenty-four percent of men and women screened positive for hazardous and harmful drinking [Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) score ≥ 8]. About 6% reported using cannabis in the past year and 10% reported using cannabis prior to 1 year ago. Multivariable models found elevated adjusted odds of transactional sex and multiple sexual partners for men with an AUDIT score ≥ 8, and men who reported ever using cannabis. The adjusted odds of experiencing sexual violence were also elevated for men who reported ever using cannabis. These findings add to the growing concern that substance use may perpetuate the HIV epidemic in Sub-Saharan Africa by increasing risky sexual behaviors. A comprehensive military HIV prevention response should include substance use education and appropriate care and treatment for individuals screening positive for hazardous and harmful drinking.

A high proportion of commodities in African countries face limitations in penetrating international markets, mainly because of low quality and high transaction costs (TCs) of marketing. This study responds to two research questions. One, does honey from the Uyui district in Tanzania has the potential for geographical indication (GI) labelling, potentially enhancing quality? Two, can GI labelling reduce TCs and improve market access? 83 beekeepers, 50 honey traders and 50 consumers were selected randomly for interviews in Uyui District and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Both primary and secondary data were collected on, cultural and historical identity, the local ecosystem, marketing and value addition technologies. The policy and legal framework for GI certification were also reviewed. Seven honey samples from Uyui District were tested for physicochemical characteristics and compared with the international standards. Since there is no GI labelled honey in Tanzania currently, a hypothetical case was crea...

RNA polymerase (Pol) III transcribes small untranslated RNAs that are essential for cellular homeostasis and growth. Its activity is regulated by inactivation of tumor suppressor proteins and overexpression of the oncogene c-MYC, but the concerted action of these tumor-promoting factors on Pol III transcription has not yet been assessed. In order to comprehensively analyse the regulation of Pol III transcription during tumorigenesis we employ a model system that relies on the expression of five genetic elements to achieve cellular transformation. Expression of these elements in six distinct transformation intermediate cell lines leads to the inactivation of TP53, RB1, and protein phosphatase 2A, as well as the activation of RAS and the protection of telomeres by TERT, thereby conducting to full tumoral transformation of IMR90 fibroblasts. Transformation is accompanied by moderately enhanced levels of a subset of Pol III-transcribed RNAs (7SK; MRP; H1). In addition, mRNA and/or protein levels of several Pol III subunits and transcription factors are upregulated, including increased protein levels of TFIIIB and TFIIIC subunits, of SNAPC1 and of Pol III subunits. Strikingly, the expression of POLR3G and of SNAPC1 is strongly enhanced during transformation in this cellular transformation model. Collectively, our data indicate that increased expression of several components of the Pol III transcription system accompanied by a 2-fold increase in steady state levels of a subset of Pol III RNAs is sufficient for sustaining tumor formation.

Purpose: Solubilizers play an important role in dissolution of pharmacological ingredients and should properly dissolve the active principle(s) while preserving its activities. This study investigated the effect of starch, gelatin, methylcellulose and polyvinylpyrrolidone 10000 in the preservation of the androgenic activity of the methanol extract Basella alba (MEBa). Methods: Different groups of male albino rats were orally given the MEBa (1 mg/kg) dissolved into either 1% gelatin (1% gel), %1 methylcellulose (1% MC) and 1% polyvinylpyrrolidone 10000 (1% PVP 10000) or 2% starch solution (2% SS) for 30 days. Thereafter, animals were sacrificed and serum testosterone and creatinine levels as well as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity determined. Vital and reproductive organs were dissected out and weighed, while liver thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and glutathione levels were determined. Results: Different treatments did not affect the animal body and organ weights. The MEBa stimulatory effect on testosterone production was preserved with 2% SS and 1% PVP 10000 as vehicles. Increased liver glutathione and TBARS levels were also observed in the animals fed with the MEBa dissolved in 2% SS and 1% Gel, respectively, while other biochemical parameters remained unchanged. Conclusion: Starch and polyvinylpyrrolidone 10000 stand as good preservation agents for MEBa androgenic activity, with starch exhibiting additional antioxidant activity through increase of glutathione levels.

Rapidly progressive Alzheimer’s disease (rpAD) is a particularly aggressive form of Alzheimer’s disease, with a median survival time of 7–10 months after diagnosis. Why these patients have such a rapid progression of Alzheimer’s disease is currently unknown. To further understand pathological differences between rpAD and typical sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (sAD) we used localized proteomics to analyze the protein differences in amyloid plaques in rpAD and sAD. Label-free quantitative LC–MS/MS was performed on amyloid plaques microdissected from rpAD and sAD patients (n = 22 for each patient group) and protein expression differences were quantified. On average, 913 ± 30 (mean ± SEM) proteins were quantified in plaques from each patient and 279 of these proteins were consistently found in plaques from every patient. We found significant differences in protein composition between rpAD and sAD plaques. We found that rpAD plaques contained significantly higher levels of neuronal proteins (p = 0.0017) and significantly lower levels of astrocytic proteins (p = 1.08 × 10−6). Unexpectedly, cumulative protein differences in rpAD plaques did not suggest accelerated typical sAD. Plaques from patients with rpAD were particularly abundant in synaptic proteins, especially those involved in synaptic vesicle release, highlighting the potential importance of synaptic dysfunction in the accelerated development of plaque pathology in rpAD. Combined, our data provide new direct evidence that amyloid plaques do not all have the same protein composition and that the proteomic differences in plaques could provide important insight into the factors that contribute to plaque development. The cumulative protein differences in rpAD plaques suggest rpAD may be a novel subtype of Alzheimer’s disease.

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of heat that induces oxidative stress on reproduction organ weight and serum biochemical, testes structure, and function in male guinea pig (Cavia porcellus). Forty-eight male guinea pigs with an average weight of 330.56 ± 23.62 g, aged 3–4 months, were distributed into four groups of 12 animals each. One group (control) was maintained to ambient temperature (20–25°C), while other groups (Groups 2–4) were exposed daily for 6 h, to 32 ± 1°C, 39±1°C, and 46 ± 1°C, respectively. All animals were sacrificed after 60 days' exposure and their reproductive characteristics values were determined. Results revealed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) of the weight of testes, epididymis, vas deferens, and accessory glands in cavies exposed to the highest temperature investigated (46 ± 1°C), compared to the control animals. There was a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of serum testosterone and LH levels in all heat stress-exposed groups (≥46 ± 1°C) when compared to the control group. Heat stress significantly (p < 0.05) decreased sperm mobility, sperm count, and testicular antioxidant enzymes, while increasing testicular malondialdehyde content. However, the serum level of HSP-40 increased in the animals exposed to 39 ± 1°C and decreased when the cavies were exposed to 46 ± 1°C. In conclusion, exposure to heat-induced oxidative stress results in impairment of reproduction organ weight and serum biochemical, testes structure, and function in male cavies.

Mareya micrantha, an Ivoirian medicinal plant, was investigated for its chemical constituents and antioxidant properties. This study carried out on the hydroethanolic extract of the leaves led to three new nor-cucurbitacins named: 29-nor-1,2,3,4,5,10-dehydro-3,15 alpha,20 beta-trihydroxy-16 alpha-acetyl-11,22-dioxo-cucurbita-23-ene 2-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (1), 29-nor-2 beta,20 beta,25-trihydroxy-16 alpha-acetyl-3,11,22-trioxo-cucurbita-4,23-diene (2) and 29-nor-2 beta,15 alpha,20 beta-trihydroxy-16 alpha-acetyl-3,11,22-trioxo-cucurbita-4,23-diene 2-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (3). The structures were established on the basis of spectral data (NMR, UV, MS and IR). The antioxidant properties evaluated by DPPH and CUPRAC methods gave the best activity with compound 1. The chemotaxonomic significance of the isolation of these compounds in Mareya micrantha, a species belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family, is discussed.

Aim The formation history of Africa's current river basins remains largely unknown. In order to date changes in landscape and climate, we studied the biogeography of the African freshwater fish with the largest natural distribution. We also validated biogeographical units.Location Continental Africa.Taxon Clarias gariepinus sl.Methods We investigated mitochondrial cytb sequences of 443 individuals from 97 localities, using a haplotype network and a genetic landscape analysis. We inferred a dated phylogeny using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches and reconstructed ancestral areas with S-DEC and S-DIVA models. Microsatellite genotyping complemented the mitochondrial approach in the Congo basin, where the latter revealed complex patterns.Results Limited differentiation is found in northern and south-western Africa, and sharp genetic differentiation in the continent's east and centre. Populations with affinities to neighbouring basins occur at the edges of the Congo province. High diversity exists in the south of the Congo basin. The Zambezi province is partitioned into eastern, central and western sectors. In the east, specimens were related to those from the Congo. In the west, they were similar to Southern representatives. Phylogenetic inference placed the origin of C. gariepinus in the East Coast, with intraspecific diversification starting around the Great Lakes. These events occurred ca. 4.8-1.65 and 2.3-0.8 MYA respectively.Main conclusions Clades of C. gariepinus sl. show a clear geographical signature. The origin of C. gariepinus in the East Coast and diversification around the Great Lakes coincided with the periods of increased aridity. Low genetic differentiation in northern and southern Africa may result from connectivity during recent periods of higher rainfall. In contrast to other widespread African freshwater fish, colonization rather than extinction seemed to mediate distribution patterns. This can be explained by a high ecological tolerance. We highlight the species' suitability to study landscape and climate evolution at various scales. A.A. received a postdoctoral research fellowship from the KU Leuven and the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). M.V.S. and M.P.M.V. received PhD fellowships from FWO. MVS received travel grants of the FWO and the Leopold III funds for Nature Exploration and Conservation. A.C.M. received support from the Belgian Development Agency and the BTCCTB project PRODEPAAK. We sincerely thank the following colleagues for sample collection: J.-F. Agnèse, B. Benade, R. Bills, L. and G. Chapman, P. de Villiers, the late L. De Vos, J. Engelbrecht, P. Fouche, P. Galbusera, K. Goudswaard, D. Impson, R. Karssing, J. Munyandorero, A. Piers, C. Maguswi, J. Southey, the late G. Teugels, K. Van Lerberghe and the Department of Fisheries and Agriculture of Zambia. We benefited from insights from J.-F. Agnèse, T. Huyse, J. Maley, P. Skelton, J. Snoeks, K. Van Doninck and C. Sturmbauer. This study was performed on historical collections and on samples collected by researchers from certified institutes of the countries where collections were made. All material was collected prior to the implementation of the Nagoya protocol for access and benefit sharing.