Honey harvesting throughout beekeeping is a technology recently introduced in Gabon comparing to the other African countries well known in international honey trade. The purpose of this study is to contribute to the k...Honey harvesting throughout beekeeping is a technology recently introduced in Gabon comparing to the other African countries well known in international honey trade. The purpose of this study is to contribute to the knowledge of the quality of multi-flower honeys from the savannah-gallery forest complex and primary forest not well documented in Gabon. Physical and chemical parameters of different honeys were analyzed using the official methods of analysis of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. The results of physico-chemical analysis show variations in pH (3.4 to 3.9), free acidity (37.12 to 76.65 meq∙kg−1), water content (17.49% to 21.21%), electrical conductivity (0.64 to 1.24 mS∙cm−1), density (1.02 to 1.03) and total sugar content (77% to 82%). These variations were significantly different (p < 0.05) between certain honeys, but independent of the type of ecosystem considered. The pH values confirmed the botanical origin of the five honeys. The physico-chemical parameters of the honeys show significant correlations (p < 0.05). Moisture content is negatively correlated with conductivity (r = −0.628), pH (r = −0.631), density (r = −0.552) and total sugar content (r = −0.890). Conductivity is positively correlated with free acidity (r = 0.688) and total sugar content (r = 0.776), and negatively correlated with water content (r = −0.628). All honeys were in line with Codex Alimentarius standards, except for 3 types of honey (M1, M2 and M4) for free acidity and electrical conductivity, showing possible fermentation of these honeys.展开更多
Green coal or bio-coal is coal produced with rich biodegradable materials, elaborated from agricultural and household residues with a high percentage of carbon. This green charcoal (fuel briquettes) is an alternative ...Green coal or bio-coal is coal produced with rich biodegradable materials, elaborated from agricultural and household residues with a high percentage of carbon. This green charcoal (fuel briquettes) is an alternative to charcoal. Well known for its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, charcoal is one of the causes of tree felling. The valorization of waste by the manufacture of biofuels could be an alternative to the use of charcoal. The general objective of the present study is the valorization of nine biomasses from Togo as raw materials. Specifically, physico-chemical characteristics such as dehydration, acidity, and conductivity were determined. Information on the structure and composition of the biomass was found. These data on the nature of the biomass were found through the use of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Thermogravimetry (TGA). The promising results inform on the nature of the analyzed samples and allow the selection of the best biomass which would give an important thermal conductivity for the manufacture of the briquettes, but also of the binders to be used according to the physico-chemical characteristics like the pH.展开更多
When was the earliest glass produced in China? This has still been a question so far. Some archaeologists have thought that Yu Guo beads are real glass, the earliest glass(1100-771 B. C. ) in China. However, more deta...When was the earliest glass produced in China? This has still been a question so far. Some archaeologists have thought that Yu Guo beads are real glass, the earliest glass(1100-771 B. C. ) in China. However, more details of scientific investigations in this paper show that Yu Guo beads are mainly made of clastic quartz (>95%) with a small amount of clay and sintered under the low temperature(500-600℃). It is not a glassy body, but a kind of polycrystal ornaments.展开更多
This study investigated selected properties of soils affected by wastewater and its relationship with some heavy metals. A free survey technique involving target sampling was used in siting soil profile pits. Soil sam...This study investigated selected properties of soils affected by wastewater and its relationship with some heavy metals. A free survey technique involving target sampling was used in siting soil profile pits. Soil samples were collected based on horizon differentiation and analyzed using routine and special analytical techniques. Soil data were subjected to correlation analysis using SAS program. Results show that all heavy metals studied had values above critical limits in the polluted soils using known standards and that these biotoxic metals decreased with soil depths. Highly significant (P=0.01 and 0.05) relationships were established between investigated heavy metals and some soil properties, especially soil pH and organic matter. Further studies involving more edaphic properties, biotoxic metals and their bioaccessibility in crops growing on wastewater soils will surely enhance knowledge and management of these highly anthropogenically influenced soils of the study site.展开更多
This article describes the physico-chemical characterization of the sulfated zirconia catalysts prepared from zirconyl chloride, acetic acid and ammonium persulfate system under structure-directing-free and calcined a...This article describes the physico-chemical characterization of the sulfated zirconia catalysts prepared from zirconyl chloride, acetic acid and ammonium persulfate system under structure-directing-free and calcined at 650°C. The catalysts were characterized via an array of characterization techniques such as surface acidity and texture measurements, X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric measurement (TG) coupled with a quadrupole mass spectrometer (MS), inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and/or mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). It is clear from TG-MS, ICP-AES, and IR analyses that the precursor of the catalyst is a sulphur species-doped zirconium oxy-hydroxyl acetate complex. The presence of zirconium-bound sulfate groups results in the superacidity of the catalyst and hence high activity in n-hexane isomerization. It is shown from nitrogen adsorption and desorption, FESEM, and HRTEM measurements that the materials exhibit mesoporous and nanocrystalline structure.展开更多
The characterization of clay raw materials of three clay deposits from Northern Cameroon was investigated. The three deposits, located in Gaschiga, Sekandé and Boulgou, are locally used as building materials, but...The characterization of clay raw materials of three clay deposits from Northern Cameroon was investigated. The three deposits, located in Gaschiga, Sekandé and Boulgou, are locally used as building materials, but no data are available on these materials and they are relatively unknown. Mineralogical, geochemical and physico-chemical characteristics were studied, using X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and physico-chemical analyses. Mineralogically, quartz was the most abundant mineral in the studied raw materials. It is associated to abundant quantity of smectite, kaolinite and K-feldspars, and slightly abundant to traces of hematite and amphibole. Geochemically, those clayey soils are more siliceous (SiO</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 51% - 59%) with significant amount of aluminum (Al</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 15% - 19%) followed by iron oxides (Fe</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 3% - 10%). Other oxides (K</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O, MgO, TiO</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, Na</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O, MnO, CaO and P</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">5</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) are in relatively lower proportion. High level of silica content explains the sandy nature of these clays. The results of granulometric analysis show that the studied raw material contain sand (39% - 68%) as major grain size followed by clay particles (17% - 38%), silt (1% - 36%) and gravels (0% - 16%). The studied clayey soils were moderately plastic, with plasticity index values ranging from 13% to 30%, and are also characterized by very high liquidity limits of 34% - 63%.展开更多
A series of Mo-impregnated H\%β\% samples, with MoO\-3 loading in H\%β\% zeolite in the mass fraction range of 0\^5%\_6\^0%, were studied by means of XRD and IR in order to characterize their structures. Mo/H\%β\% ...A series of Mo-impregnated H\%β\% samples, with MoO\-3 loading in H\%β\% zeolite in the mass fraction range of 0\^5%\_6\^0%, were studied by means of XRD and IR in order to characterize their structures. Mo/H\%β\% samples′ crystallinity almost linearly decreases with increasing the amount of MoO\-3 loaded. The IR spectra and XRD patterns suggest that the progressive destabilization of the H\%β\% zeolite structure is caused by increasing Mo loading in (MoO\-3+H\%β\% zeolite). During the calcination, Al\-2(MoO\-4)\-3 formed from the dealumination of H\%β\% zeolite, causes the substantially partial breakdown of the zeolite framework when the Mo loading in MoO\-3+H\%β\% is relatively high.展开更多
The natural Salmonella abortus equi endotoxin(lipopolysaccharide) preparation was fractionated with organic solvents into smooth (S-) and rough(R-) fractions to prepare their corresponding lipid A moieties. The lipid ...The natural Salmonella abortus equi endotoxin(lipopolysaccharide) preparation was fractionated with organic solvents into smooth (S-) and rough(R-) fractions to prepare their corresponding lipid A moieties. The lipid A obtained from S-fraction(S-lip A) wa展开更多
The present study focused on production of mycelial chitosan from fungal mycelium by submerged fermentation with ecologically more balanced process. Different fungal strains were screened and Absidia butleri NCIM 977 ...The present study focused on production of mycelial chitosan from fungal mycelium by submerged fermentation with ecologically more balanced process. Different fungal strains were screened and Absidia butleri NCIM 977 was found to produce the highest mycelial chitosan. The one-factor-at-a-time method was adopted to investigate the effect of batch time, environmental factors (i.e. initial pH and temperature) and medium components (i.e. carbon and nitrogen) on the yield of mycelial chitosan. Among these variables, the optimal condition to increase in yield of mycelial chitosan was found to be batch time (72 h), pH (5.5), temperature (30°C), carbon source (glucose) and nitrogen source (tryptone and yeast extract). Subsequently, a three-level Box– Behnken factorial design was employed combining with response surface methodology (RSM) to maximise yield of mycelial chitosan by determining optimal concentrations and investigating the interactive effects of the most significant media components (i.e. carbon and nitrogen sources). The optimum value of parameters obtained through RSM was glucose (1.58%), tryptone (1.61%) and yeast extract (1.11%). There was an increase in mycelial chitosan yield after media optimization by one-factor-at-a-time and statistical analysis from 683 mg/L to 1 g/L. Mycelial chitosan was characterized for total glucosamine content (80.68%), degree of deacetylation (DD) (79.89%), molecular weight (8.07 × 104 Da) and, viscosity (73.22 ml/g). The results of this study demonstrated that fungi are promising alternative sources of chitosan with high DD and high purity.展开更多
This work falls within the general framework of the valorization of the clays of Ivory Coast in order to propose innovative solutions in the resolution of certain problems related to development such as the depollutio...This work falls within the general framework of the valorization of the clays of Ivory Coast in order to propose innovative solutions in the resolution of certain problems related to development such as the depollution of water. Its main objective is therefore to study the physico-chemical properties of two Dabou clays with a view to using them in chemical processes for the treatment of dyeing wastewater. The results of the chemical analysis and the ray diffraction showed that the DAB 1 and DAB 2 samples are clays of the kaolinitic type consisting mainly of kaolinite with 51.17% for DAB 1 against 65.81% for DAB 2 and quartz with respectively 41.76% and 25.8% for DAB 1 and DAB 2. They also contain relatively large amounts of goethite with 9.96% for DAB 1 and 12.8% for DAB 2. The specific surfaces measured in both samples are greater than 25 m<sup>2</sup>/g. All the results of the physico-chemical characterization, in particular the presence in significant quantity of clay minerals, the presence of iron compounds and the large specific surface area of both samples, allow the conclusion that they can be used in adsorption studies and in the heterogeneous Fenton process for water treatment.展开更多
Laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF) has attracted significant attention in both the industry and academic fields since its inception, providing unprecedented advantages to fabricate complex-shaped metallic components. The ...Laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF) has attracted significant attention in both the industry and academic fields since its inception, providing unprecedented advantages to fabricate complex-shaped metallic components. The printing quality and performance of L-PBF alloys are infuenced by numerous variables consisting of feedstock powders, manufacturing process,and post-treatment. As the starting materials, metallic powders play a critical role in infuencing the fabrication cost, printing consistency, and properties. Given their deterministic roles, the present review aims to retrospect the recent progress on metallic powders for L-PBF including characterization, preparation, and reuse. The powder characterization mainly serves for printing consistency while powder preparation and reuse are introduced to reduce the fabrication costs.Various powder characterization and preparation methods are presented in the beginning by analyzing the measurement principles, advantages, and limitations. Subsequently, the effect of powder reuse on the powder characteristics and mechanical performance of L-PBF parts is analyzed, focusing on steels, nickel-based superalloys, titanium and titanium alloys, and aluminum alloys. The evolution trends of powders and L-PBF parts vary depending on specific alloy systems, which makes the proposal of a unified reuse protocol infeasible. Finally,perspectives are presented to cater to the increased applications of L-PBF technologies for future investigations. The present state-of-the-art work can pave the way for the broad industrial applications of L-PBF by enhancing printing consistency and reducing the total costs from the perspective of powders.展开更多
Geopolymers are an alternative to Portland cement, well known for their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Finding materials that can validly replace Portland cement is a challenge. It is in this logic that thi...Geopolymers are an alternative to Portland cement, well known for their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Finding materials that can validly replace Portland cement is a challenge. It is in this logic that this work was undertaken with the objective of characterizing two local clay resources of Togo as raw materials for geopolymers. The physico-chemical properties of these clays were determined by characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric (TGA) and elemental analysis (ICP-OES). The results show that these clays contain kaolinite and therefore can be used in the formulation of geopolymers. The characterized clays underwent heat treatments transforming the crystalline phases into more reactive amorphous phases and then were activated by an alkaline solution in order to formulate the geopolymer materials. These elaborated materials were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared to identify the types of bonds formed. The results of these analyses show that these two local clays are well suited to be used in synthesizing geopolymers. Our future work will focus on the constraints of consolidation as well as the mechanical properties of these geopolymer materials.展开更多
Oyster(Crassostrea gigas),the main ingredient of oyster sauce,has a strong umami taste.In this study,three potential umami peptides,FLNQDEEAR(FR-9),FNKEE(FE-5),and EEFLK(EK-5),were identified and screened from the alc...Oyster(Crassostrea gigas),the main ingredient of oyster sauce,has a strong umami taste.In this study,three potential umami peptides,FLNQDEEAR(FR-9),FNKEE(FE-5),and EEFLK(EK-5),were identified and screened from the alcoholic extracts of the oyster using nano-HPLC-MS/MS analysis,i Umami-Scoring Card Method(i Umami-SCM)database and molecular docking(MD).Sensory evaluation and electronic tongue analysis were further used to confirm their tastes.The threshold of the three peptides ranged from 0.38 to 0.55 mg/m L.MD with umami receptors T1R1/T1R3 indicated that the electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bond interaction were the main forces involved.Besides,the Phe592 and Gln853 of T1R3 were the primary docking site for MD and played an important role in umami intensity.Peptides with two Glu residues at the terminus had stronger umami,especially at the C-terminus.These results contribute to the understanding of umami peptides in oysters and the interaction mechanism between umami peptides and umami receptors.展开更多
Sesame(Sesamum indicum L.)is an ancient oilseed crop of the Pedaliaceae family with high oil content and potential health benefits.SHI RELATED SEQUENCE(SRS)proteins are the transcription factors(TFs)specific to plants...Sesame(Sesamum indicum L.)is an ancient oilseed crop of the Pedaliaceae family with high oil content and potential health benefits.SHI RELATED SEQUENCE(SRS)proteins are the transcription factors(TFs)specific to plants that contain RING-like zinc finger domain and are associated with the regulation of several physiological and biochemical processes.They also play vital roles in plant growth and development such as root formation,leaf development,floral development,hormone biosynthesis,signal transduction,and biotic and abiotic stress responses.Nevertheless,the SRS gene family was not reported in sesame yet.In this study,identification,molecular characterization,phylogenetic relationship,cis-acting regulatory elements,protein-protein interaction,syntenic relationship,duplication events and expression pattern of SRS genes were analyzed in S.indicum.We identified total six SiSRS genes on seven different linkage groups in the S.indicum genome by comparing with the other species,including the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana.The SiSRS genes showed variation in their structure like2–5 exons and 1–4 introns.Like other species,SiSRS proteins also contained‘RING-like zinc finger'and‘LRP1'domains.Then,the SiSRS genes were clustered into subclasses via phylogenetic analysis with proteins of S.indicum,A.thaliana,and some other plant species.The cis-acting regulatory elements analysis revealed that the promoter region of SiSRS4(SIN_1011561)showed the highest 13 and 16 elements for light-and phytohormone-responses whereas,SiSRS1(SIN_1015187)showed the highest 15 elements for stress-response.The ABREs,or ABA-responsive elements,were found in a maximum of 8 copies in the SiSRS3(SIN 1009100).Moreover,the available RNA-seq based expression of SiSRS genes revealed variation in expression patterns between stress-treated and non-treated samples,especially in drought and salinity conditions in.S.indicum.Two SiSRS genes like SiSRS1(SIN_1015187)and SiSRS5(SIN_1021065),also exhibited variable expression patterns between control vs PEG-treated sesame root samples and three SiSRS genes,including SiSRS1(SIN_1015187),SiSRS2(SIN_1003328)and SiSRS5(SIN_1021065)were responsive to salinity treatments.The present outcomes will encourage more research into the gene expression and functionality analysis of SiSRS genes in S.indicum and other related species.展开更多
Mountain excavation and city construction(MECC)projects being launched in the Loess Plateau in China involve the creation of large-scale artificial land.Understanding the subsurface evolution characteristics of the ar...Mountain excavation and city construction(MECC)projects being launched in the Loess Plateau in China involve the creation of large-scale artificial land.Understanding the subsurface evolution characteristics of the artificial land is essential,yet challenging.Here,we use an improved fiber-optic monitoring system for its subsurface multi-physical characterization.The system enables us to gather spatiotemporal distribution of various parameters,including strata deformation,temperature,and moisture.Yan’an New District was selected as a case study to conduct refined in-situ monitoring through a 77 m-deep borehole and a 30 m-long trench.Findings reveal that the ground settlement involves both the deformation of the filling loess and the underlying intact loess.Notably,the filling loess exhibits a stronger creep capability compared to underlying intact loess.The deformation along the profile is unevenly distributed,with a positive correlation with soil moisture.Water accumulation has been observed at the interface between the filling loess and the underlying intact loess,leading to a significant deformation.Moreover,the temperature and moisture in the filling loess have reached a new equilibrium state,with their depths influenced by atmospheric conditions measuring at 31 m and 26 m,respectively.The refined investigation allows us to identify critical layers that matter the sustainable development of newly created urban areas,and provide improved insights into the evolution mechanisms of land creation.展开更多
Ex situ characterization techniques in molecular beam epitaxy(MBE)have inherent limitations,such as being prone to sample contamination and unstable surfaces during sample transfer from the MBE chamber.In recent years...Ex situ characterization techniques in molecular beam epitaxy(MBE)have inherent limitations,such as being prone to sample contamination and unstable surfaces during sample transfer from the MBE chamber.In recent years,the need for improved accuracy and reliability in measurement has driven the increasing adoption of in situ characterization techniques.These techniques,such as reflection high-energy electron diffraction,scanning tunneling microscopy,and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy,allow direct observation of film growth processes in real time without exposing the sample to air,hence offering insights into the growth mechanisms of epitaxial films with controlled properties.By combining multiple in situ characterization techniques with MBE,researchers can better understand film growth processes,realizing novel materials with customized properties and extensive applications.This review aims to overview the benefits and achievements of in situ characterization techniques in MBE and their applications for material science research.In addition,through further analysis of these techniques regarding their challenges and potential solutions,particularly highlighting the assistance of machine learning to correlate in situ characterization with other material information,we hope to provide a guideline for future efforts in the development of novel monitoring and control schemes for MBE growth processes with improved material properties.展开更多
Over the years, pineapple production in the Republic of Guinea has become less competitive in the West African sub-region, with a world ranking of 144th. It is therefore only natural to review certain parameters in or...Over the years, pineapple production in the Republic of Guinea has become less competitive in the West African sub-region, with a world ranking of 144th. It is therefore only natural to review certain parameters in order to improve this ranking. To do this, certain physico-chemical parameters of soil samples from Friguiagbé and Maferinyah (in the Kindia and Forécariah prefectures) were taken and analysed using the following techniques: Pipette de Robinson, Anne, Bray II, Kapen HICDVITZ, Mc. Lead (1982). The analytical results show that the soils at Friguiagbé in Kindia and Maferinyah in Forécariah are acidic, with pH values of 4.4 and 4.7 (fields I and II) and 4.8 and 4.7 (fields I and II) respectively. The soils have a silty-sandy texture. This study could therefore serve as a guide for the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Guinea.展开更多
The purpose of this study is to investigate the physicochemical properties of some local varieties of onion (Allium cepa L.) and compare them with an imported variety, all collected in May 2021. Proteins, reducing sug...The purpose of this study is to investigate the physicochemical properties of some local varieties of onion (Allium cepa L.) and compare them with an imported variety, all collected in May 2021. Proteins, reducing sugars, lipids, and polyphenol content were estimated according to the AFNOR standardized methods. The determination of calcium, magnesium, iron, sodium, potassium and phosphorus was performed by atomic absorption spectrophotometer coupled with a CCD detector. The results highlighted an average acidity of 0.377% ± 0.002% lower than the value of the imported variety which is 0.520% ± 0.001%. Local varieties have a pH ranging from 6.35 ± 0.003 to 6.42 ± 0.004, while the variety has a pH of 6.36 ± 0.003. The ash and dry matter contents vary respectively from 4.788% ± 0.004% to 8.253% ± 0.003% and 7.945% ± 0.021% to 11.945% ± 0.007% for the local varieties. Moreover, the imported one has ash and dry matter contents of 5.175% ± 0.007% and 10.035% ± 0.021% respectively. The results show that the protein, reducing sugar and lipid contents in the local onion varieties vary respectively from 2.815 ± 0.000 to 15.634 ± 0.001 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup>;4.691 ± 0.001 to 12.596 ± 0.002 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup> and 0.006 ± 0.001 to 0.050 ± 0.057 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup>. Furthermore, the imported variety has a protein, reducing sugar and lipid content of 5.649 ± 0.002;8.565 ± 0.002 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup> and 0.011 ± 0.010 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup> respectively. The maximum levels of total polyphenols are obtained in the imported variety, Bellani and Gandiol, respectively 9.973 ± 0.001, 4.535 ± 0.002, and 3.425 ± 0.006 mg EAG/g of dry matter. The local varieties have a significant calorific intake of between 35.451 ± 0.001 and 112.980 ± 0.003 kcal·100 g<sup>-1</sup> compared to the imported one with an energy value of 56.953 ± 0.001 kcal·100 g<sup>-1</sup> of dry matter. The bulbs of different onion varieties studied have a fairly high content of mineral elements. The potassium content of local varieties is between 502.16 ± 0.06 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup> and 582.77 ± 0.04 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup> while the imported variety has a content of 536.62 ± 1.30 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>. They note that the local varieties have a better calcium content (249.75 ± 0.07 to 434.20 ± 0.57 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) and magnesium (142.15 ± 0.07 to 162.60 ± 0.42 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) than the imported variety (229.58 ± 0.04 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) except for the varieties White Grano (228.29 ± 0.01 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) and Rouge Amposta (117.00 ± 0.42 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) respectively. These results reveal that Gandiol, Dayo and Orient F1 are nutritionally found better due to their higher antioxidant property, proteins, carbohydrates, and reducing sugar and should be included in diets to supplement our daily allowance needed by the body.展开更多
The study conducted at Ndiebene Gandiol 1 school in Senegal has unveiled serious environmental and public health challenges. The wastewater analysis revealed high levels of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical O...The study conducted at Ndiebene Gandiol 1 school in Senegal has unveiled serious environmental and public health challenges. The wastewater analysis revealed high levels of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and fecal coliforms, signaling potential risks to the well-being of students and staff. This situation mirrors a wider issue in rural educational settings, where inadequate sanitation persists. Intensive wastewater treatment options are known for their effectiveness against high pollutant loads but are resource-intensive in both energy and cost. Conversely, extensive treatment systems, while requiring more land, provide a sustainable alternative by harnessing natural processes for pollutant removal. The research suggests a hybrid treatment approach could serve the school’s needs, balancing the robust capabilities of intensive methods with the ecological benefits of extensive systems. Such a solution would need to be tailored to the specific environmental, financial, and logistical context of the school, based on comprehensive feasibility studies and stakeholder engagement. This study’s findings underscore the urgency of addressing sanitation in schools, as it is intrinsically linked to the health and academic success of students. Quick, effective, and long-term strategies are vital to secure a healthier and more prosperous future for the youth. With proper implementation, the school can transform its sanitation facilities, setting a precedent for rural educational institutions in Senegal and similar contexts globally.展开更多
The problem of access to quality water is a major challenge, as it has a major impact on the socio-economic conditions of people in developing countries. The water from the islands of Lake Fitri is one of the main sou...The problem of access to quality water is a major challenge, as it has a major impact on the socio-economic conditions of people in developing countries. The water from the islands of Lake Fitri is one of the main sources of drinking water for the population. The aim of this study is to characterise and assess the quality of the water and sediment from the islands (Moudou and Birguime) of Lake Fitri, and to confirm the strains isolated using the PCR method. A total of fifty (50) samples of water and fifty (50) sediments from the islands of Lake Fitri were analyzed. Standard methods of microbiological and biochemical analysis of water and sediments were used. Isolated Enterobacteriaceae strains were characterized by API 20 E and API Staph galleries and Salmonella was confirmed by PCR method. Antibiotic resistance was determined using a technique recommended by the antibiogram committee of the French microbiology society (CA-SFM, 2019). The microbiological results for the water showed an abundance of total aerobic mesophilic flora (TAMF) (4.31 × 106 ± 8.05 × 105 and 5.29 × 106 ± 2.55 × 105) on the Birguime and Moudou islands successively. The microbiological results for the sediment from Birguime and Moudou islands showed an abundance of thermotolerant coliforms (E. coli) (2.05 × 105 ± 5.43 × 104 and 2.27 × 105 ± 3.49 × 104) alternately. The results obtained after incubation of the biochemical tests by the API 20E, API Staph gallery and their numerical profile proposed by the Api software confirmed the contamination. The antibiogram results showed the emergence of certain resistances to the antibiotics Tobramycin, Flucytosine, Amikacin and Teicoplani. The PCR results for Salmonella spp strains were confirmed. As a result, strict monitoring of the water on the various islands of Lake Fitri must be carried out throughout the annual cycle, by specialized personnel, to ensure proper bio-monitoring of these ecosystems.展开更多
文摘Honey harvesting throughout beekeeping is a technology recently introduced in Gabon comparing to the other African countries well known in international honey trade. The purpose of this study is to contribute to the knowledge of the quality of multi-flower honeys from the savannah-gallery forest complex and primary forest not well documented in Gabon. Physical and chemical parameters of different honeys were analyzed using the official methods of analysis of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. The results of physico-chemical analysis show variations in pH (3.4 to 3.9), free acidity (37.12 to 76.65 meq∙kg−1), water content (17.49% to 21.21%), electrical conductivity (0.64 to 1.24 mS∙cm−1), density (1.02 to 1.03) and total sugar content (77% to 82%). These variations were significantly different (p < 0.05) between certain honeys, but independent of the type of ecosystem considered. The pH values confirmed the botanical origin of the five honeys. The physico-chemical parameters of the honeys show significant correlations (p < 0.05). Moisture content is negatively correlated with conductivity (r = −0.628), pH (r = −0.631), density (r = −0.552) and total sugar content (r = −0.890). Conductivity is positively correlated with free acidity (r = 0.688) and total sugar content (r = 0.776), and negatively correlated with water content (r = −0.628). All honeys were in line with Codex Alimentarius standards, except for 3 types of honey (M1, M2 and M4) for free acidity and electrical conductivity, showing possible fermentation of these honeys.
文摘Green coal or bio-coal is coal produced with rich biodegradable materials, elaborated from agricultural and household residues with a high percentage of carbon. This green charcoal (fuel briquettes) is an alternative to charcoal. Well known for its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, charcoal is one of the causes of tree felling. The valorization of waste by the manufacture of biofuels could be an alternative to the use of charcoal. The general objective of the present study is the valorization of nine biomasses from Togo as raw materials. Specifically, physico-chemical characteristics such as dehydration, acidity, and conductivity were determined. Information on the structure and composition of the biomass was found. These data on the nature of the biomass were found through the use of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Thermogravimetry (TGA). The promising results inform on the nature of the analyzed samples and allow the selection of the best biomass which would give an important thermal conductivity for the manufacture of the briquettes, but also of the binders to be used according to the physico-chemical characteristics like the pH.
文摘When was the earliest glass produced in China? This has still been a question so far. Some archaeologists have thought that Yu Guo beads are real glass, the earliest glass(1100-771 B. C. ) in China. However, more details of scientific investigations in this paper show that Yu Guo beads are mainly made of clastic quartz (>95%) with a small amount of clay and sintered under the low temperature(500-600℃). It is not a glassy body, but a kind of polycrystal ornaments.
文摘This study investigated selected properties of soils affected by wastewater and its relationship with some heavy metals. A free survey technique involving target sampling was used in siting soil profile pits. Soil samples were collected based on horizon differentiation and analyzed using routine and special analytical techniques. Soil data were subjected to correlation analysis using SAS program. Results show that all heavy metals studied had values above critical limits in the polluted soils using known standards and that these biotoxic metals decreased with soil depths. Highly significant (P=0.01 and 0.05) relationships were established between investigated heavy metals and some soil properties, especially soil pH and organic matter. Further studies involving more edaphic properties, biotoxic metals and their bioaccessibility in crops growing on wastewater soils will surely enhance knowledge and management of these highly anthropogenically influenced soils of the study site.
文摘This article describes the physico-chemical characterization of the sulfated zirconia catalysts prepared from zirconyl chloride, acetic acid and ammonium persulfate system under structure-directing-free and calcined at 650°C. The catalysts were characterized via an array of characterization techniques such as surface acidity and texture measurements, X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric measurement (TG) coupled with a quadrupole mass spectrometer (MS), inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and/or mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). It is clear from TG-MS, ICP-AES, and IR analyses that the precursor of the catalyst is a sulphur species-doped zirconium oxy-hydroxyl acetate complex. The presence of zirconium-bound sulfate groups results in the superacidity of the catalyst and hence high activity in n-hexane isomerization. It is shown from nitrogen adsorption and desorption, FESEM, and HRTEM measurements that the materials exhibit mesoporous and nanocrystalline structure.
文摘The characterization of clay raw materials of three clay deposits from Northern Cameroon was investigated. The three deposits, located in Gaschiga, Sekandé and Boulgou, are locally used as building materials, but no data are available on these materials and they are relatively unknown. Mineralogical, geochemical and physico-chemical characteristics were studied, using X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and physico-chemical analyses. Mineralogically, quartz was the most abundant mineral in the studied raw materials. It is associated to abundant quantity of smectite, kaolinite and K-feldspars, and slightly abundant to traces of hematite and amphibole. Geochemically, those clayey soils are more siliceous (SiO</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 51% - 59%) with significant amount of aluminum (Al</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 15% - 19%) followed by iron oxides (Fe</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 3% - 10%). Other oxides (K</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O, MgO, TiO</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, Na</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O, MnO, CaO and P</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">O</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">5</span></sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) are in relatively lower proportion. High level of silica content explains the sandy nature of these clays. The results of granulometric analysis show that the studied raw material contain sand (39% - 68%) as major grain size followed by clay particles (17% - 38%), silt (1% - 36%) and gravels (0% - 16%). The studied clayey soils were moderately plastic, with plasticity index values ranging from 13% to 30%, and are also characterized by very high liquidity limits of 34% - 63%.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.2 0 30 30 19) and the National"973"Project of China(No.2 0 0 3CB6 15 80 2 )
文摘A series of Mo-impregnated H\%β\% samples, with MoO\-3 loading in H\%β\% zeolite in the mass fraction range of 0\^5%\_6\^0%, were studied by means of XRD and IR in order to characterize their structures. Mo/H\%β\% samples′ crystallinity almost linearly decreases with increasing the amount of MoO\-3 loaded. The IR spectra and XRD patterns suggest that the progressive destabilization of the H\%β\% zeolite structure is caused by increasing Mo loading in (MoO\-3+H\%β\% zeolite). During the calcination, Al\-2(MoO\-4)\-3 formed from the dealumination of H\%β\% zeolite, causes the substantially partial breakdown of the zeolite framework when the Mo loading in MoO\-3+H\%β\% is relatively high.
文摘The natural Salmonella abortus equi endotoxin(lipopolysaccharide) preparation was fractionated with organic solvents into smooth (S-) and rough(R-) fractions to prepare their corresponding lipid A moieties. The lipid A obtained from S-fraction(S-lip A) wa
文摘The present study focused on production of mycelial chitosan from fungal mycelium by submerged fermentation with ecologically more balanced process. Different fungal strains were screened and Absidia butleri NCIM 977 was found to produce the highest mycelial chitosan. The one-factor-at-a-time method was adopted to investigate the effect of batch time, environmental factors (i.e. initial pH and temperature) and medium components (i.e. carbon and nitrogen) on the yield of mycelial chitosan. Among these variables, the optimal condition to increase in yield of mycelial chitosan was found to be batch time (72 h), pH (5.5), temperature (30°C), carbon source (glucose) and nitrogen source (tryptone and yeast extract). Subsequently, a three-level Box– Behnken factorial design was employed combining with response surface methodology (RSM) to maximise yield of mycelial chitosan by determining optimal concentrations and investigating the interactive effects of the most significant media components (i.e. carbon and nitrogen sources). The optimum value of parameters obtained through RSM was glucose (1.58%), tryptone (1.61%) and yeast extract (1.11%). There was an increase in mycelial chitosan yield after media optimization by one-factor-at-a-time and statistical analysis from 683 mg/L to 1 g/L. Mycelial chitosan was characterized for total glucosamine content (80.68%), degree of deacetylation (DD) (79.89%), molecular weight (8.07 × 104 Da) and, viscosity (73.22 ml/g). The results of this study demonstrated that fungi are promising alternative sources of chitosan with high DD and high purity.
文摘This work falls within the general framework of the valorization of the clays of Ivory Coast in order to propose innovative solutions in the resolution of certain problems related to development such as the depollution of water. Its main objective is therefore to study the physico-chemical properties of two Dabou clays with a view to using them in chemical processes for the treatment of dyeing wastewater. The results of the chemical analysis and the ray diffraction showed that the DAB 1 and DAB 2 samples are clays of the kaolinitic type consisting mainly of kaolinite with 51.17% for DAB 1 against 65.81% for DAB 2 and quartz with respectively 41.76% and 25.8% for DAB 1 and DAB 2. They also contain relatively large amounts of goethite with 9.96% for DAB 1 and 12.8% for DAB 2. The specific surfaces measured in both samples are greater than 25 m<sup>2</sup>/g. All the results of the physico-chemical characterization, in particular the presence in significant quantity of clay minerals, the presence of iron compounds and the large specific surface area of both samples, allow the conclusion that they can be used in adsorption studies and in the heterogeneous Fenton process for water treatment.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (Grant No. AE89991/403)National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 52005262)+1 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province (BK20202007)National Key Research and Development Program of China (2022YFB4600800)。
文摘Laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF) has attracted significant attention in both the industry and academic fields since its inception, providing unprecedented advantages to fabricate complex-shaped metallic components. The printing quality and performance of L-PBF alloys are infuenced by numerous variables consisting of feedstock powders, manufacturing process,and post-treatment. As the starting materials, metallic powders play a critical role in infuencing the fabrication cost, printing consistency, and properties. Given their deterministic roles, the present review aims to retrospect the recent progress on metallic powders for L-PBF including characterization, preparation, and reuse. The powder characterization mainly serves for printing consistency while powder preparation and reuse are introduced to reduce the fabrication costs.Various powder characterization and preparation methods are presented in the beginning by analyzing the measurement principles, advantages, and limitations. Subsequently, the effect of powder reuse on the powder characteristics and mechanical performance of L-PBF parts is analyzed, focusing on steels, nickel-based superalloys, titanium and titanium alloys, and aluminum alloys. The evolution trends of powders and L-PBF parts vary depending on specific alloy systems, which makes the proposal of a unified reuse protocol infeasible. Finally,perspectives are presented to cater to the increased applications of L-PBF technologies for future investigations. The present state-of-the-art work can pave the way for the broad industrial applications of L-PBF by enhancing printing consistency and reducing the total costs from the perspective of powders.
文摘Geopolymers are an alternative to Portland cement, well known for their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Finding materials that can validly replace Portland cement is a challenge. It is in this logic that this work was undertaken with the objective of characterizing two local clay resources of Togo as raw materials for geopolymers. The physico-chemical properties of these clays were determined by characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric (TGA) and elemental analysis (ICP-OES). The results show that these clays contain kaolinite and therefore can be used in the formulation of geopolymers. The characterized clays underwent heat treatments transforming the crystalline phases into more reactive amorphous phases and then were activated by an alkaline solution in order to formulate the geopolymer materials. These elaborated materials were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared to identify the types of bonds formed. The results of these analyses show that these two local clays are well suited to be used in synthesizing geopolymers. Our future work will focus on the constraints of consolidation as well as the mechanical properties of these geopolymer materials.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China:Investigate the mechanism of formation and control technologies of Chinese traditional and ethnic food quality(2021YFD2100100)。
文摘Oyster(Crassostrea gigas),the main ingredient of oyster sauce,has a strong umami taste.In this study,three potential umami peptides,FLNQDEEAR(FR-9),FNKEE(FE-5),and EEFLK(EK-5),were identified and screened from the alcoholic extracts of the oyster using nano-HPLC-MS/MS analysis,i Umami-Scoring Card Method(i Umami-SCM)database and molecular docking(MD).Sensory evaluation and electronic tongue analysis were further used to confirm their tastes.The threshold of the three peptides ranged from 0.38 to 0.55 mg/m L.MD with umami receptors T1R1/T1R3 indicated that the electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bond interaction were the main forces involved.Besides,the Phe592 and Gln853 of T1R3 were the primary docking site for MD and played an important role in umami intensity.Peptides with two Glu residues at the terminus had stronger umami,especially at the C-terminus.These results contribute to the understanding of umami peptides in oysters and the interaction mechanism between umami peptides and umami receptors.
文摘Sesame(Sesamum indicum L.)is an ancient oilseed crop of the Pedaliaceae family with high oil content and potential health benefits.SHI RELATED SEQUENCE(SRS)proteins are the transcription factors(TFs)specific to plants that contain RING-like zinc finger domain and are associated with the regulation of several physiological and biochemical processes.They also play vital roles in plant growth and development such as root formation,leaf development,floral development,hormone biosynthesis,signal transduction,and biotic and abiotic stress responses.Nevertheless,the SRS gene family was not reported in sesame yet.In this study,identification,molecular characterization,phylogenetic relationship,cis-acting regulatory elements,protein-protein interaction,syntenic relationship,duplication events and expression pattern of SRS genes were analyzed in S.indicum.We identified total six SiSRS genes on seven different linkage groups in the S.indicum genome by comparing with the other species,including the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana.The SiSRS genes showed variation in their structure like2–5 exons and 1–4 introns.Like other species,SiSRS proteins also contained‘RING-like zinc finger'and‘LRP1'domains.Then,the SiSRS genes were clustered into subclasses via phylogenetic analysis with proteins of S.indicum,A.thaliana,and some other plant species.The cis-acting regulatory elements analysis revealed that the promoter region of SiSRS4(SIN_1011561)showed the highest 13 and 16 elements for light-and phytohormone-responses whereas,SiSRS1(SIN_1015187)showed the highest 15 elements for stress-response.The ABREs,or ABA-responsive elements,were found in a maximum of 8 copies in the SiSRS3(SIN 1009100).Moreover,the available RNA-seq based expression of SiSRS genes revealed variation in expression patterns between stress-treated and non-treated samples,especially in drought and salinity conditions in.S.indicum.Two SiSRS genes like SiSRS1(SIN_1015187)and SiSRS5(SIN_1021065),also exhibited variable expression patterns between control vs PEG-treated sesame root samples and three SiSRS genes,including SiSRS1(SIN_1015187),SiSRS2(SIN_1003328)and SiSRS5(SIN_1021065)were responsive to salinity treatments.The present outcomes will encourage more research into the gene expression and functionality analysis of SiSRS genes in S.indicum and other related species.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.4203070 and 41977217)the Key Research&Development Program of Shaanxi Province(Grant No.2020ZDLSF06-03).
文摘Mountain excavation and city construction(MECC)projects being launched in the Loess Plateau in China involve the creation of large-scale artificial land.Understanding the subsurface evolution characteristics of the artificial land is essential,yet challenging.Here,we use an improved fiber-optic monitoring system for its subsurface multi-physical characterization.The system enables us to gather spatiotemporal distribution of various parameters,including strata deformation,temperature,and moisture.Yan’an New District was selected as a case study to conduct refined in-situ monitoring through a 77 m-deep borehole and a 30 m-long trench.Findings reveal that the ground settlement involves both the deformation of the filling loess and the underlying intact loess.Notably,the filling loess exhibits a stronger creep capability compared to underlying intact loess.The deformation along the profile is unevenly distributed,with a positive correlation with soil moisture.Water accumulation has been observed at the interface between the filling loess and the underlying intact loess,leading to a significant deformation.Moreover,the temperature and moisture in the filling loess have reached a new equilibrium state,with their depths influenced by atmospheric conditions measuring at 31 m and 26 m,respectively.The refined investigation allows us to identify critical layers that matter the sustainable development of newly created urban areas,and provide improved insights into the evolution mechanisms of land creation.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2021YFB2206503)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.62274159)+1 种基金CAS Project for Young Scientists in Basic Research(Grant No.YSBR-056)the“Strategic Priority Research Program”of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.XDB43010102).
文摘Ex situ characterization techniques in molecular beam epitaxy(MBE)have inherent limitations,such as being prone to sample contamination and unstable surfaces during sample transfer from the MBE chamber.In recent years,the need for improved accuracy and reliability in measurement has driven the increasing adoption of in situ characterization techniques.These techniques,such as reflection high-energy electron diffraction,scanning tunneling microscopy,and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy,allow direct observation of film growth processes in real time without exposing the sample to air,hence offering insights into the growth mechanisms of epitaxial films with controlled properties.By combining multiple in situ characterization techniques with MBE,researchers can better understand film growth processes,realizing novel materials with customized properties and extensive applications.This review aims to overview the benefits and achievements of in situ characterization techniques in MBE and their applications for material science research.In addition,through further analysis of these techniques regarding their challenges and potential solutions,particularly highlighting the assistance of machine learning to correlate in situ characterization with other material information,we hope to provide a guideline for future efforts in the development of novel monitoring and control schemes for MBE growth processes with improved material properties.
文摘Over the years, pineapple production in the Republic of Guinea has become less competitive in the West African sub-region, with a world ranking of 144th. It is therefore only natural to review certain parameters in order to improve this ranking. To do this, certain physico-chemical parameters of soil samples from Friguiagbé and Maferinyah (in the Kindia and Forécariah prefectures) were taken and analysed using the following techniques: Pipette de Robinson, Anne, Bray II, Kapen HICDVITZ, Mc. Lead (1982). The analytical results show that the soils at Friguiagbé in Kindia and Maferinyah in Forécariah are acidic, with pH values of 4.4 and 4.7 (fields I and II) and 4.8 and 4.7 (fields I and II) respectively. The soils have a silty-sandy texture. This study could therefore serve as a guide for the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Guinea.
文摘The purpose of this study is to investigate the physicochemical properties of some local varieties of onion (Allium cepa L.) and compare them with an imported variety, all collected in May 2021. Proteins, reducing sugars, lipids, and polyphenol content were estimated according to the AFNOR standardized methods. The determination of calcium, magnesium, iron, sodium, potassium and phosphorus was performed by atomic absorption spectrophotometer coupled with a CCD detector. The results highlighted an average acidity of 0.377% ± 0.002% lower than the value of the imported variety which is 0.520% ± 0.001%. Local varieties have a pH ranging from 6.35 ± 0.003 to 6.42 ± 0.004, while the variety has a pH of 6.36 ± 0.003. The ash and dry matter contents vary respectively from 4.788% ± 0.004% to 8.253% ± 0.003% and 7.945% ± 0.021% to 11.945% ± 0.007% for the local varieties. Moreover, the imported one has ash and dry matter contents of 5.175% ± 0.007% and 10.035% ± 0.021% respectively. The results show that the protein, reducing sugar and lipid contents in the local onion varieties vary respectively from 2.815 ± 0.000 to 15.634 ± 0.001 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup>;4.691 ± 0.001 to 12.596 ± 0.002 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup> and 0.006 ± 0.001 to 0.050 ± 0.057 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup>. Furthermore, the imported variety has a protein, reducing sugar and lipid content of 5.649 ± 0.002;8.565 ± 0.002 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup> and 0.011 ± 0.010 g·100 g<sup>-1</sup> respectively. The maximum levels of total polyphenols are obtained in the imported variety, Bellani and Gandiol, respectively 9.973 ± 0.001, 4.535 ± 0.002, and 3.425 ± 0.006 mg EAG/g of dry matter. The local varieties have a significant calorific intake of between 35.451 ± 0.001 and 112.980 ± 0.003 kcal·100 g<sup>-1</sup> compared to the imported one with an energy value of 56.953 ± 0.001 kcal·100 g<sup>-1</sup> of dry matter. The bulbs of different onion varieties studied have a fairly high content of mineral elements. The potassium content of local varieties is between 502.16 ± 0.06 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup> and 582.77 ± 0.04 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup> while the imported variety has a content of 536.62 ± 1.30 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>. They note that the local varieties have a better calcium content (249.75 ± 0.07 to 434.20 ± 0.57 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) and magnesium (142.15 ± 0.07 to 162.60 ± 0.42 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) than the imported variety (229.58 ± 0.04 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) except for the varieties White Grano (228.29 ± 0.01 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) and Rouge Amposta (117.00 ± 0.42 mg·100 g<sup>-1</sup>) respectively. These results reveal that Gandiol, Dayo and Orient F1 are nutritionally found better due to their higher antioxidant property, proteins, carbohydrates, and reducing sugar and should be included in diets to supplement our daily allowance needed by the body.
文摘The study conducted at Ndiebene Gandiol 1 school in Senegal has unveiled serious environmental and public health challenges. The wastewater analysis revealed high levels of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and fecal coliforms, signaling potential risks to the well-being of students and staff. This situation mirrors a wider issue in rural educational settings, where inadequate sanitation persists. Intensive wastewater treatment options are known for their effectiveness against high pollutant loads but are resource-intensive in both energy and cost. Conversely, extensive treatment systems, while requiring more land, provide a sustainable alternative by harnessing natural processes for pollutant removal. The research suggests a hybrid treatment approach could serve the school’s needs, balancing the robust capabilities of intensive methods with the ecological benefits of extensive systems. Such a solution would need to be tailored to the specific environmental, financial, and logistical context of the school, based on comprehensive feasibility studies and stakeholder engagement. This study’s findings underscore the urgency of addressing sanitation in schools, as it is intrinsically linked to the health and academic success of students. Quick, effective, and long-term strategies are vital to secure a healthier and more prosperous future for the youth. With proper implementation, the school can transform its sanitation facilities, setting a precedent for rural educational institutions in Senegal and similar contexts globally.
文摘The problem of access to quality water is a major challenge, as it has a major impact on the socio-economic conditions of people in developing countries. The water from the islands of Lake Fitri is one of the main sources of drinking water for the population. The aim of this study is to characterise and assess the quality of the water and sediment from the islands (Moudou and Birguime) of Lake Fitri, and to confirm the strains isolated using the PCR method. A total of fifty (50) samples of water and fifty (50) sediments from the islands of Lake Fitri were analyzed. Standard methods of microbiological and biochemical analysis of water and sediments were used. Isolated Enterobacteriaceae strains were characterized by API 20 E and API Staph galleries and Salmonella was confirmed by PCR method. Antibiotic resistance was determined using a technique recommended by the antibiogram committee of the French microbiology society (CA-SFM, 2019). The microbiological results for the water showed an abundance of total aerobic mesophilic flora (TAMF) (4.31 × 106 ± 8.05 × 105 and 5.29 × 106 ± 2.55 × 105) on the Birguime and Moudou islands successively. The microbiological results for the sediment from Birguime and Moudou islands showed an abundance of thermotolerant coliforms (E. coli) (2.05 × 105 ± 5.43 × 104 and 2.27 × 105 ± 3.49 × 104) alternately. The results obtained after incubation of the biochemical tests by the API 20E, API Staph gallery and their numerical profile proposed by the Api software confirmed the contamination. The antibiogram results showed the emergence of certain resistances to the antibiotics Tobramycin, Flucytosine, Amikacin and Teicoplani. The PCR results for Salmonella spp strains were confirmed. As a result, strict monitoring of the water on the various islands of Lake Fitri must be carried out throughout the annual cycle, by specialized personnel, to ensure proper bio-monitoring of these ecosystems.