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Matranga D, Marsala MGL, Vadalà M, Morici M, Restivo V, Ferrara C, Vitale F, Firenze A. Risk assessment in ginecology and obstetrics in Sicily: an approach based on Wolff's Criteria. ANNALI DI IGIENE : MEDICINA PREVENTIVA E DI COMUNITA 2013; 25:137-44. [PMID: 23471451 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2013.1915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To apply Wolff's Criteria to hospital discharge records (HDR) in order to detect adverse events worthy of further study. METHODS Gynecology and Obstetrics Units of three Sicilian hospitals were considered and HDR regarding ordinary and day hospital admissions in 2008 were collected. A matched case-control study was designed, by random selection of 10 controls at maximum for each case. Matching was performed on the variables age and speciality of admission (gynecology or obstetrics). RESULTS Out of a total of 7011 HDR examined, 114 cases were identified with Wolff's Criteria. Multivariate analysis confirmed a statistically significant association with the origin of admission, diagnosis at the acceptance and length of stay: there was a decreased risk of Wolff's event in patients having urgent admission compared to elective (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = [0.28-0.78]), an increased risk in patients reporting tumor (OR = 5:41, 95 % CI [1.89-15.47]) and other causes (OR = 2.16, 95% CI [1.10-4.24]) compared to delivery diagnosis at acceptance and in patients whose length of stay was more than 6 days (OR = 23.17, 95% CI = [12.56-42.7]) compared to less or equal than 3 days CONCLUSION Wolff's Criteria can be applied for the analysis of clinical risk in hospitals with different structural characteristics, on condition that the HDR database is complete and good quality.
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Tramuto F, Maida CM, Bonura F, Perna AM, Vitale F. Dynamics and molecular evolution of HIV-1 strains in Sicily among antiretroviral naïve patients. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2013; 16:290-7. [PMID: 23470353 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2013.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2012] [Revised: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
HIV-1 subtype B is the most frequent strain in Sicily. To date, there is no available data about the genetic diversity of HIV-1 viral strains circulating in Sicily among antiretroviral (ARV) naïve subjects and the role of immigration as potential determinant of evolutionary dynamics of HIV-1 molecular epidemiology. For this purpose, HIV-1 polymerase (pol) sequences obtained from 155 ARV naïve individuals from 2004 to 2009 were phylogenetically analysed. The overall rate of HIV-1 non-B infections was 31.0% (n=48/155), increasing from 7.8% in 2004-2006 to 40.9% in 2009, and about one-third were identified as unique recombinant forms. CRF02_AG was the prevalent non-B clade (n=28/48, 58.3%), while subtype C-related strains were responsible for about 30% HIV-1 infections. Non-B viruses strictly associated with heterosexual transmission (85.4%) and were mostly found among immigrants (77.1%). Phylogenetic analysis of non-B sequences found in foreign-born subjects was geographically correlated to the respective country of origin. Moreover, the detection of non-B viral variants in the autochthonous population may support an increasing genetic diversity in Sicily as well as a local circulation of HIV strains also uncommon in our country. In Sicily, HIV-1 epidemic is still mostly attributable to the B subtype. Nevertheless, migration and population movements are progressively introducing novel HIV-1 subtypes causing a continuous increase of HIV-1 molecular dynamic at local level. Molecular surveillance is needed to monitor the genetic evolution of HIV-1 epidemic.
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Perilli V, Aceto P, Modesti C, Ciocchetti P, Sacco T, Vitale F, Lai C, Magalini SC, Avolio AW, Sollazzi L. Low values of left ventricular ejection time in the post-anhepatic phase may be associated with occurrence of primary graft dysfunction after orthotopic liver transplantation: results of a single-centre case-control study. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2012; 16:1433-1440. [PMID: 23104662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous investigations on risk factors for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) surgery have not analyzed hemodynamic aberrations in great detail. Moreover, the usefulness of esophageal Doppler monitoring has not been extensively studied in this clinical setting. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the occurrence of primary graft dysfunction (PGD) may be anticipated by hemodynamic indexes measured by esophageal Doppler (ED) monitoring system as well as by pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) in patients undergoing OLT. MATERIALS AND METHODS 38 OLT recipients were studied. Patients with acute liver failure or having non treated esophageal varices and those transplanted with marginal donors were excluded from the study. The haemodynamic data - measured by ED monitoring system (HemosonicTM 100, Arrow, OK, USA) and PAC - collected at the following 3 time points were considered for statistical analysis: 30 minutes after the induction of anesthesia but before skin incision, T0; 20 minutes after liver dissection, T1; at the beginning of biliary reconstruction, T2. On the basis of early outcome (72 hours after OLT), patients were distinguished into two groups: those with PGD (grade III-IV of Toronto classification) and those without PGD (grade I-II). RESULTS LVETc (left ventricular ejection time) values, registered at the beginning of biliary reconstruction (T2), were lower in patients with PGD compared to those without PGD (p < 0.000), while there were no differences in hemodynamic parameters derived from PAC between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Since LVETc is related to preload, the results of this study would suggest that normovolemia could be the end point of a fluid replacement strategy in OLT setting.
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Di Paola L, Terrinoni AR, Vitale F. Extracorporeal membrane blood oxygenators: effect of membrane wetting on gas transfer and device performance. ASIA-PAC J CHEM ENG 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/apj.1655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Purpari G, Savini G, Monaco F, Calistri P, Di Gennaro A, Cannella V, Vitale F, Mira F, Di Bella C, Guercio A, Lelli R. Importance of dogs as sentinels of West Nile Virus activity in urban and suburban areas. Int J Infect Dis 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2012.05.923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Purpari G, Giammanco G, Ruggeri F, Rotolo V, Costantino C, Macaluso G, Vitale F, Spoto V, Geraci G, Mammina C, Di Bartolo I, Guercio A. Surveillance of a municipal drinking-water supply after a Norovirus outbreak in Italy. Int J Infect Dis 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2012.05.324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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Costantino C, Calamusa G, Cusimano R, Firenze A, Romano N, Trecca A, Vitale F. A proposal for an evidence-based model of the screening for the colorectal carcinoma in an Italian setting. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2011; 52:191-195. [PMID: 22442924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this paper is to improve the feasibility perception of policymakers, health care workers and target population about the cost-effectiveness of the implementation of colorectal screening as Public Health strategy. METHODS Retrospective study by application of a three-step model designed for a local setting in Sicily (Palermo and its Province) in order to distribute Fecal Occult Blood Tests (FOBTs), offer colonoscopy and surgery, by district allocation of pharmacies, public digestive endoscopic centres and oncologic and general surgery units. Mean adherence to consolidated colorectal screening programs in Italy was applied in order to evaluate the feasibility of an operative model in our area. RESULTS Applying the model to the target population (269,368 individuals of both sexes), it can be expected a mean percentage of 79% delivered invitation and a mean participation rate of 46.3% accounting for a total of 213,070 invited individuals and 98,651 participating in the first round of the program. Furthermore, considering the national mean of 6% positive FOBT, 82% of colonscopy adhesion and 7% CRC detection rate, it can be scheduled a burden for health care structures involved in the program accounting for 49,325 FOBTs, 2,338 colonscopies and 141 surgeries for each year. DISCUSSION This work demonstrates the feasibility of a colorectal screening project in our area, showing a sustainable impact for local health care involved structures. Furthermore, this program may be spread as an applicative model to other areas, adapting the project to the needs of the local setting in which the colorectal screening will be organized.
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Tramuto F, Maida CM, Bonura F, Perna AM, Puzelli S, De Marco MA, Donatelli I, Aprea L, Firenze A, Arcadipane A, Palazzo U, Vitale F. Surveillance of hospitalised patients with influenza-like illness during pandemic influenza A(H1N1) season in Sicily, April 2009-December 2010. Euro Surveill 2011; 16:19957. [PMID: 21903041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper describes the epidemiology of hospitalised cases with influenza-like illness (ILI) and laboratory-confirmed influenza A cases in Sicily (Italy) during the 2009 influenza pandemic. The first ILI case diagnosed as infected with pandemic influenza A(H1N1)2009 in Sicily was reported in June 2009 and it rapidly became the dominant circulating strain. In the period from 30 April 2009 through 31 December 2010, a total of 2,636 people in Sicily were hospitalised for ILI and 1,193 were laboratory-confirmed for influenza A. Basic demographic and clinical information for all hospitalised patients was collected and population mortality rates (PMRs) and case fatality ratios (CFRs) were calculated. The median age of hospitalised patients infected with pandemic influenza A(H1N1)2009 was significantly lower than that of hospitalised ILI cases in general (18.0 vs. 32.1 years; p<0.0001). Among adults, women were more susceptible than men. The majority of clinical presentations were mild, but 6.6% of hospitalised patients required admission to an intensive care unit, of whom 26.3% had confirmed influenza A. Twenty-four fatal cases were documented. The age group of 45–54 year-olds showed the highest PMRs once hospitalised, while CFRs were higher in elderly patients of 65 years and older. All fatal cases were confirmed as influenza A(H1N1)2009 and most of them had established risk factors for influenza complications.
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Tramuto F, Maida CM, Bonura F, Perna AM, Puzelli S, De Marco MA, Donatelli I, Aprea L, Firenze A, Arcadipane A, Palazzo U, Vitale F. Surveillance of hospitalised patients with influenza-like illness during pandemic influenza A(H1N1) season in Sicily, April 2009 – December 2010. Euro Surveill 2011. [DOI: 10.2807/ese.16.35.19957-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
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Piastra M, Bersani I, Pietrini D, de Carolis MP, Conti G, Vitale F, Valentini P. Bullae and purpura revealing protein C consumption. Infection 2011; 39:599-600. [PMID: 21748317 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-011-0150-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Novo G, Corrado E, Tortorici E, Novo A, Agrusa A, Saladino V, Marturana I, Lentini R, Ferrandes M, Visconti C, Massenti F, D'Arienzo M, Vitale F, Gulotta G, Novo S. Cardiac risk stratification in elective non-cardiac surgery: role of NT-proBNP. INT ANGIOL 2011; 30:242-246. [PMID: 21617607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the study was to investigate the utility of NT-proBNP measurement for the stratification of presurgical cardiac risk. METHODS Cardiac risk before elective non-cardiac surgery was evaluated in 82 consecutive patients. From each patient a venous blood sample was drawn to determinate NT-proBNP levels. Patients were followed up over three months in order to detect the occurrence of cardiac adverse events. RESULTS NT-proBNP was positively correlated (P<0.0001) with age, days of hospitalization (P=0.001) and ASA class (P=0.001). High surgical risk (P<0.0001), diabetes (P=0.004), dyslipidemia (P=0.006) and elevated levels of NT-proBNP (P<0.0001) were significantly correlated with events. Using a logistic regression analysis we found an independent association between pre-operative elevated NT-proBNP and postoperative cardiac events (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0-1.4, P=0.01). CONCLUSION Measuring NT-proBNP before non cardiac surgery in clinical practice could be useful to better stratify patients' risk.
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Reale S, Lupo T, Migliazzo A, Di Mauro C, Ciprì V, Calderone S, Manna L, Vitale F. Multilocus Microsatellite Polymorphism Analysis to Characterize Leishmania infantum Strains Isolated in Sicily. Transbound Emerg Dis 2010; 57:37-41. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1865-1682.2010.01131.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Coppola G, Corrado E, Augugliaro S, Mulè MC, Rotolo A, Ciaramitaro G, Farinella M, Evola G, Novo G, Evola S, Andolina G, Caruso M, Cospite V, Vitale F, Hoffmann E, Assennato P, Novo S. Short term prognostic role of NT-proBNP in patients after myocardial infarction. Minerva Cardioangiol 2009; 57:13-21. [PMID: 19202516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
AIM The clinical and prognostic role of cardiac natriuretic peptides (CNP) in patients with heart failure is well known; recently, several studies have evaluated the possibility of using CNP to evaluate their potential prognostic role in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the short term prognostic value of NT-proBNP in 70 patients admitted for ACS. METHODS The authors studied 70 patients with ACS, evaluating, at admission, clinical-anamnestic, instrumental and laboratory characteristics including NT-proBNP plasma levels. Patients were monitored in a 6-month-follow-up to record adverse fatal events and their possible correlation with baseline characteristics. RESULTS The incidence of adverse events during the follow-up period was 28% (10 patients). In patients with adverse events, the authors observed lower left ventricle ejection fraction (P=0.01), higher prevalence of ST elevation myocardial infarction (P=0.03) and higher NT-proBNP levels (P=0.03), compared to those without adverse events. Moreover, the logistic regression analysis underlined how ST elevation myocardial infarction (P=0.05) and higher NT-proBNP levels (P=0.05) were the only predictive variables for adverse events during the follow up period. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the short term prognostic role of NT-pro BNP in patients admitted for ACS.
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Calabrò G, Vallone A, Vitale F, Calabrò V, Pizzarelli M, Spampinato A. [Angiomyofibroblastoma of the spermatic funiculus. A case report of this lesion of the spermatic funiculus]. Urologia 2008; 75:54-56. [PMID: 21086377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The authors are hereby presenting a rare case of angiomyofibroblastoma of the funiculus in a 20-year-old patient, having a non-aching tumefaction at the left region of the scrotum. This tumefaction was solid and non homogeneous, both on ultrasonography and MRI, of about 5cm in diameter, fully separated from the testicle. The markers were all negative. We proceeded with surgical treatment of the neoformation. It is mandatory to include this lesion within the differential diagnosis of testicle masses. The case is presented for its absolute histopathologic rarity and for the difficulty in diagnosis.
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Vitale F, Mirenghi L, Piscopiello E, Pellegrini G, Trave E, Mattei G, Fratoddi I, Russo M, Tapfer L, Mazzoldi P. Gold nanoclusters–organometallic polymer nanocomposites: Synthesis and characterization. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2006.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Buscemi S, Verga S, Cottone S, Andronico G, D'Orio L, Mannino V, Panzavecchia D, Vitale F, Cerasola G. Favorable clinical heart and bone effects of anti-thyroid drug therapy in endogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism. J Endocrinol Invest 2007; 30:230-5. [PMID: 17505157 DOI: 10.1007/bf03347430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Although subclinical hyperthyroidism (SCH) has been associated with increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiac arrhythmias, its treatment is still controversial. This study was designed as a prospective, randomized, intervention, control-study with a 1-year follow-up in order to investigate whether normalization of serum TSH in SCH using methimazole has favorable bone and heart clinical effects. Fourteen patients with endogenous SCH (not Graves' disease) were enrolled, 7 (5 women/2 men; group T) were treated with methimazole (2.5-7.5 mg/day), and 7 (5 women/2 men; group C) were followed without treatment; 10 healthy subjects were also included in the study as controls. Serum free-T3 (FT3), free-T4 (FT4) and TSH, thyroid echography, bone stiffness index (SI), as measured by heel ultrasonometry, and 24-h electrocardiography monitoring were obtained. SCH patients exhibited higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure than control subjects. They also had a significantly higher number of both ventricular premature beats (VPB) (mean+/-SEM: 681+/-238 vs 6+/-2 beats/24 h; p<0.02) and atrial premature beats (APB) (mean+/-SEM: 495+/-331 vs 7+/-2 beats/24 h; p<0.0001), and a lower SI (66+/-5 vs 96+/-3; p<0.001). Twelve months after normalization of TSH with the use of methimazole, the number of VPB decreased significantly (947+/-443 vs 214+/-109 beats/24 h; p<0.05) while it remained unchanged in untreated SCH patients (414+/-163 vs 487+/-152 beats/24 h; p=ns). An insignificant therapy effect was observed as far as APB were concerned (826+/-660 vs 144+/-75 beats/24 h; p=ns), however their number increased significantly in the untreated group (463+/-49 vs 215+/-46 beats/24 h; p<0.05). The SI increased significantly as a result of therapy in group T (64.1+/-4.8 vs 70.0+/-5.3; p<0.02) and was further reduced in group C at the end of the study (69.1+/-7.3 vs 62.9+/-7.1; p<0.001). No adverse effect was observed in group T. In conclusion, anti-thyroid therapy seems to have favor-able bone and heart clinical effects in subjects with endogenous SCH.
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Ferroglio E, Vitale F. Diagnosis of Leishmaniosis: Between Old Doubts and New Uncertainties. Vet Res Commun 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-006-0008-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Modesti C, Sacco T, Morelli G, Bocci MG, Ciocchetti P, Vitale F, Perilli V, Sollazzi L. Balanced anestesia versus total intravenous anestesia for kidney transplantation. Minerva Anestesiol 2006; 72:627-35. [PMID: 16865081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM An ideal anesthetic regimen for kidney transplantation should be able to assure haemodynamic stability to obtain an optimal graft reperfusion. The aim of this study was to compare 2 regimens of anesthesia for patients submitted to kidney transplantation. METHODS We studied 40 patients: 20 subjects (Group A) received balanced anesthesia with thiopental, fentanyl and isoflurane, to the others 20 (Group B), a total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) with propofol and remifentanyl was given. In both groups muscle relaxation was obtained with a bolus of cisatracurium followed by a continuous infusion. We performed standard clinical, invasive blood pressure and central venous pressure monitoring. Hemodyna-mic data have been collected at standard times. During the postoperative period we evaluated the recovery (Aldrete Score) in the recovery room and the analgesia (VAS) at 1, 6, 24 h after the end of surgery. RESULTS The trend of hemodynamic parameters did not show statistically significant differences between the 2 groups. We observed statistically significant differences concerning the quality of the recovery and the postoperative analgesia. The recovery in group B was faster than in group A, but in group A the pain control was better than in group B at least during the first postoperative hour. CONCLUSIONS For their pharmacokinetic properties, propofol, remifentanyl and cisatracurium allow to obtain a good control of the hemodynamic parameters and a fast and safe recovery of consciousness. Total intravenous anesthesia regimen seems to be an alternative to the balanced anesthesia for patients undergoing kidney transplantation.
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Antonelli G, Priolo D, Vitale F, Ferraù F. Locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: different strategies for different diseases. Ann Oncol 2006; 17 Suppl 2:ii24-27. [PMID: 16608975 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdj915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Lanzillo R, Aurino S, Fanin M, Aguennoz M, Vitale F, Fiorillo C, Del Giudice E, Nigro V, Santoro L. Early onset calpainopathy with normal non-functional calpain 3 level. Dev Med Child Neurol 2006; 48:304-6. [PMID: 16542520 DOI: 10.1017/s001216220600065x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Limb girdle muscular dystrophy 2A (LGMD2A), caused by calpain 3 deficiency, is currently diagnosed through the immunodetection of muscle protein by Western blot (WB) analysis . However, WB may provide normal results in patients with LGMD2A. The case of a female (3y 6mo of age) is described. She was found to be affected by asymptomatic hypercreatine-kinaesaemia during routine biochemical analysis at 10 months of age and had developed myopathic signs at the last neurological assessment. The WB of muscle biopsy performed at 28 months of age showed a normal quantity and pattern of bands for calpain 3. Despite this finding, on molecular analysis she was found to be a compound heterozygote for two mutations of the calpain 3 (CAPN3) gene (R110X and G222R). Autocatalytic activity assay showed a loss of function of calpain 3. This is the first genetically confirmed case of very early onset calpainopathy with a normal amount of protein at WB. Molecular analysis is also suggested in very young patients with normal WB.
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Pennisi MG, Reale S, Giudice SL, Masucci M, Caracappa S, Vitale M, Vitale F. Real-time PCR in dogs treated for leishmaniasis with allopurinol. Vet Res Commun 2006; 29 Suppl 2:301-3. [PMID: 16244980 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-005-0067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
MESH Headings
- Albumins/analysis
- Allopurinol/therapeutic use
- Animals
- Antibodies, Protozoan/blood
- Antiprotozoal Agents/therapeutic use
- Biopsy, Fine-Needle/veterinary
- Biopsy, Needle/veterinary
- DNA, Protozoan/chemistry
- DNA, Protozoan/genetics
- Dog Diseases/blood
- Dog Diseases/drug therapy
- Dog Diseases/parasitology
- Dogs
- Female
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect/veterinary
- Globulins/analysis
- Leishmania/genetics
- Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous/blood
- Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous/drug therapy
- Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous/parasitology
- Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous/veterinary
- Lymph Nodes/parasitology
- Male
- Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary
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Arena S, D'Ambrosio C, Renzone G, Rullo R, Ledda L, Vitale F, Maglione G, Varcamonti M, Ferrara L, Scaloni A. A study ofStreptococcus thermophilus proteome by integrated analytical procedures and differential expression investigations. Proteomics 2006; 6:181-92. [PMID: 16281183 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200402109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus thermophilus is a Gram-positive bacterium belonging to the group of lactic acid bacteria, among which several genera play an essential role in manufacture of food products. Recently, a genomic consortium sequenced and annotated its entire genome, which has been demonstrated to contain 1900 coding sequences. In this study, we have revealed the expression products of almost 200 different genes using a proteomic strategy combining 2-DE plus MALDI-TOF PMF and differential 1-DE plus muLC-ESI-IT-MS/MS. Thus, a number of cellular pathways related to important physiological processes were described at the proteomic level. Almost 50 genes were related to multiple electrophoretic species, whose heterogeneity was mainly due to variability in pI values. A 2-DE reference map obtained for lactose-grown cells was compared with those obtained after heat, cold, acid, oxidative and starvation stresses. Protein up/down-regulation measurements demonstrated that adaptation to different environmental challenges may involve the contribution of unique as well as combined physiological mechanisms. Common regulatory sites in the promoter region of genes whose expression was induced after stress were identified. These results provide a better comprehension of biochemical processes related to stress resistance in S. thermophilus, allowing defining the molecular bases of adaptative responses or markers for the identification of strains with potential industrial applications.
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Boarino A, Scalone A, Gradoni L, Ferroglio E, Vitale F, Zanatta R, Giuffrida MG, Rosati S. Development of recombinant chimeric antigen expressing immunodominant B epitopes of Leishmania infantum for serodiagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis. CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY IMMUNOLOGY 2005; 12:647-53. [PMID: 15879027 PMCID: PMC1112073 DOI: 10.1128/cdli.12.5.647-653.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Wild canids and domestic dogs are the main reservoir of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania infantum (syn.: Leishmania chagasi). Serological diagnosis of VL is therefore important in both human and dog leishmaniasis from a clinical and epidemiological point of view. Routine diagnosis of VL is traditionally carried out by immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT), which is laborious and difficult to standardize and to interpret. In the last decade, however, several specific antigens of Leishmania infantum have been characterized, allowing the development of a recombinant-based immunoassay. Among them, the whole open reading frame encoding K9 antigen, the gene fragment encoding the repetitive sequence of K26, and the 3'-terminal gene fragment of the kinesin-related protein (K39sub) were previously evaluated as diagnostic markers for canine leishmaniasis and proved to be independent in their antibody reactivity. Since sensitivity of serological test is usually higher in multiple-epitope format, in this study the relevant epitopes of K9, K26, and K39 antigens were joined by PCR strategy to produce the chimeric recombinant protein. The resulting mosaic antigen was found highly expressed in Escherichia coli and efficiently purified by affinity chromatography. Antigenic properties of this recombinant antigen were evaluated by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using a panel of human and dog sera previously characterized by parasitological and/or serological techniques. Chimeric ELISA showed 99% specificity in both human (n = 180) and canine (n = 343) control groups, while sensitivity was higher in canine VL (96%, n = 213) than in human VL (82%, n = 185). Accordingly, concordance between IFAT and canine chimeric ELISA (k = 0.95, 95% confidence interval = 0.93 to 0.98) was higher than between IFAT and human chimeric ELISA (k = 0.81, 95% confidence interval = 0.76 to 0.87). Results suggest the potential use of this new antigen for routine serodiagnosis of VL in both human and canine hosts.
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Vitale F, Di Benedetto MA, Casuccio A, Firenze A, Calandra G, Ballarò F, Romano N. [The influence of professional degree on the knowledge of HIV, HBV and HCV infections in dentistry practice]. ANNALI DI IGIENE : MEDICINA PREVENTIVA E DI COMUNITA 2005; 17:185-96. [PMID: 16041921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The knowledge and preventive practices toward the risk of infection with HIV, HBV and HCV were evaluated in a sample of 254 dentists and odontostomatologies in Palermo, by answering to an anonymous questionnaire sent by mail. Overall, most of the participants showed a good knowledge of the transmission pattern of blood-borne viruses as well as good practice for personal hygiene (washing of hands, routine use of gloves, etc.). However 80.8% answered to recap needles after use and more than 40% have had at least one needle injury during the last year in their occupational setting. Moreover, nearly 24% of the interviewed declared to have not made vaccination against Hepatitis B virus infection. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation between better knowledge, safer practice and different teaching training suggesting that odontostomatology degree might be more appropriate for a better training in preventive medicine for blood borne pathogens. Data also suggest the need of continuous worker education to reduce occupational blood exposures in dentistry.
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Pennisi MG, De Majo M, Masucci M, Britti D, Vitale F, Del Maso R. Efficacy of the treatment of dogs with leishmaniosis with a combination of metronidazole and spiramycin. Vet Rec 2005; 156:346-9. [PMID: 15789648 DOI: 10.1136/vr.156.11.346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Twenty-seven dogs infected naturally with Leishmania infantum were used in a randomised controlled trial to compare the clinical and parasitological efficacy of an oral treatment with a combination of metronidazole and spiramycin (13 dogs) with the efficacy of conventional treatment with meglumine antimonate and allopurinol (14 dogs) as controls. In the test group one dog had to be withdrawn from the treatment because it developed pemphigus foliaceus; 10 of the dogs were clinically responsive but none was cured parasitologically. In the control group four dogs were withdrawn from the treatment because of side effects; eight of the dogs were clinically responsive but none was cured parasitologically. The control group showed signs of improvement after an average of 30 days, whereas the test group did not show signs of improvement until after an average of 45 days.
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