Introduction: Pulmonary embolism is a relatively common life-threatening cardiovascular emergency. It remains a diagnostic problem because of its nonspecific clinical signs. Objective: The general objective was to stu...Introduction: Pulmonary embolism is a relatively common life-threatening cardiovascular emergency. It remains a diagnostic problem because of its nonspecific clinical signs. Objective: The general objective was to study pulmonary embolism in young patients admitted to the cardiology department of Dakar Principal Hospital in Senegal. Methodology: This was a retrospective, descriptive and analytical study in the cardiology department of the Dakar Principal Hospital over a period of two (02) years from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2016 in young patients admitted for pulmonary embolism. Results: We collected 24 patients with a hospital prevalence of 2.18%. The average age was 42.29 years ± 8.41 years with a male predominance (sex ratio of 1.6). The Wells probability score was low in 54.16% of patients and medium in 45.83%. Functional signs were dominated by chest pain (83.33% of cases) followed by dyspnea (79.16% of cases). The thromboembolic risk factors found were gynecological-obstetrical in 16.6% of cases followed by prolonged bed rest. One case of thrombophilia was present with a deficiency of protein C and antithrombin III. The electrocardiogram recorded sinus tachycardia in 29.16% of patients;the Mac Ginn White sign (S1Q3T3) was found in 25% of cases. Echocardiography showed pulmonary arterial hypertension in 12.48% of cases, dilation of the right ventricle and a paradoxical septal motion in 14.28% of cases. CT pulmonary angiography showed 63.63% of cases with bilateral pulmonary embolism;it was unilateral in 22.72% of cases. Long-term anticoagulation was based on acenocoumarol 4 mg (66.7%) and Rivaroxaban (33.3%). 62.5% of the patients were seen at the 3rd month, when a checking was made to evaluate the tolerance of the treatment, and the evolution of the patient. Conclusion: Pulmonary embolism is not a rare condition in young subjects but is often underdiagnosed. Gyneco-obstetrical factors are predominant in this age group. Direct oral anticoagulants are more and more prescribed in our countries.展开更多
Aims: Although the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) is an effective contraceptive device, cases of pregnancy under the Cu-IUD have been reported. We here report 10 women who got pregnant under this condition, with ...Aims: Although the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) is an effective contraceptive device, cases of pregnancy under the Cu-IUD have been reported. We here report 10 women who got pregnant under this condition, with special reference to etiologies and pregnancy outcomes. Methodology: We analyzed all women who got pregnant under Cu-IUD at ATBEF Main Clinic from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2020. Results: We retrieved 10 patients. The durations of Cu-IUD use were 3 months to 6 years. The etiologies were poor insertion;migration and spontaneous expulsion. The occurrence of pregnancy was poorly accepted by the women: 20% of women considered it was due to the providers’ incompetence. Of the 10 pregnancies, 5 women had given vaginal birth spontaneously;2 induced abortions, 2 spontaneous abortions and 1 ectopic pregnancy. The contraceptive method adopted after pregnancy was jadelle implants in 8 cases and spousal vasectomy in 2 cases. Conclusion: The prevention of IUD pregnancies may require adequate insertion time, insertion technique and follow-up.展开更多
<strong>Aims:</strong><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""><strong> </strong>To determine the cardiovascular and cerebrovascula...<strong>Aims:</strong><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""><strong> </strong>To determine the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular prognosis at 5 years of patients who underwent an ischemic stroke in Senegal. <b>Methods:</b> We performed a descriptive, retrospective and exhaustive study conducted at Principal Hospital of Dakar. We included all patients hospitalized at Principal Hospital of Dakar from 2013 to 201</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">9</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> for an ischemic stroke confirmed by a cerebral CT-Scanner or by magnetic resonance imaging, and who survived the acute phase. <b>Results: </b>Overall, one</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">hundred and seventy-one (171) patients were gathered. Ninety-six (96) male patients account for 56.14% and seventy-five (75) female patients account for 43.86%</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">,</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> with a sex</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">ratio of 1.28. Patients’mean age was 66.33 ±</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""></span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">13.99 years. Twenty-one (21) young patients (12.35%), aged less than 50 years, presented with an ischemic stroke. Myocardial infarction was found in a female patient (0</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">.</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">6%) 3 months after she experienced an ischemic stroke, nine (9) patients (5.29%) underwent a recurrence of the ischemic stroke with a mean recurrence period of 8 months and extremes rang</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">ing</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> from 1 to 24 months. Five (5) patients (2.92%) developed dementia with a score less than 28. A 30 years old patient presented with epilepsy 12 months after the ischemic stroke accounting </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">for </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">0.58%. We registered ninety (90) deaths that occurred in a mean period of 24 months ±</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">9.8 after they presented their ischemic stroke, standing for 52.63% amongst which thirty</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">-</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">five (35) accounting for 39% were female patients and fifty</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">-</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">five patients (55) representing 61% were male patients. Mortality-related factors included: advanced age, past medical history of heart surgery, known </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">as </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">dys</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">lipidemia, physical inactivity, obesity and recurrent ischemic stroke. <b>Conclusion:</b> Long</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">-</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">term prognosis of ischemic stroke remains unclear in Senegal. </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">Therefore</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">,</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> a strategy for primary prevention is highly crucial and </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">it </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">requires the control of risk factors in general and that of high blood pressure in particular.</span>展开更多
Ob</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">jectives:</span></span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Descr...Ob</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">jectives:</span></span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Describe the socio-demographic characteristics, describe the main indications for LEEP and present the main complications. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology:</span></b> </span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study with consecutive recruitment of the study population through cervical cancer screening campaigns throughout the country during the period July 1, 2017 to April 30, 2019. Included were all patients eligible for LEEP and having benefited from this therapeutic method during our study period. Data were collected from a registry and recorded on a questionnaire developed for this study. These data were analyzed using Epi info 3.5.1 software. The following parameters were studied: patient age, indication for LEEP, intraoperative and postoperative complications, histological examination of the specimens, and postoperative surveillance and screening follow-up one year after LEEP. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> During the study period, 12</span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">,</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">595 women were screened for precancerous cervical lesions. A total of 474 women had precancerous lesions. Of these women, 227 had undergone loop resection, a rate of 47.9%. The main indications for LEEP were extensive lesions (68.7%), lesions penetrating the internal cervical os (12.8%). Incidents occurred in 7.5% of patients during the procedure. Post-operative complications occurred in 14.7% of cases. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">LEEP is a better way to treat precancerous lesions but is not well known by medical staff. The equipment of health facilities and the training of medical staff will make it possible to popularize the practice throughout the country. This extension will contribute to the fight against cervical cancer.展开更多
Introduction: Spontaneous pneumothorax is a rare but serious complication of tuberculosis. Miliary tuberculosis (MT) is a severe form of tuberculosis secondary to hematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Obj...Introduction: Spontaneous pneumothorax is a rare but serious complication of tuberculosis. Miliary tuberculosis (MT) is a severe form of tuberculosis secondary to hematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Objective: To report a case of MT complicated by pneumothorax. Methodology: This was a 25-year-old patient, farmer, followed up at the Pneumo-phtisiology department of the CHU du Point G for MT whose condition was improving after the introduction of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy. He consulted again after experiencing chest pain. Clinical and imaging revealed a Spontaneous pneumothorax complicating MT. The treatment combined anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy, chest drainage and respiratory physiotherapy. Outcome was favorable with improvement of clinical and radiological signs. Conclusion: Pneumothorax complicating MT requires a reflective diagnostic approach and rapid management to improve its prognosis.展开更多
Background: Heart failure is a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. In patients with chronic Heart Failure and cardiac desynchrony, studies have suggested that cardiac resynchronization, can improve ca...Background: Heart failure is a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. In patients with chronic Heart Failure and cardiac desynchrony, studies have suggested that cardiac resynchronization, can improve cardiac function and the quality of life of patients. However, in Sub-Saharan Africa, very few studies have been done on cardiac resynchronization which is in its infancy. The aim of this study is to report the local data from our hospital. Method: It was a transversal, descriptive and analytical study conducted from November 2019 to September 2022 at the Cardiology Department of the Principal Hospital of Dakar. Results: Twelve patients were implanted for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT). The sex ratio was 8 males/4 females. The average age was 67 ± 11 years. Ten patients had non-ischemic heart disease and the two others had ischemic one. All of them had NYHA III or IV scores before CRT. The Quality of Life (QOL) was judged as poor by all of the patients. The average duration of QRS was 156 ± 9 ms. 27.9% ± 5% was the mean Left Ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Complications occur in 3/12 patients (25%). It was one CS vein dissection, one micro LV lead dislodgement and one phrenic nerve stimulation. Nine patients, who were considered as responders, had an improvement of QOL and NYHA, the LVEF increased and the end-diastolic dimension, and the duration of the QRS interval all decreased. Two patients do not respond and one (1) who had permanent atrial fibrillation, was a secondary responder after an atrioventricular junction ablation. Conclusion: Cardiac resynchronization is a therapy that improves the QOL of patients, the LVEF and reduces the duration of the QRS interval. However, this procedure is not without risk of complications. In sub-Saharan Africa, the major challenge is to improve the financial accessibility of this therapy for the population.展开更多
Neonatal thrombocytopenia accounts for 20% of neonates hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at DPH. The etiologies are multiple, but bacterial infection is the third leading cause of neonatal mortal...Neonatal thrombocytopenia accounts for 20% of neonates hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at DPH. The etiologies are multiple, but bacterial infection is the third leading cause of neonatal mortality worldwide. We therefore set out to assess the frequency of neonatal thrombocytopenia associated or not with bacterial infection in the NICU. We conducted a retrospective and prospective study with the DPH NICU, over 10 months (August 2018 and April 2019). Thrombocytopenia encountered in the NICUs, were the subject of research into bacteriological, inflammatory, and epidemiological parameters using Inlog laboratory data processing software. During this period, 1280 babies were hospitalized, 94 of whom underwent thrombocytopenia, corresponding to 7.34%, with a sex ratio of 0.92. The number of babies presenting with thrombocytopenia during the first week of hospitalization was 72, accounting for 76.6%. The clinical context was usually low birth weight in 30.8% of cases and perinatal asphyxia (25%). Thrombocytopenia ranged from 2000 to 137,000 with an average of 69,520/mm3. Among these thrombocytopenias, 64 cases (68%) were below 100,000 mm3 and 44 cases had a CRP >5 mg/l. A total of 30 bacteria were isolated, including 23 Enterobacteria, 2 Streptococci, and 1 Acinetobacter. Among these enterobacteria, 14 were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Thrombocytopenia associated with a multidrug-resistant bacterial infection is a real challenging management.展开更多
Managing severe burns remains problematic due to the lack of specialized units, but also because of the delay in implementing emergency care. The aim is to show that an adapted strategy, can lead to satisfying managem...Managing severe burns remains problematic due to the lack of specialized units, but also because of the delay in implementing emergency care. The aim is to show that an adapted strategy, can lead to satisfying management of chemical burns. The authors report retrospectively the case of a patient admitted for chemical burns, and treated in a non-specialized intensive care unit;a 38 years old male, referred for burns by sulfuric acid at his workplace. On admission to H15, the clinic did not reveal any vital organs failure. Burns were localized on two legs and soles of the two feet (18% TBSA). Treatment combined daily dressings with silver sulfadiazine. On day 14, the wound healing associated occlusive gauze dressing, iodine cream application, and mechanical debridement. On day 47, a 5% dermal autograft performed on right foot favored with good attachment grafts. On day 58, the patient was released after complete skin recovery. Then, in a non-specialized burn unit and without early surgery access, our wound healing adapted strategy was successful. In Senegal, chemical burns represent about 2.5% of burn cases. They are often from accidents on occupation job, while generally in Africa chemical burns result from criminal attacks. Patients with severe lesions are admitted in non-specialized environments after an extended time of transfer, and don’t have efficient initial care. This may explain the high morbidity and mortality after burns in our country. The lack of surgical facilities such as skin substitutes, in non-specialized unit on low or median income countries (LMICs), explains this long period of wound healing. The treatment of severe burn in LMICs is hazardous.展开更多
<strong>Background</strong><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><strong>:</strong> The use of modern contraceptive methods contrib...<strong>Background</strong><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><strong>:</strong> The use of modern contraceptive methods contributes to the reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality. The initiation of a contraceptive method in the immediate postpartum period is one of the strategies to avoid missing out on contraceptive opportunities. This strategy will reduce the unmet need for contraception which is still high in the country. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: To describe the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women and the practices of women who have given birth about immediate postpartum contraception. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">conducted at the main clinic of ATBEF from 20th March to 20th October 2020</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. Our study included pregnant women whose gestational age was greater than or equal to 37 weeks of amenorrhea who came for prenatal consultation or for any other consultation and then gave birth in the center. Data collection was based on a survey form. Data analysis and entry was done with the Epi </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">info 2000 version 6.04 software. The parameters studied were: socio-demographic</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> characteristics, knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women about contraception in the immediate postpartum period, and contraceptive practices of the women who gave birth. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: During the study period, 201 women were selected for the survey. The average age of the respondents was 26.2 years. They were nulliparous in 41.3% of cases. Our respondents had knowledge of modern contraceptive methods in 82.10% of cases. About 59.2% of the respondents had an unfavourable attitude towards the adoption of contraceptive methods in the immediate postpartum period. The main reason was adverse effects in 33.6%. Of the 82 women who had a favourable attitude, 29 women had adopted a contraceptive method after delivery, which corresponds to a rate of use of 14.4% of the respondents. The main reason for non-adoption of a contraceptive method after childbirth for those who had a favourable attitude was the opposition of the husband in 34%. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: Couple counselling during prenatal and postnatal care and intensified awareness raising on planning and ideal spacing of pregnancies for health will increase the number of contraceptive users in the immediate postpartum period.</span></span>展开更多
<strong>Introduction:</strong><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Medical termination of pregnancy is a therapy that considerably reduces th...<strong>Introduction:</strong><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Medical termination of pregnancy is a therapy that considerably reduces the number of obstetrical complications that can lead to maternal death and the number of births of children with diseases or malformations that are incompatible with life. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> To study the practice of medical termination of pregnancy at the Principal Clinic of the Togolese Association of Family Well-Being Planning Center (ATBEF). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> This was a retrospective and descriptive study conducted at </span><a name="_Hlk92000043"></a><span style="font-family:Verdana;">the Principal Clinic of the Togolese Association of Family Well-Being Planning Center (ATBEF) covering the period from May 1st, 2012 to April 30th, 2021, </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">i.e.</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> a period of 9 years. All patients who underwent a </span><a name="_Hlk91999250"></a><span style="font-family:Verdana;">medical termination of pregnancy during the study period and whose term of pregnancy was <28 weeks of amenorrhea were included in this study. Information was collected on a survey sheet from the patients’ clinical records, admission and hospitalisation registers, referral forms and operative report registers. Data were entered and analyzed using Excel, World and epi-info 7.2.2. The main variables studied were hospital frequency, diagnostic means, main indications, means of evacuation and maternal prognosis. Result: 25 patients were identified and represented 0.5% of deliveries. </span><a name="_Hlk92000366"></a><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Fetal, maternal and obstetric causes were the main indications for medical termination of pregnancy in respectively 28%, 20% and 52%. Obstetrical ultrasound was performed in 100% of patients. These ultrasounds allowed us to determine fetal vitality and to find some fetal malformations (28%) and some anomalies in the fetal appendages (48%). Clinical examination alone was used to diagnose 24% of indications. In 68% of cases, the clinical examination and ultrasound were used to establish the indication. The most commonly used evacuation technique was medication in 88% of cases. Caesarean section was chosen for urgent cases in 12%. Uterine haemorrhage and post-abortion endometritis were the main complications.</span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Conclusion:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Medical termination of pregnancy is a delicate subject requiring multidisciplinary management. This series has allowed us to highlight our singularities, and will allow us to improve the management of our patients, in the prevention of haemorrhage and other complications.</span></span>展开更多
Self-Centering Piston-Based Braced Frames(SC-PBBFs)are designed to curtail structural damage under severe ground motions.The self-centering mechanism in this bracing mitigates structural damage during an earthquake,th...Self-Centering Piston-Based Braced Frames(SC-PBBFs)are designed to curtail structural damage under severe ground motions.The self-centering mechanism in this bracing mitigates structural damage during an earthquake,thereby reducing post-earthquake repair costs and contributing to seismic resilience.However,non-structural components,particularly those sensitive to floor acceleration,remain vulnerable,resulting in prolonged func-tional recovery times.This paper aims to address this limitation by introducing a novel structural archetype,the Self-Centering Viscous-Based Braced Frame(SC-VBBF),which integrates superelastic shape memory alloy(SMA)bars,viscous dampers(VDs),and friction springs(FSs).A streamlined analytical approach relies on the strength decoupling of VD from other components using aλfactor to design SC-VBBFs.To evaluate the effectiveness of the hybrid brace,a set of 4-,8-,and 12-story archetypes equipped with SC-PBBs and SC-VBBFs are simulated in OpenSees and analyzed under various earthquake types,including crustal,subcrustal,and subduction events.The results demonstrate the superior performance of the SC-VBBF withλ≤0.5 system compared to SC-PBBFs in mitigating floor accelerations under design-level earthquakes and improving seismic resilience.展开更多
In the previous paper we have discussed the Kaluza type theories on the Minkowskian space-time M4 and the physical contents of various U1 gauge theories discribed by U1 principal bundles on M4 with an arbitrary scalar...In the previous paper we have discussed the Kaluza type theories on the Minkowskian space-time M4 and the physical contents of various U1 gauge theories discribed by U1 principal bundles on M4 with an arbitrary scalar function or functional. In this note we consider the case of non-Abelian gauge theories. It is shown展开更多
The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau serves as an extensive gene pool for plateau species and a crucial focal point for global biodiversity conservation.Being a climate-sensitive region,the impacts of climate change have led to...The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau serves as an extensive gene pool for plateau species and a crucial focal point for global biodiversity conservation.Being a climate-sensitive region,the impacts of climate change have led to habitat loss,population extinction,and ecological imbalances,posing formidable challenges to the sustained ef-fectiveness of existing protected areas.Despite substantial advancements in understanding species distribution,assessing habitat changes,and evaluating the efficiency of protected areas in recent decades,comprehensive evaluations encompassing all protected species are lacking,impeding conservation strategies.In this study,we gathered 137,856 observations,encompassing 2,605 species,and utilized the MaxEnt model to simulate changes in the current distribution patterns of endangered species and suitable habitats under future scenarios.We further proposed a climate smart approach to optimize the boundaries of protected areas in response to climate change.Key findings indicate that(1)the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau harbors 2,605 endangered species,constituting 34.04%of the total endangered species catalog in China;(2)current high-adaptation habitats of Qinghai-Xizang Plateau cover a mere 7%of the plateau,showing minimal alteration in protected efficiency under climate change sce-narios(0.50%increase);(3)incorporating the effects of climate change in adjusting protected area boundaries enhances their efficiency by an average of 20.52%.Our proposed methodology holds promise for safeguard-ing endangered species on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau and offers significant implications for analogous regions worldwide.展开更多
AIM： To assess if software assisted-contrast-enhanced ultrasonography （CEUS） provides reproducible perfu- sion parameters of hepatic parenchyma in patients af- fected by chronic liver disease. METHODS： Forty patie...AIM： To assess if software assisted-contrast-enhanced ultrasonography （CEUS） provides reproducible perfu- sion parameters of hepatic parenchyma in patients af- fected by chronic liver disease. METHODS： Forty patients with chronic viral liver dis- ease, with （n = 20） or without （n = 20） cirrhosis, and 10 healthy subjects underwent CEUS and video re- cordings of each examination were then analysed with Esaote＇s Qontrast software. CEUS dedicated software Qontrast was used to determine peak （the maximum signal intensity）, time to peak （TTP）, region of blood value （RBV） proportional to the area under the time- intensity curve, mean transit time （MTT） measured in seconds and region of blood flow （RBF）. RESULTS： Qontrast-assisted CEUS parameters dis- played high inter-observer reproducibility （κ： coefficients of 0.87 for MTT and 0.90 TTP）. When the region of in-terest included a main hepatic vein, Qontrast-calculated TTP was significantly shorter in cirrhotic patients （vs non-cirrhotics and healthy subjects） （71.0 ± 11.3 s vs 82.4±15.6 s, 86.3±20.3 s, P 〈 0.05）. MTIs in the patients with liver cirrhosis were significantly shorter than those of controls （111.9±22.0 s vs 139.4±39.8 s, P 〈 0.05）, but there was no significant difference between the cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic groups （111.9± 22.0 s vs 110.3 ±14.6 s）. Peak enhancement in the patients with liver cirrhosis was also higher than that observed in controls （23.9± 5.9 vs 18.9±7.1, P = 0.05）. There were no significant intergroup differences in the RBVs and RBFs. CONCLUSION： Qontrast-assisted CEUS revealed re- producible differences in liver perfusion parameters during the development of hepatic fibrogenesis.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the addition of vildagliptin to low-dose metformin and compare it to an uptitration of metformin in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) patients who have inadequate control with m...AIM:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the addition of vildagliptin to low-dose metformin and compare it to an uptitration of metformin in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) patients who have inadequate control with metformin monotherapy.METHODS:Eligible patients were randomized to receive vildagliptin 100 mg qd or metformin(500 mg qd for 2 wk and then 500 mg bid) added to open label me tformin 500 mg bid for the 24 wk.The primary endpoi nt was baseline to endpoint hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) change.RESULTS:The adjusted mean change from baseline in HbA1c at the 24th wk was-0.51% in the vildagliptin/metformin group(mean baseline HbA1c:7.4%) and-0.37% in the metformin monothera py group(mean baseline HbA1c:7.3%).The mean diffe rence was-0.14% with 95% Confidence Interval(-0.24%,-0.05%).As non-inf e riority(margin of 0.4%) was achieved,a test for superiority was performed.This test showed statistically significant superiority of the combination over monotherapy group(P = 0.002).Gastrointestinal(GI) adverse events were signif icantly more frequent in the metformin group than the combin ation group(21.0% vs 15.4%,P = 0.032).CONCLUSION:In patients with T2DM inadequately controlled with metformin up to 1000 mg daily,the addition of vildagliptin 100 mg daily achieved larger HbA1c reduction with fewer GI events than with increa sing the metformin dose.展开更多
Medium strength aluminium alloy （Al-Mg-Si alloy） has gathered wide acceptance in the fabrication of light weight structures requiring a high strength-to weight ratio, such as transportable bridge girders, military v...Medium strength aluminium alloy （Al-Mg-Si alloy） has gathered wide acceptance in the fabrication of light weight structures requiring a high strength-to weight ratio, such as transportable bridge girders, military vehicles, road tankers and railway transport systems. The preferred welding process for aluminium alloy is frequently TIG （tungsten inert gas） welding due to its comparatively easier applicability and better economy.In the case of single pass TIG welding of thinner section of this alloy, the pulsed current has been found beneficial due to its advantages over the conventional continuous current process. The use of pulsed current parameters has been found to improve the mechanical properties of the welds compared to those of continuous current welds of this alloy due to grain refinement occurring in the fusion zone. A mathematical model has been developed to predict pitting corrosion potential of pulsed current TIG welded AA6061 aluminium alloy.Factorial experimental design has been used to optimize the experimental conditions. Analysis of variance technique has been used to find out the significant pulsed current parameters. Regression analysis has been used to develop the model. Using the developed model pitting corrosion potential values have been estimated for different combinations of pulsed current parameters and the results are analyzed in detail.展开更多
· AIM: To determine the effect of topical 0.05% cyclosporine A (CsA) on corneal endothelium in patients with dry eye disease. · METHODS: Observational, prospective, case series study. Fifty-five eyes of 29 c...· AIM: To determine the effect of topical 0.05% cyclosporine A (CsA) on corneal endothelium in patients with dry eye disease. · METHODS: Observational, prospective, case series study. Fifty-five eyes of 29 consecutive patients (9 males and 20 females; median age: 66.8 years, interquartile range: 61 -73.2 years) with moderate -severe dry eye disease were evaluated. All patients were treated with topical 0.05% CsA ophthalmic emulsion twice a day in addition to lubricant eyedrops 5 times a day. The follow- up period was 12 months. Before treatment and at 3 and 12 months post -treatment central corneal specular microscopy was performed. The endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation of cell size (CoV), and percentage of hexagonal cells (Hex %) were analyzed. ·RESULTS: The median ECDs pre-treatment and at 3 and 12 months post-treatment were 2 352.5/mm 2 (inter- quartile range, 2 178 -2548.5), 2 364/mm 2 (interquartile range, 2 174.25 -2 657.5), and 2 366 cells/mm 2 (inter - quartile range, 2 174.75-2 539.75), respectively (P=0.927, one way ANOVA). The median CoVs pre-treatment and at 3 and 12 months post -treatment were 34.5 (interquartile range, 30 -37), 35 (interquartile range, 30 -38), and 34 (interquartile range, 30.75-38.25), respectively (P=0.7193, one way ANOVA). The median Hex % values pre - treatment and at 3 and 12 months post -treatment were 53 (interquartile range, 47 -58), 54 (interquartile range, 45.75 -59), and 50.5 (interquartile range, 45.75 -58), respectively (P=0.824, one way ANOVA). · CONCLUSION: Treatment of patients with dry eye disease for 12 months with topical 0.05% CsA does not seem to cause substantial changes on corneal endothelium.展开更多
AIM:To study the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori(H pylori) infection through the determination of serum levels of anti- H pylori IgG and IgA antibodies,and the levels of anti-H pylori IgA antibodies in duodenal fluid...AIM:To study the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori(H pylori) infection through the determination of serum levels of anti- H pylori IgG and IgA antibodies,and the levels of anti-H pylori IgA antibodies in duodenal fluid. METHODS:Data were collected from 93 patients submitted to upper digestive endoscopy due to dyspeptic symptoms. The patients were either negative(group A)or positive (group B)to H pylori by means of both histological detection and urease tests.Before endoscopy,peripheral blood was collected for the investigation of anti-H pylori IgG and IgA antibodies.To perform the urease test,biopsies were obtained from the gastric antrum.For the histological evaluation,biopsies were collected from the gastric antrum (greater and lesser curvatures)and the gastric body. Following this,duodenal fluid was collected from the first and second portions of the duodenum.For the serological assaying of anti-Hpylori IgG and IgA,and anti-Hpylori IgA in duodenal fluids,the ELISA method was utilized. RESULTS:The concentration of serum IgG showed sensitivity of 64.0%,specificity of 83.7%,positive predictive value of 82.0%,negative predictive value of 66.6% and accuracy of 73.1% for the diagnosis of H pylori infection.For the same purpose,serum IgA showed sensitivity of 72.0%, specificity of 65.9%,positive predictive value of 72.0%, negative predictive value of 67.4% and accuracy of 69.8%. If the serological tests were considered together,i.e.when both were positive or negative,the accuracy was 80.0%, sensitivity was 86.6%,specificity was 74.2%,positive predictive value was 74.2% and negative predictive value was 86.6%.When values obtained in the test for detecting IgA in the duodenal fluid were analyzed,no significant difference(P=0.43)was observed between the values obtained from patients with or without H pylori infection. CONCLUSION:The results of serum IgG and IgA tests for H pylori detection when used simultaneously,are more efficient in accuracy,sensitivity and negative predictive value, than those when used alone.The concentration of IgA antibodies in duodenal fluid is not useful in identifying patients with or without H pylori.展开更多
Patients with liver disease may present hepatic enceph- alopathy (HE), a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome covering a wide range of neurological alterations, including cognitive and motor disturbances. HE reduces the ...Patients with liver disease may present hepatic enceph- alopathy (HE), a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome covering a wide range of neurological alterations, including cognitive and motor disturbances. HE reduces the quality of life of the patients and is associated with poor prognosis. In the worse cases HE may lead to coma or death. The mechanisms leading to HE which are not well known are being studied using animal models. The neurological alterations in HE are a consequence of impaired cerebral function mainly due to alterations in neurotransmission. We review here some studies indicating that alterations in neurotransmission associated to different types of glutamate receptors are responsible for some of the cognitive and motor alterations present in HE. These studies show that the function of the signal transduction pathway glutamate-nitric oxide-cGMP associated to the NMDA type of glutamate receptors is impaired in brain in vivo in HE animal models as well as in brain of patients died of HE. Activation of NMDA receptors in brain activates this pathway and increases cGMP. In animal models of HE this increase in cGMP induced by activation of NMDA receptors is reduced, which is responsible for the impairment in learning ability in these animal models. Increasing cGMP by pharmacological means restores learning ability in rats with HE and may be a new therapeutic approach to improve cognitive function in patients with HE. However, it is necessary to previously assess the possible secondary effects.Patients with HE may present psychomotor slowing, hypokinesia and bradykinesia. Animal models of HE also show hypolocomotion. It has been shown in rats with HE that hypolocomotion is due to excessive activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) in substantia nigra pars reticulata. Blocking mGluR1 in this brain area normalizes motor activity in the rats, suggesting that a similar treatment for patients with HE could be useful to treat psychomotor slowing and hypokinesia. However, the possible secondary effects of mGluR1 antagonists should be previously evaluated. These studies are setting the basis for designing therapeutic procedures to specifically treat the individual neurological alterations in patients with HE.展开更多
文摘Introduction: Pulmonary embolism is a relatively common life-threatening cardiovascular emergency. It remains a diagnostic problem because of its nonspecific clinical signs. Objective: The general objective was to study pulmonary embolism in young patients admitted to the cardiology department of Dakar Principal Hospital in Senegal. Methodology: This was a retrospective, descriptive and analytical study in the cardiology department of the Dakar Principal Hospital over a period of two (02) years from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2016 in young patients admitted for pulmonary embolism. Results: We collected 24 patients with a hospital prevalence of 2.18%. The average age was 42.29 years ± 8.41 years with a male predominance (sex ratio of 1.6). The Wells probability score was low in 54.16% of patients and medium in 45.83%. Functional signs were dominated by chest pain (83.33% of cases) followed by dyspnea (79.16% of cases). The thromboembolic risk factors found were gynecological-obstetrical in 16.6% of cases followed by prolonged bed rest. One case of thrombophilia was present with a deficiency of protein C and antithrombin III. The electrocardiogram recorded sinus tachycardia in 29.16% of patients;the Mac Ginn White sign (S1Q3T3) was found in 25% of cases. Echocardiography showed pulmonary arterial hypertension in 12.48% of cases, dilation of the right ventricle and a paradoxical septal motion in 14.28% of cases. CT pulmonary angiography showed 63.63% of cases with bilateral pulmonary embolism;it was unilateral in 22.72% of cases. Long-term anticoagulation was based on acenocoumarol 4 mg (66.7%) and Rivaroxaban (33.3%). 62.5% of the patients were seen at the 3rd month, when a checking was made to evaluate the tolerance of the treatment, and the evolution of the patient. Conclusion: Pulmonary embolism is not a rare condition in young subjects but is often underdiagnosed. Gyneco-obstetrical factors are predominant in this age group. Direct oral anticoagulants are more and more prescribed in our countries.
文摘Aims: Although the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) is an effective contraceptive device, cases of pregnancy under the Cu-IUD have been reported. We here report 10 women who got pregnant under this condition, with special reference to etiologies and pregnancy outcomes. Methodology: We analyzed all women who got pregnant under Cu-IUD at ATBEF Main Clinic from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2020. Results: We retrieved 10 patients. The durations of Cu-IUD use were 3 months to 6 years. The etiologies were poor insertion;migration and spontaneous expulsion. The occurrence of pregnancy was poorly accepted by the women: 20% of women considered it was due to the providers’ incompetence. Of the 10 pregnancies, 5 women had given vaginal birth spontaneously;2 induced abortions, 2 spontaneous abortions and 1 ectopic pregnancy. The contraceptive method adopted after pregnancy was jadelle implants in 8 cases and spousal vasectomy in 2 cases. Conclusion: The prevention of IUD pregnancies may require adequate insertion time, insertion technique and follow-up.
文摘<strong>Aims:</strong><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""><strong> </strong>To determine the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular prognosis at 5 years of patients who underwent an ischemic stroke in Senegal. <b>Methods:</b> We performed a descriptive, retrospective and exhaustive study conducted at Principal Hospital of Dakar. We included all patients hospitalized at Principal Hospital of Dakar from 2013 to 201</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">9</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> for an ischemic stroke confirmed by a cerebral CT-Scanner or by magnetic resonance imaging, and who survived the acute phase. <b>Results: </b>Overall, one</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">hundred and seventy-one (171) patients were gathered. Ninety-six (96) male patients account for 56.14% and seventy-five (75) female patients account for 43.86%</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">,</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> with a sex</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">ratio of 1.28. Patients’mean age was 66.33 ±</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""></span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">13.99 years. Twenty-one (21) young patients (12.35%), aged less than 50 years, presented with an ischemic stroke. Myocardial infarction was found in a female patient (0</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">.</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">6%) 3 months after she experienced an ischemic stroke, nine (9) patients (5.29%) underwent a recurrence of the ischemic stroke with a mean recurrence period of 8 months and extremes rang</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">ing</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> from 1 to 24 months. Five (5) patients (2.92%) developed dementia with a score less than 28. A 30 years old patient presented with epilepsy 12 months after the ischemic stroke accounting </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">for </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">0.58%. We registered ninety (90) deaths that occurred in a mean period of 24 months ±</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">9.8 after they presented their ischemic stroke, standing for 52.63% amongst which thirty</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">-</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">five (35) accounting for 39% were female patients and fifty</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">-</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">five patients (55) representing 61% were male patients. Mortality-related factors included: advanced age, past medical history of heart surgery, known </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">as </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">dys</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">lipidemia, physical inactivity, obesity and recurrent ischemic stroke. <b>Conclusion:</b> Long</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">-</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">term prognosis of ischemic stroke remains unclear in Senegal. </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">Therefore</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">,</span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "=""> a strategy for primary prevention is highly crucial and </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">it </span><span style="white-space:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:;" "="">requires the control of risk factors in general and that of high blood pressure in particular.</span>
文摘Ob</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">jectives:</span></span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Describe the socio-demographic characteristics, describe the main indications for LEEP and present the main complications. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology:</span></b> </span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study with consecutive recruitment of the study population through cervical cancer screening campaigns throughout the country during the period July 1, 2017 to April 30, 2019. Included were all patients eligible for LEEP and having benefited from this therapeutic method during our study period. Data were collected from a registry and recorded on a questionnaire developed for this study. These data were analyzed using Epi info 3.5.1 software. The following parameters were studied: patient age, indication for LEEP, intraoperative and postoperative complications, histological examination of the specimens, and postoperative surveillance and screening follow-up one year after LEEP. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> During the study period, 12</span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">,</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">595 women were screened for precancerous cervical lesions. A total of 474 women had precancerous lesions. Of these women, 227 had undergone loop resection, a rate of 47.9%. The main indications for LEEP were extensive lesions (68.7%), lesions penetrating the internal cervical os (12.8%). Incidents occurred in 7.5% of patients during the procedure. Post-operative complications occurred in 14.7% of cases. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">LEEP is a better way to treat precancerous lesions but is not well known by medical staff. The equipment of health facilities and the training of medical staff will make it possible to popularize the practice throughout the country. This extension will contribute to the fight against cervical cancer.
文摘Introduction: Spontaneous pneumothorax is a rare but serious complication of tuberculosis. Miliary tuberculosis (MT) is a severe form of tuberculosis secondary to hematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Objective: To report a case of MT complicated by pneumothorax. Methodology: This was a 25-year-old patient, farmer, followed up at the Pneumo-phtisiology department of the CHU du Point G for MT whose condition was improving after the introduction of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy. He consulted again after experiencing chest pain. Clinical and imaging revealed a Spontaneous pneumothorax complicating MT. The treatment combined anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy, chest drainage and respiratory physiotherapy. Outcome was favorable with improvement of clinical and radiological signs. Conclusion: Pneumothorax complicating MT requires a reflective diagnostic approach and rapid management to improve its prognosis.
文摘Background: Heart failure is a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. In patients with chronic Heart Failure and cardiac desynchrony, studies have suggested that cardiac resynchronization, can improve cardiac function and the quality of life of patients. However, in Sub-Saharan Africa, very few studies have been done on cardiac resynchronization which is in its infancy. The aim of this study is to report the local data from our hospital. Method: It was a transversal, descriptive and analytical study conducted from November 2019 to September 2022 at the Cardiology Department of the Principal Hospital of Dakar. Results: Twelve patients were implanted for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT). The sex ratio was 8 males/4 females. The average age was 67 ± 11 years. Ten patients had non-ischemic heart disease and the two others had ischemic one. All of them had NYHA III or IV scores before CRT. The Quality of Life (QOL) was judged as poor by all of the patients. The average duration of QRS was 156 ± 9 ms. 27.9% ± 5% was the mean Left Ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Complications occur in 3/12 patients (25%). It was one CS vein dissection, one micro LV lead dislodgement and one phrenic nerve stimulation. Nine patients, who were considered as responders, had an improvement of QOL and NYHA, the LVEF increased and the end-diastolic dimension, and the duration of the QRS interval all decreased. Two patients do not respond and one (1) who had permanent atrial fibrillation, was a secondary responder after an atrioventricular junction ablation. Conclusion: Cardiac resynchronization is a therapy that improves the QOL of patients, the LVEF and reduces the duration of the QRS interval. However, this procedure is not without risk of complications. In sub-Saharan Africa, the major challenge is to improve the financial accessibility of this therapy for the population.
文摘Neonatal thrombocytopenia accounts for 20% of neonates hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at DPH. The etiologies are multiple, but bacterial infection is the third leading cause of neonatal mortality worldwide. We therefore set out to assess the frequency of neonatal thrombocytopenia associated or not with bacterial infection in the NICU. We conducted a retrospective and prospective study with the DPH NICU, over 10 months (August 2018 and April 2019). Thrombocytopenia encountered in the NICUs, were the subject of research into bacteriological, inflammatory, and epidemiological parameters using Inlog laboratory data processing software. During this period, 1280 babies were hospitalized, 94 of whom underwent thrombocytopenia, corresponding to 7.34%, with a sex ratio of 0.92. The number of babies presenting with thrombocytopenia during the first week of hospitalization was 72, accounting for 76.6%. The clinical context was usually low birth weight in 30.8% of cases and perinatal asphyxia (25%). Thrombocytopenia ranged from 2000 to 137,000 with an average of 69,520/mm3. Among these thrombocytopenias, 64 cases (68%) were below 100,000 mm3 and 44 cases had a CRP >5 mg/l. A total of 30 bacteria were isolated, including 23 Enterobacteria, 2 Streptococci, and 1 Acinetobacter. Among these enterobacteria, 14 were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Thrombocytopenia associated with a multidrug-resistant bacterial infection is a real challenging management.
文摘Managing severe burns remains problematic due to the lack of specialized units, but also because of the delay in implementing emergency care. The aim is to show that an adapted strategy, can lead to satisfying management of chemical burns. The authors report retrospectively the case of a patient admitted for chemical burns, and treated in a non-specialized intensive care unit;a 38 years old male, referred for burns by sulfuric acid at his workplace. On admission to H15, the clinic did not reveal any vital organs failure. Burns were localized on two legs and soles of the two feet (18% TBSA). Treatment combined daily dressings with silver sulfadiazine. On day 14, the wound healing associated occlusive gauze dressing, iodine cream application, and mechanical debridement. On day 47, a 5% dermal autograft performed on right foot favored with good attachment grafts. On day 58, the patient was released after complete skin recovery. Then, in a non-specialized burn unit and without early surgery access, our wound healing adapted strategy was successful. In Senegal, chemical burns represent about 2.5% of burn cases. They are often from accidents on occupation job, while generally in Africa chemical burns result from criminal attacks. Patients with severe lesions are admitted in non-specialized environments after an extended time of transfer, and don’t have efficient initial care. This may explain the high morbidity and mortality after burns in our country. The lack of surgical facilities such as skin substitutes, in non-specialized unit on low or median income countries (LMICs), explains this long period of wound healing. The treatment of severe burn in LMICs is hazardous.
文摘<strong>Background</strong><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><strong>:</strong> The use of modern contraceptive methods contributes to the reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality. The initiation of a contraceptive method in the immediate postpartum period is one of the strategies to avoid missing out on contraceptive opportunities. This strategy will reduce the unmet need for contraception which is still high in the country. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: To describe the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women and the practices of women who have given birth about immediate postpartum contraception. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">conducted at the main clinic of ATBEF from 20th March to 20th October 2020</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. Our study included pregnant women whose gestational age was greater than or equal to 37 weeks of amenorrhea who came for prenatal consultation or for any other consultation and then gave birth in the center. Data collection was based on a survey form. Data analysis and entry was done with the Epi </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">info 2000 version 6.04 software. The parameters studied were: socio-demographic</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> characteristics, knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women about contraception in the immediate postpartum period, and contraceptive practices of the women who gave birth. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: During the study period, 201 women were selected for the survey. The average age of the respondents was 26.2 years. They were nulliparous in 41.3% of cases. Our respondents had knowledge of modern contraceptive methods in 82.10% of cases. About 59.2% of the respondents had an unfavourable attitude towards the adoption of contraceptive methods in the immediate postpartum period. The main reason was adverse effects in 33.6%. Of the 82 women who had a favourable attitude, 29 women had adopted a contraceptive method after delivery, which corresponds to a rate of use of 14.4% of the respondents. The main reason for non-adoption of a contraceptive method after childbirth for those who had a favourable attitude was the opposition of the husband in 34%. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">: Couple counselling during prenatal and postnatal care and intensified awareness raising on planning and ideal spacing of pregnancies for health will increase the number of contraceptive users in the immediate postpartum period.</span></span>
文摘<strong>Introduction:</strong><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Medical termination of pregnancy is a therapy that considerably reduces the number of obstetrical complications that can lead to maternal death and the number of births of children with diseases or malformations that are incompatible with life. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> To study the practice of medical termination of pregnancy at the Principal Clinic of the Togolese Association of Family Well-Being Planning Center (ATBEF). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methodology:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> This was a retrospective and descriptive study conducted at </span><a name="_Hlk92000043"></a><span style="font-family:Verdana;">the Principal Clinic of the Togolese Association of Family Well-Being Planning Center (ATBEF) covering the period from May 1st, 2012 to April 30th, 2021, </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">i.e.</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> a period of 9 years. All patients who underwent a </span><a name="_Hlk91999250"></a><span style="font-family:Verdana;">medical termination of pregnancy during the study period and whose term of pregnancy was <28 weeks of amenorrhea were included in this study. Information was collected on a survey sheet from the patients’ clinical records, admission and hospitalisation registers, referral forms and operative report registers. Data were entered and analyzed using Excel, World and epi-info 7.2.2. The main variables studied were hospital frequency, diagnostic means, main indications, means of evacuation and maternal prognosis. Result: 25 patients were identified and represented 0.5% of deliveries. </span><a name="_Hlk92000366"></a><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Fetal, maternal and obstetric causes were the main indications for medical termination of pregnancy in respectively 28%, 20% and 52%. Obstetrical ultrasound was performed in 100% of patients. These ultrasounds allowed us to determine fetal vitality and to find some fetal malformations (28%) and some anomalies in the fetal appendages (48%). Clinical examination alone was used to diagnose 24% of indications. In 68% of cases, the clinical examination and ultrasound were used to establish the indication. The most commonly used evacuation technique was medication in 88% of cases. Caesarean section was chosen for urgent cases in 12%. Uterine haemorrhage and post-abortion endometritis were the main complications.</span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Conclusion:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Medical termination of pregnancy is a delicate subject requiring multidisciplinary management. This series has allowed us to highlight our singularities, and will allow us to improve the management of our patients, in the prevention of haemorrhage and other complications.</span></span>
文摘Self-Centering Piston-Based Braced Frames(SC-PBBFs)are designed to curtail structural damage under severe ground motions.The self-centering mechanism in this bracing mitigates structural damage during an earthquake,thereby reducing post-earthquake repair costs and contributing to seismic resilience.However,non-structural components,particularly those sensitive to floor acceleration,remain vulnerable,resulting in prolonged func-tional recovery times.This paper aims to address this limitation by introducing a novel structural archetype,the Self-Centering Viscous-Based Braced Frame(SC-VBBF),which integrates superelastic shape memory alloy(SMA)bars,viscous dampers(VDs),and friction springs(FSs).A streamlined analytical approach relies on the strength decoupling of VD from other components using aλfactor to design SC-VBBFs.To evaluate the effectiveness of the hybrid brace,a set of 4-,8-,and 12-story archetypes equipped with SC-PBBs and SC-VBBFs are simulated in OpenSees and analyzed under various earthquake types,including crustal,subcrustal,and subduction events.The results demonstrate the superior performance of the SC-VBBF withλ≤0.5 system compared to SC-PBBFs in mitigating floor accelerations under design-level earthquakes and improving seismic resilience.
文摘In the previous paper we have discussed the Kaluza type theories on the Minkowskian space-time M4 and the physical contents of various U1 gauge theories discribed by U1 principal bundles on M4 with an arbitrary scalar function or functional. In this note we consider the case of non-Abelian gauge theories. It is shown
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foun-dation of China(Grant No.41925005)the National Key R&D Pro-gram of China(Grant No.2024YFF1306103)the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program(STEP)(Grant No.2019QZKK0307).
文摘The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau serves as an extensive gene pool for plateau species and a crucial focal point for global biodiversity conservation.Being a climate-sensitive region,the impacts of climate change have led to habitat loss,population extinction,and ecological imbalances,posing formidable challenges to the sustained ef-fectiveness of existing protected areas.Despite substantial advancements in understanding species distribution,assessing habitat changes,and evaluating the efficiency of protected areas in recent decades,comprehensive evaluations encompassing all protected species are lacking,impeding conservation strategies.In this study,we gathered 137,856 observations,encompassing 2,605 species,and utilized the MaxEnt model to simulate changes in the current distribution patterns of endangered species and suitable habitats under future scenarios.We further proposed a climate smart approach to optimize the boundaries of protected areas in response to climate change.Key findings indicate that(1)the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau harbors 2,605 endangered species,constituting 34.04%of the total endangered species catalog in China;(2)current high-adaptation habitats of Qinghai-Xizang Plateau cover a mere 7%of the plateau,showing minimal alteration in protected efficiency under climate change sce-narios(0.50%increase);(3)incorporating the effects of climate change in adjusting protected area boundaries enhances their efficiency by an average of 20.52%.Our proposed methodology holds promise for safeguard-ing endangered species on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau and offers significant implications for analogous regions worldwide.
基金Supported by Associazione per la Prevenzione e Cure delle Patologie dell’Apparato Digerente-Associazione di Volontariatogrant
文摘AIM： To assess if software assisted-contrast-enhanced ultrasonography （CEUS） provides reproducible perfu- sion parameters of hepatic parenchyma in patients af- fected by chronic liver disease. METHODS： Forty patients with chronic viral liver dis- ease, with （n = 20） or without （n = 20） cirrhosis, and 10 healthy subjects underwent CEUS and video re- cordings of each examination were then analysed with Esaote＇s Qontrast software. CEUS dedicated software Qontrast was used to determine peak （the maximum signal intensity）, time to peak （TTP）, region of blood value （RBV） proportional to the area under the time- intensity curve, mean transit time （MTT） measured in seconds and region of blood flow （RBF）. RESULTS： Qontrast-assisted CEUS parameters dis- played high inter-observer reproducibility （κ： coefficients of 0.87 for MTT and 0.90 TTP）. When the region of in-terest included a main hepatic vein, Qontrast-calculated TTP was significantly shorter in cirrhotic patients （vs non-cirrhotics and healthy subjects） （71.0 ± 11.3 s vs 82.4±15.6 s, 86.3±20.3 s, P 〈 0.05）. MTIs in the patients with liver cirrhosis were significantly shorter than those of controls （111.9±22.0 s vs 139.4±39.8 s, P 〈 0.05）, but there was no significant difference between the cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic groups （111.9± 22.0 s vs 110.3 ±14.6 s）. Peak enhancement in the patients with liver cirrhosis was also higher than that observed in controls （23.9± 5.9 vs 18.9±7.1, P = 0.05）. There were no significant intergroup differences in the RBVs and RBFs. CONCLUSION： Qontrast-assisted CEUS revealed re- producible differences in liver perfusion parameters during the development of hepatic fibrogenesis.
基金Supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, NC-T00396357
文摘AIM:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the addition of vildagliptin to low-dose metformin and compare it to an uptitration of metformin in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) patients who have inadequate control with metformin monotherapy.METHODS:Eligible patients were randomized to receive vildagliptin 100 mg qd or metformin(500 mg qd for 2 wk and then 500 mg bid) added to open label me tformin 500 mg bid for the 24 wk.The primary endpoi nt was baseline to endpoint hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) change.RESULTS:The adjusted mean change from baseline in HbA1c at the 24th wk was-0.51% in the vildagliptin/metformin group(mean baseline HbA1c:7.4%) and-0.37% in the metformin monothera py group(mean baseline HbA1c:7.3%).The mean diffe rence was-0.14% with 95% Confidence Interval(-0.24%,-0.05%).As non-inf e riority(margin of 0.4%) was achieved,a test for superiority was performed.This test showed statistically significant superiority of the combination over monotherapy group(P = 0.002).Gastrointestinal(GI) adverse events were signif icantly more frequent in the metformin group than the combin ation group(21.0% vs 15.4%,P = 0.032).CONCLUSION:In patients with T2DM inadequately controlled with metformin up to 1000 mg daily,the addition of vildagliptin 100 mg daily achieved larger HbA1c reduction with fewer GI events than with increa sing the metformin dose.
文摘Medium strength aluminium alloy （Al-Mg-Si alloy） has gathered wide acceptance in the fabrication of light weight structures requiring a high strength-to weight ratio, such as transportable bridge girders, military vehicles, road tankers and railway transport systems. The preferred welding process for aluminium alloy is frequently TIG （tungsten inert gas） welding due to its comparatively easier applicability and better economy.In the case of single pass TIG welding of thinner section of this alloy, the pulsed current has been found beneficial due to its advantages over the conventional continuous current process. The use of pulsed current parameters has been found to improve the mechanical properties of the welds compared to those of continuous current welds of this alloy due to grain refinement occurring in the fusion zone. A mathematical model has been developed to predict pitting corrosion potential of pulsed current TIG welded AA6061 aluminium alloy.Factorial experimental design has been used to optimize the experimental conditions. Analysis of variance technique has been used to find out the significant pulsed current parameters. Regression analysis has been used to develop the model. Using the developed model pitting corrosion potential values have been estimated for different combinations of pulsed current parameters and the results are analyzed in detail.
文摘· AIM: To determine the effect of topical 0.05% cyclosporine A (CsA) on corneal endothelium in patients with dry eye disease. · METHODS: Observational, prospective, case series study. Fifty-five eyes of 29 consecutive patients (9 males and 20 females; median age: 66.8 years, interquartile range: 61 -73.2 years) with moderate -severe dry eye disease were evaluated. All patients were treated with topical 0.05% CsA ophthalmic emulsion twice a day in addition to lubricant eyedrops 5 times a day. The follow- up period was 12 months. Before treatment and at 3 and 12 months post -treatment central corneal specular microscopy was performed. The endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation of cell size (CoV), and percentage of hexagonal cells (Hex %) were analyzed. ·RESULTS: The median ECDs pre-treatment and at 3 and 12 months post-treatment were 2 352.5/mm 2 (inter- quartile range, 2 178 -2548.5), 2 364/mm 2 (interquartile range, 2 174.25 -2 657.5), and 2 366 cells/mm 2 (inter - quartile range, 2 174.75-2 539.75), respectively (P=0.927, one way ANOVA). The median CoVs pre-treatment and at 3 and 12 months post -treatment were 34.5 (interquartile range, 30 -37), 35 (interquartile range, 30 -38), and 34 (interquartile range, 30.75-38.25), respectively (P=0.7193, one way ANOVA). The median Hex % values pre - treatment and at 3 and 12 months post -treatment were 53 (interquartile range, 47 -58), 54 (interquartile range, 45.75 -59), and 50.5 (interquartile range, 45.75 -58), respectively (P=0.824, one way ANOVA). · CONCLUSION: Treatment of patients with dry eye disease for 12 months with topical 0.05% CsA does not seem to cause substantial changes on corneal endothelium.
文摘AIM:To study the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori(H pylori) infection through the determination of serum levels of anti- H pylori IgG and IgA antibodies,and the levels of anti-H pylori IgA antibodies in duodenal fluid. METHODS:Data were collected from 93 patients submitted to upper digestive endoscopy due to dyspeptic symptoms. The patients were either negative(group A)or positive (group B)to H pylori by means of both histological detection and urease tests.Before endoscopy,peripheral blood was collected for the investigation of anti-H pylori IgG and IgA antibodies.To perform the urease test,biopsies were obtained from the gastric antrum.For the histological evaluation,biopsies were collected from the gastric antrum (greater and lesser curvatures)and the gastric body. Following this,duodenal fluid was collected from the first and second portions of the duodenum.For the serological assaying of anti-Hpylori IgG and IgA,and anti-Hpylori IgA in duodenal fluids,the ELISA method was utilized. RESULTS:The concentration of serum IgG showed sensitivity of 64.0%,specificity of 83.7%,positive predictive value of 82.0%,negative predictive value of 66.6% and accuracy of 73.1% for the diagnosis of H pylori infection.For the same purpose,serum IgA showed sensitivity of 72.0%, specificity of 65.9%,positive predictive value of 72.0%, negative predictive value of 67.4% and accuracy of 69.8%. If the serological tests were considered together,i.e.when both were positive or negative,the accuracy was 80.0%, sensitivity was 86.6%,specificity was 74.2%,positive predictive value was 74.2% and negative predictive value was 86.6%.When values obtained in the test for detecting IgA in the duodenal fluid were analyzed,no significant difference(P=0.43)was observed between the values obtained from patients with or without H pylori infection. CONCLUSION:The results of serum IgG and IgA tests for H pylori detection when used simultaneously,are more efficient in accuracy,sensitivity and negative predictive value, than those when used alone.The concentration of IgA antibodies in duodenal fluid is not useful in identifying patients with or without H pylori.
基金Supported by grants from the Ministerio de Ciencia y Tecnología, No. SAF2002-00851 and SAF2005-06089 and from Ministerio de Sanidad, No. Red G03-155 and PI050253 of Spain and by grants from Consellería de Empresa, Universidad y Ciencia, and de Sanidad, Generalitat Valenciana, No. Grupos03/001, GV04B-055, GV04B-012, GVS05/082 and ACOMP06/005 and AP-005/06
文摘Patients with liver disease may present hepatic enceph- alopathy (HE), a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome covering a wide range of neurological alterations, including cognitive and motor disturbances. HE reduces the quality of life of the patients and is associated with poor prognosis. In the worse cases HE may lead to coma or death. The mechanisms leading to HE which are not well known are being studied using animal models. The neurological alterations in HE are a consequence of impaired cerebral function mainly due to alterations in neurotransmission. We review here some studies indicating that alterations in neurotransmission associated to different types of glutamate receptors are responsible for some of the cognitive and motor alterations present in HE. These studies show that the function of the signal transduction pathway glutamate-nitric oxide-cGMP associated to the NMDA type of glutamate receptors is impaired in brain in vivo in HE animal models as well as in brain of patients died of HE. Activation of NMDA receptors in brain activates this pathway and increases cGMP. In animal models of HE this increase in cGMP induced by activation of NMDA receptors is reduced, which is responsible for the impairment in learning ability in these animal models. Increasing cGMP by pharmacological means restores learning ability in rats with HE and may be a new therapeutic approach to improve cognitive function in patients with HE. However, it is necessary to previously assess the possible secondary effects.Patients with HE may present psychomotor slowing, hypokinesia and bradykinesia. Animal models of HE also show hypolocomotion. It has been shown in rats with HE that hypolocomotion is due to excessive activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) in substantia nigra pars reticulata. Blocking mGluR1 in this brain area normalizes motor activity in the rats, suggesting that a similar treatment for patients with HE could be useful to treat psychomotor slowing and hypokinesia. However, the possible secondary effects of mGluR1 antagonists should be previously evaluated. These studies are setting the basis for designing therapeutic procedures to specifically treat the individual neurological alterations in patients with HE.
