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Litta P, Pozzan C, Sacco G, Merlin F, Saccardi C, Ambrosini A. Adenosarcoma of the ovary. A case report. EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 2004; 25:507-8. [PMID: 15285316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Adenosarcoma of the ovary is a rare condition. We report a case of a 32-year-old patient that has been treated in our Department. The diagnosis of ovarian adenosarcoma was carried out after laparoscopy with removal of an ovarian endometriotic cyst. Laparoscopic homolateral ovariectomy was then performed and conservative treatment was decided on considering the young age, low stage and low grade of the disease. Second-look laparoscopy, clinical evaluation and ultrasound were performed for four years of follow-up. No recurrence has been detected. Conservative treatment should be proposed in fertile age with low-grade ovarian adenosarcoma, but a strict follow-up is always necessary.
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Litta P, Fracas M, Pozzan C, Merlin F, Saccardi C, Sacco G, Mannici D. Laparoscopic management of early stage endometrial cancer. EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 2003; 24:41-4. [PMID: 12691315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF INVESTIGATION The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic hysterectomy versus the transabdominal approach with systemic pelvic lymphadenectomy in early stage endometrial cancer. METHODS From January 1996 to April 2002, 59 women were treated for endometrial cancer at the Department of Gynecology in Padova, Italy (29 by the laparoscopic technique and 30 by laparotomy). Every patient underwent hysterosalpingo-oophorectomy with systemic pelvic lymphadenectomy. RESULTS Comparing the two techniques, operating time was longer and hospital stay was significantly shorter for laparoscopy; no differences were observed about the number of removed lymph nodes (range 5-33) or intra-postoperatory complications. CONCLUSION The laparoscopic approach to endometrial cancer is certainly to be considered appropriate and efficacious, even if it requires skilled surgeons and adequate oncologic training. It is important to perform pelvic lymphadenectomy in all cases of early stage cancer.
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Bonanni I, Bellotti P, Brignone M, Cavaliere M, Di Pede E, Parodi L, Sacco G, Bonanni F. Protein S deficiency. Description of a case associated with chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Minerva Med 2002; 93:309-13. [PMID: 12207201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Thrombotic disease is one of the most relevant clinical problems for morbility and mortality. We can differentiate congenital and acquired forms. In this short communication we describe 1 case observed by us that seems interesting for the association of a congenital and acquired form [Protein S deficiency and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)] and for the dramatic events suffered before receiving a complete diagnosis and therapy, indicating the importance of recollection of information from the patients, starting from anamnestic data.
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Ensoli F, Fiorelli V, De Cristofaro M, Collacchi B, Santini Muratori D, Alario C, Sacco G, Iebba F, Aiuti F. Endogenous cytokine production protects T cells from spontaneous apoptosis during highly active antiretroviral therapy. HIV Med 2002; 3:105-17. [PMID: 12010357 DOI: 10.1046/j.1468-1293.2002.00107.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The availability of therapeutic regimens that effectively interfere with HIV-1 replication provides novel opportunities to investigate mechanisms of T-cell depletion as well as repopulation in infected individuals. METHODS Nineteen HIV-1-infected individuals were investigated during one-year follow-up of highly active retroviral therapy (HAART). The frequencies of apoptotic T cells, as determined by propidium iodide, staining, TUNEL assay and analysis of annexin V, were assessed either in the absence or in the presence of anti-interleukin (IL)2 and anti-IL-4 neutralizing Ab. Spontaneous and lectin-induced cytokine production were assessed by ELISA. RESULTS Increments of both naive and memory CD4 and CD8 T cells during HAART are accompanied by a decrease of T-cell apoptosis that, after 12 months of HAART, reaches normal levels. This is associated with increments of both spontaneous and activation-induced production of IL-2 and IL-4 by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), though only the latter was found defective at enrolment. During HAART, blocking of either IL-2 or IL-4 production by PBMCs using neutralizing Ab restores levels of T-cell apoptosis consistent with those determined at enrolment. These data suggest that both IL-2 and IL-4 produced by PBMCs during HAART provide anti-apoptotic signals that can contribute to an increased survival of T cells and may thus play a part in long-term immune reconstitution. CONCLUSIONS An effective viral suppression and, possibly, effects of PI on molecular targets other than viral components, can support a progressive normalization of T-cell survival that, at least in part, depends upon the restoration of proper soluble signals. These results provide evidence of a supporting role of endogenous cytokine production in peripheral T-cell repopulation during an effective and prolonged viral suppression. This may be relevant for the definition of immune-intervention targets aimed at immune reconstitution in HIV-1-infected patients.
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Sirianni MC, Ensoli F, Alario C, Fiorelli V, Sacco G, Topino S, Iebba F, Mezzaroma I, Aiuti F. Distribution of the natural killer-related receptor for HLA-C during highly active antiretroviral therapy for human immunodeficiency virus infection. Hum Immunol 2001; 62:1328-34. [PMID: 11756001 DOI: 10.1016/s0198-8859(01)00355-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Receptors interacting with Major Histocompatibility Complex class I molecules have been initially found on the surface of human natural killer (NK) cells, where they deliver inhibitory signals to the lysis, being thus defined killer inhibitory receptors (KIR). Subsequently, they were detected also on the surface of T-CD8(+) lymphocytes and are particularly expanded during human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, where they downregulate HIV-specific cytolysis. The expression of KIR recognizing human leukocyte antigen-C alleles was assessed in HIV-infected patients, undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). To this end, the combined expression of CD16/CD56, of CD3 and CD8 as well as of KIR (CD158a and CD158b) surface molecules was analyzed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells by monoclonal antibodies, and flow cytometry. An increase of CD3(+)CD8(+)CD158b(+) cells was found after 6 months of HAART. This finding may have implications for the regulation of T-cell mediated cytolysis during HAART.
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Cirillo R, Astolfi M, Conte B, Lopez G, Parlani M, Sacco G, Terracciano R, Fincham CI, Sisto A, Evangelista S, Maggi CA, Manzini S. Pharmacology of MEN 11467: a potent new selective and orally- effective peptidomimetic tachykinin NK(1) receptor antagonist. Neuropeptides 2001; 35:137-47. [PMID: 11884203 DOI: 10.1054/npep.2001.0855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We have investigated the pharmacological properties of MEN 11467, a novel partially retro-inverse peptidomimetic antagonist of tachykinin NK(1) receptors. MEN 11467 potently inhibits the binding of [(3)H] substance P (SP) to tachykinin NK(1) receptors in the IM9 limphoblastoid cell line (pK(i) = 9.4 +/- 0.1). MEN 11467 is highly specific for the human tachykinin NK(1) receptors, since it has negligible effects (pK(i) <6) on the binding of specific ligands to tachykinin NK(2) or NK(3) receptors and to a panel of 30 receptors ion channels unrelated to tachykinin receptors. The antagonism exerted by MEN 11467 at tachykinin NK(1) receptors is insurmountable in saturation binding experiments, both K(D) and B(max) of SP were significantly reduced by MEN 11467 (0.3-10 nM). In the guinea-pig isolated ileum, MEN 11467 (0.03-1 nM) produced a nonparallel rightward shift of the concentration-response curve to SP methylester with a concomitant reduction of the Emax to the agonist (pK(B) = 10.7 +/- 0.1). Moreover the antagonist activity of MEN 11467 was hardly reversible despite prolonged washout. In vivo, MEN 11467 produced a long lasting (> 2-3h) dose-dependent antagonism of bronchoconstriction induced by the selective tachykinin NK(1) receptor agonist, [Sar(9), Met(O(2))(11)]SP in anaesthetized guinea-pigs (ID(50)s' = 29+/-5, 31+/-12 and 670+/-270 microg/kg, after intravenous, intranasal and intraduodenal administration, respectively), without affecting bronchoconstriction induced by methacholine. After oral administration MEN 11467 produced a dose-dependent inhibition of plasma protein extravasation induced in guinea-pig bronchi by [Sar(9), Met(O(2))(11)] (ID(50) = 6.7 +/- 2 mg/kg) or by antigen challenge in sensitized animals (ID(50) = 1.3 mg/kg). After i.v. administration MEN 11467 weakly inhibited the GR 73632-induced foot tapping behaviour in gerbil (ED(50) = 2.96 +/- 2 mg/kg), indicating a poor ability to block central tachykinin NK(1) receptors. These results demonstrate that MEN 11467 is a potent, highly selective and orally effective insurmountable pseudopeptide antagonist of peripheral tachykinin NK(1) receptors with a long duration of action.
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Sacco G, Bigioni M, Evangelista S, Goso C, Manzini S, Maggi CA. Cardioprotective effects of zofenopril, a new angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in the rat. Eur J Pharmacol 2001; 414:71-8. [PMID: 11230997 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2999(01)00782-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We have studied the effect of zofenopril, a new angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor in preventing cardiac injury induced by chronic doxorubicin treatment in rats. Cardiac function was assessed by measuring changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) tracings, haemodynamics and cardiac responses in vivo to isoprenaline, 4 weeks after suspension of doxorubicin treatment, in vehicle-treated rats and in animals receiving zofenopril (15 mg/kg/os/day) alone, doxorubicin (1.5 mg/kg i.v. once a week for 5 weeks) or zofenopril+doxorubicin treatment. Doxorubicin induced a significant lengthening of the QalphaT interval, which was completely prevented by zofenopril treatment. The cardiac positive inotropic effect induced by i.v. isoprenaline was selectively depressed by doxorubicin (no changes in chronotropic responses) and this adverse effect of doxorubicin was also prevented in zofenopril+doxorubicin pretreated rats. Doxorubicin induced a significant increase in relative heart weight, which was likewise prevented in zofenopril+doxorubicin treated rats. In separate experiments, zofenopril did not interfere with the antitumor activity of doxorubicin (inhibition of tumor growth in nude mice xenografted with A2780 human tumor line). In conclusion, the oral administration of zofenopril is able to significantly ameliorate, up to 4 weeks after the end of doxorubicin administration, doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity without affecting the antitumor activity of this anthracycline.
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Litta P, Sacco G, Bracciante R, Tozzi R. Hysteroscopic myomectomy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7292(00)83280-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Cirillo R, Sacco G, Venturella S, Brightwell J, Giachetti A, Manzini S. Comparison of doxorubicin- and MEN 10755-induced long-term progressive cardiotoxicity in the rat. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2000; 35:100-8. [PMID: 10630739 DOI: 10.1097/00005344-200001000-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The delayed functional cardiotoxic effects of repeated treatment with the new disaccharide anthracycline MEN 10755 and doxorubicin (1.5 mg/kg, i.v., once a week for 5 consecutive weeks) were investigated in the rat. Changes were assessed (2 days and 4 and 13 weeks after the last treatment) in ECG morphology, hemodynamics, in vivo left ventricular contractile responses to beta-adrenergic stimulation, and histopathology of both atria and ventricles. Doxorubicin induced significant and progressive prolongation of the QalphaT interval starting 2 days after suspension of treatment. At 4 and 13 weeks after the last treatment, the ECG showed a further progressive and significant impairment. MEN 10755 induced alterations similar in nature but of lesser severity compared with doxorubicin. In addition, MEN 10755-induced prolongation of the QalphaT interval was not progressive, being similar at 4 and 13 weeks after the last treatment. Although the hemodynamics were only slightly affected by both anthracyclines, a nearly complete ablation of isoprenaline-induced enhancement of ventricular function was observed 4 and 13 weeks after the last treatment with doxorubicin, whereas only mild, if any, reduction was detected in rats receiving MEN 10755. Histopathologic investigations indicated that both anthracyclines produced qualitatively similar alterations in ventricular myocytes. However, only with doxorubicin did these changes show a progression with a further significant worsening at 13 weeks as compared with 4 weeks after the last treatment. In addition, atrial lesions were evident in doxorubicin-treated rats, but not in rats receiving MEN 10755. In conclusion, an equimyelotoxic regimen of MEN 10755 produced, as compared with doxorubicin, lesser ECG alterations, smaller impairment of the ventricular response to adrenergic stimulation, and less severe myocyte lesions. Unlike doxorubicin, the histologic and functional cardiotoxic effects induced by MEN 10755 were not progressive. Further investigations are warranted to define the pharmacodynamic and/or pharmacokinetic mechanism(s) underlying the different cardiotoxic profile exhibited by the two anthracyclines.
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Mezzaroma I, Carlesimo M, Pinter E, Muratori DS, Di Sora F, Chiarotti F, Cunsolo MG, Sacco G, Aiuti F. Clinical and immunologic response without decrease in virus load in patients with AIDS after 24 months of highly active antiretroviral therapy. Clin Infect Dis 1999; 29:1423-30. [PMID: 10585790 DOI: 10.1086/313520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports an analysis of clinical, virological, and immunologic outcomes in a cohort of 77 multidrug-experienced AIDS patients during 24 months of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Our results have shown a reduced risk of AIDS complications, prolonged survival, and immunologic benefit even in the absence of sustained virus suppression. The degree of immunodepression, the risk factors for HIV-1 infection, the use of 2 drugs instead of 3, and a change in protease inhibitor were independently correlated with virological failure. In the majority of studied patients, an increase in CD4+ T cells was observed after HAART. However, the increase was more pronounced in patients who showed a decrease in virus load than in those who did not. Moreover, we observed an absence of relapses among patients who permanently discontinued prophylaxis for Cytomegalovirus retinitis and atypical mycobacterial infections. Peripheral lipodystrophy developed in the majority of patients, regardless of treatment used and virological outcome.
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Vasile C, Litta P, Sacco G, Minante M. Laparoscopic surgical approach to ectopic pregnancy. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 1999; 26:35-8. [PMID: 10490355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
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Mezzaroma I, Carlesimo M, Pinter E, Alario C, Sacco G, Muratori DS, Bernardi ML, Paganelli R, Aiuti F. Long-term evaluation of T-cell subsets and T-cell function after HAART in advanced stage HIV-1 disease. AIDS 1999; 13:1187-93. [PMID: 10416521 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199907090-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluation of immunological reconstitution after 2 years of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in AIDS patients. DESIGN Previous data showed the effectiveness of HAART but conflicting evidence of immune reconstitution has been found in severely immunocompromised patients. Therefore, T-cell subsets and functions were analysed during 24 months of HAART in 21 AIDS patients (mean baseline CD4 cell count, 20 x 10(6)/l). METHODS Subjects were tested at baseline and after 4, 12 and 24 months of therapy for clinical symptoms and the following investigations were carried out: plasma HIV RNA, T-cell subsets and lymphoproliferative responses to mitogens (phytohaemagglutinin, anti-CD3), and recall antigens (Candida mannoprotein, tetanus toxoid and recombinant glycoprotein 160). RESULTS Increase in body weight, improvement of Karnofsky's score and reduction of opportunistic infections were observed. All patients showed an initial increase in the CD4 memory subset, whereas naive CD4 cells consistently increased only after 1 year. The magnitude of immune recovery was stronger in patients showing a significant reduction in viral load. However seven out of 21 patients who did not reach a sustained suppression of viral load showed also an increase in T-cell subsets. The majority of patients recovered lymphoproliferative responses to mitogens, whereas only four subjects showed a functional response to Candida mannoprotein. No patients showed a response to HIV recombinant glycoprotein 160 or tetanus toxoid. CONCLUSIONS The immune recovery observed is slower and not complete in severely immunocompromised patients. Our data suggest that HAART may be continued also in the absence of a significant HIV RNA decrease if alternative drugs are not available.
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Quinti I, Pandolfi F, Paganelli R, Giovannetti A, Sacco G, Oliva A, Aiuti F. Hepatitis C virus infection in Italian patients with hypogammaglobulinemia. Clin Ther 1996; 18 Suppl B:96-107. [PMID: 8930447 DOI: 10.1016/s0149-2918(96)80201-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in 58 patients with humoral immunodeficiencies. Forty-three of these patients had common variable immunodeficiency (CVI), 2 had sporadic hyperimmunoglobulin M (HIM) syndrome, 2 had immunoglobulin G subclass deficiency, 4 had ataxia-telangiectasia (AT), and 7 had X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA). Patients with late-onset hypogammaglobulinemia (those with CVI, HIM, or immunoglobulin G subclass deficiency) had a 38.2% prevalence of HCV infection. In patients with XLA or AT, HCV infection was not detectable. Most of the HCV-infected patients had persistent viremia, with histologic findings of chronic hepatitis. Although patients positive for HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) had received several lots of immunoglobulin, we were unable to detect any correlation between the time that alanine aminotransferase levels increased and the time that intravenous immunoglobulin therapy was given, except in one patient with CVI. Moreover, we found no differences in the number of blood transfusions, surgical procedures, or administrations of intravenous or intramuscular immunoglobulin between HCV RNA-positive and HCV RNA-negative groups. We concluded that: (1) the incidence of HCV infection in patients with hypogammaglobulinemia is much higher than that reported in the Italian general population; (2) although patients with hypogammaglobulinemia have persistent viremia, they do not show an aggressive course of HCV disease, nor does hepatocarcinoma develop; and (3) intravenous immunoglobulins are only one of several possible causes of HCV transmission in patients with humoral immunodeficiencies.
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Taliani G, Guerra E, Rosso R, Badolato MC, Luzi G, Sacco G, Lecce R, De Bac C, Aiuti F. Hepatitis C virus infection in hypogammaglobulinemic patients receiving long-term replacement therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin. Transfusion 1995; 35:103-7. [PMID: 7825204 DOI: 10.1046/j.1537-2995.1995.35295125730.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroconversion and viremia have been reported in patients treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A prevalence study was conducted to evaluate the rate of HCV infection in patients undergoing long-term treatment with IVIG. Fifty-four patients with congenital or acquired hypogammaglobulinemia treated with IVIG at 300 to 400 mg per kg every 14 to 21 days for a mean of 6.6 years were enrolled for clinical and biochemical examination. The type of IVIG preparation (type 1 only, type 2 only, or other products) administered to each patient was recorded. Antibodies to HCV were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblotting; HCV RNA was detected by nested polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Anti-HCV was detected in 31 patients (57.4%) and HCV RNA was found in 5 patients (9.2%), all of whom were anti-HCV-positive. Abnormal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were found in 10 patients (18.5%). Circulating HCV RNA (p = 0.01) and elevated ALT (p = 0.01) correlated significantly with anti-HCV positivity. Moreover, the rates of anti-HCV positivity and of ALT elevation were significantly higher among patients treated with type 1 IVIG and other products than among those receiving type 2 IVIG (p < 0.001 and p = 0.05, respectively). CONCLUSION Anti-HCV positivity and viremia were frequently observed. The significant correlation between the detection of HCV RNA, the elevation of ALT, and positivity for anti-HCV suggests HCV infection. Exclusion of anti-HCV-positive donors and of anti-HCV-positive IVIG lots should improve the safety of IVIG.
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Corazza GR, Di Sario A, Sacco G, Zoli G, Treggiari EA, Brusco G, Gasbarrini G. Subclinical coeliac disease: an anthropometric assessment. J Intern Med 1994; 236:183-7. [PMID: 8046318 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.1994.tb01281.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with untreated coeliac disease (CD) according to their pattern of presentation, and the effect of gluten-free diet (GFD) upon nutritional status. DESIGN Cohort prospective study. SETTING All subjects were seen at the outpatient 'malabsorption' clinic of the Department of Medical Pathology I, University of Bologna (referral centre), Bologna. SUBJECTS Eighty consecutive patients with CD (48 with classical and 32 with subclinical presentation), 15 patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) and 40 healthy volunteers (members of the hospital staff). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The nutritional status was evaluated by anthropometric measurements (percentage of ideal body weight for height and sex, percentage of standard triceps skinfold thickness and percentage of ideal arm-muscle circumference). RESULTS The overall prevalence of malnutrition in our series of CD patients was 53%. Prevalence of malnutrition (actual body weight less than 90% of the ideal) was significantly higher in classical coeliacs (67%) than in subclinical ones (31%, P < 0.002), in patients with DH (13%, P < 0.0003) and in healthy volunteers (13%, P < 0.0001). At diagnosis, percentage values of ideal body weight, triceps skinfold thickness and arm-muscle circumference were significantly lower (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0002 and P < 0.0003, respectively) in classical coeliacs (84.5 +/- 10.6, 71.2 +/- 28.1 and 87.1 +/- 10.8, respectively) than in subclinical coeliacs (95.5 +/- 9.1, 105.6 +/- 41.0 and 94.8 +/- 10.6, respectively). After GFD, 33% of classical and only 3% of subclinical coeliacs were still malnourished. CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of malnutrition in CD is lower than was previously thought. CD patients with classical presentation may require a longer period of GFD to achieve a significant improvement of their nutritional status, with respect to those with subclinical presentation, probably because of a greater extent of intestinal damage. Finally, a careful evaluation of dietary habits is usually sufficient to identify incomplete adherence to GFD as the reason for nonimprovement of the nutritional status in patients with CD.
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Quinti I, Sacco G, el Salman D, Paganelli R, Fiorilli M, Aiuti F, Pandolfi F. Infection with hepatitis C virus. Intravenous gammaglobulin may still infect patients. BMJ (CLINICAL RESEARCH ED.) 1994; 308:856. [PMID: 7513219 PMCID: PMC2539989 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.308.6932.856a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Pandolfi F, Oliva A, Sacco G, Polidori V, Liberatore D, Mezzaroma I, Giovannetti A, Kurnick JT, Aiuti F. Fibroblast-derived factors preserve viability in vitro of mononuclear cells isolated from subjects with HIV-1 infection. AIDS 1993; 7:323-9. [PMID: 8471193 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199303000-00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from HIV-infected subjects have an increased mortality rate (MR) when incubated in vitro for 3 days in a culture medium. We have previously shown that fibroblast-conditioned medium (FCM) can preserve viability, without significant activation, of human lymphocytes in vitro. We therefore tested the ability of two FCM and other factors to reduce spontaneous MR in HIV-positive PBMC. METHODS PBMC were cultured for 3 days in control medium and medium supplemented with FCM or recombinant cytokines [interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-7, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor]. Cells viable at day 3 were counted in a cytofluorimeter after staining with ethidium bromide. DNA was extracted from the cultures and evaluated for the presence of low molecular weight fragmentation. RESULTS The MR of PBMC from 51 HIV-positive subjects and from 21 healthy controls were 30.1 and 9.5%, respectively (P < 0.0001). The MR was higher in 40 patients with a CD4+ lymphocyte count < 400 x 10(6)/l than in subjects with a count > 400 x 10(6)/l (32.84 versus 20.96%; P = 0.047). IL-2 and FCM significantly reduced MR in HIV-positive subjects (MR: 17.8 and 20.4%; P: < 0.001 and 0.005, respectively). This effect was more evident in subjects with a CD4+ lymphocyte count < 400 x 10(6)/l and in subjects with negative p24 antigenaemia. Cellular proliferation accounts for increased survival in IL-2-supplemented cultures but not in those with FCM. DNA was extracted from fresh PBMC and cells cultured for 3 days for 22 HIV-positive cases. DNA degradation was documented and bands related to an apoptotic mechanism of death observed, especially in subjects with more advanced disease. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that FCM inhibits accelerated cell death in vitro of PBMC isolated from HIV-positive patients.
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Parodi CI, Cammarata S, Pizio N, Sacco G. Traumatic basal ganglia haemorrhage with slight clinical signs and complete recovery. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1992; 55:72. [PMID: 1548502 PMCID: PMC488941 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.55.1.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Brignola C, Farruggia P, Campieri M, Bazzocchi G, Tragnone A, Pasquali S, Iannone P, Sacco G, Lanfranchi GA. Clinical course of Crohn's disease in Italy. Dis Colon Rectum 1987; 30:875-8. [PMID: 3677964 DOI: 10.1007/bf02555428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The clinical course of Crohn's disease in 131 patients was studied for a mean period of 4.2 +/- 3.2 years. The clinical activity of the disease, expressed as percentage of patients per year in an active phase, is high in the first year (70.2 percent) and progressively decreases during subsequent years (25 percent after seven years). The percentage of patients who needed steroid treatment is high during the first year (68 percent) and falls to 19 percent after seven years. An operative risk rate of 54 percent was registered, with a probability of reoperation equal to 34 percent. Clinical relapse after the first surgery occurred in 70 percent of cases. The registered mortality was 6.9 percent, with a ratio of 6 to 1 between observed and expected mortality. In conclusion, the disease, while showing a tendency to reduce its activity over the years, is burdened by a risk of surgery and mortality which progressively increases with time.
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Stobbia GF, Bernardi M, Buffa G, Campagna S, Sacco G, Cassani M. [Single-blind comparative study of lysine acetylsalicylate, indoprofen and sodium diclofenac in post-operative pain]. Minerva Anestesiol 1984; 50:213-7. [PMID: 6436749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Massaro A, Giunchedi M, Sacco G, Carli C, Bettoschi U, Rocca I. [Computer tomography in neurology: anatomo-tomodensitometric study of 59 cases]. RIVISTA DI NEUROBIOLOGIA : ORGANO UFFICIALE DELLA SOCIETA DEI NEUROLOGI, NEURORADIOLOGI E NEUROCHIRURGHI OSPEDALIERI 1983; 29:519-32. [PMID: 6678472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Sacco G, Drickamer K, Wool IG. The primary structure of the cytotoxin alpha-sarcin. J Biol Chem 1983; 258:5811-8. [PMID: 6343394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary structure of the cytotoxin alpha-sarcin was determined. Eighteen of the 19 tryptic peptides were purified; the other peptide has arginine only. The complete sequence of 17 of the peptides was determined; the sequence of the remaining peptide was determined in part. The sequence of the 39 NH2-terminal residues was obtained by automated Edman degradation. The carboxyl-terminal amino acids were identified after carboxypeptidase treatment. The assignment of the amino acids in the tryptic peptides was confirmed and their alignment established from the sequence of the secondary tryptic peptides obtained after cleavage of citraconylated alpha-sarcin, from the sequence of a 2-(2-nitrophenylsulfenyl)-3-methyl-3'-bromoindolenine peptide, from the sequence of a chymotryptic peptide, and from the sequence of a peptide obtained with Staphylococcus aureus V8 protease. alpha-Sarcin contains 150 amino acid residues; the molecular weight is 16,987. There are disulfide bridges between cysteine residues at positions 6 and 148 and between residues 76 and 132.
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Scacchi R, Corbo RM, Palmarino R, Sacco G, Arnone M, Lucarelli P. Human phosphoglucomutase locus 1: red cell enzymatic activities associated with common isoelectric focusing phenotypes. Hum Hered 1983; 33:218-22. [PMID: 6224738 DOI: 10.1159/000153381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Human phosphoglucomutase activity has been determined in red blood cells obtained from 348 unrelated subjects. The mean activities attributed to the four common PGM1 alleles, expressed as micromoles of G6P produced per gram of Hb per hour were 53 for PGMa31, 60 for PGMa11, 61 for PGMa41 and 72 for PGMa21. The relative amount of variation associated with the electrophoretic polymorphism was estimated as 24%.
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Sturani E, Sacco G. Regulation of synthesis of ribosomal protein in Neurospora crassa. Exp Cell Res 1982; 142:357-64. [PMID: 6217082 DOI: 10.1016/0014-4827(82)90377-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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