Engineering a fermenting yeast able to produce the fragrant β-ionone apocarotenoid for enhanced aroma properties in wine

Wine is composed of multitudinous flavour components and volatile organic compounds that provide this beverage with its attractive properties of taste and aroma. The perceived quality of a wine can be attributed to the absolute and relative concentrations of favourable aroma compounds; hence, increasing the detectable levels of an attractive aroma, such as β-ionone with its violet and berry notes, can improve the organoleptic qualities of given wine styles. We here describe the generation of a new grape-must fermenting strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae that is capable of releasing β-ionone through the heterologous expression of both the enzyme carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase 1 (CCD1) and its substrate, β-carotene. Haploid laboratory strains of S. cerevisiae were constructed with and without integrated carotenogenic genes and transformed with a plasmid containing the genes of CCD1. These strains were then mated with a sporulated diploid wine industry yeast, VIN13, and four resultant crosses-designated MQ01-MQ04-which were capable of fermenting the must to dryness were compared for their ability to release β-ionone. Analyses of their fermentation products showed that the MQ01 strain produced a high level of β-ionone and offers a fermenting hybrid yeast with the potential to enhance the organoleptic qualities of wine.

Biological Deacidification Strategies for White Wines

Traditionally, the use of malolactic fermentation gives rise to microbiologically stable wines. However, malolactic fermentation is not free from possible collateral effects that can take place under specific scenarios. The present work tests the influence of different biological deacidification strategies on the volatile and non-volatile components of white must from Germany. The study compared mixed cultures of Lachancea thermotolerans and Schizosaccharomyces pombe and a pure culture of Sc. pombe to the classical biological deacidification process performed by lactic acid bacteria. Strains of Oenococcus oeni and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum were co- or sequentially inoculated with S. cerevisiae to carry out malolactic fermentation. Different fermentation treatments took place at a laboratory scale of 0.6 L in vessels of 0.75 L. The instrumental techniques Fourier-transform mid-infrared spectroscopy (FT-MIR), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to evaluate different chemical parameters in the final wines. The results showed the ability of Sc. pombe to consume malic acid in combination with L. thermotolerans without using S. cerevisiae or lactic acid bacteria. Fermentations involving Sc. pombe consumed all the malic acid, although they reduced the concentrations of higher alcohols, fatty acids and acetic acid. Simultaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentations reduced malic acid by about 80%, while classical malolactic fermentation reduced it by 100%. Fermentations involving L. thermotolerans produced the highest lactic acid, ester and glycerol concentrations.

Meeting requirements for survivorship visits: Interventions for patient identification

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Background: A major challenge in providing quality survivorship care to cancer patients is efficiently and effectively identifying and scheduling patients who need a Survivorship Visit (SV). While the Commission on Cancer (CoC) Standard 3.3 defines which patients require a Survivorship Care Plan (SCP), staff need to operationalize the definition and search the clinic’s patient records on a regular basis to accurately identify eligible patients. This is a challenge for a busy cancer center. Methods: In July 2017 the Judy DiMarzo Cancer Survivorship Program instituted a full time Data Analyst (DA) to assist in identifying survivors using the OncoLog Cancer Registry and the Electronic Medical Record (EMR). Previously the identification process was limited to the EMR, and the Survivorship Program Nurse Coordinator (NC) was a combined role overseeing metrics, identifying patients and assisting with SVs. Currently the DA has piloted a method extracting data monthly from OncoLog and the EMR to assess eligibility of Standard 3.3. The data is compiled and sent to the NC who assists the cancer-specific service lines responsible for the patients identified to ensure SVs occur in a timely manner. Results: Our pilot intervention resulted in a 283% increase in SVs per month, from an average of 30 SVs to 115 SVs per month. The overall achievement for the CoC SV delivery requirement increased from 16% prior to the intervention to 33% in just 3 months. GI increased from 5% to 20%. Lung increased from 16% to 39%. The average SV was 3 months after the end of treatment. Approximately 60 hours was dedicated to establishing this method and 35 hours per month in the eligibility, identification process. Conclusions: By adding a DA role, extracting data from Oncolog and the EMR, as well as increasing accountability at the service line level to improve identification and scheduling of eligible patients, the delivery of SCPs to eligible patients substantially increased. Nevertheless this process is time consuming and will likely not be sufficient to ensure that all eligible survivors receive appropriate care. Consequently, additional, systematic improvements in this process should be explored such as EMR methodologies to automate patient identification.

An integrative approach to personalized cancer survivorship care at an academic medical center

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Background: Quality cancer survivorship care has multiple missions 1) develop personalized disease-specific treatment summaries (TS) and evidence-based survivorship plans (SPs), 2) foster recognition amongst Primary Care Providers (PCPs) of the consequences of cancer and its therapy, 3) coordinate care amongst providers, 4) use technology to foster communication and mining data, 5) train residents/fellows, 6) determine knowledge gaps for research, 7) engage community health providers, 8) publicize and raise funds, and 9) develop metrics to assess outcomes. Here we describe initial steps toward these goals. Methods: The University of Rochester Judy DiMarzo Cancer Survivorship program is a multidisciplinary effort across 7 centers involving oncologists, PCPs, social workers, integrated oncology, legal/financial services, and survivors. Survivors are identified at two critical time points: after (1) completion of primary curative therapy = transition visit, (2) discontinuation of routine oncologic follow-up and transition of care to their PCP = shared care visit. These visits are staffed within each cancer discipline. Trainees (15-20/year) probe existing evidence and draft TS/SP templates that are vetted by that cancer discipline. Patient needs are surveyed; institutional and community resources are identified. Results: In 3 years, 1037 patients had survivorship visits - 859 transition visits, 178 shared care visits. Cancers include breast (31%), head & neck (17%), lymphoma (15%), GI (15%), GU (11%), GYN (7%), lung (3%), melanoma and sarcoma (1%) with continuing refinement of systematic patient identification. Visits by year were: 120 in 2013, 266 in 2014, and 470 in 2015. Amongst the 1037 patients, the 6 most common needs were exercise, emotional, return to work, nutrition, financial, and pain. Conclusions: Our program is systematically embracing challenges to deliver evidence-based, individualized TS/SPs for survivors, as well as train future oncology providers in survivorship care. Current areas of focus are better engaging PCPs, ensuring program sustainability, improving technology use to mine data, measuring outcomes, establishing rural outreach, and fostering survivorship research.

Sequential therapy combining clofarabine and T-cell-replete HLA-haploidentical haematopoietic SCT is feasible and shows efficacy in the treatment of refractory or relapsed aggressive lymphoma

Prognosis is poor for patients with biologically aggressive Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), refractory to chemotherapy or relapsed after autologous transplantation, especially when no disease control before allogeneic transplantation is achieved. In 16 patients (median age 53, median prior regimes 5) with relapsed or refractory non-remission NHL, we analysed retrospectively the efficacy of a sequential therapy comprising clofarabine re-induction followed by a reduced-intensity conditioning with fludarabine, CY and melphalan, and T-cell-replete HLA-haploidentical transplantation. High-dose CY was utilized post-transplantation. All patients engrafted. Early response (day +30) was achieved in 94%. Treatment-related grade III-IV toxicity occurred in 56%, most commonly transient elevation of transaminases (36%), while there was a low incidence of infections (19% CMV reactivation, 19% invasive fungal infection) and GVHD (GVHD: acute III-IV: 6%; mild chronic: 25%). One-year non-relapse mortality was 19%. After a median follow-up of 21 months, estimated 1- and 2-year PFS was 56 and 50%, respectively, with 11 patients (69%) still alive after 2 years. In summary, sequential therapy is feasible and effective and provides an acceptable toxicity profile in high-risk non-remission NHL. Presumably, cytotoxic reinduction with clofarabine provides enough remission time for the graft-versus lymphoma effect of HLA-haploidentical transplantation to kick in, even in lymphomas that are otherwise chemo-refractory.

Efficacy and safety of a recombinant factor IX (Bax326) in previously treated patients with severe or moderately severe haemophilia B undergoing surgical or other invasive procedures: a prospective, open-label, uncontrolled, multicentre, phase III study

Haemostatic management of haemophilia B patients undergoing surgery is critical to patient safety. The aim of this ongoing prospective trial was to investigate the haemostatic efficacy and safety of a recombinant factor IX (rFIX) (Bax326) in previously treated subjects (12-65 years, without history of FIX inhibitors) with severe or moderately severe haemophilia B, undergoing surgical, dental or other invasive procedures. Haemostatic efficacy was assessed according to a predefined scale. Blood loss was compared to the average and maximum blood loss predicted preoperatively. Haemostatic FIX levels were achieved peri- and postoperatively in 100% of subjects (n = 14). Haemostasis was 'excellent' intraoperatively in all patients and postoperatively in those without a drain, and 'excellent' or 'good' at the time of drain removal and day of discharge in those with a drain employed. Following the initial dose, the mean FIX activity level rose from 6.55% to 107.58% for major surgeries and from 3.60% to 81.4% for minor surgeries. Actual vs. predicted blood loss matched predicted intraoperative blood loss but was equal to or higher than (but less than 150%) the maximum predicted postoperative blood loss reflecting the severity of procedure and FIX requirements. There were no related adverse events, severe allergic reactions or thrombotic events. There was no evidence that BAX326 increased the risk of inhibitor or binding antibody development to FIX. BAX326 was safe and effective for peri-operative management of 14 subjects with severe and moderately severe haemophilia B.

Adaptive resolution molecular dynamics simulation through coupling to an internal particle reservoir

For simulation studies of (macro) molecular liquids it would be of significant interest to be able to adjust or increase the level of resolution within one region of space, while allowing for the free exchange of molecules between open regions of different resolution or representation. We generalize the adaptive resolution idea and suggest an interpretation in terms of an effective generalized grand canonical approach. The method is applied to liquid water at ambient conditions.

Cognitive impairments in adult mice with constitutive inactivation of RIP140 gene expression

Receptor-interacting protein 140 (RIP140) is a negative transcriptional coregulator of nuclear receptors such as estrogen, retinoic acid or glucocorticoid receptors. Recruitment of RIP140 results in an inhibition of target gene expression through different repressive domains interacting with histone deacetylases or C-terminal binding proteins. In this study, we analyzed the role of RIP140 activity in memory processes using RIP140-deficient transgenic mice. Although the RIP140 protein was clearly expressed in the brain (cortical and hippocampus areas), the morphological examination of RIP140(-/-) mouse brain failed to show grossly observable alterations. Using male 2-month-old RIP140(-/-) , RIP140(+/-) or RIP140(+/+) mice, we did not observe any significant differences in the open-field test, rotarod test and in terms of spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze. By contrast, RIP140(-/-) mice showed long-term memory deficits, with an absence of decrease in escape latencies when animals were tested using a fixed platform position procedure in the water maze and in the passive avoidance test. Noteworthy, RIP140(-/-) mice showed decreased swimming speed, suggesting swimming alterations that may in part account for the marked alterations measured in the water maze. Moreover, RIP140(+/-) and RIP140(-/-) mice showed a significant increase in immobility time in the forced swimming test as compared with wild-type animals. These observations showed that RIP140 gene depletion results in learning and memory deficits as well as stress response, bringing to light a major role for this transcriptional coregulator in the neurophysiological developmental mechanisms underlying cognitive functions.

Comparative pharmacokinetics of plasma- and albumin-free recombinant factor VIII in children and adults: the influence of blood sampling schedule on observed age-related differences and implications for dose tailoring

BACKGROUND

Dose tailoring of coagulation factors requires reliably estimated and reproducible pharmacokinetics (PK) in the individual patient.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the contribution of both biological and methodological factors to the observed variability of factor VIII (FVIII) PK, with the focus on differences between children and adults, and to examine the implications for dosing.

PATIENTS

Data from 52 1-6-year-old and 100 10-65-year-old patients with hemophilia A (FVIII < or = 2 IU dL(-1)) in three clinical studies were included.

RESULTS

In vivo recovery was lower, weight-adjusted clearance was higher and FVIII half-life was on average shorter in children than in adults. However, a reduced blood sampling schedule for children was estimated to account for up to one half of the total observed differences. Intrapatient variance in PK was smaller than interpatient variance in 10-65-year-olds. Age and ratio of actual to ideal weight only showed weak relationships with PK parameters. Variance in PK caused large variance in the calculated dose required to maintain a target FVIII trough level during prophylactic treatment.

CONCLUSION

Differences in blood sampling schedules should be taken into account when results from different PK studies are compared. However, even with this consideration, PK cannot be predicted from observable patient characteristics but must be determined for the individual. Because the influence of reducing the blood sampling was minor in comparison to the true variance between patients, a reduced blood sampling protocol can be used. Low intrapatient variability supports the use of PK measurements for dose tailoring of FVIII.

Factor VIII requirement to maintain a target plasma level in the prophylactic treatment of severe hemophilia A: influences of variance in pharmacokinetics and treatment regimens

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic factor (F)VIII has been shown to reduce bleeds and arthropathy in patients with severe hemophilia A.

OBJECTIVES

Assuming that the trough FVIII level is an important determinant of the efficacy of prophylaxis, this paper addresses the effect of the inter-patient variability in pharmacokinetics and different dosing regimens on trough levels.

METHODS

Simulations used FVIII half-lives and in vivo recoveries (IVR), observed during clinical trials with Advate [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant), Plasma/Albumin-Free Method], and commonly used prophylactic regimens to calculate their effect on FVIII levels during prophylaxis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Half-life and dose frequency had a larger effect on trough FVIII and time per week with FVIII<1 IU dL(-1) than IVR and infused dose per kg. The combined effect of these parameters resulted in substantial inter-patient variability in the amount of FVIII required to sustain a desired trough level. Prophylactic regimens based on Monday, Wednesday, Friday dosing were less cost effective in maintaining a desired trough level throughout the week. Dose escalation on Friday to cover the weekend would require potentially harmful doses of FVIII in many patients, especially in young children where more than 50% would require a Friday dose of over 100 IU kg(-1) and some would require more than 400 IU kg(-1). Knowledge of individual patients' half-lives and alteration of frequency of infusions may allow the more cost-effective use of FVIII and potentially expand access to prophylaxis to a greater number of patients, especially in regions where healthcare resources are scarce.

Break-through bleeding in relation to predicted factor VIII levels in patients receiving prophylactic treatment for severe hemophilia A

BACKGROUND

The role of prophylactic factor VIII (FVIII) to decrease hemophilic bleeding and arthropathy is well established. The rationale for this strategy is to convert patients with severe hemophilia A to a moderate clinical phenotype by reducing time spent with a FVIII level <1 IU dL(-1). Studies to date, however, have not demonstrated a strong link between FVIII level and the bleeding rate.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of FVIII level on break-through bleeding in patients with severe hemophilia A on prophylaxis.

PATIENTS/METHODS

This study analysed data from 44 patients aged 1-6 and 99 patients aged 10-65 years with severe hemophilia A (FVIII <1 IU dL(-1)) who were treated with prophylactic FVIII as part of clinical studies assessing pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy of a recombinant FVIII (Advate). Each patient had pharmacokinetic measurements and FVIII infusions recorded, and these were used to calculate time spent with a FVIII below 1, 2 and 5 IU dL(-1).

RESULTS

The data demonstrate that increasing time with a FVIII below 1 IU dL(-1) is associated with increased total bleeds and hemarthroses. Lack of adherence to the intended frequency of FVIII infusion was the most important determinant of low FVIII and increased bleeding. In children aged 1-6 years, the rate of bleeding was also influenced by FVIII half-life and clearance.

CONCLUSIONS

These data have important implications for the management of patients with severe hemophilia.

Safety and immunogenicity of the modified adult tick-borne encephalitis vaccine FSME-IMMUN®: Results of two large phase 3 clinical studies

A prospective, randomised, multicentre, single-blind phase 3 study was performed to assess the safety of a vaccination schedule consisting of two vaccinations (21-35 days apart) with the tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine FSME-IMMUN "adults" (five consecutive lots) in comparison to another licensed TBE vaccine (Encepur), with polygeline) (two lots) in healthy volunteers (n=3966) aged 16-65 years. The safety of the third vaccination with FSME-IMMUN "adults" (6 months after the first vaccination) was investigated in a follow-up study on the same population (n=3705) and TBE antibody titres were analysed pre- and post-vaccination in a subgroup of volunteers (n=564). Following the first vaccination, the overall incidence of fever (> or =38.0 degrees C) was 0.8% in the FSME-IMMUN "adults" study group and 5.6% in the comparator study group; fever was mainly mild. The fever rate after the second vaccination was 0.6% and 0.5% in the two study groups, respectively. Local and systemic reactions after the first vaccination occurred with a lower frequency in the FSME-IMMUN "adults" study group than in the comparator group. Upon analysing the tolerability of the third vaccination with FSME-IMMUN "adults", similar results were determined in both study groups of volunteers previously vaccinated with FSME-IMMUN "adults" or with the comparator vaccine. The immunogenicity results demonstrated similar seroconversion rates (as determined by ELISA or neutralization test) before and after the third vaccination in the FSME-IMMUN "adults" group and in the comparator group respectively. The results of both studies demonstrate that: (1) FSME-IMMUN "adults" is safe and highly immunogenic, (2) all five production lots of FSME-IMMUN "adults" were consistent with respect to a low rate of adverse events, (3) FSME-IMMUN "adults" induces considerably lower adverse reaction rates than the comparator vaccine after the first vaccination, and (4) two vaccinations with the comparator vaccine can be successfully followed by a third vaccination with FSME-IMMUN "adults".

Atypical symptoms in patients with herpesvirus DNA detected by PCR in cerebrospinal fluid

BACKGROUND

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of herpesvirus DNA in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an important tool in the diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) syndromes. The corresponding viral infections present with diverse clinical signs, which are often classical although no sign can be considered as specific. This retrospective study aims to describe atypical symptoms in patients with herpesvirus DNA detected in CSF by PCR. A total of 3452 cerebrospinal fluid samples from patients with suspected herpesvirus infection of the CNS were investigated between 1998 and 2003 in our clinical virology laboratory. "In-house" PCRs for each herpesvirus [herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella zoster virus (VZV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein Barr virus (EBV), or human herpes virus 6 (HHV6)] were used until 2001 and a commercially available "Herpes Consensus PCR" was used thereafter. One of the five herpesviruses investigated in this study was found in 71 (2.1%) of CSF samples (37 HSV, 14 VZV, 1 CMV, 9 EBV and 10 HHV6). These samples were obtained from 62 patients whose clinical findings were generally consistent with the PCR data. However, some little known features of herpesvirus-related symptoms, such as partial seizure associated with HSV infection, and unusual VZV or HHV6-related myelitis were also observed.

Does laparoscopic colorectal resection for diverticular disease impair male urinary and sexual function?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic colorectal resection may induce bladder and sexual dysfunction secondary to injury to the autonomic nervous system. The aim of this study was to evaluate urinary and sexual function in male patients after laparoscopic colorectal resection for diverticular disease.

METHODS

From January 1997 to March 2002, we performed a retrospective analysis of urinary and sexual function in 56 consecutive male patients who had undergone laparoscopic colorectal resection for diverticular disease. Preoperative and 6-month postoperative assessment was carried out using data collected via standardized postal questionnaires.

RESULTS

Three patients were excluded (one had a prior prostatectomy, one had Peyronie's disease, and one was treated with neuroleptics). Fifty-three patients with a mean age of 54 A+/- 2 years were included in the study. There were no conversions. The morbidity rate was 9.4%. Mean follow-up was 27 A+/- 2 months. There was no significant difference in preoperative and postoperative urinary function. Fifty-one patients (96%) were sexually active preoperatively and were still sexually active postoperatively. Compared with the preoperative period, postoperative impairment of libido, erection, ejaculation, and orgasm were not significant. Every patient was able to achieve ejaculation after the intervention, and no retrograde ejaculations were reported. One patient was unable to have an erection after the intervention.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic colorectal resection for diverticular disease does not significantly impair urinary and sexual function.

Quantitation of hepatitis C virus RNA in saliva and serum of patients coinfected with HCV and human immunodeficiency virus

The presence and the quantity of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA were investigated in saliva and serum of patients infected with both HCV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Paired serum and saliva samples were collected from 59 HIV-HCV coinfected patients. HCV RNA was detected by nested-PCR, using primers derived from the 5' non-coding region of HCV, and positive results were quantified using the b-DNA method. HCV RNA was detected in the saliva of 22/59 (37.3%) patients, with a mean level of 1.15 x 10(6) genome equivalents/ml; there was no correlation of salivary positivity with immune status (CD4 cell count), age or HIV risk group, but there was with gender (19/38 [50%] positive results in male, compared to 3/21 [14.3%] in female, P = 0.007). HCV RNA was detected in the serum of 45/59 (76.3%) patients at a higher level (mean of 2.52 x 10(7) genome equivalents/ml) compared to saliva. Positivity was not correlated with age, gender or CD4 + cell count. There was a correlation between qualitative saliva and serum results (P = 0.003), but not between quantifications (P = 0.57). This first study reporting significant amounts of HCV RNA in saliva could have important implications for HCV epidemiology.

[Primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus]

Primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus is a rare but aggressive tumor that accounts for less than 0.1-0.2% of all esophageal malignancies. The aim of this study was to report a case of primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus in a 72-year-old woman. The diagnosis was histologically proven, but the patient died despite extensive surgical resection.

Personality characteristics of adolescent suicide attempters

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to explore both the personality characteristics and the symptoms of personality disorder of adolescent suicide attempters, as well as the relationship between personality variables and hopelessness in this population.

METHOD

Two sample populations were used in this study. First, 102 adolescent suicide attempters between 13 and 18 years of age completed the Millon Adolescent Personality Inventory (MAPI) and the Hopelessness Scale for Children (HSC). A second group of 35 adolescent suicide attempters were administered the HSC and the revised Diagnostic Interview for Borderlines (DIB).

RESULTS

No distinctive personality characteristics or symptoms of personality disorders were found. However, affective distress seemed to be the most prominent feature in the presentation of these adolescents. Additionally, high scores on the HSC were associated with elevated scores on the Personality Style scales of the MAPI and higher (more dysfunctional) scores on Affect Regulation on the DIB.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that clinicians should focus most on the personality characteristic of sensitivity and on affect regulation when assessing adolescent suicide attempters. In addition, hopelessness is important to systematically assess because it appears to be related to a variety of dysfunctional personality characteristics that may affect follow-up outcome.

High prevalence of GB virus C/hepatitis G virus RNA and antibodies in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1

The prevalence of GB virus C (GBV-C)/ hepatitis G virus (HGV) RNA and antibodies to the structural E2 protein was investigated in a cohort of HIV-1 infected patients. Of 346 individuals, RNA was detected in 143 and E2 antibodies were detected in 73, for an overall prevalence of 62.4%. Intravenous drug use and homosexuality were identified as major transmission risk factors. GBV-C/HGV RNA prevalence was associated with hepatitis B coinfection, whereas antibodies to E2 were associated with older age and lower CD4+ cell counts. GBV-C/HGV infection was frequent in this group of HIV-infected patients and was associated with older age, lower CD4 + cell counts, and the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen.

Assessment of viral loads in patients with chronic hepatitis C with AMPLICOR HCV MONITOR version 1.0, COBAS HCV MONITOR version 2.0, and QUANTIPLEX HCV RNA version 2.0 assays

The correlation between response to antiviral therapy and pretreatment viral load in patients with chronic hepatitis C has prompted the development of quantitative assays to measure viral load. The aim of our study was to assess the clinical relevance of the newly developed semiautomated PCR system COBAS HCV MONITOR version 2.0 in comparison with (i) the AMPLICOR HCV MONITOR version 1.0 assay, which underestimates RNA concentration of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 2 to 6, and (ii) the QUANTIPLEX HCV RNA version 2.0 assay, which achieves equivalent quantification for each HCV genotype, with samples from 174 patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C before therapy. The level and range of quantification measured with AMPLICOR HCV MONITOR version 1.0 were 1 log lower than when measured with the COBAS HCV MONITOR version 2.0, at 0.261 x 10(6) RNA copies/ml (range, 0.001 x 10(6) to 2.50 x 10(6) RNA copies/ml) and 4.032 x 10(6) RNA copies/ml (range, 0.026 x 10(6) to 72.6 x 10(6) RNA copies/ml), respectively. The two assays showed a poor correlation (r(2) = 0.175). The level and range of quantification were similar when measured with the COBAS HCV MONITOR version 2.0 and QUANTIPLEX HCV RNA version 2.0 assays, at 3.03 x 10(6) RNA copies/ml (range, 0.023 x 10(6) to 72.6 x 10(6) RNA copies/ml) and 4.91 Meq/ml (range, 0.200 to 49.5 Meq/ml), respectively. The two assays showed a strong correlation (r(2) = 0. 686) for each HCV genotype. The duration of treatment (6 or 12 months) is modulated according to HCV genotype and viral load. Our results indicate that COBAS HCV MONITOR version 2.0 and QUANTIPLEX HCV RNA version 2.0 assays showing an equal dynamic range for each HCV genotype are suitable tools to assess patients before therapy.

Successful treatment of idiopathic left ventricular outflow tract tachycardia by catheter ablation or minimally invasive surgical cryoablation

Idiopathic right ventricular outflow tract tachycardia is readily amenable to radiofrequency catheter ablation. However, treatment modalities for left ventricular outflow tract tachycardia are not well defined. Out of 37 patients with idiopathic outflow tract tachycardia referred for catheter ablation, in 3 patients tachycardia originated from the left ventricular outflow tract. On the surface ECG, all left ventricular tachycardias exhibited an inferior axis with a predominant negative QRS complex in lead I. Heart rate during tachycardia ranged from 115 to 170 beats/min. During electrophysiological testing, 1 patient had inducible tachycardia on orciprenaline challenge, 1 patient had inducible tachycardia at baseline, and 1 patient had incessant tachycardia. In two patients, earliest ventricular activation was recorded from the endocardial left ventricular outflow tract at an anterolateral and an anterior site, respectively. A distinct high frequency spike preceded the QRS onset by 66/78 ms. Application of radiofrequency energy successfully eliminated tachycardia at these sites. In one patient, tachycardia originated from the epicardial left ventricular outflow tract. Mapping of the anterior interventricular vein revealed a fractionated low amplitude signal occurring 46 ms before QRS onset. After failure of catheter ablation from the corresponding endocardial site, successful minimally invasive surgical focal cryoablation of the epicardial target region was performed. During a follow-up period ranging from 7 to 12 months, all patients remained free of tachycardia. In conclusion, ventricular tachycardia arising from the left ventricular outflow tract may require endo- and epicardial mapping. Successful treatment is achieved by radiofrequency catheter ablation or minimally invasive surgical cryoablation.

[Emergence of resistant hepatitis B virus strains during long-term lamivudine therapy in human immunodeficiency virus co-infected patients]

Seven patients co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBsAg and HBeAg carriers, quantifiable HBV DNA with the bDNA technic) and human immunodeficiency virus received a triple antiretroviral combination therapy, including lamivudine (150 mg twice a day). Hepatitis B viral load rapidly became undetectable in 6/7 patients. It remained below the level of detection in 2 subjects, after 20 and 22 months of treatment, with one of them achieving HBeAg/anti-HBe seroconversion. However, in the other 4 individuals, hepatitis B viremia increased again after 8 to 16 months of lamivudine-containing regimen. The last patient was a non-responder. The 4 relapsers developed a double mutation Leu(528) for Met(528) and Met(552) for Val(552), on hepatitis B virus polymerase, either concomitant (M8 and M16) with a hepatitis B virus DNA increase, or 2 months earlier (M10 and M12). The high frequency of hepatitis B virus resistance to lamivudine emphasizes the necessity of identifying more effective strategies, such as double combination therapies.

Possible first report of distant peritoneal metastases from a nodal mesenteric lymphoma after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair

Laparoscopic surgery has gained wide acceptance. However, there is still debate as to its role in assessment and staging of gastrointestinal malignancies(1)since it may promote dissemination of cancer cells.(2)We report the first case of a low-grade mesenteric nodal lymphoma for laparoscopic hernia repair, complicated by distant implants both on the peritoneum and wall mesh.

[Study of sustained forces and the working space of endoscopic surgery instruments]

The instruments currently used in endoscopic surgery are limited by several factors, in particular their reduced working space. In order to develop instruments with manifold degrees of freedom (DOF), the elementary actions performed by the existing instruments must be defined.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We have broken down into elementary movements the actions performed by the currently used instruments and analyzed them by measuring the strain on the instruments and on their working volume. The elementary actions were performed in vitro (Pelvitrainer) on an animal model (pig) and also in the course of clinical practice. A total of 6,750 measurements were carried out for the following actions: grasping, cutting, dissecting, suturing and knotting.

RESULTS

The largest working volumes were measured for the knotting and suturing actions (198 degrees in axial rotation and 69 degrees in lateral translation). The range of the working space was between 8 degrees and 52 degrees. Forces exerted on the instrument were between 0.5 and 12 Newton (N). Forces exerted on the headpoint were between 0.4 and 10.5 N whereas the friction forces were between 0.5 and 1.5 N.

COMMENTS

By analyzing the elementary actions of endoscopic surgery, we were able to quantify the directions and dimensions of forces sustained by the instruments and were also able to measure the working volume involved when performing the main actions in endoscopic surgery. The results obtained provide a basis for the development of more sophisticated instruments.

[Prenatal diagnosis of viral infections. A two year study in Strasbourg]

We report here the results of a 2-year study on the prenatal diagnosis of viral infections in Strasbourg. This screening was carried out by virus isolation, by PCR assay, or by detection of IgM fetal antibody for 98 pregnant women at risk of transmitting one of the viruses that causes fetal disease such as parvovirus B19 (B19), Herpesviruses [cytomegalovirus (CMV), varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus] and rubella virus. A viral etiology was proven in 7 out 98 cases: PCR applied to B19 DNA detection was positive in 5 amniotic fluids (AF), 2 fetal serums and one ascitic liquid. The diagnosis of 2 cases of CMV infection was obtained by both PCR and virus isolation in AF from twins fetuses. The detection of specific IgM in maternal serum or fetal serum is useful to achieve the diagnosis but serological tests on other samples have no efficiency. No virus was found in any other specimen, but the genome of Toxoplasma gondii was detected by PCR in 1 of 17 AF samples analyzed at the Institut de Parasitologie. These findings show that PCR assay is a sensitive method for the positive diagnosis of intrauterine infection and promises to careful follow-up of the pregnancy.

High prevalence of GB virus C/hepatitis G virus RNA in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus

Prevalence of GBV-C/HGV was determined in a cohort of HIV-infected patients, via a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction detection of RNA in serum, amplifying the NS5 region of GBV-C/HGV genome. GBV-C/HGV RNA was detected in 143 (37.7%) of 379 patients, with similar results in the different HIV risk groups: 25/56 (44.6%) in intravenous drug users, 66/161 (41%) in homo- and bisexual men, 35/108 (32.4%) in heterosexual patients, 6/20 (30%) in transfusion recipients (P=0.41). There was no difference according to the presence or absence of hepatitis C virus infection. In univariate analysis, GBV-C/HGV genome prevalence was lower in patients over 50 years old (18.2%), compared to other age groups (20-29 years: 34.2%; 30-39 years: 44.3%; 40-49 years: 36.7%, P=0.03), as well as in patients with normal CD4 cell count (29.2% vs. 45.4% between 200-500/mm3, and 35.3% below 200 CD4/mm3, P=0.012) and individuals with a chronic hepatitis B. However, in the multivariate analysis, the only prognostic factor of GBV-C/HGV RNA positivity was the presence of a chronic hepatitis B, compared to the absence of any HBV marker, or a previous exposition to HBV (presence of anti-HBc and/or anti-HBs, absence of HBsAg), or the presence of anti-HBs alone.

Laparoscopic splenectomy: optimal vascular control using the lateral approach and ultrasonic dissection

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative bleeding is the main complication and main cause of conversion to open surgery during laparoscopic splenectomy (LS). We present the advantages of the lateral approach and the use of the ultrasonic shears (US) for achieving a safer vascular control.

METHODS

We have performed a total of 48 LS using several approaches. In our initial experience 10 patients underwent surgery with an anterior approach. In the second series of 18 patients, we used a manually assisted procedure. In the last 20 patients, we employed a technique with a full lateral position. Only three ports have been used. The major part of the dissection was conducted from behind, thus allowing a safer vascular control. The division of short gastric vessels and lower pole vessels was performed using US. The main vascular pedicle was stapled. The spleen was removed through a short Pfannenstiel incision. There were 9 males and 11 females with a mean age of 36 years (range, 18-71 years). Fourteen had immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP); two had an HIV-infection-related purpura; two had an autoimmune hemolytic anemia; and two had a spherocytosis.

RESULTS

All the 20 LS were completed. The average splenic weight was 274 g (range, 162-1,400 g). In all but one patient, the intraoperative blood loss was less than 60 ml, and was none in six patients (average, 51 ml). In our initial series of 10 patients surgically treated with an anterior approach, the average blood loss was 180 ml, and it was 230 ml in the series of hand-assisted procedures. The average operative time was 127 min (range, 70-220 min), including the time required by the change of position and the Pfannenstiel incision. There was no mortality. All but one patient had an uneventful postoperative course. The HIV-infected patient had a severe postoperative pancreatitis. In those patients with an uncomplicated course, the average postoperative stay was 4.3 days (range, 2-8 days).

CONCLUSIONS

The lateral position with a posterior approach to splenic vessels allows for safe vascular control. The use of US results in a gain of time and safety. The average intraoperative bleeding of this series is much lower than that observed in our previous experience and in other published series.

High prevalence of GB virus C/hepatitis G virus RNA in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus

Prevalence of GBV-C/HGV was determined in a cohort of HIV-infected patients, via a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction detection of RNA in serum, amplifying the NS5 region of GBV-C/HGV genome. GBV-C/HGV RNA was detected in 143 (37.7%) of 379 patients, with similar results in the different HIV risk groups: 25/56 (44.6%) in intravenous drug users, 66/161 (41%) in homo- and bisexual men, 35/108 (32.4%) in heterosexual patients, 6/20 (30%) in transfusion recipients (P=0.41). There was no difference according to the presence or absence of hepatitis C virus infection. In univariate analysis, GBV-C/HGV genome prevalence was lower in patients over 50 years old (18.2%), compared to other age groups (20-29 years: 34.2%; 30-39 years: 44.3%; 40-49 years: 36.7%, P=0.03), as well as in patients with normal CD4 cell count (29.2% vs. 45.4% between 200-500/mm3, and 35.3% below 200 CD4/mm3, P=0.012) and individuals with a chronic hepatitis B. However, in the multivariate analysis, the only prognostic factor of GBV-C/HGV RNA positivity was the presence of a chronic hepatitis B, compared to the absence of any HBV marker, or a previous exposition to HBV (presence of anti-HBc and/or anti-HBs, absence of HBsAg), or the presence of anti-HBs alone.

Thoracoscopic sympathectomy for upper limb hyperhidrosis: looking for the right operation

BACKGROUND

Thoracoscopic sympathectomy is the most effective treatment for upper limb hyperhidrosis. However, this is offset by the occurrence of a high rate of side effects, such as embarrassing compensatory sweating. Anticipating that a technique that respects the sympathetic chain and divides only the rami communicantes may lead to fewer side effects, we assessed the technique described by R. Wittmoser, comparing it with conventional thoracoscopic sympathecomy.

METHODS

A total of 240 thoracoscopic sympathectomies were performed in 124 patients suffering from upper limb hyperhidrosis. Fifty-four patients underwent a conventional sympathectomy (group TS), 62 underwent division of the rami communicantes with respect to the main trunk (group SS), and 8 underwent both procedures (group TS/SS) because of accidental division of the chain during dissection. The mean follow-up is 8 months.

RESULTS

No recurrence was observed in group TS whereas six (5%) occurred in group SS (p < 0.05). The global rate of compensatory sweating was about the same in both groups: 72.2% in group TS and 70.9% in group SS. However, the rate of embarrassing or disabling compensatory sweating was significantly higher in group TS (50%) than in group SS (21%) (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although selective division of the rami communicantes results in a significant decrease in the rate of disturbing side effects, it also leads to recurrences that are usually not observed at that level in patients treated with the conventional technique. Therefore other means of achieving the ideal operation should be explored, that is, a technique associated with a high success rate but a minimal number of side effects.

Somatoform disorders in children and adolescents: a review of the past 10 years

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature on somatoform disorders in children and adolescents relevant to recertification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

METHOD

The psychiatric, pediatric, and psychological literatures were searched for clinical or research articles in the past 10 years dealing with somatization and somatoform disorders.

RESULTS

Somatizing presentations are organized conceptually; somatization disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, hypochondriasis, conversion disorder, vocal cord dysfunction, pain disorder, and recurrent abdominal pain are described in children and adolescents; empirical evidence for treatment efficacy is scant, but clinically reasonable approaches are applied.

CONCLUSION

More developmentally appropriate diagnostic schemas and better outcome studies are needed in all the somatoform disorders for children and adolescents.