logo_urmat Unité de Recherche sur les maladies Transmissibles

Publications

RAPPORTS D'ACTIVITES SCIENTIFIQUES
2025

Publication N°1: VINAKPON G., AGBOKA K., ADEHAN S.B., MENSAH S.E.P., MLAGA K.G., ISSOUFOU A.M., TALAKI E.: Combating ectoparasites in Togolese laying hens (Gallus gallus domesticus): exploring diversity, prevalence and environmental determinant. Tropical Animal Health and Production, 57, Article 228.

Ectoparasites are pests that affect animals, particularly poultry. The presence of ectoparasites in birds affects their productivity and facilitates the transmission of pathogenic agents. This study aimed to explore the diversity of ectoparasites in laying hens, evaluate their prevalence, and analyse the environmental factors promoting the proliferation of ectoparasites. The study was conducted in three prefectures of the Maritime Region of Togo. A total of 576 Isa Brown laying hens were examined from 90 layer farms equipped with aviaries. Ectoparasites were collected using different methods, including freezing, direct ectoparasite sampling, leg scratching, and comparison of the weight of infested and non-infested birds. Ten species of ectoparasites were identified, with an average infestation rate of 73.26%. The prevalence of acarid (59.54%) and louse (37.21%) infestations was significantly higher than flea infestation (3.25%). The variation in prevalence of each ectoparasite species was significantly associated with locality. Dermanyssus gallinae and Menacanthus stamineus were the most prevalent species, with prevalence rates of 100% and 70.23%, respectively. The duration of litter retention in poultry houses before replacement during the laying period was identified as the most important factor favouring ectoparasite proliferation. The study also showed that most ectoparasites proliferate when poultry house temperatures exceed 28 °C and relative humidity exceeds 47%. These findings highlight the importance of improved environmental management, biosecurity measures and regular litter renewal to control ectoparasite infestations in laying hens.
KEYWORDS :
Ectoparasites; laying hens; Gallus gallus domesticus; prevalence; diversity; environmental determinants; Togo.

Publication N°2: HINSON C., SESSOU P., NOUDEKE N., AZOKPOTA P., DAUBE G., KORSAK N.: Analysis of hygiene, distribution, marketing and consumption practices in the poultry chain in Benin: a case study of eggs and sausages. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 9, 1603743.

The poultry sector plays an important role in food security, economic development, and livelihood improvement in Benin. However, poultry products, particularly eggs and processed poultry sausages, may present food safety challenges due to hygiene practices, handling conditions, distribution systems, and consumer behaviours. This study aimed to analyse hygiene practices, distribution channels, marketing conditions, and consumption patterns within the poultry value chain in Benin, focusing specifically on eggs and sausages. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among stakeholders involved in poultry production, processing, distribution, marketing, and consumption to assess the level of compliance with hygiene requirements and identify potential risks affecting product quality and safety. The findings revealed variations in hygiene practices among actors along the poultry chain, with challenges related to storage conditions, transportation, handling procedures, sanitation measures, and awareness of food safety standards. The study also highlighted the diversity of distribution networks and marketing practices influencing the availability and accessibility of poultry products. Consumer perceptions and purchasing behaviours were influenced by factors such as product quality, freshness, price, trust in sellers, and hygienic appearance. The results emphasize the need to strengthen good hygiene practices, improve training programs for stakeholders, promote food safety regulations, and enhance coordination among actors involved in the poultry value chain. Implementing integrated approaches based on food safety principles and the One Health framework would contribute to improving the quality, safety, and sustainability of poultry products in Benin.
KEYWORDS :
Table eggs; bacterial pathogens; antimicrobial resistance; food safety; systematic review; meta-analysis; poultry production; Salmonella; Escherichia coli; One Health.

Publication N°3: HINSON C., TONOUHEWA A., AZOKPOTA P., DAUBE G., KORSAK N., SESSOU P.: Global prevalence and antibiotic resistance profiles of bacterial pathogens in table eggs: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Veterinary World, 18(4), 939-954.

Table eggs represent an important source of animal protein worldwide; however, their contamination by bacterial pathogens constitutes a significant food safety concern, particularly due to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the global prevalence of bacterial pathogens isolated from table eggs and to evaluate their antibiotic resistance profiles. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using scientific databases to identify relevant studies reporting bacterial contamination of table eggs and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. The included studies were analysed to determine the prevalence of major bacterial pathogens and assess their resistance to commonly used antibiotics. The findings revealed the presence of various pathogenic bacteria in table eggs, including important foodborne microorganisms such as Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., and other bacterial contaminants. The pooled prevalence varied according to geographical regions, sampling methods, egg handling practices, and detection techniques. Several bacterial isolates exhibited resistance to multiple antibiotic classes, highlighting the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance within the poultry food chain. The results indicate that contamination of table eggs may represent a potential public health risk through foodborne transmission of resistant bacteria. The study emphasizes the importance of strengthening hygiene practices throughout the egg production and distribution chain, improving surveillance systems, promoting prudent antibiotic use in poultry production, and implementing integrated control measures based on the One Health approach to reduce foodborne antimicrobial resistance risks.
KEYWORDS :
Table eggs; bacterial pathogens; antimicrobial resistance; food safety; systematic review; meta-analysis; poultry production; Salmonella; Escherichia coli; One Health.

Publication N°4: AKAKPO E., BADOUSSI M.E., CHABI I.B., KODJEYI A., HOUNGBO H.Y., GNACADJA C.K., SESSOU P., WOTTO V., BABA-MOUSSA L., AZOKPOTA P.: Development of an Optimized Green Extraction Method for the Recovery of the Biocolorant From Bixa orellana L. Seeds. Journal of Food Processing and Preservation. ID 7243915. DOI: 10.1155/jfpp/7243915.

Natural colorants derived from plants are increasingly valued by the food industry due to growing consumer demand for safe, sustainable, and environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic dyes. Bixa orellana L. seeds, commonly known as annatto, represent an important source of natural biocolorants, mainly bixin and norbixin, which are widely used in food applications. This study aimed to develop and optimize a green extraction method for the recovery of biocolorants from Bixa orellana L. seeds using environmentally sustainable extraction approaches. Different extraction parameters were evaluated to determine their influence on pigment yield, extraction efficiency, and quality characteristics of the recovered colorant. The optimized method allowed an improved recovery of the natural pigment while reducing the use of harmful solvents and promoting a more sustainable extraction process. The extracted biocolorant showed promising physicochemical characteristics, confirming its potential for application as a natural food coloring agent. The study highlights the importance of optimizing extraction conditions to enhance the valorization of plant-based resources and support the development of sustainable ingredients for the food industry. These findings contribute to the promotion of bioresource utilization and the replacement of synthetic additives with natural alternatives in food processing.
KEYWORDS :Bixa orellana L.; annatto; biocolorant; green extraction; natural pigments; bixin; norbixin; food additives; sustainable processing.

Publication N°5: YAOVI A.B., DAS A., BEHERA R.N., SOSSA-MINOU P.C., BISHT V.S., YADAV M., KAPOOR A., DOSSA F., AZOKPOTA P., FAROUGOU S., BABA-MOUSSA L., AMBATIPUDI K., SESSOU P.: Molecular identification of antibiotic-resistant and virulent Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus isolated from dogs in Southern Benin. Journal of Advanced Veterinary and Animal Research, 12(2), 396–419.

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant and virulent bacterial pathogens in companion animals represents a growing public health concern due to their potential role as reservoirs and transmitters of antimicrobial resistance genes and zoonotic agents. This study aimed to molecularly identify antibiotic-resistant and virulent strains of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus isolated from dogs in Southern Benin. Bacterial isolates obtained from canine samples were characterized through microbiological and molecular approaches, including species identification, detection of antimicrobial resistance genes, and investigation of virulence-associated factors. The results revealed the presence of resistant strains of E. coli and S. aureus carrying clinically important resistance determinants and virulence markers. Several isolates exhibited multidrug resistance profiles, highlighting the potential risks associated with inappropriate antibiotic use and inadequate antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary practices. The detection of virulence-associated genes further demonstrated the pathogenic potential of some bacterial strains circulating among domestic dogs. These findings emphasize the importance of strengthening surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in companion animals, improving diagnostic capacities, promoting rational antibiotic use, and enhancing collaboration between veterinary and public health sectors within the framework of the One Health approach. Such integrated measures are essential to limit the spread of resistant zoonotic bacteria between animals, humans, and the environment.
KEYWORDS :Escherichia coli; Staphylococcus aureus; antimicrobial resistance; virulence genes; molecular identification; dogs; zoonotic bacteria; companion animals; One Health; Benin.

Publication N°6: YAOVI A.B., NOUDEKE N., GBAGUIDI J., SETONDJI J.E., AZON M.B., TONI G.A., WANKANRIN R.M., TCHEHO M., AZOKPOTA P., BABA-MOUSSA L., FAROUGOU S., SESSOU P.: Dog breeding practices, hygiene, attitudes, and knowledge of pet owners regarding zoonosis risks in Benin. Open Veterinary Journal, 15(6), 2626-2650.

Close and frequent contact with dogs that can carry zoonotic agents poses a threat to people interacting with them if appropriate preventive measures are not observed. This study aimed to describe dog management practices, hygiene behaviors, attitudes, and knowledge of zoonosis risks among dog owners in Benin. A survey was conducted among 934 dog owners through direct interviews, and statistical analysis using the multiple correspondence analysis method was performed to categorize owner profiles according to their practices and knowledge levels. The results showed that local dogs were the most commonly bred (88.87%), followed by cross-bred dogs (9.85%) and exotic breeds (6.21%). Dogs were mainly raised for household security purposes (96.15%), followed by companionship (57.6%), commercial activities (29.44%), and hunting (3.10%). Feeding practices varied significantly among owners, with most dogs receiving food residues (96.68%). Only 20.34% of owners housed their dogs in cages, while 31.40% reported using veterinary services for dog monitoring. Regarding hygiene practices, 73.95% of respondents reported washing their hands after handling dogs, whereas only 27.35% practiced adequate management of dog excreta. The educational level of owners and the municipality of residence significantly influenced hand hygiene practices, proper disposal of dog feces, and knowledge regarding the risks of microorganism transmission between dogs and humans. The study highlights that a significant proportion of dog owners lack adequate knowledge and do not consistently apply recommended hygiene measures. Awareness campaigns and training programs targeting dog owners are therefore necessary to reduce zoonotic disease risks within households.
KEYWORDS : Attitude; Benin; Dog owners; Hygiene; Knowledge; Zoonosis.

Publication N°7: ADJE Y., SESSOU P., TONOUHEWA A., ADINCI J., AZOKPOTA P., BABA-MOUSSA L., FAROUGOU S.: Typology of small ruminant production systems and dairy farm characterization in Benin. Open Veterinary Journal, 15(9), 4650-4663.

Livestock farming represents an important component of rural economies in West Africa, particularly through its contribution to household income, food security, and poverty reduction. This study aimed to characterize small ruminant production systems in Benin by identifying the different types of farming systems and the factors that differentiate them, with the objective of supporting strategies for improving farmers’ productivity and income. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 288 small ruminant farmers across six agroecological zones of Benin using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data collected on socio-economic characteristics, breeding practices, feeding systems, animal management, and dairy production practices were analyzed using multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and ascending hierarchical classification (AHC). The results revealed a significant diversity of small ruminant production systems in Benin. Three major farming systems were identified: extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive systems, characterized by differences in housing conditions, feeding strategies, health management practices, and production objectives. The study showed that most farmers relied on traditional management practices, with variations in the use of pasture, crop residues, feed supplements, veterinary ervices, and animal monitoring. The analysis also highlighted three distinct groups of farmers according to their production characteristics, management practices, and level of intensification. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions adapted to the diversity of production systems, including improved feeding strategies, strengthening veterinary support services, promoting better animal housing conditions, and encouraging sustainable intensification of small ruminant farming. Such measures could contribute to increasing dairy production, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and strengthening food security in Benin.
KEYWORDS : Small ruminants; production systems; dairy farming; typology; livestock management; agroecological zones; Benin.

Publication N°8: YESSINOU R.E., FAROUGOU S., OLOPADE J.O., OLUWAYELU O.D., HAPPI H., HAPPI C., GROSCHUP M.:Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Exposure in Wild and Domestic Animals in Benin. Viruses, 17(3), 387.

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne zoonotic viral disease caused by the Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). Although infection in animals is generally asymptomatic, domestic and wild animals play an important role in maintaining the virus circulation and may constitute a source of exposure for humans through tick bites or contact with infected animal tissues. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of CCHFV exposure and identify associated risk factors among wild and domestic animals in Benin. A cross-sectional study was conducted between 2022 and 2024 across three agroecological zones and 15 districts of Benin. A total of 366 serum samples were collected and analyzed, including 254 samples from wild animals and 112 samples from domestic animals. The study involved different animal species and was conducted with the participation of livestock breeders, hunters, farmers, and bushmeat sellers. The results revealed the circulation of CCHFV in both wild and domestic animals in Benin. The overall seroprevalence was 1.18% in wild animals and 33.93% in domestic animals, indicating a higher level of virus exposure among domestic species. Among wild animals, antibodies were detected in squirrels (3.7%), hares (5.88%) and giant rats (1.19%). In domestic animals, seropositivity reached 41.98% in cattle and 16.67% in horses, while no positive samples were detected in pigeons. The study provides the first evidence of CCHFV exposure in wild and domestic animals in Benin and highlights the importance of strengthening surveillance systems, particularly regarding tick vectors and animal–human interactions. These findings underline the need for a One Health approach integrating veterinary, environmental, and public health measures to reduce the risk of zoonotic transmission.
KEYWORDS :Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus; CCHFV; seroprevalence; risk factors; zoonosis; wild animals; domestic animals; ticks; Benin.

Publication N°9: YESSINOU R.E., KOUMASSOU A., GALADIMA H.B., NANOUKON-AHIGAN H., FAROUGOU S., PFEFFER M.:Tick Diversity and Distribution of Pathogen in Ticks Collected from Wild Animals and Vegetation in Africa. Pathogens, 14(2), 116.

Ticks are major vectors of pathogens affecting both animal and human health. Their diversity, distribution, and ability to harbor infectious agents make them important components in the epidemiology of numerous vector-borne diseases, particularly in tropical regions. This study aimed to synthesize available information on tick species diversity and the pathogens detected in ticks collected from wild animals and vegetation across Africa. A systematic review was conducted using published studies on ticks collected from wild animals and vegetation in African countries. The analysis revealed a high diversity of tick species associated with wildlife and environmental habitats. A total of 40 tick species belonging to several genera were identified from 35 wild animal species. The main tick genera reported included Amblyomma, Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma, Ixodes, and Rhipicephalus. The study also identified a wide range of pathogens associated with African ticks. Among the detected infectious agents were bacteria, protozoa, and other microorganisms of veterinary and public health importance, including species belonging mainly to the genera Anaplasma, Babesia, Borrelia, Candidatus, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia, and Theileria. These findings demonstrate the role of wildlife and vegetation-associated ticks as potential reservoirs and vectors contributing to the maintenance and circulation of pathogens in natural ecosystems. The authors emphasize the need to strengthen tick surveillance programs in Africa, particularly through integrated One Health approaches combining wildlife monitoring, veterinary surveillance, environmental studies, and public health strategies. Improved knowledge of tick ecology and pathogen distribution is essential for predicting emerging infectious disease risks and implementing effective prevention and control measures.
KEYWORDS :Ticks; tick-borne pathogens; wildlife; vegetation; biodiversity; zoonotic diseases; vector-borne diseases; One Health; Africa.

Publication N°10: HOUNYÈMÈ R.E., RIVIÈRE L., MISSIHOUN A.A., LEJON V., KOUAKOU A.K., CALMELS C., BENGALY Z., AKPOVI C., FAROUGOU S., THÉVENON S., KABA D., BOULANGÉ A.:Development of chimeric multivalent proteins for serological diagnosis of African animal trypanosomosis. Parasitology, 152(12), 1236-1246.

African animal trypanosomosis (AAT), also known as nagana, is a major parasitic disease affecting livestock productivity in sub-Saharan Africa. Caused mainly by Trypanosoma congolense, Trypanosoma vivax and Trypanosoma brucei brucei, this disease contributes significantly to economic losses in cattle production systems by reducing animal health, productivity, and reproductive performance. Accurate diagnosis remains essential for disease surveillance and control, but existing serological tools may present limitations related to sensitivity, specificity, and the ability to detect infections caused by different Trypanosoma species. This study aimed to develop and evaluate new chimeric multivalent proteins designed to improve the serological diagnosis of African animal trypanosomosis. The researchers selected and combined immunodominant antigenic regions from different Trypanosoma species to produce recombinant chimeric proteins capable of detecting a broad range of anti-trypanosome antibodies in infected animals. The diagnostic performance of these proteins was assessed using sera from experimentally infected and naturally exposed animals. The results demonstrated that the developed chimeric proteins exhibited promising diagnostic characteristics, with improved ability to detect antibodies directed against several pathogenic Trypanosoma species compared with conventional antigen-based approaches. The multivalent design allowed the simultaneous targeting of multiple parasite-specific immune responses, thereby increasing the potential reliability of serological detection in epidemiological studies. This research contributes to the development of more efficient and accessible diagnostic tools for African animal trypanosomosis. Such innovations could support large-scale surveillance programs, improve disease management strategies, and contribute to the control of trypanosomosis within livestock production systems in Africa. The study also highlights the importance of combining molecular biotechnology and veterinary epidemiology within a One Health framework to address parasitic diseases affecting both animal health and rural livelihoods.
KEYWORDS :African animal trypanosomosis; Trypanosoma spp.; serological diagnosis; recombinant proteins; chimeric antigens; livestock; parasitic diseases; Africa.

Publication N°11:EDENAKPO A.K., DJIMENOU D., BONOU A.G., ACCROMBESSI F.D., POMALEGNI C.B.S., ADOLIGBE C.M., KENIS M., MENSAH G.A.: Use of non-conventional protein resources in the diet to improve zootechnical performances in poultry. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 25(1), 589-601.

The increasing cost and limited availability of conventional protein sources used in poultry feed have encouraged the search for alternative and sustainable protein resources. This study reviewed the potential use of non-conventional protein resources in poultry diets and their effects on zootechnical performances. The objective was to evaluate the nutritional value, utilization potential, and impact of alternative protein sources on growth performance, feed efficiency, health status, and productivity of poultry. Various unconventional protein resources, including insect-based meals, agro-industrial by-products, plant-derived proteins, and other locally available feed ingredients, were examined as potential substitutes for conventional protein sources such as soybean meal and fish meal. The results indicated that several non-conventional protein resources can provide valuable nutrients, particularly proteins, essential amino acids, minerals, and bioactive compounds, while contributing to the reduction of feed costs and improving the sustainability of poultry production systems. Their incorporation into poultry diets, when properly formulated and processed, can maintain or enhance zootechnical performances, including body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and overall productivity. However, factors such as nutrient variability, anti-nutritional factors, processing methods, digestibility, and farmer accessibility remain important challenges for their large-scale adoption. The study highlights the need for further research and optimization of alternative feed resources to support sustainable poultry production and strengthen food security.
KEYWORDS: Non-conventional protein resources; poultry nutrition; alternative feed ingredients; zootechnical performances; sustainable production; feed efficiency; insects; agro-industrial by-products.

Publication N°12: ADEYEMI S.D.D., BOTHON F.T.D., ADJIBODE G.A., AHOLOU M.A.R.B., DJEGUI F., DESIRE A.M.A., ALLANONTO V., BOKO K.C., FAROUGOU S., KOUTINHOUIN B.G.: Bovine Zoonoses in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review of Epidemiology, Impact and Control-Prevention Strategies. Advances in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 13(6), 1210-1225.

Bovine zoonoses represent a significant challenge for livestock production, public health, and food security in sub-Saharan Africa. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the epidemiology, economic impact, and control strategies associated with major bovine zoonotic diseases, including brucellosis, tuberculosis, anthrax, salmonellosis, Rift Valley fever, cysticercosis, toxoplasmosis, fasciolosis, and bovine trypanosomosis. A systematic literature search was conducted using scientific databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar to identify studies published between 2000 and 2024, supplemented by relevant grey literature, particularly reports from international organizations. The findings revealed considerable variability in disease prevalence across countries and study areas, influenced by factors such as diagnostic methods, herd characteristics, farming systems, environmental conditions, and animal management practices. The main risk factors identified include climatic and ecological conditions, animal movement and trade, inadequate biosecurity measures, farming practices, wildlife interactions, and limited access to veterinary services. These zoonoses generate important economic losses through reduced productivity, reproductive disorders, decreased milk production, mortality, and trade restrictions, while also posing significant risks to human health through foodborne transmission and occupational exposure. Existing control measures, including vaccination, surveillance, biosecurity improvement, and antimicrobial stewardship, remain insufficient due to technical, financial, and institutional constraints. The review emphasizes the need to strengthen disease surveillance systems, expand vaccination programs, improve livestock management practices, promote responsible antimicrobial use, and reinforce the implementation of the One Health approach to effectively control bovine zoonoses in sub-Saharan Africa.
KEYWORDS: Bovine zoonoses; epidemiology; livestock diseases; public health; disease control; prevention strategies; One Health; sub-Saharan Africa.

Publication N°13: YAOVI A.B., DAS A., BEHERA R.N., AZOKPOTA P., FAROUGOU S., BABA-MOUSSA L., MICHELS F., FAUCONNIER M.L., AMBATIPUDI K., SESSOU P.: Antibacterial activity of Cinnamomum verum and Thymus vulgaris essential oils on multidrug-resistant zoonotic bacteria isolated from dogs in southern Benin. Access Microbiology, 7, 000975.v3.

The emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR) zoonotic bacteria represent a major public health concern, particularly due to the limited effectiveness of conventional antimicrobial treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of essential oils from Cinnamomum verum (cinnamon) and Thymus vulgaris (thyme) against multidrug-resistant zoonotic bacteria isolated from dogs in southern Benin. Bacterial isolates obtained from canine samples were identified and characterized, with particular attention given to their antimicrobial resistance profiles. The antibacterial properties of the essential oils were assessed using in vitro methods to determine their inhibitory effects against resistant bacterial strains. The results demonstrated that both essential oils exhibited significant antibacterial activity against several multidrug-resistant zoonotic bacteria, with variations in effectiveness depending on the bacterial species and oil concentration. The antimicrobial effects observed were associated with the bioactive compounds present in these essential oils, which may interfere with bacterial membrane integrity and cellular functions. These findings highlight the potential of plant-derived essential oils as complementary alternatives or supportive agents in controlling antimicrobial-resistant zoonotic bacteria. Further investigations are needed to evaluate their mechanisms of action, safety, and practical applications in veterinary and public health contexts.
KEYWORDS: Essential oils; Cinnamomum verum; Thymus vulgaris; antibacterial activity; multidrug-resistant bacteria; zoonotic pathogens; dogs; antimicrobial resistance; Benin.

Publication N°14: ADJE Y., SESSOU P., TEGÓPOULOS K., HOUNMANOU Y.M.G., SISKOS N., FARMAKIOTI I., AZOKPOTA P., FAROUGOU S., BABA-MOUSSA L., SKAVDIS G., GRIGORIOU M.E. : First Metagenomic Shotgun Sequencing Report on the Microbiome of Local Goat and Sheep Raw Milk in Benin for Dairy Valorization. DNA, 5(4), 58.

Raw milk from small ruminants represents an important source of nutrients and has significant potential for dairy valorization, particularly in developing countries where traditional dairy products contribute to food security and local economies. However, limited information is available regarding the microbial diversity and functional characteristics of the microbiome of local goat and sheep milk in Benin. This study presents the first metagenomic shotgun sequencing analysis of the microbiome of raw milk from local goat and sheep breeds in Benin. The objective was to characterize the microbial communities present in raw milk and explore their potential implications for dairy quality, safety, and valorization. Metagenomic analysis revealed a diverse microbial ecosystem composed of beneficial microorganisms associated with fermentation processes as well as potential microbial hazards. The identified bacterial communities provided insights into the biological characteristics of local milk microbiota and their possible role in traditional dairy production. The study contributes to a better understanding of the microbial resources present in small ruminant milk and highlights opportunities for the development of improved dairy products through the selection and exploitation of beneficial microorganisms. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating microbiological characterization, food safety measures, and biotechnology approaches to enhance the valorization of local dairy resources in Benin.
KEYWORDS :Metagenomic sequencing; microbiome; raw milk; goat milk; sheep milk; small ruminants; dairy valorization; microbial diversity; food safety; Benin.

Publication N°15: SESSOU P., NOUDEKE N., DENON Y.E., TONOUHEWA A., ZOHOUN A., BOUKARY N., METODAKOU D., SAMUELSON B., HAG D.H., ZHAO J., ASTHANA S., ABID M., SORRELL M.E. :Adherence to biosafety and biosecurity protocols: An assessment of biomedical and veterinary laboratories in Benin. Journal of Biosafety and Biosecurity, 7(1), 28-37.

Biosafety and biosecurity practices are essential components for preventing laboratory-acquired infections, accidental release of biological agents, and potential public health threats. In low- and middle-income countries, challenges related to infrastructure, resources, training, and compliance with safety standards may affect the effective implementation of laboratory biosafety and biosecurity measures. This study aimed to assess the level of adherence to biosafety and biosecurity protocols among biomedical and veterinary laboratories in Benin. A cross-sectional assessment was conducted in selected laboratories using standardized evaluation tools focusing on laboratory management systems, personnel training, availability and use of personal protective equipment, biological risk management, waste disposal practices, equipment maintenance, and emergency preparedness. The findings revealed variations in compliance levels across assessed laboratories, with strengths observed in certain basic safety practices and gaps identified in areas related to risk assessment, documentation, training frequency, incident reporting, and implementation of comprehensive biosecurity measures. The study highlights the importance of strengthening laboratory capacity through continuous training, improved infrastructure, effective quality management systems, and sustained institutional support. Enhancing biosafety and biosecurity compliance in biomedical and veterinary laboratories is critical for reducing biological risks and supporting disease surveillance within a One Health framework in Benin.
KEYWORD: Biosafety; biosecurity; biomedical laboratories; veterinary laboratories; biological risk management; laboratory capacity; One Health; Benin.

Publication N°16: ADJE Y., SESSOU P., TONOUHEWA A., AZOKPOTA P., BABA-MOUSSA L., FAROUGOU S. : Perceptions of stakeholders towards sheep and goat dairy products in Benin. International Journal of Biosciences, 27(2), 211-225.

Sheep and goat dairy products represent an important opportunity for improving nutrition, diversifying livestock production systems, and enhancing the income of rural communities in Benin. However, their development remains influenced by consumer acceptance, stakeholder perceptions, production practices, and market organization. This study aimed to assess the perceptions of stakeholders involved in the sheep and goat dairy value chain in Benin, including producers, processors, traders, and consumers. A survey-based approach was used to evaluate stakeholders’ knowledge, attitudes, preferences, and expectations regarding small ruminant dairy products. The results highlighted the socio-economic importance of sheep and goat milk and revealed the factors influencing their acceptance and consumption, including product availability, cultural preferences, perceived nutritional value, hygiene quality, processing methods, and market accessibility. The study also identified constraints limiting the valorization of small ruminant dairy products, such as low production levels, insufficient processing infrastructure, limited awareness among consumers, and weak organization of the dairy value chain. These findings emphasize the need to strengthen stakeholder capacity, improve milk processing technologies, promote quality and safety standards, and develop strategies for better commercialization of sheep and goat dairy products in Benin. Enhancing the valorization of these resources could contribute to sustainable livestock development, food security, and improved livelihoods of rural populations.
KEYWORDS : Sheep milk; goat milk; dairy products; stakeholder perceptions; consumer acceptance; value chain; livestock production; dairy valorization; Benin.

Publication N°17: YAOVI A.B., NOUKPO I., NOUDEKE N., AZOKPOTA P., FAROUGOU S., BABA-MOUSSA L., SESSOU P. : Antibiotic use practices in dogs by paravets in Benin. Veterinary Research Notes, 5(8), 69-81.

The inappropriate use of antibiotics in companion animals contributes to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance, which represents a major global public health concern. In Benin, paravets play an important role in animal health care, particularly in the management of domestic animals such as dogs, but their antibiotic prescription and administration practices remain insufficiently documented. This study aimed to assess antibiotic use practices among paravets involved in dog health management in Benin. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among paravets to evaluate their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic selection, prescription, dosage, administration routes, treatment duration, and compliance with antimicrobial stewardship principles. The findings revealed variations in antibiotic use practices, with several factors influencing decision-making, including clinical experience, access to veterinary guidance, availability of medicines, and owners’ expectations. The study highlighted challenges related to self-medication, empirical antibiotic use, inadequate diagnostic confirmation, and limited awareness of antimicrobial resistance risks. These results emphasize the need to strengthen training programs for paravets, improve collaboration between veterinarians and animal health workers, promote rational antibiotic use, and implement antimicrobial stewardship strategies within the veterinary sector in Benin. Such measures are essential to reduce the emergence of antibiotic resistance and safeguard animal and public health under the One Health approach.
KEYWORDS : Antibiotic use; antimicrobial resistance; dogs; paravets; veterinary practices; animal health; antimicrobial stewardship; One Health; Benin.

Publication N°18: ASSOGBA M.H.M., BONOU A.G., SALIFOU C.F.A., DAHOUDA M., CHIKOU A., FAROUGOU S., DOUNY C., SCIPPO M.-L., YOUSSAAO A.K.I. : Comparison of Fatty Acid Profile and Lipid Quality Indices of Local Brackish Water Fish, and Imported Marine Fish Consumed in Benin. Journal of Food Innovation, Nutrition, and Environmental Sciences, 2(2), 60-69.

Fish represents an important source of high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and bioactive nutrients contributing to human health and nutrition. In Benin, fish consumption includes both locally produced brackish water species and imported marine fish, but limited information is available regarding their nutritional lipid characteristics. This study aimed to compare the fatty acid profiles and lipid quality indices of local brackish water fish and imported marine fish commonly consumed in Benin. Fish samples from different species were analysed to determine their lipid composition, including saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and nutritionally important omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Lipid quality indices, including the atherogenicity index (AI), thrombogenicity index (TI), and other indicators related to cardiovascular health, were also evaluated. The results showed variations in fatty acid composition between local and imported fish species, reflecting differences related to species characteristics, habitat, and feeding conditions. Several fish species exhibited favourable lipid profiles due to their higher proportions of beneficial polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, and lower levels of undesirable lipid fractions. The findings highlight the nutritional value of locally available fish resources and provide useful information for consumers, fisheries stakeholders, and nutrition professionals. Promoting the sustainable exploitation and consumption of nutrient-rich local fish species could contribute to improved dietary quality, food security, and public health in Benin.
KEYWORDS : Fish; fatty acid profile; lipid quality indices; omega-3 fatty acids; nutritional value; brackish water fish; marine fish; food quality; Benin.

Publication N°19: AKPO Y., ALKOIRET I.T., TONOUHEWA A.B.N., SALANON C., KPODEKON M.T.T., FAROUGOU S.: Évaluation des facteurs de risque associés à la propagation de l'épidémie de maladie hémorragique virale du lapin entre 2021 et 2024 au Bénin. Bulletin de la Recherche Agronomique du Bénin, 35(3).

La maladie hémorragique virale du lapin (MHVL), causée par le virus de la maladie hémorragique du lapin (Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus, RHDV), constitue une menace importante pour l’élevage cunicole en raison de sa forte contagiosité, de son évolution rapide et de son taux élevé de mortalité. Cette étude avait pour objectif d’identifier et d’évaluer les facteurs de risque associés à la propagation de l’épidémie de maladie hémorragique virale du lapin survenue au Bénin entre 2021 et 2024. Une enquête épidémiologique a été menée auprès des élevages cunicoles afin d’analyser les pratiques d’élevage, les mesures de biosécurité, les mouvements d’animaux, les sources d’introduction du virus et les facteurs environnementaux pouvant favoriser la diffusion de la maladie. Les résultats ont mis en évidence l’influence de plusieurs facteurs, notamment les contacts entre élevages, l’introduction de nouveaux animaux sans quarantaine, l’insuffisance des mesures d’hygiène et de désinfection, la faible application des pratiques de biosécurité et la circulation des personnes et du matériel contaminé. L’étude souligne également l’importance des conditions de conduite d’élevage et de la sensibilisation des producteurs dans la prévention et le contrôle de la maladie. Ces résultats montrent la nécessité de renforcer la surveillance épidémiologique, d’améliorer les pratiques de biosécurité dans les élevages cunicoles et de promouvoir la formation des éleveurs afin de limiter l’impact des maladies émergentes sur la production cunicole au Bénin.
KEYWORDS : Maladie hémorragique virale du lapin ; RHDV ; facteurs de risque ; biosécurité ; épidémiologie ; élevage cunicole ; mortalité ; Bénin.

Publication N°20: LINTON E., SALIFOU C.F.A., DASSEYA G.E., KIKI P., AHOUNOU S.G., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH A.G., YOUSSAAO A.K.I. : Etat des lieux de la transformation de la viande d'aulacodes et perception des consommateurs au Sud-Bénin. International Journal of Innovation and Applied Studies, 46(1), 17-37.

L’élevage et la valorisation de l’aulacode (Thryonomys swinderianus) constituent une opportunité importante pour la diversification des productions animales et l’amélioration des revenus des populations rurales en Afrique de l’Ouest. Toutefois, la transformation et la commercialisation de sa viande restent encore peu documentées, notamment au Bénin. Cette étude avait pour objectif de faire l’état des lieux des pratiques de transformation de la viande d’aulacodes et d’évaluer la perception des consommateurs dans le Sud-Bénin. Une enquête a été réalisée auprès des acteurs impliqués dans la chaîne de valeur de l’aulacode, notamment les transformateurs, commerçants et consommateurs, afin d’identifier les techniques utilisées, les contraintes rencontrées et les facteurs influençant l’acceptabilité du produit. Les résultats ont montré que la transformation de la viande d’aulacodes repose principalement sur des méthodes traditionnelles telles que le dépouillement, le fumage, le grillage et diverses préparations culinaires locales. Les pratiques observées varient selon les zones et les connaissances des transformateurs, avec des insuffisances liées notamment aux conditions d’hygiène, aux équipements disponibles et à la standardisation des procédés. L’étude a également révélé une perception globalement favorable des consommateurs envers cette viande, appréciée pour ses qualités organoleptiques, sa valeur nutritive et son caractère traditionnel. Cependant, certains facteurs tels que les habitudes alimentaires, la disponibilité du produit, le prix et les considérations culturelles influencent son niveau de consommation. Ces résultats soulignent la nécessité d’améliorer les techniques de transformation, de renforcer les mesures d’hygiène et de promouvoir la valorisation durable de la viande d’aulacode afin de contribuer au développement de la filière au Bénin.
KEYWORDS : Aulacode (Thryonomys swinderianus) ; transformation de la viande ; perception des consommateurs ; qualité alimentaire ; chaîne de valeur ; produits animaux ; Sud-Bénin.

Publication N°21: GUEDEGBE G., NOUDEKE N., TONOUHEWA A., ALLANONTO V., ZANNOU O., YOUSSAAO I., ADAKAL H., FAROUGOU S. : Space-time analysis of Peste des petits ruminants in Benin, 2009-2018. Revue d’élevage et de médecine vétérinaire des pays tropicaux, 78, 37582.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting sheep and goats and has been endemic in Benin for several decades. This study aimed to determine the spatial and temporal distribution of PPR in Benin and to identify areas at higher risk of disease occurrence. The study used ten years of passive surveillance data collected at the national level from 2009 to 2018 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries of Benin. Data from all 77 communes were analysed using cumulative incidence rates per 10,000 animals at risk, spatial cluster analyses, hotspot detection methods, and risk mapping approaches. The results revealed significant spatio-temporal patterns of PPR occurrence, including high-risk clusters, low-risk clusters, and transition zones. During the study period, 1,297 new outbreaks were recorded, involving 88,668 infected animals and 23,002 deaths. The highest incidence and mortality rates were observed during 2010, 2011, and 2012. The departments of Ouémé, Plateau, and Borgou were among the most affected areas, while increased outbreak occurrence was observed particularly during March, April, and May. The analysis identified significant disease clusters involving 26 communes across 9 departments over the ten-year period. These findings provide valuable information for improving PPR risk assessment, optimizing surveillance strategies, and guiding targeted prevention and control measures, including vaccination programs and epidemiological monitoring in Benin.
KEYWORDS : Peste des petits ruminants; PPR; spatial-temporal analysis; epidemiological surveillance; risk mapping; small ruminants; disease control; Benin.

Publication N°22: DJIBRIL A.S.D., BOTHON F.T.D., ADJIBODE G.A., AHOLOU M.A.R.B., DJEGUI F., AKPATA DESIRE A.M., ALLANONTO V., BOKO K.C., FAROUGOU S., KOUTINHOUIN B.G. : Bovine Zoonoses in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review of Epidemiology, Impact and Control-Prevention Strategies. Advances in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 13(6), 1210-1225.

Bovine zoonoses represent a significant challenge for animal production, public health, and food security in sub-Saharan Africa. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the epidemiology, economic impact, and control-prevention strategies associated with major bovine zoonotic diseases affecting cattle, including brucellosis, tuberculosis, anthrax, salmonellosis, Rift Valley fever, cysticercosis, toxoplasmosis, fasciolosis, and bovine trypanosomosis. A literature review was conducted using scientific databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies published between 2000 and 2024, with additional information from relevant grey literature sources. The findings revealed considerable variations in disease prevalence across sub-Saharan African countries, influenced by factors such as geographical location, livestock management systems, herd characteristics, diagnostic methods, environmental conditions, and animal movements. The main risk factors identified include climatic and ecological factors, animal trade and mobility, inadequate biosecurity practices, interactions with wildlife, poor hygiene conditions, and limited access to veterinary services. These zoonoses generate substantial economic losses through reduced productivity, reproductive disorders, decreased milk production, mortality, and trade restrictions. They also pose important public health risks through foodborne transmission and occupational exposure among livestock owners, farmers, and animal health professionals. Current control strategies, including vaccination, surveillance, biosecurity improvement, and antimicrobial stewardship, remain insufficient due to financial, technical, and institutional constraints. The review highlights the need to strengthen disease surveillance systems, expand vaccination coverage, improve livestock management practices, promote responsible antimicrobial use, and reinforce the implementation of the One Health approach to effectively control bovine zoonoses in sub-Saharan Africa.
KEYWORDS : Bovine zoonoses; epidemiology; livestock diseases; public health; disease control; prevention strategies; One Health; cattle; sub-Saharan Africa.
2024

Publication N°1: ADEHAN S.B., BADAROU K.O., DOUNKPÈ F., KOUNONZO L.M., YACOUBOU T.M., BIAOU E.I., DOSSOU-GBÉTÉ G.S.O., MADDER M., FAROUGOU S. : Évaluation de l’efficacité in-vivo d’une mixture d’extraits de plantes ethno vétérinaires sur les formes non imago et adultes de la tique Rhipicephalus microplus chez les bovins de race Borgou au Bénin. AFRIQUE SCIENCE, 27(3), 85-98.

Les infestations par les tiques, notamment Rhipicephalus microplus, constituent une contrainte majeure pour l’élevage bovin en raison de leurs impacts sur la santé animale, la productivité et la transmission de maladies vectorielles. Cette étude avait pour objectif d’évaluer in vivo l’efficacité d’une mixture d’extraits de plantes ethno-vétérinaires contre les formes non imaginales et adultes de la tique Rhipicephalus microplus chez les bovins de race Borgou au Bénin. L’expérimentation a été conduite afin d’apprécier l’effet acaricide de la préparation végétale sur les différents stades biologiques de la tique et d’évaluer son potentiel comme alternative aux traitements chimiques conventionnels. Les résultats ont montré une réduction significative de la charge parasitaire chez les animaux traités, avec une efficacité variable selon les stades de développement de la tique. La mixture d’extraits végétaux a démontré une activité acaricide intéressante sur les formes adultes et immatures de R. microplus, confirmant le potentiel des plantes utilisées en médecine vétérinaire traditionnelle dans la lutte intégrée contre les ectoparasites. Cette approche pourrait contribuer à réduire l’utilisation excessive des acaricides chimiques, limiter les risques de résistance et promouvoir des solutions de contrôle plus respectueuses de l’environnement. L’étude souligne toutefois la nécessité d’approfondir les recherches sur la caractérisation des principes actifs, les mécanismes d’action, la standardisation des formulations et l’évaluation de leur innocuité avant une utilisation à grande échelle dans les élevages bovins.
KEYWORDS : Rhipicephalus microplus ; tiques ; bovins Borgou ; extraits de plantes ; médecine ethno-vétérinaire ; activité acaricide ; lutte biologique ; Benin.

Publication N°2: Kifouly A.H., Okunlola M., Boko C.K., Alowanou, G., Kétomon Challaton, P.: Ovine enzootic abortion disease seroprevalence in small ruminants around the world : a systematic review. Archives of Veterinary Science, 28(3). DOI: 10.5380/avs.v28i3.90853.

Chlamydia abortus is a causative agent of Ovine Chlamydiosis or Ovine Enzootic Abortion (OEA) or Enzootic Abortion of Ewes (EAE) and can be transmitted to humans, especially pregnant women during the lambing or kidding season from sheep, and goats, from infected flocks. The objective of this study was to estimate the pooled prevalence of chlamydial abortus infections in small ruminants. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Relevant studies were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from 2001 to 2022. The retrieved studies were screened for eligibility and important data were extracted from the included studies. The quality of each included study was evaluated. Of 153 studies, 33 (with a total of 45453 samples) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of chlamydial infections in small ruminants was 13.4%. Among continents, the average prevalence of chlamydial abortus infections was highest in Asia (48.5%) and lowest in North America (3.0%) This systematic review emphasizes the global paucity of data on the prevalence of Chlamydia infection in sheep and goats. Despite this, studies show a rather high frequency of C. abortus infection in small ruminants. This geographical variance emphasizes the necessity of a regional strategy to Chlamydia infection prevention and management in small ruminants, taking into account regional differences and risk factors to avoid its spread and limit the hazards associated with it.

Publication N°3: Evans A., Madder M., Fourie J., Halos L., Kumsa B., Kimbita E., Byaruhanga J., Mwiine F.N., Muhanguzi D., Adehan S.B., Toure A., Nzalawahe J., Aboagye-Antwi F., Ogo N., Meyer L., Jongejan F., Cheikhi I.B., Fisher M., Holdsworth P.: Acaricide resistance status of livestock ticks from East and West Africa and in vivo efficacy of acaricides to control them. International Journal for Parasitology: Drugs and Drug Resistance, 25. DOI : 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2024.100541.

Through a collaborative effort across six Sub-Saharan African countries, using recognized international assess-ment techniques, 23 stocks of three tick species (Rhipicephalus microplus, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and Amblyomma variegatum) of economic importance for rural small holder farming communities from East and West Africa were collected from cattle, and evaluated in in vitro larval packet tests (LPT). The results demonstrated medium to high resistance to chlorfenvinphos and amitraz across species. Rhipicephalus microplus demonstrated high level alpha-cypermethrin and cypermethrin resistance. Stocks of A. variegatum (West Africa) and R. appendiculatus (Uganda) demonstrated medium level ivermectin resistance. The four least susceptible stocks (East and West African R. microplus, A. variegatum and R. appendiculatus) were taken into in vivo controlled cattle studies where fipronil was found effective against West and East African R. microplus isolates although persistent efficacy failed to reach 90%. Cymiazole and cypermethrin, and ivermectin based acaricides were partially effective against R. microplus without persistent efficacy. Flumethrin spray-on killed A. variegatum within 72 h for up to 10 days posttreatment, however product application was directly to tick attachment sites, which may be impractical under field conditions. A flumethrin pour-on formulation on goats provided persistent efficacy against A. variegatum for up to one-month. Therapeutic control was achieved against R. appendiculatus through weekly spraying cattle with flumethrin, amitraz or combined cymiazole and cypermethrin. A fipronil pour-on product offered four-week residual control against R. appendiculatus (with slow onset of action). Few studies have assessed and directly compared acaricidal activity in vitro and in vivo. There was some discordance between efficacy indicated by LPT and in vivo results. This observation calls for more research into accurate and affordable assessment methods for acaricide resistance. No single active or product was effective against all three tick species, emphasising the need for the development of alternative integrated tick management solutions.

Publication N°4: Jongejan F., Berger L., Reck J., Ferreira P.T, de Jesus M.S., Scott F.B., de Avelar B.R., Guimaraes B.G., Correia T.R., Muhanguzi D., Vudriko P., Byaruhanga J., Maria Tumwebaze M., NagagI Y., Temba V., Biguezoton A.S., Farougou S., Adehan S., Jumba H., Homminga H., Hulsebos, I., Petersen A., Klafke G.: RaTexT®: a novel rapid tick exposure test for detecting acaricide resistance in Rhipicephalus microplus ticks in Brazil. Parasites & Vectors, 17, 365. DOI : 10.1186/s13071-024-06448-6.

Background : Acaricide resistance in cattle ticks is a significant concern in (sub)tropical regions, particularly Brazil. The Larval Packet Test (LPT) is the standard laboratory bioassay for resistance diagnosis, which requires triplicates of seven acaricidal dilutions plus controls to cover larval mortalities ranging between 0 and 100%. The value of the LPT lies in providing resistance ratios based on the ratio between the LC50 calculated with potentially resistant and susceptible ticks. However, LC50 ratios are difficult to translate into practical advice for farmers. Moreover, LPT requires laboratory facilities to maintain susceptible tick colonies, and it takes 6 weeks to obtain the larvae to be tested by LPT derived from engorged female ticks collected from cattle in the field. Our novel approach was twofold: first, we upgraded the LPT to the Resistance Intensity Test (RIT) by adopting the latest WHO guidelines for resistance detection in mosquitoes, which combines a 1 × recommended dose with 5 × and 10 × concentrated doses to reveal low, moderate and high resistance intensity, respectively. This reduced the number of test papers and tick larvae and, more importantly, provided relevant information on the resistance level. Our second innovative step was to abolish testing larvae entirely and expose partly engorged adult ticks to the same acaricidal doses immediately after removing them from cattle in the field. This resulted in the Rapid Tick exposure Test (RaTexT®), wherein partly engorged adult ticks were exposed to an acaricide-impregnated, specially designed matrix providing test results within 24 h. This approach directly compared resistance detection in tick larvae in the RIT with resistance in adult ticks in RaTexT®.
Methods : Laboratory validation was conducted in Brazil with resistant and susceptible colonies of Rhipicephalus microplus ticks. For field validation, adult R. microplus ticks collected from different cattle farms in Brazil were evaluated for resistance to RaTexT®, and the results regarding their larval progenies were compared with those for the RIT. Partly engorged adult ticks derived from cattle infested with laboratory and field strains of R. microplus were exposed to deltamethrin in RaTexT® containers, which contained six rows of four interconnected compartments, accommodating five to eight semi-engorged female ticks with a preferred size ranging between 5 and 8 mm. The corresponding larvae of each strain were exposed in the RIT to the same deltamethrin concentrations in filter papers.
Results : In RaTexT®, mortality in adult ticks from a resistant strain of R. microplus from Seropédica in Brazil was 38.4%, 54.2% and 75.0% at the 1 ×, 5 × and 10 × doses of deltamethrin, respectively. In RIT, mortality of larvae from the same resistant strain was 2.0%, 4.9% and 19.5% at 1 ×, 5 × and 10 × doses, respectively. The results of RaTexT® and RIT agreed since both tests identified a high level of resistance based on a cut-off of 90% mortality. In RaTexT®, mortality of adult ticks from a susceptible strain originating from Porto Alegre was 73.8%, 92.9% and 97.6% at the 1 ×, 5 × and 10 × doses, respectively. In RIT, mortality of larvae from the susceptible strain was 95.2%, 95.2% and 96.8% at the 1 ×, 5 × and 10 × doses, respectively. Interestingly, both tests identified a low number of unexpected resistant individuals in the susceptible strain since the mortality of neither larvae nor adults reached 100%. This effect remained unnoticed in the LPT, wherein a resistance ratio of 159.5 was found based on the LC50 of the resistant strain divided by the LC50 of the susceptible strain. Next, RaTexT® was compared with RIT using adult and larval ticks derived from three field strains of R. microplus in Brazil. RaTexT® detected high levels of resistance to deltamethrin in adult ticks in all strains, which was confirmed in larvae tested by the RIT. Both tests agreed on the same resistance level with significantly lower mortality rates in larvae than in adult ticks.
Conclusions : RaTexT® is a novel rapid pen-site test for detecting acaricide resistance in adult livestock ticks. It potentially replaces laborious tests using larval ticks and provides results within 24 h relevant to acaricide resistance management of livestock ticks.

Publication N°5: Adeyemi S.D.D., Bothon F.T.D., Boko K.C., Koutinhouin B.G., Farougou S. : Farmers’ perceptions of bovine brucellosis in Benin. Veterinary World , 17(2): 434–447.

Background and Aim: Cattle are the main source of meat in Benin. To improve the attitudes and practices of cattle breeders in relation to bovine brucellosis, a study has been carried out in Benin according to different agroecological zones. This study aimed to assess farmers’ knowledge and practices concerning bovine brucellosis to generate essential information for control programs and public health interventions.
Materials and Methods: The study was conducted from February to May 2022, during which 608 farmers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire that provided information on socioeconomic characteristics, knowledge, and practices related to bovine brucellosis. Analysis of variance, Poisson regression, and the proportion comparison test were used to compare these characteristics in the different agroecological zones. At the end of the surveys, three distinct and homogeneous groups of perceptions (hierarchical classification of Multiple Correspondence Analysis components of R software) of bovine brucellosis were identified (these groups only consider farmers who declared knowledge of the disease). Groups were formed by applying the multiple correspondence analysis function of the FactoMineR library in R software, followed by a hierarchical ascending classification using the hierarchical clustering on principal component function of the same software (Agrocampus Rennes, France).
Results: Only 38% of respondents were aware of brucellosis. Knowledge of brucellosis was not related to sex or education level but was higher among farmers in agroecological Zones 1 and 4. Ethnic Dendi herders (62.16%) had better knowledge of the disease than those from other sociolinguistic groups (Somba: 50%, Fulani: 40.91%, Baribas: 26.97%, and others: 8.82%). Reduced milk production (98.29%), presence of hygroma (87.18%), and abortion (56.84%) are the main signs reported by herders familiar with the disease. All three groups had good knowledge of the disease and its zoonotic nature. Groups 1 (96% of breeders) and 2 (2.14%) were aware of the risk factors (contact with affected animals, the consumption of raw milk, the handling of runts, and reproductive rejection). In the case of Brucella, they prefer to treat animals rather than sell them and use both traditional and modern medicines. Group 3 (1.71%) did not know the risk factors and preferred to sell animals in the event of illness.
Conclusion: Pastoralists need to be made aware of the mode of transmission of bovine brucellosis, its clinical manifestations, its impact on animal health, and the zoonotic nature of the disease (impact on public health) so that bovine brucellosis can be rapidly detected in herds.

Publication N°6: Kouengoua Kouengoua A.P., Ledoux Tsissa Y., Denakpo Noudeke D.N, Chimi R.N., Njayou A., Youssao A.K.I, Dahouda D., Boko C., Dougnon D., Awah-Ndukum J., Farougou S.: Prevalence and zoonotic risk factors of Mycobacterium bovis tuberculosis in cattle at the cattle-wildlife-human interface in South and East Cameroon. Veterinary World, 17(1): 8–16


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.

Publication N°7: Adoligbe C.M., Akpo S.G., Adido S., M’Po M., Zoclanclounon A.-R., Mantip S., Akpo Y., Souaïbou Farougou S.: Distribution of the Beta-Casein Gene Variants in Three Cattle Breeds Reared in Benin. Journal of Agricultural Science , 14(2), 87-94

The beta-casein gene is one of the most functional genetic candidate that affect milk quality and composition traits. Among its variants, the A1/A2 are the most common. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the distribution of the Beta-casein gene variants (A1/A2) in three different cattle breeds in order to determine which of the breed produce a better milk for consumers’ health. 152 blood samples which comprises 72 (Muturu), 40 (Azawak) and 40 Girolando were used to carry out this study. Genomic DNA was extracted from the blood samples and each variant was subsequently amplified from the extracted DNA samples using an Allele-Specific PCR technique and then confirmed by running the PCR products on 1% agarose gel. The result showed that there were three genotypes (A1A1, A2A1 and A2A2) in the three breeds. The average percentage genotypic frequencies obtained from this study were 42.76%, 31.58% and 25.66% respectively for A1A1, A1A2 and A2A2 genotypes while the percentage allelic frequencies were 58% and 42% respectively for A1 and A2 allele. The genetic parameters of Azawak breed were higher than that of the other breeds, what implies that there was a higher polymorphism and genetic diversity in the Azawak breed in the beta-casein gene compare to the other breeds. The A2 beta-casein variant in milk has been found to be desirable for milk consumer’s health and nutrition. This study therefore showed that the Azawak breed provides a good potential for increasing this favorable allele through appropriate breeding techniques of cattle.

Publication N°8: Bienvenu Odjoubiré Mahougnon Koutonin, Fuyao Zhang, Yuan Jiang, Chao Jia, Hussain Ahmad Saeed1, Yanfeng Fu, Honglin Liu, Camus Mahougnon Adoligbe and Juan Li. Isolation, characterization, and transcriptome profiling of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in pigs. Animal Advances 1: e008 DOI : 10.48130/animadv-0024-0008.

Given the high rate of proliferation and capacity for multipotent differentiation, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are essential for the treatment of diseases and cell therapy. To understand the properties of porcine umbilical cord MSCs (pUC-MSCs) across time, this study assessed the cells at many stages (P4, P6, P9, and P11). The cells showed an 'S' shaped growth curve, a population doubling time of 23 h, and fibroblast-like morphology along with significant proliferative ability. P4 and P6 displayed more CD90-positive cells than P9 and P11, demonstrating that they retained the usual MSC surface markers. The study discovered 132 differentially expressed genes (DEGs)associated with cell differentiation and 127 associated with stemness by transcriptome analysis using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Important stemness genes such as APC, KRAS, and SMAD5 were expressed more strongly in P6, however, stemness markers were reduced in P9 and P11, showing that as cells became older, they shifted towards differentiation which we also confirmed with differentiation markers such as NOTCH3, MAPK8, OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG. Considerable enrichment of biological processes and molecular functions was found in P6 compared to P4 by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis, with a noticeable reduction in later passages. Based on this study, pUC-MSCs retain greater stemness in the early passages (P4 and P6), but the later passages (P9 and P11) exhibit decreased regeneration capacity due to a loss of stemness and an increase in differentiation markers. This emphasizes how vital it is to choose the right cell passages for applications in regenerative medicine, where the ability to maintain stemness is essential for effective treatment.

Publication N°9: Oscar C.A. Akotowanou, Euloge Sènan Adjou, Kowiou Aboudou, Adéyèmi Berane Olubi, Philippe Sessou, Franck Michels, Akadiri Yessoufou, Marie-Laure Fauconnier, Lamine Baba-Moussa, Dominique C. K. Sohounhloué. GC-MS Analysis of Clove Essential Oil (Syzygium aromaticum L.) as Effective Source of Biomolecules for Traditional Tomato Puree Quality Improvement. Advances in Molecular Imaging , 13, 39-49. DOI : 10.4236/ami.2024.134004.

Le contenu élevé en eau des tomates les rend vulnérables à la détérioration par les microorganismes, ce qui a conduit les producteurs à réaliser un traitement traditionnel des tomates sous forme de purée de tomates pasteurisée. Cependant, une acidification rapide de ces purées de tomates traditionnelles est souvent observée. L'objectif de cette étude était donc d'évaluer l'efficacité de l'huile essentielle extraite du clou de girofle (Syzygium aromaticum L.) dans l'amélioration de la technologie de production de purée de tomates traditionnelle. L'huile essentielle de clou de girofle a été extraite par hydrodistillation, et sa composition chimique a été déterminée par GC et GC/MS. Différents types de purée de tomates traditionnelles ont été produits en modifiant la technologie de traitement traditionnel et en ajoutant une étape d'introduction de l'huile essentielle, suivie d'un mélange manuel pendant le processus. Sur la base d'études précédentes, deux concentrations d'huile essentielle différentes (5,0 et 7,5 μL∙g−1) ont été examinées. Des analyses physico-chimiques, microbiologiques et nutritionnelles ont été effectuées afin d'évaluer la qualité des purées de tomates traditionnelles produites. Les résultats obtenus ont révélé que l'huile essentielle de Syzygium aromaticum présente une composition chimique caractérisée par la présence de l'eugénol (59,11 %) et de l'acétate d'eugénol (33,73 %). Une bonne stabilisation des paramètres physico-chimiques, microbiologiques et nutritionnels dans les échantillons de purée de tomates traditionnelles conservés avec l'huile essentielle de Syzygium aromaticum a été observée par rapport au témoin. L'huile essentielle de clou de girofle, avec ses propriétés biologiques, offre une approche novatrice pour la gestion de la purée de tomates traditionnelle pendant le stockage.

Publication N°10: Houndje E., Gnammi G., Yessinou E., Boko C., Ahounou S., Farougou S. : Estimation de l’impact économique des principales pathologies bovines dans les troupeaux de la commune de Matéri au Bénin. Revue Marocaine des Sciences Agronomiques et Vétérinaires , 12(4), 223-226.

La présente étude a consisté, sur la base d’une enquête chez les éleveurs de bovins, à répertorier les pathologies dominantes en vue de l’estimation monétaire de leur impact sur la production bovine. Cette étude a été effectuée dans cinq arrondissements sur six que compte la commune de Matéri. Il ressort de ces résultats que 55,6 % des enquêtés ont un âge compris en 30 et 49 ans et sont majoritairement Peuls. L’élevage est l’activité principale (88,9 %) des enquêtés, le niveau d’instruction est quasi nul (97,2%). La fièvre aphteuse et la trypanosomose sont les dominantes enregistrées avec des prévalences respectives de 0,07. L’estimation dans cette étude a concerné la pathologie dominante qu’est la fièvre aphteuse. A cet effet, le prix de cession des animaux est plus élevé avant l’apparition de la pathologie, puis diminue significativement pendant la pathologie pour augmenter après la pathologie sans pour autant atteindre les prix d’avant. Ce constat est le même quel que soit le stade de développement du bovin et sur le prix du lait. En conséquence, il serait important de mieux évaluer l’impact de cette pathologie avec des analyses sérologiques associées à des méthodes récentes d’évaluation économique.

Publication N°11: Sessou P., Yessinou E., Yovo M., Gnancadja G., Michels F., Marie-Laure Fauconnier M-L., 2024. Évaluation de l’activité acaricide de l’huile essentielle extraite de la plante entière d’Aeollanthus pubescens sur la tique brune du chien, Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Revue Marocaine des Sciences Agronomiques et Vétérinaires, 12(4), 227-232.

L'infestation par les tiques Rhipicephalus sanguineus chez les chiens cause de nombreuses maladies, affectant leur bien-être. Les acaricides synthétiques, bien que couramment utilisés, sont de moins en moins efficaces à cause de la résistance croissante des tiques. Pour trouver une alternative, nous avons étudié l'effet de l'huile essentielle extraite de la plante entière d’Aeollanthus pubescens. La composition chimique de cette huile a été analysée par chromatographie en phase gazeuse couplée à la spectrométrie de masse. Des tiques prélevées sur des chiens ont été utilisées pour produire des larves, et des tests de trempage ont été réalisés pour évaluer l’activité acaricide de l’huile essentielle. Les larves et les femelles gorgées ont été exposées à des concentrations de 0,0312 à 2 mg/ml. Les résultats ont montré que l’huile essentielle contenait principalement du thymol (58,0 %), de l’acétate de thymol (17,9 %), de l’α-terpinène (9,75 %) et du γ-terpinène (8,97 %). À 2 mg/ml, la mortalité était de 81 % pour les larves et de 69 % pour les femelles gorgées, avec une inhibition de la ponte de 100 %. L’huile a été particulièrement efficace à des concentrations de 1,5 à 2 mg/ml. Ces résultats offrent un nouvel espoir pour le contrôle des infestations de tiques et justifient des recherches plus poussées sur l’huile d’Aeollanthus pubescens au Bénin.

Publication N°12: Elvis Adjalian, Philippe Sessou, Franck Michels, Marie-Laure Fauconnier, Kossou Dansou, Dominique Sohounhloué : Insecticidal and repellent activities of Cananga odorata leaf essential oil against Sitotroga cerealella, a post-harvest pest of rice. Moroccan Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 5(4), 195-201.

Le riz en stockage est de plus en plus attaqué par Sitotroga cerealella, un ravageur hautement destructeur et économiquement important. L'utilisation d'extraits de plantes, notamment des huiles essentielles, représente une alternative naturelle aux insecticides synthétiques dans le contrôle des ravageurs des cultures. Cette étude a déterminé la composition chimique de l'huile essentielle des feuilles de Cananga odorata et évalué ses propriétés biologiques, notamment son effet insecticide et répulsif contre Sitotroga cerealella . L'huile essentielle a été obtenue par hydrodistillation et analysée par chromatographie en phase gazeuse-spectrométrie de masse (GC-MS). Des tests de fumigation ont été réalisés pour évaluer les propriétés ovicides, larvicides, insecticides et anti-ponte de l'huile sur l'insecte, et son effet répulsif a été déterminé à l'aide d'un olfactomètre. L'analyse a montré que l'huile contient 32 composés principaux, les principaux étant le ?-pinène (7,0 %), l'acétate de lavandulyle (7,2 %), le caryophyllène (30,3 %), l’humulène (13,4 %) et le germacrene D (9,0 %). L'huile essentielle de C. odorata a montré une forte toxicité adulticide avec des valeurs CL50 de 0,094 μl/mL/L air et CL90 de 0,46 μl/mL. Cette huile possède des propriétés ovicides et larvicides, ainsi qu'un effet retardateur sur le développement des oeufs. Elle a également provoqué une forte inhibition de la ponte avec un taux de répulsion des insectes de 75,7 %. Ses effets insecticides ont préservé le poids des grains, avec des pertes de poids ne dépassant pas 0,38 % et un taux de germination des graines de riz paddy supérieur à 80 %. L'huile essentielle des feuilles de C. odorata peut être utilisée comme alternative aux produits chimiques synthétiques toxiques modernes pour la protection contre Sitotroga cerealella .

Publication N°13: Perception des aviculteurs traditionnels sur la maladie de variole aviaire au sud Bénin. Revue Marocaine des Sciences Agronomiques et Vétérinaires. ttps://doaj.org/article/86f67ac258dd4a62ac199b0fd2e14ccd.

The study aims to analyze the perception of traditional poultry farmers on fowlpox in southern Benin. A retrospective survey was conducted among 385 poultry farmers. The most common poultry species were chickens (90.8%), guinea fowl (22.8%), ducks (21.4%), turkeys (20.6%), pigeons (6.1%), quails and peacocks (4.4%). 72% of poultry farmers recognized the signs of fowlpox. Morbidity is more observed among young birds (< 60 days). The victims are chickens (94%) and turkeys (21.0%) with an average mortality of 35 %. The poultry farmers observed the occurrence of fowlpox in the rainy season (47%), in the dry season (30.0%) and all year round (23.0%). Only 13.3% of them vaccinate their poultry against fowlpox. Thus, the mortality (36.3%) of unvaccinated poultry is significantly higher than that of vaccinated poultry (26.8 %). The average prevalence estimate of smallpox was 33.8 %. The joint observation of prevalence and mortality of poultry reveals that the most affected departments are not necessarily those in which mortality is high. This study will be extended to the determination of seroprevalence.
Keywords: Perception, Fowlpox, Traditional poultry farming, Southern Benin.

Publication N°14: Sèdégan, E. B. F., Akpo, Y., Boko, K. C., Seidou, A. A., Iwaka, C., Attakpa, E., Alkoiret, T. I., & Mensah, G. A. (2024). Biological Activities and Traditional Use of Hyptis suaveolens in Human and Veterinary Medicine: A Review. Journal of Veterinary Physiology and Pathology , 3(1), 11–19. https://doi.org/10.58803/jvpp.v3i1.41

Hyptis suaveolens ( H. suaveolens ), known as Gros baume or sweet-smelling Hyptis, is an invasive plant from tropical regions widely used to manage human and animal ailments, such as bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases. This study aimed to synthesize a scientific research work on the use of this medicinal plant in the traditional pharmacopeia, as well as the biological and pharmacological activities already recognized in the literature. Information for this synthesis was collected from physical (libraries and documentation centers of universities in Benin) and reliable scientific databases, such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, which were queried based on the keywords related to H. suaveolens . This plant contains secondary metabolites in its aerial parts, such as leaves, and stems, which are rich in essential oils. From leaves to roots, all parts of this plant are of interest to both humans and animals to treat various pathologies. The most frequently cited diseases include asthma, panariasis, jaundice, hyperthermia, indigestion, stomach pains, nausea, colds, gall bladder infections, breast abscesses, hemorrhoids, oral-anal candidiasis, edemas, cramps, and skin infections The various aqueous and ethanolic extracts are evaluated by researchers and the biological activities are indicated in the literature. Those activities include the antibacterial, antifungal, larvicidal, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, insect repellent, and insecticidal effects. However, no toxicity resulting from the use of this plant has yet been reported in the literature. Research on H. suaveolens toxicity must be continued to gain a comprehensive understanding of its application in human and livestock health. This literature review allows the virtues and risks related to the traditional use of H. suaveolens in human and animal pharmacopeia. The various potentialities of this plant provide a lever for exploring its antiviral effects in traditional veterinary medicine in general.

Publication N°15: The Effects of Acute Oral Toxicity of Jatropha multifida and Hyptis suaveolens on Zootechnical Parameters in Local Chickens. World's Veterinary Journal . DOI: 10.54203/scil. 2024.wvj39.

The substantial use of medicinal plants in traditional poultry farming is a well-established practice. The present study aimed to determine the median lethal dose (LD50) of ethanolic extracts of Jatropha multifida and Hyptis suaveolens in local chickens and to assess the effects of these extracts on feed intake, water intake, and average body weight. The methodology followed OECD Directive 223, which involves administering the highest dose of the extract to the chickens and assessing any mortality. Three homogeneous groups of five chickens each were formed for the limit dose test. The control group received distilled water, while batches 1 and 2 received 700 mg of ethanolic extract of J. multifida and H. suaveolens , respectively. The average body weight of the chickens was 350g ± 20, and the extracts were administered via gavage at a suspension of 2000 mg/kg.bwt of the extract dissolved in water. The results of the phytochemical tests indicated the presence of several chemical compounds known for their therapeutic effects. The productivity of the extract was 2.75 ± 0.19 for J. multifida and 3.3 ± 0.27 for H. suaveolens . After administration of the suspensions, observation for 14 days revealed no mortality. This finding indicated that the LD50 of the utilized ethanolic extracts exceeds the limit dose (2000 mg/kg.bwt). However, feed intake (49 ± 3 > 46±4) and average body weight (436 ± 31 > 388 ± 37) in batch 2 were significantly higher than those in batch 1. Future research should explore the subacute toxicity of J. multifida and H. suaveolens across various chicken breeds.

Publication N°16: Dossou AW, Seko Orou BMT, Komagbe G, Sessou P, Youssao AKI, Farougou S, Hounhouigan JD, Mahillon J, Mongbo R, Poncelet M, et al.: Nutritional Composition and Chemical Safety of Wagashi Gassirè Cheese Sold in the Southern Benin Markets. Dairy , 5(2), 271-286. DOI : 10.3390/dairy5020022.

In this study, the nutritional composition and the chemical safety of Wagashi Gassirè (WG) cheese sold in southern Benin markets were assessed. For this purpose, 15 WG were analysed for fatty acids, essential minerals, and chemical hazards (dioxins, aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), biogenic amines, metals, antibiotic and pesticide residues). The risks related to arsenic, lead, aluminium, AFM1, histamine, and tyramine were calculated using the methods recommended by the European Food Safety Authority. Oleic, palmitic and stearic acids, calcium, and phosphorus were the main fatty acids and minerals detected. Lead (0.08 ± 0.06 mg/kg) and AFM1 (0.3 ± 0.0 μg/kg) were detected in all samples and exceeded the maximum level set by the international standard. Cadaverine and tyramine were the main biogenic amines found. No pesticide residues were detected using a multi-residue method targeting compounds. Residues of quinolones, tetracyclines, and colistin antibiotics were also detected. The calculated chronic exposure indicated no public health concern for the chemical contaminants targeted. Moreover, the average cancer risk related to AFM1 intake was 3 × 10−4 cases/105 persons/year for the Benin population through WG consumption. This study contributes to the nutritional characterization of WG and identifies lead and AFM1 as the most relevant chemical hazards of this product.

Publication N°17: Boko K.C., Challaton K.P., Salifou C.F.A., Aguidissou N.O., Duprez J.N., Thiry D., Mainil J.G., Farougou S., 2024. Caractérisation des gènes de virulence des souches d’ Escherichia coli isolées de veaux souffrant de diarrhée dans la commune de Nikki au Bénin. Rev. Elev. Med. Vet. Pays Trop. , 77, 37197, DOI : 10.19182/remvt.37197

La diarrhée est l’une des principales pathologies rencontrées dans les élevages de bovins au Bénin. Les veaux, premiers maillons de la chaîne, en sont les plus atteints. L’objectif de cette étude était d’évaluer la présence des gènes de virulence dans les souches d’ Escherichia coli susceptibles de provoquer la diarrhée chez les veaux ainsi que leurs profils de résistance aux antimicrobiens usuels. Pour cela, 106 veaux ont fait objet d’un suivi pendant deux mois après leur naissance dans la commune de Nikki. Au total, 33 échantillons de matières fécales ont été prélevés directement du rectum de 33 veaux atteints de diarrhée et soumis à des analyses bactériologiques. Tous les prélèvements réalisés étaient positifs à E. coli . La caractérisation des souches d’ E. coli isolées pour la présence des gènes et facteurs de virulence stx1, stx2, eae , sta , F41 et F5, a révélé la présence du gène stx1 uniquement avec un taux de 63,64 %. La résistance des souches d’ E. coli aux antibiotiques les plus utilisés au Bénin a été testée : la doxycycline (taux de résistance de 70 %), l’amoxicilline + acide clavulanique (50 %) et la colistine (50 %). Des études ultérieures sont nécessaires afin de procéder au typage sérologique et au séquençage du génome des souches d’ E. coli . Il serait également nécessaire d’étendre l’échantillonnage aux autres régions du Bénin, afin de mieux évaluer le statut des élevages bovins vis-à-vis de ces souches d’ E. coli isolées chez les veaux et ainsi identifier un éventuel risque zoonotique.
2023

Publication N°11: Kifouly A.H., Okunlola M., Boko C.K., Alowanou, G., Kétomon Challaton, P.: Ovine enzootic abortion disease seroprevalence in small ruminants around the world: a systematic review. Archives of Veterinary Science, 28(3). DOI: 10.5380/avs.v28i3.90853

Chlamydia abortus is a causative agent of Ovine Chlamydiosis or Ovine Enzootic Abortion (OEA) or Enzootic Abortion of Ewes (EAE) and can be transmitted to humans, especially pregnant women during the lambing or kidding season from sheep, and goats, from infected flocks. The objective of this study was to estimate the pooled prevalence of chlamydial abortus infections in small ruminants. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Relevant studies were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from 2001 to 2022. The retrieved studies were screened for eligibility and important data were extracted from the included studies. The quality of each included study was evaluated. Of 153 studies, 33 (with a total of 45453 samples) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of chlamydial infections in small ruminants was 13.4%. Among continents, the average prevalence of chlamydial abortus infections was highest in Asia (48.5%) and lowest in North America (3.0%) This systematic review emphasizes the global paucity of data on the prevalence of Chlamydia infection in sheep and goats. Despite this, studies show a rather high frequency of C. abortus infection in small ruminants. This geographical variance emphasizes the necessity of a regional strategy to Chlamydia infection prevention and management in small ruminants, taking into account regional differences and risk factors to avoid its spread and limit the hazards associated with it..

Publication N°12: Kifouly A.H., Alowanou G., Challaton P., Farougou S., Boko C. Study of the seroprevalence, associated risk factors and the haematological values of infected Chlamydia abortus small ruminants in Benin Republic. Revista Veterinaria, 34(2),117-125. DOI: 10.30972/vet.3427055

In the Republic of Benin, abortion is one of the reproductive problems on small ruminant farms, and Chlamydia abortus is one of the causative agents. The aim of this study was to determine for the first time the serological prevalence and hematological parameters in small ruminants positive for Chlamydia abortus in Benin, mainly in the department of Ouémé. It covered five sites, namely Akpro-Missérété, Avrankou, Adjarra, Sèmè-Kpodji and Dangbo in the Ouémé department. A total of 385 sera (200 sheep and 185 goats) from subjects showing signs of reproductive loss were tested using the indirect Elisa method. Of the 385 sera tested, 30 (7,79%) were positive for Chlamydia abortus. Similarly, the blood of animals tested positive was analyzed for hematological parameters using Sysmex XN-Series automated blood analyzer. Different variations with significant differences in some hematological parameters of the red line and those of the white line, depending on the study sites, species, age and physiological stage of the animals (hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume for the red line at the sites, lymphocytes and basophils for the white line at the sites; hemoglobin for the red lineage and lymphocytes for the white lineage at species level; lymphocytes at age level; lymphocytes, monocytes and basophils for the white lineage at physiological stage level) were observed in animals suffering from C. abortus

Publication N°13: Heylen D.J.A., Kumsa B., Kimbita E., Frank M.N., Muhanguzi D., Jongejan F., Adehan S.B., Toure A., Aboagye-Antwi F., Ogo N.I., Juleff N., Fourie J., Evans A., Byaruhanga J., Madder M. Tick communities of cattle in smallholder rural livestock production systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Parasites and Vectors. DOI : 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2700703/v1

Background
The majority of the African population lives in rural areas and depends on agriculture for their livelihoods. To increase the productivity and sustainability of their farms, they need access to affordable yield-enhancing inputs of which parasite control is of paramount importance. We therefore determined the status of current tick species with the highest economic impact on cattle by sampling representative numbers of animals in each of seven sub-Saharan countries.
Methods
Data included tick species' half-body counts from approximately 120 cattle at each of two districts per country, collected four times in approximately 1 year (to include seasonality). Study sites were chosen in each country to include high cattle density and tick burden.
Results
East Africa (Ethiopia, Uganda and Tanzania) showed overall a higher diversity and prevalence in tick infestations compared to West African countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana and Nigeria). In East Africa, Amblyomma variegatum (vector of Ehrlichia ruminantium), Rhipicephalus microplus (Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, Anaplasma marginale), R. evertsi evertsi (A. marginale) and R. appendiculatus (Theileria parva) were the most prevalent tick species of economic importance. While the latter species was absent in West Africa, here both A. variegatum and R. microplus occurred in high numbers. Rhipicephalus microplus had spread to Uganda, infesting half of the cattle sampled. Rhipicephalus microplus is known for its invasive behaviour and displacement of other blue tick species, as observed in other East and West African countries. Individual cattle with higher body weights, as well as males, were more likely to be infested. For six tick species, we found reduced infestation levels when hosts were treated with anti-parasiticides.
Conclusions
These baseline data allow the determination of possible changes in presence and prevalence of ticks in each of the countries targeted, which is of importance in the light of human-caused climate and habitat alterations or anthropogenic activities. As many of the ticks in this study are vectors of important pathogens, but also, as cattle may act as end hosts for ticks of importance to human health, our study will help a wide range of stakeholders to provide recommendations for tick infestation surveillance and prevention.

Publication N°14: Heylen D.J.A., Kumsa B., Kimbita E., Frank M.N., Muhanguzi D., Jongejan F., Adehan S.B., Toure A., Aboagye-Antwi F., Ogo N.I., Juleff N., Crafford D., Fourie J., Labuchange M., Madder M. Tick-borne pathogens and body condition of cattle in smallholder rural livestock production systems in East and West Africa. Parasites & Vectors, 16(1). DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05709-0

Background
The majority of the African population lives in rural areas where they heavily depend on crop and livestock production for their livelihoods. Given their socio-economic importance, we initiated a standardized multi-country (Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia Tanzania and Uganda) surveillance study to assess the current status of important tick-borne haemoparasites (TBHPs) of cattle.
Methods
We assessed pathogen prevalences (Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma centrale, Babesia bigemina, Babesia bovis, Ehrlichia ruminantium, and Theileria parva) in the blood of 6447 animals spread over fourteen districts (two districts per country). In addition, we screened for intrinsic (sex, weight, body condition) and extrinsic (husbandry, tick exposure) risk factors as predictors of infections with TBHPs.
Results
There was a large macro-geographic variation observed in A. marginale, B. bigemina, B. bovis and E. ruminantium prevalences. Most correlated with the co-occurrence of their specific sets of vector-competent ticks. Highest numbers of infected cattle were found in Ghana and Benin, and lowest in Burkina Faso. While T. parva was seldomly found (Uganda only: 3.0%), A. marginale was found in each country with a prevalence of at least 40%. Babesia bovis infected individuals had lower body condition scores. Age (as estimated via body weight) was higher in A. marginale infected cattle, but was negatively correlated with B. bigemina and E. ruminantium prevalences. Ehrlichia ruminantium infection was more often found in males, and A. marginale more often in transhumance farming. High levels of co-infection, especially the combination A. marginalexB. bigemina, were observed in all countries, except for Uganda and Burkina Faso. Babesia bigemina was more or less often observed than expected by chance, when cattle were also co-infected with E. ruminantium or A. marginale, respectively.
Conclusions
Tick-borne pathogens of cattle are ubiquitous in African's smallholder cattle production systems. Our standardized study will help a wide range of stakeholders to provide recommendations for TBHP surveillance and prevention in cattle, especially for B. bovis which heavily impacts production and continues its spread over the African continent via the invasive Rhipicephalus microplus tick.

Publication N°15: Heylen D.J.A., Kumsa B., Kimbita E., Frank M.N., Muhanguzi D., Jongejan F., Adehan S.B., Toure A., Aboagye-Antwi F., Ogo N.I., Juleff N., Crafford D., Fourie J., Labuchange M., Madder M. Cattle tick-borne pathogens sharing the same vectors in Benin and Burkina Faso: variations in prevalence and coinfection patterns. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 17(7):2837-2852. DOI: 10.4314/ijbcs.v17i7.19

Understanding interactions between pathogens at the level of the individual host and the population in West Africa, may have noteworthy implications for predictions of diseases emergence and disease control programmes. Hence, the current study was aimed at investigating the interactions between Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bigemina and B. bovis in West African cattle. Twelve sentinel steers in each of the eight selected herds were randomly chosen to perform a one-year-long survey designed to monthly collect blood sample and to diagnose possible infections of the steers. This allowed identifying A. marginale as the most prevalent pathogen across the three surveyed regions (range: 0.60-1), followed by B. bigemina (0.24-0.85) and B. bovis (0.10-0.64); the same ranking order of the tick-borne pathogens was observed when considering the apparent duration of cattle infection. Regarding interaction patterns, mainly avoidance was revealed between A. marginale and B. bigemina and between B. bigemina and B. bovis. Such negative interaction seemed to be beneficial to the West African cattle surveyed, helping them to escape from babesiosis caused by B. bovis. Altogether, studied Boophilus tick-borne pathogens negatively interact within cattle in Benin and Burkina Faso. This pattern raises new questions regarding the underlying mechanisms and potential consequences.

Publication N°16: Biguezoton A.B., Adakal H., Noel V., Farougou S., Zoungrana S., Chevillon C. Population genetics of the invasive tick Rhipicephalus microplus in Benin and Burkina Faso (West Africa). International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 17(7), 2747-2760. DOI : 10.4314/ijbcs.v17i7.12

Rhipicephalus microplus, is an invasive tick species associated with the highest economic losses where it occurs. Invasion of West Africa, where breeding is in 95% of case with low input, started in 2000s and was followed by breeder's complaints of acaricide resistance. Since understanding of population structure could help tick control, this study aimed to investigate processes which influence R. microplus invasion in Benin and Burkina Faso. Thus, seven microsatellites (SSRs) markers were applied to analyse 436 ticks from Benin and Burkina Faso. Subsequently, determination of population limits, population size, and investigation on isolation by distance pattern were achieved. Analyses revealed that herd is the relevant level of population limit in Benin and with the whole dataset. Significant differentiation was highlighted between herds and between R. microplus population from Benin and Burkina Faso. Migration occurred between herds, as indicated by assignment results and migration rates. Furthermore, any bottleneck was not evidenced within dataset. Results suggested that the origin of R. microplus population of Burkina Faso could be Côte d'Ivoire. The limit of population being the herd has obviously to be considered in tick control strategies. Thus, to be efficient, tick control programs should primarily focus on the cattle coming back north after transhumance.

Publication N°17: Biguezoton A.S., Adakal H., Farougou S., Agbangla C., Chevillon C. Genetic structure of Ehrlichia ruminantium based on Multilocus Sequence Typing: particularities of strains from West-Africa. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 17(7), 2595-2613. DOI : 10.4314/ijbcs.v17i7.1

Ehrlichia ruminantium is the tick-borne rickettsia causing heartwater to wild and domestic ruminants. Previously, Multilocus Sequence Typing of this pathogen (MLST) highlighted the co-circulation of two genotypic groups within nearby villages from Burkina Faso where vaccination assays had been previously recurrently performed. In the present study the laboratory strains that had been involved in vaccination assays, which evidenced their close relationships with strains that were later involved in local outbursts, were genotyped. Characterization of the bacterium genetic diversity was extended to four distant Beninese localities where no vaccination assays had ever been performed, through sampling of N= 500 specimens of the local tick vector, Amblyomma variegatum. This led evidencing an even higher frequency of new multilocus MLST genotypes in Benin than in Burkina Faso, 93% of the Beninese genotypes included at least one new private allele (ie, no detected elsewhere), while this was only the case of 80% bacteria genotypes sampled in Burkina Faso. Investigating the genetic structure of the bacterium across the Africa continent revealed a reduction of its diversity in the eastern and southern part of the continent relatively to West Africa. As the bacterial genetic diversity currently remains highest in West Africa than anywhere else in the continent, this area remains optimal for the development and/or testing of vaccines against heartwater.

Publication N°18: Sessou P, Keisam S, Gagara M, Komagbe G, Farougou S, Mahillon J, Jeyaram K. Comparative analyses of the bacterial communities present in the spontaneously fermented milk products of Northeast India and West Africa. Frontiers in Microbiology, 14:1166518

Introduction
Spontaneous fermentation of raw cow milk without backslopping is in practice worldwide as part of the traditional food culture, including “Doi” preparation in earthen pots in Northeast India, “Kindouri” of Niger and “Fanire” of Benin prepared in calabash vessels in West Africa. Very few reports are available about the differences in bacterial communities that evolved during the spontaneous mesophilic fermentation of cow milk in diverse geographical regions.
Methods
In this study, we used high throughput amplicon sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA gene to investigate 44 samples of naturally fermented homemade milk products and compared the bacterial community structure of these foods, which are widely consumed in Northeast India and Western Africa.
Results and discussion
The spontaneous milk fermentation shared the lactic acid bacteria, mainly belonging to Lactobacillaceae (Lactobacillus) and Streptococcaceae (Lactococcus) in these two geographically isolated regions. Indian samples showed a high bacterial diversity with the predominance of Acetobacteraceae (Gluconobacter and Acetobacter) and Leuconostoc, whereas Staphylococcaceae (Macrococcus) was abundant in the West African samples. However, the Wagashi cheese of Benin, prepared by curdling the milk with proteolytic leaf extract of Calotrophis procera followed by natural fermentation, contained Streptococcaceae (Streptococcus spp.) as the dominant bacteria. Our analysis also detected several potential pathogens, like Streptococcus infantarius an emerging infectious foodborne pathogen in Wagashi samples, an uncultured bacterium of Enterobacteriaceae in Kindouri and Fanire samples, and Clostridium spp. in the Doi samples of Northeast India. These findings will allow us to develop strategies to address the safety issues related to spontaneous milk fermentation and implement technological interventions for controlled milk fermentation by designing starter culture consortiums for the sustainable production of uniform quality products with desirable functional and organoleptic properties.

Publication N°19: Komagbe GS, Dossou A, Seko Orou BM-T, Sessou P, Azokpota P, Youssao I, Hounhouigan J, Scippo M-L, Clinquart A, Mahillon J and Farougou S. State of the art of breeding, milking, and milk processing for the production of curdled milk and Wagashi Gassirè in Benin: Practices favoring the contamination of its dairy products. Front. Sustain. Food Syst., 6:1050592. DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.1050592

Introduction
This study aimed to identify the factors favoring the contamination of raw cow's milk, curdled milk, and Wagashi Gassirè cheese during their production and preservation in order to develop strategies to improve their quality.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey of 401 randomly selected stakeholders encompassing all levels of the dairy production chain in the Nikki and Dassa-Zoumé communes of Benin was conducted. The data obtained were analyzed using the SAS software for the calculation of frequencies and the R software for classifying the stakeholders based on the hygiene practices they adopted during the production and conservation of raw cow's milk, curdled milk, and Wagashi Gassirè.
Results and discussion
The study identified three types of dairy farmers based on how they medically treated their cattle and implemented hygiene practices, including farmers who (1) relied on themselves or received help from veterinarians trained in animal husbandry and milking to monitor the animals on their farms; (2) relied only on veterinarians; and (3) relied only on themselves. The majority of these dairy farmers felt that hygienic milking practices were very restrictive and difficult to implement. In addition, three groups of Wagashi Gassirè producers were identified: (1) producers trained in good hygiene practices who did not boil or sundry the cheese; (2) producers lacking the infrastructure to protect from weather exposure who used all parts of Calotropis procera for colored Wagashi Gassirè production; and (3) producers who did not often filter the milk and boiled the Wagashi Gassirè in bags before immersion in simple water or whey. The sanitary quality of milk and milk products is influenced by the diverse handling practices employed by producers. These practices must be considered according to the types of farmers and processors when suggesting improved intervention policies.

Publication N°20: Hounkpe EC, Sessou P, Farougou S, Dotche I, Daube G, Delcenserie V, Azokpota P, Korsak N. Hygiene practices of food of animal origin operators in primary schools in the Mono Department of Benin. A cross-sectional study. Heliyon, 9(6):e17135.

Food of animal origin is an important source of proteins for human beings. However, they are subject to microbial contamination. It is essential to ensure the safety of food products intended for school children regarding their vulnerability to food poisoning. Good sanitary quality of these products requires the respect of good practices during their processing and distribution.
This study aims to evaluate the conditions of processing and sale of food of animal origin to school children in public schools, with or without canteens, in the Department of Mono in southern Benin.
In the Department of Mono in the Republic of Benin, 137 operators were interviewed in public schools, with one operator per school, using a questionnaire created on the Epicollect5 platform. The interview showed that the operators involved in the processing and sale of food to school children were women. Most of these operators had primary education and did not undergo a medical examination. They transported food of animal origin mixed with other types of food. Frying and cooking were used to prepare or process the food. Direct observation revealed that food is produced in an unhealthy environment. The operators did not wear gloves during food processing but some wore aprons. All the operators washed their hands with soap and water (tap or well water) after using the toilet. There was not an adequate handwashing facility. The majority of operators used wooden cutting boards. Overall, food operators especially in schools without a canteen do not follow good hygiene and manufacturing practices in the kitchen. To guarantee food safety for school children, training should be organized to make operators aware of good hygiene and manufacturing practices in kitchens.

Publication N°21: Hounkpe EC, Sessou P, Farougou S, Daube G, Delcenserie V, Azokpota P, Korsak N. Prevalence, antibiotic resistance, and virulence gene profile of Escherichia coli strains shared between food and other sources in Africa: A systematic review. Vet World, 16(10), 2016-2028.

Materials and Methods
Bibliographic searches were performed using four databases. Research articles published between 2000 and 2022 on antibiotic susceptibility and virulence gene profile of E. coli isolated from food and other sources were selected.
Results
In total, 64 articles were selected from 14 African countries: 45% of the studies were conducted on food, 34% on animal samples, 21% on human disease surveillance, and 13% on environmental samples. According to these studies, E. coli is resistant to~ 50 antimicrobial agents, multidrug-resistant, and can transmit at least 37 types of virulence genes. Polymerase chain reaction was used to characterize E. coli and determine virulence genes.
Conclusion
A significant variation in epidemiological data was noticed within countries, authors, and sources (settings). These results can be used as an updated database for monitoring E. coli resistance in Africa. More studies using state-of-the-art equipment are needed to determine all resistance and virulence genes in pathogenic E. coli isolated in Africa.

Publication N°22: Pierre Kétomon Challaton, Cyrille Kadoéito Boko, Guénolé Coovi Akouedegni, Géorcelin Goué Alowanou,Venant Pascal Houndonougbo, Sylvie Mawulé Hounzangbe-Adote. Elevage traditionnel des caprins au Bénin : pratiques et contraintes sanitaires. Revue d'élevage et de médecine vétérinaire des pays tropicaux, 75 (1). DOI : 10.19182/remvt.36893

L'essor de l'élevage des caprins au Bénin est limité par des contraintes liées à la santé et aux pratiques d'élevage. L'objectif de l'étude présentée était de connaître l'opinion des éleveurs sur les pathologies circulant dans les élevages traditionnels de caprins au Bénin. Pour cela, une enquête semi-structurée a été conduite en 2019 dans quatre pôles de développements agricoles du Bénin, fondée sur des groupes de discussion et des entretiens individuels menés auprès de 480 éleveurs de caprins. Des données sur les pratiques d'élevage, la gestion sanitaire des animaux et les maladies rencontrées ont été collectées. Les résultats ont montré que les caprins étaient principalement élevés pour l'épargne, et à un moindre degré pour la production de viande et des raisons socioculturelles. Tous les éleveurs enquêtés pratiquaient la divagation au moins une partie de l'année mais, en saison pluvieuse, certains mettaient les animaux au piquet ou les gardaient en semi-claustration. Les principales pathologies animales signalées par les éleveurs étaient la peste des petits ruminants (PPR), la gale, les parasitoses digestives, les maladies respiratoires, la fièvre aphteuse et la trypanosomose. Le contrôle des parasites était réalisé généralement en cas de nécessité et rarement de façon routinière. La vaccination contre la PPR était pratiquée par trois-quarts des éleveurs. L'élevage des caprins au Bénin est lié au système d'élevage traditionnel et de ce fait victime de nombreuses maladies qui limitent son développement. Il serait nécessaire d'approfondir les connaissances sur ces pathologies à travers des études de diagnostic étiologique afin de mieux orienter les objectifs de surveillance de ces pathologies.

Publication N°23: : Kadoéito Cyrille Boko, Abdoulkarim Issa Ibrahim, Yao Akpo, Meriadec Evrard Alladassi, Nestor Oscar Aguidissou, Ange-Régis Zoclanclounon and Souaïbou Farougou. Sero-Prevalence of Rift Valley Fever and Brucellosis in Cattle of Northern Benin, West Africa. American Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 17 (4). DOI : 10.3844/ajavsp.2022.267.273

Abortive diseases such as Brucellosis and Rift Valley Fever are among the major constraints for ruminant breeding due to the economic losses they cause for the animal keepers and the risk of human and environmental contamination. A serological study was conducted, from August to October 2021, in the commune of Malanville to assess the prevalence of the two diseases in Northern Benin. 92 blood samples were randomly collected from 7 farms that acknowledge abortion occurrence within the last 12 months. The sera resulting from collected blood samples were tested for Rift Valley Fever virus and Brucella antibodies using the competition ELISA. The results showed that 13.04 and 17.39% of the samples were positive for Rift Valley Fever and brucellosis respectively. This indicates that although there is no official reported outbreaks of Rift Valley Fever in Benin, the virus is circulating among the livestock population. Therefore to control the disease spread and protect the livestock keepers and animal source food consumers' health, all the stakeholders including animal and human health experts, researchers, policy makers, relevant ministries, and livestock keepers must develop a participatory control program of the disease for the years to come using a One Health approach.

Publication N°24: Kétomon Pierre Challaton, Kadoéito Cyrille Boko, Coovi Guénolé Akouedegni, Goué Géorcelin Alowanou, Aboudou Habirou Kifouly , and Mawulé Sylvie Hounzangbé-Adoté. Common Infectious and Parasitic Diseases in Goats of Tropical Africa and their Impacts on Production Performance: A Review. World's Veterinary Journal, 13(3): 425-440, September 25, 2023. DOI: 10.54203/scil.2023.wvj47

Available scientific studies on goat diseases in tropical Africa are limited to specific regions or specific diseases. This study aimed to review scientific research findings on goat diseases in tropical Africa, focusing on their prevalence and impacts on production performance. All main diseases, such as parasitic, viral, and bacterial diseases, are included in the present study. Studies conducted in different countries have revealed high prevalence rates of gastrointestinal parasites exceeding 95%. These parasites resulted in growth retardation and reduced carcass weight at slaughter. Management of mites could decrease production and reproductive function. Trypanosomiasis led to decreased hematocrit levels, abortions, low birth weight, and high kid mortality. The prevalence of trypanosomiasis has been different across regions, ranging from 2.95% to 57.1%. Peste des Petits Ruminants has been reported in many African countries, causing significant outbreaks with seroprevalence rates ranging from 30% to 55%. Rift Valley fever was characterized by high mortality in adult goats (20-30%) and numerous abortions 2 weeks after infection, with seroprevalence rates ranging up to 25.8%. Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia indicated high morbidity (approximately 100%) and high mortality (80% to 100%), with prevalence ranging from 22% to 39% in abattoirs and from 35% to 52% in farms. Brucellosis did not affect the weight of infected animals but reduced litter size in goats and disrupts vital organs. This review highlights the extent of goat diseases in tropical Africa to determine the most appropriate prevention and control strategies.

Publication N°25: Cyrille K. Boko, Ange-Régis Zoclanclounon, Camus M. Adoligbe, Hebert Dedehouanou , Marguéritte M'Po , Samuel Mantip , and Souaïbou Farougou. Molecular diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis on postmortem carcasses during routine meat inspection in Benin: GeneXpert® testing to improve diagnostic scheme. Veterinary World, 15(10). DOI : 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2506-2510

Materials and Methods
A total of 40 tissue samples were collected from meat/viscera (lung, liver, heart, kidney, and the gastro-intestinal tract tissues) at Cotonou slaughterhouses from ruminants suspected to be infected with bovine TB during routine meat inspection. The collected samples were analyzed using GeneXpert testing technique as a reference method.
Results
Twenty-six samples tested positive out of the 40 suspected tissue samples collected by GeneXpert diagnostic technique; this shows the limitation of the routine meat inspection in detecting bovine TB as currently performed in Benin.
Conclusion
The outcome of the use of the molecular technique, therefore, supports the importance of the use of a molecular tool alongside the routine meat inspection for a better understanding of the epidemiology of bovine TB in Benin. However, more robust technical and policy efforts are needed for a sustainable implementation of such a strategy.

Publication N°26: Kétomon Pierre Challaton, Coovi Guénolé Akouedegni, Kadoéito Cyrille Boko, Goué Géorcelin Alowanou Pascal Venant Houndonougbo, Abudou Habirou Kifouly, Mawulé Sylvie Hounzangbé-Adoté. Evaluation of the Gastrointestinal Parasite Burden of Goats in Traditional Breeding in Benin. Journal of Animal Health and Production 11(2),144. DOI : 10.17582/journal.jahp/2023/11.2.144.154

Goat farming in Benin is traditional. In this system, animals harbor parasites that cause economic losses related to growth and reproduction performance, which strongly affect farm productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the gastrointestinal parasite burden of goats in Benin. Thus, feces were sampled from 572 and 497 goats in the rainy and dry seasons, respectively, in southern, central and northern Benin. The parasite inventory was performed using the Mini-FLOTAC technique for the quantitative study and the Baermann method for the qualitative research. The results showed an overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of 96.82%. Furthermore, goats were mainly infected with Coccidia (92.24%); strongyles (83.91%), of which the critical genera were Haemonchus spp, Trichostrongylus spp, and Oesophagostomum spp; Strongyloides spp (73.25%) followed by Moniezia spp (21.8%). Other gastrointestinal parasites retrieved were Trichuris spp (0.94%) and Toxocara spp (0.28%). Infestation rates and the number of Eggs Per Gram of feces (EPG) were higher in the wet season than in the dry season. During the wet season, infestations were severe for strongyles, Moniezia spp, coccidian, and moderate for Strongyloides spp and light during the dry season except for Coccidia, where they were intense. Infestation rates and egg excretion of gastrointestinal parasites were shaped by age, sex, breed, and study areas. This knowledge of gastrointestinal parasites will help guide the surveillance of goat parasitosis in Benin.

Publication N°27: Kétomon Pierre Challaton, Coovi Guénolé Akouedegni, Goué Géorcelin Alowanou, Kadoéito Cyrille Boko, Fréjus Tanguy Ablô Zinsou, Amos Gilles-Christ Akakpo, Abiodoun Pascal Olounladé, Mawulé Sylvie Hounzangbé-Adoté. Traditional Herbal Medicine and its Prospects among Goat Breeders of Benin. Journal of Veterinary Physiology and Pathology, 2(3), 32-41. DOI: 10.58803/jvpp.v2i3.28

Introduction
The use of traditional medicinal plants for the treatment of diseases in livestock farming is a common practice in Benin. Various ethnoveterinary studies have documented plants that livestock farmers use to treat animal diseases. However, these studies have been limited mainly to inventorying these plants, without exploring farmers' perceptions on the use of these plants to promote the sustainable use of medicinal plants. The current study aimed to fill this gap by gathering farmers' views on the use of traditional herbal medicines.
Materials and methods
A structured survey was conducted from February to April 2023 in the southern, central, and northern regions of Benin. This survey targeted 480 goat farmers who actively engage in veterinary phytotherapy practices. Data were collected through random individual interviews with farmers. The interviews focused on the socio-cultural characteristics of the farmers, their motivations for using medicinal plants, the different forms of preparation, the plant efficacy, the difficulties encountered when using them, and prospects for improvement using open-ended, multiple-choice, and yes/no questions.
Results
There were three distinct groups of goat farmers based on their opinions on the use of traditional herbal medicines and their socio-demographic characteristics. Group 1 consisted mainly of married and illiterate men. Group 2 was predominantly composed of married and educated men. Group 3 consisted mainly of married men, with a slightly higher illiteracy rate compared to Group 2. Group 1 used plants due to their easy accessibility and knowledge acquired since childhood, while groups 2 and 3 used them due to the high cost of conventional medicines and the perceived effectiveness of herbal medicine. Group 1 mainly used decoctions and powders, group 2 utilized powders, macerations, and trituration, and group 3 used raw preparations, decoctions, and macerations. All three groups agreed on the widely recognized efficacy of medicinal plants. Nevertheless, they encountered difficulties concerning conserving traditional herbal remedies and the imprecision of dosage. All three groups expressed a willingness to explore new forms of traditional herbal medicines, such as suspensions and tablets, prioritizing efficacy, availability, and affordability.
Conclusion
The results indicated that all three groups of goat breeders expressed a willingness to use herbal medicines. However, they prefer suspensions and tablets of herbal medicines rather than other forms. In addition, prioritizing efficacy, availability, and affordability are notable for using herbal medicine in current study farmers. These results offer prospects for improving traditional herbal medicines.

Publication N°28: Philibert Dougnon, Victorien Dougnon, Boris Legba, Kafayath Fabiyi, Arnaud Soha, Hornel Koudokpon, Kevin Sintondji, Esther Deguenon, Gildas Hounmanou, Carlos Quenum, Taératou Aminou, Richard Lokossou, Innocent Togla , Cyrille Boko, Bruno Djossa, Françoise Assogba komlan and Lamine Baba moussa. Antibiotic profling of multidrug resistant pathogens in one-day-old chicks imported from Belgium to Benin. BMC Veterinary Research, 19:17. DOI : 10.1186/s12917-023-03570-y

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 blaTEM 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.

Publication N°29: Akotowanou OCA., Adjou ES, Sessou P, Kougblenou DS, Olubi AB, Michels F, Dahouenon Ahoussi E, Yessoufou A, Bankolé H, Fauconnier M-L, Sohounhloué KCD. Antifungal Properties of Pimenta racemosa (Mill.) and Mentha x piperita (L.) Essential Oils against Fusarium oxysporum Causing Tomato Fruit Rot. Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology, 26 (11), 50-59. https://orbi.uliege.be/handle/2268/310543

Fungal pathogens are responsible for the rot of tomatoes and cause health hazards to consumers as well as economic loss. The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of essential oils from Pimenta racemosa (Mill.) and Mentha x piperita (L.) leaves as plant-based fungicide against Fusarium oxysporum strains associated with tomato rot. The chemical composition of the essential oils was determined by GC-MS analysis. Antifungal effects of essential oils against strain of F. oxysporum obtained from rotted tomato, were evaluated through the determination of Minimal Fungicide Concentration (MFC) and the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). Results indicated that β-myrcene (19.48%), chavicol (15.39 %), and eugenol (46.65%) were the major components of the essential oil of Pimenta racemosa (Mill.). L-menthone (17.19 %), menthol (24.79%), and menthofuran (26.78 %) were the major components of the essential oil of Mentha x piperita (L.). Essential oil of Pimenta racemosa (Mill.) exhibited the highest antifungal activity against the growth of Fusarium oxysporum strain tested with a MIC and MFC of 0.75 and 1.25 μl.ml-1 respectively. These results provide an experimental basis for further research on the use of these plant extracts in the development of eco-friendly preservatives against fungi causing rots of tomato in post-harvest.

Publication N°30: Séko Orou B.M.T, Komagbé G., Dossou W.A., Benon Monra A., Farougou S., Clinquart A., Poncelet M., Mongbo R.L. Fulani cheese “Wagashi gassire” market tested by covid-19 in Benin. American Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Research, 7(7), 121-130.

This research aims to analyze the effect of the “Coronavirus Disease 2019” pandemic Covid-19 on the commercial practices of the WG in the township of Nikki and Dassa-Zoumé. The result appears that the barrier measures put in place by the Beninese government to limit the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the WG trading system. They have led to an increase in the price of transport, which has also caused a scarcity of customers on the arteries, a drop in demand and, in turn, a collapse in daily income and, finally, the interruption of savings. Faced with these upheavals, several strategies have been adopted, the main ones are the reduction of product prices (29%) at Dassa and (40%) at Nikki and the extension of the payment period (30% at Dassa and 47% at Nikki) to Wagashi Gassirè Suppliers.
2022

Publication N°1: Adehan S. B., Kounonzo M. L., Badarou K. O., Adehan W. A. A., Kande S., Yacoubou T. M., Akpo Y., Boko K. C., Dossou-Gbété G. S. O., Madder M. & Farougou S. A double monstrosity in the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus: description of a first teratological case identified in Benin in West Africa. International Journal of Acarology, 2022, 48: 523-524. https://doi.org/10.1080/01647954.2022.2114546

A total of 5329 ticks were collected from 85 dogs in three different municipalities of Benin in West Africa. Among the species of Rhipicephalus sanguineus collected in Abomey-Calavi, the presence of a specimen with double monstrosities was revealed. The abnormal tick is a male with four pairs of legs, but the body is double lobed at the back. It has four spiracular plates, two of which are at the base at the level of the festoons and two others at the level of the fourth coxae. The specimen also has two symmetrical anal orifices, each surrounded by two adanal plates and two accessory plates, leading up to a single genital orifice. This specimen contributes to the growing database of teratological ticks.

Publication N°2: Yessinou RE, Adehan S, Hedegbetan GC, Cassini R, Mantip SE, Farougou S. Molecular characterization of Rickettsia spp., Bartonella spp., and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in hard ticks collected from wild animals in Benin, West Africa. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2022, 54(5):306. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-022-03286-5

Tick and tick-borne pathogens constitute a growing veterinary and public health concern around the world. Ticks are considered natural reservoirs for tick-borne related pathogens and are equally responsible for the spread of infections in animals as well as humans. In this study, the presence of Rickettsia, Bartonella, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum was investigated in hard ticks collected from reptiles, birds, and wild mammalian animals. The sample collection was carried out between December 2020 and September 2021. Adult ticks (male and female) were collected from wild animals in six districts of southern Benin. Molecular analysis was used to verify the presence of pathogens in all the ticks collected from wild animals. A total of 504 ticks were collected and grouped into 115 different tick pools. The PCR analysis detected 19 out of 115 tick pools which turn out positive for Rickettsia spp. and 9/115 tick pools positive for Bartonella spp., while Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was not detected in any tick. Several of the tick species collected from our studied reptiles/wild mammalian animals could be potential sources of zoonotic pathogens when subjected to further investigation. Therefore, stringent attention should be established for tick infestation of reptiles/wild mammalian animals in order to put in place proper control and prevention measures for tick-borne diseases in the wild, which could serve as reservoirs in the infestation of domestic animals/humans in the event of any possible contact.

Publication N°3: Yessinou RE, Cazan CD, Bonnet SI, Farougou S, Mihalca AD. Geographical distribution of hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and tick-host associations in Benin, Burkina-Faso, Ivory-Coast and Togo. Acta Tropica 2022, 232:106510. doi: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106510.

Knowledge of ticks and associated pathogens is crucial to assess the risk of exposure of humans and animals to pathogens. For this review, we collected relevant data from published articles and field collections to provide an update on the biodiversity of ticks, and tick-host associations in four countries of West Africa: Benin, Burkina-Faso, Ivory-Coast, and Togo. The literature review was done according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was limited to literature published from 1953 to 2021 in English and French sources. Out of 104 articles retrieved, only 41 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The final database included a total of 53,619 adults, nymphs and larval ticks belonging to 24 species and five genera (Amblyomma, Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma, Ixodes and Rhipicephalus) that were collected from 23 different species of wild and domestic animals. This is the first record of Ixodes aulacodi and Rhipicephalus simpsoni in Benin, together with two new host records for A. latum. This checklist allows an update on tick-host associations and provides information on the diversity of ticks in West Africa.

Publication N°4: Yessinou RE, Katja MS, Heinrich N, Farougou S. Prevalence of Coxiella-infections in ticks -review and meta-analysis. Ticks Tick Borne Dis. 2022, 13(3):101926. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.101926

Q fever is a global zoonotic infection caused by the intracellular Gram-negative bacterium Coxiella burnetii. Historically, it is considered a vector-borne disease, but the role of ticks in transmission has not fully been elucidated yet. Excretion of C. burnetii in tick feces and saliva is well documented but the role of these findings or the epidemiological context is discussed controversially. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of C. burnetii DNA in ticks to clarify the potential role of tick species for maintenance of C. burnetii infection. A literature review was performed using Google scholar, Agora, Science Direct, PubMed and Scopus to identify original studies on C. burnetii DNA presence in ticks. The search was limited to literature published from 2009 to 2020 in English and French and focused on data obtained by molecular detection of C. burnetii DNA in ticks. Overall, the prevalence of C. burnetii in ticks collected in Africa varied from 2.91% to 13.97%, in Europe from 2.46% to 10.52% and the Middle East from 4.76% to 12.53%. Ticks collected from animals showed a prevalence of 8% (95% CI: 6%-10%), followed by ticks collected from the environment and animals of 7% (95% CI: 5%-10%). C. burnetii DNA has been found in samples of many tick species with the highest prevalence in Rhipicephalus evertsi and Amblyomma variegatum. However, most of these studies did not include a differentiation between C. burnetii and Coxiella-like endosymbionts making it finally difficult to estimate the potential role that ticks play in the epidemiology of Q fever. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the vector competence of different tick species to transmit C. burnetii. Knowledge of the vector and reservoir competence of ticks is important for taking adequate preventive measures to limit infection risks.

Publication N°5: Zannou OM, Da Re D, Ouedraogo AS, Biguezoton AS, Abatih E, Yao KP, Farougou S, Lempereur L, Vanwambeke SO, Saegerman C. Modelling habitat suitability of the invasive tick Rhipicephalus microplus in West Africa. Transbound Emerg Dis. 2022, 69(5):2938-2951. https://doi.org/10.1111/tbed.14449

Ticks have medical and economic importance due to their ability to transmit pathogens to humans and animals. In tropical and sub-tropical countries, tick-borne diseases (TBD) are among the most important diseases affecting livestock and humans. The fast spread of ticks and TBD requires a quick development and application of efficient prevention and/or control programs. Therefore, prior investigations on TBD and related vectors epidemiology, for instance, through accurate epidemiological models, are mandatory. This study aims to develop models to forecast suitable habitat for Rhipicephalus microplus distribution in West Africa. Tick occurrences were assembled from 10 different studies carried out in six West African countries in the past decade. Six statistical models (maximum entropy in a single model and generalised linear model, generalised additive model, random forest, boosted regression tree and support vector machine model in an ensemble model) were applied and compared to predict the habitat suitability of R. microplus distribution in West Africa. Each model was evaluated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), the true skill statistic (TSS) and the Boyce index (BI). The selected models had good performance according to their AUC (above .8), TSS (above .7) and BI (above .8). Temperature played a key role in MaxEnt model, whereas normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) was the most important variable in the ensemble model. The model predictions showed coastal countries of West Africa as more suitable for R. microplus. However, some Sahelian areas seems also favourable. We stress the importance of vector surveillance and control in countries that have not yet detected R. microplus but are in the areas predicted to host suitable habitat. Indeed, awareness-raising and training of different stakeholders must be reinforced for better prevention and control of this tick in these different countries according to their status.

Publication N°6: Agani Agani Z, Pomalegni S CB, Akouedegni C G, Boko K C, Bello Orou D, Dossou J, Babatounde S. Ethnoveterinary study of galactogenic recipes used by ruminant breeders to improve milk production of local cows in Benin Republic. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2022, 285:114869. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2021.114869

Ethnopharmacological relevance
In Benin, traditional recipes are used to improve livestock dairy performance, but they are not sufficient documented. The study aimed to inventory the galactogenic recipes used by herders to improve production in cow farming. Aim of the study: The study aimed to inventory the galactogenic recipes used by herders to improve production in cow farming.
Material and methods
We conducted semi-structured interviews among 65 peuls camps, 4 bioclimatic zones, and 565 farmers dialogue partners, including agro-pastoralist, healers and pastoralists from the rainy season April and May 2019. Detailed information about homemade herbal remedies of galactogenic recipes (plant species, plant part, manufacturing process) and the corresponding use reports (dialogue partner, category of use and route of administration) was collected. Then other to classify the various recipes identified into homogeneneous groups according to their effectiveness in stimulating milk, a numerical classification was carried out on the recipes taking into account the milk gain.
Results
They showed that Peuls and Gandos sociocultural groups have a better knowledge of galactogenic recipes. Of the 295 recipes inventoried, 102 frequently cited recipes were divided into two groups. Group 2, consisting of 16 recipes, had a significantly (p < 0.001) higher milk yield than group 1. Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. and Arachis hypogaea L. were the main ingredients of the recipes (respectively 56 and 31% of incorporation rate). The composition of the recipes varied according to the agro-ecological zones. Herders in Northern Benin used more recipes based on Bobgunnia madagascariensis (Harms) J.H.Kirkbr. & Wiersema, Saba comorensis (Bojer ex A.DC.) Pichon and Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton. Those in Southern Benin mainly used recipes based on Gardenia aqualla associated with Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp or Arachis hypogaea L.. To improve the effectiveness of galactogenic recipes, socio-cultural and magical-religious practices are used when procuring the plant material to be used, preparing the galactogen and administering the recipe to the animals. These include pronounced incantations or recited Koranic verses. The most commonly used route of administration is the oral route with an average treatment duration not exceeding 5 days.
Conclusion
The study reveals that the majority of breeders (90%) opt for the use of galactogenic plants rather than synthetic products to improve milk production.

Publication N°7: Djimènou D, Edénakpo AK, Adoligbé CM, Eto VL, Osei-Amponsah R, Koudandé DO. Assessment of phenotypic diversity within Goliath chickens population in Benin. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2022, 54(6):359. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-022-03338-w

Goliath chickens are a new strain of poultry that originated in the department of Zou, commune of Agbangnizoun in the Republic of Benin. The characteristics of this chicken strain have not been well studied. The purpose of this study was to characterize the phenotypic diversity of Goliath chickens in departments of Zou and Couffo. A total of 140 birds made up of 92 females and 48 males were sampled using 18 morphological descriptors. The results showed a wide variation in plumage colour within overall population with the most dominant being black (18.57%), white (17.14%) and red (16.43%). Black (21.74%) and white (20.65%) plumage dominated in females and red in males (35.42%). Coloured beaks and shanks were common in both chicken sexes. Yellow eyes were more common in females (63.04%), while red eyes were the most prevalent in males (43.75%). Comb and wattle colours were red in both sexes. Morphometrically, sexual dimorphism is very marked most of the body measurements with male birds being significantly superior. The average body weight was 3.26 kg in males and 2.78 kg in females. The population was clustered in three morphotypes according to the gradient size. Chickens from Bohicon and Agbangnizoun on the one hand, and those from Zagnanado and Toviklin on the other, formed groups 1 and 2, respectively, while group 3 included individuals from Djidja. 77.96% of observed diversity was due to variation between individuals. Molecular characterization is recommended for a thorough knowledge of the Goliath chicken strain of Benin.

Publication N°8: Dossou A, Seko-Orou BMT, Komagbe SG, Sessou P, Youssao I, Farougou S, Hounhouigan J, Mahillon J, Mongbo R, Poncelet M, Madode YE, Douny C, Scippo ML, Clinquart A, Azokpota. Processing and preservation methods of Wagashi Gassirè, a traditional cheese produced in Benin. Heliyon. 2022 Sep 14;8(9):e10605. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10605

Purpose
Wagashi Gassirè (WG) is a traditional cheese produced from cow milk following local processing methods in Benin. The aim of this study was to describe the milk processing methods and the preservation practices with the objective of improving WG production and sanitary quality.
Methods
A survey was carried out among 390 actors (84 dairy farmers, 165 producers, 53 traders, and 88 consumers) from two municipalities (Dassa and Nikki) in Benin.
Results
WG is highly preferred by consumers for its whiteness (63.0%), softness (24.7%), smoothness (19.2%), and firmness (13.7%). WG production is based on the coagulation of milk using Calotropis procera extracts as coagulant. Six milk processing methods, including three new WG production methods were identified, depending on how the C. procera extracts were pre-treated and used during WG production. Boiling (67%) was the most widely used as WG preservation method. The use of aluminium cooking pots (100% of WG producers), WG open-air production (66.7% of producers) and antibiotic misuse (59.3% of dairy farmers) may lead to the chemical or microbiological contamination of WG.
Conclusions
Six WG production and six preservation methods were identified after the survey among WG producers and traders. Future studies should assess the sanitary and physico-chemical quality of WG from the identified processing and preservation methods. The next step of research should be also focused on the development of specific standards to produce a better quality of WG.

Publication N°9: Ngarka L, Siewe Fodjo JN, Njamnshi WY, Ditekemena JD, Ahmed MAM, Wanyenze RK, Dula J, Sessou P, Happi CT, Nkengasong JN, Colebunders R, Njamnshi AK. Adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures in Sub-Saharan Africa during the 1st year of the pandemic: Pooled analysis of the International Citizen Project on COVID-19 (ICPCovid) surveys. Fronters in Public Health. 2022 Nov 8;10:1020801. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.1020801

Introduction
While most governments instituted several interventions to stall the spread of COVID-19, little is known regarding the continued observance of the non-pharmaceutical COVID-19 preventive measures particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We investigated adherence to these preventive measures during the initial 6 months of the COVID-19 outbreak in some SSA countries.
Methods
Between March and August 2020, the International Citizen Project on COVID-19 consortium (www.icpcovid.com) conducted online surveys in six SSA countries : Benin, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Somalia, and Uganda. A five-point individual adherence score was constituted by scoring respondents' observance of the following measures: mask use, physical distancing, hand hygiene, coughing hygiene, and avoiding to touch one's face. Community behaviors (going to public places, traveling during the pandemic) were also assessed. Data were analyzed in two time periods: Period 1 (March-May) and Period 2 (June-August).
Results
Responses from 26,678 respondents were analyzed (mean age: 31.0 ± 11.1 years; 54.1% males). Mean individual adherence score decreased from 3.80 ± 1.37 during Period 1, to 3.57 ± 1.43 during Period 2; p < 0.001. At the community level, public events/places were significantly more attended with increased travels during Period 2 compared to Period 1 (p < 0.001). Using linear mixed models, predictors of increased individual adherence included: higher age (Coef = 0.005; 95% CI: 0.003-0.007), female gender (Coef = 0.071; 95% CI: 0.039-0.104), higher educational level (Coef = 0.999; 95% CI: 0.885-1.113), and working in the healthcare sector (Coef = 0.418; 95% CI: 0.380-0.456).
Conclusion
Decreasing adherence to non-pharmaceutical measures over time constitutes a risk for the persistence of COVID-19 in SSA. Younger persons and those with lower education levels constitute target groups for improving adherence to such measures.

Publication N°10: Pengpid S, Peltzer K, Sathirapanya C, Thitichai P, Faria de Moura Villela E, Rodrigues Zanuzzi T, de Andrade Bandeira F, Bono SA, Siau CS, Chen WS, Hasan MT, Sessou P, Ditekemena JD, Hosseinipour MC, Dolo H, Wanyenze RK, Nelson Siewe Fodjo J, Colebunders R. Psychosocial Factors Associated With Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures in Low-Middle- Income Countries, December 2020 to February 2021. International Journal of Public Health. 2022 May 11;67:1604398. https://doi.org/10.3389/ijph.2022.1604398

Objectives
To investigate psychosocial factors associated with adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Methods
This online cross-sectional survey included 10,183 adults (median age 45 years) from nine LMICs. Participants were asked about adhering to four COVID-19 preventive measures (physical distancing, wearing a face mask, hand, and cough hygiene); a composite adherence score was calculated, ranging from 0-4 positive responses. Psychosocial measures included worry, anxiety, depression, social and demographic, and COVID-19 related factors.
Results
Factors associated with adherence to more preventive measures included being a participant from Malaysia or Bangladesh, older age, higher education, belonging to the healthcare sector (either as or worker), having health personnel as a trusted source of COVID-19 information/advice, possessing correct COVID-19 knowledge, worry or fear about being (re)infected with COVID-19, and screening negative for general anxiety symptoms.
Conclusion
Moderate to high adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures was found, with significant variations across countries. Psychosocial factors (worry, anxiety, knowledge, education, age, and country) seemed determinant in predicting the number of measures to which participants adhered.

Publication N°11: Pengid S, Peltzer K, de Moura Villela EF, Fodjo JNS, Siau CS, Chen WS, Bono SA, Jayasvasti I, Hasan MT, Wanyenze RK, Hosseinipour MC, Dolo H, Sessou P, Ditekemena JD, Colebunders R. Using Andersen's model of health care utilization to assess factors associated with COVID-19 testing among adults in nine low-and middle-income countries: an online survey. BMC Health Services Research 2022 Feb 28;22(1):265. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-022-07661-8

Background
This study aimed to investigate, using Andersen's model of health care utilization, factors associated with COVID-19 testing among adults in nine low- and middle- income countries.
Methods
In between 10 December 2020 and 9 February 2021, an online survey was organized in nine low- and middle-income countries. In total 10,183 adults (median age 45 years, interquartile range 33-57-years, range 18-93 years), including 6470 from Brazil, 1738 Malaysia, 1124 Thailand, 230 Bangladesh, 219 DR Congo, 159 Benin, 107 Uganda, 81 Malawi and 55 from Mali participated in the study. COVID-19 testing/infection status was assessed by self-report.
Results
Of the 10,183 participants, 40.3% had ever tested for COVID-19, 7.3% tested positive, and 33.0% tested negative. In an adjusted logistic regression model, predisposing factors (residing in Brazil, postgraduate education), enabling/disabling factors (urban residence, higher perceived economic status, being a student or worker in the health care sector, and moderate or severe psychological distress), and need factors (having at least one chronic condition) increased the odds of COVID-19 testing. Among those who were tested, participants residing in Bangladesh, those who had moderate to severe psychological distress were positively associated with COVID-19 positive diagnosis. Participants who are residing in Malaysia and Thailand, and those who had higher education were negatively associated with a COVID-19 positive diagnosis. Considering all participants, higher perceived economic status, being a student or worker in the health sector, and moderate or severe psychological distress were positively associated with a COVID-19 positive diagnosis, and residing in Malaysia, Thailand or five African countries was negatively associated with a COVID-19 positive diagnosis.
Conclusion
A high rate of COVID-19 testing among adults was reported in nine low-and middle-income countries. However, access to testing needs to be increased in Africa. Moreover, COVID-19 testing programmes need to target persons of lower economic status and education level who are less tested but most at risk for COVID-19 infection.

Publication N°12: Bono SA, Siau CS, Chen WS, Low WY, Faria de Moura Villela E, Pengpid S, Hasan MT, Sessou P, Ditekemena JD, Amodan BO, Hosseinipour MC, Dolo H, Siewe Fodjo JN, Colebunders R. Adults' Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccine for Children in Selected Lower- and Middle-Income Countries. Vaccines (Basel). 2022,10(1):11. https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10010011

Since emergency approval of COVID-19 vaccines for children aged between 12 and 15 years old was recently obtained in the United States and Europe, we aimed to assess the willingness to vaccinate children with a COVID-19 vaccine in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Therefore, we launched an online cross-sectional survey in several LMICs. Questions relating to socio-demographic information, knowledge of COVID-19, level of fear/worry of being infected with COVID-19, and willingness to vaccinate children with the COVID-19 vaccine at 50%, 75% and 95% effectiveness levels, were asked. Of the 6571 participants (mean age = 39 ± 14 years), 64.0%, 72.6%, and 92.9% were willing to vaccinate children at 50%, 75%, and 95% effectiveness levels, respectively. Respondents who were undergraduates, who were more worried/fearful about COVID-19, had higher knowledge scores regarding COVID-19, and a higher belief that COVID-19 vaccination is important to protect others, were more willing to accept COVID-19 vaccination of children. COVID-19 vaccination of children will limit the spread of the virus, especially in schools; it may decrease the need for school closures which has a negative effect on child development. Findings from this study are useful for health promotion strategies during COVID-19 vaccination implementation among children in LMICs.

Publication N°13: Yaovi AB, Sessou P, Tonouhewa ABN, Hounmanou GYM, Thomson D, Pelle R, Farougou S, Mitra A. Prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria amongst dogs in Africa: A meta-analysis review. Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research 2022 Oct 10;89(1):e1-e12. https://doi.org/10.4102/ojvr.v89i1.1970

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health threat for both human and veterinary medicine. Increasing evidence suggests that animals are important sources of AMR to humans; however, most of these studies focus on production animals. In order to determine the pattern of AMR in pets, mainly in dogs in Africa, a meta-analysis was performed with AMR studies conducted in African countries and published between January 2000 and January 2021 in four databases: Medline (PubMed), Scopus, Cab abstract and Google Scholar. Seven bacterial strains, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pyogenes, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (SNC) and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius were included in this study. A total of 18 out of 234 indexed articles met the study criteria. The results revealed that multiple bacteria were resistant to various commonly used antibiotics including enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, amoxicillin, clavulanic acid, cotrimoxazole, streptomycin, tetracycline and chloramphenicol. Concerning multidrug resistance, E. coli strains came first with the highest prevalence of 98%, followed by P. aeroginosa (92%) and Salmonella spp. (53%). In contrast, the overall prevalence of multidrug resistance was low for S. aureus (18%) and S. pseudintermedius (25%). It is therefore urgent to find, as soon as possible, alternatives to replace these antibiotics, which have become ineffective in controlling these bacteria in dogs in Africa. Moreover, further metagenomic studies are needed to describe the full resistome and mobilome in dogs regardless of the bacteria.

Publication N°14: Adehan SB, Akpo Y, Badarou KO, Kounonzo ML, Dah-Nouvlessounon D, Kande S, Gbaguidi AM, Mama T, Boko KC, Madder M, Farougou S. Anaplasma phagocytophilum in cattle parasitism in Benin: An emerging pathogen transmitted by ticks. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 18(9), 704-718. https://doi.org/10.5897/AJAR2022.15988

Anaplasma phagocytophilum, a bacterium transmitted by ticks, is responsible for granulocytic anaplasmosis, an emerging zoonosis that has never been reported nor identified previously in Benin and in the West African sub-region. This study is designed not only to investigate the prevalence of the disease and evaluate mortalities recorded at Kpinnou farm after importing Girolando cattle from Brazil in 2014 but also to assess the prevalence of the emerging disease in Benin in the year 2014 period. A total number of 1427 ticks were collected, including 5 ml of blood from each one hundred cattle. Microscopic diagnosis reveals the presence of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) spp., Rhipicephalus microplus, Amblyomma variegatum, Rhipicephalus spp and Hyalomma spp. Blood analysis results reveal the occurrence of 55% positive cases for A. phagocytophilum. Considering the efficiency of the methods, 100% of A. phagocytophilum reported as positive by microscopy appear to be also positive with molecular analysis. PCR has greater sensitivity and specificity even with microscopy showing appreciable specificity. This study concludes that Anaplasma phagocytophilum is the primary suspect responsible for the massive deaths observed in cattle in the study area.

Publication N°15: Adoligbe MC, Akpo GS, Adido S, M'Po M, Zoclanclounon AR, Mantip S, Akpo Y, Farougou S. Journal of Agricultural Science; 14, 2; 2022 https://doi.org/10.5539/jas.v14n2p86

The beta-casein gene is one of the most functional genetic candidate that affect milk quality and composition traits. Among its variants, the A1/A2 are the most common. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the distribution of the Beta-casein gene variants (A1/A2) in three different cattle breeds in order to determine which of the breed produce a better milk for consumers' health. 152 blood samples which comprises 72 (Muturu), 40 (Azawak) and 40 Girolando were used to carry out this study. Genomic DNA was extracted from the blood samples and each variant was subsequently amplified from the extracted DNA samples using an Allele-Specific PCR technique and then confirmed by running the PCR products on 1% agarose gel. The result showed that there were three genotypes (A1A1, A2A1 and A2A2) in the three breeds. The average percentage genotypic frequencies obtained from this study were 42.76%, 31.58% and 25.66% respectively for A1A1, A1A2 and A2A2 genotypes while the percentage allelic frequencies were 58% and 42% respectively for A1 and A2 allele. The genetic parameters of Azawak breed were higher than that of the other breeds, what implies that there was a higher polymorphism and genetic diversity in the Azawak breed in the beta-casein gene compare to the other breeds. The A2 beta-casein variant in milk has been found to be desirable for milk consumer's health and nutrition. This study therefore showed that the Azawak breed provides a good potential for increasing this favorable allele through appropriate breeding techniques of cattle.

Publication N°16: Gagara MH, Sessou P, Dossa FSP, Azokpota P, Youssao IAK, Gouro SA, Farougou S. Hygienic quality of raw and fermented cow milk in the local milk sector of the Liptako-Gourma area in Niger. Vet World. 2022 Jun;15(6):1541-1549. doi: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1541-1549

Background and Aim
Milk is a food of high nutritional value, which occupies an undeniable place in the human food ration but is an ideal medium for microbial growth. This study aims to assess the hygienic quality of local raw and fermented milk from the Liptako-Gourma region in Niger.
Materials and Methods
We performed physical and bacteriological analyses on 330 samples of bovine milk from local breeds, including 110 individual milk samples (per cow), 110 fermented milk samples, and 110 blended milk samples. The microbiological parameters were determined using standard methods.
Results
The physical analysis revealed temperatures during sample collection for all milk types between 35.2°C and 37.8°C. The average pH of fermented milk varied between 3.16 and 4.92 and those of individual and blended raw milks between 5.42 and 6.98. The titratable acidity varied from 15° to 18.1°D for raw milk and between 59° and 122°D for fermented milk. The average density of individual and blended milks ranged between 1.028 and 1.035. Regionally, milk samples from Tillaberi had a significantly higher aerobic mesophilic germ (GAM) load (7.42 ± 0.53 x 107 Colony-forming unit/mL; p = 0.0025) compared to the Dosso and Niamey regions. The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella spp. were 86.36%, 12.73%, and 20.91%, respectively, in fermented milk. Phenotypic identification pointed toward three genera: E. coli (30.76% ± 0.25%), S. aureus (20.58% ± 0.14%), and Salmonella spp. (2.74 ± 0.04%).
Conclusion
The present data suggest that milk samples collected from three regions in Liptako-Gourma had low quality; further, some of the bacteria identified (E. coli, S. aureus, and Salmonella spp.) could be potential foodborne pathogens.

Publication N°17: Aguidissou ONC, Akpo Y, Adoko AMJ, Adoligbé MC, Koutinhouin GB, Boko KC, Farougou S. Avian Salmonellosis and Colibacillosis: Risk Factors, Antibiotic Resistance, Public Health Impact and Biological Control. International Journal of Poultry Science, 21 (3) : 90-106; 2022. https://doi.org/10.3923/ijps.2022.90.106

Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli are the two leading causes of foodborne bacterial zoonosis in the world. Respectively responsible for avian pullorosis/typhosis and colibacillosis in poultry, these pathogens represent major constraints for the poultry industry (layers, broilers) in the world because of the mortality and economic losses generated. The isolation of multidrug resistant and E. coli strains in poultry farms in several parts of the world reflects the global aspect of the problem. Antibiotics are essential in the treatment and control of these two bacterial diseases. Resistance results in the progressive ineffectiveness of several families of antibiotics, which constitutes a threat to animal health, food safety and public health. This article reviews the various studies conducted on avian salmonellosis and colibacillosis. The antibiotic molecules to which Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli strains are resistant are discussed. The virulence and resistance genes associated with the different serotypes are reported. Finally, the risk factors, the impact on public health and some pyhtotherapeutic solutions are described. A better knowledge of this information will allow the poultry industry to make further progress in the elimination of salmonellosis and avian colibacillosis, the reduction of antibiotic use and the potential public health risks.

Publication N°18: Boko KC, Ibrahim AI, Akpo Y, Alladassi ME, Aguidissou NO, Zoclanclounon A , Farougou S. Sero-Prevalence of Rift Valley Fever and Brucellosis in Cattle of Northern Benin, West Africa. American Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 2022, 17(4), 267-273. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajavsp.2022.267.273

Abortive diseases such as Brucellosis and Rift Valley Fever are among the major constraints for ruminant breeding due to the economic losses they cause for the animal keepers and the risk of human and environmental contamination. A serological study was conducted, from August to October 2021, in the commune of Malanville to assess the prevalence of the two diseases in Northern Benin. 92 blood samples were randomly collected from 7 farms that acknowledge abortion occurrence within the last 12 months. The sera resulting from collected blood samples were tested for Rift Valley Fever virus and Brucella antibodies using the competition ELISA. The results showed that 13.04 and 17.39% of the samples were positive for Rift Valley Fever and brucellosis respectively. This indicates that although there is no official reported outbreaks of Rift Valley Fever in Benin, the virus is circulating among the livestock population. Therefore to control the disease spread and protect the livestock keepers and animal source food consumers' health, all the stakeholders including animal and human health experts, researchers, policymakers, relevant ministries, and livestock keepers must develop a participatory control program of the disease for the years to come using a One Health approach.

Publication N°19: Codjo L., Attakpa EY, Boko CK, Fayalo SS, Tohozin R, Pelebe EOR, Toko II. Bacteria pathogens of the edible frog Hoplobatrachus occipitalis (Gunther, 1858) in the hydrographic basins of Benin. Microbiol Res Int, 2022, 10(1):1-9.

The consumption of the meat of certain animals from the natural environment with an unknown microbiological status exposes humans to more serious zoonoses caused by feared pathogens. The present study was carried out to identify the pathogenic microbiological flora of the edible frog, Hoplobatrachus occipitalis, used as a source of animal protein by several Beninese families, to assess the health quality of this meat. According to ISO 6887-2, the isolation and identification of bacterial species were carried out on a population of 135 specimens of H. occipitalis fished in three hydrographic basins of Benin (Niger, Mono and Ouémé basins). Their analysis revealed a positivity rate of 88.15%. Infection rates varied significantly (p ˂ 0.05) from one basin to another, i.e. 77.78, 88.89 and 97.78% respectively in Ouémé, Niger and Mono. The respective proportions of the bacteria identified were: Aeromonas hydrophila (8.15%), Bacillus anthracis (1.48%), Escherichia coli (3.70%), Enterobacter sp. (21.48%), Klebsiella sp. (4.44%), Proteus sp. (6.67%), Pseudomonas sp. (11.85%), Neisseria sp. (2.22%), Salmonella sp. (0.74%), Shigella sp. (11.11%), Staphylococcus sp. (16.30%). Although the infection rate was higher in the Mono basin, no formidable species were observed in this basin. However, germs such as E. coli were observed in the Ouémé basin, and E. coli, Salmonella sp. and Bacillus anthracis in the populations of the Niger basin. These results showed that the safe consumption of the meat of this edible frog from the natural environment raises a real public health issue given the ever-increasing demand for this meat by consumers. To encourage the consumption of this meat, it is therefore urgent to promote the breeding of this frog in aquaculture operations close to the areas of consumption. The sensitization of potential consumers could limit the risks of food poisoning incurred especially in the event of poor cooking.

Publication N°20: Boko KC, Zoclanclounon AR, Adoligbe MC, Dedehouanou H, M'Po M, Mantip S, Farougou S. Molecular diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis on postmortem carcasses during routine meat inspection in Benin: GeneXpert ®testing to improve diagnostic scheme. Veterinary World, 15(10): 2506-2510; 2022 https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2022.2506-2510

Bovine tuberculosis (TB) is a zoonotic disease of major public health importance, particularly in African countries, where control measures are limited or largely not applied. This study aimed to determine the accuracy of the currently used bovine TB diagnostic method at slaughterhouses in Benin ; this is to contribute to the betterment and improvement in the epidemiological surveillance of the disease in the country. A total of 40 tissue samples were collected from meat/viscera (lung, liver, heart, kidney, and the gastro-intestinal tract tissues) at Cotonou slaughterhouses from ruminants suspected to be infected with bovine TB during routine meat inspection. The collected samples were analyzed using GeneXpert testing technique as a reference method. Twenty-six samples tested positive out of the 40 suspected tissue samples collected by GeneXpert diagnostic technique ; this shows the limitation of the routine meat inspection in detecting bovine TB as currently performed in Benin. The outcome of the use of the molecular technique, therefore, supports the importance of the use of a molecular tool alongside the routine meat inspection for a better understanding of the epidemiology of bovine TB in Benin. However, more robust technical and policy efforts are needed for a sustainable implementation of such a strategy.

Publication N°21: Challaton KP, Boko KC, Akouedegni CG, Alowanou GG, Houndonougbo PV, Hounzangbé-Adoté MS. Elevage traditionnel des caprins au Bénin : pratiques et contraintes sanitaires », Revue d'élevage et de médecine vétérinaire des pays tropicaux. Montpellier, France, 2022, 75(1) : 9-17. https://doi.org/10.19182/remvt.36893

L'essor de l'élevage des caprins au Bénin est limité par des contraintes liées à la santé et aux pratiques d'élevage. L'objectif de l'étude présentée était de connaître l'opinion des éleveurs sur les pathologies circulant dans les élevages traditionnels de caprins au Bénin. Pour cela, une enquête semi-structurée a été conduite en 2019 dans quatre pôles de développements agricoles du Bénin, fondée sur des groupes de discussion et des entretiens individuels menés auprès de 480 éleveurs de caprins. Des données sur les pratiques d'élevage, la gestion sanitaire des animaux et les maladies rencontrées ont été collectées. Les résultats ont montré que les caprins étaient principalement élevés pour l'épargne, et à un moindre degré pour la production de viande et des raisons socioculturelles. Tous les éleveurs enquêtés pratiquaient la divagation au moins une partie de l'année mais, en saison pluvieuse, certains mettaient les animaux au piquet ou les gardaient en semi-claustration. Les principales pathologies animales signalées par les éleveurs étaient la peste des petits ruminants (PPR), la gale, les parasitoses digestives, les maladies respiratoires, la fièvre aphteuse et la trypanosomose. Le contrôle des parasites était réalisé généralement en cas de nécessité et rarement de façon routinière. La vaccination contre la PPR était pratiquée par trois-quarts des éleveurs. L'élevage des caprins au Bénin est lié au système d'élevage traditionnel et de ce fait victime de nombreuses maladies qui limitent son développement. Il serait nécessaire d'approfondir les connaissances sur ces pathologies à travers des études de diagnostic étiologique afin de mieux orienter les objectifs de surveillance de ces pathologies.
2021

Publication N°1: Yessinou E.R., Adoligbe C., Atchade F., Adinci J.,Brahi H.D., SAdehan S., Mantip E.M., Farougou S.. Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Acari: Ixodidae) resistance to deltamethrin in Benin. Veterinary Parasitology: Regional Studies and Reports 26: 100638; ISSN: 2405-9390, DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100638

Introduction
Les ectoparasites infestent les animaux et affectent leur productivité à travers les traumatismes qu'ils créent, leur repas sanguin et les maladies qu'ils transmettent. Tout ceci affecte la rentabilité de l'élevage. Par ailleurs ses ectoparasites ont développé différents mécanismes de résistance dont les mécanismes moléculaires très peu investigués. L'objectif principal de travail est de caractériser la résistance phénotypique et génotypique de la tique du chien Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Acari: Ixodidae) à la delthamethrine.
Méthodologie
Pour atteindre cet objectif, les tiques ont été collectées, identifiées et comptées. Le larval packet test a été utilisé pour l'étude phénotypique tandis que l'étude génotypique a été réalisée par l'extraction d'ADN génomique, l'amplification d'ADN génomique par la réaction de polymérisation en chaîne et la recherche de marqueurs moléculaires génétiques par électrophorèse sur gel d'agarose. Les résultats obtenus ont fait l'objet d'analyse descriptive à partir du logiciel d'analyse statistique R tandis que le logiciel GeneMarker a été utilisé pour l'analyse des données génomiques.
Résultats
Les résultats obtenus ont révélé l'existence de mutation génétique sur la séquence du gène du canal de sodium conduisant à l'obtention de 3 génotypes différents (RR, SR, SS) dont les génotypes résistants (RR).
Conclusion
Ces résultats suggèrent l'alternance des méthodes de lutte pour éviter la mise en place progressive de ce type de mécanisme irréversible de résistance par les tiques.
Mots clés : Tiques, Résistance moléculaire, PCR, Chien, Acaricides, Natitingou

Publication N°2: Adoligbe C., Gangbe R., Adinci J., Mantip S., Farougou S., 2021. Treatment of Girolando cattle dermatophilosis using a combination of different plant extracts in the municipality of Abomey-Calavi, Republic of Benin. Veterinary world 14(10): 2750-2756; ISSN: 0972-8988. DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.2750-2756

Introduction
Dans le cadre du plan de revitalisation de l'agriculture au Bénin par le gouvernement, des efforts ont été déployés sur le terrain pour booster la production des races locales par croisement avec des races bovines améliorées et hautement productives. C'est ainsi que les bovins laitiers de race Girolando connus pour être un produit de croisement Holstein X Gir, ont été importé du Brésil pour le Bénin dans une perspective d'amélioration de la production laitière. Malheureusement, ces bovins sont sensibles aux maladies endémiques et particulièrement à la dermatophilose qui affecte considérablement leur performance de production laitière. En effet, cette maladie induit des éruptions d'aphte au niveau des onglons et de la bouche des bovins. Ceci réduit leur capacité d'ingestion alimentaire et affecte par conséquent leur production laitière. L'objectif de cette étude et de faire un traitement symptomatique des lésions de dermatophilose afin de permettre aux de satisfaire leur besoin de production.
Méthodologie
Deux types mixture constitue d'extrait de plante à effet cicatrisant/bactéricide (mixture1=d'Elaeis guineensis + huile essentielle d'Ocimum gratissimum + sève de Jatropha multifidi; mixture 2= O. gratissimum + extrait de sève de J. multifida) ont été préparés et testés sur huit bovins Girolando présentant des lésions de dermatophilose. Deux parties différentes de la peau affectées par des lésions aiguës de dermatophilose ont été débridées, et 0,5 ml de chaque mixture a été appliqué par centimètre carré d'une seule zone de la peau affectée.
Résultats
Les deux mixtures ont eu un effet cicatrisant significatif par rapport au contrôle (procaïne G pénicilline) sur les lésions. Cependant, la mixture 1, qui était composée d'huile d'Elaeis guineensis, d'huile essentielle d'O. gratissimum et de sève de J. multifida (Linn), a donné un meilleur résultat. Cela a été mis en évidence par l'augmentation du taux de contraction de la plaie et la guérison sans récurrence 2 semaines après la fin de l'expérience de même que la repousse de poils au niveau des zones affectées.
Conclusion
Les résultats obtenus sont encourageant et la mixture 1 pourra être utiliser pour traiter les lésions de dermatophilose chez ces bovins afin de booster leur productivité.
Mots clés : Résilience des agriculteurs, élevage bovin durable, plantes indigènes

Publication N°3: Bono S.A., Faria de Moura V.E., Siau C.S., Chen W.S., Pengpid S., Hasan M.T., Sessou P., Ditekemena J.D., Amodan B.O., Hosseinipour M.C., Dolo H., Siewe Fodjo J.N., Low W.Y., Colebunders R., 2021 Factors Affecting COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance: An International Survey among Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Vaccines, 9(5):515.DOI : 10.3390/vaccines9050515

Introduction
La vaccination devient rapidement une intervention clé contre la pandémie actuelle de COVID-19.
Méthodologie
Nous avons mené des enquêtes transversales en ligne pour étudier l'acceptation du vaccin COVID-19 dans neuf pays à revenu faible ou intermédiaire (PRFM ; N = 10 183), en supposant une efficacité du vaccin de 90 % et 95 %.
Résultats
La prévalence de l'acceptation du vaccin est passée de 76,4% (efficacité de 90%) à 88,8% (efficacité de 95%). Dans l'hypothèse d'un vaccin efficace à 90 %, la Malaisie, la Thaïlande, le Bangladesh et cinq pays africains (République démocratique du Congo, Bénin, Ouganda, Malawi et Mali) présentaient des probabilités d'acceptation inférieures à celles du Brésil. Les personnes qui considéraient qu'il était important de se faire vacciner pour se protéger avaient les chances d'acceptation les plus élevées (aOR 2,49) à une efficacité de 95 %. L'acceptation du vaccin était également associée positivement à la connaissance du COVID-19, à l'inquiétude/la peur concernant le COVID-19, à un revenu plus élevé, à un âge plus jeune et à un test négatif pour le COVID-19. Cependant, les maladies chroniques et le sexe féminin réduisaient les chances d'acceptation du vaccin. Les principales raisons du refus du vaccin étaient la peur des effets secondaires (41,2%) et le manque de confiance dans l'efficacité du vaccin (15,1%).
Conclusion
Des recherches supplémentaires sont nécessaires pour identifier les raisons spécifiques à chaque pays pour l'hésitation à se faire vacciner, afin de développer des stratégies d'atténuation qui garantiraient une couverture vaccinale élevée et équitable dans les PRFM.
Mots clés : COVID-19; acceptation du vaccin; PRFM; personnel de santé; détresse psychologique; Brésil; Malaisie; Thaïlande; Bangladesh; Afrique.

Publication N°4: Mantip SE, Sigismeau A, Nanven M, Joel A, Qasim AM, Aliyu S, Musa I, Ezeanyika O, Faramade I, Ahmed G, Woma TY, Shamaki D, Libeau G, Farougou S, Bataille A., 2021. Wide circulation of peste des petits ruminants virus in sheep and goats across Nigeria. Onderstepoort J Vet Res., 7, e1-e7. doi: 10.4102/ojvr.v88i1.1899.

Introduction
La peste des petits ruminants (PPR) est une maladie virale hautement contagieuse qui touche principalement les chèvres et les moutons en Asie, en Afrique et au Moyen-Orient, et menace l'Europe [R.E.1]. La maladie est endémique sur le continent africain, notamment en Afrique de l'Ouest, et constitue un facteur majeur d'insécurité alimentaire pour les populations à faibles revenus. L'objectif de cette étude était d'effectuer la surveillance, la caractérisation génétique et l'isolement des virus PPR (PPRV) circulant récemment chez les moutons et les chèvres des six zones agro-écologiques du Nigeria.
Méthodologie
Au total, 268 échantillons de tissus post-mortem de poumons et de ganglions mésentériques ont été prélevés sur des moutons et des chèvres cliniquement suspects dans 18 États différents, dont cinq n'avaient jamais été échantillonnés auparavant.
Résultats
La présence du PPRV a été confirmée par un test de transcription inverse couplé à une réaction en chaîne par polymérase (RT-PCR). Au total, 72 échantillons, 17 moutons (6 %) et 55 chèvres (21 %), se sont révélés positifs au PPR. Les échantillons positifs étaient répartis dans presque tous les états, à l'exception de Kano, où la PPR avait été détectée lors d'études précédentes. Les échantillons positifs au PPRV ont été confirmés par séquençage ou isolement du virus dans des zones où l'infection n'avait jamais été détectée auparavant.
Conclusion
Ces résultats confirment la circulation active du PPRV dans les six zones agro-écologiques du Nigeria et, par conséquent, la nécessité d'introduire des mesures strictes pour le contrôle et la prévention de la maladie dans le pays.
Mots clés : Nigeria ; Peste des petits ruminants ; RT-PCR ; morbillivirus ; séquençage ; maladie animale transfrontalière ; isolement du virus.

Publication N°5: Ouedraogo A.S., Zannou O.M., Biguezoton A.S., Patrick K.Y., Belem A.M.G., Farougou S., Oosthuizen M., Saegerman C., Lempereur L., 2021. Efficacy of two commercial synthetic pyrethroids (cypermethrin and deltamethrin) on Amblyomma variegatum and Rhipicephalus microplus strains of the south-western region of Burkina Faso. Trop Anim Health Prod., 14;53(3):402. doi: 10.1007/s11250-021-02849-2.

Introduction
Depuis 2011, période de l'invasion du bétail par la tique du bétail Rhipicephalus microplus au Burkina Faso (BF), les problèmes de lutte contre les tiques ont été exacerbés. Sur la base des rapports des agriculteurs, les acaricides commerciaux les plus couramment utilisés se sont avérés inefficaces dans la partie Ouest-Sud du pays.
Méthodologie
Pour étudier l'occurrence et l'étendue de cette inefficacité acaricide, nous avons réalisé le test standardisé du paquet larvaire (LPT) avec de la deltaméthrine (vectocid) et de la cyperméthrine (cypertop) commerciales, sur deux espèces de tiques du bétail, l'indigène Amblyomma variegatum et l'invasive R. microplus. Les rapports de résistance (RR) ont été calculés avec la souche sensible Hounde de Rhipicephalus geigyi comme référence.
Résultats
La population de R. microplus a montré une résistance aux deux acaricides testés avec les valeurs de concentration létale (CL) les plus élevées, et différents rapports de résistance supérieurs à 4 (deltaméthrine: RR50 = 28,18 et RR90 = 32,41; cyperméthrine: RR50 = 8,79 et RR90 = 23,15). Au contraire, la population d'A. variegatum s'est révélée très sensible aux acaricides testés avec de faibles concentrations létales et des valeurs de rapport de résistance (deltaméthrine: RR50 = 0,5 et RR90 = 0,48; cyperméthrine: RR50 = 0,68 et RR90 = 0,79).
Conclusion
Ces données démontrent une forte résistance aux pyréthrinoïdes de synthèse dans la souche R. microplus, ce qui permet de conclure que l'inefficacité des acaricides dans le contrôle des populations de tiques reste une préoccupation en BF.
Mots-clés : Amblyomma variegatum; Burkina Faso; Cyperméthrine; Deltaméthrine; Rhipicephalus microplus.

Publication N°6: Ouedraogo A.S., Zannou O.M., Biguezoton A.S., Yao K.P., Belem A.M.G., Farougou S., Oosthuizen M., Saegerman C., Lempereur L., 2021. Cross border transhumance involvement in ticks and tick-borne pathogens dissemination and first evidence of Anaplasma centrale in Burkina Faso. Ticks Tick Borne Dis., 12(5):101781. DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101781.

Introduction
En Afrique de l'Ouest, la transhumance transfrontalière, également appelée migration saisonnière, est connue pour être une stratégie de production animale très importante, puisqu'elle concerne environ 70 à 90% du bétail. Malgré les mouvements de bétail, certaines zones stratégiques de la transhumance restent peu explorées en ce qui concerne la recherche de tiques et de leurs pathogènes associés. L'objectif de cette étude est d'évaluer l'implication de la transhumance dans la propagation des tiques du bétail et des pathogènes associés au Burkina Faso (BF) et au Bénin (BN), dans un contexte d'invasion rapide du bétail ouest-africain par Rhipicephalus microplus.
Méthodologie
Une étude longitudinale a été réalisée sur 210 bovins du BF, suivis pour les tiques et les pathogènes transmis par les tiques (TBP) pendant une transhumance saisonnière. Le premier échantillonnage codé "T0BF" a eu lieu dans l'est du BF, au départ de la transhumance. Un deuxième échantillonnage "T1BN" a été réalisé dans le nord du BF, zone d'arrivée de la transhumance. Un troisième échantillonnage "T2BF" a été effectué au retour du bétail dans l'est du BF.
Résultats
Les tiques ont été identifiées morphologiquement et le TBP a été détecté par un test d'hybridation par transfert de ligne inverse (RLB). Un total de 1027 tiques (7 espèces), 1006 tiques (11 espèces) et 1211 tiques (9 espèces) ont été trouvées respectivement à T0BF, T1BN et T2BF. Certaines espèces ont été collectées aux trois moments de l'échantillonnage sans qu'il y ait de différence significative dans leurs abondances relatives. Cependant, d'autres espèces de tiques sont apparues uniquement à T1BN et/ou T2BF. Les espèces de TBP trouvées aux trois points étudiés étaient Theileria annulata, Theileria mutans, Theileria velifera, Babesia bigemina et Anaplasma marginale. La plus répandue était T. mutans avec 166/210 (79%), 159/210 (75,7%) et 78/210 (37%) bovins positifs respectivement à T0BF, T1BN et T2BF. Anaplasma centrale a été mis en évidence avec 0,5% et 0,9% respectivement à T0BF et T2BF. À notre connaissance, il s'agit de son premier rapport dans la zone d'étude.
Conclusion
Dans l'ensemble, les prévalences de TBP étaient significativement plus faibles à T2BF, mettant en évidence l'effet des changements de populations de tiques induits par la transhumance combinés à l'influence des variations saisonnières.
Mots clés : Bénin, Anaplasma centrale; Burkina Faso ; Agents pathogènes transmis par les tiques ; Tiques ; Transhumance.

Publication N°7: Zannou O.M., Ouedraogo A.S., Biguezoton A.S., Abatih E., Coral-Almeida M., Farougou S., Yao K.P., Lempereur L., Saegerman C., 2021. Models for Studying the Distribution of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases in Animals: A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis with a Focus on Africa. Pathogens, 14;10(7):893. DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070893.

Introduction
Les tiques et les maladies transmises par les tiques (MTT) sont des contraintes au développement de l'élevage et induisent des problèmes potentiels de santé humaine. La répartition mondiale des tiques n'est pas homogène. Certains endroits sont écologiquement appropriés pour les tiques mais elles ne sont pas encore introduites dans ces zones. L'absence ou la faible densité d'hôtes est un facteur qui affecte la dissémination du parasite. Pour comprendre le processus d'introduction et de propagation des TTBD dans différentes zones, et prévoir leur présence, les scientifiques ont développé différents modèles (par exemple, des modèles prédictifs et des modèles explicatifs). Cette étude visait à identifier les modèles développés par les chercheurs pour analyser la distribution du TTBD et à évaluer la performance de ces différents modèles par une méta-analyse.
Méthodologie
Une recherche documentaire a été mise en œuvre avec le protocole PRISMA dans deux bases de données en ligne (Scopus et PubMed). Les articles sélectionnés ont été classés selon le pays, le type de modèles et l'objectif de la modélisation. Les données disponibles sur la sensibilité, la spécificité et la précision de ces modèles ont été utilisées pour évaluer leur performance à l'aide d'une méta-analyse.
Résultats
Cent études ont été identifiées dans lesquelles sept genres de tiques ont été modélisés, Ixodes étant le plus fréquemment modélisé. En outre, 13 genres d'agents pathogènes transmis par les tiques ont également été modélisés, Borrelia étant le plus fréquemment modélisé. Vingt-trois modèles différents ont été identifiés et les plus fréquemment utilisés sont le modèle linéaire généralisé qui représente 26,67% et le modèle d'entropie maximale qui représente 24,17%. L'étude de la modélisation de la maladie en Afrique a montré que le genre Rhipicephalus et Theileria parva étaient les plus modélisés. Une méta-analyse sur la qualité de 20 modèles a révélé que l'entropie maximale, l'analyse discriminante linéaire et l'analyse factorielle de la niche écologique présentaient, respectivement, la sensibilité, la spécificité et l'aire sous la courbe les plus élevées parmi tous les modèles sélectionnés. La modélisation du TTBD est très pertinente pour prévoir leur distribution et prévenir leurs effets négatifs sur la santé animale et humaine et sur l'économie.
Conclusion
Les résultats connexes de ces analyses sont utiles pour élaborer des programmes de prévention et/ou de contrôle par les autorités vétérinaires et de santé publique.
Mots clés: Afrique; méta-analyse; modélisation; revue systématique; maladies transmises par les tiques; tiques.

Publication N°8: Ouedraogo A.S., Zannou O.M., Biguezoton A.S., Kouassi P.Y., Belem A., Farougou S., Oosthuizen M., Saegerman C., Lempereur L., 2021. Cattle ticks and associated tick-borne pathogens in Burkina Faso and Benin: Apparent northern spread of Rhipicephalus microplus in Benin and first evidence of Theileria velifera and Theileria annulata. Ticks Tick Borne Dis., 12(4):101733. DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.10173.

Introduction
La babésiose, la theilériose, l'anaplasmose et la cowdriose sont des maladies transmises par les tiques qui menacent la production animale en Afrique sub-saharienne, notamment au Burkina Faso et au Bénin. Depuis plus d'une décennie, ces deux pays limitrophes sont confrontés à une invasion du bétail par la tique Rhipicephalus microplus, vecteur majeur de la babésiose, introduite accidentellement au Bénin en 2004. L'identification moléculaire des agents pathogènes transmis par les tiques dans cette zone frontalière est particulièrement intéressante en raison de la migration saisonnière des animaux entre les deux pays. Dans cette étude, les caractéristiques épidémiologiques des tiques et des pathogènes transmis par les tiques chez les bovins ont été étudiées pour comparer l'est du Burkina Faso, correspondant à une zone de départ de migration saisonnière, et le nord du Bénin, qui représente une zone d'arrivée de migration saisonnière.
Méthodologie
Des tiques et du sang périphérique ont été collectés sur un total de 946 bovins dans les deux zones. Les tiques ont été identifiées morphologiquement et les échantillons d'ADN provenant du sang bovin et des tiques ont été analysés par le procédé d'hybridation RLB (Reverse Line Blot). Un total de 2856 tiques a été collecté sur 490 bovins au Burkina Faso, huit espèces de tiques ont été identifiées, tandis que 3583 tiques ont été collectées sur 456 bovins au Nord Bénin avec neuf espèces de tiques identifiées.
Résultats
La tique invasive, R. microplus, n'a pas été trouvée dans l'est du Burkina Faso, mais on rapporte sa propagation le plus au nord du Bénin. Six espèces d'agents pathogènes transmis par les tiques ont été trouvées dans le sang des bovins tant dans l'est du Burkina Faso que dans le nord du Bénin. Classées par ordre décroissant de prévalences globales, elles sont: Theileria mutans (91,1%), Theileria velifera (77,8%), Babesia bigemina (10,9%), Anaplasma marginale (4,2%), Babesia bovis (3,3%) et Theileria annulata (1,8%).
Cocnlusion
A notre connaissance, cette enquête représente le premier rapport de T. velifera et T. annulata dans la région. Dans l'ensemble, les prévalences de TBP étaient significativement plus élevées dans le nord du Bénin que dans l'est du Burkina Faso, indiquant un risque parasitologique plus élevé dans cette région.
Mots clés : Bénin ; Burkina Faso ; Bovins ; Rhipicephalus microplus ; Agents pathogènes transmis par les tiques ; Tiques.

Publication N°9: : Zannou O.M., Ouedraogo A.S., Biguezoton A.S., Yao K.P., Abatih E., Farougou S., Lenaert M., Lempereur L., Saegerman C., 2021. First tick and tick damage perception survey among sedentary and transhumant pastoralists in Burkina Faso and Benin. Veterinary Medicine and Science, 7(4), 1216-1229. DOI: 10.1002/vms3.414

Background
Transhumance, a main ancestral animal production strategy of the West African Countries (WAC), can favour the spread of vectors and vector-borne diseases within and/or across countries. Transhumance has been implicated in such spread as well as that of related tick-borne diseases (TBD).
Methods and principal findings
Using a questionnaire survey and statistical modelling, this study explores the perception of herders about ticks and TBD in cattle, their practices in tick control and the social groups involved in cattle farming in eastern Burkina Faso (46 random herds) and in the northern Benin (44 random herds). Results show that most of the herders (79%) are from the Fulani social group. The principal and secondary activities of herders are respectively cattle farming and agriculture. The mean age of pastoralists is between 40 and 50 years depending on the province of origin and 60% of the surveyed herds practice internal or transboundary transhumance. Herders have a clear knowledge of different genus of ticks except the genus Rhipicephalus. Their knowledge of TBD is very limited. These results also reveal that herders in Benin use less acaricides treatment calendar compared with those in Burkina Faso. Transhumant pastoralists (i.e. transhumant cattle farmers) plan more acaricide treatment and have more cows with lost teats (i.e. tick damage) than the sedentary ones. In addition, amitraz appears to be the main acaricide compound used by herders for tick control (68%) but its use is inappropriate and its source is frequently the unregulated market.
Conclusions and significance
All of these findings can induce acaricide resistance especially as the inefficacy of amitraz against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus has already been reported in previous studies. Such results would help to elaborate suitable strategies of control and prevention of ticks and TBD in Burkina Faso and Benin.
Keywords : Benin, Burkina Faso, pastoralist, socio-epidemiological, survey, tick-borne diseases, ticks, transboundary diseases, transhumance

Publication N°10: Mantip S., Sigismeau A., Shamaki D., Woma T.Y., Kwiatek O., Libeau G., Farougou S., Bataille A., 2021. Molecular epidemiology of peste des petits ruminants virus in Nigeria: An update. Transbound Emerg Dis., DOI : 10.1111/tbed.14073. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33728807.

Introduction
La peste des petits ruminants (PPR) est une maladie virale hautement contagieuse qui touche principalement les chèvres et les moutons en Asie, en Afrique et au Moyen-Orient. Le virus de la PPR (PPRV) peut être classé en quatre lignées génétiquement distinctes (I, II, III et IV). Toutes ont été historiquement présentes en Afrique, à l'exception de la lignée asiatique IV qui s'est répandue dans le monde et en Afrique au cours des dernières décennies. Des études précédentes ont identifié la présence de la lignée IV au Nigeria depuis 2010.
Méthodologie
Dans la présente étude, des échantillons ont été prélevés sur 429 petits ruminants présentant des symptômes de PPR à travers le Nigéria en 2017-2020 afin de faire le point sur la distribution et la diversité génétique du PPRV dans le pays.
Résultats
Les séquences d'une partie du gène de la nucléoprotéine (N) du PPRV ont été obtenues à partir de 91 échantillons, 90 appartenant à la lignée IV et un à la lignée II. L'analyse phylogénétique a identifié au moins quatre sous-groupes de la lignée IV au Nigeria, regroupant des échantillons de plusieurs régions.
Conclusion
Nos résultats suggèrent une circulation endémique étendue d'un large éventail de souches de PPRV à travers le Nigeria et les frontières avec les pays voisins, soulignant la difficulté de contrôler la maladie dans la région.
Mots-clés: Morbillivirus; Nigeria; Phylogénie; distribution; diversité génétique; maladie transfrontalière.

Publication N°11: Djimènou D., Adoligbé C.M., Aboh A.B., Amagnidé A.G., Osei-Amponsah R., Edénakpo A.K., Tobada P.C., Koudandé D.O., 2021. Assessment of the reproductive performances of native sows in Southern Benin. Translational Animal Science, 5(2) : 1-7. DOI : 10.1093/tas/txab089

Introduction
Les truies de race locale contribuent dans une large mesure à la réduction de la sécurité alimentaire et à la réduction de la pauvreté au Bénin. Cependant, leurs performances reproductives particulièrement dans les systèmes extensifs est mal caractérisées. L'objectif de cette étude était de combler ce manque de connaissances.
Méthodologie
Seuls les éleveurs de porc détenant une fiche d'enregistrement de donnée de reproductions ont été sélectionnés dans 8 zones agro écologiques du Bénin. Les données recueillies auprès de ces éleveurs comprenaient la couleur des poils, la taille de la portée, le nombre de porcelets nés vivants, le nombre de mamelles fonctionnelles, l'âge au premier accouplement, l'âge à la première mise bas, l'intervalle de mise bas, le nombre de porcelets mort-nés et nombre le nombre de porcelets morts avant sevrage. Ces données concernaient 284 truies multipares.
Résultats
Les résultats obtenus ont montré que les truies de race locales du sud du Bénin peuvent être regroupées en trois groupes, le groupe 3 présentant les meilleures performances reproductives, notamment la taille moyenne de la portée (10,31 porcelets), le nombre de porcelets nés vivants (10,31 porcelets), le nombre de trayons fonctionnels (10,94) et un intervalle moyen de mise bas plus court (6 mois). L'analyse des performances des truies en fonction de leur origine a révélé que les truies de la zone agro-écologique 8 ont le nombre de porcelets nés vivants le plus élevé et l'âge le plus bas à la première saillie et à la première mise bas. L'analyse des performances des truies basées sur la couleur du poil a montré que celles qui ont les poils noirs ont la plus grande taille moyenne de la portée et le nombre le plus élevé de porcelets nés vivants.
Conclusion
Cette étude a montré que les truies indigènes du Bénin ont de bonnes aptitudes reproductives variées pouvant être mis à profit en sélection animale pour développer l'industrie porcine pour une meilleure contribution à la sécurité alimentaire et à la création de richesses.
Mots clés : conservation, sélection, intervalle entre les mises bas, taille de la portée.

Publication N°12: Adoligbe C.M., Hounkeala T.B., Djmenou D., Adido S, Osei-Amponsah R, Koudande D., Farougou S., 2021. Muturu Cattle Breed in Benin: Distribution, Phenotypic Diversity, Perception of Cattle Keepers and Implications for the Breed conservation. Genetics and Biodiversity Journal, 6(1):196-218, DOI : 10.46325/gabj

Introduction
Le Bénin à l'instar d'autres pays africains dispose d'une diversité de races bovines, y compris la race lagunaire, pouvant être utilisée pour couvrir durablement les besoins des populations locales en produit d'origine animale dans un contexte d'instabilité climatique et d'existence de pathologies animales endémiques. Sa distribution s'étend le long de la zone côtière et prend en compte le Sud du Bénin, du Nigéria, du Togo, du Ghana, le Libéria et une partie du Cameroun. Le bovin de race Lagunaire est une race naine bien adaptée au milieu tropical humide et aux conditions d'élevage difficiles mais menacée d'extinction à cause des croisements incontrôlés avec les zébus. Au Bénin, bien qu'il ait eu des études précédentes sur les bovins de race lagunaire, celles-ci n'informent pas sur leur statut actuel, leur aire de répartition, les variations phénotypiques et génétiques des différentes populations qui existent et la perception des éleveurs par rapport à la race. Le présent travail répond en partie à cette préoccupation et s'inscrit dans le cadre d'une initiative régionale du Bureau Interafricain des Ressources Animales de l'Union Africaine (AU-IBAR) pour la conservation et la valorisation des ressources génétiques animales africaines.
Méthodologie
Un total de 108 agriculteurs a été interrogé et 216 bovins adultes ressemblant physiquement à des bovins de race lagunaire comme décrit précédemment, ont été échantillonnés dans 6 départements du sud du Bénin répartis sur 4 zones agro-écologiques. Quarante et un (41) caractères qualitatifs ont été évalués et 10 à 11 mesures morphométriques ont été effectuées à l'aide de l'outil de caractérisation, d'inventaire et de gestion des ressources génétiques animales. Les proportions et moyennes obtenues ont été analysées respectivement par analyse de variance et tests Z bilatéraux contenus dans le package Agricola du logiciel d'analyse R.
Résultats
Les résultats ont montré que les mesures morphométriques les plus faibles ont été obtenues chez les animaux du département de l'Ouémé. Ces valeurs étaient similaires à celles rapportées précédemment chez les bovins de race lagunaire. Cependant, les valeurs les plus élevées ont été obtenues sur des animaux des départements du Mono et du Couffo et étaient proches des valeurs rapportées précédemment sur les produits de croisement zébus X taurins. Les résultats du regroupement des troupeaux ont révélé l'existence de sous-groupes dans les populations de bovins de race lagunaire dans le département de l'Atlantique. Sous réserve de confirmation par des tests moléculaires, cette étude a révélé qu'actuellement, les bovins de race lagunaire se trouvent dans les départements de l'Ouémé, du Plateau et de l'Atlantique au Bénin. De plus, les populations les plus pures se trouvent probablement dans le département de l'Ouémé. Le département du Zou n'a presque plus de bovin de race lagunaire et les départements du Couffo et du Mono sont dominés par les produits de croisements Zébu x Muturu.
Conclusion
Il est donc important de concevoir un programme de conservation de la race où elle se trouve encore, car son existence serait probablement liée à son adaptation aux écosystèmes existants et aux préférences des éleveurs et des communautés locales.
Mots-clés : Race endogène, traits adaptatifs, biodiversité, communauté

Publication N°13: Adoligbe C.M., Akpo S.G., Adido S., M'Po M., Zoclanclounon A.R., Mantip S., Akpo Y., Farougou S., 2021. Distribution of the Beta-casein gene variants in three cattle breeds reared in Benin. Journal of Agricultural Science, 14(2), 86-94. ISSN de la revue: 1916-9752/1916-9760, DOI : 10.5539/jas.v14n2p86

Introduction
Au Bénin, le lait et les sous-produits laitiers, en particulier le fromage local populairement connu sous le nom de « Wagashi Gassire », la boisson locale à base de lait également connue sous le nom de « Degue » et le lait caillé sont très appréciés et consommés par la population. La qualité et les propriétés technologiques du lait sont affectées par les protéines qu'il contient dont la bêta-caséine à qui l'on reconnait deux variantes très courantes à savoir le A1 et le A2. Alors que la variante A1 a des effets néfastes sur la santé humaine, la variante A2 est associée à certains avantages pour la santé. Ainsi, le but de cette étude était d'identifier la distribution des variantes du gène de la bêta-caséine (A1/A2) chez trois races bovines différentes, à savoir le lagunaire, l'Azawak et le Girolando afin de déterminer laquelle des races produit un lait de meilleur qualité pour la santé des consommateurs.
Méthodologie
(152) échantillons de sang dont 72 provenant de bovin de race lagunaire, 40 provenant de bovin de race Azawak et 40 provenant de bovin de race Girolando ont été utilisés pour réaliser cette étude. De l'ADN génomique a été extrait des échantillons de sang à l'aide d'un kit d'extraction d'ADN (ZymoBead™, D3004). Chaque variante a ensuite été amplifiée à partir des échantillons d'ADN extraits à l'aide de la technique de PCR à l'allèle spécifique puis révélé sur gel d'agarose à 1 %.
Résultats
Les résultats obtenus ont montré la présence de trois génotypes (A1A1, A2A1 et A2A2) au niveau des trois races. Les pourcentages moyens de fréquences génotypiques obtenus à partir de cette étude étaient de 42,76 %, 31,58 % et 25,66 % respectivement pour les génotypes A1A1, A1A2 et A2A2, tandis que les pourcentages de fréquences alléliques étaient de 58 % et 42 % respectivement pour les allèles A1 et A2. Les paramètres génétiques qui incluent l'hétérozygotie des gènes, le nombre d'allèles effectifs et le contenu en informations sur le polymorphisme de la race Azawak étaient plus élevés que ceux des autres races, ce qui implique qu'il y avait un polymorphisme et une diversité génétique plus élevés au niveau de la race Azawak en ce qui concerne le gène de la bêta-caséine.
Conclusion
La variante A2 de la bêta-caséine dans le lait est souhaitable pour la santé et la nutrition des consommateurs de lait et produits laitiers. Cette étude a donc montré que la race Azawak peut être privilégier si l'on désire augmenter cet allèle favorable à la sélection assistée par marqueur.
Mots clés : élevage, sélection assistée par marqueur, lait, qualité, one health, valeur thérapeutique

Publication N°14: Sessou P, Fodjo J.N.S, Jérôme C.S., Farougou S, Colebunders R., 2021. Assessment of adherence to public health measures and their impact on the COVID-19 outbreak in Benin Republic. West Africa. Pan Afr Med J., 22, 38:293. DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2021.38.293.26843.

Introduction
Suite à l'épidémie mondiale de COVID-19, le gouvernement du Bénin a mis en place des mesures préventives pour freiner la transmission virale. Nous avons cherché à évaluer l'adhésion de la population béninoise à ces mesures préventives, afin d'identifier les prédicteurs d'une mauvaise adhésion et d'adapter la réponse nationale au COVID-19.
Méthodologie
Deux enquêtes en ligne consécutives ont été menées entre mai et août 2020. Quatre cent soixante-deux et 507 participants adultes âgés de 18 ans et plus ont répondu respectivement à la première et à la deuxième enquête avec plus de 70% étant des hommes.
Résultats
Plus de 98 % des répondants ont déclaré porter des masques faciaux. Un score d'adhésion en cinq points a été constitué en notant l'observation des mesures préventives clés (port du masque, distance physique, hygiène des mains, hygiène de la toux et éviter de se toucher le visage). Nous avons observé que les scores moyens d'adhésion étaient assez stables dans le temps, respectivement 4,08 et 4,03 lors de la première et de la deuxième enquête (p=0,439). L'augmentation de l'âge (aOR=1.043, 95% CI : 1.026 - 1.061 ; p<0.001) et l'obtention d'informations sur le COVID-19 à partir de sources officielles (aOR=1.628, 95% CI : 1.275 - 2.081 ; p<0.001) étaient significativement associés à des scores d'adhésion plus élevés dans un modèle multivariable.
Conclusion
Ces résultats suggèrent qu'une large diffusion d'informations adéquates sur le COVID-19 augmenterait l'adhésion, et que des efforts ciblés devraient être faits pour augmenter l'adhésion aux mesures préventives parmi les groupes d'âge plus jeunes.
Mots clés : Bénin ; COVID-19 ; adhésion ; épidémiologie ; mesures préventives.

Publication N°15: Sessou P., Noudeke N., Thomson D.J., Salako D., Farougou S., 2021. Evaluation of the knowledge, attitudes and practices of students at the University of Abomey-Calavi on rabies in Benin Republic. West Africa. Pan Afr Med J., 4, 38:235, DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2021.38.235.27485.

Introduction
La rage est une zoonose virale évitable par la vaccination. Une fois les symptômes cliniques apparus, la rage est mortelle dans presque 100% des cas. L'objectif de cette étude était d'évaluer les connaissances, attitudes et pratiques des étudiants de l'Université d'Abomey-Calavi au Bénin sur la rage afin d'explorer les facteurs favorisant l'apparition de cette zoonose.
Méthodologie
A cet effet, une enquête transversale descriptive a été menée auprès de 263 étudiants sélectionnés de manière aléatoire. Les données recueillies ont été analysées par le logiciel R avec régression logistique.
Résultats
Sur l'ensemble des 263 répondants, 53,2% (n=140) des étudiants ont affirmé avoir entendu parler de la rage canine, contre 47,5% (n=125) pour la rage humaine. Les chiens errants ont été reconnus par 49,0 % (n=129) comme une source prédominante d'infection rabique chez l'homme ; les morsures de ces chiens ont été considérées comme un moyen de contagion de la rage (41,4 % ; n=109) et la vaccination des chiens a été considérée par 32,7 % (n=86) comme un moyen de contrôle de la rage chez l'homme et chez le chien. En cas de morsure de chien, 60,5 % (n=159) des répondants se rendraient d'abord dans une clinique humaine de médecine occidentale. En ce qui concerne le sort du chien mordeur, 18,6% (n=49) et 27,4% (n=72) des répondants préfèrent respectivement euthanasier le chien ou l'emmener chez le vétérinaire pour observation. En ce qui concerne les conséquences perçues de l'inaction après une morsure de chien, 58,2% (n=140) ont mentionné le risque de rage. Les étudiants en santé humaine ou animale étaient 3 fois plus sensibilisés à la rage.
Conclusion
Cette étude identifie les lacunes dans les connaissances, les attitudes et les pratiques des étudiants en matière de prévention et de contrôle efficaces de la rage. Il sera donc nécessaire d'intensifier les campagnes de sensibilisation et d'éducation auprès des étudiants qui pourraient être un bon relais d'information auprès des autres membres de leur communauté.
Mots clés : Bénin ; connaissances ; attitudes ; éducation ; une seule santé ; éducation à la santé ; rage ; zoonose.

Publication N°16: Agani Z., Boko K.C., Akouedegni C.G, Sidi Imorou H., Bello O.D., Houndonougbo M.F., Dossou J., Babatoundé S., 2021. Préparations galactogènes utilisées par les agroéleveurs au Bénin : espèces végétales, proportions d'organes impliqués et production laitière chez les vaches Borgou. Journal of Applied Biosciences, 157: 16161 - 16171

Introduction
Au Bénin, la production de lait des vaches locales ne permet pas de couvrir les besoins nutritionnels de la population. Pour l'améliorer, les agroéleveurs font recours à des recettes galactogènes. Cette étude évalue leur efficacité sur la production laitière des vaches de race Borgou.
Méthodologie et Résultats
Au Bénin, une enquête réalisée auprès de 534 éleveurs a permis de recenser 286 recettes galactogènes utilisées par les agroéleveurs. Sur la base d'une classification numérique des recettes citées par au moins 20 % des enquêtés, dix (10) recettes ont été retenues pour des enquêtes approfondies. Bobgunnia madagascariensis, Euphorbia balsamifera, Curcubita maxima sont fréquemment impliquées dans les préparations galactogènes. Les racines et les graines sont les organes les plus utilisés. Les graines de Vigna unguiculata ou d'Arachis hypogea sont toujours associées aux préparations. La production laitière est plus élevée après administration aux vaches et peut atteindre 2,5 litres par jour.
Conclusion et application des résultats
L'étude confirme l'efficacité des préparations galactogènes utilisées par les agroéleveurs pour améliorer la production laitière des vaches locales. Il est intéressant de constater que les espèces végétales (Bobgunnia madagascariensis, Curcubita maxima, Euphorbia basalmifera) fréquemment utilisées sont présentes dans la flore béninoise. Les graines de Vigna unguiculata ou d'Arachis hypogea sont toujours associées aux préparations galactogènes. Les racines et les graines sont les organes les plus utilisés. Quelle que soit la recette utilisée, la production du lait est plus élevée après administration des préparations aux vaches (P < 0,05) et peut toutefois atteindre 2,5 litres contre 1,5 par jour relevée en élevage semi-intensif pour les races locales. Le gain laitier suite à l'administration des recettes s'étale entre 0,6 et 1,1 litre par jour. Il ne reste maintenant qu'à identifier pour les recettes la forme galénique la mieux adaptée aux conditions socio-économiques de ces éleveurs traditionnels.
Mots clés : Bobgunnia madagascariensis, Euphorbia balsamifera, Curcubita maxima, recette galactogènes, vaches Borgou, Bénin.

Publication N°17: Agani Z., Boko K.C., Adenile D.A., Akouedegni C.G., Mensah G.A., Dossou J., Babatounde S., 2021. Facteurs influençant l'efficacité des recettes galactogènes chez les vaches Borgou élevées en milieu réel au Bénin Factors influencing the effectiveness of galactogenic recipes in Borgou cows reared in a real environment in Benin. Ethnobotany Research & Applications, 21:08, DOI : 0.32859/era.21.08.1-18

Introduction
La médecine ethno-vétérinaire fait partie intégrante du patrimoine culturel associé à la médecine traditionnelle en Afrique, où les plantes et les produits naturels traitent les maux dont souffrent les animaux. De nombreuses plantes sont utilisées pour améliorer la performance laitière des vaches locales. L'étude évalue les facteurs influençant l'efficacité des recettes galactogènes administrées aux vaches Borgou élevées en milieu réel au Bénin.
Méthodologie
Une enquête a été réalisée en pleine saison pluvieuse (avril à septembre 2019), à l'aide d'un « focus group » afin de classer les plantes impliquées dans les recettes galactogènes. Les résultats obtenus ont été soumis à une Analyse Factorielle des Correspondances (AFC) suivie d'une régression multiple effectuée sur des données qualitatives notamment, les organes des plantes utilisées, les modes d'utilisation, les additifs utilisés et la voix d'administration de la recette.
Résultats
Arachis hypogaea (L.), Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton et Gardenia aqualla Stapf & Hutch sont les espèces les plus efficaces pour améliorer la performance laitière des vaches locales. Des 44 familles de plantes galactogènes inventoriées, dix (Fabaceae apocynaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, Meliaceae, Meliaceae, Sapotaceae, Asteraceae, Lamiaceae et Rubiaceae), ont influencé significativement (P < 0,05) l'efficacité des recettes. Les organes des plantes les plus utilisées ont été les racines et les graines. La potasse est le seul additif qui impacte positivement l'efficacité des préparations. Parmi les voix d'administration identifiées, la voie orale apparaît plus efficace.
Conclusion
L'étude montre que les agro-éleveurs ont une parfaite connaissance des différents facteurs qui influencent l'efficacité des recettes galactogènes. Toutefois, certaines espèces végétales impliquées se raréfient à cause du développement des champs de cultures au détriment du couvert forestier. La plupart des recettes efficaces font intervenir les racines. Ceci pose de réels problèmes pour l'écologie du milieu et le développement des espèces impliquées. Des expérimentations sont en cours afin de confirmer les résultats issus des enquêtes.
Mots clés : Connaissance endogène; Plantes galactogènes; influence; production; lait; organes de plantes; Bénin.
2020

Publication N°1: Adinci K.J., Sessou P., Dougnon T.V., Assogba M.F., Towanou R., Komagbe G., Dougnon T.J., Laleye A., Farougou S., 2020. Acute Toxicity of Chenopodium ambrosioides and Annona muricata oils with Acaricidal Potentials. Asian Journal of Biological Sciences, 13, 1-8.

Contexte et Objectif
Récemment, les activités acaricides de l'huile essentielle extraite des feuilles de Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (EOCA) et de l'huile d'amande d'Annona muricata (OAMA) ont été prouvées in vitro sur la tique envahissante Rhipicephalus microplus au Bénin. Pour une meilleure valorisation de ces produits en tant que substituts de molécules acaricides synthétiques qui ont montré leurs limites, il est recommandé de déterminer la sécurité de ces huiles. L'objectif de cette étude était d'évaluer la toxicité orale aiguë de ces extraits.
Matériel et méthodes
À cette fin, le test a été effectué conformément aux lignes directrices 425 de l'OCDE pour les essais, à une dose unique de 2000 mg kg-1 de poids corporel par voie orale de chaque huile. Certains paramètres biochimiques et hématologiques ont été déterminés à 0, 7 et 14 jours. Ensuite, la toxicité organique des huiles a été évaluée par un examen histopathologique à la fin de l'essai.
Résultats
Il n'y a pas eu de décès ni d'altération significative du poids vif dans le groupe OAMA. L'administration d'OAMA a provoqué une augmentation des niveaux de transaminases (ASAT et ALAT) et d'urée et une diminution de la créatinine. L'histopathologie a montré qu'il n'y avait pas d'altération dans le rein mais quelques troubles hépatiques ont été observés. En ce qui concerne l'EOCA, tous les rats du groupe traité avec cet extrait sont morts à une dose unique de 2000 mg kg-1 de poids corporel. L'histopathologie a révélé quelques modifications rénales et hépatiques.
Conclusion
La dose orale unique d'OAMA et d'EOCA induit des altérations toxiques chez les rats Wistar, ce qui suggère une utilisation prudente de ces phyto-acaricides en usage externe car les animaux peuvent avoir tendance à lécher les produits.

Publication N°2: Adoligbe C., Fernandes A., Osei-Amponsah R., Adje N.D., Gbedevi R., Fonton M.C., Guilherme J.M.R., Farougou S., 2020. Native chicken farming: A tool for wealth creation and food security in Benin. In ternational Journal of Livestock Production, 11, 146-162.

Contexte et Objectif
La volaille est la deuxième espèce animale la plus élevée après le gros bétail au Bénin (contribuant à 22% de la production totale de viande). L'objectif de cette étude était d'évaluer la situation actuelle de l'élevage de poulets locaux au Bénin et les facteurs qui influencent leurs performances de production, afin de fournir des informations utiles pour l'amélioration de la production et l'utilisation durable du poulet de race locale.
Matériel et méthodes
Un outil électronique a été utilisé pour recueillir des informations auprès de 269 répondants sélectionnés grâce à la méthode de boule de neige.
Résultats
Les résultats ont montré qu'il y avait trois systèmes de production; cependant, le système de production couramment utilisé était le système extensif en plein air (70%). En ce qui concerne la possession d'animaux, les hommes possédaient les oiseaux dans la majorité des cas (63%) et avaient généralement plus d'animaux que les femmes. Les contraintes les plus importantes pour la production de poulets, en ordre décroissant d'importance, étaient le vol, l'accès au prêt bancaire, le manque de formation, les maladies et la mortalité. D'après les résultats, le sexe, les ressources financières, l'activité principale du propriétaire du troupeau, la pratique de sevrage et la zone de production influencent significativement la taille du troupeau.
Conclusion
De tout ce qui précède, l'adoption de bonnes pratiques d'élevage combiné avec un programme de sélection axé sur la sélection intra-raciale (système nucléaire fermé) est une meilleure approche pour améliorer la production de poulets locaux.

Publication N°3: : Adoligbe M.C., Amaveda M.A., Adido M.S., Djimenou D., Farougou S., 2020. Muturu cattle breed management in the smallholder farming area of the Ouémé district in the south of Benin: rearing prac tices, objectives, and constraints. Tropical Animal Health and Production, 52, 3015-3025

Contexte et Objectif
Une enquête exploratoire a été menée pour comprendre les pratiques, les objectifs ainsi que les contraintes d'élevage des bovins de race lagunaire dans la zone des petits exploitants agricoles du département l'Ouémé en prélude à l'élaboration de stratégies de conservation de ladite race au Bénin.
Matériel et méthodes
Les données ont été générées en interrogeant au hasard 100 éleveurs dans les municipalités d'Adjarra, Adjohoun, Akpro-Missérété et Bonou utilisant un outil électronique de caractérisation, d'inventaire et de suivi des ressources zoogénétiques.
Résultats
Les résultats ont indiqué que les bovins de race lagunaire étaient principalement élevés pour leur viande. La taille moyenne des troupeaux était de 3, 5, 4 et 33 respectivement à Adjarra, Adjohoun, Akpro- Missérété et Bonou. Les éleveurs étaient exclusivement des hommes dans les différentes communes enquêtées sauf à Adjohoun, où 28,57% des éleveurs étaient des femmes. La préférence a été donnée à cette race car elle est moins exigeante en intrants et bien adaptée à l'environnement local. L'accouplement était généralement incontrôlé. Les animaux sont généralement nourris au pâturage naturel exclusivement quelle que soit la saison. Chez les taureaux reproducteurs, la robustesse et la vigueur étaient les caractères les plus fréquemment recherchés tandis que les femelles reproductrices sont gardées en fonction de la croissance et de la conformation de leur progéniture. La diminution de l'effectif des bovins de race Muturu dans la région a été largement attribué à l'utilisation des terres à d'autres fins, en particulier la production végétale, mais aussi au vol d'animaux.
Conclusion
Compte tenu de la menace de disparition progressive de cette race bovine, il est recommandé qu'un programme de gestion participative soit conçu et mis en oeuvre pour sa conservation in situ au Bénin.

Publication N°4: Aguidissou O.N.C., Boko K.C., Adoligbe M.C., Dete H.C., Capo-Chichi T.P., Akpo Y., Koutinhouin G.B., Farougou S., 2020. Inventory of biosecurity measures and antibiotics therapy practice on laying hen farms in Benin. Veterinary World, 13(12), 2681-2690

Contexte et Objectif
L'élevage de poules pondeuses est en augmentation au Bénin ; néanmoins, plusieurs contraintes sanitaires entravent son développement, notamment les maladies bactériennes. Face à cette situation, les éleveurs ont principalement recours à différents moyens de traitement. L'objectif de cette étude était d'évaluer l'état actuel des mesures d'hygiène, les maladies bactériennes couramment rencontrées et les pratiques d'antibiothérapie dans les élevages de poules pondeuses au Bénin.
Matériel et méthodes
Au total, 200 élevages de poules pondeuses ont été sélectionnés au hasard à partir de listes d'élevages de poules pondeuses obtenues auprès des offices vétérinaires, des agences territoriales de développement agricole et de l'Union nationale des professionnels de l'aviculture du Bénin. Chaque éleveur visité a été soumis à un questionnaire semi-structuré par entretien direct. Les résultats ont été comparés à l'aide du test Z bilatéral.
Résultats
Les résultats de cette enquête ont révélé que 99,5 % des exploitations interrogées disposaient d'un programme de santé et de prophylaxie médicale, bien que seulement 88,5 % d'entre elles aient déclaré le respecter strictement (p<0,001). Environ 25,0 % d'entre eux ont déclaré que les principales maladies bactériennes qu'ils rencontraient couramment dans leurs exploitations étaient la salmonellose, la colibacillose et les maladies respiratoires chroniques. Seuls 7,0 % des éleveurs ont déclaré avoir confirmé leur diagnostic en dehors des signes cliniques par des analyses de laboratoire. Pour contrôler ces pathologies, 14,5 % des agriculteurs n'utilisaient que de l'oxytétracycline, tandis que 39,0 % utilisaient d'autres antibiotiques tels que la colistine, l'enrofloxacine, la tylosine, le tylodox, la flumequine et la norfloxacine. En comparaison, 13,5% ont utilisé une combinaison de triméthoprime-sulfadiméthoxine et de sulfadimidine, tandis que 32,0% ont déclaré utiliser une combinaison d'érythromycine, d'oxytétracycline, de streptomycine, de néomycine et de colistine (p<0,001).
Conclusion
Cette étude met en évidence les insuffisances des pratiques d'hygiène et d'antibiothérapie mises en oeuvre dans les élevages de poules pondeuses du Bénin.

Publication N°5: Assogba M.H.M., Salifou C.F.A., Tobada P., Aboudou A.K. Bio Bakary A., Dahouda M., Chikou A., Farougou S., Youssao A.K.I., 2020. Impact of break in cold chain on the technological and organoleptic qualities of atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) in south Benin. Journal of Microbiology, Biotechnolo gy and Food Sciences, 8 (6), 1242-1248

Horse mackerel and Atlantic mackerel are species often imported and sold in Benin in frozen form. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the break in cold chain on the technological and organoleptic qualities of these fish in south Benin. Thus, it was carried out from June to December 2016 in the Department of Atlantic and Littoral. For the study, fish samples (120 Atlantic mackerel and 120 Horse mackerel) were taken for laboratory analyzes. It appears that the weight of the whole fish, the weight of the eviscerated fish and the weight of the remains were significantly higher for the breaks of 6 hours than for the breaks of 3 hours and 12 hours. The fillet weight of fish at 6 hours (140.4g) of cold break was significantly higher than that at 3 hours (112g) of cold break. No influence of break in cold chain was observed on the yield, fillet yield, water content and pH. Whatever the break duration, the different weights recorded were significantly higher in Horse mackerel than in Atlantic mackerel. The various weights recorded in Atlantic mackerel with 3 and 12 hours of break were higher than those recorded with 6 hours of break. The red index was higher for the 6 hours of break than for the 12 hours of break (P<0.05). The break duration had significantly influenced the freshness state of skin, eye, back muscle, abdominal wall, spine and organ color (p<0.001). The break in the cold chain alters the technological and organoleptic quality of fish.

Publication N°6: Badarou K. Opéyémi, Sidi Habirou, Adéhan Safiou Bienvenu, Adjolohoun Sébastien, Gbégo Tossa Isidore, Houndonougbo Fréderic, Oumorou Madjidou, Babatoundé Séverin. 2020. Herbacées fourragères appétées par les bovins sur les parcours communautaires du nord-est du Bénin. 2020. Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences 45(3), 7964-7978 https://doi.org/10.35759/ JAnmPlSci.v45-3.2

Contexte et Objectif
Dans la zone septentrionale du Bénin, l'alimentation des bovins repose sur l'utilisation excessive des pâturages naturels. Les herbacées constituent l'essentiel des fourrages des bovins pendant la saison pluvieuse. Les informations disponibles actuellement sur ces ressources fourragères sont souvent fragmentaires, voire disparates. Il est donc important de bien connaître ces herbacées fourragères afin de pouvoir les sélectionner, en améliorer l'utilisation et les faire entrer à dessein dans les systèmes d'alimentation des ruminants domestiques.
Matériel et méthodes
Pour ce faire un inventaire des herbacées fourragères appétées par les bovins a été réalisé avec l'aide des agro-éleveurs sur les parcours naturels des communes de Kalalé, Nikki, Ségbana et Gogounou au Nord-Est du Bénin. Les données collectées au moyen des enquêtes individuelles et de focus groupes ont été soumises à la statistique descriptive, à l'analyse de la variance et à une Analyse Factorielle des Correspondances (AFC) afin d'apprécier les relations entre les groupes socioculturels et les différentes espèces herbacées appétées par les bovins.
Résultats
Les enquêtés sont en majorité des Peulh (74,8 %) et ont pour la plupart 30 ans d'expérience dans l'élevage (63 %). Les éleveurs de Gogounou et de Kalalé sont significativement (p<0,05) plus expérimentés en élevage de bovins que ceux de Nikki (18 années) qui sont les moins expérimentés des quatre communes. En ce qui concerne les effectifs des cheptels bovins par troupeau, la Commune de Nikki (43,7 têtes) se distingue significativement (p<0,05) des autres communes. Au total, 26 herbacées fourragères appétées réparties en 11 familles ont été recensées. La famille des Poaceae était la plus représentée suivie des Cyperacées. Selon les enquêtés, Andropogon gayanus, Pennisetum polystachion, A. tectorum, Hyparrhenia involucrata, Loxodera ledermannii, Brachiaria falcifera, Hyptis suaveolens, Eleusine indica, Imperata cylindrica, Mariscus cylindristachyus, Digitaria horizontalis, Hyperthelia dissoluta, Ipomoea eriocarpa, P. pedicellatum et P. unisetum sont plus appétées par les ruminants. Parmi celles-ci A. gayanus B. falcifera, P. polystachion, et H. involucrata sont citées dans les quatre communes. L'AFC révèle que les herbacées appétées diffèrent d'un groupe socioculturel à un autre. Selon les Peulhs 12 herbacées dont Pennisetum polystachion sont appétées par les bovins. Quant aux Gando, huit herbacées telles que Andropogon gayanus sont appétées. Par contre, les Bariba ont cité six herbacées fourragères dont Eleusine indica.
Conclusion
La composition floristique des parcours communautaires du Nord-Est du Bénin a montré la présence d'une gamme variée d'herbacées fourragères dont la combinaison aidera à la mise au point de table de valeurs nutritionnelles pour la formulation de rations alimentaires équilibrées destinées aux ruminants domestiques.

Publication N°7: Badarou K.O., Adehan Safiou Bienvenu, Bello Orou Daouda, Adjolohoun Sébastien, Oumorou Madjidou, Gbego Tossa Isidore, Babatoundé Séverin. 2021. Valeur nutritive des espèces herbacées appetées par les ruminants sur les parcours naturels du nord-est du Bénin. European Scientific Journal, ESJ, 17(1), 1. https://doi.org/10.19044/esj.2021. v17n3p265. ISSN: 1857-7881 (Print) e - ISSN 1857-7431.

Contexte et Objectif
Au Nord - Est du Bénin, les systèmes d'élevage sont encore principalement traditionnels et les informations disponibles actuellement sur la valeur nutritive des fourrages sont souvent fragmentaires, voire disparates. L'objectif de l'étude était de contribuer à une meilleure connaissance des valeurs nutritives des espèces herbacées appétées afin de les faire entrer dans les systèmes d'alimentation de ces ruminants.
Matériel et méthodes
Pour ce faire, le suivi des animaux au pâturage et la récolte des fourrages appétés par les bovins avaient permis d'identifier 26 espèces herbacées appétées par les ruminants. 500g de chaque herbacée appétée a été prélevé dans des sachets et laissé à l'air libre avant d'être convoyé au laboratoire. Une fois au laboratoire, ils ont séjourné dans une étuve jusqu'à obtention de poids constant. Les échantillons ont été ensuite moulu et 20gr de chaque herbacées a été identifié et mi en sachet pour les analyses. Les échantillons des herbacées appétées ont été analysés par spectrométrie dans le proche infrarouge (SPIR). Résultats : Le résultat du regroupement des différentes espèces herbacées présenté sous la forme de dendrogramme permettait d'identifier 5 groupes. En fin de saison pluvieuse, les espèces fourragères du groupe 1 2 et 5 ont des taux moyens élevés en matières azotées digestibles (MAD = 117,81 ± 14,25 g/kg MS) et en énergies nettes (UFL = 0,82±0,04 et UFV = 0,73±0,03/ kg de MS). La lignocellulose (ADF) et les valeurs énergétiques nettes (UFL, UFV) étaient négativement corrélées (r =- 0,74 ; p ˂ 0,01). Par contre, le couple (UFL, UFV) était positivement corrélé (r = 0,55 ; p ˂ 0,01) aux valeurs MAD. En ce qui concerne ces espèces fourragères, l’effet dépressif de la teneur en cellulose brute (CB) sur la valeur MAD (r = -0,63) apparaissait très hautement significatif (p ˂ 0,001).
Conclusion
Les herbacées telles que Andropogon tectorum, Boerhavia erecta, Brachiaria falcifera, Pennisetum polystachion, Crotalaria macrocalyx et Spermacoce stachydea, Commelina benghalensis et Eleusine indica sont de bonnes qualités nutritives.

Publication N°8: Dotché I.O., Bonou A. G., Dahouda M., Antoine-Moussiaux N., Dehoux J.P, Mensah G.A., Farougou S., Thilmant P., Youssao A.K.I., Koutinhouin B.G., 2020. Reproductive performances of local pigs in west african countries: a review. Journal of Advanced Veterinary Research, 10 (1) , 49-55

The local pig is reared in all West Africa countries, and especially in small farms, playing so an important role in its preservation. This article reviews work done on reproductive performances of local pigs in West Africa. These performances focus on age at puberty, estrus and sex cycle, gestation length, prolificity, viability and growth before piglets weaning. Factors that can influence these parameters are included. Finally, the contribution of animal biotechnology to these performances improvement is discussed.

Publication N°9: Ohouko O.F.H., Koudouvo K., Dougnon T.J., Agbonon A., Youssao A.K.I., Farougou S., Gbeassor M., 2020. African swine fever in Benin and prevalence of the disease in Southern Benin: A retrospective study (2014–2018). Journal of Advanced Veterinary and Animal Research, 7(3), 464-470. DOI : 10.5455/javar.2020.g442

Objective
This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of African swine fever (ASF) disease in Benin.
Materials and methods
A retrospective study was conducted on 70 pig farms from the Departement of Atlantique and Ouémé and also by using the data available from the Directorate of Livestock on the spread of ASF in Benin from 2014 to 2018. The prevalence of ASF was assessed with 106 nasal swabs from apparently healthy domestic pigs and 15 organ samples from dead ASF-suspected pigs. ASF virus detection was carried out by conventional polymerase chain reaction using Qiagen Kit for DNA extraction. Data recorded were processed with SAS software (2006).
Results
It appears that ASF is an endemic disease in Benin with the Department of Ouémé as the hotspot of dissemination of the virus in the country. The losses due to ASF recorded from 2014 to 2018 are evaluated to 884,850,000 CFA Franc by estimating the average cost of a pig at 25,000 FCFA. A prevalence of 1.89% (CI at 95%, 0.71-3.49) was recorded for live animals with a positive result in organs from all dead pigs suspected of ASF. Breeding practices related to the sharing of breeding males, scavenging pigs, and non-compliance with biosecurity measures were the risk factors identified.
Conclusion
The present study sheds light on the areas prone to the ASF virus in Benin. Moreover, the cross-sectional data recorded on the prevalence of ASF will help to better rule on the spread of the disease. It would be interesting for the Beninese Republic to increase its efforts for ASF control.

Publication N°10: Olaye T., Tchobo P.F., Chabi N., Koudokpon H., Sessou P., Alitonou G.A., Avlessi F., Sohounhloue K.C.D., 2020. Preliminary screening of the phytochemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of the twigs of Prosopis africana used as chewing stick in Benin Republic. Journal of Scientific and Engineering Research, 7(3), 206-213

Contexte et Objectif
Le présent travail a été consacré à l’évaluation du potentiel chimique et antimicrobien des tiges de Prosopis africana.
Matériel et méthodes
Les techniques standard décrites dans la littérature ont été utilisées pour analyser les produits phytochimiques. L’activité antioxydante a été réalisée par les méthodes DPPH et FRAP et l’activité antimicrobienne, par la méthode de diffusion.
Résultats
De nombreux métabolites secondaires comme les tanins, les stéroïdes, les coumarines, les flavonoïdes, les mucilages et les alcaloïdes ont été identifiés dans les différents extraits de cette plante. L’extrait semi-éthanolique présentait la teneur totale en phénol la plus élevée, soit 124,142 ± 3,535 mg eqGA/gCE, tandis que l’extrait éthanolique avait la teneur la plus élevée en flavonoïdes, avec des valeurs de 124,708 ± 5,595 mg eqC/gCE. L’extrait éthanolique de cette plante présentait une bonne capacité à inhiber le radical DPPH et une bonne aptitude à réduire les ions Fe3+ ferriques en ions Fe2+ ferreux, ce qui pourrait s’expliquer par sa bonne teneur en composés phénoliques. L’extrait éthanolique était le seul capable d’inhiber les souches utilisées dans cette étude. Les CMI et les CBM variaient de 12 500 à 25 000 mg/mL. Le même extrait a permis d’inhiber Candida albicans, une souche connue pour être impliquée dans les maladies bucco-dentaires avec une CMI de 12 500 mg/mL.
Conclusion
Les résultats de la présente étude ont révélé que l’extrait éthanolique de Prosopis africana contient des composés bioactifs et peut être utilisé dans les soins bucco-dentaires.

Publication N°11: Publication N°11 : Sessou P., 2020. Yeasts in Milk and Dairy Products. Reference Module in Food Science, Elsevier, ISBN 9780081005965, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-818766-1.00008-8

Yeasts are well known for their remarkable biodiversity and extensive industrial applications. They are members of complex microbial communities. Their growth is mostly undesirable in milk and dairy products as they harbor a high risk of spoilage. However, yeasts play vital roles in food biotechnology, as they are able to grow in a broad range of pH environments. They are introduced into the milk as contaminations during the milking process or as recontaminations after the heat treatment. Besides occurring as spoilage organisms and foodborne diseases, yeasts are also used in the manufacture of some dairy products.

Publication N°12: Tonouhewa, A.B.N., Akpo Y., Sessou P., Salanon C., Aplogan G.L., Assogba M.N., Youssao I.A.K., Farougou S., 2020. Toxoplasma gondii infections in pigs from South Benin and assessment of breeders’ knowledge about toxoplasmosis. Bulgarian J. Vet. Med., 23(2), 248-256

Contexte et Objectif
Toxoplasma gondii est un parasite apicomplexan omniprésent qui provoque la toxoplasmose, une zoonose cosmopolite responsable d’avortements et de malformations congénitales chez les animaux et les humains. Les porcs peuvent être un réservoir de T. gondii et constituent l’une des sources de transmission du parasite à l’homme. Actuellement, il n’existe aucune donnée sur l’infection à T. gondii chez les animaux au Bénin.
Matériel et méthodes
Après signalement de plusieurs cas d’infection à avortements et des problèmes de reproduction chez les porcs dans plusieurs élevages de la région sud du Bénin, ce travail a été réalisé pour étudier l’apparition de ce parasite zoonotique chez les porcs. Un total de 184 échantillons de sérum de porc ont été collectés dans deux municipalités et envoyés au laboratoire pour la détection des anticorps IgG anti-T. gondii par la méthode ELISA indirecte.
Résultats
Les résultats ont montré la présence d’IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii chez 23 % (IC95 = 22,56-23,44) des porcs (42/184). L’âge, le sexe et La race ne semblent pas affecter la fréquence de cette infection. De plus, l’échec de la reproduction a fait l’objet d’un rapport dans de nombreuses exploitations agricoles. Il s’agissait de cas de mortinatalité dans 40 % des exploitations, suivis par des cas de mortalité néonatale (36 %) et d’avortement, fréquemment observés dans 27 % des exploitations.
Conclusion
T. gondii est présent dans les élevages porcins au sud du Bénin et pourrait être responsable des avortements signalés dans ces régions. En outre, la viande de porc crue et insuffisamment cuite pourrait être une source importante d’infection à Toxoplasma gondii chez l’homme au sud du Bénin.

Publication N°13: Yehouenou B., Sessou P., Dahouenon-Ahoussi E., Koudoro Y., Alitonou G.A., Sohounhloue D., 2020. Chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of volatile extracts from fresh leaves of Lippia multiflora Moldenke against pathogenic and adulterated microorganisms isolated from foods sold near roads in Benin Republic. EC Microbiology, 16(3), 1-9

Contexte et Objectif
Le présent travail a porté sur la composition chimique et les propriétés antimicrobiennes des huiles essentielles extraites des feuilles de Lippia multiflora de Pèrèrè et de Savalou, une région du nord et une région centrale de la République du Bénin.
Matériel et méthodes
La composition chimique des huiles a été déterminée par chromatographie en phase gazeuse couplée à un détecteur à ionisation de flamme (GC/FID) et par chromatographie en phase gazeuse couplée à la spectrométrie de masse (GC/MS). Les propriétés antimicrobiennes des huiles quant à elles, ont été évaluées par la méthode de Bajpaï (2008).
Résultats
L’huile essentielle de Pèrèrè était essentiellement composée de monoterpènes oxygénés (linalol 91,9%) et celle de Savalou était diversement composée de monoterpènes oxygénés (1-8 cinéole 50% et α-terpinol 13,8%) et de monoterpènes hydrogénés (sabinène 14,4%). Les activités antibactériennes des deux huiles essentielles n’étaient pas aussi importantes contre Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 et Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Cependant, ces huiles ont montré une activité fongicide contre Fuetsarium oxysporum et une activité fongicide contre Aspergillus ochraceus, A. parasiticus.
Conclusion
Ces huiles peuvent être utilisées pour lutter contre les champignons.

Publication N°14: Yovo M., Dedome O.S.L., Sessou P., Alitonou G.A., Tchobo P.F., Avlessi F., Sohounhloue K.C.D., 2020. Etude phytochimique et activités biologiques des extraits de deux plantes médicinales utilisées pour traiter les infections cutanées et les septicémies au Bénin. International Journal of Innovation and Applied Studies, 28, 507-514

Contexte et Objectif
La présente étude se propose de valoriser deux plantes médicinales utilisées au Bénin dans le traitement des infections cutanées, urinaires et les septicémies. Cette étude consiste à déterminer la composition chimique, évaluer les activités antibactérienne et antioxydante des extraits éthanolique, semi-éthanolique et aqueux des deux plantes investiguées : Diospyros mespiliformis et Entada africana.
Matériel et méthodes
Les extraits de ces plantes ont été obtenus par macération pendant 72 heures. L’identification des métabolites secondaires effectuée par la méthode de précipitation et de coloration dans les tubes a révélé la présence des tanins, saponosides, flavonoïdes, anthocyanes ; alcaloïdes, coumarines, stérols et terpènes.
Résultats
La teneur en composés phénoliques totaux a été estimée par la méthode de Folin-Ciocalteu, elle varie de 2455,36±7,05 à 5141,51±98,67 EAG/gMS pour les extraits de D. mespiliformis et de 2261,00±21,14 à 7256,6±24,67 EAG/gMS pour les extraits de E. africana. L’activité antioxydante des extraits a été évaluée par le test antiradicalaire utilisant le radical DPPH. Les résultats obtenus montrent que les extraits de E. africana ont un pouvoir de piégeage des radicaux libres plus important libre que les extraits de D. mespiliformis. L’évaluation de l’activité antibactérienne des extraits in vitro vis-à-vis des microorganismes est effectuée par deux méthodes : la diffusion sur disque et la microdilution. Les résultats montrent que l’extrait éthanolique de D. mespiliformis exerce un effet bactéricide sur S. aureus de même que les extraits éthanolique et aqueux de E. africana qui possèdent un effet bactéricide sur les souches de S. aureus et SCN. Ces résultats montrent que les extraits investigués possèdent des propriétés antimicrobiennes et pourraient être utilisés dans la lutte contre les infections cutanées et les septicémies. Ce qui justifie leur utilisation en médecine traditionnelle.

Publication N°15: Zannou O.M. Ouedraogo A.S., Biguezoton A.S., Lempereur L., Yao K.P., Abatih E., Zoungrana S., Lenaert M., Toe P., Farougou S., Saegerman C., 2020. First digital characterization of the transhumance corridors through Benin used by cattle herds from Burkina Faso and associated risk scoring regarding the invasion of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Transbound Emerg Dis, 00, 1–15

Background
Livestock plays a key role in the macro-economy of West Africa and provides livelihoods for millions of people. The main cattle rearing strategy in West Africa is pastoralism, including transhumance, that is a seasonal migration of cattle with their herders. This adaptive strategy aims to optimize livestock access to water and pastures. However, it can favour pathogens and vectors transboundary spread. The aim of this study was to highlight firstly, the corridors and grazing areas used by Burkina Faso transhumant cattle herds going to Benin; secondly, the characteristics of departure and arrival areas of transhumance; and thirdly, the risk score related to introduction and spread of the invasive tick species, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, in free areas.
Methods and principal findings
Therefore, GPS devices were given to 27 herders to monitor a full transhumance season between East Burkina Faso and North Benin. The analysis of 14,966 spots generated by the GPS devices revealed four main corridors and five main grazing areas used by cattle herds during transhumance. Statistical analysis of normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), rainfall and temperature data, highlighted significant differences between departure and arrival areas. NDVI and rainfall are significantly higher in Benin than Burkina Faso, whereas temperature is significantly lower. Additionally, using biotic and abiotic parameters, a risk scoring was developed to predict the presence of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus at municipality level.
Conclusions and significance
The better vegetation, temperature and rainfall conditions during the dry seasons in Benin attract cattle herds from Burkina Faso. The invasiveness and adaptability of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus added to the frequent stays of transhumant herds in infested areas suggest its potential introduction and establishment in free areas soon. Moreover, frequent intrusions of the transhumant cattle in the wildlife reserves are another risk of vectors and pathogen exchange between domestic and wild animals.
2019

Publication N°1: AGUIDISSOU O.N. , BOKO K.C., SESSOU P., YOVO M., KOMAGBE S.G., AYIHOU Y., ALITONOU G.A., AVLESSI F., FAROUGOU S., SOHOUNHLOUE K.D., 2019. Antibacterial activity of essential oil of Aeollanthus pubescens on multidrug resistant strains of Salmonella and Escherichia coli isolated from laying hens farming in Benin. Advances in Microbiology, 9(9) 804-823

Publication N°2: ASSOGBA M.H.M., SALIFOU C.F.A., TOBADA P., ABDOU KARIMOU ABOUDOU A.K. BIO BAKARY A., DAHOUDA M., CHIKOU A., FAROUGOU F., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2020. Impact of break in cold chain on the technological and organoleptic qualities of atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) in south Benin. Journal of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Food Sciences, 8 (6) 1242-1248

Publication N°3: BOKO K.C., YAMBODE A.M.S., SESSOU P., TOUGAN U.P., AGUIDISSOU O.N., GWLADYS K., KPODEKON M.T., FAROUGOU S., 2019 : Assessment of Microbiological Quality of Fresh and Smoked Crabs (Callinectes amnicola) Fished and Sold in Southern Benin. Microbiology Journal, 9(1), 8-13

Publication N°4: DOTCHE I.O., IDOHOU S., DAHOUDA M., KIKI P., GOVOEYI B., ANTOINE-MOUSSIAUX N., DEHOUX J-P., MENSAH G.A., FAROUGOU S., THILMANT P., YOUSSAO A.K.I., KOUTINHOUIN B., 2019 : Crossbreeding and consanguinity management in pig farms in the departments of Ouémé and Plateau in Benin. Veterinary World, 12, 1816-1829. DOI : 10.14202/vetworld.2019.1816

Publication N°5: DOTCHE I.O., KIKI P., GOVOEYI B., DAHOUDA M., ANTOINE-MOUSSIAUX N., Jean-DEHOUX J.P., MENSAH G.A., FAROUGOU S., 2019 : Etat des lieux sur l'insémination artificielle animale dans les pays de l'Afrique de l'Ouest. Journal of Applied Biosciences, 143, 14712 - 14730. DOI : 10.4314/jab.v143i1.9

Publication N°6: GAGARA M. H, SESSOU P, DOSSA F, AHOUNOU S, AZOKPOTA P, YOUSSAO I, GOURO A. S, FAROUGOU S., 2019 : A study on the indigenous methods of processing milk in Niger. Current Agriculture Research Journal, 7(2), 213-223. Doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.12944/CARJ.7.2.09.

Publication N°7: MAHUGNON SANTOZE ADIDO, MATHEW GITAU GICHEHA, MAHOUGNON CAMUS ADOLIGBE AND KODZO ATCHOU, 2019. Genetic Diversity of Three Indigenous Cattle Breeds Reared in Benin. American Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 14(1).

Publication N°8: MANTIP S.E., SHAMAKI D., FAROUGOU, S., 2019. Peste des petits ruminants in Africa: Meta-analysis of the virus isolation in molecular epidemiology studies. Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research, 86(1), a1677. https://doi.org/ 10.4102/ojvr.v86i1.1677

Publication N°9: MENSAH SERGE EGIDE PAULIN, SESSOU PHILIPPE, NATA CHRISTIE, ADJAHOUTONON KOOMLAN YÉLINDO KADJINOU BRICE, LAHAMY OLIVIER, FAROUGOU SOUAÏBOU. Mode d'utilisation des antibiotiques dans les élevages de bovin laitier sédentaires au nord-ouest du Bénin. Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences, 42 (2), 7198-7206.

Publication N°10: SESSOU P., YOVO M., TOWANOU R., AYIHOU Y., KOMAGBE G.S., ADINCI J., YAOVI B.A., AGUIDISSOU O.N., SENOU M., ALITONOU G.A., AVLESSI F., FAROUGOU S., 2019 : Acute Toxicity of Aeollanthus pubescens Essential Oil with High Antimicrobial Potential against Multidrug Resistant Bacteria Isolated in Poultry Farms in Benin. Research Journal of Pharmacognosy, 6(4), 17-26. DOI: 10.22127/rjp.2019.93503

Publication N°11: SESSOU S., KEISAM S., TUIKHAR N., GAGARA M., FAROUGOU S., JEYARAM K., 2019 : High-Throughput Illumina MiSeq Amplicon Sequencing of Yeast Communities Associated With Indigenous Dairy Products From Republics of Benin and Niger. Frontiers in Microbiology, 10 (594). doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00594

Publication N°12: SESSOU P., NOUDEKE D.N., HOUESSOU E., TONOUHEWA A., AYIHOU Y., KOMAGBE S.G., FAROUGOU S., 2019. Evolution temporelle des cas cliniques de rage déclarée dans les départements de l'Atlantique et du Littoral de 2012 à 2017 au Sud-Bénin. Bulletin de la Recherche Agronomique du Bénin, Numéro Spécial Développement Agricole Durale, 23-29

Publication N°13: SOHA S.A.S., DOUGNON T.V., OHOUKO O.F., ADOUKO S. J., DOUGNON T. J., YOUSSAO A.K.I., FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON T.T.M., 2019. Larval cytotoxicity and acute oral toxicity of aqueous extracts of Elaeis guineensis leaves and Khaya senegalensis stem bark in Wistar rats. International Journal of Advanced Research, 2019, 7(9), 573-584

Publication N°14: SOHA S.A., ADJIBODE A.G., AGBANKPE A.J., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., KPODEKON T.T.M., DOUGNON T.J., 2019. African animal trypanosomosis in cattle in Bénin: A review. Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, 11(6), 15-122, DOI: 10.5897/JVMAH2019.0781

Publication N°15: TONOUHEWA A.B.N., AMAGBÉGNON R., ATCHADÉ S.P., HAMIDOVIĆ A., MERCIER A., DAMBRUN M., MIGOT-NABIAS F., SISSINTO SAVI DE TOVÉ Y., SAHIBI H., LABOUDI M., SAHIDOU S., DARDÉ M.-L., KINDÉ-GAZARD D., FAROUGOU S., 2019 : Séroprévalence de la toxoplasmose chez les femmes enceintes au Bénin : méta-analyse et métarégression. Bulletin de la Société de Pathologie Exotique, 112/2, 79-89 doi:10.3166/bspe-2019-0078

Publication N°16: TONOUHEWA, A.B.N., AKPO Y., SERASIYA A., SESSOU P., ADINCI J.M., APLOGAN G.L., YOUSSAO I., ASSOGBA M.N., FAROUGOU S., 2019 : A serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii infection in sheep and goat from Benin, West-Africa. J Parasit Dis., doi : 10.1007/s12639-018-01076-1

2018

Publication N°1: TONOUHEWA A.B.N., AKPO Y., SESSOU P., SALANON C., APLOGAN G.L, ASSOGBA M.N., YOUSSAO I.A.K., FAROUGOU S., 2018 : Toxoplasma gondii infections in pigs from south Benin and assessment of breeders' knowledge about toxoplasmosis. Bulgarian Journal of Veterinary Medicine, ISSN 1311-1477; doi: 10.15547/bjvm.2193

Publication N°2: ASSOGBA M.H.M., AHOUNOU S.G., BONOU G.A., SALIFOU C.F.A., DAHOUDA M., CHIKOU A., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2018 : Qualité de la Chair des Poissons : Facteurs de Variations et Impacts des Procédés de Transformation et de Conservation. International Journal of Progressive Sciences and Technologies, 10 (2), 333-358

Publication N°3: DOTCHE I.O., AHOUNOU S.G., SALIFOU C.F.A., BIOBOU R., KIKI P.S., GOVOEYI B., ANTOINE-MOUSSIAUX N., DEHOUX J-P, MENSAH G.A., FAROUGOU S., THILMANT P., YOUSSAO A.K.I., KOUTINHOUIN B., 2018 : Critères de choix et de réforme des reproducteurs mâles et femelles dans les élevages de porcs des départements de l'Ouémé et du Plateau au Bénin. Revue d'élevage et de médecine vétérinaire des pays tropicaux, 71 (1-2). doi : 10.19182/remvt.31224

Publication N°4: YESSINOU R.E., AKPO Y., ABOUBAKAR S., ADOLIGBE C., YOUSSAO ABDOU KARIM I., AKOGBETO M., FAROUGOU S., 2018 : Evidence of multiple mechanisms of alphacypermethrin and deltamethrin resistance in ticks Rhipicephalus microplus in Benin, West Africa. Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases, 7 (9), 665-671

Publication N°5: 5. ADEHAN S.B., ADAKAL H., GBINWOU D., DATE Y., ZOUNGRANA S., TOE P., OUEDRAOGO M., GBAGUIDI M., ADOLIGBE C., FANDOHAN A.B., HOUNMANOU Y.G., GLELE KAKAI R.L., FAROUGOU S., de CLERQ E.M., 2018 : West African Cattle Farmers' Perception of Tick-Borne Diseases, ECOHEALTH, 1-13

Publication N°6: YESSINOU R.E., ADOLIGBE C., AKPO Y., ADINCI K.J., YOUSSAO ABDOU KARIM I., FAROUGOU S., 2018 : Sensitivity of Different Cattle Breeds to the Infestation of Cattle Ticks Amblyomma variegatum, Rhipicephalus microplus, and Hyalomma spp. on the Natural Pastures of Opkara Farm, Benin. Journal of Parasitology Research, 1-9

Publication N°7: ADINCI J., AKPO Y., SESSOU P., YESSINOU R.E., ADEHAN S.B., YOUSSAO ABDOU KARIM I., ASSOGBA M.N., FAROUGOU S., 2018 : Influence of transhumance on the spread of Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini, 1888) in Benin. Journal of Advanced Veterinary and Animal Research, 5, 226-231

Publication N°8: ADINCI J., AKPO Y., ADOLIGBE C., ADEHAN S.B., YESSINOU R.E., SODE I., MENSAH G.A., YOUSSAO A., SINSIN B., FAROUGOU S., 2018 : Preliminary study on the tick population of Benin wildlife at the moment of its invasion by the Rhipicephalus microplus tick (Canestrini, 1888). Veterinary World, 10 (11), 845-851

Publication N°9: KIKI P.S., Dahouda M., SEIBOU TOLEBA S., AHOUNOU G.S., DOTCHE I., GOVOEYI B., ANTOINE MOUSSIAUX N., MENSAH G.A., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO ABDOU KARIM I., DEHOUX J-P., 2018 : Gestion de l'alimentation des porcs et contraintes de l'élevage porcin au Sud-Bénin. Revue d'élevage et de médecine vétérinaire des pays tropicaux, 71

2017

Publication N°10: BOKO K.C., GANGNITO M., TOLEBA S.S., SESSOU P., TOUGAN P.U., AGUIDISSOU O.N., KPODEKON M.T., FAROUGOU S., 2017 : Microbial Quality of “Tchachanga”, a barbecued Mutton Sold in Benin. Advances in Microbiology, 7, 633-640.

Publication N°11: BONOU G.A., AHOUNOU S.G., SALIFOU C.F.A., BACHABI K., PARAISO F.H., KONSAKA B.M., DAHOUDA M., DOUGNON J.T., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2017 : Influence of pre-slaughter capture chase duration stress on carcass and meat quality of indigenous chicken reared under traditional system in Benin. International Journal of Advanced Research, 5(5), 187-199, doi: 10.21474/IJAR01/4097.

Publication N°12: GAGARA M., SESSOU P., AHOUNOU S., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., FAROUGOU S., GOURO A.S., 2017 : Analyses of constraints related to milk production in Liptako Gourma in Niger. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2(23), 1949-1958, doi: 10.5897/AJAR2016.12029.

Publication N°13: DEDOME S-L.O, ALITONOU G.A., SESSOU P., TCHOBO F.P., YOVO M., YESSINOU E., FAROUGOU S., AVLESSI F., MENUT C., SOHOUNHLOUE D.C.K., 2017 : First report on chemical composition and acaricidal activity on the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus of Xylopia parviflora (A. Rich) benth leave's essential oil in Benin, West Africa. International Journal of Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Biological Sciences, 7(2), 149-154.

Publication N°14: AÏZOUN F.F., POMALEGNI S.C.B., GBEMAVO D.S.J.C., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO I., MENSAH G.A., 2017 : Digestibilité in vivo de trois types de rations alimentaires en vrac à base de fourrages verts, produits et sous-produits de maïs chez l'aulacode d'élevage au Bénin. Journal of Applied Biosciences, 112, 11092-11099

Publication N°15: NOUDÈKÈ N.D., DOSSOU-GBÉTÉ G., POMALÉGNI P., MENSAH S., APLOGAN L.G., ATCHADÉ G., DOUGNON D., YOUSSAO I., MENSAH G.A., FAROUGOU S., 2017 : Prevalence of bovine brucellosis, tuberculosis and dermatophilosis among cattle from Benin's main dairy basins. Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, 9(5), 97-104, doi: 10.5897/JVMAH2017.0567.

Publication N°16: NOUDEKE N.D., DOTCHE I., AHOUNOU G.S., ISSAKA YOUSSAO A.K.I., FAROUGOU S., 2017 : Inventory of medicinal plants used in the treatment of diseases that limit milk production of cow in Benin. Journal of Advanced Veterinary and Animal Research, 4 (1), 1-14. doi : 10.5455/javar.2017.d183

Publication N°17: TONOUHEWA B.N.A., AKPO Y., SESSOU P., ADOLIGBE C., YESSINOU E., ASSOGBA M.N., YOUSSAO A.K.I., FAROUGOU S., 2017 : Toxoplasma gondii infection in meat animals from Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis of sero-epidemiological studies. Veterinary World, 10(2):194-208. doi: 10.14202/vetworld.2017.194-208

Publication N°18: NOUDÈKÈ N.D., DOTCHÉ I., BOKO C., YOUSSAO I., FAROUGOU S., 2017 : Cattle keepers' perception on the most important infectious diseases that limit milk production in Benin and municipalities at higher risks. Scientific Journal of Veterinary Advances, 6(1), 145-153. doi : 0.14196/sjva.v6i1.2336

Publication N°19: NOUDEKE N.D., APLOGAN L.G., DOSSA F., YOUSSAO I., FAROUGOU S., 2017. Monthly Variations of the Prevalence of Bovine Brucellosis in Benin. Advances in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 5(1): 23-29. doi : http://dx.doi.org/10.14737/journal.aavs/2017/5.1.23.29

Publication N°20: NOUDÈKÈ N., HOUNDJÈ E., ZANNOU O., DOTCHÉ I., YOUSSAO I., FAROUGOU S., 2017 : Space-Time Analysis of Foot-and-Mouth Disease from 2005 to 2014 among Cattle Populations in Benin: A Retrospective Study. Open Journal of Animal Sciences, 7, 30-44, doi.org/10.4236/ojas.2017.71004.

2016

Publication N°21: HOUNDJE E.M.B., OGNI C.A., NOUDEKE N., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., KPODEKON T.M., 2016 : Recettes ethno-vétérinaires à base de plantes médicinales utilisées pour le traitement de la fièvre aphteuse au Bénin. Int. J. Biol. Chem. Sci., 10(5), 2090-2107

Publication N°22: AIZOUN F.F., POMALEGNI S.C.B., GBEMAVO C.D.S.J., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., MENSAH G.A., 2016 : Influence of three pellets based green fodders, products and by-products maize on the growth of bred grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) in Benin. Int. J. Adv. Res., 4(12), 804-815. doi:10.21474/IJAR01/2462.

Publication N°23: AIZOUN F.F., POMALEGNI S.C.B., GBEMAVO C.D.S.J., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., MENSAH G.A., 2016 : Characteristics Of The Carcass And Nutritional Values Of Breed Grasscutter Meat (Thryonomys Swinderianus) Fed With Pellets In Benin. Int. J. Adv. Res., 4(12), 816-825. doi:10.21474/IJAR01/2463.

Publication N°24: ADOLIGBE C.M., ZAN L., FAROUGOU S., 2016. Functional analysis and association studies of bovine MYOT gene with meat quality. Journal of Animal Science, 7, doi: 10.2134/jas2016.947supplement459b

Publication N°25: BOKO C., ADJE Y., ATINDOGBE G., HOUNMANOU Y.M.G., DOSSA F., SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., 2016 : Evaluation of the production technologies and the microbial and physico-chemical qualities of curdled milk produced in Benin. J. Appl. Biosci., 104, 10019 -10033

Publication N°26: BIGUEZOTON A., NOEL V., ADEHAN S., ADAKAL H., DAYO G.K., ZOUNGRANA S., FAROUGOU S., CHEVILLON C., 2016 : Ehrlichia ruminantium infects Rhipicephalus microplus in West Africa. Parasites & Vectors, 9(354), doi : 10.1186/s13071-016-1651-x

Publication N°27: SESSOU P., BOKO C., HOUNMANOU G., OSSENI S.D., HOUNKPE E., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO A.K.I., SOHOUNLOUE D., FAROUGOU S., 2016 : Preservation of Traditional Cheese Wagashi Using Essential Oils: Impact on Microbiological, Physico-chemical and Sensorial Characteristics. British Microbiology Research Journal, 15(4), 1-13

Publication N°28: ADEHAN S.B., BIGUEZOTON A., ADAKAL H., DOSSA F., DOUGNON T.J., YOUSSAO E., SESSOU P., ABOH A.B., YOUSSAO A.K.I., ASSOGBA N., MENSAH G.A., MADDER M., FAROUGOU S., 2016 : Acaricidal Activity of Ethanolic and Volatile Extracts of The Leaves of Selected Plants Used in Veterinary Pharmacopeia on The Larvae of Rhipicephalus Microplus in Benin. Alexandria Journal of Veterinary Sciences, 49 (1) : 1-11, doi: 10.5455/ajvs.216241

Publication N°29: ADEHAN S.B., BIGUEZOTON A., ADAKAL H., ASSOGBA M.N., ZOUNGRANA S., GBAGUIDI A.M., TONOUHEWA A., KANDE S., ACHI L., KAGONE H., ADEHAN R., MENSAH G.A., DE DEKEN R., MADDER M., FAROUGOU S., 2016 : Acaricide resistance of Rhipicephalus microplus ticks in Benin. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 11(14), 1199-1208 doi: 10.5897/AJAR2015.10055.

Publication N°30: ADEHAN S.B., BIGUEZOTON A., DOSSOUMOU A., ASSOGBA M.N., ADEHAN R., ADAKAL H., MENSAH G.A., FAROUGOU S., MADDER M., 2016 : Blood survey of Babesia spp and Theileria spp in Mono's cattle, Benin. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 11(14), 1266-1272. doi: 10.5897/AJAR2015.10055.

Publication N°31: YESSINOU R.E., ADINCI J., SESSOU, P., ADEHAN S., TONOUWEHA A., AKPO Y., ADOLIGBE C., ASSOGBA M.N., KOUTINHOUIN B., YOUSSAO A.K.I., FAROUGOU S., 2016 : In vitro acaricidal effect of and Cymbopogon citratus essential oil on engorged female of cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus in Benin. Scientific Journal of Veterinary Advance, 5(3), 80-86. doi: 10.14196/sjva.v5i3.2155.

Publication N°32: BIGUEZOTON A., ADEHAN S., ADAKAL H., ZOUNGRANA S., FAROUGOU S., CHEVILLON C., 2016: Community structure, seasonal variations and interactions between native and invasive cattle tick species in Benin and Burkina Faso. Parasites & Vectors, 9 (43), 1-16, doi 10.1186/s13071-016-1305-z.

2015

Publication N°33: AÏZOUN F.F., POMALEGNI S.C.B., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., 2015 : Synthèse bibliographique sur l'alimentation de l'aulacode avec des granulés de fourrages verts au Bénin. Annales des sciences agronomiques, 19(2), 389-400.

Publication N°34: ADINCI K.J., YESSINOU R.E., ADEHAN S.B., YOVO M., AHOUNOU S., SESSOU P., ADOLIGBE C., DOSSOU P.F., AVOCEGAMOU S.Y., YOUSSAO A.K.I., ASSOGBA M.N., MENSAH G.A., FAROUGOU S., 2015 : In vitro evaluation of the acaricidal effect of three essential oils extracted from aromatic local plants on Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus ticks in Benin. International Journal of Advanced Research, 3 (11), 1514 - 1520

Publication N°35: BRAHI O.H.D., XIANG H., CHEN X., FAROUGOU S., ZHAO X., 2015 : Mitogenome revealed multiple postdomestication genetic mixtures of West African sheep. Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics, 132(5), 1-7.

Publication N°36: SESSOU P., KLOTOE J.R., DOUGNON V., OSSENI S.D., HOUNKPE E., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO A.K.I., LOKO F., SOHOUNHLOUE D., FAROUGOU S., 2015 : Safety Evaluation of Traditional Cheese Wagashi Treated with Essential Oils in Wistar Rats: A Subchronic Toxicity Study. Food and Public Health, 5(4), 138-143

Publication N°37: KPODEKON M., TOLEBA S.S., BOKO C., DAGNIBO M., DJAGO Y., DOSSA F., FAROUGOU S., 2015 : Fréquence des Escherichia coli entéropathogènes chez les lapins (Oryctolagus cuniculus) dans la Commune d'Abomey-Calavi en zone sub-équatoriale du Bénin. Revue de Médecine Vétérinaire, 166, 3-4, 84-89

2014

Publication N°38: KPODEKON M., SESSOU P., HOUNKPE E., YEHOUENOU B., SOHOUNHLOUE D., FAROUGOU S., 2014 : Microbiological Quality of Smoked Mackerel (Trachurus trachurus), Sold in Abomey-Calavi Township Markets, Benin. Journal of Microbiology Research, 4(5): 175-179

Publication N°39: GOUSSANOU J.S.E., KPODEKON M.T., YOUSSAO A.K.I., FAROUGOU S., KORSAK N., 2014 : Epidemiological tools for effective surveillance of porcine cysticercosis in Africa. Veterinary World, 7, 125-134

Publication N°40: SOULE A.H., DJENONTIN J.A.P., BABATOUNDE S., TRAORE I.A., KOUDANDE D.O., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., 2014 : Nikki's and Pehunco's Stock Farmers Technical Knowledge Effects on Herds of Cattle's Productivity in North of Benin. J Anim Pro Adv, 4(7), 463-468

Publication N°41: DOUGNON T.J., FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON T.M., HOUNMANOU G., HOUNNNONKPE D., 2014 : Comparative study of the effect of Tephrosia vogelii's leaves ethanolic extract and Alfapor® (Alpha-cypermethrin) on Amblyomma variegatum in Borgou cattle. International Journal of Biosciences, 5 (5), 1-7

2013

Publication N°42: SACRAMENTO T.I., AIZOUN F., SINABARAGUI O.S., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO I., MENSAH G.A., ATEGBO J.-M., 2013 : Détermination de l'âge de l'aulacode (Thryonomys swinderianus,Temminck 1827) femelle à partir des caractères morphométriques. Int. J. Biol. Chem. Sci. 7(4): 1427-1440. ISSN : 1991-8631, http://ajol.info/index.php/ijbcs

Publication N°43: SALIFOU C.F.A., BOKO K.C., AHOUNOU G.S., TOUGAN P.U., KASSA S.K., HOUAGA I., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., CLINQUART A., YOUSSAO, A.K.I., 2013 : Diversité de la microflore initiale de la viande et sécurité sanitaire des consommateurs. Int. J. Biol. Chem. Sci., 7(3), 1351-1369 ISSN 1991-8631 http://www.ajol.info/index.php/jab/article/download/87248/76976

Publication N°44: SALIFOU C.F.A., YOUSSAO A.K.I., AHOUNOU G.S., TOUGAN P.U., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., CLINQUART A., 2013 : Critères d'appréciation et facteurs de variation des caractéristiques de la carcasse et de qualité de la viande bovine. Ann. Méd. Vét., 157, 27-42

Publication N°45: SALIFOU C.F.A., YOUSSAO A.K.I., SALIFOU S., KPODEKON T. M., TOUGAN P.U., AHOUNOU G.S., BOCO C., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A. et CLINQUART A., 2013 : Evaluation du procédé d'abattage des bovins aux abattoirs de Cotonou-Porto-Novo au sud du Bénin. Int. J. Biol. Chem. Sci., 6(6), 6049-6061

Publication N°46: 46. DOKO ALLOU S., FAROUGOU S., HOUNTONDJI F.C.C., 2013 : Impact of prophylactic measures and the use of local food resources on the viability and growth of pre-weaning lambs in Djougou, in the northern region of Benin. Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences, 19 (3), 2933-2940

Publication N°47: KPODEKON M.T., BOKO K.C., MAINIL J.G., FAROUGOU S., SESSOU P., YEHOUENOU B., GBENOU J., DUPREZ J.-N., BARDIAU M., 2013 : Composition chimique et test d'efficacité in vitro des huiles essentielles extraites de feuilles fraîches du basilic commun (Ocimum basilicum) et du basilic tropical (Ocimum gratissimum) sur Salmonella enterica sérotype Oakland et Salmonella enterica sérotype Legon. J. Soc. Ouest-Afr. Chim., 35, 41 - 48

Publication N°48: SALIFOU C.F.A., DAHOUDA M., HOUAGA I., PICARD B., HORNICK J.L., MICOL D., KASSA S.K., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A.. CLINQUART A., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2013: Muscle Characteristics, Meat Tenderness and Nutritional Qualities Traits of Borgou, Lagunaire and Zebu Fulani Bulls Raised on Natural Pasture in Benin. International Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 5(4): 143-155, 2013, 5(4), 143-155

Publication N°49: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., TCHOBO F., AGBANGNAN P., ADJALIAN E., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., 2013 : In vitro evaluation of aflatoxin m1 control potential of six essential oils in Benin. Int J Cur Res Rev, 05 (08), 11-19

Publication N°50: GOUSSANOU J.S.E., KPODEKON T.M., SAEGERMAN C., AZAGOUN E., YOUSSAO A.K.I., FAROUGOU S., PRAET N., GABRIËL. S., DORNY P., KORSAK N., 2013 : Spatial distribution and risks factors of porcine cysticercosis in southern Benin based meat inspection records. International Research Journal of Microbiology, 4(8), 188-196

Publication N°51: FAROUGOU S., GAGARA M., MENSAH G.A., 2013 : Prevalence of peste des petits ruminants in the arid zone in the Republic of Niger. Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research, 80(1), doi 10.4102/ ojvr.v80i1.544

Publication N°52: MALETE Y., SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., METOHOUE R., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2013 : Evaluation de la qualité hygiénique de tchaamessibu, une pate acide consommée à Natitingou au nord Bénin. Rev. Microbiol. Ind. San et Environn., 7 (2) : 228-244

Publication N°53: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., YEHOUENOU B., AHOUNOU S., SOHOUNHLOUE D.C.K., 2013 : Endogenous methods for preservation of wagashi, a Beninese traditional cheese. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 8(31), 4254-4261

Publication N°54: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., YEHOUENOU B., AGNIWO B., ALITONOU G., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2013 : Biological control of spoilage and pathogens moulds in culture medium and Beninese traditional cheese wagashi by essential oil. African Journal of Microbiology Research, 7(21), 2454-2463

Publication N°55: SALIFOU C.F.A., BOKO K.C., ATTAKPA Y.E., AGOSSA R., OGBANKOTAN I., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., SALIFOU S., CLINQUART A., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2013 : Evaluation de la qualité bactériologique de viande fraîche de bovins abattus aux abattoirs de Cotonou-Porto-Novo au cours de la chaîne de distribution. Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences, 17 (2), 2567-2579

Publication N°56: SALIFOU C.F.A., DAHOUDA M., BOKO K.C., KASSA S.K., HOUAGA I., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., SALIFOU S., TOLEBA S.S., CLINQUART A., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2013 : Evaluation de la qualité technologique et organoleptique de la viande de bovins de races Borgou, Lagunaire et Zébu Peulh, élevés sur des pâturages naturels. Journal of Applied Biosciences, 63 (1), 4736-4753.

Publication N°57: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., YÈHOUENOU B., AGBANGNAN P., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2013 : Investigation on aflatoxin M1 content of traditional cheese wagashi produced in Benin. African Journal of Food Science and Technology, 4 (4) : 44-47.

Publication N°58: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., AHOUNOU S., HOUNNANKPON Y., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2013 : Comparative study of Antifungal activities of six selected essentiel oils against fungal isolates from cheese wagashi in Benin. Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences. ISSN 1028-8880 / DOI 10.3923/pjbs.2013.

Publication N°59: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., YEHOUENOU B., AGBANGNAN P., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2013. Mycotoxin- Producing Potential of Moulds isolated from Traditional Cheese Wagashi produced in Benin. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Science, 2(4), 12-19.

2012

Publication N°60: SALIFOU C.F.A., DAHOUDA M., AHOUNOU G.S., KASSA S.K., TOUGAN P.U., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., SALIFOU S., CLINQUART A., KPODEKON T.M., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2012 : Relationships between carcass characteristics and offal components of Lagunaire, Borgou and Zebu Fulani bulls raised on natural pasture. International Journal of Biosciences, 2 (11), 117-128.

Publication N°61: FAROUGOU S., SESSOU P., YEHOUENOU B., DOSSA F., 2012 : Microbiological quality of raw milk processed from cows raised under extensive system in Benin. Research Journal of Microbiology, 7 (7), 337-343.

Publication N°62: FAROUGOU S., DOKO ALLOU S., SANAMAHO I., CODJIA V., 2012. Prevalence of Trypanosome Infections in Cattle and Sheep in the Benin's West Atacora Agro-ecological zone. Tropicultura, 30 (3), 141-146.

Publication N°63: PHILIPPE M.A.B.A., TOBADA P., ABOH A.B., POMALÈGNI S.C.B., MENSAH S.E.P., KPÉRA G.N., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., 2012 : Efficacité de Jatropha multifida dans le traitement des blessures externes des aulacodes (Thryonomys swinderianus) d'élevage. Bulletin de la Recherche Agronomique du Bénin, 31-37. ISSN : 1025-2355.

Publication N°64: SALIFOU C.F.A., DAHOUDA M., AHOUNOU G.S., KASSA S.K., TOUGAN P.U., FAROUGOU S., MENSAH G.A., SALIFOU S., CLINQUART A., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2012 : Evaluation of carcass traits of Lagunaire, Borgou and Zebu Fulani bulls raised on natural pasture in Benin. The Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences, 22(4): 2012 857-87

Publication N°65: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., KANEHO S., DJENONTIN S., ALITONOU G.A., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2012 : Bioefficacy of Cymbopogon citratus essential oil against foodborne pathogens in culture medium and in traditional cheese wagashi produced in Benin. International Research Journal of Microbiology, 3 (12), 406-415.

Publication N°66: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., NOUDOGBESSI J.-P., FANOU B., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2012 : Chemical composition and in vitro antifungal activity of Zingiber officinale essential oil against foodborne pathogens isolated from a traditional cheese wagashi produced in Benin. International Journal of Biosciences, 2 (9), 20-28.

Publication N°67: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUÉ D., 2012 : In vitro Antifungal activities of Essential oils extracted from Fresh Leaves of Cinnamomum zeylanicum and Ocimum gratissimum against Foodborne pathogens for their use as Traditional Cheese Wagashi conservatives. Research Journal of Recent Sciences, 1 (9), 67-73.

Publication N°68: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., SOHOUNHLOUÉ D., 2012 : Major component and potential applications of plant essentials oils as natural food preservatives: a short review research results. Int. J. Biosci., 2 (8), 45-57.

Publication N°69: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., ALITONOU G., DJENONTIN T.S., YÈHOUÉNOU B., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO I., SOHOUNHLOUÉ D., 2012 : Chemical Composition and Antifungal activity of Essential oil of Fresh leaves of Ocimum gratissimum from Benin against six Mycotoxigenic Fungi isolated from traditional cheese wagashi. I. Res. J. Biological Sci., 1 (4), 22-27.

Publication N°70: SESSOU P., FAROUGOU S., NOUDOGBESSI J.-P., YÈHOUENOU B., AZOKPOTA P., YOUSSAO, I., MENUT C., SOHOUNHLOUE D., 2012 : Chemical composition and antifungal activity of essential oil of fresh leaves of Cinnamomum zeylanicum from Benin against six mycotoxigenic fungi isolated from a traditional cheese wagashi. Elixir Appl. Biology, 49, 9787-9791.

Publication N°71: FAROUGOU S., DOKO A.S., TOKO ISSAKOU W., AKOSSOU J., 2012 : Prévalence des infections trypanosomiennes ovines dans la commune de Kandi, zone sud-guinéenne du Bénin. Annales des Sciences Agronomiques, 16 (1), 11-22.

Publication N°72: FAROUGOU S., ADAKAL H., BIGUEZOTON A.S., BOKO C., 2012 : Prévalence de l'infection d'Amblyomma variegatum par Ehrlichia ruminantium dans les élevages extensifs du Bénin. Revue Méd. Vét., 163 (5), 261-266

2011

Publication N°73: BOKO C.K., KPODEKON M.T., FAROUGOU S., DAHOUDA M., YOUSSAO A.K.I., APLOGAN G.L., ZANOU J., MAINIL J.G., 2011 : Farmer perceptions and pathological constraints in helmeted guinea fowl farming in the Borgou department in North-East Benin. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 6 (10), 2348-2357.

Publication N°74: BOKO K.C., KPODEKON T.M., FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., MAINIL J.G., 2011. In vivo assessment of the virulence of five Salmonella enterica serotypes isolated from helmeted guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) in Benin. International Research Journal of Microbiology, 2(9), 356-364

2009

Publication N°75: DOKO ALLOU S., FAROUGOU S., SALIFOU S., EHILE E., GEERTS S., 2010 : Dynamique des infections trypanosomiennes chez des bovins Borgou à la ferme de l'Okpara au Bénin. Tropicultura, 28 (1), 37-43

Publication N°76: DOKO A.S., GBANGBOCHE A.B., FAROUGOU S., 2009 : Prévalence trypanosomienne chez des moutons Djallonké élevés près et en retrait des zones tampon du Parc national du W au Bénin. Annales des Sciences Agronomiques, 12 (2), 1-10.

2008

Publication N°77: FAROUGOU S., YOUSSAO A.K.I., DOKO ALLOU S., BOKO C., GARBA ALASSANE T., TANGAOU A.H., 2008 : Prévalence et dynamique par rapport aux localités et à l'âge des infestations par les nématodes chez la pintade domestique (Numida meleagris galeata) dans le département du Borgou. Annales Sci. Agr. Benin, 11 (1), 1-20.

2007

Publication N°78: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., LOKO F., BRAHI O.H.D., AGNIWO B., DJAGO Y., 2007 : Valeurs usuelles des principaux paramètres biochimiques sériques chez le lapin (Oryctolagus cuniculus) élevé au Bénin. RASPA, 5 (1-2), 17-22.

Publication N°79: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., TASSOU A.W.Y., 2007 : Abondance saisonnière des tiques (Acari : Ixodidae) parasites des bovins dans la zone soudanienne du Bénin : cas des départements du Borgou et de l'Alibori. RASPA, 5 (1-2), 61-67.

Publication N°80: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., ADAKAL H., SAGBO P., BOKO C., 2007 : Abondance saisonnière des tiques (Acari : Ixodidae) parasites des ovins dans la région méridionale du Bénin. Revue Méd. Vét., 158 (12), 627-632.

Publication N°81: FAROUGOU S., TASSOU A.W., TCHABODE D.M., KPODEKON M., BOKO C., YOUSSAO A.K.I, 2007: Tiques et hémoparasites du bétail dans le nord-Bénin. Revue Méd. Vét., 158 (8-9), 463-467.

2006

Publication N°82: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., TCHABODE D.M., YOUSSAO A.K.I., BOKO C., 2006 : Abondance saisonnière des tiques (Acari : Ixodidae ) parasites des bovins dans la zone soudanienne du Bénin : cas des départements de l'Atacora et de la Donga. Annales Méd. Vét., 150 (2), 145-152.

Publication N°83: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., TOKANNOU R., DJOSSOU V.D., AKOUTEY A., YOUSSAO A.K.I., 2006 : Utilisation de la farine de Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC dans l'aliment de croissance des pintades (Numida meleagris). Revue Méd. Vét, 157 (10), 502-508.

Publication N°84: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., KOUTINHOUIN B., BRAHI O.D., DJAGO Y., LEBAS F., COUDERT P., 2006 : Impact of immediate postnatal suckling on mortality and growth of sucklings in field condition. Word Rabbit Science, 14, 167-173.

Publication N°85: FAROUGOU S., AGBADJE P., KPODEKON M., ADOLIGBE C., AKAKPO A.J., 2006 : Prévalence de la tuberculose bovine dans les fermes d'Etat de Samiondji et de Bètècoucou au Bénin. RASPA, 4, 27-31.

2005

Publication N°86: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., KOUTINHOUIN B., DOUGNON P., ADEHAN R., DJAGO Y., AHLINCOU F., 2005 : Situation actuelle des parasitoses gastro-intestinales et externes du lapin au sud-Bénin. RASPA, 3 (1), 23-26.

Publication N°87: FAROUGOU S., KPODEKON M., KOUTINHOUIN B., BRAHI O.H.D., DJAGO Y., 2005 : Incidence de la première tétée sur la viabilité des lapereaux. RASPA, 3, 218-221.

2004

Publication N°88: FAROUGOU S., TOKANNOU R., AKOUTEY A., DJOSSOU V.D., KPODEKON M., KADJA M., 2004 : Effet de la farine de Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC dans l'alimentation des pintadeaux (Numida meleagris). RASPA, 2, 79-82.

Publication N°89: KPODEKON MR., DJAGO Y., FAROUGOU S., COUDERT P., LEBAS F., 2004: Results of the technical management of four rabbit farms in Benin. Proceedings - 8th World Rabbit Congress -September 7-10, 2004 - Puebla, Mexico.

2000

Publication N°90: KPODEKON M., GNIMADI A., DJAGO Y., KOUTINHOUIN B., FAROUGOU S., 2000 : Rabbit production and network in Benin in 1998. World Rabbit Science, 2000, 8 (Supplément N°1),103-110.

1998

Publication N°91: FAROUGOU S., TOGUEBAYE B.S., GUEYE A., AKAKPO A.J., 1998 : La cowdriose au Sénégal : étude expérimentale de la maladie et morphologie des formes infectieuses. Revue Méd. Vét., 149 (10), 1023 - 1027.

Publication N°92: FAROUGOU S., TOGUEBAYE B.S., TOUNKARA K., SY D., AKAKPO A.J., 1998 : Epidémiologie de la cowdriose au Bénin. 1 - Etude préliminaire sur la présence du germe chez les tiques vectrices. Revue Méd. Vét., 149 (10), 953 - 958.