Challenges in nanoscale characterization call for non-invasive, yet sensitive subsurface characterization of low-density materials such as polymers. In this work, we present new evidence that mode-synthesizing atomic ...
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Challenges in nanoscale characterization call for non-invasive, yet sensitive subsurface characterization of low-density materials such as polymers. In this work, we present new evidence that mode-synthesizing atomic force microscopy can be used to detect minute changes in low-density materials, such as those engendered in electro-sensitive polymers during electron beam lithography, surpassing all common nanoscale mechanical techniques. Moreover, we propose 3d reconstruction of the exposed polymer regions using successive high-resolution frames acquired at incremental depths inside the sample. In addition, the results clearly show the influence of increasing dwell time on the depth profile of the nano-sized exposed regions. Hence, the simple approach described here can be used for achieving sensitive nanoscale tomography of soft materials with promising applications in material sciences and biology.
Background: In African countries, where the burden of neonatal sepsis is the highest, the spread of Carbapenemases Producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) in the community, potentially contributing to neonatal mortality, i...
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Background: In African countries, where the burden of neonatal sepsis is the highest, the spread of Carbapenemases Producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) in the community, potentially contributing to neonatal mortality, is a public health concern. The transmission routes are not well defined, particularly the possible key role played by pregnant women. The aim of this study was to understand the neonatal acquisition of CPE in Yaounde, Cameroon. Methods: A transversal analytical study was conducted in an urban area. Maternal stool samples during delivery and the first stool from their new-born were collected and cultured to isolate Enterobacteria. After isolation, characterization using API20E identification system, and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed according to the Antibiogram Committee of the French Society of Microbiology. Carbapenemases detection was done on each carbapenem-resistant strain using the Modified Hodge Test (MHT) and their classification using the synergy tests with different inhibitors. Results: Out of the 55 CPE isolates identified, Escherichia coli was the most encountered bacteria both in mothers (n = 18, 50.00%) and infants (n = 11, 57.89%). Class B and d carbapenemases were found both in mothers and infants. The estimated prevalence of vertical transmission in our study, was 10% (n = 12). Logistic regression showed that CPE carriage in mothers and CPE acquisition in their new-borns were independently associated with the presence of greenish amniotic fluid (OR = 7.33, p 0.0001 in mothers and OR = 4.09, p = 0.0086 in new-borns). Conclusion: Our results highlight the non-negligeable role played by pregnant women in the neonatal acquisition of CPE.
Background and Objectives: Mitigation of antibiotic resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae has become a priority due to considerable health and economical disabilities it generates. In order to tackle the emergence of resist...
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Background and Objectives: Mitigation of antibiotic resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae has become a priority due to considerable health and economical disabilities it generates. In order to tackle the emergence of resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of penicillinase type β-lactamase-producing Neisseria gonorrheae among patients consulting for genital infectious disorders in two health-facilities in Yaounde, Cameroon. Materials and Method: A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study was conducted over a 3-month period, from July 2nd to October 2nd, 2022. Vaginal and urethral secretions were collected. Biochemical identification tests were performed on colonies grown on chocolate agar + polyvitex using the Api NH gallery. The detection of penicillinases was equally performed using the API NH gallery and confirmed using the antimicrobial susceptibility testing. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations of some antibiotics were determined using the E-Test. Results: The results showed that out of the 198 patients sampled, 16 (8.08%) were positive for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, among which 13/16 (81.25%) were penicillinase-type β-lactamase producers. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing results showed high co-resistances to antibiotics, mainly ciprofloxacin (100%), nalidixic acid (92.31%) and azithromycin (84.62%). Moreover, high Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations of ceftriaxone (ranging from 6 to 24 mg/L) was observed toward Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates. The risk factors of the carriage of penicillinase-type β-lactamase producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae identified were: a history of Sexually Transmitted infections (p = 0.01) and unprotected sexual intercourse (p = 0.01). Conclusion: The emergence of penicillinase-type β-lactamase producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae is increasing and the situation is becoming worrisome. The identified risk factors can constitute a basic outlook to tackle resistant Nei
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