Study of the influence of alcohol on the photostability of four UV filters.

OBJECTIVE: Spray formulations are currently under development in the field of topical photoprotection. Such forms are characterized by their high fluidity, a property that is obtained by the presence of alcohol in the formula. The purpose of this work was to study the influence of ethanol in sunscreens on the photoprotective efficacy as well as the photostability of UV filters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The filters tested were octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), PEG-25 PABA, octyl salicylate and butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (BMDBM) at their maximum concentration authorized by European regulations and in the presence of increasing amounts of alcohol, up to 15% (w/w). RESULTS: The effect of the presence of alcohol on the efficacy of the filters and their photostability varies depending on the molecule considered. Alcohol has no effect on octyl salicylate, either on its efficacy or its photostability. However, filter stabilization is seen for BMDBM and PEG-25 PABA. CONCLUSIONS: Although these differences are significant, they are not great enough to justify large-scale use of ethanol in sunscreen products due to some of its properties, such as flammability.

CT scan does not improve the reproducibility of trochanteric fracture classification: a prospective observational study of 53 cases.

INTRODUCTION: The reproducibility of various classification systems for trochanteric fractures is poor. This problem could be related to a lack of readability when using conventional X-rays. HYPOTHESIS: Computed tomography scanning (CT scan) will improve the interobserver reproducibility of the AO classification for trochanteric fractures. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a prospective, observational, descriptive study following a group of 53 patients with trochanteric fractures. The fractures were evaluated with conventional X-rays, CT scan slices and 3D reconstruction (3DR). The resulting images were blinded and analysed by two observers using two classification systems: AO and Evans modified by Jensen (EVJE). A sample size of 53 was needed to show an improvement in the interobserver reproducibility when deciding the AO classification type with CT scan images. Kappa coefficients were used to measure interobserver reproducibility and agreement; agreement is the degree of consistency in the analysis by one observer who views the same fracture on two different imaging modalities. RESULTS: The interobserver reproducibility for the AO classification was 0.28 for X-rays, 0.33 for CT scan and 0.28 for 3DR. For the EVJE classification, these coefficients were 0.50 for X-rays, 0.35 for CT scan and 0.47 for 3DR. The agreement rate between the two imaging modalities was between 0.38 and 0.58 for X-rays/CT scan and between 0.79 and 0.86 for CT scan/3DR. DISCUSSION: The primary objective of this study was not achieved. CT imaging does not improve the interobserver reproducibility of various classification systems for trochanteric fractures. However, by providing images as slices, the complex nature of fractures in this area was revealed. The challenges related to classifying various fractures are not exclusively related to a "readability" problem, but also an understanding and analysis problem. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prospective diagnostic study, level III.

Isolation of microsatellite markers in the Calliptamus genus (Orthoptera, Acrididae).

The Calliptamus genus (Orthoptera: Acrididae) includes locust and grasshopper species, some of which have a high economic impact. Using an enriched methodology, 10 microsatellite markers have been developed from two species, Calliptamus italicus and Calliptamus barbarus. These polymorphic markers were tested on different populations of three Calliptamus species: C. italicus, C. barbarus, C. wattenwylianus. Two markers were amplified on the three species, as well as four on C. barbarus and two on C. italicus. In each species, 9 to 23 alleles per locus were observed. These molecular markers might prove to be a new and interesting tool for Calliptamus population genetics and dispersion studies.

Multiplex PCR assay to discriminate four neighbouring species of the Calliptamus genus (Orthoptera: Acrididae) from France.

Definition of the genus Calliptamus (Orthoptera: Acrididae) has generated many taxonomic debates. Even now, the existence of different geographical morphs hinders species determination, particularly as concerns females and larvae. Some of these species are observed in southern France and are recognized as potential pests. To circumvent problems of species identification in ecological surveys, we developed a single multiplex PCR method based on mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxydase I diagnostic polymorphisms to differentiate between the four species, Calliptamus italicus, C. wattenwylianus, C. siciliae and C. barbarus, in southern regions of France.

Parental crowding influences life-history traits in Locusta migratoria females.

Parental environments could play an important role in controlling insect outbreaks, provided they influence changes in physiological, developmental or behavioural life-history traits related to fluctuations in population density. However, the potential implication of parental influence in density-related changes in life-history traits remains unclear in many insects that exhibit fluctuating population dynamics, particularly locusts. In this study, we report a laboratory experiment, which enabled us to characterize the life-history trait modifications induced by parental crowding of female individuals from a frequently outbreaking population of Locusta migratoria (Linnaeus) (Orthoptera: Acrididae). We found that a rearing history of crowding led to reduced female oviposition times and increased offspring size but did not affect the developmental time, survival, fecundity, and the sex-ratio and the number of offspring. Because all studied females were raised in a common environment (isolation conditions), these observed reproductive differences are due to trans-generational effects induced by density. We discuss the ecological and evolutionary implications of the observed density-dependent parental effects on the life-history of L. migratoria.

[Femoral neck fractures in patients over 50 years old]. / Les fractures du col du fémur après 50 ans.

INTRODUCTION: Despite many papers and instructional course lectures, therapeutic guidelines are not clearly defined about treatment of femoral neck fractures. The aim of this multicentric French symposium was to prospectively study the results of current therapeutic options in order to propose scientifically proven options. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three prospective studies were carried out in order to answer to these questions: (1) is it possible with anatomical reduction and stable fixation to lower the non union and osteonecrosis rate? (2) is functional treatment of Garden 1 fractures successful in more than 65 years patients? (3) what criteria are useful to choose the kind of arthroplasty for more than 65 years patients? RESULTS: For the 64 patients between 50 and 65 years old included in the first study, 44 ORIF and 17 prostheses were performed. No open reduction was performed in this series despite a 34% malreduction rate. The risk for displacement after functional treatment of Garden 1 fractures is 31%. For patients over 65 years old, almost fractures are treated in this series by an arthroplasty. The one-year mortality rate after displaced femoral neck fracture was 17%. Functional results were better in total hip prosthesis group than in bipolar or unipolar group. Non cemented stems were not safer than cemented ones in frail patients. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: For young patients, ORIF should be the treatment of choice: the initial displacement and its effects on the femoral head vascularisation, the quality of reduction and fixation are the two most significant factors for good outcome. For Garden 1, fractures in patients 65 years old or more, it is proposed to performed an internal fixation despite in two thirds of the cases, it should be unnecessary because non identification of predictive factors of failure. For patients over 65 years old, the type of arthroplasty to perform in displaced fractures is to be chosen according to the preoperative mobility and comorbidities. Because of acetabular erosion with long-term follow-up, it is clearly indicated to perform total hip replacement for patients with life expectancy of 10 years or more. For frail patients, unipolar arthroplasty is the best option. The place for bipolar or uncemented implants is not yet well-defined and more prospective trials are needed. In this multicentric study, results appear quite different in terms of mortality, or functional status. These differences seem to be related to technical choice, geriatric care, nutritional consideration or surgical organisation, all factors that may be of major importance for prognostic.

Do outbreaks affect genetic population structure? A worldwide survey in Locusta migratoria, a pest plagued by microsatellite null alleles.

An understanding of the role of factors intrinsic to a species' life history in structuring contemporary genetic variation is a fundamental, but understudied, aspect of evolutionary biology. Here, we assessed the influence of the propensity to outbreak in shaping worldwide genetic variation in Locusta migratoria, a cosmopolitan pest well known for its expression of density-dependent phase polyphenism. We scored 14 microsatellites in nine subspecies from 25 populations distributed over most of the species' range in regions that vary in the historical frequency and extent of their outbreaks. We rejected the hypothesis that L. migratoria consists of two genetically distinct clusters adapted to habitats either rarely (nonoutbreaking) or cyclically (outbreaking) favourable to increases in population density. We also invalidated the current subspecific taxonomic classification based on morphometrics. Bayesian inferences indicated evidence of a homogenizing effect of outbreaks on L. migratoria population structure. Geographical and ecological barriers to gene flow in conjunction with historical events can also explain the observed patterns. By systematically assessing the effects of null alleles using computer simulations, we also provide a template for the analysis of microsatellite data sets characterized by a high prevalence of null alleles.

[Evaluation of rhinologic signs among smokers]. / Evaluation des signes rhinologiques chez le sujet tabagique.

OBJECTIVE: As well as others usually irritative factors, cigarettes smoke has many medical consequences that aren't well known at the present time. The aim of this study is to describe the rhinologic signs caused by cigarettes consumption. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two groups (smoker and control) of 20 patients (10 men and 10 women) were contituted. Individual patient status was evaluated by questionnaire, analogic visual scale, clinical examination and rhinomanometry. RESULTS: Nasal resistances, nasal obstruction and posterior rhinorrhea evaluated by, analogic visual scale are significantly higher in the smoker group as compared to the control group (Mann-Whitney test; total nasal resistance: p<0.00001, uninasal resistances: p<0.00001, nasal obstruction: p<0.0001, posterior rhinorrhea: p<0.01). They are significantly higher among smokers of 20 cigarettes a day than among smokers of 10 cigarettes a day. DISCUSSION: The control group was completly safe of rhinologic signs, so we used it to confirm the normal values of nasal resistances. Posterior rhinorrhea and nasal obstruction are 2 important signs which should be researched in smokers; its severity is correlates with cigarettes consumption. CONCLUSION: Tobacco is an important irritative factor for nasal mucosa.

[Nonrecurrent inferior laryngeal nerve: review of 13 cases]. / La non-récurrence du nerf laryngé inférieur.

OBJECTIVE: This study reviews a rare and poorly understood anatomic anomaly of the thyroid region: non-recurrence of the inferior laryngeal nerve. METHOD: We describe thirteen cases of non-recurrence of the laryngeal nerve observed during 2128 surgical procedures on the thyroid gland. RESULTS: The malformation was right-sided in all thirteen patients (11 women, 2 men) and occurred at a frequency of 0.4% of all of the nerves explored. Only two complications were noted in this series of 13 cases: one case of temporary paresis and one case of irreversible vocal cord paralysis. CONCLUSION: A rare although not exceptional occurrence, non-recurrence of the inferior laryngeal nerve is an anomaly that Head and Neck surgeons should be familiar with so as to avoid nerve damage that can result in irreversible vocal cord paralysis.

[Interest of MIBI scintigraphy in the preoperative investigation of primary hyperthyroidism]. / Valeur de la scintigraphie au MIBI dans le bilan des hyperparathyroïdies primaires.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to show the place of MIBI scintigraphy in the preoperative investigation of primary hyperthyroidism, and then to demonstrate the extent to which this test allows us to formulate new surgical strategies, thus reducing the need for neck exploration in favour of minimally invasive techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We have carried out a retrospective study related to 118 cases of primary hyperthyroidism. A MIBI scintigraphy has been applied on all the patients, so that we have been able to compare its results with the surgical and histological findings. RESULTS: Our study shows a great accuracy of MIBI scintigraphy, with respect to the localization of parathyroid adenoma, which represents the major cause of primary hyperparathyroidism. Furthermore, these results prove the reliability of the new surgical strategies: unilateral neck exploration and minimally invasive surgery, when facing a single scintigraphic site. CONCLUSION: As of now, MIBI scintigraphy must be part of preoperative investigation in cases of primary hyperparathyroidism, so that by limitating the surgical neck exploration, it allows us to decrease operative time and the risks, length and cost of the hospital stay.

[Idiopathic recurrent paralysis. Retrospective analysis of 67 cases]. / Paralysie récurrentielle idiopathique. Analyse rétrospective de 67 cas.

Sometimes incorrectly termed paralyses, idiopathic abnormalities of laryngeal movement pose many problems about their physiopathological mechanism and treatment. In an analysis of 67 cases, the outcome as far as the voice was concerned was favourable in 51 cases, but a return to normal mobility occurred in only 26 cases. An important factor is the delay before treatment is instituted. In addition to repeated investigation of the areas of ENT, neurology, chest and speech therapy, laryngeal electromyography can yield useful information, and should always be undertaken before surgery is advised. As long as the clinical conditions remains unimproved, the question of its idiopathic nature must be constantly reviewed. A multicentre standardised investigation into this condition would seem desirable to shed further light on its pathology and outcome.

[Epidemiological survey of dysphonia in children at primary school entry]. / Enquête épidémiologique sur la dysphonie de l'enfant à l'occasion de sa rentrée scolaire en cours préparatoire.

The study of 259 children in primary school revealed a prevalence of dysphonia of 10%, often undiagnosed, untreated or considered as benign. It would seem desirable to draw attention to this symptom, which may be an indication of organic pathology or of psychological problems, the early treatment of which may avoid later sequelae. It is sometimes necessary to allow a period for reflection in order to gain the cooperation of the child and his parents.

[Comparison of different phenotypic methods with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the detection of resistance to oxacillin in coagulase negative staphylococci]. / Comparaison de différentes méthodes phénotypiques avec la réaction de polymérisation en chaîne (PCR) pour la détection de la résistance à l'oxacilline chez les staphylocoques à coagulase-négative.

The mecA gene which confers the oxacillin resistance has been searched by PCR in 290 (124 positives, 166 negatives) coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) belonging to twelve species. The results were compared with the oxacillin MIC values obtained by agar dilution (4% NaCl) or by the ATB STAPH method (Api-bioMérieux; 0%, 2%, 5% NaCl) and growth inhibitory diameters obtained by agar diffusion with an oxacillin disk placed at 30 degrees C without NaCl, or at 35 degrees C in presence of 2% or 5% NaCl. Sensitivity of oxacillin resistance detection depends upon the salt concentration and the method used. The optimum concentration is 2%. With this concentration, the Api ATB test appears as the more performant (sensitivity: 89.8%). Search for the mecA gene by PCR represents a very interesting method that detects 96.9% of the oxacillin-resistant CNS strains.

[Management of unilateral vocal cord paralysis]. / Conduite à tenir dans les immobilités cordales unilatérales.

The phoniatric analysis evaluates the importance of the vocal disorder and the appearance of the larynx what permets to find five clinical cases. For each one, there is a precise treatment: no treatment, rehabilitation with precises exercises in each case, collagen injection, early or secondary to rehabilitation. The rehabilitation will be intensive and done as soon as possible. It is based on a well known body proprioception. Intrinsic laryngeal muscles work, breathing exercises, exercises aimed at restoring the laryngeal sphincter will precede the pure vocal work. Author's experience shows that the results are good if rehabilitation is well indicated from the beginning and the patient with good motivations.

[Vocal pathology of teachers]. / La pathologie vocale chez l'enseignant.

Out of 100 teachers referred to a phoniatric department for dysphonia, we recorded 11 dysfunctional lesion-free dysphonias, 86 dysphonias with lesions, 3 post-surgical dysphonias, 76 patients referred for a dysphonia with a modification of the spoken voice, and only 3 for the singing voice. 96 suffered from vocal fatigue, and in the course of the clinical examination 85 patients presented a faulty vocal attitude. The most frequent lesions were nodules and para-nodular formations. Vocal re-education was prescribed in 90 cases, and laryngeal microsurgery in 25 cases. The other medical therapies are not be overlooked, such as physiotherapy, thermal cures, psychiatric treatment, treatments of the terrain, and endocrinic treatments. A vocal examination, better information and vocal training of future teachers will make it possible to obviate such disorders.

[Use of the method of correspondance analysis to study the pigmentation of the Malagasy migratory cricket during its solitary phase in nature]. / Utilisation de la méthode d'analyse des correspondances pour l'étude de la pigmentation pronotale du Criquet migrateur malgache en phase solitaire dans la nature

The elaboration of an original system of codification and the utilization of the correspondance analysis method makes it possible to draw up an identity card, based on promotal pigmentation, for a natural solitary population of the malagasy migratory Locust. The method leads the way to the study of geographical and temporal variations of the pigmentation.