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Abstract Background Adolescent mental health (AMH) is a critical issue worldwide, particularly in West Africa, where it is intensified by socio-economic, cultural, and security challenges. Insecurity and the presence of mining sites expose adolescents to hazardous environments, substance abuse, and adulterated alcohol, further aggravating their mental health. Despite these severe issues, research on AMH in this region remains limited. This study aims to analyze the provision of AMH services in Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Niger, highlighting the unique challenges these countries face within the broader West African healthcare context. Methods The study adopted a multi-stage, stratified sampling design to collect data from primary healthcare centers (PHCs) in the three countries. Using STATA.17, Descriptive analysis was conducted on the data related to availability of AMH services, types of mental health disorders treated, resources available, and OPD attendance rates. The analysis also incorporated factors such as the rural-urban divide and the presence of national guidelines for AMH services. Results The findings reveal a significant shortfall in the provision of AMH services across the region, with less than 30% of PHCs across all the countries offering these services. The study also highlights a pronounced rural-urban disparity in AMH service availability, a general absence of national guidelines for AMH care, and low OPD attendance rates. Conclusion The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policy reform and targeted interventions to enhance AMH services in West Africa. Key policy reforms should include the development and implementation of national guidelines for AMH care and integration of AMH services into primary healthcare. Additionally, efforts should focus on capacity building through the training of mental health professionals, increasing public awareness to reduce stigma, and ensuring equitable resource allocation across rural and urban areas. Improving AMH care is essential not only for the well-being of adolescents but also for driving broader socio-economic development in the region.

Background: Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic disease caused by an Orthonairovirus of the Nairoviridae family transmitted by tick bites and also contact with infected blood, tissues or body fluids. Until now, fewer studies have been conducted in animals in Burkina Faso. Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence and risk factors of CCHF in two provinces of Burkina Faso. Methods: Serum samples were collected from 371 bovine animals. In addition, questionnaire surveys were performed with cattle breeders. The double-antigen sandwich ELISA test was used to determine the presence of antibodies against the CCHF virus in serum samples. Results: The results showed an overall prevalence of 72.2% (95% CI: 67.6% - 76.7%). Within the 74 herds included in the study a herd prevalence of 96% (95% CI: 91.4% - 100%) was obtained. The prevalence was significantly higher in Mouhoun province (80%, 95% CI: 74% - 86%) compared to Kenedougou province (65.6%, 95% CI: 59.1% -72.2%). Multivariable regression analysis showed that females were more likely to be infected (OR=1.99, 95% CI: 1.1-3.6, p=0.023) than males. In addition, cross-breed animals (OR= 6.42, 95% CI: 1.71-24.14, p=0.006) were more likely to be infected compared to local-bred animals. This study revealed the presence of antibodies of CCHF virus in cattle in the study area, indicating the need of implementing control measures in veterinary sector. Conclusion: Despite the importance of CCHF in public health, no study has been implemented regarding this condition in animal in Burkina Faso. This study described evidence of cattle exposure to the virus in Burkina Faso. [Open Vet J 2024; 14(8.000): 1912-1920]

Plants and animals are potential sources of food, particularly lipids. They are sources of nutrients for humans, and are used in various applications in food industries. Foods whose lipids consumed, have benefits for animal and human health. Sterols are among the compounds essential to the well-being of living beings. Phytosterols are derived from plants and algae, and zoosterols from animals dominated by cholesterol. Cholesterol is found in small quantities in some plant lipids. Also, cholesterol is produced by herbivorous insects by metabolizing phytosterols. Oilseeds and vegetable oils contain sterols and are the richest natural sources of phytosterols. Vegetables and fruit also contain small quantities. These compounds play an undeniable role in our diet. Foods, particularly vegetable oils, when produced, preserved and used according to established prescriptions, help to ensure consumer health and prevent certain pathologies. Sterols, and in particular phytosterols, play a number of roles in the pharmaceutical field (therapeutic steroids), nutrition (anti-cholesterol, anti-cancer properties). These natural molecules with their nutritional and therapeutic properties have a positive impact on human and animal health, and possibly on vegetative growth (development cycle of plants). The same is true for cholesterol, which has multiple functions in humans and animals. Also, a diet based on plants or their by-products with positive effects on human and animal health is closely in line with the objectives of the 'One health approach'. Indeed, sterols can have adverse effects on health when established standards are not respected. As a result, the health benefits of sterols (cholesterol and phytosterols) require particular attention, given their contribution to the public health problems facing our countries. The aim of the present research is to highlight the health benefits of cholesterol and phytosterols for living organisms, particularly humans, and their contribution to the One Health approach.

Objective To describe antibiotic prescribing practices using the WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification in West African children under 5 years of age attending public primary health centres (PHCs).Design Cross-sectional study.Setting The AIRE project implemented the systematic use of pulse oximetry into integrated management of childhood illness consultations in West African countries (Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger). We described antibiotic prescriptions for outpatient children at 16 PHCs and for severe cases referred at district hospitals.Patients Between 14 June 2021 and 19 June 2022, 15 854 outpatients were included: 968 neonates and young infants (0–28 days) and 14 886 children (2–59 months). Among them, 78 (8.1%) neonates and young infants and 385 (2.6%) children were hospitalised. We evaluated 58 hospitalised neonates and young infants and 275 hospitalised children, respectively.Main outcome measures Frequency of antibiotic prescriptions according to the AWaRe classification recommended by WHO.Results At the PHC level, proportions of neonates and young infants with ≥1 antibiotic prescription were 83%, 62%, 71% and 59% in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger, respectively. A total of 805 antibiotics were prescribed (85% Access and 13% Watch). The proportions of children with ≥1 antibiotic prescription reached 71%, 66%, 63% and 36% in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger, respectively. Out of the 9630 antibiotics prescribed, 93% were Access (mainly amoxicillin), and 7% Watch. At the hospital level, Watch antibiotics were mainly prescribed for severe cases referred. No Reserve antibiotics were prescribed.Conclusions High proportions of antibiotics were prescribed to outpatient children included, the appropriateness of which needs further study. Nevertheless, in every country, the proportion prescribed in the Access group reached the minimum threshold of 60% of all antibiotic prescriptions, as recommended by WHO.Trial registration number PACTR202206525204526.

Background: From birth to 6 months, children must be exclusively breastfed, and from 6 months, food diversification starts to supplement breast milk. This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate some of the feeding practices regarding children aged 6 to 23 months in the city of Ouagadougou. Methods: First, data were food consumption data as well as recalling meals over the past 24 hours were collected. Then, technological and labeling data regarding infant flours produced locally and sold in Ouagadougou were obtained. For analysis, data were entered into Sphinx V5 and IBM SPSS Statistics 20 software, and means were compared using XLSTAT 2016 software. Results: In total, 33 local infant flours were evaluated, and all the formulations contained cereals. Fruits and legumes (30.30%), milk (30.30%), and eggs (0,00%) were the least used materials. Instant type flours were rarely encountered (9.09%), and packaging in plastic bags was consumed the most (57.57%). Regarding labeling information, batch number (28%) and the method of preservation (32%) were the least identified. With respect to food consumption, 94.84% of the children were breastfed and 98.33% aged 6 to 8 months consumed solid foods. At least 85.28% of women considered the age of 6 months for introduction of solid foods. Concerning consumption of infant porridges, imported infant porridges were preferred the most (37.44%). Conclusion: Concerning local infant flour, some of them did not meet WHO guidelines. With regard to food practice indicators in Ouagadougou, some of them are relatively satisfactory; however, there is still a need to raise awareness regarding feeding practices.

Based on data from the Global Observatory of Public Support for Agriculture and Food, this article aims to analyze and understand the current functioning of public support, while assessing the extent to which it is effectively oriented towards the promotion of sustainable agricultural systems. Through a political economy analysis of public support, we will show the differences in support and the lack of tools and financed mechanisms to accelerate agricultural transitions at the global level.

ABSTRACTPublic financial management (PFM) theory suggests that improvements in the allocation, execution, and monitoring of public funds can result in improved sectoral outcomes, including in health. However, the existing literature on the relationship between PFM quality and health outcomes provides limited empirical documentation and insufficient explanation of the mechanics of that relationship. This paper contributes to the literature by estimating the correlation between PFM quality and health outcomes from a sample of sub-Saharan African countries over the period 2005–2018, using a pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) estimator. The analysis uses Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) scores as proxies for PFM quality. The findings indicate that countries with high-quality PFM tended to have the lowest maternal, under-five and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) mortality. Among the standard PFM dimensions, the one associated with the higher correlation with maternal and under-five mortality was “predictability and control in budget execution.” Better PFM quality was significantly associated with a drop in maternal and under-five mortality in countries which allocated a higher proportion of their budget to the health sector. In countries allocating a lower proportion of their budget to health, the correlations between PFM quality and the three mortality indicators were not significant. The negative correlations between PFM quality and maternal and under-five mortality were significant only in countries with more effective governance. These findings support an emphasis on strengthening PFM as a means of improving health service provision and health outcomes.

IntroductionThe food environment is an important factor in the efforts of countries worldwide to achieve a transition to sustainable food systems. The objective of this study is to formulate and prioritize actions to be addressed to the government of Burkina Faso for the creation of a healthy food environment, which will contribute to reducing malnutrition in all its forms and non-communicable diseases.MethodsNational experts were brought together to identify and prioritize actions to fill the gaps identified through a multi-step assessment process following the methodology of the Healthy Food and Environment Policy Index (Food-EPI).ResultsUp to 20 priority policy actions were recommended to the Burkina Faso government. Actions in the policy component focused mainly on regulation of food promotion and marketing, particularly to children, and others in the infrastructure support component focused largely on political leadership, i.e., strong and visible political support from the government to improve the food environment, population nutrition, diet-related non-communicable diseases and their inequalities.ConclusionThe priority actions to be recommended to the government will strengthen advocacy for government decisions to create a healthier food environment in the country.

Burkina Faso relies on its substantial bovine population for meat and milk production, ensuring food security. The country hosts three primary taurine cattle populations: Lobi, Gourounsi Nahouri, and Gourounsi Ténado. These cattle are adapted to local conditions and exhibit valuable trypan tolerant traits, playing a crucial role in sustaining local communities and holding cultural and socio-economic significance. This study aimed to assess the genetic diversity and structure of Burkina’s primary taurine cattle populations using 27 microsatellite markers. Blood samples from 143 cattle representing these populations were genotyped. The analysis included assessing genetic diversity, deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, calculating genetic distances, and population structure. The results revealed that all loci were polymorphic, indicating high allelic diversity. The overall mean FIS was moderate (0.028), ranging from -0.36 (CSRM60) to 0.73 (INRA035). Genetic differentiation between populations was moderate, accounting for 4% of the total differences. The highest pairwise FST was observed between Lobi and Gourounsi Ténado. The neighbor-joining tree displayed high admixture levels between Gourounsi populations, while Lobi cattle clustered as a distinct population. The population structure analysis indicated significant zebu gene introgression in Burkina taurine populations with relatively higher levels of admixtures in Gourounsi cattle compared to Lobi. The study provided a thorough genetic analysis of Burkina Faso's taurine cattle populations, uncovering the diversity and population structure. The study also revealed the differences in the prevalence of tsetse flies and associated trypanosomosis across the native tracts of Burkinabe taurine cattle populations had shaped the level of zebu introgression in them.

During January–August 2021, the Community Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Study used time/location sampling to recruit a cross-sectional, population-based cohort to estimate SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and nasal swab sample PCR positivity across 15 US communities. Survey-weighted estimates of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine willingness among participants at each site were compared within demographic groups by using linear regression models with inverse variance weighting. Among 22,284 persons >2 months of age and older, median prevalence of infection (prior, active, or both) was 12.9% across sites and similar across age groups. Within each site, average prevalence of infection was 3 percentage points higher for Black than White persons and average vaccine willingness was 10 percentage points lower for Black than White persons and 7 percentage points lower for Black persons than for persons in other racial groups. The higher prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among groups with lower vaccine willingness highlights the disparate effect of COVID-19 and its complications.

Background Burkina Faso has been implementing financing reforms towards universal health coverage (UHC) since 2006. Recently, the country introduced a performance-based financing (PBF) program as well as user fee removal (gratuité) policy for health services aimed at pregnant and lactating women and children under 5. We aim to assess the effect of gratuité and PBF policies on facility-based out-of-pocket expenditures (OOPEs) for outpatient services.Methods Our study is a controlled pre- and post-test design using healthcare facility data from the PBF program’s impact evaluation collected in 2014 and 2017. We compared OOPE related to primary healthcare use incurred by children under 5 and individuals above 5 to assess the effect of the gratuité policy on OOPE. We further compared OOPE incurred by individuals residing in PBF districts and non-PBF districts to estimate the effect of the PBF on OOPE. Effects were estimated using difference-in-differences models, distinguishing the estimation of the probability of incurring OOPE from the estimation of the magnitude of OOPE using a generalized linear model (GLM).Results The proportion of children under 5 incurring OOPE declined significantly from 90% in 2014 to 3% in 2017. Concurrently, mean OOPE also decreased. Differences in both the probability of incurring OOPE and mean OOPE between PBF and non-PBF facilities were small. Our difference in differences estimates indicated that gratuité produced an 84% (CI -86%, -81%) reduction in the probability of incurring OOPE and reduced total OOPE by 54% (CI 63%, 42%). We detected no significant effects of PBF, either in reducing the probability of incurring OOPE or in its magnitude.Conclusion User fee removal is an effective demand-side intervention for enhancing financial accessibility. As a supplyside intervention, PBF appears to have limited effects on reducing financial burden.

En Europe, en Amérique et en Asie, la recherche sur les usages des technologies numériques éducatives et leurs contributions à l’enseignement et l’apprentissage a été florissante, tandis qu’en Afrique subsaharienne, la recherche, excepté quelques rares études en sciences de l’éducation, a longtemps délaissé ces usages. La littérature met en évidence des lacunes en termes d’accès au matériel et d’intérêt pour certains dispositifs techniques. La technologie la plus adoptée reste le téléphone portable qui fait l’objet d’usages personnels et scolaires (Maïdakouale et Fagadé, 2022). Cette étude vise à soutenir l’intégration des technologies numériques éducatives chez une population jeune disposant déjà de compétences numériques non formelles. Nous étudions les logiques sociales structurant les usages qui, eux-mêmes, les façonnent (Paquienséguy, 2012). Aussi, mettons-nous en évidence les « nouvelles » sociabilités scolaires que ces usages apportent. Comme le soulignent Leveratto et Leontsini (2008), l’intérêt pour les usages éducatifs d’Internet nécessite également d’explorer ses dimensions ludiques et sociales, puisque la disponibilité sociale détermine l’engagement personnel dans l’usage intensif. Nous avons utilisé des méthodes qualitatives et quantitatives pour enquêter auprès de 292 étudiants au Burkina Faso, au Gabon et au Niger, pays de l’Afrique subsaharienne. Nous montrons que des facteurs sociotechniques participent à accompagner, dans l’ombre, la révolution numérique dans ces universités.

Abstract Background Crimean–Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is caused by an orthonairovirus transmitted by bites from infected ticks or by direct contact with blood or tissues of infected ticks, viraemic patients or viraemic livestock. Objective It was implemented to access the seropositivity and associated factors with CCHF in sheep in two provinces in Burkina Faso. Methods Three hundred and sixty‐four sheep sera have been taken from 73 herds in four municipalities and two provinces. The double‐antigen sandwich ELISA test was used to test for antibodies against CCHF virus (CCHFV). Data have also been collected using questionnaire to assess factors associated with CCHF seropositivity. Results Fifty‐four (54 out to 364 sheep were seropositive given an overall seropositivity of 14.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.9%–19.8%) with an adjusted seropositivity of 13.1%. The study showed that 15.6% (95% CI: 10.2–21.0) and 14.1% (95% CI: 9.2–19.1) of sheep in the provinces of Mouhoun and Kénédougou, respectively, had antibodies against CCHFV. The highest seropositivity was found in Dédougou municipality (24.4%). The study showed that sheep from the municipalities of Dédougou (AOR = 8.4; 95% CI: 2.2–31.8), N'dorola (AOR = 14.7; 95% CI: 3.8–56.8), Sindou (AOR = 4.9; 95% CI: 1.2–20.7), sheep aged between 27 and 36 months (AOR = 6.4; 95% CI: 2.3–17.3) and sheep with ticks (AOR = 24.8; 95% CI: 7.7–80.1) were more likely to be seropositive to CCHF. Conclusions The study revealed that sheep in Burkina Faso experienced contacts with CCHFV and suggests the importance of implementing control action in the country.

BackgroundThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical care delivery in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) has been challenging to assess due to a lack of data. This study examines the impact of COVID-19 on pediatric surgical volumes at four LMIC hospitals.MethodsRetrospective and prospective pediatric surgical data collected at hospitals in Burkina Faso, Ecuador, Nigeria, and Zambia were reviewed from January 2019 to April 2021. Changes in surgical volume were assessed using interrupted time series analysis.Results6078 total operations were assessed. Before the pandemic, overall surgical volume increased by 21 cases/month (95% CI 14 to 28, p

Abstract Introduction Girls’ and women’s health as well as social and economic wellbeing are often negatively impacted by early childbearing. In many parts of Africa, adolescent girls who get pregnant often drop out of school, resulting in widening gender inequalities in schooling and economic participation. Few interventions have focused on education and economic empowerment of adolescent mothers in the region. We aim to conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial in Blantyre (Malawi) and Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso) to examine the acceptability and feasibility of three interventions in improving educational and health outcomes among adolescent mothers and to estimate the effect and cost-effectiveness of the three interventions in facilitating (re)entry into school or vocational training. We will also test the effect of the interventions on their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and mental health. Interventions The three interventions we will assess are: a cash transfer conditioned on (re)enrolment into school or vocational training, subsidized childcare, and life skills training offered through adolescent mothers’ clubs. The life skills training will cover nurturing childcare, SRH, mental health, and financial literacy. Community health workers will facilitate the clubs. Each intervention will be implemented for 12 months. Methods We will conduct a baseline survey among adolescent mothers aged 10–19 years (N = 270, per site) enrolled following a household listing in select enumeration areas in each site. Adolescent mothers will be interviewed using a structured survey adapted from a previous survey on the lived experiences of pregnant and parenting adolescents in the two sites. Following the baseline survey, adolescent mothers will be individually randomly assigned to one of three study arms: arm one (adolescent mothers’ clubs only); arm two (adolescent mothers’ clubs + subsidized childcare), and arm three (adolescent mothers’ clubs + subsidized childcare + cash transfer). At endline, we will re-administer the structured survey and assess the average treatment effect across the three groups following intent-to-treat (ITT) analysis, comparing school or vocational training attendance during the intervention period. We will also compare baseline and endline measures of SRH and mental health outcomes. Between the baseline and endline survey, we will conduct a process evaluation to examine the acceptability and feasibility of the interventions and to track the implementation of the interventions. Discussion Our research will generate evidence that provides insights on interventions that can enable adolescent mothers to continue their education, as well as improve their SRH and mental health. We aim to maximize the translation of the evidence into policy and action through sustained engagement from inception with key stakeholders and decision makers and strategic communication of research findings. Trial registration number AEARCTR-0009115, May 15, 2022.

Subclinical mastitis is an insidious infection of the mammary gland that results in an inflammation of one or more quarters of the udder, generally due to a bacterial infection, a physiological disorder, or local trauma. They have a negative impact on dairy cow production. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of subclinical mastitis in peri-urban farms in Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso (Burkina Faso). In total, 305 lactating cows, including 150 from the peri-urban area of ​​Ouagadougou and 155 from ​​Bobo Dioulasso, were tested using the California Mastitis Test. Also, a questionnaire survey has been carried out to collect data about farm management and selected animals. The overall prevalence was 42.9%, with 45.3% and 40.6%, respectively, in farms in the peri-urban area of ​​Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso. The biostatistical analysis identified the breed, former cases of mastitis on the farm, and diarrhea as risk factors associated with subclinical mastitis. In conclusion, this study demonstrates evidence of mastitis in peri-urban farms in Burkina Faso. Further investigations are needed to identify pathogens associated with these infections to select better control actions.

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the long-term outcome of the serous-lined extramural continent catheterizable outlet procedure (SLECCOP) associated with ileal bladder augmentation in children.MethodsThis was a monocentric and retrospective study (2002–2021) that included children (

This article explores the growing importance of the QoE (Quality of Experience) metric as a fundamental criterion in the optimization of heterogeneous multimedia networks. We explore the benefits of using QoE, such as improving user experience, efficient resource management, and adaptation to network conditions. However, this paradigm presents technical challenges, including accurately measuring QoE and managing the complexity of heterogeneous networks. To address these challenges, we highlight promising research prospects, such as the development of advanced algorithms, real-time measurement of QoE, and the integration of machine learning. Ultimately, the use of QoE in the optimization of heterogeneous multimedia networks contributes to a substantial improvement in the quality of multimedia services offered to end users.

Résumé : Le Burkina Faso comporte une diversité ethnique qui constitue un potentiel culturel et artistique important. Les rapports entre les peuples étaient harmonieux. Ainsi se sont tissées des relations caractérisées par un respect mutuel, gage d’un vivre ensemble. Depuis quelques années, cette cohésion a été mise à rude épreuve du fait de la situation sécuritaire. Les conséquences de cette crise sont, entre autres, le repli identitaire, la méfiance vis-à-vis du prochain, les menaces, les vengeances, la mort ainsi que l’effritement du tissu social. Conscientes de la gravité de la situation, les populations s’organisent pour apporter leur soutien à la lutte antiterroriste que les militaires, à eux seuls, ne parviennent pas à juguler. Dans cette douloureuse circonstance l’artiste se sent plus que jamais interpellé. Il investit son rôle de pacificateur, de facilitateur et d’éveilleur de conscience pour toucher la sensibilité des populations. Il s’exprime à travers des productions comme la danse et les arts plastiques. L’objectif de cette étude est de comprendre dans un premier temps le rôle et la démarche de l’artiste contemporain burkinabè en temps de crise et dans un second temps de décortiquer quelques œuvres d’arts produites pour participer au recouvrement de la paix d’antan. Mots-clés : Art, Culture, Cohésion sociale, Burkina Faso, Insécurité.

Local genetic resources have an important place in poultry production in Africa. However, knowledge of these genetic resources and their breeding systems is quite often limited. This study was carried out in Seno province/Burkina Faso and aimed to characterize the local chicken production system, the genetic resources used and their management in this area. A survey was conducted including 185 chicken farmers in a rural area. The snowball sampling method was used to co-opt interviewees and, face-to-face interviews were done. The questionnaire includes closed and open-ended questions. Production system characteristics showed that local chickens were bred in free-range production system with few inputs. There were multiple production purposes such as self-consumption (meat and eggs), saving, sale, making donation to strangers. The sale of chickens was ranked as the main purpose with 0.48 as the index, and self-consumption of chicken meat came in second position with 0.34 as the index. According farmers, three phenotypes of chickens ("breed or ecotypes") are encountered in the area. However, these phenotypes are raised together with uncontrolled mating practice, leading to a tendency towards uniformity of phenotypes. Almost all farmers (98.9%) stated they select breeding roosters. This selection is mainly based on growth performance (96.6%). Nevertheless, they ranked "resistance to diseases" as the characteristic they would improve primarily if they had all the possibilities (index 0.43). In general, the production system was extensive with low input, whereas the local chicken genetic resources were under poor management which can lead to genetic erosion.

Abstract Background From 6 months of age, children need, in addition to breast milk, a complementary food whose nutritional composition meets their needs. However, low consumption of child-specific foods in favor of adult foods has been documented. Thus, the lack of adaptation of children to family feeding conditions has been the source of frequent malnutrition in some low-income countries. In Burkina Faso, little data is available on family-type food consumption by children. The objective was to describe the socio-cultural influences on feeding habits and food consumption frequencies of infants aged 6–23 months in Ouagadougou. Methods The study was conducted from March to June 2022 using a structured questionnaire. A reminder of the previous 24 h’ meals was used to assess 618 children's food consumption. Mother–child pairs were selected using the simple random sampling method, and data collection was done by the interview method. Sphinx V5, IBM SPSS Statistics 20.0 and XLSTAT 2016 software were used to process data. Results Influences between the consumption of certain foods and the mother’s social status were observed. The most consumed foods are simple porridges (67.48%), Tô/rice (65.70%), cookies and cakes (62.94%), juices and sweetened drinks (62.94%). Cowpeas (17.31%), improved porridge (13.92%) and eggs (6.63%) are the least consumed. The most meals frequency was three meals daily (33.98%), and children with the minimum daily meal frequency were 86.41%. Principal component analysis showed that the mother's social status influenced the consumption of imported infant flours, fish soups, fruits, juices and sweetened drinks, cookies and cakes, simple porridge, and tô/rice. Concerning the consumption of local infant porridges, 55.72% of the children who consumed them appreciated positively. However, for 57.75% of the parents, the lack of information limits the consumption rate of this type of flour. Conclusion High consumption of family-type meals was observed and was influenced by parental social status. In addition, the rate of acceptable meal frequencies was generally high.

Palm wine produced by natural fermentation of Borassus akeassi raw sap exhibits great variability in physicochemical, sensory, and microbiological quality. This study aimed to improve the production process, safety and sensory quality of Borassus akeassii wine. Eight types of wine were produced, seven of which were obtained from a controlled fermentation process for 72 h using Saccharomyces cerevisiae and/or lactic acid bacteria strains previously isolated from palm wine in Burkina Faso. Physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of the wines were determined using standard methods while their sensory analysis was carried out on a panel of 24 tasters, including 15 regular consumers from Banfora and 9 naive consumers from Ouagadougou.The pH ranged from 5.30±0.14 to 5.99±0.00, acidity from 0.39±0.06 to 1.66±0.12 (%), the brix degree from 2.95±0.07 to 5.2±0.00 and alcohol content from 1.92±0.00 to 5.87±0.00 (%). From the microbiological analyses, we obtained a total count of aerobic flora and coliforms below 1 CFU/mL in the conditioned wine. The sensory characteristics of the wines differed significantly as the panelist preferred the wines fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae PW3 and PW16 strains, respectively. The study revealed that the presence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae PW3 and PW16 strains and lactic acid bacteria promoted the production of higher quality wines with improved microbiological and sensory properties. They therefore stand as suitable starter culture candidates for the production of quality wines from Borassus akeassii sap.

Campylobacter has emerged as a potential important cause of childhood morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa. Biannual mass azithromycin distribution has previously been shown to reduce all-cause child mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. We conducted a randomized controlled trial in Burkina Faso in which children were randomized in a 1:1 fashion to a 5-day course of azithromycin or placebo to investigate the effect of oral antibiotics on the gut microbiome. We evaluated the changes in the gut microbiome of preschool children treated with azithromycin using metagenomic DNA sequencing. We found that three Campylobacter species were reduced with azithromycin treatment compared with placebo. These results were consistent with other studies that have shown decreases in Campylobacter species after azithromycin treatment, generating the hypothesis that a decrease in Campylobacter may contribute to observations of reduction in mortality following azithromycin distribution.

We evaluated the effect of systemic antibiotics (azithromycin, amoxicillin, cotrimoxazole, or placebo) on the gut resistome in children aged 6 to 59 months. Azithromycin and cotrimoxazole led to an increase in macrolide and sulfonamide resistance determinants. Resistome expansion can be induced with a single course of antibiotics.

Introduction: Bilateral femoral fractures in children (BFFC) are an uncommon condition. Only a few cases were reported in the literature. The frequency and outcome in low-setting facilities are unknown. This study aims to describe our experience in managing BFFC. Patients and Methods: A 10-year ongoing study spanning from 2010 to 2020 was held in a level-1 paediatric facility. We included all cases of BFFC on a bone-free disease with at least 10 months of follow-up time. Data were collected and analysed with statistical software. Results: A total of eight patients with ten BFFC were collected. It involved mainly boys (n = 7/8) with median age of 8 years. Mechanism of injury were a road traffic accident (n = 4), a fall from height (n = 3), and been crushed by a falling wall (n = 1). Associated injuries were frequent (n = 6/8). Patients were managed nonoperatively with spica cast (n = 5) and by elastic intramedullary nails (n = 3). After 6.11 years of mean follow-up time, all fractures healed. The outcome was excellent and good in 7 cases. One patient sustained knees stiffness. Conclusion: Non-operative management of BFFC showed satisfactory outcomes. Early surgical care must be developed in our low-income settings to reduce in-hospital stay and encourage early weight-bearing.

Postmenopausal women with overweight or obesity have an increased risk of developing breast cancer but many of the mechanisms underlying this association remain to be elucidated. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), short non-coding single-stranded RNAs, regulate many physiological processes by controlling post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA. We measured circulating miRNA from 192 overweight/obese postmenopausal women (50–75 years) who were part of a randomized controlled trial, comparing independent and combined effects of a 12-month reduced-calorie weight-loss diet and exercise programme, versus control. RNA was extracted from stored plasma samples, and 23 a priori selected miRNA targets related to aetiology of breast cancer or obesity were measured using NanoString nCounter miRNA Expression assays. Changes from baseline to 12-months between controls and women in the diet/exercise weight loss arms were analysed using generalized estimating equations modification of linear regression, adjusted for confounders. We next examined changes in levels of circulating miRNA by amount of weight loss (0–10% versus ≥10%). Participants randomized to weight-loss interventions had statistically significantly greater reductions in miR-122 (−7.25%), compared to controls (+ 33.5%, P = 0.009), and miR-122 levels were statistically significantly correlated with weight loss (rho = 0.24; P = 0.001) Increasing weight loss was associated with greater reductions in miR-122 vs. controls (−11.7% (≥10% weight loss); +2.0% (0–10% weight loss) +33.5% (controls); Ptrend = 0.006), though this was not significant after correction for multiple testing (P = 0.05/23) Our study supports the effect of weight loss on regulation of miRNA.

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological characteristics of bread dough and the nutritional quality of “Tabnen-naow,” an ethnic artisan bread consumed mainly in Burkina Faso. Originating in Boussé, this bread is spreading to the outskirts of Ouagadougou for several reasons, such as the increase in the price of industrial bread and especially the supposed low glycemic index of artisan bread. However, there is insufficient information in the literature about the nutritional quality and technology of artisan bread in Burkina Faso. For this purpose, surveys were conducted among artisan bakers in five artisan bread production units in Ouagadougou, using survey forms to draw the production diagram. The microbiological characteristics of bread dough were evaluated using standard microbiology methods. Lastly, the nutritional quality of ethnic artisan bread was determined using standard techniques. All the bakers were male, between 22 and 34 years old, with an average age of 27.8 ± 5.1 years. They all used wheat flour, mainly (80%) from the Grand Moulin du Faso (GMF). The Baker’s dough fermentation was done at room temperature using dry or lyophilized yeast. The interesting microorganisms (yeasts, lactic acid bacteria) were present in all the bread dough samples. The yeast (2.5 108 CFU/g) and lactic acid bacteria (2.27 107 CFU/g) were abundant apart from the one bread dough, which had a low lactic acid bacterial load. The ethnic artisan bread contains carbohydrates (88.20–89.05%), proteins (9.60–10.60%), and minerals such as iron (11.56 to 89.27 mg/kg), calcium (00.00–290.03 mg/kg), and zinc (69.18 ± 36.74 to 389.10 ± 32.89 mg/kg). The nutritional composition revealed that ethnic artisan bread could contribute significantly to a healthy diet and food security.

Physical activity reduces risk of colon cancer by 20–30%. Aberrant methylation patterns are common epigenetic alterations in colorectal adenomas, and cancers and play a role in cancer initiation and progression. Alterations identified in normal colon tissue represent apotential ‘field cancerization’ process, where normal colon is primed for carcinogenesis. Here, we investigate methylation patterns in three genes –Ena/VASP-like (EVL), (CDKN2A (p14, ARF)), and Oestrogen Receptor-1 (ESR1)– in normal colon tissue collected at baseline and 12 months from 202 sedentary men and women, 40–75 years, enrolled in a randomized controlled trial testing an exercise intervention vs. control (http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00668161). Participants were randomized to moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise, 60 minutes/day, 6 days/week for 12 months, or usual lifestyle. Sigmoid colon biopsies were obtained at baseline and 12-months, DNA extracted, and bisulphite converted. Droplet digital methylation-specific PCR was performed for EVL, p14ARF, and ESR1. Generalized estimating equations modification of linear regression was used to model relationships between intervention effects and gene methylation levels, adjusting for possible confounders. There were no statistically significant differences between methylation patterns at 12-months between exercisers and controls. ESR1 methylation patterns differed by sex: women −10.58% (exercisers) +11.10% (controls); men +5.54% (exercisers), −8.16% (controls) (P=0.05), adjusting for BMI and age. There were no statistically significant changes in methylation patterns in any gene stratified by change in VO2max or minutes/week of exercise. While no statistically significant differences were found in gene methylation patterns comparing exercises vs. controls, 12-month exercise effects on ESR1 methylation differed by sex, warranting further study.

The current international context characterized by environment, and socio-political crises, and the related issue of instability of food supply and agricultural inputs, revives the need for agroecological transition of West African smallholders. This study aims to analyze the socio-psychological determinants of the adoption of crop rotation (CR) and cereal-leguminous intercropping (CLI) practices, two popular agroecological practices in Benin and Burkina Faso, in order to provide additional levers for action for the agroecological transition in these two countries. To this end, a stepwise survey involving all the municipalities of Atacora (9) in Benin and Houet (13) in Burkina Faso was conducted among 400 family farmers. The planned behavior model was then used to analyze their intentions and decisions to adopt these practices through structural equation modeling. Findings show that regardless of the practice, farmers' perceived control influences their intention as well as their adoption decision. Similarly, farmers' intention also had a positive and significant effect on their decision to implement these two practices. These results contribute to a better understanding of farmers' decisions process, and therefore offer opportunities to positively influence it.

Sesame (Sesanum indicum L.) is one of the primary annual oilseeds grown in Africa and Asia. Sesame seed oil (SSO) is of great economic and human nutrition interest worldwide. Due to its composition in phytochemical antioxidants and profile in unsaturated fatty acids, sesame is used as a biological source of essential fatty acids. It contains bioactive compounds such as lignans (sesamin, sesamol, sesamolin), tocopherols and phytosterols. The oleic/linoleic fatty acids ratio of sesame makes it important for human health. SSO has bioactive compounds that can help prevent certain cardiovascular, metabolized and coronary diseases. The ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids in SSO are precursors to eicosanoids that regulate the immune system and inflammatory functions. The essential fatty acids contained in this oil are essential for cell construction and highly recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy. The consumption of SSO allows both a decrease in the LDL-cholesterol complex and an increase in the HDL-cholesterol complex. It regulates blood sugar and may have favorable effects on people with liver cancer and those developing fatty liver disease. In this review, the nutritional value, antioxidant properties, and health benefits of SSO have been compiled to provide collective information of nutritional and medical interest.

Epidemiological studies often encounter a challenge due to exposure measurement error when estimating an exposure–disease association. A surrogate variable may be available for the true unobserved exposure variable. However, zero-inflated data are encountered frequently in the surrogate variables. For example, many nutrient or physical activity measures may have a zero value (or a low detectable value) among a group of individuals. In this paper, we investigate regression analysis when the observed surrogates may have zero values among some individuals of the whole study cohort. A naive regression calibration without taking into account a probability mass of the surrogate variable at 0 (or a low detectable value) will be biased. We developed a regression calibration estimator which typically can have smaller biases than the naive regression calibration estimator. We propose an expected estimating equation estimator which is consistent under the zero-inflated surrogate regression model. Extensive simulations show that the proposed estimator performs well in terms of bias correction. These methods are applied to a physical activity intervention study.

ObjectivesNutrition has profound effects on children's health outcomes and is linked to weight gain and cognitive development. We used data from a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the prospective associations between dietary, socioeconomic and demographic factors and short-term weight gain during the lean season in a rural area of Burkina Faso.DesignProspective cohort data arising from a randomised controlled trial of the effect of antibiotic distribution on child growth and intestinal microbial diversity.SettingTwo rural communities in Nouna District, Burkina Faso.Participants246 children aged 6-59 months living in the study communities were enrolled in the study.Primary and secondary outcome measuresAnthropometric measurements, including weight and height, were obtained at baseline and 1 month.ResultsOf 246 children, the median weight for wasted children at baseline (weight-for-height z-score

Understanding antibiotic use may help predict emergence of antimicrobial resistance. We evaluated antibiotic prescription trends in rural Burkina Faso, where little is known about antibiotic consumption. Antibiotic prescription data for 20 communities were extracted through record review in six primary health-care facilities serving the communities. The number of antibiotic prescriptions per child-year was calculated using population-based census data from the communities. A total of 1,444 antibiotic prescriptions were made from March to June 2017 among 3,401 children in the communities. The frequency of antibiotic prescription was 1.70 prescriptions per child-year (95% CI: 1.61-1.79). Penicillins were the most common (1.04 prescriptions per child-year, 95% CI: 1.01-1.06), followed by sulfonamides (0.69 prescriptions per child-year, 95% CI: 0.67-0.71) and macrolides (0.38 prescriptions per child-year, 95% CI: 0.37-0.40). Continued monitoring of antibiotic consumption in diverse settings will be important to understand the potential for emergence of antibiotic resistance.

Cohabiting children may share components of their intestinal microbiome. We evaluated whether receipt of azithromycin in one sibling confers changes to the intestinal microbiome in an untreated sibling compared with placebo in a randomized controlled trial. We found no evidence of an indirect effect of antibiotic use in cohabiting children. Clinical Trials Registrations: NCT03187834.

Nakougou Mo&idigr;-bohm Biatougou,1 Muriel S Ouedraogo,2 Serge Theophile Soubeiga,3,4 Theodora Mahoukede Zohoncon,1,5 Paul Ouedraogo,5 Dorcas Obiri-Yeboah,6 Aziz Sidi Aristide Tapsoba,1 Touwendpoulimdé Isabelle Kiendrebeogo,1,3 Tani Sagna,4 Pascal Niamba,2 Adama Traore,2 Jacques Simpore1,3 1Biochemistry and Microbiology Department, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics (LABIOGENE), University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; 2Department of Dermatology, Yalgado Ouedraogo Hospital University Centre, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; 3Department of Biomedical Research, Biomolecular Research Centre Pietro Annigoni (CERBA), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; 4Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute of Health Sciences (IRSS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; 5Department of Medicine, Saint Thomas d’Aquin University (USTA), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; 6Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, GhanaCorrespondence: Serge Theophile Soubeiga, Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute for Health Sciences (IRSS), P.O. 03. BOX 7047, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Tel +226 70 01 30 58, Email theo.soubeiga@gmail.comIntroduction: Human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8) is the main etiological agent of Kaposi’s sarcoma. This virus is frequently associated with immunocompromision. This study aimed to detect HHV-8 in people with compromised immune system.Patients and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that included 180 subjects: 179 HIV-infected patients and 1 patient with bullous pemphigoid. Blood samples were taken from all subjects, and swabs of lesions were then taken from individuals with symptoms of Kaposi’s sarcoma. Viral load and CD4+ T lymphocytes count were performed for persons living with HIV and real-time PCR detection of HHV-8 DNA was performed in all subjects in the study.Results: Among HIV-infected persons, 13.41% had a viral load of more than 10,000 copies/mL, and 22.91% had a CD4+ T lymphocytes count of fewer than 350 cells/μL. A total of four (three HIV-1 infected patients and one patient with bullous pemphigoid) patients (2.22%) had apparent lesions of Kaposi’s sarcoma. In the plasmas and swabs from associated lesions, HHV-8 DNA was found in only two individuals, with an HHV-8 prevalence of 1.11% (2/180) with 0.55% (1/179) in an HIV-infected patient on antiretroviral therapy.Conclusion: These results exposing low prevalence levels of HHV-8 in HIV-infected patients could be due to the beneficial effect of antiretroviral drugs.Keywords: HIV, HHV-8, immunocompromised, Kaposi’s sarcoma, Burkina Faso

Communities should play a crucial role in the fight against public health emergencies but ensuring their effective and sustained engagement remains a challenge in many countries. In this article, we describe the process of mobilising community actors to contribute to the fight against COVID-19 in Burkina Faso. During the early days of the pandemic, the national COVID-19 response plan called for the involvement of community actors, but no strategy had been defined for this purpose. The initiative to involve community actors in the fight against COVID-19 was taken, independently of the government, by 23 civil society organisations gathered through a platform called ‘Health Democracy and Citizen Involvement (DES-ICI)’. In April 2020, this platform launched the movement ‘Communities are committed to Eradicate COVID-19 (COMVID COVID-19)’ which mobilised community-based associations organised into 54 citizen health watch units (CCVS) in Ouagadougou city. These CCVS worked as volunteers, performing door-to-door awareness campaigns. The psychosis created by the pandemic, the proximity of civil society organisations to the communities and the involvement of religious, customary and civil authorities facilitated the expansion of the movement. Given the innovative and promising nature of these initiatives, the movement gained recognition that earned them a seat on the national COVID-19 response plan. This gave them credibility in the eyes of the national and international donors, thus facilitating the mobilisation of resources for the continuity of their activities. However, the decrease in financial resources to offset the community mobilisers gradually reduced the enthusiasm for the movement. In a nutshell, the COMVID COVID-19 movement fostered dialogues and collaboration among civil society, community actors and the Ministry of Health, which plans to engage the CCVS beyond the COVID-19 response, for the implementation of other actions within the national community health policy.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the acceptability of composite breads based on local cereal (millet and sorghum) formulations. Bread preparations based on 50% wheat flour and 50% local cereal flour were made in the presence of exopolysaccharide (Eps) production stimulated by a strain of Weissella confusa A16 in the fermented dough. Seven formulations were done in two baking sets and were submitted to sensory evaluations which consisted of tests on sensory profile, hedonic analysis and ranking. Results showed that the presence of Eps improved the acceptability of breads made with local cereal flours. The white color of the crumb of breads made with 100% wheat flour was the most appreciated by consumers. The less local flour is used in the bread preparation, the better the bread is appreciated. Nevertheless, formulations containing whole grains were the least appreciated, partly because of the hardness of the breads. Interestingly, more than 50% of consumers found the taste pleasant for breads made with 50% millet flour.

Brucellosis and tuberculosis are important zoonotic diseases with high economic and public health importance mainly in low income countries. In Burkina Faso, studies have been implemented to assess prevalence of these diseases but data remain scare about the prevalence in extensive husbandry systems. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with brucellosis and tuberculosis in cattle from extensive husbandry systems in two regions of Burkina Faso. Serums samples were collected on 2195 cattle from 206 herds in Hauts-Bassins and Sahel region. Intradermal skin test and Rose Bengal Plate test have been carried out for the diagnosis of tuberculosis and brucellosis respectively. The overall herd prevalence was 18.93% and 25.73% respectively for brucellosis and tuberculosis while the herd prevalence of co-infections was 6.31%. The individual prevalence was 3.64% (95% CI: 2.85% - 4.42%) and 3.51% (95% CI: 2.74% - 4.28%) for brucellosis and tuberculosis respectively. A prevalence of 0.32% (95% CI: 0.08% - 0.55%) was noted for co-infections. Brucellosis infection was associated with herd size, animal sex and age (p ˂ 0.05). The highest prevalence was found in herds of more than 60 animals (8.2%; 95% CI: 5.7%-10.6%) and in animal aged between 5 and 8 years old (5.3%; 95 CI: 3.4%–7.1%). The prevalence was significantly higher in females (3.9%; 95%CI: 3.0%–4.7%) compared with males (1.0%; 0.04% - 2%). Tuberculosis prevalence was significantly higher in Hauts-Bassins region (6.2%; 95% CI: 4.4%-8.0%) than in Sahel region (2.3%; 95% CI: 1.5%–3.0%). The highest prevalence of tuberculosis was found in herds with at most 30 animals (9.9%; 95% CI: 4.0% - 15.7%) and in animal less than 4 years old (5.4%; 95% CI: 3.4%–7.4%). Results suggest that brucellosis and tuberculosis are prevalent in cattle herds, therefore management practices are needed for better control of the zoonotic diseases.

The present study reports the population structure, genetic admixture and phylogeography of cattle breeds of Sri Lanka viz. Batu Harak, Thawalam and White cattle. Moderately high level of genetic diversity was observed in all the three Sri Lankan zebu cattle breeds. Estimates of inbreeding for Thawalam and White cattle breeds were relatively high with 6.1% and 7.2% respectively. Genetic differentiation of Sri Lankan Zebu (Batu Harak and White cattle) was lowest with Red Sindhi among Indus Valley Zebu while it was lowest with Hallikar among the South Indian cattle. Global F statistics showed 6.5% differences among all the investigated Zebu cattle breeds and 1.9% differences among Sri Lankan Zebu breeds. The Sri Lankan Zebu cattle breeds showed strong genetic relationships with Hallikar cattle, an ancient breed considered to be ancestor for most of the Mysore type draught cattle breeds of South India. Genetic admixture analysis revealed high levels of breed purity in Lanka White cattle with >97% Zebu ancestry. However, significant taurine admixture was observed in Batu Harak and Thawalam cattle. Two major Zebu haplogroups, I1 and I2 were observed in Sri Lankan Zebu with the former predominating the later in all the three breeds. A total of 112 haplotypes were observed in the studied breeds, of which 50 haplotypes were found in Sri Lankan Zebu cattle. Mismatch analysis revealed unimodal distribution in all the three breeds indicating population expansion. The sum of squared deviations (SSD) and raggedness index were non-significant in both the lineages of all the three breeds except for I1 lineage of Thawalam cattle (P0.05) and White cattle (P>0.05) indicating an excess of low frequency polymorphisms and demographic expansion. Genetic dilution of native Zebu cattle germplasm observed in the study is a cause for concern. Hence, it is imperative that national breeding organizations consider establishing conservation units for the three native cattle breeds to maintain breed purity and initiate genetic improvement programs.

The emergence and spread of carbapenem resistance in Gram-negative bacilli such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa through the production of carbapenemases is a global phenomenon. It threatens patient care and leads to therapeutic impasses. This study aims to genotypically determine the prevalence of the most frequent carbapenemase genes among multidrug-resistant E. coli strains isolated from patients at a biomedical analysis laboratory. A total of fifty-three unduplicated E. coli strains isolated from patient samples with a multidrug-resistant (MDR) profile were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for carbapenem resistance genes. This study allowed us to identify fifteen strains carrying resistance genes among the fifty-three E. coli strains. All fifteen strains produced the metallo-β-lactamase enzymes; this represents a rate of 28.30% of study strains. Among these strains, ten carried the NDM resistance gene, NDM and VIM genes were detected in three strains and VIM was identified in two strains of E. coli. However, carbapenemases A (KPC and IMI), D (OXA-48), and IMP were not detected in the strains studied. Thus, NDM and VIM are the main carbapenemases detected in the strains in our study.