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Busca A, de Fabritiis P, Ghisetti V, Allice T, Mirabile M, Gentile G, Locatelli F, Falda M. Oral valganciclovir as preemptive therapy for cytomegalovirus infection post allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Transpl Infect Dis 2007; 9:102-7. [PMID: 17461994 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3062.2006.00183.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Antiviral compounds including ganciclovir, foscarnet, and cidofovir are routinely used in the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease; however, these agents have a poor oral bioavailability and have the inconvenience and expense of intravenous administration. AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluate the safety and efficacy of oral valganciclovir (VGCV) for preemptive treatment of CMV reactivation in the setting of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). PATIENTS AND METHODS We treated 15 patients receiving allogeneic HSCT from related (n=9) or unrelated (n=6) donors. In all patients, either the donor, host, or both were CMV Ig G positive pretransplant. Indication for therapy was preemptive treatment of CMV infection defined as one or two consecutive positive tests of pp65 antigenemia assay or CMV-polymerase chain reaction (PCR). VGCV was administered orally in a dosage of 900 mg b.i.d. for 2 weeks, followed by 450 mg b.i.d. for 2 additional weeks. RESULTS Patients developed a positive CMV-PCR after a median of 52 days (range 37-427) post HSCT and a positive pp65 antigenemia after a median time of 74 days (range 37-427) post HSCT. Preemptive treatment with VGCV was started a median time of 56 days (range 37-429) after transplant. In all, 11 patients (73%) completed the 28 days of therapy with VGCV. All patients showed a complete clearance of the virus. The median time to achieve a negative CMV-PCR was 6 days (range 4-18). A relapse of CMV infection after VGCV preemptive therapy occurred in 6 patients (40%). No patient developed early or late CMV disease. Six patients (40%) presented hematological toxicity including neutropenia and/or thrombocytopenia that required drug discontinuation in 4 cases. CONCLUSION VGCV administered as preemptive therapy for CMV infection in patients receiving an allogeneic HSCT showed promise for treating this frequent complication. Prospective randomized studies in this setting are mandatory to yield more definitive results.
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Grozdanov A, Buzarovska A, Bogoeva-Gaceva G, Avella M, Errico M, Gentile G. Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of kenaf fiber/polypropylene composites. POLYM ENG SCI 2007. [DOI: 10.1002/pen.20749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Avella M, Cosco S, Di Lorenzo M, Di Pace E, Errico M, Gentile G. Nucleation activity of nanosized CaCO3 on crystallization of isotactic polypropylene, in dependence on crystal modification, particle shape, and coating. Eur Polym J 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2006.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Pinto J, Lynd A, Elissa N, Donnelly MJ, Costa C, Gentile G, Caccone A, do Rosário VE. Co-occurrence of East and West African kdr mutations suggests high levels of resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in Anopheles gambiae from Libreville, Gabon. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2006; 20:27-32. [PMID: 16608487 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2915.2006.00611.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Point mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel gene involved in knockdown resistance to DDT and pyrethroid insecticides have been described in several insect species. In the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae Giles sensu stricto (Diptera: Culicidae) two mutations have been identified. The first, consisting of a leucine-phenylalanine substitution at amino acid position 1014, is widespread in West Africa. The second, a leucine-serine substitution at the same position, has to date only been detected in western Kenya. Analysis of the kdr polymorphism in a sample of 106 An. gambiae s.s. of the rDNA S-form/Type I collected in Libreville (Gabon) surprisingly revealed the presence of both East and West African kdr mutations with frequencies of 63% and 37%, respectively. No wild-type alleles were detected and there was an excess of heterozygous genotypes (P = 0.04). In addition, an inconsistency was found during the kdr genotyping procedures by polymerase chain reaction, which could have lead to an underestimation of resistance alleles. The implications of these findings are discussed.
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Bartuccelli M, Deane J, Gentile G, Marsh L. Invariant sets for the varactor equation. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2005. [DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2005.1569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The differential equation
with
f
(
t
) positive, periodic and continuous is studied. After describing some physical applications of this equation, we construct a variety of invariant sets for it, thereby partitioning the phase plane into regions in which solutions grow without bound and also those in which bounded periodic solutions exist.
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Di Donato P, Giulini NA, Bacchi Modena A, Cicchetti G, Comitini G, Gentile G, Cristiani P, Careccia A, Esposito E, Gualdi F, Golinelli S, Bergamini E, Masellis G, Rastelli S, Gigli C, Elia A, Marchesoni D, Sticotti F, Del Frate G, Zompicchiatti C, Marino L, Costa MR, Pinto P, Dodero D, Storace A, Spinelli G, Quaranta S, Bossi CM, Ollago A, Omodei U, Vaccari M, Luerti M, Repetti F, Zandonini G, Raspagliesi F, Dolci F, Gambarino G, De Pasquale B, Polizzotti G, Borsellino G, Alpinelli P, Natale N, Colombo D, Belloni C, Viani A, Cecchini G, Vinci GW, Samaja BA, Pasinetti E, Penotti M, Ognissanti F, Pesando P, Malanetto C, Gallo M, Dolfin G, Tartaglino P, Mossotto D, Pistoni A, Tarani A, Rattazzi PD, Rossaro D, Campanella M, Arisi E, Gamper M, Salvatores D, Bocchin E, Stellin G, Meli G, Azzini V, Tirozzi F, Buoso G, Fraioli R, Marsoni V, Cetera C, Sposetti R, Candiotto E, Sposetti R, Candiotto E, Pignalosa R, Del Pup L, Bellati U, Angeloni C, Buonerba M, Garzarelli S, Santilli C, Mucci M, Di Nisio Q, Cappa F, Pierangeli I, Cordone A, Falasca L, Ferrante D, Cirese E, Todaro PA, Spagnuolo L, Lanzone A, Donadio C, Fabiani M, Baldaccini E, Votano S, Bellardini P, Favale W, Pietrobattista V, Massacesi L, Donini G, Del Savio F, Palombi L, Procaccioli P, Romani A, Romagnoli G, Genazzani AR, Gambacciani M, Scarselli G, Curiel P, De Leo V, Melani A, Levi D'Ancona V, Giarrè G, Di Gioia E, Ceccarelli P, Massi GB, Cosci S, Gacci G, Cascianini A, Donati Sarti C, Bircolotti S, Pupita P, Mincigrucci M, Spadafora A, Santeufemia G, Marongiu G, Lai GR, Lai R, Dessole S, D'Andrea SA, Chiantera A, Arienzo R, Pastore AR, Tamburrino A, Cardone A, Colacurci N, Izzo S, Tesauro R, Pascarella A, De Silvio MG, Di Prisco L, Lauda N, Sirimarco F, Agrimi C, Casarella G, Senatore G, Ronzini S, Ruccia G, De Carlo G, Pisaturo G, Carlomagno F, Fasolino A, Fiorillo F, Sorrentino R, Ercolano VB, Panariello S, Brun A, Tropea P, Stigliano CM, Amoroso A, Vadalà P, Coco A, Galati G, Barese G, Masciari G, Pirillo P, Gioffrè T, Mastrantonio P, Cardamone A, D'Angelo N, Valentino G, Barretta R, Ferraro G, Ferruccio C, Agostinelli D, Corrado G, Scopelliti A, Schonauer S, Trojano V, Bongiovanni F, Tinelli F, Poddi ER, Scarpello F, Colonna L, Fischetti G, Doria R, Trombetta G, Cocca EB, D'Amore A, Di Masi M, Liguori R, Dimaggio A, Laneve MR, Maolo MC, Gravina G, Nacci G, Nocera F, Lupo A, Giannola C, Graziano R, Mezzatesta M, Vegna G, Giannone G, Palumbo G, Cancellieri F, Mondo A, Cordopatri A, Carrubba M, Mazzola V, Cincotta L, D'Asta S, Bono A, Li Calsi L, Cavallaro Nigro S, Schilirò S, Repici A, Gullo D, Orlando A, Specchiale F, Papotto A, Massacesi A, Chiantera A, De Aloysio P, Omodei U, Ognissanti F, Campagnoli C, Penotti M, Gambacciani A, Graziottin A, Baldi C, Colacurci N, Tonti GC, Parazzini F, Chatenoud L, Donati Sarti C. Factors associated with climacteric symptoms in women around menopause attending menopause clinics in Italy. Maturitas 2005; 52:181-9. [PMID: 16257609 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2005.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2004] [Revised: 01/14/2005] [Accepted: 01/18/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To obtain data on correlates of climacteric symptoms in women around menopause attending menopause clinics in Italy. METHODS Since 1997 a large cross sectional study has been conducted on the characteristics of women around menopause attending a network of first level menopause outpatient's clinics in Italy. A total of 66,501 (mean age 54.4 years) women are considered in the present paper. RESULTS The odds ratios of moderate and severe hot flashes/night sweats were lower in more educated women and (for severe symptoms only) in women reporting regular physical activity. Depression, difficulty to sleep, forgetfulness and irritability tended to be less frequent in more educated women and (depression only) in women reporting regular physical activity. Parous women reported more frequently these symptoms. CONCLUSIONS This large study confirms in Southern European population that low education, body mass index and low physical activity are associated with climacteric symptoms. Parous women are at greater risk of psychological symptoms.
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St-Denis Y, Di Fabio R, Bernasconi G, Castiglioni E, Contini S, Donati D, Fazzolari E, Gentile G, Ghirlanda D, Marchionni C, Messina F, Micheli F, Pavone F, Pasquarello A, Sabbatini FM, Zampori MG, Arban R, Vitulli G. Substituted tetraazaacenaphthylenes as potent CRF1 receptor antagonists for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2005; 15:3713-6. [PMID: 15946843 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2005.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2005] [Revised: 05/06/2005] [Accepted: 05/11/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Two isomers of the hexahydro-tetraazaacenaphthylene templates (1 and 2) are presented as novel, potent, and selective corticotropin releasing factor-1 (CRF1) receptor antagonists. In this paper, we report the affinity and SAR of a series of compounds, as well as pharmacokinetic characterization of a chosen set. The anxiolitic activity of a selected example (2ba) in the rat pup vocalization model is also presented.
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Reboldi G, Gentile G, Angeli F, Verdecchia P. Microalbuminuria and hypertension. Minerva Med 2005; 96:261-75. [PMID: 16179893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
An elevated urinary albumin excretion (UAE) below the proteinuric level, i.e. microalbuminuria (MAU), has long been recognized as a marker of kidney disease and increased cardiovascular risk in both types of diabetes mellitus. Subsequent clinical evidence documented an association between MAU and other cardiovascular risk factors, target organ damage and risk of cardiovascular disease in the general population and in specific clinical contexts including essential hypertension. This article reviews the available evidence on the clinical value of MAU in subjects with essential hypertension. In these subjects, the reported prevalence of MAU ranges from about 4% to 46% across different studies and these differences may be explained by the huge intraindividual variability in UAE, age and ethnicity, discrepancies in the technique of measurement and different definitions of MAU. A direct and continuous association between UAE and blood pressure (BP) and left ventricular mass has been found in most studies. In contrast, it is not yet clear whether the association between UAE and other factors including age, gender, smoking, ethnicity, insulin resistance, lipids and obesity is independent or due to confounders, particularly BP. Several prospective studies disclosed an association between MAU and the risk of future cardiovascular disease. Of particular note, in some of these studies the incidence of major cardiovascular events progressively increased with UAE starting below the conventional MAU thresholds. Thus, besides being a direct risk factor for progressive renal damage, MAU can be considered a marker which integrates and reflects the long-term level of activity of several other detrimental factors on cardiovascular system. Antihypertensive treatment reduces UAE and such effect may be detected after just a few days of treatment. Among available antihypertensive drugs, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and the angiotensin II receptor antagonists seem to be superior to other antihypertensive drugs in reducing UAE. The dual blockade of the renin angiotensin system with an ACE inhibitor and an angiotensin II receptor antagonist is a new and promising approach to control UAE in hypertensive patients. Determination of MAU is recommended in the initial work-up of subjects with essential hypertension as suggested in the most recent European hypertension guidelines, even though, as upcoming evidence suggest, the periodic evaluation of this simple, inexpensive and predictive marker might be valuable and cost-effective.
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Cocca M, D'Arienzo L, D'Orazio L, Gentile G, Martuscelli E. In situ Polymerisation of Urethane-Urea Copolymers for Tuff Consolidation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1002/masy.200551022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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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160
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Giannattasio C, Zoppo A, Gentile G, Failla M, Capra A, Maggi FM, Catapano A, Mancia G. Acute Effect of High-Fat Meal on Endothelial Function in Moderately Dyslipidemic Subjects. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2005; 25:406-10. [PMID: 15576637 DOI: 10.1161/01.atv.0000152231.93590.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypercholesterolemia markedly impairs endothelial function. Whether this is the case for hypertriglyceridemia is less clear, however, and limited evidence exists on the effect of an acute increase in triglyceridemia caused by a high-fat meal. METHODS AND RESULTS In 16 normotensive subjects with an untreated mild hypertriglyceridemia and dyslipidemia and in 7 normal controls, we measured radial artery diameter and blood flow by an echo-tracking device (NIUS02). Data were obtained at baseline, at the release of a 4-minute ischemia of the hand, which causes an increase in arterial diameter dependent on nitric oxide (NO) secretion, and at the release of a 12-minute exclusion of the arm by an arm cuff to obtain a larger increase in arterial diameter mainly of nonendothelial nature. Measurements were performed before and 6 hours after a high-fat meal (680 kcal/m(2) body surface; 82% lipids). In mild dyslipidemic hypertriglyceridemic subjects, the high-fat meal did not alter baseline blood pressure (beat-to-beat finger measurement), heart rate, radial artery diameter, and blood flow. It also did not alter the increase in blood flow induced by the 4-minute ischemia (+42.7+/-10.4 and +43.7+/-10.4 mL/min), whereas it markedly attenuated the concomitant increase in arterial diameter (+0.31+/-0.06 versus 0.13+/-0.06 mm; P<0.05). The alteration of the diameter response did not correlate with changes in total cholesterol, but it showed a significant correlation with the increase in serum triglycerides induced by high-fat meal (r=0.49, P<0.05). This attenuation was not seen in control subjects and in subjects in whom measurements were repeated after a 6-hour observation period. It was also not paralleled by an alteration of the endothelially independent response to a 12-minute ischemia whose larger effects on arterial diameter and blood flow were similar before and after the high-fat meal. CONCLUSIONS Endothelial function is markedly impaired by a high-fat meal that causes an acute hypertriglyceridemia. This impairment is evident in dyslipidemic patients with baseline hypertriglyceridemia but not in normotriglyceridemic controls. An oral fat load was administered to 55 HIV-positive and 10 HIV-negative individuals. Postprandial clearance of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins was delayed in HIV-positive individuals. Compared with HIV-positive subjects not on PIs, those taking PIs do not have increased postprandial triglyceride-rich lipoproteins but do have increased postprandial intermediate-density and low-density lipoproteins. Hypercholesterolemia impairs endothelial function, whereas the effect of hypertriglyceridemia is less clear. In normotensive subjects with an untreated hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia, we measured endothelial function before and 6 hours after a high-fat meal. The results demonstrate that in moderately dyslipidemic patients, endothelial function is impaired by acute hypertriglyceridemia.
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Cocca M, D'Arienzo L, D'Orazio L, Gentile G, Martuscelli E. Synthesis of poly(urethane urea) byin situ polymerization inside stone. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1002/polb.20355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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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162
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Gentile G, Santolamazza F, Fanello C, Petrarca V, Caccone A, della Torre A. Variation in an intron sequence of the voltage-gated sodium channel gene correlates with genetic differentiation between Anopheles gambiae s.s. molecular forms. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2004; 13:371-377. [PMID: 15271209 DOI: 10.1111/j.0962-1075.2004.00494.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
We present the results of a geographical survey of genetic variation in Anopheles gambiae M and S molecular forms from ten African countries at Intron I of the voltage-gated sodium channel gene. We found two major haplotypes separated by a single mutational step, which cosegregate almost completely with the rDNA sites that identify M and S, consistent with previous estimates of strong reductions of gene flow between the two forms. We also report ten additional haplotypes stemming from the two major haplotypes, mostly present in single localities. The low levels of genetic variation found in this intronic region are discussed in light of a possible selective sweep. These findings offer additional elements to the ongoing debate on the amount of genetic differentiation and isolation between the two molecular forms and on their taxonomic status.
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Iori AP, Cerretti R, De Felice L, Screnci M, Mengarelli A, Romano A, Caniglia M, Cerilli L, Gentile G, Moleti ML, Giona F, Agostini F, Pasqua I, Perrone MP, Pinto MR, Grapulin L, Testi AM, Martino P, De Rossi G, Mandelli F, Arcese W. Pre-transplant prognostic factors for patients with high-risk leukemia undergoing an unrelated cord blood transplantation. Bone Marrow Transplant 2004; 33:1097-105. [PMID: 15094744 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1704500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
From July 1995 to December 2001, 42 patients with leukemia aged 1-42 years underwent cord blood transplant (CBT) from unrelated, < or = 2 antigen HLA mismatched donors. In all, 26 patients were in < or = 2nd complete remission and 16 in more advanced phase. Conditioning regimens, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis and supportive policy were uniform for all patients. The cumulative incidence of engraftment was 90% (95% CI: 0.78-0.91). The cumulative incidence of III-IV grade acute- and chronic-GVHD was 9% (95% CI: 0.04-0.24) and 35% (95% CI: 0.21-0.60), respectively. The 4-year cumulative incidence of transplant-related mortality (TRM) and relapse was 28% (95% CI: 0.17-0.47) and 25% (95% CI: 0.14-0.45), respectively. The 4-year overall survival (OS), leukemia-free survival (LFS) and event-free survival (EFS) were 45% (95% CI: 0.27-0.63), 47% (95% CI: 0.30-0.64) and 46% (95% CI: 0.30-0.62), respectively. In multivariate analysis, the most important factor affecting outcomes was the CFU-GM dose, associated with CMV serology (P=0.003 and 0.04, respectively) in influencing OS and with patient sex (P=0.008 and 0.03, respectively) in influencing LFS. Finally, CFU-GM dose was the only factor that affected EFS significantly (P=0.02). In conclusion, the infused cell dose expressed as in vitro progenitor cell growth is highly predictive of outcomes after an unrelated CBT and should be considered the main parameter in selecting cord blood units for transplant.
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Severi C, Zippi M, Baccini F, Gentile G, Bezzi M, Fiocca F, Caprilli R. Amebic liver abscess, Mirizzi syndrome, and acute hepatic failure. Dig Dis Sci 2004; 49:304-7. [PMID: 15104375 DOI: 10.1023/b:ddas.0000017456.53937.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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165
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Rossi V, Gandolfi A, Gentile G, Geiger W, Menozzi P. Low genetic variability in the ancient asexual ostracodDarwinula stevensoni. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004. [DOI: 10.1080/11250000409356564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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166
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Gastaldi R, Martino P, Gentile G, De Propris MS, Pirillo MF, De Vellis A, Mandelli F. High dose of idarubicin-based regimen for diffuse large cell AIDS-related non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with or without antiretroviral therapy during antineoplastic agents. Ann Oncol 2003; 14:1792-4. [PMID: 14630687 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdg484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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167
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Gentile G, Bonasera V, Amico C, Giuliano L, Yakimov MM. Shewanella sp. GA-22, a psychrophilic hydrocarbonoclastic antarctic bacterium producing polyunsaturated fatty acids. J Appl Microbiol 2003; 95:1124-33. [PMID: 14633042 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2672.2003.02077.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The effects of different growth media and temperature on production of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) by Shewanella sp. GA-22 were investigated. The attempts to characterize the GA-22 genes, homologous to those of PUFA biosynthesis gene cluster, was performed. METHODS AND RESULTS Physiological and phylogenetic characterization of new Antarctic isolate GA-22 was performed. Total fatty acids were isolated from the cells growing under different conditions and analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Using degenerated primers derived from the conserved regions within PUFA fatty acid synthase operons, five fragments of homological genes were amplified from GA-22 DNA, and two of them corresponding to pfaA and pfaC synthase subunits were sequenced. CONCLUSIONS Strain GA-22 was shown to be able to produce three different PUFA: linoleic, arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids. The PUFA production was temperature- and carbon source-dependent. The deduced gene products exhibited high similarity to corresponding fatty acid synthases PfaA and PfaC. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY The PUFA production was detected on media supplemented with crude oil, gasoline and n-tetradecane. The apparent conservation of PUFA genes may point to the potential utilization of designed primers as functional markers in culture-independent ecological studies, and for initial screening in biotechnological fields.
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Sasso F, Falabella R, Gentile G, Servello C, Gulino G. Blood gas changes in the corpora cavernosa: metabolic and histomorphometric implications in the patient with erectile dysfunction. J Urol 2003; 169:2270-4. [PMID: 12771768 DOI: 10.1097/01.ju.0000067910.36543.98] [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: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We evaluated corpora cavernosa metabolism in flaccidity and in erection, analyzing some blood gas analytical parameters and comparing them by histomorphometric examination to find a direct relation between biochemical-metabolic parameters and histological data. MATERIALS AND METHODS We selected 33 patients with erectile dysfunction and divided them into 2 groups, including 1-those with congenital penile deviation who were responders to prostaglandin E1, and 2-those with severe organic erectile dysfunction who were not responders to prostaglandin E1. We evaluated O(2) and CO(2) pressure, pH and O(2) saturation in blood samples. We then made a histomorphometric study of cavernous tissue. We obtained specimens by cavernous biopsies and calculated O(2) and CO(2) exchange, the Haldane effect and the respiratory quotient into the corpora cavernosa. All data were evaluated by statistical analysis. RESULTS Mean O(2) arterial pressure and saturation +/- SD were lower in group 2 than in group 1 (74.85 +/- 8.78 versus 96.43 +/- 14.87 and 94.98 +/- 1.4 versus 97.35 +/- 0.83, respectively). Mean CO(2) arterial pressure was 35.59 +/- 4.78 group 1 versus 38.8 +/- 2.71 in group 2 with borderline statistical significance. The Haldane effect was superior in flaccidity than in erection because of the influence of arterial-venous O(2) difference and the respiratory quotient, which was also an inverse ratio. Cavernous histomorphometry showed that in group 1 smooth muscle was a mean of 38.8 +/- 8.94% of cavernous tissue versus 24.9% in group 2. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that starting with blood gas analytical data we can completely study the metabolism of the corpora cavernosa and its relationships to erectile dysfunction. Cavernous histomorphometry can suggest the presence of smooth muscle into cavernous tissue, whereas our mathematical elaboration allowed us to evaluate all data in a more complete manner.
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Girmenia C, Lo Coco F, Breccia M, Latagliata R, Spadea A, D'Andrea M, Gentile G, Micozzi A, Alimena G, Martino P, Mandelli F. Infectious complications in patients with acute promyelocytic leukaemia treated with the AIDA regimen. Leukemia 2003; 17:925-30. [PMID: 12750707 DOI: 10.1038/sj.leu.2402899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Infections represent a frequent complication of chemotherapy used for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and are associated with important toxicity frequently leading to treatment discontinuation. Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) is a unique AML subset requiring tailored therapy including all-trans retinoic acid and anthracycline-based chemotherapy. We analysed in this study the incidence and type of infections complicating the clinical course of 89 consecutive APL patients receiving the AIDA protocol at a single institution. A total of 179 febrile episodes were registered during induction and consolidation, 52% of which were of unknown origin. Infections were clinically and microbiologically documented in 10.6 and 37.4% of cases, respectively. Coagulase-negative staphylococci represented the major cause of septicaemia (28%) and were more frequently isolated during induction, whereas viridans group streptococci, the second pathogen most frequently isolated from blood (27%), represented the principal pathogen detected during consolidation and were significantly associated with mucositis. Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 33.3% of all blood isolates. Fungal infections were only occasionally observed. Bloodstream infections in APL patients were compared with those documented in 271 consecutive patients affected by other subtypes of AML. The incidence of total septicaemia episodes, of staphylococcal bacteraemias and of fungaemias was significantly higher in patients with other AMLs. Empirical antibiotic therapy with ceftriaxone plus amikacin was effective in 73% of APL cases, most of the remaining cases being successfully managed by the addition of teicoplanin. One single death apparently related to infectious complication was recorded. Overall, infections led to antileukaemic treatment withdrawal in six patients, five of whom currently remain in haematologic remission for 13-106 months. These results indicate that a particular pattern of infections is observed in APL patients receiving ATRA plus anthracycline-based chemotherapy and that these appear to be effectively counteracted by standard management.
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Baldaro B, Gentile G, Codispoti M, Mazzetti M, Trombini E, Flamigni C. Psychological distress of conservative and nonconservative uterine surgery: a prospective study. J Psychosom Res 2003; 54:357-60. [PMID: 12670614 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-3999(02)00394-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study is to evaluate the psychological reaction to conization before and after the operation compared to hysterectomy. To study the incidence of psychological stress related to conization, 60 women undergoing conization were compared to 40 women who had undergone hysterectomy. METHOD Psychological disease was rated in the pre- and postoperative periods using the Symptom Questionnaire (SQ). Each patient was evaluated 2 weeks before the operation, and 3, 6 and 12 months after it. RESULTS Both the conization and hysterectomy groups showed a significant reduction in anxiety and depression at the 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-ups compared to the preoperative period. Two weeks before surgery, 8 conization patients (19.5%) showed an anxious status, while 10 (24.3%) presented high levels of anxiety and depression. Within hysterectomy patients, the occurrence was respectively of 4 (12.9%) and 10 women (32.2%). Twelve months after surgery, of the women with preoperative depression, only four (9.7%) conization and four (12.9%) hysterectomy patients presented a negative mood status. A similar trend was present for somatic symptoms but only in the conization group, because the hysterectomy patients did not show a reduction in these symptoms from the preoperative to the postoperative period. This result could be related to the surgical menopause due to the bilateral oophoriectomy executed in more than half of the hysterectomy group. CONCLUSION In general, the results of the present study show that the conservative and nonconservative uterine surgery determines a good psychological prognosis in the short- and long-term postoperative periods.
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Sasso F, Delicato G, Gentile G, Falabella R, Gentile V. Primary synovial sarcoma of the penis. J Urol 2002; 168:633. [PMID: 12131325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
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172
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Sasso F, Delicato G, Gentile G, Falabella R. Primary Synovial Sarcoma of the Penis. J Urol 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0022-5347(05)64695-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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173
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Gastaldi R, Martino P, Gentile G, Picardi V, De Propris MS, Pirillo MF, De Vellis A, Mandelli F. Hodgkin's disease in HIV-infected patients: report of eight cases usefully treated with doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine (ABVD) plus granulocyte colony- stimulating factor. Ann Oncol 2002; 13:1158-60. [PMID: 12176798 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdf239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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174
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Gulino G, Falabella R, Gentile G, Sasso F. Radical surgery in Peyronie's disease. Graft comparison. MINERVA CHIR 2002; 57:383-8. [PMID: 12029235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
The paper concerns the experience of our Institute in the field of radical plaque removal in Peyronie's disease with special focus to the new biomaterials used as a graft on replace the fibrotic tunica albuginea. This is a retrospective study that evaluated clinical outcomes with a follow-up ranging from the early post-operative period to six years later. Ninety-eight patients aged from 32 to 64 with compliant of high stage Peyronie's disease have been treated. Which surgery meanly occurred 12 months after the first diagnosis. The different biomaterials implanted have been studied in terms of biophysical properties and clinical features at short and long term follow-up. These results suggest that surgical therapy appears as the main option in the treatment of Peyronie' disease, specially in the advanced state, plaque surgery being the most radical one; today we have a lot of different materials for substitution of albuginea but maybe noone represents the real gold standard. As concerns elasticity and biocompatibility, vein gave the best results, even if the operating time is longer. A new enthusiasm comes from SIS (porcine intestinal sub-mucose), whose early clinical and biological results are satisfactory in terms of elasticity and reduced operating time.
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Bartuccelli MV, Gentile G, Georgiou KV. On the stability of the upside–down pendulum with damping. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2001. [DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2001.0859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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176
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Bartuccelli MV, Gentile G, Georgiou KV. On the dynamics of a vertically driven damped planar pendulum. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2001. [DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2001.0841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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177
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Giannattasio C, Achilli F, Grappiolo A, Failla M, Meles E, Gentile G, Calchera I, Capra A, Baglivo J, Vincenzi A, Sala L, Mancia G. Radial artery flow-mediated dilatation in heart failure patients: effects of pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment. Hypertension 2001; 38:1451-5. [PMID: 11751734 DOI: 10.1161/hy1201.096528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is associated with an impaired flow-mediated vasodilation that reflects an impaired endothelial function. Limited information is available, however, on whether and to what extent this impairment is improved by pharmacological or nonpharmacological treatment. We measured radial artery diameter and blood flow by an echo-tracking Doppler device both at baseline and after 4 minutes of hand ischemia, which increases diameter through NO secretion mediated by an increase in flow and shear stress. Data were collected from 44 CHF patients (New York Heart Association class I to III) under standard treatment (diuretic, digitalis, and enalapril, 20 mg/d), in whom CHF severity was assessed by a cardiopulmonary stress test, and from 16 age- and sex-matched controls. CHF patients were then randomized to maintain for (A) 2 months of standard treatment (n=11), (B) treatment with double the ACE inhibitor dose (n=11), (C) standard treatment with an angiotensin II antagonist (losartan, 50 mg/d; n=11), or (D) standard treatment with bicycle training for 30 minutes, 3 times a week (n=11). At baseline, radial artery diameter and flow were similar in CHF patients and controls; CHF patients had a modest although significant impairment in flow increase (-36%) and a striking impairment (-78%) in diameter increase following the 4 minutes of ischemia. After 2 months, baseline diameter and flow remained unaltered in the 4 groups. After the 4 minutes of ischemia, radial artery flow and diameter increased as before in the group under standard treatment (A), whereas in the other 3 groups, the increase was significantly (P<0.05) and, for diameter, markedly (B, 83%; C, 92%; and D, 95%) greater. The vasodilatation induced by trinitroglycerin was similar in CHF and control subjects and not affected by treatments. In CHF, radial artery shows a marked reduction in flow-mediated vasodilation, reflecting impairment of endothelial function. This impairment can be markedly improved by treatments that effectively block the renin-angiotensin system either at ACE or at ACE plus angiotensin receptor level. This is the case also with nonpharmacological treatment of CHF.
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Yakimov MM, Giuliano L, Chernikova TN, Gentile G, Abraham WR, Lünsdorf H, Timmis KN, Golyshin PN. Alcalilimnicola halodurans gen. nov., sp. nov., an alkaliphilic, moderately halophilic and extremely halotolerant bacterium, isolated from sediments of soda-depositing Lake Natron, East Africa Rift Valley. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2001; 51:2133-2143. [PMID: 11760957 DOI: 10.1099/00207713-51-6-2133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
An alkaliphilic, halotolerant, Gram-negative, heterotrophic, aerobic and rod-shaped organism was isolated from drying soda and at a water-covered site of Lake Natron, Tanzania, by means of the most-probable-number technique developed for anoxygenic, phototrophic sulfur bacteria. It had an absolute requirement for alkalinity, but not for salinity; growth occurred at salt concentrations of 0-28% (w/v), with optimal growth at 3-8% (w/v) NaCl. The bacterium preferentially metabolized volatile fatty acids and required vitamins for growth. The name Alcalilimnicola halodurans gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed for the novel isolate, placed in the gamma-Proteobacteria within the family Ectothiorhodospiraceae on the basis of analysis of the 16S rDNA sequence, polar lipids, fatty acids and DNA base composition. Although Alcalilimnicola halodurans is closely related to the extreme anoxygenic, phototrophic sulfur bacteria of the genus Halorhodospira, it is not phototrophic.
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Del Favero A, Menichetti F, Martino P, Bucaneve G, Micozzi A, Gentile G, Furno P, Russo D, D'Antonio D, Ricci P, Martino B, Mandelli F. A multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial comparing piperacillin-tazobactam with and without amikacin as empiric therapy for febrile neutropenia. Clin Infect Dis 2001; 33:1295-301. [PMID: 11565068 DOI: 10.1086/322646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2000] [Revised: 03/30/2001] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In a prospective, multicenter, double-blind, randomized clinical trial, we compared the efficacy of piperacillin-tazobactam (4.5 g 3 times daily intravenously) plus placebo versus piperacillin-tazobactam plus amikacin (7.5 mg/kg twice daily intravenously) for the treatment of 760 febrile, adult patients with cancer with chemotherapy-induced profound (<500 neutrophils/mm3) and prolonged (>10 days) neutropenia. A total of 733 patients were assessable for efficacy of the drug regimens, and an overall successful outcome was reported in 49% (179 of 364) of the patients who received monotherapy, compared with 53% (196 of 369) of patients who received combination therapy (P=.2). Response rates were similar with both regimens, as were incidences of bacteremia and clinically documented and possible infections. In our epidemiological setting, the initial empiric combination therapy was not associated with improved outcomes when compared with initial monotherapy.
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180
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Gastaldi R, Martino P, Gentile G, Cafolla A, Cordone I, Giannini G, Torromeo C, Palmisano L, Picardi V, Andreotti M, Avvisati G, Mandelli F. High dose of idarubicin-based regimen for diffuse large cell AIDS-related non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients: a pilot study. Haematologica 2001; 86:1051-9. [PMID: 11602411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Intensive chemotherapy (CHT) in AIDS-related non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (AIDS-NHL patients) is a vexing problem. Our purpose was to evaluate the feasibility of a high dose idarubicin (HD-IDA)-based regimen in diffuse large cell (DLC) AIDS-NHL patients. DESIGN AND METHODS Fourteen stage I-IV untreated DLC AIDS-NHL patients with a performance status <3 and no prior AIDS-related diseases received CIOD: cyclophosphamide, HD-IDA (25 mg/m2 in 8 patients, 20 mg/m2 in 6 patients) vincristine and dexamethasone plus granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and prophylaxis against infections. The outcomes measured were: rate of response, disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS) and the impact of chemotherapy on immunologic and virological parameters. RESULTS Complete response was achieved in 13/14 cases (response rate: 93%). The median time of response and survival was 33 (range 5-79) and 35.5 (range 6-84) months, respectively. At 60 months the DFS and OS were 71% and 44%, respectively. CIOD with idarubicin 20 mg/m2 was better tolerated than that with 25 mg/m2 and was administered with a higher mean average-relative-dose-intensity (95.38+/-7% vs 83.35+/-15.59%, p=0.0001). Opportunistic infections were more frequent in patients with a baseline CD4 <100 than those with >100 cells/microL (4/5 vs 1/9: p=0.0229). After 3 CIOD courses the mean CD4 cells/microL was significantly lower (p=0.001) and the mean HIV.1 RNA load was significantly higher (p=0.045) than at baseline. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS The proposed chemotherapeutic regimen for AIDS-related non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is feasible in an outpatient setting in selected patients with relatively well-preserved immune function.
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181
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Lohman PH, Gentile JM, Gentile G, Ferguson LR. Antimutagenesis/anticarcinogenesis 2001: screening, methods and biomarkers. Mutat Res 2001; 496:1-4. [PMID: 11551474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
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182
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Girmenia C, Gentile G, Micozzi A, Martino P. Nephrotoxicity of amphotericin B desoxycholate. Clin Infect Dis 2001; 33:915-6. [PMID: 11512101 DOI: 10.1086/322716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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183
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Gentile JM, Gentile G, Lohman PH, Ferguson LR. Antimutagenesis/anticarcinogenesis 2001: mechanistic studies. Mutat Res 2001; 480-481:1-7. [PMID: 11506794 DOI: 10.1016/s0027-5107(01)00164-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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184
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Gentile G, Tallarini A. Ablative techniques in the treatment of cervical lesions. TUMORI JOURNAL 2001; 87:S12. [PMID: 11765192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
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185
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Berretti A, Falcolini C, Gentile G. Shape of analyticity domains of Lindstedt series: the standard map. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2001; 64:015202. [PMID: 11461318 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.64.015202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2000] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The analyticity domains of the Lindstedt series for the standard map are studied numerically using Padé approximants to model their natural boundaries. We show that if the rotation number is a Diophantine number close to a rational value p/q, then the radius of convergence of the Lindstedt series becomes smaller than the critical threshold for the corresponding Kol'mogorov-Arnol'd-Moser curve, and the natural boundary on the plane of the complexified perturbative parameter acquires a flower-like shape with 2q petals.
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186
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Angeloni A, Farina A, Gentile G, Capobianchi A, Martino P, Visco V, Muraro R, Frati L, Faggioni A. Epstein-Barr virus and breast cancer: search for antibodies to the novel BFRF1 protein in sera of breast cancer patients. J Natl Cancer Inst 2001; 93:560-1. [PMID: 11287458 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/93.7.560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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187
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Gentile G, Slotman M, Ketmaier V, Powell JR, Caccone A. Attempts to molecularly distinguish cryptic taxa in Anopheles gambiae s.s. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2001; 10:25-32. [PMID: 11240634 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2583.2001.00237.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Analyses of inversions in polytene chromosomes indicate that, in West Africa, Anopheles gambiae (sensu stricto) may be a complex of more than a single taxonomic unit, and these units have been called chromosomal forms. In order to determine whether this genetic discontinuity extends to the rest of the genome, as would be expected if reproductive isolation exists, we have sequenced several regions of both the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. With one exception, we were unable to identify any nucleotide sites that differentiate the chromosomal forms. The exception was the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Three sites in this region distinguish Mopti chromosomal form from Savanna and Bamako in Mali and Burkina Faso. However, outside these two countries, the association between chromosomal form and rDNA type does not always hold. Together with the variants in the rDNA intergenic spacer (IGS) described in the accompanying papers (della Torre et al., 2001; Favia et al., 2001), we can recognize two major types of rDNA, Type I and Type II (corresponding to molecular forms S and M in della Torre et al., 2001). Type I is widespread in West Africa and is the only type found outside of West Africa (i.e. Tanzania and Madagascar). Type II is confined to West Africa. We were unable to detect any heterozygosity for the ITS types even in five collections containing both types. A sample from the island of São Tomé could not be classified into either Type I or Type II as the rDNA had characteristics of both. In general, our results confirm that An. gambiae is not a single pan-mictic unit, but exactly how to define any new taxa remains problematic. Finally, we have found minor variants of the major rDNA types fixed in local populations; contrary to most previous studies, this suggests restricted gene flow among populations of this species.
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Failla M, Giannattasio C, Piperno A, Vergani A, Grappiolo A, Gentile G, Meles E, Mancia G. Radial artery wall alterations in genetic hemochromatosis before and after iron depletion therapy. Hepatology 2000; 32:569-73. [PMID: 10960451 DOI: 10.1053/jhep.2000.16265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Iron overload is believed to have an adverse influence on the cardiovascular system and animal studies have shown that iron may be involved in the events that lead to atherosclerosis via an enhancement of smooth muscle cell proliferation, lipid oxidation, and free radical production. There are no data on the effect of iron overload on arterial structural and mechanical properties in humans. We measured wall thickness and distensibility (D) by ultrasonography of the radial artery in 12 patients with uncomplicated genetic hemochromatosis (GH) who were normotensive and without atherosclerotic plaques. Twelve age- and sex-matched patients were taken as controls. Nine patients were evaluated also after iron depletion. Wall thickness was greater in patients with GH than in controls (+50%, P <.01) whereas D was slightly reduced in the former group compared with the latter group, though the difference was not statistically significant. After iron depletion, a significant reduction of wall thickness and a significant increase in D were observed (-24% and +33%, P <.05 for both). Thus, in patients with hemochromatosis, arterial wall thickness is increased before the onset of cardiovascular complications. This alteration is reverted by iron depletion, which also can improve the initial and modest radial artery wall stiffening associated with this condition. Thus, functional and structural alterations in midsize muscle arteries may be an early abnormality of hemochromatosis.
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Gentile G, Capobianchi A, Gastaldi R, Rolli M, Capucci S, Girmenia C, Martino P. Detection of cytomegalovirus late (pp150) antigen in peripheral blood leukocytes of patients with human immunodeficiency virus-related lymphoma. J Infect Dis 2000; 182:376-9. [PMID: 10882630 DOI: 10.1086/315663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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190
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Ghi T, Gentile G, Flamigni C, Orsola-Malpighi S. GnRH analogues for the treatment of lymphangioleiomyomatosis: A case report. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7292(00)82827-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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191
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Mengarelli A, Minotti C, Palumbo G, Arcieri P, Gentile G, Iori AP, Arcese W, Mandelli F, Avvisati G. High levels of antiphospholipid antibodies are associated with cytomegalovirus infection in unrelated bone marrow and cord blood allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Br J Haematol 2000; 108:126-31. [PMID: 10651735 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2141.2000.01812.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Antiphospholipid antibodies (APA) are a family of autoimmune and alloimmune immunoglobulins recognizing protein-phospholipid complexes in in vitro laboratory test systems. These antibodies have been associated with several conditions (malignancies, autoimmune diseases, infections, use of drugs); moreover, a syndrome capable of inducing thromboembolic disease has recently been associated with the presence of these antibodies. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the levels of APA in subjects affected by haematological malignancies undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Between March 1996 and December 1997, 32 patients undergoing ASCT were studied prospectively until day +180 from transplant. The mean values of IgG and IgM anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA) increased in recipients of stem cells from anunrelated donor, and a statistically significant difference inACA IgG mean value between unrelated and related transplanted patients was demonstrated between days +95 and +180. All of the subjects who received stem cells from an unrelated donor had APA levels higher than the mean normal value +3 SD vs. 35% of those receiving stem cells from a related donor (P < 0.01). The reason for such a difference may be a result of the different incidence in documented cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in the two groups (83% vs. 23%; P < 0.01), as indicated by the significant correlation between APA positivity and CMV infection (P < 0.05). No relationship was found between APA, conditioning regimen and acute or chronic graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Moreover, we did not observe any thromboembolic disorder or veno occlusive disease (VOD).
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Volpi A, Pica F, Gentile G, Capobianchi A, Fraschetti M, Martino P. Neutralizing antibody response against human cytomegalovirus in allogeneic bone marrow-transplant recipients. J Infect Dis 1999; 180:1747-8. [PMID: 10515847 DOI: 10.1086/315092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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193
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Masala G, Racalbuto V, Gentile G, Procacci P. Italian Development Cooperation: the commitment for the struggle against malaria in Africa. PARASSITOLOGIA 1999; 41:361-6. [PMID: 10697884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The Italian Development Cooperation (DGCS) support the health reform process in Developing Countries, with the aim to provide populations in greatest need with access to decentralized health services. DGCS acts in close coordination with the donor community, United Nations' system and the World Bank, in agreement with sector-wide approach (SWAP) for health sector development. Since malaria control in endemic countries is a relevant component of the health system, DGCS is actively involved in the struggle against malaria in sub-Saharan Africa, supporting control activities and research capability strengthening. The following African countries are presently receiving bilateral support for antimalaria activities: Burkina Faso, Centre de Lutte contre le Paludisme in Ouagadougou; Ethiopia, community-based malaria control in Tigray; Eritrea, malaria control at national level in the framework of the Public Health and Rehabilitation Programme for Eritrea (PHARPE) initiative; Madagascar, malaria surveillance at national level; Tanzania, feasibility study for the support to the national malaria control programme. Support is provided by technical/financial assistance involving Italian academic and research institutions. On the multilateral channel, DGCS has provided regular contribution for WHO's work in malaria control and participates to the WHO Roll Back Malaria initiative. A new commitment to malaria is the trilateral joint scientific endeavour USA-Italy-Burkina Faso for the development and field testing of a candidate vaccine suitable for African populations.
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Avitabile G, Gentile G, Laurienzo P, Malinconico M, Martuscelli E, Riva F, Volpe MG. Novel poly(etheraroylhydrazides). An example of ?conformationally disordered crystalline? polymers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1999. [DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1099-0488(19990715)37:14<1687::aid-polb13>3.0.co;2-b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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195
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Gentile G, Mele A, Ragona G, Faggioni A, Zompetta C, Tosti ME, Visani G, Castelli G, Pulsoni A, Monarca B, Martino P, Mandelli F. Human herpes virus-6 seroprevalence and leukaemias: a case-control study. GIMEMA (Gruppo Italiano Malattie Ematologiche dell' Adulto). Br J Cancer 1999; 80:1103-6. [PMID: 10362124 PMCID: PMC2363056 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6690471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationships between acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL), chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and refractory anaemia with excess of blasts (RAEB) and human herpes virus (HHV)-6 antibody level were investigated in a multicentre case-control study. An association between increased HHV-6 seropositivity and geometric mean titre ratio with AML was shown: P for trend = 0.022, adjusted odds ratio 1.20, 95% confidence interval 1.07-1.33 respectively. No association was found between HHV-6 and ALL, CML or RAEB.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Anemia, Refractory, with Excess of Blasts/epidemiology
- Anemia, Refractory, with Excess of Blasts/virology
- Antibodies, Viral/blood
- Case-Control Studies
- Female
- Herpesvirus 6, Human/immunology
- Humans
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/epidemiology
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/virology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/epidemiology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/virology
- Logistic Models
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Odds Ratio
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/epidemiology
- Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/virology
- Risk Factors
- Seroepidemiologic Studies
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196
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Dragoni F, Cafolla A, Gentile G, Mazzucconi MG, Vella S, Di Corpo U, Tosti ME, Pisani G, Donato V, Martino P. HIV-HCV RNA loads and liver failure in coinfected patients with coagulopathy. Haematologica 1999; 84:525-9. [PMID: 10366796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to measure contemporaneously HCV-RNA load, HIV-RNA load and CD4+ lymphocyte count in HCV/HIV coinfected patients with coagulopathy and to examine the relationship between these parameters and the liver failure. DESIGN AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed on 54 patients with severe coagulopathy: 39 HCV/HIV coinfected and 15 HCV+/HIV- comparable for age and HCV exposure time. HCV-RNA and HIV-RNA load, CD4+ lymphocyte count, biochemical and ultrasonographic parameters were evaluated at the time of entry to the study. RESULTS Mean HCV-RNA load was significantly higher in coinfected patients (643,872 717,687 copies/mL) than in HCV+/HIV- (mean 161,573 276,896 copies/mL) (p = 0.01). The 39 HCV/HIV coinfected patients had a mean HIV-RNA load of 205,913 456,311 copies/mL (range 4,000-2,500,000) and a mean CD4+ lymphocyte count of 206.5171/microL (range 5-693). Five of the 39 (12.8%) coinfected patients had liver failure. In these five patients the mean HCV-RNA load (770,200 996,426 copies/mL) was high but not significantly different from that in the 34 HCV+/HIV+ patients (623,496 682,239 copies/mL) without liver failure (p = 1.0). Coinfected patients with liver failure had a significantly higher HIV-RNA load (mean 764, 599 978,542 copies/mL) and lower CD4+ lymphocyte count (mean 52.655. 6/microL) than those observed in coinfected patients without liver failure (p = 0.007 and p = 0.03, respectively). A significant inverse correlation was found between CD4+ lymphocyte count and HIV-RNA load (r = -0.37, p = 0.01). INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS HCV-RNA load is significantly higher in HIV+ than in HIV- patients with coagulopathy. Liver failure was found only in the HCV/HIV coinfected patients with severe immunodepression, expressed either by low CD4+ lymphocyte count or by high HIV-RNA load.
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197
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Minotti V, Gentile G, Bucaneve G, Iori AP, Micozzi A, Cavicchi F, Barbabietola G, Landonio G, Menichetti F, Martino P, Del Favero A. Domiciliary treatment of febrile episodes in cancer patients: a prospective randomized trial comparing oral versus parenteral empirical antibiotic treatment. Support Care Cancer 1999; 7:134-9. [PMID: 10335931 DOI: 10.1007/s005200050243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Hospitalization and empirical broad-spectrum, intravenous antibiotics are the standard treatment for febrile cancer patients. Recent evidence supports the suggestion that febrile episodes in a low-risk population can be managed successfully in an outpatient setting, but the optimal drug regimen is unknown. In a prospective randomized clinical trial we compared ciprofloxacin 750 mg p.o. twice a day with ceftriaxone 2 g i.v. as a single daily dose for the empiric domiciliary treatment of febrile episodes in low-risk neutropenic and nonneutropenic cancer patients. A total of 173 patients, accounting for 183 febrile episodes, were enrolled in the study. Overall, successful outcomes were recorded for 76 of 93 (82%) febrile episodes in patients who were randomized to the oral regimen and for 68 of 90 (75%) febrile episodes in patients randomized to the i.v. regimen: this difference was not statistically significant. The success rate was similar in all subgroups of patients: neutropenic and nonneutropenic, with documented infection and with fever of unknown origin. There were 3 deaths in the group of patients treated with the parenteral regimen, and two of these were related to treatment failure. Both treatments were well tolerated, and the cost of the oral regimen was lower. This prospective study suggests that domiciliary antibiotic empiric monotherapy is feasible in febrile nonneutropenic or low-risk neutropenic outpatients in whom a bacterial infection is suspected, and that either an oral or a parenteral regimen can be used. A number of factors may influence the choice between an orally and an i.v.-administered antibiotic, but owing to the easier administration and lower cost, the oral regimen seems to be preferable.
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198
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Arcese W, Guglielmi C, Iori AP, Screnci M, Carmini D, Testi AM, Moleti ML, Mengarelli A, Del Giudice I, Cimino G, Elia L, Rapanotti MC, Perrone P, Laurenti L, Gentile G, Boecklin F, Romano A, De Felice L, Mandelli F. Umbilical cord blood transplant from unrelated HLA-mismatched donors in children with high risk leukemia. Bone Marrow Transplant 1999; 23:549-54. [PMID: 10217184 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1701615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In the last 3 years, 14 children with high-risk leukemia (11 ALL, 2 AML and 1 CML) underwent cord blood transplantation from unrelated HLA-mismatched donors at a median of 99 days from the start of search. Eight patients were transplanted in second CR, one in accelerated phase, three at relapse and two patients in first CR. Conditioning regimen (fractionated TBI, etoposide, CY and anti-lymphocyte serum) and prophylaxis of GVHD (CsA and 6-methylprednisolone) were identical for all patients. Neutrophils >0.5x10(9)/l were reached at a median of 33 days from transplant, but in four cases we observed an autologous hematopoietic reconstitution (three spontaneous, one after autologous BM rescue). Acute and chronic GVHD were observed in 10/14 and 3/8 evaluable cases, respectively. Three patients died of transplant-related toxicity and three patients relapsed. The probabilities of event-free, disease-free and overall survival were 50, 53 and 64%, respectively. Cord blood transplant from HLA-mismatched unrelated donor is a valid option for the treatment of children with high-risk leukemia. With our eligibility criteria, conditioning regimen and prophylaxis of graft-versus-host disease, the main obstacles to successful transplant were represented by graft failure and fatal acute GVHD.
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199
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Santarelli R, Angeloni A, Farina A, Gonnella R, Gentile G, Martino P, Petrucci MT, Mandelli F, Frati L, Faggioni A. Lack of serologic association between human herpesvirus-8 infection and multiple myeloma and monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance. J Natl Cancer Inst 1998; 90:781-2. [PMID: 9605649 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/90.10.781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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200
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Gentile G, Formelli G, Pelusi G, Flamigni C. Is vestibular micropapillomatosis associated with human papillomavirus infection? EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 1998; 18:523-5. [PMID: 9443027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The aetiology and clinical significance of vulvar papillomatosis is still controversial. To verify the association of micropapillomatosis labialis with certain types of HPV-related lower genital tract infections, 25 patients with colposcopic aspects of vulvar papillomatosis were recruited and vulvar biopsies were obtained for histologic examination and in situ hybridization. Sixteen patients with vulvodynia, without any pathologic vulvar aspects, served as a control group. Histologic evidence of HPV was found in 20 cases (80%) of vulvar papillomatosis while only one (4%) of the study patients was positive for HPV-DNA. These results seem to confirm the scarse correlation between vestibular papillomatosis and HPV. In our opinion physicians must be cautions when treating these lesions even in cases with positive histologic results. Colposcopy is, therefore, of fundamental importance for an accurate diagnosis of vestibular papillomatosis and successful management.
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