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Mantovani E, Zanini A, Cecchini MP, Tamburin S. The Association Between Neurocognitive Disorders and Gustatory Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Neuropsychol Rev 2024; 34:192-213. [PMID: 36806051 PMCID: PMC10920407 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-023-09578-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Olfactory and gustatory dysfunction have been reported in mild and major neurocognitive disorders (NCDs), with variable results. While olfactory dysfunction has been consistently explored, reports on gustatory alterations are limited. We systematically reviewed case-control studies evaluating gustatory function in NCDs with various etiologies and different neuropathology. Eighteen studies were included in the systematic review, and eight were included in the meta-analysis. Most studies were on Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Pooled analyses showed worse global taste threshold and identification (sour in particular) scores in AD than controls and worse global, sweet, and sour scores in AD compared to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). PD with MCI showed worse global, sweet, salty, and sour scores than controls and cognitively unimpaired PD. Taste dysfunction was differentially associated with the severity of cognitive deficits. Gustatory dysfunction may represent a potential cross-disease chemosensory biomarker of NCD. Whether gustatory alterations may be a pre-clinical biomarker of NCD requires further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Mantovani
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Section, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, I-37134, Verona, Italy.
| | - Alice Zanini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, I-37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, I-37134, Verona, Italy.
| | - Stefano Tamburin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Section, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, I-37134, Verona, Italy
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Prato A, Salerno AM, Saia F, Maugeri N, Zanini A, Scerbo M, Barone R, Rizzo R. Symptoms compatible with long COVID in an Italian pediatric cohort of Tourette patients with and without SARS‑CoV‑2 infection: a short-term follow-up assessment. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:222. [PMID: 37147589 PMCID: PMC10161986 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04035-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder with a worldwide prevalence of about 0.3-1% of the population. During the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, the impact on the mental health of children and adolescents was very important. The persistence of symptoms in the post-acute phase of the disease has been termed Long COVID. The neuropsychiatric symptoms seem to be the most common impairment in children and adolescents with long COVID. OBJECTIVES Considering the impact of pandemic on mental health, in this study we analyzed the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children and adolescents affected by TS. METHODS We conducted an online questionnaire covering socio-demographic and clinical data among 158 patients affected by TS or chronic tic disorders (CTD), of which 78 participants reported a positive SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data were collected to investigate tic severity and both the comorbidities, as well as lockdown-related changes to daily life activities and, in case of infection of SARS-CoV-2, possible symptoms of acute infection and long COVID. Markers of systemic inflammation including C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), ferritin, iron, electrolytes, white blood cell counts, platelet cell counts levels, markers of liver, kidney and thyroid function were analyzed. First, all patients were screened with the Schedule for affective disorders and Schizophrenia for School age children-present and lifetime (Kiddie-SADS-PL) to rule out primary psychiatric disorders considered as criteria of exclusion. Then, all patients were clinically assessed at baseline (T0), and after three months (T1) through the administration of Yale Global Tic Severity Rating Scale (YGTSS), Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children (MASC), Child Depression Inventory (CDI) and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). RESULTS Among the cohort of TS patients that contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection, 84.6% (n = 66) experienced any acute symptoms, and long COVID symptoms occurred in 38.5% (n = 30). A worsening of clinical symptoms of tics and eventually associated comorbidities occurred in 34.6% (n = 27) of TS patients that contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection. TS patients with or without SARS-CoV-2 infection showed an increase in the severity of tics and also behavioral, depressive and anxious symptoms. Instead, this increase was more evident in patients who contracted the infection than in patients who did not contract it. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 infection may have a role in the increase of tics and associated comorbidities in TS patients. Despite of these preliminary results, further investigations are necessary to improve knowledge about the acute and long-term impact of SARS-CoV-2 in TS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Prato
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy.
| | - Angela Maria Salerno
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy
| | - Federica Saia
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Maugeri
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy
| | - Miriam Scerbo
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy
| | - Rita Barone
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy
| | - Renata Rizzo
- Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatric Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Catania University, Catania, 95124, Italy
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Tosato S, Bonetto C, Zanini A, Montanari I, Piccinelli A, Bixio R, Rossini M, Pacenza G, Cristofalo D, Fracassi E, Carletto A. Coping strategies, emotional distress and perceived disease severity in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a mediation analysis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:1078-1086. [PMID: 35920782 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Few data are available on the role of emotional distress as a possible mediator of the relationship between coping strategies and the Patient Global Assessment (PGA). This study aims to investigate, in a large cohort of patients affected by RA, the relationship between specific copying strategies and PGA, and the role of emotional distress as a mediator. METHODS A total of 490 patients with RA completed a set of standardized assessments including the self-reported PGA, the Coping Orientation to the Problems Experienced (COPE-NVI) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A mediation analysis was conducted to investigate the role of emotional distress. RESULTS The effect of coping strategies on the PGA score was significantly mediated by the emotional distress for religious (total effect mediated 42.0%), planning (total effect mediated 17.5%), behavioural disengagement (total effect mediated 10.5%), and focus on and venting of emotions (total effect mediated 9.8%). Seven coping strategies (acceptance, positive reinterpretation and growth, active coping, denial, humour, substance use-mental disengagement) resulted directly associated to PGA total score, but no mediation effect was found. The remaining four coping strategies were not associated to the PGA score. CONCLUSION This study suggests that coping strategies could be an important factor in the perceived disease severity. Consequently, in order to reduce PGA in patients with RA, a useful tool could be represented by the implementation of psychological interventions aiming to modify the specific coping styles. Moreover, to prevent or treat emotional distress seems to further reduce PGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Tosato
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences
| | - Chiara Bonetto
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences
| | - Alice Zanini
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences
| | - Ilaria Montanari
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Anna Piccinelli
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Riccardo Bixio
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maurizio Rossini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulio Pacenza
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences
| | - Doriana Cristofalo
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences
| | - Elena Fracassi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Carletto
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Brozzetti L, Scambi I, Bertoldi L, Zanini A, Malacrida G, Sacchetto L, Baldassa L, Benvenuto G, Mariotti R, Zanusso G, Cecchini MP. RNAseq analysis of olfactory neuroepithelium cytological samples in individuals with Down syndrome compared to euploid controls: a pilot study. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:919-930. [PMID: 36394661 PMCID: PMC9925603 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06500-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome is a common genetic disorder caused by partial or complete triplication of chromosome 21. This syndrome shows an overall and progressive impairment of olfactory function, detected early in adulthood. The olfactory neuronal cells are located in the nasal olfactory mucosa and represent the first sensory neurons of the olfactory pathway. Herein, we applied the olfactory swabbing procedure to allow a gentle collection of olfactory epithelial cells in seven individuals with Down syndrome and in ten euploid controls. The aim of this research was to investigate the peripheral gene expression pattern in olfactory epithelial cells through RNAseq analysis. Validated tests (Sniffin' Sticks Extended test) were used to assess olfactory function. Olfactory scores were correlated with RNAseq results and cognitive scores (Vineland II and Leiter scales). All Down syndrome individuals showed both olfactory deficit and intellectual disability. Down syndrome individuals and euploid controls exhibited clear expression differences in genes located in and outside the chromosome 21. In addition, a significant correlation was found between olfactory test scores and gene expression, while a non-significant correlation emerged between olfactory and cognitive scores. This first preliminary step gives new insights into the Down syndrome olfactory system research, starting from the olfactory neuroepithelium, the first cellular step on the olfactory way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Brozzetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Scambi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Alice Zanini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Luca Sacchetto
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, Otolaryngology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lucia Baldassa
- AGBD, Associazione Sindrome di Down, Onlus, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Mariotti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Zanusso
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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García I, Martínez LA, Zanini A, Raith D, Boedecker J, Stingl MG, Lerner B, Pérez MS, Mertelsmann R. Automatic feedback control by image processing for mixing solutions in a microfluidic device. Biomicrofluidics 2022; 16:054106. [PMID: 36238725 PMCID: PMC9553288 DOI: 10.1063/5.0090543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Two approaches of an automatic control were studied through mathematical fitting obtained from color mixing saturation curves in polydimethylsiloxane microfluidic devices: The integrative control with variable integral gain and integrative control with constant integral gain. The aim of this work is to control the color percentage decrement when dye is injected. The results indicate that microfluidic systems are very sensitive to changes in flow and the control variable needs to change slowly; that is, it must be small (at least 100 times less than the theoretically calculated values). The control and stabilization of the microfluidic system were achieved for dye percentages above 60%. The controlling color percentage could provide a tool to regulate other parameters' concentration applied to cell culture and alkalinity control (pH) of solutions in microfluidic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - A. Zanini
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Buenos Aires University—ITHES-UBA—CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D. Raith
- Neurorobotics Lab, Computer Science Department—Faculty of Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 80, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | - J. Boedecker
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - M. G. Stingl
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - B. Lerner
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
| | - M. S. Pérez
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
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Clavenna A, Zanini A, Pelucchi M, Bersani C, Canevini MP, Sala D, Albizzati A, Biondi A, Bonati M. Trend of Emergency Department Accesses for Mental Disorders by Adolescents During the Pandemic Period. Pediatr Emerg Care 2022; 38:e1233-e1235. [PMID: 35358152 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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7
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Vernetto S, Laurenza M, Storini M, Zanini A, Diego P, Massetti S, Liberatore A, Terrazas J, Vigorito C, Vallania P, Cirilli S. Long term measurements of neutron dose rates at Testa Grigia high altitude research station (3480 m. a.s.l.). Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2022.109972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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8
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Sandri A, Cecchini MP, Zanini A, Nocini R, Boschi F, Zanette G, Marcon A, Fiorio M, Tinazzi M. Unpleasant olfactory and gustatory stimuli increase pain unpleasantness in patients with chronic oral burning pain: an exploratory study. Eur J Pain 2022; 26:1094-1106. [PMID: 35279917 PMCID: PMC9313804 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite mounting evidence for the powerful influence of smell and taste substances in experimental pain, our knowledge of their effects in the clinical context is scarce, especially for patients with chronic oral burning pain. To fill this gap, we investigated the effect of olfactory and gustatory stimuli on pain perception in patients with chronic oral burning pain, a disabling condition that is difficult to manage and treat. Methods Twenty‐two patients with chronic oral burning pain underwent testing with a variety of olfactory and gustatory substances (pleasant, neutral, unpleasant) in multisensory interaction. The order of testing was randomized. Perception of pain intensity and unpleasantness was evaluated on a numerical rating scale at baseline and immediately after each test trial. Results Pain unpleasantness but not pain intensity was found to be modulated by chemosensory stimuli. Unpleasant olfactory and gustatory stimuli increased the perception of pain unpleasantness compared to pleasant and neutral stimuli. Pain unpleasantness after unpleasant olfactory and gustatory stimuli correlated with psychological questionnaire subscale scores for distress (CORE‐OM) and emotional awareness (TAS‐20). Conclusions Our findings suggest a role of unpleasant chemosensory stimuli in increasing the perception of pain unpleasantness in patients with chronic oral burning. The lack of an effect on pain intensity indicates a dissociation between sensory and affective pain components. Future research is needed to further study the association between chemosensory stimuli and emotional and subjective aspects in modulating chronic oral burning pain. Significance This exploratory work suggests that unpleasant smell and taste stimuli may have an adverse effect on the affective component of chronic oral burning pain. Future comprehensive large‐scale research, also applying brain imaging investigations as well as full psychological analysis, is required to better understand the role of smell and taste stimuli on this chronic and disabling pain condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Sandri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences Neurology Unit University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Riccardo Nocini
- Department of Surgery Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, Otolaryngology Section University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Giovanni Zanette
- Italian Scientific Society of Clinical Hypnosis in Psychotherapy and Humanistic Medicine SIPMU Verona Italy
| | - Alessandro Marcon
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health Unit of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Mirta Fiorio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences Movement Sciences Section University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Michele Tinazzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences Neurology Unit University of Verona Verona Italy
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Masala C, Cavazzana A, Sanna F, Cecchini MP, Zanini A, Gasperi F, Menghi L, Endrizzi I, Borgogno M, Drago S, Cantone E, Ciofalo A, Macchi A, Monti G, Parma V, Piochi M, Pinna I, Torri L, Cabrino G, Ottaviano G, Pendolino AL, Pignatelli A, Pighin F, Bochicchio V, Motta G, Fontana G, Pasquariello B, Cavaliere C, Iacono V, Hummel T. Correlation between olfactory function, age, sex, and cognitive reserve index in the Italian population. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2022; 279:4943-4952. [PMID: 35211821 PMCID: PMC8869341 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-022-07311-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Loss of smell decreases the quality of life and contributes to the failure in recognizing hazardous substances. Given the relevance of olfaction in daily life, it is important to recognize an undiagnosed olfactory dysfunction to prevent these possible complications. Up to now, the prevalence of smell disorders in Italy is unknown due to a lack of epidemiological studies. Hence, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of olfactory dysfunction in a sample of Italian adults. Methods Six hundred and thirty-three participants (347 woman and 286 men; mean age 44.9 years, SD 17.3, age range 18–86) were recruited from 10 distinct Italian regions. Participants were recruited using a convenience sapling and were divided into six different age groups: 18–29 years (N = 157), 30–39 years (N = 129), 40–49 years (N = 99), 50–59 years (N = 106), > 60 years (N = 142). Olfactory function, cognitive abilities, cognitive reserve, and depression were assessed, respectively, with: Sniffin’ Sticks 16-item Odor Identification Test, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Cognitive Reserve Index, and the Beck Depression Inventory. Additionally, socio-demographic data, medical history, and health-related lifestyle information were collected. Results About 27% of participants showed an odor identification score < 12 indicating hyposmia. Multiple regression analysis revealed that OI was significantly correlated with age, sex, and cognitive reserve index, and young women with high cognitive reserve index showing the highest olfactory scores. Conclusion This study provides data on the prevalence of olfactory dysfunction in different Italian regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Masala
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, SP8 Cittadella Universitaria Monserrato, 09042, Cagliari, Italy.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Smell and Taste Clinic, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Annachiara Cavazzana
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Smell and Taste Clinic, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, SP8 Cittadella Universitaria Monserrato, 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Flavia Gasperi
- Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach, 1, San Michele All'Adige, 38010, Trento, Italy
- Center Agriculture Food Environment, University of Trento/Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
| | - Leonardo Menghi
- Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach, 1, San Michele All'Adige, 38010, Trento, Italy
- Center Agriculture Food Environment, University of Trento/Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
- Department of Technology and Innovation, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Isabella Endrizzi
- Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach, 1, San Michele All'Adige, 38010, Trento, Italy
| | | | | | - Elena Cantone
- Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatologic Sciences, Unit of Ear, Nose and Throat, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciofalo
- Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatologic Sciences, Unit of Ear, Nose and Throat, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Macchi
- ORL Clinica, University of Insubria and Varese, ASST Settelaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulia Monti
- ORL Clinica, University of Insubria and Varese, ASST Settelaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Valentina Parma
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market Street, Philadelphia, 19104, USA
| | - Maria Piochi
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Pollenzo, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Ilenia Pinna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, SP8 Cittadella Universitaria Monserrato, 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luisa Torri
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Pollenzo, Cuneo, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Angela Pignatelli
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Faride Pighin
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Motta
- Clinic of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery Unit, Department of Anesthesiology, Surgical and Emergency Science, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgia Fontana
- Geriatric Unit A, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Cavaliere
- Unit of Rhinology, Department of Organi di Senso, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Iacono
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, "Santa Maria della Misericordia" Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | - Thomas Hummel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Smell and Taste Clinic, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Zanini A, Salemme R, Farnè A, Brozzoli C. Associative learning in peripersonal space: fear responses are acquired in hand-centered coordinates. J Neurophysiol 2021; 126:864-874. [PMID: 34379522 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00157.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Space coding affects perception of stimuli associated to negative valence: threatening stimuli presented within the peripersonal space (PPS) speed up behavioral responses compared with nonthreatening events. However, it remains unclear whether the association between stimuli and their negative valence is acquired in a body part-centered reference system, a main feature of the PPS coding. Here we test the hypothesis that associative learning takes place in hand-centered coordinates and can therefore remap according to hand displacement. In two experiments, we used a Pavlovian fear-learning paradigm to associate a visual stimulus [light circle, the conditioned stimulus (CS)] with an aversive stimulus (electrocutaneous shock) applied on the right hand only when the CS was displayed close (CS+) but when not far from it (CS-). Measuring the skin conductance response (SCR), we observed successful fear conditioning, with increased anticipatory fear responses associated with CS+. Crucially, experiment I showed a remapping of these responses following hand displacement, with a generalization to both types of CS. Experiment II corroborated and further extended our findings by ruling out the novelty of the experimental context as a driving factor of such modulations. Indeed, fear responses were present only for stimuli within the PPS but not for new stimuli displayed outside the PPS. By revealing a hand-centered (re)mapping of the conditioning effect, these findings indicate that associative learning can arise in hand-centered coordinates. They further suggest that the threatening valence of an object also depends on its basic spatial relationship with our body.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Associative fear learning takes place in hand-centered coordinates. Using a Pavlovian fear-learning paradigm, we show that the anticipatory skin conductance response indicating the association between the negative value and an initially neutral stimulus is acquired and then remapped in space when the stimulated body part moves to a different position. These results demonstrate the relationship between the representation of peripersonal space and the encoding of threatening stimuli. Hypotheses concerning the underlying neural network are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zanini
- Impact-Integrative Multisensory Perception Action and Cognition Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France.,University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
| | - R Salemme
- Impact-Integrative Multisensory Perception Action and Cognition Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France.,University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France.,Hospices Civils de Lyon, Neuro-immersion-Mouvement et Handicap, Lyon, France
| | - A Farnè
- Impact-Integrative Multisensory Perception Action and Cognition Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France.,University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France.,Hospices Civils de Lyon, Neuro-immersion-Mouvement et Handicap, Lyon, France.,Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - C Brozzoli
- Impact-Integrative Multisensory Perception Action and Cognition Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France.,University Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France.,Hospices Civils de Lyon, Neuro-immersion-Mouvement et Handicap, Lyon, France.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Aging Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Inzoli A, Zanini A, Miglietta M, Zanini U, Terraneo M. In response to "COVID-19 is associated with traumatic childbirth and subsequent mother-infant bonding problems". J Affect Disord 2021; 286:239-240. [PMID: 33744592 PMCID: PMC7938793 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.02.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Inzoli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MBBM Foundation at San Gerardo Hospital, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy,Corresponding author
| | - A. Zanini
- Past Director Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Ospedale “Sacra famiglia”, Fatebenefratelli, Erba (Co), Italy
| | - M. Miglietta
- Midwives Coordinator, Ospedale “Sacra famiglia”, Fatebenefratelli, Erba (Co), Italy
| | - U. Zanini
- Respiratory Unit, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - M. Terraneo
- Department of Pediatrics, Ospedale “Sacra famiglia”, Fatebenefratelli, Erba (Co), Italy
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Sandri A, Cecchini MP, Riello M, Zanini A, Nocini R, Fiorio M, Tinazzi M. Pain, Smell, and Taste in Adults: A Narrative Review of Multisensory Perception and Interaction. Pain Ther 2021; 10:245-268. [PMID: 33635507 PMCID: PMC8119564 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-021-00247-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Every day our sensory systems perceive and integrate a variety of stimuli containing information vital for our survival. Pain acts as a protective warning system, eliciting a response to remove harmful stimuli; it may also be a symptom of an illness or present as a disease itself. There is a growing need for additional pain-relieving therapies involving the multisensory integration of smell and taste in pain modulation, an approach that may provide new strategies for the treatment and management of pain. While pain, smell, and taste share common features and are strongly linked to emotion and cognition, their interaction has been poorly explored. In this review, we provide an overview of the literature on pain modulation by olfactory and gustatory substances. It includes adult human studies investigating measures of pain threshold, tolerance, intensity, and/or unpleasantness. Due to the limited number of studies currently available, we have structured this review as a narrative in which we comment on experimentally induced and clinical pain separately on pain–smell and pain–taste interaction. Inconsistent study findings notwithstanding, pain, smell, and taste seem to interact at both the behavioral and the neural levels. Pain intensity and unpleasantness seem to be affected more by olfactory substances, whereas pain threshold and tolerance are influenced by gustatory substances. Few pilot studies to date have investigated these effects in clinical populations. While the current results are promising for the future, more evidence is needed to elucidate the link between the chemical senses and pain. Doing so has the potential to improve and develop novel options for pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Sandri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Riello
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Riccardo Nocini
- Otolaryngology Section, Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology , University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mirta Fiorio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Tinazzi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
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Laureau A, Rosier E, Merle E, Beils S, Bruneau O, Blanchon J, Gathmann R, Heuer D, Passelaigue F, Vaiana F, Zanini A. THE LiCore POWER PLANT SIMULATOR OF THE MOLTEN SALT FAST REACTOR. EPJ Web Conf 2021. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/202124706030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Molten salt reactors as liquid-fuelled reactors are flexible in terms of operation or design choices, but they are very different in terms of design, operation and safety approach compared to solid-fuelled reactors. Such reactors call for a new definition of their operating procedures and safety approach. Dedicated developments and studies have been performed in the frame of the European SAMOFAR project of Horizon2020 and in parallel in France involving CNRS, CORYS and Framatome to develop a system code called LiCore adapted to such reactors, corresponding to a basic-principle power plant simulator. The neutronic model LiCore, at the centre of the simulator, corresponds to an improved point-kinetics model to take into account the specificities of a MSR, notably the circulation of the delayed neutron precursors out of the core. Coupled to a simple piston model for the fuel motion in the core, this code can perform calculations faster than real time to simulate the behaviour of the fuel circuit. Transient calculations performed with LiCore are presented, together with comparisons first to a simple point-kinetics model and then to 3D calculations with the TFM-OpenFOAM coupled code. Finally, the LiCore code has recently been integrated in the ALICES platform, the integrated simulation toolset designed by CORYS for the development, maintenance and operation of major simulator such as power plant simulators.
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Cecchini MP, Tamburin S, Zanini A, Boschi F, Demartini B, Goeta D, Dallocchio C, Marotta A, Fiorio M, Tinazzi M. Hedonicity in functional motor disorders: a chemosensory study assessing taste. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2020; 127:1399-1407. [PMID: 32856158 PMCID: PMC7497316 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-020-02244-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore hedonicity to basic tastes in patients with functional motor disorders (FMDs) that are often associated with impairment in emotional processing. We recruited 20 FMD patients and 24 healthy subjects, matched for age and sex. Subjects were asked to rate the hedonic sensation (i.e., pleasant, neutral, and unpleasant) on a - 10 to +10 scale to the four basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty, and bitter) at different concentrations, and neutral stimuli (i.e., no taste stimulation) by means of the Taste Strips Test. Anxiety, depression, and alexithymia were assessed. FMD patients rated the highest concentration of sweet taste (6.7 ± 2.6) as significantly more pleasant than controls (4.7 ± 2.5, p = 0.03), and the neutral stimuli significantly more unpleasant (patients: - 0.7 ± 0.4, controls: 0.1 ± 0.4, p = 0.013). Hedonic ratings were not correlated to anxiety, depression, or alexithymia scores. Hedonic response to taste is altered in FMD patients. This preliminary finding might result from abnormal interaction between sensory processing and emotional valence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paola Cecchini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
| | - Stefano Tamburin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Section, Verona University Hospital, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Diana Goeta
- Psychiatry Unit II, A.O. San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Dallocchio
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medical Area, ASST Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Angela Marotta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mirta Fiorio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Tinazzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Section, Verona University Hospital, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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Cecchini MP, Riello M, Sandri A, Zanini A, Fiorio M, Tinazzi M. Smell and taste dissociations in the modulation of tonic pain perception induced by a capsaicin cream application. Eur J Pain 2020; 24:1946-1955. [PMID: 32780473 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain is a subjective experience characterized by sensory (intensity) and emotional (unpleasantness) aspects. Although literature reports behavioural effects on pain due to smell and taste influence, to our knowledge the relationship between tonic pain induced by a capsaicin cream and these chemosensory systems has never been explored before. The aim of this study was to investigate the modulation of olfactory and gustatory substances having different valence on tonic pain perception mediated by a capsaicin cream application. METHODS Sixty healthy volunteers were included in two separated experiments (N = 30 smell; N = 30 taste) and underwent different valence smell and taste stimulations, while receiving painful stimuli. Perception of pain intensity (the sensory component) and unpleasantness (the affective component) was measured with a numerical rating scale, both during the two aforementioned experiments. RESULTS Pain unpleasantness rating showed differences only in the smell experiment between the two odourous conditions. In particular, pleasant odour induced lower ratings of pain unpleasantness, while no significant results were found for intensity. Regarding taste, we could not observe significant effects nor for pain unpleasantness or intensity. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the potential role of pleasant odours in influencing the affective aspects of pain perception induced by this kind of tonic pain. Such evidence might provide new insight for using chemosensory substances as analgesics for modulating the cognitive aspects of neuropathic pain. SIGNIFICANCE This work shows the effect of smell on the emotional component of tonic pain, experimentally induced by capsaicin cream application. Previous literature investigated tonic pain in interaction with smell and/or taste stimuli, but mainly with physical methods such as temperature. Our findings add new information in this field, contributing to a deeper insight on the role of olfaction on this particular kind of tonic pain perception. This approach could open to new investigations aimed to consider odours for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paola Cecchini
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Riello
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Angela Sandri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mirta Fiorio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Tinazzi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Gurizzan C, Di Mauro P, Bosio S, Turla A, Zanini A, Monteverdi S, Ardine M, Amoroso V, Vassalli L, Dalla Volta A, Simoncini E, Pedersini R, Berruti A. 236P Changes in eating habits and food preferences in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy: The “CHANGE” prospective study. Ann Oncol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2020.08.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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17
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Riello M, Cecchini MP, Zanini A, Di Chiappari M, Tinazzi M, Fiorio M. Perception of phasic pain is modulated by smell and taste. Eur J Pain 2019; 23:1790-1800. [PMID: 31291496 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain perception is a multimodal experience composed of sensory, emotional and cognitive dimensions. Accumulating evidence suggests that the chemical senses can influence pain perception, but their relation with phasic pain is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of smell and taste having different valence on phasic pain. METHODS Twenty-eight healthy volunteers received sweet, bitter and neutral odours or gustatory substances while receiving painful stimuli consisting of electrical shocks. Tactile threshold, pain threshold and pain tolerance were collected using the psychophysical method of limits at baseline and in association with smell and taste. Perception of pain intensity and unpleasantness was measured with a numerical rating scale. RESULTS Sweet smell induced lower ratings of pain intensity than bitter smell when stimuli were delivered at pain threshold. Sweet smell also induced lower ratings of pain unpleasantness than neutral smell when stimuli were delivered at pain tolerance. Sweet taste induced lower ratings of pain unpleasantness than bitter taste when stimuli were delivered at pain threshold. Conversely, pain threshold and pain tolerance per se were not affected by smell and taste. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight an effect of sweet substances in reducing the subjective perception of pain intensity and unpleasantness associated to phasic pain. SIGNIFICANCE By demonstrating the link between smell, taste and phasic pain this study may have a translational impact in clinical conditions characterized by so-called shock-like pain, such as neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Riello
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Miguel Di Chiappari
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Tinazzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mirta Fiorio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Cecchini MP, Federico A, Zanini A, Mantovani E, Masala C, Tinazzi M, Tamburin S. Olfaction and taste in Parkinson's disease: the association with mild cognitive impairment and the single cognitive domain dysfunction. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2019; 126:585-595. [PMID: 30911822 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-019-01996-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and chemosensory dysfunction are non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD), but their association is unclear. We explored if MCI and the involvement of single cognitive domains influence olfaction and taste in PD. The role of demographic, clinical and neuropsychiatric variables was tested. We recruited 50 PD patients without dementia, no other reasons for cognitive impairment, no condition that could influence evaluation of cognition, olfaction and taste. They underwent a full neuropsychological and chemosensory (i.e., olfaction and taste) test with the Sniffin' Sticks Extended test (SSET), Whole Mouth test (WMT) and Taste Strips test (TST). Fifty age- and sex-matched healthy subjects served as controls. Olfactory function and sweet identification were worse in PD than controls. MCI negatively influenced odor identification. Factors associated with poor olfactory function were age, overall cognition, apathy, and visuospatial dysfunction. Sour identification was affected by MCI and executive dysfunction, and salty identification by executive dysfunction. MCI, age and executive dysfunction worsened TST score. Awareness of olfactory dysfunction was impaired in PD with MCI. Education positively influenced SSET and TST scores. Our data confirmed that olfaction is abnormal in PD, while taste was only slightly impaired. Olfaction was worse in PD patients with visuospatial dysfunction, while sour and salty identification was worse in those with MCI and executive dysfunction, suggesting different underlying anatomical abnormalities. Future studies should incorporate neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid data to confirm this hypothesis. SSET odor identification and TST sour identification could be explored as quick screening tests for PD-MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paola Cecchini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
| | - Angela Federico
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Zanini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Mantovani
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Carla Masala
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Michele Tinazzi
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Tamburin
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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20
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Pedersini R, Zanini A, Romelli M, Coccoli V, Guerra M, Bosio S, Schivardi G, Rodella F, Vassalli L, Amoroso V, Claps M, Simoncini EL, Berruti A. Abstract P6-11-16: Dysgeusia, weight and eating habits changes in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: A prospective cohort study. Cancer Res 2018. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.sabcs17-p6-11-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Dysgeusia is a frequent side effect in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. The effect of dysgeusia on changes in diet and patient weight has been poorly investigated. We evaluated prospectively dysgeusia in a consecutive series of early breast cancer patients (EBCP) with the aim to explore its impact on food selection and weight changes.
Patients and methods: From May 2014 to April 2017, 130 consecutive EBCP were enrolled at the Oncology and Breast Units at Spedali Civili in Brescia. Dysgeusia was categorized as present or absent, changes in types and frequencies of food consumptions during chemotherapy were assessed by a specific questionnaire and photography atlas. Evaluations were performed at baseline, after 3 cycles, at the end of chemotherapy plan and during follow-up.
Results: all 130 pts were evaluable. Median age was 53 years (range 26-76), median weight 64 Kg (range 45-115), median BMI 23,86 Kg/m2 (range 17,01-35,49), 73 pts (56%) performed physical activity, 57 pts (44%) were abstemious, 22 pts (17%) received neoadjuvant and 108 pts (83%) adjuvant chemotherapy, 25 pts (19%) were treated with antracycline based schemes, 83 (64%) with antracycline and taxane plus or minus trastuzumab, and 22 pts (17%) other regimens. Seventy-three per cent of pts developed dysgeusia during chemotherapy (p=< 0.001), and in 19% this side effect persisted three months after chemotherapy.
Dysgeusia was associated with the length of chemotherapy treatment and taxane use. A statistically significant increase of taste alteration was reported for all metallic, sweet, bitter, salted and acid taste (p<0.001). Dysgeusia was more frequent in pts reporting meteorism and fatigue and in pts without oral mucositis (p=0.002). Dysgeusia correlated with a lower intake of bread, cheese, fat salami, butter and wine and a high intake of biscuits and cakes. However, no correlation was observed with weight and BMI changes.
Conclusion: Dysgeusia was frequent in EBCP undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. It directly correlated with fatigue and meteorism and inversely correlated with mucositis. This adverse event had no impact on weight and BMI but significantly influenced food intake with a preference of glucose containing instead of fat containing foods.
Acknowledgments: a thank you to Beretta foundation for the costant support to Breast Unit and Oncology Department.
Citation Format: Pedersini R, Zanini A, Romelli M, Coccoli V, Guerra M, Bosio S, Schivardi G, Rodella F, Vassalli L, Amoroso V, Claps M, Simoncini EL, Berruti A. Dysgeusia, weight and eating habits changes in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: A prospective cohort study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-11-16.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - S Bosio
- Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - M Claps
- Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
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Tirelli E, Bin A, Bulfone T, Simoncini L, Zanini A. Music and its influence on affectivity and relationships in oncologic and hematologic patients. Ann Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx434.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Geremia S, Bin A, Bulfone T, Zanini A, Barbara M. Shiatsu in oncology: a treatment of healing processes’ activation. Observational study. Ann Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx438.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Menegazzi G, Piemonte D, Tito R, Quattrin R, Pascut S, Honsell F, Zuliani S, Zanini A, Barbone F, Palese A, Brusaferro S. Preliminary results of a 2016 oral health screening program in the primary schools of Udine, Italy. Eur J Public Health 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckw174.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Di Stefano A, Vallese D, Pitruzzella A, Zanini A, Spanevello A, Balbi B. Airway inflammation in healthy smokers. Monaldi Arch Chest Dis 2015. [DOI: 10.4081/monaldi.2012.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Stevanin S, Bressan V, Bulfone G, Zanini A, Dante A, Palese A. Knowledge and competence with patient safety as perceived by nursing students: The findings of a cross-sectional study. Nurse Educ Today 2015; 35:926-34. [PMID: 25959704 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2015.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2014] [Revised: 03/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ensuring safety in health-care settings is provoking improvements both in education and clinical practice. However, the studies available have not offered to date information regarding knowledge and competence on patient safety (PS) developed by nursing students over their academic career. There is no documentation of the amount of close calls and/or adverse events that students may have witnessed and the degree of safety perceived in the attended clinical settings. OBJECTIVES To describe the perception of nursing students regarding their own knowledge and competence on PS and describe differences, if any, among students attending the first, second and third academic year. DESIGN A cross-sectional study design was undertaken in 2013. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING A convenience sample of 621 nursing students of two bachelors nursing degrees located in two Italian universities, was the population target of the study. Students attending the first, second and third academic year, obtaining admission to the annual clinical competence examination, were eligible. METHODS The Italian version of the Health Professional Education in Patient Safety Survey (H-PEPSSIta) and open-ended questions was administered to the students after having obtained their informed written consent. RESULTS A total of 573 students (response rate 92.4%) participated. Around a quarter (28.8%) of students reported having experienced an adverse event or close call during their clinical experience. The settings where they learn were perceived as unsafe by 46.9% of students. PS knowledge and competence as perceived by students, was high (Median=4) in all factors and dimensions of the H-PEPSSIta tool. High PS knowledge and competence was reported by first-year students, moderate by second-year students and higher at the end of the third-year. CONCLUSIONS Faculties and health-care institutions offering clinical placements have to share the responsibility of well-prepared future nurses, working together to improve PS through dialogue when issues are identified by students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - V Bressan
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - G Bulfone
- School of Nursing, Udine University, Italy
| | - A Zanini
- School of Nursing, Udine University, Italy
| | - A Dante
- School of Nursing, Trieste University, Italy
| | - A Palese
- School of Nursing, Udine University, Italy.
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Durisi E, Alikaniotis K, Borla O, Bragato F, Costa M, Giannini G, Monti V, Visca L, Vivaldo G, Zanini A. Design and simulation of an optimized e-linac based neutron source for BNCT research. Appl Radiat Isot 2015; 106:63-7. [PMID: 26315098 DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2015.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The paper is focused on the study of a novel photo-neutron source for BNCT preclinical research based on medical electron Linacs. Previous studies by the authors already demonstrated the possibility to obtain a mixed thermal and epithermal neutron flux of the order of 10(7) cm(-2) s(-1). This paper investigates possible Linac's modifications and a new photo-converter design to rise the neutron flux above 5 10(7) cm(-2) s(-1), also reducing the gamma contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Durisi
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare Sez. di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy.
| | - K Alikaniotis
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - O Borla
- Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy
| | - F Bragato
- Università di Trieste, Via Valerio 2, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - M Costa
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare Sez. di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - G Giannini
- Università di Trieste, Via Valerio 2, 34127 Trieste, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare Sez. di Trieste, Via Valerio 2, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - V Monti
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - L Visca
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare Sez. di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - G Vivaldo
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare Sez. di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - A Zanini
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare Sez. di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy
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Zanini A, Cazzarolli C, Tartali C, Bellini R, Longhini B, Meschi A, Assael B. 174 Are changes in Modified Shuttle Walk Test performance related to changes in clinical status in CF children and adolescents? J Cyst Fibros 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(14)60310-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Gzyl G, Zanini A, Frączek R, Kura K. Contaminant source and release history identification in groundwater: a multi-step approach. J Contam Hydrol 2014; 157:59-72. [PMID: 24365394 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2013] [Revised: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The paper presents a new multi-step approach aiming at source identification and release history estimation. The new approach consists of three steps: performing integral pumping tests, identifying sources, and recovering the release history by means of a geostatistical approach. The present paper shows the results obtained from the application of the approach within a complex case study in Poland in which several areal sources were identified. The investigated site is situated in the vicinity of a former chemical plant in southern Poland in the city of Jaworzno in the valley of the Wąwolnica River; the plant has been in operation since the First World War producing various chemicals. From an environmental point of view the most relevant activity was the production of pesticides, especially lindane. The application of the multi-step approach enabled a significant increase in the knowledge of contamination at the site. Some suspected contamination sources have been proven to have minor effect on the overall contamination. Other suspected sources have been proven to have key significance. Some areas not taken into consideration previously have now been identified as key sources. The method also enabled estimation of the magnitude of the sources and, a list of the priority reclamation actions will be drawn as a result. The multi-step approach has proven to be effective and may be applied to other complicated contamination cases. Moreover, the paper shows the capability of the geostatistical approach to manage a complex real case study.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gzyl
- Główny Instytut Górnictwa, Plac Gwarków 1, 40-166 Katowice, Poland.
| | - A Zanini
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile, dell'Ambiente, del Territorio e Architettura, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 181/A, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - R Frączek
- Ulica Bugajska 16, 32-640 Zator, Poland.
| | - K Kura
- Główny Instytut Górnictwa, Plac Gwarków 1, 40-166 Katowice, Poland.
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Dominioni L, Rotolo N, Poli A, Castiglioni M, Mangini M, Spagnoletti M, Paolucci M, Paddeu A, Mantovani W, Zanini A, Imperatori A. Cost of a population-based programme of chest x-ray screening for lung cancer. Monaldi Arch Chest Dis 2013; 79:67-72. [PMID: 24354094 DOI: 10.4081/monaldi.2013.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND After the implementation of a population-based programme of chest x-ray (CXR) screening on smokers in Varese, Italy, lung cancer (LC) mortality was significantly reduced. Analysis of the incremental costs due to this type of screening programme is needed to evaluate its economic impact on the healthcare system. METHODS In July 1997 a population-based cohort, consisting of all high-risk smokers (n=5,815) identified among 60,000 adult residents from the Varese province, was invited to a LC screening programme (an annual CXR for five years) in a general practice setting, and was observed through 2006. Invitees received National Health Service (NHS) usual care, with the addition of CXRs in screening participants. At the end of observation, among the 245 LCs diagnosed in the entire screening-invited cohort the observed LC deaths were 38 fewer than expected. To estimate the incremental direct cost due to screening in the invited cohort for the period July 1997-2006, we compared the direct cost of screening administration, CXR screens and LC management in the invited cohort and in the uninvited and unscreened controls in NHS usual care setting. RESULTS Over the 9.5 years, the total incremental direct healthcare costs (including screening organization/administration, CXR screens, additional procedures prompted by false-positive tests, overdiagnosed LCs) were estimated to range from euro 607,440 to euro 618,370 (in euros as of 2012), equating to between euro 15,985- euro 16,273 per patient out of the 38 LC deaths averted. CONCLUSIONS In a general practice setting, the incremental cost for a CXR screening programme targeted at all high-risk smokers in a population of 60,000 adults was estimated to be about euro 65,000 per annum, approx. euro 16,000 for each LC death averted.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Dominioni
- Center for Thoracic Surgery, University of Insubria, Ospedale di Circolo di Varese.
| | - N Rotolo
- Center for Thoracic Surgery, University of Insubria, Ospedale di Circolo di Varese
| | - A Poli
- Department of Public and Community Medicine, University of Verona
| | - M Castiglioni
- Center for Thoracic Surgery, University of Insubria, Ospedale di Circolo di Varese
| | - M Mangini
- Department of Radiology, University of Insubria, Ospedale di Circolo di Varese
| | - M Spagnoletti
- Center for Thoracic Surgery, University of Insubria, Ospedale di Circolo di Varese
| | - M Paolucci
- Department of Radiology, Ospedale S. Antonio Abate, Gallarate
| | - A Paddeu
- Respiratory Care Unit, Ospedale S. Anna, San Fermo della Battaglia, Como
| | - W Mantovani
- Department of Prevention, Public Health Trust, Trento
| | - A Zanini
- Division of Pneumology, Fondazione F. Maugeri, IRCCS Rehabilitation Institute of Tradate, Italy
| | - A Imperatori
- Center for Thoracic Surgery, University of Insubria, Ospedale di Circolo di Varese
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Morandi A, Fagnani AM, Runza L, Farris G, Zanini A, Parolini F, Bassi G, Gentilino V, Macchini F, Arnoldi R, Leva E. Extrarenal testicular Wilms' tumor in a 3-year-old child. Pediatr Surg Int 2013; 29:961-4. [PMID: 23794024 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-013-3338-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We report an extremely rare case of extrarenal testicular Wilms' tumor in a 3-year-old boy with intrabdominal undescended left testis. The patient was admitted because of pain and vomiting, with evidence of a huge abdominal mass. At surgery a large tumor arising from the intrabdominal testis was found. Histology showed the classical triphasic Wilms' tumor elements: epithelial, mesenchymal and blastemal areas. Extrarenal Wilms' tumors account for only 3% of all Wilms' tumors and just -100 cases have been reported in literature. Testicular origin is anecdotic. We present histomorphological, histogenetic, clinical, diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic features of this rare tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Morandi
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, FONDAZIONE IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda 10, 20122 Milano, Italy.
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Achil I, Zanini A, Gattesco D, Palese A. [What criteria are used by home care nurses to decide about frequency of home visits in the follow-up of patients with heart failure?]. Ig Sanita Pubbl 2013; 69:195-207. [PMID: 23743700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Factors that directly or indirectly influence nurses' decisions regarding aspects of in-hospital care are well-known. On the other hand, little is known about which elements/criteria are used by home-care nurses to make decisions about the frequency of follow-up visits. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to identify the criteria used for defining the frequency of follow-up visits in patients with heart failure. METHODS Different study methods were used. A cross-sectional questionnaire study was performed to identify what specific aspects are considered for deciding to provide homecare to patients with heart failure. Three focus groups were then held with homecare nurses with experience with heart failure patients, to discuss and reach a consensus regarding the criteria for frequency of follow-up visits. RESULTS The criteria that guide decision-making about the frequency of follow-up home visits are: a) clinical condition of the patient, b) presence of a caregiver, c) compliance/adherence to drug therapy, d) characteristics of the patient, e) workload, f) professional experience of the healthcare operator, f) assessment by the patient's general practitioner. CONCLUSIONS The study identified which factors influence home-care nurses' decision-making in defining the frequency of follow-up for patients with heart failure. The decision-making process is based on the evaluation of multiple factors and also considers the organizational context in which home-care nurses work and their workload. Accurate criteria need to be defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Achil
- Università degli studi di Udine, Italy.
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Candini V, Buizza C, de Girolamo G, Ferrari C, Caldera M, Nobili G, Pioli R, Sacchetti E, Saviotti F, Seggioli G, Zanini A. 1040 – A study of effectiveness of structured group psychoeducation for bipolar patients. A controlled trial in italy. Eur Psychiatry 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-9338(13)76164-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Palese A, Achil I, Bulfone G, Bulfone T, Caporale L, Comisso I, Comand F, Fabris S, Urli N, Zanini A, Zuliani S, Bortoluzzi G. Becoming a nurse in Italy: a multi-method study on expenditures by families and students. Nurse Educ Today 2012; 32:e55-e61. [PMID: 22503295 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2012.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2012] [Revised: 03/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Potential nursing students and their families are faced with difficult decisions regarding the amount of time and money required to complete the nursing programme and the availability of funds to cover the costs and this seems to have received little no attention to date. With the aim of describing the costs incurred by Italian nursing students and/or their families per academic year and compare cost trends incurred from 2004-05 to 2010-11, a multi-centre qualitative/quantitative study design was adopted. Italian Nursing students attending the first, second and third academic years in 2004-05 and those attending the first, second and third academic years in 2010-11 were eligible. Five hundred and six students were involved: 215 (out of 300 eligible, 71.6%) attended the bachelor's degree in nursing in 2004-05 and 291 (out of 383 eligible, 75.9%) in 2010-11. On an annual basis, the average annual expenditures increased by 12% for nursing education from 2004-05 to 2010-11. Given that qualification as a nurse requires at least three years, and considering inflation, for a student who matriculated in 2005 an average of 2485.7€ per year (7457.0€ in total) was required. Data suggest that students have modified their spending behaviour (limiting lunches at public bars, buying books and photocopies) in order to handle the rise of non-discretionary costs, such as tuition fees and the costs of attending lectures and hospital/district trainings. Policies supporting nursing education in general and for those students who are motivated but unable to undertake the course for economic reasons are urgently needed.
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Zanini A, Della Patrona S, Facchini AL, Spanevello A. Induced sputum in the management of COPD: clinical implications. Monaldi Arch Chest Dis 2012; 77:23-5. [PMID: 22662642 DOI: 10.4081/monaldi.2012.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sputum induction can be used as a non-invasive technique to investigate airway inflammation in asthma and COPD. We reported the case of a 68 year old man with COPD, stage III GOLD, that underwent sputum induction during two exacerbation episodes. The first cell count showed a typical sputum neutrophilia, whereas the second showed sputum eosinophilia. On the basis of sputum cellularity, we decided to treat the first episode with a course of antibiotics and the second exacerbation with a course of antibiotics and oral steroids. The patient showed improvement in both cases, obtaining clinical stabilisation. The induced sputum cell count could be a useful technique in a clinical setting to evaluate the cellular characteristics of airway inflammation during COPD exacerbation and modulate the antinflammatory therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zanini
- Division of Pneumology, Fondazione S. Maugeri, IRCCS Rehabilitation Institute of Tradate (Varese), Italy.
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35
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Zanini A, Tartali C, Longhini B, Meschi A, Tomezzoli S, Assael B, Pradal U, Cazzarolli C. 194 The influence of nutritional status on muscle strength and physical performance in CF patients listed for lung transplantation. J Cyst Fibros 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(12)60364-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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36
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Palese A, Bulfone G, Venturato E, Urli N, Bulfone T, Zanini A, Fabris S, Tomietto M, Comisso I, Tosolini C, Zuliani S, Dante A. The cost of the objective structured clinical examination on an Italian nursing bachelor's degree course. Nurse Educ Today 2012; 32:422-426. [PMID: 21470724 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2011.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2010] [Revised: 03/05/2011] [Accepted: 03/08/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) is considered the most valid and reliable method for assessing the clinical skills of students training for health professions, but its use is limited by the related high costs. We analyzed the cost retrospectively of using an OSCE designed for second-year students (2009) in our degree course, adopting the Reznick et al. guidelines (1993), which recommend assessing both high-end costs and low-end costs. The high-end costs adopting the OSCE amounted to € 145.23 per student, while the low-end costs were € 31.51 per student. Considering the economic crisis and the cost-containment measures applied also in nursing education, strategies for further reducing costs are discussed.
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Donegani E, Aiani A, Basilico F, Bolognini D, Borasio P, Cappelletti P, Chiari P, Frigerio M, Gelosa S, Giannini G, Hasan S, Mattera A, Mauri P, Monti A, Ostinelli A, Prest M, Vallazza E, Zanini A. 1409 poster TOWARDS A HOSPITAL-BASED BNCT WITH A STANDARD RADIO-THERAPIC LINAC. Radiother Oncol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(11)71531-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Quattrin R, Zanini A, Di Vora S, Piller Roner S, Palese A, Brusaferro S. Telephone support: a descriptive study in an Italian oncological Day-Hospital ward. Ig Sanita Pubbl 2010; 66:617-622. [PMID: 21135903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The past decade has been seen widespread use of telephone and computer technologies to provide a broad array of health behaviours intervention and health services. The purpose of this study is to explore the frequency and the reasons about telephone using in an Italian Day Hospital oncological ward. The study was conducted in 2008 throughout a questionnaire filled by nurses that receive patients telephone calls. We analyzed 100 hours of nurses' work corresponding to about 13 days. The mean of daily calls was 30.5 (SD=6.4). 72.2% were calls effectuated on the morning, the others in the afternoon. Nurses spent 13% of their shiftwork time on telephone: 6.97 hours for calls regards directly patients and 5.8 hours for service calls. General information and information on tests results were the more frequent motivations of patients' calls. The study stress major workload for nurses in telephone answers. A significant patient demand emerged that should be addressed also identifying specific hours during the day.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Quattrin
- DPMSC School of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.
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Pugliese M, Bengin V, Casolino M, Roca V, Zanini A, Durante M. Tests of shielding effectiveness of Kevlar and Nextel onboard the International Space Station and the Foton-M3 capsule. Radiat Environ Biophys 2010; 49:359-363. [PMID: 20364264 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-010-0283-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2009] [Accepted: 03/20/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Radiation assessment and protection in space is the first step in planning future missions to the Moon and Mars, where mission and number of space travelers will increase and the protection of the geomagnetic shielding against the cosmic radiation will be absent. In this framework, the shielding effectiveness of two flexible materials, Kevlar and Nextel, were tested, which are largely used in the construction of spacecrafts. Accelerator-based tests clearly demonstrated that Kevlar is an excellent shield for heavy ions, close to polyethylene, whereas Nextel shows poor shielding characteristics. Measurements on flight performed onboard of the International Space Station and of the Foton-M3 capsule have been carried out with special attention to the neutron component; shielded and unshielded detectors (thermoluminescence dosemeters, bubble detectors) were exposed to a real radiation environment to test the shielding properties of the materials under study. The results indicate no significant effects of shielding, suggesting that thin shields in low-Earth Orbit have little effect on absorbed dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pugliese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Complesso Universitario Monte Sant'Angelo Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy.
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Drakaki E, Klingenberg B, Serafetinides AA, Kontou E, Katsikosta N, Tselekas P, Evgenidou D, Boukos N, Zanini A. Evaluation of laser cleaning of ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine coins. SURF INTERFACE ANAL 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/sia.3482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Quattrin R, Zanini A, Bulfone G, Bressan S, Farneti F, Brusaferro S. Socio-demographic survey of first degree healthcare students in the 2007-08 academic year in an Italian university. Ann Ig 2010; 22:199-204. [PMID: 20677671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the socio-demographic characteristics of first-year students on first degree healthcare courses at Udine University (Italy). The survey tried to elicit useful information in a field where literature is scarce. Every student starting healthcare courses in the 2007/08 academic year was contacted and asked to fill in a questionnaire. Two hundred and sixty students were identified, belonging to six different courses: Nursing Sciences, Obstetric Sciences, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Neurophysiopathology Techniques, Biomedical Laboratory Techniques. Each questionnaire included 26 items (25 closed and one open) and had four sections: personal data, family data, training background, criteria affecting the decision to attend a healthcare course. The overall response rate was 87% (226 out of 260). Major findings were: women prevail on men (77% vs. 23%), many students chose these courses because some family member worked in the healthcare field (22.1%), 19.9% of students are older than 26 and 7.1% of them are postgraduates, 12% come from foreign countries, and job opportunities and former work experience influenced the choice of course. This database provides an important benchmark for comparing future trends among students in the healthcare profession in terms of socio-demographic characteristics and personal attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Quattrin
- DPMSC dell'Università degli Studi di Udine, Italy.
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Durisi E, Koivunoro H, Visca L, Borla O, Zanini A. Comparison of different MC techniques to evaluate BNCT dose profiles in phantom exposed tovarious neutron fields. Radiat Prot Dosimetry 2010; 138:213-222. [PMID: 19939825 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncp263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The absorbed dose in BNCT (boron neutron capture therapy) consists of several radiation components with different physical properties and biological effectiveness. In order to assess the clinical efficacy of the beams, determining the dose profiles in tissues, Monte Carlo (MC) simulations are used. This paper presents a comparison between dose profiles calculated in different phantoms using two techniques: MC radiation transport code, MCNP-4C2 and BNCT MC treatment planning program, SERA (simulation environment for radiotherapy application). In this study MCNP is used as a reference tool. A preliminary test of SERA is performed using six monodirectional and monoenergetic beams directed onto a simple water phantom. In order to deeply investigate the effect of the different cross-section libraries and of the dose calculation methodology, monoenergetic and monodirectional beams directed toward a standard Snyder phantom are simulated. Neutron attenuation curves and dose profiles are calculated with both codes and the results are compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Durisi
- Experimental Physics Department, University of Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, 10125 Torino, Italy.
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Dragonieri S, Tongoussouva O, Zanini A, Imperatori A, Spanevello A. Markers of airway inflammation in pulmonary diseases assessed by induced sputum. Monaldi Arch Chest Dis 2010; 71:119-26. [PMID: 19999958 DOI: 10.4081/monaldi.2009.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
During recent years there has been a growing interest in using non-invasive biomarkers to understand and monitor the airway inflammation in subjects with respiratory tract disorders. To date, the best validated and performing non-invasive biomarkers are measures of inflammation in induced sputum in both cellular and fluid phase, which can provide biological insights into the pathogenesis of respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The purpose of this review is to examine the principal literature on the different markers of inflammation in pulmonary diseases assessed by induced sputum analysis in either cellular or fluid phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dragonieri
- Department of Pulmonology, Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Cassano delle Murge, Italy.
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Quattrin R, Zanini A, Zamolo E, Brusaferro S. Are Italian nursing students healthy and having protective lifestyle behaviours? A pilot study. Ann Ig 2010; 22:83-88. [PMID: 20476666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Aim of the study was to investigate the lifestyles of nursing students attending the first year at an Italian school of nursing, before their knowledge of health promotion and health education can condition their behaviour. Research suggests that nurses themselves, in both the acute and primary care settings, perceive that health education is an important part of their role. The study consisted of a self-administered questionnaire with five sections: general data, and questions on nutrition, physical activity, smoking behaviour and alcohol. Response rate was 89.2% (149/167): 87.2% of respondents reported they were satisfied with their health status; 70.5% of students had a normal body mass index; 40.6% of males and 23.1% of females played a sport; 49.7% had never smoked in their life; 50.3% had smoked at least once; 62.7% were smokers and 75.2% of students had drunk alcohol at least once. The students surveyed adopt unhealthy behaviours like smoking, use of alcohol and poor physical activity even if they consider they are in good health. The study stresses the fact that the nursing population needs to be specifically trained to make positive changes. This is important for their education and also for their position as role models for patients they will care for in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Quattrin
- DPMSC dell'Università degli Studi di Udine.
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Brunani A, Liuzzi A, Sirtori A, Raggi A, Berselli ME, Villa V, Ceriani F, Tacchini E, Vicari V, Parisio C, Vismara L, Zanini A, Vinci C, Contini F, Braga E, Ricappi A, Camerlengo M, Ristea M, Leonardi M. Mapping an obesity clinical evaluation protocol to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Disabil Rehabil 2009; 32:417-23. [DOI: 10.3109/09638280903171535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Zanini A, Chetta A, Saetta M, Baraldo S, Castagnetti C, Nicolini G, Neri M, Olivieri D. Bronchial vascular remodelling in patients with COPD and its relationship with inhaled steroid treatment. Thorax 2009; 64:1019-24. [PMID: 19736178 DOI: 10.1136/thx.2009.114629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only a few studies have evaluated microvascular changes and proangiogenetic mediators in the bronchial mucosa of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and the results have been discordant. Furthermore, the role of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in COPD has not been extensively studied. A study was undertaken to evaluate vascular remodelling, its relationship with inflammatory cells and treatment effects in the bronchial mucosa of patients with COPD. METHODS The study comprised three groups: (1) 10 non-treated patients with COPD (COPD); (2) 10 patients with COPD treated with nebulised beclomethasone dipropionate 1600-2400 mug daily (equivalent to 800-1200 mug via metered dose inhaler) (COPD/ICS); and (3) 8 control subjects (CS). Bronchial biopsies were evaluated for number and size of vessels and vascular area. Specimens were also examined for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) expression and inflammatory cell counts were performed. RESULTS Vascular area, vessel size, VEGF+ cells, bFGF+ cells and TGF-beta+ cells were significantly increased in the COPD group compared with the COPD/ICS and CS groups (all p<0.05). In addition, bFGF+ cells were significantly increased in the COPD/ICS group compared with the CS group, and CD8+ and CD68+ cells were significantly increased in the COPD group compared with the COPD/ICS and CS groups (p<0.05). In the COPD group the VEGF+ cells correlated with the number of vessels (p<0.05), vascular area (p<0.01) and vessel size (p<0.05), and TGF-beta+ cells correlated significantly with vascular area (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Bronchial vascular remodelling in patients with COPD is mainly related to morphological changes of the mucosal microvessels rather than to new vessel formation, and may be reduced in patients treated with steroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zanini
- Salvatore Maugeri Foundation, Division of Pneumology, IRCCS Rehabilitation Institute of Tradate, Italy.
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Di Stefano A, Caramori G, Gnemmi I, Contoli M, Bristot L, Capelli A, Ricciardolo FLM, Magno F, D'Anna SE, Zanini A, Carbone M, Sabatini F, Usai C, Brun P, Chung KF, Barnes PJ, Papi A, Adcock IM, Balbi B. Association of increased CCL5 and CXCL7 chemokine expression with neutrophil activation in severe stable COPD. Thorax 2009; 64:968-75. [PMID: 19703829 DOI: 10.1136/thx.2009.113647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased numbers of activated neutrophils have been reported in the bronchial mucosa of patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly in severe disease. OBJECTIVES To investigate the expression of neutrophilic chemokines and adhesion molecules in bronchial biopsies from patients with stable COPD of different severity (GOLD stages I-IV) compared with age-matched control subjects, smokers with normal lung function and never smokers. METHODS The expression of CCL5, CXCL1, 5, 6, 7 and 8, CXCR1, CXCR2, CD11b and CD44 was measured in the bronchial mucosa using immunohistochemistry, confocal immunofluorescence, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-QPCR) and Western blotting (WB). RESULTS The numbers of CCL5+ epithelial cells and CCL5+ and CXCL7+ immunostained cells were increased in the bronchial submucosa of patients with stable severe COPD compared with control never smokers and smokers with normal lung function. This was also confirmed at the level of mRNA expression. The numbers of CCL5+ cells in the submucosa of patients with COPD were 2-15 times higher than any other chemokines. There was no correlation between the number of these cells and the number of neutrophils in the bronchial submucosa. Compared with control smokers, the percentage of neutrophils co-expressing CD11b and CD44 receptors was significantly increased in the submucosa of patients with COPD. CONCLUSION The increased expression of CCL5 and CXCL7 in the bronchial mucosa of patients with stable COPD, together with an increased expression of extracellular matrix-binding receptors on neutrophils, may be involved in the pathogenesis of COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Stefano
- Division of Pulmonary Disease and Laboratory of Cytoimmunopathology of Heart and Lung, Salvatore Maugeri Foundation, IRCCS, Veruno, Italy.
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Mattera A, Bolognini D, Hasan S, Prest M, Vallazza E, Giannini G, Cappelletti P, Frigerio M, Gelosa S, Monti A, Ostinelli A, Mauri P, Basilico F, Zanini A, Capelli E, Chiari P, Borasio P. REAL-TIME IMAGING OF 10B IN A HOSPITAL-BASED NEUTRON FACILITY. Radiother Oncol 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(12)73203-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Di Stefano A, Caramori G, Gnemmi I, Contoli M, Vicari C, Capelli A, Magno F, D'Anna SE, Zanini A, Brun P, Casolari P, Chung KF, Barnes PJ, Papi A, Adcock I, Balbi B. T helper type 17-related cytokine expression is increased in the bronchial mucosa of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Clin Exp Immunol 2009; 157:316-24. [PMID: 19604272 PMCID: PMC2730858 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2009.03965.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
There are increased numbers of activated T lymphocytes in the bronchial mucosa of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. T helper type 17 (Th17) cells release interleukin (IL)-17 as their effector cytokine under the control of IL-22 and IL-23. Furthermore, Th17 numbers are increased in some chronic inflammatory conditions. To investigate the expression of interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22 and IL-23 and of retinoic orphan receptor RORC2, a marker of Th17 cells, in bronchial biopsies from patients with stable COPD of different severity compared with age-matched control subjects. The expression of IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23 and RORC2 was measured in the bronchial mucosa using immunohistochemistry and/or quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The number of IL-22(+) and IL-23(+) immunoreactive cells is increased in the bronchial epithelium of stable COPD compared with control groups. In addition, the number of IL-17A(+) and IL-22(+) immunoreactive cells is increased in the bronchial submucosa of stable COPD compared with control non-smokers. In all smokers, with and without disease, and in patients with COPD alone, the number of IL-22(+) cells correlated significantly with the number of both CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells in the bronchial mucosa. RORC2 mRNA expression in the bronchial mucosa was not significantly different between smokers with normal lung function and COPD. Further, we report that endothelial cells express high levels of IL-17A and IL-22. Increased expression of the Th17-related cytokines IL-17A, IL-22 and IL-23 in COPD patients may reflect their involvement, and that of specific IL-17-producing cells, in driving the chronic inflammation seen in COPD.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Analysis of Variance
- Bronchi/immunology
- Case-Control Studies
- DNA Primers/genetics
- Female
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Interleukin-17/immunology
- Interleukin-23/genetics
- Interleukin-23/immunology
- Interleukins/genetics
- Interleukins/immunology
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Mucous Membrane/immunology
- Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 1, Group F, Member 3
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/immunology
- RNA, Messenger/analysis
- Receptors, Retinoic Acid/genetics
- Receptors, Retinoic Acid/immunology
- Receptors, Thyroid Hormone/genetics
- Receptors, Thyroid Hormone/immunology
- Respiratory Function Tests
- Smoking/adverse effects
- Statistics, Nonparametric
- T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer/immunology
- Interleukin-22
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Stefano
- Division of Pulmonary Disease, Salvatore Maugeri Foundation, IRCCS, Veruno (NO), Italy.
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Chetta A, Zanini A, Foresi A, D'Ippolito R, Tipa A, Castagnaro A, Baraldo S, Neri M, Saetta M, Olivieri D. Vascular endothelial growth factor up-regulation and bronchial wall remodelling in asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2006; 35:1437-42. [PMID: 16297139 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2005.02360.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing in vitro evidence to support a role for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a major regulator of angiogenesis, as a mediator of fibrosis associated with neovascularization. OBJECTIVE We tested the hypothesis that VEGF is involved both in increased airway mucosal vascularity and in the subepithelial fibrosis of asthmatic patients. METHODS Bronchial biopsies were performed in 24 asthmatic patients and eight healthy controls. Immunostaining, using computerized image analysis, was performed using monoclonal antibodies against VEGF(+) cells, type IV collagen, to outline the basement membrane thickness, and tryptase and EG2, to identify mast cells and eosinophils, respectively. RESULTS The counts of VEGF(+) cells (P<0.05), mast cells and EG2(+) cells (both P<0.01) were higher in asthmatics than in controls. The number of vessels, the vascular area in the lamina propria, and the basement membrane thickness were significantly higher in asthmatics than in healthy volunteers (P<0.01). Moreover, in asthmatic patients, the number of VEGF(+) cells was significantly related to the number of vessels (P<0.01), to mast cells (P<0.01) and to basement membrane thickness (P<0.01). A colocalization study also revealed that mast cells were a relevant cellular source of VEGF. High doses of inhaled fluticasone propionate significantly reduced VEGF(+) cells (P<0.05), vessel number (P<0.05), vascular area (P<0.05) and basement membrane thickness (P<0.05) in a subgroup of asthmatic patients. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that VEGF, in addition to being involved in the vascular component of airway remodelling, may play a role in the thickening of the basement membrane in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chetta
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Respiratory Diseases, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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