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Protano C, Vitali M, De Giorgi A, Marotta D, Crucianelli S, Fontana M. Balneotherapy using thermal mineral water baths and dermatological diseases: a systematic review. Int J Biometeorol 2024:10.1007/s00484-024-02649-x. [PMID: 38530467 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-024-02649-x] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Balneotherapy includes practices and methods using medically and legally recognized mineral-medicinal waters, muds and natural gases from natural springs for therapeutic purposes. One of the most widely used method in balneotherapy is bathing with thermal mineral water. In the course of the years, scientific community has produced an increasing number of evidences that this practice is an effective method for treating signs and symptoms of several pathologies such as rheumatic, cardiovascular and dermatological diseases. This systematic review is aimed at evaluating the effect of balneotherapy with thermal water baths as a treatment to manage signs and symptoms of patients affected by all types of dermatological diseases. The systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA Statement, and its protocol was registered on PROSPERO platform (CRD42022295913). The research was performed on the databases Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane. We included clinical trials evaluating the effects of balneotherapy using thermal mineral water baths for managing dermatological diseases in humans, published in English and Italian language. Eight studies were included, seven of them enrolled adults affected by psoriasis and one studied atopic dermatitis patients. The common result of all the articles included was a clear improvement of signs and symptoms of psoriasis and eczematous diseases after use of thermal mineral water baths. These effects seem to be strictly related to physical and chemical properties of thermal water used for balneotherapy. However, studies in this field are still limited to support robust evidence of the effectiveness of balneotherapy using thermal mineral water baths and often their quality is low. Thus, new clinical studies need to be carried out, using more correct methods for conducting the studies and for processing statistical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.Le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.Le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giorgi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.Le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.Le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Crucianelli
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, P.Le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Fontana
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, P.Le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
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Protano C, Fontana M, De Giorgi A, Marotta D, Cocomello N, Crucianelli S, Del Cimmuto A, Vitali M. Balneotherapy for osteoarthritis: a systematic review. Rheumatol Int 2023; 43:1597-1610. [PMID: 37301799 PMCID: PMC10348981 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-023-05358-7] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review is aimed to evaluate the effects of balneotherapy with thermal mineral water for managing the symptoms and signs of osteoarthritis located at any anatomical site. The systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA Statement. The following databases were consulted: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, DOAJ and PEDro. We included clinical trials evaluating the effects of balneotherapy as a treatment for patients with osteoarthritis, published in English and Italian language, led on human subjects. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO. Overall, 17 studies have been included in the review. All of these studies were performed on adults or elderly patients suffering from osteoarthritis localized to knees, hips, hands or lumbar spine. The treatment assessed was always the balneotherapy with thermal mineral water. The outcomes evaluated were pain, palpation/pressure sensibility, articular tenderness, functional ability, quality of life, mobility, deambulation, ability to climb stairs, medical objective and patients' subjective evaluation, superoxide dismutase enzyme activity, serum levels of interleukin-2 receptors. The results of all the included studies agree and demonstrated an improvement of all the symptoms and signs investigated. In particular, pain and quality of life were the main symptoms evaluated and both improved after the treatment with thermal water in all the studies included in the review. These effects can be attributed to physical and chemical-physical properties of thermal mineral water used. However, the quality of many studies resulted not so high due and, consequently, it is necessary to perform new clinical trial in this field using more correct methods for conducting the study and for processing statistical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Fontana
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giorgi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Nicholas Cocomello
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Crucianelli
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Del Cimmuto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Imeshtari V, Vezza F, Barletta VI, Bongiovanni A, Colaprico C, Shaholli D, Ricci E, Carluccio G, Moretti L, Manai MV, Chiappetta M, Paolini R, Marte M, Previte CM, Barone LC, Faticoni A, Cammalleri V, Pocino RN, Picchioni F, Kibi S, Deriu G, Serruto P, Dorelli B, Mazzalai E, Giffi M, Marotta D, Manzi M, Marasca V, Cocchiara RA, Ciccone F, Pasculli P, Massetti P, Antonelli G, Mastroianni CM, La Torre G. Synergistic Effect between SARS-CoV-2 Wave and COVID-19 Vaccination on the Occurrence of Mild Symptoms in Healthcare Workers. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050882. [PMID: 37242986 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050882] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the beginning of the pandemic, five variants of epidemiological interest have been identified, each of them with its pattern of symptomology and disease severity. The aim of this study is to analyze the role of vaccination status in modulating the pattern of symptomatology associated with COVID-19 infection during four waves. METHODS Data from the surveillance activity of healthcare workers were used to carry out descriptive analysis, association analyses and multivariable analysis. A synergism analysis between vaccination status and symptomatology during the waves was performed. RESULTS Females were found at a higher risk of developing symptoms. Four SARS-CoV-2 waves were identified. Pharyngitis and rhinitis were more frequent during the fourth wave and among vaccinated subjects while cough, fever, flu syndrome, headache, anosmia, ageusia, arthralgia/arthritis and myalgia were more frequent during the first three waves and among unvaccinated subjects. A correlation was found between vaccination and the different waves in terms of developing pharyngitis and rhinitis. CONCLUSION Vaccination status and viruses' mutations had a synergic effect in the mitigation of the symptomatology caused by SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Imeshtari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Vezza
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Vanessa India Barletta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Bongiovanni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Colaprico
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - David Shaholli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Ricci
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Carluccio
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Moretti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Manai
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Chiappetta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Paolini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Marte
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Maria Previte
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Camilla Barone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Faticoni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Vittoria Cammalleri
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Noemi Pocino
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Picchioni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Shizuka Kibi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Gloria Deriu
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Serruto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Dorelli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Mazzalai
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Giffi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Manzi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Marasca
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosario Andrea Cocchiara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Ciccone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pasculli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Massetti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Antonelli
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe La Torre
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Vitali M, Fontana M, De Giorgi A, Marotta D, Crucianelli S, Antonucci A, Protano C. Natural Mineral Water and Diuresis: A Systematic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:ijerph20085527. [PMID: 37107810 PMCID: PMC10138893 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085527] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The present systematic review is aimed at evaluating the diuretic effects determined according to the natural mineral water consumption on healthy individuals. This systematic review has been performed following the guidelines of the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) Statement, investigating PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library from inception to November 2022. Studies performed both on animals and on humans were considered. After screening, a total of 12 studies have been identified. Of these, 11 studies were performed in Italy and 1 in Bulgaria. The time range of publication is very wide, ranging from 1962 to 2019 for human studies and from 1967 to 2001 for animal studies. All the included studies found an increase in diuresis determined according to the consumption of natural mineral water, in some cases after just one administration of the tested water. However, the quality of the studies is not so high, especially for the research conducted many years ago. Thus, it would be desirable to carry out new clinical studies using more appropriate methodological approaches and more refined methods of statistical data processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Mario Fontana
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giorgi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Crucianelli
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Antonucci
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Protano C, Valeriani F, De Giorgi A, Marotta D, Ubaldi F, Napoli C, Liguori G, Romano Spica V, Vitali M, Gallè F. Consumption patterns of energy drinks in university students: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition 2023; 107:111904. [PMID: 36529090 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2022.111904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Energy drink (ED) use is promoted to stimulate mental and/or physical activity, and their popularity has increased over the years, especially among young people. However, the use of EDs is often improper, and can induce adverse effects for human health. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze the literature to characterize the prevalence of ED consumption and motivations for use among undergraduate students. Furthermore, adverse effects and health-related behaviors associated with ED consumption were explored. METHODS This systematic review was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines, and the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were used for data research. RESULTS A total of 71 articles published between 2007 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The estimated overall prevalence of ED consumption was 42.9% in undergraduate students (95% confidence interval, 42.5%-43.3%), with significant heterogeneity among studies (Q test: P < 0.001; I2 = 99.4%). The main reasons for use were engagement in study, projects or examinations, stay awake or alert, and physical activity/sport engagement. Sleep disturbance and increased heart rate or blood pressure were the most commonly reported adverse effects. ED consumption was frequently associated with alcohol use and smoking. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the inappropriate use of EDs and related unhealthy behaviors should be identified early, and addressed through effective educational interventions.<END ABSTRACT>.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy.
| | - Andrea De Giorgi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Ubaldi
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy.
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy.
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy.
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Dilillo A, Del Giudice E, Cucchiara S, Viola F, Mallardo S, Isoldi S, Iorfida D, Bloise S, Marcellino A, Martucci V, Sanseviero M, De Luca E, Protano C, Marotta D, Ventriglia F, Lubrano R. Evaluation of Risk for Thromboembolic Events in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2022; 74:599-604. [PMID: 35129153 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003398] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The occurrence of thrombotic events in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is linked to multiple interactions between hereditary and acquired risk factors. There are few published data concerning children with iBD. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of thromboembolic risk factors also in children with iBD. METHODS We enrolled three groups of children: one with Crohn disease (cD), one with ulcerative colitis (Uc), and a control group of healthy subjects. For all the participants the potential thromboembolic risk was evaluated clinically and with laboratory tests. RESULTS We studied: 30 children (25.6%) with CD, 28 (23.9%) with UC, and 59 (50.4%) healthy control subjects. Regarding Pediatric Crohn Disease Activity Index, no significant differences between thromboembolic risk factors and disease activity were detected. Instead, in the patients with UC, stratified with the Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index, there was a statistically significant difference in serum fibrinogen levels between patients with mild and moderate/severe disease [3.8 (3.2-4.5) g/L vs 5.7 (4.8-6.2) g/L, P < 0.0032]. serum homocysteine levels were lower in healthy controls than in CD (P = 0.176) and UC (P = 0.026). An increased level ofhomocysteine in UC with a homozygous mutation in the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase C677T gene was also observed. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that children with IBD have clinical features, acquired and congenital factors that can increase thrombotic risk, similarly to adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Dilillo
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Emanuela Del Giudice
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Salvatore Cucchiara
- Maternal Child Health Department, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Sapienza - University of Rome
| | - Franca Viola
- Maternal Child Health Department, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Unit, Sapienza - University of Rome
| | - Saverio Mallardo
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Sara Isoldi
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Donatella Iorfida
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Silvia Bloise
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Alessia Marcellino
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Vanessa Martucci
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Mariateresa Sanseviero
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Enrica De Luca
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Ventriglia
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
| | - Riccardo Lubrano
- Pediatric and Neonatology Unit, Maternal and Child Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina
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Cammalleri V, Pocino RN, Marotta D, Protano C, Sinibaldi F, Simonazzi S, Petyx M, Iavicoli S, Vitali M. Occupational scenarios and exposure assessment to formaldehyde: A systematic review. Indoor Air 2022; 32:e12949. [PMID: 34708443 PMCID: PMC9298394 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of the systematic review were to: identify the work sectors at risk for exposure to formaldehyde; investigate the procedures applied to assess occupational exposure; evaluate the reported exposure levels among the different settings. An electronic search of Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and ToxNet was carried out for collecting all the articles on the investigated issue published from January 1, 2004 to September 30, 2019. Forty-three papers were included in the review, and evidenced a great number of occupational scenarios at risk for formaldehyde exposure. All the included studies collected data on formaldehyde exposure levels by a similar approach: environmental and personal sampling followed by chromatographic analyses. Results ranged from not detectable values until to some mg m-3 of airborne formaldehyde. The riskiest occupational settings for formaldehyde exposure were the gross anatomy and pathology laboratories, the hairdressing salons and some specific productive settings, such as wooden furniture factories, dairy facilities and fish hatcheries. Notice that formaldehyde, a well-known carcinogen, was recovered in air at levels higher than outdoor in almost all the studied scenarios/activities; thus, when formaldehyde cannot be removed or substituted, targeted strategies for exposure elimination or mitigation must be adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Cammalleri
- Department of Public Health and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”RomeItaly
| | - Roberta Noemi Pocino
- Department of Public Health and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”RomeItaly
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”RomeItaly
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”RomeItaly
| | - Federica Sinibaldi
- Department of Anatomical Histological Medical Legal Sciences and Locomotor ApparatusUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”RomeItaly
| | - Stefano Simonazzi
- Department of Anatomical Histological Medical Legal Sciences and Locomotor ApparatusUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”RomeItaly
| | - Marta Petyx
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and HygieneINAIL ResearchRomeItaly
| | - Sergio Iavicoli
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and HygieneINAIL ResearchRomeItaly
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”RomeItaly
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Protano C, Buomprisco G, Cammalleri V, Pocino RN, Marotta D, Simonazzi S, Cardoni F, Petyx M, Iavicoli S, Vitali M. The Carcinogenic Effects of Formaldehyde Occupational Exposure: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:165. [PMID: 35008329 PMCID: PMC8749969 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formaldehyde, classified as a carcinogen in 2004, as of today is widely used in many work activities. From its classification, further studies were performed to evaluate its carcinogenicity. The aim of the systematic review is to update the evidence on occupational exposure to formaldehyde and cancer onset. METHODS The review, in accordance with the PRISMA statement, includes articles in English reporting original results of studies conducted on workers exposed to formaldehyde, considering all types of cancer, published from 1 January 2000 to 30 July 2021 and selected from the Pubmed and Scopus databases. The studies' quality was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS A total of 21 articles were included, conducted in different European, American, and Asian countries. The most investigated occupational areas are those characterized by a deliberate use of formaldehyde. Some studies evaluated all types of cancer, whereas others focused on specific sites such as thyroid and respiratory, lymphohematopoietic, or central nervous systems. The results showed weak associations with lung cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, leukemia, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate the need for further original studies carried out on representative samples of workers exposed to measured levels of FA. These studies should be designed to reduce the bias due to co-exposure to other carcinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (V.C.); (R.N.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Buomprisco
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (S.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Vittoria Cammalleri
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (V.C.); (R.N.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Roberta Noemi Pocino
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (V.C.); (R.N.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (V.C.); (R.N.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Stefano Simonazzi
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (S.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesca Cardoni
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (S.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Marta Petyx
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, INAIL, Via Fontana Candida 1, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Sergio Iavicoli
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, INAIL, Via Fontana Candida 1, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (V.C.); (R.N.P.); (D.M.)
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9
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Isonne C, Nardi A, de Soccio P, Zerbetto A, Giffi M, Sindoni A, Marotta D, Baccolini V, Migliara G, Mete R, Marzuillo C, Villari P, Salis G, Moirano F, De Vito C. Job Satisfaction Among Employees After a Merger: A Cross-Sectional Survey in the Local Health Unit of Sardinia Region, Italy. Front Public Health 2021; 9:798084. [PMID: 34993172 PMCID: PMC8725631 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.798084] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Job satisfaction plays an important role in healthcare organization and management; it is critical for maintaining and improving staff efficiency and consequently the quality of care provided. Organizational restructuring processes, including mergers, are likely to affect job satisfaction levels, but evidence of the impact they have is surprisingly scarce. The aim of the study was to describe a methodology used to measure job satisfaction of the employees at a Local Health Unit (LHU) in Italy immediately after a merger and to assess the determinants associated with any reduction in worker satisfaction. The study was conducted among employees of the LHU of the Sardinia Region in July 2018, after a merger of eight subregional LHUs had taken place. The entire staff was enrolled, of which a total of 1,737 employees were surveyed. We used a questionnaire exploring socio-demographic and working characteristics of the employees, the various areas related to job satisfaction and interviewee opinions on the merger process. Multivariable stepwise backward logistic regression models were built to identify factors independently associated with lower job satisfaction. The results of a multivariable analysis showed that lower job satisfaction was more likely in employees with an administrative role (aOR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.37-4.00) or a career demotion (aOR: 1.84, 95%CI: 1.11-3.03). High levels of mental stress were strongly associated with lower job satisfaction (aOR: 5.64, 95%CI: 4.16-7.64). "More equity of employee rewards" was the only example of a set of responder suggestions found to be associated with lower job satisfaction (aOR: 2.30, 95%CI: 1.51-3.47). Generally, responders showed a good level of job satisfaction-and this was also the case following the merger-but some job profile determinants were strongly associated with low employee satisfaction. The results of the study highlighted several challenging areas and critical issues relating to working conditions. Further surveys are required to confirm these results and to monitor their evolution over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Isonne
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Nardi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale de Soccio
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zerbetto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Giffi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Sindoni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Baccolini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Migliara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosario Mete
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carolina Marzuillo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Villari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Salis
- Complex Structure Director for Training, Research and Organizational Change, ATS Sardinia, Nuoro, Italy
| | - Fulvio Moirano
- Complex Structure Director for Training, Research and Organizational Change, ATS Sardinia, Nuoro, Italy
| | - Corrado De Vito
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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10
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Gallè F, Valeriani F, Marotta D, De Giorgi A, Bargellini A, Bianco A, Colucci ME, Coniglio MA, Dallolio L, De Giglio O, Di Giuseppe G, Diella G, Laganà P, Licata F, Liguori G, Marchesi I, Marini S, Montagna MT, Napoli C, Orsi GB, Pasquarella C, Pelullo CP, Ricciardi L, Romano Spica V, Sacchetti R, Tardivo S, Veronesi L, Vitali M, Protano C. What about Your Body Ornament? Experiences of Tattoo and Piercing among Italian Youths. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:12429. [PMID: 34886155 PMCID: PMC8657262 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312429] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND tattooing and piercing are increasingly common, especially among youths. However, several health complications may be associated with these practices if basic hygiene rules are not respected. This multicenter study was aimed at exploring tattoo and piercing experiences reported by a large sample of Italian undergraduate students through a public health perspective. METHODS tattooed and/or pierced students attending 12 Italian universities were asked to complete a web-based questionnaire regarding their body art experience. RESULTS out of 1472 respondents, 833 (56.6%) were tattooed and 1009 (68.5%) were pierced. The greatest proportion of tattooed students (93.9%) got her/his first tattoo in a tattoo studio, while most of the pierced were serviced in a jewelry store (48.0%). The pierced ones were less informed on health issues related to the procedure (56.0% versus 77.8% of tattooed p < 0.001), and tattooists were reportedly more attentive to hygiene rules (instrument sterilization 91.5% versus 79.1% of piercers, p < 0.001; use of disposable gloves 98.2% versus 71% of piercers, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS educational interventions for both professionals and communities are needed to improve the awareness and the control of health risks related to body art throughout the Italian territory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Andrea De Giorgi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Annalisa Bargellini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.B.); (I.M.)
| | - Aida Bianco
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Maria Eugenia Colucci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (M.E.C.); (C.P.); (L.V.)
| | - Maria Anna Coniglio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Laura Dallolio
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.D.); (S.M.)
| | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (O.D.G.); (G.D.); (M.T.M.)
| | - Gabriella Di Giuseppe
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.)
| | - Giusy Diella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (O.D.G.); (G.D.); (M.T.M.)
| | - Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Francesca Licata
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Isabella Marchesi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.B.); (I.M.)
| | - Sofia Marini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.D.); (S.M.)
| | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (O.D.G.); (G.D.); (M.T.M.)
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00139 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Battista Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Cesira Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (M.E.C.); (C.P.); (L.V.)
| | - Concetta Paola Pelullo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.)
| | - Luca Ricciardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sense Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rossella Sacchetti
- Department of Education Studies “Giovanni Maria Bertin”, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Stefano Tardivo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (M.E.C.); (C.P.); (L.V.)
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
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11
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Marte M, Marotta D, Giannini D, Mazzalai E, Barone LC, Baccolini V, Migliara G, Marzuillo C, De Giusti M, Villari P. Incidence rate of Healthcare Associated Infections in a COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit. Eur J Public Health 2021. [PMCID: PMC8574248 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckab165.070] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intensive Care Units (ICU) faced a high pressure under the COVID-19 pandemic. It is recognized that patients admitted in these wards are more susceptible to Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs). This study aims at comparing the incidence of HAIs in a COVID-19 ICU to a No-COVID ward. Methods A retrospective cohort study including patients admitted to the ICU of the Teaching Hospital Policlinico Umberto I in Rome from April 2020 to March 2021 was performed. Data on age, gender, hospitalization, different types of devices (ventilation, central venous and urinary catheter), number and type of device-related HAI were collected. Statistical analyses were performed with Episheet and STATA 13. Results Out of 347 patients admitted in the ICUs, 329 were included in the study (217 had COVID-19 and 112 had not). In the COVID-19 group, patients were mainly male (69.58%) with a mean age of 62.5±13.5 years, whereas the other group was slightly older (63.2±16.2 years) and more balanced between the two sexes (52.68% male). A total of 133 patients developed at least one HAI, 94 of which were SARS-CoV-2 positive. Globally, 246 HAIs were diagnosed: 163 occurred in the COVID group and 83 in the No-COVID one. The cumulative days of hospitalization were 3233 for the COVID group and 2134 for the No-COVID. The incidence of HAI considered for 1000 days of hospitalization among COVID patients was 50.42 (IC 95%: 42.97-58.78), compared to 38.89 (IC 95%: 30.98-48.22) for the No-COVID one, for an incidence rate ratio of 1.30 (IC 95%: 0.99-1.71). Conclusions Even though the confidence interval contains the value 1, the results point out that there is an increase in the incidence rate of HAI among COVID-19 patients. Further investigations are needed to better understand the reasons behind the present findings. Key messages Patients admitted to Intensive Care Units are more susceptible to Healthcare Associated Infections. Our study aims at describing the impact of COVID-19 on the risk of developing such conditions. Being infected with COVID-19 leads to an increase in the incidence rate of Healthcare Associated Infections. Further studies are needed to understand the underlying reasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Marte
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - D Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - D Giannini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - E Mazzalai
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - LC Barone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - V Baccolini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Migliara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Marzuillo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M De Giusti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - P Villari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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12
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Marotta D, Gallè F, Valeriani F, Liguori G, Romano Spica V, Vitali M, Protano C. Undergraduates' perception of health risk of body arts: results of an Italian multicentre study. Eur J Public Health 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckab164.068] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
In the last decades, body art practices such as tattooing and piercing have known an increasing popularity, mainly in young people. These procedures are associated with infectious and non-infectious health risks. The aim of this multicenter study was to evaluate the knowledge of health risks related to body art procedures among undergraduate students from ten Italian universities.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed on undergraduate students attending universities in northern, central and southern Italy. An anonymous questionnaire was administered to the participants for collecting their socio-demographic characteristics and for assessing their knowledge about health risks associated with tattoos and piercing.
Results
A total of 2985 students (mean age 23.15 ± 3.99, 73.9% females) completed the questionnaire. 775 (25.9%) of them were from northern Italy, 906 (30.3%) from the Centre and 1324 (44.4%) from the South. More than 90% of the sample were aware that tattoo/piercing procedures can cause health problems. However, the mean values of correct answers about the health risks associated to body art practices were low (5.38 ± 2.39 on a total of 11 correct answers for tattooing and 5.93 ± 3.12 on a total of 14 for piercing). Higher knowledge of the health risks related to tattooing was found among those attending university since more than four years (p < 0.001), life science courses (p < 0.001) and residing/living in the university area (p = 0.023). Those attending North/Centre universities (p < 0.001), since more than 4 years (p < 0.001), life science courses (p < 0.001), and those with graduated father (p = 0.013) had better knowledge of the health risks related to piercing.
Conclusions
These results show a lack of knowledge about health risks related to body art practices in the sample. Educational interventions on this issue targeted to youth are needed in Italy.
Key messages
Undergraduates do not show a good knowledge of health risks related to tattooing and piercing. Educational interventions are needed to raise youth awareness and knowledge of health risks of body art.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - F Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - F Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - V Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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13
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La Torre G, Marte M, Previte CM, Barone LC, Picchioni F, Chiappetta M, Faticoni A, Marotta D, Mazzalai E, Barletta VI, Kibi S, Cammalleri V, Dorelli B, Giffi M, Pocino RN, Massetti AP, Fimiani C, Turriziani O, Romano F, Antonelli G, Deales A, Mastroianni CM, Vasaturo F. The Synergistic Effect of Time of Exposure, Distance and No Use of Personal Protective Equipment in the Determination of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Results of a Contact Tracing Follow-Up Study in Healthcare Workers. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18189456. [PMID: 34574381 PMCID: PMC8467491 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess the effect of contact time, contact distance and the use of personal protective equipment on the determination of SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare workers (HCWs). This study consists of an analysis of data gathered for safety reasons at the Sapienza Teaching Hospital Policlinico Umberto I in Rome through the surveillance system that was put into place after the worsening of the COVID-19 pandemic. The studied subjects consist of HCWs who were put under health surveillance, i.e., all employees who were in contact with subjects who were confirmed to have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The HCWs under surveillance were monitored for a period encompassing ten days after the date of contact, during which they undertook nasopharyngeal swab tests analysed through RT-PCR (RealStar® SARS-CoV-2 Altona Diagnostic–Germany). Descriptive and univariate analyses have been undertaken, considering the following as risk factors: (a) no personal protective equipment use (PPE); (b) Distance < 1 m between the positive and contact persons; (c) contact time > 15′. Finally, a Cox regression and an analysis of the level of synergism between factors, as specified by Rothman, were carried out. We analysed data from 1273 HCWs. Of these HCWs, 799 (62.8%) were females, with a sample average age of 47.8 years. Thirty-nine (3.1%) tested positive during surveillance. The overall incidence rate was 0.4 per 100 person-days. Time elapsed from the last exposure and a positive RT-PCR result ranged from 2 to 17 days (mean = 7, median = 6 days). In the univariate analysis, a distance <1 m and a contact time > 15′ proved to be risk factors for the SARS-CoV-2 infection, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.62 (95% CI: 1.11–6.19) and 3.59 (95% IC: 1.57–8.21), respectively. The synergism analysis found the highest synergism between the “no PPE use” x “Contact time”. The synergy index S remains strongly positive also in the analysis of the factors “no PPE use” x “Distance” and “Time of contact” x “Distance”. This study confirms the absolute need to implement safety protocols during the pandemic and to use the correct PPE within health facilities in order to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection. The analysis shows that among the factors considered (contact time and distance, no use of PPE), there is a strong synergistic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe La Torre
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Teaching Hospital Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Mattia Marte
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Carlo Maria Previte
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Lavinia Camilla Barone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Filippo Picchioni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Marta Chiappetta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Augusto Faticoni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Elena Mazzalai
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Vanessa India Barletta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Shizuka Kibi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Vittoria Cammalleri
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Barbara Dorelli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Monica Giffi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Roberta Noemi Pocino
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Anna Paola Massetti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Caterina Fimiani
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Ombretta Turriziani
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (O.T.); (G.A.)
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Guido Antonelli
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (O.T.); (G.A.)
| | - Alberto Deales
- Health Direction, Teaching Hospital Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Roma, Italy;
| | - Claudio Maria Mastroianni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (M.M.); (C.M.P.); (L.C.B.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (A.F.); (D.M.); (E.M.); (V.I.B.); (S.K.); (V.C.); (B.D.); (M.G.); (R.N.P.); (A.P.M.); (C.F.); (F.R.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Fortunata Vasaturo
- Clinica Medica Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy;
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Cammalleri V, Marotta D, Antonucci A, Protano C, Fara GM. A survey on knowledge and awareness on the issue "microplastics": a pilot study on a sample of future public health professionals. Ann Ig 2021; 32:577-589. [PMID: 32744588 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2020.2377] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microplastics pollution represents a global public health concern. Since the greatest amount of microplastics are of anthropogenic origin, one of the most relevant strategies to reduce microplastics pollution is to raise awareness among the population and this is even more important for all those involved in public health prevention interventions. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and awareness on microplastics of a samples of future healthcare workers. STUDY DESIGN A cross-sectional study was performed on 151 university students in the field of Public Health, both pre- and post-graduate, attending the Sapienza University of Rome courses. METHODS A questionnaire consisting of three sections was administered to the participants. The first section assessed knowledge and awareness on microplastics, the second consisted of an informative brochure on microplastics, the third evaluated the awareness after reading the brochure, and interventions considered useful to manage microplastics pollution. RESULTS About 25% of participants had never heard of microplastics. The scores on knowledge about microplastics were low, and differences between the investigated courses were not statistically significant (p-Value=0.134). Internet was the main source of information on microplastics, while the scores describing concern about the investigated issue resulted always higher after reading the informative brochure respect to before reading. CONCLUSIONS The lack of knowledge about microplastics pollution highlights that future public health workers should be better informed and, therefore, able to transfer essential information to the population. Increasing general population's knowledge and awareness would increase risk perception and make all individuals more active actors for reducing microplastics pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Cammalleri
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - D Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - A Antonucci
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - C Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - G M Fara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
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15
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Baccolini V, Migliara G, Isonne C, Dorelli B, Barone LC, Giannini D, Marotta D, Marte M, Mazzalai E, Alessandri F, Pugliese F, Ceccarelli G, De Vito C, Marzuillo C, De Giusti M, Villari P. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare-associated infections in intensive care unit patients: a retrospective cohort study. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2021; 10:87. [PMID: 34088341 PMCID: PMC8177262 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-021-00959-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the intensive care units’ (ICUs) reorganization that was forced by the COVID-19 emergency, attention to traditional infection control measures may have been reduced. Nevertheless, evidence on the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is still limited and mixed. In this study, we estimated the pandemic impact on HAI incidence and investigated the HAI type occurring in COVID-19 patients. Methods Patients admitted to the main ICU of the Umberto I teaching hospital of Rome from March 1st and April 4th 2020 were compared with patients hospitalized in 2019. We assessed the association of risk factors and time-to-first event through multivariable Fine and Grey’s regression models, that consider the competitive risk of death on the development of HAI (Model 1) or device related-HAI (dr-HAI, Model 2) and provide estimates of the sub-distribution hazard ratio (SHR) and its associated confidence interval (CI). A subgroup analysis was performed on the 2020 cohort. Results Data from 104 patients were retrieved. Overall, 59 HAIs were recorded, 32 of which occurred in the COVID-19 group. Patients admitted in 2020 were found to be positively associated with both HAI and dr-HAI onset (SHR: 2.66, 95% CI 1.31–5.38, and SHR: 10.0, 95% CI 1.84–54.41, respectively). Despite being not confirmed at the multivariable analysis, a greater proportion of dr-HAIs seemed to occur in COVID-19 patients, especially ventilator-associated pneumonia, and catheter-related urinary tract infections. Conclusions We observed an increase in the incidence of patients with HAIs, especially dr-HAIs, mainly sustained by COVID-19 patients. A greater susceptibility of these patients to device-related infections was hypothesized, but further studies are needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13756-021-00959-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Baccolini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - G Migliara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - C Isonne
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - B Dorelli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - L C Barone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - D Giannini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - D Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - M Marte
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - E Mazzalai
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - F Alessandri
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Umberto I Teaching Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - F Pugliese
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Umberto I Teaching Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Department of General and Specialist Surgery "P. Stefanini", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Ceccarelli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - C De Vito
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - C Marzuillo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - M De Giusti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - P Villari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
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16
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Valeriani F, Protano C, Marotta D, Liguori G, Romano Spica V, Valerio G, Vitali M, Gallè F. Exergames in Childhood Obesity Treatment: A Systematic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18094938. [PMID: 34066369 PMCID: PMC8124431 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, active video games (exergames) have been proposed in obesity prevention and treatment as a potential tool to increase physical activity. This review was aimed to assess the possible role of exergames in reducing weight-related outcomes among overweight/obese children and/or adolescents. The databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus were interrogated to detect controlled studies involving healthy overweight/obese children and adolescents in interventions based exclusively on exergames. Out of a total of 648 articles found, 10 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The included studies differ for duration, setting and type of intervention, frequency of active game sessions, and outcomes considered. Seven out of ten studies reported better outcomes in children/adolescents involved in the interventions, with significant differences between groups in four, while three studies found better outcomes in control groups. These results suggest a possible positive effect of active video games on weight-related outcomes in obese children and adolescents. However, further research is still needed to define if they can be effectively used in childhood obesity treatment and which may be the most effective approach. The potentiality of the new digital media in this field should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy; (F.V.); (V.R.S.)
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (G.V.)
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy; (F.V.); (V.R.S.)
| | - Giuliana Valerio
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (G.V.)
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Francesca Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (G.V.)
- Correspondence:
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17
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Maccauro G, Cittadini A, Magnani G, Sangiorgi S, Muratori F, Manicone P, Iommetti PR, Marotta D, Chierichini A, Raffaelli L, Sgambato A. In Vivo Characterization of Zirconia Toughened Alumina Material: A Comparative Animal Study. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2010; 23:841-6. [DOI: 10.1177/039463201002300319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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] Open
Abstract
The development of a new chromia-doped Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) material was previously reported as displaying mechanical properties suitable for implants with load bearing applications, such as orthopaedic and dental implants. This type of biomaterial is expected to be in contact with living tissues for a long period of time and its long-term toxicity must be carefully evaluated. In this study the suitability of this ZTA material as a candidate biomaterial for orthopaedic implants and dental devices was further investigated in vivo in comparison to alumina and zirconia, which are currently used in orthopaedic and dental surgery. Cylinders of the materials were implanted in vivo in white rabbits, and local and systemic tissue reactions were analyzed at different time intervals after surgery. Radiologic examinations displayed the absence of radiolucence around cylinders and no signs of implant loosening up to twelve months. No tumours developed in the animals either locally (at the site of implantation), or systemically in the peripheral organs. The results obtained suggest that this new ZTA material does not display any long term pathogenic effect in vivo. These findings extend our previous observations on the biocompatibility and the absence of any long-term carcinogenic effect in vitro of this material which displays interesting properties for biomedical applications. In conclusion, we report the in vivo characterization of a new chromia-doped ZTA material and confirm its suitability as a candidate biomaterial for orthopaedic implants and dental devices since it does not give any local nor systemic toxicity even after a long period of time after implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A. Cittadini
- Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University, Rome
| | | | | | | | - P.F. Manicone
- Institute of Clinical Dentistry, Catholic University
| | | | | | - A. Chierichini
- Institute of Anesthesiology, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - L. Raffaelli
- Institute of Clinical Dentistry, Catholic University
| | - A. Sgambato
- Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University, Rome
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18
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Maccauro G, Bianchino G, Sangiorgi S, Magnani G, Marotta D, Manicone P, Raffaelli L, Iommetti PR, Stewart A, Cittadini A, Sgambato A. Development of a New Zirconia-Toughened Alumina: Promising Mechanical Properties and Absence of In Vitro Carcinogenicity. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2009; 22:773-9. [DOI: 10.1177/039463200902200323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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] Open
Abstract
High purity alumina as well as zirconia ceramics have been widely used as orthopaedic implant biomaterials and dental devices displaying optimal, but sometimes exclusive, mechanical properties. In order to combine the advantages of alumina and zirconia ceramic materials different types of composites have been developed in which either zirconia is dispersed in an alumina matrix or vice versa. Orthopaedic and dental implant biomaterials are expected to be in contact with living tissues for a long period of time and their long term toxicity must be carefully evaluated. In this study we report the development of a high performance chromia-doped Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) material which displays promising mechanical properties in terms of hardness, strength and fracture toughness that make it suitable for prosthesis even for small joints. The long-term biocompatibility of this material was also evaluated, mainly in terms of DNA damage, mutagenicity and cancerogenetic potential in mammalian cells. The results obtained suggest that this new ZTA material does not display any long-term carcinogenic effect and it is suitable for biomedical applications from a cancerogenetic point of view. In conclusion, we report the development of a new chromia-doped ZTA material with interesting properties both from a mechanical and a biocompatibility point of view which warrant further studies on its suitability as a candidate biomaterial for orthopaedic implants and dental devices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G. Bianchino
- Institute of General Pathology and Cancer Research Center, Catholic University, Rome and Cancer Referral Center of Basilicata (CROB-IRCCS), Rionero in Vulture, Potenza
| | | | | | | | - P.F. Manicone
- Institute of Clinical Dentistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - L. Raffaelli
- Institute of Clinical Dentistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - A. Cittadini
- Institute of General Pathology and Cancer Research Center, Catholic University, Rome and Cancer Referral Center of Basilicata (CROB-IRCCS), Rionero in Vulture, Potenza
| | - A. Sgambato
- Institute of General Pathology and Cancer Research Center, Catholic University, Rome and Cancer Referral Center of Basilicata (CROB-IRCCS), Rionero in Vulture, Potenza
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19
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Velho G, Blanché H, Vaxillaire M, Bellanné-Chantelot C, Pardini VC, Timsit J, Passa P, Deschamps I, Robert JJ, Weber IT, Marotta D, Pilkis SJ, Lipkind GM, Bell GI, Froguel P. Identification of 14 new glucokinase mutations and description of the clinical profile of 42 MODY-2 families. Diabetologia 1997; 40:217-24. [PMID: 9049484 DOI: 10.1007/s001250050666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in glucokinase are associated with defects in insulin secretion and hepatic glycogen synthesis resulting in mild chronic hyperglycaemia, impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes mellitus. We screened members of 35 families with features of maturity-onset diabetes of the young for mutations in the glucokinase gene and found 16 different mutations. They included 14 new mutations in the glucokinase gene: 9 missense mutations (A53S, G80A, H137R, T168P, M210T, C213R, V226M, S336L and V367M); 2 nonsense mutations (E248X and S360X); a deletion of one nucleotide resulting in a frameshift (V401del1); a substitution of a conserved nucleotide at a splice acceptor site (L122-1G-->T); and a 10 base pair deletion that removed the GT of the splice donor site and the following eight nucleotides (K161 + 2del10). In addition, we found two previously identified mutations: R186X and G261R. Study of 260 subjects with glucokinase-deficient hyperglycaemia from 42 families with 36 different GCK mutations made it possible to define the clinical profile of this subtype of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Hyperglycaemia due to glucokinase deficiency is often mild (fewer than 50% of subjects have overt diabetes) and is evident during the early years of life. Despite the long duration of hyperglycaemia, glucokinase-deficient subjects have a low prevalence of micro- and macro-vascular complications of diabetes. Obesity, arterial hypertension and dyslipidaemia are also uncommon in this form of NIDDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Velho
- INSERM U-358, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
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20
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Veiga-da-Cunha M, Xu LZ, Lee YH, Marotta D, Pilkis SJ, Van Schaftingen E. Effect of mutations on the sensitivity of human beta-cell glucokinase to liver regulatory protein. Diabetologia 1996; 39:1173-9. [PMID: 8897004 DOI: 10.1007/bf02658503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Human beta-cell glucokinase and its liver counterpart displayed a half-saturating concentration of glucose (S0.5) of about 8 mmol/l and a Hill coefficient of 1.7, and were as sensitive to inhibition by the rat liver regulatory protein as the rat liver enzyme. These results indicate that the N-terminal region of glucokinase, which differs among these three enzymes, is not implicated in the recognition of the regulatory protein. They also suggest that the regulatory protein, or a related protein, could modulate the affinity of glucokinase for glucose in beta cells. We have also tested the effect of several mutations, many of which are implicated in maturity onset diabetes of the young. The mutations affected the affinity for glucose and for the regulatory protein to different degrees, indicating that the binding site for these molecules is different. An Asp158 Ala mutation, found in the expression plasmid previously thought to encode the wild-type enzyme, increased the affinity for glucose by about 2.5-fold without changing the affinity for the regulatory protein. The mutations that were found to decrease the affinity for the regulatory protein (Asn166 Arg. Val203 Ala, Asn204 Gln, Lys414 Ala) clustered in the hinge region of glucokinase and nearby in the large and small domains. These results are in agreement with the concept that part of the binding site for the regulatory protein is situated in the hinge region of this enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Veiga-da-Cunha
- Laboratory of Physiological Chemistry, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Brusscls, Belgium
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21
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Zappulla RA, Spigelman MK, Rosen JJ, Marotta D, Malis LI, Holland JF. Electroencephalographic consequences of sodium dehydrocholate-induced blood-brain barrier disruption: Part 2. Generation and propagation of spike activity after the topical application of sodium dehydrocholate. Neurosurgery 1985; 16:639-43. [PMID: 4000435 DOI: 10.1227/00006123-198505000-00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sodium dehydrocholate was applied topically to the right hemispheric cortex of eight rats and the electrocorticogram was monitored from both the treated cortex and the homotopic cortex of the contralateral hemisphere. All animals developed blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption in the treated cortex as evidenced by cortical staining with systemically administered Evans blue dye. Spike activity developed in three of eight animals after the topical application of dehydrocholate. The subsequent intravenous injection of sodium dehydrocholate provoked spike activity in both hemispheres in all eight animals. Dependent and independent spike activity was recorded in the nondisrupted hemisphere. The intravenous administration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) resulted in alterations in spike activity in four of five animals because of penetration of the GABA through the altered BBB. These findings demonstrate that sodium dehydrocholate can result in increased BBB permeability when applied directly to the cortical surface. Spike activity subsequent to the topical application of dehydrocholate can be enhanced by systemic loading with dehydrocholate. Spike activity occurring over the nontreated cortex (secondary focus) represents interhemispheric propagation of spike activity from the disrupted hemisphere (primary focus). The lack of Evans blue staining in the actively discharging secondary focus suggests that spike activity does not account for the increases in BBB permeability observed with dehydrocholate treatment.
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Spigelman MK, Zappulla RA, Goldberg JD, Goldsmith SJ, Marotta D, Malis LI, Holland JF. Effect of intracarotid etoposide on opening the blood-brain barrier. Cancer Drug Deliv 1984; 1:207-11. [PMID: 6399858 DOI: 10.1089/cdd.1984.1.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The effect of an intracarotid artery infusion of etoposide on blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity was investigated in a rat model system. The external carotid arteries of Sprague-Dawley rats were catheterized in a retrograde manner. Etoposide in a dose range from 3.0 mg/kg to 22.5 mg/kg was infused into the internal carotid artery by this technique. BBB disruption was evaluated qualitatively by the appearance in the infused hemisphere of the systemically administered dye Evans blue and quantitatively by the ratio of counts of the technetium-labeled chelate of diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) in the infused to the noninfused hemisphere. Evidence of increased BBB permeability was seen at all doses of etoposide. Degree of BBB disruption increased with increasing doses of etoposide. The intracarotid infusion and subsequent BBB disruption were well tolerated. Further clinical trials employing the intracarotid administration of etoposide should be cognizant of the potential for BBB disruption.
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