Impact of Tension-Type Headaches in the Workplace in Brazzaville

Introduction: Tension-type headaches are the most widespread of the primary headache disorders. Due to their high prevalence, tension-type headaches represent a major public health problem with an enormous socio-economic burden. Determining their impact remains a challenge. Objective: To assess the impact of occupational tension-type headache in Brazzaville and identify associated factors. Population and Methods: This was an analytical case-control study conducted in public and private companies in the city of Brazzaville over a period of four (04) months. The case population consisted of cephalalgic employees;the control population was drawn from the same companies and was free of tension-type headaches. Study variables were divided into socio-professional, clinical and individual impact variables. Individual impact variables were represented by: the HIT-6 score, which incorporates a very broad conception of disability, covering several domains, namely: severity of pain during attacks and the restrictive and limiting nature of attacks. Results: Individual impact was severe in 18 (62.1%) men and 11 (37.9%) women. Mean age was 36.3 6.14 years for cases with severe impact. The mean duration of headache was 40.3 32.7 months for cases with severe impact. Tension headache evolved in attacks in 22 (75.9%) cases with severe impact, and continuously in seven (24.1%) cases. The average number of attacks per month was 2.52 1.04 for cases with severe impact. Cases with severe impact included 14 (48.3%) with chronic headache and 15 (51.7%) with episodic headache. Pain of severe intensity present in 48.3% of cases was associated with a severe impact of tension-type headache: OR = 151.66 [2.36 - 44245.95] and p-value = 0.037. At least one days absence from work per year was observed in 47.4% of our cases. The number of days off work per year due to tension-type headache had an interquartile range between 0 and 3 days and extremes from 0 to 14 days. It was the consequence of a severe impact on daily and/or professional activities. Conclusion: The high frequency of tension-type headaches in the workplace and its impact on the condition of workers in Brazzaville represent a real public health problem. It was found that the number of days absent from work per year due to tension headaches was the consequence of a severe impact on daily and/or professional activities. An awareness-raising program in this environment seems necessary, as well as an assessment of working conditions.

Prevalence and Pattern of Migraine, Tension Type Headache and Chronic Daily Headache among Medical and Nursing Students in Enugu, South East Nigeria

Aim: To assess the lifetime prevalence of tension-type headache, migraine and chronic daily headache, including the primary headaches in a student population. Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study. Data were collected from consecutive consenting students by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to assess demographic data, headache profiles and medical consultation. Results: Four hundred and forty-nine (89.8%) out of 500 students who were interviewed were analyzed. The lifetime prevalence of primary headache was 89.8%;it 90.5% and 88.6% in females and males respectively. The overall prevalence of migraine was 8.9%, with a prevalence of 10.6% in females and 6.5% in males. Migraine without aura was most commonly seen at 73%. The prevalence of migraine without aura was 7.6% in females and 4.9% in males. Tension type headache (TTH) had an overall prevalence of 22.9%, with a prevalence of 28.4% in females and 15.1% in males. Migraine and tension type headache co-existed in 5.8% of the students. About 8.5% suffered from chronic daily headache: chronic migraine 2.9%, chronic tension headache 3.1%. The rate of medical consultation was 54.8% (males 49.7%, females 58.3%). Conclusions: Headache is a common health problem among medical and nursing students in Enugu South East Nigeria where 89.8% of respondents have had primary headaches. The prevalence of migraine, TTH and chronic daily headache was 8.9%, 22.9% and 8.5% respectively. Headaches therefore, represent one of the most challenging neurological disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa where most sufferers do not have access to specialist care.

Efficacy and Effect of SI17 Therapy on Pancreatic Polypeptide in Vascular and Tension-Type Headache

Fisher's exact test: P=0.

Exploring cerebral structural and functional abnormalities in a mouse model of post-traumatic headache induced by mild traumatic brain injury

Mild traumatic brain injury(mTBI)-induced post-traumatic headache(PTH)is a pressing public health concern and leading cause of disability worldwide.Although PTH is often accompanied by neurological disorders,the exact underlying mechanism remains largely unknown.Identifying potential biomarkers may prompt the diagnosis and development of effective treatments for mTBI-induced PTH.In this study,a mouse model of mTBI-induced PTH was established to investigate its effects on cerebral structure and function during short-term recovery.Results indicated that mice with mTBI-induced PTH exhibited balance deficits during the early post-injury stage.Metabolic kinetics revealed that variations in neurotransmitters were most prominent in the cerebellum,temporal lobe/cortex,and hippocampal regions during the early stages of PTH.Additionally,variations in brain functional activities and connectivity were further detected in the early stage of PTH,particularly in the cerebellum and temporal cortex,suggesting that these regions play central roles in the mechanism underlying PTH.Moreover,our results suggested that GABA and glutamate may serve as potential diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for PTH.Future studies should explore the specific neural circuits involved in the regulation of PTH by the cerebellum and temporal cortex,with these two regions potentially utilized as targets for non-invasive stimulation in future clinical treatment.

Research on Anti-Fluctuation Control of Winding Tension System Based on Feedforward Compensation

In the fiber winding process,strong disturbance,uncertainty,strong coupling,and fiber friction complicate the winding constant tension control.In order to effectively reduce the influence of these problems on the tension output,this paper proposed a tension fluctuation rejection strategy based on feedforward compensation.In addition to the bias harmonic curve of the unknown state,the tension fluctuation also contains the influence of bounded noise.A tension fluctuation observer(TFO)is designed to cancel the uncertain periodic signal,in which the frequency generator is used to estimate the critical parameter information.Then,the fluctuation signal is reconstructed by a third-order auxiliary filter.The estimated signal feedforward compensates for the actual tension fluctuation.Furthermore,a time-varying parameters fractional-order PID controller(TPFOPID)is realized to attenuate the bounded noise in the fluctuation.Finally,TPFOPID is enhanced by TFO and applied to control a tension control system considering multi-source disturbances.The stability of the method is analyzed by using the Lyapunov theorem.Finally,numerical simulations verify that the proposed scheme improves the tracking ability and robustness of the system in response to tension fluctuations.

Eudragit®-PEG Nanoparticles: Physicochemical Characterization and Interfacial Tension Measurements

The objectives of this study are to understand the mechanisms involved in the stabilization of water/oil interfaces by polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) (Eudragit®). Eudragit L100 NPs of various sizes and Zeta potentials were studied and compared at a water/cyclohexane model interface using a droplet tensiometer (Tracker Teclis, Longessaigne, France). The progressive interfacial adsorption of the NPs in the aqueous phase was monitored by tensiometry. The model interface was maintained and observed in a drop tensiometer, analyzed via axisymmetric drop shape analysis (ADSA), to determine the interfacial properties. Given the direct relationship between the stability of Pickering emulsions (emulsions stabilized by solid nanoparticles) and the interfacial properties of these layers, different nanoparticle systems were compared. Specifically, Eudragit NPs of different sizes were examined. Moreover, the reduction of the Zeta potential with PEG-6000 induces partial aggregation of the NPs (referred to as NP flocs), significantly impacting the stability of the interfacial layer. Dynamic surface tension measurements indicate a significant decrease in interfacial tension with Eudragit® nanoparticles (NPs). This reduction correlates with the size of the NPs, highlighting that this parameter does not operate in isolation. Other factors, such as the contact angle and wettability of the nanoparticles, also play a critical role. Notably, larger NPs further diminished the interfacial tension. This study enhances our understanding of the stability of Pickering emulsions stabilized by Eudragit® L100 polymeric nanoparticles.

Neuroimaging in atypical normal tension glaucoma:debating routine implementation in the absence of classic neurological findings

●AIM:To assess the necessity of neuroimaging in patients with neurological or atypical findings of normal tension glaucoma(NTG)who do not exhibit typical glaucoma manifestations.●METHODS:A retrospective analysis was conducted on 90 atypical NTG patients who underwent cranial magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)due to atypical symptoms.The demographic characteristics,clinical parameters,and radiological findings were recorded.●RESULTS:Among the patients,66.7%had abnormal radiology results,with the most common findings being gliosis(34.4%),sequelae of cerebrovascular events and vascular malformations(14.4%),and benign intracranial mass lesions(11%).Non-glaucomatous visual field defects were more frequently observed in patients with abnormal neuroimaging results.However,there were no significant differences in intraocular pressure,optic disc parameters,retinal nerve fiber layer thickness,and visual field indices between patients with normal and abnormal radiological results.The mean age of the patients was 58.74y.Interestingly,there was a significant age difference,with the abnormal radiology group having a higher median age(P=0.021).●CONCLUSION:The study highlights the importance of cranial imaging in older NTG patients to detect underlying pathologies and prevent misdiagnosis.It suggests that neuroimaging may be warranted in NTG patients with atypical visual field defects incompatible with glaucoma.However,routine neuroimaging in all NTG patients without classic neurological signs may not be necessary.

Geometry and formation mechanism of tension gashes and their implication on the hydrocarbon accumulation in the deep-seated strata of sedimentary basin:A case from Shunnan area of Tarim Basin

With the theoretical and technological developments related to cratonic strike-slip faults,the Shuntuoguole Low Uplift in the Tarim Basin has attracted considerable attention recently.Affected by multi-stage tectonic movements,the strike-slip faults have controlled the distribution of hydrocarbon resources owing to the special fault characteristics and fault-related structures.In contrast,the kinematics and formation mechanism of strike-slip faults in buried sedimentary basins are difficult to investigate,limiting the discussion of these faults and hydrocarbon accumulation.In this study,we identified the characteristics of massive sigmoidal tension gashes(STGs)that formed in the Shunnan area of the Tarim Basin.High-resolution three-dimensional seismic data and attribute analyses were used to investigate their geometric and kinematic characteristics.Then,the stress state of each point of the STGs was calculated using seismic curvature attributes.Finally,the formation mechanism of the STGs and their roles in controlling hydrocarbon migration and accumulation were discussed.The results suggest that:(1)the STGs developed in the Shunnan area have a wide distribution,with a tensile fault arranged in an enéchelon pattern,showing an S-shaped bending.These STGs formed in multiple stages,and differential rotation occurred along the direction of strike-slip stress during formation.(2)Near the principal displacement zone of the strike-slip faults,the stress value of the STGs was higher,gradually decreasing at both ends.The shallow layer deformation was greater than the deep layer deformation.(3)STGs are critical for connecting source rocks,migrating oil and gas,sealing horizontally,and developing efficient reservoirs.This study not only provides seismic evidence for the formation and evolution of super large STGs,but also provides certain guidance for oil and gas exploration in this area.

Effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses and capsular tension rings implantation for cataract patients with axial high myopia

●AIM:To assess effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses(IOLs)and capsular tension rings in treating cataract patients with axial high myopia.●METHODS:A prospective nonrandomized controlled clinical trial was conducted.Totally 98 eyes(74 patients)who underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery(FLACS)with trifocal IOLs were enrolled in the study and followed up for 2y after surgery:46 eyes(33 patients)with capsular tension ring implantation in the long axial lengths(AL)group(26<AL<29 mm)and 52 eyes(41 patients)in the normal AL group(22<AL<24.5 mm).Postoperative outcomes about effectivity and safety,including the subjective and objective visual quality,and postoperative complications were assessed.●RESULTS:Uncorrected distance visual acuity at 5 m and uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at 60 and 80 cm in the long AL group were significantly worse than those in the normal AL group at 3mo postoperatively(P<0.05).The differences in reading speed,spectacle independence and potential visual complaints between the two groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).The dysfunctional lens index and total modulation transfer function(MTF)average height were similar between the two groups.The postoperative internal coma aberrations in the axial high myopia eyes were significantly higher than that in the normal AL group(P<0.05).The total satisfaction score in the long AL group(91.32±2.76)was slightly higher than that in the normal AL group(90.36±3.47),but there was no difference(P=0.136).A statistically negative correlation was found between corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA)and dysfunctional lens index(r=-0.382,P=0.009),and between CDVA and the total MTF average height(r=-0.374,P=0.01).But there was no significant correlation between CDVA and total satisfaction score(r=0.059,P=0.696).Postoperative complications mainly presented as posterior capsular opacity(PCO),retinal detachment and cystoid macular edema.There was no difference in the incidence of fundus disease(6.5%vs 3.8%,P=0.663)or PCO(17.4%vs 7.7%,P=0.217)between the two groups at two years.●CONCLUSION:The utilization of trifocal IOL and capsular tension ring implantation is beneficial for cataract patients with axial high myopia undergoing FLACS.This approach not only ensures excellent subjective feelings and objective visual quality,but also does not increase the incidence of postoperative complications.

Hubble Tension Explanation from This Cosmological Model AΛΩ (Slow Bang Model, SB)

In this article we present a model of Hubble-Lemaître law using the notions of a transmitter (galaxy) and a receiver (MW) coupled to a model of the universe (Slow Bang Model, SB), based on a quantum approach of the evolution of space-time as well as an equation of state that retains all the infinitesimal terms. We find an explanation of the Hubble tension H0. Indeed, we have seen that this constant depends on the transceiver pair which can vary from the lowest observable value, from photons of the CMB (theoretical [km/s/Mpc]) to increasingly higher values depending on the earlier origin of the formation of the observed galaxy or cluster (ETG ~0.3 [Gy], ~74 [km/s/Mpc]). We have produced a theoretical table of the values of the constant according to the possible pairs of transmitter/receiver in the case where these galaxies follow the Hubble flow without large disturbance. The calculated theoretical values of the constant are in the order of magnitude of all values mentioned in past studies. Subsequently, we applied the models to 9 galaxies and COMA cluster and found that the models predict acceptable values of their distances and Hubble constant since these galaxies mainly follow the Hubble flow rather than the effects of a galaxy cluster or a group of clusters. In conclusion, we affirm that this Hubble tension does not really exist and it is rather the understanding of the meaning of this constant that is questioned.

A Comment on the Hubble Expansion Parameter Tension

We point out that the recent baryon acoustic oscillation measurement by the Dark Energy Survey collaboration relieves the Hubble expansion parameter tension.

Atomistic evaluation of tension–compression asymmetry in nanoscale body-centered-cubic AlCrFeCoNi high-entropy alloy

The tension and compression of face-centered-cubic high-entropy alloy(HEA) nanowires are significantly asymmetric, but the tension–compression asymmetry in nanoscale body-centered-cubic(BCC) HEAs is still unclear. In this study,the tension–compression asymmetry of the BCC Al Cr Fe Co Ni HEA nanowire is investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. The results show a significant asymmetry in both the yield and flow stresses, with BCC HEA nanowire stronger under compression than under tension. The strength asymmetry originates from the completely different deformation mechanisms in tension and compression. In compression, atomic amorphization dominates plastic deformation and contributes to the strengthening, while in tension, deformation twinning prevails and weakens the HEA nanowire.The tension–compression asymmetry exhibits a clear trend of increasing with the increasing nanowire cross-sectional edge length and decreasing temperature. In particular, the compressive strengths along the [001] and [111] crystallographic orientations are stronger than the tensile counterparts, while the [110] crystallographic orientation shows the exactly opposite trend. The dependences of tension–compression asymmetry on the cross-sectional edge length, crystallographic orientation,and temperature are explained in terms of the deformation behavior of HEA nanowire as well as its variations caused by the change in these influential factors. These findings may deepen our understanding of the tension–compression asymmetry of the BCC HEA nanowires.

The Tension Cosmology, Largest Cosmic Structures and Explosions of Supernovae from SST

Here, using the Scale-Symmetric Theory (SST) we explain the cosmological tension and the origin of the largest cosmic structures. We show that a change in value of strong coupling constant for cold baryonic matter leads to the disagreement in the galaxy clustering amplitude, quantified by the parameter S8. Within the same model we described the Hubble tension. We described also the mechanism that transforms the gravitational collapse into an explosion—it concerns the dynamics of virtual fields that lead to dark energy. Our calculations concern the Type Ia supernovae and the core-collapse supernovae. We calculated the quantized masses of the progenitors of supernovae, emitted total energy during explosion, and we calculated how much of the released energy was transferred to neutrinos. Value of the speed of sound in the strongly interacting matter measured at the LHC confirms that presented here model is correct. Our calculations show that the Universe is cyclic.

Crealet presents its innovative warp tension solutions at Techtextil 2024

Crealet is the world leader in sophisticated warp feeding technology and tailored solutions.Controlled warp tension stands also for controlled fabric quality.The Swiss firm presents its latest developments for technical textile applications at Techtextil 2024 in Frankfurt,Germany.

Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: An Interesting Cause of Intractable Headache

Intracranial hypotension (ICH) is a benign syndrome which is often under-diagnosed. It is characterized by orthostatic headache which is predominantly occipital. ICH is diagnosed in the presence of a typical history and characteristic imaging findings. Further confirmation by lumbar puncture to document low CSF pressure might be necessary in some cases. Treatment is mainly conservative in the form of bed rest and intravenous saline infusion. However, surgical intervention may be required if conservative measures fail. In this report we presented a case of 42-year-old male patient who presented with symptoms of orthostatic occipital headache of three-month duration and was subsequently diagnosed with intracranial hypotension based on characteristic MRI findings of pachymeningeal enhancement on gadolinium enhanced MRI of the brain with sagging of the mid-brain.

Molecular design and applications of a nanostructure green Tripodal surface active ionic liquid in enhanced oil recovery: Interfacial tension reduction, wettability alteration, and emulsification

Surface active ionic liquids (SAILs) are considered as prominent materials in enhanced oil recovery thanks to their high interfacial activity. This study reports the preparation and applications of a nanostructure Tripodal imidazolium SAIL as an environmentally-friendly substitute to the conventional surfactants. The product has a star-like molecular structure centered by a triazine spacer, namely [(C_(4)im)_(3)TA][Cl_(3)], prepared by a one-step synthesis method and characterized with FT-IR, NMR, XRD, and SEM analysis methods. The interfacial tension of the system was decreased to about 78% at critical micelle concentration of less than 0.08 mol·dm^(−3). Increasing temperature, from 298.2 to 323.2 K, improved this capability. The solid surface wettability was changed from oil-wet to water-wet and 80% and 77% stable emulsions of crude oil–aqueous solutions were created after one day and one week, respectively. Compared to the Gemini kind homologous SAILs, the superior effects of the Tripodal SAIL were revealed and attributed to the strong hydrophobic branches in the molecule. The Frumkin adsorption isotherm precisely reproduced the generated IFT data, and accordingly, the adsorption and thermodynamic parameters were determined.

Regulatory mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell death in normal tension glaucoma and potential therapies

Normal tension glaucoma(NTG)is a multifactorial optic neuropathy characterized by normal intraocular pressure,progressive retinal ganglion cell(RGC)death,and glaucomatous visual field loss.Recent studies have described the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of NTG.In addition to controlling intraocular pressure,neuroprotection and reduction of RGC degeneration may be beneficial therapies for NTG.In this review,we summarized the main regulatory mechanisms of RGC death in NTG,including autophagy,glutamate neurotoxicity,oxidative stress,neuroinflammation,immunity,and vasoconstriction.Autophagy can be induced by retinal hypoxia and axonal damage.In this process,ischemia can cause mutations of optineurin and activate the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway.Glutamate neurotoxicity is induced by the over-stimulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate membrane receptors by glutamate,which occurs in RGCs and induces progressive glaucomatous optic neuropathy.Oxidative stress also participates in NTG-related glaucomatous optic neuropathy.It impairs the mitochondrial and DNA function of RGCs through the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-JUN N-terminal kinase pathway.Moreover,it increases inflammation and the immune response of RGCs.Endothelin 1 causes endothelial dysfunction and impairment of ocular blood flow,promoting vasospasm and glaucomatous optic neuropathy,as a result of NTG.In conclusion,we discussed research progress on potential options for the protection of RGCs,including TANK binding kinase 1 inhibitors regulating autophagy,N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists inhibiting glutamate toxicity,ASK1 inhibitors regulating mitochondrial function,and antioxidants inhibiting oxidative stress.In NTG,RGC death is regulated by a network of mechanisms,while various potential targets protect RGCs.Collectively,these findings provide insight into the pathogenesis of NTG and potential therapeutic strategies.

Stability of neodymium:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy in eyes with capsular tension rings

·AIM: To evaluate the stability of neodymium(Nd):YAG laser posterior capsulotomy in eyes with capsular tension rings(CTRs).·METHODS: A total of 60 eyes that underwent cataract surgery and laser posterior capsulotomy postoperatively were included in this retrospective cohort study. To evaluate the safety and stability of capsulotomy, changes in the size of posterior capsulotomy and anterior chamber depth(ACD) in three groups: the group without CTR, the group with 12 mm CTRs, and the group with 13 mm CTRs, at 1wk, 3, 12, and 15mo after capsulotomy, were compared. ·RESULTS: In the group without CTR and the group with 12 mm CTR, there was no significant change in ACD at every post-laser follow-up. In the group with 13 mm CTR, the ACD change was significant until 3mo after capsulotomy. In all groups, there was a significant increase in the area of capsulotomy between 1wk and 3mo post-laser. Between 3 and 12mo post-laser, only the group with 13 mm CTR showed a significant increase in the area of capsulotomy(P<0.01). ·CONCLUSION: Laser posterior capsulotomy is safe in all three groups. The capsulotomy and ACD become stabilized and have not shown significant changes since 1y postlaser, even with larger CTRs. The maintenance of centrifugal capsular tension can last longer with larger CTRs, and the stability of the capsulotomy site can be reached about 12mo after capsulotomy in pseudophakic eyes with larger CTRs.

Technique of using Cionni-modified capsular tension ring in the management of severely traumatic lens subluxation

AIM:To investigate the effect of Cionni-modified capsular tension ring(CTR)implantation in patients with severely traumatic subluxated cataracts.METHODS:All patients who totally had traumatic cataracts and lost zonule support and underwent cataract surgery were retrospectively analyzed.Corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA),extent of zonulysis,intraocular lens(IOL)position,intraoperative presentation,and complications were assessed.The primary outcomes included IOL centration stability and other postoperative complications.RESULTS:Twenty patients(20 eyes)were included in this study.The mean age in this study was 58.0±11.3y,and the average follow-up time was 17.3±12.8mo.Capsule bags were saved by Cionni-modified CTR.Nine eyes(45%)underwent simultaneously anterior vitrectomy due to the presence of vitreous in the anterior chamber.The preoperative mean CDVA was 0.83±0.24 log MAR,and the postoperative average CDVA was 0.23±0.30 log MAR(P<0.05).The horizontal and vertical IOL decentration after surgery was 0.27±0.12 mm and 0.41±0.19 mm,respectively;the vertical and horizontal IOL tilt after surgery was 5.5°±2.5°and 6.1°±2.2°,respectively.None of the eyes had obvious IOL decentration during the follow-up time.Eight eyes(40%)had posterior capsule opacification(PCO)that was severe enough to cause poor vision.Neodymium:YAG laser capsulotomy were performed on these eyes when the CTR was stabilized.CONCLUSION:With the help of Cionni-modified CTR,capsular bag preservation and better IOL concentration can be achieved without major complications in patients with severely traumatic subluxated cataracts.

Retrospective Analysis of the Correlation between TMD, Headache and Bruxism

Aims: To evaluate the association between bruxism, headaches, and temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Methods: A keyword search of the clinical notes of patients’ charts in AxiUmTM was performed using the search terms “TMD”, “headache”, and “sleep bruxism” to identify these patients. The inclusion criteria were patients with partial of full dentition, aged 18 to 65 years old who attended the UNLV School of Dental Medicine clinics between January 2014 and September 2018. Patients with incomplete records and those who were completely edentulous formed the exclusion criteria. Data were analyzed using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient. Results: The final sample was made up of 529 patients. The highest percentage of study subjects were in the age range of 29 - 34 (17.9%), with a statistically significant correlation to pain on opening (P = 0.0403). Females showed a statistically significant correlation to TMJ clicking (P = 0.0033). Caucasians also had a statistically significant correlation to TMJ clicking (P = 0.0001). In addition, a statistically significant correlation between pain on opening or chewing and headaches was also observed (P = 0.0081). Conclusion: Within the limitations of the present study, Caucasians, and females presented with more TMJ clicking than the other study subjects. Young adults, in particular, experienced more pain on opening or chewing.