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Graphite–copper (Gr–Cu) and graphite–aluminum (Gr–Al) composites are potential candidates for enhanced thermal management for different engineering applications. However, their applications are limited by inadequate thermal conductivity, high coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and low microhardness. In this study, SiC and ZrB2 were incorporated into Gr–Cu and Gr–Al powders, and then sintered in a spark plasma sintering (SPS) system to produce Gr–Cu + 8wt%SiC, Gr–Cu + 4wt%SiC + 4wt%ZrB2, Gr–Al + 8wt%SiC and Gr–Al + 4wt%SiC + 4wt%ZrB2 composites. After sintering, the physical, morphological, thermal, electrical and mechanical properties of the composites were evaluated. Results indicated 8.5% increase in relative density for reinforced Gr–Cu composites over the unreinforced Gr–Cu. The porosity of the reinforced Gr–Cu composites is 40.5% lower than that of the unreinforced and ~ 8% for reinforced Gr–Al. For all the sintered samples, Gr–Cu + 4wt%SiC + 4wt%ZrB2 sample has the highest hardness value of 44.5 HV0.1, highest peak intensity ratio of 80.19% and minimum CTE of 2.02 × 10–5/K. The huge increase in the microhardness and peak intensity ratio of Gr–Cu + 4wt%SiC + 4wt%ZrB2 is partially attributed to the formation of hard ZrC phase and three-bond system in ZrB2. This composite is recommended for thermal management of heat sinks and heat spreaders in electronics and pistons in automobiles.

Graphite–aluminium (Gr–Al) composites are being used for diverse engineering applications because of their light weight, good electrical conductivity and thermal properties. However, their applications are limited by high coefficient of thermal expansion and low microhardness values which can be enhanced by adding cheap and efficient fillers. This paper reports the effect of addition of eggshell (ES) particles on the properties of sintered Gr–Al-based composites. Five different composites (Gr–Al, Gr–Al + 20 wt.%Si, Gr–Al + 20 wt.%SiC, Gr–Al + 20Si wt.% + 20 wt.%ES and Gr–Al + 20SiC wt.% + 20 wt.%ES) were sintered at a temperature of 540 ℃, holding time of 10 min, heating rate of 52 ℃/min and pressure of 50 MPa using spark plasma sintering system. The sintered samples were characterized based on morphology, microhardness, relative density, coefficient of thermal expansion and electrical conductivity. Based on SEM images, graphite particles of flake-like structure were largely undeformed while Al particles were smaller, round and irregular in shape and fairly uniformly distributed in the composites. The microhardness value of sintered Gr–Al + 20 wt.%SiC + 20 wt.%ES composite was 39.55 HV compared to 30.46 HV for Gr–Al, the least of the samples. The Gr–Al + 20 wt.%SiC + 20 wt.%ES composite also has a very low thermal expansion coefficient (0.98 × 10−5/K) but lowest electrical conductivity at temperature beyond 150 ℃. Highest densification and minimum relative density (94%) were obtained in Gr–Al + 20 wt.%Si + 20 wt.%ES composite. These enhanced performances are largely due to the incorporation of ES particles. This study therefore demonstrated that ESs particles enhanced microhardness and lowered thermal expansion of Gr–Al-based composites which have promising applications in industries especially for thermal management.

Using the culturomics method, two strains were isolated, identified, and characterised following the taxonogenomics concept. Bacillus marasmi sp. nov. strain Marseille-P3556 (= CSURP3556) is isolated from a 13-month-old girl living in Niger. The phylogenetic tree, phenotypic criteria, and genomic analysis described here clearly show that this bacterium is different from previously known bacterial species withstanding in nomenclature and new members of Bacillus genus.

Thermal management remains an important consideration for many applications such as automobile pistons, dies in furnaces and heat sinks in electronics, where high thermal conductivity and low coefficient of thermal expansion are desired. In this paper, we report an improved microhardness value and negative coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) for Gr–Al composites by incorporating silicon nitride (Si3N4) and silicon carbide (SiC) into Gr–Al matrix. Si3N4 and SiC particles (average size of 72 nm) were obtained after 30 and 50 h of ball-milling, respectively. Gr–Al composite were reinforced with Si3N4 and SiC particles (4, 8, 12 and 16 wt% each), and then sintered at a temperature of 560 °C, pressure of 50 MPa, heating rate of 50 °C/min and dwelling time of 10 min using spark plasma sintering system. The sintered samples were characterized for morphology, microhardness, relative density, coefficient of thermal expansion and wear resistance. Addition of 16 wt% Si3N4 reduced relative density from 99.9 to 89.47% indicating lower densification. CTE decreased with increased Si3N4 fraction reaching minimum value of 12.37 × 10–6 °C (which is 42.5% reduction) for Gr–Al + 12 wt% Si3N4. However, Gr–Al + 8 wt% SiC + 8 wt% Si3N4 composite has the minimum negative CTE (− 21 × 10–6 °C), maximum displacement (2.48 mm), maximum displacement rate (1.12 mm/s) and minimum hardness value (26.8 GPa). While the hardness was marginally increased with Si3N4, addition of 12 wt% SiC + 12 wt% Si3N4 raised the hardness by 37%. Also, the wear area increased with applied force. These results indicate that Gr–Al + 8 wt% SiC + 8 wt% Si3N4 composite is suitable for applications requiring combination of low (negative) thermal expansion, high microhardness value and maximum densification. Effectively, the synergic effect of combined SiC and Si3N4 particles has been brought to the fore.

INTRODUCTION : La technique d’immunohistochimie permet de compléter l’analyse anatomo-pathologique des cancers pour optimiser le choix thérapeutique. Cette technique a pu voir le jour au laboratoire de l’UCAD avec l’avènement du centre de référence pour le diagnostic des cancers de l’enfant (CRDCE). Dans la même veine, les tumeurs de l’adulte en ont aussi bénéficié. Il s’agissait de faire une confirmation diagnostique et de rechercher des marqueurs actionnables au plan thérapeutique. Nous présentons les premiers résultats de l’apport de l’immunohistochimie dans ce centre après cinq mois d’activité. MATERIELS ET METHODES : Nous avons enrôlé tous les cas testés par la technique d’immunohistochimie effectuée au laboratoire d’anatomie pathologique de l’UCAD depuis le démarrage au mois de Mars 2021, en rétrospective et prospective sur 20 mois, de Janvier 2020 à Août 2021. Les prélèvements étaient des tissus fixés au formol, inclus en paraffine et ayant fait l’objet d’une technique histologique de routine. Une lame colorée à l’Hématoxyline Eosine était effectuée pour les prélèvements provenant hors du CRDCE et nous parvenaient sous forme de bloc tissulaire paraffinés. La technique d’immunohistochimie était la méthode manuelle d’immuno-péroxydase qui consiste à la mise en évidence de certaines protéines cellulaires, qu’elles soient cytoplasmiques, nucléaires ou membranaire, spécifiques à un type ou à une fonction cellulaire, à l’aide d’anticorps dirigés contre cette protéine aux propriétés antigéniques. Le recueil de données a été effectué avec le logiciel Excel© 2013 et Epi Info© 7.2.4.0. RESULTATS : Cent-et-trois prélèvements ont été testés, répartis en 17 cas initialement adressés au laboratoire et coordonnés par le service d’Onco-pédiatrie de l’Hôpital Aristide le Dantec qui fait partie du dispositif du CRDCE. Quatre-vingt-six autres échantillons sous forme de blocs tissulaires étaient issus de laboratoires des structures hospitalières de Dakar. Les prélèvements étaient composés de blocs issus de 52 biopsies contre 51 pièces opératoires. La population d’étude globale comptait 48 sujets de sexe masculin et 55 sujets de sexe féminin. Trente-huit cas concernaient une population pédiatrique, âgée d’un à 16 ans, avec un sex-ratio de 2,5. Soixante-cinq cas étaient des sujets adultes, âgés de 20 à 72 ans, avec un sex-ratio de 0,5. Chez les enfants, les lymphomes représentaient 39,4% des indications d’une immunohistochimie avec 15 cas dont 10 lymphomes de Hodgkin soit 26,3%. Chez les adultes, les lymphomes formaient 15,3% des résultats pour un total de 10 cas avec une nette prédominance des lymphomes non Hodgkiniens (neuf cas). Ici les indications étaient dans 1/4 des cas, la recherche des bio-marqueurs du cancer du sein (26,1%). De façon globale, neuf échantillons (8%) n’ont pas pu donner de résultats analysables en immunohistochimie en raison de problèmes liés à la qualité de la phase pré-analytique. CONCLUSION : L’immunohistochimie est un atout indispensable au pathologiste en lui permettant d’apporter plus de précision au diagnostic. Sa mise en œuvre implique une rigueur technique afin d’en garantir la fiabilité et la qualité.

Resume La prematurite est la premiere cause de mortalite et de morbidite neonatale avec plus d’un million de deces annuel dans le monde. Plusieurs facteurs etiologiques contribuent a sa survenue necessitant leur identification pour une prevention efficace. L’objectif de ce travail etait d’etudier les aspects epidemiologiques et les facteurs etiologiques de la prematurite dans la maternite de l’hopital general Grand YOFF (HOGGY) de Dakar sur la periode du 1er janvier au 31 aout 2013. Il s’agissait d’une etude prospective incluant tous les nouveau-nes vivants et viables. Ils etaient divises en deux groupes : les prematures (22 SA–36 SA + 6 jours) et les nouveau-nes a terme (plus de 37 SA). Durant l’etude, 501 nouveau-nes ont ete colliges dont 360 nouveau-nes a terme (71,9 %) et 141 prematures (28,1 %). Le sex-ratio etait de 1,07. Parmi les prematures, 48,2 % presentaient une hypotrophie. On notait 13 cas de deces chez les prematures, soit 9,22 % dont les causes etaient la prematurite 4,96 %, l’asphyxie 2,12 %, l’hemorragie 2,12 % et les infections neonatales 0,70 %. La survenue de la prematurite etait significativement liee au niveau d’instruction, l’origine geographique et a l’indice de masse corporelle. Le nombre de consultations prenatales inferieur a trois etait lie a un risque de prematurite (25,5 % vs 11,1 %, p = 0,001). Les infections genito-urinaires (27,7 % vs 17,6 % ; p = 0,059), l’hypertension arterielle (23,4 % vs 15,8 % ; p = 0,047), la pre-eclampsie (8,5 % vs 3,9 % ; p = 0,009), l’anemie isolee (36,2 % vs 15,0 % ; p = 0,0001) et l’hemorragie isolee (10,6 % vs 4,7 % ; p = 0,015) etaient retrouvees comme facteurs etiologiques significatifs.

This study assessed the electrical conductivity and the mechanical properties of pure Cu, 1 and 2.6 mass % Ti additions in a composition of CuTi0.014 and CuTi0.035 in region of Cu-solid solution, with the aim of studying the effect of titanium additions on the properties of copper. A sample of pure Cu, CuTi0.014 and CuTi0.035 were prepared in a plastic canister and mixed with alumina balls for 3 h at 49 rpm. The powdered samples were sintered at a temperature of 650 °C, with a punch load of 50 MPa, a dwelling time of 5 min and a heating rate of 50 °C/min. The results showed that the electrical conductivity of Cu, CuTi0.014 and CuTi0.035 are: 4.8, 5.0 and 4.2 (S/m) at temperatures of 345, 550 and 319 °C, respectively. The relative densities of the sintered samples are 96.76, 96.30 and 86.33% for Cu, CuTi0.014 and CuTi0.035, respectively. The Vickers hardness data of the sintered samples show that CuTi0.035 has the highest value (∼749 MPa), followed by CuTi0.014 (∼724 MPa) and pure Cu with (∼645 MPa). In addition, the predicted yield strength (YS) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the sintered samples were investigated. The YS are 1604, 1552 and 1395 MPa for CuTi0.035, CuTi0.014 and Cu, respectively. In similar other, the UTS are 1318, 1285 and 1182 MPa. The addition of 1 and 2.6 mass % Ti improved the corrosion resistivity of Cu in H2SO4 acid environment. Also, the addition of the 2.6 and mass % of Ti increases the coefficient of friction of Cu under dry sliding condition with a load of 25 N. The microstructures of the sintered CuTi0.014 and CuTi0.035 showed the precipitation of Ti. However, CuTi0.014 alloy has the best properties and is an ideal candidate for elevated temperature application. This composition of CuTi alloys can be used in the areas where Cu is required to maintain good electrical and mechanical properties at elevated temperatures (above room temperature) applications.

The growing demand for relatively inexpensive non-hazardous copper alloys with a good combination of electrical conductivity and high strength has led to increasing researches on Cu-Nb alloys for their excellent predictions over Cu-Be alloys. Cu-2vol.% Nb was produced using spark plasma sintering and the effect of the additive on its electrical conductivity, densification, hardness, corrosion resistance and wear resistance were investigated. It was observed that the additive improved the electrical conductivity of Cu powder from 0.28 to 5.89 S/m within 19–406 ∘C. Relative densities of 97.08% for Cu-2vol.% Nb and 97.33% for pure Cu were obtained at 600 ∘C, while at 650 ∘C, they were 96.08 and 96.82% respectively. The microhardness values were 77 and 72 Hv0.1at 600 ∘C, while at 650 ∘C, they were 83 and 66 Hv0.1 for Cu-2vol.% Nb and pure Cu respectively. The corrosion potential of Cu-2vol.% Nb was noble with a lower anodic current density, suggesting better corrosion resistance at 600 ∘C. Cu-2vol.% Nb showed a better wear resistance at 600 ∘C and an improved electrical conductivity at 650 ∘C.

Recycling of wastes and their by-products is attracting increasing interest worldwide because of the high environmental impact in the cement, concrete and other industries. This work deals with the study of the physico-chemical characteristics of binders based on sewage sludge ashes and lime. In a first step, we used X-ray fluorescence to determine the chemical composition of ash, lime and binders. This allowed us to see that the chemical composition of sewage sludge ash is similar to that of cement. We then used X-ray diffraction to identify the main mineralogical phases in the samples. Compressive strengths of mortars containing 20%, 40%, 60% and 80% of SSA showed that SSA has a long-term positive effect which might be related to a slight pozzolanic activity. The L4 binder consisting of 80% fine ash and 20% lime has a higher compressive strength than the others. The binder setting start time is greater than that of cement but shorter than that of lime. The study of the thermophysical properties of the L4 binder shows that it has a higher thermal resistance than cement and clay mortars. Moreover, it heats up less quickly because of its low effusivity compared to the latter two. This analysis highlighted the principal characteristics that must be taken into account to use SSA correctly in lime-based materials.

The effect of starting powder particle size and heating rate on spark plasma sintering of Fe Ni alloys was investigated, with the particle powder size varying from 3 to 70 μm and heating rate from 50 to 150 °C/min. The effect of the starting powder particle size was more obvious when comparing 3-FeNi and 70-FeNi at all heating rates, with the former having better density and hardness than the latter. Sintered densities close to theoretical (≥99%) were achieved for a heating rate of 50 °C/min for the different starting particle size powders, and decreased with increasing heating rate. The average grain size of alloys sintered at 150 °C/min was ∼34% smaller than those sintered at 50 °C/min. The porosity content of the sintered samples increased with increasing heating for the same particle size. The shrinkage rate depends on both heating rate and particle size. At a particle size of 3 μm and a heating rate of 50 °C/min, three peaks were observed indicative of the phenomena responsible for good densification. As the heating rate increases, only two peaks and one peak are observed at heating rates of 100 and 150 °C/min, respectively. This suggests that, unlike high heating rates, the longer processing time at low heating rate allows the three phenomena to take place. The hardness measurement revealed a steady decrease with increasing heating rate. At a heating rate of 150 °C/min the particles were well packed but no typical dimple structure of a ductile material was observed. However, for samples sintered at 50 and 100 °C/min a typical dimple fracture morphology was observed.

Au Senegal, le secteur informel et rural qui represente plus de 80 % de la population n’est couvert qu’a hauteur de 7 % par un systeme d’assurance sante. C’est pourquoi le gouvernement du Senegal a mis l’accent sur ce secteur pour la mise en oeuvre de la strategie de developpement de la couverture sanitaire universelle (CSU) a travers les mutuelles de sante (MS). L’objectif de cette etude etait d’apprecier la preference des usagers sur les strategies de developpement de la CSU a travers les MS. Il s’agit d’une etude qualitative a visee exploratoire qui a repose, sur une revue documentaire, l’interview approfondie de chefs de famille. Elle reposait egalement sur les focus groups avec les mutualistes et les non-mutualistes et les reunions du comite d’experts. Les resultats ont montre que les attributs les plus determinants dans le choix des usagers a adherer aux MS dans la region de Ziguinchor etaient: l’unite d’adhesion, le contenu du paquet de soins, les modalites de paiement de la cotisation, le montant de la prime de cotisation, la disponibilite du transport, le ticket moderateur, les modalites de conventionnement avec les formations sanitaires et la gouvernance. Pour une reussite de la mise en oeuvre de la strategie de developpement de la CSU a travers les MS, les decideurs doivent explorer la possibilite d’introduire la modalite de paiement en nature, la revision du ticket moderateur et la promotion de l’equite par l’introduction d’une prime de cotisation differenciee selon le revenu. Ils doivent egalement mettre en place une strategie transfrontaliere avec la Gambie et la Guinee-Bissau pour favoriser l’acces aux soins des frontaliers et des populations deplacees. La promotion du financement innovant et d’un systeme de perequation entre les regimes est recommandee. Dans les zones ou les institutions de microfinance sont bien organisees et structurees, leur substitution aux mutuelles pourrait etre une option a explorer par les decideurs.

Mixed 93W–4.9Ni–2.1Fe powders were sintered via the spark plasma sintering (SPS) and hybrid spark plasma sintering (HSPS) techniques with 30 mm and 60 mm samples in both conditions. After SPS and HSPS, the 30 mm and 60 mm alloys (except 60 mm-SPS) had a relative density (> 99.2%) close to the theoretical density. Phase, microstructure and mechanical properties evolution of W–Ni–Fe alloy during SPS and HSPS were studied. The microstructural evolution of the 60 mm alloys varied from the edge of the sample to the core of the sample. Results show that the grain size and the hardness vary considerable from the edge to the core of sintered sample of 60 mm sintered using conventional SPS compared to hybrid SPS. Similarly, the hardness also increased from the edge to the core. Furthermore, the 60 mm-HSPS alloy exhibited improved bending strength of 1115 MPa when compared to that of 60 mm-SPS, 920 MPa. The intergranular fracture along the W/W grain boundary is the main fracture modes of W–Ni–Fe, however in the 60 mm-SPS alloy peeling of the grains was also observed which diminished the properties. The mechanical properties of SPS and HSPS 93W–4.9Ni–2.1Fe heavy alloys are dependent on the microstructural parameters such as tungsten grain size and overall homogeneity.

New environmental challenges and research opportunities arise on the use of solid wastes as well as their basic properties. In fact, recycling of these wastes and their by-products is attracting increasing interest worldwide because of the high environmental impact in the cement, concrete and other industries. Two types (type1: Fa100 and type 2: Ba100) of sludge ashes from the sludge waste center of Camberene (Senegal) were combined with different proportions of lime to assess their potential us

Introduction: Malnutrition is a public health problem in the world and especially in developing countries. The prevalence of malnutrition at the national level does not reflect the situation in hospital. It is in this context that we assessed the nutritional status of children under 5 years old hospitalized pediatric services in the municipality of Ziguinchor. Material and methods: This was a prospective study that ran from June 1 to October 30, 2016. Included were children aged 2 to 60 months hospitalized in one of the two services. Children with esdato-ascetic syndrome were not included. Epidemiological, anthropometric data, and associated diagnosis were studied. Results: We included 114 children (70 boys and 44 girls). The average age was 21.9 months. Forty-two point one percent (42.1%) of infants

This paper is a preliminary report on the impact of the biodigester in the department of Bambey, Senegal. The analysis is based on data gathered as part of a join study between the University Alioune Diop of Bambey and the Union of Farmers’ Associations of the Region of Diourbel. A survey was undertaken during the month of January 2017 among 24 households, half of the families owning a biodigester and half not having one. The analysis of the data has revealed that the biodigester has very high potentials to get families out of poverty. We analyze parameters such as self-sufficiency, ability to invest on and develop additional activities, having savings, and even commercialization of agricultural production and we have found a clear contrast between families that own a biodigester and families that do not. However, despite the opportunities offered by the biodigester, most households find it difficult to own one. The study has also shown that the tasks needed to operate the biodigester are mainly manual and that an automatization of the process presents high potentials. Furthermore, the lack of market information constitutes an obstacle to the commercialization of the agricultural products. With regards to this aspect, the survey has shown that the implementation of an information system that disseminate market and demand information will highly benefit the populations.

The growing demand for lightweight materials for a variety of engineering applications has led to increased researches on graphite and graphite aluminum composites. An attempt is made in this work to investigate the electrical conductivity of unreinforced graphite aluminum (Gr–Al) powder and graphite aluminum (Gr–Al) powder reinforced with 10 wt.% SiC and 10 wt.% Si using the spark plasma sintering techniques. In addition, a study of the microstructure and hardness of the resulting composite was done after full sintering at a pressure of 50 MPa and temperature of 550 °C. It was observed that the addition of 10 wt.% SiC and 10 wt.% Si improved the electrical conductivity of Gr–Al powder between 18.9 °C and 287 °C. The results of the composites showed that a relative density of 97.1% was achieved for Gr–Al sample sintered at 550 °C while 96.1 and 95.4% were obtained for Gr–Al 10 wt.% Si and Gr–Al 10 wt.% SiC respectively. The micro-hardness values are 26 ± 5, 26 ± 4 and 20 ± 3 HV1.0 for Gr–Al (550 °C), Gr–Al 10 wt.% Si and Gr–Al 10 wt.% SiC respectively. The peak ratio values are very much improved in the hybrid composites produced. The study has shown that hybrid Gr–Al composite is a promising material for improved peak ratio and electrical conductivity.

Fe–30%Ni alloys were produced by sintering in the hybrid hot press spark plasma sintering system using iron and nickel as raw materials. The results indicate that the relative density, microhardness and fracture morphology depend on the sintering temperature which also affects the microstructure. The densification and grain size of the alloys increased with increasing sintering temperature, facilitating necking of grains. In the case of the sintering temperature at 1230 °C, a relative density of 98.7% and a maximum grain size of around 200 μm were obtained, and the maximum microhardness of 284Hv1.0, and the microhardness indentations revealed pincushioning indicating better sintering. Microhardness indentations at 1100 °C and below were characterized by barreling, indicating poor densification and/or microhardness. The fracture type changing from intergranular fracture to transgranular fracture is an indication of improved consolidation of the Fe–30%Ni alloy with increasing sintering temperature.

Le schwannome malin est une tumeur rare developpee aux depens des cellules de Schwann des gaines nerveuses peripheriques. La fosse infratemporale zone d’accss chirurgical difficile en est exceptionnellement le siege. Son diagnostic est pose a l’examen anatomopathologique. Le traitement repose sur une exerese carcinologique de la tumeur associee ou non a une radio- ou chimiotherapie selon les equipes.Le pronostic est habituellement pejoratif en raison du risque de recidive, parfois difficile a diagnostiquer. Nous rapportons un cas rare de schwannome malin de la fosse infratemporale ayant beneficie d’une exerese chirurgicale par voie preauriculaire modifiee. A 6 mois de recul aucune recidive n’a ete constatee.

Le carcinome adenoide kystique ou cylindrome est une tumeur maligne qui interesse principalement les glandes salivaires accessoires ou principales. Sa localisation laryngee est rare du fait de la rarete des glandes salivaires accessoires a ce niveau. Nous rapportons un cas de cylindrome sous-glottique chez une jeune femme de 38 ans prise en charge au service universitaire d’ORL de Fann. Elle a beneficie d’une laryngectomie totale associee a un evidement ganglionnaire fonctionnel bilateral et a une thyroidectomie totale. La patiente est decedee huit mois apres l’intervention chirurgicale. Le carcinome adenoide kystique du larynx est une tumeur maligne rare qui est souvent diagnostiquee a un stade tardif. Sa prise en charge est delicate du fait de sa croissance insidieuse, du fort potentiel metastatique et des recidives frequentes. La chirurgie est le traitement de reference.

L’hypothyroïdie de l’enfant é été peu étudiée au Sénégal. Le but de cette étude était d’évaluer les aspects épidémiologiques, diagnostiques et évolutifs de l’hypothyroïdie congénitale. Il s’agissait d’une étude rétrospective descriptive et analytique portant sur tous les enfants suivis pour hypothyroïdie congénitale au Centre Hospitalier National d’Enfants Albert Royer sur la période de 2001 à 2014 (14 ans). A partir des dossiers des malades, nous avons recueilli et analysé les données sociodémographiques, cliniques et évolutives. Au total, 28 patients ont été inclus, soit une moyenne de 2 cas par an. L’âge moyen de découverte de l’hypothyroïdie était de 54,25 ± 43 mois avec une prédominance féminine (Sex- ratio 0,47). Seuls 2 cas d’hypothyroïdie ont été diagnostiqués dans la période néonatale. La consanguinité était présente chez 68% des patients. Les signes cliniques étaient dominés par le retard des acquisitions psychomotrices (96%), l’hypothermie (46%), la dysmorphie cranio-faciale (43%) et le goitre (39%). Le retard statural était constant au-delà de 6 mois. Les étiologies étaient dominées par les troubles de l’hormonosynthèse (84,21%). Dans l’évolution, la taille moyenne des patients était passée de -3,5 DS à -2,25 DS pour une durée de traitement moyenne de 28 mois. La débilité mentale était présente dans 73% des cas. Le retard de croissance et la débilité mentale étaient d’autant plus sévères que le diagnostic était tardif. Nos résultats confirment l’insuffisance d’une prise en charge précoce des patients. Il urge de mettre en place un système de dépistage néonatale systématique, afin d’améliorer le pronostic mental de cette affection. The Pan African Medical Journal 2016;25

Le syndrome hémolytique et urémique (SHU) est une cause fréquente d’insuffisance rénale aiguë (IRA) organique chez l’enfant. C’est une complication évolutive des gastroentérites aiguës (GEA) en particulier à Escherichia coli de l’enfant. Notre objectif était de décrire les aspects cliniques, thérapeutiques et évolutifs de cette affection chez quatre enfants. Nous avions colligé quatre cas de SHU. L’âge moyen était de 10,5 mois (5-15mois) exclusivement des garçons. L’examen clinique retrouvait une anémie de type hémolytique (pâleur et ictére), un syndrome oedémateux avec oligo-anurie (2 cas), une hypertension artérielle (1 patient), une GEA avec déshydratation sévère et choc hypovolémique (2 patients), des troubles de conscience. L’IRA était notée chez tous les patients de même que la thrombopénie et les schizocytes au frottis. Le Coombs direct était négatif. Il y avait une hyperkaliémie (3patients) dont 1 patient supérieure à 9,2 mmol/l, une hyponatrémie à 129mmol/l(1 patient) et une hypernatrémie à 153mmol/l (1 patient). Le shu était secondaire à une pneumonie à pneumocoque (1 patient), une GEA à E. coli (1 patient). Le traitement était essentiellement symptomatique et comprenait la restriction hydrique, la transfusion de concentrés érythrocytaires, les diurétiques, la dialyse péritonéale et l’hémodialyse. L’évolution était marquée par la survenue d’une insuffisance rénale chronique (1 patient) après 6 mois de suivi et la guérison (1 cas). Nous avions noté 3décés.Le SHU est la cause la plus fréquente d’IRA organique du nourrisson. Le diagnostic est essentiellement biologique, le traitement est surtout symptomatique. The Pan African Medical Journal 2016;24

Facial soft-tissue analyses made from photographic records (photogrammetric analysis of the soft tissues) showed interracial dimorphism. Standard of these facial analyses, originally obtained from Caucasian might not be appropriate for the diagnosis and treatment planning of other groups of orthodontic patients. The purpose of this study was to compare the sagittal photogrammetric soft tissue profile characteristics between Senegalese and Moroccan adults.A cross-sectional study was performed in a group of Senegalese and Moroccan students in the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry of Dakar. Standardized facial-profile photographs were taken with each student in natural head position, centric relation, and relaxed lip posture. Twenty four linear parameters were measured on paper sheet using a graduated ruler. For each variable mean and SD were calculated. In addition independent samples t-test was performed to detect sexual and racial dimorphism. Results were regarded as significant at p = 0.05.Senegalese subjects had significantly more lips protrusion than Moroccan who had significantly a more elongated and more anterior positioned nose, a more chin prominence and a tendency to cutaneous class II than Senegalese.Further studies including different age groups subjects would allow having longitudinal data according to age.

Laryngotracheoplasty for Laryngotracheal Stenosis Post Intubation and Post Tracheostomy: A Case of Stenting with Airway Exchange Catheter We received a 27 year-old man with past medical history of asthma and cerebral malaria managed by intubation and tracheostomy for assisted ventilation. The lung specialist for suspicion of laryngotracheal stenosis referred him. At presentation, he was complaining of noisy breathing with respiratory difficulty mistaken for asthma. Computed tomography found laryngotracheal stenosis of 19 mm long and 6 mm thick with a distored cricoid cartilage with partial erosion Flexible laryngoscopy showed normal mobility of vocal folds and a grade III subglottic stenosis. Emergency tracheostomy was performed for moderate to severe dyspnea. Posterior cricoid split with costal cartilage augmentation and stenting was performed. Because Montgomery T-tubes were not available, we used a fashioned airway exchange catheter as a stent. Post recoveries were marked by infection and mucus plugging in tracheal cannula. Stent removal was done 2 months later with decannulation the same day. Follow-up was achieved for 18 months without re-stenosis./p>

Surgical Management of Differentiated Thyroid Carcinomas: Experience in a Low- Income Country To share our surgical experience in the management of differentiated thyroid carcinomas in a lowincome country. We performed a retrospective study in our department where 21 cases of differentiated thyroid carcinomas were recorded from February 2001 to December 2010.

The effect of particle size on the densification mechanism of as atomised copper powder during spark plasma sintering was investigated. In the temperature range 600–700°C and pressure range 20–30 MPa, consolidation of the powders is given by rearrangement, deformation, neck formation and minimal growth. Deformation and neck formation are enhanced by an increase in the particle size, since the current flow in the contact areas increases with the particle size. The actual pressure in the contact area, instead, does not change with the particle size. The extremely high and localised temperature on the contact points between particles leads to melting, giving rise to neck formation. The high temperature decreases towards the centre of the particle, allowing thermal softening and increasing the deformability of the particle core.

article i nfo Three particles size ranges (b25, 25-45 and 45-90 μm) of a commercial as-atomized copper powder were used to study the effect on SPS mechanism of particle size, pressure and the temperature at which pressure is applied. Under the application of a low initial pressure, densification is due to: particle rearrangement, localized deformation, bulk deformation and neck growth. The first two mechanisms are enhanced by an increase in particle size. Bulk deformation is not affected and neck growth is instead enhanced by a decrease in particle size. If pressure is increased during the SPS cycle, temperature at which it is applied does not in- fluence sintered density significantly, but tensile ductility, which is significant of the effectiveness of sinter- ing, increases if pressure is applied either during or after the bulk densification.

Resume La pratique de l’allaitement au sein est courante au Senegal. En effet, pres de 100 % des femmes donnent le sein a leur enfant. Cependant cette pratique s’accompagne de l’administration precoce d’eau avant le sixieme mois (42 %) et tres souvent des la naissance, du fait de representations socioculturelles. Notre travail avait pour objectif de decrire et d’analyser les connaissances et les pratiques d’un echantillon de femmes sur l’alimentation de leurs enfants, de la naissance a l’âge de six mois. Population et methodes Il s’agissait d’une etude transversale avec un recueil prospectif des donnees, basee sur des entretiens individuels semi-directifs realises du 1 er mai au 30 juin 2009. La population de l’etude concernait les meres de nourrissons âges de six a 12 mois, primipares ou non, qui frequentaient les deux sites de l’Institut de pediatrie sociale et preventive de l’universite Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar (Senegal) : l’un etant dans la banlieue de Dakar a Pikine, et l’autre en milieu rural a Khombole. Differents themes etaient abordes : les connaissances generales sur l’alimentation du nourrisson de la naissance a l’âge de six mois, sur l’allaitement maternel exclusif et les difficultes rencontrees lors de sa pratique, les aliments introduits au cours de l’allaitement maternel exclusif (AME), et les facteurs associes a leur utilisation. Resultats L’etude a porte sur 44 meres. Le delai moyen de mise au sein a la naissance etait en moyenne de 6 ± 12 heures (extremes : une a 72 heures). Le premier aliment recu par le nouveau-ne etait le lait maternel pour 64 % des meres ( n = 28). Les 16 autres meres (36 %) avaient administre a leur nouveau-ne le « Tokental » avant la premiere mise au sein. Trente-huit meres detenaient des informations relatives a l’alimentation de l’enfant. La mise au sein precoce a ete realisee par 22 meres (50 %) et l’allaitement maternel exclusif (AME) jusqu’a six mois par 29 meres (66 %). Les raisons invoquees par les 15 autres meres pour le choix d’un autre aliment sont diverses. Parmi les facteurs influencant la pratique de l’AME, figurait le niveau d’instruction des meres, meme si la difference n’etait pas statistiquement significative. Conclusion La pratique de l’allaitement maternel exclusif et la mise au sein precoce ne semblent pas limitees par les connaissances, mais par les representations. Parmi les facteurs limitant la mise au sein precoce, le plus important semble etre le « Tokental ». Pour ameliorer les pratiques en matiere d’alimentation des enfants, il serait important de renforcer l’information par les professionnels de sante sur l’alimentation des nouveau-nes.

Resume But de l’etude Ce travail a pour but d’etudier des formes cliniques surtout anciennes de l’epanchement de Morel-Lavallee, de discuter la place de l’aponevrotomie de Ronceray et de proposer des criteres d’indication therapeutique. Patients et methode Il s’agissait d’une serie retrospective continue sur 20 ans de 1989 a 2009. Onze hommes et huit femmes, âges en moyenne de 36,7 ans, ont ete traites pour un epanchement de Morel-Lavallee. L’etiologie dominante etait les accidents de la voie publique. La collection etait ancienne superieure a trois semaines pour sept patients. Le volume de la collection liquidienne etait en moyenne de 1237 cm 3 (extremes 60 cm 3 –12 L). Resultats Le traitement conservateur avait concerne tous les patients qui avaient une collection recente inferieure a trois semaines et trois autres qui avaient une collection ancienne. Le traitement chirurgical a ete institue en definitive dix fois dont quatre en premiere intention et six fois apres l’echec du traitement anterieur. La guerison a ete obtenue d’emblee dans 91 % chez les patients qui avaient une collection recente par la seule methode conservatrice et chez quatre patients par la methode de Ronceray. Chez les trois autres, elle n’a ete obtenue qu’au prix de debridements et de talcâge apres un echec du premier traitement. Conclusion Les auteurs insistent sur certaines formes rares rencontrees en Afrique notamment « la forme virtuelle », les formes anciennes et les formes trop abondantes (12 L). Ils plaident pour la fenestration aponevrotique decrite par Ronceray pour ces dernieres.

Introduction: Malnutrition is a public health problem in developing countries. The prevalence of malnutrition at the national level hardly reflects the reality in hospitals. It is in this context that we assessed the nutritional status of children from 2 months to 5 years hospitalized in the pediatric ward of the regional hospital and the Ziguinchor Peace Hospital. Materials and methods: This was a prospective study from June 1 to October 30, 2016. Children aged 2 to 60 months, hospitalized in one of the two services, were included. Children with esdato-ascetic syndrome were not included. Epidemiological, anthropometric data, and associated diagnosis were studied. Results: We included 114 children (70 boys and 44 girls). The average age was 21.9 months [4-59]. Forty-two point one percent (42.1%) of infants

In Senegal, the informal and rural sector that accounts for over 80% of the population is covered only up to 7% by a health insurance system. That is why, for the implementation of development strategy of the universal health coverage (UHC) through mutual health insurance providers, the Government of Senegal has focused on this sector. The objective of this study was to assess the consumer's preference on the UHC development strategies through mutual health insurance providers. This was a qualitative and exploratory study based on a literature review, and indepth interview with the heads of households. It was also based on focus groups of people with and without health mutual membership, and the Expert Committee meetings. The results showed that the most critical attributes in the decision-making of consumers to join the health mutual in Ziguinchor were the membership units; the content of the benefit package, the payment modalities of the premium, the premium amount, the availability of transportation, the co-payment level, convention arrangement with health facilities, and health mutual governance. For a successful implementation of the UHC development strategy through health mutual organizations, policymakers should explore the possibility of introducing the modality of payment in kind, the revision of the co-payment amount, and the promotion of equity through the introduction of a differentiated premium contribution by income. They should also establish a crossborder strategy with The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau to improve health care access to people living in the borders. The promotion of innovative funding and risk equalization between health insurance schemes is also recommended. In areas where the microfinance institutions are well organized and structured their substitution to health mutuals should be an option the decision-makers have to explore.

Kangaroo care (KC) is an effective method to care for low birth weight (LBW) newborns, particularly in developing countries. The objective of this study was to estimate the efficacy of this method and its impact on morbidity and mortality of LBW infants admitted to the KC unit of Albert-Royer National Children's Hospital Center (ARNCHC) in Dakar, Senegal.This was a retrospective, single-center study from July 2011 to July 2013. We collected sociodemographic, maternal, and obstetrical data, neonatal characteristics and information during KC (age and weight at inclusion, thermoregulation, feeding, growth, and overall progression). Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 9.0.We included 135 newborns, with a female predominance (sex ratio: 0.78). One-third of the mothers (35.5%) were primiparous and only 21.1% had a socioprofessional activity and the majority had a low educational level. The mean gestational age (GA) was 33.08±2.06 weeks of amenorrhea and the mean birth weight 1485±370 g. There were 20 term babies with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (14.8%) and 115 (85.2%) preterm newborns, 83 (72.2%) of whom, showed IUGR. The mean duration of conventional care was 12.3 days (range: 4-27 days) and the main complications were respiratory distress (46.2%), infection (36.9%), and necrotizing enterocolitis (15.1%). At KC admission, the mean post-conceptional age was 34.2±2.46 weeks and the mean weight 1445±319 g (minimum, 700 g). The main complications in KC were infections (20.2%), hypoglycemia (18.5%), and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (16.4%). Only 56.3% of the babies were exclusively breastfed. The mean weight gain during the stay in the KC unit was 15.3±9.08 g/kg/day and the mean weight at discharge was 1761±308 g. Only three episodes of hypothermia were noted. The mean duration in the KC unit was 10.2 days (range: 3-24 days). Five babies died (3.7%): one during KC, one at home, and the three others after readmission to neonatology.Kangaroo care for LBW infants is highly effective in our context. This method should be spread to a large majority of health centers in the country.

Resume La macroglossie est un symptome associe a diverses pathologies. Nous decrivons trois observations au cours d'une hypothyroidie congenitale et de deux cas de syndrome de Wiedemann-Beckwith au centre hospitalier universitaire de Dakar, afin d'en discuter la prise en charge et le pronostic.

Resume L'objectif de cette etude etait d'identifier les facteurs sociodemographiques, maternels et obstetricaux associes a la naissance d'un nouveau-ne de petit poids a la maternite du centre hospitalier regional de Thies (Senegal). Il s'agit d'une etude cas-temoin effectuee entre le 1er mai 2003 et le 31 janvier 2004. Quatre-vingt-huit nouveau-nes de petit poids (PN 0,05) desquels etaient issus ces deux groupes n'etaient pas statistiquement differents. En revanche, les parturientes scolarisees au niveau primaire etaient plus nombreuses dans le groupe I (p = 0,0052) et la consommation de the plus habituelle (p = 0,0049). La seule pathologie significativement associee au petit poids de naissance etait la toxemie gravidique (p = 0,027). Apres analyse multivariee par regression logistique, les facteurs les plus predictifs du petit poids restent la scolarisation au niveau primaire (p = 0,015), la consommation reguliere de the (p = 0,043) et la toxemie gravidique (p = 0,014).

The effect of the surface overheating occurring during spark plasma sintering was investigated by means of a fractographic and microstructural analysis of specimens produced with large copper particles. The overheated layer is quite thick and its microstructure is clearly different from that of the bulk of the particles, comprising coarse columnar grains oriented along the radial direction. Such a microstructure indicates that the temperature at the surface of the particles may effectively overcome the melting point of the material, leading to fast melting and re-solidification.

The electrical, thermal, and microstructural characteristics of Ti/Al/Ti/Au (30 nm/100 nm/30 nm/30 nm) multilayer Ohmic contacts to n-GaN (doping level 5×1017 cm−3) were studied. The lowest contact resistivity derived from the annealed contact was ρS=3.0×10−6Ω cm2. The contacts were robust and showed high-thermal stability. X-ray diffraction and Auger electron spectroscopy studies were made to investigate the microstructure of the annealed contacts. The key to the success of the contact was the Ti layers placed on both sides of the Al layer. Upon annealing, there occurred both in-diffusion and out-diffusion of the Ti layer in intimate contact with the GaN film. The in-diffusion of this led to the formation of TiN, while the out-diffusion of this led to the formation of Ti–Al alloys. The second Ti layer also in-diffused and out-diffused during annealing. However, due to the presence of Au, the out-diffusion was marginalized, and the in-diffusion was higher than the out-diffusion. The in-diffusion led to th...

In-hospital mortality is an indicator of the quality of care. We analyzed the mortality of under five years children of Pediatric ward of Aristide Le Dantec teaching hospital to update our data, after an previous study conducted ten years earlier. Methods: This was a retrospective study involving children 0-59 months of age, hospitalized from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. For each child, nutritional status was assessed according to 2006 World Health Organization growth standards; clinical and biological data were recorded. The outcome of the disease was specified. Bivariate and multivariable were used to identify risk factors for death. Results: 393 children were included. Overall mortality rate was 10% (39/393). Factors associated with death were severe wasting [OR = 8.27, 95% CI [3.79-18], male gender (OR = 2.98, 95% CI [1.25-7.1]), dehydration (OR = 5.4, 95% CI [2.54-13.43]) in the model using the weight-for- height z score, male gender (OR = 2.5, 95% CI [1.11-5.63]), dehydration (OR = 8.43, 95% CI [3.83-18.5]) in using the height- for- age z score, male gender (OR = 2.7, 95% CI [1.19-6.24]), dehydration (OR = 7.5, 95% CI [3.39-16.76]), severe underweight (OR = 2.4, 95% CI [1.11-5.63]), in the model using the weight-for- age z score, and male gender (OR = 2.5, 95% CI [1.11-5.63]), dehydration (OR = 8.43, 95% CI [3.83-18.5]) in that using MUAC. Dehydration and malnutrition are two independent factors of mortality. Our management protocols of dehydration and malnutrition have to be updated. Screening malnutrition has to be done systematically for each child by anthropometric measurements using WHO growth standards.

Upper airways obstruction can result in the reduction of the transversal dimensions of the maxillary arch which affect the vertical and the sagittal dimensions. The PNIF measure is an objec- tive and cheap way to assess the upper airways permeability. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between PNIF and dental arch sizes.Seventy eight patients (40 girls and 38 boys) age ranged 10-15 years were included in this cross sectional study. The PNIF was measured with a Youlten peak flow meter (Clement Clarke International, London, United Kingdom). The sagittal, vertical and transversal dimensions of the dental arches were evaluated on dental casts with a digital caliper (Mitutoyo Corporation, Tokyo, Japan). T test was used to assess differences in PNIF and dental arches variables between subjects grouped according to sex (male and female). The Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationship between the dental arches sizes and the PNIF. The significance was set at p0.05.PNIF rate was higher in girls than in boys but the difference was not significant. There were sexual dimorphism regarding the anterior and total lengths of the upper arch, the total length of the lower arch and the maxillary intermolar width which are significantly more important for boys (p respectively equal to 0.05; 0.03; 0.04 and 0.04). The PNIF was significantly and negatively correlated with the total length of the upper arch (r = -0.25). The others measurements did not show significant correlation with PNIF.Others parameters are needed to complement the peak nasal inspiratory flow rate for the respiratory disorders related dental arches sizes abnormalities diagnosis.

Resume Une etude randomisee en double aveugle portant sur la supplementation en vitamine A selon deux protocoles, grosse dose unique versus petite dose physiologique quotidienne, a ete menee dans le service de pediatrie de l'hopital A. Le Dantec sur une periode de 16 mois, l'objectif etant de determiner l'impact sur la mortalite et la meilleure strategie de supplementation. Les resultats montrent qu'il n'y a pas de difference dans les caracteristiques de l'echantillon au plan de l'âge, du sexe, du niveau socio-economique et du statut nutritionnel (groupe a grosse dose [GD] = 536, groupe a petites doses [PD] = 558). Par ailleurs, la supplementation en vitamine A, quelle que soit la strategie mise en œuvre, induit une reduction significative de la mortalite intrahospitaliere de 21,6% en 1998 a 17,5% pendant l'etude. Ainsi, a benefice egal, l'apport d'une grosse dose unique de vitamine A a l'avantage de la simplicite et de la compliance, aspects fondamentaux en matiere de sante publique.

The ecological impact offour insecticides used to control desert locustswas investigated during experimental field trials in natural temporary ponds in a cultivated savannah area of Senegal, West Africa. The insecticide formulations, dose rates, and application techniques were similar to those used in operational desert locust control. Average initial concentrations of fenitrothion, diflubenzuron, deltamethrin, and bendiocarb in pond water were 80, 10.4, 0.45, and 24.0 μg/L, respectively. Diflubenzuron and deltamethrin virtually disappeared in 24 h. Pseudo–first-order half-lives were 34 h for fenitrothion and 17 d for bendiocarb. Fenitrothion and deltamethrin significantly reduced population densities of backswimmers of the genus Anisops (Hemiptera, No-tonectidae) and in addition caused an extensive kill of other species of insects. Both insecticide applications were also followed by reductions of zooplankton densities, especially Cladocera, and deltamethrin eradicated populations of fairy shrimp (Streptoce-phalus spp.: Branchiopoda, Anostraca). Diflubenzuron only affected crustaceans, i.e., cladocerans and fairy shrimp. The least harmful insecticide in the study was bendiocarb, which only reduced the density of cladocerans. Recovery proceeded at fixed rates, which were different for each taxon. Anisops spp. recovered from the treatments in 1 to 4 weeks, most likely through aerial migration. Cladocerans returned to normal densities in 3 to 6 weeks. Streptocephalus spp., however, whose resting eggs presumably need desiccation during the dry season to be able to hatch, did not reappear until the next rainy season, one year later. It is concluded that contamination of temporary ponds in the Sahel by insecticide drift from desert locust control operations with any of the four insecticides should be avoided.

The Senegalese government is establishing a strategy of multiple use within its coastal protected areas, with community participation in its management. This ongoing study is based on the identification and analysis of natural and human effects on Saloum Biosphere Reserve (Senegal), which is also a Ramsar Wetland area. This article points out a few nonrestrictive orientations for integrated management of the protected area and its surroundings. The main objectives of the current management plan are: a permanent monitoring process of the natural resources, training and information about the positive effects of a sustainable conservation strategy, setting up strategies that could improve the living standards of local communities, and promotion of an institutional framework for better management of the biosphere reserve with all actors' participation.

The electrical properties of several tens of metres of lateritic weathering mantle were investigated by using electrical resistivity tomography "ERT" in two basement areas of eastern Senegal. The field survey was conducted along two profiles providing continuous coverage. Colour-modulated pseudosections of apparent resistivity vs. pseudo-depth were plotted for all survey lines, giving an approximate image of the subsurface structure. In the area underlain by granitic basement, the pseudosection suggests a very inhomogeneous weathered layer in which the apparent resistivity changes more rapidly than thickness. In the second area, underlain by schists, the lateral changes in electrical properties are less pronounced than those of the granitic area. Interpretation of 2D Wenner resistivity data yielded considerable detail about the regolith, even without pit information. In both areas, the near-surface topsoil comprising undersaturated lateritic material is highly resistive. The intermediate layer with low resistivities "e.g., 20-100 m" contains clays including small quantities of water. The third, highly resistive layer reflects the granitic basement. Comparison of ERT survey results with pit information shows general agreement and suggests that ERT can be used as a fast and efficient exploration tool to map the thick lateritic weathering mantle in tropical basement areas with hard rock geology. (Résumé d'auteur)

In order to study and classify successional stages in sahelian temporary pond ecosystems, the hydrological dynamics and the invertebrate composition of such a pond in central Senegal were investigated during a complete annual cycle, from the first rains until desiccation. The biotic part of the study focussed on zooplankton and on the pelagic and epibenthic macrofauna in the central region of the pond. Physical and chemical variables of the water were measured and compared with meteorological data. The pond was extant from late June 1994 to the end of January 1995. Changes in water levels correlated well with precipitation and evaporation. Dissolved oxygen levels, pH and Secchi depths fluctuated strongly. Conductivity was related to the depth of the pond and increased considerably when the water in the pond evaporated at the end of the wet season. Zooplankton species showed distinct peak densities at different times for different species. Cladocera were numerically the most important during the early season. Later, zooplankton was dominated by various species of copepod. Ostracods were less numerous, but this may be due to the fact that benthic microcrustaceans were not sampled separately. Macroinvertebrates consisted mainly of phyllopods and aquatic insects. There was a clear trend in the succession of taxa. Fairy shrimps (Branchiopoda; Anostraca) and tadpole shrimps (Branchiopoda; Notostraca) dominated the early community of the pond. The difference in development between two fairy shrimps, the fast growing Branchinella chudeaui and the more slowly developing Streptocephalus sudanicus, is discussed in detail. Densities of aquatic insects, mainly backswimmers of the genus Anisops (Hemiptera; Notonectidae) and diving beetles (Coleoptera; Dytiscidae), increased towards the end of the season. Four stages in the faunal succession in the pond were distinguished: (i) colonization and dominance by early crustaceans, (ii) dominance by more slowly establishing crustaceans, (iii) a shift towards insects and (iv) desiccation. It is concluded that this succession reflects differences in life-history strategies. These strategies, in turn, seem to be largely restricted to specific taxa because of phylogenetic constraints. As such, crustaceans seem to exhibit a wider variety of life-history tactics than insects.

Inpatient mortality is an indicator of the quality of care. We analyzed the mortality of under 5-year-old hospitalized children in the pediatric ward of Aristide Le Dantec Hospital for updating our data 10 years after our first study.We analyzed the data of the children hospitalized between 1 January and 31 December 2012. For each child, we collected anthropometric measurements converted to a z-score related to World Health Organization growth data. Logistic regression-generating models built separately with different anthropometric parameters were used to assess the risk of mortality according to children's characteristics.Data from 393 children were included. The overall mortality rate was 10% (39/393). Using logistic regression, the risk factors associated with death were severe wasting (odds ratio [OR]=8.27; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]) [3.79-18], male gender (OR=2.98; 95% CI [1.25-7.1]), dehydration (OR=5.4; 95% CI [2.54-13.43]) in the model using the weight-for-height z-score; male gender (OR=2.5; 95% CI [1.11-5.63]), dehydration (OR=8.43; 95% CI [3.83-18.5]) in the model using the height-for-age z-score; male gender (OR=2.7; 95% CI [1.19-6.24]), dehydration (OR=7.5; 95% CI [3.39-16.76]), severe deficit in the weight-for-age z-score (OR=2.4; 95% CI [1.11-5.63]) in the model using the weight-for-age z-score; and male gender (OR=2.5; 95% CI [1.11-5.63]) and dehydration (OR=8.43; 94% CI [3.83-18.5]) in the last model with mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Dehydration and malnutrition were two independent risk factors of death. The protocols addressing dehydration and malnutrition management should be audited and performed systematically for each child's anthropometric measurements at admission.

Hearing rehabilitation after bilateral radical mastoidectomy has different options. The Bonebridge is a new type of middle ear implant bone conduction. It leaves the external ear canal opened and offers acoustic and aesthetic advantages that make it a new alternative of choice. We report our first case of Bonebridge implanted on a 17 years old patient. He had bilateral conductive hearing loss secondary to a bilateral radical mastoidectomy with open technique and meatoplasty for a bilateral cholesteatoma. The surgical technique is described. After 8 months of use the hearing gain is stable without cutaneous adverse effect.