Latex-fruit syndrome in Italian children and adolescents with natural rubber latex allergy

Approximately 30-50 percent of individuals with natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy show an associated hypersensitivity to particular plant-derived foods, which has been defined "latex-fruit syndrome" (LFS). In our population of 22 patients with IgE-mediated NRL allergy we found a relevant prevalence (36 percent) of LFS, which resulted significantly higher in the group of patients with more severe clinical manifestations of NRL allergy than in patients with contact symptoms due to NRL (78 percent vs 8 percent; less than 0.005).

Characteristics of spontaneous physical activity and executive functions in postmenopause

AIM

Executive functions are susceptible to age-related changes, and menopause has also been shown to be linked with their decline. The aim of the present study was to investigate the variables related to executive functions in postmenopausal women not involved in controlled dietary and physical exercise programs and without hormone-replacement therapy.

METHODS

Fifty-seven women (58.39 ±4.16 yr) were investigated for their medical history, blood lipids, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), body composition, blood pressure, executive functions (Digit Span and Trail Making tests), maximal aerobic capacity, dietary habits, and spontaneous physical activity.

RESULTS

Cluster analysis performed on the basal data of the Digit Span scores and Trail Making tests identified two subgroups: Group A (N.=24) that showed better executive functions than Group B (N.=33). Although these subgroups differed across several variables of body composition, plasma lipids, dietary habits, spontaneous physical activity, aerobic fitness, and insulin resistance, logistic regression models showed B10m/die as the only predictive variable for subgroup membership.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of a physical exercise program, the knowledge of how spontaneous physical activity is organized (B10m/die) is important for executive functions of post-menopausal women. It is the specific moderate to intense physical activity characteristic of B10m/die, rather than generic physical activity, that seems to determine the maintenance or attainment of cognitive health through body movement.

Recent advances in diagnosis and therapy of allergic rhinitis and asthma in childhood

Some of the most recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood asthma and allergies are here reviewed. New perspectives have been opened by in vitro diagnostic tests for allergies based on a molecular approach and novel approaches to in vivo tests (SPT or FE(NO)). A better characterization of the patients is opening new classifications of allergic asthma and rhinitis phenotypes, which allow personalizing management disease programs and targeting pharmacotherapy. Educational programs and better communication are improving awareness and compliance with medical prescriptions and adherence to guidelines. Increasing information is being acquired on the mechanisms, efficacy and safety profiles of anti-asthma and anti-allergic drugs, including antihistamines, inhaled corticosteroids, long acting beta agonists, antibiotics, anti-IgE antibodies. Progress in biotechnologies is fostering new approaches to allergen-specific immunotherapy (subcutaneous, sublingual) concerning the quality, mechanisms, efficacy and safety of allergen products.

The impact of acute intoxications in a toxicological unit care in north east Italy

Retrospective study in a toxicological unit care (TUC) performed to know the epidemiology of acute intoxication (AI) in Verona (Italy) during years 2008-2009. All data regarding patients with a diagnosis of certain/suspected AI were collected and evaluated: some demographic information, the characteristics of the agent involved, the pattern of exposure, the triage at the admission to TUC and the outcome. 244 cases were analyzed: 45.9% males and 54.9% females, mean age respectively 45.1 and 43.9 years. The monthly distribution of admitted patients resulted fairly constant, except from a light rising prevalence in autumn, with a majority of yellow (45.9%) and green (43.4%) triage code. The pattern of exposure resulted: ingestion (82.7% of cases; age peaks: 18-34 and 35-51 years old; mostly due to food (as mushrooms), drinks, detergents, soap, pharmaceutical, drugs of abuse, caustics substances), contact (10.2% of cases; age peak 18-51) and inhalation (6.9% of cases). In 17.2% of cases the poisoning exposure was intentional. In 63.5% the patients were sent to their general practitioners (45.5% of the yellow and 81.1% of the green coded patients) and in 22.1% of cases they were admitted to clinical rooms (44.6% of the yellow coded patients). In most cases the triage code assigned to the studied patients resulted yellow and green. Considering that the seriousness of the symptoms can appear after several hours from the exposure to toxic substances, a quick and specific intervention to obtain the best therapeutical effectiveness is suitable, in order to save lives or to avoid irremediable health damages.

Species-specific DNA probe and development of a quantitative PCR assay for the detection of Morganella morganii

AIMS

To develop a SYBR Green quantitative PCR assay (qPCR) for the specific detection of Morganella morganii, a fish pathogen responsible for the Histamine Fish Poisoning.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A new primer set, amplifying a 179-bp fragment of the 16S rRNA gene, was selected for specificity, and 14 M. morganii strains and 32 non-Morganella strains were evaluated. The melting temperature of 84°C was consistently specific for the amplicon. Two standard curves were constructed: the minimum detection sensitivity was 0·563 pg of pure DNA, corresponding to DNA extracted from nine cells of M. morganii. The qPCR assay was evaluated in experiments with seeded fish samples, and the regression coefficient values were calculated.

CONCLUSIONS

A highly specific and rapid assay was developed for the detection of M. morganii in tuna fish samples.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This method represents the first study about the quantification of pathogenic M. morganii in fish products. This approach can be utilized to prevent the presence of this undesirable species in the food chain.

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) regulates blood-testis barrier (BTB) in adult rats

We have studied the effects of HGF on BTB dynamics in adult rats. We demonstrate that, at stages VII-VIII of the epithelium wave when germ cells traverse the BTB, HGF reduces the levels of occludin and influences its distribution pattern and assembling. Moreover, we report that, at stages VII-VIII, HGF significantly increases the amount of active TGF-β and the amount of uPA present in the tubules. For the first time we report that, in the same stages, HGF reduces the amount of actin present in the BTB region, in which occludin levels are highest, and modifies the morphology of the actin cytoskeleton network. At the level of maximal intensity of occludin fluorescence, we report that HGF also modifies the colocalization of occludin and actin. Lastly, we demonstrate that HGF is maximally expressed at stages VII-VIII, whereas its levels fall in the subsequent stages.

Colon cancer adrenal metastasis: case report and review of the literature

The authors report a case of alone right adrenal metastasis from colon carcinoma discovered incidentally by CT scan imaging 4 years after colon resection in a 74-year-old man. The presence of metastasis in the adrenal glands represents the second most frequent cause of "adrenal incidentaloma", following cortical-adrenal adenomas. The most common primary tumors responsible for adrenal metastasis are carcinoma of the lung, breast and kidney. Alone adrenal metastases due to colon or rectal carcinoma is very rare. Due to their rarity, at present there are not randomised studies supporting the effectiveness of surgery. Nevertheless, on the basis of international Literature and our experience of adrenalectomy could represent the current "gold-standard" therapeutic approach.

Antibiotic Allergy

Antibiotics are commonly injected during the perioperative period and are responsible of 15% of the anaphylactic reactions. Anaphylaxis triggered by antibiotics primarily involves penicillin and cephalosporin. The management of patients with histories of allergic reactions to antibiotics is a common situation in clinical practice. The confirmation or invalidation of the allergic nature of the reported reaction is not based on in vitro tests, but on a rigorous allergological work-up based on detailed analysis of clinical history, skin tests and drug provocation test. Considering a possible cross-reactivity between penicillins, once an immediate penicillin allergy has been diagnosed, skin testing with the alternative molecule (cephalosporin, carbapenem, aztreonam) is mandatory and, if negative, the relevant drug should be given in an appropriate setting at increasing doses.

Evolution of Hypogammaglobulinemia in Premature and Full-Term Infants

There are few data in the literature reporting the evolution of hypogammaglobulinemia in premature and full-term infants during the first years of life. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and immunological evolution of premature and full-term infants with hypogammaglobulinemia. We included 24 children (11 premature and 13 full-term infants), aged 0–36 months, with hypogammaglobulinemia. Fifteen (62.5%) children had an isolated reduction in IgG, 7 (29.2%) had a decrease in both IgG and IgA and 2 (8.3%) a reduction in IgG and IgM. Normalization of IgG serum levels occurred in the premature infants at a mean age of 7.2 months. Full-term infants were divided into 3 groups based on age at normalization of IgG serum level: A) hypogammaglobulinemia with normalization within 12 months of life; B) with normalization within 36 months of life; C) normalization after 36 months. All the premature infants with hypogammaglobulinemia recovered, even though in the lower limits for age in the first years, while transient hypogammaglobulinemia observed in full-term infants has a different age of recovery.

Metabolic myopathies: functional evaluation by different exercise testing approaches

Metabolic myopathies are a clinically and etiologically heterogeneous group of disorders due to defects in muscular energy metabolism. They include glycogen storage diseases, fatty acid oxidation defects, and mitochondrial disorders. The typical manifestations of a metabolic myopathy are exercise-induced myalgias, exercise intolerance, and cramps. Evaluating subjects with such symptoms is not easy because of the frequent lack of clinical features. Exercise tests are, therefore, reliable screening tools. Here, we discuss the possible role of such exercise testing techniques in the diagnostic approach of a patient with suspected metabolic myopathy.

Allergy is not the main trigger of urticaria in children referred to the emergency room

BACKGROUND

Urticaria is the disease that has the highest impact on quality of life and requires the most visits to the emergency room.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical presentation of acute urticaria in children referred to the paediatric emergency room of our hospital and to define possible related aetiologies.

METHODS

We included 814 children consecutively referred to the emergency room between January 2006 and December 2007 with a diagnosis of acute urticaria, isolated or associated with other clinical symptoms.

RESULTS

Only 2.0% of the cases studied were associated with severe clinical pictures. In 437 cases (53.7%), the cause of urticaria was not determined. The infections of the respiratory tract were the most frequently suspected aetiological factor. The diagnosis of allergic urticaria is more defined, but belongs to a minority group (10.8%). The first level treatment includes the use of non-sedating oral H1-antihistamine.

CONCLUSION

The children with urticaria are frequently referred to the paediatric emergency room, but only in a few cases were associated with severe clinical manifestations or allergy. The evidence of an inverse relationship between the number of accesses and the patients' age may be explained by the higher prevalence of this disease in early childhood and possibly also by a higher concern of the parents of the younger patients.

The effect of hepatocyte growth factor on the initial stages of mouse follicle development

Interactions between theca and granulosa cells of the follicle are critical for the coordination of ovarian follicle development. The cell-cell interactions are mediated through the local production and actions of a variety of factors. The current study is designed to investigate the expression of Hgf and its receptor, c-Met, in the mouse ovary during in vivo folliculogenesis. We found that Hgf and c-Met mRNAs were already expressed in 2-day-old ovaries, and that, while c-Met levels remained constant until 22-day-old, Hgf levels slightly but not significantly increased with age. The expression of Hgf mRNA in theca/interstitial cells was higher than in granulosa cells in 22-day-old ovaries. Immunohistochemistry analysis confirmed the expression pattern demonstrated by RT-PCR. We investigated the role of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) at the beginning of mouse folliculogenesis and its possible interaction with kit ligand (KL). Interestingly, both KL and HGF were able to increase the expression of each other, creating a positive feedback loop. In the presence of HGF, we observed an increase of granulosa cell proliferation and an increase in the number of pre-antral and early antral follicles in ovary organ cultures. We also observed a significant increase in the diameters of follicles in individual follicle cultures. Moreover, HGF stimulated the expression of the FSH receptors, both in the whole ovary and in isolated pre-antral follicle cultures. Based on the data presented, we concluded that HGF exerts multiple levels of control over follicular cell functions, which collectively enable the progression of follicular development.

Ecto-mesenchymal stem cells from dental pulp are committed to differentiate into active melanocytes

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are multipotent stem cells derived from neural crest and mesenchyme and have the capacity to differentiate into multiple cell lineages. It has already been demonstrated that DPSCs differentiate into melanocyte-like cells but only when cultivated in a specific melanocyte differentiating medium. In this study we have shown, for the first time, that DPSCs are capable of spontaneously differentiating into mature melanocytes, which display molecular and ultrastructural features of full development, including the expression of melanocyte specific markers and the presence of melanosomes up to the terminal stage of maturation. We have also compared the differentiating features of DPSCs grown in different culture conditions, following the timing of differentiation at molecular and cytochemical levels and found that in all culture conditions full development of these cells was obtained, although at different times. The spontaneous differentiating potential of these cells strongly suggests their possible applications in regenerative medicine.

Streptococcus Mutans and Streptococcus Sobrinus are Able to Adhere and Invade Human Gingival Fibroblast Cell Line

Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, the principal etiologic agents of caries decay of teeth, are generally acquired in oral cavity at the moment of tooth eruption. However, as S. mutans has been detected in oral cavity of predentate children, the eruption of teeth seems not to be a necessary prerequisite, suggesting that this species may be not confined to dental plaque. Here, we evaluate the ability of S. mutans and S. sobrinus in planktonic and biofilm lifestyle to adhere, invade and survive within human gingival fibroblast (HGF-1) cells. Planktonic and biofilm streptococci adhered and invaded host cells to different extents, showing higher efficiencies of biofilm than planktonic counterparts. Moreover, planktonic and biofilm streptococci showed the same percentage of survival within host cells. Transmission electron and confocal microscopy observations confirmed intracellular localization of planktonic and biofilm bacteria. The adhesion, invasion and survival abilities within human oral cells may be considered S. mutans and S. sobrinus virulence mechanisms to colonize and persist in the oral cavity in the absence of tooth surface.

Prevalent cardiac phenotype resulting in heart transplantation in a novel LMNA gene duplication

Mutations in the lamin A/C gene (LMNA) are known to be involved in several diseases such as Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 1B and dilated cardiomyopathies with conduction disease, with considerable phenotype heterogeneity. Here we report on a novel autosomal dominant mutation in LMNA in two direct relatives presenting with different clinical phenotypes, characterized by severe life-threatening limb-girdle muscle involvement and cardiac dysfunction treated with heart transplantation in the proband, and by ventricular tachyarrhythmias with preserved cardiac and skeletal muscle function in her young son. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a duplication in the LMNA gene. The two phenotypes described could reflect different clinical stages of the same disease. We hypothesize that early recognition and initiation of therapeutic manoeuvres in the younger patient may retard the rate of progression of the cardiomyopathy.

Diabetic rat testes: morphological and functional alterations

Reproductive dysfunction is a consequence of diabetes, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. This study investigated the histological and molecular alterations in the testes of rats injected with streptozotocin at prepuperal (SPI rats) and adult age (SAI rats) to understand whether diabetes affects testicular tissue with different severity depending on the age in which this pathological condition starts. The testes of diabetic animals showed frequent abnormal histology, and seminiferous epithelium cytoarchitecture appeared altered as well as the occludin distribution pattern. The early occurrence of diabetes increased the percentage of animals with high number of damaged tubules. The interstitial compartment of the testes was clearly hypertrophic in several portions of the organs both in SPI and SAI rats. Interestingly, fully developed Leydig cells were present in all the treated animals although abnormally distributed. Besides the above-described damages, we found a similar decrease in plasma testosterone levels both in SPI and SAI rats. Oxidative stress (OS) is involved in the pathogenesis of various diabetic complications, and in our experimental models we found that manganese superoxide dismutase was reduced in diabetic animals. We conclude that in STZ-induced diabetes, the altered spermatogenesis, more severe in SPI animals, is possibly due to the effect of OS on Leydig cell function which could cause the testosterone decrease responsible for the alterations found in the seminiferous epithelium of diabetic animals.

Sigmoidorectal intussusception in adults: a case report

A 75-year-old women was admitted to our hospital due to anal bleeding from 5 days. At clinical examination abdomen was soft but tenderness in the lower quadrants, where a soft, mobile, round mass measuring 10 cm in diameter was palpable. CT scan demonstrated the presence of sigmoido-rectal intussusception. The patient underwent emergency anterior resection of rectum with stapled termino-terminal colo-rectal anastomosis. Postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged 7 days after the operation. Histopathological examination demonstrated a tubular adenoma with low grade dysplasia, 1,2 cm in diameter, located in the distal sigmoid colon. Intussusception is a rather common pediatric condition that rarely presents in adults. Adults intussusception represents 5% of all cases of intussusception. In children it is usually primary and benign, and pneumatic or hydrostatic reduction of the intussusception is sufficient to treat the condition in 80% of patients. In contrast a demonstrable etiology is found in 70% to 90% of cases in adults, and approximately 40%-50% of them are caused by malignant neoplasms. Surgical intervention is necessary in all cases of intussusception in adults. Due to the low incidence and the rare consideration given to this condition among adults the preoperative diagnosis can be difficult, especially in emergency cases. Abdominal CT provides the most accurate diagnostic rate for intestinal intussusception.

[GA(2)LEN (Global Allergy and Asthma European Network): European network of excellence for asthma and allergic diseases]

Allergic diseases represent some of the main health problems in Europe. These are increasing in prevalence, seriousness and social cost. The Global Allergy and Asthma European Network (GA(2)LEN), a network of excellence of the 6 degrees management program, was created in the 2005 with the aim to gather the European leader institutions of the research and clinical assistance fields, in order to guarantee the excellence and avoid the fragmentation of the energy spent in fighting allergy diseases in general. The GA(2)LEN has drawn a great advantage from the personal efforts of every single researcher who have proved their strong motivation in carrying on this "pan-European" model of collaboration. The network has been organized in order to increase the team work in scientific research projects in allergic and asthma disease field, making the GA(2)LEN the worldwide leader in this area. On these basis research projects have been carried on about which first data have been already published. The activities of the GA(2)LEN include in general the establishment of a lasting organization of the planning phase, the activity linked to every single project and to the improving on the existing projects, as well as the draft of new guidelines. This review reports the main achieved goals.

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) modulates Leydig cell extracellular matrix components

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a pleiotropic factor that plays multiple roles during mammalian development. We previously demonstrated that in the postnatal testes, the HGF receptor, c-met, is expressed by Leydig cells and HGF increases the steroidogenetic activity of the cells. In the present article, we report that HGF modifies the composition of the extracellular matrix of cultured Leydig cells. We show that HGF increases the metabolic activity of isolated Leydig cells; in particular, the factor increases urokinase plasminogen activator and matrix metalloproteinase 2 secretion. We have also shown that the levels of active transforming growth factor beta are increased by HGF. On the contrary, using the Western blotting technique, a strong reduction in the amount of fibronectin present in the culture medium of cells cultured in the presence of HGF has been detected. The presented data demonstrate that HGF modulates several functional activities of Leydig cells, further supporting the hypothesis that this factor has a relevant role in the regulation of mammalian spermatogenesis.

Influence of extero- and proprioceptive afferents of the plantar surface in determining subjective visual vertical in patients with unilateral vestibular dysfunction

Subjective visual vertical refers to an individual's ability to indicate what, in his or her opinion, is a perfectly vertical line in specific experimental conditions. Although the otolith organs play a key role in the perception of verticality, the contribution of other sensory systems, e.g. the visual and proprioceptive systems, cannot be overlooked. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that extero- and proprioceptive afferent signals, particularly from the plantar surface of the foot, can influence the temporal evolution of altered subjective visual vertical following unilateral acute vestibular dysfunction. Subjective visual vertical was studied in 40 consecutive patients: 19 females and 21 males (mean age 46.4 years). It was first measured at diagnosis (1-2 days after onset of symptoms). For this measurement, a baseline test was performed (patient standing in direct contact with the floor), followed by a provocation test with a soft support between the patient's feet and the floor. Based on a comparison between the baseline and provocation tests, the patients were divided into three groups: Group A--patients showing a significant increase (p < 0.05) in subjective visual vertical(0 )values in the provocation test compared to baseline values; Group B--patients showing a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in subjective visual vertical(0 )values in the provocation test compared to baseline values; Group C--patients showing no significant changes (p < 0.05) in subjective visual vertical(0 )values in the provocation test compared to baseline values. The baseline test was repeated at 30, 90 and 180 days. At the end of the follow-up, a persistent change in subjective visual vertical was noted in 87% of the patients from Group B, 31% of the patients from Group C but none of the patients from Group A, all of whom were able to correct the perception error during the second examination. The study demonstrates that normalisation of subjective visual vertical in subjects with unilateral vestibular lesions seems to be influenced by the possibility of exploiting extra-vestibular sensory information, particularly extero- and proprioceptive information from the plantar surface.

Astrocyte-neuron interactions in neurological disorders

Astrocytes have long been considered as just providing trophic support for neurons in the central nervous system, but recently several studies have highlighted their importance in many functions such as neurotransmission, metabolite and electrolyte homeostasis, cell signaling, inflammation, and synapse modulation. Astrocytes are, in fact, part of a bidirectional crosstalk with neurons. Moreover, increasing evidence is stressing the emerging role of astrocyte dysfunction in the pathophysiology of neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative disease, stroke, epilepsy, migraine, and neuroinflammatory diseases.

Epidemiology of domestic injuries. A survey in an emergency department in North-East Italy

INTRODUCTION

Home injuries (HI) represent a social and public health problem worldwide. In Italy, there are 1,300,000-1,700,000 admissions to Emergency Department (ED) for HI and 130,000 hospitalizations every year, but the data are incomplete and fragmentary. A study of the phenomenon was carried out in Emergency Department (ED) of Civil Hospital of Verona to evaluate prevalence, characteristics and possible preventive actions.

METHODS

In 2007, 3120 admission for HI have been registered at the Eä of the Civil Hospital of Verona. The distribution was calculated in relation to sex, age, month, code of urgency, outcomes, type and location of trauma.

RESULTS

Children in pre-school age, men between 30 and 40 years and women over 60 years are the population groups most at risk, with a fairly homogeneous incidence distribution. Both sexes have similar distributions up to 41-50 years followed by an increase in females and a decrease in males at higher age. The traumas are generally slight (49.8% white code and 42.1% green code) and the hospitalizations represent 5.8% of all recorded HI. The most frequent injuries are wounds/abrasions (28.7%), contusions/crushing (27.7%) and fractures/distortions/ dislocations. The most affected body parts are hands and wrists (25.9%). Head trauma is significantly more frequent in children and elderly people, fracture in elderly people, and burn in adult women and male children. Every year about 30% of the admissions to emergency departments are caused by HI. Even though 92% of the times the events aren't serious, the sanitary cost is consistent due to the elevate number of admissions. It is therefore important to do prevention through sanitary education and adequate building legislation.

The collection and conservation in Italy of stem cells from umbilical cord blood

The blood contained in the umbilical cord offers a precious source of pluripotent stem cells, easily obtainable without invasive procedures, a source that, unlike embryonic stem cells, affords greater respect for ethical concerns. In relation to the therapeutic potential of these stem cells, personalized blood banks for newborns have been created and in various countries systems of research and cryoconservation of umbilical cord blood have been created, especially in private facilities. This facilitates promotion of the culture of donation and development of a network of umbilical cord blood sources, and spurs research to evaluate the real therapeutic potential of these cells. Italy has long prohibited management of umbilical cord blood in private form. Today, with new laws, Italy has achieved the indispensable legislative update in acknowledgment of social needs. Actually, the achieved system is solid autologous conservation. It guarantees to conserve a greater number of umbilical cords in public and private facilities.

Effects of gliadin stimulation on bone marrow-derived dendritic cells from HLA-DQ8 transgenic MICE

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gliadin presentation by HLA-DQ2/8 molecules to T cells plays a crucial role in triggering the inflammatory cascade in coeliac disease. We aimed to study the immunological effects of gliadin stimulation on dendritic cells (DCs) from HLA-DQ8 transgenic and BALB/c mice.

METHODS

Bone marrow-derived DCs were stimulated with alpha-chymotrypsin-digested gliadin or ovoalbumin (100 microg/ml). Modification of DC maturation, through HLA-DQ8 and MHC class II expression, and activation, by CD80 and CD86, was assessed by flow cytometry. The ability of pulsed and unpulsed DCs to prime T cells was evaluated by mixed leucocyte reaction. The expression of interleukin-4, -10, -12p70 and interferon-alpha, as well as of Toll-like receptor-4, -7, -8, -9 was determined by ELISA and real-time RT-PCR, respectively.

RESULTS

Gliadin stimulation induced DC maturation (p<0.001 in BALB/c, p<0.01 in DQ8) but not activation, whereas ovoalbumin upregulated all markers (p<0.01 for maturation and p<0.001 for activation in both DC populations). No increase of T proliferation was elicited by pulsed DCs with respect to unpulsed DCs. Only in DQ8 DCs, gliadin induced Toll-like receptor-4 (p<0.001), -7 (p<0.001), -8 (p<0.005) expression and interferon-alpha (p<0.001) secretion.

CONCLUSION

Gliadin resulted unable to activate DC, but stimulated Toll-like receptor expression and interferon-alpha secretion.

Primary psoas abscess in a patient affected by acquired immunodeficiency syndrome: a rare case according to the reviewed literature

Abscesses of the psoas muscle can be divided into primary and secondary. In the primary ones, it is not possible to identify any further infected site. The localization to this muscle is due to its rich vascularization and Staphylococcus aureus is the most frequent aetiological agent of the infection. Treatment requires the use of appropriate antibiotics, as well as surgical or percutaneous drainage of the abscess. The percutaneous drainage is much less invasive and a low risk in the patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, and is effective for draining even multiloculated abscess. The authors present a rare case of primary psoas abscess in patient affected by acquired human immunodeficiency syndrome, showing a mass in the inferior lumbar region through the lumbar triangle of Petit and fever. Treatment consisting in percutaneous drainage combined with systemic antibiotic administration was successful.

Hepatocyte growth factor modulates Sertoli-Sertoli tight junction dynamics

In mammalian testes Sertoli cells form tight junctions whose function is fundamental for the maintenance of a normal spermatogenesis. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a cytokine influencing the cellular tight junctions either in normal or in tumor cells. We have previously demonstrated that HGF is expressed in the rat testis and influences many functional activities of somatic and germ cells. We now report that HGF decreases the levels of testicular occludin and influences the position of the molecule in the tight junctions as demonstrated by confocal microscopy analysis. In fact in the presence of the factor occludin was mainly localized in the suprabasal region of the tubules whereas in its absence occludin was prevalently localized in the basal region. Occludin production is known to be regulated by different cytokines including TGFbeta. We have investigated the role of HGF in the regulation of the levels of TGFbeta and we report that HGF significantly increases the amount of the active fraction of the factor without affecting the amount of the total TGFbeta. Urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA) is closely related with the tight junctions and is one of the molecules able to activate the inactive TGF-beta. We found that HGF significantly increases the amount of uPA present in the testis suggesting that HGF regulates the amount of active TGFbeta via uPA levels. In conclusion we report that in the testis HGF regulates Sertoli-Sertoli tight junctions inducing a reduction and redistribution of occludin possibly modulating the levels of uPA and active TGFbeta.

Prevalence of alcohol and drugs in urine of patients involved in road accidents

OBJECTIVE

Road injuries are the leading injury-related cause of death among people aged 15-44. A clear dose-effect relationship has been demonstrated for drug and alcohol use and road traffic accidents. The objective of our study was to estimate the prevalence of drug and/or alcohol use in subjects admitted for road traffic accidents to an Emergency Department.

METHODS

In this study, conducted between January and April 2006, 100 patients of both sexes (age 18-65) examined after road traffic accidents were consecutively enrolled. A commercial rapid urine test was used to detect drugs by the Emergency Department staff The alcohol concentration was determined from a blood sample at the central laboratory.

RESULTS

Most of the patients were drivers under 35 years of age. 67/100 road traffic accidents occurred at the weekend (Friday-Sunday), nearly 60% between 24:00-09:00 hrs; on non-weekend days about 80% of road traffic accidents were recorded between 14:00-24:00 hrs (p < 0.0001). With the alcoholemia test and urine test for drugs detection 43/100 patients showed a single or multiple positivity. Alcohol and drug presence is relevant during the weekend (37/43 cases), in contrast with non weekend (6/43 cases) [OR 3.04 (95% CI 1.43; 6.46)]. Alcohol was the most frequently detected abuse substance (72%), followed by benzodiazepines (42%), tetrahydrocannabinol (21%) and cocaine (14%).

DISCUSSION

43% of patients examined were under the influence of psychotropic substances (alcohol, drugs or both). The greater part of road traffic accidents in positive test patients occurred during the week-end, in particular during the late night/early morning hours, probably after recreational time. The high incidence of alcohol and/or drug abuse may have caused physical and/or psychological problems, therefore the high number of road traffic accidents, especially if taken in combination.

CONCLUSION

The rapid urine test used cannot represent a diagnosis, and requires a confirmation test. It can be used for medical purposes as an easy and fast preliminary response which enables a faster diagnostic and therapeutic guideline, but it cannot be used for sanctions. Further studies are advisable with an increase of number of patients, in a wider temporal range, including control subjects, and using confirmation tests.

Direct effects of microgravity on testicular function: analysis of hystological, molecular and physiologic parameters

Spaceflight experiments carried out in microgravity environments have revealed that exposure to altered gravity condition results in alteration of several cellular functions and, consequently, of several apparatuses. There is some evidence in the literature indicating that spaceflight affects the physiology of the testis. The data on effects of spaceflight or simulated microgravity on testicular function, however, sometimes appear contradictory. In the present study we used an in vitro experimental model in order to investigate the direct effects of microgravity on testicular tissue. We generated a microgravity environment using the Rotating Wall Vessel and performed experiments on testicular fragments isolated from pre-pubertal rats. In this model we then analyzed several parameters such as histological integrity, cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, occludin distribution pattern, and hormonal secretions. The emerging picture shows some alterations of testicular tissue physiology. Interestingly, we also demonstrate for the first time that, in organ culture, Leydig cell survival is severely affected by simulated microgravity.

Not all children with under-control asthma are controlled

Subclinical lung function alterations can sometimes be discovered in asthmatic patients under clinical control. This study aimed to identify the burden of asthmatic children with subclinical airways abnormalities who may benefit from an adjustment in asthma therapy. 134 6-to-17-year-old asthmatic children were enrolled. Of them, 98 presented apparently under clinical control disease and all performed spirometry before and after bronchodilation: 17 (17.3%) had a positive bronchodilation test, in addition to significantly lower lung function indexes as compared to those with under-control asthma who had a negative bronchodilation test. These patients were randomized and re-evaluated: patients (n=8) receiving an adjustment in their therapy showed an improvement in lung function tests and quality of life indexes as compared to 7 without therapy adjustment. In conclusion, a substantial number of apparently-under-control asthmatic children show airways alterations that can be improved by adjusting their therapy, which also seems to enhance their quality of life.

A survey on biotechnological potential and safety of the novel Enterococcus species of dairy origin, E. italicus

The biotechnological and safety properties of the novel enterococcal species of dairy origin, Enterococcus italicus, were investigated. The strains of the species showed technological characteristics related to their use as adjunct cultures in the production of artisanal cheeses. They were susceptible or poorly resistant to several clinical relevant antibiotics. Moreover, E. italicus strains were associated with low virulence profiles, as verified by screening for the presence of 33 different genes encoding antibiotic resistance and known virulence factors in the genus Enterococcus. From the data obtained, we deduce that the presence of E. italicus strains in cheeses results in a low health risk and that within the species new safe adjunct cultures for the dairy industry could be found.

Phenotypic typing, technological properties and safety aspects of Lactococcus garvieae strains from dairy environments

AIMS

To characterize Lactococcus garvieae strains of dairy origin and to determine their technological properties and safety for their possible use in starter culture preparation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Forty-seven L. garvieae isolates, recovered from two artisanal Italian cheeses were studied, in comparison with 12 fish isolates and the type strain of the species. Phenotypic typing revealed that the strains could be differentiated on the basis of their ecological niche of origin in lactose positive strains (all isolated from dairy sources) and lactose negative strains (all isolated from fish). Furthermore, the strains exhibited a high degree of physiological variability, showing the presence of 26 different biotypes. The strains possessed moderate acidifying and proteolytic activities and did not produce bacteriocins. A safety investigation revealed that all strains were sensitive to vancomycin and moderately resistant to kanamycin; some biotypes were tetracycline resistant. Production of biogenic amines or presence of genes encoding virulence determinants occurred in some isolates.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of L. garvieae in some artisanal Italian cheeses can be linked to the typicity of the products. Although in a few cases an antimicrobial resistance or a presence of virulence determinants may imply a potential hygienic risk, most of the strains showed positive properties for their possible adjunction in a starter culture preparation, to preserve the natural bacterial population responsible for the typical sensorial characteristics of the traditional raw milk cheeses.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

L. garvieae strains can be considered an important part of the microbial population associated with the natural fermentation of artisanal Italian cheeses. A deepened characterization of the strains may aid in understanding the functional and ecological significance of their presence in dairy products and in selecting new strains for the dairy industry.

Lack of association between mtDNA haplogroups and Alzheimer’s disease in Tuscany

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroup-specific polymorphisms were previously related to several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the precise role of mtDNA haplogroups in the neurodegenerative cascade leading to AD is still unclear. In this work we have genotyped predefined European mtDNA haplogroups in 209 patients with AD and 191 matched controls. In order to minimise the risk of "genetic contamination", which could lead to false associations between gene markers and disease, we were careful to enrol in the study only patients and controls of clear Tuscan origin (with at least three generations of Tuscanborn relatives). The frequency of the haplogroups did not differ between the two groups, and no correlation with gender, ApoE genotype, age of onset or disease status was observed. Further studies will be required to define the contribution of mtDNA haplogroups, if any, to the pathogenesis of AD. A correct population selection, in order to minimise the risk of genetic contamination, is essential in these studies.