基于PXI标准的功率器件总剂量效应测试系统研制

设计了一款针对功率器件的总剂量效应测试系统。该系统基于外围组件互连(PXI)扩展主机系统,设计了测试板卡,并通过设计不同工艺的半导体功率器件测试工装,实现功率器件的批量自动化测试。结果表明,氮化镓工艺的功率器件的耐总剂量效应优于硅和碳化硅工艺的功率器件的。

Cell metabolism pathways involved in the pathophysiological changes of diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus.Elucidating the pathophysiological metabolic mechanism impels the generation of ideal therapies.However,existing limited treatments for diabetic peripheral neuropathy expose the urgent need for cell metabolism research.Given the lack of comprehensive understanding of energy metabolism changes and related signaling pathways in diabetic peripheral neuropathy,it is essential to explore energy changes and metabolic changes in diabetic peripheral neuropathy to develop suitable treatment methods.This review summarizes the pathophysiological mechanism of diabetic peripheral neuropathy from the perspective of cellular metabolism and the specific interventions for different metabolic pathways to develop effective treatment methods.Various metabolic mechanisms(e.g.,polyol,hexosamine,protein kinase C pathway)are associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy,and researchers are looking for more effective treatments through these pathways.

Neutrophil peptide 1 accelerates the clearance of degenerative axons during Wallerian degeneration by activating macrophages after peripheral nerve crush injury

Macrophages play an important role in peripheral nerve regeneration,but the specific mechanism of regeneration is still unclear.Our preliminary findings indicated that neutrophil peptide 1 is an innate immune peptide closely involved in peripheral nerve regeneration.However,the mechanism by which neutrophil peptide 1 enhances nerve regeneration remains unclear.This study was designed to investigate the relationship between neutrophil peptide 1 and macrophages in vivo and in vitro in peripheral nerve crush injury.The functions of RAW 264.7 cells we re elucidated by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay,flow cytometry,migration assays,phagocytosis assays,immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Axonal debris phagocytosis was observed using the CUBIC(Clear,Unobstructed Brain/Body Imaging Cocktails and Computational analysis)optical clearing technique during Wallerian degeneration.Macrophage inflammatory factor expression in different polarization states was detected using a protein chip.The results showed that neutrophil peptide 1 promoted the prolife ration,migration and phagocytosis of macrophages,and CD206 expression on the surfa ce of macrophages,indicating M2 polarization.The axonal debris clearance rate during Wallerian degeneration was enhanced after neutrophil peptide 1 intervention.Neutrophil peptide 1 also downregulated inflammatory factors interleukin-1α,-6,-12,and tumor necrosis factor-αin invo and in vitro.Thus,the results suggest that neutrophil peptide 1 activates macrophages and accelerates Wallerian degeneration,which may be one mechanism by which neutrophil peptide 1 enhances peripheral nerve regeneration.

基于PXI总线的校靶测试模拟系统研制

为满足某型飞行器校靶测试系统的研制调试需求,提出一种基于虚拟仪器与PXI总线技术的校靶测试模拟系统研制方法。分析模拟系统的功能需求,选用符合要求的功能模块和外部设备,并设计转接适配器;对部分特殊信号进行特征分析并构建合理的信号模型;按照模拟系统软件的功能需求,结合线程同步技术在Visual Studio软件开发环境下完成系统软件研制;测试结果表明,模拟系统信号输出稳定可靠,电压输出精度优于±0.01 V,频率输出精度优于0.1 Hz,时间控制精度优于0.01 s,满足校靶测试系统调试需求,可有效辅助测试系统研制调试,缩短研发周期,降低调试成本。

Chemokine platelet factor 4 accelerates peripheral nerve regeneration by regulating Schwann cell activation and axon elongation

Schwann cells in peripheral nerves react to traumatic nerve injury by attempting to grow and regenerate.Howeve r,it is unclear what factors play a role in this process.In this study,we searched a GEO database and found that expression of platelet factor 4 was markedly up-regulated after sciatic nerve injury.Platelet factor is an important molecule in cell apoptosis,diffe rentiation,survival,and proliferation.Further,polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical staining confirmed the change in platelet factor 4 in the sciatic nerve at different time points after injury.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirmed that platelet factor 4 was secreted by Schwann cells.We also found that silencing platelet factor 4 decreased the proliferation and migration of primary cultured Schwann cells,while exogenously applied platelet factor 4 stimulated Schwann cell prolife ration and migration and neuronal axon growth.Furthermore,knocking out platelet factor 4 inhibited the prolife ration of Schwann cells in injured rat sciatic nerve.These findings suggest that Schwann cell-secreted platelet factor 4 may facilitate peripheral nerve repair and regeneration by regulating Schwann cell activation and axon growth.Thus,platelet factor 4 may be a potential therapeutic target for traumatic peripheral nerve injury.

Role of transforming growth factor-βin peripheral nerve regeneration

Injuries caused by trauma and neurodegenerative diseases can damage the peripheral nervous system and cause functional deficits.Unlike in the central nervous system,damaged axons in peripheral nerves can be induced to regenerate in response to intrinsic cues after reprogramming or in a growth-promoting microenvironment created by Schwann cells.However,axon regeneration and repair do not automatically result in the restoration of function,which is the ultimate therapeutic goal but also a major clinical challenge.Transforming growth factor(TGF)is a multifunctional cytokine that regulates various biological processes including tissue repair,embryo development,and cell growth and differentiation.There is accumulating evidence that TGF-βfamily proteins participate in peripheral nerve repair through various factors and signaling pathways by regulating the growth and transformation of Schwann cells;recruiting specific immune cells;controlling the permeability of the blood-nerve barrier,thereby stimulating axon growth;and inhibiting remyelination of regenerated axons.TGF-βhas been applied to the treatment of peripheral nerve injury in animal models.In this context,we review the functions of TGF-βin peripheral nerve regeneration and potential clinical applications.

Runx2 regulates peripheral nerve regeneration to promote Schwann cell migration and re-myelination

Runx2 is a major regulator of osteoblast differentiation and function;however,the role of Runx2 in peripheral nerve repair is unclea r.Here,we analyzed Runx2expression following injury and found that it was specifically up-regulated in Schwann cells.Furthermore,using Schwann cell-specific Runx2 knocko ut mice,we studied peripheral nerve development and regeneration and found that multiple steps in the regeneration process following sciatic nerve injury were Runx2-dependent.Changes observed in Runx2 knoc kout mice include increased prolife ration of Schwann cells,impaired Schwann cell migration and axonal regrowth,reduced re-myelination of axo ns,and a block in macrophage clearance in the late stage of regeneration.Taken together,our findings indicate that Runx2 is a key regulator of Schwann cell plasticity,and therefore peripheral nerve repair.Thus,our study shows that Runx2 plays a major role in Schwann cell migration,re-myelination,and peripheral nerve functional recovery following injury.

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes loaded into a composite conduit promote functional recovery after peripheral nerve injury in rats

Complete transverse injury of peripheral nerves is challenging to treat.Exosomes secreted by human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells are considered to play an important role in intercellular communication and regulate tissue regeneration.In previous studies,a collagen/hyaluronic acid sponge was shown to provide a suitable regeneration environment for Schwann cell proliferation and to promote axonal regeneration.This three-dimensional(3D)composite conduit contains a collagen/hyaluronic acid inner sponge enclosed in an electrospun hollow poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)tube.However,whether there is a synergy between the 3D composite conduit and exosomes in the repair of peripheral nerve injury remains unknown.In this study,we tested a comprehensive strategy for repairing long-gap(10 mm)peripheral nerve injury that combined the 3D composite conduit with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes.Repair effectiveness was evaluated by sciatic functional index,sciatic nerve compound muscle action potential recording,recovery of muscle mass,measuring the cross-sectional area of the muscle fiber,Masson trichrome staining,and transmission electron microscopy of the regenerated nerve in rats.The results showed that transplantation of the 3D composite conduit loaded with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes promoted peripheral nerve regeneration and restoration of motor function,similar to autograft transplantation.More CD31-positive endothelial cells were observed in the regenerated nerve after transplantation of the loaded conduit than after transplantation of the conduit without exosomes,which may have contributed to the observed increase in axon regeneration and distal nerve reconnection.Therefore,the use of a 3D composite conduit loaded with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes represents a promising cell-free therapeutic option for the treatment of peripheral nerve injury.

Establishment and validation of a predictive model for peripherally inserted central catheter-related thrombosis in patients with liver cancer

BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are commonly used in hospitalized patients with liver cancer for the administration of chemotherapy,nutrition,and other medications.However,PICC-related thrombosis is a serious complication that can lead to morbidity and mortality in this patient population.Several risk factors have been identified for the development of PICC-related thrombosis,including cancer type,stage,comorbidities,and catheter characteristics.Understanding these risk factors and developing a predictive model can help healthcare providers identify high-risk patients and implement preventive measures to reduce the incidence of thrombosis.AIM To analyze the influencing factors of PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer,construct a predictive model,and validate it.METHODS Clinical data of hospitalized patients with liver cancer admitted from January 2020 to December 2023 were collected.Thirty-five cases of PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer were collected,and 220 patients who underwent PICC placement during the same period but did not develop PICC-related thrombosis were randomly selected as controls.A total of 255 samples were collected and used as the training set,and 77 cases were collected as the validation set in a 7:3 ratio.General patient information,case data,catheterization data,coagulation indicators,and Autar Thrombosis Risk Assessment Scale scores were analyzed.Univariate and multivariate unconditional logistic regression analyses were performed on relevant factors,and the value of combined indicators in predicting PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve analysis.RESULTS Univariate analysis showed statistically significant differences(P<0.05)in age,sex,Karnofsky performance status score(KPS),bedridden time,activities of daily living impairment,parenteral nutrition,catheter duration,distant metastasis,and bone marrow suppression between the thrombosis group and the non-thrombosis group.Other aspects had no statistically significant differences(P>0.05).Multivariate regression analysis showed that age≥60 years,KPS score≤50 points,parenteral nutrition,stage III to IV,distant metastasis,bone marrow suppression,and activities of daily living impairment were independent risk factors for PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer(P<0.05).Catheter duration of 1-6 months and catheter duration>6 months were protective factors for PICC-related thrombosis(P<0.05).The predictive model for PICC-related thrombosis was obtained as follows:P predictive probability=[exp(Logit P)]/[1+exp(Logit P)],where Logit P=age×1.907+KPS score×2.045+parenteral nutrition×9.467+catheter duration×0.506+tumor-node-metastasis(TNM)staging×2.844+distant metastasis×2.065+bone marrow suppression×2.082+activities of daily living impairment×13.926.ROC curve analysis showed an area under the curve(AUC)of 0.827(95%CI:0.724-0.929,P<0.001),with a corresponding optimal cut-off value of 0.612,sensitivity of 0.755,and specificity of 0.857.Calibration curve analysis showed good consistency between the predicted occurrence of PICC-related thrombosis and actual occurrence(P>0.05).ROC analysis showed AUCs of 0.888 and 0.729 for the training and validation sets,respectively.CONCLUSION Age,KPS score,parenteral nutrition,TNM staging,distant metastasis,bone marrow suppression,and activities of daily living impairment are independent risk factors for PICC-related thrombosis in hospitalized patients with liver cancer,while catheter duration is a protective factor for the disease.The predictive model has an AUC of 0.827,indicating high predictive accuracy and clinical value.

Advances in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy by modulating gut microbiota with traditional Chinese medicine

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy(DPN)is one of the strongest risk factors for diabetic foot ulcers(neuropathic ulcerations)and the existing ulcers may further deteriorate due to the damage to sensory neurons.Moreover,the resulting numbness in the limbs causes difficulty in discovering these ulcerations in a short time.DPN is associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)compounds such as Shenqi Dihuang Decoction,Huangkui Capsules and Qidi Tangshen Granules can reduce the clinical symptoms of diabetic nephropathy by modulating gut microbiota.The current review discusses whether TCM compounds can reduce the risk of DPN by improving gut microbiota.

Artificial intelligence-assisted repair of peripheral nerve injury: a new research hotspot and associated challenges

Artificial intelligence can be indirectly applied to the repair of peripheral nerve injury.Specifically,it can be used to analyze and process data regarding peripheral nerve injury and repair,while study findings on peripheral nerve injury and repair can provide valuable data to enrich artificial intelligence algorithms.To investigate advances in the use of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis,rehabilitation,and scientific examination of peripheral nerve injury,we used CiteSpace and VOSviewer software to analyze the relevant literature included in the Web of Science from 1994–2023.We identified the following research hotspots in peripheral nerve injury and repair:(1)diagnosis,classification,and prognostic assessment of peripheral nerve injury using neuroimaging and artificial intelligence techniques,such as corneal confocal microscopy and coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy;(2)motion control and rehabilitation following peripheral nerve injury using artificial neural networks and machine learning algorithms,such as wearable devices and assisted wheelchair systems;(3)improving the accuracy and effectiveness of peripheral nerve electrical stimulation therapy using artificial intelligence techniques combined with deep learning,such as implantable peripheral nerve interfaces;(4)the application of artificial intelligence technology to brain-machine interfaces for disabled patients and those with reduced mobility,enabling them to control devices such as networked hand prostheses;(5)artificial intelligence robots that can replace doctors in certain procedures during surgery or rehabilitation,thereby reducing surgical risk and complications,and facilitating postoperative recovery.Although artificial intelligence has shown many benefits and potential applications in peripheral nerve injury and repair,there are some limitations to this technology,such as the consequences of missing or imbalanced data,low data accuracy and reproducibility,and ethical issues(e.g.,privacy,data security,research transparency).Future research should address the issue of data collection,as large-scale,high-quality clinical datasets are required to establish effective artificial intelligence models.Multimodal data processing is also necessary,along with interdisciplinary collaboration,medical-industrial integration,and multicenter,large-sample clinical studies.

基于PXI总线的机电计算机测试设备设计与实现

传统测试台逐渐难以满足日益复杂的电子产品的测试需求。本文使用PXI总线技术及LabVIEW开发平台,由成熟标准的板卡及仪器搭建了一种机电计算机自动测试系统,完成了被测件各功能项测试及数据存储显示。该系统测试效率高、使用维护方便,已成功地应用于产品的调试验收工作。

Lower extremity peripherally inserted central catheter placement ectopic to the ascending lumbar vein:A case report

BACKGROUND Peripherally inserted central catheters(PICCs)are an essential infusion route for oncology patients receiving intravenous treatments,but lower extremity veni-puncture is the preferred technique for patients with superior vena cava syndrome(SVCS).We report the case of a patient with a lower extremity PICC ectopic to the ascending lumbar vein,to indicate and verify PICC catheterisation in the lower extremity is safe and feasible.And hope to provide different per-spectives for clinical PICC venipuncture to get the attention of peers.CASE SUMMARY On 24 August 2022,a 58-year-old male was admitted to our department due to an intermittent cough persisting for over a month,which worsened 10 d prior.Imaging and laboratory investigations suggested the patient with pulmonary malignancy and SVCS.Chemotherapy was not an absolute contraindication in this patient.Lower extremity venipuncture is the preferred technique because administering upper extremity venous transfusion to patients with SVCS can exacerbate oedema in the head,neck,and upper extremities.The patient and his family were informed about the procedure,and informed consent was obtained.After successful puncture and prompt treatment,the patient was discharged,experiencing some relief from symptoms.CONCLUSION Inferior vena cava catheterisation is rare and important for cancer patients with SVCS,particularly in complex situations involving ectopic placement.

基于PXI及LXI总线的发射单元测试设备设计与实现

为解决传统测试台人工介入多、测试效率低下、测试覆盖率低、无法远程控制进行数据采集等缺陷,介绍了一种基于PXI及LXI总线采用LabWindows/CVI开发平台的自动化测试设备,从硬件及软件两方面描述了设备的设计及实现方法。与传统测试台比较,此设备具有自动化程度高、测试项覆盖率全、易升级、可远距离数据采集等优势。

Multilevel analysis of the central-peripheral-target organ pathway:contributing to recovery after peripheral nerve injury

Peripheral nerve injury is a common neurological condition that often leads to severe functional limitations and disabilities.Research on the pathogenesis of peripheral nerve injury has focused on pathological changes at individual injury sites,neglecting multilevel pathological analysis of the overall nervous system and target organs.This has led to restrictions on current therapeutic approaches.In this paper,we first summarize the potential mechanisms of peripheral nerve injury from a holistic perspective,covering the central nervous system,peripheral nervous system,and target organs.After peripheral nerve injury,the cortical plasticity of the brain is altered due to damage to and regeneration of peripheral nerves;changes such as neuronal apoptosis and axonal demyelination occur in the spinal cord.The nerve will undergo axonal regeneration,activation of Schwann cells,inflammatory response,and vascular system regeneration at the injury site.Corresponding damage to target organs can occur,including skeletal muscle atrophy and sensory receptor disruption.We then provide a brief review of the research advances in therapeutic approaches to peripheral nerve injury.The main current treatments are conducted passively and include physical factor rehabilitation,pharmacological treatments,cell-based therapies,and physical exercise.However,most treatments only partially address the problem and cannot complete the systematic recovery of the entire central nervous system-peripheral nervous system-target organ pathway.Therefore,we should further explore multilevel treatment options that produce effective,long-lasting results,perhaps requiring a combination of passive(traditional)and active(novel)treatment methods to stimulate rehabilitation at the central-peripheral-target organ levels to achieve better functional recovery.

A genetic variant study of bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy in Chinese multiple myeloma patients

Background:Bortezomib results in peripheral neuropathy(PN)in approximately 50%of patients,during multiple myeloma(MM)treatment,a complication known as Bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy(BIPN).The drug response varies among individuals.Genetic factor may play an important role in BIPN.Methods:A nextgeneration sequencing(NGS)panel containing 1659 targets from 233 genes was used to identify risk variants for developing BIPN in 204 MM patients who received bortezomib therapy.mRNA expression of MTHFR and ALDH1A1 in 62 peripheral blood samples was detected by real-time quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR).Serum homocysteine(Hcy)levels were detected in 40 samples by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay(CMIA).Results:Compared with the non-BIPN group(n=89),a total of 8 significantly associated single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)were identified in the BIPN group(n=115):MTHFR(rs1801131,rs1801133,rs17421511),EPHX1(rs1051740),MME(rs2016848),ALDH1A1(rs6151031),HTR7(rs1935349)and CYP2A6(rs8192720).The mRNA expression level of MTHFR in newly diagnosed patients with peripheral neuritis after treatment(NP group)was lower than that of newly diagnosed patients without peripheral neuritis after treatment(NnP group)(1.70±0.77 vs.2.81±0.97,p=0.009).Serum Hcy levels were significantly higher in BIPN group than in non-BIPN group(11.66±1.79μmol/L vs.8.52±3.29μmol/L,p=0.016)and healthy controls(11.66±1.79μmol/L vs.8.55±2.13μmol/L,p≤0.001).Conclusion:CYP2A6,EPHX1,MTHFR,ALDH1A1,HTR7,MME and BIPN are linked in Chinese MM patients.BIPN is more likely to occur in patients with lower MTHFR mRNA expression,which might result in higher serum Hcy levels.

Evaluating the efficacy of percutaneous puncture biopsy guided by contrast-enhanced ultrasound for peripheral pulmonary lesions

BACKGROUND The incidence and mortality of lung cancer have increased annually.Accurate diagnosis can help improve therapeutic efficacy of interventions and prognosis.Percutaneous lung biopsy is a reliable method for the clinical diagnosis of lung cancer.Ultrasound-guided percutaneous lung biopsy technology has been widely promoted and applied in recent years.AIM To investigate the diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound(CEUS)-guided percutaneous biopsy in peripheral pulmonary lesions.METHODS We retrospectively collected data on 237 patients with peripheral thoracic focal lesions who underwent puncture biopsy at Wuxi People’s Hospital.The patients were randomly divided into two groups:The CEUS-guided before lesion puncture group(contrast group)and conventional ultrasound-guided group(control group).Analyze the diagnostic efficacy of the puncture biopsy,impact of tumor size,and number of puncture needles and complications were analyzed and compared between the two groups.RESULTS Accurate pathological results were obtained for 92.83%(220/237)of peripheral lung lesions during the first biopsy,with an accuracy rate of 95.8%(113/118)in the contrast group and 89.9%(107/119)in the control group.The difference in the area under the curve(AUC)between the contrast and the control groups was not statistically significant(0.952 vs 0.902,respectively;P>0.05).However,when the lesion diameter≥5 cm,the diagnostic AUC of the contrast group was higher than that of the control group(0.952 vs 0.902,respectively;P<0.05).In addition,the average number of puncture needles in the contrast group was lower than that in the control group(2.58±0.53 vs 2.90±0.56,respectively;P<0.05).CONCLUSION CEUS guidance can enhance the efficiency of puncture biopsy of peripheral pulmonary lesions,especially for lesions with a diameter≥5 cm.Therefore,CEUS guidance has high clinical diagnostic value in puncture biopsy of peripheral focal lung lesions.

The Peripheral Hospital as Focal Point for Pacemaker Activity: Review of the Last 300 Implantations Carried out at the Haute Correze Hospital Center

Background: Pacemaker implantation is a very old activity which has revolutionized the cardiology practice throughout the world. This activity is effective at the Haute Correze Hospital Center since more than 20 years. Due to progress in this area, and the increasing request within this center located at the outskirts of town, we set out to evaluate our pacemaker activity in general and more specifically to assess the post-procedural complications in our series patients. Methodology: This was a retrospective longitudinal study. Data were recorded for period of 90 months from 27/05/2016 to 19/11/2023. This data collection was possible via a specific register completed by computerized patient data from the SillageTM software. All files of patients implanted with single or dual chamber pacemakers were included, generator replacements, upgrading procedures and addition of leads were excluded. The sampling was non-probabilistic, consecutive and non-exhaustive. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Excel 2019 spreadsheet and SPSS version 23 software. The quantitative variables were presented as mean ± standard deviation, the qualitative data as proportions. Results: A total of 303 first-time pacemaker’s implantations were carried out during the study period (rate of 40 per year). The average age in the population was 79.7 ± 9.4 years (44 - 99 years) with a male predominance of 63.7% (n = 193). Atrioventricular block (2nd and 3rd degree) was the main indication for pacemaker implantation in 42.9% of cases (n = 130). Patients were most often implanted with a dual-chamber pacemaker (57.7%, n = 175). The approach was most often cephalic in 72.6% of cases (n = 220), followed by the subclavian access in 27.4% of cases (n = 84). The average fluoroscopy time was 7.9 min ± 2.4 (1 - 43). The average irradiation dose in gray/cm2 was 12.4 ± 9.3 (0.22 - 117.5). The average length of hospitalization was 7 ± 4 (2 - 26) days. The overall complication rate at one year was 12.9% (n = 39). These complications are distributed as follows: Leads dislodgement in 8.2% (n = 25), hematoma 3.6% (n = 11) all without clinical consequences, pneumothorax 0.7% (n = 2), both cases of pneumothorax did not require specific care, infection (superficial) in 0.3% (n = 1). Leads dislodgement occurred after a median time of 18 days (IQR: 3 - 36). The earliest dislodgement was observed on D0 and the latest on D207. No serious complications were recorded. The average atrial threshold at implantation/first control/last follow-up was 0.7/1.3/0.8 V, respectively. The average ventricular threshold at implantation/first control/last follow-up was 0.5/1.08/0.87 V, respectively. The average atrial detection at implantation/first control/last follow-up was 3.2/2.3/ 2.05 mv, respectively. The average ventricular detection at implantation/first control/last follow-up was 10.3/11.03/10.8 mv. The average atrial impedance at implantation/first control/last follow-up was 610/457/457 ohms. The average ventricular impedance at implantation/first control/last follow-up was 754/547/563 ohms. Conclusion: Pacemaker implantation is safe at the Haute Correze Hospital Center with a relatively low rate of complications, in this case an almost zero major infection and no serious hematoma. The peripheral hospital should remain a focal point of this activity in order to respond more quickly to the needs of the populations.

Screening for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) in Hypertensive Black Patients: Ankle-Brachial Index in a Senegalese Primary Care Setting

Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) poses a significant health concern, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where its prevalence is increasing. [1] Despite its significance, there is limited understanding of PAD among hypertensive patients in this region, highlighting a critical gap in knowledge. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PAD and associated factors in black hypertensive patients. Methods: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted over two years at a primary care center in Senegal using their ankle-brachial index (ABI) database. Data collection was strictly retrospective, and sociodemographic characteristics and clinical parameters were retrieved from the local patient database. We included all hypertensive patients who had benefited from an ABI. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 18.0 software program. Results: Among the 220 hypertensive patients enrolled, PAD prevalence was 35%. Significant associations were observed between PAD occurrence and older age (>75 years, p = 0.008) and triple therapy (p = 0.015). Multivariate analysis confirmed age >75 years as a strong predictor of PAD in hypertensive patients (p = 0.01, OR = 4.6). Furthermore, PAD prevalence increased with the severity of hypertension (p = 0.03), emphasizing the need for targeted screening strategies in this population. Conclusion: Despite its limits, this study underscores the urgent need for improved access to healthcare services and tailored screening programs. The findings highlight the growing burden of PAD in Sub-Saharan Africa and the essential role of early detection and intervention, particularly in high-risk populations such as hypertensive individuals. Collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community stakeholders are crucial to implement effective interventions and reduce the impact of PAD on population health outcomes.

Autophagy-targeting modulation to promote peripheral nerve regeneration

Nerve regeneration following traumatic peripheral nerve injuries and neuropathies is a complex process modulated by diverse factors and intricate molecular mechanisms.Past studies have focused on factors that stimulate axonal outgrowth and myelin regeneration.However,recent studies have highlighted the pivotal role of autophagy in peripheral nerve regeneration,particularly in the context of traumatic injuries.Consequently,autophagy-targeting modulation has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach to enhancing peripheral nerve regeneration.Our current understanding suggests that activating autophagy facilitates the rapid clearance of damaged axons and myelin sheaths,thereby enhancing neuronal survival and mitigating injury-induced oxidative stress and inflammation.These actions collectively contribute to creating a favorable microenvironment for structural and functional nerve regeneration.A range of autophagyinducing drugs and interventions have demonstrated beneficial effects in alleviating peripheral neuropathy and promoting nerve regeneration in preclinical models of traumatic peripheral nerve injuries.This review delves into the regulation of autophagy in cell types involved in peripheral nerve regeneration,summarizing the potential drugs and interventions that can be harnessed to promote this process.We hope that our review will offer novel insights and perspectives on the exploitation of autophagy pathways in the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries and neuropathies.