Prepared with concrete and pragmatic questions,members of a media delegation from the Republic of the Congo toured the cities of Yunfu and Zhaoqing in Guangdong Province from 16 to 22 November 2025.They visited produc...Prepared with concrete and pragmatic questions,members of a media delegation from the Republic of the Congo toured the cities of Yunfu and Zhaoqing in Guangdong Province from 16 to 22 November 2025.They visited production workshops,explored research institutes,toured beautiful villages and discovered archaeological sites,searching for the keys to Chinese modernisation in its many dimensions.展开更多
BACKGROUND Thyroid cancer incidence is rising globally,including the Democratic Republic of Congo(DRC).Despite its increasing incidence,limited data exist on physicians’knowledge of thyroid cancer management in the D...BACKGROUND Thyroid cancer incidence is rising globally,including the Democratic Republic of Congo(DRC).Despite its increasing incidence,limited data exist on physicians’knowledge of thyroid cancer management in the DRC.AIM To evaluate the knowledge levels of Congolese physicians regarding the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid nodules and cancers,and to identify existing gaps and areas for improvement.METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2024,involving 369 physicians practicing in healthcare facilities across Kinshasa,DRC.Participants were selected using a multi-stage sampling method.Data were collected via a structured questionnaire covering thyroid cancer epidemiology,diagnostic methods,treatment approaches,and prognosis.Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25,employing descriptive and inferential statistics,with a P value≤0.05 being considered as statistically significant.RESULTS Overall response rate was 96.1%.Of all participants,68%were female and 32%were male physicians.General practitioners constituted 84.8%of respondents,with an average age of 34 years.While 53.7%demonstrated adequate knowledge of hypothyroidism management post-thyroidectomy and 61.2%identified the approach for hypoparathyroidism,only 5.1%recognized the need for radiotherapy in metastatic thyroid cancer cases.Awareness of anaplastic thyroid cancer treatment was limited(6.5%),and 90.2%of physicians were unfamiliar with the surgical complications.Moderate understanding was noted in diagnostic protocols,with 44.2%correctly identifying repeat fine-needle aspiration timing in Bethesda I cases.Knowledge of molecular genetics,recurrence risks,and metastasis patterns was remarkably low.CONCLUSION This study highlights significant knowledge gaps among Congolese physicians regarding thyroid cancer management,especially about advanced treatment modalities and molecular genetics.Targeted educational programs and improved access to diagnostic tools are critical to bridging these deficits.Addressing these gaps can enhance the quality of thyroid cancer care and align clinical practices in the DRC with global standards.展开更多
AIM:To determine the frequency and types of retinal diseases and the extend of the related visual loss in adult patients attending two public eye clinics of Kinshasa,Democratic Republic of Congo.METHODS:Review of medi...AIM:To determine the frequency and types of retinal diseases and the extend of the related visual loss in adult patients attending two public eye clinics of Kinshasa,Democratic Republic of Congo.METHODS:Review of medical records of patients with retinal diseases seen in the major eye clinics in Kinshasa,the University Hospital of Kinshasa(UHK)and Saint Joseph Hospital(SJH),from January 2012 to December 2014.Demographics and diagnoses were retrieved and analyzed.Outcome measures were frequency and prevalence of retinal diseases,blindness and low vision.RESULTS:A total of 40965 patients aged 40 y or older were examined during this period in both clinics.Of these,1208 had retinal disease,giving a 3-year and an annual prevalence of 3%and 1%,respectively.Mean age was 61.7±10.7 y,and 55.8%of the patients were males.Arterial hypertension(68.1%)and diabetes(43.3%)were the most common systemic comorbidities.Hypertensive retinopathy(41.8%),diabetic retinopathy(37.9%),age-related macular degeneration(AMD;14.6%),and chorioretinitis and retinal vein occlusion(7.3%each)were the most common retinal diseases,with 3-year prevalence rates of 1.3%,1.0%,0.43%,and 0.21%respectively.Bilateral low vision and blindness were present in 26.8%and 8.4%of the patients at presentation.Major causes of low vision and blindness were diabetic retinopathy(14.8%),AMD(4.9%),retinal detachment(2.8%),and retinal vein occlusion(2.5%).The prevalence was significantly higher among males than females,and at the UHK than SJH.CONCLUSION:Retinal diseases are common among Congolese adult patients attending eye clinics in Kinshasa.They cause a significant proportion of low vision and blindness.展开更多
Lithological, petrographic, and morphoscopic studies were conducted on cuttings and cores from three boreholes drilled in the Loemé salt, Kanga site, Republic of the Congo, to determine 1) the preferential condit...Lithological, petrographic, and morphoscopic studies were conducted on cuttings and cores from three boreholes drilled in the Loemé salt, Kanga site, Republic of the Congo, to determine 1) the preferential conditions for crystallization of carnallite and associated salts and 2) to reconstruct paleoenvironmental and paleoclimatic conditions at the time of sedimentation. Sequential analysis of logs, sedimentary structures, carnallitite facies and associated salts concluded to the existence of a potassic carnallitite lagoon basin with low water cover, on a very wide and extensive plateau, affected by coastal waves and swells resulting from successive collapses. This basin evolved in two phases: confined and then open. The regular stratifications of halite, the rhythmicity of the halite-carnallitite elementary sequences are characteristic of salts that precipitated in relatively stable brines. These salts are therefore tectonosedimentary. The brecciated facies of the carnallitites sometimes associated with tachyhydrite result from the evolution of these deposits into salt crusts reworked by the surges into subaquatic allochemical gravelly cords under water. These crusts mark stages of partial and complete drying of the basin in a very hot and arid climate. Prolonged exposure of halite brines as well as their homogenization by surges accelerated evaporation and their abrupt evolution into carnallite brines obstructing the fossilization of sylvite. The precipitation of tachyhydrite marks the final stage of the successive complete drying of the basin.展开更多
The delay in the delivery of laboratory results can be fatal and can even lead to the death of patients. This study was conducted at the clinical laboratory of the University Hospital of Kinshasa (UHK) from October 20...The delay in the delivery of laboratory results can be fatal and can even lead to the death of patients. This study was conducted at the clinical laboratory of the University Hospital of Kinshasa (UHK) from October 2020 to April 2021, aimed to evaluate the laboratory tests’ turnaround time (TAT) and to identify reasons for delay. TAT was quantified using a time and motion analysis approach. The evaluation of TAT consisted of comparing the overall intra-lab TAT with the suggested TAT using student t-test at 95% confidence intervals. Brainstorming was the root cause analysis tool used for identifying reasons for delay. In this study, the laboratory tests’ TATs were significantly higher (p < 0.001) comparing to international guidelines (60 minutes) and customers’ suggested TAT (120 minutes). Only 0.98% of the samples were reported within 60 minutes of patient reception and 1.47% within 120 minutes, i.e. an outlier rate of 98.5%. Root causes of delay related to Machinery, Management, Manpower, Materials, Method and Milieu. Because of many reasons, the laboratory is not meeting the established TAT. Preventive and curative measures must be undertaken to reduce the delay and improve the TAT.展开更多
The belowground biomass is represented by coarse and fine roots. Concentrated in the superficial horizons of the soil, the fine roots play a crucial role in the functioning of a forest ecosystem. However, studies on t...The belowground biomass is represented by coarse and fine roots. Concentrated in the superficial horizons of the soil, the fine roots play a crucial role in the functioning of a forest ecosystem. However, studies on their dynamics in natural forests are almost non-existent in the Republic of Congo. Here, we estimated the biomass, production, turnover and fine root lifespan of two forest strata of a semi-deciduous forest: the <i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Gilbertiodendron dewevrei</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> (De Wild.) J. Léonard forest (GF) and the mixed forest (MF) of land. The ingrowth cores method was used to estimate the biomass, production, turnover and lifespan of fine roots. The results of this study revealed that the biomass, production and fine root turnover of the two forest strata studied significantly decreased with increasing soil depth, with an increase in lifespan. The annual fine root biomass of GF (2284.50 ± 37.62 <img src="Edit_990c94b6-013e-4e21-90df-d1388dc0e65f.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1034.61 ± 14.52 <img src="Edit_dff42540-5a2f-413b-8620-cb500e9961e2.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) was slightly lower than that of MF (2430.07 ± 40.68 <img src="Edit_66800589-8460-4c37-83b2-2df0f335d75d.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1043.10 ± 11.75 <img src="Edit_c22f255e-d910-4b49-a6a4-033516044362.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) in the 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm horizons, respectively. The annual production of fine roots from these latter horizons was respectively 1300.19 ± 32.17 <img src="Edit_5482204b-8e9e-476a-907d-0865bf3a1c99.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 539.18 ± 11.55 <img src="Edit_65a2856e-5322-4fc9-b42a-3ba1176fa992.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> in GF and 1362.24 ± 39.59 <img src="Edit_9802e464-658d-48eb-9b57-8e746c3e8ef4.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 492.95 ± 14.38 <img src="Edit_51413fca-930c-45b9-a385-2b55d4d2bac8.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> in the MF. Root turnover was higher in the GF (1.68 ± 0.05 <img src="Edit_ce9d780c-6a46-46c4-aad2-653309318e29.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1.35 ± 0.03 <img src="Edit_d66d8b7b-c608-4398-9441-e85547f03dea.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) than in the MF (1.57 ± 0.05 <img src="Edit_cb79094f-88a0-401c-a3e7-06eedb2cef9a.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1.13 ± 0.02 <img src="Edit_e4f9b6d7-2e2e-44d5-8662-862b8f8ff80e.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">). The lifespan of fine roots increased with the depth of the soil. The difference in fine root dynamics observed between the forest strata studied was influenced by the Evenness index and the above-ground biomass.</span>展开更多
Background: Pregnant women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are at increased risk for developing obstetric fistulas (OFs) as a result of obstructed labor, in conditions similar to many other African countries...Background: Pregnant women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are at increased risk for developing obstetric fistulas (OFs) as a result of obstructed labor, in conditions similar to many other African countries. No case-control study of biological and social risk factors for OF has been reported from the DRC. This study aimed to identify factors that would aid in prevention and early identification of women who are at risk of developing OF. Methods: Participants were enrolled in a case-control study at four obstetric clinics in the central DRC. Cases of OF were evaluated as they presented, then a control participant was enrolled among women presenting subsequently to the same clinic, seeking to match parity at the time of the fistula and tribe of the case. A questionnaire was administered to elicit physical, obstetric, demographic, socioeconomic, religion, geographic, and delivery attributes of the participants. Case-control comparisons sought to identify independent risk factors for OF in the total case-control pairs and in subgroups of the participants. Logistic regression was utilized to identify independent risk factors for OF in the total case-control study group and in selected subgroups of the participants, and linear regression was utilized to estimate the variation explained between case and control outcomes from the variables independently significant in the logistic regression models. Results: A total of 177 case-control pairs were enrolled. Among all pairs, shorter height of the case (odds ratio = 1.06, 95% Confidence Limits 1.02 - 1.12);more kilometers travelled to the delivery site (1.02, 1.01 - 1.02);her village, not town, residence (OR = 5.52, 2.72 - 11.2), and her lower professional status (2.95, 1.53 - 5.72) were statistically independent factors associated with OF development. When applied in linear regression comparison of the pairs, these variables yielded an r<sup>2</sup> = 0.48, imputing 48% of the difference in delivery outcome between the pairs was explained by these variables. Among the 38 pairs who were primigravida, the independent variables were more kilometers travelled to the delivery site (1.02, 1.00 - 1.05), village, not town, residence (50.0, 10.2 - 248.7), and facility intended for lower patient acuity (3.7 s, 1.01 - 13.6, r<sup>2</sup> = 0.66) patients who were matched on parity and tribe, the significant risk factors were professional status (OR = 0.29), greater distance travelled to the clinic (OR = 1.02, 1.01 - 1.02), village, not town, residence (5.52, 2.72 - 11.2), and mother’s lower professional status (2.95, 1.53 - 5.72) when the OF occurred. Conclusions: Our study showed biological and social factors associated with the development of OF. Shorter height was the only biological risk factor found to be statistically significant in the study population. Other factors were related to limited resources and limited access to medical care.展开更多
Objective: To improve knowledge and practice of health staff as well as the availability of material resources for diagnosis and management of schistosomiasis in two endemic provinces of DRC(Kinshasa and Bas-Congo).Me...Objective: To improve knowledge and practice of health staff as well as the availability of material resources for diagnosis and management of schistosomiasis in two endemic provinces of DRC(Kinshasa and Bas-Congo).Methods: Structured interviews were performed using questionnaires with staff from 35 healthcare facilities in 9 health zones(HZ) of Kinshasa and 2 HZ in Bas-Congo.Results: Schistosomiasis was reported to be present in all the included HZ.Health staff knew the most important symptoms of schistosomiasis, but advanced symptoms were more accurately reported in Bas-Congo.Knowledge of symptoms related to schistosomiasis such as anemia(P = 0.0 115) and pollakiuria(P = 0.0 260) was statistically different in both two provinces.Kato-Katz technique and urine filtration were unavailable in both provinces.Parasitological diagnosis was mostly performed using the direct smear method.PZQ was available in 70% of the health facilities, all situated in Bas-Congo.Diagnosis and treatment mostly relied on symptoms and cost more in urban area than in rural.Conclusions: Though knowledge on schistosomiasis among health staff appears sufficient, substantial efforts still must be made to improve the availability of diagnostic tools and treatment in the health facilities in DRC.展开更多
The study aimed at understanding the current avifauna characteristics, like composition, species diversity and evolution, in the city of Kinshasa. The study was conducted from 2006 to 2014, using observation, photogra...The study aimed at understanding the current avifauna characteristics, like composition, species diversity and evolution, in the city of Kinshasa. The study was conducted from 2006 to 2014, using observation, photography and Japanese nets. Results of the study indicate that there are 131 species of birds, which represents 40 families and 16 orders. Avifauna of Kinshasa represents 11% of species of the all country. Among those species, 12 are new. Passerines are the most, representing 86 species and 21 families, and are the most diversified. Few species have extended their geographical distribution and some are migratory. Overtime, avian fauna of Kinshasa region has undergone a lot of changes in its composition and diversity. Horizontal extension of the city associated with the consecutive various changes of the habitats seems to be the principal factors which modulate those characteristics. However, the study found that the majority of these species were under precarious statute of conservation.展开更多
<strong>Introduction:</strong> The present research paper aims at assessing the bacteriological water quality in households and at provisioning points, and so factors of water deterioration. <strong>...<strong>Introduction:</strong> The present research paper aims at assessing the bacteriological water quality in households and at provisioning points, and so factors of water deterioration. <strong>Method:</strong> a transverse study has been conducted during the period starting from 11 up to 28 October 2018 within 6 Health Zones (HZ) in Tshopo Province integrated in National Program of Schools and Sanitized Villages (NPSSV). Water samples have been collected within 300 reserves of households and 30 water provisioning and analysed points in order to find out water contamination factors. The frequencies and raw OR have been estimated at (p < 0.05) valued significative. <strong>Results:</strong> fecal coliforms (80% CI95: 75% - 85%) and total (97% CI95: 95% - 99%) were significantly present in water reserves and the presence of Escherichia coli were at about 27% (IC95 22% - 32%). These proportions were correspondingly at 63%, 90% and 10% at water provisioning. The fecal coliforms were the highest in water reserves of sanitized villages (p < 0.05) and Escherichia coli were at about three times higher in traditional sources (17% vs 6%). The duration of water conservation was around 48 hours and more (OR = 4.41;IC95: 1.92 - 10.11), water classification of sanitized risk “intermedium” and the recipients of conservation with bottleneck were associated with the presence of E.coli in water (p < 0.05). <strong>Conclusion: </strong>water from provisioning sources and household reserves are severely polluted and water quality is not good at consumption point and at provisioning point. The reinforcement of safety measures at water points, reduction of conservation length and hygienic water cleaning of storage water recipients are necessary to assure quality of water.展开更多
Wood products trade sector remains crucial for many countries’ economies. This is also for the Republic of Congo (RC) where wood is the second most exported natural resource. </span></span><span s...Wood products trade sector remains crucial for many countries’ economies. This is also for the Republic of Congo (RC) where wood is the second most exported natural resource. </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">In this study</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, we aimed to determine the predominant wood products exported from the RC to China from 2007 to 2019, analyze the trends related to this trade, compare the quantities of wood products exported to China and other destinations, and determine the perspectives for the sustainable trade. The descriptive study using graphs and tables, non-parametric technique Kruskal-Wallis, pairwise comparisons, and SWOT analysis made up the methodological basis for this study. IBM SPSS Statistics 26 software supported data processing. The results showed </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">that </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">logs were mainly exported to China, 92.585% of the three major wood products quantity (Logs, Wet sawnwood, and Dried sawnwood). Volume distributions between products categories differ significantly (Sig. = 0.000 < α = 0.05). Besides, a significant volume (69.32%) was exported to China compared to the other destinations, and volume distributions between different destinations differ significantly (Sig. = 0.000 < α = 0.05). The SWOT analysis describes weaknesses, strengths, opportunities, and potential threats related to RC’ wood products trade sector. The prospects for sustainable trade in wood products between the RC and China lie in establishing a good governance in the timber sector, supporting the emergence of domestic operators, and improving the business climate.展开更多
Coula edulis is non-timber forest product (NTFP) used in Africa for its hazelnuts, which contain edible seeds with a demonstrated nutritional potential. However, there have been very few scientific studies of this spe...Coula edulis is non-timber forest product (NTFP) used in Africa for its hazelnuts, which contain edible seeds with a demonstrated nutritional potential. However, there have been very few scientific studies of this species in the Republic of Congo. Thus, the aim of the current study was therefore to determine the fatty acid composition of the oil extracted from Coula edulis hazelnut seeds collected at random in the Republic of Congo. The oil was extracted using the Soxhlet method and its fatty acid composition was determined by gas chromatography. The extracted oil from Coula edulis hazelnut kernels is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (95.28%), particularly oleic acid (94.5%), which classifies it as an oleic oil and gives it interesting nutritional and therapeutic properties. On the other hand, saturated fatty acids (4.15%) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (0.35%) are not well represented. Its low poly-unsaturated fatty acid content makes it more stable when stored at room temperature.展开更多
The results of scientific studies of human social facts in the field of health show that the management of a patient should involve the patient’s entourage,whatever the status or size of the health establishment.In h...The results of scientific studies of human social facts in the field of health show that the management of a patient should involve the patient’s entourage,whatever the status or size of the health establishment.In healthcare establishments in the Congo,the following are recognised as being responsible for medical care:specialist doctors,doctors,midwives,nurses and care assistants.The patient’s family and close friends are responsible for looking after the patient and financing care.The hospital infrastructure does not provide any space for the patient warden who accompany the patient during reception and hospitalisation.This makes Congolese hospitals inefficient for patient care.How can we integrate the function of the Sick guard and the assistance of the family,in order to reduce the mortality rate and repair the harm caused to patients requiring the presence of relatives during their stay in hospital,which is considered to be a dangerous place?This article examines the functional principles for configuring the space that patient warden would occupy in the patient care system.On the basis of a documentary analysis of sociological and architectural studies of existing facilities,this article proposes a typical accommodation model with the spaces needed to ensure the well-being and effectiveness of the patient warden with the patient.These are rooms with minimum space for 2 to 4 individual beds,equipped with toilets and showers.The accommodation has a dining area,kitchen and laundry facilities.In the future,this accommodation will become part of the hospital estate and may be occupied by orderlies and patient warden recruited by the hospital administration.展开更多
<strong>Background and Aim:</strong> Cancer is a public health problem in developing countries. It is aggravated by diagnostic confirmation difficulties. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemio...<strong>Background and Aim:</strong> Cancer is a public health problem in developing countries. It is aggravated by diagnostic confirmation difficulties. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiological profile of cancers in Congolese rural areas. <strong>Methods</strong>: A historical cohort study was conducted with 914 histopathological protocols at the IME/Kimpese hospital from January 2008 to December 2013. <strong>Results</strong>: The mean age of patients was 55.2 ± 14.5 years, and 61.9% were women with a sex ratio of 2W/M. Ductal carcinoma (23.6%), squamous cell carcinoma (23.5%) and adenocarcinoma (23.1%) were the most common cancers. The most affected organs were breast (26.3%) and prostate (14.3%). 41.5% of cancers had an undifferentiated character and more than half (51.1%) a differentiated character. The majority of this cancer infiltrated other organs (57.9%). Among cancers where grade was found, 16% and 10.8% were respectively grades 1 and 4, and the presence of metastases was observed in 10.9% of cancers. Conclusion: Cancer is more frequent in elderly women with a predominance of squamous and ductal carcinoma. The presence of a national cancer registry is necessary in the country for a good follow-up of cancer cases.展开更多
Introduction: The DRC had planned 23 mass distribution campaigns distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) for the years 2018-2020, the implementation of which spanned from 2018 to July 2021. This article ...Introduction: The DRC had planned 23 mass distribution campaigns distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) for the years 2018-2020, the implementation of which spanned from 2018 to July 2021. This article reviews the campaign’s planning process, the results, challenges, and lessons learned. Methods: A descriptive method was used to postpone the planning and implementation process according to the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) standards adapted to the COVID-19 context. The changes and adaptations implemented as well as the challenges encountered are described. Results: Between January 2018 to June 2021, 23 LLIN mass distribution campaigns were organized in the DRC with the financial support of The Global Fund to Fight against Tuberculosis, AIDS and Malaria (GFTAM) and Against Malaria Foundation (AMF) allowing the distribution of 55,273,473 LLINs to 19,048,372 households at risk of malaria transmission with an average of 2.9 LLINs per household. The enumerated population (111,081,191) exceeded 7% of the micro plans projected population (102,790,391) while the number of households enumerated (19,311,629) was 3% lower compared to the micro planning projection households (19,862,417). Compared to a reported household coverage of 96% of households achieved over the expected households, the independent monitoring carried out revealed 91% of households served in the intervention areas. The main reasons for not reaching households mentioned by the respondents were absence at the time of distribution (26%) followed by the loss of vouchers (16%). Several communication channels were used among which, community workers were the most frequently mentioned (63.1%), followed by radios (18.5%) and churches (12.4%). Conclusion: Good planning, effective coordination of stakeholders, and revision of the implementing campaigns methods following the COVID-19 were factors in the success of this campaign. An effort to respect the schedules for renewing LLINs in households, coupled with good continuous distribution, is necessary to maintain the gains and hope for an impact in terms of morbidity and mortality reduction of malaria.展开更多
Foot infections resulting from biofilm producers and multi-drug resistant organisms is one of the most important complications of diabetes mellitus, as it can impede the wound healing process. This study was carried o...Foot infections resulting from biofilm producers and multi-drug resistant organisms is one of the most important complications of diabetes mellitus, as it can impede the wound healing process. This study was carried out in order to determine the antibiotic resistance pattern and the biofilm production in diabetic foot ulcers isolates. Clinical samples were collected from patients suffering from diabetic foot ulcers by using sterile swabs. Antibiotic susceptibility test was done using disk diffusion method on Mueller Hinton Agar. Biofilm formation was assessed by Crystal Violet Staining Method. <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> isolates were resistant to ofloxacin (83.3%), ciprofloxacin (75.0%), trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (75.0%), and gentamicin (58.8%) but very sensitive to oxacillin (100.0%) and vancomycin (91.7%). <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> isolates showed resistance to the commonly used antibiotics such as ofloxacin, cefotaxime, ampicillin (81.8%), ceftazidime and imipenem (72.7%). The majority of bacteria studied were biofilm producers. This study showed that bacteria isolated from diabetic foot ulcers were biofilm producers and presented resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Knowledge on antibiotic sensitivity pattern and biofilm phenotype of the isolates will be helpful in determining the drugs for the treatment of diabetic ulcers.展开更多
The Sangha River basin is the largest sub-basin of the Congo River basin, which drains the northern part of the Republic of the Congo-Brazzaville. It is the most important economic zone in this part of the country, wi...The Sangha River basin is the largest sub-basin of the Congo River basin, which drains the northern part of the Republic of the Congo-Brazzaville. It is the most important economic zone in this part of the country, with a strong timber industry, agriculture and hydroelectricity. The catchment also boasts the country’s third-largest river port, located in the town of Ouesso. Unfortunately, increasingly frequent low-water levels in recent years have led to a decline in river navigation and economic activities. So, the aim of this study is to show the effects of climate change over the last six decades in the Sangha watershed at Ouesso hydrological station, located in the north of the Republic of the Congo-Brazzaville, and elucidate its impact on water resources. To achieve this, several statistical and hydrological methods were used. The application of change-point or shift detection tests to flow series from 1961 to 2020 revealed variability in the hydrological cycle, characterized by two major phases of homogeneous flows: a wet surplus phase and a dry deficit phase. The results show one shift in flood flows in 1971 (Buishand test), one shift in yearly average flows or modules in 1971 (Pettitt test and Buishand test), and one shift in low-water flows in 1976, with all two tests. These disruptions were accompanied by a drop in flow of around 15.63%, 21.70% and 35.67%, on average, for floods, modules, and low-water, respectively, a drop in rainfall of around 9.6% and a rise in temperature of around 0.76?C. These flows show an overall downward trend. The calculated recession coefficients show that, over the entire study period, a recession occurred in March 1985.展开更多
<strong>Introduction:</strong> DRC is one of Sub-Saharan Africa country with high infant and maternal mortality. The major problem is the underuse of health services because of inaccessibility on all front...<strong>Introduction:</strong> DRC is one of Sub-Saharan Africa country with high infant and maternal mortality. The major problem is the underuse of health services because of inaccessibility on all fronts and also the population under-information to the health and development problems. Community participation is one of the basic requirements and basic principles of the Primary Health Care to solve this problem. That is why we choose Mosango RHZ to assess the improvement of demand for health services with the involvement of community health workers. <strong>Methods:</strong> We conduct a cross-sectional study carried out in Mosango RHZ in 2019. The study combined a mixed method (quantitative and qualitative) based on the realist evaluation approach which takes into account the Context-Mechanisms-Effects explained in the conceptual framework model. <strong>Results:</strong> Four predictive factors determine the improvement of health indicators with the involvement of CHWS in activities of the Mosango RHZ: Having attended school (p = 0.000;OR = 0.150);Having sufficient theoretical knowledge on malaria, diarrhoea, pneumonia, malnutrition, availability of inputs to treat these diseases (p = 0.004;OR = 0.192);Having taken the training as CHWS and Having undergone more than one training as CHW (p = 0.013;OR = 0.074). This result corroborated with other studies carried in low- and middle-income countries like DRC. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The involvement of CHWs on improving demand for health services is effective in Mosango RHZ. The improvement of health service indicators and the effectiveness of this community intervention were conditioned by capacity building of the CHWs, the availability of inputs and the involvement of the community in the activities of the health zone through the Community Action Cells.展开更多
Peatlands are unique and complex natural ecosystems that are part of the most important carbon reservoirs on our planet, home to a diversity of microorganisms responsible for fermentation, humification or peat. The ai...Peatlands are unique and complex natural ecosystems that are part of the most important carbon reservoirs on our planet, home to a diversity of microorganisms responsible for fermentation, humification or peat. The aim is to understand chemical and biological indicators of peatland soils. This work aims to determine the physicochemical and bacteriological profile and lipolytic activity of soil bacteria in Bilanko peatlands. The bacterial profile with the production of lipases is carried out by classical microbiology techniques. The results show that the soils are moderately acidic with temperatures of 27.8˚C ± 0.01˚C for Bilanko and 27.1˚C ± 0.57˚C for Ngamakala. The electroconductivity (EC) varies from (9.52 ± 0.002) μS/cm to (39.01 ± 1.4) μS/cm with low turbidity of (2.04 ± 0.66) mg/L to (31.02 ± 0.84) mg/L and low ion concentrations with, however, a richness in phenolic compounds for Bilanko compared to Ngamakala. FMAT diversity ranged from (1.71 ± 0.88)∙104 UFC/g to (2.92 ± 0.07)∙105 UFC/g for Bilanko and (1.30 ± 0.73)∙104 UFC/g to (2.89 ± 0.06)∙104 UFC/g for Ngamakala. Bacillus loads ranged from (5.20 ± 1.40)∙103 CFU/g to (1.22 ± 0.13)∙104 CFU/g and from (1.11 ± 0.13)∙104 CFU/g to (9.20 ± 2.05)∙103 CFU/g;enterobacteria loads from (1.40 ± 0.76)∙103 CFU/g to (8.80 ± 1.73)∙103 CFU/g and from (1.01 ± 0.02)∙103 CFU/g to (9.20 ± 2.05)∙103 CFU/g;in Pseudomonas from 0 to (2.30 ± 0.53)∙102 CFU/g and from 0 to (8.90 ± 2.35)∙102 CFU/g for Bilanko and Ngamakala respectively. These results reveal a variation in bacterial similarity and distribution in the Bilanko and Ngamakala peat bogs.展开更多
<span style="font-family:Verdana;"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Background</span></b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span ...<span style="font-family:Verdana;"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Background</span></b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: Preeclampsia (PE) is a common condition, causing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the absence of fully satisfactory treatment, screening remains one of the pillars of management. Low vitamin D status has been identified as a risk factor for PE. But, data on vitamin D status and risk factors for PE in the Democratic Republic of </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">t</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">he </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Congo (DRC) is scanty. The aim of this study is to determine the level of Vitamin D and risk factors in preeclamptic patients in our environment.</span></span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods</span></b></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: To fill this gap, we conducted a multicenter incident case control study on 190 pregnant women, 95 cases and 95 controls, receiving care from seven hospitals </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">in Goma, in the eastern DRC, from April 1 to December </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">31</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 2019. Socioeconomic, diet habits, clinical data, urinalysis and serum 25-hydroxy</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were analyzed. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25(OH)D < 30 ng/ml. Bivariate and multivariate analysis were used to assess risk factors of PE.</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results</span></b></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: The median vitamin D level in preeclamptic women was lower than in the control group (21.7 [Interquartile Range (IQR) = 19.2 - 24.1] ng/ml versus 28.5 [IQR = 24.9 - 31.4] ng/ml;(p < 0.001). PE was associated with: </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">1</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) vitamin D deficiency, Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.77</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> at</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> 95% Confidence Interval</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">-</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">CI </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">of </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">[1.22 - 6.31]</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">;p = 0.015;</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) previous history of PE (OR = 12.30;95% CI [1.92 - 18.98];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.008) and </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) high BMI (OR = 2.82;95% CI [1.28 - 6.21];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.010). Smoking (OR = 0.33;95% CI [0.22 - 0.98];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.015) and consumption of dairy products (OR = 0.39;95% CI [0.17 - 0.92];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.032) were protective. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: The odds of PE w</span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">ere</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> 3-fold in pregnant women with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy might reduce the risk of developing PE and ultimately reduce the consequences on maternal and perinatal advert outcomes.展开更多
文摘Prepared with concrete and pragmatic questions,members of a media delegation from the Republic of the Congo toured the cities of Yunfu and Zhaoqing in Guangdong Province from 16 to 22 November 2025.They visited production workshops,explored research institutes,toured beautiful villages and discovered archaeological sites,searching for the keys to Chinese modernisation in its many dimensions.
文摘BACKGROUND Thyroid cancer incidence is rising globally,including the Democratic Republic of Congo(DRC).Despite its increasing incidence,limited data exist on physicians’knowledge of thyroid cancer management in the DRC.AIM To evaluate the knowledge levels of Congolese physicians regarding the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid nodules and cancers,and to identify existing gaps and areas for improvement.METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2024,involving 369 physicians practicing in healthcare facilities across Kinshasa,DRC.Participants were selected using a multi-stage sampling method.Data were collected via a structured questionnaire covering thyroid cancer epidemiology,diagnostic methods,treatment approaches,and prognosis.Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25,employing descriptive and inferential statistics,with a P value≤0.05 being considered as statistically significant.RESULTS Overall response rate was 96.1%.Of all participants,68%were female and 32%were male physicians.General practitioners constituted 84.8%of respondents,with an average age of 34 years.While 53.7%demonstrated adequate knowledge of hypothyroidism management post-thyroidectomy and 61.2%identified the approach for hypoparathyroidism,only 5.1%recognized the need for radiotherapy in metastatic thyroid cancer cases.Awareness of anaplastic thyroid cancer treatment was limited(6.5%),and 90.2%of physicians were unfamiliar with the surgical complications.Moderate understanding was noted in diagnostic protocols,with 44.2%correctly identifying repeat fine-needle aspiration timing in Bethesda I cases.Knowledge of molecular genetics,recurrence risks,and metastasis patterns was remarkably low.CONCLUSION This study highlights significant knowledge gaps among Congolese physicians regarding thyroid cancer management,especially about advanced treatment modalities and molecular genetics.Targeted educational programs and improved access to diagnostic tools are critical to bridging these deficits.Addressing these gaps can enhance the quality of thyroid cancer care and align clinical practices in the DRC with global standards.
文摘AIM:To determine the frequency and types of retinal diseases and the extend of the related visual loss in adult patients attending two public eye clinics of Kinshasa,Democratic Republic of Congo.METHODS:Review of medical records of patients with retinal diseases seen in the major eye clinics in Kinshasa,the University Hospital of Kinshasa(UHK)and Saint Joseph Hospital(SJH),from January 2012 to December 2014.Demographics and diagnoses were retrieved and analyzed.Outcome measures were frequency and prevalence of retinal diseases,blindness and low vision.RESULTS:A total of 40965 patients aged 40 y or older were examined during this period in both clinics.Of these,1208 had retinal disease,giving a 3-year and an annual prevalence of 3%and 1%,respectively.Mean age was 61.7±10.7 y,and 55.8%of the patients were males.Arterial hypertension(68.1%)and diabetes(43.3%)were the most common systemic comorbidities.Hypertensive retinopathy(41.8%),diabetic retinopathy(37.9%),age-related macular degeneration(AMD;14.6%),and chorioretinitis and retinal vein occlusion(7.3%each)were the most common retinal diseases,with 3-year prevalence rates of 1.3%,1.0%,0.43%,and 0.21%respectively.Bilateral low vision and blindness were present in 26.8%and 8.4%of the patients at presentation.Major causes of low vision and blindness were diabetic retinopathy(14.8%),AMD(4.9%),retinal detachment(2.8%),and retinal vein occlusion(2.5%).The prevalence was significantly higher among males than females,and at the UHK than SJH.CONCLUSION:Retinal diseases are common among Congolese adult patients attending eye clinics in Kinshasa.They cause a significant proportion of low vision and blindness.
文摘Lithological, petrographic, and morphoscopic studies were conducted on cuttings and cores from three boreholes drilled in the Loemé salt, Kanga site, Republic of the Congo, to determine 1) the preferential conditions for crystallization of carnallite and associated salts and 2) to reconstruct paleoenvironmental and paleoclimatic conditions at the time of sedimentation. Sequential analysis of logs, sedimentary structures, carnallitite facies and associated salts concluded to the existence of a potassic carnallitite lagoon basin with low water cover, on a very wide and extensive plateau, affected by coastal waves and swells resulting from successive collapses. This basin evolved in two phases: confined and then open. The regular stratifications of halite, the rhythmicity of the halite-carnallitite elementary sequences are characteristic of salts that precipitated in relatively stable brines. These salts are therefore tectonosedimentary. The brecciated facies of the carnallitites sometimes associated with tachyhydrite result from the evolution of these deposits into salt crusts reworked by the surges into subaquatic allochemical gravelly cords under water. These crusts mark stages of partial and complete drying of the basin in a very hot and arid climate. Prolonged exposure of halite brines as well as their homogenization by surges accelerated evaporation and their abrupt evolution into carnallite brines obstructing the fossilization of sylvite. The precipitation of tachyhydrite marks the final stage of the successive complete drying of the basin.
文摘The delay in the delivery of laboratory results can be fatal and can even lead to the death of patients. This study was conducted at the clinical laboratory of the University Hospital of Kinshasa (UHK) from October 2020 to April 2021, aimed to evaluate the laboratory tests’ turnaround time (TAT) and to identify reasons for delay. TAT was quantified using a time and motion analysis approach. The evaluation of TAT consisted of comparing the overall intra-lab TAT with the suggested TAT using student t-test at 95% confidence intervals. Brainstorming was the root cause analysis tool used for identifying reasons for delay. In this study, the laboratory tests’ TATs were significantly higher (p < 0.001) comparing to international guidelines (60 minutes) and customers’ suggested TAT (120 minutes). Only 0.98% of the samples were reported within 60 minutes of patient reception and 1.47% within 120 minutes, i.e. an outlier rate of 98.5%. Root causes of delay related to Machinery, Management, Manpower, Materials, Method and Milieu. Because of many reasons, the laboratory is not meeting the established TAT. Preventive and curative measures must be undertaken to reduce the delay and improve the TAT.
文摘The belowground biomass is represented by coarse and fine roots. Concentrated in the superficial horizons of the soil, the fine roots play a crucial role in the functioning of a forest ecosystem. However, studies on their dynamics in natural forests are almost non-existent in the Republic of Congo. Here, we estimated the biomass, production, turnover and fine root lifespan of two forest strata of a semi-deciduous forest: the <i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Gilbertiodendron dewevrei</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> (De Wild.) J. Léonard forest (GF) and the mixed forest (MF) of land. The ingrowth cores method was used to estimate the biomass, production, turnover and lifespan of fine roots. The results of this study revealed that the biomass, production and fine root turnover of the two forest strata studied significantly decreased with increasing soil depth, with an increase in lifespan. The annual fine root biomass of GF (2284.50 ± 37.62 <img src="Edit_990c94b6-013e-4e21-90df-d1388dc0e65f.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1034.61 ± 14.52 <img src="Edit_dff42540-5a2f-413b-8620-cb500e9961e2.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) was slightly lower than that of MF (2430.07 ± 40.68 <img src="Edit_66800589-8460-4c37-83b2-2df0f335d75d.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1043.10 ± 11.75 <img src="Edit_c22f255e-d910-4b49-a6a4-033516044362.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) in the 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm horizons, respectively. The annual production of fine roots from these latter horizons was respectively 1300.19 ± 32.17 <img src="Edit_5482204b-8e9e-476a-907d-0865bf3a1c99.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 539.18 ± 11.55 <img src="Edit_65a2856e-5322-4fc9-b42a-3ba1176fa992.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> in GF and 1362.24 ± 39.59 <img src="Edit_9802e464-658d-48eb-9b57-8e746c3e8ef4.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 492.95 ± 14.38 <img src="Edit_51413fca-930c-45b9-a385-2b55d4d2bac8.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> in the MF. Root turnover was higher in the GF (1.68 ± 0.05 <img src="Edit_ce9d780c-6a46-46c4-aad2-653309318e29.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1.35 ± 0.03 <img src="Edit_d66d8b7b-c608-4398-9441-e85547f03dea.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) than in the MF (1.57 ± 0.05 <img src="Edit_cb79094f-88a0-401c-a3e7-06eedb2cef9a.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and 1.13 ± 0.02 <img src="Edit_e4f9b6d7-2e2e-44d5-8662-862b8f8ff80e.png" alt="" /></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">). The lifespan of fine roots increased with the depth of the soil. The difference in fine root dynamics observed between the forest strata studied was influenced by the Evenness index and the above-ground biomass.</span>
文摘Background: Pregnant women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are at increased risk for developing obstetric fistulas (OFs) as a result of obstructed labor, in conditions similar to many other African countries. No case-control study of biological and social risk factors for OF has been reported from the DRC. This study aimed to identify factors that would aid in prevention and early identification of women who are at risk of developing OF. Methods: Participants were enrolled in a case-control study at four obstetric clinics in the central DRC. Cases of OF were evaluated as they presented, then a control participant was enrolled among women presenting subsequently to the same clinic, seeking to match parity at the time of the fistula and tribe of the case. A questionnaire was administered to elicit physical, obstetric, demographic, socioeconomic, religion, geographic, and delivery attributes of the participants. Case-control comparisons sought to identify independent risk factors for OF in the total case-control pairs and in subgroups of the participants. Logistic regression was utilized to identify independent risk factors for OF in the total case-control study group and in selected subgroups of the participants, and linear regression was utilized to estimate the variation explained between case and control outcomes from the variables independently significant in the logistic regression models. Results: A total of 177 case-control pairs were enrolled. Among all pairs, shorter height of the case (odds ratio = 1.06, 95% Confidence Limits 1.02 - 1.12);more kilometers travelled to the delivery site (1.02, 1.01 - 1.02);her village, not town, residence (OR = 5.52, 2.72 - 11.2), and her lower professional status (2.95, 1.53 - 5.72) were statistically independent factors associated with OF development. When applied in linear regression comparison of the pairs, these variables yielded an r<sup>2</sup> = 0.48, imputing 48% of the difference in delivery outcome between the pairs was explained by these variables. Among the 38 pairs who were primigravida, the independent variables were more kilometers travelled to the delivery site (1.02, 1.00 - 1.05), village, not town, residence (50.0, 10.2 - 248.7), and facility intended for lower patient acuity (3.7 s, 1.01 - 13.6, r<sup>2</sup> = 0.66) patients who were matched on parity and tribe, the significant risk factors were professional status (OR = 0.29), greater distance travelled to the clinic (OR = 1.02, 1.01 - 1.02), village, not town, residence (5.52, 2.72 - 11.2), and mother’s lower professional status (2.95, 1.53 - 5.72) when the OF occurred. Conclusions: Our study showed biological and social factors associated with the development of OF. Shorter height was the only biological risk factor found to be statistically significant in the study population. Other factors were related to limited resources and limited access to medical care.
基金supported by the World Health Organization(WHO/TDR),project ID A61119
文摘Objective: To improve knowledge and practice of health staff as well as the availability of material resources for diagnosis and management of schistosomiasis in two endemic provinces of DRC(Kinshasa and Bas-Congo).Methods: Structured interviews were performed using questionnaires with staff from 35 healthcare facilities in 9 health zones(HZ) of Kinshasa and 2 HZ in Bas-Congo.Results: Schistosomiasis was reported to be present in all the included HZ.Health staff knew the most important symptoms of schistosomiasis, but advanced symptoms were more accurately reported in Bas-Congo.Knowledge of symptoms related to schistosomiasis such as anemia(P = 0.0 115) and pollakiuria(P = 0.0 260) was statistically different in both two provinces.Kato-Katz technique and urine filtration were unavailable in both provinces.Parasitological diagnosis was mostly performed using the direct smear method.PZQ was available in 70% of the health facilities, all situated in Bas-Congo.Diagnosis and treatment mostly relied on symptoms and cost more in urban area than in rural.Conclusions: Though knowledge on schistosomiasis among health staff appears sufficient, substantial efforts still must be made to improve the availability of diagnostic tools and treatment in the health facilities in DRC.
文摘The study aimed at understanding the current avifauna characteristics, like composition, species diversity and evolution, in the city of Kinshasa. The study was conducted from 2006 to 2014, using observation, photography and Japanese nets. Results of the study indicate that there are 131 species of birds, which represents 40 families and 16 orders. Avifauna of Kinshasa represents 11% of species of the all country. Among those species, 12 are new. Passerines are the most, representing 86 species and 21 families, and are the most diversified. Few species have extended their geographical distribution and some are migratory. Overtime, avian fauna of Kinshasa region has undergone a lot of changes in its composition and diversity. Horizontal extension of the city associated with the consecutive various changes of the habitats seems to be the principal factors which modulate those characteristics. However, the study found that the majority of these species were under precarious statute of conservation.
文摘<strong>Introduction:</strong> The present research paper aims at assessing the bacteriological water quality in households and at provisioning points, and so factors of water deterioration. <strong>Method:</strong> a transverse study has been conducted during the period starting from 11 up to 28 October 2018 within 6 Health Zones (HZ) in Tshopo Province integrated in National Program of Schools and Sanitized Villages (NPSSV). Water samples have been collected within 300 reserves of households and 30 water provisioning and analysed points in order to find out water contamination factors. The frequencies and raw OR have been estimated at (p < 0.05) valued significative. <strong>Results:</strong> fecal coliforms (80% CI95: 75% - 85%) and total (97% CI95: 95% - 99%) were significantly present in water reserves and the presence of Escherichia coli were at about 27% (IC95 22% - 32%). These proportions were correspondingly at 63%, 90% and 10% at water provisioning. The fecal coliforms were the highest in water reserves of sanitized villages (p < 0.05) and Escherichia coli were at about three times higher in traditional sources (17% vs 6%). The duration of water conservation was around 48 hours and more (OR = 4.41;IC95: 1.92 - 10.11), water classification of sanitized risk “intermedium” and the recipients of conservation with bottleneck were associated with the presence of E.coli in water (p < 0.05). <strong>Conclusion: </strong>water from provisioning sources and household reserves are severely polluted and water quality is not good at consumption point and at provisioning point. The reinforcement of safety measures at water points, reduction of conservation length and hygienic water cleaning of storage water recipients are necessary to assure quality of water.
文摘Wood products trade sector remains crucial for many countries’ economies. This is also for the Republic of Congo (RC) where wood is the second most exported natural resource. </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">In this study</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, we aimed to determine the predominant wood products exported from the RC to China from 2007 to 2019, analyze the trends related to this trade, compare the quantities of wood products exported to China and other destinations, and determine the perspectives for the sustainable trade. The descriptive study using graphs and tables, non-parametric technique Kruskal-Wallis, pairwise comparisons, and SWOT analysis made up the methodological basis for this study. IBM SPSS Statistics 26 software supported data processing. The results showed </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">that </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">logs were mainly exported to China, 92.585% of the three major wood products quantity (Logs, Wet sawnwood, and Dried sawnwood). Volume distributions between products categories differ significantly (Sig. = 0.000 < α = 0.05). Besides, a significant volume (69.32%) was exported to China compared to the other destinations, and volume distributions between different destinations differ significantly (Sig. = 0.000 < α = 0.05). The SWOT analysis describes weaknesses, strengths, opportunities, and potential threats related to RC’ wood products trade sector. The prospects for sustainable trade in wood products between the RC and China lie in establishing a good governance in the timber sector, supporting the emergence of domestic operators, and improving the business climate.
文摘Coula edulis is non-timber forest product (NTFP) used in Africa for its hazelnuts, which contain edible seeds with a demonstrated nutritional potential. However, there have been very few scientific studies of this species in the Republic of Congo. Thus, the aim of the current study was therefore to determine the fatty acid composition of the oil extracted from Coula edulis hazelnut seeds collected at random in the Republic of Congo. The oil was extracted using the Soxhlet method and its fatty acid composition was determined by gas chromatography. The extracted oil from Coula edulis hazelnut kernels is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (95.28%), particularly oleic acid (94.5%), which classifies it as an oleic oil and gives it interesting nutritional and therapeutic properties. On the other hand, saturated fatty acids (4.15%) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (0.35%) are not well represented. Its low poly-unsaturated fatty acid content makes it more stable when stored at room temperature.
文摘The results of scientific studies of human social facts in the field of health show that the management of a patient should involve the patient’s entourage,whatever the status or size of the health establishment.In healthcare establishments in the Congo,the following are recognised as being responsible for medical care:specialist doctors,doctors,midwives,nurses and care assistants.The patient’s family and close friends are responsible for looking after the patient and financing care.The hospital infrastructure does not provide any space for the patient warden who accompany the patient during reception and hospitalisation.This makes Congolese hospitals inefficient for patient care.How can we integrate the function of the Sick guard and the assistance of the family,in order to reduce the mortality rate and repair the harm caused to patients requiring the presence of relatives during their stay in hospital,which is considered to be a dangerous place?This article examines the functional principles for configuring the space that patient warden would occupy in the patient care system.On the basis of a documentary analysis of sociological and architectural studies of existing facilities,this article proposes a typical accommodation model with the spaces needed to ensure the well-being and effectiveness of the patient warden with the patient.These are rooms with minimum space for 2 to 4 individual beds,equipped with toilets and showers.The accommodation has a dining area,kitchen and laundry facilities.In the future,this accommodation will become part of the hospital estate and may be occupied by orderlies and patient warden recruited by the hospital administration.
文摘<strong>Background and Aim:</strong> Cancer is a public health problem in developing countries. It is aggravated by diagnostic confirmation difficulties. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiological profile of cancers in Congolese rural areas. <strong>Methods</strong>: A historical cohort study was conducted with 914 histopathological protocols at the IME/Kimpese hospital from January 2008 to December 2013. <strong>Results</strong>: The mean age of patients was 55.2 ± 14.5 years, and 61.9% were women with a sex ratio of 2W/M. Ductal carcinoma (23.6%), squamous cell carcinoma (23.5%) and adenocarcinoma (23.1%) were the most common cancers. The most affected organs were breast (26.3%) and prostate (14.3%). 41.5% of cancers had an undifferentiated character and more than half (51.1%) a differentiated character. The majority of this cancer infiltrated other organs (57.9%). Among cancers where grade was found, 16% and 10.8% were respectively grades 1 and 4, and the presence of metastases was observed in 10.9% of cancers. Conclusion: Cancer is more frequent in elderly women with a predominance of squamous and ductal carcinoma. The presence of a national cancer registry is necessary in the country for a good follow-up of cancer cases.
文摘Introduction: The DRC had planned 23 mass distribution campaigns distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) for the years 2018-2020, the implementation of which spanned from 2018 to July 2021. This article reviews the campaign’s planning process, the results, challenges, and lessons learned. Methods: A descriptive method was used to postpone the planning and implementation process according to the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) standards adapted to the COVID-19 context. The changes and adaptations implemented as well as the challenges encountered are described. Results: Between January 2018 to June 2021, 23 LLIN mass distribution campaigns were organized in the DRC with the financial support of The Global Fund to Fight against Tuberculosis, AIDS and Malaria (GFTAM) and Against Malaria Foundation (AMF) allowing the distribution of 55,273,473 LLINs to 19,048,372 households at risk of malaria transmission with an average of 2.9 LLINs per household. The enumerated population (111,081,191) exceeded 7% of the micro plans projected population (102,790,391) while the number of households enumerated (19,311,629) was 3% lower compared to the micro planning projection households (19,862,417). Compared to a reported household coverage of 96% of households achieved over the expected households, the independent monitoring carried out revealed 91% of households served in the intervention areas. The main reasons for not reaching households mentioned by the respondents were absence at the time of distribution (26%) followed by the loss of vouchers (16%). Several communication channels were used among which, community workers were the most frequently mentioned (63.1%), followed by radios (18.5%) and churches (12.4%). Conclusion: Good planning, effective coordination of stakeholders, and revision of the implementing campaigns methods following the COVID-19 were factors in the success of this campaign. An effort to respect the schedules for renewing LLINs in households, coupled with good continuous distribution, is necessary to maintain the gains and hope for an impact in terms of morbidity and mortality reduction of malaria.
文摘Foot infections resulting from biofilm producers and multi-drug resistant organisms is one of the most important complications of diabetes mellitus, as it can impede the wound healing process. This study was carried out in order to determine the antibiotic resistance pattern and the biofilm production in diabetic foot ulcers isolates. Clinical samples were collected from patients suffering from diabetic foot ulcers by using sterile swabs. Antibiotic susceptibility test was done using disk diffusion method on Mueller Hinton Agar. Biofilm formation was assessed by Crystal Violet Staining Method. <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> isolates were resistant to ofloxacin (83.3%), ciprofloxacin (75.0%), trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (75.0%), and gentamicin (58.8%) but very sensitive to oxacillin (100.0%) and vancomycin (91.7%). <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> isolates showed resistance to the commonly used antibiotics such as ofloxacin, cefotaxime, ampicillin (81.8%), ceftazidime and imipenem (72.7%). The majority of bacteria studied were biofilm producers. This study showed that bacteria isolated from diabetic foot ulcers were biofilm producers and presented resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Knowledge on antibiotic sensitivity pattern and biofilm phenotype of the isolates will be helpful in determining the drugs for the treatment of diabetic ulcers.
文摘The Sangha River basin is the largest sub-basin of the Congo River basin, which drains the northern part of the Republic of the Congo-Brazzaville. It is the most important economic zone in this part of the country, with a strong timber industry, agriculture and hydroelectricity. The catchment also boasts the country’s third-largest river port, located in the town of Ouesso. Unfortunately, increasingly frequent low-water levels in recent years have led to a decline in river navigation and economic activities. So, the aim of this study is to show the effects of climate change over the last six decades in the Sangha watershed at Ouesso hydrological station, located in the north of the Republic of the Congo-Brazzaville, and elucidate its impact on water resources. To achieve this, several statistical and hydrological methods were used. The application of change-point or shift detection tests to flow series from 1961 to 2020 revealed variability in the hydrological cycle, characterized by two major phases of homogeneous flows: a wet surplus phase and a dry deficit phase. The results show one shift in flood flows in 1971 (Buishand test), one shift in yearly average flows or modules in 1971 (Pettitt test and Buishand test), and one shift in low-water flows in 1976, with all two tests. These disruptions were accompanied by a drop in flow of around 15.63%, 21.70% and 35.67%, on average, for floods, modules, and low-water, respectively, a drop in rainfall of around 9.6% and a rise in temperature of around 0.76?C. These flows show an overall downward trend. The calculated recession coefficients show that, over the entire study period, a recession occurred in March 1985.
文摘<strong>Introduction:</strong> DRC is one of Sub-Saharan Africa country with high infant and maternal mortality. The major problem is the underuse of health services because of inaccessibility on all fronts and also the population under-information to the health and development problems. Community participation is one of the basic requirements and basic principles of the Primary Health Care to solve this problem. That is why we choose Mosango RHZ to assess the improvement of demand for health services with the involvement of community health workers. <strong>Methods:</strong> We conduct a cross-sectional study carried out in Mosango RHZ in 2019. The study combined a mixed method (quantitative and qualitative) based on the realist evaluation approach which takes into account the Context-Mechanisms-Effects explained in the conceptual framework model. <strong>Results:</strong> Four predictive factors determine the improvement of health indicators with the involvement of CHWS in activities of the Mosango RHZ: Having attended school (p = 0.000;OR = 0.150);Having sufficient theoretical knowledge on malaria, diarrhoea, pneumonia, malnutrition, availability of inputs to treat these diseases (p = 0.004;OR = 0.192);Having taken the training as CHWS and Having undergone more than one training as CHW (p = 0.013;OR = 0.074). This result corroborated with other studies carried in low- and middle-income countries like DRC. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The involvement of CHWs on improving demand for health services is effective in Mosango RHZ. The improvement of health service indicators and the effectiveness of this community intervention were conditioned by capacity building of the CHWs, the availability of inputs and the involvement of the community in the activities of the health zone through the Community Action Cells.
文摘Peatlands are unique and complex natural ecosystems that are part of the most important carbon reservoirs on our planet, home to a diversity of microorganisms responsible for fermentation, humification or peat. The aim is to understand chemical and biological indicators of peatland soils. This work aims to determine the physicochemical and bacteriological profile and lipolytic activity of soil bacteria in Bilanko peatlands. The bacterial profile with the production of lipases is carried out by classical microbiology techniques. The results show that the soils are moderately acidic with temperatures of 27.8˚C ± 0.01˚C for Bilanko and 27.1˚C ± 0.57˚C for Ngamakala. The electroconductivity (EC) varies from (9.52 ± 0.002) μS/cm to (39.01 ± 1.4) μS/cm with low turbidity of (2.04 ± 0.66) mg/L to (31.02 ± 0.84) mg/L and low ion concentrations with, however, a richness in phenolic compounds for Bilanko compared to Ngamakala. FMAT diversity ranged from (1.71 ± 0.88)∙104 UFC/g to (2.92 ± 0.07)∙105 UFC/g for Bilanko and (1.30 ± 0.73)∙104 UFC/g to (2.89 ± 0.06)∙104 UFC/g for Ngamakala. Bacillus loads ranged from (5.20 ± 1.40)∙103 CFU/g to (1.22 ± 0.13)∙104 CFU/g and from (1.11 ± 0.13)∙104 CFU/g to (9.20 ± 2.05)∙103 CFU/g;enterobacteria loads from (1.40 ± 0.76)∙103 CFU/g to (8.80 ± 1.73)∙103 CFU/g and from (1.01 ± 0.02)∙103 CFU/g to (9.20 ± 2.05)∙103 CFU/g;in Pseudomonas from 0 to (2.30 ± 0.53)∙102 CFU/g and from 0 to (8.90 ± 2.35)∙102 CFU/g for Bilanko and Ngamakala respectively. These results reveal a variation in bacterial similarity and distribution in the Bilanko and Ngamakala peat bogs.
文摘<span style="font-family:Verdana;"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Background</span></b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: Preeclampsia (PE) is a common condition, causing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the absence of fully satisfactory treatment, screening remains one of the pillars of management. Low vitamin D status has been identified as a risk factor for PE. But, data on vitamin D status and risk factors for PE in the Democratic Republic of </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">t</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">he </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Congo (DRC) is scanty. The aim of this study is to determine the level of Vitamin D and risk factors in preeclamptic patients in our environment.</span></span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods</span></b></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: To fill this gap, we conducted a multicenter incident case control study on 190 pregnant women, 95 cases and 95 controls, receiving care from seven hospitals </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">in Goma, in the eastern DRC, from April 1 to December </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">31</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, 2019. Socioeconomic, diet habits, clinical data, urinalysis and serum 25-hydroxy</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were analyzed. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25(OH)D < 30 ng/ml. Bivariate and multivariate analysis were used to assess risk factors of PE.</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results</span></b></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: The median vitamin D level in preeclamptic women was lower than in the control group (21.7 [Interquartile Range (IQR) = 19.2 - 24.1] ng/ml versus 28.5 [IQR = 24.9 - 31.4] ng/ml;(p < 0.001). PE was associated with: </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">1</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) vitamin D deficiency, Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.77</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> at</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> 95% Confidence Interval</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">-</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">CI </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">of </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">[1.22 - 6.31]</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">;p = 0.015;</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""> </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) previous history of PE (OR = 12.30;95% CI [1.92 - 18.98];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.008) and </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">) high BMI (OR = 2.82;95% CI [1.28 - 6.21];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.010). Smoking (OR = 0.33;95% CI [0.22 - 0.98];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.015) and consumption of dairy products (OR = 0.39;95% CI [0.17 - 0.92];</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">p</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> = 0.032) were protective. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: The odds of PE w</span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">ere</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> 3-fold in pregnant women with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy might reduce the risk of developing PE and ultimately reduce the consequences on maternal and perinatal advert outcomes.
