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Abstract: Objective: Our main objective was to compare Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) skin colonisation in patients with mild to moderate acne versus healthy controls and secondly, to evaluate a Myrtacine®‐based cream on C. acnes total population and antibioresistant Cutibacteria in patients with acne. Methods: In 60 acne patients (Global Acne Severity Scale, GEA grades 2–3), of mean age 20 [15–30] years and in 24 age‐ and sex‐ matched healthy controls, forehead strips samplings were performed for microbiological analysis of comedones by colony forming unit (CFU) counts of global C. acnes and erythromycin (EryR) or clindamycin‐resistant (ClnR) populations of Cutibacterium and determination of phylotypes by MALTI‐TOF. Clinical evaluations of acne patients (GEA, lesion count, porphyrin fluorescence) were performed at baseline and after 56 days of twice‐daily application of a Myrtacine®‐based cream. Results: We first showed (i) high and similar levels of C. acnes colonisation in superficial pilosebaceous follicles and detection of EryR and ClnR strains in both acne and control groups; (ii) different repartition of phylotypes in acne patients versus healthy control, with a predominance of phylotype IA in acne patients and a link between phylotype IA and erythromycin resistance. Besides, after treatment with the Myrtacine®‐based cream in acne patients, there was no change in C. acnes total load, but a significant decrease of EryR Cutibacteria, reduced porphyrin production by C. acnes, a decrease in acne severity (GEA), associated with reduced retentional and inflammatory lesions. Conclusion: Cutibacterium acnes colonisation was not significantly different in acne versus control groups. Phylotype IA was predominant in acne patient and in EryR C. acnes. A Myrtacine®‐based cream significantly reduced the level of EryR Cutibacteria in vivo and improved acne lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus toothbrush contamination in cystic fibrosis (CF) is unknown. This pilot study aimed to determine their prevalence and the potential involvement of toothbrushes in pulmonary infection. Methods Toothbrush bacteriological analysis for children aged 8–18 years was conducted on 27 CF patients, 15 healthy siblings, and 15 healthy children from the general population. Results S. aureus was detected on 22% of the patients’ toothbrushes, and 13% of healthy children's toothbrushes and P. aeruginosa on 15% of patients’ toothbrushes and 0–13% of healthy children's toothbrushes. There was no statistical correlation between pulmonary colonization and toothbrush contamination. P. aeruginosa genotyping showed two identical clones on the patients’ toothbrushes and in their sputum, and between one patient's sputum and his sibling's toothbrush. Conclusion S. aureus and P. aeruginosa can colonize CF patients’ toothbrushes. The impact on pulmonary colonization remains unknown. Toothbrush decontamination methods need to consider these bacteria in CF patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To investigate the preventive effects of an original combination of a grape seed extract ( GSE) with an amine fluoride ( Fluorinol®) on dental plaque formation and oxidative damage caused by oral bacteria. Methods and Results The antibacterial activity of the compounds was assessed using the broth macrodilution method, and their antiplaque activity was evaluated on a multispecies biofilm grown on saliva-coated hydroxyapatite discs. The effect on glucosyltransferases activity was analysed through reductions in the overall reaction and the quantity of insoluble glucan synthesized. The combination of 2000 μg ml−1 of GSE with 10·2 mg ml−1 of Fluorinol® significantly decreased the biofilm formation (up to 4·76 log10 of reduction) and inhibited by 97·4% the insoluble glucan synthesis by glucosyltransferases. The antioxidant activity of this combination, alone or incorporated into a formulated mouthwash (Eludril daily®), was determined using the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay ( TEAC), and both showed significantly greater antioxidant capacity than vitamin C. Conclusions The GSE/ Fluorinol® combination showed both a significant antiplaque activity and an important antioxidant capacity in vitro, without any bactericidal effects. Significance and Impact of the Study This is, to our knowledge, the first report on the properties of an original combination of a polyphenolic extract with amine fluoride that could be used for the prevention of oral diseases and oxidative damage associated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We propose hydrogeological conceptual model of fault aquifer in crystalline basement. [•] We characterize interactions between a fault aquifer and surrounding compartments. [•] Sub-vertical fault resource is strongly dependent on superficial aquifer storage. [•] We estimate groundwater resource availability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Inherited cardiopathies are leading to life-threatening conditions such as heart failure. Moreover, treatments currently available fail in altering the cardiac phenotype. Thus, gene therapy appears as an attracting alternative to conventional treatments. However, gene delivery remains a major hurdle in achieving this goal. To obtain regional delivery of plasmid DNA, intrapericardial administration seems to be an interesting approach. In order to improve retention time at the site of injection, formulations based on a thermosensitive gel of Poloxamer 407 were assessed. Protection and condensation of plasmid DNA was initially performed through complexation with polyethyleneimine (PEI), a widely used polymer. Characterization of the size and zeta potential of the complexes suggested interactions between the polyplexes and the Poloxamer gel through significant increase of the size of the polyplexes and shielding of the surface charges. In vivo evaluation has highlighted the toxicity of PEI/DNA polyplexes toward the myocardium. However, feasibility of intrapericardial injection of Poloxamer based formulations as well as their very low toxicity has been established. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Analgesic electrotherapy is now based on more consistent scientific data; the biological action of the electric current, of the electromagnetic radiations and of the mechanical vibrations is better approached. But the randomized control trials still provide contradictory results concerning the analgesic efficiency of the cryotherapy, the TENS, the pulsed electro-magnetic fields, the ultrasound and laser therapy, the shock waves; iontophoresis, short waves, microwaves, infrasound vibrations are very few investigated. The analgesic electrotherapy cannot be recommended nor prohibited; physical agents represent only therapeutic options. On the basis of the scientific data and of their personal experience, the therapists can use them. More controlled clinical investigations of higher methodological levels are still required. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Lobular emphysema and soft-tissue emphysema can exceptionally complicate malnutrition. We report the case of a teenager presenting malnutrition with cystic fibrosis and anorexia nervosa with soft-tissue emphysema. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Deep-seated gravitational slope deformations (DSGSDs) are complex slope instabilities commonly involving long-term evolution with significant spatial and temporal variations in slope kinematics. The Cerentino compound landslide in southern Switzerland exemplifies the long-term evolution of DSGSDs as well as short-term movements causing substantial damage to infrastructure. Using an integrated analysis of surface geomorphology, displacement monitoring data, borehole core and cosmogenic nuclide dating, we discuss the preconditioning and driving factors, kinematic behaviour, and long-term evolution of the instability. We demonstrate that foliation orientation and lithological boundaries, together with slope geometry and alpine faults, likely played significant roles in preconditioning the slope for failure. Based on morphology mapping and hierarchical clustering analysis of 2007–2018 detrended surface displacement data, we show that the landslide is separated into up to eight compartments at surface, revealing differences in kinematic behaviour from very active at the toe to insignificant movements in the upper region of the landslide above the village of Cerentino. These surficial compartments likely correspond to secondary sliding zones within the landslide mass. The analysis of data from inclinometer and fibre optic strain sensors installed in a new deep borehole (230 m) provided insight into movement within the landslide mass. Results show vertical heterogeneity in total displacement, which appears to be controlled by an active discrete shear zone located at 107 m, by shallower secondary sliding surfaces, and by distributed movement, particularly in the upper 20 m of the instability. Extrapolation of cosmogenic nuclide dating results from five samples taken on the exposed upper sliding scar reveals a possible age of failure initiation of 5–6 ka, with long-term decelerating movement trends. These generally slow averaged movements show multi-annual responses to long-term changes in precipitation and locally rapid responses to strong recharge events. The rare combination of dating and detailed analysis of displacement allows us to demonstrate the behaviour of DSGSDs at long and short timescales, with implications for hazard assessment and mitigation of these complex failures. • Integrated approach to deep-seated failure behaviour and geometry, combining geomorphology, engineering geology, and statistics • Analysis of landslide compartments, combining statistical analysis (HCA) and morphological interpretation • Multitemporal analysis of landslide dynamics and evolution, combining cosmogenic dating with 40 years of surface displacement monitoring • Demonstration of importance of preconditioning and driving factors for landslide mitigation planning [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effect of tizanidine (an alpha(2) noradrenergic agonist) on transmission in the interneuronal pathway coactivated by group I and group II afferents in post-stroke patients with spastic hemiplegia.Methods: Early and late facilitation of the quadriceps H reflex elicited in the common peroneal nerve--attributed to non-monosynaptic group I and group II excitation, respectively--was investigated in 14 spastic hemiplegic patients. All received a single dose of tizanidine (150 microg/kg) or placebo in randomised order at 10 day intervals. Repeated measurements were made at baseline (T0), 45-90 min, and 120 min after drug intake. Spasticity was assessed by modified Ashworth score in the quadriceps muscle and by a leg tone score calculated by the sum of the modified Ashworth score in five muscle groups.Results: On the spastic side a decrease in late group II and, to a lesser extent, early group I common peroneal nerve induced quadriceps H reflex facilitation occurred with tizanidine (group II, mean (SEM) difference T0-T90: 34.3 (10.2)%, p<0.001; group I, T0-T120: 19.8 (9)%, p<0.05), but not with placebo (group II, difference T0-T90: 12.5 (8)%, NS; group I, T0-T120: 3.2 (7)%, NS). Tizanidine but not placebo decreased the quadriceps muscle and global lower limb Ashworth scores (2.9 (0.2) to 1.9 (0.3), p<0.001; and 12 (0.7) to 9.5 (0.8), p<0.0001, respectively).Conclusions: Enhancement of group II-group I facilitation of the quadriceps motor neurones on the spastic side of hemiplegic patients is modulated by alpha(2) noradrenergic agonists. This strengthens the view that late facilitation of quadriceps motor neurones is mediated by group II afferents and suggests that group II pathways may be involved in lower limb spasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Osteoarthritis is a chronic pathology that involves multidisciplinary management. Self-management for patients is an essential element, present in all international guidelines. During the time of the spa therapy, the patient is receptive to take the advantage of self-management workshops. The aim of this study is to assess the effects of 18 days spa therapy associated with a self-management intervention in patients with knee osteoarthritis in comparison with spa therapy alone on a priority objective, personalized and determined with the patient, chosen in the list of 5 objectives determined during the self-management initial assessment. Methods and analysis: Two hundred fifty participants with knee osteoarthritis will participate to this multicenter, prospective, randomized, controlled study. All patients will benefit 18 days of spa therapy and patients randomized in the intervention group will participate to 6 self-management workshops. Randomization will be centralized. The allocation ratio will be 1:1. Data analysts and assessor will be blinded. The primary outcome is the effectiveness of the educational workshops associated with spa therapy in comparison with spa therapy alone on a priority objective, measured by Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS). The secondary outcomes are disability, health-related quality of life, and pain intensity. Ethics and dissemination: Ethics were approved by the CPP Sud-Méditerranée II. The results will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated at PRM, rheumatology, and orthopedics conferences. The results will also be disseminated to patients. Trial registration: Trial registration number NCT03550547. Registered 8 June 2018. Date and version identifier of the protocol. Version N°6 of March 12, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactic acid bacteria, in particular Lactococcus lactis , play a decisive role in the cheese making process and more particularly in lactic cheeses which are primarily produced on goat dairy farms. The objective of this study was therefore to identify the main lactic acid bacteria found in raw goats' milk from three different regions in France and evaluate if certain farming practices have an effect on the distribution of species of lactic acid bacteria in the various milk samples. Identification at genus or species level was carried out using phenotypic tests and genotypic methods including repetitive element REP-PCR, species-specific PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The distribution of the main bacterial species in the milk samples varied depending on farms and their characteristics. Out of the 146 strains identified, L. lactis was the dominant species (60% of strains), followed by Enterococcus (38%) of which Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium . Within the species L. lactis , L. lactis subsp lactis was detected more frequently than L. lactis subsp cremoris (74% vs. 26%). The predominance of L. lactis subsp cremoris was linked to geographical area studied. It appears that the animals' environment plays a role in the balance between the dominance of L. lactis and enterococci in raw goats' milk. The separation between the milking parlor and the goat shed (vs no separation) and only straw in the bedding (vs straw and hay) seems to promote L. lactis in the milk (vs enterococci). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The way in which bacterial communities colonize flow in porous media is of importance, but basic knowledge on the dynamic of these phenomena is still missing. The aim of this work is to develop microfluidic experiments in order to progress in the understanding of bacteria capture in filters and membranes. PDMS microfluidic devices mimicking filtration processes have been developed to allow a direct dynamic observation of bacteria across 10 or 20 µm width microchannels. When filtered in such devices, bacteria behave surprisingly: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus accumulate in the downstream zone of the filter and form large streamers which oscillate in the flow. In this study, streamer formation is put in evidence for bacteria suspension in non nutritive conditions in less than 1 h. This result is totally different from the one observed in same system with "inert" particles or dead bacteria which are captured in the bottleneck zone and are accumulated in the upstream zone. Observations within different flow geometries (straight channels, connected channels, and staggered row pillars) show that the bacteria streamer development is influenced by the flow configuration and, particularly by the presence of tortuosity within the microchannels zone. These results are discussed at the light of 3D flow simulations. In confined systems and in laminar flow, there is secondary flow (z-velocities) superimposed to the streamwise motion (in xy plane). The presence of the secondary flow in the microsystems has an effect on the bacterial adhesion. A scenario in three steps is established to describe the formation of the streamers and to explain the positive effect of tortuous flow on the development kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to select endogenous human vaginal lactobacilli strains on the basis of the main probiotic properties observed in the vaginal environment in order to use them for the evaluation of the potential prebiotic properties of oligosaccharides. From vaginal samples of 50 women with a normal flora, 17 lactobacilli strains were first isolated because of their high level of hydrogen peroxide production. Then six strains were selected mainly for their ability (i) to adhere to vaginal cells, (ii) to produce compounds in sufficient amount, such as lactic acid, having an inhibitory action on pathogens, and less importantly, (iii) to demonstrate arginine deiminase activity. These six strains were found to belong to three distinct species: Lactobacillus crispatus, L. jensenii and L. vaginalis. One strain of each species was chosen as a potential vaginal probiotic strain with regard to our criteria. These three strains were then used to evaluate the prebiotic properties of different oligosaccharide series: two fructooligosaccharide series (FOS Actilight® and FOS Raftilose®) and two glucooligosaccharide series varying by their osidic linkages (-1,6/-1,4 GOS and -1,2/-1,6/-1,4 GOS). The test was based on the ability of the oligosaccharides to promote the growth of the three beneficial strains selected but not of pathogenic microorganisms often encountered in urogenital infections such as Candida albicans, Escherichia coli and Gardnerella vaginalis. Oligosaccharide hydrolysis was followed by HPLC analysis. This revealed that two oligosaccharide series (FOS Actilight® DP3 and all -1,6/-1,4 GOS DP⩾4) were used only by the lactobacilli strains, the pathogenic microorganisms being unable to metabolise them. The selected lactobacilli and oligosaccharides are good candidates for incorporation in a formula to prevent vaginal infections. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Postoperative endophthalmitis following intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is still one of the most feared complications of cataract surgery. Bacterial adhesion to IOLs during their insertion is a prominent etiological factor. Polypropylene was the first biomaterial that allowed this relation of cause and effect to be proven. Following adhesion, bacteria replicate, congregate and form multiple layers of microcolonies which actually represent the basic structural unit of the biofilm. The bacteria are embedded in a slime layer. Personal photographs illustrate the different steps of biofilm formation. This slime matrix is not only an adhesive medium; it also affects virulence. Adhesion to IOLs has been studied by several in vitro studies and discrepancies can be found between them which are due to variations of experimental conditions. The strains, the incubation times and the methods all varied. Adhesion is affected by the nature of the IOLs, the isolates and the surrounding medium. Since this medium is very difficult to model because of its complexity, in vivo studies seemed essential. We have recently determined in vivo evolution of the amount of attached bacteria to five types of IOLs. Crystalline lenses from 90 domestic pigs were removed aseptically and replaced with previously infected IOLs. There have been few epidemiological studies published to determine the relationship between endophthalmitis and the IOL type. However, the perfect biomaterial that could prevent postoperative endophthalmitis does not yet exist. Globally, hydrophilic materials and hydrophobic acrylic seem to be less sticky than silicone or PMMA, but this remains to be proven clinically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termination of pregnancy is usually recommended to pregnant women who have infection with Toxoplasma gondii before 26 weeks of pregnancy if the fetus is infected. No prospective studies are available on the outcome if such pregnancies are allowed to continue with anti-parasitic treatment. We prospectively studied 163 mothers with acute toxoplasma infection before 28 weeks of amenorrhoea. All received anti-parasitic treatment with 9 million IU spiramycin orally. 23 also received pyrimethamine and sulphadiazine. All had cordocentesis and regular obstetric ultrasound examinations. The 162 liveborn infants were followed up for 15 to 71 months. 3 fetuses died in utero. 27 of 162 liveborn infants had proven congenital toxoplasmosis: 10 had one or more clinical signs of congenital toxoplasmosis; 5 had isolated or multiple intracranial calcifications; 7 had peripheral chorioretinitis; and 2 had moderate ventricular dilations. All 27 are free from symptoms and have normal neurological development at 15 to 71 months of age. We conclude that in first and second trimester pregnancies with acute fetal toxoplasma infection, the pregnancy need not be interrupted if repeated fetal ultrasound is normal, and antiparasitic treatment is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Coccidioïdomycose; Zone non endémique; Transplantation EN Coccidioïdomycose Zone non endémique Transplantation 455 458 4 07/29/20 20200801 NES 200801 1 Introduction O. Lortholary et al. ont décrit, en 2007, un cas de coccidioïdomycose pulmonaire non compliquée chez une femme non immunodéprimée après un voyage en Californie. Nous voudrions souligner ici l'intérêt d'évaluer le risque de coccidiodomycose chez le donneur en zone non endémique [5], en recherchant, par exemple, un historique de voyages dans les zones endémiques de Coccidioides. Néanmoins, à 8 mois post transplantation, Coccidioïdes est à nouveau isolé dans les prélèvements respiratoires et des sphérules sont observées à l'examen direct (Fig. [Extracted from the article]

Cross‐hole fluid injection tests were performed on shallow (0.5 km depth) crustal fault zones to characterize their internal flow structures on scales of 3–30 m. The data were acquired at the Grimsel Rock Laboratory, Switzerland, after the zonal isolation of damage zones in boreholes equipped with multipacker systems. We show that 80% of the pressure responses detected evolved as a power function of time due to fracture‐controlled flow and were best described by a fractional model with a flow dimension (n) in the range of [1.3,1.5]. The scaling of characteristic times (tc) and intermediate transitions in the flow dimension is shown to be inconsistent with the trend expected for normal diffusion, indicating a diffusion slowdown process caused by the spatial integration of structurally different damage zones. An analysis of the entire data set points to a subdiffusive regime where the mean squared displacement of pressure fronts, ⟨r2(t)⟩, scales as ⟨r2(t)⟩∝t0.59, similar to an anomalous diffusion process on synthetic fractal systems. We characterize this diffusion slowdown by calculating a network connectivity exponent (θ) of 1.4, from which we estimate a fractal dimension of df=2.23 for the tested fault zones. Such a value close to 2.0 supports the view of fault damage zones as hierarchical systems promoting flow channeling. Our results provide further support to theoretical models of fractional flow and their application to fractured media in nature. Key Points: We report direct, high‐resolution observations of pressure diffusion from fluid injection tests in shallow crustal fault zonesFractional flow regimes systematically emerge in response to spatial integration of structurally different damage zones during injectionThe fractal structure of damage zones may explain the emergence of anomalously slow pressure diffusion around faults [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New in situ measurements to constrain the range, distribution, and spatial (meter‐scale) variations of permeability in shallow crustal fault zones are reported based on systematic downhole tests at 0.5‐km depth in crystalline rock. Single and cross‐hole hydraulic packer tests were performed at a new dedicated test facility hosted in the Grimsel Test Site, in the Swiss Alps, following the technical instrumentation and isolation of discrete fault zones accessed by an array of boreholes. Single‐hole test results are presented in this paper, while cross‐hole experiments are reported in the companion paper. Our results reveal a sharp spatial falloff in permeability, from 10‐13 to 10‐21 m2, with off‐fault distances of 1–5 m and characterized by a power‐law relation with fracture density. Fractures linking subparallel faults were detected as high‐permeability discrete spots several meters away from off‐fault damage. Due to the narrow (centimeter‐wide) thickness of fault cores, the hydraulic tests presented in this study do not characterize the permeability of fault core materials. The transmissivity of single fractures spans six orders of magnitude (10‐12 to 10‐6 m2/s) and is systematically higher in damage zones. In situ stresses appear to have a minor effect on natural, present‐day fracture transmissivity at the borehole scale. We suggest that the geometrical and topological properties of fracture systems instead tend to control the permeability of the shallow crustal faults studied. Key Points: We mapped permeability variations across shallow crustal fault zones through systematic downhole pressure pulse testsA sharp permeability decay up to eight orders of magnitude with off‐fault distance is observedGeometry and topology exert a dominant control on the permeability of fracture systems in shallow crustal settings [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aims: To investigate the potent control of microbial surface contamination of an innovative process which consists in incorporating metal oxide microspheres homogeneously into materials. Methods and Results: Spherical microspheres containing zinc and magnesium oxides synthesized via a one‐step manufacturing process (Pyrolyse Pulvérisée®) and incorporated into different plastic matrices were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity according to JIS Z 2801 standard. A significant activity was observed for microsphere‐added polyethylene coupons with a reduction of all tested bacteria populations, including Gram negative and Gram positive even expressing acquired antibiotic resistance (Escherichia coli ESBL, Staphylococcus aureus metiR). An antiviral activity higher than 2 log of reduction was also observed on H1N1 and HSV‐1 viruses. This antimicrobial effect was dose‐dependent and time‐dependent for both polyethylene and polypropylene matrices. Antimicrobial activity was maintained after exposition to disinfectants and totally preserved 50 months after the preparation of the coupons. Conclusions: Incorporated into plastic matrices, metal oxide microspheres showed significant antibacterial and antiviral activities. Significance and Impact of Study: This is, to our knowledge, the first report on an original process incorporating metal oxide microspheres, which have specific physico‐chemical and antimicrobial properties, into materials that could be used for surface contamination prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: While the commensal bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is involved in the maintenance of a healthy skin, it can also act as an opportunistic pathogen in acne vulgaris. The latest findings on P. acnes shed light on the critical role of a tight equilibrium between members of its phylotypes and within the skin microbiota in the development of this skin disease. Indeed, contrary to what was previously thought, proliferation of P. acnes is not the trigger of acne as patients with acne do not harbour more P. acnes in follicles than normal individuals. Instead, the loss of the skin microbial diversity together with the activation of the innate immunity might lead to this chronic inflammatory condition. This review provides results of the most recent biochemical and genomic investigations that led to the new taxonomic classification of P. acnes renamed Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), and to the better characterisation of its phylogenetic cluster groups. Moreover, the latest data on the role of C. acnes and its different phylotypes in acne are presented, providing an overview of the factors that could participate in the virulence and in the antimicrobial resistance of acne‐associated strains. Overall, this emerging key information offers new perspectives in the treatment of acne, with future innovative strategies focusing on C. acnes biofilms and/or on its acne‐associated phylotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rivers are known to be major contributors to eutrophication in marine coastal waters, but little is known on the short-term impact of freshwater surges on the structure and functioning of the marine plankton community. The effect of adding river water, reducing the salinity by 15 and 30%, on an autumn plankton community in a Mediterranean coastal lagoon (Thau Lagoon, France) was determined during a 6-day mesocosm experiment. Adding river water brought not only nutrients but also chlorophyceans that did not survive in the brackish mesocosm waters. The addition of water led to initial increases (days 1-2) in bacterial production as well as increases in the abundances of bacterioplankton and picoeukaryotes. After day 3, the increases were more significant for diatoms and dinoflagellates that were already present in the Thau Lagoon water (mainly Pseudo-nitzschia spp. group delicatissima and Prorocentrum triestinum) and other larger organisms (tintinnids, rotifers). At the same time, the abundances of bacterioplankton, cyanobacteria, and picoeukaryote fell, some nutrients (NH , SiO ) returned to pre-input levels, and the plankton structure moved from a trophic food web based on secondary production to the accumulation of primary producers in the mesocosms with added river water. Our results also show that, after freshwater inputs, there is rapid emergence of plankton species that are potentially harmful to living organisms. This suggests that flash flood events may lead to sanitary issues, other than pathogens, in exploited marine areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La cure thermale est connue pour améliorer la qualité de vie et diminuer la douleur. Nous avons évalué l'efficacité (Questionnaire d'impact de la fibromyalgia – QIF) et la tolérance à 6 mois d'un programme d'éducation thérapeutique du patient (ETP) spécifique de la fibromyalgie, ajouté à la cure thermale standardisée (SST) adaptée à la fibromyalgie, comparé à la SST seule, dans un essai contrôlé randomisé de supériorité. Nous avons recruté 157 patients, majoritairement des femmes, fréquentant des centres thermaux du Sud-Ouest de la France en 2015–2016, et nous les avons randomisés en SST + ETP (79) ou SST (78). L'analyse en intention de traiter, avec les valeurs manquantes considérées comme des échecs, a montré une tendance en faveur d'un bénéfice plus élevé, quoique non significatif, avec l'ETP plutôt que sans, avec un FIQ (−9 vs −3 ; p = 0,053) et sur l'intensité de la douleur (−1,1 vs −0,9 ; p = 0,58). Le soulagement de la douleur (+4,3 vs +3,2 ; p = 0,03) et la fatigue (échelle de Pichot : −3,7 vs −1,6 ; p = 0,02) étaient significativement améliorés, et 87 % des patients du bras SST + TPE pratiquaient encore régulièrement, à 6 mois, les exercices physiques qui leur avaient été enseignés. Nous expliquons le défaut de bénéfice significatif de l'ETP, évalué à partir du FIQ, par le fait que nos participants, appartenant à des associations de patients fibromyalgiques, étaient déjà bien informés et bien encadrés. À noter, la bonne tolérance des cures thermales avec peu d'effets indésirables. On retiendra une amélioration significative et durable grâce à la cure thermale, que l'ajout d'une cure thermale à un programme d'ETP augmente l'efficacité de l'ETP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral reef environments are generally recognized as being the most threatened of marine ecosystems. However, it is extremely difficult to distinguish the effects of climate change from other forcing factors, mainly because it is difficult to study ecosystems that are isolated from human pressure. The five Iles Eparses (Scattered Islands) are located in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) and can be considered to be “pristine” ecosystems not subject to anthropogenic pressure. This study characterized their plankton assemblages for the first time, by determining the abundances of microbial (virus, bacteria, heterotrophic protists and phytoplankton) and metazooplankton communities in various lagoon and ocean sites around each island. The Europa lagoon has extensive, productive mangrove forests, which have the highest nutrient concentrations (nitrogen forms, dissolved organic carbon) and whose microbial communities present a peculiar structure and functioning. By means of bioassay experiments, we observed that bacterial production and growth rates are higher in Europa than those reported for the other islands. Tromelin, which lies outside the Mozambique Channel, had the lowest biological productivity, nutrient concentrations, and bacterial growth rates. Multivariate analysis indicated that distinct microbial assemblages occur in association to varying nutrient concentrations. Molecular fingerprinting showed clear discrimination of the structure of the archaea, bacteria and eukaryotes community between the sites. Our results suggest that the geographical distance can influence the diversity of dominant microbial taxa in the WIO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective There is no standard protocol for the evaluation of antiseptics used for skin and mucous membranes in the presence of interfering substances. Our objective was to suggest trial conditions adapted from the NF EN 13727 standard, for the evaluation of antiseptics used in gynecology and dermatology. Methods Three antiseptic solutions were tested in vitro: a chlorhexidine-benzalkonium (CB) combination, a hexamidine-chlorhexidine-chlorocresol (HCC) combination, and povidone iodine (P). The adaptation of trial conditions to the standard involved choosing dilutions, solvent, and interfering substances. The activity of solutions was assessed on the recommended strains at concentrations of 97% (pure solution), 50%, and 10% (diluted solution), and 1%. A logarithmic reduction ≥ 5 was expected after 60 seconds of contact, to meet requirements of bactericidal activity. Results HCC did not present any bactericidal activity except on P. aeruginosa at a concentration of 97%. P was not bactericidal on E. hirae at any concentration and on S. aureus at 97%. CB had the most homogeneous bactericidal activity with a reduction > 5 log on the 4 bacterial strains at concentrations of 97%, 50% and 10%. Conclusion Adapting the NF EN 13727 standard allowed assessing the 3 tested solutions: only CB was bactericidal in dirty conditions. This study proved the possibility of validating antiseptic choice in vitro, in current practice conditions, for adjunctive treatment of skin and mucous membranes disorders, primarily of bacterial origin or with a potential of superinfection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine whether the addition of spa therapy to home exercises provides any benefit over exercises and the usual treatment alone in the management of generalised osteoarthritis associated with knee osteoarthritis. Methods This study was a post-hoc subgroup analysis of our randomised multicentre trial ( www.clinicaltrial.gov : NCT00348777 ). Participants who met the inclusion criteria of generalized osteoarthritis (Kellgren, American College of Rheumatology, or Dougados criteria) were extracted from the original randomised controlled trial. They had been randomised using Zelen randomisation. The treatment group received 18 days of spa treatment in addition to a home exercise programme. Main outcome was number of patients achieving minimal clinically important improvement at six months (MCII) (≥ −19.9 mm on the VAS pain scale and/or ≥ −9.1 points in a WOMAC function subscale), and no knee surgery. Secondary outcomes included the “patient acceptable symptom state” (PASS) defined as VAS pain ≤ 32.3 mm and/or WOMAC function subscale ≤ 31 points. Results From the original 462 participants, 214 patients could be categorized as having generalised osteoarthritis. At sixth month, 182 (88 in control and 94 in SA group) patients, were analysed for the main criteria. MCII was observed more often in the spa group ( n = 52/94 vs. 38/88, P = 0.010). There was no difference for the PASS ( n = 19/88 vs. 26/94, P = 0.343). Conclusions This study indicates that spa therapy with home exercises may be superior to home exercise alone in the management of patients with GOA associated with knee OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] New analytical solutions for pumping test in anisotropic fault zone. [•] Fault zone draining shallow aquifers with differing properties. [•] Unconventional application of the well-image theory. [•] Solutions verified with numerical drawdown modelling in the three compartments. [•] Application to pumping tests in crystalline aquifers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Over half of the total nitrogen, phosphorus, silicate and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) loading was discharged from the Vène River into the Thau Lagoon waters within the first five days of what was considered to be the autumn flash flood period. Such loads represented about 8% and 3% of the yearly averaged total nitrogen and phosphorus load in Thau Lagoon, respectively. Although this event affected >20% of the total lagoon volume, river trace metal loads contributed apparently only weakly to the increase in labile trace metal concentrations in the lagoon surface waters. Differences between theoretical dilution values and observed values were also noticed for phosphate, silicate and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations. DOC losses (10–50%) mainly through flocculation, together with the substantial increases in some metallic contaminants such as Zn (from 6 to >30 μg L−1) observed during the flash flood in saline lagoon waters, may have limited the carbon production of bacterial communities. The potential osmotic shock and the increase in turbidity may mainly explain the low phytoplankton C turnover rates (average of 0.02 h−1) measured in brackish waters (<30) during periods of heavy flood discharge. The dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN: NO3 + NH4) enrichment measured 12 days after the flash flood event in saline lagoon surface waters (from 22 to 143 μg N L−1) led to a substantial increase in phytoplanktonic C production and associated DIN uptake rates (from 2.6 to 7.0 μg C L−1 h−1 and from 0.5 to 1.1 μg N L−1 h−1, respectively). Subsequent accumulation in particulate organic carbon and nitrogen was not observed in the area studied during and after the flash flood period, averaging 549 ± 50 μg C L−1 and 168 ± 9 μg N L−1, respectively. This suggests that most of locally produced microbial production was rapidly filtered by oysters contributing to about 13% of the yearly exploited production in the lagoon and/or exported through sedimentation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Although nitrate export in agricultural catchments has been simulated using various types of models, the role of groundwater in nitrate dynamics has rarely been fully taken into account. We used groundwater dating methods (CFC analyses) to reconstruct the original nitrate concentrations in the groundwater recharge in Brittany (Western France) from 1950 to 2009. This revealed a sharp increase in nitrate concentrations from 1977 to 1990 followed by a slight decrease. The recharge concentration curve was then compared with past chronicles of groundwater concentration. Groundwater can be interpreted as resulting from the annual dilution of recharge water in an uncontaminated aquifer. Two aquifers were considered: the weathered aquifer and the deeper fractured aquifer. The nitrate concentrations observed in the upper part of the weathered aquifer implied an annual renewal rate of 27 to 33% of the reservoir volume while those in the lower part indicated an annual renewal rate of 2–3%. The concentrations in the deep fractured aquifer showed an annual renewal rate of 0.1%. The river concentration can be simulated by combining these various groundwater reservoirs with the recharge. Winter and summer waters contain i) recharge water, or water from the variably saturated zone with rapid transfer and high nitrate concentrations, and ii) a large contribution (from 35 to 80% in winter and summer, respectively) from the lower part of the aquifer (lower weathered aquifer and deep fractured aquifer). This induces not only a relatively rapid response of the catchment to variations in agricultural pressure, but also a potential inertia which has to be taken into account. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The structure of the secretory tissues and the essential oil of the leaves of Croton campestris St Hil. were studied. The oil isolated by hydrodistillation was analyzed by CC and CC/MS and was found to contain 75 components accounting for 92.9% of the total oil, with the major components being caiyophyllene oxide (29.9%) and humulene oxide 11(8.0%). Growth inhibitory activity of the active compounds in solution was evaluated by measuring Minimal Inhibitory Concentration using a broth micro-method. The Minimal Inhibitory Concentration of the leaf oil was 1.56 μg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus, 6.25 μg/mL for Enterrococcus hirae and 6.25 μg/mL for Candida albicans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The results of long-term follow-up of surgical site infection (SSI) after aesthetical breast surgery are reported. 205 consecutive patients operated from 1/2000 to 3/2002 were followed for at least one year. Postoperative incidents were observed in 26 (12.7%) patients, including SSI in six (2.9%) patients. After surgery, the mean time to SSI was 113 days, with only two cases in the first postoperative month. In all SSI cases, no antibiotic prophylaxis had been given. The causative role of infectious agents in breast implant capsule occurrence is under investigation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To evaluate variables associated with quality of life (QOL) in dementia residents in a long-term care facility using a recently standardized and validated dementia-specific QOL scale (ADRQL).Method: A cross-sectional, case-control design was employed using validated scales to assess dementia-related symptomatology. Thirty-two facility staff members were interviewed to assess the QOL of 120 patients meeting DSM-IV for dementia criteria residing in long-term care.Results: ADRQL scores were higher in assisted living residents than in skilled nursing facility residents. In univariate analyses, worse orientation, greater physical dependency, depression, and treatment with anxiolytics were associated with lower ADRQL scores. In multivariate analyses, lower scores were associated with worse orientation, greater physical dependency, depression, and anxiolytic treatment.Conclusions: Residents exhibited better QOL than expected. Future longitudinal studies should address if reorientation, activity therapy, treatment of depression, and avoidance of benzodiazepines might improve QOL in this population. Interventions that might improve orientation and physical abilities, such as cholinomimetic therapies, psychosocial interventions, or behavioral strategies, should also be studied in future research on QOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]