Digital measuring the ocular morphological parameters of guinea pig eye in vivo with Python

AIM:To quantitatively measure ocular morphological parameters of guinea pig with Python technology.METHODS:Thirty-six eyeballs of eighteen 3-weekold guinea pigs were measured with keratometer and photographed to obtain the horizontal,coronal,and sagittal planes respectively.The corresponding photo pixels-actual length ratio was acquired by a proportional scale.The edge coordinates were identified artificially by ginput function.Circle and conic curve fitting were applied to fit the contour of the eyeball in the sagittal,coronal and horizontal view.The curvature,curvature radius,eccentricity,tilt angle,corneal diameter,and binocular separation angle were calculated according to the geometric principles.Next,the eyeballs were removed,canny edge detection was applied to identify the contour of eyeball in vitro.The results were compared between in vivo and in vitro.RESULTS:Regarding the corneal curvature and curvature radius on the horizontal and sagittal planes,no significant differences were observed among results in vivo,in vitro,and the keratometer.The horizontal and vertical binocular separation angles were 130.6°±6.39°and 129.8°±9.58°respectively.For the corneal curvature radius and eccentricity in vivo,significant differences were observed between horizontal and vertical planes.CONCLUSION:The Graphical interface window of Python makes up the deficiency of edge detection,which requires too much definition in Matlab.There are significant differences between guinea pig and human beings,such as exotropic eye position,oblique oval eyeball,and obvious discrepancy of binoculus.This study helps evaluate objectively the ocular morphological parameters of small experimental animals in emmetropization research.

Seroprevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis B in Blood Donors at the N’Zérékoré Regional Blood Transfusion Centre in Guinea

Blood transfusion saves lives and reduces morbidity and mortality for a large number of diseases and clinical conditions, but it is not without danger. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of HIV and hepatitis B in blood donors received at the regional Blood Transfusion Centre of N’Zérékoré (Guinea). This was a 5-year retrospective analytical study. We included records of blood donors aged 18 to 60 years admitted to the N’Zérékoré Regional Blood Transfusion Centre for blood donation from January 2016 to December 2020. We performed a descriptive analysis followed by Chi-2 or Fish-er-exact tests and the Student or Wilcoxon test, followed by multivariate logistic regression. In this study, donor age ranged from 18 - 60 years, with a pre-dominance of donors aged 25 - 34 (44.2%). Male donors were the most represented in our study (79.0% versus 21.0% female). More than half of the donors were blood group O (55.6%). We observed a seroprevalence of 3.6% for HIV, 13.4% for HBsAg and 0.2% for co-infection. In our series, age 25 - 34 (OR = 1.89 and P = 0.001) and 35 - 44 for HIV (OR = 2.01 and P = 0.001), HBsAgserostatus (OR = 3.04 and P = 0.001) and blood donation history (OR of 3.04 and P = 0.001) were factors associated with HIV positivity (P < 0.05). In our study, HIV serostatus (OR = 3.04 and P = 0.001) and blood donation history (OR = 0.01 and P = 0.001) were factors associated with HBsAgseropositivity. We reported a high prevalence of HIV and HBsAg. Sex, serological status and blood donation history were associated factors.

Immunovirological Discordance and Associated Factors among People Living with HIV under Antiretroviral Treatment at Hôpital de Jour de Donka, Guinea

The antiretroviral treatment (ART) has significantly reduced the number of new HIV/AIDS infections and related deaths. However, cases of immunovirological discordance (IVD) are found in various locations. The objective of this study was to determine the profile of People living with HIV (PLHIV) with IVD and to identify associated factors. We conducted a cross-sectional study based on the records of PLHIV under ART for at least 6 months, followed at Hpital de Jour Donka from 2015 to 2017, and having both viral load (CV) and CD4 T-cell count. Prevalence of IVD was 34.57%, with 23.87% for immunological discordance (ID) and 10.7% for virological discordance (VD). Females were predominant (66.26%), and male gender influenced IVD with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.006) and was associated with VD (p = 0.007). The average age was 38.77 11.30 years. PLHIV were classified at WHO stages 3 and 4 (86.01%). The median initial haemoglobin level was 11.5 g/L [3.2 - 12]. The mean initial CD4 T-cell count was 272.84 cells/mm3 201.6. The median initial viral load (VL) was 147,337 copies/mL [1092 - 31,675,000]. The initial CD4 T-cell count 3 was associated with IVD with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.0009) and correlated with ID (p = 0.000). Prurigo was associated with IVD with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.003). Cerebral toxoplasmosis was not associated with IVD but was associated with ID (p = 0.04). This study allowed us to describe the profile of PLHIV with IVD. The main associated factors were male gender, initial CD4 T-cell count 3, toxoplasmosis, prurigo, and herpes zoster.

Assessment of Upper Guinea’s Wind Energy Potential with a View to Identifying Exploitable Sites

As part of the national strategy to further develop the wind energy sector,the eight prefectures of Upper Guinea have been selected.Using meteorological data recorded over thirty years(1991-2021)at a height of 20 m,we assessed wind resources in terms of characteristic speeds,power and available energy.To this end,the Weibull distribution method was used and the following values were obtained:3.66 m/s for the average speed;1,102.83 W/m^(2)for the available power and 8,747.06 kWh/m^(2)/year for the annual available energy.

Complications of Corticosteroid Therapy in Rheumatological Practice in Guinea

Introduction: Corticosteroid therapy used in rheumatology is effective but can lead to complications. The objective was to describe the complications of corticosteroid therapy in rheumatological practice at Ignace Deen University Hospital (Conakry). Methods: Cross-sectional study from July 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023. All patients who had been diagnosed with a rheumatological disease and who had received corticosteroid therapy were included. Results: Of the 1489 patients suffering from rheumatological diseases, 238 (15.9%) had received corticosteroid therapy. The average age of the patients was 48.5 ± 17.16 years with a female predominance (70.5%). The main indications for corticosteroid therapy were lower back pain due to probable disco-radicular impingement (35.8%) followed by rheumatoid arthritis (21.9%). The predominant method of administration was infiltration (56.9%). The average dosage was 24.2 ± 13.5 mg prednisone equivalent (range: 5 mg and 40 mg). Complications were present in 26 patients (10.9%) such as muscle cramps (3.8%), hypocalcemia (3.4%), edema of the lower limbs (3%), stimulation of appetite and weight gain (3%), high blood pressure (2.5%), hyperglycemia (2.5%). The occurrence of complications was associated with the high dose of corticosteroid (p = 0.014) and long-term use (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Corticosteroid therapy used in 15.9% of consultations in the rheumatology department of Ignace Deen University Hospital led to 10.9% of complications. These complications were related to the dose and duration of corticosteroid therapy.

Congenital Cervico-Mandibular Cystic Lymphangioma in Pediatric Surgical Setting in Guinea

Introduction: Cystic lymphangiomas are rare benign malformative tumors of the lymphatic system of obscure etiopathogenesis. The cervico-facial location remains the most common (75%). Although benign, these tumors remain potentially fatal, due to possible compression of the upper aero-digestive tract. The aim of this work is to study the epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic characteristics of cervico-mandibular congenital cystic lymphangiomas in the pediatric surgery department of the Donka National Hospital (HND) Conakry. Patients and methods: This is a retrospective and descriptive study of 13 files lasting 7 years from January 2015 to December 31, 2021. The files of children whose age is less than or equal to 15 years operated on cervical tumor with histological evidence of cystic lymphangioma were retained. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software 21 and anonymously. Results: The incidence of this study was 1.86 cases per year and a sex ratio of 0.62 in favor of girls. The average age was 8 months 19 days. In the antecedents, we only find poorly monitored pregnancies. The average size of the tumors was 11.85 cm. Cervical ultrasound and standard x-ray of the cervical mass were the only examinations performed. Total surgical excision of the cervical tumor was performed in all patients. The mass was polycystic on exploration. The histological examination of the surgical specimens was in favor of a cystic lymphangioma. The surgical consequences were simple in 11 patients (84.62%) and complicated by parietal suppuration in 2 cases (15.38%). There were no cases of recurrence after one year of follow-up. Conclusion: Cervico-mandibular cystic lymphangiomas are the most frequent locations of congenital lymphangiomas in children. Their severity is linked to the risk of compression of the aero-digestive tracts. Their diagnosis must be confirmed by the histology of the surgical specimen. Despite the therapeutic arsenal, excision of the cystic mass remains the only effective alternative in our socio-economic conditions to avoid recurrences and loss of follow-up of patients.

Risk Factors for Neonatal Mortality at the Institute of Nutrition and Child Health of the Donka/Guinea-Conakry National Hospital

Introduction: The birth of a baby is a moment of joy and celebration. However, the neonatal period is a very delicate phase of life. Neonatal mortality rates remain high in low-income countries. In Guinea, after 20 years, this rate has fallen from 34.2% in 1998 to 32% in 2018. Objective: To identify the main risk factors for neonatal mortality. Methods: This was an observational, analytical case-control study, lasting 6 months from January 1 to June 30, 2019, conducted at the Institut de Nutrition et de la Santé de l’Enfant (INSE) at Donka National Hospital. Results: We collected 242 cases and 242 controls, i.e. a total of 484 records. 748 patients were registered, with 32.35% deaths. 82.86% of deaths occurred in the early neonatal period. Statistical analysis revealed the main risk factors: prematurity (RQ 7.39 95% CI 3.27 - 16.61 p = 0.0000003), hypothermia (RQ 2.29 95% CI 1.51 - 3.46 p = 0.0001), acute fetal distress (RQ 2.13 95% CI 1.33 - 3.43 p = 0.0016), low birth weight (QR 1.91 95% CI 1.12 - 3.24 p = 0.016), home birth (QR 3.26 95% CI 1.25 - 8.46 p = 0.015). Conclusion: Neonatal mortality is a health problem in the INSE neonatology department. To reduce the mortality rate in this referral facility, it is essential to equip it and provide ongoing training for staff.

Wind Potential Modeling at Kanfarandé Site in the Republic of Guinea

The purpose of this work is to assess wind potential on the Kanfarandé site (Guinea). The data used for this research covers a period of 6 years (2018 to 2023) and consists of in situ data (Boké meteorological station) and satellite products via NASA Power Larc. The study is based on sorted hourly data (speed and direction). The treatments focus on the monthly, annual and seasonal average of speeds, by sector and their frequencies as well as the annual available powers. The obtained results made it possible, on the one hand, to assess wind potential and, on the other hand, to highlight the most favorable periods for wind energy exploitation. The analyzes show the months of July and August have the best average wind speeds with 5.01 m/s and 5.34 m/s respectively. Average wind speeds are higher during the day than at night with a peak observed at 6 p.m. The study also shows that the prevailing winds are oriented towards the South-West. The Weibull parameters determined for the site give an average of 4.5 m/s for the scale parameter and for the shape parameter 2.40 corresponding to an average power density of 65 w/m2 with an annual available power of 194.80 W/m2 and an annual available energy of 1706.45 kWh/m2.

Cotton Leafhoppers, Amrasca biguttula (Ishida, 1913) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), Identified as a New Species on Okra and Guinea Sorrel in Niger

Leafhoppers (jassids) are well-known pests of vegetable crops in Niger. They are often part of a parasitic complex that causes varying degrees of damage. Over the last two crop years, the Niamey region has seen a heavy outbreak of leaf hoppers on okra and guinea sorrel. These insects alone have caused spectacular damage, resulting in losses ranging from 50% to 100% of unharvested plants. Following this observation, infested fields were surveyed, specimens sampled, and the responsible species identified. Two sites were surveyed in the city of Niamey. At each site, two plots of okra and two of guinea sorrel were visited. Fifty (50) plants were randomly sampled using the double “W” method per plot. The sampled plants were used for active and passive leaf hopper capture, damage description and loss assessment. Captured leaf hoppers were identified based on their morphology observed with a binocular magnifying glass and compared with the data in the identification keys. The symptoms observed in the plots were yellowing, leaf curling and drying, stunting, abortion of flowers and immature fruit and very low production. Identification results revealed the single species Amrasca biguttula (Ishida, 1913), which can be considered a new invasive species in Niger. Further confirmation of this identification by molecular tests, the distribution of the pest in Niger and the development of appropriate control methods would yield good prospects.

Developments of Computing in Papua New Guinea in the Post-Independence Era

This article looks at the developments of computing in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the post-independence era. More specifically, this article examines the development of national policies on Information and Communications Technology (ICT), digital technologies in PNG, and the development of computing education in PNG since 1975. The research findings reveal that PNG has made solid progress in computing, ICT, national ICT policies, digital technologies, and computing education at universities in the post-independence era. The proposed approach in this article might facilitate the research and development of computing, ICT, digital technologies, and big data analytics in PNG, and beyond.

Electroacupuncture alleviates ciliary muscle cell apoptosis in lens-induced myopic guinea pigs through inhibiting the mitochondrial signaling pathway

AIM:To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture(EA)on the mitochondria-dependent apoptotic signaling pathway in the ciliary muscle of guinea pigs with negative lensinduced myopia(LIM).METHODS:Guinea pigs were randomly divided into normal control(NC)group,LIM group,LIM+SHAM acupoint(LIM+SHAM)group,and LIM+EA group.Animals in the NC group received no intervention,while those in other three groups were covered with-6.0 diopter(D)lenses on right eyes.Meanwhile,animals in the LIM+EA group received EA at Hegu(LI4)combined with Taiyang(EX-HN5)acupoints,while those in the LIM+SHAM group were treated at sham points.After treatments for 1,2,and 4wk,morphological changes in ciliary muscles were observed with hematoxylin and eosin(H&E)staining and nick end labeling(TUNEL),and the expression of the mitochondrial apoptotic signaling pathway-related molecules in ciliary muscles was measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western blot.Additionally,the adenosine triphosphate(ATP)contents were also determined in ciliary muscles.RESULTS:Axial length increased significantly in the LIM and LIM+SHAM groups and decreased in the LIM+EA group.The ciliary muscle fibers were broken and destroyed in both LIM and LIM+SHAM groups,whereas those in the LIM+EA group improved significantly.TUNEL assay showed the number of apoptotic cells increased in the LIM and LIM+SHAM groups,whereas reduced in the LIM+EA group.ATP contents showed a significant decrease in the LIM and LIM+SHAM groups,whereas increased after EA treatment.Compared with the NC group,the dynamin-related protein 1(DRP1),Caspase3,and apoptotic protease activator 1(APAF1)levels were significantly increased in the LIM group and decreased in the LIM+EA group.CONCLUSION:The results provide evidence of EA inhibiting the development of myopia by regulating the mitochondrial apoptotic signaling pathway.

Study on Wave Characteristics from the South Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Guinea Based on Short-Term Numerical Simulation in Winter Season

Waves play a major role in the ocean phenomena in the Gulf of Guinea(GoG). In order to reveal the spatial-temporal distribution characteristics and the propagation mechanism of waves from the South Atlantic Ocean to the GoG, 4typical points located in mid-latitude of South Atlantic(14°30′W, 30°0′S), south of the GoG(10°30′W, 15°0′S), offshore of the GoG(0°0′, 0°0′) and near shore of the GoG(6°4′58.8″W, 4°3′36″S) are selected, and waves from Atlantic Ocean to GoG are simulated by using a two-layer-nesting wave numerical model SWAN(Simulating Waves Nearshore). The results show that the hybrid waves(waves hereafter) and the swells have strong relationship with local wind in Roaring Forties and at mid-latitude of South Atlantic Ocean, while there is no obvious correlation between waves and local winds in the GoG. Swells are generated in the South Atlantic Ocean and propagate into the GoG. 2D wave spectra at the four selected typical points are simulated. The spectral pattern and wave component structure indicate that the wave system in GoG is dominated by the S-SW swells generated from Roaring Forties and mid-latitude of South Atlantic, whether it is at maximum(2.2-2.8 m), medium(1.8-2.2 m) or minimum(1.2 m) significant wave height in the GoG during simulation period.

Ebstein Anomaly: A Clinical Case Series among Adolescents in Guinea

Ebstein’s anomaly is a rare congenital heart disease. We report a series of 4 cases of Ebstein’s anomaly discovered in adolescents. The mean age was 13.75 ± 0.96, with 3 boys and one girl. Three were in heart failure. The EKG showed atrial hypertrophy (1 case), right bundle branch block (1 case), Wolff-Parkinson-White (1 case), and atrial fibrillation (1 case). Cardiomegaly was present in all patients with a mean cardiothoracic index of 0.77 ± 0.03. On echocardiography, the mean apical displacement of the tricuspid septal leaflet was 22.5 ± 3.30 mm/m2, the Celermajer index was Grade 2 in 2 patients and Grade 4 in 2 patients. Depletive medical treatment was prescribed to 3 patients. Anticoagulant therapy was initiated in one patient. Two are awaiting surgery. One death was recorded, it was at Grade 4 of the Celermajer index.

Impacts of climate change on the yields of leguminous crops in the Guinea Savanna agroecological zone of Ghana

The impacts of climate change on crop yields are receiving renewed interest,with focus on cereals and staple crops at the regional and national scales.Yet,the impacts of climate change on the yields of leguminous crops in the local context has not been explored.Thus,an in-depth understanding of climate change in the local context may support the design of locally relevant adaptation responses to current and future climate risks.This study examined the impacts of climate variables(annual rainfall,annual average temperature,rainfall indices(rainfall onset,rainfall cessation,and the length of rainy days),and the number of dry days)on the yields of leguminous crops(groundnuts,cowpeas,and soybeans)in the Guinea Savanna agroecological zone of Ghana during the period of 1989-2020.The data were analysed using Mann-Kendall’s trend,Sen’s slope test,correlation analysis,and Multiple Regression Analysis(MRA).The findings revealed that annual rainfall,annual average temperature,rainfall onset,rainfall cessation,and the length of rainy days,and the number of dry days all showed varied impacts on the yields of groundnuts,cowpeas,and soybeans.The trend analysis detected a marginal decrease in the amount of rainfall,rainfall onset,and the number of dry days from 1989 to 2020(P>0.050).Annual average temperature and the length of rainy days substantially varied(P<0.050)from 1989 to 2020,showing an increasing trend.The findings also showed a marked upward trend for the yields of groundnuts,cowpeas,and soybeans during 2005-2020.The climate variables analysed above increased the yields of groundnuts,cowpeas,and soybeans by 49.0%,55.0%,and 69.0%,respectively.The yields of groundnuts,cowpeas,and soybeans fluctuated with the variability of 30.0%,28.0%,and 27.0%from 2005 to 2020,respectively.The three leguminous crops under study demonstrated unpredictable yields due to the variations of annual rainfall,annual average temperature,rainfall onset,rainfall cessation,the length of rainy days,and the number of dry days,which stressed the need for agricultural diversification,changing planting dates,using improved seed variety,and irrigation to respond to climate change.The results of this study implied that climate change considerably impacts crop production in the Guinea Savanna agroecological zone of Ghana,emphasizing the urgency of locally based and farmer-induced adaptation measures for food security and resilient agricultural systems.

Factors Associated with Unmet Need for Family Planning among Couples Living in Urban and Rural Areas of Guinea in 2019

Introduction: Unmet need for family planning (UNFP) is defined as women with unmet needs who want to stop or delay childbearing but are not using any method of contraception. The objective of this study was to analyze the factors associated with unmet needs for family planning among couples living in rural and urban areas of Guinea in 2019. Methodology: This was a prospective, analytical cross-sectional, multicenter study of a six-month period from August 1, 2018 to January 31, 2019, focusing on couples with unmet needs for family planning. Result: Among 189 couples interviewed, 567 had UNFP (33.3%), the reasons for not using modern contraceptive methods were desire for pregnancy (AOR = 2.74, 95% CI: 1.74, 4.31), husband’s refusal (AOR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.81), spousal attitude (AOR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.130, 30), birth spacing (AOR = 2.10% to 95%: 1.16, 3.82), difficulty with a new pregnancy (AOR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.74), and spousal attitude (AOR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.14, 0.30). Conclusion: The involvement of spouses, especially in rural communities, would help achieve family planning objectives and reduce unmet needs for family planning.

Analysing the Factors Affecting Prenatal Visits in Guinea: A Secondary Study of the 2018 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS)

Background: Despite persistent efforts to improve maternal health through various interventions, Guinea faces challenges in achieving adequate antenatal care coverage (ANC). This study aims to identify the key factors influencing prenatal consultation in Guinea. Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted on Guinea’s 2018 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data. The study sample comprised women aged 15 - 49 who participated in the survey. Logistic regression was employed to identify the determinants of ANC utilisation. Results: Most women in the sample (59.1%) were aged between 18 and 30, resided in rural areas (69.8%), had no formal education (71.0%), had low incomes (43.4%), were married (91.4%), relied on the radio for information (63.4%), and were employed at the time of the survey (68.0%). The study identified several factors acting as barriers to meeting the recommended four ANC visits, including low education levels, with odds ratios (OR) of 0.43 (p = 0.011) for those with no schooling and 0.48 (p = 0.046) for those with primary-level education. Lack of radio access also negatively influenced ANC utilisation with an OR of 0.72 (p = 0.012). Additionally, delayed timing of the first ANC visit in the second trimester had an OR of 0.36 (p 0.001), while in the third trimester, the OR was 0.04 (p 0.004). On the other hand, factors that facilitated achieving the recommended four ANC visits included having an average wealth quintile with an OR of 1.63 (p = 0.002) and being wealthy with an OR of 2.30 (p 0.001). Conclusion: This study underscores the negative association between low education level and poverty with ANC utilisation among pregnant women in Guinea. These findings emphasise the need for targeted interventions to address the barriers faced by vulnerable populations and improve maternal healthcare access and utilisation in the country.

Epidemiological, Clinical and Therapeutic Aspects of Childhood Eye Diseases at the Prefectural Hospital of Macenta in Guinea

Introduction: Eye health in children is a real public health problem in developing countries. The aim of this work was to determine the frequency of ocular pathologies in children aged 0 to 16 at the prefectural hospital of Macenta in Guinea. Patients and Method: This was a descriptive prospective study. It covered a period of 6 months from October 1 to March 31, 2022 at the prefectural hospital of Macenta in Guinea. Children aged 0 to 16 received during the study period were included. Were excluded, those with an incomplete file and whose parents did not consent. Results: Out of 1816 consultations, 224 children aged 0 to 16 were collected 7.95%;mean age 7.35 years ± 4.6;sex ratio 1.38. The age group of 6 to 11 years was more represented. More than half of the patients were educated 50.4% and came from rural areas 52.7%. Pathologies of the orbit were dominated by orbital cellulitis 13% and those of the annexes by conjunctivitis 40.6%. Keratitis and cataracts were pathologies dominating the cornea and the lens, respectively 5.4% and 8.5%. Atrophy of the eyeball was the most frequent among those of the eyeball, at 3.6%. The most performed surgical procedure was phacophagy in 6.7%. The most common reason for consultation was eye pain, at 33.5%. Both eyes were affected at the same time in the majority 49.5%, and the most represented antecedent was malaria 22.3% of cases. Visual acuity without correction ≥ 3/10 was the most represented 37.5% in the right eye and 34.8% in the left eye. The therapeutic classes used were dominated by antibiotic-corticoid combinations 88.8%. Conclusion: Ocular pathologies in children from 0 to 16 years old constitute a real public health problem. They are dominated by pathologies of the conjunctiva and the lens. Popularization for early management of ophthalmological pathologies would be beneficial. .

Morphometric Assessment of Common Guinea Fowl (Numida meleagris) in Cameroon

A survey was conducted in the Sudano-Sahelian, High Savannah, and Western Highlands agroecological zones of Cameroon to assess the morphometric features and to determine the population structure of the native common guinea fowl breed. A total of 1021 adult common guinea fowls were sampled in the dominant pastoral production system. The main results showed that there was a phenotypic variability (p < 0.01) of the morphometric characteristics of common guinea fowls with a dominance of pearl gray coloring of the plumage (23.02%), bluish red barbels (29.09%), black eyes (36.04%) and tarsi (39.18%). The development of the barbels and the shape of the comb are determinants of the sex (p < 0.01), as well as the live weight which presents a dimorphism in favor of the females (p < 0.01). The average measurements (in cm) were: Crest height (2.07 ± 0.03), Crest length (2.79 ± 0.03), Barbel length (3.35 ± 0.04), Barbel height (2.28 ± 0.02), Spout length (2.11 ± 0.01), Caruncle length (0.69 ± 0.01), Baleen length (4.32 ± 0.04), Chest circumference (31.81 ± 0.99), Wing length (25.99 ± 0.18), wingspan (41.82 ± 0.32), Thigh diameter (9.17 ± 0.10), Thigh length (11.30 ± 0.07), Tarsus length (6.62 ± 0.04), Tarsus diameter (1.20 ± 0.07), Body length (40.13 ± 0.15), and Live weight (1.68 ± 0.02 kg). The highest positive correlation (r < 0.70) was observed between thigh and ridge length. The PCR revealed that three (3) components (F1, F2 and F3) make it possible to better explain phenotypic variability (50.21%). The variables that contributed most to the explanation of the observed total variability are the length of the crest (0.70%), the beak (0.61%), the wattle (0.70%), the body (0.44%), the wing (0.35%), thigh (0.68%), tarsus (0.29%) and wing span (0.41%) for the main component F1 while the F2 and F3 components mainly concern the length of the barbel (0.43%) and the height of the crest (0.48%) respectively. The F1 factor constitutes the most discriminating variable (89.40%). The AFD and the CAH made it possible to detect 03 sub-populations (T1, T2, and T3) which can be grouped into 2 subgroups on the basis of intra/inter population variations and genetic distances. Morphometric assessment coupled with genomics would increase the efficiency of selection, improvement, and conservation of common guinea fowl in Cameroun.

Prevalence of Types of Arterial Hypertension in Pregnant Women at the Maternity Ward of the Centre Médical Communal Les Flamboyants Conakry Guinea

Introduction: Arterial hypertension (AH) during pregnancy is defined as systolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 90 mm Hg on two (2) successive visits separated by at least 4 hours in a woman who has been at rest for 10 to 15 minutes in the seated position and then in the left lateral decubitus position. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and types of arterial hypertension among pregnant women in the maternity ward of the CMC les Flamboyants. Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study lasting six (6) months, from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022, of all pregnant women and/or parturients admitted to the maternity ward of the CMC les Flamboyants with a resting blood pressure (BP) greater than or equal to 140/90 mm Hg during the study period. Results: During the study period, we recorded 707 cases of pregnant and/or parturient women, 50 (7.07%) of whom were hypertensive. The average age of the patients was 29 years, with extremes of 18 and 41 years. The 20 - 29 age group was the most affected, with 26 cases (52%). Headache, dizziness and oedema of the lower limbs were constant in all cases. The risk factors for arterial hypertension were dominated by familial hypertension in 19 cases (38%), multiple gestures in 17 cases (34%) and a history of gestational hypertension in 16 cases (32%). Gestational age between 28 and 36 weeks’ amenorrhoea was the most common, with 20 cases (40%). Type I hypertension was most common on admission, with 34 cases (68%), followed by type II hypertension, with 8 cases (16%). Pre-eclampsia was the most frequent maternal complication with 27 cases (54%) followed by eclampsia with 15 cases (30%). Fetal distress was the most frequent fetal complication, 19 cases (38%), followed by death in utero 9 cases (18%). Conclusion: Compliance with consultation programmes and correct patient follow-up could help reduce maternal-foetal complications.

Postpartum Intrauterine Device: Use and Follow-Up of Users in the Maternity Ward of the Ratoma Communal Medical Center in Conakry, Guinea

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the use of the postpartum intrauterine device in the maternity ward of the Ratoma communal medical center in Conakry. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out between July 1st 2015 and June 30 2016, i.e. a duration of one year. Results: A total of 551 patients received advice on various contraceptive methods. Most of this advice was given in the post-partum period (40.2%) and during antenatal care (39.1%). Of the patients advised, 87 (15.8%) used the intrauterine device. The majority of users (93%) were married and uneducated (63.2%), and 39.1% were poor. The majority (56.3%) of intra-uterine devices were inserted in the immediate post-partum period. The majority of women had no adverse events either during the first six weeks (n = 57;65.5%) or at 3rd months (n = 75;86.2%) or 6th months (n = 76;87.4%) after IUD insertion. Most users remained complication-free throughout the follow-up period (n = 76;87.4% at 6th weeks and 3rd months, and n = 77;88.5% at 6th months). The continuation rate was 89.7% at 6 weeks and 3rd months, and 87.4% at 6th months after insertion. The majority of users (87.0%) were satisfied with the care they received. Conclusion: This study showed very few complications among intrauterine device users, and high continuation and satisfaction rates. The intrauterine device is a long-acting, effective, reversible and safe contraceptive that can be used by most women for birth spacing in Guinea, where women do not regularly visit health facilities.