Microbial typing by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry: do we need guidance for data interpretation?

The integration of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) in clinical microbiology has revolutionized species identification of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. However, beyond straightforward identification, the method has also been suggested to have the potential for subspecies-level or even type-level epidemiological analyses. This minireview explores MALDI-TOF MS-based typing, which has already been performed on many clinically relevant species.

Microarray for hepatitis B virus genotyping and detection of 994 mutations along the genome.

Genome analysis of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in patient sera is helpful for monitoring treatment. We developed an improved version of a DNA microarray to identify HBV genotypes and to detect mutations of interest in the S, Pol, Core, and X genes. It includes an automated software analysis of fluorescence values for simpler, more robust data interpretation.

Custom human endogenous retroviruses dedicated microarray identifies self-induced HERV-W family elements reactivated in testicular cancer upon methylation control.

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are an inherited part of the eukaryotic genomes, and represent approximately 400,000 loci in the human genome. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) can be divided into distinct families, composed of phylogenetically related but structurally heterogeneous elements. The majority of HERVs are silent in most physiological contexts, whereas a significant expression is observed in pathological contexts, such as cancers.

Congenital malaria in neonates: two case reports and review of the literature.

Unlabelled: Congenital malaria is uncommon in nonendemic countries. We describe two cases involving neonates hospitalized with fever, anaemia and thrombocytopaenia. Thick and thin blood smears were positive for Plasmodium vivax (P.

[Premature rupture of membranes: pathophysiology of neurological impact].

The premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is responsible for 30 % of the premature births because of a high risk of associated chorioamnionitis. PROM and the perinatal infection are recognized as 2 of the main risk factors of periventricular leukomalacia and white matter disease in very preterm neonates. Inflammation associated with PROM is likely to induce neuronal or glial cell death at a developmental stage of great vulnerability for the developing brain.

Different segmental transit times in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and "normal" colonic transit time: is there a correlation with symptoms?

Background: The Rome criteria serve as gold standard for establishing a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but only represent a cluster of symptoms. On the other hand, measurement of colonic transit time (CTT) with radiopaque markers is a solid and more objective method to quantify functional abnormalities. The goal of this study was to investigate whether the IBS symptoms, as defined in the Rome II criteria, correspond to objective physiological parameters, i.

[Early spontaneous ileal perforations in preterm infants: report of 4 cases].

An ileal perforation occurred shortly after birth in 4 very premature newborns. Diagnosis was made on an abdominal distension with a pneumoperitoneum on X-ray. There were no biological, radiological nor histological signs of necrotizing enterocolitis.

Effect of an oral bulking agent and a rectal laxative administered alone or in combination for the treatment of constipation.

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to search for a synergetic action between psyllium and a defecation-inducing drug, Eductyl, for symptom relief in patients suffering from chronic constipation.

Methods: Twenty healthy volunteers and 20 patients complaining of chronic constipation were included in a randomized crossover study. The study was divided into four 2-weeks periods: pre-inclusion and three periods of treatment with psyllium, Eductyl, and Eductyl + psyllium respectively.

Anismus: a marker of multi-site functional disorders?

Purpose: This study was undertaken to assess the clinical significance of anismus in patients who complain of constipation.

Patients And Methods: Thirty control subjects and 93 consecutive patients complaining of functional constipation took part in the study. Colonic transit time study and anorectal manometry were performed.

Importance of colonic transit evaluation in the management of fecal incontinence.

Background And Aims: Fecal incontinence is common. The potential contribution of colon function to continence has not been studied. Treatment is poorly codified.

Anal sphincter response to distension.

Resting anal pressure as determined by manometry is unsuited for assessing the competence of a sphincter. To validate a compliance method of sphincter evaluation we investigated the response of the anal canal to distension. In 20 healthy subjects the anal sphincter was distended using a cylindrical balloon probe subjected to continuous inflation.

Effects of oral pinaverium bromide on colonic response to food in irritable bowel syndrome patients.

We have recently developed a simple method to investigate the colonic response to food (CRF). This study describes the modifications of CRF induced by treatment with oral pinaverium bromide in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. Thirty healthy subjects and 43 patients suffering from IBS were studied.

Anal pressure waves in patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

Purpose: Many data suggest in irritable bowel syndrome a generalized smooth-muscle disorder, but data are scant concerning anal waves in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. The aim of the present study was first to propose a new method of anal pressure-wave analysis and second to apply this method to patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

Methods: Spectral analysis was used in 20 healthy controls and 60 patients with irritable bowel syndrome to investigate anal pressure waves at rest during a standard anorectal test and during a maintained 12-ml anal distention.

[A new approach of functional recto-anal exploration: the compliance of the rectum and the anal canal].

We have developed an original method of determining the rectal and the anal compliance. The rectum must serve as a fecal reservoir. This storage function requires that the rectum must be distensible.

[Role of surgical visceral manifestations in the natural history of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in adults].

The surgical effects of AIDS in adults are rather frequent. On the basis of 74 cases, from 1985 to 1992, that we have studied clinically, by imaging procedures, biology, previous and long term follow-up, we have tried to set up the place of these effects in the natural history of the disease. The infectious complications must distinguished from tumorous ones.

[Anastomoses of the small intestine in a septic environment protected by polyglactin 910-collagen mesh. Experimental study in rats].

An experimental study was carried out in rats to evaluate the outcome of small bowel anastomoses in the presence of peritonitis with and without protection by a polyglactin 910 mesh. One hundred and thirty rats were operated. 1) Thirty small bowel anastomoses were performed in a sterile environment to evaluate the morbidity and mortality due to the surgical procedure itself.

[Surgical emergencies and pseudo-surgical syndromes in the course of acquired immunodeficiency syndromes in adults].

Numerous abdominal manifestations were noted among 600 patients undergoing treatment at Hospital Laennec for various stages of infection by the acquired immunodeficiency virus. These included violent abdominal pain in 30% of cases, the development of abdominal lymphoma, and occasionally alarming pseudo-surgical syndromes. Diagnosis is difficult, all the more so since authentic emergencies may be aggravated by the immunodeficiency state.