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Emanuele E, Bertona M, Biagi M. Comparative effects of a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/Pomegranate combination versus Polypodium leucotomos alone on skin biophysical parameters. Neuro Endocrinol Lett 2017; 38:38-42. [PMID: 28456146] [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] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Polypodium leucotomos extract is a commonly used systemic photoprotective agent. In an exploratory fashion, the current study aimed to compare the effects of oral supplementation with a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination (PPmix®) versus Polypodium leucotomos alone (Fernblock®) on skin biophysical parameters of Caucasian adults. METHODS Forty healthy adult volunteers (20 males and 20 females; mean age: 37.2±5.5 years) were randomized in a 1:1 fashion to a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination (480 mg/day; n=20) or Polypodium leucotomos alone (480 mg/day; n=20) for 3 months. Six skin biophysical parameters (skin sebum content, hydration, transepidermal water loss [TEWL], erythema index, melanin index, and elasticity) were measured at baseline and after 3 months by personnel blinded to participant allocation. RESULTS At the end of the study, hydration and elasticity were significantly improved and TEWL was reduced in both groups, without significant intergroup differences. The erythema index was decreased by both treatments, although the fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination was significantly more effective. Finally, melanin index and skin sebum content were reduced by the fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination, whereas Polypodium leucotomos alone did not affect them. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination provides a greater improvement of skin biophysical parameters compared to Polypodium leucotomos alone in adult Caucasians. Our findings may have implications for optimizing systemic skin photoprotection and beautification strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Italy
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Fabbrocini G, Bertona M, Picazo Ó, Pareja-Galeano H, Monfrecola G, Emanuele E. Supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 normalises skin expression of genes implicated in insulin signalling and improves adult acne. Benef Microbes 2016; 7:625-630. [PMID: 27596801 DOI: 10.3920/bm2016.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Systemic supplementation with probiotics is increasingly being explored as a potential treatment strategy for skin disorders. Because both the gut-skin axis and dysregulation of insulin signalling have been implicated in the pathogenesis of adult acne, we designed the current study to evaluate the effect of supplementation with the probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 (LSP1) on skin expression of genes involved in insulin signalling and acne improvement in adult subjects. A pilot, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 20 adult subjects (14 females and 6 males; mean age: 33.7±3.3 years) with acne. Over a 12-week period, the probiotic group (n=10) consumed a liquid supplement containing LSP1 at a dose of 3×109 cfu/day (75 mg/day), whereas the placebo group (n=10) received a liquid lacking probiotics. Paired skin biopsies - one obtained before treatment initiation and one obtained at the end of the 12-week treatment period - were analysed for insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) gene expression. The clinical criterion for efficacy was the investigator's global improvement rating on a five-point scale. Compared with baseline, the probiotic group showed a 32% (P<0.001) reduction, as well as a 65% increase (P<0.001) in IGF1 and FOXO1 gene expression in the skin, respectively. No such differences were observed in the placebo group. Patients in the probiotic group had an adjusted odds ratio of 28.4 (95% confidence interval = 2.2-411.1, P<0.05) to be rated by physicians as improved/markedly improved (versus worsened or unchanged) compared with the placebo group. We conclude that supplementation with the probiotic strain LSP1 normalises skin expression of genes involved in insulin signalling and improves the appearance of adult acne.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Fabbrocini
- 1 Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Dermatology, University of Naples Federico II, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - M Bertona
- 2 2E Science, Via Monte Grappa, 13, 27038 Robbio (PV), Italy
| | - Ó Picazo
- 3 Nutriscience Education and Consulting, Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1600-082 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - H Pareja-Galeano
- 4 Universidad Europea and Research Institute i+12, Tajo s/n, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - G Monfrecola
- 1 Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Dermatology, University of Naples Federico II, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - E Emanuele
- 2 2E Science, Via Monte Grappa, 13, 27038 Robbio (PV), Italy
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Emanuele E, Bertona M, Pareja-Galeano H, Fiuza-Luces C, Morales JS, Sanchis-Gomar F, Lucia A. Baicalin supplementation reduces serum biomarkers of skeletal muscle wasting and may protect against lean body mass reduction in cancer patients: Results from a pilot open-label study. Neuro Endocrinol Lett 2016; 37:213-216. [PMID: 27618596] [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] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Muscle wasting in patients with cancer has been linked to an increased activity of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and higher circulating levels of activin-A (ActA), a negative growth factor for muscle mass. Baicalin is a natural flavonoid that can reduce skeletal muscle atrophy in animal models of cancer cachexia by inhibiting NF-κB. This pilot open-label study assessed the effects of baicalin supplementation (50 mg daily for 3 months) in cancer patients who showed involuntary weight loss >5% over the past 6 months. METHODS A total of 20 patients were investigated. Participants were evaluated at baseline and at the end of the 3-month study period for the following endpoints: 1) changes from baseline in serum NF-κB and ActA levels; and 2) change from baseline in lean body mass (LBM). RESULTS We observed significant reduction in both NF-κB (p<0.05) and ActA (p<0.05) serum levels from baseline to 3 months. At 3 months, patients also showed a significant mean increase in LBM (+0.8 kg, p<0.05 compared with baseline). CONCLUSION Our pilot open-label data suggest that baicalin supplementation is potentially useful for contrasting lean body mass reduction in cancer patients with involuntary weight loss, an effect which is likely mediated by the inhibition of negative growth factors for muscle mass.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Helios Pareja-Galeano
- European University of Madrid, Research Institute of Hospital 12 de Octubre ("i+12"), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Javier Salvador Morales
- European University of Madrid, Research Institute of Hospital 12 de Octubre ("i+12"), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Alejandro Lucia
- European University of Madrid, Research Institute of Hospital 12 de Octubre ("i+12"), Madrid, Spain
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Emanuele E, Bertona M, Sanchis-Gomar F, Pareja-Galeano H, Lucia A. Protective effect of trehalose-loaded liposomes against UVB-induced photodamage in human keratinocytes. Biomed Rep 2014; 2:755-759. [PMID: 25054023 DOI: 10.3892/br.2014.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Trehalose, a naturally occurring non-reducing disaccharide, is known to act as a major protein stabilizer that can reduce ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced corneal damage when topically applied to the eye. However, due to the low skin permeability of trehalose, which makes the development of topical formulations difficult, its use as a skin photoprotective agent has been limited. Previous findings demonstrated that liposomes may significantly improve the intracellular delivery of trehalose. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the protective effects of trehalose-loaded liposomes against UVB-induced photodamage using the immortalized human keratinocyte cell line, HaCaT. The effects were also compared to those of the common skin photoprotective compounds, including L-carnosine, L-(+)-ergothioneine, L-ascorbic acid and DL-α-tocopherol. The levels of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and protein carbonylation in HaCaT cells were used as biological markers of UVB-induced damage. Compared to other compounds, trehalose-loaded liposomes showed the highest efficacy in reducing the levels of the three markers following UVB irradiation of HaCaT cells (all P<0.001 when compared to each of the four other photoprotective compounds). Therefore, these findings indicate that there may be a clinical application for trehalose-loaded liposomes, and further studies should be performed to assess the potential usefulness in skin photoprotection and the prevention of non-melanoma skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Emanuele
- Living Research s.a.s., I-27038 Robbio, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Bertona
- Living Research s.a.s., I-27038 Robbio, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabian Sanchis-Gomar
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico Universitario/INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Helios Pareja-Galeano
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, Fundación Investigación Hospital Clínico Universitario/INCLIVA, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Alejandro Lucia
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre ('i+12'), Madrid 28041, Spain ; School of Doctorate Studies and Research, Universidad Europea Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Madrid 28670, Spain
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Emanuele E, Bertona M, Altabas K, Altabas V, Alessandrini G. Anti-inflammatory effects of a topical preparation containing nicotinamide, retinol, and 7-dehydrocholesterol in patients with acne: a gene expression study. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2012; 5:33-7. [PMID: 22399861 PMCID: PMC3295614 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s29537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Acne vulgaris is a skin disorder of the sebaceous follicles, involving hyperkeratinization and perifollicular inflammation. Aberrant extracellular matrix remodeling due to matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) has been associated with the presence of acne conditions. Given the complex pathophysiology of acne, novel topical therapies should include combination products that target multiple pathogenetic mechanisms. In this pilot study we investigated the changes in gene expression of extracellular MMPs, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, and proinflammatory molecules after 45 days of topical application of a combination product containing nicotinamide, retinol, and 7-dehydrocholesterol in 16 patients with inflammatory acne on their back. Materials and methods Skin biopsies were obtained before and after treatment for gene expression studies. Results Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed a significant downregulation of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-14, interleukin-6, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and macrophage migration inhibitory factor. In contrast, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases and transforming growth factor-β1 were significantly upregulated. The gene expression findings correlated well with the clinical treatment response. Conclusions The combination of nicotinamide, retinol, and 7-dehydrocholesterol appears to be effective for acne treatment from both clinical and molecular standpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Emanuele
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Cellulite is a common complex cosmetic problem for many post-adolescent women characterised by relief alterations of the skin surface, which give the skin an orange-peel appearance. Although genetic factors have been suggested to play a role in the development of cellulite, the genetic background of this condition remains unclear. We therefore conducted a multi-locus genetic study examining the potential associations of candidate gene variants in oestrogen receptors, endothelial function/adipose tissue hypoxia, lipid metabolism, extracellular matrix homeostasis, inflammation and adipose tissue biology, with the risk of cellulite. METHODS Using a case-control study of 200 lean women with cellulite and 200 age- and BMI-matched controls (grade 0 according to Nurnberger-Muller scale), we examined the association of cellulite with 25 polymorphisms in 15 candidate genes. RESULTS Two of the 25 polymorphisms were significantly associated with cellulite at the P < 0.01 level. After allowance for age, body mass index, the prevalence of contraceptive use and smoking in logistic regression analysis, the multivariable-adjusted odds ratios for cellulite were 1.19 (95% CI: 1.10-1.51; P < 0.01) for ACE rs1799752 and 0.61 (95% CI: 0.45-0.88, P < 0.01) for HIF1A rs11549465. CONCLUSIONS This study, which demonstrates an independent role of ACE and HIF1A in predisposing to cellulite, may provide novel information on the pathophysiology of this common cosmetic problem, and offer a topic for research for novel beautification interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Emanuele
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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Emanuele E, Bertona M, Minoretti P, Geroldi D. An open-label trial of L-5-hydroxytryptophan in subjects with romantic stress. Neuro Endocrinol Lett 2010; 31:663-666. [PMID: 21178946] [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] [Received: 06/05/2010] [Accepted: 06/15/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
This open-label trial assessed the clinical efficacy of L-5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a natural serotonin precursor, in nondepressed young subjects with high levels of romantic stress. Since both neurotrophins and serotonin have been linked to human romantic attachment, we sought to investigate the changes in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and platelet serotonin content in relation to the changes in romantic stress throughout the study. A total of 15 healthy subjects (11 females and 4 males, mean age: 23.3 ± 2.1 years) who experienced a recent romantic break-up or reported recent romantic problems took part in the study. The participants were treated openly for 6 weeks with L-5-hydroxytryptophan (60 mg Griffonia simplicifolia extract containing 12.8 mg 5-HTP b.i.d., Amorex, Coropharm, Villach, Austria). The subjects were evaluated at baseline, at 3 weeks and at the end of the 6-week trial using an adapted version of the Seiffge-Krenke's Problem Questionnaire. BDNF and platelet serotonin content were determined at baseline, at 3 weeks, and after the completion of the 6-week trial. We observed significant improvements in romantic stress scores from weeks 0 through 3 (p=0.007) but no further significant improvement was evident from weeks 3 through 6 (p=0.19). At 6 weeks, subjects had a significant increase from baseline in both BDNF and platelet serotonin values. Our data suggest that direct modulation of the serotonergic system may have use for the treatment of psychological suffering associated with unreciprocated romantic love.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Emanuele
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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Emanuele E, Orsi P, Barale F, di Nemi SU, Bertona M, Politi P. Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptors in patients with severe autism. Clin Biochem 2009; 43:317-9. [PMID: 19850021 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2009.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2009] [Revised: 10/09/2009] [Accepted: 10/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its soluble receptors sVEGFR-1 and -2 in autism. DESIGN AND METHODS We measured serum levels of angiogenic molecules in 22 patients with severe autism and 28 controls. RESULTS Patients and controls had similar sVEGFR-2 levels, but VEGF levels were lower and sVEGFR-1 higher in patients with autism. CONCLUSION The imbalance between VEGF and its receptor sVEGFR-1 may be involved in the pathophysiology of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Emanuele
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pavia, Via Bassi, 21, I-27100, Pavia, Italy.
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Emanuele E, Brondino N, Re S, Bertona M, Geroldi D. Serum omega-3 fatty acids are associated with ultimatum bargaining behavior. Physiol Behav 2009; 96:180-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2008.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2008] [Revised: 08/25/2008] [Accepted: 09/26/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Arra M, Emanuele E, Martinelli V, Minoretti P, Bertona M, Geroldi D. The M694V variant of the familial Mediterranean fever gene is associated with sporadic early-onset Alzheimer's disease in an Italian population sample. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2007; 23:55-9. [PMID: 17090974 DOI: 10.1159/000096743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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] [Accepted: 09/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation is deemed to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We sought to determine whether the proinflammatory M694V mutation of pyrin, the gene responsible for familial Mediterranean fever, could lead to an increased risk for AD. METHODS We compared the M694V variant genotypes in 378 sporadic AD patients and 384 healthy control subjects of Italian descent. RESULTS After adjustment for potential confounders, the M694V mutation was found to be associated with an increased risk for AD in subjects with an age at onset of 65 years or younger (multivariate-adjusted odds ratio, OR: 3.01, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.24-6.72, p = 0.021), but not in patients with an age at onset older than 65 years (multivariate-adjusted OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.34-1.99, p = 0.847). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that AD patients bearing the M694V mutation presented with disease onset 7 years earlier than carriers of the wild-type genotype (log rank = 41.61, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our data indicate that the M694V sequence variant in the pyrin gene might influence the age at onset of AD in the Italian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariarosa Arra
- Interdepartmental Center for Research in Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Emanuele E, Arra M, Bertona M. 7-Hydroxystaurosporine may have a therapeutic role in treatment-resistant depression by inhibition of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II. Med Hypotheses 2007; 68:236-7. [PMID: 16893614 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2006] [Accepted: 06/13/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Ibargüengoytía NR, Bertona M, Chiaraviglio M. SEASONAL CHANGES IN TESTICULAR ACTIVITY OF THE PROTECTED CITES I BOA CONSTRICTOR OCCIDENTALIS (SERPENTES: BOIDAE): AN HISTOLOGICAL STUDY. South American Journal of Herpetology 2006. [DOI: 10.2994/1808-9798(2006)1[143:scitao]2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Tourmente M, Cardozo GA, Guidobaldi HA, Giojalas LC, Bertona M, Chiaraviglio M. Sperm motility parameters to evaluate the seminal quality of Boa constrictor occidentalis, a threatened snake species. Res Vet Sci 2006; 82:93-8. [PMID: 16857223 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2006.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 05/02/2005] [Revised: 05/29/2006] [Accepted: 06/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Semen quality analysis constitutes a powerful tool to evaluate the fertility potential of males in threatened species. The Argentine boa constrictor or lampalagua (Boa constrictor occidentalis) is a threatened snake species and has been included in Appendix I of CITES. The objective of this work is to characterize the sperm of B. c. occidentalis on the bases of dynamic parameters to improve this species conservation. Dynamic parameters were measured in sperm samples using videomicroscopy and image analysis software. The sperm population showed a high degree of heterogeneity in velocity parameter values and 95% of the cells showed a linear pattern of movement. Studies in other species indicate that the number of motile spermatozoa and their movement speed is directly correlated with fertilization success. This work will help to establish basic parameter values for the evaluation of the reproductive potential of populations of B. c. occidentalis and to resolve questions referred to its reproductive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tourmente
- Cátedra de Biología del Comportamiento, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales - Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Departamento de Fisiologia, Vélez Sársfield 299, CP 5000 Córdoba, Argentina.
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Minoretti P, Politi P, Martinelli V, Emanuele E, Bertona M, Falcone C, Geroldi D. QT interval duration in apparently healthy men is associated with depression-related personality trait neuroticism. J Psychosom Res 2006; 61:19-23. [PMID: 16813841 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2006.01.001] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2005] [Revised: 01/09/2006] [Accepted: 01/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High levels of neuroticism and low self-esteem are markers for vulnerability to depression, a condition associated with a higher risk of arrhythmias. The question as to whether these depression-related personality domains are related to cardiac repolarization (duration of QT interval) in apparently healthy men has been addressed in this study. METHODS Participants were 658 clinically healthy males who underwent a health screening programme. QT interval duration was determined in the resting 12-lead electrocardiogram using an automated analysis program. Neuroticism was assessed by the short-scale Eysenck Personality Questionnaire and self-esteem by the Rosenberg self-esteem scale. RESULTS Heart-rate corrected QT interval {QTc, formula of Bazett [Bazett HC. An analysis of time relations of electrocardiograms. Heart 1920;7:353-370]} progressively increased across quartiles of neuroticism ratings. By contrast, no differences in QTc were observed across different degrees of self-esteem. A multivariate regression analysis showed that neuroticism was a statistically significant, independent predictor of QTc duration. CONCLUSION After adjustment for potential confounders, neuroticism scores independently predicted QT interval duration in apparently healthy men. These findings highlight the possibility that higher arrhythmic risk could be present not only in patients with clinical depression but also in depression-prone, otherwise healthy individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piercarlo Minoretti
- Interdepartmental Center for Research in Molecular Medicine (CIRMC), University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 24, I-27100 Pavia, Italy
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Emanuele E, Falcone C, D'Angelo A, Minoretti P, Buzzi MP, Bertona M, Geroldi D. Association of plasma eotaxin levels with the presence and extent of angiographic coronary artery disease. Atherosclerosis 2006; 186:140-5. [PMID: 16084515 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2005.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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] [Received: 02/23/2005] [Revised: 06/30/2005] [Accepted: 07/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Eotaxin (CCL11) is an eosinophil-specific chemoattractant which has been found to be highly expressed at sites of vascular pathology. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the association of plasma eotaxin levels with the presence and extent of angiographic coronary artery disease (CAD). Three hundred and fifty six consecutive patients attending for elective coronary angiography were investigated. Compared with 111 patients without CAD, 245 with CAD showed higher eotaxin concentrations [median (interquartile range): 76.0 (56.3-103.0)pg/ml versus 116.0 (80.5-162.0)pg/ml, respectively; P<0.001]. Importantly, a significant Spearman correlation was found between eotaxin levels and the extent score of coronary artery stenosis (r=0.449, P<0.001). A stepwise increase in plasma levels of eotaxin was also found depending on the number of >50% coronary stenosis: median value 76.0 pg/ml in CAD(-) subjects, 96.0 pg/ml in 1-vessel disease, 128.0 pg/ml in 2-vessel disease, and 129.0 pg/ml in 3-vessel disease (P<0.001 for trend). After confounding variables were controlled for, multiple stepwise regression analysis demonstrated that plasma eotaxin was an independent predictor of angiographic extent of CAD (beta=0.426, P<0.001). Our data suggest that increased eotaxin levels are associated with the presence of CAD and that circulating levels of this chemokine may reflect the extent of coronary atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Emanuele
- Interdepartmental Center for Research in Molecular Medicine (CIRMC), University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 24, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Bertona M, Emanuele E. Weibel-Palade bodies exocytosis from endothelial cells: a possible mechanism mediating estrogen-related thromboembolism. Med Hypotheses 2006; 67:192-3. [PMID: 16574333 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2006] [Accepted: 02/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Emanuele E, Politi P, Bianchi M, Minoretti P, Bertona M, Geroldi D. Raised plasma nerve growth factor levels associated with early-stage romantic love. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2006; 31:288-94. [PMID: 16289361 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2005.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [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] [Received: 08/05/2005] [Revised: 09/12/2005] [Accepted: 09/15/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Our current knowledge of the neurobiology of romantic love remains scanty. In view of the complexity of a sentiment like love, it would not be surprising that a diversity of biochemical mechanisms could be involved in the mood changes of the initial stage of a romance. In the present study, we have examined whether the early romantic phase of a loving relationship could be associated with alterations in circulating levels of neurotrophins (NTs). Plasma levels of NGF, BDNF, NT-3 and NT-4 were measured in a total of 58 subjects who had recently fallen in love and compared with those of two control groups, consisting of subjects who were either single or were already engaged in a long-lasting relationship. NGF level was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the subjects in love [mean (SEM): 227 (14) pg/ml] than in either the subjects with a long-lasting relationship [123 (10) pg/ml] or the subjects with no relationship [149 (12) pg/ml]. Notably, there was also a significant positive correlation between levels of NGF and the intensity of romantic love as assessed with the passionate love scale (r = 0.34; p = 0.007). No differences in the concentrations of other NTs were detected. In 39 subjects in love who-after 12-24 months-maintained the same relationship but were no longer in the same mental state to which they had referred during the initial evaluation, plasma NGF levels decreased and became indistinguishable from those of the control groups. Taken together, these findings suggest that some behavioural and/or psychological features associated with falling in love could be related to raised NGF levels in the bloodstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Emanuele
- Interdepartmental Center for Research in Molecular Medicine, CIRMC, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 24, I-27100 Pavia, Italy.
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Tourmente M, Cardozo G, Bertona M, Guidobaldi A, Giojalas L, Chiaraviglio M. The ultrastructure of the spermatozoa of Boa constrictor occidentalis, with considerations on its mating system and sperm competition theories. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-6395.2006.00217.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Minoretti P, Politi P, Coen E, Di Vito C, Bertona M, Bianchi M, Emanuele E. The T393C polymorphism of the GNAS1 gene is associated with deficit schizophrenia in an Italian population sample. Neurosci Lett 2006; 397:159-63. [PMID: 16406317 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2005.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2005] [Revised: 12/03/2005] [Accepted: 12/05/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death and alterations in intracellular G-protein signaling may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. The Galphas subunit of heterotrimeric G-proteins, encoded by the gene GNAS1, may play a role in both of these processes. Additionally, transgenic mice expressing a constitutively active form of Galphas provide a reliable model of certain endophenotypes of schizophrenia. To investigate whether the functional single nucleotide polymorphism T393C in GNAS1 gene could affect risk of schizophrenia, we examined its distribution in Italian subjects with (n=383) and without (n=400) schizophrenia. We also evaluated whether a specific association could exist between the deficit (n=108) and nondeficit (n=275) forms of the disorder. The alleles and genotypes frequency in the entire cohort of schizophrenic patients did not differ from that of controls. However, the frequency of the homozygous 393TT genotype was significantly higher in deficit schizophrenic patients (37.1%) compared to both nondeficit schizophrenic (22.5%, p=0.011) and controls (22.8%, p=0.015). This association with deficit schizophrenia persisted even after allowance for potential confounders [adjusted odds ratio (OR) for deficit schizophrenia: 2.06 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21-3.47), p=0.007]. Altogether, our data suggest that the GNAS1 T393C status could influence susceptibility for deficit schizophrenia in Italian subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piercarlo Minoretti
- Interdepartmental Center for Research in Molecular Medicine (CIRMC), University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 24, I-27100 Pavia, Italy
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Geroldi D, Bertona M, Emanuele E. Serum acetylcholinesterase activity as a putative link between anxiety symptoms and atherosclerosis risk. Med Hypotheses 2006; 67:1465-6. [PMID: 16814479 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2006] [Accepted: 05/16/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Emanuele E, Bertona M. Endogenous secretory RAGE as a potential biochemical screening tool for erectile dysfunction. Med Hypotheses 2006; 67:668-9. [PMID: 16750897 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2006] [Accepted: 04/12/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Geroldi D, Minoretti P, Bianchi M, Di Vito C, Reino M, Bertona M, Emanuele E. Genetic association of alpha2-Heremans–Schmid glycoprotein polymorphism with late-onset Alzheimer's disease in Italians. Neurosci Lett 2005; 386:176-8. [PMID: 16002217 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2005.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [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: 05/16/2005] [Revised: 06/02/2005] [Accepted: 06/02/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Alpha2-Heremans-Schmid glycoprotein (AHSG), also known as fetuin-A, is a highly glycosylated protein which has been recently reported to be decreased in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Alzheimer's disease. AHSG is genetically polymorphic and two common alleles, AHSG*1 and AHSG*2, have been described. The purpose of this study was to investigate the distribution of AHSG gene polymorphism in 235 Caucasian Italian patients with late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) and 235 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. In patients with LOAD, the genotype distribution was 184 AHSG 1*1, 44 AHSG 1*2, 7 AHSG 2*2, and was significantly different from that observed in the 235 control subjects (117 AHSG 1*1, 103 AHSG 1*2, 15 AHSG 2*2) (chi(2)=41.50, P<0.0001). After allowance for age, gender and APOE epsilon4 status, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the adjusted odds ratio for the development of LOAD in AHSG 1*1 homozygotes was 3.90 (95% CI: 2.58-5.90, P<0.0001). These results suggest that the AHSG gene polymorphism may be associated with LOAD in Italians. Additional studies are warranted to examine the biological relevance of AHSG in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Geroldi
- Interdepartmental Center for Research in Molecular Medicine (CIRMC), University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 24, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
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Fortina F, Bertona M, Pardo NF, Agliata S, Carpani P, Ragazzoni E, Cavagnino A. Reduction of the Cardiovascular Risk and ???NOTA 13??? High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2005. [DOI: 10.2165/00151642-200512030-00138] [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: 11/02/2022] Open
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Graziani MS, Ceriotti F, Carobene A, Modenese A, Ferrero C, De Giorgi E, Franzin M, Marchetti C, Brambilla P, Bertona M, Giannone D, Righetti G, Marocchi A, Prencipe L, Franzini C, Luraschi P, Mocarelli P. Accuracy of cholesterol measurements in Italian clinical laboratories. Joint project GISSI prevention--Italian Society of Clinical Biochemistry. SIBioC GISSI Prevenzione Group. Eur J Clin Chem Clin Biochem 1997; 35:311-5. [PMID: 9166977] [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: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
We report the results of an external quality assessment scheme for serum total cholesterol measurement involving about 100 Italian laboratories participating in an epidemiological study of post myocardial infarction. Two frozen human serum pools with Abell-Kendall assigned values are distributed quarterly at the laboratories (up to now seven events occurred); the obtained results are evaluated and discussed. In one exercise (# 5) duplicated measurements were repeated on three different days. Eighty-five to 98% of the laboratories obtained results within the total error limits (+/- 8.9%). But, while precision (calculated on the six replicates of exercise # 5) is good (90% of the laboratories obtained CV < 3%), inaccuracy problems are evident in every event. Indeed the mean bias from the reference method value ranged from 1.54 and 3.49% in the various events.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Graziani
- Laboratorio di Chimica Clinica ed Ematologia, Ospedale Civile Maggiore, Verona, Italy
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