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Panfili FM, Roversi M, D'Argenio P, Rossi P, Cappa M, Fintini D. Possible role of vitamin D in Covid-19 infection in pediatric population. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:27-35. [PMID: 32557271 PMCID: PMC7299247 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01327-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Covid-19 is a pandemic of unprecedented proportion, whose understanding and management is still under way. In the emergency setting new or available therapies to contrast the spread of COVID-19 are urgently needed. Elderly males, especially those affected by previous diseases or with comorbidities, are more prone to develop interstitial pneumonia that can deteriorate evolving to ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) that require hospitalization in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Even children and young patients are not spared by SARS-CoV 2 infection, yet they seem to develop a milder form of disease. In this setting the immunomodulatory role of Vitamin D, should be further investigated. METHODS We reviewed the literature about the immunomodulatory role of Vitamin D collecting data from the databases Medline and Embase. RESULTS Vitamin D proved to interact both with the innate immune system, by activating Toll-like receptors (TLRs) or increasing the levels of cathelicidins and β-defensins, and adaptive immune system, by reducing immunoglobulin secretion by plasma cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines production, thus modulating T cells function. Promising results have been extensively described as regards the supplementation of vitamin D in respiratory tract infections, autoimmune diseases and even pulmonary fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we suggest that vitamin D supplementation might play a role in the prevention and/or treatment to SARS-CoV-2 infection disease, by modulating the immune response to the virus both in the adult and pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Panfili
- Pediatric Academic Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M Roversi
- Pediatric Academic Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - P D'Argenio
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University-Hospital Pediatric Department (DPUO), Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCSS, Rome, Italy
| | - P Rossi
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University-Hospital Pediatric Department (DPUO), Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCSS, Rome, Italy
| | - M Cappa
- Endocrinology Unit, University-Hospital Pediatric Department (DPUO), Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCSS, Rome, Italy
| | - D Fintini
- Endocrinology Unit, University-Hospital Pediatric Department (DPUO), Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCSS, Rome, Italy.
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Cattaruzza MS, Zagà V, Gallus S, D'Argenio P, Gorini G. Tobacco smoking and COVID-19 pandemic: old and new issues. A summary of the evidence from the scientific literature. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:106-112. [PMID: 32420934 PMCID: PMC7569632 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i2.9698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 pandemic burst onto the international scene as a new disease not affecting patients uniformly; hence it has risen many questions yet to be clarified. The aim of this study was to outline the main issues that led tobacco smoking being discussed as a potential risk factor associated with COVID-19. METHODS articles from MEDLINE and pre-prints published from January to April 2020 were identified. RESULTS data from China showed that men had more severe outcomes of COVID-19 than women. Since smoking prevalence is very high among Chinese men in comparison to women, it was hypothesized that smoking could be a risk factor for poor prognosis. This was also supported by the higher prevalence of comorbidities, many of which are tobacco-related diseases, in patients with severe COVID-19, who were also more likely to have a smoking history. A meta-analysis confirmed these results reporting an OR=2.25 (95% CI: 1.49-3.39) for developing severe Covid-19 among patients with a smoking history. Some authors, noticing that reported smoking prevalence among hospitalized patients was substantially below smoking prevalence in the corresponding populations, speculated a protective role of nicotine. However, it is likely that low prevalence among hospitalized patients are partially due to many smokers misclassified as nonsmokers. Tobacco smoking seems to cause a dose-dependent upregulation of the angiotensin-converting- enzyme-2 (ACE2), the virus cellular entry receptor, which could explain the higher risk of severe COVID-19 in smokers. CONCLUSIONS There is need for further independent studies to clarify the role of smoking on COVID-19 incidence, progression and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Silvano Gallus
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Giuseppe Gorini
- Oncologic network, prevention and research Institute (ISPRO), Florence, Italy .
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Minardi V, Ferrante G, D'Argenio P, Masocco M, Spizzichino L, Bietta C, Contoli B, Gallus S. Roll-your-own cigarette use in Italy: sales and consumer profile-data from PASSI surveillance, 2015-2016. Int J Public Health 2019; 64:423-430. [PMID: 30683951 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-019-01204-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The use of roll-your-own (RYO) cigarette has substantially increased in most high-income countries recently. This work aims to update Italian trends on loose tobacco sales and to describe the consumer profile of predominant RYO users. METHODS Data from the Italian Agency of Customs and State Monopolies and from PASSI (Italian behavioral risk factor surveillance system) were used. Information on 16,858 interviews to current smokers aged 18-69 was analyzed. RESULTS Sales of loose tobacco increased more than sevenfold between 2004 and 2017. In 2015-2016, 11.6% of smokers reported smoking predominantly RYO cigarettes, with higher percentages among the youngest where a significant association between use of RYO and education was observed, unlike what happened in older adults. The association between economic difficulties and use of RYO was observed only in older adults. CONCLUSIONS A growing trend in RYO cigarette sales was registered between 2004 and 2017. In young smokers, the greater use of RYO was observed among the most educated regardless of financial strain, while in older ones among those with economic difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Minardi
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Ferrante
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, National Institute of Public Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Maria Masocco
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Spizzichino
- Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Italian Ministry of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Bietta
- Local Health Unit 2 of Umbria, Prevention Department, Epidemiology Unit, Perugia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Contoli
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvano Gallus
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, IRCCS - Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri", Milan, Italy
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Ferrara G, Argenziano G, Soyer HP, D'Argenio P, Carli P, Cerroni L, Chimenti S, De Giorgi V, Delfino M, De Rosa G, El Shabrawi-Caelen L, Ferrari A, Massi D, Mazzocchetti G, Peris K, Piccolo D, Santucci M, Scalvenzi M, Staibano S. Histopathologic Interobserver Agreement on the Diagnosis of Melanocytic Skin Lesions with Equivocal Dermoscopic Features: A Pilot Study. Tumori 2018; 86:445-9. [PMID: 11218183 DOI: 10.1177/030089160008600602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aims and background Dermoscopy (dermatoscopy, skin surface microscopy, epiluminescence microscopy) has been increasingly employed in recent years for the preoperative detection of cutaneous melanoma, and dermatoscopic features of pigmented skin lesions have been previously defined using histopathology (HP) as the “key to the code”. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the interobserver agreement on the HP diagnosis in a series of epiluminescence microscopy equivocal melanocytic skin lesions. Study design Ten melanocytic skin lesions were selected on the basis of diagnostic disagreement of at least 2 out of 9 epiluminescence microscopy observers. The histologic specimens from the 10 lesions were examined by 9 HP observers. The agreement of the HP diagnoses was calculated by means of Fleiss' k statistics. Results The overall HP agreement was less than excellent (k = 0.5). When considering the prevailing epiluminescence microscopic and HP diagnoses, 2 cases were shown to be epiluminescence microscopy false-negative melanomas. Virtually no agreement was found among epiluminescence microscopy observers in 4 cases (40%) or among HP observers in 3 cases (30%). However, only one pigmented skin lesion remained un-classifiable on epiluminescence microscopy as well as HP. Conclusions When at least 2 epiluminescence microscopy experts disagree in the evaluation of a given melanocytic skin lesion, even HP consultations may give equivocal results. The need to establish more reliable epiluminescence microscopic and HP criteria by performing an improved and meticulous clinicopathologic correlation, e.g. by using telecommunication via Internet, is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ferrara
- UO Anatomia Patologica, Azienda Ospedaliera G. Rummo, Benevento, Italy
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D'Argenio P, Citarella A, Rizzo C. [Vaccines: first and foremost, a matter of public health]. Epidemiol Prev 2018; 42:3-4. [PMID: 29506348 DOI: 10.19191/ep18.1.p003.002] [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: 06/08/2023]
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Minardi V, Possenti V, Masocco M, Quarchioni E, Ferrante G, Salmaso S, Parazzini F, D'Argenio P. [Educational level influences the use of hysterectomy in Italy (data from PASSI survey, 2008-2015)]. Epidemiol Prev 2016; 40:381. [PMID: 27764935 DOI: 10.19191/ep16.5.p381.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Minardi
- Centro nazionale per l'epidemiologia, la sorveglianza e la promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Valentina Possenti
- Centro nazionale per l'epidemiologia, la sorveglianza e la promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Maria Masocco
- Centro nazionale per l'epidemiologia, la sorveglianza e la promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Elisa Quarchioni
- Centro nazionale per l'epidemiologia, la sorveglianza e la promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Gianluigi Ferrante
- Centro nazionale per l'epidemiologia, la sorveglianza e la promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Stefania Salmaso
- Centro nazionale per l'epidemiologia, la sorveglianza e la promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Fabio Parazzini
- Dipartimento di scienze cliniche e di comunità, Università degli Studi di Milano
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- www.epicentro.iss.it/passi/network/GTnazionale.asp
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Minardi V, Gigantesco A, Mancini C, Quarchioni E, D'Argenio P, Cofini V. [Behavioural risk factors in L'Aquila (Central Italy) 3-5 years after the 2009 earthquake]. Epidemiol Prev 2016; 40:34-41. [PMID: 27291206 DOI: 10.19191/ep16.2s1.p034.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES to evaluate the long-term impact on the health of the general population of L'Aquila earthquake that occurred on April 6th, 2009. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS three consecutive surveys were performed on samples of the population of 18-69 years resident in L'Aquila and in the other towns affected by the earthquake. Data on health-related quality of life, depressive disorders, behaviour risk factor, and adoption of preventive measures were collected through telephone interviews in 2007-2008, in 2010, and in 2011-2014. RESULTS the prevalence of individuals who declared to have economic difficulties increased after 3-5 years from the earthquake (8% in 2010 vs. 14% in 2011-2014). Nevertheless, health-related quality of life improved (decrease of unhealthy days: 7 in 2010 vs. 5 in 2011-2014), while the prevalence of depressive symptoms decreased so that it reached the national average rates (16% in 2010 vs. 7% in 2011-2014). Lack of physical activity, a serious consequence of the first period after the earthquake, became less habitual (39% in 2010 vs. 27% in 2011-2014), probably due to an improvement in the urban redevelopment. The prevalence of smoking and harmful use of alcohol is high (34% and 21%), mostly among young adults. CONCLUSIONS 3-5 years after the earthquake of L'Aquila, compared to 2010 the quality of life related to health is improved (except in people with at least one chronic disease), and the frequency of depressive symptoms decreased, a sign of an extended recovery from conditions caused by the earthquake, despite of an increasing economic difficulties. On the other hand, we must emphasize critical elements, such as the high prevalence of smoking and consumption of alcoholic beverages other than as part of the meals, especially among young people, and very frequent physical inactivity, particularly among the elderly, although lower than in 2010. Finally, adherence to preventive measures and screening for cancer, and adoption of road safety devices could be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Minardi
- Centro nazionale di epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (Cnesps), Istituto superiore di Sanità, Roma.
| | - Antonella Gigantesco
- Centro nazionale di epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (Cnesps), Istituto superiore di Sanità, Roma
| | | | - Elisa Quarchioni
- Centro nazionale di epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (Cnesps), Istituto superiore di Sanità, Roma
| | | | - Vincenza Cofini
- Dipartimento di medicina clinica, sanità pubblica, scienze della vita e dell'ambiente, Università degli Studi dell'Aquila
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Masocco M, D'Argenio P, Quarchioni E, Ferrante G, Minardi V, Possenti V, Contoli B, Penna L, Baldissera S, Salmaso S. [Five percent of Italian smokers use also e-cigs]. Epidemiol Prev 2015; 39:271. [PMID: 26499229] [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: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Masocco
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | | | - Elisa Quarchioni
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Gianluigi Ferrante
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Valentina Minardi
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Valentina Possenti
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Benedetta Contoli
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Luana Penna
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Sandro Baldissera
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
| | - Stefania Salmaso
- Centro nazionale per epidemiologia, sorveglianza e promozione della salute (CNESPS), Istituto superiore di sanità, Roma
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D'Argenio P. [Mandatory medical certificates for physical activity: prevention or medicalisation?]. Epidemiol Prev 2015; 39:147-148. [PMID: 26407463] [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: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo D'Argenio
- già vicedirettore della Direzione generale della prevenzione, Ministero della salute, Roma.
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Gallus S, Gorini G, Spizzichino L, Faggiano F, Allara E, Carreras G, Chellini E, Salmaso S, Lugo A, Minardi V, Pistelli F, Carrozzi L, D'Argenio P. [Tobacco taxation is a public health measure]. Epidemiol Prev 2014; 38:279-280. [PMID: 25387736] [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: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Giuseppe Gorini
- SS epidemiologia ambientale occupazionale, Istituto per lo studio e la prevenzione oncologica (ISPO), Firenze.
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D'Argenio P, Gallus S, Ghislandi S, Gorini G, Masocco M, Minardi V, Spizzichino L. [In Italy, prevalence of smokers and manufactured cigarettes sales are decreasing, but social differences and sales of fine-cut tobacco are increasing]. Epidemiol Prev 2014; 38:273. [PMID: 25115483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
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Gigantesco A, Mirante N, Minardi V, Tarolla E, Cofini V, Carbonelli A, Diodati G, Granchelli C, Mancini C, D'Argenio P, Trinito MO, Salmaso S. [Depressive symptoms, a challenge for the community of L'Aquila after the earthquake of 2009]. Epidemiol Prev 2012; 36:129. [PMID: 22706365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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D'Argenzio A, Ferrante G, Baldissera S, D'Argenio P, Bertozzi N, Minardi V, Possenti V, Quarchioni E, Masocco M, Salmaso S. [Less than one third of people with chronic medical conditions have the flu vaccination]. Epidemiol Prev 2012; 36:67. [PMID: 22418808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
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D'Argenzio A, D'Argenio P, Ferrante G, Minardi V, Possenti V, Quarchioni E, Baldissera S, Salmaso S. [40% of smokers try to stop smoking, only 8% succeed in]. Epidemiol Prev 2011; 35:362. [PMID: 22166786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
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Possenti V, Mei BD, Cattaneo C, Giovannelli I, D'Argenio P, Benelli E, Menna S, Salmaso S, Ferrante G, Minardi V, Quarchioni E, Baldissera S, Bertozzi N, Carrozzi G, D'Argenzio A, Fateh-Moghadam P, Trinito MO, Vasselli S, Campostrini S. P1-293 Involving local community: testing models for communicating surveillance data. From planning to elaborating and evaluating effective communicative tools to specific target groups at local level. J Epidemiol Community Health 2011. [DOI: 10.1136/jech.2011.142976e.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Minardi V, Mirante N, Cofini V, Benelli E, Carbonelli A, D'Argenio P, Diodati G, Farello P, Gigantesco A, Mancini C, Menna S, Natali P, Savino A, Taglione I, Tarolla E, Trinito MO, Salmaso S, Granchelli C. SP3-54 Midterm consequences on health of the earthquake of 6 April 2009 in L'Aquila (Italy), assessed by the behavioural risk factor surveillance system PASSI. Br J Soc Med 2011. [DOI: 10.1136/jech.2011.142976o.54] [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]
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D'Argenzio A, D'Argenio P, Ferrante G, Minardi V, Possenti V, Quarchioni E, Baldissera S, Salmaso S. [Can we eliminate congenital rubella in Italy by 2015?]. Epidemiol Prev 2011; 35:245. [PMID: 21914924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
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Salmaso S, D'Argenio P, Ferrante G, Minardi V. Epidemiological Surveillance: moving towards new objectives. Epidemiol Prev 2010; 34:52-55. [PMID: 21220818] [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: 05/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Salmaso
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Surveillance and Health Promotion (CNESPS), National Insitute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy.
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Carducci FC, Grutter G, D'Argenio P, Parisi F. 484: Use of Everolimus in Pediatric Patients after Heart Transplantation: A Single Center Experience. J Heart Lung Transplant 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2008.11.491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Carducci FC, Grutter G, Rossi P, D'Argenio P, Parisi F. 633: Lack of Relationship between Immunosuppression and Epstein-Barr Viral Load/Lymphoproliferative Disease in Pediatric Heart Transplant Recipients. J Heart Lung Transplant 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2008.11.640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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D'Argenio P. [Latest criticism of the study on health and waste management in the Campania Region]. Epidemiol Prev 2009; 33:3-4. [PMID: 19585865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
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D'Argenio P. [A comment to the study "Waste management in Campania Region: impact on health"]. Epidemiol Prev 2008; 32:189-193. [PMID: 19186498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
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D'Argenio P. [HPV vaccine: using it in the best way, now]. Epidemiol Prev 2007; 31:185-188. [PMID: 18019201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
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Laurendi G, Galeone D, Spizzichino L, Vasselli S, D'Argenio P. Italy: the first European country to forbid smoking in closed spaces. First results. Minerva Med 2007; 98:155-7. [PMID: 17519857] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Second-hand smoke is a well-known risk factor for several diseases, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma. Evidence exists that smoke-free policies have an effect on reducing or eliminating the exposure to second-hand smoke, decreasing the prevalence of smokers, encouraging smokers to quit or preventing the initiation of smoking, and reducing cigarettes consumption among smokers. Italy has been the first European country to forbid smoking in closed places, also in working areas not open to the public, as protection to the health of the entire population. This article describes the first results obtained from the application of this new law, the positive effects and unexpected modifications in the behaviour and social habits of the Italian people, thus, revealing itself an important instrument to protect public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Laurendi
- Italian Health Ministry, Prevention Department, Rome, Italy.
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Galeone D, Laurendi G, Vasselli S, Spizzichino L, D'Argenio P, Greco D. Preliminary effects of Italy's ban on smoking in enclosed public places. Tob Control 2006; 15:143. [PMID: 16565466 PMCID: PMC2563561 DOI: 10.1136/tc.2005.015057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Bertozzi N, Vitali P, Binkin N, Perra A, D'Argenio P. ["Quality of life" of the elderly population: a survey to evaluate elderly people's self -perceived health in 11 Italian regions (Argento Study, 2002).]. Ig Sanita Pubbl 2005; 61:545-59. [PMID: 17206237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Self-perception of health influences the quality of life of the elderly. In order to identify the more vulnerable elderly and guide interventions to improve health in this population group, we evaluated self-perceived health of elderly people through a set of 4 questions called the "Healthy Days Measures", which were incorporated into the Argento Study. The latter is a study performed to evaluate the health status of the elderly population in 11 Italian regions (2002). Methods. Following cluster sampling, 2,369 elderly subjects (>64 years) were interviewed at home, by trained personnel, through a standardized questionnaire. Self-rated health (on a scale from poor to excellent) was estimated, as well as the average number of days during the previous month when physical or mental health was not good and the number of activity limitation days. Multivariate analysis was performed using Sudaan software and by considering the following outcomes: self-perceived health, physical or mental problems or activity limitations for more than 1 day. Prevalence rates by gender, age, civil status, education level, home situation, place of residence, chronic diseases, dependence on a caregiver, sedentariness and social isolation, were calculated. Results. 34.7% of interviewed subjects rated their health as good to excellent. A significantly lower proportion of women, older subjects (>75 years), those with a lower education level, those residing in southern Italy, those suffering from chronic illnesses, those dependent on a caregiver, and socially isolated or sedentary subjects rated their health favorably. The mean number of physically and mentally unhealthy days (summary index) was estimated to be 11.3 per month. Multivariate analysis showed that female gender was significantly associated with all outcomes considered; age and education level did not show any significant associations with the outcomes considered; depression was significantly associated with self-rated health and with number of mentally unhealthy days; physical dependence and sedentariness were associated with an increased risk for all outcomes, especially activity limitation days. Conclusions. These results suggest that depression, physical dependence and sedentariness influence self-perceived health more so than socio-demographic characteristics. Public Health may have a relevant role in promoting and guiding interventions to prevent these factors in the elderly. The introduction of Healthy Days measures in health surveillance systems may be an important public health tool for monitoring perceived health status and in intervention planning and evaluation at both the national and local levels.
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de Martino A, Vasselli S, D'Argenio P. [Strategies for protecting the elderly from the health-risks of heat-waves: measures undertaken in Italy in the summer of 2004]. Ig Sanita Pubbl 2005; 61:293-312. [PMID: 17206196] [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: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Heat waves constitute an important public health problem because of their potential serious health impact on vulnerable populations such as the elderly and individuals living in poor health, socioeconomic, cultural or environmental conditions. The summer of 2003 was the hottest summer, with respect to both minimum and maximum temperatures, of the last fifty years. During that summer, an increased mortality was found especially in the elderly population = 75 years. The Ministry of Health therefore released guidelines for the regions and other local authorities, regarding the measures be undertaken in order to safeguard the elderly and other vulnerable populations from the health risks associated with heat waves. Subsequently, a survey was performed to collect information regarding the projects put into practice in the summer of 2004 by the various regions and local authorities. The aim of the study was to promote a comparison and sharing of appropriately documented experiences. This article classifies and describes the various interventions that were put into practice.
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Sammarco S, Ciofi degli Atti ML, Binkin N, D'Argenio P, Bella A. [Vaccine coverage survey of the elderly in 11 Italian regions]. Ann Ig 2004; 16:701-8. [PMID: 15696999] [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: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
In 2002, a sample survey of the population > or =65 years of age was conducted in 11 Italian regions that included information on the influenza, pneumococcal, and tetanus vaccination status. In each region, cluster sampling was used to select 210 individuals. In the Campania region, a separate random sample of 100 individuals was selected for Naples. Information on vaccination status was collected via an interview conducted in the participants' homes. A total of 2299 persons participated in the survey. During the 2001--2002 influenza season, 61% of the population reported that they had been vaccinated (regional range 39%-70%). The proportion of the population that had received an influenza vaccine increased with age and was higher than those with underlying diseases and conditions (70% of those > or =75 years of age with underlying problems). The percentage of those who reported having been vaccinated against tetanus was 54% (regional range 11% to 79%); coverage was higher among males and decreased with age. Only 24% of the sample reported having been adequately vaccinated (at least 3 doses, of which the last was administered during the last 10 years). Five percent had been vaccinated against pneumococcus, and none of the regions had a coverage higher than 15%. The elderly represent a segment of the population that is especially vulnerable to infectious diseases and often have problems with access to health services. These findings underline the need to improve vaccine coverage using strategies specifically targeted for this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sammarco
- Servizio di Epidemiologia e Medicina Preventiva, Dipartimento di Prevenzione Azienda USL 6, Palermo.
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30
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Abstract
We report the conduct and results of a review of recent literature to describe various types of epidemics and outbreaks in Italy or countries with similar epidemiological profiles and to assess vaccine use in outbreak situations. We identified three scenarios most likely to occur in Italy: outbreaks occurring in small closed communities (nursery or a primary school), outbreaks in communities of limited dimensions (small towns or villages) and open community settings in which epidemics occur at regular intervals (person-to-person transmission). In closed communities we recommend vaccination of family members and school personnel living or working in close proximity to the index case as well as classmates. We also recommend vaccination when there is a proof of secondary transmission within the community. In small open communities we recommend vaccination of more susceptible age groups such as children and adolescents. For large open communities the only practicable alternative strategy is vaccination of close family contacts of acute cases couple with non-immunity boosting control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D'Argenio
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Laboratorio di Epidemiologia e Biostatistica, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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31
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Stroffolini T, Bianco E, Szklo A, Bernacchia R, Bove C, Colucci M, Cristina Coppola R, D'Argenio P, Lopalco P, Parlato A, Ragni P, Simonetti A, Zotti C, Mele A. Factors affecting the compliance of the antenatal hepatitis B screening programme in Italy. Vaccine 2003; 21:1246-9. [PMID: 12559805 DOI: 10.1016/s0264-410x(02)00439-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [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] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The effectiveness in the prevention of perinatally transmitted HBV infection was assessed in 11858 pregnant women consecutively recruited in public and private hospitals in six Italian regions during a 2 months period in 2001. Of them 10881 (91.8%) attended HBsAg antenatal screening. The overall HBsAg prevalence was 1.7% (CI 95%: 1.4-1.9); it was 1.4% (CI 95%: 1.2-1.7) in pregnant women born in Italy but 5.9% (CI 95%: 4.1-8.1) in those born in Asia, Africa, central and south America, and eastern Europe. Results of multiple logistic regression analysis indicate that birth in foreign countries (OR 2.0; CI 95%: 1.3-3.0), family size with more than 4 members in the household (OR 3.5; CI 95%:2.7-4.6), and birth in a private hospital (OR 1.9; CI 95%: 1.3-2.8) were all independent predictors of lack of adherence to HBsAg screening. Out of the 182 new-borns of HBsAg positive mothers 172 (95.0%) were given active plus passive immunisation; this figure was 100% in new-borns of foreign mothers. These findings evidence a good effectiveness in the prevention of perinatally transmitted HBV in Italy. More efforts should be addressed to improve the effectiveness of the programme among foreign pregnant women who have high rate of HBsAg and more likely escape HBsAg screening than Italian pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Stroffolini
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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32
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D'Argenio P, Adamo B, Coluccio R, D'Apice A, Ferrara MA, Giugliano F, Parrella R, Peluso F, Romeo V, Ronga C, Simonetti A, Citarella A. Influenza vaccination coverage in elderly people, Campania (Italy), 1999. Eurosurveillance 2001; 6:26-30. [PMID: 11682709 DOI: 10.2807/esm.06.02.00224-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A study on the coverage of influenza vaccination among elderly people was carried out. Fity-six per cent of those interviewed had been vaccinated (weighted coverage 50%), compared with the target of 75%, but higher rates were reported in those older than 74 years and those with chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D'Argenio
- Servizi di Epidemiologia e Prevenzione delle ASL BN1, SA2, AV2, NA1, NA3, NA5, Italy
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33
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Sanguinetti M, Ardito F, Fiscarelli E, La Sorda M, D'Argenio P, Ricciotti G, Fadda G. Fatal pulmonary infection due to multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus in a patient with cystic fibrosis. J Clin Microbiol 2001; 39:816-9. [PMID: 11158161 PMCID: PMC87830 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.39.2.816-819.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [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] Open
Abstract
We report a case of fatal pulmonary infection caused by Mycobacterium abscessus in a young patient with cystic fibrosis, who underwent bipulmonary transplantation after a 1-year history of severe lung disease. Fifteen days after surgery he developed septic fever with progressive deterioration in lung function. M. abscessus, initially isolated from a pleural fluid specimen, was then recovered from repeated blood samples, suggesting a disseminated nature of the mycobacterial disease. Drug susceptibility testing assay, performed on two sequential isolates of the microorganism, showed a pattern of multidrug resistance. Despite aggressive therapy with several antimycobacterial drugs, including clarithromycin, the infection persisted, and the patient died.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sanguinetti
- Istituto di Microbiologia, Università Cattolica del S. Cuore, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy.
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34
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D'Argenio P, Arigliani R, Selvaggi TM. Re: Field evaluation of the clinical effectiveness of vaccines against pertusis, measles, rubella, and mumps. Vaccine 2000; 18:2925-6. [PMID: 10960322 DOI: 10.1016/s0264-410x(00)00071-2] [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] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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35
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Abstract
Six years after a renal cadaver transplant, a 20-year-old girl developed multiple painful cutaneous abscesses and bilateral pneumonia secondary to Nocardia farcinica infection. Despite broad in vitro sensitivity to several antibiotic agents and aggressive medical treatment, the patient failed to respond and died after 10 weeks of therapy. We conclude that Nocardia farcinica is a very aggressive organism in immunocompromised patients and is often resistant to antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Rinaldi
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Bambino Gesù Children Research Hospital, Piazza S.Onofrio 4, I-00165 Rome, Italy.
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Stroffolini T, D'Argenio P, Mele A. Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in the United States. N Engl J Med 1999; 341:2094; author reply 2094-5. [PMID: 10627199] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
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37
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Pregliasco F, Sodano L, Mensi C, Selvaggi MT, Adamo B, D'Argenio P, Giussani F, Simonetti A, Carosella MR, Simeone R, Dentizi C, Montanaro C, Ponzio G. Influenza vaccination among the elderly in Italy. Bull World Health Organ 1999; 77:127-31. [PMID: 10083710 PMCID: PMC2557587] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This article surveys the attitudes and perceptions of a random sample of the elderly population in three regions of Italy on the use and efficacy of influenza vaccine. The data were collected by direct interviews using a standard questionnaire. The results show that vaccination coverage against influenza is inadequate (26-48.6%). The major reasons for nonvaccination were lack of faith in the vaccine and disbelief that influenza is a dangerous illness. These data emphasize the need for a systematic education programme targeted at the elderly and the provision of influenza vaccination, with the increased cooperation of general practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pregliasco
- Istituto di Virologia, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
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38
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Mancia L, Wahlström J, Schiller B, Chini L, Elinder G, D'Argenio P, Gigliotti D, Wigzell H, Rossi P, Grunewald J. Characterization of the T-cell receptor V-beta repertoire in Kawasaki disease. Scand J Immunol 1998; 48:443-9. [PMID: 9790317 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3083.1998.00415.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Kawasaki disease (KD) is a paediatric multisystem necrotizing vasculitis constituting the most frequent cause of acquired heart disease in childhood. Conflicting data have been reported regarding expanded T-cell populations using particular T-cell receptor (TCR) beta-chain variable (BV) gene segments, suggesting either a superantigen- or a conventional antigen-mediated immune response in this disease. In order to further investigate the role of T lymphocytes, cells were stained with an extensive panel of 21 different TCRBV specific monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) covering almost 70% of all T-cells. Flow cytometry was employed to analyse the expression of the TCRBV repertoire in the CD4+ and CD8+ subsets separately, and of activation markers, in freshly isolated peripheral blood lymphocytes of 25 Kawasaki disease patients during the acute and convalescent phases of the disease. No abnormal usage of any TCRBV family was found, neither acutely nor during convalescence, compared with a control group of healthy children. However, a significant increase in interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R)-expressing T lymphocytes restricted to the CD4+ subset was observed in KD patients. Our data confirm a strong immune activation in KD that might be of importance in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Mancia
- Microbiology and Tumorbiology Center, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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39
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Nigro G, D'Orio F, Catania S, Badolato MC, Livadiotti S, Bernardi S, D'Argenio P. Mother to infant transmission of coinfection by human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus: prevalence and clinical manifestations. Arch Virol 1998; 142:453-7. [PMID: 9349291 DOI: 10.1007/s007050050091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence and the clinical course of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections were studied in 23 HIV-1-infected children, who were born to 22 mothers with HIV-1/HCV coinfection. During the follow-up only two children (8.7%) showed persistent anti-HCV antibodies and circulating HCV RNA. Both children, who were aged 10 and 10.6 years respectively at the end of follow-up, had chronically-evolving liver disease and autoimmune thrombocytopenia but no signs of progressive HIV disease. Based on our experience, vertically-acquired HIV-1/HCV coinfection is less frequent than is generally reported and may be associated with the development of chronic thrombocytopenia in addition to liver disease. Moreover, perinatal HIV-1/HCV coinfection appears to be associated with a slow progression of HIV disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Nigro
- Pediatric Institute, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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40
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Pregliasco F, Sodano L, Mensi C, Borghetti MC, Camorali L, D'Argenio P. [Anti-influenza vaccination: knowledge, attitude and practice of the elderly residing in the city of Milan]. Ann Ig 1997; 9:127-31. [PMID: 9312239] [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: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F Pregliasco
- Ist. di Virologia, Università degli Studi di Milano
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41
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D'Argenio P, Cafaro L, Santonastasi F, Taggi F, Binkin N. Capodanno Senza Danno: the effects of an intervention program on fireworks injuries in Naples. Am J Public Health 1996; 86:84-6. [PMID: 8561250 PMCID: PMC1380368 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.86.1.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [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: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
To study the effects of a comprehensive, multifaceted intervention program to reduce fireworks-related injuries during the Italian New Year's holiday season, active surveillance was conducted in the 18 public emergency rooms of Naples, Italy, before and after implementation of the program. Preintervention data collected between December 24, 1992, and January 6, 1993, were compared with data collected during the same period in 1993-1994. The number of injuries decreased by 48% from 353 to 183, with the greatest declines seen among 10- to 12-year-olds. The broad-based intervention implemented during the 1993-1994 holiday season appears to have substantially reduced the number of injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D'Argenio
- Regional Epidemiologic Observatory, Campania, Naples, Italy
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43
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Manfredi Selvaggi TM, Tozzi AE, Carrieri MP, Binkin N, Lo Monaco R, D'Errico M, Filippetti F, D'Argenio P, Cafaro L, Salmaso S. [To what extent is breast feeding practiced in Italy today?]. Minerva Pediatr 1995; 47:451-5. [PMID: 8684340] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES During a survey regarding infant health in 7 regions, diffusion and length of time of breast-feeding nowadays in Italy were studied. MATERIALS AND METHODS By OMS Epi methodology, 210 children sampled from each area of study and specialized health workers carried out the interviews at home using a specific questionnaire. The mothers were questioned about the length of time they breast fed their child. RESULTS 76% of mothers said they breastfed, 32% said they did it for less than 3 months and 44% for more. In each area, the percentage of breastfeeding was 70% or more. This percentage changed only if the birth weight was very low or the mothers' instruction was high, but this is probably because the most cultured mothers answered easier they breast fed longer. DISCUSSION It seems that mothers are pro-breastfeeding and, in each region, just a quarter of them don't practise it. Besides, about half women breastfed for more than 3 months. This study doesn't permit us to know why some women don't breastfeed or why they wean their children too early. For this reason, we need to curry out further studies.
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44
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D'Argenio P, Triassi M, Arsieri R, Pugliese A, D'Armiento M, Russo R, Vecchione R. [The validity of the certification of natimortality: the experience of a local study]. Epidemiol Prev 1995; 19:266-9. [PMID: 7498353] [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: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Although several study confirmed the inaccuracy of information in death certificates, very few investigations were performed to assess the validity of stillbirth certificate reporting. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the extent to which the clinical diagnosis of stillbirth cause reported in certificates can be considered sensitive and specific. Eighty-five consecutive stillbirths were independently classified by two neonatologists with certificate information, using the new Wigglesworth classification, and the reliability of the classification process was evaluated. Afterwards we compared the classes made with certificate causes and the ones made with clinical-autoptic data (the "gold standard") and we estimated sensitivity and specificity of certificate cause of stillbirth. The reliability of the classification process was very high. Values of sensitivity were considered unacceptable, mainly in the field of congenital malformations, intra-partum asphyxia and other specific causes. By contrast, specificity was found to be satisfactory. The accuracy of clinical stillbirth diagnosis is not sufficient and good description needs the contribute of post-mortem necropsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D'Argenio
- Osservatorio Epidemiologico, Regione Campania, Napoli
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45
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Viviani S, Binkin N, Carrieri P, Greco D, Salamina G, Salmaso S, Tozzi AE, Niccolini A, D'Argenio P, Maestro A. [Vaccinal coverage for measles and pertussis: a study in 7 regions of Italy]. Ann Ig 1995; 7:243-50. [PMID: 8679164] [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: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
During the year 1993 a series of surveys aimed to estimate the immunization coverage against measles and pertussis have been carried out in seven Italian regions and two large towns (Milan and Naples). Mothers of children aged between 12 and 23 months, randomly selected from the list of newborns, by using the EPI cluster sampling, have been interviewed in order to determine the reasons for absent or incomplete vaccinations. The observed coverage for pertussis ranges between 8% in the Molise region and 71% in the town of Milan; coverage for measles ranges between 9% in the town of Naples and 52% in the region Lombardy. The most commonly reported reason for not-vaccinating for pertussis has been the negative advise given by the caring physician. Immunization against measles has often not been administered because of relative contraindications and the negative advise by the physicians. The coverage for the two non-compulsory vaccinations are low compared to compulsory vaccinations and to the immunization level reported for most European countries, pointing out that further health education is needed for improving the up-take of such voluntary vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Viviani
- Lab. di Epidemiologia e Biostatistica, Ist. Superiore di Sanità, Roma
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46
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Venditti M, Baiocchi P, Santini C, Galetta P, Tarasi A, Brandimarte C, D'Argenio P, Campagnano P. Potential of clindamycin in addition to vancomycin for the treatment of oxacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus septicemia persisting under vancomycin therapy. Int J Antimicrob Agents 1995; 5:123-8. [DOI: 10.1016/0924-8579(94)00035-s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/1994] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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47
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Lombardi V, Caniglia M, Scarlatti G, Jansson M, Plebani A, D'Argenio P, Scaccia S, Wigzell H, Rossi P. Early detection of IgA specific antibodies in HIV-1 infected children by peptide-ELISA and peptide time-resolved fluoro-immunoassay. Eur J Pediatr 1993; 152:484-9. [PMID: 8335015 DOI: 10.1007/bf01955055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [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: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The presence of specific IgA antibodies in sera from 25 infants born to HIV-1 seropositive mothers was investigated by peptide-ELISA and peptide time-resolved fluoro-immunoassay (TR-FIA). The infants had been monitored at different times after birth for clinical signs and/or symptoms of HIV-1 infection and for detection of HIV-1 in lymphocyte cultures. Serum samples had also been tested for HIV-1 IgG antibodies by commercial ELISA and Western blot and for p24 antigen. Eleven of 25 children were then identified as infected. IgA detection was performed after rProtein G treatment to remove interfering IgG. In the infected group, IgA specific antibodies to a synthetic peptide representing a highly conserved region of the transmembrane glycoprotein gp41 (env: 594-613) were detected in 27 (73%) out of 37 serum samples (9 of 11 children) by the peptide-ELISA test. IgA specific antibodies to the same peptide were found in 30 (81%) sera (9 of 11 children) by the peptide-TR-FIA. Specific HIV-1 IgA antibodies were detected as early as 2 months of age in serum samples from five out of seven children (71% sensitivity) using peptide-ELISA and from six out of seven (86% sensitivity) by peptide-TR-FIA. Conversely, IgA specific antibodies to HIV-1 were absent in two infected children as well as in the sera of all uninfected children tested during the follow up period. Since maternal IgA does not cross the placenta, IgA detection in the serum of the infant is indicative of HIV-1 infection.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- V Lombardi
- Department of Immunology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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48
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Mele A, Biancolilli V, D'Argenio P, Sagliocca L. Considerations on markers of hepatitis B, C and HIV as indicators of risk behaviour in intravenous drug users. J Public Health Med 1993; 15:112. [PMID: 7682423 DOI: 10.1093/oxfordjournals.pubmed.a042797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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49
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Tovo P, De Martino M, Gabiano C, Cappello N, D'Elia R, Loy A, Plebani A, Zuccotti GV, Dallacasa P, Ferraris G, Caselli D, Fundaro' C, D'Argenio P, Galli L, Principi N, Stegagno M, Ruga E, Palomba E. Prognostic factors and survival in children with perinatal HIV-1 infection. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 1993. [DOI: 10.1016/0020-7292(93)90799-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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D'Argenio P, Wirz M, Rosmini F, Adamo B, Gentili G, Puccinelli M, Collotti C, Mele A, Esposito D, Forte P. Tetanus immunity in a partially vaccinated population of children in a district of Naples (Secondigliano). Eur J Epidemiol 1992; 8:93-7. [PMID: 1572438 DOI: 10.1007/bf03334978] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
A general opinion is that compliance with the compulsory immunization programme of children is excellent in Italy. We have studied antitetanus immunity in relation to vaccination history in a sample of 444 school children born between 1977 and 1981 in a district of Naples. Information on vaccination history was collected by interviewing the parents and validated using the official vaccination certificates. Titration of antibodies against tetanus was carried out by the immunoenzymatic method. 0.9% of our study subjects had not been vaccinated at all and only 21.2% had received 4 vaccine doses. In 18 children the presence of antitetanus antibodies was not detected; 14 of them had received one or more doses of vaccine. The lack of compliance with the vaccination programme was associated with a remarkable delay in administering the tetanus vaccine. In the population reported here, the percentage of subjects only partially covered is higher than that found in other regions of Italy.
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