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1.
Actas Dermosifiliogr ; 114(8): T661-T667, 2023 Sep.
Article in English, Spanish | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37392973

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The Pacman flap is a modified V-Y advancement flap that showed to be versatile in repairing surgical and non-surgical wounds. Indeed, this flap has been used in any anatomical localization, except for the scalp, where its use has not been reported. Moreover, the versatility of the Pacman flap can be enhanced by applying simple modifications to its original design. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A case-series of 23 patients whose surgical breaches were repaired using standard or modified Pacman flap were included in this retrospective study. RESULTS: Most patients were male (65.2%) with a median age of 75.7 years. Squamous cell carcinoma was the tumor most commonly removed (60.9%), while scalp and face were the most frequent localizations (30.4%). Although 18 flaps were sculpted in the traditional Pacman shape, 5 were modified to fit the defect and localization. Complications occurred in 30% of flaps, but all of them were minor except for 1 extended necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The Pacman flap can be used to repair surgical wounds localized in any body area, including the scalp. Three modifications can enhance the versatility of the flap and offer new repair options to dermatologic surgeons.


Subject(s)
Carcinoma, Squamous Cell , Plastic Surgery Procedures , Skin Neoplasms , Aged , Female , Humans , Male , Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/surgery , Retrospective Studies , Scalp/surgery , Skin Neoplasms/surgery , Treatment Outcome
2.
Actas Dermosifiliogr ; 114(8): 661-667, 2023 Sep.
Article in English, Spanish | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37127206

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The Pacman flap is a modified V-Y advancement flap that showed to be versatile in repairing surgical and non-surgical wounds. Indeed, this flap has been used in any anatomical localization, except for the scalp, where its use has not been reported. Moreover, the versatility of the Pacman flap can be enhanced by applying simple modifications to its original design. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A case-series of 23 patients whose surgical breaches were repaired using standard or modified Pacman flap were included in this retrospective study. RESULTS: Most patients were male (65.2%) with a median age of 75.7 years. Squamous cell carcinoma was the tumor most commonly removed (60.9%), while scalp and face were the most frequent localizations (30.4%). Although 18 flaps were sculpted in the traditional Pacman shape, 5 were modified to fit the defect and localization. Complications occurred in 30% of flaps, but all of them were minor except for 1 extended necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The Pacman flap can be used to repair surgical wounds localized in any body area, including the scalp. Three modifications can enhance the versatility of the flap and offer new repair options to dermatologic surgeons.


Subject(s)
Carcinoma, Squamous Cell , Plastic Surgery Procedures , Skin Neoplasms , Aged , Female , Humans , Male , Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/surgery , Retrospective Studies , Scalp/surgery , Skin Neoplasms/surgery , Treatment Outcome
3.
Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol ; 47(1): 43-60, 2021 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32696999

ABSTRACT

AIMS: Parkinson's disease and related disorders are devastating neurodegenerative pathologies. Since α-synuclein was identified as a main component of Lewy bodies and neurites, efforts have been made to clarify the pathogenic mechanisms of α-synuclein's detrimental effects. α-synuclein oligomers are the most harmful species and may recruit and activate glial cells. Inflammation is emerging as a bridge between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors co-fostering Parkinson's disease. However, direct evidence linking inflammation to the harmful activities of α-synuclein oligomers or to the Parkinson's disease behavioural phenotype is lacking. METHODS: To clarify whether neuroinflammation influences Parkinson's disease pathogenesis, we developed: (i) a 'double-hit' approach in C57BL/6 naive mice where peripherally administered lipopolysaccharides were followed by intracerebroventricular injection of an inactive oligomer dose; (ii) a transgenic 'double-hit' model where lipopolysaccharides were given to A53T α-synuclein transgenic Parkinson's disease mice. RESULTS: Lipopolysaccharides induced a long-lasting neuroinflammatory response which facilitated the detrimental cognitive activities of oligomers. LPS-activated microglia and astrocytes responded differently to the oligomers with microglia activating further and acquiring a pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype, while astrocytes atrophied. In the transgenic 'double-hit' A53T mouse model, lipopolysaccharides aggravated cognitive deficits and increased microgliosis. Again, astrocytes responded differently to the double challenge. These findings indicate that peripherally induced neuroinflammation potentiates the α-synuclein oligomer's actions and aggravates cognitive deficits in A53T mice. CONCLUSIONS: The fine management of both peripheral and central inflammation may offer a promising therapeutic approach to prevent or slow down some behavioural aspects in α-synucleinopathies.


Subject(s)
Inflammation/pathology , Parkinson Disease/metabolism , Parkinson Disease/pathology , alpha-Synuclein/metabolism , Animals , Astrocytes/metabolism , Disease Models, Animal , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Mice, Transgenic , Microglia/pathology , Nerve Degeneration/drug therapy , Nerve Degeneration/pathology , Nervous System Diseases/pathology , Substantia Nigra/drug effects , Substantia Nigra/pathology , alpha-Synuclein/pharmacology
4.
Osteoarthritis Cartilage ; 28(1): 92-101, 2020 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31715293

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Lumican (LUM) is a major extracellular matrix glycoprotein in adult articular cartilage and its expression is known to be upregulated upon cartilage degeneration. LUM is associated with the pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) activation of the TLR4 signalling cascade, with TLR4 being highly associated with inflammation in rheumatic diseases. However, the main role of the LUM structural molecule in osteoarthritis (OA) remains elusive. The aim of this study was, therefore, to understand the role of LUM during TLR4-mediated activation in OA. METHODS: After measuring LUM levels in synovial fluid (SF) of OA patients and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced TLR4 activation, the role of LUM in the expression of pro-inflammatory molecules and cartilage degradation was assessed in vitro and ex vivo in a cartilage explant model. Primary macrophage activation and polarization were studied upon LUM co-stimulation with LPS. RESULTS: We demonstrate that LUM is not only significantly upregulated in SF from OA patients compared to healthy controls, but also that LUM increases lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced TLR4 activation. Furthermore, we show that a pathophysiological level of LUM augments the LPS-induced TLR4 activation and expression of downstream pro-inflammatory molecules, resulting in extensive cartilage degradation. LUM co-stimulation with LPS also provided a pro-inflammatory stimulus, upregulating primary macrophage activation and polarization towards the M1-like phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: These findings strongly support the role of LUM as a mediator of PAMP-induced TLR4 activation of inflammation, cartilage degradation, and macrophage polarization in the OA joint and potentially other rheumatic diseases.


Subject(s)
Cartilage/metabolism , Lumican/physiology , Macrophages/physiology , Osteoarthritis/metabolism , Toll-Like Receptor 4/physiology , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Cell Differentiation , Chondrocytes/metabolism , Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay , Female , Flow Cytometry , Fluorescent Antibody Technique , Humans , Lumican/analysis , Lumican/metabolism , Macrophage Activation , Male , Middle Aged , NF-kappa B/metabolism , Synovial Fluid/chemistry , Synovial Fluid/metabolism , Toll-Like Receptor 4/metabolism , Up-Regulation
5.
Opt Lett ; 45(13): 3377-3380, 2020 Jul 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32630849

ABSTRACT

Time-domain diffuse correlation spectroscopy (TD-DCS) is a newly emerging optical technique that exploits pulsed, yet coherent light to non-invasively resolve the blood flow in depth. In this work, we have explored TD-DCS at longer wavelengths compared to those previously used in literature (i.e., 750-850 nm). The measurements were performed using a custom-made titanium-sapphire mode-locked laser, operating at 1000 nm, and an InGaAs photomultiplier as a detector. Tissue-mimicking phantoms and in vivo measurements during arterial arm cuff occlusion in n=4 adult volunteers were performed to demonstrate the proof of concept. We obtained a good signal-to-noise ratio, following the hemodynamics continuously with a relatively fast (1 Hz) sampling rate. In all the experiments, the auto-correlation functions show a decay rate approximately five-fold slower compared to shorter wavelengths. This work demonstrates the feasibility of in vivo TD-DCS in this spectral region and its potentiality for biomedical applications.


Subject(s)
Absorption, Physicochemical , Spectrum Analysis , Water/chemistry , Diffusion , Lasers , Phantoms, Imaging
6.
J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol ; 33 Suppl 2: 110-111, 2019 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30811693

ABSTRACT

The safety of sunbed, especially when it comes to protecting young and vulnerable consumers, is a key concern that the Directorate-General for Health and Consumers has been trying to address in various ways. This document presents a brief overview of activities undertaken at European level to address the main concerns related to the use of this product.


Subject(s)
Beauty Culture/instrumentation , Beauty Culture/standards , Safety/standards , Skin Neoplasms/etiology , Sunbathing , Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects , Equipment and Supplies/standards , European Union/organization & administration , Humans , Skin Neoplasms/prevention & control
7.
Opt Lett ; 43(11): 2450-2453, 2018 Jun 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29856401

ABSTRACT

We demonstrate time domain diffuse correlation spectroscopy at quasi-null source-detector separation by using a fast time-gated single-photon avalanche diode without the need of time-tagging electronics. This approach allows for increased photon collection, simplified real-time instrumentation, and reduced probe dimensions. Depth discriminating, quasi-null distance measurement of blood flow in a human subject is presented. We envision the miniaturization and integration of matrices of optical sensors of increased spatial resolution and the enhancement of the contrast of local blood flow changes.


Subject(s)
Blood Flow Velocity/physiology , Spectrum Analysis/methods , Adult , Female , Humans , Optical Fibers , Photons , Scattering, Radiation
8.
Nature ; 490(7419): 192-200, 2012 Oct 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-23060189

ABSTRACT

Recent years have witnessed many breakthroughs in research on graphene (the first two-dimensional atomic crystal) as well as a significant advance in the mass production of this material. This one-atom-thick fabric of carbon uniquely combines extreme mechanical strength, exceptionally high electronic and thermal conductivities, impermeability to gases, as well as many other supreme properties, all of which make it highly attractive for numerous applications. Here we review recent progress in graphene research and in the development of production methods, and critically analyse the feasibility of various graphene applications.

9.
BMC Ophthalmol ; 17(1): 149, 2017 Aug 22.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28830379

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To evaluate functional visual parameters using photocromic and selective blue-violet light filtering spectacle lenses in patients affected by central or peripheral scotoma due to retinal diseases. Sixty patients were enrolled in this study: 30 patients affected by central scotoma, group 1, and 30 affected by peripheral scotoma, group 2. Black on White Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BW-BCVA), White on Black Best Corrected Visual Acuity (WB-BCVA), Mars Contrast Sensitivity (CS) and a Glare Test (GT) were performed to all patients. Test results with blue-violet filter, a short-pass yellow filter and with no filters were compared. RESULTS: All scores from test results increased significantly with blue-violet filters for all patients. The mean BW-BCVA increased from 0.30 ± 0.20 to 0.36 ± 0.21 decimals in group 1 and from 0.44 ± 0.22 to 0.51 ± 0.23 decimals in group 2 (Mean ± SD, p < 0.0001 in both cases). The mean WB-BCVA increased from 0.31 ± 0.19 to 0.38 ± 0.23 decimals in group 1 and from 0.46 ± 0.20 to 0.56 ± 0.22 decimals in group 2 (Mean ± SD, p < 0.0001 in both cases). The letter count for the CS test increased from 26.7 ± 7.9 to 30.06 ± 7.8 in group 1 (Mean ± SD, p = 0.0005) and from 31.5 ± 7.6 to 33.72 ± 7.3 in group 2 (Mean ± SD, p = 0.031). GT was significantly reduced: the letter count increased from 20.93 ± 5.42 to 22.82 ± 4.93 in group 1 (Mean ± SD, p < 0.0001) and from 24.15 ± 5.5 to 25.97 ± 4.7 in group 2 (Mean ± SD, p < 0.0001). Higher scores were recorded with the Blue filter compared to Yellow filter in all tests (p < 0.05). No significant differences in any test results could be detected between the Yellow filter and the No filter condition. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a combination of photocromic lens with a selective blue-violet light filter showed functional benefit in all evaluated patients.


Subject(s)
Eyeglasses , Light , Retinal Diseases/rehabilitation , Scotoma/rehabilitation , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Contrast Sensitivity/physiology , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Retinal Diseases/physiopathology , Scotoma/physiopathology , Visual Acuity/physiology
10.
J Clin Pharm Ther ; 42(4): 414-424, 2017 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28556392

ABSTRACT

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVES: Most antineoplastic drugs are highly toxic and have low therapeutic indexes, which can result in drug-related problems. In this context, pharmacist interventions may play an important role in the success of the treatment. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of pharmacist interventions on adult outpatients with cancer using antineoplastic drugs. METHODS: A literature search was performed using PubMed, ISI Web of Science and LILACS databases from January 1990 to April 2016, using MeSH terms or text words related to pharmacist interventions, cancer and outpatient care. Studies published in English, Portuguese or Spanish on the effects of pharmacist interventions in outcome measures in adult outpatients with cancer were included. Two independent authors performed study selection and data extraction with a consensus process. The articles were analysed according to previously established criteria, such as country, study design, setting, population, type of cancer, description of the intervention and control groups, outcomes, main conclusions and study limitations. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: A total of 874 records were identified, of which 11 satisfied the inclusion criteria. The studies were conducted mainly in the United States and included patients aged >50 years. Most studies had a before-after design. Pharmacist interventions primarily included educating and counselling patients on the management of adverse events. Rates of nausea and vomiting control, medication adherence and patient satisfaction were the most common outcome measures; a significant benefit in these parameters as a result of pharmacist interventions was noted in most studies. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION: The findings from this systematic review indicate that pharmacist interventions can improve outcome measures in outpatients with cancer. However, the collective quality of the studies was poor and gaps identified indicate that further research is needed to provide more robust results.


Subject(s)
Antineoplastic Agents/administration & dosage , Neoplasms/drug therapy , Pharmacists/organization & administration , Adult , Ambulatory Care/organization & administration , Humans , Medication Adherence , Outcome Assessment, Health Care , Outpatients , Patient Satisfaction , Professional Role
11.
Genet Mol Res ; 16(3)2017 Sep 27.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28973723

ABSTRACT

Iron (Fe) is an essential microelement for all living organisms playing important roles in several metabolic reactions. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is commonly cultivated in paddy fields, where Fe goes through a reduction reaction from Fe3+ to Fe2+. Since Fe2+ is more soluble, it can reach toxic levels inside plant cells, constituting an important target for studies. Here we aimed to verify morphological changes of different rice genotypes focusing on deciphering the underlying molecular network induced upon Fe excess treatments with special emphasis on the role of four WRKY transcription factors. The transcriptional response peak of these WRKY transcription factors in rice seedlings occurs at 4 days of exposition to iron excess. OsWRKY55-like, OsWRKY46, OsWRKY64, and OsWRKY113 are up-regulated in BR IRGA 409, an iron-sensitive genotype, while in cultivars Nipponbare (moderately resistant) and EPAGRI 108 (resistant) the expression profiles of these transcription factors show similar behaviors. Here is also shown that some cis-regulatory elements known to be involved in other different stress responses can be linked to conditions of iron excess. Overall, here we support the role of WRKY transcription factors in iron stress tolerance with other important steps toward finding why some rice genotypes are more tolerant than others.


Subject(s)
Iron/metabolism , Oryza/genetics , Phenotype , Plant Proteins/genetics , Transcription Factors/genetics , Genome, Plant , Iron/toxicity , Oryza/metabolism , Plant Proteins/metabolism , Stress, Physiological , Transcription Factors/metabolism
12.
J Dairy Sci ; 99(8): 6519-6531, 2016 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27265178

ABSTRACT

The study objective was to compare 2 commercial dry cow mastitis products at the quarter level, with concurrent internal teat sealant application, evaluating the cure risk difference, odds of a cure, odds of a new intramammary infection (NIMI) during the dry period, and risk for a clinical mastitis (CM) case between calving and 60d in milk (DIM). A total of 590 cows (2,360 quarters) from 8 commercial dairy herds in Italy were enrolled and randomized to 1 of the 2 treatments at dry off: Cefovet A (CF; 250mg of cephazoline; Merial Italia SpA, Milan, Italy), and Cepravin (CP; 250mg of cephalonium dehydrate MSD Animal Health Srl, Segrate, Italy). Quarter milk samples were collected before dry cow therapy treatment at dry off, 2 to 9 DIM, and 10 to 17 DIM. Quarter milk samples from CM cases were collected during the first 60 DIM. Noninferiority analysis was used to evaluate the effect of treatment on the risk difference of a bacteriological cure during the dry period, the primary outcome. The odds of cure, developing a NIMI during the dry period, and the risk of a CM event within 60 DIM were evaluated with multivariable logistic regression and hazard analysis, respectively. The overall crude quarter-level prevalence of NIMI at dry off was 15.3%. The most common pathogen isolated from milk samples at dry-off was coagulase-negative staphylococci. Noninferiority analysis showed no effect of treatment on the risk difference for a cure between dry off and both postpartum samples, difference was 0.013. The least squares means from the multivariable model evaluating the odds of cure was 94% for CF and 95%for CP. We observed no effect of treatment on the odds for the presence of a NIMI at 2 to 9 DIM (least squares means: CF=0.09 and CP=0.07), nor did we note a difference in risk of experiencing a CM event between calving and 60 DIM (hazard ratio=0.8). In conclusion, no difference was observed between the 2 products evaluated when assessing the aforementioned outcomes in quarters also receiving an internal teat sealant.


Subject(s)
Lactation , Mastitis, Bovine/epidemiology , Animals , Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use , Cattle , Cephalosporins/therapeutic use , Female , Mammary Glands, Animal/drug effects , Milk/drug effects
13.
Phys Rev Lett ; 114(10): 101301, 2015 Mar 13.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25815919

ABSTRACT

We report the results of a joint analysis of data from BICEP2/Keck Array and Planck. BICEP2 and Keck Array have observed the same approximately 400 deg^{2} patch of sky centered on RA 0 h, Dec. -57.5°. The combined maps reach a depth of 57 nK deg in Stokes Q and U in a band centered at 150 GHz. Planck has observed the full sky in polarization at seven frequencies from 30 to 353 GHz, but much less deeply in any given region (1.2 µK deg in Q and U at 143 GHz). We detect 150×353 cross-correlation in B modes at high significance. We fit the single- and cross-frequency power spectra at frequencies ≥150 GHz to a lensed-ΛCDM model that includes dust and a possible contribution from inflationary gravitational waves (as parametrized by the tensor-to-scalar ratio r), using a prior on the frequency spectral behavior of polarized dust emission from previous Planck analysis of other regions of the sky. We find strong evidence for dust and no statistically significant evidence for tensor modes. We probe various model variations and extensions, including adding a synchrotron component in combination with lower frequency data, and find that these make little difference to the r constraint. Finally, we present an alternative analysis which is similar to a map-based cleaning of the dust contribution, and show that this gives similar constraints. The final result is expressed as a likelihood curve for r, and yields an upper limit r_{0.05}<0.12 at 95% confidence. Marginalizing over dust and r, lensing B modes are detected at 7.0σ significance.

14.
J Dairy Sci ; 98(4): 2307-11, 2015 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25648812

ABSTRACT

Staphylococcus aureus is regarded as a leading cause of mastitis in goats. However, few data are available on the presence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in this species. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA in bulk tank milk samples from dairy goat farms in Northern Italy. Eighty-five out of 197 samples (43.1%) tested positive for S. aureus with counts ranging from 10 to more than 1.5 × 10(4) cfu/mL. The MRSA was screened by both direct plating followed by a disk diffusion test to evaluate methicillin resistance and a selective enrichment method. Methicillin-resistance was confirmed by mecA-specific PCR. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus was identified in 4 samples (2.0%) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) showed the presence of livestock-associated MRSA belonging to lineages ST398 (n = 3) and ST1 (n = 1). In one case we demonstrated that the same MRSA strain was able to persist over time on the farm, being isolated from both bulk tank milk and the udder of 3 goats 1 yr after the first isolation. The high prevalence of S. aureus-positive herds detected in this study and the presence of MRSA strains belonging to livestock-associated genotypes is of concern, and represents a novel finding in the Italian dairy goat production system. The application of stringent measures for the control of S. aureus mastitis at the farm level seems appropriate to reduce the economic losses, and to minimize the risk of foodborne illness and the transmission of MRSA to humans by occupational exposure.


Subject(s)
Food Contamination/analysis , Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification , Milk/microbiology , Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification , Animals , Bacterial Proteins/analysis , Bacterial Proteins/genetics , Female , Food Microbiology , Goats , Italy , Mammary Glands, Animal/microbiology , Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/classification , Multilocus Sequence Typing , Penicillin-Binding Proteins/analysis , Penicillin-Binding Proteins/genetics , Polymerase Chain Reaction , Staphylococcus aureus/classification
15.
J Med Econ ; : 1-30, 2024 Oct 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39376163

ABSTRACT

Background: In 2003, the WHO aimed for a 75% or higher influenza vaccination rate among at-risk populations. However, this target was achieved in a few groups during selected seasons in some European countries, and never in Germany. Adults with underlying conditions (UCs) are a critical negleted group for influenza vaccination. This study aimed to identify data gaps in influenza burden and vaccination coverage among adults under 60 with UCs in Germany and bridge these gaps using real-world data.Material and Methods: We conducted systematic research and analyses using German administrative and claims databases from June 2016 to April 2024. We report on epidemiology, direct care costs, indirect costs from work incapacity, vaccination coverage rates, and describe data gaps.Results: Influenza data for high-risk populations are limited. Comprehensive data on influenza epidemiology and vaccination coverage rates (VCR) is available, though with a delay in data availability. Before and after the pandemic, individuals aged 50-59 had the highest rates of influenza-related hospitalization and ICU admission compared to younger age groups. Across all age groups and seasons, individuals with UC experienced higher rates of medically attended influenza cases, hospitalizations, and healthcare costs, with those aged 35-59 being particularly vulnerable. Vaccine coverage was higher in adults aged 35-59 compared to those aged 18-24, and in females compared to males.Limitations: Discrepancies of vaccination status, limited data availability, and variations among the extent of UCs.Conclusion: In Germany, recent policy measures have mainly targeted those aged 60 and above. While this elderly population experiences the highest disease-related impact, influenza can also lead to substantial healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and costs in younger populations with chronic UCs; Facilitating vaccination access for this group, such as through pharmacies, is essential. Definition of quantifiable vaccination targets and measures to increase vaccination rates based on these targets are required.


The research analysed real-world data on the impact of influenza among adults under 60 years old with underlying medical conditions in Germany. The key findings include:Low vaccination rates: The flu vaccination rate among adults with underlying conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease, is low.High disease burden: This group has a significantly higher risk of severe influenza complications, experiencing notable rates of illness, hospitalization, and healthcare costs due to the flu. Given the high disease burden and low vaccine coverage, there is a need for improved public health strategies to increase flu vaccine access and uptake among this vulnerable population.These findings contribute to growing evidence supporting the importance of influenza vaccination for adults with underlying medical conditions. The insights provided can inform policymakers, healthcare providers, and public health officials working to improve vaccination rates and protect the health of these vulnerable populations.

16.
Eur J Paediatr Dent ; : 1, 2024 09 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39224967

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Malocclusions are usually diagnosed around 3-4 years of age according to specific criteria. The purpose of this protocol is to validate a method to understand how the type of delivery can influence the development of malocclusions. MATERIALS: This pilot study, conducted at the Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico of Milan, evaluated the relationship between the type of delivery, fetal presentation, and the presence of malocclusions in children. The sample included 5 healthy term newborns, all born to healthy mothers with uncomplicated pregnancies by vaginal delivery. Measurements were taken, via ultrasound, at the 37th week of gestation (T0) and on the second day of life (T1), using a craniometer, caliper and goniometer, including head circumference, lower facial angle, frontonasal angle, labial fissure length, and interpupillary distance. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that further research is necessary to better understand the influence of delivery mode and fetal presentation on the development of malocclusions. This study represents an important first step, highlighting the need for larger samples and more in-depth investigation methods to obtain more conclusive results.

17.
Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci ; 28(9): 3293, 2024 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38766784

ABSTRACT

The article "Autoantibodies detection in patients affected by autoimmune retinopathies", by M.R. Ceccarini, M.C. Medori, K. Dhuli, S. Tezzele, G. Bonetti, C. Micheletti, P.E. Maltese, S. Cecchin, K. Donato, L. Colombo, L. Rossetti, G. Staurenghi, A.P. Salvetti, M. Oldani, L. Ziccardi, D. Marangoni, G. Iarossi, B. Falsini, G. Placidi, F. D'Esposito, F. Viola, M. Nassisi, G. Leone, L. Cimino, L. De Simone, V. Mastrofilippo, T. Beccari, M. Bertelli, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 57-63-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34690-PMID: 38112948 has been retracted by the Editor in Chief for the following reasons. Following some concerns raised on PubPeer, the Editor in Chief has started an investigation to assess the validity of the results. The outcome of the investigation revealed that the manuscript presented major flaws in the following: -       Issues with ethical approval -       Undeclared conflict of interest In light of concerns regarding the potential manipulation of Supplementary Figure 2, the journal's inquiry has been unable to conclusively determine whether the alterations noted on PubPeer constitute figure manipulation. The investigation yielded divergent evaluations. However, given the aforementioned concerns, the Editor in Chief doubts the integrity of the findings presented and thus, has opted to retract the article. The authors disagree with this retraction. This article has been retracted. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34690.


Subject(s)
Autoantibodies , Autoimmune Diseases , Humans , Autoantibodies/blood , Autoantibodies/immunology , Autoimmune Diseases/immunology , Autoimmune Diseases/diagnosis , Retinal Diseases/immunology , Retinal Diseases/diagnosis , Retraction of Publication as Topic
18.
Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci ; 27(6 Suppl): 57-63, 2023 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38112948

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Autoimmune retinopathies (ARs) encompass a spectrum of immune diseases that are characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against retinal proteins in the bloodstream. These autoantibodies (AAbs) lead to a progressive and sometimes rapid loss of vision. ARs commonly affect subjects over 50 years of age, but also rare cases of kids under 3 years of age have been reported. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this study, 47 unrelated Caucasian patients were enrolled. All subjects showed negative cancer diagnoses and negative results in their genetic screenings. We studied 8 confirmed retinal antigens using Western blotting analysis, with α-enolase followed by carbonic anhydrase II being the two most frequently found in the patients' sera. RESULTS: Nineteen patients were positive (40.4%), thirteen uncertain (27.7%), and fifteen were negative (31.9%). Their gender did not correlate with the presence of AAbs (p=0.409). CONCLUSIONS: AAbs are responsible for retinal degeneration in some cases, while in others, they contribute to exacerbating the progression of the disease; however, their detection is crucial to reaching a better diagnosis and developing more effective treatments for these conditions. Moreover, finding good biomarkers is important not only for AR monitoring and prognosis, but also for helping with early cancer diagnosis.


Subject(s)
Autoimmune Diseases , Neoplasms , Retinal Diseases , Humans , Middle Aged , Autoantibodies , Autoantigens , Autoimmune Diseases/diagnosis , Retinal Diseases/diagnosis
19.
Dev Dyn ; 240(4): 874-89, 2011 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-21360790

ABSTRACT

In zebrafish, ovulated oocytes contain both maternal cortisol and the mRNA for the glucocorticoid receptor (gr), which is spread as granular structures throughout the ooplasm. At 0.2 hpf, this transcript is relocated in the blastodisc area and partitioned among blastomeres. At 6-8 hpf, it is replaced by zygotic transcript. We used morpholinos to block translation of both maternal and zygotic gr transcripts, and a missplicing morpholino to block post-transcriptionally the zygotic transcript alone. Only knockdown of translation produced an increase of apoptosis and subsequent craniofacial and caudal deformities with severe malformations of neural, vascular, and visceral organs in embryos and 5-dpf larvae. Such defects were rescued with trout gr2 mRNA. Microarray analysis revealed that 114 and 37 highly expressed transcripts were up- and down-regulated, respectively, by maternal Gr protein deficiency in 5-hpf embryos. These results indicate that the maternal gr transcript and protein participate in the maternal programming of zebrafish development.


Subject(s)
Embryonic Development/genetics , RNA, Messenger, Stored/genetics , Receptors, Glucocorticoid/genetics , Zebrafish/embryology , Zebrafish/genetics , Animals , Animals, Genetically Modified , Apoptosis/genetics , Apoptosis/physiology , Base Sequence , Embryo, Nonmammalian , Female , Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental , Gene Knockdown Techniques , Larva/genetics , Larva/growth & development , Larva/metabolism , Molecular Sequence Data , RNA, Messenger/genetics , RNA, Messenger/metabolism , RNA, Messenger, Stored/metabolism , Receptors, Glucocorticoid/metabolism , Zebrafish/metabolism
20.
Comput Methods Programs Biomed ; 217: 106670, 2022 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35172250

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The ongoing pandemic proved fundamental is to assess a subject's respiratory functionality and breathing pattern measurement during quiet breathing is feasible in almost all patients, even those uncooperative. Breathing pattern consists of tidal volume and respiratory rate in an individual assessed by data tracks of lung or chest wall volume over time. State-of-art analysis of these data requires operator-dependent choices such as individuation of local minima in the track, elimination of anomalous breaths and individuation of breath clusters corresponding to different breathing patterns. METHODS: A semi-automatic, robust and reproducible procedure was proposed to pre-process and analyse respiratory tracks, based on Functional Data Analysis (FDA) techniques, to identify representative breath curve and the corresponding breathing patterns. This was achieved through three steps: 1) breath separation through precise localization of the minima of the volume trace; 2) functional outlier breaths detection according to time-duration, magnitude and shape; 3) breath clustering to identify different pattern of interest, through K-medoids with Alignment. The method was firstly validated on simulated tracks and then applied to real data in conditions of clinical interest: operational volume change, exercise, mechanical ventilation, paradoxical breathing and age. RESULTS: The total error in the accuracy of minima detection and in was less than 5%; with the artificial outliers being almost completely removed with an accuracy of 99%. During incremental exercise and independently on the bike resistance level, five clusters were identified (quiet breathing; recovery phase; onset of exercise; maximal and intermediate levels of exercise). During mechanical ventilation, the procedure was able to separate the non-ventilated from the ventilatory-supported breathing and to identify the worsening of paradoxical breathing due to the disease progression and the breathing pattern changes in healthy subjects due to age. CONCLUSIONS: We proposed a robust validated automatic breathing patterns identification algorithm that extracted representative curves that could be implemented in clinical practice for objective comparison of the breathing patterns within and between subjects. In all case studies the identified patterns proved to be coherent with the clinical conditions and the physiopathology of the subjects, therefore enforcing the potential clinical translational value of the method.


Subject(s)
Data Analysis , Exercise , Respiration , Exercise/physiology , Humans , Lung , Respiration, Artificial , Tidal Volume
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