Environmental monitoring is usually conducted by surface sampling to detect and quantify the presence of cytotoxic drugs after their reconstitution and administration. This technique reveals the origins of residual contamination and is an important component in order to protect healthcare workers from the potential risk of occupational exposure. The aim of this work is to compare various techniques and results of surface sampling for cytotoxics. For each technique, sample processing methods and their analysis were compared from literature data. Sampling is often performed by the wiping technique. After treatment, various single or multicompound technical analyses are used, in particular liquid or gas chromatography involving different detection methods: ultraviolet, mass spectrometry, plasma torch, and voltammetry. Some methods are validated to ensure reliability. Despite published guidelines and the use of isolator technology for the preparation of cytotoxic drugs, workplace contamination persists, leading to chemotherapeutic agents' exposure of healthcare workers. Efforts need to be maintained with particular emphasis on harmonization and on determining alert level for cytotoxic contamination.

Background Recombinant factor VIII Fc fusion protein (rFVIIIFc) is the first extended half-life (EHL) recombinant clotting factor with marketing authorization; it has been available in France since October 2016. However, data and literature about rFVIIIFc in clinical practice are scarce. Objective We propose a 1-year clinical and economic outcome evaluation in patients with hemophilia A taking into consideration treatment adherence. Patients and methods We reviewed the diaries of all patients treated with rFVIIIFc at Marseille Hemophilia Center for 1 year. All the data were related to the patients' infusion (i.e., annual number of infusions, weekly dose/kg, and annual consumption) and bleeding reports. The clotting factor costs were considered, whereas additional costs (e.g., infusion devices and nurse intervention) were neglected. Results A total of 34 patients were evaluated. Their median age was 18 years (IQR = 18). Treatment adherence was observed in 62% for FVIII and 66% for rFVIIIFc. The analysis revealed a negligible decrease in the annual clotting factor consumption following the switch (− 2%, p = 0.7339). These data were combined with a significant reduction in the annual number of infusion (− 22.5%, median = 138.5, IQR = 65.8 for FVIII; median = 105, IQR = 24 for rFVIIIFc, p < 0.0001) and bleeding (− 50%, median = 5, IQR = 7.5 for FVIII; median = 1, IQR = 4 for rFVIIIFc, p < 0.0001). With regard to the cost, a decreasing trend was observed (− 8%, p = 0.1300). ConclusionThe analysis in a real-life setting revealed that the input of switches toward rFVIIIFc in different treatment (age of patients and regimen) patterns seems to corroborate previous studies. The results suggest that switches have a beneficial effect in terms of efficacy, clotting factor consumption, and cost.

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LPCRW_0005 is a novel inhibitor of HRV14 replication that acts as a capsid binder. The compound has a chemical structure that is markedly smaller than that of other capsid binders. Structural studies show that LPCRW_0005, in contrast to pleconaril, leaves the toe end of the pocket in VP1 empty. This suggests that extended analogues of LPCRW_0005 that fill the full cavity could be more potent inhibitors of rhinovirus replication.

Rhinoviruses (RVs) have been linked to exacerbations of many pulmonary diseases, thus increasing morbidity and/or mortality in subjects at risk. Unfortunately, the wide variety of RV genotypes constitutes a major hindrance for the development of Rhinovirus replication inhibitors. In the current investigation, we have developed a novel series of pyrazole derivatives that potently inhibit the Rhinovirus replication. Compounds 10e and 10h behave as early stage inhibitors of Rhinovirus infection with a broad-spectrum activity against RV-A and RV-B species (EC < 0.1 μM). We also evaluate the dynamics of the emerging resistance of these promising compounds and their in vitro genotoxicity. Molecular docking experiments shed light on the pharmacophoric elements interacting with residues of the drug-binding pocket.

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In 2015, the World Health Organization registered 10.4 million people who developed tuberculosis worldwide and 480,000 new cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis were identified. The care of multi and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis is based on a combination of pyrazinamide and second-line drugs. These regimens are lengthy, partially effective and poorly tolerated. The challenge is to re-evaluate the use of existing molecules and to develop new agents more effective against resistant strains with shorter treatment duration. This literature review gives an overview of the latest research addressing these therapeutic objectives. Some molecules are in late stage clinical development among which pretomanid is showing promising results. Bedaquiline and delamanid have been recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of drug regimens combining these molecules is under evaluation.

Background: Octaplas LG® is the first plasma with marketing authorisation, available in France only since February 2016. This is a double viral inactivated and prion reduced solvent/detergent fresh frozen plasma. Clinical data on Octaplas LG® use in thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) remains very limited. In May 2017, we were the first hospital in France to benefit of this new plasma product now dispensed by hospital pharmacies. We present a prospective review of all therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) procedures for TMA patients in our hospital to evaluate the new delivery circuit, the efficacy and the adverse events (AE) related to this plasma. Study design and methods: We prospectively reviewed 166 TPE procedures where Octaplas LG® was used as replacement fluid in 15 consecutive TMA patients required TPE in our hospital from May 2017 until December 2018. Results: The total replacement plasma volume administered was 763 L (3818 units) with a median on 32 L (range 6-157) per episode. Remission was achieved in all cases after a median of 7 TPE per patient's episode. No exacerbation nor relapse were noted. One patient presented a grade 1 citrate reaction, and another patient an allergic reaction. We deplored pulmonary embolism in 2 patients. Conclusion: In our experience OctaplasLG® was well-tolerated and was effective at inducing a full clinical remission. Although two PE were noted, the relationship to OctaplasLG® in unclear. The new dispensing circuit through the hospital pharmacy has proven to be safe and efficient.