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Spelman T, Herring WL, Acosta C, Hyde R, Jokubaitis VG, Pucci E, Lugaresi A, Laureys G, Havrdova EK, Horakova D, Izquierdo G, Eichau S, Ozakbas S, Alroughani R, Kalincik T, Duquette P, Girard M, Petersen T, Patti F, Csepany T, Granella F, Grand'Maison F, Ferraro D, Karabudak R, Jose Sa M, Trojano M, van Pesch V, Van Wijmeersch B, Cartechini E, McCombe P, Gerlach O, Spitaleri D, Rozsa C, Hodgkinson S, Bergamaschi R, Gouider R, Soysal A, Castillo-Triviño, Prevost J, Garber J, de Gans K, Ampapa R, Simo M, Sanchez-Menoyo JL, Iuliano G, Sas A, van der Walt A, John N, Gray O, Hughes S, De Luca G, Onofrj M, Buzzard K, Skibina O, Terzi M, Slee M, Solaro C, Oreja-Guevara, Ramo-Tello C, Fragoso Y, Shaygannejad V, Moore F, Rajda C, Aguera Morales E, Butzkueven H. Comparative effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of natalizumab and fingolimod in rapidly evolving severe relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in the United Kingdom. J Med Econ 2024; 27:109-125. [PMID: 38085684 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2023.2293379] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the real-world comparative effectiveness and the cost-effectiveness, from a UK National Health Service perspective, of natalizumab versus fingolimod in patients with rapidly evolving severe relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RES-RRMS). METHODS Real-world data from the MSBase Registry were obtained for patients with RES-RRMS who were previously either naive to disease-modifying therapies or had been treated with interferon-based therapies, glatiramer acetate, dimethyl fumarate, or teriflunomide (collectively known as BRACETD). Matched cohorts were selected by 3-way multinomial propensity score matching, and the annualized relapse rate (ARR) and 6-month-confirmed disability worsening (CDW6M) and improvement (CDI6M) were compared between treatment groups. Comparative effectiveness results were used in a cost-effectiveness model comparing natalizumab and fingolimod, using an established Markov structure over a lifetime horizon with health states based on the Expanded Disability Status Scale. Additional model data sources included the UK MS Survey 2015, published literature, and publicly available sources. RESULTS In the comparative effectiveness analysis, we found a significantly lower ARR for patients starting natalizumab compared with fingolimod (rate ratio [RR] = 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57-0.73) or BRACETD (RR = 0.46; 95% CI, 0.42-0.53). Similarly, CDI6M was higher for patients starting natalizumab compared with fingolimod (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.25; 95% CI, 1.01-1.55) and BRACETD (HR = 1.46; 95% CI, 1.16-1.85). In patients starting fingolimod, we found a lower ARR (RR = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.65-0.80) compared with starting BRACETD, but no difference in CDI6M (HR = 1.17; 95% CI, 0.91-1.50). Differences in CDW6M were not found between the treatment groups. In the base-case cost-effectiveness analysis, natalizumab dominated fingolimod (0.302 higher quality-adjusted life-years [QALYs] and £17,141 lower predicted lifetime costs). Similar cost-effectiveness results were observed across sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS This MSBase Registry analysis suggests that natalizumab improves clinical outcomes when compared with fingolimod, which translates to higher QALYs and lower costs in UK patients with RES-RRMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Spelman
- MSBase Foundation, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - W L Herring
- Health Economics, RTI Health Solutions, NC, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - C Acosta
- Value and Access, Biogen, Baar, Switzerland
| | - R Hyde
- Medical, Biogen, Baar, Switzerland
| | - V G Jokubaitis
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - E Pucci
- Neurology Unit, AST-Fermo, Fermo, Italy
| | - A Lugaresi
- Dipartamento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Laureys
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - E K Havrdova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - D Horakova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - G Izquierdo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Seville, Spain
| | - S Eichau
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Seville, Spain
| | - S Ozakbas
- Izmir University of Economics, Medical Point Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - R Alroughani
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Amiri Hospital, Sharq, Kuwait
| | - T Kalincik
- Neuroimmunology Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- CORe, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - P Duquette
- CHUM and Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - M Girard
- CHUM and Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - T Petersen
- Aarhus University Hospital, Arhus C, Denmark
| | - F Patti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies, GF Ingrassia, Catania, Italy
- UOS Sclerosi Multipla, AOU Policlinico "G Rodloico-San Marco", University of Catania, Italy
| | - T Csepany
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - F Granella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Department of General Medicine, Parma University Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | | | - D Ferraro
- Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | | | - M Jose Sa
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar Universitario de Sao Joao, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Trojano
- School of Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - V van Pesch
- Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - B Van Wijmeersch
- University MS Centre, Hasselt-Pelt and Noorderhart Rehabilitation & MS, Pelt and Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | | | - P McCombe
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Australia
| | - O Gerlach
- Academic MS Center Zuyd, Department of Neurology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - D Spitaleri
- Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale San Giuseppe Moscati Avellino, Avellino, Italy
| | - C Rozsa
- Jahn Ferenc Teaching Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - S Hodgkinson
- Immune Tolerance Laboratory Ingham Institute and Department of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - R Gouider
- Department of Neurology, LR18SP03 and Clinical Investigation Center Neurosciences and Mental Health, Razi University Hospital -, Mannouba, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - A Soysal
- Bakirkoy Education and Research Hospital for Psychiatric and Neurological Diseases, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Castillo-Triviño
- Hospital Universitario Donostia and IIS Biodonostia, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - J Prevost
- CSSS Saint-Jérôme, Saint-Jerome, Canada
| | - J Garber
- Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - K de Gans
- Groene Hart Ziekenhuis, Gouda, Netherlands
| | - R Ampapa
- Nemocnice Jihlava, Jihlava, Czech Republic
| | - M Simo
- Department of Neurology, Semmelweis University Budapest, Budapest, Hungary
| | - J L Sanchez-Menoyo
- Department of Neurology, Galdakao-Usansolo University Hospital, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, Galdakao, Spain
- Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Spain
| | - G Iuliano
- Ospedali Riuniti di Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - A Sas
- Department of Neurology and Stroke, BAZ County Hospital, Miskolc, Hungary
| | - A van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Neurology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - N John
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia
| | - O Gray
- South Eastern HSC Trust, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - S Hughes
- Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - G De Luca
- MS Centre, Neurology Unit, "SS. Annunziata" University Hospital, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - M Onofrj
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - K Buzzard
- Department of Neurosciences, Box Hill Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- MS Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - O Skibina
- Department of Neurology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Box Hill Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - M Terzi
- Medical Faculty, 19 Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - M Slee
- Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - C Solaro
- Department of Neurology, ASL3 Genovese, Genova, Italy
- Department of Rehabilitation, ML Novarese Hospital Moncrivello
| | - Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - C Ramo-Tello
- Department of Neuroscience, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Y Fragoso
- Universidade Metropolitana de Santos, Santos, Brazil
| | | | - F Moore
- Department of Neurology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - C Rajda
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - E Aguera Morales
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC)
| | - H Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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2
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Falcetta P, Benelli E, Molinaro A, Di Cosmo C, Bagattini B, Del Ghianda S, Salvetti G, Fiore E, Pucci E, Fruzzetti F, Tonacchera M. Effect of aging on clinical features and metabolic complications of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:2725-2733. [PMID: 34089497 PMCID: PMC8572193 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01594-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the distribution of clinical features and metabolic abnormalities of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women according to their age. METHODS Retrospective study on 602 women (mean age 23.9 ± 6.2 years), diagnosed according to International PCOS Network Guidelines criteria as having PCOS in a University-based Hospital. Anthropometric features, hormonal and metabolic parameters were measured and compared between the different age groups (group A ≤ 20 years; group B 21-30 years; group C > 30 years). RESULTS Patients in group A were more often hyperandrogenic, while in group C hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, impaired fasting glucose, and insulin resistance (IR) were more prevalent. After adjusting for BMI, age correlated positively with sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), IR, total- and LDL-cholesterol, and negatively with DHEAS, insulin, and free androgen index (FAI). SHBG was significantly associated with IR and atherogenic dyslipidemia, while FAI levels were linked to hypertension, independently of other factors considered. Furthermore, the regression analysis showed a stronger relationship between BMI and metabolic outcomes, regardless of age. CONCLUSION Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) phenotype changes with age. Clinical and biochemical hyperandrogenism are a major concern in young PCOS women, while metabolic burden tends to increase with aging. Some of the cardiovascular risk factors are dependent on FAI and SHBG levels, whereas BMI confirms its key role in the genesis of most of the metabolic sequelae in PCOS, independently of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Falcetta
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
| | - E Benelli
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Molinaro
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Di Cosmo
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - B Bagattini
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Del Ghianda
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - G Salvetti
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - E Fiore
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - E Pucci
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Fruzzetti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Tonacchera
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
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3
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Gasparini S, Beghi E, Ferlazzo E, Beghi M, Belcastro V, Biermann KP, Bottini G, Capovilla G, Cervellione RA, Cianci V, Coppola G, Cornaggia CM, De Fazio P, De Masi S, De Sarro G, Elia M, Erba G, Fusco L, Gambardella A, Gentile V, Giallonardo AT, Guerrini R, Ingravallo F, Iudice A, Labate A, Lucenteforte E, Magaudda A, Mumoli L, Papagno C, Pesce GB, Pucci E, Ricci P, Romeo A, Quintas R, Sueri C, Vitaliti G, Zoia R, Aguglia U. Management of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures: a multidisciplinary approach. Eur J Neurol 2018; 26:205-e15. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.13818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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4
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Lorscheider J, Kuhle J, Izquierdo G, Lugaresi A, Havrdova E, Horakova D, Hupperts R, Duquette P, Girard M, Prat A, Grand'Maison F, Grammond P, Sola P, Ferraro D, Trojano M, Ramo-Tello C, Lechner-Scott J, Pucci E, Solaro C, Slee M, Van Pesch V, Sanchez Menoyo JL, van der Walt A, Butzkueven H, Kappos L, Kalincik T. Anti-inflammatory disease-modifying treatment and disability progression in primary progressive multiple sclerosis: a cohort study. Eur J Neurol 2018; 26:363-370. [PMID: 30298572 DOI: 10.1111/ene.13824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Treatment options in primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) are scarce and, with the exception of ocrelizumab, anti-inflammatory agents have failed to show efficacy in ameliorating disability progression. The aim of this study was to investigate a potential effect of anti-inflammatory disease-modifying treatment on disability outcomes in PPMS. METHODS Using MSBase, a large, international, observational database, we identified patients with PPMS who were either never treated or treated with a disease-modifying agent. Propensity score matching was used to select subpopulations with similar baseline characteristics. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) outcomes were compared with an intention-to-treat and an as-treated approach in paired, pairwise-censored analyses. RESULTS Of the 1284 included patients, 533 were matched (treated, n = 195; untreated n = 338). Median on-study pairwise-censored follow-up was 3.4 years (quartiles 1.2-5.5). No difference in the hazard of experiencing 3-month confirmed EDSS progression events was observed between the groups [hazard ratio (HR), 1.0; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.6-1.7, P = 0.87]. We did not find significant differences in the hazards of confirmed EDSS improvement (HR, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.6-1.6, P = 0.91) or reaching a confirmed EDSS step ≥7 (HR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.7-1.6, P = 0.69). CONCLUSION Our pooled analysis of disease-modifying agents suggests that these therapies have no substantial effect on short- to medium-term disability outcomes in PPMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lorscheider
- Departments of Medicine, Clinical Research, Biomedicine and Biomedical Engineering, Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J Kuhle
- Departments of Medicine, Clinical Research, Biomedicine and Biomedical Engineering, Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - G Izquierdo
- Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Seville, Spain
| | - A Lugaresi
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - E Havrdova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - D Horakova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - R Hupperts
- Orbis Medical Center, Sittard, The Netherlands
| | | | - M Girard
- Hôpital Notre Dame, Montreal, Quebec
| | - A Prat
- Hôpital Notre Dame, Montreal, Quebec
| | - F Grand'Maison
- Neuro Rive-Sud, Hôpital Charles LeMoyne, Greenfield Park, Quebec
| | - P Grammond
- Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis, Lévis, Quebec, Canada
| | - P Sola
- Nuovo Ospedale Civile S.Agostino/Estense, Modena
| | - D Ferraro
- Nuovo Ospedale Civile S.Agostino/Estense, Modena
| | - M Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - J Lechner-Scott
- Department of Neurology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, NSW.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - E Pucci
- Neurology Unit, ASUR Marche, AV3, Macerata
| | - C Solaro
- Hospedale P. A. Micone, Genova, Italy
| | - M Slee
- Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - V Van Pesch
- Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - A van der Walt
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC.,Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC.,Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC
| | - H Butzkueven
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC.,Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC.,Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC.,Department of Neurology, Box Hill Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC
| | - L Kappos
- Departments of Medicine, Clinical Research, Biomedicine and Biomedical Engineering, Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - T Kalincik
- Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC.,CORe, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Fabiani L, Pucci E, Delibato E, Volpe G, Piermarini S, De Medici D, Capuano F, Palleschi G. ELIME assay vs Real-Time PCR and conventional culture method for an effective detection of Salmonella in fresh leafy green vegetables. Talanta 2017; 166:321-327. [PMID: 28213241 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2017.01.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The detection of Salmonella according to EC regulation is still primarily based on traditional microbiological culture methods that may take several days to be completed. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the applicability of an Enzyme-Linked-Immuno-Magnetic-Electrochemical (ELIME) assay, recently developed by our research group for the detection of salmonella in irrigation water, in fresh (raw and ready-to-eat) leafy green vegetables by comparison with Real-Time PCR (RTi-PCR) and ISO culture methods. Since vegetables represent a more complex matrix than irrigation water, preliminary experiments were carried out on two leafy green vegetables that resulted negative for salmonella by the ISO method. 25g of these samples were experimentally inoculated with 1-10 CFU of S. Napoli or S. Thompson and pre-enriched for 20h in two different broths. At this time aliquots were taken, concentrated at different levels by centrifugation, and analyzed by ELIME and RTi-PCR. Once selected the best culture medium for salmonella growth, and the optimal concentration factor suitable to reduce the sample matrix effect, enhancing the out-put signal, several raw and ready-to-eat leafy green vegetables were artificially inoculated and pre-enriched. Aliquots were then taken at different incubation times and analyzed with both techniques. Results obtained showed that 20 and 8h of pre-enrichment were required to allow the target salmonella (1-10 CFU/25g) to multiply until reaching a detectable concentration by ELIME and RTi-PCR assays, respectively. A confirmation with the ISO culture method was carried out. Based on the available literature, this is the first report of the application of an ELISA based method for the detection of Salmonella in vegetables.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Fabiani
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - E Pucci
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - E Delibato
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy.
| | - G Volpe
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy.
| | - S Piermarini
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - D De Medici
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - F Capuano
- Department of Food Inspection, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, via della Salute 2, Portici, NA, Italy
| | - G Palleschi
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
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Cicchese N, Panzuto F, Rinzivillo M, Merola E, Capurso G, Partelli S, Manzoni M, Pucci E, Iannicelli E, Pilozzi E, Falconi M, De Fave G. Reassessment of proliferative activity at disease progression in neuroendocrine neoplasms. Ann Oncol 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdw369.21] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
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7
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De Meo MS, Antolini C, Scoccia L, Pucci E, De Dominicis L, Medicato E, Minnucci A, Morichetta A, Giorgetti S, Giglioni A. CP-075 Multiple sclerosis therapy at macerata’s general hospital: Economic impact. Eur J Hosp Pharm 2016. [DOI: 10.1136/ejhpharm-2016-000875.75] [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: 11/03/2022] Open
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8
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Spelman T, Mekhael L, Burke T, Butzkueven H, Hodgkinson S, Havrdova E, Horakova D, Duquette P, Izquierdo G, Grand'Maison F, Grammond P, Barnett M, Lechner-Scott J, Alroughani R, Trojano M, Lugaresi A, Granella F, Pucci E, Vucic S. Risk of early relapse following the switch from injectables to oral agents for multiple sclerosis. Eur J Neurol 2016; 23:729-36. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.12929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- T. Spelman
- Department of Neurology; Royal Melbourne Hospital; Parkville Vic. Australia
- Department of Medicine (RMH); University of Melbourne; Parkville Vic. Australia
| | | | - T. Burke
- Westmead Hospital; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - H. Butzkueven
- Department of Neurology; Royal Melbourne Hospital; Parkville Vic. Australia
- Department of Medicine (RMH); University of Melbourne; Parkville Vic. Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - G. Izquierdo
- Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena; Sevilla Spain
| | | | - P. Grammond
- Center de réadaptation déficience physique Chaudière-Appalache; Levis QC Canada
| | - M. Barnett
- Brain and Mind Research Institute; Sydney NSW Australia
| | | | | | - M. Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences; Neuroscience and Sense Organs; University of Bari; Bari Italy
| | - A. Lugaresi
- MS Center; Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences; University ‘G. d'Annunzio’; Chieti Italy
| | - F. Granella
- Department of Neurosciences; University of Parma; Parma Italy
| | - E. Pucci
- Neurology Unit; ASUR Marche - AV3; Macerata Italy
| | - S. Vucic
- Westmead Hospital; Sydney NSW Australia
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Volpe G, Delibato E, Fabiani L, Pucci E, Piermarini S, D'Angelo A, Capuano F, De Medici D, Palleschi G. Development and evaluation of an ELIME assay to reveal the presence of Salmonella in irrigation water: Comparison with Real-Time PCR and the Standard Culture Method. Talanta 2015; 149:202-210. [PMID: 26717832 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2015.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
A reliable, low-cost and easy-to-use ELIME (Enzyme-Linked-Immuno-Magnetic-Electrochemical) assay for detection of Salmonella enterica in irrigation water is presented. Magnetic beads (MBs), coupled to a strip of eight-magnetized screen-printed electrodes localized at the bottom of eight wells (8-well/SPE strip), effectively supported a sandwich immunological chain. Enzymatic by-product is quickly measured by chronoamperometry, using a portable instrument. With the goal of developing a method able to detect a wide range of Salmonella serotypes, including S. Napoli and S. Thompson strains responsible for various community alerts, different kinds of MBs, antibodies and blocking agents were tested. The final system employs MBs coated with a broad reactivity monoclonal antibody anti-salmonella and blocked with dry milk. For a simple and rapid assay these two steps were performed in a preliminary phase, while the two sequential incubations for the immuno-recognition events were merged in a single step of 1h. In parallel a Real-Time PCR (RTi-PCR) method, based on a specific locked nucleic acid (LNA) fluorescent probe and an internal amplification control (IAC), was carried out. The selectivity of the ELIME and RTi-PCR assays was proved by inclusivity and exclusivity tests performed analyzing different Salmonella serotypes and non-target microorganisms, most commonly isolated from environmental sources. Furthermore, both methods were applied to experimentally and not experimentally contaminated irrigation water samples. Results confirmed by the ISO culture method, demonstrated the effectiveness of ELIME and RTi-PCR assays to detect a low number of salmonella cells (1-10 CFU/L) reducing drastically the long analysis time usually required to reveal this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Volpe
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy.
| | - E Delibato
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy.
| | - L Fabiani
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - E Pucci
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - S Piermarini
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - A D'Angelo
- Department of Environment and Primary Prevention, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - F Capuano
- Department of Food Inspection, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via della Salute 2, Portici, NA, Italy
| | - D De Medici
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - G Palleschi
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, "Tor Vergata" University, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
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Bergamaschi R, Montomoli C, Mallucci G, Lugaresi A, Izquierdo G, Grand'Maison F, Duquette P, Shaygannejad V, Alroughani R, Grammond P, Boz C, Iuliano G, Zwanikken C, Petersen T, Lechner-Scott J, Hupperts R, Butzkueven H, Pucci E, Oreja-Guevara C, Cristiano E, Pia Amato MP, Havrdova E, Fernandez-Bolanos R, Spelman T, Trojano M. BREMSO: a simple score to predict early the natural course of multiple sclerosis. Eur J Neurol 2015; 22:981-9. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.12696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Bergamaschi
- Inter-Department Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre; Neurological Institute IRCCS Mondino; Pavia Italy
| | - C. Montomoli
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology; Department of Public Health; University of Pavia; Pavia Italy
| | - G. Mallucci
- Inter-Department Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre; Neurological Institute IRCCS Mondino; Pavia Italy
| | - A. Lugaresi
- MS Centre; Department of Neuroscience and Imaging; University ‘G. d'Annunzio’; Chieti Italy
| | - G. Izquierdo
- Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena; Sevilla Spain
| | | | | | - V. Shaygannejad
- Al-Zahra Hospital; Isfahan University of Medical Sciences; Isfahan Iran
| | | | | | - C. Boz
- Karadeniz Technical University; Trabzon Turkey
| | - G. Iuliano
- Ospedali Riuniti di Salerno; Salerno Italy
| | - C. Zwanikken
- University Hospital Nijmegen; Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - T. Petersen
- Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus C Denmark
| | | | | | - H. Butzkueven
- Department of Neurology; Box Hill Hospital; Monash University; Box Hill Vic. Australia
| | - E. Pucci
- Ospedale di Macerata; Salerno Italy
| | | | | | - M. P. Pia Amato
- Department NEUROFARBA; Section of Neurosciences; University of Florence; Florence Italy
| | | | | | - T. Spelman
- University of Melbourne; Melbourne Australia
| | - M. Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences; Neuroscience and Sense Organs; University of Bari; Bari Italy
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Barberi S, Manzione A, Scrivano J, Maresca B, Moioli A, Salvi PF, Stoppacciaro A, Pucci E, Punzo G, Tammaro A, Gaspari AA, Menè P. Resolution of septic shock in a patient with myelomeningocele (spina bifida) complicated with deforming Elephantiasis Nostras Verrucosa. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2015; 30:547-9. [PMID: 25623264 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12945] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Barberi
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Clinic and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Manzione
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Clinic and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - J Scrivano
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Clinic and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - B Maresca
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Clinic and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Moioli
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Clinic and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - P F Salvi
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Stoppacciaro
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - E Pucci
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - G Punzo
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Clinic and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Tammaro
- Dermatology Unit, NESMOS Department, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A A Gaspari
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - P Menè
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Clinic and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome "Sapienza", Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
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12
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Giordano A, Lugaresi A, Confalonieri P, Granella F, Radice D, Trojano M, Martinelli V, Solari A, Giordano A, Martinelli V, Lugaresi A, Pucci E, Granella F, Trojano M, Solari A, Martinelli V, Pucci E, Messmer Uccelli M, Lugaresi A, Giordano A, Granella F, Solari A, Giordano A, Ferrari G, Martini F, Solari A, Radice D, D’Annunzio G, Lugaresi A, Farina D, Travaglini D, Pietrolongo E, Onofrj M, Torri Clerici V, Bonanno S, Brambilla L, Confalonieri P, Martinelli V, Radaelli M, Messina J, Comi G, Tortorella C, Luciannatelli E, Trojano M, Senesi C, Tsantes E, Granella F, Conti MZ, Rottoli MR, Bellantonio P, Fischetti M, Fantozzi R, Pala A, Traccis S, Di Battista G, Bianchi M, Benedetti MD, Gaetani L, Di Filippo M, Carolei A, Totaro R, Lanzillo R, Brescia Morra V, Coppola R, Cottone S, Chiavazza C, Cavalla P, Leonardi C, Aguglia U, Ziuliani C, Valla P, Sasanelli F, Valentino P, Quattrone A, Martino PG, Russo M, Vita G, Immovilli P. Implementation of the ‘Sapere Migliora’ information aid for newly diagnosed people with multiple sclerosis in routine clinical practice: a late-phase controlled trial. Mult Scler 2014; 20:1234-43. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458513519180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: The SIMS-Trial showed that the ‘Sapere Migliora’ information aid (IA) for newly diagnosed people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) effectively improved patient knowledge and satisfaction with care. Objectives: The objectives of this paper are to assess the effectiveness of the IA in clinical practice and to compare the whole IA with the take-home booklet/website component alone. Methods: After updating the IA and replacing the CD with a website, a prospective, open-label non-randomised controlled trial compared the whole IA (group A, five SIMS-Trial centres) to take-home (group B, 16 centres). One month after the intervention, participants completed the MS Knowledge Questionnaire (MSKQ), care satisfaction questionnaire (COSM-R) (primary study outcomes), Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale, and ad hoc questionnaire appraising the IA. Results: We enrolled 159 newly diagnosed PwMS (May 2012–March 2013). Drop-outs were four of 77 (5%, group A) and 11/82 (13%, group B). Primary endpoint (highest tertile both for MSKQ and COSM-R section 2 scores) was achieved by 38/77 (49%) group A and 33/82 (40%) group B ( p = 0.25). Attainment of secondary outcomes was also similar between groups. Conclusions: This study shows that the entire IA is not superior to the booklet/website alone, and that both are comparable in efficacy to the intervention arm of the SIMS-Trial. Trial registration number: ISRCTN78940214.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Giordano
- Unit of Neuroepidemiology, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C. Besta, Italy
| | - A Lugaresi
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - P Confalonieri
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C. Besta, Italy
| | - F Granella
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology Unit, University of Parma, Italy
| | - D Radice
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, European Institute of Oncology, Italy
| | - M Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Italy
| | - V Martinelli
- Department of Neurology, Scientific Institute Hospital San Raffaele, Italy
| | - A Solari
- Unit of Neuroepidemiology, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C. Besta, Italy
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Persechino S, Caperchi C, Cortesi G, Persechino F, Raffa S, Pucci E, Tammaro A, Torrisi MR. Anetoderma: evidence of the relationship with autoimmune disease and a possible role of macrophages in the etiopathogenesis. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2012; 24:1075-7. [PMID: 22230413 DOI: 10.1177/039463201102400425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Anetoderma is a benign condition characterized by round or oval macular lesions with focal loss of dermal elastic tissue resulting in localized areas of flaccid or herniated saclike skin. Often, the anetoderma is associated with immuno-mediated pathogenetic mechanism. In this article, we describe the association between anetoderma and autoimmune diseases, by underlining the role and the action of macrophages as a possible etiopathogenesis.
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Bartolo M, Zucchella C, Pichiecchio A, Pucci E, Sandrini G, Sinforiani E. Alien hand syndrome in left posterior stroke. Neurol Sci 2011; 32:483-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-011-0490-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2010] [Accepted: 01/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Solari A, Martinelli V, Trojano M, Lugaresi A, Granella F, Giordano A, Messmer Uccelli M, D'Alessandro R, Pucci E, Confalonieri P, Borreani C. An information aid for newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients improves disease knowledge and satisfaction with care. Mult Scler 2010; 16:1393-405. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458510380417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Patients report information deficits in the period surrounding diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). We assessed the effectiveness of an add-on information aid for newly diagnosed MS patients. Methods: We randomly assigned 120 newly diagnosed MS patients from five Italian centres to diagnosis disclosure (current practice at the centre) or current practice plus information aid (ISRCTN81072971). The information aid consisted of a personal interview with a physician using a navigable compact disc and a take-home booklet. The primary composite endpoint was score in the highest tertile of MS knowledge and satisfaction with care questionnaires. Other endpoints were safety; treatment adherence; extra contacts/consultations; switching of care centre; and changes in Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Control Preference Scale scores. Results: At 1 month, 30/60 intervention and 8/60 control patients achieved the primary endpoint (odds ratio [OR] 6.5, 95% CI 2.6—16.0; p < 0.001; number needed to treat [NNT] 3). Figures at 6 months were 26/60 intervention and 11/60 control patients (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.5—7.8; p = 0.04; NNT 4). There were no adverse events. No significant treatment effects were seen on secondary outcomes. Conclusion: The information aid was safe and significantly associated with attainment of the primary outcome at 1 and 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Solari
- Unit of Neuroepidemiology, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C. Besta, Milan, Italy,
| | - V Martinelli
- Department of Neurology, Scientific Institute Hospital San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - M Trojano
- Departments of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - A Lugaresi
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. D'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - F Granella
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - A Giordano
- Unit of Neuroepidemiology, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - M Messmer Uccelli
- Department of Health Services and Research, Italian MS Society, Genoa, Italy
| | - R D'Alessandro
- Department of Clinical Neurology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Pucci
- Neurology Department, Macerata Hospital, Macerata, Italy
| | - P Confalonieri
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - C Borreani
- Psychology Unit, National Cancer Institute Foundation, Milan, Italy
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Congedo M, Causarano RI, Alberti F, Bonito V, Borghi L, Colombi L, Defanti CA, Marcello N, Porteri C, Pucci E, Tarquini D, Tettamanti M, Tiezzi A, Tiraboschi P, Gasparini M. Ethical issues in end of life treatments for patients with dementia. Eur J Neurol 2010; 17:774-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2010.02991.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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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17
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Giordano A, Uccelli MM, Pucci E, Martinelli V, Borreani C, Lugaresi A, Trojano M, Granella F, Confalonieri P, Radice D, Solari A. The Multiple Sclerosis Knowledge Questionnaire: a self-administered instrument for recently diagnosed patients. Mult Scler 2009; 16:100-11. [PMID: 19995834 DOI: 10.1177/1352458509352865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There are few studies on patient knowledge in multiple sclerosis (MS), and only two published questionnaires. The objective of this article was to develop and validate the MS Knowledge Questionnaire (MSKQ), a self-assessed instrument for newly diagnosed MS patients. Thirty multiple-choice statements, conceived to test MS knowledge, were produced by a multidisciplinary panel and pre-tested on three MS patients, resulting in an intermediate 26-item version. This was tested on 54 MS patients for internal consistency, content and construct validity (validation sample I). The final (25-item) MSKQ was a primary outcome measure in the SIMS-Trial on an information aid to newly diagnosed MS patients. Postal responses of SIMS-Trial participants to the MSKQ a month after intervention (validation sample II) were analysed. Median MSKQ scores in validation samples I and II were, respectively, 18 (range 9-23) and 17 (range 3-24). Acceptability, internal consistency (Kuder-Richardson-20 formula 0.76) and content validity were good. Educational attainment and receiving the information aid were the main independent predictors of MS knowledge. Other predictors were female sex (positive association) and disease duration (negative association). In conclusion, the MSKQ has good clinimetric properties and is sensitive to an educational intervention. We propose the MSKQ as a brief instrument for clinical practice and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Giordano
- Unit of Neuroepidemiology, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C Besta, Milan, Italy
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18
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Giordano A, Pucci E, Naldi P, Mendozzi L, Milanese C, Tronci F, Leone M, Mascoli N, La Mantia L, Giuliani G, Solari A. Responsiveness of patient reported outcome measures in multiple sclerosis relapses: the REMS study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2009; 80:1023-8. [PMID: 19443471 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.2008.171181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the responsiveness of the three most used patient reported multiple sclerosis (MS) specific questionnaires: the Functional Assessment of MS (FAMS), the MS Impact Scale (MSIS-29) and the 54 item MS Quality of Life (MSQOL-54). DESIGN Prospective multicentre longitudinal study on 104 MS patients treated with intravenous steroids for clinical exacerbation. METHODS Patient reported data, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score and clinical information were collected at admission and 8 weeks later. "Internal" (distribution based) responsiveness was assessed by standardised response means (SRM). "External" (anchor based) responsiveness was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves in relation to corresponding changes in a pre-specified reference measure (anchor). The pre-specified anchor was patients' self-reported recovery assessed on a 5 point Likert scale. RESULTS SRM was 0.39 for FAMS, 0.58 for MSIS-29 physical scale, 0.45 for MSIS-29 psychological scale, 0.71 for MSQOL-54 physical health composite and 0.57 for MSQOL-54 mental health composite. Seventy-three patients (70%) reported they had improved; physicians agreed substantially with patient assessments (kappa statistic 0.70, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.85). Areas under ROC curves differed significantly from 0.50 only for the MSIS-29 and MSQOL-54 scales where areas ranged from 0.65 (95% CI 0.53 to 0.76) for the MSIS-29 psychological scale to 0.70 (95% CI 0.58 to 0.81) for the MSQOL-54 mental health composite. Areas under ROC curves assessed using a physician based anchor were similar to the patient based areas. CONCLUSIONS The responsiveness of the MS specific instruments was less than ideal. The MSIS-29 and MSQOL-54 were significantly more responsive, using both distribution based and anchor based approaches, than FAMS, and should be preferred in longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Giordano
- Unit of Neuroepidemiology, Foundation IRCCS Neurological Institute C Besta, Via Celoria,11, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Defanti CA, Tiezzi A, Gasparini M, Gasperini M, Congedo M, Tiraboschi P, Tarquini D, Pucci E, Porteri C, Bonito V, Sacco L, Stefanini S, Borghi L, Colombi L, Marcello N, Zanetti O, Causarano R, Primavera A. Ethical questions in the treatment of subjects with dementia. Part I. Respecting autonomy: awareness, competence and behavioural disorders. Neurol Sci 2007; 28:216-31. [PMID: 17690856 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-006-0825-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The document deals with some ethical issues raised by the treatment of demented people. In particular the conceptual and empirical aspects of the assessment of awareness and competence of these patients are analysed, as well as the dilemmas related to the treatment of behavioral disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Defanti
- Centro Alzheimer, Ospedale Briolini, Gazzaniga (BG), and Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università di Genova, Italy.
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20
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Solari A, Acquarone N, Pucci E, Martinelli V, Marrosu MG, Trojano M, Borreani C, Messmer Uccelli M. Communicating the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis - a qualitative study. Mult Scler 2007; 13:763-9. [PMID: 17613605 DOI: 10.1177/1352458506074689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Studies on communicating the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) are few, and all reveal communication and information deficits. We explored the personal experience of diagnosis communication of people with MS and health professionals, using a qualitative methodology. Data were obtained from two sets of focus group meetings (FGM) with people with MS (total 23; 16 females; age range: 23-70) and one FGMs with health professionals (four neurologists, three psychologists, two nurses). The methods of framework analysis were applied to meeting transcripts to identify key topics and categories. The experience of communicating/receiving an MS diagnosis was highly varied; all patients reported the moment as powerfully evocative and unforgettable. Very poor levels of support and information were sometimes given. Although diagnosis communication had improved in more recent experience, all felt it should be further improved with appropriate setting (privacy, no interruptions, sufficient time), information tailored to the individual, and continuity of care. Such improvements imply a more meaningful patientneurologist relationship, and also structural and organisational changes. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 763-769. http://msj.sagepub.com
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Affiliation(s)
- A Solari
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, C Besta National Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling symptoms of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The effective management of fatigue has an important impact on the patient's functioning, abilities, and quality of life. Although a number of strategies have been devised for reducing fatigue, treatment recommendations are based on a limited amount of scientific evidence. Many textbooks report amantadine as a first-choice drug for MS-related fatigue because of published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) showing some benefit. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness and safety of amantadine in treating fatigue in people with MS. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched The Cochrane MS Group Trials Register (July 2006), The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2006), MEDLINE (January 1966 to July 2006), EMBASE (January 1974 to July 2006), bibliographies of relevant articles and handsearched relevant journals. We also contacted drug companies and researchers in the field. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, placebo or other drugs-controlled, double-blind trials of amantadine in MS people with fatigue. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three reviewers selected studies for inclusion in the review and they extracted the data reported in the original articles. We requested missing and unclear data by correspondence with the trial's principal investigator. A meta-analysis was not performed due to the inadequacy of available data and heterogeneity of outcome measures. MAIN RESULTS Out of 13 pertinent publications, 5 trials met the criteria for inclusion in this review: one study was a parallel arms study, and 4 were crossover trials. The number of randomised participants ranged between 10 and 115, and a total of 272 MS patients were studied. Overall the quality of the studies considered was poor and all trials were open to bias. All studies reported small and inconsistent improvements in fatigue, whereas the clinical relevance of these findings and the impact on patient's functioning and health related quality of life remained undetermined. The number of participants reporting side effects during amantadine therapy ranged from 10% to 57%. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The efficacy of amantadine in reducing fatigue in people with MS is poorly documented, as well as its tolerability. It is advisable to: (1) improve knowledge on the underlying mechanisms of MS-related fatigue; (2) achieve anagreement on accurate, reliable and responsive outcome measures of fatigue; (3) perform good quality RCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- ASUR Marche - Zona Territoriale 9, U.O. Neurologia - Ospedale di Macerata, Via Santa Lucia, 3, Macerata, Italy, 62100.
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Pucci E. Message for caregivers of dementia with Lewy bodies patients: hallucinations can be pleasurable for your patient. Cope with your embarrassment and empathize. Eur J Neurol 2006; 13:666. [PMID: 16796595 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2006.01231.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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23
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Burelli A, Cionini R, Rinaldi E, Benelli E, Fiore E, Canale D, Bencivelli W, Nencetti C, Pinchera A, Pucci E. Serum PSA levels are not affected by the menstrual cycle or the menopause, but are increased in subjects with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Endocrinol Invest 2006; 29:308-12. [PMID: 16699296 DOI: 10.1007/bf03344101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Prostatic specific antigen (PSA) is the most specific prostatic tumor marker in man. Recently, PSA has been detected in a variety of tissues and fluids in women, and its determination suggested as a marker of hyperandrogenism. However, precise information about the physiology of PSA in females is not available. The goal of this study was to assess serum concentrations of PSA in healthy pre-menopausal women (healthy pre-menopausal group), menopausal women (menopause group) and patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS group). METHODS PSA, androgens, LH, FSH, 17-beta-estradiol (E2), progesterone (Pg) were assessed in 40 post-menopausal women, 35 fertile controls and 35 women with PCOS. RESULTS No significant difference in PSA concentrations could be demonstrated in different phases of the menstrual cycle in healthy pre-menopausal group and between pre- and post-menopausal groups. No correlations could be demonstrated between serum PSA levels and the following parameters: age, body mass index (BMI), LH, FSH, E2, testosterone (T), DHEAS, and SHBG, both in pre- and post-menopausal women. Significantly higher PSA levels (median=14 pg/ml) were found in the PCOS group compared to both pre-menopausal (median=5 pg/ml) and menopausal (median= 5 pg/ml) groups (p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS only minor fluctuations of serum PSA concentrations are observed in healthy pre- and post-menopausal women, while serum level is higher in PCOS, and therefore PSA can be considered a suitable marker of female hyperandrogenism.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Burelli
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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24
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De Dominicis L, Cardinali P, Pucci E, Marchegiani G, Caporalini R, Moretti V, Sanguigni S, Carle F, Gesuita R, Giuliani G. What do Italians at high risk of stroke know about ischaemic stroke? A survey among a group of subjects undergoing neuro-sonographic examination. Neurol Sci 2006; 27:7-13. [PMID: 16688593 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-006-0558-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2005] [Accepted: 12/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to assess the knowledge about ischaemic stroke among selected groups of persons at high risk for stroke. Outpatients referred to 3 hospital ultrasound departments in the Marche Region (Italy) were asked to answer a questionnaire. Data were collected on: (1) demographic characteristics; (2) risk profile determined using Coppola et al.'s scoring system; (3) knowledge about symptoms, risk factors, part of the body injured and best referral option for stroke. Of the 352 respondents, around 52% were unable to report even one warning symptom of stroke, while 58.4% of participants at increased risk did not know any risk factors. Only 64.5% identified the brain as the part of the body injured by stroke. Only 59.4% considered the Emergency Department as the best referral option in the event of stroke. This study confirms poor knowledge about stroke in our study population, particularly in subjects with increased stroke risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- L De Dominicis
- Neurology Unit, S. Lucia Hospital, Via S. Lucia 2, I-62100 Macerata, Italy.
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25
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Pucci E, Matozzo F, Luppi P, Micoli G, Sottani C, Minoia C, Sandrini G, Nappi G. [Headache as "sentinel" symptom in personnel involved in the preparation and administration of antineoplastic drugs]. G Ital Med Lav Ergon 2005; 27:412-6. [PMID: 16512337] [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: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The increased prevalence of neoplastic diseases observed over the last years has resulted for in more frequent operations of preparation and administration of antiblastic drugs performed by the medical personnel. In this study, we examined a group of subjects involved in the preparation of ACNU, Methotrexate, Novantrone, Vincristine, Cyclophosphamide, Carboplatinum, Mythoxantrone, in order to elucidate whether headache may represent an early symptom of exposure to these products. At the same time, we measured the degree of pollution in the air surrounding the vertical laminar flow aspiration cabinet used for drug preparation. The 66.6% of the 12 subjects studied, 9 females and 3 males, complained of headache. However, the environmental detection using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS) gave negative results with respect to a possible environmental damage. These findings suggest that headache is the onset symptom of the toxic effect of antiblastic chemiotherapics in the medical personnel involved in drug preparation and administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- Centro Interuniversitario Cefalee e Disordini Adattativi, Universita degli Studi, Pavia, IRCCS C. Mondino, Pavia, Italy.
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26
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Appetecchia M, Cela V, Bernardi F, Burelli A, Cionini R, Pucci E. Sertoli-Leydig cell androgens-estrogens secreting tumor of the ovary: ultra-conservative surgery. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2004; 116:113-6. [PMID: 15294381 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2004.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2004] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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27
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Verri AP, Maraschio P, Uggetti C, Pucci E, Ronchi G, Nespoli L, Destefani V, Ramponi A, Federico A. Late diagnosis in severe and mild intellectual disability in adulthood. J Intellect Disabil Res 2004; 48:679-686. [PMID: 15357688 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2003.00593.x] [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: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of intellectual disability (ID) is highly dependent on a comprehensive personal and family medical history, a complete physical examination and a careful developmental assessment of the patient. Our study intended to: (1) classify the aetiology of mild and severe ID in an adult population of 140 Italian subjects; (2) evaluate the frequency of associated medical conditions; (3) evaluate the age of diagnosis in both groups; and (4) underline the importance of aetiological diagnosis for adult ID patients also. METHODS The study involved 140 consecutive adult Italian ID inpatients and outpatients neurologically investigated at the Neurological Institute C. Mondino of Pavia Service for Mental Retardation. A total of 80 patients had mild ID (MID group) (39 females, 41 males), mean age 34 years (range 19-61 years), mean IQ = 64 (range 51-75), and 60 had severe ID (SID group) (32 females, 28 males), mean age 30 years (range 19-69 years). They underwent a complete diagnostic work-up that comprised prenatal, perinatal and postnatal history, physical examinations, laboratory investigations, genetic survey and neuroradiological investigations to determine the aetiology of ID and to evaluate the presence of associated medical conditions. RESULTS ID aetiology was classified as prenatal in 34% of the MID and 28% of the SID group. Perinatal and postnatal events were found in 6% of the MID and in 5% of the SID group. Associated medical conditions were found in 97 patients (47% MID and 26% SID). A genetic diagnosis was possible in 6% of patients above 20 years of age and in 5% of patients above 40 years. A diagnosis of cerebral dysgenesis was possible in 5% of patients above 20 years and 4% of patients above 40 years. CONCLUSIONS A long interval between the diagnosis of ID and the aetiological definition can be observed in a significant percentage (24%) of our population, leading to unfortunate consequences of late diagnosis: late onset of a specific therapeutic program, genetic counselling that is frequently no more useful, and ineffective prenatal diagnosis, leading to the birth of other affected subjects (for familiar ID).
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Affiliation(s)
- A P Verri
- Neurological Institute C. Mondino, via Palestro, Pavia, Italy.
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28
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Solari A, Motta A, Mendozzi L, Aridon P, Bergamaschi R, Ghezzi A, Mancardi GL, Milanese C, Montanari E, Pucci E. Italian version of the Chicago multiscale depression inventory: translation, adaptation and testing in people with multiple sclerosis. Neurol Sci 2004; 24:375-83. [PMID: 14767682 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-003-0192-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2003] [Accepted: 09/22/2003] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Depression is the commonest psychiatric disturbance in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), with prevalence higher than in the general population and other chronic diseases. However, accurate assessment of depressive symptoms can be biased by somatic symptoms which are part of both MS and depression. We translated and adapted into Italian the Chicago multiscale depression inventory (CMDI) and assessed its acceptability, internal consistency and test-retest reliability in 213 MS outpatients and 213 individually matched healthy controls. The questionnaire was also tested in 32 people with major depression. Acceptability, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability were good overall. We found greater odds for depressive symptoms in people with MS than healthy controls, with highest odds ratio for somatic symptoms (vegetative subscale). The Italian CMDI is characterized by good acceptability, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. These findings support the use of the CMDI in Italian subjects with MS to screen for and follow depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Solari
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, C. Besta National Neurological Institute, Via Celoria 11, I-20133, Milan, Italy.
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Pucci E, Angeleri F, Borsetti G, Brizioli E, Cartechini E, Giuliani G, Solari A. General practitioners facing dementia: are they fully prepared? Neurol Sci 2004; 24:384-9. [PMID: 14767683 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-003-0193-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2003] [Accepted: 10/02/2003] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We assessed knowledge about Alzheimer's disease (AD) in a sample of Italian general practitioners (GPs). We first carried out a propedeutic study to verify the ability of an Italian version of the University of Alabama at Birmingham's AD Knowledge Test for Health Professionals to distinguish between 20 AD specialists and 20 non-specialists and to gain reference values. We then administered the test, together with a short questionnaire, to 139 GPs attending an educational programme in November 2000. The cut-off score for discriminating specialists from non-specialists was >/=9. Among the 95 GPs who performed the AD Knowledge Test (68.3% response rate), 21% had a total score >/=9. Our findings suggest that particular focus should be given to dementia in continuing medical education (CME) programmes for GPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- Department of Neurology, Via S. Lucia 2, I-62100, Macerata, Italy.
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30
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Pucci E, Cartechini E, Taus C, Giuliani G. Why physicians need to look more closely at the use of complementary and alternative medicine by multiple sclerosis patients. Eur J Neurol 2004; 11:263-7. [PMID: 15061828 DOI: 10.1046/j.1468-1331.2003.00758.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
With the aim of contributing to the knowledge of attitudes, patterns and motivations for the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for multiple sclerosis (MS), 109 MS outpatients, or their close relative in cases of mental status impairment, were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The main results are: (i). 35.7% used at least one CAM at least once; (ii). homeopathy and diets were the most common; (iii). 39.4% showed a positive attitude towards CAM; (iv). a perceived benefit was recorded in 61.5% of cases; (v). the referral source was a physician in only 12.8% of cases; (vi). caring neurologist was not consulted in 82% and generalist was not consulted in 67% of cases; (vii). of 61 CAM interventions, 21 were expected to be disease-modifying and 40 symptomatic; (viii). CAM negatively influenced compliance with conventional medical management in very few cases (2/39); (ix). a higher expanded disability status scale (EDSS) was observed in CAM users; and (x). in those who used CAM during last 3 years (21.1%), the approximate mean cost per year per person was 483 euro. In Italy, the use of CAM in MS is widespread but costly. This study has provided further baseline data on which to assess trends in CAM use and has highlighted issues for patients and conventional doctors about the use of CAM to deal with health problems. More research into the implications of concurrent use of CAM with conventional medicine on public health care is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- U O Neurologia, Macerata, Italy.
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31
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Sances G, Tassorelli C, Pucci E, Ghiotto N, Sandrini G, Nappi G. Reliability of the nitroglycerin provocative test in the diagnosis of neurovascular headaches. Cephalalgia 2004; 24:110-9. [PMID: 14728706 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-2982.2004.00639.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Nitroglycerin administration provokes spontaneous-like migraine attacks in migraine and cluster headache (CH) patients. Nitroglycerin-induced migraine-like headache has been used as an experimental model of migraine. In this paper, we evaluate the possibility of using the nitroglycerin provocative test (NPT) as a supportive measure in the diagnosis of primary neurovascular headaches by assessing its reliability on a large population and adopting strict criteria for rating the response as positive or negative. Our population consisted of 197 migraineurs, 42 subjects suffering from cluster headache and 53 healthy controls. In migraine without aura, the test sensitivity was 82.1%, specificity 96.2% and accuracy 85.5%, while in subjects suffering from migraine with aura, the reliability of the NPT was less satisfactory (sensitivity 13.6%, specificity 96.2% and accuracy 72%). In CH patients tested during the active phase of the disease the sensitivity was 80.6%, specificity 100% and accuracy 92.9%. NPT is an easy, low-cost and reliable method for supporting the diagnosis of migraine without aura and cluster headache.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Sances
- Headache Unit, University Centre for Adaptive Disorders and Headache, IRCCS C Mondino Foundation Institute of Neurology, Pavia, Italy.
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32
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Pucci E, Matozzo F, Arrigo A, Mazza S, Sandrini G, Nappi G. [Prevalence of primary headache related to work activity in a group of hospital workers undergoing periodic visits (D. Lgs. 626/94 s.s.m. ed i.)]. G Ital Med Lav Ergon 2003; 25:448-52. [PMID: 15027692] [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: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Since headache is one of the most frequent complaints in clinical practice, its burden in terms of the both social cost and individual sufference is considerable. Headache is a frequent cause of absence from work and decreased productivity; it is therefore clear that investigating its possible relationship with working conditions represents a topic of increasing interest for the scientific community. This study was aimed at identifying specific occupational factors able to modify the prevalence of headache in a population of hospital workers undergoing periodic examinations. It was indeed suspected that the hospital environment could be per se a predisposing factor for headache onset, due to the considerable impact of stress on such working environment. The results obtained suggest that specific occupational conditions such as shift work and P.C. use may play an important role in headache development even in the presence of a wide number of professional risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- Centro Interuniversitario Cefalee e Disordini Adattativi, Università degli Studi di Pavia, IRCCS C. Mondino, Pavia, Italy.
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33
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Costa A, Ravaglia S, Sances G, Antonaci F, Pucci E, Nappi G. Nitric oxide pathway and response to nitroglycerin in cluster headache patients: plasma nitrite and citrulline levels. Cephalalgia 2003; 23:407-13. [PMID: 12807519 DOI: 10.1046/j.1468-2982.2003.00553.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) may participate in the mechanisms underlying vascular headaches, such as migraine and cluster headache (CH), by triggering neurogenic inflammation and activation of fibres conveying nociceptive inputs to the trigeminal ganglion. Similarly to migraine, the administration of the NO donor glyceryltrinitrate (GTN) to CH patients is a known model of inducing spontaneous-like attacks. We carried out a GTN test (0.9 mg, sublingually) in 18 patients with episodic CH in active phase and 12 controls. The plasma levels of NO metabolite nitrites (NO2-), after conversion of nitrates to NO2-, were measured spectrophotometrically at baseline, at the maximum intensity of the induced response (or 45 min after GTN in controls), and 120 min after GTN administration. The basal plasma levels of L-citrulline were also assayed in patients and controls using high-performance liquid chromatography. Basal NO2- levels, similar in GTN-responsive patients and controls (48.3 +/- 10.6 and 44.6 +/- 9.5 micromol/l, respectively) were found to be increased significantly at pain peak in patients (76.1 +/- 10.2 micromol/l) and after 45 min in controls (78.2 +/- 9.6 micromol/l) (P < 0.01 vs. respective baseline values), but not after 120 min, without differences between groups. L-citrulline levels in basal conditions showed no differences between groups (patients 64.8 +/- 11.7, controls 67.3 +/- 10.8 micromol/l). These data do not support the presence of a basal hyperactivity of the L-arginine-NO pathway in CH patients. Increased NO production may be of importance in the mechanisms leading to CH attacks, but other factors are likely to render CH patients hyperresponsive to NO, and ultimately to cause the occurrence of pain and associated features.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Costa
- University Centre for Adaptive Disorders and Headache, University of Pavia, Institute of Neurology IRCCS C. Mondino, Pavia, Italy.
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Pucci E, Belardinelli N, Borsetti G, Giuliani G. Relatives' attitudes towards informing patients about the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. J Med Ethics 2003; 29:51-54. [PMID: 12569197 PMCID: PMC1733666 DOI: 10.1136/jme.29.1.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate relatives' attitudes towards informing patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) about their diagnosis. SETTING A university hospital in Italy. METHODS The closest relatives of each of 71 subjects diagnosed for the first time as having AD were interviewed, using a semistructured questionnaire. Spontaneous requests by relatives not to communicate issues concerning the diagnosis were also recorded. RESULTS Forty three (60.6%) relatives spontaneously requested that patients not be fully informed. After being interviewed, nobody thought that the patient should be given all the information. Justifications were related to the fear of the onset or worsening of depressive symptoms in the patient. CONCLUSIONS In Italy relatives' opposition to informing AD patients appears to be common. Knowledge of the relatives' attitudes may be useful for clinicians but disclosure of diagnosis should be based on the clinical evaluation of the patient and on a prudent evaluation of the relationship between the patient and her/his relative caregiver.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- Institute for Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy.
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36
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Cardinali P, Serrao M, De Dominicis L, Pucci E, Forconesi F, Parisi L, Rossi P, Amabile G. Abstracts of the 8th Meeting of the Italian Peripheral Nerve Study Group: 63. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2003. [DOI: 10.1046/j.1529-8027.2003.00063.x] [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: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling symptoms of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The effective management of fatigue has an important impact on the patient's functioning, abilities, and quality of life. Although a number of strategies have been devised for reducing fatigue, treatment recommendations are based on a limited amount of scientific evidence. Many textbooks report amantadine as a first-choice drug for MS-related fatigue because of published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) showing some benefit. We performed a systematic review in order to gather existing evidence, and contribute to the topic. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness and safety of amantadine in reducing fatigue in people with MS. SEARCH STRATEGY RCTs of amantadine were identified using MEDLINE, EMBASE, bibliographies of relevant articles, personal communications, manual searches of relevant journals, and information from drug companies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, placebo or other drugs-controlled, double-blind trials of amantadine in MS people with fatigue. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three reviewers selected studies for inclusion in the review and they extracted the data reported in the original articles. Missing and unclear data were requested by correspondence with the trial's principal investigator. A meta-analysis was not performed due to the inadequacy of available data, heterogeneity of outcome measures. MAIN RESULTS Out of twelve pertinent publications, four trials met the criteria for inclusion in this review: one study was a parallel arms study, and 3 were crossover trials. The number of randomised participants ranged between 10 and 115, and a total of 236 MS patients had been studied. Overall the quality of the studies considered was poor and all trials were open to bias. All studies reported small and inconstant improvements in fatigue, whereas the clinical relevance of these findings and the impact on patient's functioning and health related quality of life remains undetermined. The number of participants reporting side effects during amantadine therapy ranged from 10% to 57%, without significant differences between treatment and placebo. The side effects reported were generally mild, and discontinuation of the drug due to side effects occurred in less than 10% of the patients. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS Amantadine treatment is overall well tolerated, however its efficacy in reducing fatigue in people with MS is poorly documented and there is insufficient evidence to make recommendations to guide prescribing. It is advisable to (a) improve knowledge on the underlying mechanisms of MS-related fatigue; (b) achieve an agreement on accurate, reliable and responsive outcome measures of fatigue; (c) perform good quality RCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Taus
- Unità Operativa di neurologia, Ospedale San Salvatore, Piazzale Cinelli,4, Pesaro, Italy.
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38
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Appetecchia M, Scarcello G, Pucci E, Procaccini A. Outcome after treatment of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2002; 21:159-64. [PMID: 12148571] [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: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Patients with thyroid microcarcinoma (TMC) have favourable long-term prognoses. However, recurrences in the neck and distant metastases have been reported. The authors investigated independent factors associated with recurrence in an effort to define therapeutic guidelines. In this study they report the results of a retrospective review of patients followed at one Institution. 120 patients ( 96 females and 24 males; mean age 45.2 years) with a papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTC) < or =1 cm in greatest dimension were analyzed. All of them were followed for 5 to 15 years. 106 of them were managed aggressively (total thyroidectomy), the remainder treated with lobectomy alone. Radioiodine therapy was performed in 62/106 patients submitted to total thyroidectomy. Despite the different treatment and the presence of neck node metastases at the time of the diagnosis in 26 of the reported 120 patients (22%) and local invasion beyond the thyroid capsule in 20 (17%), only 1.7% of patients had neck nodal local recurrence. No patient died or developed distant metastases. In this preliminary study the authors conclude that the outcome of PMC is generally favourable, even in presence of lymph-node metastases and local invasion, independently of the primary treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Appetecchia
- Service of Endocrinology, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
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39
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Appetecchia M, Pucci E. A rare association between malignant mediastinal seminoma and other malignant neoplasms. J Endocrinol Invest 2002; 25:373-6. [PMID: 12030611 DOI: 10.1007/bf03344021] [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: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Primary malignant mediastinal seminomas (PMMS) are rare tumors accounting for 1-6% of all mediastinal tumors. PMMS mostly affect young men, arising from primordial germ cells that abnormally migrate from the ectoderm of the yolk sac to the gonadal region. They are clinically and biologically distinct from primary testicular tumors and seem to have a worse prognosis. Due to the rarity of the disease, the choice of treatment is a matter of debate. Literature data do not show any association between this kind of tumor and malignant Schwannoma or thyroid carcinoma. In this report we describe the case of a patient affected by PMMS and 12 yr later by a malignant brachial plexus Schwannoma and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Since both mediastinal seminoma and Schwannoma were treated with surgery followed by local radiotherapy, we were not able to ascertain if either PTC or Schwannoma had been induced by radiotherapy or represented a casual neoplastic association.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Appetecchia
- Service of Endocrinology, Regina Elena Cancer Institute-IFO, Rome, Italy.
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40
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Pucci E, Belardinelli N, Borsetti G, Rodriguez D, Signorino M. Information and competency for consent to pharmacologic clinical trials in Alzheimer disease: an empirical analysis in patients and family caregivers. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord 2001; 15:146-54. [PMID: 11522932 DOI: 10.1097/00002093-200107000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to evaluate (1) what information normal and Alzheimer disease (AD) participants are able to manage; (2) the correlation between the degree of competency and age, education and dementia scores, and the ability of dementia scores to predict incompetence; and (3) the capacity to retain consent-related information. To fulfil these aims, a four-point competency rating scale (1 = incompetent, 2 = marginally competent, 3 = sufficiently competent, and 4 = completely competent) was used in 70 patients (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE] score >9; Global Deterioration Scale score <6) and in 40 cognitively normal caregivers. Patients were divided into two subgroups (competency ratings 1 and 2 versus 3 and 4) to calculate positive and negative predictive values of MMSE and Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive (ADAScog) for absent/marginal competence. Main results were as follows: (1) 32.9% of AD patients were "incompetent" (no caregivers), 37.1% were "marginally competent" (20% caregivers), 18.6% were "sufficiently competent" (50% caregivers), and 11.4% were "completely competent" (30% caregiverss). (2) Competency ratings and age did not correlate in AD, whereas a negative correlation was significant in caregivers; competency ratings positively correlated to education in caregivers. (3) ADAScog and MMSE were the tests most significantly correlated to competency; MMSE score below 18 had a positive predictive value of 95% and a negative predictive value of 63.3%. The fact that 95% of patients with MMSE scores below 18 are incompetent or marginally competent points to an urgent need for ethical procedures capable of creating a balance between difficulties in obtaining valid consent and a patient's right to benefit from advances in clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- Istituto Malattie del Sistema Nervoso, University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Because of their ability to increase nerve conduction in demyelinated nerve fibers, potassium channel blockers 4-aminopyridine (AP) and 3,4-diaminopyridine (DAP) have been proposed as a symptomatic therapy for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVES To determine the efficacy and safety of aminopyridines in improving neurological deficits in people with MS. SEARCH STRATEGY Computerised general (MEDLINE, EMBASE) and specialised databases (Cochrane MS Group's trials register, CCTR). Hand search of bibliographic references from retrieved studies and recent MS symposia reports. Contact with principal investigators of known studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Trials were included if they fulfilled all following criteria: randomised controlled trials (RCTs); adults with MS, out of exacerbation; AP or DAP treatment versus placebo; clinical endpoints. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We identified 26 potentially pertinent studies. Three reviewers independently extracted data and assessed trial quality from the 16 studies available as full papers. MAIN RESULTS Five studies (six publications) and 144 participants were considered in this review. Two more abstracts are awaiting assessment. All five studies were single-centre, double-blind, crossover trials. Four studies assessed the efficacy of AP versus placebo, one compared DAP with active placebo. The duration of treatment ranged from hours to three months. The median quality score of the studies was 3 (range 2-5). The heterogeneity of outcome assessment and the absence of information on individual study periods, allowed quantitative pooling of results for few categorical variables. Of the 144 treated patients, there were six major side effects: one acute encephalopathy, three episodes of confusion, and two seizures. Manual muscle testing was assessed in three studies (54 patients), with 29 patients (54%) improving in at least one muscular district during study treatment versus four patients (7%) during placebo (odds ratio [OR] 14.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.7-43.7). Ambulation was assessed in three studies (54 patients): 9 patients (17%) improved during study treatment versus none during placebo (p<0.001). An improvement in EDSS score was found in 13 of the 144 participants during study treatment (9%) versus none during placebo (p<0.001). No improvement in neuropsychological tests was found in the two trials that evaluated cognitive function. Finally, 47 of 136 people with MS (35%) felt improved when receiving the study drug, against 7(5%) on placebo (OR 9.7, 95% CI 4.3-22.0). REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS Based on currently available information, no unbiased statement can be made about the safety or efficacy of aminopyridines for treating MS symptoms. Furthermore, we could not obtain any data on three unpublished RCTs involving more than 300 participants. We conclude that publication bias remains a pervasive problem in this area, and that until the results of these unpublished studies are available to the scientific community, no confident estimate of effectiveness of aminopyridines in the management of MS symptoms is possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Solari
- Laboratory of Epidemiology, National Neurological Institute Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy, 20133.
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Pucci E, Belardinelli N, Regnicolo L, Nolfe G, Signorino M, Salvolini U, Angeleri F. Hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus linear measurements based on magnetic resonance in Alzheimer's disease. Eur Neurol 2000; 39:16-25. [PMID: 9476719 DOI: 10.1159/000007893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
MRI-based linear measurements of the hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus complex (HPC) discriminated 39 subjects with probable Alzheimer's disease, from 15 patients with other dementias and 33 miscellaneous controls without evidence of dementia. The best discriminating parameter was the left height of the HPC at the level of the mammillary bodies, with a sensitivity of 79.49% and a specificity of 68.75%. The diagnostic value of these results is discussed considering the volumetric data found in the current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- Istituto Malattie del Sistema Nervoso, Clinica Neurologica, Università di Ancona, Italy
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Abstract
The course of migraine without aura (MO) is greatly influenced by the events of female reproductive life. Much less is known about migraine with aura (MA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between MA and the milestones of reproductive life. A retrospective case control study was carried out on 100 women affected by migraine with typical aura (cases) and 200 age-matched women with MO (controls). Premenstrual syndrome was found to be much more common among the patients with MA (odds ratio (OR) 6.0; confidence interval (CI) 3.1-11.6). Menstrually triggered migraine was more frequently encountered among MO than among MA patients (MA 15.0%; MO 53.5%; OR 0.1; CI 0.1-0.3). In both forms of migraine, pregnancy had a favourable effect; however, a lower percentage of MA (43.6%) than MO patients (76.8%; OR 0.2; CI 0.1-0.5) showed improvement or remission. The use of oral contraceptives worsened migraine in MA more frequently than in MO patients (MA 56.4%; MO 25.3%; OR 3.8; CI 1.6-9.3). The course of MA seems to be influenced by female reproductive life events, but in a different way with respect to MO.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Granella
- University Centre for Adaptive Disorders and Headache (UCADH), Institute of Neurology, University of Parma, Italy.
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Pucci E, Taus C, Cartechini E, Morelli M, Giuliani G, Clementi M, Menzo S. Lack of Chlamydia infection of the central nervous system in multiple sclerosis. Ann Neurol 2000; 48:399-400. [PMID: 10976652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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Abstract
Thyroid hormones influence all major metabolic pathways. Their most obvious and well-known action is an increase in basal energy expenditure obtained acting on protein, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. With specific regard to lipid metabolism, thyroid hormones affect synthesis, mobilization and degradation of lipids, although degradation is influenced more than synthesis. The main and best-known effects on lipid metabolism include: (a) enhanced utilization of lipid substrates; (b) increase in the synthesis and mobilization of triglycerides stored in adipose tissue; (c) increase in the concentration of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA); and (d) increase of lipoprotein-lipase activity. While severe hypothyroidism is usually associated with an increased serum concentration of total cholesterol and atherogenic lipoproteins, the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in hypothyroid patients is not frequent. However, hypothyroid patients appear to have an increased incidence of residual myocardial ischemia following AMI. Even in subclinical hypothyroidism, which is characterized by raised serum TSH levels with normal serum thyroid hormone concentrations, mild hyperlipidemia is present and may contribute to an increased risk of atherogenesis. Prudent substitution therapy with L-thyroxine is indicated in patients with both overt and subclinical hypothyroidism, with or without angina, to counteract the cardiovascular risk resulting from hyper-dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pucci
- Dipartimento di Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Medicina del lavoro, Universita' di Pisa, Italy.
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Luzzi S, Pucci E, Di Bella P, Piccirilli M. Topographical disorientation consequent to amnesia of spatial location in a patient with right parahippocampal damage. Cortex 2000; 36:427-34. [PMID: 10921669 DOI: 10.1016/s0010-9452(08)70851-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We describe a patient who selectively lost the ability to orient himself in the environment after a stroke involving the right parahippocampal gyrus. The neuropsychological assessment showed a specific pattern of impairment of topographical memory; the patient recognised and recalled environmental landmarks but was unable to recall their spatial location. This study provides evidence that different forms of topographical disorientation may be related to distinct mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction. Furthermore, neuroimaging data suggest that a lesion of the right parahippocampal gyrus is critically related to pure topographical disorientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Luzzi
- Institute for Nervous System Diseases, University of Ancona, Italy.
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Taus C, Pucci E, Cartechini E, Fié A, Giuliani G, Clementi M, Menzo S. Absence of HHV-6 and HHV-7 in cerebrospinal fluid in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Acta Neurol Scand 2000; 101:224-8. [PMID: 10770517 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0404.2000.101004224.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To contribute to clarifying the controversy on the association between Human Herpesviruses 6 and 7 (HHV-6, HHV-7) and multiple sclerosis (MS) studying patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) with or without evidence of disease activity (clinically or radiologically evaluated). MATERIAL AND METHODS In 25 RRMS patients, 7 suspected MS patients and 9 patients with other neurological diseases, the following parameters were analysed: i) antibody titers (IgM and IgG) against HHV-6 by indirect immunofluorescence both in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples; ii) PCR-detection of HHV-6 DNA and HHV-7 DNA in CSF and HHV-6 DNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). MS patients in remission underwent a gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in proximity of sample collections. RESULTS No viral DNA was found in any CSF sample, HHV-6 DNA frequency in PBMCs of MS patients and controls was not statistically different. Antibody titers against HHV-6 were comparable to those of the general population. Some 30.4% of MS patients were seronegative to HHV6. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that there is no relationship between HHV-6 or HHV-7 and MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Taus
- Istituto Malattie del Sistema Nervoso, Università di Ancona, Italy
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Bertoni-Freddari C, Casoli T, Fattoretti P, Galeazzi L, Di Stefano G, Belardinelli N, Pucci E, Signorino M. Cytochemistry of intraplatelet Ca++ spots as a peripheral marker of age-related brain impairment. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2000; 903:164-6. [PMID: 10818503 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2000.tb06364.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Violini R, Loschiavo P, Santoboni A, Lioy E, Pucci E, Menichelli M, Parma A. [Role of revascularization in acute coronary syndrome]. G Ital Cardiol 2000; 29 Suppl 4:27-9. [PMID: 10686689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R Violini
- Dipartimento di Cardioscienze, Ospedale S. Camillo, Roma
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