Knowledge and practices of traditional management of child malnutrition and associated pathologies in Benin

BACKGROUND

Child malnutrition is a major public health challenge, affecting millions of children worldwide, with alarming proportions of children under five in Benin. The complexity of managing this condition is increased by its potential association with opportunistic pathologies. An interesting approach arises from the use of medicinal plants, to address child malnutrition and its associated pathologies. This study aimed to document the knowledge and practices of Beninese mothers and traditional practitioners with regard to the use of medicinal plants to treat child malnutrition and associated diseases.

METHODS

A total of 844 Beninese mothers and 201 traditional healers were surveyed between March 2022 and August 2023 in the communes of Karimama, Bopa and Za-Kpota in Benin. The respondents' knowledge of child malnutrition and associated pathologies was explored. The ethnobotanical data collected from the subjects concerned the medicinal recipes used to treat child malnutrition, the medicinal plants that make them up and the methods of use. These data were analyzed using ethnobotanical indices such as the Informant Consensus Factor, the frequency of citation of medicinal recipes types and medicinal plants, and the contribution of plants to medicinal recipes.

RESULTS

All respondents cited a total of 82 plant species used to treat child malnutrition and associated diseases. These plants were grouped into 37 botanical families, the most common of which were Fabaceae, Malvaceae and Annonaceae. The leaves were the most commonly used part of the plant species identified. The mothers shared 122 medicinal recipes, ranging from recipes based on a single plant to more complex compositions involving five plants. The most notable plants were Moringa oleifera Lam, Phyllanthus amarus Schumach & Thonn, Senna siamea (Lam.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby, Carica papaya L. and Ocimum gratissimum L. Traditional healers provided 52 plants in 71 recipes, with Moringa oleifera featuring prominently in both single-plant and multiplant formulations.

CONCLUSION

This study made it possible to constitute a rich base of medicinal recipes used against malnutrition and associated pathologies, with the preponderant involvement of certain plant species. It is therefore necessary to deepen research on these different identified species in order to scientifically assess their potential.

Strengthening clinical bacteriology laboratory diagnostics to combat sepsis and antimicrobial resistance in Benin: a train-the-trainer approach

Introduction

Improved laboratory diagnostics is needed to support sepsis diagnosis and combat increasing antibiotic resistance in Benin. We trained clinical laboratory experts and technicians to improve their skills in accurate and up-to-date diagnostics.

Methods

A Train-the-Trainer (TtT) approach was used to design the course that combines theoretical and practical laboratory skills, specifically addressing the knowledge gaps we had previously identified in our national survey. Pedagogical methods were student-centered, including peer learning, use of online materials, practical laboratory work and pre-and post-course tests.

Results

We first trained 10 trainers who in turn trained 40 laboratory technicians from across the country, from both public and private clinical and veterinary laboratories. The trainers also prepared standard operation procedures for blood culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing based on international standards. Three months after the training, follow-up visits were made to the laboratories where the implementation of the new skills was evaluated. The progress of the participants observed during the course and the implementation of the new skills afterwards proved the training to be effective.

Discussion

The professional networks created during the training, the empowerment that utilizes local knowledge resources, and the government support for our initiative can be expected to bring sustainability to the initiative and support the participation of Beninese laboratories in international surveillance programs in the future.

Occurrence profiling, risk assessment, and correlations of antimicrobials in surface water and groundwater systems in Southwest Nigeria

The presence of antimicrobials in water has grown into a major global health concern. This study thus focused on the presence, ecological implications, and potential health risks associated with nine antimicrobials: five antibiotics (ampicillin, chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and tetracycline) and four parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben) in surface water and groundwater samples collected from three Southwestern States in Nigeria (Osun, Oyo, and Lagos States). These antimicrobials were widely detected across the three States with ciprofloxacin being the most dominant having maximum average concentrations of 189 μg L-1 and 319 μg L-1 in surface water and groundwater respectively. The range of average concentrations of antibiotics in surface water are 47.3-235 μg L-1 (Osun), 27.9-166 μg L-1 (Oyo) and 52.1-159 μg L-1 (Lagos). For groundwater, it is 35.3-180 μg L-1 (Osun), 26.5-181 μg L-1 (Oyo) and 32.3-319 μg L-1 (Lagos). The average concentrations of all parabens were 32.4-153 μg L-1, 53.4-80.1 μg L-1, and 83.2-132 μg L-1 for surface water and 46.7-55.7 μg L-1, 53-117 μg L-1, and 62.4-118 μg L-1 for groundwater in Osun, Oyo, and Lagos States respectively. Methylparaben was most frequently detected paraben with average concentrations of 153 μg L-1 and 117 μg L-1 in surface water and groundwater respectively. The measured environmental concentrations of these antimicrobials pose a significant ecological risk while those of ciprofloxacin and ampicillin pose a high health risk to all population groups studied. The average concentrations of antibiotics investigated in this study exceeded their threshold values for Predicted No-Effect Concentrations (PNEC) associated with resistance selection, except for tetracycline.

Prevalence and zoonotic risk factors of Mycobacterium bovis tuberculosis in cattle at the cattle-wildlife-human interface in South and East Cameroon

Background and Aim

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a contagious and notifiable disease, which is prevalent in cattle populations of many countries and in several wildlife species worldwide. However, the role of wildlife in the transmission and/or maintenance of bTB at the human-wild animal-animal interface and the epidemiology of zoonotic disease are poorly understood in Cameroon, where many wildlife species exist. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and zoonotic risk factors of bTB at the cattle-wildlife-human interface in the South and East regions of Cameroon.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study from May to October 2022 in the southern region (Vallée du Ntem and Dja et Lobo) and eastern region (Haut Nyong and Lom et Djérem) of Cameroon to determine risk factors for bTB in Zebu Bororo, Goudali, Ndama, and Simmental cattle breeds. A comparative intradermal tuberculin testing (CIDT) was performed on 160 cattle randomly selected from herds using the threshold recommended by the World Organization for Animal Health. An interviewee-administered questionnaire was used to gather epidemiological data on sociodemographics, interaction between cattle and wildlife, and awareness of zoonotic tuberculosis (TB) from 90 cattle professionals. The prevalence of bTB at the herd level and associated risk factors were estimated using multiple logistic regression models.

Results

Based on the comparative intradermal tuberculin test (CIDT), the estimated prevalence of bTB in 160 cattle (Zebu Bororo, Goudali, Ndama, and Simmental) in South and East Cameroon was 6.8% (4.35%-9.41%) and 1.8% (0%-3.6%) for threshold values 3 mm and 4 mm, respectively. The prevalence obtained by simple intradermal tuberculin test (IDT) was 0.6% (0%-1.2%) for a threshold value 4 mm. Univariate analysis revealed three risk factors associated with bTB with significant odds ratios (OR; p = 0.05): herd size (OR = 4.88; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24-32.56); cattle aged>10 years (OR = 0.17; 95% CI: 0.05-0.53); and victims of bTB organ seizure (OR = 0.015; 95% CI: 0.002-0.067). Multivariate analysis showed that being a cattle herder and contact between wildlife and livestock due to forage was significantly associated with bTB exposure (adjusted OR = 0.02; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Bovine TB is prevalent in cattle of the South and East Cameroon. Comparative IDT of cattle reared in the epidemiological and environmental context of the study areas yielded better results at a threshold of 3 mm than at a threshold of 4 mm recommended by the World Health Organization. Factors associated with exposure to/appearance of bTB were high herd size, cattle aged >10 years old, seizures of tuberculous organs, shepherding as a profession, and contact between cattle and wildlife can be due to lack of forage.

Prevalence and characterization of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli in healthy pregnant women and hospital environments in Benin: an approach based on Tricycle

Introduction

Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales are recognized as significant pathogens due to their resistance to multiple antibiotics. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) in different settings, including healthy pregnant women, the food chain, and the environment of tertiary hospitals in Benin.

Methods

Samples were collected from various sources, including fecal samples from healthy pregnant women, food samples from hospital canteens, and hospital effluents from four tertiary hospitals in southern Benin. Fecal samples were plated on MacConkey agar supplemented with cefotaxime (4 μg/mL), while food and water samples were plated on Tryptone Bile X agar supplemented with cefotaxime (4 μg/mL). Urea indole tests were used for preliminary identification of E. coli colonies, followed by confirmation of ESBL production using the double disk synergy technique. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of ESBL-producing E. coli strains was conducted using the disk diffusion method on MH agar. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used to investigate the presence of ESBL-encoding genes.

Results

Among the 296 fecal samples collected from four tertiary hospitals, ESBL-producing E. coli was isolated from 22.30% (66) of the samples. All E. coli isolates from hospital effluents exhibited ESBL production, while ESBL-producing E. coli was not detected in food and drinking water samples. The analysis of variable associations showed no significant associations (p > 0.05) for the studied factors. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed high resistance rates among the ESBL-Ec isolates against several tested antibiotics, including amoxicillin, aztreonam, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. However, most isolates remained susceptible to ertapenem, amoxicillin-clavulanate, and imipenem. The most prevalent ESBL-encoding genes were blaTEM (37.50%), blaOXA-1 (19.44%), and blaSHV (11.11%), while a smaller proportion of isolates carried blaCTXM-1/blaCTXM-15 (5.55%) and blaCTXM-9.

Discussion

This study provides insights into the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli carriage in the feces of healthy pregnant women in southern Benin. Additionally, it highlights hospital wastewater as a potential reservoir of ESBL-producing bacteria in the environment. The detection of ESBL-producing E. coli in hospital effluents raises concerns about the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes into the environment. The high resistance rates observed among ESBL-Ec isolates against commonly used antibiotics emphasize the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship and infection control measures. The identification of prevalent ESBL-encoding genes contributes to understanding the genetic basis of ESBL resistance in the studied population. Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms of transmission and potential interventions to mitigate the spread of ESBL-producing Enterobacterales.

Whole genomes from bacteria collected at diagnostic units around the world 2020

The Two Weeks in the World research project has resulted in a dataset of 3087 clinically relevant bacterial genomes with pertaining metadata, collected from 59 diagnostic units in 35 countries around the world during 2020. A relational database is available with metadata and summary data from selected bioinformatic analysis, such as species prediction and identification of acquired resistance genes.

Isolation and characterization of three novel Acinetobacter baumannii phages from Beninese hospital wastewater

Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen that is mostly associated with hospital-acquired infections. The rapid emergence of multi- and pan-drug-resistant Acinetobacter strains poses an increasing challenge in hospitals. Phage therapy offers one treatment option for infections caused by A. baumannii. We isolated three phages from Beninese hospital wastewater - fBenAci001, fBenAci002, and fBenAci003 - that infected clinical A. baumannii strains from Finnish patients. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these phages resemble phages of the genus Friunavirus, family Autographiviridae. The isolated phages meet the requirements set for phages used for phage therapy. However, they were found to have a narrow host range, which may limit their therapeutic use.

Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant Activity, and Acute Toxicity Evaluation of Senna italica Extract Used in Traditional Medicine

Medicinal plants such as Senna italica are increasingly used for their purgative virtues to treat stomach aches, fever, and jaundice. This study aims to screen the phytochemical compounds and to assess the antioxidant activity in vitro and the acute oral toxicity in vivo of Senna italica leaves. The plant was harvested, dried, pulverized, and preserved. Phytochemical screening was performed using different laboratory protocols. Ethanolic and aqueous extracts were, respectively, obtained by maceration and decoction technics. The assay for free radical scavenging was used to examine the antioxidant activity using DPPH. Acute oral toxicity was performed with aqueous and ethanolic extracts at 5000 mg/kg of body weight on female albinos Wistar rats, weighing 152.44 ± 3.68 g. Subjects were checked for any signs of mortality and macroscopy toxicity during the 14 days of the study. Biochemical and hematological parameters were measured to assess liver and kidney functions, and histological analysis of these organs was conducted. Phytochemical analysis highlighted the presence of total phenols, flavones, tannins, alkaloids, and quinone derivatives. Semiethanolic (78 μg/mL), ethanolic (9.7 μg/mL), and aqueous extract (9.2 μg/mL) showed an interesting antioxidant activity. Biochemical and hematological parameters were normal and not significantly different (p > 0.05). The plant extracts did not produce any toxic effect or mortality at the provided dose. Senna italica extracts induced an increase in the volume of liver and kidney tissues but no necrosis. Thus, lethal dose 50 of Senna italica leaf extract is probably higher than 5000 mg/kg.

Antibiotic profiling of multidrug resistant pathogens in one-day-old chicks imported from Belgium to benin

BACKGROUND

Little data exist on the presence of resistant pathogens in day-old chicks imported into Benin. The occurrence of pathogenic bacteria was assessed in 180 one-day-old chicks imported from Belgium and received at the Cardinal Bernardin Gantin International Airport in Cotonou (Benin). The samples included swabbing the blisters of 180 chicks, followed by 18 pools of 10 swabs for bacterial isolation. Classic bacteriological methods based on Gram staining, culture on specific media and biochemical characterization were used. Antibacterial susceptibility screening to antibiotics was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, and the results were interpreted according to guidelines from the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). DNA extraction was performed by the heat treatment method. Resistance genes were screened by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

We isolated 32 bacteria, including Escherichia coli (50%), Enterococcus spp. (28%), and coagulase-negative staphylococci (10%). The isolates were investigated for antibiotic resistance against antibiotics using the disk diffusion method and showed that in the Escherichia coli strains isolated, the highest rate of resistance was obtained against ciprofloxacin (81%), followed by trimethoprim + sulfamethoxazole (62%). Enterobacter cloacae was sensitive to all the antibiotics tested. Pseudomonas spp. resistant to amoxicillin and trimethoprim + sulfamethoxazole was noted. The SulII gene was found in all cloacal samples, while the SulI and bla_TEM genes were present at 44.44% and 16.67%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that imported day-old chicks can be a potential source of dissemination of resistant bacteria in poultry production. A system for immediate detection of resistant bacteria in chicks upon arrival in the country is thus needed.

Assessment of blood cultures and antibiotic susceptibility testing for bacterial sepsis diagnosis and utilization of results by clinicians in Benin: A qualitative study

Objectives

We assessed the current status of blood culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) practices in clinical laboratories in Benin, and how the laboratory results are used by physicians to prescribe antibiotics.

Methods

The qualitative study covered twenty-five clinical laboratories with a bacteriology unit and associated hospitals and pharmacies. Altogether 159 laboratory staff, physicians and pharmacists were interviewed about their perceptions of the state of laboratory diagnostics related to sepsis and the use of antibiotics. Face-to-face interviews based on structured questionnaires were supported by direct observations when visiting five laboratories in across the country.

Results

Only 6 laboratories (24%) conducted blood cultures, half of them with a maximum of 10 samples per month. The most common gram-negative bacteria isolated from blood cultures were: Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi while the most common gram-positives were Enterococcus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. None of the laboratories listed Klebsiella pneumoniae among the three most common bacteria isolated from blood cultures, although other evidence indicates that it is the most common cause of sepsis in Benin. Due to limited testing capacity, physicians most commonly use empirical antibiotic therapy.

Conclusions

More resources are needed to develop laboratory testing capacity, technical skills in bacterial identification, AST, quality assurance, and communication of results must be strengthened.

Determination of MIC, MPC, and MSW of Ilex paraguariensis against non-typhoidal Salmonella with identification of the mechanisms of resistance and pathogenicity factors

This study investigated the antibacterial activity of the aqueous extract of Ilex paraguariensis against 32 different strains of nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) through the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), mutant prevention concentration (MPC), and mutant selection window (MSW) and the detection of virulence genes by multiplex PCR assays. The MIC values of Ilex paraguariensis against Salmonella spp. strains varied between 0.78 mg/ml and 6.25 mg/ml with a MIC90 of 3.12 mg/ml. The highest MPC in this study was 48 mg/ml yielding a mutant selection window of 41.75 mg/ml. The MSW values of the remaining strains varied between 1.56 and 8.87 mg/ml. Genes of pathogenicity detected in Salmonella spp. isolates were most commonly the stn, sdiA, invA, sopB, invH, and sopE genes. The antibacterial activity of yerba mate extract was not affected by the antimicrobial resistance patterns or pathogenicity genes expressed. More work is needed to identify the active antibacterial compound(s) responsible for the antibacterial activity.

Situation analysis of urogenital bilharzia in West Africa (2010-2021) and control strategies and prospects: systematic review and meta-analysis

Schistosomes are parasitic diseases caused by flatworms (schistosomes or bilharzia), transmitted in the urine or in the faeces, and involving intermediate hosts (freshwater molluscs). Their recrudescence in endemic areas is no longer in question and remains a crucial public health problem in the world in general and in West Africa in particular. In order to eradicate bilharzia, many control strategies and policies have been implemented on both sides. The objective of this systematic literature review is to synthesize the existing evidence on control strategies implemented by West African countries. To achieve this, data were collected from PubMed, Direct Science, Web of Sciences, Google Scholar, PloS and Banque de Données de Santé Publique (BDSP), using appropriate keywords. Academic articles and theses written in French or English that evaluated the analysis of a bilharzia situation in West Africa were selected. Sixteen scientific papers were selected for the study, ten of which were used for a meta-analysis. The systematic review revealed that bilharzia is still an endemic disease in West Africa. Clearly, it continues to wreak havoc on the population, especially among school children. Rural areas are the most affected by the disease. Strategies to control bilharzia are based on preventive and curative treatment of the infection with chemotherapy and vector control of soil molluscs (host and vector of bilharzia eggs). Praziquantel is the main known antibilharzian. Also, the species most frequently found in analyses are S. haematobiumand S. mansonii. This review has allowed to evaluate the control strategies carried out and to deduce the strengths and weaknesses, in order to define the perspectives for the efficiency of the anti-bilharzia control for the eradication of bilharzia in the endemic zones of West Africa.

A review of some medicinal plants with the potential to defeat antimicrobial resistance: Cases of Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Cape Verde

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health problem. In the alternatives being explored for developing new antimicrobials, medicinal plants occupy an important place, particularly in Africa, where they are widely used. This review aims to analyze the potential of medicinal plants from Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina-Faso, and Cape Verde in the fight against AMR. A bibliographic search was conducted to explore scientific databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. During this search, particular attention was given to epidemiological data related to AMR in these countries, medicinal plants traditionally used to treat microbial infections and medicinal plants that have been shown to be active on multidrug-resistant microbial strains. In total, 94 manuscripts were investigated. Epidemiological data showed that the problem of AMR is worsening in each target country. In addition, several medicinal plants have been demonstrated to be effective against microbial strains resistant to conventional antibiotics. A total of 532 medicinal plants were identified according to their ethnomedical uses for the treatment of microbial infections. Scientific evidence was collected on the antimicrobial potential of 91 plants. This study showed the potential of medicinal plants in the fight against AMR. Their documented traditional use, coupled with the evidence of efficacy provided, make them interesting sources for developing new antimicrobials.

[Prevalence and factors associated with vulvovaginal candidiasis in women admitted to the Zone Hospital of Mènontin (Bénin)]

Introduction

vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) are cosmopolitan affections, very frequent and recurrent, condition due to disruption in vaginal balance and local immunity system. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence and factors associated with VVCs in women admitted to the Mènontin Hospital.

Methods

we conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology over the period March - August 2020. Sociodemographic, medical and gynecological data were collected from the medical records of 1336 subjects. Candida species were identified by conventional microbiological tests.

Results

the prevalence of candidiasis was 56.25% in women with leucorrhea. It was not associated with sociodemographic factors such as age, marital status and BMI. Gestational age; the colour of the cervix and the amount and consistency of leucorrhoea were related to the occurrence of candidiasis. The most common species included Candida dubliniensis (36.11%) and Candida albicans (29.17%).

Conclusion

eight species of candida are responsible for VVC in southern Benin. Knowing the associated factors allows for the implementation of appropriate control strategies.

Hospital effluents as sources of antibiotics residues, resistant bacteria and heavy metals in Benin

This study aims to evaluate the bacteriological, chemical, and toxicological quality of hospital effluents in Benin. Eighteen (18) samples were collected from the south and north of Benin, and poles were set up. Bacteriological analysis was carried out according to the French National Organization for Standardization (AFNOR) standard. Identification of the bacterial species isolated was performed using the API 20E gallery and specific biochemical tests. Antibiotic residues were searched by following ELISA kit instructions. 109 bacterial isolates were obtained, with a predominance of non-enterobacteria (37.7%) and Acinetobacter spp. (24.6%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (11.48%); S. aureus and Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) were isolated at the same frequency (6.5%). Physico-chemical and toxicological parameter analyses showed that they were in conformity with the standards of discharge into the environment. The pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, total solids below, P-redox and suspended solids measured were, on average, 6.83, 27.21 °C, 693.68 µS/cm, 693.68 mg/l, 1.68 mV and 0.15 mg/l, respectively. For heavy metals, cadmium was most prevalent (0.22 mg/l), followed by nickel (0.18 mg/l) and lead (0.03 mg/l). The average antibiotic residue concentrations ranged from 0.043 to 7.65 µg/l. Ciprofloxacin, metronidazole and sulfamethoxazole had the highest residue concentrations of 7.65 ± 2.272 µg/l, 6.61 ± 0.051 µg/l and 3.88 ± 3.088 µg/l, respectively. The heavy metal concentrations obtained were below those required by Benin standards. These effluents therefore present health and environmental risks. It is then more than necessary to develop treatment methods for them before their rejection into the natural environment.

Efficacy of Extracts of Cyanthillium Cinereum, Khaya senegalensis and Lippia multiflora on Candida Strains Isolated From Urine Samples in Benin (West Africa)

The search for new bioactive molecules with antifungal properties to combat resistance to classical antifungals represents a great challenge. This study aimed to explore the virulence factors and resistance profile of Candida species isolated from urine samples in Benin and the in vitro efficacy of organic extracts of Cyanthillium cinereum (L.) H.Rob., Lippia multiflora Moldenke and Khaya senegalensis (Desv.) A.Juss. on the growth of these Candida spp. The study focused on Candida strains isolated from urine samples collected from patients admitted to the bacteriological analysis laboratories of hospitals in Southern Benin. The sensitivity of these strains to classical antifungal agents was determined by the simple diffusion method. Their pathogenicity was investigated via several virulence factors (gelatinase, hemolysin, hydrophobicity, adhesin, biofilm and lecithinase). The in vitro efficacy of the aqueous, ethanolic and hydro-ethanolic extracts of the plants on Candida albicans ATCC 90028 and on six clinical strains was evaluated by the method of determination of the inhibition diameters. The results obtained showed that 51 different Candida strains were isolated from the collected urine samples with a respective predominance of Candida albicans (52.94%) and Candida glabrata (17.64%) species. All identified species were sensitive to amphotericin B and nystatin but 20% are resistant to fluconazole and present 15 different resistance profiles. Six different virulence factors were identified with a high frequency of hydrophobicity (96.08%) and adhesin (94.12%). Antifungal tests revealed that at 100 mg/mL the plant extracts were active on the tested strains with better activity for Cyanthilium cinereum and Khaya senegalensis. Cyanthilium cinereum, Khaya senegalensis and Lippia multiflora showed antifungal activity on virulent Candida strains suggesting the possibility to explore them further for the discovery of new antifungal molecules.

An ethnobotanical survey of seventeen plants species used against diarrhoea and other diseases in southern Benin (West Africa)

Ethnobotanical relevance: Many plants are widely used in traditional medicine across Africa. In Benin, practitioners of Beninese traditional medicine make use of diverse medicinal plants in the traditional management of various diseases including diarrhoea. Aim of the study: This study aimed at highlighting the ethnomedicinal uses of 17 plants in the traditional treatment of diarrhoea and other diseases in southern Benin. Methods: An ethnomedicinal survey was carried out using the semi-structured interview method among practitioners of traditional medicine in Benin. This allowed for the identification of the traditional uses of these plants. The ethnobotanical data collected was analyzed using indices such as Use Value, Informant Consensus Factor and Fidelity Index of medicinal plants. A total of 72 informants participated in this study, including 52 market herbalists and 20 traditional healers. Results: The cited plants were involved in the treatment of 39 diseases and symptoms of diseases which have been divided into 15 categories. The most frequently mentioned disease categories were infectious-, blood and digestive diseases,offering treatement for malaria, diarrhoea and fever, amongst others. These plants have maximum potential for the treatment of infectious diseases, as well as metabolic, respiratory, skin, blood, digestive and circulatory diseases. Conclusion: This study revealed that interviewed informants (market herbalists and traditional healers) had good knowledge of the treatment of several diseases using the 17 plants . . It confirmed that the 17 selected plants are used in the traditional treatment of diarrhoea as well as other diseases. This study provided a database for Future pharmacological investigations on the basis of this ethnobotanical documentation.

Ethnobotanical survey on plants used in the treatment of candidiasis in traditional markets of southern Benin

BACKGROUND

Candidiasis, an opportunistic cosmopolitan disease is nowadays like bacterial infections which is a real public health problem. In view of the emergence of Candida strains resistant to existing antifungal agents, alternative solutions should be considered. This is the purpose of this ethnobotanical survey, which aims to identify the medicinal plant species traditionally used to treat candidiasis in traditional markets of southern Benin.

METHODS

The study was performed from October 2015 to January 2018 in the traditional markets of Southern-Benin. Data were collected by two complementary methods: triplet purchase of medicinal recipes (ATRM) from herbalists markets and semi-structured interview (ISS) from traditional healers.

RESULTS

A total of 109 species of medicinal plants belonging to 44 families have been listed and identified. The most frequently cited species were Pteleopsis suberosa Engl. & Diels, Lantana camara L., Cyanthillium cinereum (L.) H. Rob, Ocimum gratissimum L. and Lippia multiflora Moldenke with respectively 43.84, 39.73 and 34.25% citation frequencies for the last three species respectively. Leguminosae (20.18%), Euphorbiaceae (5.50%) and Apocynaceae (5.50%) were the most represented botanical families. Leafy stems were more used than other plant organs. The decoction and the oral route were the most appropriate methods of preparation and administration reported by traditional healers.

CONCLUSION

Benin's plant cover is made up of a wide variety of medicinal plant species used in the traditionnal treatment of candidiasis and which may constitute new sources of medicines to be developed.

Antimicrobial resistance and toxigenic profiles of bacteria isolated from tropical shrimps (Farfantepenaeus notialis and Penaeus monodon) in Cameroun

Objective

Post-harvest shrimp losses are a big problem due to the proliferation of spoilage bacteria. Presence and multiplication of these bacteria promotes the emergence of food-borne diseases. This study was carried out to characterize some spoilage bacteria from tropical brackish water shrimps and black tiger shrimps stored in ambient temperature (25 °C).

Results

22 isolates of Bacillus spp; 09 isolates of Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (CNS) and 04 isolates of enterobacteria such as Pantoea spp (01); Serratia plymutica (01) and Serratia rubidaea (02) have been identified. Resistance and virulence genes were then detected. All isolates expressed resistance to at least three of antibiotics tested. 03 isolates of enterobacteria were susceptible to cetfazidim and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Bacillus spp showed total susceptibility to cefixim, ertapenem and cetfazidim. Staphylococci were susceptible to clindamycin. Pantoea spp was resistant to all antibiotics but exhibited intermediate susceptibility to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. 04 isolates of Staphylococci were positive to mecA resistances genes. All the enterobacteria harbor no tetracycline resistance genes. All the isolates of Bacillus exhibited the presence of enterotoxin genes. Also, a high prevalence of 21 isolates to hemolytic enterotoxins was noted. 17 isolates from them kept ability to cell-lyse factor production like sphingomyelinase activities. The majority of Bacillus isolates identified by the present study poses a potential risk of food poisoning due to the prevalence of toxin genes found.

Prevalence and susceptibility to antibiotics from Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolated from chicken meat in southern Benin, West Africa

Objective

Poultry is commonly considered to be the primary vehicle for Campylobacter infection in humans. The aim of this study is to assess the risk of Campylobacteriosis in chicken meat consumers in southern Benin by assessing the prevalence and resistance profile of Campylobacter coli and Campylobacter jejuni isolated from chicken thigh in Southern Benin.

Results

The contamination rate of Campylobacter in the samples was 32.8%. From this percentage, 59.5% were local chicken thighs and 40.5% of imported chicken thighs (p = 0.045). After molecular identification, on the 256 samples analyzed, the prevalence of C. jejuni was 23.4% and 7.8% for C. coli, with a concordance of 0.693 (Kappa coefficient of concordance) with the results from phenotypic identification. Seventy-two-point seven percent of Campylobacter strains were resistant to Ciprofloxacin, 71.4% were resistant to Ampicillin and Tetracycline. 55.8% of the strains were multi-drug resistant.

Prescription of antibiotics as a source of emerging antibiotic resistance: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical staff in the Dassa-Glazoué and Savalou-Bantè's health zones (Benin, West Africa)

Background and Aim: Antibiotics have been some great effective molecules against infections since their discovery. The excessive use and misuse of antibiotics have resulted in a selection of antibiotic-resistant strains. Among the reasons involved, the prescription of antibiotics can be important. The present study aimed to contribute to the reduction of antibiotic resistance due to the misuse of antibiotics. Materials and Methods: A knowledge, attitude, and practice survey of health professionals from Savalou-Bante (230) and Dassa-Glazoué (100) health zones was performed about the prescription of antibiotics. Results: About 53% of respondents in the health zone of Savalou-Bantè were assistant nursing and only 3% of them were specialized physicians. The other respondents were physicians (3%), midwives (10%), and nurses (31%). Forty-five percent of the respondents were nurses and only 5% of them were specialized physicians in Savalou-Bantè. However, all these health professionals prescribe antibiotics. The first-line antibiotics prescribed were penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, aminoglycosides, and quinolones. These health professionals usually have no knowledge of the mechanism of action of these antibiotics. The antibiotics prescribed mostly were for ear, nose, and throat and upper respiratory infections (80% in Dassa-Glazoué and 79% in Savalou-Bantè). The most commonly used dosage form was tablets (58%) in the health zone of Savalou-Bantè and the injectable form in the sanitary zone of Dassa-Glazouè. Conclusion: It is important to implement a policy of rational use of antibiotics to reduce the excessive and misuse of antibiotics and prevent antibiotic resistance.

Evaluation of in-vivo anti-Salmonella activity of Uvaria chamae, Lantana camara and Phyllantus amarus used in Benin, West Africa

BACKGROUND

Uvaria chamae (Annonaceae), Phyllantus amarus (Phyllantaceae) and Lantana camara (Verbenaceae) are empirically alleged to be used as Beninese medicinal plants in the treatment of salmonellosis. This study aimed to produce scientific data on in vitro and in vivo efficacy of Uvaria chamae, Lantana camara and Phyllantus amarus on multiresistant Salmonella spp isolated in Benin.

RESULTS

After performing in vitro tests on aqueous and ethanolic extracts of these plants, only the aqueous extract of Uvaria chamae (leaves) showed the best anti-Salmonella's activity and was used for this in vivo experiment. The induction of salmonellosis revealed 9 × 108 CFU/ml was the optimal concentration triggering and maintaining symptoms in chicks. This infective concentration was used for in vivo assessment. Twenty-four hours post inoculation, the symptoms of salmonellosis (wet cloaca, diarrhea stools and somnolence) were observed in infected groups. After 7 days of treatment, the reduction of bacterial load at 100 mg/L, 200 mg/L, 400 mg/L of the extract was respectively 85%, 52.38% and 98% for Uvaria chamae, Phyllantus amarus and Lantana camara in the chick's groups infected with Salmonella Typhimurium ATCC 14028. On the other hand, colistin completely cancelled the bacterial load (reduction rate of 100%). With the groups infected with Salmonella spp (virulent strain), the reduction rate of bacterial load at 100 mg/L, 200 mg/L, 400 mg/L of extract was 0%, 98.66%, and 99.33%. The extracts at 200 and 400 mg/L were more active than colistin, which reduced the bacterial load by 33.33%. The toxicity tests did not show any negative effect of Colistin and the Uvaria chamae's extract on the biochemical and hematological parameters of the chicks.

CONCLUSION

The aqueous extract of Uvaria chamae is active in vitro and in vivo on multiresistant strains of Salmonella enterica. This plant is a good candidate for the development of an improved traditional medicine for the management of salmonellosis.

Resistance and virulence determinants of faecal Salmonella spp. isolated from slaughter animals in Benin

OBJECTIVE

Salmonella spp. are one of the leading foodborne pathogens worldwide naturally found in the intestines of many animals. People that are in direct contact with the infected animals or their cages may become ill. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, antibiogram and virulence genes associated with Salmonella serovars from fecal samples of animals intended for consumption in Southern Benin.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 406 samples, 2.46% were positive. The isolates identified were multidrug-resistant Salmonella spp. to penicillins, first generation cephalosporins and some aminoglycosides. All Salmonella isolates produced invA gene of 284 bp, fimA of 85 bp and stn of 260 bp. The spvC gene (571 bp) was present in 10% of the isolates whereas the spvR gene (310 bp) was found in 20% of the isolates. The control strain possessed all the tested genes. The invA gene implies that strains are able to invade epithelial cells. The fimA and stn genes present in all isolates show that they are capable of causing gastrointestinal illness in humans. The presence of spvC and spvR genes suggests the possibility of these strains to produce toxins.

Exploration of the antibacterial and chemical potential of some Beninese pharmacopoiea traditional plants

Objectives. This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial and chemical properties of some medicinal plants used in the fight against enteropathogens in Benin. Methods. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Senna siamea, Uvaria chamae, Lantana camara and Phyllantus amarus were tested on 10 bacterial strains. Well diffusion technique, coupled with the microdilution determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (CMB) was used for antibacterial testing. The larval cytotoxicity was evaluated by using Artemia salina crustacean larvae. flavonoids and polyphenols were also assayed by the method using aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) and the method using the folin-Ciocalteu reagent, respectively. Results. The results of the study revealed that extracts had an effective antibacterial activity at 100 mg/mL, with MIC between 100 and 25 mg/mL and CMB between 100 and 50 mg/mL. The inhibition diameters of the extracts varied between 7.5 and 21 mm. The ethanolic extract of Phyllantus amarus leaves showed the best antibacterial activity. None of the extracts tested was found to be cytotoxic at the dose of 20 mg/mL. The aqueous Uvaria chamae root extract has the highest polyphenol content (231.896552±0.27586207 in μg EAG/100 mg extract), whereas the aqueous leaf extract of Uvaria chamae is the richest in flavonoids (41.061082 0.43180737 in μg ER/100 mg of extract). Conclusions. These interesting results can be used in the development of improved traditional medicines against enteropathogens.

A Behavioral and Serological Survey on HIV Prevalence Among Prisoners in Benin

Cases of HIV are common in Benin, with infection rates varying according to socioeconomic and cultural factors, and by region. Certain segments of the population, such as prison inmates, sex worker clients and truck drivers are at high risk for HIV/AIDS. The aim of this study is to identify which behavioral and serological indicators contribute to the spread of HIV among prisoners. A total of 496 inmates from prisons located in all major cities in Benin were surveyed. Data was collected through interview sessions carried out using a questionnaire and through blood samples. The results show that most inmates are Beninese (83.5%), and the average age is 33 years (range: 14-80 years). No prisoner reported using a condom the last time they engaged in sexual intercourse. Blood exposure was found in 14.6% of inmates and HIV was detected in 1.4% of cases. Our analysis indicates that the length of detention and gender are factors that influence HIV status. However, age, education, nationality and HIV awareness had no significant effect on HIV prevalence among inmates. The results highlight the need to raise awareness in prisons about HIV. This can be achieved by strengthening communication strategies and by organizing HIV and sexually transmitted diseases information sessions for both prison officers and inmates.