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Perrino F, Licchelli S, Serra G, Piccini G, Caciolo C, Pasqualetti P, Cirillo F, Leoni C, Digilio MC, Zampino G, Tartaglia M, Alfieri P, Vicari S. Psychopathological features in Noonan syndrome. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:170-177. [PMID: 29037749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Noonan syndrome (NS) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by short stature, skeletal and haematological/lymphatic defects, distinctive facies, cryptorchidism, and a wide spectrum of congenital heart defects. Recurrent features also include variable cognitive deficits and behavioural problems. Recent research has been focused on the assessment of prevalence, age of onset and characterization of psychiatric features in this disorder. Herein, we evaluated the prevalence of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depressive symptoms and syndromes in a cohort of individuals with clinical and molecular diagnosis of NS. METHODS The Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children Present and Lifetime version (K-SADS PL) has been used for the assessment of psychiatric disorders according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children (MASC) and the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) have been assessed for the evaluation of anxiety and depressive symptoms and syndromes, whereas Conners Teacher and Parent Rating Scales-long version (CRS-R) have been used to evaluate ADHD. RESULTS The study included 27 individuals (67% males) with an average age of 10.4 years (range 6-18 years) receiving molecular diagnosis of NS or a clinically related condition, evaluated and treated at the Neuropsychiatric Unit of Children's Hospital Bambino Gesù and at the Center for Rare Diseases of Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, in Rome. Twenty individuals showed mutations in PTPN11, five in SOS1 and two in SHOC2. The mean IQ was 94 (Standard Deviation = 17, min = 56, max = 130). Seventy percent of the individuals (n = 19; 95% Confidence Interval = 52-85%) showed ADHD features, with six individuals reaching DSM-IV-TR criteria for ADHD disorder, and thirteen showing subsyndromal traits. Symptoms or syndrome of anxiety were present in 37% of the cohort (n = 10; 95% Confidence Interval = 19-56%), with two individuals showing anxiety disorder and eight cases exhibiting subsyndromal traits. CONCLUSION Our results show individuals with NS do present a very high risk to develop psychiatric disorders or symptoms during paediatric age. Based on these findings, preschool assessment of inattentive, hyperactivity/impulsivity and anxiety/depressive symptoms is recommended in order to plan a personalized treatment for psychological/psychiatric issues in affected individuals. Dedicated prospective studies are required to confirm the present data and better characterize the psychopathological profile in NS.
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Serra G, Koukopoulos A, De Chiara L, Napoletano F, Koukopoulos A, Sani G, Faedda GL, Girardi P, Reginaldi D, Baldessarini RJ. Child and Adolescent Clinical Features Preceding Adult Suicide Attempts. Arch Suicide Res 2017; 21:502-518. [PMID: 27673411 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2016.1227004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify the predictive value of juvenile factors for adult suicidal behavior. We reviewed clinical records to compare factors identified in childhood and adolescence between adult suicidal versus nonsuicidal major affective disorder subjects. Suicide attempts occurred in 23.1% of subjects. Age-at-first-symptom was 14.2 vs. 20.2 years among suicidal versus nonsuicidal subjects (p < 0.0001). More prevalent in suicidal versus non-suicidal subjects by multivariate analysis were: depressive symptoms, hyper-emotionality, younger-at-first-affective-episode, family suicide history, childhood mood-swings, and adolescence low self-esteem. Presence of one factor yielded a Bayesian sensitivity of 64%, specificity of 50%, and negative predictive power of 86%. Several juvenile factors were associated with adult suicidal behavior; their absence was strongly associated with a lack of adult suicidal behavior.
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Welter ML, Houeto JL, Thobois S, Bataille B, Guenot M, Worbe Y, Hartmann A, Czernecki V, Bardinet E, Yelnik J, du Montcel ST, Agid Y, Vidailhet M, Cornu P, Tanguy A, Ansquer S, Jaafari N, Poulet E, Serra G, Burbaud P, Cuny E, Aouizerate B, Pollak P, Chabardes S, Polosan M, Borg M, Fontaine D, Giordana B, Raoul S, Rouaud T, Sauvaget A, Jalenques I, Karachi C, Mallet L. Anterior pallidal deep brain stimulation for Tourette's syndrome: a randomised, double-blind, controlled trial. Lancet Neurol 2017. [PMID: 28645853 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(17)30160-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been proposed to treat patients with severe Tourette's syndrome, and open-label trials and two small double-blind trials have tested DBS of the posterior and the anterior internal globus pallidus (aGPi). We aimed to specifically assess the efficacy of aGPi DBS for severe Tourette's syndrome. METHODS In this randomised, double-blind, controlled trial, we recruited patients aged 18-60 years with severe and medically refractory Tourette's syndrome from eight hospitals specialised in movement disorders in France. Enrolled patients received surgery to implant bilateral electrodes for aGPi DBS; 3 months later they were randomly assigned (1:1 ratio with a block size of eight; computer-generated pairwise randomisation according to order of enrolment) to receive either active or sham stimulation for the subsequent 3 months in a double-blind fashion. All patients then received open-label active stimulation for the subsequent 6 months. Patients and clinicians assessing outcomes were masked to treatment allocation; an unmasked clinician was responsible for stimulation parameter programming, with intensity set below the side-effect threshold. The primary endpoint was difference in Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) score between the beginning and end of the 3 month double-blind period, as assessed with a Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon test in all randomly allocated patients who received active or sham stimulation during the double-blind period. We assessed safety in all patients who were enrolled and received surgery for aGPi DBS. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00478842. FINDINGS Between Dec 6, 2007, and Dec 13, 2012, we enrolled 19 patients. We randomly assigned 17 (89%) patients, with 16 completing blinded assessments (seven [44%] in the active stimulation group and nine [56%] in the sham stimulation group). We noted no significant difference in YGTSS score change between the beginning and the end of the 3 month double-blind period between groups (active group median YGTSS score 68·5 [IQR 34·0 to 83·5] at the beginning and 62·5 [51·5 to 72·0] at the end, median change 1·1% [IQR -23·9 to 38·1]; sham group 73·0 [69·0 to 79·0] and 79·0 [59·0 to 81·5], median change 0·0% [-10·6 to 4·8]; p=0·39). 15 serious adverse events (three in patients who withdrew before stimulation and six each in the active and sham stimulation groups) occurred in 13 patients (three who withdrew before randomisation, four in the active group, and six in the sham group), with infections in DBS hardware in four patients (two who withdrew before randomisation, one in the sham stimulation group, and one in the active stimulation group). Other serious adverse events included one electrode misplacement (active stimulation group), one episode of depressive signs (active stimulation group), and three episodes of increased tic severity and anxiety (two in the sham stimulation group and one in the active stimulation group). INTERPRETATION 3 months of aGPi DBS is insufficient to decrease tic severity for patients with Tourette's syndrome. Future research is needed to investigate the efficacy of aGPi DBS for patients over longer periods with optimal stimulation parameters and to identify potential predictors of the therapeutic response. FUNDING French Ministry of Health.
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Serra G, Casini M, Maggiore V, Baldessarini R, Vicari S. Factors Associated with Depression Severity in Adolescence. Eur Psychiatry 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.01.2219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionSevere depression is greatly impairing during adolescence and involves a high risk for suicidal behaviors.Objectives and aimsIdentify clinical and demographic factors associated with severity of depression in adolescents diagnosed with a major mood disorder so as to improve clinical treatment and prevent suicidal behaviors.MethodsWe analyzed factors associated with depression severity in 145 severely ill adolescents diagnosed with a major affective disorder using the K-SADS (Kiddie-Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia) at the Mood Disorder Outpatient Program of Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (Rome). Depressive and manic symptoms were rated with the CDRS-R (Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised) and K-SADS-MRS (Mania Rating Scale), respectively. Bivariate comparisons were followed by multivariable linear regression modeling.ResultsDepression severity was greater among females than males (mean CDRS scores: 53.0 vs. 42.8; P < 0.0001) and with major depressive versus bipolar disorder diagnosis (50.4 vs. 45.4; P = 0.001). Manic symptoms, including irritability, mood lability, crowded thoughts, delusions, and insomnia, were more likely with more severe depression; their number and severity correlated with CDRS-R total score (respectively, β = 1.53 and 5.44;both P < 0.0001). Factors independently and significantly associated with CDRS-R depression score in multivariate modeling were:– presence of suicidal ideation;– absence of ADHD;– female sex;– greater number of manic symptoms.ConclusionsSevere depression was associated with manic symptoms and with suicidal ideation among adolescents diagnosed with either bipolar or major depressive disorders. This relationship should be considered in treatment planning and suicide prevention, including consideration of mood-stabilizing and antimanic agents in the treatment of severe adolescent depression.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
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Castaldo L, Mazzone L, Serra G, Vicari S. Risk Factors for Suicide Attempt: A Retrospective Study. Eur Psychiatry 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.01.268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionSuicide is a leading cause of death among adolescents.ObjectivesTo investigate suicidal behaviors among Italian adolescents.AimsTo assess the rates of suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SA) and the associated risk factors in patients admitted to emergency department (ED) of the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital.MethodsRetrospective study based on data of patients admitted to the ED from 1 January 2011 to 30 May 2016 who required a neuropsychiatric (NPI) consultation. We analyzed:– outcome of the NPI consultation (hospitalization or discharge);– risk factors for SA and SI;– methods employed for SA.ResultsThe number of NPI consultations for SI and SA increased from 6.45% in 2011 to 13.3% in 2015. More than 90% of consultations recommended hospitalization in the psychiatric unit (137 patient [66% female]; mean age of 15.5 ± 1.6 years) with average length of stay of 13.64 ± 10.63 days. Risk factors for SI and SA were non-suicidal self-injury, family conflicts and previous suicide attempts. Subjects evaluated for a SA reported a significantly higher frequency of family history of mood disorder (χ2 = 5.94; P = 0.02) and a comorbid substance abuse (χ2 = 4.49; P = 0.03) when compared with SI group. The method most frequently used to attempt suicide was ingestion of medications (52.83%).ConclusionsThere was an increasing demand of NPI consultation of SA and SI in the last years. A family history of mood disorder and a history of substance abuse are risk factors able to differentiate between SI and SA.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
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Tondo L, Pinna M, Serra G, De Chiara L, Baldessarini RJ. Age at menarche predicts age at onset of major affective and anxiety disorders. Eur Psychiatry 2016; 39:80-85. [PMID: 27992810 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2016] [Revised: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Menarche age has been associated inconsistently with the occurrence, timing or severity of major depressive disorder (MDD), but rarely studied in women with bipolar (BDs) or anxiety disorders. METHODS We investigated women patients at a Sardinian mood disorder center for associations of age at menarche with age at illness onset for major affective or anxiety disorders, year of birth, and other selected factors, using bivariate comparisons and multivariate regression modeling. RESULTS Among women (n=1139) with DSM-IV MDD (n=557), BD-I (n=223), BD-II (n=178), or anxiety disorders (n=181), born in 1904-1998, of mean age 42.9 years, menarche age averaged 12.8 [CI: 12.7-12.9] years. Illness onset age averaged 30.9 [30.1-31.8] years, ranking: BD-I, 25.8; anxiety disorders, 28.0; BD-II, 30.3; MDD, 34.1 years. Menarche age declined secularly over birth years, and was associated with younger illness-onset, having no or fewer siblings, more psychiatrically ill first-degree relatives, living in rural environments, being suicidal, substance abuse, and being unemployed. Earlier menarche and earlier illness-onset were significantly associated for onset age groups of ≤ 20, 20-39, and > 40 years. Menarche age versus diagnosis ranked: BD-II<BD-I<anxiety disorders<MDD. CONCLUSIONS Age at menarche in Sardinia, as elsewhere, has declined over the past decades. It was strongly associated with age at onset of bipolar and anxiety, as well as major depressive disorders across the age range, suggesting sustained effects of biological maturational factors.
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Grego E, Robino P, Tramuta C, Giusto G, Boi M, Colombo R, Serra G, Chiadò-Cutin S, Gandini M, Nebbia P. Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Italian honey for wound healing application in veterinary medicine. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 2016; 158:521-7. [PMID: 27504886 DOI: 10.17236/sat00075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Honey as a topical treatment for infected wounds dates back to ancient times. However, few studies have been reported concerning the medical properties of Italian honey. In this study, the microbial contamination, the antimicrobial activity and the antibiotic residues of 6 different varieties of Piedmont honeys were evaluated. The antimicrobial activity of honeys was tested by agar well diffusion method and 1 honey for each variety has been selected and tested by broth micro-dilution test to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) and evaluated by Minimum Bactericidal Concentrations (MBCs). The honeys with a high level of antibacterial activity were analyzed for the presence of tetracyclines, sulfonamides and macrolide residues. The agar well diffusion method showed the greatest antimicrobial activity for honeydew, chestnut and lime tree honeys. The MICs and MBCs identified the close similarity to the medical manuka honey of honeydew, polyfloral and chestnut honey. The levels of antibiotic residues on these honeys were below the limit of quantification. Based on our results the Italian variety of honeydew showed the best antimicrobial activity and can be considered for the treatment of infected wounds in animals.
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De Chiara L, Serra G, Koukopoulos AE, Koukopoulos A, Serra G. Memantine in the treatment and prophylaxis of bipolar type II mood disorder and co-morbid eating disorder: a case report. RIVISTA DI PSICHIATRIA 2016; 49:192-4. [PMID: 25174697 DOI: 10.1708/1600.17462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We have recently reported that memantine has a clinically relevant antimanic and long-lasting mood-stabilizing effect in treatment- resistant bipolar disorders, both as augmenting agent and as a monotherapy. Moreover, we observed an acute antimanic and sustained mood-stabilizing effect also in "naïve" bipolar type I disorder. Here we report a case history of a young woman suffering from bipolar type II mood disorder, associated with a very severe eating disorder, showing an acute antimanic and a long-term prophylactic effect of memantine on bipolar disorder and comorbid eating disorder.
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Serra G. Juvenile clinical predictors of clinical course and outcome in adult bipolar disorder. Lancet Psychiatry 2016; 3:307-9. [PMID: 26873182 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(16)00024-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Cubeddu A, Astara G, Madeddu C, Ruggiero V, Cabula C, Serra G, Ganga R, Faloppi L, Cascinu S, Scartozzi M. Osteopontin (OPN) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) as predictive biomarkers in HCC receiving loco-regional treatment: preliminary results. Ann Oncol 2015. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdv344.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Faedda GL, Marangoni C, Serra G, Salvatore P, Sani G, Vázquez GH, Tondo L, Girardi P, Baldessarini RJ, Koukopoulos A. Precursors of bipolar disorders: a systematic literature review of prospective studies. J Clin Psychiatry 2015; 76:614-24. [PMID: 26035191 DOI: 10.4088/jcp.13r08900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the presence of affective signs and symptoms as precursors of bipolar disorder in prospective studies, including assessment of their prevalence, duration, and predictive value. DATA SOURCES We followed PRISMA guidelines to search PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and ISI Web of Science databases to May 31, 2013, using the terms bipolar disorder AND (antecedent* OR predict* OR prodrom* OR prospect*) AND (diagnosis OR development). Hand searching of identified reports led to additional relevant references. STUDY SELECTION We included only English-language articles containing (1) prospective, longitudinal studies with at least 2 structured clinical assessments (intake and follow-up); (2) no previous DSM-III or DSM-IV diagnoses of bipolar I or bipolar II; and (3) diagnostic outcome of bipolar I or bipolar II. Studies of subjects at familial risk of bipolar disorder were excluded, as these have been reviewed elsewhere. DATA EXTRACTION We tabulated details of study design, outcomes, precursors, and predictive value. Only studies reporting a positive predictive association were included. RESULTS In 26 published reports meeting selection criteria, methods varied widely in terms of design, duration of follow-up, ages, and populations investigated. Despite such heterogeneity in methods, findings were notably consistent. Precursors of bipolar disorder include mood lability, subsyndromal and major depression, subsyndromal hypomanic symptoms with or without major depression, cyclothymia and bipolar not otherwise specified, major depression with psychotic features, and other psychotic disorders. Bipolar disorder was also predicted by juvenile onset of major depression as well as frequency and loading of hypomanic or depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Despite the limitations of published reports, prospectively identified precursors of bipolar disorder typically arose years prior to syndromal onset, often with significant early morbidity and disability. Prospectively identified precursors of bipolar disorder are generally consistent with findings in retrospective and family-risk studies. Combining precursors and other risk factors may increase predictive value, support earlier diagnosis, improve treatment, and limit disability in bipolar disorder.
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Uchida M, Serra G, Zayas L, Kenworthy T, Hughes B, Koster A, Faraone SV, Biederman J. Can manic switches be predicted in pediatric major depression? A systematic literature review. J Affect Disord 2015; 172:300-6. [PMID: 25451429 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2014.09.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rate of switching from major depression to bipolar disorder is high in children. Predicting who is at risk for switching poses unique challenges and is of high clinical relevance. Our aim was to examine the existing scientific literature elucidating if certain clinical correlates predict ultimate bipolar switches in children initially presenting with a depressive episode. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search of studies assessing the risk factors for bipolar switching in youth. In all, seven studies fit our a priori criteria and were thus included in our qualitative review. RESULTS Together, these papers found that manic switches in pediatric depression can be predicted by several risk factors, including positive family history of mood disorders, emotional and behavioral dysregulation, subthreshold mania, and psychosis. LIMITATIONS We identified only seven prospective informative studies for our review. The majority of subjects included in these studies were referred and Caucasian. Thus, the results may not generalize to other community samples and other ethnicities. CONCLUSIONS These findings can help alert clinicians of the risk of manic switches.
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Serra G, Koukopoulos A, De Chiara L, Koukopoulos AE, Tondo L, Girardi P, Baldessarini RJ, Serra G. Three-year, naturalistic, mirror-image assessment of adding memantine to the treatment of 30 treatment-resistant patients with bipolar disorder. J Clin Psychiatry 2015; 76:e91-7. [PMID: 25650685 DOI: 10.4088/jcp.13m08956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developing safe and effective long-term treatments for bipolar disorder remains a major challenge. Given available treatments, patients with bipolar disorder remain unwell in half of long-term follow-up, mostly in depression. As memantine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-glutamate receptor antagonist used to treat dementia, has been proposed for testing in bipolar disorder, we carried out a 3 + 3-year, mirror-image, chart-review study of the effects of adding memantine to stably continued, but insufficiently effective, ongoing mood-stabilizing treatments. METHOD Outpatients diagnosed with DSM-IV-TR bipolar disorder (I or II), followed intensively at the Lucio Bini Mood Disorder Center, Rome, Italy, had responded consistently unsatisfactorily to standard treatments (lithium, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and electroconvulsive therapy) for ≥ 3 years (2005-2013). Memantine (20-30 mg/d) was added clinically to otherwise stable regimens for another 3 years. On the basis of chart review, we compared morbidity measures and Clinical Global Impressions scale for Bipolar Disorder (CGI-BP) score before versus during memantine treatment. RESULTS The 30 bipolar I (n = 17) and II (n = 13) subjects showed consistent morbidity for 3 years before memantine, but improved progressively (r = 0.28, P < .01) over 3 years with memantine (23 ± 4.8 mg/d). Markedly decreased (all P values ≤ .01) were (1) percentage of time ill (total, mania, or depression; averaging -75.0%), (2) CGI-BP severity scores (-67.8%), (3) duration of new episodes (-58.6%), and (4) episodes/year (-55.7%). Subjects with previous rapid or continuous cycling were particularly improved (t = 2.61, P = .016). Adverse effects were mild and rare. CONCLUSIONS Memantine added substantial long-term benefits by preventing or ameliorating depressive as well as mania-like morbidity in previously consistently poorly responsive patients with bipolar disorder. Further testing in randomized, controlled trials is required.
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Serra G, De Chiara L, Marangoni C, Faedda G. The role of neuroinflammation in juvenile bipolar disorder. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4103/2347-8659.167303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Serra G, Demontis F, Serra F, De Chiara L, Spoto A, Girardi P, Vidotto G, Serra G. Memantine: New prospective in bipolar disorder treatment. World J Psychiatry 2014; 4:80-90. [PMID: 25540723 PMCID: PMC4274590 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v4.i4.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2014] [Revised: 11/23/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED We review preclinical and clinical evidences strongly suggesting that memantine, an old drug currently approved for Alzheimer's dementia, is an effective treatment for acute mania and for the prevention of manic/hypomanic and depressive recurrences of manic-depressive illness. Lithium remains the first line for the treatment and prophylaxis of bipolar disorders, but currently available treatment alternatives for lithium resistant patients are of limited and/or questionable efficacy. Thus, research and development of more effective mood stabilizer drugs is a leading challenge for modern psychopharmacology. We have demonstrated that 21 d administration of imipramine causes a behavioural syndrome similar to a cycle of bipolar disorder, i.e., a mania followed by a depression, in rats. Indeed, such treatment causes a behavioural supersensitivity to dopamine D2 receptor agonists associated with an increase sexual activity and aggressivity (mania). The dopamine receptor sensitization is followed, after imipramine discontinuation, by an opposite phenomenon (dopamine receptor desensitization) and an increased immobility time (depression) in the forced swimming test of depression. Memantine blocks the development of the supersensitivity and the ensuing desensitization associated with the depressive like behavior. On the basis of these observations we have suggested the use of memantine in the treatment of mania and in the prophylaxis of bipolar disorders. To test this hypothesis we performed several naturalistic studies that showed an acute antimanic effect and a long-lasting and progressive mood-stabilizing action (at least 3 years), without clinically relevant side effects. To confirm the observations of our naturalistic trials we are now performing a randomized controlled clinical trial. Finally we described the studies reporting the efficacy of memantine in manic-like symptoms occurring in psychiatric disorders other than bipolar. LIMITATIONS A randomized controlled clinical trial is needed to confirm our naturalistic observations. CONCLUSION We believe that this review presents enough pharmacological and clinical information to consider the administration of memantine in the treatment of bipolar disorders that no respond to standard mood stabilizers.
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Faedda GL, Serra G, Marangoni C, Salvatore P, Sani G, Vázquez GH, Tondo L, Girardi P, Baldessarini RJ, Koukopoulos A. Clinical risk factors for bipolar disorders: a systematic review of prospective studies. J Affect Disord 2014; 168:314-21. [PMID: 25086290 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2014.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/08/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early phases and suspected precursor states of bipolar disorder are not well characterized. We evaluate the prevalence, duration, clinical features and predictive value of non-affective psychopathology as clinical risk factors for bipolar disorder in prospective studies. METHODS We screened PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, SCOPUS, and ISI-Web of Science databases from inception up to January 31, 2014, following PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and searched: bipolar disorder AND [antecedent⁎ OR predict⁎ OR prodrom⁎ OR prospect⁎ OR risk⁎] AND [diagnosis OR development]. We included only English language reports on prospective, longitudinal studies with two structured clinical assessments (intake and follow-up); no DSM intake diagnosis of bipolar-I or -II; diagnostic outcome was bipolar-I or -II. Details of study design, risk factors, and predictive value were tabulated. RESULTS We found 16 published reports meeting selection criteria, with varying study design. Despite heterogeneity in methods, findings across studies were consistent. Clinical risk factors of bipolar disorder were early-onset panic attacks and disorder, separation anxiety and generalized anxiety disorders, conduct symptoms and disorder, ADHD, impulsivity and criminal behavior. LIMITATIONS Since risk factors identified in some prospective studies are predictive of other conditions besides bipolar disorder, these preliminary findings require replication, and their sensitivity, specificity and predictive value need to be assessed. CONCLUSIONS Clinical risk factors for bipolar disorder typically arise years prior to syndromal onset, include anxiety and behavioral disorders with unclear sensitivity and specificity. Prospectively identified clinical risk factors for bipolar disorder are consistent with retrospective and family-risk studies. Combining clinical risk factors with precursors and family-risk may improve early identification and timely and appropriate treatment of bipolar disorder.
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Ciliberti M, De Lara F, Serra G, Tafuro F, Iazzetta F, De Martino V, Filosa A, Scognamiglio R, Ciliberti G, Veneri M. Effective management of pressure ulcers using Hydrofibre technology with silver ions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wndm.2014.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Vacca A, Loddo S, Melis MT, Funedda A, Puddu R, Verona M, Fanni S, Fantola F, Madrau S, Marrone VA, Serra G, Tore C, Manca D, Pasci S, Puddu MR, Schirru P. A GIS based method for soil mapping in Sardinia, Italy: a geomatic approach. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2014; 138:87-96. [PMID: 24315681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2013.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Revised: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A new project was recently initiated for the realization of the "Land Unit and Soil Capability Map of Sardinia" at a scale of 1:50,000 to support land use planning. In this study, we outline the general structure of the project and the methods used in the activities that have been thus far conducted. A GIS approach was used. We used the soil-landscape paradigm for the prediction of soil classes and their spatial distribution or the prediction of soil properties based on landscape features. The work is divided into two main phases. In the first phase, the available digital data on land cover, geology and topography were processed and classified according to their influence on weathering processes and soil properties. The methods used in the interpretation are based on consolidated and generalized knowledge about the influence of geology, topography and land cover on soil properties. The existing soil data (areal and point data) were collected, reviewed, validated and standardized according to international and national guidelines. Point data considered to be usable were input into a specific database created for the project. Using expert interpretation, all digital data were merged to produce a first draft of the Land Unit Map. During the second phase, this map will be implemented with the existing soil data and verified in the field if also needed with new soil data collection, and the final Land Unit Map will be produced. The Land Unit and Soil Capability Map will be produced by classifying the land units using a reference matching table of land capability classes created for this project.
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Serra G. Neutropenia in newborn: A case report laboratory. Clin Biochem 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2014.04.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Welter ML, Schüpbach M, Czernecki V, Karachi C, Fernandez-Vidal S, Golmard JL, Serra G, Navarro S, Welaratne A, Hartmann A, Mesnage V, Pineau F, Cornu P, Pidoux B, Worbe Y, Zikos P, Grabli D, Galanaud D, Bonnet AM, Belaid H, Dormont D, Vidailhet M, Mallet L, Houeto JL, Bardinet E, Yelnik J, Agid Y. Optimal target localization for subthalamic stimulation in patients with Parkinson disease. Neurology 2014; 82:1352-61. [PMID: 24647024 PMCID: PMC4001189 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000000315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To further determine the causes of variable outcome from deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (DBS-STN) in patients with Parkinson disease (PD). Methods: Data were obtained from our cohort of 309 patients with PD who underwent DBS-STN between 1996 and 2009. We examined the relationship between the 1-year motor, cognitive, and psychiatric outcomes and (1) preoperative PD clinical features, (2) MRI measures, (3) surgical procedure, and (4) locations of therapeutic contacts. Results: Pre- and postoperative results were obtained in 262 patients with PD. The best motor outcome was obtained when stimulating contacts were located within the STN as compared with the zona incerta (64% vs 49% improvement). Eighteen percent of the patients presented a postoperative cognitive decline, which was found to be principally related to the surgical procedure. Other factors predictive of poor cognitive outcome were perioperative confusion and psychosis. Nineteen patients showed a stimulation-induced hypomania, which was related to both the form of the disease (younger age, shorter disease duration, higher levodopa responsiveness) and the ventral contact location. Postoperative depression was more frequent in patients already showing preoperative depressive and/or residual axial motor symptoms. Conclusion: In this homogeneous cohort of patients with PD, we showed that (1) the STN is the best target to improve motor symptoms, (2) postoperative cognitive deficit is mainly related to the surgery itself, and (3) stimulation-induced hypomania is related to a combination of both the disease characteristics and a more ventral STN location.
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Serra G, Baranchuk A, Bayes-De-Luna A, Brugada J, Goldwasser D, Capulzini L, Arazo D, Boraita A, Heras ME, Garcia-Niebla J, Elosua R, Brugada R, Brugada P. New electrocardiographic criteria to differentiate the Type-2 Brugada pattern from electrocardiogram of healthy athletes with r'-wave in leads V1/V2. Europace 2014; 16:1639-45. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euu025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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Serra G, De Chiara L, Manfredi G, Koukopoulos AE, Sani G, Girardi P, Koukopoulos A, Serra G. Memantine in the management of affective recurrences of bipolar disorders after the discontinuation of long-term lithium treatment: three case histories. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2014; 4:53-5. [PMID: 24490033 PMCID: PMC3896132 DOI: 10.1177/2045125313507737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
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Peña S, Fagundez C, Medeiros A, Comini M, Scarone L, Sellanes D, Manta E, Tulla-Puche J, Albericio F, Stewart L, Yardley V, Serra G. Synthesis of cyclohexapeptides as antimalarial and anti-trypanosomal agents. MEDCHEMCOMM 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c4md00135d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Azolic and non-azolic cyclohexapeptides were obtained and/or evaluated as promising antimalarial and/or anti-trypanosomal agents.
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Biederman J, Wozniak J, Tarko L, Serra G, Hernandez M, McDermott K, Woodworth KY, Uchida M, Faraone SV. Re-examining the risk for switch from unipolar to bipolar major depressive disorder in youth with ADHD: a long term prospective longitudinal controlled study. J Affect Disord 2014; 152-154:347-51. [PMID: 24144583 PMCID: PMC3867291 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2013.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2013] [Revised: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have identified subthreshold forms of bipolar (BP)-I disorder and deficits in emotional regulation as risk factors for bipolar disorder in youth. The primary aim of this study was to investigate whether emotional dysregulation and subthreshold forms of BP-I disorder increase the risk for BP switches in ADHD youth with non-bipolar MDD. METHODS We used data from two large controlled longitudinal family studies of boys and girls with and without ADHD. Subjects (N=522) were followed prospectively and blindly over an average follow up period of 11.4 years. Comparisons were made between ADHD youth with unipolar major depression (MDD) who did (N=24) and did not (N=79) switch to BP-I disorder at follow-up. RESULTS The rate of conversion to BP-I disorder at follow up was higher in MDD subjects with subthreshold BP-I disorder at baseline compared to those without (57% vs. 21%; OR=9.57, 95% CI=1.62-56.56, p=0.013) and in MDD subjects with deficient emotional self-regulation (OR=3.54, 95% CI=1.08-11.60, p=0.037). LIMITATIONS The sample was largely Caucasian, so these results may not generalize to minority groups. The sample of youth with SED was small, which limited the statistical power for some analyses. CONCLUSIONS Switches from unipolar MDD to BP-I disorder in children with ADHD and MDD were predicted by baseline subthreshold BP-I disorder symptoms and baseline deficits in emotional regulation. More work is needed to assess whether these risk factors are operant outside the context of ADHD.
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Peláez J, Doña J, Fornari J, Serra G. Ischemia classification via ECG using MLP neural networks. INT J COMPUT INT SYS 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/18756891.2014.889498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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