The anarchic urbanization of certain African cities favors the multiplication of the malaria parasite. Thus, the urgent mobilization of African cities is essential to combat this health risk. It is, therefore, with th...The anarchic urbanization of certain African cities favors the multiplication of the malaria parasite. Thus, the urgent mobilization of African cities is essential to combat this health risk. It is, therefore, with the objective of contributing to the investigation of problem areas that the present study evaluates malaria transmission and vector control strategies in the Cotonou V health zone in particular. This is a cross-sectional study taking into account four neighborhoods, including Wologuèdè, Sainte Rita, Gbèdjromèdé and the area around Etoile Rouge. Two nocturnal captures on voluntary humans and the method of spray were carried out in the dry season from December 2021 to February 2022. On the captured Anopheles, the ELISA Circum-Sporozoite Protein test was performed to determine the infectivity and calculate some transmission parameters. Finally, we conducted a survey using the second stage sampling method with one step to ask selected households about their knowledge of vector control methods, their use and the physical integrity of LLINs. We collected 2386 culicidae of which the majority was Culex quinquefasciatus. After the ELISA test, the 29 Anopheles tested, showed no infectivity, i.e. an EIR of 0 pi/h/n. In addition, 99% of the populations in the Cotonou V area use LLINs to protect themselves. However, coils, door and window screens, aerosol sprays, skin and household repellents, and periodic indoor spraying were used. Finally, the majority of nets observed had T1 tears, but there were also T2, T3 and T4 nets (P-value = 0.0). This study confirms that malaria transmission during the dry season in the Cotonou V health zone is almost negligible but not non-existent. Also, populations are exposed to the nuisance of Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes continuously throughout the year.展开更多
Introduction: Therapeutic compliance in chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a major challenge for the prevention of this condition, which is both a non-communicable disease (NCD) and a complication of other NCDs. ...Introduction: Therapeutic compliance in chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a major challenge for the prevention of this condition, which is both a non-communicable disease (NCD) and a complication of other NCDs. Non-adherence to treatment (NOT) is a factor in the poor prognosis of CKD in developing countries, particularly in Benin. The aim of this study was to evaluate therapeutic compliance (TC) and determine the factors associated with non-compliance in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing treatment at the Departmental University Hospital of Borgou and Alibori in Parakou (CHUD/B-A). Patients and Methods: This study was carried out in the Nephrology Department of CHUD/B-A. It was a cross-sectional, descriptive study with analytical aims that ran from December 25, 2022 to March 15, 2023 and covered data from 2017 to 2022. It involved 345 patient records meeting the diagnosis of CKD according to the KDIGO 2012 criteria. NOT was defined by a Girerd score evaluation greater than or equal to 3. Data processing and analysis were performed with R software version 4.3.0. Results: The mean age (SD) of patients was 50 years (±14.9). The prevalence of NOT was 57.1%. Potential predictors of non-adherence were: monthly revenue (p = 0.009), mode of admission (p = 0.001), phytotherapy (p = 0.040), traditional treatment (p = 0.049) and quantity of drugs (p = 0.042). Conclusion: Therapeutic compliance among chronic kidney patients still needs to be improved through awareness-raising sessions.展开更多
Rapid population growth and major trends of world economy growth have led to significant energy needs in our country. Benin, Gulf of Guinea country, although with a significant coastal network powered by potential ene...Rapid population growth and major trends of world economy growth have led to significant energy needs in our country. Benin, Gulf of Guinea country, although with a significant coastal network powered by potential energy from breaking waves, has experienced a deficit and a critical energy instability, marked by recurrent power cuts and disruption of the national economy. To ensure the integration of this source of renewable energy in the Benin energy mix and sustainably reduce the energy deficit in progress, this work has aimed to study the dissipation of wave energy at the bathymetric breaking in the breakers zone of Cotonou coast. Sea conditions and the statistics parameters of the breaking waves under perturbation effect of the seabed were evaluated to predict the beginning of the breaking. The modeling is based on the Navier-Stokes equation in which the viscosity and the interactions between the molecules of the oceanic fluid are neglected. The nonlinear wave dispersion relation is also used. The results obtained for this purpose showed that water particles have an almost parabolic motion during their fall;their velocity is higher than those of the early breaking. In this area, the waves dissipate about 80% of their energy: it generates turbulence which leads to a strong setting in motion of sediments.展开更多
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMFs) could be used to sustainably improve crop yields. The present study evaluated the diversity of AMF species associated with soybean (Glycine max L. Merill) in main soybean-producing ...Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMFs) could be used to sustainably improve crop yields. The present study evaluated the diversity of AMF species associated with soybean (Glycine max L. Merill) in main soybean-producing areas in Benin. Composite soil samples from 13 production areas at a rate of 04 villages per production areas were collected. A spore trapping device was set up to reveal the diversity of spores. The physical and chemical properties of the soils, the frequency and intensity of mycorrhization of roots, and the diversity of AMF spores were determined in the soil samples following trapping. As result, eight morphotypes belonging to four genera: Glomus, Acaulospora Gigaspora and Disversispora and three families: Diversisporales, Glomérales and Paraglomérales were observed. An important variability of spore densities was observed from one production areas to another with a higher abundance in the production areas of Copargo estimated at 3584 spores/100g soil. The biological diversity indexes as Shannon (0.0311), Simpson (0.0204) and Hill (0.0235), varied significantly (p < 0.05) from one production areas to another. There was significant correlation between the parameters studied, particularly between the physico-chemical parameters of the soils and between the physico-chemical parameters and the biological diversity indexes. For the mycorrhization parameters, the mycorhization frequencies did not vary from one production areas to another, unlike the intensities, which significantly varied from one production areas to another (2.31% to 24.62%). Finally, this study revealed that the physico-chemical parameters of the soils had an influence on the other parameters studied. Moreover, there were an abundance and a significant diversification of AMFs associated with soybean in the different production areas, which are influenced by certain physico-chemical soil parameters.展开更多
Maize (Zea mays L.) is the major cereal cultivated in Benin and it is important to know its genetic diversity to improve the yield. The genetic markers of important traits are evaluated in order to improve the maize i...Maize (Zea mays L.) is the major cereal cultivated in Benin and it is important to know its genetic diversity to improve the yield. The genetic markers of important traits are evaluated in order to improve the maize inbred lines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity of Benin’s maize accessions by SSR marker. Thus, one hundred eighty seven maize accessions from three areas (South, Center and North) were analyzed using three SSR markers. A total of 227 polymorphic bands were produced and showed high genetic diversity (Shannon index = 0.51). The polymorphic information content (PIC) values for the SSR loci ranged from 0.58 to 0.81, with an average of 0.71. Genetic distance-based UPGMA dendrogram showed a genetic differentiation between accessions and they were grouped into four clusters in each area. This work provides necessary information that can be used not only to improve the maize production and conservation but also to better manage genetic species resources in Benin.展开更多
Background: In Benin, malaria represents the first cause of consultation and hospitalization (48% for children under 5 years old) in health units. It also accounts for 23.1% of deaths recorded in health facilities (Mo...Background: In Benin, malaria represents the first cause of consultation and hospitalization (48% for children under 5 years old) in health units. It also accounts for 23.1% of deaths recorded in health facilities (MoH, 2019). Between the two main components of vector control adopted by Benin government, the mass distribution campaigns of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) remained the only proven cost-effective way to rapidly achieve high and equitable coverage (WHO, 2017). After the fourth mass distribution campaign conducted in 2017, the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data indicated that the percentage of children who slept under an ITN has increased from 20% in 2006 to 70% in 2011-2012 and to 76% in 2017-2018 while the incidence of malaria (tested positive) is increasing rapidly among children under 5 years old, growing from 36.5% in 2009 to 28.8% in 2012 and then to 51.4% in 2019. This study aims to understand this contrast by identifying the origin of the increase in ITN use over time among children under five years old and the factors which determine this use. Methods: Data from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in Benin respectively in 2006 and in 20018 were used during the analysis, which covered 13,445 children under five years old from 2006 DHS and 12,255 children from 2017-2018 DHS. Firstly, the data were analyzed using decomposition method to highlight the origin of the increase of ITN use over time among children under five years old. Secondly, the chi-square test analysis estimated the association between ITN use and some characteristics (wealth index, maternal or caregiver education level and child age). Finally, the logistic regression model was used to identify the main factors, which influence the net use over the study period. Results: This study shows that the improvement of basic conditions is the main origin of behavior change in the use of ITNs among children under five years old. This improvement of the basic conditions consists of making ITNs available in households and展开更多
The complex behavior and predictability of the Dry Spell Lengths (DSL) series obtained in Benin synoptic stations, from 1951 to 2010 are analyzed in this paper using a fractal approach. The synoptic stations are locat...The complex behavior and predictability of the Dry Spell Lengths (DSL) series obtained in Benin synoptic stations, from 1951 to 2010 are analyzed in this paper using a fractal approach. The synoptic stations are located in Cotonou, Bohicon, Save (subequatorial climate), and Parakou, Natitingou, Kandi (Sudanian climate). The DSLs are computed by considering four thresholds level, R0 = {1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 5.0} mm/day. The fractal trace is estimated for dry spell density by the mean of the “Dry Spell Spell” (DSS) n-index. The rescaled range method is used to determine the predictability of DSL. By analyzing the DSS, results show that low DSS n-index values (n-index < 0.4) are more favored in the northern part of Benin than in the southern region, whereas, high values of DSS n-index (n-index > 0.4) occur preferentially in the southern part. Therefore, during 1951-2010, the Sudanian region presents frequent wet spells, alternated with short dry spells than in the subequatorial one. However, a high degree of long dry spell persistence, followed by short dry events is observed in the subequatorial region than in the Sudanian one. The longest DSL is observed in the subequatorial region, especially in Cotonou. Except for the Kandi station, the DSLs series obtained at synoptic stations are characterized by persistence. Therefore, autoregressive processes could be applied to the DSL series. Generally, the physical process governing dry spells observed at Save, Natitingou, and Bohicon are consistently predictable than the process governing the stations of the Cotonou and Parakou. However, at Kandi station, the DSL process approximates the usual Brownian motion, and it is, therefore, unpredictable or difficult to predict.展开更多
Objective: The study aims to investigate some physical and technological parameters of varieties of maize collected from the most representative areas of maize production in the southern part of Benin, and mainly used...Objective: The study aims to investigate some physical and technological parameters of varieties of maize collected from the most representative areas of maize production in the southern part of Benin, and mainly used by the populations of those areas. Method: The chemical composition, physical and technological characteristics of the grains were determined using standard methods. Results: The results showed that the weight of 1000 grains ranges from 158.01 to 305.12 g, the length from 0.79 to 1.81 cm, the average width from 0.74 to 1.51 cm, thickness from 0.36 to 0.85 cm and density from 1.07 to 1.25. Regarding the technological parameters, the hardness of the grains before and after cooking was between 16.78 and 47.20 kgf, and 0.23 and 0.71 kgf respectively, while the cooking time varies from 71.00 and 158.33 mn. There was a positive and significant correlation (r = 0.405;p < 0.026) between the hardness after cooking and the weight of 1000 grains, between the hardness after cooking and grain width (r = 0.460;p < 0.011). A positive and highly significant correlation (r = 0.527, p < 0.003) was also observed between the hardness after cooking and the grain length, between the hardness after cooking and the thickness of grain (r = 0.476, p < 0.008), and between the grain density and the weight of 1000 grains (r = 0.481, p < 0.007). A positive and highly significant correlation (r = 0.923, p < 0.000) was also observed between maize grain length and width, and between grain length and grain thickness (r = 0.764, p < 0.000) and between the width and thickness (r = 0.764, p < 0.000). On the other hand, a significant negative correlation (r = -0.394, p < 0.031) was found between the hardness before cooking and the thickness and between the hardness before cooking and sphericity index (r = -0465*, p Conclusion: Through its chemical and technological characteristics the maize constitutes an important raw material for many culinary recipes in West African region.展开更多
The understanding of the long-term trend in climatic variables is necessary for the climate change impacts studies and for modeling several processes in environmental engineering. However, for climatic variables, long...The understanding of the long-term trend in climatic variables is necessary for the climate change impacts studies and for modeling several processes in environmental engineering. However, for climatic variables, long-term trend is usually unknown whether there is a trend component and, if so, the functional form of this trend is also unknown. In this context, a conventional strategy consists to assume randomly the shape of the local trends in the time series. For example, the polynomial forms with random order are arbitrarily chosen as the shape of the trend without any previous justification. This study aims to <span style="font-family:Verdana;">1</span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) estimate the real long-term nonlinear trend and the changing rate of </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">the yearly high temperature among the daily minimum (YHTaDMinT) and maximum temperatures (YHTaDMaxT) observed at Cotonou city, </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) find out for these real trend and trend increment, the best polynomial trend model among four trend models (linear, quadratic, third-order and fourth-</span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">order polynomial function). For both time series, the results show that YHTaDMinT and YHTaDMaxT time series are characterized by nonlinear and </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">monotonically increasing trend. The trend increments present differen</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">t phases in their nonmonotone variations. Among the four trend estimations models, the trend obtained by third-order and fourth-order polynomial functions exhibits a close pattern with the real long-term nonlinear trend given by the Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN). But, the fourth-order polynomial function is optimal, therefore, it can be used as the functional form of trend. In the trend increment case展开更多
Excessive use of mineral fertilizers in maize farming negatively affects farmers’ income and impacts long-term soil health. This study aims to appreciate the effectiveness of biostimulant based on native Glomeraceae ...Excessive use of mineral fertilizers in maize farming negatively affects farmers’ income and impacts long-term soil health. This study aims to appreciate the effectiveness of biostimulant based on native Glomeraceae arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the production and uptake of phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium of maize (Zea mays L.) plants in central Benin. The trials were set up in a farming environment with thirty-four producers. The experimental design was composed of three treatments installed at 34 producers. Three growth parameters were evaluated on 60 ème days after sowing. Grain yield, nutritional status of maize plants and mycorrhization parameters were determined at harvest. The results showed that the Glomeraceae + 50% NPK (NPK: azote-phosphore-potassium)_Urea treatment improved the height, the crown diameter and the leaf area by 17.85%, 21.79% and 28.32% compared to the absolute control and by 0.41%, 1.11% and 1.46% compared to the 100% NPK_Urea treatment, respectively. Similarly, grain yield improved by 45.87% with the use of Glomeraceae + 50% NPK_Urea compared to the absolute control and by 3.96% compared to the 100% NPK_Urea treatment. The Glomeraceae + 50% NPK_Urea significantly improved the phosphorus and potassium uptake of maize plants. With respect to nitrogen uptake, no statistical difference was observed between treatments. The mycorrhizae strains used improved root infection in the maize plants. We recorded 66% frequency and 40.5% intensity of mycorrhization. The biostimulant based on indigenous Glomeraceae combined with 50% NPK_Urea can be used as a strategy to restore soil health and improve maize productivity in Benin.展开更多
<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction: </span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Urban Air pollution ...<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction: </span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Urban Air pollution is increasingly becoming a major health and sustainable development issue. Several studies showed that Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) is one of the main sources of urban air pollution and has serious consequences on respiratory health. As no systematic review focused on the traffic-related air pollution and respiratory health in the target population of individuals working in a shop or in an office or individuals living along the trunk road, the authors conducted the current study to try to fill this gap. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: A systematic review search was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed), Scientific Research Publishing: SCIRP, Web of Science, Google scholar. Studies were included if they meet the following selection criteria: </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">1</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) focus on population working or living along a major/trunk road</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">;</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) studies had reported clearly at least on the exposure variables related to TRAP</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">;</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) the association between TRAP and development of respiratory symptoms or respiratory diseases was established. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">13 articles were selected on the 192 articles that were retrieved in the initial research. Exposure to traffic-related air pollution was determined by using distance to road, traffic intensity and pollutants measured. The main respiratory health problems found were cough, wh展开更多
Stem density and size stratification of woody species are informative of vegetation conditions and its physiognomy in savannah whereas their variation influence woody population functioning. Current study endeavoured ...Stem density and size stratification of woody species are informative of vegetation conditions and its physiognomy in savannah whereas their variation influence woody population functioning. Current study endeavoured to evaluate the stand density and size variability of woody species related to aboveground biomass in a Sudanian savannah. Total height, stem diameter at breast height (dbh) ≥ 5 cm were measured in 30 plots of 50 m </span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">×<span> 20 m laid in respect to vegetation type as bowal, shrubland and woodland. Species diversity, stem density, height and basal area were calculated and compared across sites and variation in stem dbh classes evaluated. Total aboveground biomass was estimated and thereafter linear relationships were established between stand density and aboveground biomass</span></span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">,</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> and basal area. Results revealed three different sites with an overall 58 species identified through vegetation type including liana species (4 stems in bowal) with 18 genera and 42 families. Fabaceae Combretaceae, Anacardiaceae and Rubiaceae were dominant families. Small sized trees represented 72% of total stem density considered in structure with significant higher basal area, while large sized trees as 28% were scarcely distributed. More than 70% variation in biomass w</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">as </span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">due to stem density and basal area with a dominance of small trees. In conclusion increase size in tree community indicated increase in accumulated aboveground biomass as positive regeneration features. But, change in vegetation structure strongly influence negatively species ability to grow from lower to upper size class and later on, disrupt ecosystem functioning. Plant stem density and stratification could be considered as indicators of aboveground biomass 展开更多
Roadside trees are effective natural solutions for mitigating climate change. Despite the usefulness of trees to carbon sequestration, there is a dearth of information on the estimation of biomass and carbon stock for...Roadside trees are effective natural solutions for mitigating climate change. Despite the usefulness of trees to carbon sequestration, there is a dearth of information on the estimation of biomass and carbon stock for roadside trees in the study area. This study aimed to estimate the carbon stock and carbon dioxide equivalent of roadside trees. A complete enumeration of trees was carried out in Kétou, Pobè and Sakété within the communes of the Plateau Department, Bénin Republic. Total height and diameter at breast height were measured from trees along the roads while individual wood density value was obtained from wood density database. The allometric method of biomass estimation was adopted for the research. The results showed that the total estimations for above-ground biomass, carbon stock and carbon equivalent from all the enumerated roadside trees were 154.53 mt, 72.63 mt and 266.55 mt, respectively. The results imply that the roadside trees contain a substantial amount of carbon stock that can contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration.展开更多
Bacterial wilt is the most damaging disease of tomato in Benin. To select resistant varieties of tomato against bacterial wilt, 21 tomato varieties were evaluated twice under screen house and field conditions in a ran...Bacterial wilt is the most damaging disease of tomato in Benin. To select resistant varieties of tomato against bacterial wilt, 21 tomato varieties were evaluated twice under screen house and field conditions in a randomized complete block design with four replicates and 21 treatments which are the tested varieties. Three weeks old tomato seedlings were inoculated by crown flooding with 40 ml of a bacterial suspension of <i>R. solanacearum </i>strain CR-1103-2, phylotype I sequvar 14. At 28 days after inoculation, the control resistant varieties Hawaii 7997 and PADMA maintained their resistance and the known susceptible variety Tohounvi showed to be susceptible to the bacterial wilt. Among the hybrid tomato varieties, only Cobra 26 was moderately resistant. No resistant line was found among the tested local varieties. The <span>hybrid varieties Buffalo, Petomech, Tropimech, Sumo, Prado, Ninja, Jaguar, Anaya, Topaze, Cobra 34, Heinz, Kiara, Euclid and local Kêkêfo, Akikonkouin, Agbotrui and Adjaa were all susceptible. In conclusion, Cobra 26 emerges as a new variety of tomato moderately resistant to bacterial wilt. This is a new finding since it adds. All the tested varieties, regardless of their resistance, were colonized by <i>R. solanacearum</i>. This is a challenge for tomato farmers who must practice sanitation in their fields when producing tomato susceptible or resistant varieties. The variety Cobra 26 must be scaled up to</span> farmers.展开更多
Background: Several studies have demonstrated that e-waste workers had a risk to develop the respiratory disorders but this was not specifically differentiated according to the type of the e-waste activities. The main...Background: Several studies have demonstrated that e-waste workers had a risk to develop the respiratory disorders but this was not specifically differentiated according to the type of the e-waste activities. The main aim of this study was to evaluate if the risk to develop respiratory disorders was different according to the type of activities carried out by the e-waste workers. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in Abidjan and Cotonou, two big cities in West Africa. The participants were randomly selected based on the list of e-waste workers provided by the census of different sites of e-waste. The spirometry was performed on all the study participants to assess whether they had respiratory disorders. A regression logistic model was performed to estimate the risk of developing respiratory disorders according to the type of activities carried out by the e-waste workers. Results: In total 308 e-waste workers including 149 at Abidjan and 159 at Cotonou were interviewed. Participants of this study ranged in age from 14 years to 69 years and the mean age was 33.71 ± 10.96. The main activities carried out by the study participants were respectively repairing (44.8%), buying or selling (40.3%), dismantling (31.8%). The prevalence of respiratory disorders was 20.1%. The multivariate analysis had not found a significant association between the type of activities and the presence of respiratory disorders. Conclusion: The effect of exposure to e-waste on respiratory health of workers was not different according to the type of activities. So, any policy that aims to reduce the risk of exposure on respiratory health must take into account all the e-waste workers regardless of the type of activities they perform in this sector.展开更多
The diversity, abundance and height structure of naturally regenerated woody species were analyzed and compared for undergrowth reservoir associated with vegetation patches as bowal, shrubland and woodland for underst...The diversity, abundance and height structure of naturally regenerated woody species were analyzed and compared for undergrowth reservoir associated with vegetation patches as bowal, shrubland and woodland for understanding the effect of vegetation conditions on spatial distribution of woody plants in Sudanian ecosystem. All undergrowth individuals (height < 1.5 m) were recorded by species and the total height and collar diameter were measured in 50 subplots of 5 m × 5 m (or 25 m<sup>2</sup>) laid out in each vegetation patch during rainy season. In total 52 undergrowth species and 2224 stems arranged in 38 genera and 21 families out of which 25, 36 and 38 species were found in bowal, shrubland and woodland respectively and 15 shared species. Combretaceae, Caesalpiniaceae and Mimosaceae families were the most abundant and species density was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in shrubland and woodland than bowal, and increase diversity in only shrubland (P = 0.002) comparing with bowal. Undergrowth was abundantly concentrated in small height class as canopy benefit and indicate a specific-site distribution. Results also showed that bowal had a particular vegetation which vary in function of tree community characters in place (P < 0.05) while woodland and shrubland are similar vegetation patches. As conclusion, the study vegetation patches form suitable regeneration niches for the undergrowth reservoir of limited number of species which in return can be predictor of species richness and abundance and thus the structure of tree community. Woody undergrowth community could be considered in biodiversity management and degraded land restoration. Supplementary works could be undertaken to understand the characteristics of seed bank for bowal, shrubland and woodland regarding the undergrowth and tree communities.展开更多
In Benin, the preservation of maize is a real problem involving important physical and chemical properties losses. Physical losses are due by rodents, pests and insects and chemical losses are mainly due to fungal inf...In Benin, the preservation of maize is a real problem involving important physical and chemical properties losses. Physical losses are due by rodents, pests and insects and chemical losses are mainly due to fungal infection. Several methods, products and practices are used by farmers to overcome these problems. The methods used do not always control the losses caused by fungal infection. The objective of the study was to make a bibliographic synthesis of the impacts induced by the items, practices and methods used to overcome the chemical losses of maize. In the search for information, the library of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries was consulted;the archives of the library of the University of Abomey-Calavi and the National Institute of Agricultural Research of Benin were also consulted. Thus, chemicals such as sofagrain, Pyrimiphos-Methyl, Thiamethoxam, Pyrimiphos-Methyl, Permethrin, Deltamethrin, fumigant are used to control physical attacks on maize. Ash and plants species such as neem tree (<em>Azadirachta indica</em>) are generally used for the preservation and storage of maize seeds. In addition, chemicals such as arsenious anhydride and zinc phosphide are used for the preservation of corn. The use of these molecules and chemical products has negative impacts on human health and the environment. Of all the methods used, no treatment is still popularized for the reduction of the chemical losses caused by the fungal infection in corn storage.展开更多
文摘The anarchic urbanization of certain African cities favors the multiplication of the malaria parasite. Thus, the urgent mobilization of African cities is essential to combat this health risk. It is, therefore, with the objective of contributing to the investigation of problem areas that the present study evaluates malaria transmission and vector control strategies in the Cotonou V health zone in particular. This is a cross-sectional study taking into account four neighborhoods, including Wologuèdè, Sainte Rita, Gbèdjromèdé and the area around Etoile Rouge. Two nocturnal captures on voluntary humans and the method of spray were carried out in the dry season from December 2021 to February 2022. On the captured Anopheles, the ELISA Circum-Sporozoite Protein test was performed to determine the infectivity and calculate some transmission parameters. Finally, we conducted a survey using the second stage sampling method with one step to ask selected households about their knowledge of vector control methods, their use and the physical integrity of LLINs. We collected 2386 culicidae of which the majority was Culex quinquefasciatus. After the ELISA test, the 29 Anopheles tested, showed no infectivity, i.e. an EIR of 0 pi/h/n. In addition, 99% of the populations in the Cotonou V area use LLINs to protect themselves. However, coils, door and window screens, aerosol sprays, skin and household repellents, and periodic indoor spraying were used. Finally, the majority of nets observed had T1 tears, but there were also T2, T3 and T4 nets (P-value = 0.0). This study confirms that malaria transmission during the dry season in the Cotonou V health zone is almost negligible but not non-existent. Also, populations are exposed to the nuisance of Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes continuously throughout the year.
文摘Introduction: Therapeutic compliance in chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a major challenge for the prevention of this condition, which is both a non-communicable disease (NCD) and a complication of other NCDs. Non-adherence to treatment (NOT) is a factor in the poor prognosis of CKD in developing countries, particularly in Benin. The aim of this study was to evaluate therapeutic compliance (TC) and determine the factors associated with non-compliance in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing treatment at the Departmental University Hospital of Borgou and Alibori in Parakou (CHUD/B-A). Patients and Methods: This study was carried out in the Nephrology Department of CHUD/B-A. It was a cross-sectional, descriptive study with analytical aims that ran from December 25, 2022 to March 15, 2023 and covered data from 2017 to 2022. It involved 345 patient records meeting the diagnosis of CKD according to the KDIGO 2012 criteria. NOT was defined by a Girerd score evaluation greater than or equal to 3. Data processing and analysis were performed with R software version 4.3.0. Results: The mean age (SD) of patients was 50 years (±14.9). The prevalence of NOT was 57.1%. Potential predictors of non-adherence were: monthly revenue (p = 0.009), mode of admission (p = 0.001), phytotherapy (p = 0.040), traditional treatment (p = 0.049) and quantity of drugs (p = 0.042). Conclusion: Therapeutic compliance among chronic kidney patients still needs to be improved through awareness-raising sessions.
文摘Rapid population growth and major trends of world economy growth have led to significant energy needs in our country. Benin, Gulf of Guinea country, although with a significant coastal network powered by potential energy from breaking waves, has experienced a deficit and a critical energy instability, marked by recurrent power cuts and disruption of the national economy. To ensure the integration of this source of renewable energy in the Benin energy mix and sustainably reduce the energy deficit in progress, this work has aimed to study the dissipation of wave energy at the bathymetric breaking in the breakers zone of Cotonou coast. Sea conditions and the statistics parameters of the breaking waves under perturbation effect of the seabed were evaluated to predict the beginning of the breaking. The modeling is based on the Navier-Stokes equation in which the viscosity and the interactions between the molecules of the oceanic fluid are neglected. The nonlinear wave dispersion relation is also used. The results obtained for this purpose showed that water particles have an almost parabolic motion during their fall;their velocity is higher than those of the early breaking. In this area, the waves dissipate about 80% of their energy: it generates turbulence which leads to a strong setting in motion of sediments.
文摘Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMFs) could be used to sustainably improve crop yields. The present study evaluated the diversity of AMF species associated with soybean (Glycine max L. Merill) in main soybean-producing areas in Benin. Composite soil samples from 13 production areas at a rate of 04 villages per production areas were collected. A spore trapping device was set up to reveal the diversity of spores. The physical and chemical properties of the soils, the frequency and intensity of mycorrhization of roots, and the diversity of AMF spores were determined in the soil samples following trapping. As result, eight morphotypes belonging to four genera: Glomus, Acaulospora Gigaspora and Disversispora and three families: Diversisporales, Glomérales and Paraglomérales were observed. An important variability of spore densities was observed from one production areas to another with a higher abundance in the production areas of Copargo estimated at 3584 spores/100g soil. The biological diversity indexes as Shannon (0.0311), Simpson (0.0204) and Hill (0.0235), varied significantly (p < 0.05) from one production areas to another. There was significant correlation between the parameters studied, particularly between the physico-chemical parameters of the soils and between the physico-chemical parameters and the biological diversity indexes. For the mycorrhization parameters, the mycorhization frequencies did not vary from one production areas to another, unlike the intensities, which significantly varied from one production areas to another (2.31% to 24.62%). Finally, this study revealed that the physico-chemical parameters of the soils had an influence on the other parameters studied. Moreover, there were an abundance and a significant diversification of AMFs associated with soybean in the different production areas, which are influenced by certain physico-chemical soil parameters.
文摘Maize (Zea mays L.) is the major cereal cultivated in Benin and it is important to know its genetic diversity to improve the yield. The genetic markers of important traits are evaluated in order to improve the maize inbred lines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity of Benin’s maize accessions by SSR marker. Thus, one hundred eighty seven maize accessions from three areas (South, Center and North) were analyzed using three SSR markers. A total of 227 polymorphic bands were produced and showed high genetic diversity (Shannon index = 0.51). The polymorphic information content (PIC) values for the SSR loci ranged from 0.58 to 0.81, with an average of 0.71. Genetic distance-based UPGMA dendrogram showed a genetic differentiation between accessions and they were grouped into four clusters in each area. This work provides necessary information that can be used not only to improve the maize production and conservation but also to better manage genetic species resources in Benin.
文摘Background: In Benin, malaria represents the first cause of consultation and hospitalization (48% for children under 5 years old) in health units. It also accounts for 23.1% of deaths recorded in health facilities (MoH, 2019). Between the two main components of vector control adopted by Benin government, the mass distribution campaigns of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) remained the only proven cost-effective way to rapidly achieve high and equitable coverage (WHO, 2017). After the fourth mass distribution campaign conducted in 2017, the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data indicated that the percentage of children who slept under an ITN has increased from 20% in 2006 to 70% in 2011-2012 and to 76% in 2017-2018 while the incidence of malaria (tested positive) is increasing rapidly among children under 5 years old, growing from 36.5% in 2009 to 28.8% in 2012 and then to 51.4% in 2019. This study aims to understand this contrast by identifying the origin of the increase in ITN use over time among children under five years old and the factors which determine this use. Methods: Data from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in Benin respectively in 2006 and in 20018 were used during the analysis, which covered 13,445 children under five years old from 2006 DHS and 12,255 children from 2017-2018 DHS. Firstly, the data were analyzed using decomposition method to highlight the origin of the increase of ITN use over time among children under five years old. Secondly, the chi-square test analysis estimated the association between ITN use and some characteristics (wealth index, maternal or caregiver education level and child age). Finally, the logistic regression model was used to identify the main factors, which influence the net use over the study period. Results: This study shows that the improvement of basic conditions is the main origin of behavior change in the use of ITNs among children under five years old. This improvement of the basic conditions consists of making ITNs available in households and
文摘The complex behavior and predictability of the Dry Spell Lengths (DSL) series obtained in Benin synoptic stations, from 1951 to 2010 are analyzed in this paper using a fractal approach. The synoptic stations are located in Cotonou, Bohicon, Save (subequatorial climate), and Parakou, Natitingou, Kandi (Sudanian climate). The DSLs are computed by considering four thresholds level, R0 = {1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 5.0} mm/day. The fractal trace is estimated for dry spell density by the mean of the “Dry Spell Spell” (DSS) n-index. The rescaled range method is used to determine the predictability of DSL. By analyzing the DSS, results show that low DSS n-index values (n-index < 0.4) are more favored in the northern part of Benin than in the southern region, whereas, high values of DSS n-index (n-index > 0.4) occur preferentially in the southern part. Therefore, during 1951-2010, the Sudanian region presents frequent wet spells, alternated with short dry spells than in the subequatorial one. However, a high degree of long dry spell persistence, followed by short dry events is observed in the subequatorial region than in the Sudanian one. The longest DSL is observed in the subequatorial region, especially in Cotonou. Except for the Kandi station, the DSLs series obtained at synoptic stations are characterized by persistence. Therefore, autoregressive processes could be applied to the DSL series. Generally, the physical process governing dry spells observed at Save, Natitingou, and Bohicon are consistently predictable than the process governing the stations of the Cotonou and Parakou. However, at Kandi station, the DSL process approximates the usual Brownian motion, and it is, therefore, unpredictable or difficult to predict.
文摘Objective: The study aims to investigate some physical and technological parameters of varieties of maize collected from the most representative areas of maize production in the southern part of Benin, and mainly used by the populations of those areas. Method: The chemical composition, physical and technological characteristics of the grains were determined using standard methods. Results: The results showed that the weight of 1000 grains ranges from 158.01 to 305.12 g, the length from 0.79 to 1.81 cm, the average width from 0.74 to 1.51 cm, thickness from 0.36 to 0.85 cm and density from 1.07 to 1.25. Regarding the technological parameters, the hardness of the grains before and after cooking was between 16.78 and 47.20 kgf, and 0.23 and 0.71 kgf respectively, while the cooking time varies from 71.00 and 158.33 mn. There was a positive and significant correlation (r = 0.405;p < 0.026) between the hardness after cooking and the weight of 1000 grains, between the hardness after cooking and grain width (r = 0.460;p < 0.011). A positive and highly significant correlation (r = 0.527, p < 0.003) was also observed between the hardness after cooking and the grain length, between the hardness after cooking and the thickness of grain (r = 0.476, p < 0.008), and between the grain density and the weight of 1000 grains (r = 0.481, p < 0.007). A positive and highly significant correlation (r = 0.923, p < 0.000) was also observed between maize grain length and width, and between grain length and grain thickness (r = 0.764, p < 0.000) and between the width and thickness (r = 0.764, p < 0.000). On the other hand, a significant negative correlation (r = -0.394, p < 0.031) was found between the hardness before cooking and the thickness and between the hardness before cooking and sphericity index (r = -0465*, p Conclusion: Through its chemical and technological characteristics the maize constitutes an important raw material for many culinary recipes in West African region.
文摘The understanding of the long-term trend in climatic variables is necessary for the climate change impacts studies and for modeling several processes in environmental engineering. However, for climatic variables, long-term trend is usually unknown whether there is a trend component and, if so, the functional form of this trend is also unknown. In this context, a conventional strategy consists to assume randomly the shape of the local trends in the time series. For example, the polynomial forms with random order are arbitrarily chosen as the shape of the trend without any previous justification. This study aims to <span style="font-family:Verdana;">1</span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) estimate the real long-term nonlinear trend and the changing rate of </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">the yearly high temperature among the daily minimum (YHTaDMinT) and maximum temperatures (YHTaDMaxT) observed at Cotonou city, </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) find out for these real trend and trend increment, the best polynomial trend model among four trend models (linear, quadratic, third-order and fourth-</span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">order polynomial function). For both time series, the results show that YHTaDMinT and YHTaDMaxT time series are characterized by nonlinear and </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">monotonically increasing trend. The trend increments present differen</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">t phases in their nonmonotone variations. Among the four trend estimations models, the trend obtained by third-order and fourth-order polynomial functions exhibits a close pattern with the real long-term nonlinear trend given by the Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN). But, the fourth-order polynomial function is optimal, therefore, it can be used as the functional form of trend. In the trend increment case
文摘Excessive use of mineral fertilizers in maize farming negatively affects farmers’ income and impacts long-term soil health. This study aims to appreciate the effectiveness of biostimulant based on native Glomeraceae arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the production and uptake of phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium of maize (Zea mays L.) plants in central Benin. The trials were set up in a farming environment with thirty-four producers. The experimental design was composed of three treatments installed at 34 producers. Three growth parameters were evaluated on 60 ème days after sowing. Grain yield, nutritional status of maize plants and mycorrhization parameters were determined at harvest. The results showed that the Glomeraceae + 50% NPK (NPK: azote-phosphore-potassium)_Urea treatment improved the height, the crown diameter and the leaf area by 17.85%, 21.79% and 28.32% compared to the absolute control and by 0.41%, 1.11% and 1.46% compared to the 100% NPK_Urea treatment, respectively. Similarly, grain yield improved by 45.87% with the use of Glomeraceae + 50% NPK_Urea compared to the absolute control and by 3.96% compared to the 100% NPK_Urea treatment. The Glomeraceae + 50% NPK_Urea significantly improved the phosphorus and potassium uptake of maize plants. With respect to nitrogen uptake, no statistical difference was observed between treatments. The mycorrhizae strains used improved root infection in the maize plants. We recorded 66% frequency and 40.5% intensity of mycorrhization. The biostimulant based on indigenous Glomeraceae combined with 50% NPK_Urea can be used as a strategy to restore soil health and improve maize productivity in Benin.
文摘<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction: </span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Urban Air pollution is increasingly becoming a major health and sustainable development issue. Several studies showed that Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) is one of the main sources of urban air pollution and has serious consequences on respiratory health. As no systematic review focused on the traffic-related air pollution and respiratory health in the target population of individuals working in a shop or in an office or individuals living along the trunk road, the authors conducted the current study to try to fill this gap. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: A systematic review search was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed), Scientific Research Publishing: SCIRP, Web of Science, Google scholar. Studies were included if they meet the following selection criteria: </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">1</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) focus on population working or living along a major/trunk road</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">;</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) studies had reported clearly at least on the exposure variables related to TRAP</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">;</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) the association between TRAP and development of respiratory symptoms or respiratory diseases was established. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">13 articles were selected on the 192 articles that were retrieved in the initial research. Exposure to traffic-related air pollution was determined by using distance to road, traffic intensity and pollutants measured. The main respiratory health problems found were cough, wh
文摘Stem density and size stratification of woody species are informative of vegetation conditions and its physiognomy in savannah whereas their variation influence woody population functioning. Current study endeavoured to evaluate the stand density and size variability of woody species related to aboveground biomass in a Sudanian savannah. Total height, stem diameter at breast height (dbh) ≥ 5 cm were measured in 30 plots of 50 m </span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">×<span> 20 m laid in respect to vegetation type as bowal, shrubland and woodland. Species diversity, stem density, height and basal area were calculated and compared across sites and variation in stem dbh classes evaluated. Total aboveground biomass was estimated and thereafter linear relationships were established between stand density and aboveground biomass</span></span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">,</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> and basal area. Results revealed three different sites with an overall 58 species identified through vegetation type including liana species (4 stems in bowal) with 18 genera and 42 families. Fabaceae Combretaceae, Anacardiaceae and Rubiaceae were dominant families. Small sized trees represented 72% of total stem density considered in structure with significant higher basal area, while large sized trees as 28% were scarcely distributed. More than 70% variation in biomass w</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">as </span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:"">due to stem density and basal area with a dominance of small trees. In conclusion increase size in tree community indicated increase in accumulated aboveground biomass as positive regeneration features. But, change in vegetation structure strongly influence negatively species ability to grow from lower to upper size class and later on, disrupt ecosystem functioning. Plant stem density and stratification could be considered as indicators of aboveground biomass
文摘Roadside trees are effective natural solutions for mitigating climate change. Despite the usefulness of trees to carbon sequestration, there is a dearth of information on the estimation of biomass and carbon stock for roadside trees in the study area. This study aimed to estimate the carbon stock and carbon dioxide equivalent of roadside trees. A complete enumeration of trees was carried out in Kétou, Pobè and Sakété within the communes of the Plateau Department, Bénin Republic. Total height and diameter at breast height were measured from trees along the roads while individual wood density value was obtained from wood density database. The allometric method of biomass estimation was adopted for the research. The results showed that the total estimations for above-ground biomass, carbon stock and carbon equivalent from all the enumerated roadside trees were 154.53 mt, 72.63 mt and 266.55 mt, respectively. The results imply that the roadside trees contain a substantial amount of carbon stock that can contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration.
文摘Bacterial wilt is the most damaging disease of tomato in Benin. To select resistant varieties of tomato against bacterial wilt, 21 tomato varieties were evaluated twice under screen house and field conditions in a randomized complete block design with four replicates and 21 treatments which are the tested varieties. Three weeks old tomato seedlings were inoculated by crown flooding with 40 ml of a bacterial suspension of <i>R. solanacearum </i>strain CR-1103-2, phylotype I sequvar 14. At 28 days after inoculation, the control resistant varieties Hawaii 7997 and PADMA maintained their resistance and the known susceptible variety Tohounvi showed to be susceptible to the bacterial wilt. Among the hybrid tomato varieties, only Cobra 26 was moderately resistant. No resistant line was found among the tested local varieties. The <span>hybrid varieties Buffalo, Petomech, Tropimech, Sumo, Prado, Ninja, Jaguar, Anaya, Topaze, Cobra 34, Heinz, Kiara, Euclid and local Kêkêfo, Akikonkouin, Agbotrui and Adjaa were all susceptible. In conclusion, Cobra 26 emerges as a new variety of tomato moderately resistant to bacterial wilt. This is a new finding since it adds. All the tested varieties, regardless of their resistance, were colonized by <i>R. solanacearum</i>. This is a challenge for tomato farmers who must practice sanitation in their fields when producing tomato susceptible or resistant varieties. The variety Cobra 26 must be scaled up to</span> farmers.
文摘Background: Several studies have demonstrated that e-waste workers had a risk to develop the respiratory disorders but this was not specifically differentiated according to the type of the e-waste activities. The main aim of this study was to evaluate if the risk to develop respiratory disorders was different according to the type of activities carried out by the e-waste workers. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in Abidjan and Cotonou, two big cities in West Africa. The participants were randomly selected based on the list of e-waste workers provided by the census of different sites of e-waste. The spirometry was performed on all the study participants to assess whether they had respiratory disorders. A regression logistic model was performed to estimate the risk of developing respiratory disorders according to the type of activities carried out by the e-waste workers. Results: In total 308 e-waste workers including 149 at Abidjan and 159 at Cotonou were interviewed. Participants of this study ranged in age from 14 years to 69 years and the mean age was 33.71 ± 10.96. The main activities carried out by the study participants were respectively repairing (44.8%), buying or selling (40.3%), dismantling (31.8%). The prevalence of respiratory disorders was 20.1%. The multivariate analysis had not found a significant association between the type of activities and the presence of respiratory disorders. Conclusion: The effect of exposure to e-waste on respiratory health of workers was not different according to the type of activities. So, any policy that aims to reduce the risk of exposure on respiratory health must take into account all the e-waste workers regardless of the type of activities they perform in this sector.
文摘The diversity, abundance and height structure of naturally regenerated woody species were analyzed and compared for undergrowth reservoir associated with vegetation patches as bowal, shrubland and woodland for understanding the effect of vegetation conditions on spatial distribution of woody plants in Sudanian ecosystem. All undergrowth individuals (height < 1.5 m) were recorded by species and the total height and collar diameter were measured in 50 subplots of 5 m × 5 m (or 25 m<sup>2</sup>) laid out in each vegetation patch during rainy season. In total 52 undergrowth species and 2224 stems arranged in 38 genera and 21 families out of which 25, 36 and 38 species were found in bowal, shrubland and woodland respectively and 15 shared species. Combretaceae, Caesalpiniaceae and Mimosaceae families were the most abundant and species density was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in shrubland and woodland than bowal, and increase diversity in only shrubland (P = 0.002) comparing with bowal. Undergrowth was abundantly concentrated in small height class as canopy benefit and indicate a specific-site distribution. Results also showed that bowal had a particular vegetation which vary in function of tree community characters in place (P < 0.05) while woodland and shrubland are similar vegetation patches. As conclusion, the study vegetation patches form suitable regeneration niches for the undergrowth reservoir of limited number of species which in return can be predictor of species richness and abundance and thus the structure of tree community. Woody undergrowth community could be considered in biodiversity management and degraded land restoration. Supplementary works could be undertaken to understand the characteristics of seed bank for bowal, shrubland and woodland regarding the undergrowth and tree communities.
文摘In Benin, the preservation of maize is a real problem involving important physical and chemical properties losses. Physical losses are due by rodents, pests and insects and chemical losses are mainly due to fungal infection. Several methods, products and practices are used by farmers to overcome these problems. The methods used do not always control the losses caused by fungal infection. The objective of the study was to make a bibliographic synthesis of the impacts induced by the items, practices and methods used to overcome the chemical losses of maize. In the search for information, the library of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries was consulted;the archives of the library of the University of Abomey-Calavi and the National Institute of Agricultural Research of Benin were also consulted. Thus, chemicals such as sofagrain, Pyrimiphos-Methyl, Thiamethoxam, Pyrimiphos-Methyl, Permethrin, Deltamethrin, fumigant are used to control physical attacks on maize. Ash and plants species such as neem tree (<em>Azadirachta indica</em>) are generally used for the preservation and storage of maize seeds. In addition, chemicals such as arsenious anhydride and zinc phosphide are used for the preservation of corn. The use of these molecules and chemical products has negative impacts on human health and the environment. Of all the methods used, no treatment is still popularized for the reduction of the chemical losses caused by the fungal infection in corn storage.
